Paul Revere Charter Middle School December 12, 2014 Volume 59, Issue 2 ’Tis the Season to Share Joy Patriots get into the holiday spirit and many reach out to the less fortunate. By OLIVER SPECTOR delicious Thanksgiving feast of and SEAN CHOI turkey, tacos and sushi. This Winter Break... Sixth grader Lukas Sorensen Patriots all around the school traveled with his family to Texas 55% of Patriots will travel are decking the halls and filling and witnessed the football match outside of California. the school with their enthusias- between the Eagles and the Cow- 58% will donate time or tic holiday spirit. Students and boys. Although his Dallas team money to charity. teachers alike are celebrating lost, he did enjoy his Thanksgiv- different holidays unique to their ing meal of macaroni and cheese 36% will participate in various cultures. The campus is and popcorn. religious activities. bustling with students excitedly Sebastian Gunderson and his preparing for the festivities yet parents traveled to Iowa to visit 88% will go to the movies. to come, and several classrooms relatives. “It was about 7 degrees Based on homeroom surveys are packed with decorations. when I got there and I was wear- of 104 Patriots by Brett Anwar. For Revere’s students and ing shorts,” he exclaimed. “My faculty, the holidays officially family kept laughing that I only mediately followed Thanksgiv- began with Thanksgiving break. brought one pair of jeans.” When ing. Among the sea of “savage Julian Pentchev celebrated the it was time to eat Thanksgiving shoppers” was 7th grader Eric one-week period by traveling to dinner, he said he wasn’t re- Rachmani, who waited for an Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. There, ally hungry because he had been hour and a half outside of a Best the 7th grader stayed at a 5-star snacking all day. “I ended up Buy. He was finally rewarded hotel and experienced many eating some corn and a piece of for the wait with a brand new memorable moments, such as chocolate cake,” he said. iPhone 6. Council Club is all smiles as they sort out the Can Drive donations. para-sailing and devouring a A chaotic Black Friday im- (continued on page 3)

COVER STORY Flowers Without Showers Paul Revere responds to drying conditions across a thirsty California. By AVA KERKORIAN to California because of the yearly sunny skies The day was Tuesday, December 2nd, and and climate. Sunshine all year long may sound Patriots all around Revere could be found staring great for some Californians, but it is becoming a in wonder at the droplets of water falling from big problem. In 2013, the rainfall for the entire the sky. Gone were the familiar clear, blue skies year for downtown Los Angeles was only 24% and warm rays of sunshine. In its place were dull, of the average yearly rainfall. That same year, gray rain clouds. Rain was falling on the heads the rainfall in San Francisco was only 16% of of people all around Los Angeles, a feeling that the average yearly rainfall. 2013 was recorded had become almost alien over the past year. In the driest year in California history. Peter Weller (right) speaks to Travis Warth as Mr. Hyman watches. other states around the country, rain would have With numbers like these, there should be no been shrugged off, ignored, even unwanted. But doubt that California is in a drought. Since not here in California, the rain was welcomed. as much rain has been coming down to water the Words from the Wise That day was one of the few times this year crops, the agriculture department at Revere has Revere speakers share their stories with Patriots. it had rained in California. Many people migrate (continued on page 4) By ZACHARY GARAI gets one big idea or thought from a speaker, then we are doing a For the past five years, the good job,” he explains. Roads To Your Future club has “It’s our goal to inspire stu- prepared monthly career talks dents to reach higher, higher that offer extra credit in a pre- than they could ever imagine to dermined class. These optional reach their full potential.” He lunchtime assemblies are for said his work is in part inspired students to learn about different by a quote from Steven R. Cov- career choices. ey, “Begin with an end in mind.” The Roads to Your Future The Roads To Your Future club was founded by Ms. So- club does not host all the Revere moza, the Optimist Club of the speakers. Teachers and admin- Pacific Palisades, and Ms. Cruz. istrators can bring in their own Mr. Steenhoek, the sponsor of speakers to talk about their ca- the club this year, feels that it reers and keys to success. gives students “a window into Those who visit Revere to re- what their possible career oppor- count past experiences and their tunities can be.” careers give Patriots a glimpse The sponsor adds, “Many into the future. Through the people need a little push to go speaker program, adults get the outside our comfort zone,” and chance to pass knowledge and the Roads to Your Future club wisdom to new generations. Mrs. Robertson’s Horticulture students continue to garden despite the lack of water in California. tries to be that push. “If a student (continued on page 3)

Big Bear Fashion 6 Revere Spirit 8/9 Spaced Out Art 10 Buddha Walks 11 Cowabunga! 12

Many Patriots such as Madison Lucas shows school spirit on The ‘Out of This World’ art con- A sixth grader raises his arm in Members of Revere’s novel surf don the popular California logo. Spirit Week’s Nation Day. test gets some cosmic creations. the Buddha Walks performance. team prepare to drop in the water. 2 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School

DAZZLING DECORATIONS On Halloweeen, Mr. Cos’s class shows off their door decorating contest winning door.

COMBIS CAR CRAZE Hannah and Molly prepare their Newton’s scooters to go head-to-head in a race.

Campus READY SET GO! CampusNews News and and Notes Notes Ms. Banner’s science class races to the finish line to win the Windy 500.

bybyby Casey Casey Ehrlich Ehrlich BENEVOLENT BOOKENDS This holiday season, INTRO TO Revere holds a bookdrive INTERVIEWS to lend a helping hand. Sharon Yeo partici- pates in a mock inter- view as part of the Intro to Business elective.

FANTASTIC FASHIONS Patriots showcase their latest trends in PEP’s fashion camp class.

MEET MS. BERKE Revere’s new librarian, Ms. Berke smiles welcomingly for Town Crier photographers. December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School 3 Revere Hosts Speakers—From a Rocket Scientist to a Robot (continued from page 1) rations and workers, and how Clippers Coach Calls Richard difficult it is to get through law To Revere Magnet Wilkins school in the first place. He said In September, Natalie Na- that many lawyers begin by tak- kase, an assistant coach from ing courses in political science, the Clippers, came to speak which is very helpful to lawyers with Revere’s Magnet stu- because it gives them insight dents. She has also coached a into the inner working of the professional team from Tokyo, nation’s judicial system. played for Germany, and played Throughout his life, Mr. for various American teams as Mike Sams has overcome the chal- well. She gave a “motivational Boughton lenges of law, school, and the address to inspire students to chaotic world of corporations. start the year strong” as Mr. His key to success is to “list- Hubbard, Revere’s Magnet Co- ten to your parents. Make them ordinator, says. Ms. Nakase’s proud and work hard.” goal is to become one of the Peter Anthony Weller Hernandez Architect Advises first female coaches for the Attentive Patriots NBA, and she shared the tips and tricks that got her to where The November Roads To she is today to the Magnet class. Your Future career talk fea- Through hard work and deter- tured Mr. Richard Wilkins, who mination, she has overcome shared the story of his chal- both physical and professional lenges and trail to success. The struggles—and come out on Los Angeles architect recounted top of it all. Mr. Hubbard felt his childhood, when he suffered that: “It was an excellent event from dyslexia that made school where our students got a chance Natalie difficult. Mr. Wilkins finally Ex Kano to hear from a relevant and in- Nakase found his passion during his Sams spirational individual.” high school years, where he started taking drafting cand art A Taste of the demands of a history doctor- grade. When the space industry classes at school, while simulta- Battlefield “Robocop” Star neously selling handmade surf- Rallies Patriots ate.” Dr. Weller’s expertise in began, Mr. Boughton jumped in On Sept. 5, Ms. Holler history and art, combined with eagerly. What began as a child- boards at home. These passions hosted a military veteran who In early October, sixth grade his accomplishments in Hol- hood passion became a long and blossomed into a career, when shared stories of his time in the Magnet teacher Mr. Hyman, had lywood, made him “a fantastic fulfilling career. he “started my own surfboard Afghan War. Private First Class Dr. Peter Weller, the lead actor speaker.” Mr. Boughton feels very business” and became an archi- Anthony Hernandez spent sev- from the film Robocop, and also tect. Despite not graduating col- Return of the strongly about the link between en months on the Afghan-Pak- the holder of a Ph.D. in Italian success and imagination. “The lege, Mr. Wilkins was later able istani border. During his time Renaissance art history, address Rocket Scientist best thing you can do is use to get the equivalent of an ar- serving in the Marine Corps, the his class. He spoke to the sixth Back in September, the your imagination. You can cre- chitecture degree through good private worked as a mortar man, grade class about his hosting of Roads To Your Future Club ate anything.” work and lots of effort. and he said his job was to “back the series, Engineering An Em- sponsored its first speaker: Architect Richard Wilkins up the Afgan army.” pire. Due to his position in the Mike Boughton. This man has The Art of Law has lived a life of hardships, The private is a hero to his show, he was allowed to see an- experienced what few others The year’s second school- but has gained wisdom as well. brother, 8th grade Patriot Mike tiques and artifacts from the an- have— a rocket failure. The wide career talk featured corpo- He feels that the most valuable Hernandez. “He’s my hero be- cient world. Dr. Weller told the speaker recounted the tale of rate lawyer Ex Kano Sams. He lesson he has learned is to “ask cause he helps people in need— class about his experiences with Apollo Thirteen, and the nearly has a Juris Doctorate (doctorate for help. People are willing to he’s a great role model,” Mike history, music, and Hollywood. deadly crisis of that NASA mis- in law) from UCLA, and has help you.” Throughout his life, said. “My brother is also very Mr. Hyman said that “You’d be sion. He also talked about his been working as a lawyer ever he has helped others as he was courageous for serving on the hard pressed to find an actor of childhood, and how he knew he since. He spoke of how he pro- once helped himself by always front line.” his caliber take on the rigorous would be a scientist since fifth tects the interests of both corpo- giving back to his community.

“Dancing is something that makes me overjoyed. My fa- Musicians, vorite part of this experience is sharing it with the world.” Menorahs Meanwhile, Revere’s music department is adding even more holiday cheer to the school en- and More vironment. For weeks they have (contiunued from page 1) been preparing for their holi- “After that long hour and a half day concert series, beginning wait in line, I had to wait an- with the school assemblies on other two hours for the workers Monday, Dec. 15. Then on the at Best Buy to set up my new evening of Dec. 16, Ms. Cro- phone,” Eric said. However, the nin’s singers and dancers will family found themselves back perform for a huge audience in in line at 10:30 that night after the auditorium. the phone stopped working. Ms. Jacques said that her “We didn’t get home until about Sixth graders celebrate Hanukkah, while Amanda Harris dances with Debbie Allen at Royce Hall. string ensembles, who will take 2:00,” he said. the stage the following night, Another 7th grader, Blake us to make a difference,” Pe- ing lunch.” Learning about are also showing off some holi- will be playing a mix of classi- Eshaghian, also headed to Best dram added. Hannukah, which began in day spirit as they participate cal and holiday music. Plus, she Buy for some Black Friday bar- Off campus, students of 164 B.C.E., is part of the cur- in performances of “The Nut- promises, “We are preparing a gains. “My brother and I rushed different religions and cultures riculum. “I wanted to show my cracker,” a famous ballet that special holiday surprise.” Then, to the TVs and ended up get- are celebrating holidays that students that this was a holiday has been shown for decades. on Dec. 18, Mr. Miyoshi’s ting the last 40” Insignia TV for are significant to their heritage. older than Christmas. Jesus Patriots Shelby Tzung, Gabi bands have their turn to share $180.” He was happy to see Seventh grader Sabine Hom- didn’t celebrate Christmas. He Feingold, Willow Saxon, Greta holiday joy with Revere family plenty of PS4s and controllers mes celebrates a Dutch holiday celebrated Hanukkah.” Dur- Parker, Olivia Polite and Ra- and friends. still on the shelves, so he picked called Sinterklaas, which oc- ing the course of the year, Mr. chel Kovacs are performing in According to Ms. Cronin, up one of each and headed to curs every Dec. 5. Carnine’s Ancient Civilizations the Westside Ballet of Santa her combined choirs of 250 the long line at the cash register “I used to live in Holland, classesalso learn about Bud- Monica from Dec. 13–21 at the students will be singing holi- Seventh grader Michael Turfe where we have this celebration dhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Broad Stage. day jingles, such as “Hanukkah also had a memorable shopping where we would put our shoe and Islam. Sarah Hurty will be danc- Dance,” “How Many Nights” experience. “I went to Michi- by the fireplace and a carrot and Many other Patriots will ing at the Luckman Theater and “The Snowman.” The same gan, and Black Friday there is some water,” she explained. be celebrating Christmas on through Dec. 14 with the Marat group will end the concert with horrific,” he explained. “People “Then the next morning, we Dec. 25. For 7th grader Elena Daukayev School. Nina Lowry “Peace, Peace.” go crazy. I got trampled, hit and would find a small present in Kilkowski and her family, it is will be performing the lead role For their evening concert pounced on. But it was exhila- our shoe.” an extra special time. “We start of Clara with the Ballet for To- on Dec. 16, Ms. Cronin said the rating.” It was extremely cold Malia Reiss has a unique our holiday traditions early in panga at Topanga Community concert choir will be continuing outside, but he enjoyed a “boys family tradition that commemo- December,” she said. “My dad Club through Dec. 14. the decades-long tradition of night out” with his cousins. rates the Japanese New Year, is part of a charity that donates With the Debbie Allen inviting Revere choral alumni Back at Revere, the Council in which they create a Kagami money to the Childrens Hospi- Dance Academy, Amanda Har- to come up on stage and join in Club is carrying out their an- Mochi. “It looks like a two-lay- tal. We are part of a program ris will be performing another singing “The Hallelujah Cho- nual canned food drive. “Last ered snowman,” she said. called ‘Adopt a Family.’ We variation on the famous bal- rus” from Handel’s Messiah. year we raised about 4,000 Starting next Tuesday, also go to the L.A. Mission let through Dec. 14 at UCLA’s In the days leading up to pounds of food,” Council Club many Patriots will be celebrat- on Christmas Eve to prepare Royce Hall. They will be per- Dec. 19, Ms. Cronin’s is con- president Pedram Zamanpour ing Hanukkah. To prepare for meals for the homeless. Then forming the “Hot Chocolate tinuing a newer tradition. “The said. “This year, we are trying the 8-day holiday, Mr. Carnine on Christmas Day, we wake up Nutcracker,” which has mul- Madrigals will again be ‘car- to raise 5,000 pounds, but we placed a menorah in his class- around 7 a.m. and open all the tiple dance styles such as hip oling’ in the halls and inside can’t do it alone.” The cans that room. “About 15-20% of my gifts. My family loves Christ- hop, modern and contemporary. rooms that invite us,” she said. are donated will go to homeless students are Jewish, and some mas time.” “This year I am playing the “Their favorite is ‘Carol of the shelters across L.A. “It’s up to of them bring latkes to eat dur- Many dancers from Revere lead role of Kara,” she said. Bells’.” 4 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School COVER STORY In a Drought Without a Doubt installing Astroturf in their backyard so they won’t Agriculture and Horticulture waste any water on their lawn. Elizabeth Scott, also a teacher, Mrs. Robertson, and her 7th grader, is adjusting how she and her family waters class have a discussion while their lawn as well. “We are using a grey water system sitting on the logs by the farm area. to water plants and are planting cacti,” Elizabeth states. 6th grade Patriot David Blumstein says that at home, his family is, “keeping track of our silverware so we don’t have to wash as many plates and glasses.” An- other 6th grader named Zoe Egilsson said that she and her family are doing their part in this drought by using drought friendly plants. It seems like when it comes to conserving water, some Patriots at Revere are blowing others out of the water. Using less water has become much easier. Accord- ing to CBS Los Angeles, the Department of Water and Power (DWP) will now pay customers $3 per square foot to replace their lawn with plants that need less wa- ter. When this “Cash in Your Lawn” program started in May, local DWP customers were offered $2 per square foot to use drought friendly plants in their lawns. Now, however, federal and state grants have allowed the DWP to raise the offer an additional $1 per square foot for any residents that are willing to substitute their lawn with rock gardens, native plants, and artificial turf. The DWP’s Rick Silva says that “even residents who aren’t willing to completely replace their lawn should consid- er at least replacing old, wasteful sprinklers.” Accord- ing to officials, ever since the DWP issued the “Cash in Your Lawn” program in 2009, over 8 million square feet of turf has been replaced, resulting in 250 million gallons of water saved. With this new program in effect, some people won- der if Paul Revere will use the “Cash in Your Lawn” (contiued from page 1) been experiencing some because people leave the water running,” she remarks. plan. “In my opinion, grass should only be in areas for changes. According to Agriculture and Horticulture Some Patriots are getting a step ahead and are already con- sports,” Mrs. Robertson reflects. If Revere does con- teacher, Mrs. Robertson, there has been a huge dif- serving water at home. 8th grade Patriot Eva Bruckner and her sider this option, then areas on campus where sports ference in plant behavior since the drought. “It has family “leave the water running for as little time as possible.” are not played, such as the 8th Grade Quad and in been harder to get seeds to start sprouting. They This may not seem like much to some people, but Californians front of the X Building that have grass will be replaced need a lot of extra water. ” Mrs. Robertson explains, have to start somewhere. Another 8th grader, Lauren Yerm- with drought tolerant plants. As the school gardener “Plants have also been fruiting and flowering a lot ian, seems to have the same idea as Mrs. Robertson and Ms. who waters all of the plants on campus, Mr. Denny earlier.” Chen on saving water. “We turn off the water while brushing has some insight on whether replacing the landscape The drought has also affected the school gar- our teeth and take shorter showers,” Lauren comments. Henry would be wise. He admits that, “It would be a big deci- dener, Mr. Brian Denny. Large amounts of water Jugan, a 7th grade student at Paul Revere and his family are sion as to whether we would want a campus without are being used to keep the plants on campus look- lawns.” Without lawns, the Paul Revere campus would ing green. Even when Mr. Denny is watering dou- be mostly asphalt, dirt and native plants. Revere could ble time, some plants still cannot survive with the consider replacing the lawns with turf, but this would lack of water in California. He said, “Plants under L.A. Rainfall be a huge expense and it would take time to install. drought stress will put out very little, if any, new 2010-2014 Ms. Chen, Revere’s own P.E. teacher and Go Green growth.” Many may say that it sounds like some of Club leader also runs a nonprofit organization called Revere’s plants are in hot water. SELVA Instructional. “Our goal is to enlist people to The drought is affecting practically everybody remove their water guzzling lawns and replace them in California, including Patriots. But by doing their with drought friendly California nature plants,” Ms. part and saving water, Patriots can help end this Chen explains. “It is an important step towards water drought once and for all. conservation. “I do not want Patriots to cut down on showers!” Mrs. Robertson exclaims with a laugh. However, “The biggest things Patriots can do are she does advise that, “the biggest things Patriots can do are turn off the faucet while brushing their turn off the faucet while brushing their teeth, change their garden or lawn to drought tol- teeth, change their garden or lawn to erant plants, and take shorter showers.” Ms. Chen, drought tolerant plants and take shorter who runs the Go Green Club, agrees that Patriots should take shorter showers and turn off the faucet showers.” —Mrs. Robertson when they are brushing their teeth or washing their hands. “So much water is wasted during these times The price of water is increasing, but many Califor- SOURCE: U.S. CLIMATE DATA & FIND THE BEST nians are still not aware of the seriousness of the Cali- fornia drought. “I think it’s important for all people, not just Patriots, to lower their usage of water,” Ms. Chen declares. “It’s so easy to forget we have a serious water issue because all you have to do is turn a faucet and water will flow out of it. A lot of people don’t realize that we pay for this service through taxes and a water bill.” With prices soaring, people’s wallets (much like California) will soon be drying up. In January of 2014, Governor Jerry Brown issued a statewide drought emergency. The statewide drought emergency’s goal is for Californians to cut down their water consumption by 20% by 2020. This number may not seem like a lot, but Californians may have a hard time meeting this objective. In 2011, a study was taken of the California single-family water consumption used per day. It was estimated that the average California household used more than 360 gallons of water per day. For example, the typical office water cooler holds 5 gallons of water, or about 1.4 of the study’s estimated daily average household use. According to a website called The Lowdown: Decoding the News, based on that study, California would need to use 72 fewer gal- lons a day to achieve the 20% reduction goal. No matter what Californians do to conserve water, the statewide drought is not going to vanish overnight. Even if California residents decide to cut their water usage in half, the conditions of the drought aren’t go- ing to improve unless it starts raining or snowing in California. The state needs much more than one good rainstorm, like the one on December 2. The forecast in California calls for another dry year, which means that the people living in the state will have to use a reduced amount of water. In the future, some residents of “The Mrs. Robertson’s horticulture class works on keeping the plants in the garden healthy despite the effects of the drought. Golden State” might say no to wasting H2O. December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School 5

Not Much Rain, But a Flood of Color Yearbook photographers find nature thriving in places around Revere where the drought isn’t yet taking its toll.

The Town Crier : Do you think that Paul that they were finished off by disease and/ will die in order to conserve enough water Revere will consider changing their or insects. to keep the rest of the plant alive. Brian Denny: landscape to plants that need less water because of the drought? Do you notice a difference in plant Do you have to water plants more at Mr. Denny: The biggest consumers of behavior since the drought? Paul Revere because of the drought? Garden Guru water on campus are the lawns and the There are many ways to observe drought Watering during the rainy season has P.E. field. Since the field is needed for the stress in plants. The color of a drought occured more often because of the lack P.E. classes, it’s not going away. As far as stressed plant will change from a bright of rain. I define the rainy season as being shrubs and trees go, the difficulty we have glossy green to a dull flat green. Some between November 1st and March 30th. at Revere is that many of the planters are plants will not flower, or if they do, will During the non-rainy season watering has shaded by buildings and large trees. Many not produce fruit. Parts of some plants remained basically the same. shade plants, such as ferns, do need more water. I’ve never liked the term “drought tolerant plants” because all plants need water, even cacti and succulents. Most non-native ornamental plants will survive on average yearly rainfall once they’ve grown enough roots and become estab- lished. Native plants can be susceptible to exotic diseases and pests, as we have seen in California in recent years. Some native plants are not appropriate for schools be- cause of things like irritating sap and large thorns. Finally there is cost to consider. Directing scarce funds to make major landscaping changes, such as removing lawns, may not make sense.

How has the drought affected the Paul Revere campus? The main effect has been on the areas that don’t receive irrigation. Those areas in- clude the slope on the east side of campus The Town Crier interviewed Paul and the non-garden sections of the agri- Revere’s longtime gardener, Mr. culture area. Some plants in those areas Denny, about the drought’s effect on the have died, either as a direct result of not school’s 27 acre campus. enough water or from being so weakened 6 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School Lifestyle Trend TALK Have Any Time for Fashion Statements the Apple California sweatshirts and tees seem to be golden in the fashion world at Paul Revere this year. Watch? By GRACE DEAN How many times have you By CASEY EHRLICH walked down the hall and seen the California bear and colors If you are one on someone’s article of clothing? of the millions Whether it’s in the form of a of tech buffs shirt or a hoodie, the California out there, your flag has become recognizable next shiny and to everyone. The original precious piece California Republic brand sells of metal is only California Republic-themed here–the Apple clothing. However, many other Watch. For the first time Apple brands have caught wind of has not designed their product this popular trend, and have to solely please the techies of started to sell apparel that have the 21st century, instead they to do with the “Golden State.” have designed a device that Sweatshirts, tank tops, hats, appeals to the fashionistas of and even backpacks have been today as well. seen to represent California. The This mean that this device variation of the items available to will make all sorts of people show the California spirit allows one to happy. Let’s start with the pick and choose to see what fits their style. tech side of the watch: The It’s unlikely that students and young Apple Watch will come in 2 adults alike are wearing the clothes to screen sizes, a 38 millimeter support our state, so why are there so many screen and a 42 millimeter California-clad citizens? The answer is simple— screen. Inside it is the first people don’t want to make fashion statements fully integrated computer chip anymore. People have been spotted in California into a watch, dubbed the S1 Republic wear, and nowadays people just follow the chip. The Apple Watch is also crowd. It also doesn’t help that many stores are now as much of a health tracker are selling California Republic attire. Clothing stores tool as it is a watch. With its such as Tilly’s and Brandy Melville sell tops and heart rate sensor and accel- other apparel emblazoned with the letters C-A-L-I-F- erometer, it is able to track O-R-N-I-A. calories burned and the steps These teenage one-stop shops are you have climbed. accepted by many, and that’s why Ok, now to the fashion side numerous grizzly bears on of the watch: Apple has made the red, white, and green its most personal device yet. background can be spotted But more importantly Apple almost everywhere. has entered the fashion world as well. “The watch has mil- lions of combinations of styles for customers to choose from,” stated Jony Ive, Apple’s senior vice president of design. The watch will come in 3 casings, aluminum, stainless-steel, and 18 karat gold. Customers will be able to choose from a variety of buckles which range from a classic buckle to a fluoroelastomer plastic band in 5 different colors. Yes, the watch does sound very cool, indeed, but can it be allowed in school? The catch is with its ability to text and make phone calls, students may opt to go against school rules and text friends during class time. At first, as surprising as it sounds students probably will be able to do this until new rules are implemented by LAUSD. On a lighter note, think about all the old cartoons and movies that had characters wearing “smart watches.” Most of us probably never thought we would see the day of the smart watch, but now it’s here. However, Apple does have a lot of competi- tion in this field, with Sam- sung’s gear watch and the Moto 360 watch. Both of these watches are already on the market, while the Apple watch is planned to launch in early 2015, significantly after its competition. The Apple Watch does have some ground to prove. In my mind, the several features of the Apple Watch will prove it superior to the other watches on the market. December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School 7 A Recipe For Monday Tuesday Disaster? By JUDY ZHANG

Picture this; students at Paul Revere Charter Middle School sit down on their seats, waiting for the teacher to start the day. Suddenly, students walk into the classroom with bags of food for them to eat. LAUSD has recently created a new program called “Breakfast in the Classroom” (BIC). BIC allows students to eat during homeroom for free after the first bell. Paul Revere will be particpating in this project along with other schools. Even though it was once scheduled to start this January, it has been post-poned indefinitely. The Town Crier recently took a survey and found out that many Patriots disliked BIC. Eighth grader, Cici Cueva disagrees with the program because, “students will most likely waste the food and most students eat before school starts so it will be a waste.” However, some students advocate BIC. Chase Freeman, a sixth grader said, “Breakfast in the Classroom will be a good idea for the kids that don’t have time in the morning or can’t eat at home.” All in all, 43% of the people who were surveyed do not support the BIC program. About 35% agree with the idea of breakfast during homeroom. 22% of the students surveyed are unsure of their opinion. The BIC program at PRMS will work by having Quesadilla, Vanilla Yogurt, Granola, insulated bags of food and putting them onto a rack. These carts will then be lined up in front of the cafeteria Apple & Milk Pear & Milk with the homeroom number on it. Afterwards, students will come to the cafeteria and pick up the racks. The 13% 87% 56% 44% leftovers from the breakfast will be thrown away. On EAT REJECT EAT REJECT days where the food served is unpopular, the cafeteria will serve less for the students. For the first two weeks of the new program, the amount of food will correspond Marcos: The appearance of the quesadilla was appealing Marcos: Everything looked organized and really appetiz- to the amount of students, and the cafeteria will then be but the flavor wasn’t. Upon opening the plastic, it was ing. The granola cup smelled like honey oats cereal. The able to determine which breakfast meals aren’t popular warm, but soon turned frozen. The shell was hard and yogurt felt chunky but after tasting it, it was amazing. and decrease from there. the cheese was inedible. The apple was really tough to The flavors were rich and the granola, made it even bet- “Breakfast in the Classroom” will be open to all devour, and the milk tasted like cardboard. ter. However, the pear was flavorless. students for free. However, teachers will have to pay for breakfast. The cafeteria manager, Nicole Martin, is Grace: The quesadilla was tasteless and had an unap- Grace: The yogurt was sweet and creamy. The granola “excited to try the new program and see how it all works pealing look to it. When it touched my tongue, a bland to go along with the yogurt was appetizing and tasted out.” She recommends students to not eat before school flavor overtook my tastebuds. The outside of the quesa- delicious. The pear looked fine, but it lacked any flavor. once BIC starts “but it is ok for students if they can eat dilla was moist, but the cheese inside was stiff and not Overall, the meal was pretty good and I would eat it for lightly before school starts so they still have an appetite digestable to me. The apple looked mediocore, but in my breakfast. I think this would fill someone’s stomach up for the breakfast served in classrooms.” opinion, I wouldn’t want to eat an apple in the morning. nicely.

Wednesday Thursday Friday

Egg Sandwich, Strawberry Burrito, Coffee Cake, Jam, Orange Juice & Milk Raisins & Milk Pear & Milk 8% 92% 16% 84% 75% 25% EAT REJECT EAT REJECT EAT REJECT

Marcos: The egg sandwich felt wet and disgusting. I Marcos: Unlike most burritos, this one had eggs. After Marcos: The coffee cake was wet but warm. It smelled thought it was egg but it turned out to be a yellow un- opening the plastic, it looked disguting, it smelled spicy like sugar. It was flavorful, delicious, and perfect to eat cooked blob. I thought it was too spicy. The juice was and felt wet. Yet again, the egg was too spicy, which I for breakfast, especially for a Friday. The pear tasted fine and flavorful, but the milk tasted like cardboard. The hated and some other students might too. I was indiffer- bland—not sweet at all. The milk, as usual, tasted like jam was sweet and simulated a taste of strawberry. ent about the raisins, as they tasted average. the carton—cardboard.

Grace: The sandwhich was greasy, channeling a gag re- Grace: A spicy smell wafted from the burrito. This dish Grace: This entree tasted like cinnamon and apples. It flex in my throat. The bread bun was squishy amd soft, was wet from condensation and was sticky on my fin- was a bit gooey and had a dry finish, but all in all, it was and the main course in general was warm and not safe for gers. There was egg inside the burrito that was a little edible and enjoyable to eat. There were flecks of cinna- students to digest. I was confused on why there was jam spongy. However, the chiles mixed into the meal made it mon sprinkled on top of the cake for more flavor. The with the meal and didn’t think it was necessary. easier for me to break down in my stomach. pear was decent, but nothing extrondinary. I liked it. 8 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School Spirit Week

Style Nathan, Kameron and Ethan Sports Day are sporting their sport teams.

Patriots had the opportunity to express themselves during five days of dressing up, show- ing off and having fun. From Nov. 17-21, students showed their Paul Revere spirit by par- ticipating in Spirit Week. This Students head up to the P.E. field five day event was brought to to play Capture the Flag. Patriots by Student Council The midpoint of Spirit Week was an op- and Ms. Istrin. portunity for people to don articles of clothing showing the sports teams for which they root. Each day included a differ- Sports Day seemed to have been a successful ent activity and students had turnout as many Patriots, as well as teachers, the chance to participate in a came out to represent their favorite teams from a diversity of sports. From ice hockey to base- competition during lunch to ball, many different sports along with their win prizes. There were new teams were seen represented across the cam- pus. The lunchtime event was a simple game events this year such as Cra- of Capture the Flag hosted by Student Council zy Hair Day. However, there located up at the P.E. field. Patriots gathered up into four large different teams represent- were also classic old ones Sydney Conway and Mia Oliver show off ed by the colors blue, yellow, green and red. such as Twin Day and Black their teams on Sports Day. There was no prize; it was just a friendly game and White Day. of Capture the Flag to pump up students for Sports Day. —Judy Zhang —Melissa Bunnapradist

Teachers and staff members also got in the spirit for Crazy Hair Day. Crazy Hair Day

Many Patriots seemed to have gotten tangled Nina Polishbook said, “It felt exhilarating to up in Crazy Hair Day, which was the first day of win. We were losing at first but we came back Spirit Week. The day included a competition in and it was an awesome feeling.” the auditorium hosted by the members of Stu- Many students were inspired by celebrities Elisa Kim dent Council. They showed celebrities’ heads to make thier hair crazy, but some Patriots’ in- on a projector with only their hair showing and spiration came from the world around them. shows off her their faces were cropped out. Whichever team Elisa Kim (pictured left), a 7th grader, said, “My crazy hair. guessed the celebrity first got one point, and the hair was inspired by palm trees that I see on my first team to get three points won two dollars for street.” each player. 7th grader Jazmyn Cooper had 21 bows in When the event ended, nine people walked her hair. Jazmyn said, “I have been looking for- away with a prize. Patriot Foujan Toloueenia ward to this day so people can see how imagina- said, “I have really fast reflexes and I write tive and creative people can be.” —Jared Bre- quickly, so it helped me to get points for my cher team.” December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter MIddle School 9

Members of Student Council “clone” themselves by wearing their Student Council jackets.

Twin Day

Sixth graders show off their dopple- Day two of Spirit Week was brought off to the side. When their number was gangers on the steps of the cafeteria. with double the trouble. Twin Day, an called, the pair of twins came to the front experience that students seem to crave and competed in an obstacle course. The year after year, seemed to be another obstacle course featured multiple activi- wild success with Patriots this year. ties involving one’s other half. It started On Tuesday, November 18th, the at the front of the gym and one person’s campus was filled to the brim with count- right leg would be tied to the other per- less pairs of doppelgangers. Homerooms son’s left leg. were overflowing with numerous identi- Once the challenge started, pairs had cal duos that laughed and cheered and to go through a hula-hoop together, walk showed off their twin charm. around a set of cones, spin around, jump At lunch that day, these makeshift rope twice, touch the back wall, walk siblings swarmed up towards the gym backwards halfway across the room, and and worked together to compete against then walk forwards the other half. The other twins to win a cash prize of five winners of these races were twins Kira dollars. Davis and Elisa Kim, Mollie Essner and When students entered the gym, they Isabella Trask, along with Mia Oliver were given a ticket with a number on it and Sydney Conway. and sat down on the rows of bleachers —Claire Prall-Freedman

Black and Nation Day White Day On the Friday of Spirit Week, students all around Revere expressed their inner “yin and yang” by dressing only in black and white. Like every other year, Black and White day was “a big hit,” according to Student Council President Ali Kahn- Zakfarian. During lunch, over 100 black- and-white-clad Patriots piled into the gym to participate in “Oreo Impossible.” This is an activity where students have to hop During lunch, Patriots filled up the gym their way across the gym to a whipped for a friendly game of Nationball. cream bowl, and use their mouths to find the oreo inside. “…I’m guessing everyone For Nation Day, hundreds of Pa- Mr. Olmedo, enjoyed it because their faces were covered triots arrived to school wearing articles showing off an with whipped cream,” Ali said. There were of clothing that supported their nations. Ryan Victory oreo cookie, is still hundreds of people lining up outside On Thursday, students were showing off prepares to fire the donning black and the door to participate. All in all, Black and their national sports team jerseys, nation dodgeball towards white clothing. White day seemed to be a big creamy suc- t-shirts and face paint specifically col- the opposing team cess. —Will Elander ored for the nation they were represent- during lunch. ing. At lunch, these proud Patriots piled up into the gym to play Nationball, a The Madrigal choir homeroom sports clothing of black and white. type of dodgeball. The members of Stu- dent Council split up the crowd into two teams, and lined up dodge balls in the middle of the court. Then, the two teams began throwing the dogdeballs at each other, and the game of Nationball began. “Nation Day was one of the new days we brought to Spirit Week. A lot of people enjoyed the thrilling game of dodgeball. I was surprised with the amount of peo- ple that dressed up on such a new day.” said Student Body President Ali Kahn- Zakfarian. ­—Simon Goldsmith 10 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School Entertainment

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Zade Mullin 7th grader Zade Mullin has been Splitting drawing with pencils and crayons for as long as he can remember. He got more serious Patience with his art when he was in 4th grade and received an honorable mention in the Out of This World In Two Art Contest. By Muhammed aly For his picture, Zade used pencil Why have to sketch the design and then he book-to-film used many different colored pas- adaptations tels. His artwork took him about been extending three hours. “I actually spent the final movie a while trying to find the right into two parts? picture to do for the art contest. It’s becoming There were a lot of nebulas and overused. planets that were pretty impres- Moviegoers haven’t and sive, but I figured a lot of those will never truly appreciate would be submitted. When I saw those movies. This method the picture of the UFO above the became popular with Warner Stonehenge, I realized it was the Bros. Studios’ magical idea: one I wanted to do.” split “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows” into two movie parts. The idea was made to double the money and double the suspense for us viewers, and it worked. Harry Potter’s movie fran- Cosmic Creativity chise gained over $2.3 billion Astronomical artists put their planetary paintbrushes to work for the out-of-this-world art contest. and our love over the last two By SOPHIA ARVIN movies alone. I think that it’s Jalyn Johnson smart in some ways; it al- This year’s art contest theme lowed the movies to be much 7th grader Jalyn’s camera skills are displayed in her winning photo- was “Out of This World.” “We more detailed so that we can’t wanted to give the student body hate about all the scenes that graph. Jalyn has been doing photog- raphy for about two years. an opportunity to be creative they missed from the books. and show off their talents,” Ms. This is also important because She uses her dad’s cam- era and her phone for Istrin said. Over fifty people en- the book is nearly 800 pages tered the contest, but there were so they need two movies to taking pictures. It only took her a few minutes only five winners, along with depict all of it. It also keeps us one honorable mention. The on the edge of our seats and I until she found the per- fect snapshot, as she just took many Student Council voted on the couldn’t wait until part two. winners for each category based That movie franchise was pictures until she found the right one. “What inspired me to submit my pic- on creativity, theme, and effort. an exception; it was a world- All of the winner’s works can wide book series that magical- ture was the theme. It sounded chal- lenging to capture. My parents and be viewed in a display case by ly tricked everyone into liking the front office. “The art contest it. Unfortunately for other friends influenced me to enter my photo.” Aside from this contest, Ja- went great. There were lots of book-turn-film spinoffs, none amazing entries,” Julian Jacob- of them come close to The lyn sings almost everyday with her friend Lisa. son from Leadership said. Boy Who Lived. Take “The (contintued on page 11) Hobbit” trilogy, the prequel to the amazing “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. But one does Nyah Youabian not simply make three movies Nyah Youabian’s draw- based on one 320-page book. ing won her a spot in They shall not pass the suc- the finalists. Nyah started cess and legacy of the trilogy drawing when she was about five that rules them all. It’s just a years old and is currently in 7th stunt for more money, not at grade. She went to a painting class all to entertain us. when she was seven, but she then I think I speak for most decided she wanted to be a self- people when I say that we taught drawer. Nyah used Prisma- did not want another entire color colored pencils and spent over “Twilight” movie, the less five hours on her winning artwork. made the better. So why did “All of my friends and my family they extend the last film into encouraged me to enter and I’m glad two movies? That’s almost I did. They pushed me to do my best criminal, but of course, it’s and not give up.” more money in the studios’ Nyah continues to draw everyday pockets, and more pain for and likes drawimg objects that are us. Why did they have to do in her surroundings. “I like to be it to the “Hunger Games” creative and add my own personal finale Mockingjay? It’s been touch in what I create.” so good so far, so why are Desmond AndersEn they making us wait a whole 8th grader Desmond Andersen other year for the last hundred Obioma Nwanonenyi said, “I’m not really pages? The producer of the an interesting per- Obi’s strokes of color won the son art-wise,” but movie, Nina Jacobson, even painting portion of the contest. admitted to the N. Y. Times his 3-D sculpture The eighth grader used spray managed to win that “it would be disingenuous paint, paper for painting and mag- to say that there isn’t a benefit the contest. Des- azine pages he tore into pieces for mond wanted to make some- to getting four movies out of his submission. His original art- a trilogy.” But who is really thing unique, so he thought he work first cracked, and would do a 3-D piece because benefitting? Certainly not us. it took him about fif- When the movie says, “To he didn’t think many would be teen minutes to com- submitted. He also wanted to Be Continued” at the end of plete. part one, sad faces and angry make his creation humorous. “I was inspired by a “I suppose I’ve always sym- groans fill the audience. The Youtuber that got me into thought of having to wait an- pathized with the Interplan- spray painting. I learned from etary Bovine Comity in their other year for the last hundred him and I still do. His name is pages of the last book of “The global effort to reduce extra- Spraycasso.” terrestrial cow abductions, so Hunger Games puts an arrow Aside from this contest, Obi does to my heart. Unlike Katniss, it I dedicated my mobile to the airbrush, pastel, pottery, spray embodiment of their cause.” doesn’t hit the bullseye. painting, abstract art and wax. December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School 11 What’s Hot, What’s Not John Green Stephenie Meyer From the The Fault In Our Two years ago, teens were Stars to Paper Towns, John lined up outside of movie Green’s captivating books theaters, waiting to buy definitely hold a place in tickets to Breaking Dawn. everyone’s hearts. His books Stephenie Meyer, the author went from being a “Tiny” hit of the book it was based on, to being completely famous. was practically worshipped. To tell you the truth, this But nowadays, you don’t “star” just won’t go out. John even hear a word about the Green’s books are impossible Twilight series from teens. to tear your eyes away from. Why? Her stories have His books are definitely gotten boring and the plot faultless. Okay? Okay… —Sarah Bentley has become bland. —Danielle York Mr. Steenhoek, Ms. Robins and Mr. Hyman discuss the Film Festival. Ansel Elgort Taylor Lautner He’s on a roller coaster that only goes up my Ever since the mega blockbuster Twilight saga Lights, Camera, Action! friend! As Augustus Waters, he won the hearts of fell flat, this werewolf actor went from major Americans and unlike washed out hunk to major flunk. A couple Patriots were introduced to the first annual Film Festival. Twilight star, Taylor Lautner, of years ago, Taylor Lautner By MELISSA to the interested. Examples Ansel is just getting started. was a heartthrob for teens BUNNAPRADIST of all five categories (com- Even at the beginning of everywhere. But, that mercials, public service an- his career, Ansel Elgort time has passed and “Make a statement. Make a nouncements, music videos, has done everything the last movie that film.” The eyes of 2100 Patriots narratives, and short docu- from horror to romantic Lautner was in, he was wandered over the advertising mentaries) were shown and dramas, having important a co-star in the buddy- and announcement of Revere’s guidelines set for each kind roles in Carrie, The comedy Grown-Ups 2. first annual film festival, seem- of video, along with a date of Fault in Our Stars, The In the year since that ingly so big and newsworthy that May 6th for the actual event. A Divergent series and Men came out, no one has assemblies were called to ex- lesson learned or a theme to con- Women and Children. But, really heard about Taylor’s plain it to the each grade on De- vey was encouraged as well as acting isn’t his only talent. Ansel whereabouts, and frankly, cember 1st during periods two multiple entries to sway judges, is also a talented model , singer and no one cares to. It’s safe to say through four, one at a time. From along with some sort of original dancer. Overall, there is no fault in Ansel Elgort’s that Taylor Lautner has definitely been abducted commercials to music videos, soundtrack. From the general re- performing abilities. —Gabby Weiner from the public’s eye. —Grace Dean videos were limited to six min- actions of the crowd, Revere’s utes a piece as a maximum time, first annual film festival seems to and five categories were offered be a blockbuster. Taylor Swift Selena Gomez All the other artists knew she Back in 2011, Selena was Trouble the moment she Gomez was all the rage. walked in. Taylor Swift is in Her popularity started in the all of the recent buzz, with Disney show, Wizards of her new album “1989” and Waverly Place. Soon after the two singles in the top iTunes start of the show, she began charts. I mean, I don’t know to pursue her music career . about you, but I feel good Almost by Magic, she rose when I listen to her music. to the top of Pop charts in Taylor Swift is funny and has both America and the U.K. an amazing voice. Most artists From that point on, though, don’t write meaningful lyrics, but she always she started Falling Down. Who Says Selena does. Long live Taylor Swift. —Danielle York Gomez has started to Slow Down? I do! — Will Elander

Episode after episode, movie after movie, the I stare blankly at the screen, wishing that Bringing Back the Buddha choices are endless. To be honest, sometimes there were some way to end my boredom. This year, Spirit Series has returned to Revere once again to teach I am really Clueless about what to watch and I Unfortunately for me, I’m on Hulu Plus, not 6th grade Patriots about ancient history. They performed “Buddha can spend hours picking just one movie. When I Netflix. Hulu Plus and Netflix are very similar Walks” a play about Siddhartha and ancient India. watch Netflix, I am always filled withGlee over with the way they work, but very Divergent the many episodes. From the new season of Pretty when it comes to quality. Hulu Plus mainly Little Liars to the hilarious comedy The Big Bang focuses on comedy for young adults, but none Theory, Netflix has a variety of TV shows and of the shows that are in this department are movies not only for adults and teenagers, but also popular. In fact, I am almost at my Breaking for children. There is a specific section on Netflix point because the movies and TV shows are that is only for kids to watch and enjoy. Also, so Bad. Not only that, but Hulu Plus’ library is Netflix tries to provide everyone with something very small compared to competitors like Netflix to watch and their original series is what makes and Amazon Prime. Also, even if you pay the them stand out. Once Upon a Time, you had to monthly fee, Hulu Plus will interrupt everything actually turn on your television to be able to you watch with annoying ads. Hulu Plus only watch your shows, but now with Netflix, it is so really cares about one audience: young adults, so much easier. Netflix is a current hit in the world there aren’t many choices for a Modern Family. of entertainment, and is perfect for everyone. When you look at Hulu Plus, it’s easy to see that it is so old that it’s practically Frozen. —Ava —Judy Zhang Kerkorian Jennifer Lawrence Shailene Woodley Jennifer Lawrence has won many awards from Shailene Woodley is a one-hit-wonder whose Academy Awards to Golden Globes. Everyone fame has died since her role in The Fault in our Ryan Ebrahimi knows her as Katniss Everdeen, the girl on fire, Stars. Although she will play in the Divergent se- Ryan Ebrahimi’s submission won the section for for her famous Hunger Games movie trilogy that quel, Insurgent—which comes out in March—she animation in the Out-of-this-World art contest. people can watch over and hasn’t been in any movies Ryan is a 7th grade student and has been do- over without getting bored. in between. Someone can ing art since he was five years old. Aside from Plus, she starred as Tiffany easily replace her as the this contest, Ryan does art whenever he can and Maxell in her Academy next heroine movie star, as whenever he has time. He is currently working on a few drawings Award nominated movie, she has only starred in two involving idioms. Silver Linings Playbook. major movies, both with Ryan submitted his art because he wanted people to be able to She performs perfectly and easily played characters. see his animation. He made a video using the different tools on a always makes her movies Without a hit movie once a computer in his animation class. It took him about two weeks to better then the best and then year, Shailene Woodley is a complete. It included lots of color, a background song, and many topping the charts. forgotten star. ­ different settings. ­­—Marcos Reyes —Muhammed Aly 12 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School Sports ABOUT ATHLETICS Excited About E-Sports? By WILL ELANDER

In an article published by The Wall Street Journal, it was revealed that because of tight budgets, lots of colleges are cutting back on athletic scholarships, and “eliminating programs in sports like swimming and gymnastics.” Well, shocking as it seems, this is happening all over America, but not at a small university in Chicago. Robert Morris University is actually boosting their number of scholarships from 150 to over 700. Now, these new scholarship opportunities include some unexpected fields, like bowling or Eighth grade surfers (from left) Aidan Clark, Phillipe Konis and Daniel Dohad look out at the sun over the water after their surf session. cheerleading, but more importantly—videogames!­­­­­­­­­­ Whoever thought that we could be able to go to college, with an athletic scholarship–for­­­­­­ videogames? In all seriousness, though, Surfers By SIMON GOLDSMITH thriving withShred 47 members. The go surf in groups,”the says eighth extremelyGnar experienced surfer.” rejecting this is completely team meets on Tuesdays and grader Greg Gold. Practices are Eighth grader Dylan Basler understandable. Raising kids For the first time in Paul Thursdays at Santa Monica an hour long, and if the surf is said, “I haven’t surfed much to be couch potato video- Revere history, the middle Beach, Tower 29, to squeeze into bad, the team stays inside to since I learned how, so I thought gaming stars might not be a school put together a surf team their wetsuits and catch some learn about ocean safety and that joining the surf team would great idea. consisting of sixth, seventh and waves. If they don’t have a board reading the tide and current. be a great experience and However, a rising wave of eighth grade students. Although or wetsuit, one can be rented. “They will compete in the influence me to surf more often. popularity for Major League the 2014-2015 year is the team’s “We usually warm up on the Scholastic Surf Series,” informed Over spring break, I’m going to Gaming, or E-Sports, has debut season, it seems to be sand with an exercise and then Mr. Lafolette. “There are five Panama and I will most likely been sweeping the nation. local contests from Santa Monica surf there.” Several grand tournaments of to Santa Barbara.” The team will The head director and coach seasoned videogame masters compete against middle and high of the Revere surf team is competing take place several school students from San Diego, Marion Clark. Her mother, times every year. People Orange County, and many other Mary Setterholm, a former from all over the world can parts of the Los Angeles county professional surfer, founded participate in tournaments and area. At a contest, each surfer the Surf Academy in 1998, of popular game titles like is judged on his or her speed, and Marion took over in 2010. League of Legends and Call flow, power and commitment. Surf Academy is “Southern of Duty. “In E-Sports, video Greg Gold said, “The surf California’s premier surf gamers draw real crowds and team has allowed me to become school.” Surf Academy teaches big money,” according to a more independent surfer and surfing skills and overall ocean The New York Times. That’s given me tips on how to surf knowledge and awareness. Surf right, the winners of these better. It is a great experience Academy teaches camps, private competitions can earn large and a lot of fun.” groups and schools like Paul cash prizes, making E-Sports Daniel Dohad, an eighth Revere. finally seem like a legitimate grade member of the surf team, Patriots seemed to have sport. Oh, and a message to all explained, “When I look at gained many attributes from the the skeptics: there is no reason the waves, something special Surf Academy. Seventh grader to doubt this sport, especially happens inside me. It’s almost Cameron Zoller said, “I benefit if selfies are being considered like I’m at home. I don’t really from the Surf Academy because for the Olympics! Yes, this is tend to rank myself above others, I get to enhance my surfing now true. According to The Revere Riders are stoked for PRCMS’s first competitive surf season. but many believe that I am an skills.” New York Times, “The First Selfie World Championship help by Meitu Smartphone has just concluded… Therefore, Pigskin Predictions we respectfully ask President Bach and the IOC to include Faculty football fans guessed the winners of the past 13 games of the NFL season. ‘Selfie Taking,’ the world’s Amos Foxson Fulling Hernandez Koretz Lafolette Perdigao Walker Zuckerbraun #1 sport, in the next Summer Scores from Sept. 4 to Oct. 19 8-8 9-7 10-6 8-8 12-4 13-3 9-7 8-8 8-8 Olympic Games…” Nov. 2 Arizona 28 vs. Dallas 17 Arizona Dallas Arizona Dallas Arizona Arizona Arizona Arizona Arizona If someone can take New England pictures of themself on their Nov. 2 New England 43 vs. Denver 21 Denver Denver Denver Denver New England New England New England Denver cell phones and call themself Nov. 9 New Orleans 24 vs. SF 49ers 27 OT New Orleans SF 49ers New Orleans New Orleans SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers an athlete, then videogames Nov. 16 Carolina 17 vs. Atlanta 19 Carolina Atlanta Carolina Atlanta Carolina Carolina Carolina Atlanta Carolina definitely earn the title of a Nov. 16 NY Giants 10 vs. SF 49ers 16 SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers NY Giants SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers professional sport. Hopefully, as E-Sports grows, more Nov. 23 Minnesota 21 vs. Green Bay 24 Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay Green Bay people will become fans. I Nov. 23 NY Giants 28 vs. Dallas 31 Dallas NY Giants NY Giants NY Giants NY Giants NY Giants NY Giants NY Giants Dallas wouldn’t be surprised if Nov. 23 Seattle 19 vs. Arizona 3 Arizona Seattle Seattle Seattle Seattle Seattle Seattle Arizona Arizona E-Sports becomes much more popular in the next few years. Nov. 27 Dallas 10 vs. Philadelphia 33 Dallas Dallas Philadelphia Dallas Philadelphia Philadelphia Dallas Philadelphia Dallas I’m not the type of person to Nov. 27 Seattle 19 vs. SF 49ers 3 SF 49ers SF 49ers Seattle SF 49ers Seattle SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers SF 49ers get Clippers tickets, but I’ll Dec.7 Cincinnati 21 vs. Pittsburgh 42 Cincinnati Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Cincinnati Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Cincinnati Cincinnati certainly be watching a Super Smash Bros. tournament on Dec.7 Carolina 41 vs. New Orleans 10 New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans New Orleans Twitch! What’s that? It’s Dec.7 Seattle 24 vs. Phildelphia 14 Seattle Seattle Seattle Philadelphia Seattle Seattle Seattle Philadelphia Philadelphia Netflix for videogames! After fourteen weeks of games, Mr. Lafolette 13-16 16-13 19-10 12-17 20-9 22-7 17-12 15-14 13-16 Brilliant, right? leads Mr. Koretz by two correct predictions. December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School 13

Miaya leaps through the air at a gymnastics A Shot at Flip, Twist competition. Success Teddy Suisman seems to be one of Revere’s most experienced basketball players. He has been playing basketball since he was eight, and currently and Jump! plays on the Revere basketball Mia grins as team, the Palisades park league she dances and a competitive travel team on stage. Dynamic called P.H.D. He said, “The park league is just for fun, but my travel team is my serious Dribbling team!” Along with his three th 7 grade Patriot, Liberty basketball teams, Teddy does Gotler, seems to be one of a competitive summer camp at Revere’s most dedicated UCLA. Teddy said,” My overall basketball players. Liberty has been participating in the sport Teddy since she was five years old looks up and hopes to continue playing to see if basketball in high school, college he made and in the WNBA. Liberty his free- currently plays point guard on a throw. club team called “Swish” in the Pacific Palisades. She says that her favorite basketball player and inspiration is Chris Paul because, “he is a good team player and has amazing ball Leaping Through Life control.” As a little kid, Miaya South States Association of Indepen- performed all kinds of tricks dent Gymnastics Clubs) repre- However, basketball is not around her house with great pas- senting Josephon’s Academy of Liberty’s only interest. At one sion. The small hobby that was Gymnastics. point, Liberty played football goal is to get a scholarship to done at home turned into her en- Miaya plans to keep gymnas- and ran track, while playing either UCLA or Stanford, and tire life. tics a part of her life for as long basketball simultaneously. After maybe play overseas.” The six year old enrolled in as possible and her love for this playing on the Paul Revere girls’ Teddy’s most memorable Marvelous gymnastic classes to polish her sport shows through her enthu- basketball team last year, Liberty moment on the court was when skills and fulfill her desirable siasm for gymnastics. “What I plans to tryout again this year his team was down by one point dream. Miaya used to watch enjoy most about gymnastics is and hopes to lead the team to with ten seconds on the clock. Moves gymnastics when she was young- the fact that I’m always in the The curtain opens, music the championships. In the future, Teddy was racing down the er and imitate the complicated air or upside down and I love starts playing, and Mia Taheri Liberty plans on playing for her court; there was one defender moves that even professional the adrenaline rush I get when begins her dance. Mia, a high school team and hopes to on him, with four seconds on gymnasts could have fouled up I’m about to perform a big skill.” contemporary, hip-hop, ballet, receive a college scholarship. the clock. He quickly crossed on. Miaya can now say that she She hopes to continue this sport tap, and jazz dancer, has been —Ava Kerkorian the defender over and released has won three state titles and one in her future years while keeping dancing for 10 years. “I started the ball just as the buzzer went world title in the span of seven a balance of her education. dancing when I was two,” Mia off. Everyone in the gym besides years in the USAIGC (United —Rivata Dutta explained. “I am on a dance team Teddy looked to see if the ball and I joined it three years ago.” went in, but Teddy already knew Mia practices four days a week his team won. —Brett Anwar for about 12 hours a week. “What I enjoy about dancing is that I’m doing what I love and it makes Tumbling me happy,” Mia affirms. “I also Perfect love that my best friend, Leila, Triumph is there with me.” For her, being on the dance team is even more At age nine, seventh grader Putting exciting because she can compete Teo Lin-Bianco became inter- Melanie Matayoshi is one of and get rewarded for her hard ested in tumbling in the circus. the few kids at Revere that plays work. Mia’s dance team attends Tumbling is a sport that re- golf. Melanie started playing golf two dance competitions a year, quires one to spend a lot of time at the age of four at L.A. County including the Rainbow Dance practicing and working on im- Junior Golf Program. After nine Competition and Thunderstruck proving skills. It also requires a years, Melanie plays every week Dance Competition. “Once at lot of mental strength, not just for two hours straight. the Rainbow Dance Competition Liberty physical strength. At one point when my best friend, Leila, and I did a dribbles down Teo says that he enjoys com- Melanie contemplated quitting duet and got 1st place overall!” the court. pleting new skills that he has golf. Melanie then competed —Judy Zhang been practicing for a long time. in a tournament and got second As tumbling may sound unusual, place. After getting second, for Teo it is just like any other Melanie’s confidence was sport. boosted and she came to realize Tumbling is a sport that re- that golf was her sport. quires lots of flipping and also Now, Melanie competes in requires a lot of strength. tournaments from Lakewood to Teo said, “Tumbling has Los Verdes. She has acquired a small but growing popular- seven bronze medals, seven ity. There are small amounts of silver medals, and five gold tumblers in general but I have medals in putting competitions. noticed more and more people To Melanie, golf is more than trying out for circus and there- a sport—it’s a lifestyle. “I love fore becoming tumblers.” Teo the game of golf because it helps also says that the sport is tough you focus more and concentrate Ally runs because he is always striving to on a goal,” explained Melanie. In down the learn new and harder skills. the future, Melanie sees herself field with her Teo practices whenever he playing golf in high school and lacross stick. can and when he has nothing joining the Stanford golf team. new to learn, he works on his —Marcos Reyes older skills and makes them as near to perfect as he can get. Live,As Ally Stahl Love, steps on to category. Lacrosse Tumbling is a sport that re- the field, she clenches her stick Since Ally plays lacrosse quires one to practice all the in one hand and carries a smile several times a week, her time in order to create the perfect on her face. “I play lacrosse schedule is all lacrosse, all the combination of flips and aerials almost everyday and my team time. Ally remarked, “I need to which is exactly what Teo does meets on Sundays for two and practice a lot! You need to be in when it is his turn to show off his a half hours with a conditioning good shape all of the time and moves. coach,” said Ally. Ally Stahl always be ready for practice!” Teo said, “I would recom- began playing lacrosse when she Even though lacrosse seems to mend this sport to anyone, but Teo was in fifth grade by joining a be a lot of work, Ally exclaimed, you can’t expect to pick it up (on top) Melanie recreational league in West L.A. “I love the way you get to bond right away because it is a tough practices putts during Now, the eigth grader plays on a with other lacrosse players and sport to learn and get the hang his tum- a golf travel team that won a national get very good at one sport.” of.” bling. competition. tournament in the U-13 age —Gabby Weiner —Oliver Spector 14 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School Opinion The Problem With Proofs Take-Away To take Algebra 1 as an 8th grader in the any immaturity a student may have. Geometry Trophies 1990s was considered an honor. By 2011, the uses entirely different techniques: constructions initiative to have algebra completed by all 8th and proofs instead of numbers and variables. An SEAN CHOI graders was established. And by 2014, many average student will end up taking trigonometry students had taken algebra in 7th grade. When the in high school where many of the skills learned in In East Greenwich, Rhode Island, students were on their 7th graders finished algebra, they proceeded to geometry will be taught again, but in a different rhode to success—but weren’t getting recognized for it. School take geometry in 8th grade, while others would way—the trigonometry way. officials in Archie R. Cole Middle School cancelled honors night, learn algebra in their last year of middle school. There may be a few points in geometry that thinking that the ceremony was “too exclusive.” However, a handful of professional researchers will not be taught in trig, but why not just include In place of honors night, officials decided to give team-based conducted intensive research and concluded that them with the trigonometry curriculum and recognition ceremonies and graduations that award all students the 2011 plan had done more harm than good. save a year of worthless studying? Only specific that meets or surpasses the expectations of the school. However, It was said that one out of five of the students careers require lessons from geometry. So, this decision was met with protests from parents, and the officials who took algebra in middle school had ended although it seems a lot more efficient and smarter immediately brought back the spring tradition. up repeating it in high school. So, why has the if we take Algebra 2 after Algebra 1, we take I think the school officials made an imprudent decision trying district offered the option to learn geometry, an Algebra 1, geometry, and then Algebra 2, causing to cancel honors night, which plays a significant role in student even harder course, in eighth grade? confusion and unnecessary trouble. motivation. In contrast to what the school officials would say, Some 13-year-olds taking a class meant for It’s unfortunate that the districts and schools honors night is not just a distribution of pieces of paper. Hard- high school students is leading to them giving around the world expect the kids of the new working students deserve to be recognized for their exceptional up or getting failing grades. These teens are still generation to store an excessive and worthless prowess in academics and sports, and honors night is their way developing their emotional and organizational amount of information in their heads. of rewarding them. skills, and geometry is a course that punishes —Rivata Dutta In my own situation, success in achieving the prized certificate encourages me to strive for success, and failure to do so makes me more determined to get what I want. I’m sure the same scenario also applies to other students as well, proving that traditional awards ceremonies are key to student motivation. “But we planned to replace them with group recognition ceremonies,” the officials would say. The substituted ceremonies would do little to compensate for the removal of honors night. The “recognition ceremonies” that are to substitute honors night celebrates the school’s overall success, which means that awards will be handed out to everyone, even the ones who really don’t deserve them. The officials’ new idea wouldn’t solve anything; it would just make the situation worse. Students would just be satisfied with the amount of awards they are receiving and would not be encouraged to improve even more in academic areas. They would just stay in one spot and expect more certificates and trophies. Therefore, canceling honors night would result in decreased student morale and motivation, and reduced work effort. Despite the significance of honors night, its attempted abolishment is not the real problem. The real crisis would have happened if it had been successful. Just as the occasional award encourages a student, an accomplishment would encourage the officials to get rid of other traditional awards ceremonies and replace them with cheap imitations of what they used to be. The trophies are meant for those who are determined to win it, not those who don’t try to obtain one. When the parents opposed the officials, they seemed to already know of the outcomes of a seemingly harmless decision. We asked Patriots if geometry should be offered in middle school. Below are some of their responses.

“I think geometry should be ones that get the best grades in and understand the material. offered as a course so high algebra should be allowed to Doing geometry in 8th grade school can provide as many move on to geometry.” also allows whoever does it to Extra Credit math courses as possible; it is a —Dylan Tzung, 6th Grade be on the highest possible math bit challenging but isn’t too dif- track and will allow them to For Everyone? ficult to not be offered.” “Yes, geometry should be an take the most advanced classes —Hannah Yick, 8th Grade option, but only if the student is in high school.” ZACHARY GARAI smart enough.” —Tomas Sorenson, 8th Grade Forty years ago, when our parents were solving math “I don’t think geometry is very —Rachel Israel, 8th Grade problems on the blackboard and typing essays on their parents’ important for middle school “I believe geometry should be typewriter, the term “extra credit” was nearly unheard of. But in students to learn. It is too dif- “I think geometry should be offered for those students who recent times, grade-boosting assignments have taken over educa- ficult and there are better and offered because why shouldn’t are more advanced in math so tion, and grades of over 100% aren’t rare anymore. On many more relevant topics to learn in you move forward if you’re that they can learn at the level tests, there is at least one problem labeled as an extra credit ques- math.” smart enough?” at which they need to learn.” tion, and there are many activities at school that can also boost —Milly Hopkins, 6th Grade —Gilbert Hernandez, 7th Grade —Clara Green, 7th Grade your grade. This notion that students have about extra credit, about how it is always available, is something that is just not “I think geometry should be “Geometry should be offered “On the whole, geometry is un- realistic in the real world. offered as a course because it is because some people aren’t necessary. But, I’d rather take it This artificial inflation of grades can help in many cases. important for smart students to challenged in algebra. It’s not now than in high school.” However, it can also harm students. If they start to believe that have academic challenges.” too hard and it’s not too easy.” —Gabby Weiner, 8th Grade they can bring a B to an A by showing up for a lunchtime career —Anouk Wijeratne, 6th Grade —Jessie Bierschenk, 8th Grade talk, then when high school or college comes around, reality “Geometry might be too hard will hit them. Many high schools and colleges do not offer extra “I think geometry should be “Yes, we should get to take even for honors because we credit, so it gives a feeling of false hope. I think that students’ offered in middle school, but geometry in middle school, might get mixed up with it. I grades should more accurately reflect their personal abilities, only if the students want to take because the advanced students think it’s fine learning Algebra study habits, and quality of work, rather than the ability to answer it.”—Nate Akiba, 6th Grade should be able to go to their 1.” —Ashley Garcia, 7th Grade a simple question correctly. own math level.” That’s not to say extra credit is bad. It is actually a great way “I believe geometry should be —Andrew Simanian, 7th Grade “I don’t think that geometry in to teach students to go above-and-beyond. But in my opinion, offered as a course for middle 8th grade is a problem as long extra credit should not account for a large fraction of your grades. school students because the “I think we should do geometry as the student understands the I love the idea that, if you have an 88%, or any high B in a class, people who are excelling at because it will be a challenge to topic.” you can get an A by doing extra credit. math should be able to move to people who don’t know how to —Gabi Feingold, 8th Grade It makes it more fair if you work really hard and deserve an a higher level.” do it.” A, but something goes wrong on a major test or report, you can —Olivia Sand, 7th Grade —Priya Datta, 6th Grade “I believe that geometry is hard make up for it. It could also really help if you’re borderline on a class but once you get the basics B, and you have a high C, to get a better than just passing grade. “I think that geometry is a “Yes, I think geometry should and the main ideas it becomes But what isn’t fair to me is to have an absurd portion of your difficult math class, but I still be offered because if they end simpler, but still challenging. grade being extra credit. Extra credit should be handed out in enjoy the challenge. I would up as a high school dropout, I think I will get through this smaller amounts, and for truly exceptional work to those who rather take the class now than they will have skills to keep go- class... Helen Keller got through deserve it. It really isn’t fair for one person who works hard but in high school so that I can take ing on with life.” it and she was blind and deaf.” has a less than perfect grade, and another who doesn’t work as additional classes later on.” —Emma Aluise, 6th Grade —Nikki Khoubian, 8th Grade hard to get over a 100%. If every student can easily get a grade of —Kian Farahdel, 8th Grade over 100%, there’s a problem. “I believe that 8th graders “Our minds can get in better Extra credit should encourage students to do better, but should “Yes, I think that geometry should be allowed to take geom- shape...with a protractor and not prevent them from getting a grade they earn. One who needs should be offered to the 8th etry. Although it is a challenging compass, that is!” extra credit should be able to receive it easily, and be able to raise graders that are ready for it. The subject, I feel that I can learn —Will Elander, 8th Grade their grade. A balance is essential—but so is fairness. December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School 15

TOWN CRIER POLL TALKING HEADS Hopes for the The best of both worlds: Holidays Holiday spirits are in the air at Revere, and everyone seems to be more sleep and excited. The Town Crier staff asked some of the staff at Revere what better grades? their wishes for the holidays and new year are. How does an 8:40 tardy bell sound for the beginning of school? For some Patriots, scientists, and many “Wishing you and your families a joyous other teens, it’s music to their ears. Pediatricians and parents have fought to have their children coming holiday season and a Happy New Year. out the door smiling, not sleepy, for decades now; and many newspapers have covered the subject. Thank you for an exciting first semester.” CNN .com informs, “Sleep deprevation in children is also what the academy of Pediatrics calls ‘one of —Mr Perdigao the most common-and easily fixable-public health issues in the U.S today.” With that said, here’s a view on Patriots’ opinion on the subject. Survey conducted by Danielle York and Grace Dean. By GRACE DEAN

“I hope that everyone gets an opportu- nity to enjoy their friends and families and to enjoy what they love, and get ready for the New Year!” —Ms. Stewart

“I wish for the Lakers to lose all their games so they could get their first pick next year.” —Mr. Hubbard

“I hope that the students spend the holidays eating fruits and veg- etables, but not a lot of cake and candy.” —Ms. Walker Would you favor starting school later if it helped your “Go for a run at least once a week learning? over break. It will make you feel better about eating so much!” —Mr. Foxson

“If people are more compassionate and kind about each other at school, people would feel feel safer and more comfortable at school, which might improve academic performance.” —Mr. Valerio

“You are a blessing. I hope you savor your time with family and friends.” —Ms. Asahina Source: Homeroom survey of 104 Patriots in all three grades Interviews by Marcos Reyes and Jared Brecher

TOPICAL TEE Editors: Grace Dean Contributors: “I love Earth, Brittany Darrow Rivata Dutta Desmond Andersen but sometimes Gabi Feingold Casey Ehrlich Ryan Ebrahimi I feel that others Shelby Tzung Will Elander Jalyn Johnson don’t. Littering and Danielle York Zachary Garai Jamie Mazur tearing plants are Simon Goldsmith Zade Mullin not a way to respect Reporters: Aaron Heisen Morgan Novak our world, people. Muhammed Aly Cherrie Hererra Obioma Nwanonenyi By wearing this Brett Anwar Ava Kerkorian Brent Smith Member of the National Scholastic shirt, I show others Sophia Arvin Claire Hannah Yick Prall-Freedman Press Association that I care about our Sarah Bentley Nyah Youabian Marcos Reyes Published by and for the students of one and only home.” Jared Brecher Oliver Spector ______Paul Revere Charter Middle Melissa —Cherrie Hererra Faculty Advisor: School and Magnet Center Bunnapradist Gabby Weiner 1450 Allenford Avenue, 7th Grade Sean Choi Judy Zhang Mr. Wechsler Los Angeles, California 16 December 12, 2014 Paul Revere Charter Middle School

Layout by Claire Prall-Freedman

Why Aren’t You Laughing? By Jamie Mazur

Complete the Lyrics

“I remember the day you told me you were leaving” ______

“I’m gonna love you, until you hate me” ______

“They’re driving fast cars, but they don’t know where they’re go- ing” ______

“You say I’m crazy, cause you don’t think I know what you’ve done” ______

“Hunt you down eat you alive” ______

“Find another one cause she belongs to me” ______Winter Holidays Word Search & Trivia 1. What is another name for Santa Claus? ______

2. What is the top spun during Hanukkah called? ______

3. How long does Kwanzaa last? ______

4. True or False: Halloween is the 2nd most successful commercial Spot the Differences holiday. ______Above, a picture of sixth graders showing off their Mesopotamia newspapers has been 5. What kind of tree is a Christmas tree? ______Photoshopped with eight differences. See if you can find all of them. 6. True or False: The menorah holds eight candles. ______The Adventures of Paula Revere By Rivata Dutta 7. What two Fall/Winter holidays coincided last year? ______

8. What is the day after Thanksgiving called? ______

9. What time does the first ball drop on New Year’s Eve in Times Square (PST)? ______

10. According to tradition, who do families visit on the first day of

Chinese New Year? ______

Name That Lyric Answers: Amnesia, Black Widow, Cool Kids, I’m Not the Only One, Animals, Steal My Girl My Steal Animals, One, Only the Not I’m Kids, Cool Widow, Black Amnesia, Answers: Lyric That Name

wall, girl’s pants are white, boy’s hair is brown, Nike logo on boy’s shoes shoes boy’s on logo Nike brown, is hair boy’s white, are pants girl’s wall,

Spot the Differences Answers: star is purple, other sock is pink, Under Armour logo gone, girl’s sock is white, no crack in in crack no white, is sock girl’s gone, logo Armour Under pink, is sock other purple, is star Answers: Differences the Spot

Black Friday, 9. 9:00 PM, 10. the oldest family members family oldest the 10. PM, 9:00 9. Friday, Black Trivia Answers: 1. Saint Nick, 2. dreidel, 3. a week, 4. true, 5. evergreen conifer, 6. false, 7. Thanksgiving and Hannukkah, 8. 8. Hannukkah, and Thanksgiving 7. false, 6. conifer, evergreen 5. true, 4. week, a 3. dreidel, 2. Nick, Saint 1. Answers: Trivia january first jingle potato pancake pumpkin ornament menorah presents thankful