THE

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!

GRANADA HIGH SCHOOL

By Katherine M. Klem
Assistant Editor

Students bring you Twelve Angry Jurors

Senior Valerie Ruiz agreed, saying, I like that its a dramatic play and that every character is unique and defined. She plays Juror Three, described by Ruiz as a tough, outspoken woman who will go to any length to get the defendant declared guilty. Most students will recognize the name of the play as Twelve Angry Men, but it was changed for this play due to the fact that not all the jurors are men. Watts noted that Twelve Angry Men is read by many English classes here. We read a lot of scripts in English classes, so I think its nice to see them performed, he said. Drama teacher Watts said, One of the reasons I chose this play is because it is a story often read in GHS English classes. Ive had many students tell me the story was boring. What is lost

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.

Would classes be safer if teachers had guns?

By Jeff Katen
Perspectives Editor
Police officers have extreme amounts of training, leave that to them. Junior Jake Salinas also said No, adding, I think it creates an unsafe environment. Science teacher Ms. Tate reasoned that the guns would add more danger than safety because The chances are much greater of a student or staff member being injured accidentally by a gun in the classroom than of a bad guy coming to our school and being stopped by an armed teacher. Senior Austin West also rationalized that arming teachers would make school more dangerous, saying, I disagree with it. It should be someone more trained with the gun. We already have a cop at school. With a gun in every classroom, its just easier to get for a student. Psychology teacher Mrs. Bailey added, There are too many other factors in play. It just adds another level of risk in a school situation. The other common opinion among staff and students was that, if teachers were to be armed, they would need to be trained first. Math teacher Mrs. Avilla agreed, Trained teacher, yes, just regular teachers, no Anyone that has a gun should be trained. Senior Chris Harker commented, A gun wont do any good if the teacher is not trained with it, so if they do, then they would need gun training. Junior Paige Horn said the only teachers that should be armed are certain teachers that already have experience with guns. Offering an alternative, sign language teacher Ms. Csider said, My concern is keeping the gun in a safe place and not allowing it to fall in the wrong hands. Perhaps it might be a better idea to train teachers in combatting these situations where self-defense training might be needed. To help prevent these tragic occurrences, she added, I also think that being aware of the situation is important. Rather than ignoring a students writing, behavior or words, teachers need to be vigilant and follow through by reporting any unusual behavior.

Drama class rehearses their scenes for their upcoming shows.

Photo by Katherine M. Klem

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.

Photo by Brooke Yarrington

INSIDE

page 2

Twitter gives everyone a voice, for better or for worse

page 10

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

Visit our page on Facebook!

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

FEBRUARY 2013

Selfish driving creates chaos for others

exit/entrance of the parking lot, thus blocking everyones view of traffic coming from the left and ultimately slowing down traffic. Please, think before you park. Is it really so horrible to get a little extra exercise in the morning? People will thank you for parking away from the entrance, which does, by the way, open up the street that much more. Despite the initial delay, I eventually make it to the final traffic light before my house. The light is about to turn green, when out of nowhere, a fancy business-man in a Prius zooms through the intersection. To you, Mr. Business-Man, I hope you know that you just ran a red light because you failed to exit the intersection before the light turned red. Sitting at an intersection for another minute or so wont make you late, unless you left the house later than you had hoped, in which case that is your own bad planning, and you once again have no good excuse for creating the opportunity for a car crash to occur. After a long day, I finally arrive back home and slink into my couch with no thoughts other than, How did some people ever manage to get their license?

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 -

Some Twitter trends spiral out of control

By Bella Murphy
Staff Writer
Most average teenagers use social media. First it was Myspace, then Facebook, and now today, the most popular sites are Instagram and Twitter. Twitter seems to cause the most controversy, however, as many people instantly tweet a message one minute only to regret it the next. It has become a major part of ones day to feel the need to express what one is doing or feeling at that exact moment by easily sending a tweet. The more time passes, the more tweets are being written, and the more random theyre becoming. Celebrities are also guilty of this and many are just as addicted to social media as we are. Posting tweets is an easy and quick way in a celebritys busy schedule to just be themselves; to control what they say rather than have something being written about them. Their fans love it because they feel a connection with them through social media, and celebrities love it for the same reason as well. Its a rare opportunity where a celebrity can have the freedom to write what they want. But lately, posts are taking it too far, such as when Kansas City Chiefs runningback Larry Johnson posted an inappropriate tweet arguing with a fan, eventually calling him a homophobic name referring to the fans profile picture. Johnson then was suspended for the entire season. Since then, NFL has created a strict rule regarding certain posts written on Twitter by team. San Francisco 49ers player Brandon Jacobs questionable tweet resulted with him losing his job. He posted: Never work in a place where you hate they want to insult someone with a simple subtweet or just to post a quick thought that ran across their mind. 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. For example, you tweet #MyFutureSon or #MyFutureDaughter, and you follow up with something you will teach your future kids to do or be. It starts off with seriousness and then results in all jokes. Whoever gets the most favorites and retweets wins in everyone`s eyes. But is it going too far? Many types of bullying have occurred due to hashtags or subtweets on Twitter when people care more about being funny than offending others. Because it is so easy to get a favorite, a retweet or even a comment back from an entertainer, its becoming a little bit more than some fans can handle. An example of this occurred after Justin Bieber was caught in a photo allegedly smoking marijuana. Biebers biggest fans were very upset with him for making this decision that they thought they could solve his problem by posting pictures of themselves cutting their arms and wrists until he stopped smoking. Pictures of the cut arms and wrists were posted on Twitter with the hashtag #CutForBieber. Sadly enough, it became a popular trend on Twitter. This is one of the most disturbing trend-setting tweets so far. The fact that just a simple popular trending hashtag could result in someone hurting his or herself for a celebrity to stop something is terrifying. Donald Trump is another example of someone who tweets recklessly. Trump is different from other celebrities, however, because he has not stopped with his personal and somewhat insulting tweets directed towards President Barack Obama. Trump tweeted before, during and after the 2012-2013 presidential election. One of the most-talked about tweets posted was after Obama won the election, when Trump posted: This election is a total sham and a travesty. We are not a democracy! This was written after the votes were counted on November 7, 2012. Although everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion in politics, it is risky for celebrities to state their opinion over a global social networking site like Twitter, especially when they risk offending millions of people or making themselves look like fools.

Rebecca Bernstein Katherine M. Klem Brooke Yarrington

- Staff Writers -

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 .

Bubbling-in your future: ACT vs. SAT

By Sarah Nortmen
Staff Writer
For juniors and seniors, college is just around the corner, and there is so much to consider before applying to schools. What size school do you want to go to? What majors are offered? Do you want to stay close to home? Should you take the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the American College Testing (ACT)? Both tests are accepted by nearly all colleges and universities. However, the SAT and ACT are enormously different. The SAT has an emphasis on vocabulary and is divided into many different sections. The writing portion is mandatory and is factored into your overall score. On the other hand, the ACT has a science portion and a more extensive math section.

powerfulprep.com

Relationships are for you to enjoy, not everyone else

Romantic bonds in high school are over publicized due to social media hype
By Alison Pierson
Staff Writer
Relationships now are much different from what they used to be. With social networking holding the power, the second two people become a couple, everyone knows. People have become so consumed with making their relationships public that they forget to focus on the important part, being with someone who makes you happy. You dont need to impress the rest of your peers and you dont need to be concerned with what other people think of your relationship, or who it is with. You do not need to be in a relationship for the status; in fact, that is actually the worst approach to take. Having the title of girlfriend/boyfriend on your Facebook status does not make your significant other any more committed or trustworthy. Publicizing your relationship problems can also be detrimental to the relationship itself. When you tweet your problem or formulate that Facebook status and its very obvious and detailed about what and who it is about, you have to expect that everyone else will be giving their input and side to the situation. Is that going to help? No; it can actually escalate small problems that were not supposed to be such a big deal. Junior Maria Jose Chacon said, I think publicizing relationships can create more problems in the relationship because other people may try to interfere. So, associated as that couple. In addition to talking about your relationship, people can see it through PDA. PDA, especially at school, is okay in moderation, but it shouldnt go too far. School is not the time or place for excessive PDA; thats something that should take place somewhere more private. Ultimately, the most important thing to remember about relationships is that they will be public, but they should not be forced into the spotlight through social network drama or excessive affection in the middle of a crowd of students trying to walk to class. The time you spend with your partner should be for yourself, not for everyone else. Remember not to let others influence princessofhashem.blogspot.com your relationship choices. Just enjoy your partners Constantly talking about someone, good or bad, can be company and work out the issues overwhelming to everyone else. off the Internet. Your relationship You have to make sure you are will be a lot healthier and you your own person and not just will definitely feel a lot happier. of you and your boyfriend/ girlfriend is totally fine and a nice way to show how much you care about someone, you do not want to be consumed with it.

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

Makinna Newkirk, Freshman: I would make it salty-caramel potato chip!

Kevin Patel, Sophomore: It would have to be curry.

Robert Mathews, Junior: I think peanut butter would be an interesting flavor.

Hope Silveira, Senior: Chocolate chip cookie! Cookies! Cookies!

Mrs. Newkirk, Teacher: It would have to be wasabi!

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

February Music Review

FEBRUARY 2013

February Movie Review

Mama Directed by Guillermo Del Toro
By Zachary D. Williams Staff Writer
It is a strange age for movies, with most following the same story arc pertaining to its genre. It is clear to see that audiences expect a love story to end with happiness, action heroes to get the bad guy, and mystery cases to end with, I would have gotten away with it, if it werent for you meddling kids and that stupid dog! But with the prestige and hype of Guillermo Del Toros Mama, I can only feel let down by what could have been, a very scary movie. The story is based on a short film by Andres Muschietti, and the reboot actually lives up to its predecessor. It features two young girls who are protected by a lonely spirit when their father tries to murder them. This spirit becomes the childrens guardian, and of course things go awry; the spirit starts hurting people, and out comes the screaming. The plot is somewhat confusing if a viewer is expecting anything more than a horror flick, but most people dont like to think when watching these types of movies, so it works out. The story is a fairy tale, and the characters as well as the environments project that well. There is something magical about the relationship between the spirit and the children, and their interactions feel motherly and heartwarming. The acting of the children (Megan Charpentier and Isabelle Nelisse) is felt superb and natural, and they are the only two who keep the film flowing. This is an aspect of the film that is done right, while the rest just feels wrong. But to others, this is probably normal. Kids go to movies for cheap thrills via loud noises and startling movements. It is a perfect movie for the loud and indecent who love to scream and joke during the middle of a movie, and the pace is fun and predictable. The lack of practical effects and use of C.G.I. really take away from the film, and the scary moments are not done well enough to be scary. For me, the idea of the story is much scarier than the way the film was put together, so the film has failed. The idea sticks with one like a fable read by parents, but lacks the necessary aspects to be a great horror movie. This movie is easily forgettable It shall now be thrown into the never-ending compilation of weak horror movies that currently plague the film industry. This film did not scare me, and I am not pleased. If you are looking to take your date to a movie that will have her clinging on your arm, then I recommend seeing this movie. Dont expect anything more than a scary movie.

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.

Editors Choice: Quick Picks

Grace Helbig blogger

Why not watch something on Youtube thats actually entertaining. Blogger Grace Helbig, is known for her channel DailyGrace where she features videos every week day, that consist of teaching viewers new things upon request, reviewing a topic, Q&A and Sexy Fridays which incorporates whatever her followers choose to talk about. Her awkward yet hilarious persona will keep you laughing for hours. -Heather LeCon
Editor-in-Chief

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

Real Estate band

With its easy-going lyrics and melodic riffs and solos, Real Estates work is the perfect sound track to a relaxing day spent in a beach house. Lead singer Martin Courtneys tunes manage to be soft-spoken yet emotional, thoughtful, and always provocative of a happy calmness. Overall, the New Jersey-based band is great at sounding like the enjoyment of life and the making of memories.
Perpsectives Editor

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

Live long & prosper Mr. Shefler Flavor of Fashion

By Hayley Smith
Coorespondent
When you walk into a classroom full of novelty action figures and the laughter of students, you know that its the workplace of a teacher who is as well-liked as he is eccentric. Mr. Shefler, a math and physical science teacher, is celebrated by his students for both his methods and sense of humor. Senior Jodi Dunn, who has Shefler for both physics and astronomy, said His puns are fantastic and his jokes are hilarious, but hes also great at making sure you understand the concepts. Raychel Teman, another senior, added, In calculus, he played us an epic orchestra score while teaching the fundamental theorems, just to emphasize their importance.

By Kelsey LaBarbera & Brooke Yarrington Staff Writers

Zoe Brum, senior

Sweater: Target, $15 Shirt: Nordstrom Rack, $15 Jeans: Love Culture, $20 Scarf: TJ Maxx, $12 Boots: Steve Madden, Gift Style: Trendy
people what the human mind is capable of. He then went on to quote Albert Einstein: The most incomprehensible thing about the world is that it is at

Nathan Flores, senior

Sweater: Gift Pants: Levis, $50 Watch: Jack Threads, $80 Shirt: Mens Wearhouse, $30 Shoes: Shiekh, $75 Style: Modern class
all comprehensible. Not only does Shefler make the wonders of the world comprehensible for students, but he makes them incredibly enjoyable as well.

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.

Photo by Sarah Nortman

February Crossword

By Jeff Katen Perspectives Editor

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

FEBRUARY 2013

Tablet comparison: best features and prices

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.

Stressful year ahead for superstitious thinkers

By Ashley Moylan
Staff Writer
around the number 13 date very far back in time. In the Bible, there were 13 people at the table in the Last Supper. It takes 13 turns to make a traditional hangmans noose. Years with 13 full moons always make it more difficult to write calendars. As a result of these superstitions, in many tall buildings the 13th floor has been removed with the floor numbers skipping from 12 to 14. It is also considered bad luck in many countries and cultures to have 13 people sitting at a table. On the more optimistic side of things, many consider 13 to be their lucky number with good connotations and memories. Sometimes people see luck in this number based on their birthdays or other events involving this date. In history, America had 13 original colonies, thus we have 13 stripes on our flag. The Apollo 13 mission was a successful failure when anyone happy, with 13 of your favorite treats instead of 12. Many famous athletes have chosen the number 13 for their uniform because they believe it is lucky. Wilt Chamberlain, the Hall of Fame basketball player, was one of these athletes. Some musicians also put 13 tracks on their albums or other references to the number. In their music. Taylor Swift is known for her love for the number 13. She was born on December 13th and can be seen performing with 13 written on her hand. A dedicated Swiftie, Junior Marlo Callon said, I always like to pick [13] as my number for volleyball when I can. The more obvious reason is that Taylor Swifts favorite number is 13. Callon also explained that Swift will be seated in seat 13 of the 13th row at award ceremonies. Swifts new album Red, has many songs referencing the number 13. Whether taking the optimists view of the number 13 or not, the class of 2013 must live with it as they sport it on letterman jackets, graduation announcements and in the future, on their diplomas. Some seniors, like Kyle Tracey, think the number 13 makes the senior class lucky. Other seniors, like Lindsay Bowser, think 13 is unlucky and is an unfortunate year in which to graduate. If you are a superstitious person, black cats may already play a role in your anxiety, and if not, then good luck.

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

Making smart choices in cold weather can be life-saving

By Alison Pierson
Staff Writer
Snowboard and skiing season are in full swing. Winter break started the hype to get up to the slopes and enjoy the fresh powder. The weekends are now about who will be leaving town and getting to the best resort. The problem that the snow lovers dont address enough, however, are the dangers of the cold weather and the snow. People do not realize just how careful one has to be when making the travel up to the mountains. For one thing, you never want to take risks with cold weather. Avalanches, hypothermia and disorientation are all serious dangers that can lead to death if proper safety measures are not taken. When you are going snowboarding or skiing, you should familiarize yourself with a map of the resort and the area ahead of time. Carrying a map would be helpful too. You should never go out alone, especially to an unfamiliar area. There are many tragedies that have occurred when people wander on their own, whether on the slopes or just in the mountains in the snow. On New Years Eve in Lake Tahoe this year, Alyssa Byrne wandered out alone after leaving a concert early. Her friends had no idea where she was and after a couple days of searching, she was found dead in the snow in the opposite direction of her hotel; she had apparently died of hypothermia. When you are skiing or snowboarding, dont go off the trails. You might think that you will find your way back, but if you dont, youre in some serious trouble. In addition to the danger, you can always receive a fine for being off the trails. Junior Ryley Landreth had an experience that could have resulted in much worse consequences. After going off the trail with a few of her friends, they went in between the trees but got stuck when they approached a cliff. While trying to find their way back, they went the wrong direction and had to hike for two hours until they could get cell phone service. By the time we looked at our phones, because it was getting dark, the resort had already closed. We then kept going until we found service and we were able to call my friends dad. He called ski patrol and they came and found us, Landreth said. Bringing the correct equipment with you can help to avoid some serious danger. Always carry a cell phone or communication device, wear proper clothing and layer it and bring some emergency water or food just in case. Being prepared can help in a life or death situation, so dont take chances with that. Enjoy your snow season and make the most of it, but remember to be careful and smart when it comes to the snow and cold weather.

FEBRUARY 2013

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.

Healthy diets: more than meats the eye

By Douglas H. Simpson Staff Writer
As our globe explores the need for feeding an ever growing population, many are led to find more ecologically responsible and healthy ways to feed themselves. This requires people to explore different diets and ways of eating. From faith-based and dietary needs, to diets based on moral, ethical or philosophical views, people are breaking from the long-held Western diet of the more the merrier and bigger is better. People are becoming more eco and physiologically friendly in their ways of eating. The most common dietary change is to vegetarianism, a diet without meat. For most of the world eating only vegetable matter is not a new thing. In some cultures this is driven by an ethical or religious decision. M a n y Buddhists do not eat meat based on an interpretation of their religious texts. S o m e believe all life is holy. In other areas, economic influences determine the diet. Large areas of land are required to raise animal protein, making meat an expensive luxury. In western culture these ideas may not affect what people eat, but other factors do. Detox diets have become a rage. Detox dieters abstain for a period from eating foods that might contain harmful additives or unsavory chemicals. By doing this, dieters attempt to flush out these unwanted products. U.S. culture often snubs vegetarians as New Age or trendy, and in many parts of the country, it can be almost impossible to get a vegetarian meal. Even as studies have come to show that cutting meat completely or partially from your diet might significantly increase your longevity, many turn away from statistics. At the same time, fast food abounds.

I am a vegetarian and the meat industries repulse me. - Sophomore Anna Neitzel

features

Winter Show Previews

By Heather LeCon, Editor-in-Chief

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.

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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.

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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.

Cars With Character

By Heather LeCon Editor-in-Chief
There are cars, and then there are cool cars. Cars that make you wonder, What happened to that car? Cars that make you wish they were yours. Cars like Summer Johnsons 2001 Pontiac Montana.

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.

Photo by Heather LeCon

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.

FEBRUARY 2013

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.

New year, new 24 Hour gym

By Heather LeCon
Editor-in-Chief
With 2013 already a month in, its easy to tell whether you have given up or stuck with your New Years resolution of getting fit. Luckily, a new 24 Hour Fitness Sport Club has opened in Livermore, so you may be more likely to keep your resolution. The new gym opened on December 22 and is located on 2650 Kittyhawk Rd. by Airway Blvd. They had a grand opening party for members to check out the gym before anyone else. Since the gym is a sport, it is ridiculously huge. When a gym has sport with its name it usually means a bigger space for working out plus the luxuries of a pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Most of the cardio equipment has a built-in TV and a place to charge and plug in your headphones for your iPod, so you can conveniently listen to music or watch TV while exercising. Sophomore Bradley Davis said, Its really big and I like all the weights and machines they have. He added, Its more modern, I guess, than the other one. Another perk to this particular 24 Hour Fitness is the built-in turf field for sports training. Trainers provide classes for people interested in training for a sport. Next to this, gym goers also have the access to use the basketball and racquetball courts. You can reserve a spot for a team or sign up individually to play equipment you need from an expansive cardio area to all the weights you need to get buff. Plus they offer many different classes you can join such as spinning and Zumba. All around the facility they have monitors that show a calendar with a schedule of times for each class thats going on every day. According to www. livermorepatch.com, The City of Livermore values businesses like 24 Hour Fitness, which encourage regular exercise and healthy living, Mayor Marchand said. He added, 24 Hour Fitness has served our community for the past 16 years, and we are pleased with the new, large location and expanded opportunities it will give our local residents to be active.

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

FEBRUARY 2013

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.

Photo by Rebecca Bernstein

When is too young to be recruited? Girls soccer aims for NCS

By Mary Lawhorn
Staff Writer
Younger and younger athletes everywhere hoping to play their sport in college have one thing on their mind in high school: being recruited. The competition is intense among students with recruiting starting earlier, offers being presented years in advance and verbal commitments being made sometimes even before high school. Because colleges make offers to athletes at young ages, students are only allowed to verbally commit. This means that the athlete will fill a spot on the roster for their graduation year, but the college or the athlete can decline the offer at any time. If the offer still stands by senior year, then the athlete will sign papers, legally committing to the college. Chase Young, a sophomore at St. Augustine High School in New Jersey verbally committed to Delaware University on January 9th for lacrosse. Young, a standout midfielder, considered Loyola and Michigan but decided on Delaware saying, I know that Ill have a great time as a member of the Delaware team. Another widely known early recruiting sport is football. David Sills, a quarterback child prodigy from Delaware, has been recruited by colleges such as UCLA since he was only 11. In 2010 David Sills was recruited by USC, while only 13 years old, by Coach Lane Kiffin who had seen a youtube video of the young star. In 2007, Sports Illustrated had already named him one of the greatest prospects ever and Bloomberg News called him: The best arm money can buy. Sills, now 16, is still committed to USC and plans to keep that commitment. Gymnastics, a sport often overlooked for early recruiting, has also had stiff competition lately. Freshman Alex Marks verbally committed to Oklahoma university on January 10, 2013. Even through her injury in the 2012 season, she recovered and plans to accept the full scholarship to Oklahoma in just a few years. With so many offers being made, and fame given out so early, many are upset that the NCAA is allowing colleges to start recruiting so young. People everywhere are questioning how young is too young? Arguments have been made that giving these kids the fame and pressure of being recruited so early could send them on a downward spiral. Many are in favor of recruiting at a very youngage, saying if someone is good at something, why not give them the credit and rewards they deserve, regardless of their age. One critic said, If a young athlete has never played a second of high school sports in their life, how can they possibly be scouted to a college? Many who agree believe that early recruiting runs the risk of adding too much pressure to kids, which may cause them to play through injuries and go to extreme measures to maintain their athletic abilities. NCAA has no plans to enforce new rules anytime soon, allowing for young recruiting to continue for many years to come.

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.

Superbowl becomes Bro Bowl

Harbaugh brothers face-off makes Super Bowl XLVII unique
By Brooke Yarrington
Sports Editor
Football season has come to an end, and Super Bowl Sunday is on its way. Super Bowl XLVII should be a good battle between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens. Baltimore has definitely earned their spot, and they will be giving the 49ers a run for their money. Both teams have pushed through many obstacles to make it this far, suffering everything from injured players to tough losses to putting themselves in positions where only miracles could pull out a win for them. San Francisco was a blessed team in the 80s and early 90s

Collin Sommerhauser is the leading scorer this season for the Mats, who are having a great season thus far.

Photo by Brooke Yarrington

They shoot, they score

By Brooke Yarrington
Sports Editor
This year the boys basketball team has started the season off strong with an early record of 127. The teams goals are to make it to NCS and to beat Livermore. Along with these goals, every member of the team has his own personal goals for improvement. Senior Dylan Tupper said one advantage he and his teammates have over other schools is our work ethic and team chemistry. This is an advantage and could really impact their success. Head Coach Mike Wood said, Were quick, were small, but we can really move and know how to shoot the ball and move the ball up and down the court. We are good at scoring a lot of points. Senior captains Tupper and Collin Sommerhauser both believe that no matter how good their offense is, their defense must keep up. Sommerhauser said, We have a great high scoring offense. If we can stop the other team from scoring, we will win. Coach Wood is a respected and well-loved coach. His players look up to him for guidance and knowledge of the game. The feeling is mutual for Wood. He said he coaches basketball because, I love the game. I love being around the game. I hope to pass that love and what I know about it on to my players. Although Wood said the team has no rival, he added, There is no easy win in this league; every team is tough so every game is a rivalry. Almost every athlete at our school would say his or her biggest rival is Livermore High. Sommerhauser said, Its always a battle when we play them. Everyone on the team is preparing to take on this cross-town rival at home and keep the tempo up after their 61-56 win at Livermore. There is another huge part to this team that shows up to every game with pride, the 6th Man Team. One of the main supporters is junior Matt Carlo, who said, I feel like the 6th Man is an important part of the team because they motivate the team by pumping them up and helping maintain their momentum throughout the game. The 6th Man has organized everything from supportive T-shirts to newspaper reading to unified chants. This 6th Man Team means a lot to players and is always there to support and encourage them. Junior captain Jake Salinas said his team goals are going to NCS this year and getting a chance to hang a banner. Salinas added, Being a part of this team means everything to me. If I ever had it taken away from me, I wouldnt know what to do without them. Wood summed up the importance of basketball, as well as other sports, in high school, I think its a great thing for the school and for the community. The game is something for all the kids to come out and watch and support. Not just with basketball but football, baseball and every sport really. It gives the school something to build around, a reason for the community to come together, and I really think it helps the school become one unit.

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

Warriors make Bay Area fans proud

By Mary Lawhorn
Staff Writer
The Golden State Warriors season has been full of ups and downs so far. With the team working well together, there have been 26 wins and 15 losses. The team is ranked second in their division as of January 25. Just two weeks after the start of the season, Warriors fans were upset to hear that their center, Andrew Bogut, would be out indefinitely. Bogut had ankle surgery during the off-season on April 27, 2012. The team reported that the surgery was to clean out loose particles and bone spurs. Fans were excited to have him back, but soon after the start of the season, it was announced that Boguts surgery was more serious than what had been reported. Bogut had actually had micro fracture surgery, which requires a much longer recovery time. Bogut said, Im not going to say a month, two months or three months, but I definitely think Ill be back to play again this season. Stephen Curry, point guard for the Warriors, is leading the team at the young age of only 24. Curry holds the record on the team in points, assists and steals. Curry is ranked number one among all NBA point guards in the number of minutes played. He averages 38 minutes a game, an astounding number; other popular point guards such as Steve Nash of the Lakers averages 33 minutes As the Warriors season continues, students around campus have a lot to say. Senior Sami Morris said, Stephen Curry is smart with the ball and knows when he shouldnt, and he can pass with both hands. Morris also hopes that Bogut will be back because With him we are a champion contender, not just a playoff contender. Both Ariana Lopez and Rachel Leonard agree that their defense has improved since last season. Students around campus agree that one of the many highlights of the season was watching David Lee scream at Blake Griffin to Stop Flopping! The Warriors record is improving every game; they even beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 104-99 on January 23, leading to the Thunders first loss of the season. Many hope to see improvements on the team while they continue to win games on the road to the playoffs. Others hope that the team will be able to make it to the end of the season without any more injuries. Warriors fans are excited to see how their season will continue and are excited to finally have a winning team that works well together.

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
2
-Lights Out Winter Ball - Groundhog Day

3
- Super Bowl: 49ers vs. Ravens @ New Orleans

4
- 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

- CAHSEE testing - Girls B-ball vs. Cal - Boys B-ball @ Cal

- CAHSEE testing - Wrestling vs. LHS

- 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

- Hersheys 119th Anniversary

10

- Chinese New Year

11

- Math Club Rm 108 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Mythology Club Rm 511

- Anime Club Rm S-10 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Girls B-ball @ CDL - Boys B-ball vs. DLS

12

- Red Cross Club Rm S-2 -PreMed Society Rm S-13 - Hip Hop Club Small Gym

13

14

- Valentines Day - Art Club Rm 601 - Robotics Club Rm 604

15

- NO SCHOOL - Girls B-ball @ LHS - Boys B-ball vs. LHS

16

- National Yoga Pants Day

17

- Random Act of Kindness Day

- NO SCHOOL - Presidents Day

18

19

- Anime Club Rm S-10 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Chocolate Mint Day

- Red Cross Club Rm S-2 - PreMed Society Rm S-13 - Hip Hop Club Small Gym

20

21

- Art Club Rm 601 - Robotics Club Rm 604

22

- Interact Rm S-3 - Hip Hop Club Rm P-10 - GSA Rm S-7 - Film Club Rm P-7 - Shakespeare Rm 509

23

- Dakota Fannings Birthday

24

- Steve Jobs Birthday

- Math Club Rm 108 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Mythology Club Rm 511

25

- Anime Club Rm S-10 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Boys Golf vs. SRV

26

- Red Cross Club Rm S-2 - PreMed Society Rm S-13 - Hip Hop Club Small Gym

27

- Art Club Rm 601 - Robotics Club Rm 604 - Boys Golf vs. FH - Boys Tennis @ SRV

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