VOLUME XXVII, ISSUE IV

Friday, November 21, 2008

DIAMOND BAR HIGH SCHOOL

The Bulls Eye

Surrounding Wildfires Threaten City of Diamond Bar Residents and Destroy Part of City
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
GREAT EXPECTATIONS Will Obama change for the better or will he change for the worst? Read about the expectations for the next four years of his presidency. Please see page 4. BRAHMA PRINCESS A DBHS sophomore sings her way into a whole new world. Find out how she was chosen to perform at Obamas inauguration. Please see page 6. LAUGH OUT LOUD Watch a play where the actors are acting in a play. Are you confused? Read a review on this years fall play, Noises Off. Please see page 11. COLORS OF THE WIN Come down and see the CIF wrap-ups of the fall season. Come read about the few super sweet athletes of the school. Please see page 13.

Red rover, red rover, dont send that red fire over...The Triangle Complex Fire burns through and destroys the homes of many residents. The fire destroyed an approximated 29,000 acres of land, including hundreds of homes. James An BURN: The fire that burned the streets of the Country About 300 evacuees resided at sets from several teachers a resident of Diamond Bar. Monday with such uncertainty; through five different cities cost Estates ordering a mandatory DBHS overnight. Because of the classrooms and placed them Everyone should be proud of the and the way they conducted 14.8 million dollars to put out. evacuation at about 9:00 a.m. abundance of people, Walnut in the gym so that people could way everyone pulled together themselves, I couldnt be more City council members updated on Sunday. Within the city and High School also opened for proud of our staff. evacuees about the fire at DBHS Tonner Canyon, a total of about evacuees. The American Red The City of Diamond Bar throughout the day. 1,800 homes were evacuated. Cross supplied food, and also also kept evacuees informed The Country Park homes were cots for evacuees to sleep on. throughout the situation. Every Tiffany Huey also evacuated that morning. Council member Steve Tye city council member was at News Editor My first reaction when provided food, including steak DBHS at one point during The Triangle Complex Fire I heard that the fires were and chicken, which was originally the fire. The sheriffs and fire began in Corona on Saturday, reaching Diamond Bar was that intended for the STARS of DB departments updated city November 15, and reached we needed to keep all of our event that was cancelled due to council members. Diamond Bar by Sunday, residents safe and we needed the fire. The Los Angeles County November 16. to protect their property, Arrangements were made Fire Department Chief P. Tiffany Huey Michael Freeman arrived at Throughout the weekend, commented Diamond Bar for animals to stay at Mount San receive updates on the fire. in whatever they could do. DBHS at 3 p.m. on Monday hundreds of homes were Mayor Jack Tanaka. Antonio College. Principal Denis Paul stated, Im proud of our staff; our staff afternoon to announce that the destroyed in the fire, but no Diamond Bar High School DBHS Technology Director residences in Diamond Bar was Diamond Bars evacuation Randy Thomas and Audio Visual People should be grateful was incredibly professional mandatory evacuation for the [Please see EVACUATE were damaged or destroyed. center, in which the American and Theater Manager Keith that they live in such a united by volunteering to come in on page 3] Police drove through Red Cross was stationed. DeLuca removed television community. Im proud to be on Sunday and coming in on

Diamond Bar Resident Stabbed in the Neck by Older Brother

COLUMN ONE

Brahma Tech Students Participate in Catapult Competition

Police continue to search for a man who stabbed his brother due to an argument about three weeks ago. If the man is found, he will be charged with assault with a deadly weapon. Iris Li Staff Writer Guadalupe Macias, a 42year-old man from Baldwin Park, stabbed his 38-year-old brother, Richard Bueno of Diamond Bar, in the neck with what authorities believe to be a screwdriver after an argument on Sunday, October 26. Macias and Bueno fought over Buenos decision to kick their nephew out of his house. The fight was broken up by another family member. Bueno was stabbed outside of his house at approximately 12:30 p.m. Sheriffs and paramedics arrived shortly after the incident on the block of East Sunwood Dr., where the quarrel occurred. At first, a family member drove Bueno to the Pomona Valley Hospital. Along the way, [Please see INJURE on page 2]

CULTURE: Mr. Hwang believes that a Korean advanced placement course should be incorporated into the foreign language department of all the schools in the nation. Christine Song Contributing Staff Writer Korean teachers Robert Hwang and Hyunin Lee have been invited by the Korean Ambassador to meet with the South Korean President at the Beverly Hills Hotel on Monday, November 24. Upon meeting with the President of Korea, Hwang would like to emphasize to him the need for Advanced Placement Korean classes in the United States. Additionally, Hwang and Lee would like to make the classes more culturally aware. Hwangs motives for creating AP Korean classes in the United States are that he feels shameful that Korean is not on the AP level standard like other foreign language classes; and he feels that because Korean is spreading throughout the nation, it deserves to have equal status. Hwang also wants to create the class because Korean Honors is not an AP class and he feels that those taking the class should

Two Teachers to Meet South Korean President

Up, up, and away!...Brahma Tech students gather in the ampitheater to see whose catapult will work the best. Eunice Lee TEAM: Brahma Tech students were permitted to participate and The catapults were made made their catapults using a signed up for the competition on with different materials including variety of materials including Friday, November 7 in Room wood, spatulas, rubber bands, rubber bands and wood. The 224. Nine groups of three to and fishing line. club plans to host a part two of four students competed. The official rules that were the competition. At the contest, each group handed out to students, listed was given three tries to set requirements for students Eric Lee its farthest mark with a tennis to follow when building their Staff Writer ball. The winning catapult in catapults. Students were to The Brahma Tech Club held the competition was made be disqualified if they used its first catapult competition at by seniors David Chiang and cannons, air-power, or sling Diamond Bar High Schools Daniel Nguyen. After winning shots. The use of catapult kits or amphitheater on Thursday, the competition, both Chiang parts of catapult kits was also an November 13 from 4 p.m. to 5 and Nguyen received a $25 automatic disqualification. The [Please see FLY p.m. American Express gift certificate on page 2] Only Brahma Tech students as an award.

not be put at a disadvantage because they receive no college credit. If the process of making Korean an AP level class goes well, Hwang believes it can be established within a few years. He said, It takes a long time to establish an AP class because of the process it has to go through and it also costs a great deal of money. Hwang commented, Because of the rising expansion of Koreans in the United States, I believe we should give Korean [classes] that credit and make it an AP class. Although the Korean Embassy cannot provide the $1.5 million it would cost to help establish the classes, he is hoping that the President of South Korea can. On Saturday, November 8, Hwang was invited by the Korean Ambassador to discuss high school Korean classes. Also present at this meeting were seven other teachers and the Vice President of the Korean Educational Institute, which is a branch of the Korean government. We got what we wanted, which was to get their support on making an AP Korean Class, stated Hwang.

Friday, November 21, 2008

On Target
THINK TO THE FINISH LINE Have you aced your way to the top yet? Have you pulled up that failing grade, or have you dropped down a letter grade? Keep on going and use that last ounce of brainpower because the second grading period is ending today! The twelve-week grading period ends today, Friday, November 21. THANKS FOR THANKSGIVING A minimum day along with a four-day weekend, the biggest sales ever, family gatherings, and delicious foodwhat more could we possibly ask for? After three months of working our butts off to get those grades, we finally get to relax and stretch our toes during the break that we have all been waiting for! Minimum Day is on Wednesday, November 26. Thanksgiving Break is from Thursday, November 27 to Friday, November 28. SHOW EM WHAT YOU GOT Seniors, youre almost done! After hours of pondering over what to write in your essays and regretting your choice to procrastinate on applications, the deadline for UC and CSU applications is here, whether you are ready or not. Its time to race to the finish line and put in those last finishing touches that scream PICK ME so that those prestigious universities will toss your name into the acceptance pile. The deadline for UC and CSU applications is Sunday, November 30. SLOWING DOWN THE GAME Use this extra hour to catch up on some sleep, to finish some last-minute homework, or to hang out with friends! Remember to change your alarms so you dont walk into class too early. Late start is on Tuesday, December 9. ENDLESS CHOICES Clubs make me throw my hands up in the air, ay, ayer, ayer, ay, ayer because they bring food to the All Club Food Fair, fay, fayer, fayer, fay, fayer. Stash some extra cash in your wallet to buy scrumptious food and drinks. Take a walk around the grass quad and you just might find something that will leave your stomach satisfied. The All Club Food Fair is on Wednesday, December 10.

Part Two of Rachels Challenge Presented in Gymnasium

IMPACT: The second part of the Rachels Challenge assembly was presented to all of the middle and high schools in the WVUSD. The first part was also shown to all of the schools last year. Elizabeth Lee Staff Writer The Rachel's Challenge Part 2: Rachel's Legacy and "The Power of One" assembly was held in Diamond Bar High School's gymnasium during third period on Monday, November 3. The purpose of the assembly was to help students understand that one person can make a difference by means of telling students the story of Rachel Joy Scott, a student who was killed in the Columbine High School shooting. The assembly was based on Rachel Scott's high school life. Before she was killed, Rachel Scott led a life of kindness and compassion. She was known for the care she showed for strangers and outcasts. Twentyfive-year old Nicole Nowlen, a survivor of the shooting that ended in the killing of fourteen students and one teacher, was the speaker at the assembly. The United Student Body Activities Director Petria Reis began the assembly by introducing Nowlen. After a brief recap of last year's presentation, which focused on Rachel's life of love, several presentations were given that discussed related issues such as the experiences of people who had been impacted by Rachel. The presentations stressed the importance of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Nowlen explained, "Part of Rachel's legacy includes stopping other students from committing suicide and even students who were planning school shootings at their own schools." During the assembly, Nowlen also told her own story. "Rachel's legacy continues oneven through me," Nowlen stated. Although she did not have "the chance to be impacted by [Rachel] personally," she was, "still very impacted by Rachel's story." Nowlen was shot while hiding under a table in CHS library. At the end of the assembly, Nowlen asked the audience, "What type of legacy do you want to leave behind? Is it one of kindness, compassion, [or the] acceptance of others? Maybe it's a better one than the one you're already leaving now?" Last year, students signed a banner that read, "I accept Rachel's Challenge." This year's banner reads, "My legacy starts today."

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THE BULLS EYE

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Nowlen felt that she had accomplished her goal. She said, "It's evident by the students that come up afterwards who come to talk to me that [the presentation] has impacted them. I feel like it went very well. Students were receptive to the message and thinking about their legacies. It'd be interesting to see how it impacts them after

today." "It was an eye-opening experience that everyone could learn from," said junior Yoseph Wolde-Mariam. Sophomore Brandon Sim stated, "I felt the message delivered by the representative was very relevant to the lives of teenagers today, especially in high school environments."

Continued from page 1 FLY: Seniors David Chiang and Daniel Nguyen won the catapult competition. maximum size of a catapult was two feet tall, two feet wide, and two feet long. No groups were disqualified for not following the set of rules. Students of all grade levels participated in the event. Freshman Yat Huynh commented, It was very timeconsuming and we made I felt inferior compared to other [groups] catapults. Club advisor Jack Huang, who organized the competition, commented, [This event] was to give the [Brahma Tech] kids a chance to show [their] creativity outside the classroom. To show off to the rest of the school what we can do. Continued from page 1 INJURE: The victim was sent to the USC Medical Center in a helicopter. helicopter because his injuries were initially thought to be life threatening. Although he was listed under critical condition he was released from the hospital the following day. According to Detective Gregory Salcido, the suspect has not yet been found. However, if Macias is found, he will be charged with assault with a deadly weapon. many mistakes. But we gained experience as we made mistakes. Huynh and his partner, freshman Jonathon Wu, spent approximately ten hours building the catapult due to several mistakes. However, when asked about how the event went, Wu answered, It was very fun, but

they came across Los Angeles County Fire personnel on the northbound 57 Freeway, near Temple Ave. Bueno was taken to the University of Southern California Medical Center by

News

News
THE BULLS EYE

Friday, November 21, 2008

news bits
A cat that was missing for 13 years was finally found in Santa Rosa, California. Its owner Melinda Merman had been searching for it since 1995 by visiting animal shelters and writing to various veterinarians. Afterwards, a microchip was implanted in George, the cat, which allowed him to be tracked down. The cat is now eating well and back to his normal self. Peruvians have offered the Obama family a bald, toothless dog as a gift. This dog, their national dog, is also hypoallergenic. One of Barrack Obamas daughters is allergic to most breeds of dogs. The Incans have said that this is the perfect dog for Malia and Sasha since it is for kids that are sensitive to dogs. A Public Prayer Booth was created in New York City by Dylan Mortimer, a recent graduate of New Yorks School of Visual Arts. The booth can be mistaken for a regular telephone booth, but the sides of the booth are folded hands and the word prayer is written instead of the word telephone on the booth. Thirty-three-year-old John Samuel Ricci was arrested after he tried to steal communion wafers during a church service. He was held down by six or seven parishioners at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Jensen Beach, Florida. Ricci is being charged with two counts of simple battery, theft, and disruption of a religious assembly. He was held on a $2,000 bail. John Black of Pennsylvania was accused of duct taping his neighbor, Henry Schmitt Jr., dousing him with gasoline, and threatening to set him on fire in order to make him confess to his crime. Black accused Schmitt of burglarizing his home, but police say they have no evidence that Schmitt committed the crime. Black is now being charged with aggravated assault and unlawful restraint. Sixty-one-year-old Arnold Romine survived being hit by a coal train in Alabama. Firefighters say that eight rail cars ran over Romines body, but he only suffered minor injuries. Romine was treated and released from the Huntsville Hospital in Alabama. Officers do not understand why Romine was laying on the railroad tracks to begin with. Sixty-seven-year-old Marciana Silva Barcelos died on Monday, November 10, when she was hit on the back of the neck by her husbands coffin. Barcelos was in the passenger seat of a hearse on the way to the cemetery when a traffic accident caused the coffin to be hurled against the back of her neck. Barcelos died instantly, while the driver and Barceloss son received minor injuries. Her husband, 76-yearold Josi Silviera Coimbra, had died the night before of a heart attack while dancing at a party.

Continued from page 1 EVACUATE: Fire evacuees at Diamond Bar High School were supplied with cots and donated food such as chicken and steak. affected areas was lifted. When the evacuees were notified, 15 members of DBHS Leo Club reported to the gym to assist in stacking and storing chairs and tables, cleaning and rolling up oor mats, and helping the American Red Cross, Noahs Wish, Verizon, and the Tzu Chi Foundation, and others load up their vehicles. At 5:30 p.m. Sunday evening, Paul and the superintendent decided to cancel school on Monday. It was mostly [due to] the disruption of our families. It wasnt the smoke. It wasnt the fire continuing, mentioned Paul. The evacuation notices were still being continued at the time, and it would have been very difficult to conduct school with so many families displaced, roads closed, and a significant portion of our campus being used by the American Red Cross. [The superintendent and I] wanted to wait as long as possible. We wanted to have school if at all possible if that would give people a sense of normalcy. Plus, it also meant that the danger was gone, stated Paul. Thick vegetation, low humidity, strong winds, and the general topography of the area caused the fire to burn as fast and as far as it did. Tanker planes ew above homes, spraying Foscheck, a retardant, on the ames. Firefighters tried to contain the fire with an 11-mile dozer line for a couple days. By Sunday night, firefighters were working to prevent the fire from jumping over the 57 freeway and spreading west. Road closures included the 57 freeway, Carbon Canyon Rd., and Diamond Bar Blvd. The fire passed over campsites in the Firestone Scout Reservation in Tonner Canyon, which had tents and a rock-climbing wall. Warnings were sent to resdents, notifying them to watch out for displaced wild animals such as coyotes, snakes, and bobcats. The Triangle Complex Fire, named because of the triangular shape of the fires locations, passed through Corona, Chino Hills, Yorba Linda, Anaheim Hills, and Brea. It burned 30,305 acres and is now 100 percent contained. There are no further threats, but 187 residential structures were destroyed, 127 residential structures were damaged, 2 commercial properties were destroyed, 2 commercial properties were damaged, 11 outbuildings were destroyed, and 32 outbuildings were damaged. In total, the cost of putting out the fire amounted to $14.8 million. I know that because of this fire, the City of Diamond Bar will be better prepared for any other disaster. It is one thing to have paper exercises, but to have to actually perform during a real disaster is another thing. The city found what really worked well and found areas that they could improve on, said Tanaka.

Go, go, firefighters!...A poster is set out on campus for students to sign in appreciation of those who risked their lives to keep the community safe. Tiffany Huey

Annual Candy Cane Fair to be Held at the DB Center

WINTER: People of all ages will have the chance to interact with others and purchase crafts. About one to five thousand people usually attend the event every year. Pamela Lewes Contributing Staff Writer The Diamond Bar City Hall is hosting its annual Candy Cane Craft Fair on Saturday, December 13, at the Diamond Bar Center. The Candy Cane Craft Fair is an annual event that takes place once a year on the first weekend of December. Admission and parking will be free for visitors. Craft vendors will be charged $50 for an eightby-eight foot space or $75 if they want the Diamond Bar Center to supply tables and chairs. Visitors can purchase handmade crafts, visit Santa, and purchase pictures with him. Refreshments will be available at a snack bar sponsored by DB4 Youth In Action. The Craft Fair is sponsored by the City of Diamond Bar. Profits will go to support DB 4 Youth In Action. About 1,000 to 5,000 people

A l p h a S c i e n c e E d u c a t i o n I ns t i t u t e

MUN Members Compete in UCLA Conference

DEBATE: Eleven Model Unitied Nation members debated on topics in seperate committees. Topics varied from the problems in Iran to the problems in Ukraine. Elizabeth Lee Staff Writer in Central America, and child soldiers. Eleven MUN members attended this event. On Saturday, MUN members met at DBHS at 6:15 a.m. The conference ended at 5:30 p.m. They got home at 7 p.m. We talked about international issues, gave speeches, debated, and gave a resolution at the end [within committees], senior President Derek Chang stated. On the second day of the conference, the debates were completed and the awards ceremony was held at 5:30 p.m. The awards given included research awards, the Outstanding awards, the Commendation awards, and the Gavel awards. We did not expect to win many awards, but we went just for experience. This was our first UCLA conference that we attended [in the last] five years, commented freshman Megan Ung, Im just proud that I was able to go up there and just say my speech the best [that] I could.

attend the fair with an average of about 80 crafters. The Candy Cane Craft Fair used to be part of the Winter Snow Fest held at Pantera Park in December. Three years ago, it was moved to the Diamond Bar Center due to the fact that it was too cold and the wind would blow down the vendors crafts. [The Candy Cane Craft Fair] is a community service, stated City of Diamond Bar Recreation Specialist Alison Meyers, [I hope the fair will result in] many happy crafters and shoppers.

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Diamond Bar High Schools Model United Nations attended its first conference of the year at the University of California, Los Angeles from Saturday, November 8, to Sunday, November 9. Attendees were split into committees according to the country they represented. The committees included the Security Council, the United Nations Developmental Program, the World Health Organization, the General Assembly Plenary, the First Committee, the Sixth Committee, and the United Nations Childrens Fund. Each committee discussed different topics such as higher education in sub-Saharan Africa, gangs

It was very intimidating for us because everyone was a lot more experienced. MUN has prepared for a month for this event. They met four times a week to prepare for the conference. Members practiced their speeches and received scores from the officers on their performance and their speeches content. Each member was required to bring two pages of research and his or her speech to the conference. There are people out there in different schools that actually have [MUN] as a class. The conviction they bring is really inspiring, junior Michelle Lin commented. Freshman Andy Leung added, Well do really well next time against Walnut and Rowland [High School]. MUN plans to attend three more conferences this year at Walnut High School; the University of California, Riverside; and the University of California, Irvine.

Goal 750-800

Pre-Algebra AP Calculus AB and BC Algebra I,II AP Physics B Geometry AP Physics C -Mechanics Pre-Calculus

SAT I Math Critical Reading Writing SAT II Math -Electromagnetism Physics

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Friday, November 21, 2008

THE BULLS EYE

Editorial

Editorial

Great Expectations?
The newly elected President seeks to make his legacya great one, formulating a new agenda with enthusiasm. However, only a few have the ability to accomplish to leave a legacy untarnished by misteps. Many believe President-elect Barack Obama will stand among that few while others feel his inexperience will lead to his own downfall taking the country with him. Without risk there can be no progress. As risky as change may seem, the people have spoken. They articulated their call for a change from the status quo by voting Obama into presidency. Congress and the constituency have an equally important role in keeping those in power informed of our directions. As easy as it is to sit back for the ride, or to blame, it is imperative that we all take collective responsibility to form our change for the better, by supporting him we can make the positive expectations into a reality. Various Diamond Bar High School students have shared their opinions with us.

THE

AFTERMATH
A Quiet, Private Thought
November 4, 2008 Today was the 2008 Election Day, perhaps the worst day America has ever experienced because Barack Hussein Obama has become the president-elect. I almost had a heart attack knowing that a man who is so... so...so undeniably different , inexperienced and preposterous has command over this entire country. Obama is a complete insult to our traditional American government! I will always remember this as the beginning of Americas downfall. I can hear the cheers of the foolish liberals, screaming to the world that Obama will bring necessary change to the United States, as if they truly believe his promises. He defeated John McCain by only 7% of the popular vote, but everyone around me in this democracyplagued country is claiming that he won by a landslide. They claim he has made history by becoming the first black president. I do not understand their excitement for a black president, an unprecedented change that we are not ready for. He cannot lead the country with his black pride and his terrorist fist-bumps. Obama lacks the ability to accomplish any of the goals of an American President. I do not understand all this frenzy revolving around Obamas promise for change. America does not need change. When will Americans realize that we will not be a united nation until we all agree to take a couple steps backward and relive the glorious past? We need to turn back the clock to the way we were before the liberals took over the country. I can almost taste the sweetness of that day when George Bush rst brought us into a marvelous war in Iraq. Such days are mere memories now, forgotten in all minds but my own because our new president-elect wants to pull all of our troops out of Iraq and use the money saved from war to pay off our countrys debt. What an appalling plan! Supporting war does not make us blood-thirsty monsters, war is necessary to maintain our reputation as the greatest country on earth. We must be proud of our country, not seek to undo our great accomplishments. Obama has taken away everything I loved about this country and twisted it with his liberal nonsense. None of Obamas supporters know what he stands for besides change. All he ever talks about in his speeches is change, change, change. He claims to love this country, but is doing everything in his power to change it. Americans need to realize that Obama represents the beginning of a chaotic nation. With more changes, Americans will start to believe that it is good to be liberal. They will start to believe that protesting for human rights outside of churches with their

Blazing Trails of Satire

Our economy is in big trouble. As a senior, Im really worried about my student loan and future job after graduating from college. Obama promised he will do his best to fix it, Im counting on him to do his best for the economy.
Thomas

Sharon Lin Asst. Editorial Editor

Lee

I hope that Obama will make that CHANGE he promised us. Like he said, the business system needs to get back on track for the sake of all the people in this country. Bankruptcies are increasing so we need an effective policy to prevent them. The people of this country must be stable in all aspects. Esther Lim
crazy promises, such as making higherlevel education available to everyone, while only having minor tax hikes, which I believe improbable and nearly impossible, as well as universal health care which I nd are just steps to a socialist society which eventually leads to communism.
Joseph

I expect Obama not to live up to all of his

Olivier

Some foolish people still believe Obama is a Muslim terrorist. To that I say GOOD. Because when Obama mends this eyesore of an economy, revives our trailing school education, and brings our troops home from Iraq in TWO years, it will be all the sweeter to point and laugh at those same foolish people who believed our country will turn into an apocalypse. Sam Chen

posters and banners will actually help future generations. Americans need to be told the difference between right and wrong, not be given the opportunity to bend the rules and form their own opinions. I want to live in a country where healthcare is reserved for those of us who can afford it, not thrown around to every single citizen as if it grew on trees. Obama will change all that I have grown to love about America. He wants pregnant women to have abortions if they are not ready for a child, and wants to treat those illegal immigrants as if they are one of useven allowing those aliens to have social security benets and a drivers license. The most absurd change Obama is striving for is equality. Obama does not seem to understand that equality is an idealistic and nave idea. It is unnecessary for a country so advanced to waste time on a concept as ridiculous as equality. We were created unequal and that is how it should stay. I am so sick of listening to plans of changing this country. What has happened to my fellow Americans, pinning their hope on a man who will bring so much destruction to our great country? America does not need to be liberated by this contagious liberal poison. I will do everything in my power to bring Obama down and I will not stop until I have fully recovered my beautiful country.

Global support for now president-elect Barack Obama has steadily grown since the beginning of the campaign trail. Despite the limited impact of global opinion on the elections outcome, it is amazing to see how the international community has reacted throughout the election and in its wake. Perhaps this is a testament to the great power America holds over other nations. In countries ravaged by political instability and war, Americans are both blamed as the instigators of violence and hailed as saviors from chaos. After a bitter experience with President Bushs foreign policy, the global population is anticipating better international relations with the United States. International leaders have been frustrated with the current American policies; after the election of the new president, many of them contacted Obama to congratulate him. Any change from Bush would have sparked similar global sentiment, but Obamas breakthrough policies have appealed to activists across the globe, something John McCains policies failed to do. Throughout the course of the election, Obama gladly accepted and even basked in the glorication of his international supporters. Last summer, Obama made international trips to show the world his capacity for foreign policy. The world loves the captivating candidate; after the election results were ascertained, millions rejoiced across the globe. America is the globes leading nation; in recent decades, American politics have become the concern of both international and domestic citizens. Obamas election has produced great global support; the following years will reveal whether or not he can maintain his support in the United States and abroad.

THE GLOBAL RESPONSE

IndiaAfter hearing the news of Obamas victory, supporters crowd around a sand sculptrue congratulating the president-elect.

GermanyA German Obama supporter suggests that Obama should become the German chancellor.

PhilippinesFilipino students show their support for Presidentelect Obamas non-interventionist policies.

JapanObama supporters celebrate the victory of the presidentelect.

Washington, DCObama supporters come to sign a message board with congratulatory notes to the president-elect.

PakistanStudents in Pakistan make requests to the new president-elect.

GeorgiaA Georgian woman references Obama during a rally in opposition to incumbent President Mikheil Saakashvili. All photgraphs courtesy of Reuters

Editorial

THE BULLS EYE

Friday, November 21, 2008

Editorial
Out of the Box
College applications are so complicated because colleges want to weed out the students who cant follow directions. Leanne Fan

Prop 8 is gay. Anonymous, found on bench outside

Suffering from election withdrawal, Timmy resorted to monitoring the elections in the island nation of Futuna. Yufeng Luo
How many moose hunting hockey moms does it take to lose a campaign? Just one. Katie Lee

golden horseshoe

Dialogue II: A Look Back

November 2008: Here we are with the election results, almost seven months since Dialogue I. So much about the candidates and their campaigns changed during these seven months, as did our opinions. Changing opinions Yufeng Luo: Well, last time I said McCain was a seasoned hand, calm and prepared. Of course, we saw that change during the debates when he became red-faced and, actually frightening as compared with Obamas steadiness. Adeel Mohammadi: It used to be that Obama was very liberal, a hard-core Democrat. But now we can see, denitely, how the campaign has forced him to be moderate and go back on many of the things he said. YL: So when did your opinion change? AM: The economic downturn really scared me. I didnt feel that Obama was prepared to deal with it. YL: Same issue with the economy. The crippled economy changed my view of John McCain and the Republican Party in general. That and how he ran his campaign. The Campaign AM: Living in California we sort of dont get the full effect of advertisements, but McCain denitely ran a dirtier campaign, and the October surprises didnt help. So I guess, in hindsight, my opinion of Obama actually improved in that sense. YL: Without factoring in the possibility that the media hid some of the dirtier bits of the Obama campaign, the fact that his campaign came off as sparkling clean compared to that of McCain really changed my opinion of him [McCain]. Its like Joe Biden said 22 months ago, Obama is really a clean candidate. AM: Why do you think Obama did run a clean campaign? YL: Because he didnt need to mudsling. AM: Why did he honor his promise while McCain didnt? YL: The fact that McCain did what he did was the direct result of how desperate his campaign was. He had to appeal to the gun-toting rednecks and lambaste the Dems if he really wanted every vote possible. AM: And that meant estranging his liberal supporters. YL: Yes, it did. McCain may be an honorable man, but he had to ght dirty on this one. Im a moderate conservative, and what his campaign began to symbolize for me was stubborn reactivity. AM: What I dont like is Obamas agrant distancing from the Muslim community. His middle name was almost swept under the carpet YL: Its what Americans fear, Im afraid, so he had to cut his roots and run. He did the same with Reverend Wright. Poor Choices YL: Sarah Palin, she was the dening point of McCains loss. At the time, it seemed to be a progressive movement, reaching out to women AM: At what cost though? YL: but her subsequent performance was so dreadful that it may as well have lost the campaign for the GOP. AM: McCain just threw out a random name, completely YL: Okay, the thing is, while Obamas inexperience is cast in a positive light, because he is capable, Sarah Palins inexperience, revealed by Tina Fey and Katie Couric, revealed that she was incompetent AM: And Joe the Plumber; unbelievablehis effect.He almost became McCains unofcial running mate in the last few weeks. I think Joe actually appealed to me. YL: He just provided more material against the GOP! Did you see SNLs John McCains Imaginary Friend sketch? AM: His questioning brought out the fundamental economic difference between Obama and McCain. And it got me thinking actually, in favor of McCain. Why cant a man keep his own money? YL: Ah, but Americans are now less concerned with the socialist leanings of an economy in which we spread the wealth. Its a great leap forward. So McCains assertion that the fundamentals of our economy are strong actually made him appeal more to you. AM: Yes it did, but then again, McCains possibility of being a third Bush; that outweighed my positive opinion of McCain. YL: Yes, that third term image was highly publicized. But would he have been? AM: Bush was the worst thing to happen to the economy since...well, since ever. But in all honesty, the association was not fair to McCain. McCain tried to distance himself, and then Bush comes out and gives McCain an endorsement. Ouch. That hurt McCain. Debates YL: Lets talk about the debates AM: The debates were a time for Obama to shine. YL: Quite the contrary for me AM: Though he was often supercial and vague (like his opponent), he made a good impression on America. YL: People say he had a level head, was cool under pressure; but really, it looked like he wasnt passionate about the issues. AM: Only in the third debate did McCain do well and YL: Objectivity is good, but it made Obama seem too distant. Hes still too distant. AM: I dont think so. I think that Obama had an element of professionalism about him and proved his capacity to do the job. YL: But I did nd his take on domestic policy to be more clear than McCains, at least during their exchange in the debates. Of course, Democrats have always been a domestic party. AM: Well both were very vague. Debates are really no way to get info YL: But they exhibit temparment. AM: The fact is, no one knows what Obama will do in the White House. Bush was elected with good support in 2000despite his popular lossand look what he did. YL: I just hope Obama carries out with at least some of his promises. It would be hopeful to the point of naive to think hell snap the country into shape the instant he enters the Oval Ofce.

Did our governor win an Oscar or was there another reason he thanked people for ten minutes while citizens waited for vital information? Sharon Lin

Senior: And I thought Junior Year was hard. Junior: At least next year will be easier. Sophomore: Junior year is going to be so difficult. Freshman: I miss junior high... Eric Lee
The Editorial Board invites The Bulls Eye readers to submit original commentary based on current events. All submitted work should be in accordance with the Editorial Policy in the staff box. Selected entries will be published in a subsequent issue of The Bulls Eye.

Editors-in-Chief Gina Hong Anahita Namaki News Editors Tiffany Huey Jennifer Shin

THE BULLS EYE STAFF

Diamond Bar High School 21400 E. Pathnder Rd. Diamond Bar, CA 91765

Why the Elephant Stumbled

Elizabeth Lee Staff Writer From the beginning of his presidential campaign, John McCain must have known that he was not going to have a solid victory. However, he did not foresee the embarrassing defeat he would suffer at the end of the race. Unwittingly, he contributed to his own failure with poor campaigning methods and a disappointing sense of judgment. Voters did not want to see the dirty tactics of the 2004 elections played out again. McCains remarks about Obamas relationship with former radical William Ayers, a member of a Vietnam protest group that bombed government buildings 40 years ago, were pointless. McCain lost credibility in the eyes of voters by mud-slinging his way through the campaign. McCains campaigning strategies were obviously awed and resulted in a loss of respect that the candidate could ill afford to lose. Rather than trying to tie Obama with terrorists, McCain should have focused on showing voters his skill and wisdom concerning the war on terror. Unfortunately, he did not ourish this fact enough through the media, and instead chose to pointlessly attack his opponent with empty remarks. McCain continued to discourage votes with his apparent domestic policy weakness. With the country in an economic crisis, America needs a president who can heal this disaster. A bullet-proof, miraculous economic plan would have won supporters instantly. Yet none of the candidates had one, even McCain, who did not show any indication of having a solution that would x this problem. The plans that he claimed to have included continuing Bushs policies with more vigor. McCain lacked new plans that would set America back on the right path; this discouraged voters the most. One must also note that in time of economic stress, voters tend to elect a candidate from a different party than the incumbent leaders. Voters automatically rejected all things Bush. Furthermore, according to the International Herald Tribune, McCain said, Our economy, I think still, the fundamentals of our economy are strong. He refused to face the reality of the situation and the fact that Americas economy was not strong at all. McCains denial only repelled voters that would have voted for him and his strong foreign policy background McCains biggest mistake, one that possibly cost him thousands of votes, was his decision to pick Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. Earlier in his campaign, the main argument he red against Obama was his lack of experience. However, McCain became the target of his own criticisms when he chose an unknown governor from an isolated state to become his running mate. It was an exciting political maneuver at rst, having the rst woman run for the vice presidential ofce; it continued to sound like a good idea until voters got to know Palin. Soon, it became apparent that Palin was very inexperiencedeven less so than Obama. The media revealed her to be an extravagant spender who had nothing to offer to the country as a vice president. At the Vice Presidential Debate, Palin continuously dodged, which frustrated voters who had condence in McCain. Mistake after mistake, McCain proved himself unable to choose people who would aid him in healing America. He also showed voters that he had no plan for America, in regard to the economic crisis. His unfortunate political handicaps outweighed his strengths in foreign policy and counter-terrorist strategies. Voters were further discouraged to vote for him because of his lack of media appeal. Though he had many chances to prove himself as a worthy candidate against Obama, he made too many mistakes that ultimately led to his embarrassing failure to capture Americas approval.

Asst. News Editor Genesis Keller Editorial Editor Yufeng Luo Asst. Editorial Editors Sharon Lin Adeel Mohammadi Feature Theme Editors Leanne Fan Lisa Park Asst. Feature Theme Editor Justin Kong A & E Editor Janice Yu Asst. A & E Editors Kevin Kang Jane Park Feature Editors Pia Kochhar Eliza Pan Asst. Feature Editors Pauline Phan Desiree Wang Sports Editor Phoebe Hua

Asst. Sports Editors Ryan DeVore Andrew John Photo Editor Leanne Fan Asst. Photo Editors James An Ashley Chen Eunice Lee Business Manager Eliza Pan Asst. Business Manager Eric Su Editorial Cartoonist Katie Lee Staff Writers Kevin Acciani Elizabeth Lee Eric Lee Iris Li Asst. Copy Editor Reshma Patel Advisor Connie Chen

McCain lost credibility in the eyes of voters by mud-slinging his way through the campaign.

Editorial Policy The Bulls Eye is a public forum that welcomes the views of our readers. Letters to the Editor will be accepted only if they are signed. The author may, however, request anonymity. The staff reserves the right to edit letters without changing content. Forward letters to Ms. Chen, Room 250.

Wednesday, November 21, 2008

Change My World with Ayanna Stokes

Desiree Wang Asst. Feature Editor People Magazine, The Ellen Degeneres Show, record companies, recording studios, and live performanceswith these words comes images of fame, glamour, wealth, and perhaps half-naked celebrities. What if I said that there was a celebrity in our midst? Normally, it would be quite obvious; with their snobby attitude and swagger, we can easily tell them apart. Sophomore Ayanna Stokes; however, is the celebrity in our midst, the diamond in the roughbut without all the half-nakedness, snobby attitude, and swagger. For us, the closest we get to meeting celebrities is standing behind a huge crowd of screaming fans, while the celebrities walk with their million-and-one body guards through the street. Stokes, practically a celebrity herself, has already met (can you believe it?!) celebrities like Chris Brown, Kanye West, and John Legend. Stokes is set to become one of the youngest emerging artists around. She has already performed at a Clippers vs. Suns game, and was a musical guest on the Ellen Degeneres Show. She will perform at President-Elect Barack Obamas inauguration this coming January. Stokes is extremely excited to sing in Obamas presence this January. To be given the chance to sing at Barack Obamas inauguration is amazing! I just want to give him a hug and a kiss, she added. Many of us may have already seen Stokes on YouTube, where she sang, Change My World, a song encouraging people to vote in this years presidential election. The video has already gotten a whopping total of 24,481 hits from people all over! Ayannas incredible set of pipes has gotten her much attention, even the unwanted kind. Her voice, like sips of hot chocolate, literally warms the heart with each note sung. Her sound, a bluesy R&B blend, is now the coveted sensation that record companies and agencies alike all want. Even so, she still maintains her cool composure and is undeniably humble and modest. This is what I want to do with my life; I never really thought my voice deserved all this hype. I just remember that all this could be here today and gone tomorrow, said Stokes. Just sign on the dotted line. This phrase is denitely not as simple as it sounds. Numerous contractors and agents hound the record company of her choice sayonara Diamond Bar. Stokes will most likely be home-schooled by a tutor, because attending school regularly will be difcult due to a schedule that will be lled with appointments and recordings. Stokes grew up listening and singing along to Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston songs, singers that she rst drew inspiration from. But even with such a rich voice, she still has had her share of troubles. At rst I felt forced to sing, she commented, I sang in the church choir at 10, but I never really wanted to. It was only b e c a u s e people kept telling me that I was wasting my talent. I didnt r e a l l y start to enjoy singing until I turned 13. With so much pressure surrounding her, Ayanna relies on her Super M o m for support. My mom is suportive and does so much to help me accomplish my dream. If I do become rich, Im going to make sure she never has to work a day in her life! Underneath Stokes modest and quiet exterior shines an inner ame that motivates her to continue with her dream. If you believe in something, it will happen. I just have to keep a positive attitude. Each person makes their own outcomes. Amidst all this, Stokes still has time to remain true to herself. I just have to remember, I can be famous today, but tomorrow maybe no one will want to buy my record. Its just a completely humbling experience. I have to remember to always stay grounded and not get big headed about all this. Humility is my motto.

Feature

THE BULLS EYE

Feature

Reshma Patel Asst. Copy Editor I have been waiting for this moment ever since I picked up my rst copy of The Bulls Eye. However, I have now realized that the past was much rosier than I made it out to be at the time. Growing up sucks. Period. I miss being carried around everywhere (or driven everywhere for that matter) and the simplicity of Coloring 101. Its sad that Im writing my senior column barely a third of the way into the year because, while grinding my way through college applications, my perspective on life is extremely distorted. Because I know that once Im done writing this Im going to have to start thinking about all those essays (I counted: its 15+) that are due December 1st. But while Im here, I have to admit that there are some things that I did learn over my four years at DBHS. Selsh people always come out on top. Thats how life is. And people will never understand you the way you want them to. First impressions always stick, even 5 years down the road. And music is the best method of relaxation (and distraction). And then there are the people. Not just the friends... but to my mom and dad: you arefor the most partright. And for future notice, I mean approximately seventy ve percent of what I say. Take the rest at your risk. And to Jay: growing up in your shadow is not such a bad thing after all (Im still expecting that Drexel sweatshirt Ive been promised for the last two years. Overnight shipping please.) There are also the teachers. The studying was (and still is) tough, but, on the bright side, I now have an extremely broad range of knowledge from which to pull from should I decide to try out for Jeopardy (a longshotsigh). So now after never saying what I really meant, here goes: Jennifer Wang: my impeccable musical taste/pop culture/movie obsessed/Robert Pattinson was hot from the get-go twin. NOVEMBER 25th!!!! (If we really did camp out at the premiere by the time you read this: we probably didnt get a good view of the scenery.) Mina: I dont want to think of whats going to happen to the poor credit card in your hand on Black Friday. 3 words: Ann Taylor Loft. Jennifer Shin: you are one of the most optimistic people Ive known in high school. Stay that way, its a rare thing to nd. Bonnie: Im visiting you in New York, because you ARE going to land there. Yufeng: Thanks for all the sarcasm-lled fourth periods (House is good after all)and, as a sidenote: To Surbhi: you ARE my protg (I dont care what Mina says) and you better GAVEL at UCLA next year (beat the crap out of Russia and USA if you see them there will you?) And nally to Journalism: you have taught me more about life and myself than I ever expected learn. After a long night of deliberating what to write, Im too exhausted to be smart about my grand conclusion. But I dont want to end here. Because, quite honestly, Im not over just yet.

Stokes, all wanting a chance to be able to call her voice their own. But her voice will always be hers, she said. Im not going to change my appearance or my sound to please others. Her soulful, soothing, voice has given her the chance to literally sign away an average teenage life. After the anticipated signature on a dotted line, she will be ofcially signed with

Would You Rather...

Pauline Phan Asst. Feature Editor Gimin Shon Senior

Pia Kochhar Eliza Pan Feature Editors

THINK!
Why do we park on driveways and drive on parkways? Lets say you had a child. And you loved this child unconditionally. If you made this child earn money for you, wash your clothes for you, and cook for you, it would be considered child abuse and exploitation of child labor. So wouldnt you be abusing your parents? And exploiting them? Why does Donald Duck need to wear a towel after he takes a shower if he never wears any pants? Why is Braille inscribed in drivethrough ATMs? Why in the world are hot dogs sold in packs of ten and buns sold in packs of eight?! Why is it that you ALWAYS lose one sock whenever you do the laundry? What was the rst English word ever spoken? Why was this the rst word formed? Who spoke it? Chinese? Korean? Spanish? Russian? (We could go on forever)

...gain 40 pounds or lose 40 pounds? I would rather gain 40 pounds on the parts that are the most desirable for men.

...Have three arms or three legs?

Three arms because I can do my homework three times faster and be able to multi-task.
Curtis Wang Sophomore

...Have to kill Winnie the Pooh or Bambi?

Caitlin Everhart Sophomore

...Have your parent say I love you or Youre right? I would rather hear my parents say I love you because they always tell me that Im right so it doesnt have any significance for me anymore.
Sneha Rao Junior

Jimmy Pea Freshman

Bambi, because I like Winnie the Poohs songs better.

...Choose to see your future without being able to change it or know everyone elses future and not be able to tell them? Know everyone elses future because I know what I would have to do to take advantage of their mistakes. Also, what is the point of life if you already know what is going to happen?

...Be one of ten engineers who designed a bridge that collapses, resulting in 100 fatalities or be the only engineer of a bridge that collapses, resulting in one fatality?

Jordan Cheng Senior

Why is it called a dumpling? Is it because it looks like a dump? Why is it referred to as a free gift? Arent all gifts free? Why is America the only country that uses the metric system? Do we really need to be that special? Why do we think it is politically incorrect to call someone Black instead of African American, but we think it is okay to classify someone as White? Why do people only look at the menu to decide what they are going to order when they are at the register? Thats what waiting in line is for!

One of ten engineers because we could all share the blame. Actually when you share the burden its much easier to carry.

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THE BULLS EYE

Friday, November 21, 2008

Feature
A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes
Tiffanie Cheng Contributing Staff Writer Young adults nowadays cant even remember the last time they made small contributions to their family, much less to strangers who are in boys only dream be to go to Disneyland while I go to Disneyland ve times a year? she had wondered. So, she set the goal to bring Raul to Disneyland. After class, she talked to Mr. Holmes about meeting Acevedl and soon met up with the ten-yearold boy, bringing cupcakes to his school for him and his friends. Carrera then learned that Acevedl couldnt go to Disneyland because his family was not nancially well off and had no money to take Carrera was determined to raise money for him to have his dream. After almost half a year of fundraising, Carrera had raised $1157, enough money to buy tickets, so on October 17, 2008, Acevedl nally got Anahita Namaki Editor-in-Chief pointed fans behind us. While waiting, my friends and I were interviewed by It was breaking dawn, pun several news stations, but intended, when my friends and I our impatience to see the acarrived in Westwood for the Los tors never left us. We waited, Angeles premiere of Twilight knowing that as soon as stars on Monday, November 17. began arriving, it would be war. We had naively thought The hours passed surprisingly that arriving at the Mann Village quickly, and soon the screams and Bruin theaters at 6:00 a.m. for the rst arrivals were heard. would get us a front-row view of Minor characters arrived the vampires and werewolves. rst, building up excitement for But then we saw the line that the main characters and the fostretched for cus of the more than night, Robtwo blocks, ert Pattinled by feroson, who cious-looking plays EdTwilight ward CulMoms. Still len. As stars hopeful, we made their lugged our way across blankets and Bite ME...Actor Kellan Lutz, aka Em- the red chairs to the mett Cullen, strikes a pose with DBHS carpet, my end of the seniors. Courtesy of Kristina Rubio friends and line, passing I screamed about 300 sleeping fanpires at the tops of our lungs while along the way. trying to ignore the abbergastSix hours later we were - ed looks of reporters. Our annally given wristbands, but we tics worked, and star after star soon realized that we would came over to sign autographs have to stand along the sides and take pictures. of the red carpet until the stars My friends and I heard and began to arrive at 5:00 p.m. felt Pattinsons arrival before Wondering if we would be able we could see him, thanks to to stand for four hours, dismay the screams and shoves of his overwhelmed us until we real- many adoring fans. Because of ized that the events poor plan- his late arrival, Pattinson was ning was actually a godsend. not able to greet many fans, but We were led to the front our placement in the front row row, getting spots that people gave us a great view of the achad camped two nights for! We tors signature, tousled hair. screamed with joy, drowning out The eleven hour wait was slanders coming from disap- denitely worthwhile. Yufeng Luo Editorial Editor Its difcult for me to sum up my four years of high school when Im still in the thick of it, stitching together my college applications and trudging through a mire of AP sludge. But from where I stand, I can look in a mirror and see reected an adult who has learned from the twists and turns of four invigoratingly exhausting years. I have to say that Im cynical by nature, so I wont ramble on about how jolly bleeding good all of this has been, because it hasnt. Ups and downs, ups and downs; too many of my experiences have been downers. Ive faced my share of inept teachers, insufferable classmates, mind-bending double standards, and even intervention by the schools resident thought police; through this swarm of gnats Ive found even more reason to become a vindictive sociopath. Ah, please think positive Yufeng. Big Brother is watching what you say, after all. In all seriousness, Ive learned the most depressing things in high school. My fourth grade teacher told me I could be the president one day. In APUSH I learned you have to be an American-born citizen to be president. My European history class taught me the weight of our world, and in-class movies were no longer a treat after Schindlers List. Calculus is a depressing category in itself so I wont delve into that one. Pay attention in class and youll nd that nothing is as sugar-coated as we were led to believe. Sorry to disillusion you, but the closer you get to graduation, the harder everything becomes. Then again, not everything blows dead rats in hell. Ive forged important friendships and Ive strengthened my sense of self. From freshman year to senior, Ive evolved from an amorphous nutrient blob to a higher class organism (bless AP Bio). I read an old diary entry from my freshman year and couldnt even recognize that person anymore. Im sorry House, but people do actually change. Its cheesy to say, but I have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. This time next year Ill be away from home, away from mom and dads Chinese food, Saigon Noodle House, and the baby that cries downstairs. I will miss most of these things deeply. I have to thank every one of my teachers for helping me learn from their mistakes as well as my own. Students always say, Diamond Bar is so boring; I cant wait until Im out of here, but when it really comes time to pack up and y away, every one of us will be homesick. It makes me sad though, that Ive lost touch with so many of the friends I grew up with and Ive let too many opportunities slip past. Dont do drugs, but dont leave any alleys unexplored either; carpe diem, right? Enough of these platitudes, its time to say my goodbyes (even though I still have 7 months). Adios old buddies of mine, adieu Room 250, zai jian kid-with-mullet-that-I-seeevery-morning, annyong-hi Diamond Bar High School, namaste carefree youth.

need. However, there is an exception at DBHS named Brittanny Carrera. Two years ago, Mr. Holmes told his students about a young tenyear-old boy named Raul Acevedl who suffered from Hallermann-Streiff syndrome, a rare disorder that affects the victims growth rate in body stature, hair, and height. Mr. Holmes had also elaborated that despite the pains the boy suffered, his only wish was to one day go to Disneyland. Carrera, then a sophomore, had been mortied. How could a little

him to Disneyland. From that day on, Carrera earnestly began fundraising money for her cause; she left donation boxes with Acevedls face on them around school and her moms work, she had a yard sale with friends, and she sold small items at her church functions.

his wish. Carrera had gone to Disneyland with them just so she could see the expression on his face. Just seeing him happy had made me tear up with happiness for him, she explained. Its amazing to think that we can dream so big as to think one day I might be a doctor, a lawyerthe president when there are some people out there in the world whose only dream may be to go to Disneyland. I cant explain it but, he brings joy to you even if youre down or sad, and he brings a smile to everybodys face.

Photos courtesy of Brittanny Carrera

IT AINT HATE TO SAY YES ON 8!

Stephanie Hsu Contributing Staff Writer Participation in a protest is practically an American rite of passage. I, being uninitiated, had no idea what to expect when I arrived at the Yes on 8 rally, which was organized by a league of Chinese churches; denitely surprising, considering the general passivity of Asians in politics. My mother still thinks that Obama is some sort of vegetable. The spot my family and I had chosen to occupy was relatively quiet. In addition to the thumbs up signs we received, I knew there would be some obnoxious youths anxious to stand up for what they believe in by sticking their middle ngers out their windows at a group of mild Asian parents. My fears were soon conrmed by the moron who frightened my six-year-old sister by honking at her and yelling, Shes brainwashed! The ratio of positive to negative responses was about 50/50; denitely a surprise considering the tendency of cities to be heavily liberal. Proposition 8 supporters also surprised me that day as I walked to the street intersection and found a totally different protest. Protestors were screaming, shaking their sts, and holding up signs with immature slogans such as God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. I wished that these people would shut up and leave. They were accomplishing nothing except giving Proposition 8 supporters a bad name. Toward the end of the rally, a No on 8 rally marched in, blocking the street in order to wave a sea of colorful posters (in terms of both paper and language). Looking at the rather disorganized protestors across from us, I felt a swell of pride. I knew that the Yes on Prop 8 campaign made history in both donations and crafty campaigning, and this rally was a perfect example of both aspects. Earlier in the year, I traveled to China and Bangladesh, countries where freedom of expression is merely a dream. Millions of voices go unheard every day; thousands can never attend a rally or hold up a sign in support of their beliefs as I was able to do. Photos courtesy of Stephanie Hsu

FIGHT FOR CIVIL RIGHTS!

Karim Elachkar Contributing Staff Writer You wouldnt believe the number of hours I volunteered for the No on 8 campaign, the Human Rights Campaign and the American Civil Liberties Union. I handed out No on 8 palm cards in Westwood up until the polls closed on November 4, then rewarded myself by attending an election party at the Henry Fonda Theater in Hollywood. At the Theater, I was excited to see such a large amount of support as drivers honked wildly and yelled phrases such as, Keep the hate Salt Lake! The overwhelming support the LGBT community has in LA in comparison to our conservative city is astonishing. In Diamond Bar, a soccer mom would blurt anti-gay slurs from her minivan at the No on H8 rally that I organized. In West Hollywood, there would be huge Rainbow Pride ags being waved over the 101 freeway. While waiting for the mayor to arrive, I met a lovely couple, Steve and Allen, who have been partners for 16 years and were recently married during the three months of legalized gay marriage. They even had matching diamond ringscute right? But seeing the disappointment on the faces of them and their two beautiful children was just horrible. To think that people would voluntarily strip away someone elses rights and declare them to be second class citizens is just awful. I guess a man loving another man with whom he wants to spend the rest of his life with, along with children isnt good enough. Because, you know, that is so not traditional. I guess this proposition just claried that some people are okay with gay marriage and some arent, with only a 526,095 vote difference out of 12,119,369 between the Yes and No on 8 votes. The Yes on 8 campaign claims a victory, but it is really just the beginning. Governor Schwarzenegger said about the No on 8 supporters, They should never give up! They should be on it and on it until they get it done! Thats exactly what well do, Mr. Governator.

Courtesy of www.gayrights. change.org

Courtesy of www.gayrights. change.org

Courtesy of Karim Elachkar

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Friday, November 21, 2008

THE BULLS EYE

A&E

Arts & Entertainment

Venture Into the
Todd Schlickbernd Contributing Staff Writer

UNKNOWN

THEBUZZ
Quantum of Solace
James An Asst. Photo Editor the characters were finally distinguishable, the movie came to an end. Quantum of Solace was Quantum of Solace failed an unfortunate disappointment to be appealing because it compared to past James Bond lacked creativity in its plot. In lms. Directed by Marc Forster, addition, the Bond Girl had her it stars Daniel Craig as James own plans. She was a spy Bond. Quantum of Solace for the Canadian government, is simply so often the about Bonds movie shifted revenge for the focus the death of from Bonds his girlfriend in mission to her the lm Casino mission. As Royale, a she had her precursor to own agenda, this lm. Bond seemed T h e to serve as introduction her aide to the movie, and played containing an almost the shadowy secondary figure of role. Bond and Director the infamous Marc Forster, gunshot, was however, noticeably succeeded in l o n g e r License to kill...license to thrill. Courtesy of www.ew.co.uk incorporating compared to incredible past James Bond lms, although predictable. There were so many settings into this installment the theme song by Alicia Keys ght scenes that, as a result, of the James Bond franchise. and Jack White fortunately kept occasionally the plot of the movie This movie was shot in six seemed nonexistent. Unlike countries: Spain, Mexico, Italy, viewers awake. Quantum of Solace was a past James Bond lms, Bond did Peru, Chile, and Austria. All sequel to Casino Royale, yet not use any astonishingly high- the different locations and the back-story was not properly tech gadgets during his mission. cultures made the lm visually introduced. The movie started Also, the rst half of lm barely appealing and added to Bonds off with an unecessarily long car contained any dialogue, making sophisticated, cosmopolitan chase where the camera angle it hard for viewers to understand persona. constantly changed, leaving the Bonds actions. Although the plot failed During the second half of the to please, the lm locations, viewers woozy and confused by its end. The rst half of lm, the plot started to become a c t o r s , a n d m u s i c w e r e the movie was full of constant comprehensible but by the time superb. ghting, and the camera angles continued to change sporadically. There were many characters that appeared out of nowhere, making it hard to even tell which character was which during ght scenes. The plot of Q uantum of Solace was very simple and

If you are happy and you know it...squint your face! Courtesy of www.daito.ws

Year after year companies of every specialty put their best material out for the holidays. In the wake of such games as Fallout 3, Gears of War 2, Sonic Unleashed and World of Goo, my wallets hurting something bad - and with good reason. Every year there are new games series released, new characters, and new gameplay devices, just as there are new versions of previously existing games. A lot of people know about their favorite upcoming game, but overlook the ones nobody has seen before.

Jane Park Asst. A&E Editor Does Daito Manabe ring a bell? What about the guy on YouTube TM who attached small electric stimuli to his face and was made into what is essentially a human meat puppet that danced in sync with music? Manabe has garnered almost a million views on that video but he also has a slew of others that capture his experimental art. Manabe is the number one subscribed musician on YouTube TM Japan, but he is actually an artist. Manabe describes himself as an acting turntablist and sound artist. He has over 50 videos on his channel that chronicle his various projects. His musical endeavors involve myoelectric sensors that he attaches to different parts of his body, such as different areas of his forearms. These areas are stimulated by simple movement, anything from wiggling his nger

Courtesy of gamefront.les.wordpress.com Games like World of Goo and LittleBigPlanet have likely been overlooked by many as risky investments. However, these are the kinds of games that change the way developers look at gaming; the kinds of games that are recognized for their risk taking and brilliance of design; the kinds of games you are scared to buy into. In this expansive era of video games, risks must be taken to change the conventions of gaming. Mirror s Edge incorporates deep maneuvering schemes but simple controls to make moving through an environment simply amazing; LittleBigPlanet brings us a vehicle for creativity, originality, and the ability to construct for all to see; de Blob shows Wii enthusiasts that there are developers who

so does this make the apocalypse the pot of gold?

Elizabeth Lee Staff Writer After months of intense debate over Proposition 8, the controversy has nally begun to disappear from the daily conversations of high school students. The topic of homosexuality, however, remains a highly controversial and touchy subject. Numerous books have been written and published defending and arguing against homosexuality using the tools of religion and science. Evolutions Rainbow: Diversity, Gender, and Sexuality in Nature and People by Joan Roughgarden is such a book that takes up the duty of protecting homosexuality. At rst glance, it looks like a well-written explanation of why homosexuality should be considered normal, but after really reading through the book, I was disappointed. Within the rst few pages of the book, I found myself annoyed with the use of the contradictions in her words. In the introduction of the book, she admitted to readers that humans could not be directly compared to animals. That made me wonder why she decided to dedicate more than one third of her book to Animal Rainbows. In the introduction of the book, the thesis of the book was clearly stated to be an indictment of academia for suppressing and denying diversity. However, throughout the book, the tone the author uses is extremely defensive. Many chapters focus on the commonness of homosexuality and transsexualism and does not take on an offensive tone on diversity discrimination. Many believe one of the most inuential things affecting ones opinion on homosexuality is religion. Roughgarden takes on the bible in the third part of the book, called Cultural Rainbows, by using examples of lesbian and gay relationships and the twisting the words in the book of Romans. To people who do not study the bible, it seems like a plausible argument. However, to people who have studied the bible, which minds Roughgarden is supposed to change, the explanation and argument she presents is simply ridiculous. She believes that if homosexual activities are mentioned to be wrong, then homosexuality without sexual activities is acceptable. The author views these passages in the bible subjectively and her explanations for the passages reveal her prejudiced mindset. In my opinion, the passage that could have given me a new perspective of things did not. Never judge a book by its cover, thickness, or the number of big words used in the rst few sentences. This book looked intimidating enough at rst, with the long professional title and the four-hundred-something pages of sexual diversity. I actually found it to be an easy read. There were some parts that required my brain to work a little harder to understand, but a great majority of the book consists of examples and explanations which do not require a vast vocabulary to comprehend. The author also took time to soften her facts and reasons. In fact, Roughgarden involved readers in different parts of the book with rhetorical questions and a second person point of view throughout the book. It was an easy read; the actual content was not thorough and challenging enough. Maybe my expectations were just too high for this book. I expected some hard, solid evidence that would prove that homosexuality was natural and should be accepted by the general population. Instead, I found a book jammed with gentle examples, dimmed-down vocabulary words for the not-so-intelligent, and a confusing beataround-the-bush train of thought. Though the book denitely conveyed the authors thoughts and perspective on sexual diversity, it was not enough to change my opinion that homosexuality and bisexuality is not natural to humans. If you are looking for a book that challenges you, your faith, and your opinions, this is not the one. However, if you want a reader-friendly essay-like book that explains how homosexuality is just part of the sexual rainbow, this book will denitely appeal to you.

to making movements in the air with his arms. Though this technology is often used in prosthetic limbs, Manabe uses the sensors to make music. Each sensor, when stimulated, emits different sounds that come together as music. Instead of playing instruments, Manabe dances to create his music. As a programmer, Manabe is able to rewire just about everything. In one of his videos, he uses a Wii remote that he rewired to create music by using motion. Every movement he makes creates a different sound and with the addition of buttons, he is able to create music that is truly innovative and new. Armed with an onslaught of technology and with a wealth of knowledge, Manabe is a visionary. His strides in technology can and will be used in the near future to create more eye-catching entertainment. See all of his work at his YouTubeTM channel, Daito, and also on his website, www.daito.ws.

Ashley Chen Asst. Photo Editor

Courtesy of www.shapermc.com are starting to understand how to get players engaged in the nuances of the Wii. There are still several games being developed that are attempting new things, with new personas going on new adventures, and I encourage you to partake. This fall is going to be one for the books as the collection of all the hype generated over these games slowly dissipates in waves of cheers and jeers. If the game you have had your eye on has not arrived yet, be on the lookout for the other titles making their way onto the scene, because I can almost guarantee there will be one you would never guess would be just for you.

Being a part of the materialistic and trendy atmosphere of Diamond Bar High, I am a witness to, as well as a guilty partaker of, the tedious efforts involved in keeping up with the latest fashions. Little do most of us know, hardly any of these styles that we see now are new ideas. In fact, most are part of ashions from the past. Present on the wrists of almost every student walking around campus at the moment, the friendship bracelet is the ubiquitous craze that you will be surprised to find is a trend that has been long established. Thats right this seemingWhat goes around...comes around. ly recent fad Ashley Chen comes straight from the youngsters of the 1970s. Deborah Harry. Her edgy way of Yet, it is not surprising to nd that dress popularized the bright colthese colorful bracelets are no ors and leather that are currently longer only symbols of friend- only a few of the many patterns ship, but are also being piled on and textures from earlier times with the intent of achieving the that have returned to take over popular it look that so domi- the apparel of our time. nates our school. Nonetheless, even though As for the slightly more fash- it is fun to follow the trends, it is ion-forward, we see ourselves vital that you maintain a personal loving the glam rock styles of the touch that keeps you from losing 70s. We nd inspiration from the your unique look. renowned Farrah Fawcett and Whether you are an enthuThe Charlies Angels trio. They siastic participant in the ways familiarized the styles of the time of looking stylish or merely an with glamorous outts that ex- observer of the trends, be aware uded condence and epitomized that the looks of the past are the independence. without a doubt being reintroNow, in comes a wave of duced into the present.

high-waisted skirts, shorts, and jeans that give the dreaded Mom-jeans an entirely more flattering, hip, and new look. Flirty vintage skirts and dresses, along with denim, skinny or widelegged, are back on your store racks with high waists that have the ability to, with a great pair of shoes, make your legs look endless. Yet another style icon of the 70s is Blondies face and voice,

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Friday, November 21, 2008

11

Arts & Entertainment

Desiree Wang Asst. Feature Editor

FUNITURE

MAKE SOME NOISE

Kevin Kang Asst. A&E Editor Walking into the theater, I had low expectations for the school play, Noises Off. This was my rst time watching a school play and I was simply watching it to occupy my Friday evening. I did not expect much from the play considering the restricted budget and the limited experience of the actors; however, I was blown away by the superior performance they put on. With phenomenal acting, amusing jokes, and stunning props, the play did not fail to amuse the audience. All in all, the play showed many different perspectives: the actors preparing for the play, the actors ghting with each other before the play, and the actors performing in the play. The production followed the format of a play within a play and was separated into three acts. The rst act reveals a group of actors preparing for a play while the casts incompetent acting worries the director. The second act is about the ongoing disputes between the actors while they are backstage; the most in the second act. The backdrop of the stage was second act consists of nearly turned around to show a change no dialogue and the actors in setting. The third act shows ghting in silence; while the the actors actually performing actors performed in their play, in their play, but their struggles and lack of acting prowess turn the play into complete chaos. T h e acting in the play was amazing. Each actor had a distinct personality such as S e l d o n , the burglar who never remembered his lines, and Mrs. Clackett, the Lights on...Noises Off. housekeeper who always complained about they fought backstage amongst each other at the same time. sardines. Although the actors were For example, Roger tried to spectacular during the rst kill Phillip with an axe, but Mrs. act, their acting stood out the Clackett took the axe instead and attacked Roger. The play never stopped making me laugh. The clever actors, the picturesque scenery, and the amusing script were

Hovering chairs are congruent with light sabers found only in the six Star Wars movies. A table made out of utensilshow weird. It seems as though these two things belong in a strange science-ction lm, filled with people with green faces, and perhaps an extra eye, wrapped in foil. Strangely enough, the hovering chair and the utensil table are available to us earthlings as well that is, if you have approximately a thousand dollars to spare. The two pieces of furniture

at its base to help maneuver it around. The Lounger comes in a clear acrylic cover, allowing you to see every mechanical aspect of the hovering chair. With an additional charge, the chair can also come in other colors. In addition, graphics can also be applied to the chair, and accessories such as cushions and lights can also be embedded into The Lounger. Unlike the average dinner table most eat on, the utensil table, designed by Objection Designs, incorporates none other than the use of table utensils into its entire structure. Spoons, knives, forks and all, are melded

Courtesy of Peter Bland all delivered to perfection, and I struggled to nd a aw in the play. As a result, I will denitely return to watch the next school production.

Is it a bird, is it a plane... no it is a hover chair! Courtesy of www.geekologie.com blend the retro-modern look of the 50s with an extra-terrestrial funk. Revolutionizing the way we simply sit, the hovering chair and the utensil table will forever change the way we perceive furniture. The hover chair, named The Lounger, unfortunately does not come cheap. It is sold for a whopping $9,620 and literally dees gravity, allowing you to oat in mid air. Utilizing the power of magnetism, The Lounger hovers off the ground by the repelling forces of the magnets in the base of the chair. When not in use, The Lounger is easily manageable, as it has wheels together to create the aweinspiring table-like-structure. The utensil table, appropriately named Precious Famine, can be found at Modern Urban Living. Both the innovative designs of The Lounger and Precious Famine change the way we view furniture. Who knew furniture could be exciting and glamorous? We now have the option to sit on the ground or oat in the air. Why eat on a traditional wooden table when you are now able to eat on a table made entirely of kitchen utensils? Such additions to a house will surely add a touch of chic elegance and novel thinking to ones personal space.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM CAR?

I want [an] Aston Martin -Bennett Yuan, Freshman

New Side to Your RideS

Car companies have designed their own unique rides to capture new car buyers. From slug bugs to Ferraris, the car industry has made huge progress in car designs. However, with gas-powered cars at the peak of their existence, it seems like present day cars are not stunning enough--car owners are transforming and designing

The Batmobile, for sure. -Tandy Cheng, Sophmore A lamborghini -Joshua Tsai, Sophmore
Id like a Ferrari Kevin Song, Junior

Kevin Kang Asst. A&E Editor

work. On the exterior is the word Polizia slapped across the side and on the interior are radios, video recorders, and gun racks. Luca Pancrazzi has also created a car that has caught many peoples attention: a car covered in 1,763 pounds of glass. The car is currently displayed in the Moscow Museum of Modern Art. The Dragon car is gaining popularity as well in Russia.

can play much better than the average person and as well as many respected professionals. The music industry is ooded He practices for one or two with amateur artists, but every hours on school days and up once in a while, some amazing to three hours on breaks. Not talents are found. Sungha Jung, only can he play songs without Jay Greenberg, and Noah Gray- tabs, he has also composed two Cabey, along with many others, songs entitled Missing You are the denition of true talent. and Voyages with Ulli. They have Greenberg, n o w accomplished seventeen years old, in a matter o f f i r s t learned to years what play the cello many take at the age a lifetime to of three. accomplish. Greenberg, Jung, a however, twelve-year shines the old boy from most when South Korea, he composes b e g a n symphonies, teaching solo piano himself pieces, and to play sonatas. the guitar He attended t h r e e Julliard years ago S c h o o l and has of Music now been on a full Courtesy of www.chakakhafoundation.org dubbed scholarship the ngerstyle guitar prodigy. and studied music theory with With his custom-made guitar, he third year students when he Sharon Lin Asst. Editorial Editor

To Stardom and Beyond

was just ten-years old. to perform with an orchestra at Greenberg composed a the Sydney Opera House. If piano sonata in less his name sounds than an hour without familiar, its a piano while eight because he years old, and p l a y e d later composed a child a viola concerto prodigy in in a couple of the show weeks while My Wife ten-years old. and Kids, His incredible showing talent has off his landed him piano skills a contract in front of with Sony cameras. Classical. He now G r a y p l a y s Cabey rst the part exercised his of Micah talents with a Sanders toy keyboard. on the hit When he was television Courtesy of www.imgartists.com s e r i e s four years old, his performance on a real piano Heroes. shocked everyone around him. These are just a few of the He performed throughout New musicals prodigies that have England, Washington, and even brought a new sound to the Jamaica, where he had his music industry. Their talents rst tour with the New England are sure to make a lasting Symphonic Ensemble. impression and they have At age ve, Gray-Cabey denitely set the bar for aspiring became the youngest soloist artists.

All it takes is a sharpie...to pimp my ride. Courtesy of www.geekologie.com their shiny Lamborghinis, Porsches, and treasured sport cars. From across the globe, car owners have personalized and embellished their cars with Sharpie, wires, glass, and you name it. Sport cars have always produced oohs and ahhs when racing across the street, but how about a sharpied Lamborghini? The sharpied Lamborghini took a total of two weeks to decorate and has appeared on numerous television shows such as MTVs, Super Sweet Sixteen. This work of art is being auctioned off on eBay between $255,000 and $289,950. Another Lamborghini that is stirring up excitement is the police Lamborghini. Given to the Italian State Police, this Lambo is not only decorated on the outside but its interior is built for police The face of a dragon is spray painted and placed on the hood of the car. Some people who cannot afford to purchase sport cars are making their own cars. Lauren Porter knitted the body of a Ferrari and placed it over a steel frame; the body of the car consists of 250 squares of garter stitch. Joe Harmon has also created a car, but it is not just any regular carit is made out of wood. Although Harmon has not completed his design, he has nished photos of what his car is set to look like and it is said to go faster than a Porsche. These cars may have some flaws, but these new designs may set the standard for the next generation of car designs with their innovative and artistic elements.

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Friday, November 21, 2008

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to provide the highest standard of medical assistance so that students can continue to play to the best of their abilities. Camou isnt the only person that tends to students on campus. Her student staff is always at her side. She teaches us everything we need to know about injuries, body parts, and treatments, stated senior Jerilynn Devera. Students learn how thank [the staff], because they probably saved my life. Senior and varsity football player Joel Baez also suffered a concussion. The staff helped him until he was put into an ambulance. [The staff] put my health as their rst priority, he stated, they have changed my life because Im going to study kinesiology. Camou and her staff attend Andrew John Asst. Sports Editor

THE BULLS EYE

Friday, November 21, 2008

13

Stacy and Her Staff - Only a Sideline Away MLS: Major Bust?
much you know until they know how much you care, she stated. Athletic trainer, freshman Samantha Canales said, Stacy Diamond Bar High Schools is an easy person to get along athletic trainer, Stacy Camou, with. Even though its my freshhas been an aid to the students man year, I feel like I can trust of this school for seven years. In her and go to her for anything. addition to attending to injuries She wants her students to that occur on campus, Camou nd their passion in life. I want teaches two classes on sports to be a nurse, said Devera, medicine to inform students of Stacy inspired me to build up the profession. what I want to be. Athletic training is a Becoming an athhealth care profession letic trainer at DBHS that specializes in the was not Camous rst prevention, emergency career choice. She care treatment, evaluaintended on becoming tion, and rehabilitation of a trauma doctor, but athletic injuries. Camou this career would have has dealt with many inconicted with her juries over the years, main desire of raisbut the worst that she ing a family. She was has seen occurred four then faced with a new years ago when soccer choice when she was coach Kemp Wells went offered a job as an into sudden cardiac arOlympic trainer or high rest. Camou had to perschool athletic trainer. form CPR to save his life. She chose to become I am very grateful that I an athletic trainer behad her and that everycause she wanted to one acted quickly, Wells be at a level to make a stated, Without them I difference. She found wouldnt be here today or the right balance bewould have had serious tween work and family brain damage. because she wasnt Camou believes Helping hands... Stacy trains her staff to treat future athletic injuries. Eunice Lee forced to give up what asthma is the hardest she loved. condition to treat. Youre Camou and her dealing with life and death, she to properly tape injuries, and all home and away games to staff are valuable members of commented, its different from a eventually become rst aid and assist and support the players. the athletic department; she is broken leg when you know that CPR certied. Injured athletes are not permit- the go-between person involvthe person will be okay the next Senior and varsity football ted to return to play without her ing the athlete and the coach to day, but with asthma you dont player Howard Barlowe suffered permission. give necessary medical advice. know if that person will be here a grade three concussion. I had Camou enjoys having the Sophomore Isabella Adhidwith us the next day, a stabilized neck, so they gave ability to touch the lives of stu- harma said If there is anyone I As an athletic trainer, me a neck brace and put me dent athletes of all different would want to help me when Im Camou believes that her role is on a stretcher, Barlowe said, I sports. Kids dont care how hurt, its her. Rachel Halpert Megan Quiamas Contributing Staff Writers What is the most popular sport in the world? Football. No, not American football. The football where you actually use your feet to playalso known as soccer for all Americans. Soccer is played in every country in the world. What other sport can boast about that accomplishment? It doesnt come as a surprise that it is so popular; just look at how easy it is to play: get anything that resembles a ball, and try to get it into an enclosed area without using your hands. Doesnt it seem weird that the biggest sport in the world is one of the least recognized sports in the United States? Modern day soccer has been around for over 150 years, yet it still is not considered one of Americas favorite pastimes. The U.S. takes pride in its standings in American football, basketball, baseball, NASCAR, and even golf, but it has yet to earn a place in the high ranks of the worlds favorite game. But that does not mean that all Americans are not fans of soccer. Of the millions of people in the U.S., there is a small percentage of people who are diehard soccer fansemphasis on the small. The MLS Cup 2007 had an attendance of just under 40,000 spectators. Compare that to the 70,000 people at a normal game in the English Premiere League. Thats a pretty big gap. Speaking of the MLS Cup, how many of you know that the MLS Cup 2008 championship game will be played next week on Sunday, November 23? How many of you know the names of the two teams playing for the championship? How many of you know that the New York Red Bulls will face off against the Columbus Crew from Ohio at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California? How many of you even care? For most Americans, the answer to all of these questions would most likely be no. Its not hard to blame the MLS for the publics lack of support. The MLS has a long way to go before it will be considered one of the worlds most distinguished leagues. But there is light at the end of the tunnel for the MLS. With more skilled players joining the MLS, the popularity of soccer in America is steadily growing. Recent additions to the league have started another spurt in popularity. The arrivals of Cuauhtmic Blanco of Mexico, Jaime Moreno of Bolivia, Juan Pablo Angel of Colombia, and especially David Beckham of England have denitely promoted soccer in America. Sure its not at its peak yet. But you never know; with a little more time, American soccer might actually make a name for itself.

The Bulls Eye Athlete of the Month: SCOTT PRESSMAN

Laura Moftt Contributing Staff Writer Senior Scott Pressman, a cross country and track runner, is certainly someone to admire. He is a hard working, dedicated individuala fantastic role model. Scott rst began running in the fth grade with his father. Together, they would run a few miles. In middle school, one of Pressmans PE teachers suggested that he join the cross country team. He took his teachers recommendation. After the cross country season ended, Pressman moved on to track and eld and joined his middle schools running club. He would often run to DBHS and became inspired by the high school runners. When Pressman entered high school, he followed in those runners footsteps and joined DBHS cross country team, drawn by the sports combination of team and individual effort. He has been involved in cross country for four years now, and said that the reason he enjoys running is because it helps him relieve stress. He also enjoys the great feeling you get when you nish a race. Pressman feels that it is challenging to stir up the motivation to go out and run even when you feel bad. However, he pushes through with support from his teammates and coach. Throughout his time running for DBHS, Pressman has received a signicant amount of medals and plaques. By setting goals for himself, Pressman has become one of the top runners in DBHS history, and is the fastest runner on our cross-country team this year. Pressmans major running inspirations are Olympic long-distance runner Steve Prefontaine, his parents, and his sister. [My family is] always there for me, on and off the track, commented Pressman. During the off season Pressman stays motivated and in shape by running outside races with his dad as well as running on his own time. One reason he runs is to get to his girlfriends house when he does not have a car. He also runs to clear his head of all the complications of life so that he can focus on what really matters. In addition to running daily, Pressman has been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA throughout high school, while handling rigorous courses. He would like to attend the University of California, Santa Cruz or the University of California, San Diego next fall, and plans on majoring in psychology. Pressman is an active member of the Best Buddies club on campus, and he plays the drums for a new band that has yet to be named. Pressman was previously a member of the band Girls at War, which was composed of his best friends, but broke up after three years. Throughout the years, Girls at War played over 30 shows in Southern California, including Battle of the Bands at DBHS, which they won. Scott Pressman is truly someone to look up to, not only for his accomplishments as an athlete, but also as a wellrounded student.

Just ve more minutes [or] just go to the light pole.

Pressman said that to push himself to keep going, he sets small goals, telling himself, Just ve more minutes or Just go to the light pole.

be smarter.
Think getting into

THINK AGAIN.
According to Atlantic Monthly, its 20% harder to get into college today than it was just ten years ago. And Parade Magazine says things are only getting more competitive.

College is easy?

Are you doing everything you can to prepare?

C2 Education offers customized tutoring for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, along with SAT prep and college counseling. Call 1-800-777-7000 or visit www.c2educate.com 1403 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

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Friday, November 21, 2008

Sports

THE BULLS EYE

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