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The Pomegranate February 2013
The Pomegranate February 2013
megranate
FEBRUARY 2013 VOLUME 8, ISSUE 5
when the play is read is seeing the intensity and passion of the actors and actresses. That is where the excitement comes from. Meanwhile, the cast and crew (including seniors McKenzie Davies, Kristen Barber, and Kayla Perkins, as well as freshmen Ashley Schiopu, Alexa Chabarria and sophomores Maddie Haley, and Riley Greenough) are working hard to get ready for performances. They have been working on the play since the first day of the second trimester. Opening night for Twelve Angry Jurors is Thursday, February 21, with subsequent evening performances on February 22, 28, March 1 and closing night on March 2. A matinee performance at 2 p.m. will be offered on Wednesday, February 27. The cost is $7 for general admission and $5 for seniors and students with ASB. The show starts promptly at 7 p.m. for evening performances, and is anticipated to last about two hours, not including intermission. Be there!
By Katherine M. Klem
Assistant Editor
The Granada High School Drama Department is getting ready to open the doors of the Little Theater for a new show this month, the drama Twelve Angry Jurors, by Reginald Rose. The play, directed by drama teacher Jefrey Watts, is centered around a jury deliberating a homicide. Throughout the play, the twelve jurors, known to the audience only by their juror numbers and their distinct characters, enter into tense arguments with one another. Sophomore Apollo De Vera plays the lead, the eighth juror who dissents from the majority. He said he likes the dramatic nature of the play, and said he has wanted to try serious and arguing scenes.
Recent school shootings, including the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, have brought debate to our nation regarding how to keep our schools safe. One leader of the debate, Indiana state Senator Jim Tomes, proposed controversial legislation that would allow teachers to carry concealed firearms for classroom protection. With this proposal comes the question as to whether teachers carrying guns would actually make school safer, or if the presence of weapons on campus would end up producing more of a threat. In a recent random survey at Granada, teachers and students expressed their opinions and ideas about arming teachers. Many believe that the risk carried along with the guns is too high and therefore guns should not be brought on campus by anyone other than police officers. History teacher Mr. Rankin stated, No. We have an officer on campus (and) there are many things that could go wrong teachers shooting crazy, cops shooting teachers
Officer Dan Cabral said, Arming our teachers, as great as that sounds, is not the answer.
INSIDE
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Super Bowl predictions: 49ers vs. Ravens, who will win it all?
Contents Driving pet peeves.......2 Tablet comparison........6 Eating styles..................7 New 24 Hour.................9 Boys basketball...........11
perspectives
By Rebecca Bernstein
News Editor
Its a nice Monday morning and Im following my typical school day routine: get up, get ready, get in the car, and drive to school. The speed limit is 25 miles per hour so Im driving 25 miles per hour. All of a sudden, a giant suburban passes me, and then proceeds to speed the last 100 feet to the end of the road. The catch? It was a twolane road with a double yellow line in the middle. To the man in the giant suburban, you just broke the law and then proceeded to break yet another law. A law that could land you a ticket. And so I say to you, lawbreaking sir in the giant suburban, dont complain to the officer, or anyone else for that matter, if you do in fact receive a ticket, because you earned it. For those who dont know, heres a fun fact: the speed limit is a law. No, you dont usually get pulled over for going five, or even ten miles per hour over, but dont be surprised if you do. And certainly dont tailgate or otherwise disturb a driver who does drive the speed limit. All youre doing is heckling someone for following the law. I wave goodbye to the suburban as he pulls around the corner at a four-way stop and then I proceed to come to a full and complete stop, just like the driving instructor taught me. Unfortunately, the pick-up truck that arrived at the stop sign no more than five seconds earlier decided to California Roll right through the stop, cutting off both me and the student walking to school who had just begun to cross the street. If I can make it to school on time, then so can your child. He/she wont be late simply because you paid attention to the street signs and came to a complete stop. Also, impatient lady in the pick-up truck, go back to traffic school and learn about this thing called right of way, because you apparently dont know what it is, considering the fact that you cut off the car that arrived at the intersection first and almost ran over a p e d due to the ungodly amount of people that drop their kid off in the front of school. While pulling into the student parking lot, I happen to see a parent leaving the student parking lot. I thought this was a student parking lot, you think to yourself (notice how every time I mention the parking lot, I put the word student in front of it.) No matter, I get to school safely and find a place to park in time to get to my first class. All is not over, however, at 3:05 I make the trek back to my car in order to wait another twenty minutes to leave the parking lot. I think, Why is this taking so long? Thats when I realize, to top off the slow traffic from the huge amount of people trying to pick up their child, someone decided they couldnt walk an extra 100 feet so they parked right next to the
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estrian, both of which have the right of way. Finally, I arrive to the school parking lot after waiting in traffic for about 10 minutes
P omegranate Staff
Heather LeCon
- Editorial Staff - Editor-in-Chief -
Jeff Katen
Jack Kovacich
Zachary D. Williams Kelsey LaBarbera Mary Lawhorn Justin Moore Lana Fick
Twitter is almost like a game; you get a catchy hashtag trend and the rest of the night celebrities and teens are taking part in it.
your boss so much, you should always be happy at your work. # Yo u L i v e A n d Yo u L e a r n . Jacobs was unhappy with his lack of playing time, but after his tweet, he was permanently benched. I am definitely guilty of posting many dumb tweets that dont really make sense or that try very hard to be funny. Tweeting has become a hobby to some people when
Ashley Moylan Sarah Nortman Dakota Rogers Alison Pierson Bella Murphy
Douglas H. Simpson
FEBRUARY 2013
perspectives
The writing part of the test is optional. All subjects of the test are taken in a big chunk, rather than hopping around from timed subject to timed subject. The most significant difference is the way the test questions are written. You can read an SAT question and have no idea what you have just read; many questions are worded unnaturally, causing one to spend precious time deciphering the question. In contrast, the ACT questions are more straightforward. The inquiries less often leave you with a bewildered look on your face. Madisen Marples, now a freshman at California State Chico, said, I did much better on the ACT. I found it easier. It was a lot less intimidating than the confusing SAT questions. In addition to the unclear questions, the SAT has a penalty for answering questions incorrectly. With obscure, misleading questions and penalization for mistakes, one can argue that the SAT starts you on the wrong foot. Students shouldnt be afraid to mark an answer theyre not 100% sure about. Some questions ask for the more right answer, where more than one answer can be considered correct. Every student thinks differently, and each person has a different perspective. So why are we reprimanded for thinking differently than the makers of the test? Despite this, both the SAT and ACT are conquerable with practice and preparation. They are different, but both have widespread acceptance. If youre trying to decide whether to take the SAT or the ACT, dont. Take both and learn whats right for you. It is good practice and can only help .
powerfulprep.com
its better to keep it private. Relationships are also constantly publicized through the use of photos on Facebook and Instagram. While posting pictures
Matador on the Street: If you could design a new chip flavor, what would it be?
By Lana Fick Staff Writer
features
Fade by Yo La Tengo
By Jack Kovacich
Features Editor
Few bands have had as consistent or long-running critical success as New Jerseys indie godparents Yo La Tengo, whose nearly 30 year career has seen dozens of different styles and countless bands citing them as influences. Fade, their newest release, continues this tradition, containing songs of varied genre and structure but of consistent quality. The album begins with Ohm, a hypnotizing one-chord song with athermic vocals, which is still the highlight of the album to me after multiple listens. Over its nearly seven minute run, it draws you in, grows and expands and just rocks. The rest of the album, though still every bit as enjoyable, never swells to this level of energy again, and as a result isnt quite as engaging. As their thirteenth album since their founding in 1986, its almost impossible for them to come up with completely new material. The members are all around 50 years old at this point, which is probably reflected in the relative softness of this record. After Ohm, it stays firmly in between mid to slow tempos. This is where Yo La Tengo are most comfortable, it seems, and it works especially well for them on Well You Better and Paddle Forward, the latter of which is as noisy and enjoyable as some of Yo La Tengos best songs. Two Trains (not 2 Chainz) sounds like it might have been
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lifted directly from the bands 2000 album And Then Nothing Turned Itself Inside Out, with its lethargic tempo, reverbdrenched guitars and subdued ambient noises in the background sounding like the inside of a lab from a 60s science fiction movie. Along with Stupid Things, which lasts a bit too long without doing much interesting, it represents the negative aspects of the album, that it sometimes treads on ground Yo La Tengo have been on before without enough conviction to keep it from sounding like just rehashed material. This problem, however,
is really only evident in these two songs and in a much lesser sense Is That Enough and Ill Be Around, both of which have more value than Two Trains and Stupid Things anyway. Fade is lyrically and sonically about getting older, fading out, if you will. Yo La Tengo is as good as ever, on an album that almost sounds like an amalgamation of previous efforts with the volume turned down. Sometimes this turns down the entertainment as well, but there are enough moments of good ol Yo La Tengo goodness to more than make up for it.
Chainsawsuit webcomic
One of Kris Straubs many web comics, Chainsawsuits offbeat humor makes it stand out above the rest. Since 2008 the three-panel strip has been making equal parts blunt criticisms of society and surreal jokes, always in lowercase and always satirical. Straubs often sardonic observations are expressed through a lens that, though pessimistic, is likeable and light-hearted. -Jack Kovacich
Features Editor
-Jeff Katen
FEBRUARY 2013
features
Shefler, who grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, originally aspired to be an astrophysicist. After earning his Bachelors at Western Michigan University with a double major in physics and mathematics, he came to California to pursue his Masters degree in astrophysics from UC Berkeley. It was while working as a teachers assistant in grad school that he discovered a passion for teaching. Mr. Shefler teaches a variety of science and math classes, including honors physics, AP calculus, and astronomy. When asked what his favorite class was, he replied I really love teaching everything. Astronomy is great because it involves the wonders of the universe, I love to play with toys in physics, and calculus is just awesome. He also hopes to teach an AP physics class next year, which he explains would be more calculus-based. No more neglecting air resistance! Along with Mr. Peterson, Shefler is a supervisor of Granadas Science Bowl team, where he acts as both a coach and role model. Science Bowl participant Renee Dobson said His classes have pushed me more than any other class, and he has inspired me to pursue a major in aeronautical engineering. However, Mr. Sheflers love for teaching doesnt cease when he leaves campus. He participates in Science on Saturdays, a series of interactive lectures which take place at the Bankhead Theater here in Livermore. On February 2, Shefler will be doing a presentation on the NuSTAR, a space-based x-ray telescope. Along with these lectures, his interests include hiking, playing with his cats, and most abundantly clear to his students, science fiction and fantasy. Sheflers Star Wars fandom is reflected by his classroom full of action figures and a tendency to read test directions in a surprisingly-accurate Yoda voice. He also likes to include problems on tests which involve popular superheroes, which can make even the most complicated problem amusing. When asked what his favorite part of teaching was, Mr. Shefler replied, I like showing
Mr. Shefler is passionate about his job and brings an eccentric and fun atmosphere to every one of his classes. He makes the topics hes teaching excitingto learn which makes them easier.
February Crossword
Across: 1. Lincoln and Vigoda 5. Sleeve 8. Assigned job 12. Infamous emperor 13. Twosome 14. Words of understanding (2 wds.)
33. Retitle 34. Corroded 35. Germanys neighbor 36. Calendar numbers 38. Unpleasant sight 42. October birthstones 47. Speak wildly 48. ____ Keillor of A Prairie Home Companion 50. Baldwin or Guinness 51. Can.s neighbor 52. Guitar device 53. Transmitted 54. Twilight, to a poet 55. Gush forth Down: 1. Industrious insects 2. Suitor answers on page 9 3. Is mistaken 15. Latest 4. Carbonated beverage 17. Jump 5. Citrus drink 18. Actress ____ 6. Moscows country Sarandon 7. Motor court 19. Watertight coating 8. Cultivate 21. Brads 9. Cruising 23. Pancake flipper 10. Actor____ Penn 27. Water vapor 11. Retained 32. Actress Meryl ____ 16. Indirect implication
20. Appraiser 22. Swiss mountain 23. Opposite of NNW 24. School org. 25. Music or painting 26. Summer shirt 28. Explosive letters 29. Pitcher handle 30. Friend (Fr.) 31. ____ culpa 33. Wish undone
35. Relaxed (2 wds.) 37. Debate 38. Epochs 39. Connecticut University 40. Fifty-fifty 41. Religious subgroup 43. Movies, for short 44. Kin of PDQ 45. Canter 46. Winter Flakes 49. Moved Swiftly
features
By Dakota Rogers
Staff Writer
Tablets are a newer piece of technology that have previously been monopolized by Apple. However, this past holiday season set the stage for bold new competitors such as Googles Nexus 10 and Microsofts Surface RT. When it comes to pricing these competitive tablets, the Nexus 10 jumps to the top with its very affordable price of $399 for the 16 gigabyte model. There is also a 32 gig model available for $499. Apples iPad 4 comes in second with its 16 gig version that will set you back $499. In addition, the iPad 4 can be found in a 32 gig and a 64 gig model that costs a corresponding $599 and $699. The iPad 4 separates itself from the Nexus by giving people the option to purchase a model with cellular capabilities. This means that you wont need WiFi to access the internet, but this feature costs an additional $129 plus carrier fees. Lastly, the Surface comes in with prices similar to that of the iPad 4. There are 16, 32 and 64 gigabyte models available for purchase at $499, $599 and $699, respectively. Unfortunately, if you want the keyboard heavily advertised in the surfaces commercials, youll have to drop an additional $120-$130. Display has been the focal point for most tablets. Apple set the standard of high resolution with its stunning retina display that has a resolution of 2048 by 1536 with a pixel density of 264 per square inch. The Nexus 10 seems to be a retina-killer that one-ups the competition with an amazing resolution of 2560 by 1600 with 300 pixels per square inch. The Surface falls short with a mediocre display resolution of 1366 by 768 with 148 pixels per square inch. All three of the tablets possess very comparable speeds; however, the Surface seems to fall a little behind in power in most CPU and GPU tests. The batteries in all of the tablets are beefy having to support such high resolution displays. The iPad 4 will get around nine hours of video playback on a full charge which narrowly beats out the Nexus and the Surface, which will get an average of eight hours fully charged. Cameras are an all important feature in the world of tablets. All three competitors have front and rear facing cameras, however, all three have different qualities. The Surface has two 1 megapixel cameras that dont really compare to the quality of the other two tablets. The iPad 4 has a five megapixel camera in the back with a 1.2 megapixel camera in the front. The Nexus 10 offers the same five megapixel quality camera in the rear, but also offers a 1.9 megapixel camera that will have you producing superior selfies. The operating systems of the three tablets are very different and offer various features for all kinds of users. Apples operating system, iOS 6, is known for being extraordinarily user friendly and easy to use. However, this simplicity leaves many people wanting more out of their device. The Surface RT uses a slightly dampened version of Windows 8 which pleases many PC enthusiasts. It may not be the most feature packed system, or the easiest to use, but it satisfies the need of tons of Windows fanboys. The Nexus 10 runs off of Androids operating system known
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Three of the tablets being compared are the iPad 4 (left), the Surface RT (top right), and the Nexus 10 (bottom right). as Android 4.2 or JellyBean. It provides a very feature rich system thats quite smooth and remains extremely easy to use. In conclusion, Microsofts Surface RT falls short in most categories but will still please anyone looking for a tablet that acts very similarly to a PC. Apples iPad 4 should attract those who want the easiest to use and may not be the most technology adept. The iPad 4 also offers the sleekest design which is nice and shiny for Appleheads who will buy the product regardless of its functionality and performance. Finally, the Nexus 10 is for people who want to get the most bang out of their buck, and are okay with learning how to use a new, more feature rich operating system.
With 2013 underway, many people are talking about the number of the year. Since we all survived the end of the world in December, predicted on the 13th Baktun of the Mayan calendar, we have begun the unluckiest (or luckiest depending on your point-of-view) year since 1913. Some people see the number 13 as a symbol of luck, while others see it as the opposite. Friday the 13th is the most obvious example for those who believe 13 is an unlucky number. In fact, the fear of the number 13 is actually a real disorder called Triskaidekaphobia. The origins of the superstition
the c r e w was lucky enough to return back to earth even with a technical malfunction. Even a bakers dozen can make
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features
Disney gives Star Wars series A New Hope
By Jeff Katen Perspectives Editor
October of last year brought us one of the biggest entertainment sales in years, and no one really knows what to make of it. A $4 billion deal handed Lucasfilm over to Disney, which now has free reign over the multibillion-dollar Star Wars franchise. L i k e Disneys 2006 purchase of Pixar (over $7 billion) and 2009 purchase of Marvel (also approximately $4 billion), the recent deal is all-encompassing. In addition to the rights to Star Wars, the acquisition included the rights to Indiana Jones, live action production businesses, consumer products, animation, visual effects, audio post-production and a portfolio of cutting-edge entertainment technologies. Upon closing the deal, Disney immediately announced plans to release Episode VII, VIII, and IX of the Star Wars series, creating an explosion of discussion among fans. Can Disney divert the series back uphill after the prequel series proved less popular than the originals? How can the series continue now that the Sith has been defeated? Such questions are floating around the fan-base with no truly conclusive answers. The final trilogy has been talked about since the development of the original series. In 1987, during a 10th Anniversary Star Wars convention, Lucas confirmed the prequel series and mentioned Episodes VII through IX were still confirmed as part of nine [films] floating around there somewhere. However, around 1997, Lucas started to convey there would be no sequel trilogy. increase due to an increase in Star Wars merchandise. Another Star Wars fan, senior Eric Faulkner, had mixed feelings when he commented, Im not quite sure how to feel exactly. Like a lot of other people, I grew up on Star Wars... I just hope its not them trying to play off of a largely loved series for the sake of making new hit movies. S o m e r u m o r s include those of returning a c t o r s . Original series stars Carrie F i s h e r by Zachary Durian-Williams (Princess Lucass new stance held until Leia), Harrison Ford (Han his recent decision to sell the entire Solo), and Billy Dee Williams company and rights to Disney. (Lando Calrissian), as well Lucas will act as the creative as prequel series stars Ewan consultant to the new series and McGregor (Obi-Wan partial owner of Disney (a little Kenobi) and Samuel L. Jackson under half of the $4 billion was (Mace Windu) have all openly presented in the form of 37 million expressed interest in reprising Disney shares). Anticipation their roles in a new Star Wars elevated further when Michael movie, and the media speculation Arndt, writer of Disney-Pixars has also focused on the probable Toy Story 3, was announced return of Mark Hamill (Luke as the writer of Episode VII, Skywalker). Star Trek director which will be released in 2015. J.J. Abrams is rumored to be on According to Disney, board for directing Episode VII. additional movies will be In seven, maybe eight years, released every two to three we Star Wars fans will hopefully years. A director has not been be exiting the theater after the announced yet. Senior Garrett midnight showing of the final Oliver, a fan of the current Star episode, surrounded by costumed Wars saga, said, I think that with fans, fully satisfied with the ninethe new animated Star Wars there part series. For now, we can only will be a transition from a more dream that these movies will be adult-focused audience to a more able to live up to the Star Wars youthful/child centered audience. legacy, maintaining dedicated This may degrade the fans possibly even willing to Star Wars series in the eyes complete an unprecedented of many of the original fans. 18+ hour Star Wars marathon. Truthfully, the profits may May the force be with us all. Super Size Me, a documentary about the easy availability and increase in portion size of poorly prepared and/or nutritionally poor fast food, has begun to make some aware of the dangerous direction of our eating habits in this country. Diabetes and obesity rates continue to grow and yet people turn a blind eye and continue to eat foods that can seriously damage their health. However, even diets that aim at health consciousness may be dangerous. Some abstaining diets can go too far. Many say veganism, in which no animal products, including eggs and dairy, are eaten does not provide everything a body needs. Vitamin B-12 can only be obtained from animal sources. So, care must be taken to find B-12 fortified foods, such as soy milk, to obtain the necessary nutrients. Protein, iron, zinc and calcium are other nutritionally important components that are less available in a non-animal diet. Despite this, studies do show that a well-maintained Vegan diet in all stages of life can increase life expectancy. Senior Torii Ze said, Although its hard being a vegan, it helps me stay healthy and stay away from unhealthy foods. I am a vegetarian, said sophomore Anna Neitzel, and the meat industries repulse me. Animals are not respected, cared for, or even given basic necessities. Neitzel, who has been a vegetarian for the last three and a half years, said she also switched to that diet because she feels its much healthier just to not eat meat. As we face global warming, loss of land for planting, and overpopulation, we must make choices that will sustain not only our planet, but our bodies as well. Education and balance will take us in the right direction.
I am a vegetarian and the meat industries repulse me. - Sophomore Anna Neitzel
features
FEBRUARY 2013
Psychics are overrated. Unless youre Shawn Spencer and you work for the Santa Barbara Police Department as a crime consultant with your partner, Gus. This is Psych and it returns on Wednesday, February 27. The comedy-drama series airs on USA Network, where detective Spencer uses his keen observational skills to prove to people he is solving crimes with his psychic abilities. The new season of Psych is sure to impress viewers and have them craving season eight.
amazon.com
We know that much of society is obsessed with zombies, so of course the AMCs zombie hit series The Walking Dead is returning for its third season. The premiere is Sunday, February 10. The drama series trails sheriffs deputy Rick Grimes, who has awoken from a coma to find earth infested with zombies. He sets out to find his family, while encountering other survivors. Be on the lookout for more action, suspense and obviously zombies. Keep watching The Walking Dead because there will definitely be a fourth season.
collider.com
tvlistings.com
impressionblend.com
Blake, Adam and Ders are back at it again. Workaholics has returned with its third season on Comedy Central. The new season began on Wednesday, January 16 at 10 p.m. Workaholics is about three college dropouts who are roommates and co-workers for TelAmeriCorp, a telemarketing company. Even though they are working adults, they still revert back to a college lifestyle. Their stupid ideas leave you laughing and wanting more. Luckily for viewers, the show was renewed with by Comedy Central for two more seasons. So, in the words of Blake, Adam and Ders, Lets get weird!
Many teenage girls were highly anticipating the return of Pretty little Liars. One of the most viewed shows on ABC Family has started up again with its third season, which aired Tuesday, January 8 at 8 p.m. The show follows the lives of four best friends who lost their friend Alison. Ever since she was murdered, the girls, Aria, Spencer, Hanna and Emily, have been receiving anonymous messages from a mysterious A. The past two seasons have showcased the various dilemmas the girls have gone through in order to solve the mystery of A, and the third season of Pretty Little Liars will go into more depth than ever before.
Why does your car have character? My car has character because it is unique, and because of its different paint job, people recognize it as my familys car. Whats your favorite aspect of the car? My favorite aspect is that it has so much space.
Any nicknames for the car? My cars name is Shortcut because when we first got her we took a shortcut home and my brother and Ive called her that ever since.
Whats your best memory with the car? My best memory in the car was during the summer. Me and a group of friends drove her to Whats your least favorite Santa Cruz and the car started aspect? overheating so we opened the My least favorite aspect is that slider doors on Highway 17. the windows don't work anymore so I have to open the doors when Whats the reaction you I go through the drive-thru. normally get to your car? The reaction my car gets is Have you made any normally a little giggle because it modifications? matches my dads car. The modifications made were the blue stripe on the bottom to match Describe your car in one word: my dads truck, tinted windows Funnable, as in fun and capable and truck tires. of anything.
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news
Back Together by Taylor Swift. The most prestigious award category at the Grammys is Album of The Year, which also honors artistic achievement, technical proficiency and overall excellence in the recording industry, without regard to album sales or chart position. The nominees for this esteemed award are El Camino by The Black Keys, Some Nights by Fun., Babel by Mumford & Sons, Channel Orange by Frank Ocean and Blunderbuss by Jack White. Some of the other categories include: Song of the Year, Best New Artist, Best Pop Solo Performance, Best Pop Vocal Album, and Best Alternative Music Album.
Grammy Awards coming up, Special Ed Dance nominees hopeful of winning Granada
By Kelsey LaBarbera Staff Writer
The 55th annual Grammy Awards will be held February 10 at 8 p.m. on CBS and is bound to be the best yet. The Grammys recognize outstanding achievement in the music industry and the winners are decided by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. This year LL Cool J will be hosting this spectacular musical event for the second time and is sure to bring lots of comedy to the show. Some of the biggest stars in todays media will be attending and performing, such as current Grammy nominees the Black Keys, Fun., Mumford & Sons, Rihanna and Taylor Swift. Record of the Year is one of the top categories that honors artistic achievement, technical proficiency and overall excellence in the recording industry, without regard to sales or chart position. The nominees for this category include Lonely Boy by The Black Keys, Stronger by Kelly Clarkson, We Are Young, by Fun., Somebody That I Used to Know by Gotye Featuring Kimbra, Thinkin Bout You by Frank Ocean, and We Are Never Ever Getting
hosts annual dance put on by SELPA for local Special Day Classes
Staff Writer
By Douglas H. Simpson
Preparations are underway for a fun-filled event here at GHS. On Friday, February 1, students from the Special Day Classes throughout the Tri-Valley SELPA will arrive all dressed up and ready to party in the small gym for a Valentines-themed dance. SELPA, or The Tri-Valley Special Education Local Plan Area, is a group of local school and district offices that work cooperatively to provide special services to help students meet their individual needs. SELPA puts on dances in the Tri-Valley area two to three times during the academic year. The schools, which include sites in Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin and San Ramon, take turns hosting the events. A fall event took place at San Ramon Valley High School. Its Livermores turn, and this Friday, with the help of Special Day Class (SDC) teacher Mrs. Chrissy Booe, GHS will be
articles.latimes.com
Kelly Clarkson (not shown above), Gotye, Frank Ocean and Taylor Swift are all nominees for Record of the Year.
hosting about 100 students and staff for music, dancing, crafts, food and friendship. Each class will contribute in some way. LHSs SDC classes will be bringing food, valentines and materials for making personal Valentine cards. Many of the attendees have known each other since Kindergarten, or from past classes or summer camps, said Miss Debra Day, an LHS teacher. Its a lot like a big reunion. Not only do the students reconnect, but its a chance for the staff to touch base. Some of us got our credentials together, or have worked together in the past. For many students, these dances are a way to relax and be themselves in a community in which they feel comfortable. A fly on the wall might see students dancing like robots, line dancing, slow dancing, and of course no dance is complete without a group performance of Thriller! If dancings not their thing, then there is something for everyone. Some never leave the food tables, which are laden with everything from seven-layered dip and chips to cookies and punch. Many love the competition of the provided games. Some take the opportunity to ask a special someone to dance. Friends may have their picture taken together at the photo booth. A few will sit in the bleachers and share news with old friends and new. The one thing at this dance everybody is sure to experience is fun.
The Princess Project Girls, are your dresses sitting in the back of your closet, gathering dust with each passing day? Well, now is your chance to donate your dress, help out a great cause, and get the chance to win a $150 gift card or two free tickets to Junior Prom or Senior Ball! Granada DECA is holding a dress drive to collect your old dresses to donate to The Princess Project. The Princess Project is a non-profit organization that collects gently-used dresses for underprivileged girls throughout the Bay Area. Bring your dresses February 1-February 8 to the quad or room 400 and Help a princess live her happily ever after.
24 Hour Fitness can help you stay motivated and achieve your goals.
a pick-up game against others. Senior Jennifer Louie said, My favorite part of the new gym is the new cardio area because there is always an open treadmill or elliptical. I love how much bigger it is because I dont feel cramped and if I see someone I know, I can easily avoid them. Our society focuses a lot on that perfect image of being fit and in shape. Attending a gym like 24 Hour Fitness can help you stay motivated and achieve your goals. They offer all the
sports
Candice Vieira runs the court
By Rebecca Bernstein
Hard work is nothing new for senior Candice Vieira, who has been a part of the school basketball program for all four of her years here at Granada. She has been playing basketball since she was ten, and her years of hard work and dedication have paid off. Vieira has been on varsity for three years, and has been a team captain for two of those three. For Vieira, her teammates are some of her biggest motivators. They push her to always try her best. She said, I dont want to let them down, said Vieira. Its a team effort to win, and I want to make sure I do my part. She believes it is important for students to get involved in sports so they can make new friends and feel like they are a part of
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News Editor
something, which is how she feels when she is around her teammates. I love my teammates... were just a bunch of average teenage girls who never run out of words to say, said Vieira, whos best memory with her team is of a trip to Tahoe two summers ago. The entire four day trip was crazy, but we all definitely left with some great memories. North Coast Section (NCS) is always a goal for student athletes. NCS is the playoffs for sports teams in our section, and Vieira has been twice with the basketball team. Basketball isnt Vieiras only passion, she has also enjoys bike riding, rollerskating, napping and hanging out with her friends. Although she isnt involved with any clubs at school, Vieira also gets to show her talents through track and field.
Vieira has been on the varsity track team for four years. Her events include hurdling and running in a leg of the 4x400, a relay event where a team of four runners each run a full lap around the track. With the track team, Vieira has been to NCS three times. Her goal for this year is to make it beyond NCS to the Meet of Champions. Vieira is hoping to either attend UC Davis or UC Santa Barbara. Although she has the ability to play whichever sport she chooses, Vieira hopes to either run or hurdle in college. She hasnt been recruited, but plans on being a walk-on at the college she attends. In the meantime, her attention is focused on basketball and making it to NCS for a third time with her team. the team is having a great season with the help of many, and Candince is excited for NCS
Candice Vieira, an outstanding athlete who plays both basketball and track, strives for success in all aspects of her life.
By Ashley Moylan
Staff Writer Granada girls soccer has begun what looks to be a very promising season, picking opponents apart one by one. The Lady Mats opted to bypass a preseason in order to spend more practice time preparing themselves for league. After losing their first game of the regular season, they have completed the first half of league with a winning record. The combination of old and new players to the varsity squad has helped drive their recent success. Senior captain Brooke Rittman said that underclassmen Megan Amick, Amanda Valentine and Emilie Allum have all made a big difference in their respective positions this season. Several of the teams seniors are in the middle of their fourth consecutive varsity season. The chemistry they have developed by playing together for four years has helped the team in many ways. Senior captain Cierra Comfort said, I think the team has amazing chemistry on the field. Comfort said this helps them know how each individual plays and allows them to play to each others strengths based on the trust they have developed over the last four years. The entire varsity squad
plays club soccer, which helps the girls maintain a competitive mindset. Many of the girls on the team are also planning on playing college soccer. The team has had their head coach Walter Pratte for the past three seasons. Pratte said, Over the past few years of coaching at Granada, I have seen an increase in respect toward our team from the competition. He also said that other teams do not see Granada as an easy target because of the competitive drive and commitment from the team and coaching staff. The team has high hopes for what they want to accomplish this season. Senior captain Rachel Leonard said, I hope we can win league and go to NCS. While these may be common goals of any team, it often takes a special group to achieve them. To win league the girls will have to beat teams that have posed many challenges for them in the past. They have already hung tough against these types of teams this season, beating Foothill, Amador, Carondelet and Cal, just to name a few. The players all are impressed by the dedication their teammates show to one another, which ultimately is leading to success. Even those cold night games wont hold this squad back from striving to achieve their goals.
Sophomore Chase Young (left) of Delaware has verbally committed to Delaware University for lacrosse. David Sills (right) was offered a football scholarship at the age of 13.
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FEBRUARY 2013
sports
when they drafted Joe Montana, the Hall of Famer and MVP star quarterback. Then they were handed another amazing offensive leader, Steve Young. Young had won a record six NFL passing titles and had the highest passer rating at the time of his retirement. Then things started to take a nosedive when San Francisco drafted Mr. Inconsistent, the injury-prone Alex Smith. Smith struggled for years until the 49ers hired perhaps the most currently famous coach in the NFL, Jim Haurbaugh. Smith played strong under Harbaugh until he suffered a concussion and rookie sensation Colin Kaepernick stepped in. Kaepernicks ability to run or throw at any time has made him a unique and dangerous weapon for the Niners. For Baltimore, it has been a long 10 years since their last Super Bowl win, and it was 30 years before that when the Baltimore Colts won the Super Bowl. The Ravens and their fans are perhaps a little more emotionally involved in this contest as Ray Lewis, their star linebacker since 1996, is retiring after the game. Baltimore has had a strong record this year, compiling a 13-6 record overall. Many of their losses were discouraging because they lost games that should have been easy wins for them. However, under Coach John Harbaugh, they did improve and fought their way into the Super Bowl. Apparently good coaching runs in the Harbaugh family with both Super Bowl teams being led by one. This is a unique situation, and sources say both brothers have yet to talk to one another and probably wont until the game is over. Although both teams definitely earned their spot in the Super Bowl, there can be only one winner. Looking at both teams past season records and their overall statistics, I believe that although the game will be a close one, Baltimore will be the winner by a score of 38-30. Go ahead, call me a hometown hater.
Collin Sommerhauser is the leading scorer this season for the Mats, who are having a great season thus far.
The Harbaugh brothers faced off last year when the Ravens and Niners met on Thanksgiving Day. The Ravens won that game 16-6.
bleacherreport.net
per game, and Nate Robinson of the Chicago Bulls averages only 21 minutes per game. This number concerns many, as Currys last two seasons have been ended early due to ankle surgeries. As the season has continued, Curry has had ankle problems but continues to be strong and play through it.
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the pomegranate
FEBRUARY 2013 Sunday
AV: Amador Valley Cal: California High DLS: De La Salle FH: Foothill LHS: Livermore High MV: Monte Vista CDL: Carondelet SRV: San Ramon Valley
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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Friday
- Girls B-ball @ AV - Boys B-ball vs. AV
Saturday
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-Lights Out Winter Ball - Groundhog Day
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- Super Bowl: 49ers vs. Ravens @ New Orleans
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- Math Club Rm 108 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Mythology Club Rm 511 - Girls B-ball vs. Cal - Boys B-ball @ Cal - Girls Soccer vs. MV - Boys Soccer @ MV
- Art Club Rm 601 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Girls Soccer vs. LHS - Boys Soccer @ LHS
- Interact Rm S-3 - Hip Hop Club Rm P-10 - GSA Rm S-7 - Film Club Rm P-7 - Shakespeare Rm 509 - Girls B-ball vs. MV - Boys B-ball @ MV
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- Anime Club Rm S-10 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Girls B-ball @ CDL - Boys B-ball vs. DLS
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- Red Cross Club Rm S-2 -PreMed Society Rm S-13 - Hip Hop Club Small Gym
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- Red Cross Club Rm S-2 - PreMed Society Rm S-13 - Hip Hop Club Small Gym
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- Interact Rm S-3 - Hip Hop Club Rm P-10 - GSA Rm S-7 - Film Club Rm P-7 - Shakespeare Rm 509
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- Anime Club Rm S-10 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Boys Golf vs. SRV
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- Red Cross Club Rm S-2 - PreMed Society Rm S-13 - Hip Hop Club Small Gym
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- Art Club Rm 601 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Boys Golf vs. FH - Boys Tennis @ SRV
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Congrats to Delaney Gill-Sommerhauser, ALOHAS DRIVER of the MONTH!!! Delaney has won a $50 GAS CARD on ALOHA!!!
2013 Drivers Ed classes enrolling NOW! Check us out on-line & on FACEBOOK! Thank you to all students past and present for your business! Located at 1857 First St. Office enrollment hours Mon-Thurs 3:30-6:00
Classroom Drivers Ed. runs monthly On-Line Drivers Ed. available 24/7
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