A Merry Christmas for Everyone by Joseph Marquez

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The Franklin Press Volume III Edition 3 Winter Break 2017 “Once A Panther, Always A Panther” A Merry Christmas For Everyone By Joseph Marquez

If someone were to ask “What does Christmas look like to you?”, what comes to mind? A pine tree full of A charity offering free holiday assistance if eligible based on income and other factors. This program also presents? A warm fireplace? A feast fit for kings? And queens? All of these clichés make us long for that offers holiday meals. “Dream Christmas.” But unfortunately, for some people, that is all it ever will be - a dream. Catholic Charities – Los Angeles Inc., 1531 James M. Wood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015; Families living in poverty evidently don’t share the same privileges as others do and their reality is much (213) 251-3400 darker. For some, presents are scarce or even non-existent because money has gone toward necessities such Offers emergency services to low income and working families including food vouchers, free groceries, and as paying bills, rent, or anything simply to survive. They don’t buy Christmas trees or presents and they’ll be also holiday baskets at lucky if there’s any holiday dinner at all. both Thanksgiving and Speaking from experience, a person’s spirit grows hollow when it does not feel like Christmas on December Christmas. 25th. Growing up, my family had to take advantage of social welfare programs through churches, youth Hathaway Children’s centers, or recreational centers to catch a glimmer of our dream. Their help and support gave us all hope and Services, 840 N Avenue 66, helped us find a way to a more stable life. Los Angeles, CA 90042; Unfortunately, families living in poverty may not know such services exist. But they do. And they’re ready (323) 257-9600 to help. These programs and services seek to help those less fortunate families by providing a warm meal, Provides over 500 children shelter, or even presents. They help struggling families by spreading joy and unity through giving to solidify with gifts and special the spirit of Christmas within families. It is important to understand that although these programs may be holiday activities during the plentiful, they too are also in need of help, both financial and voluntary, to continue giving. holiday season. Yes, November and December are the The Salvation Army, (323) months when the holidays can bring out 759-7681; (323) 263-7577; the best in people. It’s cliche but it is im- (213) 387-7278 portant to keep in mind that being a caring There are various centers person means helping out year round. located around the Los The poor are still poor after the holidays. Angeles area that provide As Aristotle once said, “We are what we families with food and repeatedly do.” Therefore kindness ought groceries. Courtesy: Google Images to be a habit, not an act. The world is sus- LA County DPSS ceptible to change, kindness should not. (Department of The homeless receive Christmas presents through If you want to volunteer or contribute Public Social Services), during the holidays, below is a list of or- 2615 South Grand Avenue, non-profit organizations. ganizations here in LA that will be happy 2nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA to have you now or throughout the year: 90007-2608 Hollenbeck Youth Center ,2015 E 1st St., Part of the Adopt-a-Family program. Partners up with charities to collect toys and games for children around Los Angeles, CA 90033; (323) 881-6565 the county during the holidays. A community center that offer young Toys for Tots Foundation – U.S Marine Corps (562) 536-2253; (626) 398-0295 Courtesy: Google Images children a present of their choice. The program operates from several sites around Los Angeles County. Here are some numbers for more infor- First United Methodist Church of mation. Hot meals are provided to families in need. Compton, 1025 S Long Beach Blvd., Grace Resource Center, 45134 N. Sierra Hwy., Lancaster, CA 93534; (661) 940-5272 Compton, CA 90221; With over 30 churches in Los Angeles County and Antelope Valley Region the center relies heavily on volun- (310) 639-0775 teers who support and contributes to their holiday programs. They provide gifts, toys, diapers, and other aid. The DREAMers: How the Undocumented Youth Movement Transformed the Immigrants Rights Debate An Interview With Author Walter Nicholls

By Kimberly Koh

In his new book, author Walter Nicholls documents the lives of four There are many hard parts. The first hard part was doing the reaching out to them, engaging in conversations is pretty difficult. ‘Dreamers’ that, according to Stanford University Press, “provides research. When you’re doing a news story for example in your line Generally speaking it’s very difficult but it’s also very rewarding the first investigation of the youth movement that has transformed of work, there are many things that might be interesting about a because you get to go into people’s lives and hear their stories and the national immigration debate.” The eponymously-named federal subject. It’s hard to find. What is the core issue? The first important it’s very nice. bill, the Dream Act, is still a “dream,” not yet law. The act would issue is to say, “Okay this is an interesting subject, but what’s the Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it? provide young undocumented immigrants American citizen- I learned a lot from writing this book. One of the things I learned ship in a streamlined three-step process. On May 17, 2010, four the most, that was the most important I think, was the importance students protested in Arizona Senator McCain’s Washington office of people fighting for their own rights. People organizing them- to pressure Congress to pass the act that year. Of the four, three selves even though they have very very little because most of these risked deportation. Nicholls includes interviews, news stories, kids come from low income families. None of them have papers. and encounters with those four activists. The book shares their They’re really on the margins but in spite of all that, if you work strategies and how these activists continue to fight for Dream Act together and you work hard, you can do a lot. What was really passage. I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Nicholls when he impressive about this story is the fact that these kids are facing visited Franklin this past October. enormous barriers. Tons of people are anti-immigrant in this coun- What inspired you to start writing about the Dreamers? try. There’s lots of stigma they’re facing for having undocumented I was doing a lot of research on immigrant rights politics in Los status. They didn’t have very much money. Many high school Angeles before for a long time so I’d been studying how different students, college students, they didn’t have much. But in spite of immigrant rights groups have been fighting for different types of that, they worked together, they worked hard, and they were able to rights but also legal status for many immigrants in Los Angeles. push for the rights of the Dreamers. So as a part of that, I met some people who were working with the What is a message in your book that you hope readers will grasp? Dreamers, who were working with undocumented youth. Then The big message I think is people can make change. Right now as they invited me to meetings and I was able to observe what was times are getting really hard with this particular president, I think going on and it was very inspiring. What was inspiring was that what I want for people to see in this book is that in spite of all the these youth were organizing for themselves, they didn’t have other difficulties people are facing, there’s still possibilities for creating people organizing them. When I saw them, when I went to a couple positive social change in spite of the fact that the odds are against of meetings I was like “Wow, this is it, this is what I want to study.” you. So again, I think the big issue I want people to take from this What characteristics did you use to choose the individual’s experi- book right now is that working together, mobilizing together, things ence for your book? can change in a very important way. The second thing I want That’s a good question. It’s interesting because when you do a lot of people to take from this book is the idea that people should have interviews with people there are always different stories that come status. I think this is absolutely important and it’s something that’s about. The way I chose certain stories over others was because cer- frightening that we haven’t done so far. In a place like California, tain students and certain youth were able to say things in ways that a place like Los Angeles, we have 12% of the population that’s were really sort of powerful and it really captured what I wanted undocumented which means that each of these people who are to say myself. When you’re writing the book, you look at all the undocumented have friends and family who are directly affected by interviews, all the interview material and you want to sort of create this. This is what I want people to take from this book, to provide a story that reflects all the individual cases. So in terms of selecting people’s stories, to break the idea that people are distant, terrible, or one story, I would try to select one story that really tried to illus- real story?” So trying to find that, and trying to find a coherent whatever. How people view immigrants and how they look at this trate what everybody’s going through at the same time. It’s tricky story from all the different interviews, that’s very difficult. Another and say, “No these are human beings who are part of our communi- because no story is more important than another story. thing that’s very difficult about this is actually getting the informa- ty and should have equal rights like anybody else.” What was the hardest part of writing this book? tion, interviewing people. Trying to identify all these different folks, Winter Break 2017 Around Franklin Page 2 73rd Annual NELA Holiday Parade Celebrates the Holiday Season

ByAlex Haung

The holidays are just around the corner and the from Academia Avance Charter Highland Park community decided to celebrate School marched in honor of their it Sunday, December 3rd, with the 73rd annual school. They were followed by Northeast L.A. Holiday Parade. Held to gather various other organizations such the community together to embrace the holiday as Hathaway Sycamores and the season, the parade was sponsored by the High- Anahuak Youth Sports Associ- land Park Chamber of Commerce in association ation, marching as the audience with the City of Los Angeles, CD1 Councilp- cheered them on. erson Gil Cedillo, CD14 Councilperson Jose Our very own Franklin High Huizar, and the Department of Cultural Affairs. School’s students joined the event The parade moved along North Figueroa Street with members of the Marching from Avenue 60 to Sycamore Grove Park. Band, Color Guard, Associated With assistance from Hathaway-Sycamores Student Body, JROTC, Cheer Child Services, announcer booths were Team, Robotics, Folklorico, set up in eight locations at 11 a.m., while and the Wrestling team. Many Figueroa Street was closed down to public trans- participants marched while other participants rode on horses, sat on floats, or drove in tilting cars. Courtesy: Google Images There were a number of fascinat- A parade participant guides his ride down Figueroa. ing entries; such as the Nu Minis Truck Club with their strange but fascinating convertible-like trunk; as well as the Victory Outreach Church of Eagle Rock with their float, which featured a platform that resembled the design of a small concert stage. The parade was a lively time bringing many aspects of the portation at 12 p.m. As crowds of people settled community of Northeast Los down to view the parade, they were treated to Angeles together to celebrate festive Christmas music from nearby booths. the beginning of the upcoming At 1 p.m., the parade finally began as members holiday season. Franklin’s New Mindfulness Club By Elaina Guerrero In a recent survey of seniors, Students selected included and potential to overcome lead and conducted by both Marco Gonzales, Gerald Guba, their personal issues and focus Academic Counselor, Ms. Thita Sitthiphap, Bridget on their education.” Garson, and Franklin students, Maleeh, Ernesto Beltran, One of the students involved 47% of respondents felt that it Christina Fanter and John Di- in Challenge LA, senior Marco was only ‘a little true’ that they zon, who all helped organize Gonzales helped create the could effectively cope with the club and worked to find club because, “As a student I stress, 41.3% felt hopeless, possible solutions to help deal know school can be stressful, 57.5% felt high levels of stress, with student stress. According and not only that but personal and 95% of the class overall to Ms. Garson, the students problems can also really put felt exhausted. presented the idea of the club us down. So I think the club This data was the catalyst for while holding group discus- is a good opportunity for us as Franklin’s counselors and sions and she agreed with the students to ‘de-stress’ from our students to join together to idea, proceeding to conduct a problems.” create the Mindfulness The club’s primary objective is Club, where students can to bring students together and, learn methods to effec- “Just support one another and tively cope with stress. participate in activities that The club was started by help them be more socially ac- students who had par- tive and happy,” said Gonzales. ticipated in an earlier Ms. Garson encourages stu- activity called Challenge dents join so the club can ex- LA. According to achieve. pand, and widen its influence lausd.net, “Challenge LA is in helping students cope better a seven-week competition with stress. in which teams of students The club’s motto is “Just from various Los Angeles breathe.” If you or someone Unified School District you know is having trouble high schools are challenged to poll of seniors and freshmen coping with the hardships of develop solutions to complex to “understand the magnitude high school, drop by Room problems facing their commu- of the stress in our school.” B-12 on Tuesdays and Thurs- nities.” “I want our club to be a safe days during lunch. Everyone is Ms. Garson stated, “Franklin place where students can ex- welcome. Students selected stress as press their concerns and find

[that complex problem] and solutions using “Mindfulness” Courtesy: The Mindfulness Club used mindfulness as [their techniques,” said Ms. Garson. solution to] recognizing and “I [also] want students to dis- managing stress.” cover their strengths, talents, Winter Break 2017 Opinion-Editorial Page 3 Why Gun Control Is Important By Jennifer Parra

How many guns do you think people in the United States own? According to The New Congress to pass such a system. York Times, the they possess 270 million guns, or 42%, almost half of the world’s arms. In One preventive measure in such a system would be to establish a thorough background 2015, 13,286 people were killed in this country due to gun violence. With so much access check system. A check would be conducted at point of purchase by the salesperson, to so many guns, it’s no wonder America is such a violent and gun-wielding nation. and run through a state and/or federal data bank designated for that specific purpose. Journalist Josh de Keijzer writes, “Guns are things. They are inert by themselves. They One aspect of such a system would be to check for identification verification, or that the don’t do anything. It’s the people who get it in their minds to perpetuate evil, to go and person is who they indeed claim they are. Another would be to background check for murder innocent people, to wreak havoc. It is those people that do so, that need to be any history of violence, or criminal record. Yet another for a history of mental illness and stopped.” any medications that might interfere or affect a person’s judgment or sense of reality. Any Looking back at the last couple of months, a sensible and sound gun control law needs to comprehensive system would check the background of any individual, including teenag- be considered once again. Two horrifying mass shootings, the first in Las Vegas and the ers. According to ABC News, there have been 31 school shootings since the notorious second in a Texas church, took place within the span of a month and five days. Accord- Columbine High School shooting in 1999. ing to CNN, on October 1st, Stephen Paddock, 64, decided to open fire on concertgoers A second gun control measure would include handgun exchange programs nationwide. attending the Las Vegas Strip Music Festival from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay In 1994 Cleveland, Ohio launched one which proved to be an effective strategy for elimi- Resort & Casino. 58 people initially died and more than 500 others were injured. Police nating many unwanted handguns from the city’s streets. officers invaded the hotel room finding Paddock had committed suicide and more than Third would be to eliminate the sale and use of automatic and semi-automatic weapons 20 firearms as well as weapons modified to act as automatic weapons. On November 5th, altogether. Although automatic weapons are harder to acquire, it is still possible for a Devin Kelley, 26, took the lives of 26 parishioners as well as the life of an unborn child person to get their hands on one. when he opened fire with a military-style rifle at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Innocent people do not deserve to lose their lives, let alone become traumatized by gun Springs, Texas. According to Courtland Jeffrey, writer for ABC 15, there have been violence. If sound gun legislation is not passed, then enforced, both adults and children 307 mass shootings in 2017 alone. How are people expected to feel safe if they have to will continue to lose their lives. How many more people need to be killed in order for constantly look over their shoulder to make sure there won’t be a gunman behind them, the government to take action? Something has to be done now. After all, better late than ready to open fire? never. It is time once again to not only discuss comprehensive gun control legislation but for

Undressing the Dress Code

By Julia Sorchini

According to the information published on its shows a little bit of shoulder, then they have to website, Franklin High’s dress code restricts cover up.” the following: “head gear (with the exception On the other side, there are students who argue of Franklin merchandise), handkerchiefs, belt that the dress code is necessary to maintain buckles with symbols, chains dangling from a professional and appropriate image of the pockets, any spiked accessories, shirts with young students. A female junior approves. “I logos/trademarks with inappropriate messages, wouldn’t change the dress code. It’s fair but white t-shirts, halter tops, tube tops, crop tops, there are people who forget that this is a school, or ‘any top that could be construed as being so we have to act like young adults. Like when suggestive or otherwise in bad taste to cause you go to work you can’t wear crop top. You just an inability to conduct instructional activity,’ can’t. That’s not professional and it looks bad. see-thru or mesh clothing, baggy pants with The dress code was made to get us ready past The Franklin Press oversized legs, shorts, or short skirts that “could high school.” be construed as being suggestive or otherwise Franklin’s dean, Mrs. Martinez, whose job it is The monthly student newspaper of Benjamin Franklin High in bad taste,” and shorts below the knee worn to enforce the school’s dress code, and has been with socks that are mid-calf or higher.” in place since she started working for LAUSD School Founded 1917 So what is the school community’s take on the ten years ago, shared her perspective. “I believe Editors-in-Chief Layout-Chief code? What does it mean? Is it fair? that having this [the dress code] is anchored Elaina Guerrero Valerie Diaz One female Franklin senior weighed in. “The on the fact that in an educational institution Anthony Rodriguez dress code doesn’t make sense because it is there should be codes of conduct or rules of Julia Sorchini literally pushing girls to change just to keep discipline so that children grow academically. guys comfortable with their hormones...But They also grow assimilating good behavior and Arts & Entertainment Around Franklin Sports Opinion-Editorial guys should just know to control themselves, sense of responsibility.” Miguel Farfan Elaina Guerrero Christopher Benitez Jennifer Parra especially in school.” She added an optimistic note. “I believe that Alex Huang Joseph Marquez Michael Bryson She added she’s been cited numerous times for we have that 99% of great kids who are willing Kimberly Koh Julia Sorchini Jason Cabrera articles of clothing such as halter tops, off-the- to grow with us in becoming great citizens by Emily Torres Justin Cisneros shoulder tops, and shorts in her four years at recognizing that rules are in place to establish Andrei Cosinas Franklin. “I really don’t think that my shoul- order in the society. I want the kids to just be Christian Diaz ders will prevent others from learning in class. responsible in their clothing choice where they Copy Editors Photo Department Layout It is all about self-control. Self-control is some- feel good, command respect with what they Ryan Chairez Chelsea Castaneda Freddie Chavez thing that everyone should be taught. Teaching wear, and simply dressing for success!” Joseph Marquez ZoeRene Castro Selena Corona girls to sort of act like they’re responsible for a Despite the dress code, and whether or not Jennifer Parra Gabriela Jiménez Garcia Isabel Sanchez guy’s behavior isn’t right. This is 2017.” students believe it is fair, Franklin’s administra- Dafne Sernas Male senior, Jonathan Amaya, opposes what tion will continue to impose it while students Journalism Advisor he calls the “restrictive” dress code. “It deprives continue to pursue trendy fashion fads and Mr. Campbell us from our freedom of expression in the sense try to get away with what they can. And no that the school had to tell us what we can wear doubt, years after they have graduated, they and what we can’t instead of us having a say in will open their yearbooks, peer at their photos, Please send submissions to [email protected] by the first week of each month prior to the it. And I feel it mainly targets girls because take and wonder in amazement and embarrassment following month’s publication. Please send articles in word format and all photographs in .jpg or .png. a guy in a muscle shirt for example. The school thinking, “Why did I ever wear this?” In the subject line, please enter SUBMISSION and in the body, any special request. The paper reserves won’t say anything to them but if a girl even the right to publish submissions based on need, time, and space availability. Winter Break 2017 Arts And Entertainment Page 4

A Winter Break Guide To Great Holiday Movies By Emily Torres

2017’s Winter Break will soon be upon us and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than to sit back with a warm mug of hot chocolate and binge holiday movies. During the three weeks where both staff and students get to decompress and relax, consider watching these highly recommended, both new and classic holiday flicks that will un- doubtedly put one into the holiday spirit. Home Alone (1990) The Polar Express (2004) White Christmas (1954) In this iconic film, starring Macaulay Phil Davis and Bob Wallace Culkin, an 8-year-old boy named Kevin A young boy is awakened by the sound of a train encounter their commander from McCallister is mistakenly left home alone and decides to get aboard, where he is taken to World War II while performing a after his family takes a trip to Paris for the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Through- Christmas play in Vermont. The Christmas. While at home, he encounters out the journey, he meets other children, goes commander, General Waverly, is two men who plan to sneak in and rob his through several adventures, and finds a way to in financial trouble and in order family’s house, and fights them off with his believe in Christmas. to help him out, they decide to clever and hilarious traps. create a holiday musical.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) The Santa Clause (1994) Starring Jim Carrey as The Grinch, who de- This beloved film’s setting is Halloweentown until Jack spises the joy and giving of the Christmas Skellington mistakenly discovers Christmastown, where he is While Scott Calvin spends time season, he devises a plan to ruin the holi- left in awe by the beauty of that holiday. He leads his fellow with his son Charlie, in what day for the citizens of Whoville, but instead Halloweentowners to take over the holiday by kidnapping might be a dream, he mistak- ends up discovering the true meaning of the Santa Claus and Jack replacing him. However, Jack realizes enly kills Santa Claus and is holiday. things do not always go as planned. sent to the North Pole. Scott believes it was all a fantasy. Elf (2003) However, once he begins to Christmas With The Kranks (2004) Buddy, an abnormally large elf, who has been raised by the grow a beard and increase in Luther and Nora Krank want to leave for creatures at Santa’s North Pole headquarters all his life, finds weight, he comes to his senses a Caribbean cruise for the holidays rather out his real father lives in New York City. Out of curiosi- and knows it was reality. than stay in their town to participate in ty, he travels to the city in search of his origins and who he the annual house decorating competition. really is. Their cruise plans get cancelled and when they find out their daughter is coming home, they must get into the holiday spirit with less than twenty-four hours to go. Other holiday movies worth watching are: A Christmas Story, A Christmas Carol, Gremlins, It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, Die Hard, The Shop Around the Corner, and Arthur Christmas. Kim’s Million Words Reader Holiday Recommendations Looking for a perfect read over Winter Break? The following books are recommended by Franklin’s school librarian, Ms. Carbone, for the holiday season.

Let It Snow by Maureen Decked With Holly by Marni A Christmas Carol by Charles Johnson, John Green, and Bates Dickens Lauren Myracle While on a holiday cruise, Holly gets Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by A snowstorm in a Virginia city on seasick and in a desperate moment his dead business partner before Christmas Eve creates a romantic rushes into a room on the ship, where Christmas, who tells him that setting for three different charac- Nick, a musician and leader of a very he will be visited by the Ghosts ters. Their intertwining stories famous band, attacks her with pepper of Christmas Past, Present and share how each character finds spray. When her picture ends up on Future in this iconic and most unexpected romance, whether with the internet, along with many rumors famous holiday story. strangers or old friends, while try- about her coupling with Nick, the ing to get through the storm. band, not wanting to risk its image and reputation, ask Holly to act as The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis My True Love Gave to Me - Edited Nick’s girlfriend for the next two weeks of the cruise. by Stephanie Perkins Another classic. Four siblings 12 holiday stories written by 12 step into a wardrobe and discover best-selling young adult writers. a new land they learn is called Ex-Mas by Kate Brian Narnia. It’s trapped in an eternal winter and ruled by the White While Lila is planning her Shiver (The Wolves of Mercy Falls, #1) by holiday party, her little Maggie Stiefvater Witch. However, they hear that the great Lion, Aslan, is return- brother learns that global Grace’s small town has become fearful ing, which means a great change warming is melting the after a boy is killed by wolves. Grace, for Narnia. North Pole. He decides unafraid of the animals, is instead to go save Santa Claus fascinated when she finds herself in with his best friend, Tyler, front of one with yellow eyes. How- leaving Lila worried and in a rush to get him home ever, things get weird when she meets Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by David Levithan and safely. She seeks help in a boy with those same eyes and whose Rachel Cohn familiarity leaves her in shock and Tyler’s brother, Beau, who Lily’s brother leaves a notebook in Dash’s favorite bookstore with in- confusion. happens to be her ex, as structions that lead him into the city and which may or may not lead to they must put their differ- Lily over the Christmas holiday. ences aside in order to find their brothers. Winter Break 2017 Arts And Entertainment Page 5 Things Get Even Stranger In Stranger Things 2 By Miguel Farfan WARNING: Article contains spoilers for Sea- own thing but never feel like they stray away son One of Stranger Things from the overall story. There are some inter- Stranger Things 2, created by The Duffer esting character pairings in this season that Brothers, stars Winona Ryder, David Harbour, are unexpected, but nonetheless interesting Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten and entertaining. Noah Schnapp in particular Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Noah Schnapp, gives an amazing performance as Will and Sadie Sink, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, and gets way more screen time than he did in Joe Keery. Season One of Stranger Things Season One. On the downside, the characters on Netflix was a huge hit, borrowing from the of Max and Billy (Dacre and Montgomery) works of Steven Spielberg, John Carpenter, just don’t work. Max feels like she was just and Stephen King. The 2016 show was nom- there to throw the boys off as they start near- inated for eighteen Emmys and of course, a ing puberty and Billy’s nothing but an arrogant second season was ordered and premiered fool. Steve Harrington, however, proves how this October. It continues the story of the first much the characters have developed since the season and expands on it, making the town of first season. Steve was set up to be a jerk in Hawkins feel bigger and providing more depth the first, but after a year, he’s become a loyal to each character since the one year that has boyfriend to Nancy and a great babysitter as while her boyfriend Courtesy: Google Images passed since Will Byers escaped the Upside viewers will see. Steve Harrington (Keery) is just doing his best Down. The music this season is just as great as it was to move on with life. Joyce Byers and Chief Stranger Things 2 starts with Will (Schnapp) in the first, capturing the ambiance and overall Hopper are still integral to the show and are attempting to go back to normal life before tense mood of the show. There is only one just as great as they were last season. Eleven being taken by the Demogorgon. But some- episode out of the nine that seems out of step is back and she is amazing once again, adding thing is still not right about him and his con- with the rest, and loyal viewers will know it more depth and development to both her char- tinuing connection to the Upside Down. And when they see it. But again, Stranger Things acter and the story overall. Mike Wheeler (Wolfhard) has not been the 2 does not disappoint. It is a joy to watch. Stranger Things 2 is a slow-building season, same ever since the disappearance of Eleven Maybe it doesn’t reach the hugeness of the leading up to the final two episodes which (Brown), and the addition of Max (Sinks) to first season, but holds the promise of better, are some of the best of the entire series. The his group of friends doesn’t sit well. Trauma greater, even ‘stranger things’ to come. second season could have easily been a cash and anxiety is a recurring theme in the first grab to capitalize on the popularity of the first, half of the season. The new show does a great but fortunately it is not. It continues the story job of dramatizing the changes in each char- of the first season while adding new elements, acter since the end of the first season. Mike’s and it all works out. sister, Nancy Wheeler (Dyer) is still trying to The dynamic between all the kids is still find a way to cope after the death of her friend, great, and the supporting characters do their

Redeeming the Thor Trilogy By Miguel Farfan Thor: Ragnarok, directed by Taika Waititi, stars Chris Hemsworth, Tom as the god of mischief but Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Idris Elba, Jeff Goldblum, Tessa Thomp- he is the most cooperative son, Karl Urban, with Mark Ruffalo and Anthony Hopkins. The film is he’s ever been. Valkyrie the third in the Thor trilogy and the seventeenth film in the Marvel Cin- is a worthy addition and ematic Universe. In Ragnarok, Thor is in a race against time to escape lots of help to Thor, with the planet of Sakaar, where he is forced into a gladiator match against a decent back story at The Hulk, to prevent the goddess of death, Hela, from destroying his that. The Hulk is nota- homeworld of Asgard. Thor: Ragnarok was released on November 3rd bly different but one of and has received acclaim from critics and fans everywhere, with most the best characters in the calling it the best film in the Thor trilogy. cast. Hela is a surprising Two years have passed after the events of Avengers: Age of Ultron villain as well. She is the and Thor (Hemsworth) has been unsuccessfully searching for Infinity goddess of death and an Stones and imprisoned during his quest. Thor learns that Odin (Hop- intimidating adversary kins) is not on Asgard and that Ragnarok, the prophesied destruction with a meaningful origin, of his home world, is impending, along with the return of the goddess which is a relief. She is of death, Hela (Blanchett). In his attempt to stop Hela, Thor is sent to fleshed out better than the planet of Sakaar where he is forced into the Contest of Champions many other Marvel vil- hosted by the Grandmaster (Goldblum) in a match against The Hulk lains. None of these char- Courtesy: Google Images (Ruffalo). acters ever feel one-dimensional and are all given a This is the best Thor movie in the trilogy. Director Taika Waititi did reason to be in the movie’s story. The film’s action is great, especially away with all the sternness of the previous films and replaced it with a when Thor shows everyone why he is indeed the God of Thunder. And fun, full-of-humor adventure. “The Immigrant Song” by Led Zeppelin accompanying two action Basically, what Winter Soldier did for Captain America, Ragnarok does scenes? How could you not get into them? They are all beautifully for Thor, redeeming the series and being a great film at that. This is the directed, giving each of the characters screen time to battle. Along most fun in a Marvel movie since Guardians of the Galaxy. with great direction and storytelling, the film’s visuals are full of bright The previous Thor films always had a serious tone to them. The first colors, setting it apart from the more subtle visuals of the previous Thor two had their funny moments for sure, but nothing like Ragnarok. It movies. The film also did away with Thor being an indestructible god will have you laughing throughout almost every scene, a very good and makes him vulnerable. His hammer? Shattered to pieces. His abili- change over the more serious tones of the other films. Loki (Hid- ty to soar the skies? Grounded. Asgard? Conquered by Hela. dleston) is back accompanying Thor, along with newcomer Valkyrie Thor: Ragnarok revitalizes Thor and redeems the trilogy. My rating? A (Thompson) and fellow Avenger, The Hulk. Loki is the same as ever MASTAPEECE. Winter Break 2017 Arts And Entertainment Page 6 Does Call Of Duty WWII Return The Game To Its Former Glory? By Ryan Chairez

Is the new Call of Duty WWII worth your time and money? The game has been a long-awaited from the franchise, and although Super Mario Odyssey: it suffered in the beginning, due to major server problems such as players not being able to load the game, it has slowly crept into peo- Video Game of the ple’s hearts. The multiplayer function has been improved and enhanced - not through the efforts of the game’s programmers but by the gamers Year themselves - with regular bug fixes, buffs, and nerfs. However, even Review by Miguel Farfan though there have been adjustments to weapons, there continues to be a lack of variety. Players can select three different maps: short, mid, and long range. Courtesy:Google Images The zombie storyline of the game is popular because it is not as con- fusing as the Black Ops 2 or 3 storylines. But at the same it’s mediocre because even though the zombies attack in large groups, they are easy to kill. The game has a great design and is coded superbly. And the story is based on real events from World War II. Despite the fact it does have problems, Call Of Duty WWII has great potential to rise higher and even a chance to become ‘Game of the Year’. Some fans already regard it as one of the best games ever created. Buy the Deluxe Edition so that you get the season pass and save yourself some money and trouble.

Super Mario Odyssey for Nintendo Switch marks the true return to 3D for one of the With a throw of his hat, Mario can become a video game industry’s most iconic characters, and Mario is back to reclaim his throne. tank, a Goomba, a Bullet Bill, even a T-Rex. In Super Mario Odyssey, the player is given massive freedom to play the game in You can be a piece of freakin’ meat, and there whichever manner they please, similar to Super Mario 64. Of course, there is the main are lots more characters or objects to take objective: saving Princess Peach, but how and when the player wants to do that is com- control of. These capture targets can be used to pletely up to them. find Power Moons, beat bosses, traverse land, Odyssey, released on October 27th on the Nintendo Switch, has received critical ac- and even more. Each target is exhilarating and claim from fans and critics everywhere. refreshing to play as and add variety to the game Courtesy: Google Images Super Mario Bros. on the original Nintendo Entertainment System was the first video and Kingdoms. game I ever played, and the Mario series is special to me. The games are so much fun Mario can be whatever you need him to be to progress through the game. Cappy can and I’ll always be an avid fan of the series and of Nintendo. All that excitement has not also be used as a platform to aid Mario and be thrown at obstacles to get past them. disappointed. Cappy and his capture ability is a game-changing mechanism. Every enemy or being This is the return of true 3D Mario because past games were 3D technically, but linear, that you capture has a different play style and the developers crafted lots of challenges such as in Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario 3D World. There is an objective in based around their different abilities. each of Odyssey’s Kingdoms. Although there is that main goal, Super Mario Odyssey There are a handful of inventive bosses unlike anything that has been seen in a Mario gets rid of old conventions and creates something new, something better. game before. The boss battles are not much of a challenge really, but they do make up The main collectibles in this game are Power Moons, and there are an immense number for it with creative ways to use the capture targets against them. One battle pits you of them everywhere. But different from past games, once you collect one, you keep against a floating Pharaoh-looking head with hands and you’re supposed to capture his going on in that Kingdom instead of exiting out and having to select a new mission. As hands to hit him in his face, which is hilarious. Another battle has you fighting a large, well, there are no levels or missions. This is a small but marvelous change. The game dim-witted bird that spits out lava and you’re supposed to capture and use a Lava Bub- allows the player to explore these vast sandbox-like environments identified as King- ble to climb up the stuff spilling out of his mouth. These battles are a great use of the doms, and they are all varied, colorful and detailed. new capture mechanism and like I have been saying throughout - it makes for a really You can be in the Wooded Kingdom where flowers are grown and harvested by robots great time. and then the next could be the Metro Kingdom designed after New York City. Every Even after the main campaign is finished, Odyssey is still not over. There are an insane Kingdom is home to a massive amount of Moons and a majority of them are hidden in number of Power Moons still to find in each Kingdom with lots of items to purchase pretty clever or intricate places. Mario travels with his new companion, Cappy, a hat- with Regional Coins, such as different clothes for Mario to wear or decorations and shaped ghost there to rescue Mario’s sister, Tiara, from Bowser’s clutches. They travel souvenirs from the Kingdoms to put on the Odyssey. Power Moons are everywhere but aboard a vessel called the Odyssey. Every Kingdom is unique and unlike anything you it encourages replay value and exploration throughout the whole game since they are all have seen in a Mario game before. cleverly hidden and scattered. Mario’s control in Odyssey is the best it has ever been since Super Mario Sunshine, Super Mario Odyssey is an absolute joy to play. I have not experienced such happiness released in 2002. The movement variety in this game is so fun and is easily one of with a Mario game, in fact any game, in a very long time. I finished the main story in my favorite parts of the experience. You can do a ground pound to a jump to a throw about three days because I could not stop playing it. Playing through Odyssey was spe- of Cappy to a dive onto Cappy and then another jump off Cappy, just to reach some- cial to me, and it was most importantly, amazing. It is the game of the year and alone where. And that’s so many options to move around in the game. Cappy allows Mario makes it worth buying a Nintendo Switch for. If you do not feel an ounce of joy every to “capture” enemies or different objects and enables the player to use their abilities to second of playing this game, check yourself because you might be dead. Super Mario your liking. Odyssey without a doubt earns my MASTAPEECE rating. Death Note Proves Once Again Anime Rules Review by Alex Huang Death Note is a supernatural, psychological anime thriller adapted from a Jap- calculated to further his endeavors anese manga, or comic series, of the same name that explores the questionable with the death note. The Shinigami morality of the human race. From 2003 to 2006, the manga was written by Ryuk is a fun character who observes Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. Anime director Tetsurō Araki Yagami’s quest to achieve justice connected animation studio Madhouse with the work to adapt it into a 37-epi- for his own amusement. There are a sode anime, which is a Japanese animation technique that explores a vast array handful of stories where the mentor of genres; whether it be a post-apocalyptic, dark fantasy, like Attack on Titan, to the main character is the manip- or an action adventure fantasy, like Hunter X Hunter. ulator. It’s a fresh idea to see Ryuk Death Note focuses on high school prodigy, Light Yagami; Shinigami, or the simply observe Light with no hidden god of death, Ryuk; and private investigator, L. The story begins when a bored agenda, while providing some comic Ryuk releases his supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name and relief to an otherwise gloomy story. description of death is written in it, into the human world. Light Yagami spots One of the best parts of the anime it and decides to experiment with the notebook on hard core criminals. After is in the form of a cat and mouse coming to the conclusion that the world would be a better place without them, chase between Yagami and L. The Yagami murders a substantial number of them in five days, which earns him dynamic between the two characters a small cult following and the nickname, Kira - the Japanese pronunciation is engaging and suspenseful. L’s of the word, “killer.” Yagami takes on the role of the god in his ideal world, intelligently calculated nature forces which puts him in conflict with Investigator L, who wants to see Kira brought Yagami to adapt quickly to seeming- Courtesy: Google Images to justice. ly impossible-to-escape situations, forcing him to further display his question- When the anime begins, Ryuk fills the role of manipulator and instigator of the able morality as the story progresses. main events. However, parts change quickly when Light explains his resolve to Although some of the intensity gets lost due to some blandly-written secondary “sacrifice his own mind and soul,” surprising Ryuk with new information and characters, Death Note, with its superb storytelling and animation, is still an Light’s darker, ruthless side. Although he initially kills for the betterment of entertaining ride that explores moral behavior as well as how far someone will the world, Light becomes willing to sacrifice anyone who gets in his way. go to accomplish their goals, no matter what the consequences. Light Yagami is a highly intelligent protagonist who has every move precisely Winter Break 2017 Holiday ‘What’s Ups’ Page 7

By Gabby Jimenez

To: Jose Granados To: All our friends From: Brian Villanueva From: Geovani Cruz & Jason Cabrera “I love you. <3” “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!”

To: Alexander From: Rene Torres “I hope we can get under the mistletoe and enjoy the New Year together.”

To: Rose’s Friends To: Miggy and Billy From: Rosemary Reveriano-Osorio From: Pablo Roque “Merry Christmas to all my homies!” “My squad, Merry Christmas boyz.”

To: Ruben Leal From: Isabel Sanchez “Merry Christmas!” To: My dog, Shadow From: Ranferi Iglesias “I can’t wait to dress you as an elf. “ Winter Break 2017 Any Plans For Winter Break? Page 8 By Chelsea Casteneda

“Traveling to wherever I want to go!” “Doing homework.” - Desiree Nunez, - Chris Soriano, 12th Grade 12th Grade

“Sleeping...Working.” - Christian Isais, “Camping, movies, parties, spending time with 12th Grade family.”- Gina Martinez, 12th Grade

“Spending time with family, gardening, and cud- “Smooch my cute boyfriend and eat chicken nug- dling up in a warm blanket with hot chocolate gets with him.” - Zoey Castro, 12th Grade and a good book!”- Ms.Bergh

“Skating, hanging out with friends, and sleeping.” “Track practice.”- Michael Bryson, 11th Grade - Freddie Chavez, 11th Grade Winter Break 2017 Hip-Hop For The Soul Page 9 By Zoerene Castro

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘Smuckers’ by Tyler the Creator, and my favorite hip-hop artist is Tyler the Creator.” - Jaycob Sanchez, 12th grade

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘Going Back to Cali’ by “My favorite hip-hop song is ‘All Eyez On Me’ by LL Cool J and my favorite hip-hop artist is LL Cool J.” Tupac.”- Rosemary Reveriano, 12th grade - Mr. Monti

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘Feel Good’ by Log- “My favorite hip-hop song is ‘Hate It or Love It’ by The ic.”-Eduardo Martinez, 12th grade Game and my favorite hip-hop artist is The Game.”- Valerie Diaz, 12th grade

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘Betrayed’ by Lil Xan and my favorite hip-hop artist is Kota the Friend.”- Samuel Clemens, 12th grade Winter Break 2017 Hip-Hop For The Soul Page 10

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘G35’ by Isaiah Rashad, and my favorite hip-hop artit is Mick Jenkins.” - Aaron Martinez, 12th grade

“My favorite song is ‘1-800-273-8255’ by Logic, and my “My favorite hip-hop artist is ‘Life: The Biggest Troll’ by favorite hip-hop artist is Tupac.” - Alfred Bobadilla, 10th Childish Gambino, and my favorite artist is Tupac.” - Mr. grade Jimenez

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘On a Sunday Afternoon’ by “My favorite hip-hop song is ‘Dilemma’ by Nelly, and Lighter Shade of Brown and my favorite hip-hop artist is my favorite hip-hop artist is Justin Timberlake.” - Lighter Shade of Brown” - Mr.Vaca Mr.Cruz

“My favorite hip-hop song is ‘My Boo’ by Usher and my favorite hip-hop artist is Usher.” - Inez Munoz, 11th grade Winter Break 2017 Sports Page 11 Alfred Bobadilla, The Second Quarterback In The Family

By Justin Cisneros “I had no experience as a quarterback till my cause he had to take over the job with ‘big shoes freshman year.” to fill’ as people tell me.” What position or positions did you start off How is your style of play similar or different playing in the game and when? than your brother’s? “I started off as a lineman and a linebacker.” “My style and my brother’s style of play is similar How do you feel now that you’re taking over in the sense that we make plays we need to make your brother’s former position? and we can sling that ball. The difference is he “I don’t really put much thought to that. I know never celebrated. To me, I love celebrating.” what he left behind was a great legacy, but I’m With all the talk about the questions and brain just trying to make my own legacy, with all the injury, do you think football is a dangerous things I’ve learned from him.” sport? Did your brother play a role in your game while “There is no doubt in my mind football is dan- here at Franklin? If so, does he still play a role in gerous, but the feeling that I get when I play is your game today? indescribable. Every football player knows that “My brother has always played a role in my sports it is dangerous, so therefore, only they can decide life so therefore yes, he did. He encouraged me all whether they want to play or not.” along through my first season as quarterback. Till How can the game be made safer? Is it the Courtesy: Google Images this day he encourages me.” equipment? Is it the way players play the Alfred Bobadilla prepares to send a spiral Did your brother pass along any advice to you? game or the way they are coached? downfield. “My brother has taught me to ignore all the nega- “The game can have helmets that are made to be tive comments and he also taught me to ignore all safer. The reason it is so dangerous is because of It’s no surprise that sophomore quarterback, Al- of the pressure people put on me.” the way we go head-to-head.” fred Bobadilla, has helped lead this year’s Panther What do you believe are the differences in your Since Eagle Rock is considered Franklin’s varsity squad to a record of 5 wins and 4 losses style of play and Mario’s? greatest rival, what is it like for you to play this season. Sports, and playing the quarterback “I believe that I am more rowdy and I motivate that team? position runs in the Bobadilla family. His broth- my team more as to my brother who is quiet and “Playing against our rival school gets me moti- er, Mario, led the Panthers to the Division 3 City just plays his game.” vated to win. As soon as I lay foot on that field Championship last season, only to have his team What is your greatest challenge as a quarter- against them, there is no being friendly or taking lose in the first round of State playoffs. Alfred back? it easy. It is all rivalry and we need to give it all has some very big shoes to fill, having taken on “There are lots of challenges at this position. In we got.” the very big role of field general for the 2017 my opinion, the greatest challenge is my foot- Do you get nervous before a game? If so, how squad. He’s trying to start his own legacy here at work. Having to roll out of the pocket can be a do you control your nerves? Franklin by following in Mario’s cleats. little challenging at times when you have big 200 “Of course I get nervous before games. It isn’t Alfred is three years younger than his older broth- to 300 pound lineman running at you.” football without those butterflies in my stomach. er, but both began playing football in the early Who is your favorite NFL quarterback and I have no way to get rid of them. Usually, I just years of their childhood. He sat down to answer a why? go through the same game day routine which is, few questions about his young athletic career and ‘My favorite NFL quarterback has to be back Dak listen to music, and wait for the first play of the his future goals. Prescott because he is the only quarterback that I game, and the butterflies to go away.” How long have you been playing the quarter- have kept up with since he left college. He makes back position? amazing plays and I can relate to his position be- Cross Country Makes Great Strides This Season By Michael Bryson Franklin’s Cross Country team, made up of students from to 1988, went on to programs at their respective colleges, joined the team and track in his freshman year, as well all grade levels, began practicing last June. While the rest and coached here from 1989 to 2001. as participated in Students Run LA. Martinez made big of the school went on summer vacation, the team worked Coach Narro and Coach Narro spent the first few weeks improvements in the last three years, and was constantly hard to accomplish great things this season. getting to know the team members and strategizing how helping the new runners with whatever they needed. Last season, five Varsity boys - Michael Bryson, Andrew to best coach and motivate them. The team practiced by On October 19th, Martinez broke the school record of Martinez, Samuel Ureno, Jesus Ruvalcaba, and Pierre running in San Pascual Park, and the coaches had team 17:55, setting a new time of 17:29 for the three miles. Boran - made it to the City Finals, but unfortunately lost. members participate in summer cross country races. Over the course of the season, Franklin Cross Country Ruvalcaba and Martinez returned to the team this year, During the fall season, the team could be seen every day, raced against Lincoln, Marshall, Eagle Rock, Sotomayor, along with new freshmen and sophomores and members running miles on the Franklin track, and steep hills in and and Wilson. The boys finished 6-1, and the girls finished of Franklin’s track team, all of whom took the rigorous around the Highland Park area. The coaches wanted their undefeated. The girl’s team finished as Northern League training seriously. Cross country is distance running - a athletes to succeed, and more than just five students to Champions, and some of the team advanced to City Pre- serious challenge. make it to City Finals. They placed an enormous amount liminaries, but none to City Finals. This year, the team was handed over to two new coaches, of confidence in their team, knowing they were very With their season now over, many team members made Saul and Cesar Narro, twin brothers, who decided the talented and very determined. improvements in their times, and some will be turning team should practice all summer. They both ran cross One of the juniors who made it to finals last season, over to track for next semester. country and track here while attending Franklin in 1986 Andrew Martinez, became the Varsity Boys Captain. He Improving Is Number One Goal For Lady Panther Basketball By Michael Bryson The Franklin Girls basketball team hopes to accomplish Even though the team is struggling, Coach Lance Garcia, members need to gain the skills needed at the varsity big things this upcoming season. In 2015, they went 9-17 is working with them daily on the fundamentals of the level, because they’re going to be the backbone going and still made it to the CIF playoffs, but last season, the game: dribbling, passing, shooting. Diaz says, “He push- into 2018. Lady Panthers ended the season with a 2-11 record. No es us, motivates, and works with each one of us individu- With the rest of the season ahead, the team remains hope- doubt, they hope to improve this year and make it back to ally to improve what we need help with. He tells us what ful they’ll achieve that winning record and make it back the playoffs. we’re doing wrong in order for us to correct it.” to the CIF playoffs. The varsity squad consists of nine players, mostly The team has also been facing some serious troubles. seniors, as well as three juniors and one sophomore, With a small roster, players are expected to be versatile. according to maxpreps.com. The roster includes: Val- “The team is so small because girls don’t come to prac- erie Diaz, Montse Fukumoto, Aprille Alindogan, Delia tice,” says Diaz. Simon, Destiny Vazquez, Karen Olivas, Michelle Flores, Working together as a team, knowing it will take time and Qiao Zhao. Last year’s team only had two seniors, to develop that chemistry teams need to succeed, takes but this year’s plethora of 12th graders have lacked time discipline and patience. So far, only Diaz and Montse working together as a team, so the focus has been on Fukumoto have been playing together for more than developing consistency and support for one another. this season. Two players, Destiny Vazquez and Michelle On November 30th the Panthers faced off against Roo- Flores, are in their first year with the team. Chemis- sevelt for the home opener, and showed signs of nerves. try plays a huge role on any team, so it follows it’s the Captain Valerie Diaz, star player and varsity point guard, Panthers’ number one priority. Which addresses another said before the game, “I feel like the game is not going to need. go good.” The Panthers lost, 42-25. The underclassmen have to step up their game. Next The team’s next game came against Torres, their first year, the team is going to lose five out of their eight Courtesy: Gabriela Jimenez Garcia away game. Again, the Panthers lost, 48-34. Currently, players, so it’s going to be harder to rebuild in such a Valerie Diaz plays the point guard posi- they’re 0-2. short period of time. The squad’s sophomore and junior tion with intensity. Winter Break 2017 Sports Page 12 Pro Basketball’s Evolution: From The Workhorse To The Flashy Era By Andrei Cosinas

The game of basketball is predicated on putting the ball into the basket and scoring points, but in delivering an outstanding outlet pass, to the West Coast game where Magic Johnson would throw one professional basketball, namely the NBA, as it has aged, the way in which players score the ball has of his “magical” passes. Quick team basketball started here, another characteristic of today’s game. changed dramatically. This is due in part to different pioneers of the game who added their own style For the next two decades, from the 1990’s into the 21st century, the game was isolation basketball, to the game. where one player gets the ball and was allowed to work his way to a bucket, while having role players Starting in the 1960s, names like Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain became prominent players as the to fill in spots. Players like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant thrived in this era due to their extreme game began to grow in popularity. Each one of those players had their own styles. First, Russell...The talent and amazing leadership qualities. The time of isolation basketball showed off the talents of 11-time NBA Champion put up great numbers as the epitome of centers, rebounding and putting up players separately, leading many players from the next generation to try to be the best player on their easy points. Wilt Chamberlain indeed rivaled Russell. Chamberlain registered astronomical numbers respective team. throughout his career, scoring an average of 50.4 points per game. This was a time in the game when In today’s NBA, the game is predicated on analytics rather than player skills. It takes all aspects of the centers, the big men, were the stars, using fundamental skills and scoring no three-pointers. These past decades and puts it all together into a modern twist: guard-dominated, fast- paced, and three-point were the workhorses. oriented. Not to mention the flash of the modern point guards wanting to break ankles with amazing A revolution in basketball occurred in the 1970s. Players like Julius “Dr. J” Erving and “Pistol Pete” dribble move combos or the “no look passes” from half court. It incorporates the fundamentals of Maravich changed the game by adding their own style of play to a game that had for so long been the 60s, the style of the 70s, the team effort of the 80s, and the skill of individual players accentuated played under the hoop. Dr. J proved that humans could fly by adding gravity-defying dunks most during the 1990s and 2000s. players and fans had never seen before. Pete Maravich was the prototype for modern point guards Basketball fans should be excited for the future because the game always evolves, and no doubt an today with his knack for crafty moves. This decade was the prototype for the modern game, or flashy even more captivating era and a younger generation eager to prove they are the best are indeed on their basketball. way. The 1980s ushered in a faster-paced game. The Lakers/Celtics rivalry dominated the league and re- vived the NBA’s popularity. Both teams moved like lightning up and down the court; from Larry Bird

Courtesy: Google Imges

Magic Johnson Lebron James Michael Jordan Wilt Chamberlain Larry Bird Many Questions, Some Possible Answers In Dodgers Offseason

By Christian Diaz

The Los Angeles Dodgers will try to regroup themselves is currently being considered for the bench coach role for ton, who had a .281 batting average, and MLB leading 128 in the offseason after losing the World Series to the Hous- the Philadelphia Phillies. RBIs and 59 home runs in the 2017 season, and is also the ton Astros. The big question is whether or not they are Andre Ethier, who has been with the team since 2004, was frontrunner for the NL MVP. Adding him would mean going to spend money to bring back pitcher Yu Darvish. recently released but might come back given a smaller the Dodgers have found the right-handed bat they were In a report from Dodgersnation.com, the team announced deal. looking for this offseason. The team is considered the the front office does not intend to spend tens of millions What the Dodgers are searching for this offseason is a frontrunner to land Stanton. of dollars to bring Darvish back. They also reported that good left-handed bat coming off the bench, a solid reliever The Dodgers are also a favorite to receive the services of they will not bring back Tony Cingrani and Curtis Grand- who could help Jansen and the bullpen, and probably a Japanese hitting and pitching prodigy, Shohei Ohtani. erson after both served poor tenures with the Dodgers. star starting pitcher to help back up Kershaw, Wood, and Called the Japanese Babe Ruth, because he can fill both The real question is if veterans like 1st baseman Adri- Hill. roles, should ‘Big Blue’ land both Stanton and Ohtani, or an Gonzalez, 2nd baseman Chase Utley, and outfielder One Dodger who got sent down to Triple A after a rough even one, they would be the overwhelming favorite to win Andre Ethier will retire this offseason. Adrian Gonzalez season is Joc Pederson, after struggling to maintain a .200 and end the World Series drought in LA. has no real place with the Dodgers anymore after being batting average. He was one of the Dodgers’ least produc- replaced by rookie sensation Cody Bellinger, who will tive players until the postseason where he heated up and most likely win Rookie of the Year. helped the Dodgers get to the World Series. Chase Utley has had an amazing career, but has not been The Dodgers are also rumored to be in trade talks for able to deliver coming off the bench for the Dodgers. He hometown superstar, and Miami Marlin Giancarlo Stan- LA Kings Off To A Great Start By Justin Cisneros

As most LA hockey fans know, the Kings are off to the best start in franchise expectations, but it didn’t exactly turn out the way the team expected. Kempe’s history. The Kings currently own an 18-8-3 record, third best in the National first season showed the coaches that he wasn’t exactly transitioning to the “big Hockey League. leagues” as smoothly as fellow members of the same class. Kempe’s poor perfor- With their season ending in April, it’s too early to determine whether the Kings mance eventually landed him on the Kings’ minor league affiliate. The coaches will make an appearance in the playoffs, but it’s not too early to say that the there ran drills with the left winger to improve his skating, puck handling, and Kings are moving in the right direction. timing. Kempe made the most of the opportunity during a brief call-up by the Following three subpar years after winning Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014, the Kings last spring, and has stayed with the Kings since as a starting forward, scor- organization fired General Manager Dean Lombardi and Head Coach Darryl ing 10 goals so far this season. Sutter at the end of last season. Former Kings player greats, Luc Robitaille and With starters Jeff Carter and Kyle Clifford on the injured list, the Kings have still Rob Blake, took over the front office and promoted Kings long-time assistant, found a way to win, having swept four games on the road in early December. John Stevens, to head coach for the 2017-18 season. Goalie Jonathan Quick and Center Anze Kopitar have returned to form and new When asked about the team’s current performance, by Fox Sports, Stevens said, and old faces are contributing all over the ice. “The guys are playing hard. We’ve just got to clean up execution.” The team and their fans only hope they can continue to advance into the playoffs Under Stevens’ leadership, the team is now utilizing its rookies more. One that in 2018. looks to be key in the Kings’ offensive scheme is forward Adrian Kempe. The Kings picked up Kempe in the first round of the 2014 draft, with high Winter Break 2017 Sports Page 13 Neymar Has 263 Million Reasons To Smile By Christopher Benitez 10. The deal is a record setter - more than double more of a starting role on the team. On the other the previous record - and a shock to the soccer hand, at PSG, Neymar is undisputedly number world. FC Barcelona is considered one of the top one and has been a key factor why the team has tier soccer clubs on the face of the earth, whereas flourished since he joined. With his presence on the Paris team, or PSG, is second tier at best. the team there is the potential to bring PSG their Now the big question is why did he do it? Why first Champions League Final ever. With such tal- would Neymar want to leave a club which has ent and ability, it may even enhance his chances enjoyed great success for the past decade for a to win the Ballon D’or, which has always been an club in a league which has never gone anywhere issue as one of the top nominees for the award has farther than the quarterfinals in the Champions always been his former teammate, Messi. League? In a recent interview, Neymar’s father claimed the For one, and what’s most obvious, it could have real reason for Neymar’s transfer was much more simply been for the money. On Barcelona, admirable than the above theories. Neymar Sr. Neymar was part of its attacking trio with Lionel stated his son was not prepared to be the Argen- Messi and Luis Suárez. He won the continen- tine Lionel Messi’s “substitute.” Neymar Sr. also tal treble of La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the said his son never wanted to challenge the posi- UEFA Champions League in the 2014–15 season, tion of Messi at Barcelona out of respect for him, where he earned the title of top goalscorer. Given and insisted his son’s move to PSG was not for such talent and singularity, it’s no wonder Ney- the money or boosting his chances at winning the mar is a talented and unique player, and it’s no Ballon d’or, but rather to challenge his talent. surprise why various teams would seek him out at Neymar Sr’s comments have only added to the Courtesy: Google Imges such a pricey sum. grand controversy why Neymar left Barcelona. Neymar, arguably the soccer world’s biggest star, Soccer team drama could be the cause as well. After all, being his father, he could only defend took home a big paycheck this past summer, ac- In Barcelona, there are two well-known figures: his son’s choice by spinning an unselfish image cepting a contract estimated to be worth a whop- Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. With the Argen- of him. Whatever the reason may be, Neymar is ping $263 million dollars to transfer from FC Bar- tine Messi remaining the team’s headliner, Ney- now left with 263 million reasons to smile. celona to Paris Saint-Germain as its new number mar could have been frustrated at not being given Better Form = Better Physique By Ryan Chairez In order to fix this, maintain that straight posture. If necessary, use a yardstick. Rest it on your back and allow it to touch the top of your head. You will know you’re maintaining perfect form if the yardstick remains where you originally placed it. If it falls, you’ve lost your form to create a perfect angle until you can do it without the yardstick. A common mistake that seems insignificant at first, but is actually fundamental to the exercise, is head posture. If you let your head drop, you decrease the tension in your core and lessen the effectiveness of the exercise. The less tension there is in your core, the less benefit. Another problem is maintaining focus over the designated length of time set as your goal. Over time, your form begins to break down. If you want to continue for long Courtesy: Google Imges periods of time, say more than a minute, take a break for a few seconds, then start again. No shame. You should never continue a plank where your body begins to lower to the Planks floor. It is not only a waste of time and energy, but can also harm your body. Something less painful and more effective is clearly better than the alternative. Time to review. 1. Keep a straight posture in your plank. 2. Look at the floor while For those who have crunches, sit-ups, and similar exercises in their routine, change planking. them out for planks. Why? Overall, they are a more effective, less stressful exercise. 3. Never focus on time but always go for as long as you can, until your form begins to Both crunches and sit-ups create bad posture and back strain, which can cause nerve break down. damage, maybe even paralysis. While they work out your core well, planks also target, activate, and develop deeper muscles. Planks also help the user to maintain correct pos- And as always...Remember...Better Form Equals Better Physique. ture and help you to increase efficiency in other parts of your workouts. What is a plank? The person gets into a push-up position, either arms extended, or rest- ing on their elbows, and holds that position, for whatever desired length of time. The longer the better. Most people struggle to keep that straight posture, resulting in the body positioning at an incorrect angle, which does nothing for their muscles, and creates a maldistribution of weight. USC’s Outstanding Season By Jason Cabrera

The University of Southern California’s game. quarterback Josh Rosen was intercepted and 2017 football team finds itself headed to the Another outstanding feature of this year’s the Trojans escaped with a 28-23 win. Cotton Bowl December 29th to face long squad has been the defensive line. Against With the Pac-12 Conference win over time rival, Ohio State, finishing the season Cal in Week 4, the line forced five turnovers Stanford, USC earned the right to meet with an 11-2 overall record. On December versus the Bears, which culminated in a 30- Ohio State. These two teams have faced off 1st, they beat their nemesis, Stanford, to win 20 win. many times in some of the greatest games in the Pac-12 Football Championship, 31-28. The offensive line on the other hand was be- college football history. One can only hope USC dominated this season behind the arm set with injuries. But Trojan receivers like this year’s match-up is another one of those of quarterback Sam Darnold, who started Tyler Vaughns took some pressure off the classic games. the season throwing an uncharacteristic line, remaining a reliable downfield pres- number of interceptions. ence throughout the season. “That’s me trying to force things. I’m just Playing crosstown rival, UCLA, November getting impatient,” Darnold said. 18th, USC eked out a win when they tricked As the season progressed, the quarterback the Bruins with a fake punt return, resulting settled down and improve on his passing in a touchdown. In the third quarter, UCLA Winter Break 2017 Franklin’s Picassos Page 14

by Yennesy Jimenez

by Evenie Madrigal Winter Break 2017 Games Page 15 Winter Break 2017 December Horoscopes Page 16

Aries Taurus March 21 - April 19 April 20 - May 20 Decompress with your favorite buddies around the December 3 full moon. There may be You might be more energetic than you’ve felt in a long time. It’s the perfect a lot of big name, exciting, and exotic entertainment available, but sometimes it’s better day to get busy with tasks, projects, and housework. You’ll breeze through to just chill with your faves. At the new moon on the seventeenth, the world may be too most things in no time and enjoy them. Resist any temptation to procrasti- small for you. Let yourself be surrounded by people and soak up their enthusiasm and nate! If you put things off, you’ll miss the current cosmic support. Make a wonderful, wild ideas. It’s more than just the holiday season. It’s an explosion of the list of things to do and start. You’ll be done before you know it! love of life. The Mars-Neptune trine on December 27 pours some emotional magic into the end of the year for you and a special someone.

Cancer Gemini Jun 21 - Jul 22 May 21 - Jun 20 Today will start off with an energy boost for you. Seize the opportunity to If only more days could be this easy. The energy from the aspects is revitalizing, al- make the most of this by getting those major projects and chores handled. It lowing you to get a lot accomplished. If there’s something you’ve hesitated to do, seize isn’t every day that you feel this good. If you get to work right off the bat, some of the day’s added confidence and go for it. You’ll succeed at anything you take you’ll have plenty of time to do something recreational afterward. If you’re on. Don’t get caught up in doing another’s work because you have energy in abundance. into sports, the extra energy will give you quite an edge.

Leo Virgo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Aug 23 - Sep 22 Today the cosmic conditions are great for peak physical and mental energy. You’ll be Expect to enjoy today. You’re in great shape and operating at peak per- able to take on almost anything. With an added increase to your confidence level, now formance. These are excellent conditions for working or creating. Given is the time to take steps toward your biggest goals. Rather than worry about rejection, the chance, your mind will teem with innovative ideas. Put effort into think, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” Even though you aren’t big on taking risks, everything you do today. If the opportunity comes up to participate in a the ones you take today will be worth it. new venture, give it serious thought. It could be a smart move.

Libra Scorpio Sep 23 - Oct 22 Oct 23 - Nov 21 The energy today means you’ll feel on top of the world. Given your \ You’re off to an excellent start. If you’ve felt a little weary lately, usual hardworking nature, you may need to keep an eye out for ex- this will change. Added mental and physical strength is available to you. Things that seemed difficult yesterday will come easily today. haustion. While the extra strength, health, and mental sharpness give Take out any projects or to-do lists and go for it. Things will be you tremendous support to get a lot done, you have to know when to finished before you know it, and you’ll still have a smile on your face. quit for the day, too. Save some of that energy for social or recreation- Know when to quit, though. You don’t want to overdo it. al activities.

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Capricorn You might feel like you have more energy today than you usually do. Whether the Dec 22 - Jan 19 tasks ahead require physical strength or mental acuity, approach them with confidence. Expect to start your day with renewed strength and energy. Almost Things come easily and readily, and you can accomplish a great deal. Take a little of everything on your to-do list will fall into place. You can approach your this energized time for socializing with a friend or engaging in your favorite hobbies. projects with confidence and vigor because you can do what needs to be There’s no need to direct it all into serious matters. done. If there’s something you’ve wanted to take on or start, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better day. Make the most of the confidence surge. There’s nothing you can’t handle.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 This will be one of those days when you’re glad to get up. The energy is exceptionally It’s going to be a great day to get things done. Cosmic conditions will have positive. You’ll probably feel energetic, confident, and ready to get down to work on you feeling energetic and raring to go. If there’s a list of things to do waiting your projects. This in combination with your tendency to work hard can have you for you, grab it and get going. You might need to resist the temptation to going strong. Don’t overdo it. Take some time to smell the roses and take a little rest. spend time socializing. If you focus on your priorities, you’ll be finished before you know it and there will still be plenty of time left for play.

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