Vol. 79, Issue 2 Brea Olinda High School November 4, 2009

Brea Olinda High School789 Wildcat Way

Brea, CA 92821

what’sinside

Wildcat

Photo courtesy of GIRLS’ LEAGUE

News....................................2-4

Sports.......................13-15

Feature...................10-11Opinion..........................12

Back in Time: HomecomingTradition of dance, game began 82 years ago

“This year’s Mr. Brea is going to be the best one ever.”

Kyle Anderson, senior

SALONI SHAH

CentersPreAd editor

Since 1927, when the first high school in Brea

was established, both the location of the school

and student life have been altered.

However, one tradition—Homecoming—has

remained constant, an annual welcome to the new

school year and the changing of the season.

But even some traditions change with time.

Today, Homecoming festivities last an entire

week. During Homecoming week, students are

kept busy with various dress-up days, a “princess

day,” a rally, the football game, and a formal

dance.

On Friday night, the football team will play in

front of a full stadium and the Homecoming queen

will be announced during the half-time show. But

more than seven decades ago, the crowning of the

queen was different.

Homecoming princesses, with crowns atop

their heads and a cascade of flowing dress trains,

would sit atop a car and lead a parade through the

town. There was also the naming of a Homecoming

king.

During half-time, the coronation ceremony

would begin. The queen was announced and the

football captain would proclaim the queen with a

crown and a kiss.

Since then, the coronation ceremony has

morphed into a full half-time show. Although the

ceremony still showcases the crowning of the

queen, there is a performance by band and the

parading of class floats around the field.

Almost a century after Homecoming began, the

dance and the behavior and dress of students have

changed as well. Hemlines have been shortened,

dancing has evolved, and the Homecoming dance

has become a more publicized and more grand

event. This year’s dance will be held at Angels

Stadium.

“[My Homecoming dance] was low key,

it wasn’t a big extravaganza.” said Barbara

Arczynski, history teacher. She added, “At my See CENTERSPREAD, pages 8-9

FAYE MENDOZA

MAnAging editor

The likes of Dave Willert are rare. Known as

the cheerful director of the United Choirs of Brea,

it almost comes as a surprise to learn that Willert

is also a writer of mystery stories. Along with

music, writing has been his life-long passion and

this December, he will be releasing his first book,

entitled Dimensions: The Wheat Field.

The novel follows Alan Dunkirk, a hopeful

college graduate who, ten years later, becomes dis-

contented with his monotonous life. After an argu-

ment with his wife, he drives aimlessly away and a

bizarre phenomenon occurs: Alan finds himself in

the middle of a sprawling wheat field...in the body

of a 12-year old boy.

According to the book’s press release, The

Wheatfield is a race against time, a battle between

A&E.........................................5-7

Choir directorWillert writes, publishes novel

‘Big Swing’ Princesses

school, Homecoming was a parade. Each class

contributed a float. There was a small dance but

it was much more about hanging out with friends

than it was about getting that hot date.”

Until the 1970s at BOHS, there was no such

thing as a Homecoming dance. What now lasts a

week lasted less than five minutes on a football

field. Rather, the Co-ed Dance, which took

Homecoming court: Kaylee Dysart, Ajia Goodson, Andrea Frisina, Melissa Bent, and Ashley Schweitzer are in the running for Homecoming queen. The other princesses are (from from left) Shelby Makris, junior. Heather Lystad, freshman, Savannah Maske, junior, and Justine Garate, sophomore. For more information on Homecoming, see the BACK COVER. See A&E, page 6

Blast to tHe past: A Co-ed queen in the late-1930’s receives her crown during a February dance.

Costumes flooded the campus on Halloween dress-up day

Bill Wisher (‘73), former member of the Wildcat staff, is a writer and producer of iconic Hollywood hits like Terminator

Centerspread......8-9

See Mr. Brea, NEWS 3

place in February, was the equivalent to today’s

Homecoming dance.

The Co-ed dance was a formal affair. A king

and a queen were crowned with an elaborate

voting process. Long dresses and slow dancing

were commonplace.

Homecoming has been a BOHS tradition since 1927

SPORTS 13-15

Soccer, basketball, and wrestling begin their seasons this month

CENTERSPREAD 8-9

A&E 5

NEWS 4

Photo courtesy of GIRLS’ LEAGUE

CLUBCORNER

HWA EUN KIM / Wildcat

Red Cross

Model United Nations

Red Cross is part of larger organization that aims to give back to the community. The club plans the school’s major donation drives such as the Toy Drive and the Canned Food Drive. The fundraising will then be sent to the Red Cross organization and distributed all over the country to orphanages and food banks. The club also plans to collaborate with other schools. The club meets every other Monday at lunch in room 203.

The Red Cross offers help to small communities and opens opportunities for students to be part of helping toward causes that otherwise would seem distant and irrelevant.”

- Rachel Kim, senior

JEANNIE KIM / Wildcat

POWER OF INFLUENCE: Todd Laud, guest speaker, shared how Rachel Scott was inspired by Anne Frank. He then explained how people should choose positive influences as role models and mentors.

Rachel’s Challenge assembly closes Red Ribbon Week

Compiled by CHRISTOPHER SUH

2 Todd Laud, guest speaker, spoke about the Columbine shooting and its fi rst victim, Rachel Scott. Presenting the fi ve challenges, Laud spoke about the need of reaching out to others in order to start a ‘chain reaction.’

“

Photo courtesy of HEATHER KANG

TOYO

In Model United Nations (MUN), students bring forth their speech and debate skills by discussing topics about international crises. Club members attend conferences held at local schools where, as delegates, they express their views on a given topic. Club meetings are every Thursday in room 108.

NEWSNovember 4, 2009

“

TOYO Volunteers is a club that helps students invest their time in community service by participating in various volunteer organizations all over Orange County. Toyo not only aims to help the needy people in the community, but also has goals of protecting and saving the environment. Toyo meets in room 232 every other Friday during lunch. It’s a rewarding experience to not only participate in volunteer work but also in meeting new people.” - Eddie Park, junior

“

MUN is a great club to join because it helps you become a well-rounded, educated, and a thoughtful student.” - Romeet Sen, junior

THEA O’DELLSTAFF WRITER

April 20, 1999, was a tragic day for

many families in Littleton, Colorado.

Gun shots and terrified screams rang

out from students and teachers on that

day at Columbine High School. Rachel

Scott, 17-years-old, was the first

person killed during the shooting. The

massacre is still the worst high school

shooting in America’s history.

An assembly was held, Oct. 23,

to spread awareness about violence

prevention and power of influence

during Red Ribbon Week.

Todd Laud, guest speaker, spoke

about Rachel’s Challenge.

“When I first heard Rachel’s

story, I felt compelled to share it with

people around the world. In result of

Fall MagicChoir

The annual choir performance,

“Fall Magic,” was held Oct. 16-17 in

the PAC.

Masquerade performed Grease, and

Spellbound and Tiffany’s collaborated

in a performance inspired by Wicked.

Chamber Choir sang a variety of songs

through group performances, duets,

and solos.

“The concert ran smoothly and

it had a lot of excitement,” said Kate

Hocking, junior.

A variety of student acts were also

staged throughout the night, combining

comedy and drama.

“It was definitely a great way to

start the year for all of [the choirs],”

said Melissa Strom, junior.

Hwa Eun Kim

1. Choose positive influences

2. Write out your goals in life and not just keep them to yourself

3. Commit an act of kindness because kind words can make a big difference

4. Eliminate prejudice

5. Tell five people in your life how much you love and appreciate them to start a chain reaction

Rachel’s Five Challenges

I thought it was really moving; it was like a flash of realization that sometimes the best way to live out life is looking [at] the better side of people.”

-Irwin NahnSophomore

“

that, I contacted Rachel’s Challenge

Foundation soon after so I could

become a speaker for this cause,” said

Laud.

The Scott family started the

foundation soon after Rachel’s death to

spread awareness and to motivate other

people with positive change in the way

they see themselves and how they treat

other people.

“[Rachel’s Challenge is] the biggest

school assembly program with a total

of 25 speakers to inform students of

Rachel’s story and to challenge them

about the choices they make in their

life,” Laud explained.

The assembly is also called

a “training session” that teaches

students and adults how to make a

positive impact. By presenting the

five challenges, the program motivates

‘You just may start a chain reaction’

NHS InstallationNHS

National Honor Society is holding

its fall installation Monday, Nov. 9, in

the library. Althought over 60 students

applied for membership, only a few

were accepted.

“NHS members are representative

of the school as a whole. There is an

application process because students

are chosen based on their leadership

and contributions,” explained Elaine

Yoo, senior and NHS president.

New members are invited with their

parents to attend and are welcomed

into the club with a candle-lighting

ceremony. The induction will consist

of short speeches by NHS officers,

adviser Chris Schaadt, and school

administrators.

Faye Mendoza

UC, CSU ApplicationsClass of 2010

Nov. 30 is a date that seniors

should have already marked. It is the

deadline for UC and CSU applications

which is only a little more than three

weeks away.

Those interested in attending any

one of the 23 CSU campuses or nine

UC schools should be summarizing

high school courses, extracurricular

activities, and standardized test scores.

Rob Stelmar, counselor, said,

“When writing your personal statement,

keep in mind that UC’s want to know

you as a person; they don’t just want to

read a list of your accomplishments.”

Admissions decisions will be sent

to students between March 1 and May

1 of next year.

Faye Mendoza

New Target on the BlockCommunity

A new two-story Target opened on

Birch Street Oct. 6.

Equipped with an underground

parking lot to cart escalators, the Target

also has a prototype fresh section,

which consists of fruits, vegetables,

meat, a deli, and a bakery. The store

also houses a photo lab, a pharmacy,

and an enlarged health section.

“I like how the store is really big,

clean, and organized. The elevators

are really spacious, too. It also has

Pizza Hut and Starbucks,” said Harika

Reddy, junior.

“It’s amazing. It’s beautiful and I

really love it. The store is huge, clean,

and friendly,” said Amanda Arter,

junior.

Hwa Eun Kim

people to change their views on others

and their own lives.

Irwin Nahn, sophomore, said,

“I thought [the presentation] was

really moving; it was like a flash of

realization that sometimes the best way

to live out life is looking on the better

side of people.”

By starting with a positive self-

approach to spread a chain reaction,

the program encourages students to

“dream big” and gain self-confidence

by both reaching out and responding

to others.

By giving examples from Scott’s

life, Laud explained how many people

can be impacted by small acts of

kindness. He also emphasized how one

person was able to “touch the hearts of

millions of people.”

At the end of the assembly, Laud

asked the students to close their eyes

and think about their loved ones. He

again challenged the students to reach

out by always expressing love and

compassion.

“It’s important to draw the students’

attention to what they are dealing with

in their lives right at this moment and

how to make the right decisions,” Laud

added.

Quoting Scott, Laud pointed to the

audience and said, “You just may start

a chain reaction.”

3NEWSMr. Brea nominees including Bryan Wierzchucki will be competing for the Mr. Brea title. The circus- themed contest will have the nominees perform various acts together and individually.

November 4, 2009

Blood drive to be held Nov. 20

CHARISSA KIM / Wildcat

SAVING LIVES: Melissa Howe (‘09) donated blood during last year’s blood drive. Each pint donated can save up to three lives.

SHERMAN UYENOSTAFF WRITER

“It saves people’s livs,” said Emily Schade,

senior, referring to the year’s first blood drive Nov.

20 to be held in the auxilary gym.

The blood drive is an activity that gives

students an opportunity to help patients.

Each student volunteer will donate a pint

of blood which can save up to three lives. The

requirements to donate blood include age, height

and weight. Donors must be 16 years old and at

least 110 lbs or more, depending on their height

and gender.

Angie Shim, senior, and a previous donor, said,

“I decided to give blood because I know that, we

can help save lives.” Shim plans on participating

in the blood drive again this semester.

Welcome to the circus: Mr. Brea nominees announcedTen students, four teachers compete for the title of Mr. BreaHWA EUN KIM and SALONI SHAHNEWS AND FEATURE AND CENTERSPREAD EDITORS

Ten students and two teachers have been

nominated to participate in the annual Mr. Brea

competition to be held Dec 9.

Last year, Brandon Metten (’09), and Chris

Schaadt, English teacher, were crowned Mr.

Brea.`

Students and teachers were nominated by the

senior class, and this year, Emmanuel Lopez,

Justin Lovell, George Wright, David Snyder,

Kyle Anderson, Olson Walters, Robby Murray,

Christian Villanueva, Luke Williams, and Austin

Ross, seniors, have been announced as the

nominees.

Richard Corp, math teacher, and Bryan

Wierzchucki, history teacher, have also been

nominated. The other two teachers have yet to be

announced.

“I think it’s really that cool that I was nominated

MR. BREA CONTESTANTS: (clockwise from top left) Christian Villanueva, George Wright, Luke Williams, Emmanuel Lopez, Robby Murray, David Snyder, Olson Walters, Justin Lovell, Austin Ross, Kyle Anderson, (center) Richard Corp, math teacher, will compete for the crown. Two more teachers are expected to be nominated.

because I didn’t really expect anyone to vote for

me,” Villanueva said.

“I think I was nominated because I feel like

most people at school know me and I try to become

friends with everyone I meet. I guess when people

Photos by JUDY LEE and HWA EUN KIM / Wildcat

Brinlee Finzel, junior, is one of many who

hopes to partcipate in the blood drive.

“It helps someone live. I like knowing that I

can make a difference in someone’s life because

being a teenager, there isn’t much i can do to help

others. But this, this is something I can do,” said

Finzel.

“This year, the goal for the blood drive is to

meet or exceed 300 pints,” said Alexandra Parish,

senior, and social welfare commissioner.

Other students will also be helping out with

the blood drive. David Pham, senior, plans to help

with medical procedures and operations during the

blood drive.

Students will be able to sign up starting this

week for the blood drive in the quad. Several

English classes will also be holding sign-ups for

interested students.

were thinking who should represent the school, I

came into mind because I know a lot of people,”

Snyder said.

“To be honest, I don’t know why I got

nominated,” said Lopez.

There are four parts to the Mr. Brea contest:

talent show, swimsuit wear, formal wear, and

interview.

Many contestants, however, are worried about

the talent portion of the show.

“I have no clue what to do,” said Snyder.

“I’ll dance maybe but I don’t know what I’ll

do,” said Williams.

Lovell, ASB fine arts commissioner, will be

both participating in and organizing the event.

The theme is set to be “Circus.”

Several contestants have already started to

plan their talent acts.

“I will probably do a song with my friends,”

Lovell said.

Corp, who has already participated in the

pageant three times, is currently working on a

song about someone who has inspired him.

“I’m working with a freelance producer from

Australia. I spent about 17 hours last year editing

and filming everything so this year, I just want to

save a little time and make it easier for myself,”

said Corp.

Having had much experience for the pageant,

Corp hopes to win this year.

“I want to win. I feel like a veteran since this

is my fourth time so I want this year to be my

best year. I really want it to be worthwhile,” Corp

explained.

With high hopes, contestants are preparing

their special performances for the Mr. Brea

competition.

“I feel really excited and I’m really honored,”

said Snyder.

4 Students and teachers dressed up as cartoon characters and reality stars, fi lling the campus with the spirit of Halloween. SNAPSHOTS

November 4, 2009

Halloween TownDRESSING UP: (clockwise from top left) Molly Kang, sophomore, Chad Rabago, junior, Valerie Schrepferman, senior, Jocelyn Vu, sophomore, Jacob Maeda, freshman, Jill Purdom, Erin Purdom, Justin Lovell, and Melissa Bent, seniors, dress up as Kate Gosselin and her eight children. Christian Villanueva, senior, poses as Ash from Pokemon. A group of students walk along with various costumes. Cody Somerville, senior, is dressed as “white trash.” Amy Welch, Biology teacher, walks toward the quad in a witch costume. Barbara Arczynski, history teacher, delicately wipes her nose as she portrays Professor McGonagall. Wade Cormier, Chemistry teacher, dresses up as a Wheaties cereal box. Amy Bringhurst, senior, relaxes in class, dressed up in a Clockwork Orange-inspired costume. Natalie Park, senior, jumps in her Luigi costume. Sophia Park, senior, jumps with a colorful wig and onesie. Kaylee Dysart, senior, poses with Teletubbie David Snyder, senior.

Photos by HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

Photo courtesy of MELISSA BENT

Alumnus Wisher achieves success as screenwriter, producer of Hollywood hitsJEAN NICOLE ORLEANSSTAFF WRITER

William Wisher Jr. is a screenwriter

who has worked on some of the most

iconic fi lms in movie history, including

The Terminator, The Abyss, and Live

Free or Die Hard.

He is also a 1973 graduate of Brea

Olinda High School.

“Oh, God,” he responds as I tell

him we are going to talk about his

days as a student at BOHS. The Saturn

Award-nominated screenwriter credits

his teachers as a source of his future

success.

Wisher was president of Drama

Club and served on the Wildcat staff.

But if there was “one thing that [he]

might have done different” was asking

Sandy Katts to go out on a date with

him.

Describing his childhood, Wisher

tells of the Nike missile bases that

were built in Brea in the 1950s. By the

1960s the bases were obsolete and were

removed. Left behind were concrete

bunkers which served as hangouts to go

to after school.

“Those were really fun because we

would explore them, my buddies and I.

Just go down there and check them out.

They’re probably still there although I’m

not going to give you a solid location

because they’re mine. They were up in

the hills. So there’s a hint.”

After high school, Wisher

discovered an affi nity for writing. When

asked at what point in his life he felt he

“made it” Wisher responded, “When I

could quit my day job, which I did in

1989.” By that time, he had played a

role in the production of hit movies like

1984’s The Terminator and 1989’s The

Abyss, both of which he collaborated

on with Oscar-winning director James

Cameron.

Before discovering his passion,

however, Wisher’s decision to write

was unclear. “I think that nobody really

wants to become a screenwriter,” he

said.

After spending about a year in

college, the turning point in the 23-

year-old’s career--and life--came after

making a short fi lm with Cameron, a

Wisher’s work as a producer or screen

writer includes:

-Xenogenesis (1978)•The Terminator (1984)•The Abyss (1989)-Desperado: The Outlaw Wars (1989)•Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)•Judge Dredd (1995)•The 13th Warrior(1999) •Exorcist: The Beginning(2004) •Live Free or Die Hard(2007)

Wisher’s Filmography

former Brea resident who would later

direct the highest grossing movie of all-

time, 1997’s Titanic.

For training, Wisher studied at

UCLA, taking a year-long creative

writing course during which his

fi rst screenplay was written.

The number of original

screenplays he wrote grew

until he found one that,

according to Wisher, “didn’t

stink.”

“That’s how,” he

stated, “my writing career

started.”

Most artistic

creations stem from

the artist’s real-

life experiences

and imagination.

Although “Brea,

California” isn’t

mentioned in

any of Wisher’s

work, there are

hints of suburbia

lingering in

his fi lm’s

backgrounds.

“ T h e

truth of it is,

everything that ever happened to you

goes into what you write because it

becomes the prism through which you

see everything. There is no part of my

writing, no part of anything I have ever

worked on that doesn’t refl ect all of the

experiences I had when I was there. It’s

impossible.”

As for those who want to follow

Wisher’s steps and become a screenwriter,

and the opportunity to craft dialogue for

the likes of Sylvester Stallone (Judge

Dredd), Antonio Banderas (The 13th

Warrior), and Arnold Schwarzennegar

(The Terminator series), Wisher

advises, “Pay attention to the style and

the culture that is happening around

you. That’s very important because in

order to be successful, you’re going to

have to fi gure out how to communicate

to people today. The culture changes

all the time. I do not write today the

way I wrote 30 years ago. Having said

that, you do have to be aware that you

need to understand the basics. You need

to have a real grounding in classical

story telling. They should read a book

by Lajos Egri, who I think is the fi nest

writer on creative writing that ever lived

and his book called The Art of Dramatic

Writing. If you read stuff like that and

you learn what the rules are, and you

have the other ear in your head listening

to the sound of the culture around

you, you will be able to know what to

embrace and what to ignore. Then you

can come up with your own voice.”

Two of Wisher’s projects are

included on Internet Movie Database’s

top rated “Sci-Fi” titles. Terminator 2:

Judgment Day is currently number six

on the list, while The Terminator is at

19.

His success is also evident in the

iconic quotes he has written or co-

written. American Film Institute’s 100

Year’s...100 Movie Quotes lists the top

100 movie quotes in American cinema

history. Two of Wisher’s projects are

included on the list: “I’ll be back”

(number 37) and “Hasta la vista, baby”

(number 76) from the Terminator

series.

And according to imdb.com, 1991’s

Terminator 2:Judgment Day is the 90th

highest grossing fi lm of all time with a

total world-wide take of $204,843,350.

Currently, Wisher is working on

a fi lm called Pacifi c Clipper for Fox

Studios and he is also currently setting

Terminator steps back, scanning the booth, the electric door, the rooms beyond.

TERMINATOR

I’ll come back.

He turns and walks out through the front doors.

ANGLE PAST DESK SERGEANT, F.G. - ON FRONT DOORS, the offi cer is absorbed in paperwork, not watching as a pair of lights get BRIGHTER outside the doors. RAPIDLY. He glances up at the last second as the glare falls fully on him. CRASH! Several cops and late night loiterers scatter as a car smashes into the foyer. It blasts through the sergeant’s booth, crushing him in the wreckage.

CUT TO:

5A&ENovember 4, 2009

Alumni William Wisher Jr. served as the executive producer or screenwriter for Hollywood hits The Exorcist, Terminator 1 and 2, and Live Free or Die Hard.

impawords .com

FROM STAFF WRITER TO SCREENWRITER:

This photo taken from a 1973 yearbook

shows Wisher working on fi nishing

sketches while on the Wildcat staff.

Photo courtesy of GUSHER

up a project called The Program.

“At the end of the day,” Wisher

advised, “no matter how fl ashy, how

funny, how dramatic, or how clever

writing is, if it doesn’t understand,

comprehend, and refl ect timeless

human nature, you’ll never be good.

So if you do both, you will invent your

own voice and people will hopefully

embrace it.”

6 A&ENovember 4, 2009

Where the Wild Things Are, an adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s children’s story, was released in theaters Oct. 16. The fi lm’s tagline is, “There’s a [wild thing] in all of us.”

WILLERT: choir director, novelistgood and evil, a natural blending of

science and religion, but most of all a

love story.

“The whole message of the book

is for people to do things themselves.

They need to follow their dreams and

do what they really want to do and not

get lost in mundane life and rules. And

the book has a story. I hope that people

who read it will see the positive in it,”

he said.

Willert fi rst began writing The

Wheat Field in 1986 as an 80 page short

story. Unhappy with its progress he left

it unfi nished and “forgot about it.”

Two years ago he revisited his

old story, intending to transfer the

handwritten manuscript into a Word

fi le. “[But] ideas started coming out and

I didn’t stop; I just kept on going,” he

recalled as The Wheat Field evolved

into a 343-page novel.

“And then when you fi nish, you

realize ‘What was I thinking?!’ so you

go back and edit…you go through eight

or nine different [drafts]. Then you get

an idea, and then you change everything

again,” he explained of the writing

process.

Getting published is a diffi culty

many aspiring authors know quite

well. “It took a while to get published.

Sometimes, you need to have an agent.

I didn’t have an agent because you have

to get published fi rst,” he said. Willert

did fi nally land a publisher in Colorado-

based Outskirts Press.

In Willert’s 20 year break from

writing, he has racked up a résumé

that includes fi ve years (out of his 33-

year teaching career) as choir director

for BOUSD. He is the producer of the

annual school musical and the summer

program “Broadway in Brea.” Last

year, he was honored by the district as

Certifi cated Employee of the Year.

When asked what allowed him to

be able to develop the story years later,

he shared, “Part of it was my age. I

was 35. You have more time, live more

life. Now I have so much more to draw

from. I think I’m wiser. I don’t know

if I could have done that back then. I

wasn’t mature enough to write about

how people feel. I didn’t know much

about it myself. Time made me a better

writer.”

Willert elaborated: “Most of the

work was done when school wasn’t

happening. Summer vacations, winter

vacations, weekends…in the summer,

I would wake up by seven [a.m.] and

work till noon. Then I would work

again at 10 [p.m.] then go till two in the

morning.”

Some of Willert’s passion may

have originated from his genes. He

was raised alongside nine brothers and

sisters to a drama teacher-writer father

and a mother who taught piano.

“I’ve always liked to fi ll up my

time. I love to read, but I like to write

too. I’ve always been like that. I like

doing things,” he said. “I like to bake

too.”

Willert acknowledges that there is

a distinct quality unique to both music

and writing.

“For me, it’s just a different

language. For music, you have lyrics.

[Writing] is just a way to do it without

the music. You have to be able to do

everything without a C-chord behind

you,” he said. “It’s not too different,

but the writing is easier. With music

you have to make sure everything is

coordinated and it’s more structural

with arrangements. Writing is just pure

imagination.”

The Wheat Field is that type of

work for Willert, and it is to become

one of four books in a series set to

explore the thousands of dimensions

around us. His next book, Dimensions:

The Plethora, has a planned release

date of December 2010.

“I’ve always wanted to write,”

Willert shared. “I fi gure you’re never

too old to do anything you want to do.

And then you do it, get it done and say

you did it.”

WRITING WITHOUT THE MUSIC: Dave Willert’s novel, Dimensions: The Wheat Field, will be released in December. The novel began as an 80 page short story 23 years ago.

Courtesy of DAVE WILLERT

Where the Wild Things Are is ‘not so juvenile’

CHARISSA KIM / Wildcat

MEET THE AUTHOR: Dave Willert, director, instructs his fourth period Spellbound

choir. “His teaching style is more about getting us to learn from our mistakes. He

doesn’t push us. He wants us to push ourselves. People in choir end up learning

not just about music, but themselves,” said Michelle Arno, junior.

ASHLEY PABONSTAFF WRITER

Remember Max and his distinct

white wolf costume?

Well, Max is back in Spike Jonze’s

movie based on Maurice Sendak’s

popular children’s book, Where the

Wild Things Are.

What seems to be a childish movie

turns out not to be so juvenile. Max

and his “wild things” have grown up.

Sendak’s beloved story has evolved

into much more than just a 48 page

bedtime book. The issues in the movie

connect with our every day struggles of

growing up and the pains of having to

face reality.

For instance, the adults in Max’s

life are too busy for the boy. His sister

leaves him for her friend,

and his mother

is either

e n g r o s s e d

in her work

or preoccupied

with a new

boyfriend.

M a x

is portrayed,

for most of the

story, as a lost

little boy. He comes from a broken

home. At one point, his mother, played

by Catherine Keener, scolds him:

“Max, what is wrong with you? You’re

out of control!”

Anguished, Max replies, “It’s not

my fault!”

This altercation evolves from little

things that happen around the house.

When Max walks downstairs, he is

disturbed to see his mom sitting on the

couch with an unfamiliar man (played

by Mark Ruffalo). Then Max and his

mother argue over what they will eat for

dinner. In the heat of the quarrel, Max

bites his mom, signaling a turning point

in the fi lm, and Max’s life.

Max decides that his life is not good

enough and “leaves”

home, in his

imagination anyway.

After the fi ght,

Where the Wild Things ARe (PG)

Actors: Catherine Keener, Max Records, Mark Ruffalo

Fast Fact: To date, the movie has grossed $61,800,000 at the box offi ce.

Playing at: Brea Edwards Theater

“We were gonna make a whole world like this. Now, everyone used to come here, but you know... you know what it feels like when all your teeth are falling out really slowly and you don’t realize and then you notice that, well, they’re really far apart. And then one day... you don’t have any teeth anymore..”

Where the Wild Things Are

Max runs away from home to a

sailboat and drifts away in the ocean,

his destination the land of the playful,

emotional, surprising, and very large

Wild Things.

The movie is fi lled with hidden and

profound meaning. The analogy of this

tiny sailboat in the monstrous ocean;

Max having to climb up a mountain;

and his control over monsters that can

easily devour him all mean relatively

the same thing, that Max is boy who,

feeling unloved, seeks power over

something or someone.

But even in his fantasy, he cannot

make things right, somehow managing

to turn his new imaginary friends

against him. When Max fi rst meets the

Wild Things, they want to eat him. In

order to remain unharmed, he concocts

a story about him being a Viking king

and how he can make the monsters’

heads explode. However, even with

power over the large beasts, Max is

confused.

I took my little brothers to see this

movie, and although they did not fully

understand the psychology of it, they

enjoyed the lively puppets (portrayed

by actors in costumes, and voiced

by the likes of Forest Whitaker and

James Gandolfi ni, among others). The

monsters look enormous against their

surroundings

The movie was not what I expected,

but towards the end I was blinking back

MOVIE REVIEW

EYE TO EYE: In this scene in Where the Wild Things Are, directed by Spike Jonze, protagonist Max shares an emotional moment with a wild friend.

fanpop.com

Now playing

tears as the ending was melancholy

and sort of bittersweet, much like

Max and the complex “wild things” he

encounters.

WILLERT from page 1

fanpop.com

7A&ENovember 4, 2009

“Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art-- Not in lone splendor hung aloft the night and watching with eternal lids apart...” - John Keats

Bright Star ‘burns brightest’ in theatersEMILY LIUEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In the fi lm Bright Star, the poem

“Bright Star” is recited twice, initially

spoken between two lovers, and then

whispered alone through tear stained

lips.

Following the short love life

of John Keats, poet, played by Ben

Whishaw, the title, Bright Star, is a

reference to Fanny Brawne, played

by Abbie Cornish. Keats fervently

admired the unchanging quality of the

stars in the night and called Brawne his

“constant.”

Bright Star is an account of Keats,

the ninteenth century English Romantic

poet who died at age 25 of tuberculosis.

He left behind poetry, letters and a lost

lover. The central focus in the fi lm is

the relationship formed by two next

door neighbors who can never wed, and

the failing health of Keats.

Whishaw, pale, lean, and restricted

to one blue velvet blazer, is almost an

exaggeration of the romantic poet.

However, his dream-like state enchants

the audience, his absolute belief in the

“holiness of the heart’s affections”

grasps us, and his complete portrayal of

Keats’ life breaks our hearts.

The fi lm is simple: two lovers who

are torn by money and fate. However,

both Whishaw and Cornish create more

depth in their affections than fi lms set

in modern day.

Not only does Whishaw dream,

but the fi lm does as well. Bright Star

is retrospection of nature and consists

of long scenic shots where the size of

the characters is diminished under the

setting. In one scene, Whishaw climbs a

tree and the scene cuts to him aloft in the

branches. As the wind rustles through

the cherry blossoms, it takes more than

a glance to realize he is among them.

There is a peace between nature and

the characters of the fi lm and like the

poem, there is a constant throughout

the movie. There was repetition in the

music and a reoccurrance of moments

of white light.

But through the nature, through the

haze of dreams, Brawne is the true light

in the fi lm. Cornish’s stoic front initially

throws the viewer askew, but there is

eagerness at the tips of her sentences

and a growing affection for Keats. Her

extremely volatile emotions, rather

than annoyance, garner sympathy for

a girl enduring the extremes of

fi rst love.

There is an abundance of

beauty of words in the fi lm—

woven throughout—with voice-

overs of Keats’ poetry and

letters between the lovers. The

ornate language of his sonnets

and odes are entwined with the

changing sounds of nature and

these words become their own

character.

The pauses, the tempo

and the structure of the Keats’

writing are awakened and

revived by Whishaw’s light

voice. And it becomes that our

emotions are not toyed with by

actions, but by the tone of Keats’

and Brawne’s words.

As the credits run, Keats’

poem “Ode to a Nightingale”

concludes our young poet’s

death and the fi lm ends with

the lines: “Was it a vision, or

a waking dream? Fled is that

music: do I wake or sleep.”

‘FIRST LOVE BURNS THE BRIGHTEST’: Bright Star, by director Jane Campion, is a nineteenth century-set drama that tells the true story of John Keats, poet, and his romance with Fanny Brawne.

www.cinemapolis.org

Literature into f lmi

Actors: Ben Whishaw, Abbie Cornish, Paul Schneider

Fast Fact: Based on the true story of poet John Keats.

Playing at: Irvine Spectrum

“BEAUTY is truth, truth beauty - that is all ye known on earth, and all ye need to know.”

John Keats, “Ode to a Grecian Urn”

Where the Wild Things Are

MOVIE REVIEW

Bright Star (PG)

than annoyance, garner sympathy for

a girl enduring the extremes of

There is an abundance of

beauty of words in the fi lm—

woven throughout—with voice-

overs of Keats’ poetry and

letters between the lovers. The

ornate language of his sonnets

and odes are entwined with the

changing sounds of nature and

these words become their own

The pauses, the tempo

and the structure of the Keats’

writing are awakened and

revived by Whishaw’s light

voice. And it becomes that our

emotions are not toyed with by

actions, but by the tone of Keats’

As the credits run, Keats’

poem “Ode to a Nightingale”

concludes our young poet’s

death and the fi lm ends with

the lines: “Was it a vision, or

a waking dream? Fled is that

music: do I wake or sleep.” JONATHAN PARK / Wildcat

The Wildcat staff selects the best of Hollywood’s literature adaptations. Our selections range from the classics (Gone with the Wind and Hamlet), to contemporary (No Country for Old Men, Jackie Brown, and Fight Club), to science fi ction (Blade Runner), and horror (Jaws). Our favorites:

“[Back then] people were not as caught up in getting attention for themselves as they are today,” Arczynski said. She added, “We were conservative. Students were expected to respect certain social standards.”

Another change: Homecoming has evolved into an event centered around a Saturday dance, and the focus on the true meaning of Homecoming—the celebration of the school’s alumni—has been lost.

“Homecoming now is about having the right dance moves, or wearing the hottest get-up or, for guys, finding a creative way of asking a girl [to the dance],” said Tiffany Ward, science teacher.

“Being a one school town, [Homecoming] is a chance for alumni to come back,” said health teacher Mike Baker (who was a prince at his high school’s Homecoming dance, and eventually married his date from that night).

“Homecoming at my high school was mainly an opportunity to see old friends at the football game and celebrate their return—and our team’s win—at the post-game dance. The game and the alumni made Homecoming special. The dance was sort of an after-thought,” said Alex Koers, English teacher.

However, the dance is anything but an afterthought at BOHS. Last year’s dance was held at Long Beach’s historic Queen Mary.

One constant since the ‘20s, however, is the celebration of the queen. Although the queen no longer rides across town leading a parade, she still reflects the pride of the campus.

Teacher’s past

Homecoming of years’ past1935 1948

1989 1990s

8

“What are you going to wear to homecoming?” Homecoming outfits are a prime topic of discussion among girls. From long elegant dresses in the ‘30s to tule-filled ball gowns in the ‘50s; to silk dresses in the ‘70s, to ruffles in the ‘90s. By the beginning of the millenium dresses have transformed into form-fitting sheaths. Homecoming dresses are no longer like they used to be “back in the day.”

1930s

Fashions through theages1950s 1970s 1980s 2000s

The tradition of Homecoming has evolved since its humble beginnings in 1927

vintageous.com, polyvre.com, shoppingcomfort.com, gwendolinecurl.blogspot.com, forever21.com. rawshoes.wordpress.com, etsy.com

1940s

“[Back then] people were not as caught up in getting attention for themselves as they are today,” Arczynski said. She added, “We were conservative. Students were expected to respect certain social standards.”

Another change: Homecoming has evolved into an event centered around a Saturday dance, and the focus on the true meaning of Homecoming—the celebration of the school’s alumni—has been lost.

“Homecoming now is about having the right dance moves, or wearing the hottest get-up or, for guys, finding a creative way of asking a girl [to the dance],” said Tiffany Ward, science teacher.

“Being a one school town, [Homecoming] is a chance for alumni to come back,” said health teacher Mike Baker (who was a prince at his high school’s Homecoming dance, and eventually married his date from that night).

“Homecoming at my high school was mainly an opportunity to see old friends at the football game and celebrate their return—and our team’s win—at the post-game dance. The game and the alumni made Homecoming special. The dance was sort of an after-thought,” said Alex Koers, English teacher.

However, the dance is anything but an afterthought at BOHS. Last year’s dance was held at Long Beach’s historic Queen Mary.

One constant since the ‘20s, however, is the celebration of the queen. Although the queen no longer rides across town leading a parade, she still reflects the pride of the campus.

Homecoming of years’ past1948 1958

1968

2009

9

The tradition of Homecoming has evolved since its humble beginnings in 1927

1973

The Wildcat has informed readers since 1930. The page above reflects the work of the Wildcat staff of 1958 during the time of Homecoming. This

front cover, from Nov. 21, 1958, is recreated on page 16 of this issue.

However, the nomination process for being a princess has changed dramatically since the dance’s inception decades ago. Homecoming has often been labeled a “popularity contest.” This year, however, a new application and interview process was implemented to dispel the idea of Homecoming princess being a “most popular” contest. (In fact, in the 1940s, headlines in the Wildcat announced, “Winners of popularity contest to be announced tonight.”)

Ashley Schweitzer, senior and princess, feels that the changes in the election process are “better and more fair.”

With the new process, Girls’ League feels that “the school will be represented well” with a fairer nomination process.

“I feel that we have so many eligible females who deserve the honor, but we haven’t necessarily showed our full potential,” said Jennifer Ryan, English teacher.

Ryan has made the decision of changing the process of election on merit rather than popularity. Merit is based upon involvement in clubs, extracurricular activities, and other leadership positions. Years ago and today, girls have had opportunities to join girls-only activities like Girls’ League, Girls’ Athletic Association, and Song and Yell (today’s cheerleaders).

Schweitzer echoed the sentiments of her fellow nominees: “I was surprised that I was nominated. It is an amazing feeling. Being a [princess] has given me a good opportunity to show who I am. It has helped me to become more mature.”

Homecoming from page 1

Photos courtesy of The gusher, Mike Baker, jennifer ryan, aMy Welch

10 Shelby Makris, junior, hopes to stay involved in Make-a-Wish as she balances school and sports. She has been nominated as junio Homecoming Princess this year. FEATURE

November 4, 2009

Despite ‘minor roadblock’ Makris excelsMake-a-Wish president Makris will be a recipient of the club’s goodwillCHELSEA YEHOnline editOr-in-chief

Make-a-Wish president Shelby Makris, junior,

will have her wish granted by her club members.

In an October club meeting, Makris revealed

that she was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous

leukemia.

When learning of her diagnosis, Make-a-Wish

members proposed to make her this year’s wish

recipient.

When Makris first received her diagnosis in

September, she was in “complete shock.” Her

doctors caught the cancer at an early stage, so it

is curable. Currently, Makris is awaiting a donor

match for a bone marrow transplant and expects to

make a full recovery.

Jeff Sink, girls’ basketball coach, will organize

a donor drive at school for Makris in December.

“Shelby has a rare blood type because she is

half-Greek and half-Italian...It’s a proverbial needle

in a haystack to find the perfect donor...[because]

the perfect donor needs to have [at least] 11 of

Makris’ genetic characteristics,” Sink said.

Juggling school and healthWith a compromised immune system, Makris

is not allowed to attend school where she can

easily contract illnesses from other students.

However, Makris remains active in Make-a-Wish

club, maintains a 4.0 GPA, and serves as secretary

of the junior class.

“Balancing school and my health condition is

really hard. I have two teachers come to my house

for five hours a week to help teach me with the

curriculum,” Makris explained.

Although her doctors require Makris to stay

home, she is able to attend basketball practices

at least once a week and continues to support her

teammates on the junior varsity basketball team.

As the Ladycats are defending state and

national champions, playing on the team can be

“stressful” for Makris but she “loves” the sport as

she has formed indelible friendships.

Designing the junior class Homecoming float

is another activity Makris still participates in.

Makris and ASB members have been preparing

their floats for the past three weeks.

Being able to participate in select school

events permits Makris to think of her future,

manage all her stress, and keep her motivated.

Nominated Homecoming PrincessMakris was also voted Homecoming princess

of the junior class.

Of her appointment, Makris said, “When I

found out that I was homecoming princess I was

so excited. I was happy that I got to share the

position with my friend, Savannah Maske. We

“...helping somebody who is having a tough time makes you feel like you are doing some-thing good for them...It makes life seem worth it when you help others.”

Shelby MakrisJUNIOR

Staying involved: (above) Shelby Makris, junior, poses on a police motorcycle during Make-a-Wish fundraiser at Coldstone in Downtown Brea. (left) Makris poses at Angels’ Stadium for the Homecoming princess photoshoot.

CHELSEA YEH / Wildcat

have known each other since preschool and it is so

cool that we get to share this experience together.”

Make-a-Wish involvementWhen asked why she joined Make-a-Wish,

Makris said, “I have known about the Make-a-

Wish foundation since I was really little. My

cousin Kamryn had cancer and she actually got her

wish granted. I got to see the joy it brought to her

family. Having my cousin be happy made everyone

happy. Her wish was to go to Disney World. I

love to help people, and helping somebody who

is having a tough time makes you feel like you are

doing something good for them. I think it makes

life seem worth it when you help others.”

Of her wish, Makris hopes to travel abroad.

Makris said, “My wish is to go to Greece. I am

half Greek. I have family from my dad’s side [in

Greece whom] I have never met so it would be a

great experience.”

To grant Makris’ wish, Make-a-Wish club will

fundraise at least $4,000 this year and $3,000 next

year for a total sum of $7,000 to cover the cost of

the trip to Greece.

Make-a-Wish club grants a wish to a Brea

student every year to reward his or her perseverance

under unfortuante and unfair circumstances.

“Obviously, our president would be a recipient

because she is a Brea student who deserves to be

encouraged in her path to health,” Susan Luce,

Make-a-Wish adviser and English teacher.

Of Makris’ goals, her mother Pamela Makris,

said, “Shelby has high goals for her life and is

treating this as a minor roadblock in her life.

Although she is not able to go to school right

now, she still keeps her grades up and tries to stay

involved with Make-A-Wish, her basketball team

and looks forward to returning back to school.”

Commenting on Makris’ road to recovery,

Sink said, “Shelby is dear to us. Her desire and

dedication to the [Ladycat] program is amazing.

She’s a role model for all of us. She has beat the

odds, we know she will beat leukemia.” Photo courtesy of SHELBY MAKRIS

1. Leukemias are broadly categorized by how quickly the disease develops and worsens as well as by the type of blood cells affected.

leukemia411.org

2. The four most frequently occurring types of leukemia are Acute Myelogenous Leukemia, Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.

oncologychannel.com

3. CML accounts for about 4,400 new cases of leukemia in the US each year. It affects mainly adults over the age of 50.

leukemia411.org

FAST FACTS

thewildcatonline.com

11FEATUREAfter the fi res, the ROLE program has been collecting donations in order to fund the gardening around the campus. New fl owers and trees have been planted along the hillsides.

November 4, 2009

one yeaR lateR: With skies filled with smoke and ash blowing across the community, fires ravaged the neighboring hills. The smell of burnt leaves and smoke lingered for weeks and massive amounts of ashes blanketed the school campus. Today, the hillsides along Wildcat Way are blooming with fresh planted flowers and trees.

Brea community brought closer through fire recoveryTHEA O’DELLStAff Writer

Any student or resident of Brea

can remember last years’ fires as if

they were yesterday. Flames lined

the hills, burning the trees, as many

residents watched in terror, wondering

if they too would be evacuated from

their homes.

A year later, memories still flood

back for many. Abigail Heiman,

sophomore, recalls, “The fires were

horrific. Since we live in Carbon

Canyon, the fires seemed to be even

worse.”

Despite this life-changing event,

many things have come out of it that

have made the community and the

school stronger.

Some of the changes include more

precautions with fire evacuations,

community gardening, and having

neighborhoods come closer together

to aid each other through the fire

recovery.

Yorba Linda resident Valerie

Vilardi said that when her horses were

evacuated from her home last year she

was informed that Brea firefighters

would be stepping up evacuation

procedures for the next disaster.

“They did a great job the last

time, but I feel that it was important

that they revised their procedures for

disasters such as the fires that occurred

last year. Possessions and pets are a

top priority for homeowners, and I

think it’s important that the firefighters

and law enforcement take that into

consideration” said Vilardi.

North Hills Church in Brea and

EV Free Church in Fullerton also

came together to help the school by

gardening around the campus and

community.

By removing ash and burnt trees

and planting trees and flowers, the

damage around the campus was

quickly covered.

“I think it’s great that everyone

seemed to appreciate the school more

after the fires. It was nice to see the

community come together and plant

plants and flowers around the high

school,” said Gil Rotblum, history

teacher.

“I feel that not only the planting

brought together the community, but

just the common interest that everyone

has in Brea. Almost every child ends up

going to [this school] and their parents

might have attended here as well. So I

feel that the community not only came

together for the students who attend

here, but also because they wanted to

preserve it because [they’re parents]

might have gone here too,” said Wade

Cormier, Chemistry teacher.

Another way the November fires

have made an impact on the community

is how the neighborhoods are being

brought together.

“Where we live, we’re definitely

more spirited now during any holidays.

Maybe it’s because we’ve all realized

how much our homes mean to us now,

and I think that’s great,” said Heiman.

Photo courtesy of MICHAEL ISENBERG (‘07)

eXtingUiSHing tHe FiRe: Helicopters dropped water to extinguish the fires. With the fires spreading rapidly, firefighters from Fullerton, Orange County, and L.A. County came to help contain and stop the fires.

Photo courtesy of MICHAEL ISENBERG (‘07) HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

One year later: Brea recovers from fire

JEANNIE KIMStAff Writer

Winds were high and the weather

was humid, making BOHS a target for

fire Nov. 14, 2008.

Captain Dave Spadt of the Brea

Fire Department, and father of Ashley

Spadt, junior, was coaching a softball

team when he saw the fire heading

towards the school.

“I began to take everyone down

the hill and went back up to get anyone

else, I knew that soon they would get

trapped,” said Spadt.

In order to get students back to

school as soon as possible, the fire

department also helped clean the

campus along with other volunteers.

“Our fire department was shocked

for it was the first time a fire this big

occurred in our city,” said Spadt.

After Wildcat Way was blocked,

students were not allowed to attend

school, Spadt drove up and saw how

the fire had ravaged the campus.

Hillsides had been burnt and ashes lay

blanketing the fields.

“I drove up the hill and felt as if

I was at the moon or another planet

since it was such a dark and frightening

sight.”

He also states that one of the

changes made on campus were the

trees that were restored on Wildcat

Way. The new trees planted are less

prone to burning .

“The community and our fire

department did such a great job, and we

are so thankful to the fire departments

of Fullerton, Orange County, and L.A

County for helping us during the fires,”

said Spadt.

“I love Brea. Knowing that the fire

would affect our community was very

hard, and was even more difficult since

my own daughter attends the school,”

said Spadt.

Firefighter Spadt shares first hand experience

1. Restore our Lawns and Landscape Program (ROLE) came forth from the fires. It was created by the school district. The program collects donations to fund the gardening throughout the city.

2. Local nurseries have been donating plants, trees, and flower for the gardening.

3. North Hills Church and EV Free Church have participated in the gardening so far.

4. The next gardening is scheduled on Nov. 14, which is the year anniversary of the fires. The gardening will start from Brea Canyon High School and cover the uphill slopes.

5. School budget was not used to fund the gardening.

FAST FACTS

The Wildcat is the official newspaper of Brea Olinda High School. The opinions expressed in this paper reflect the views of our staff writers and editors. Unsigned editorials reflect the views of the Wildcat staff. The Brea Olinda Unified School District has not reviewed, nor does it endorse, the products or services advertised.

789 Wildcat Way, Brea, CA 92821 (714) 990-7850

bohs_wildcat@yahoo.comthewildcatonline.com

WILDCATBrea Olinda High School

FAYE MENDOZA Managing editor

hange is a compelling notion. It is an idea so gripping that President Barack Obama successfully revolved his

campaign around it. Positive change driven by the human quest to become better. Yet sometimes the wheel of progress comes to a standstill and starts to roll backwards. One must only look past today’s advancements in order to see this regrettable paradox: American society is regressing.

Whereas a recession is a slow decline in economy, a regression is a gradual degeneration of culture. These periods come and go, alternating with times of prosperity. Still, at no other time is a regression more apparent than when a nation is low and hurting.

That is why it is ironic that, even with our technological prowess and unrivaled brainpower, American society is defenseless against economic collapse. Everyday, thousands of economists forecast the course of the global market, and millions of students are educated about the history of the Great Depression.

Nevertheless, Americans sunk into smug complacency about credit and housing, plunging 300 million people into a downward spiral with no clear end.

This downturn can be explained by the Bowen Theory, which states that a regressive pattern begins when

Staff writers: Melina Agopian, Lois Ahn, Neha Ansari, Terry Kyung, Randy Liggins, Audrey Marra, Megan Mashal, Joseph Mulock, Thea O’Dell, Jean Orleans, Ashley Pabon, Matt Schade, Kelsey Smith, Christopher Suh

Emily LiuEditor-in-chief

“people act to relieve the anxiety of the moment rather than act on principle and a long-term view.” This is evident in the country’s modern obsession with foreign oil and the misuse of borrowed money. Humans are shortsighted, and this lack of foresight is a primary reason why the United States is reeling.

Even present “symptoms” mimic those of a history better not repeated. According to the theory, the 1960’s “growth of crime and violence,

less principled decision-making by leaders, and increases in divorce rate and bankruptcy” are all too familiar issues today and each an indicator of a regressing society.

For all the ground gained technology-wise, it seems peculiar that similar innovation is not used more often to solve problems. Improvements such as harnessing wind power are slow to transition, just like gas-guzzling vehicles continue to run rampant on streets. (Shouldn’t we have figured out how to mass-produce hydrogen-powered cars by now?)

Actress Natalie Portman expressed it best when she said, “I remember in

college, a professor asked our class to consider what our grandchildren would look back on as being backward behavior or thinking in our generation, the way we are shocked by the kind of misogyny, racism, and sexism we know was commonplace in our grandparents’ world. He urged us to use this principle to examine the behaviors in our lives and our societies that we should be a part of changing.”

It shouldn’t take an actress – even a Harvard-educated one – to understand that we must be considerate enough to have the future in mind.

Unfortunately, our current existence only makes us appear feeble and helpless. How have we been able to put a man on the Moon, but not come close to solving the difficult issue of health care reform? How are we able to allow the atrocities of war and human trafficking to occur amidst our high-rises and ethics laws?

The way we view John F. Kennedy’s NASA as a highlight of its time must be how our grandchildren perceive our actions. We must perform in ways that our descendants will find admirable and courageous. Our inventions should reflect a pioneering attitude and a resourcefulness they will try to emulate.

Instead of an age of de-evolution and waste, our time here should be looked back on as an era of recovery. Today’s generation must be seen as individuals who realized their faults and quickly rebounded to change America for the better, not the worse.

THINK IN INK by kathy simonetta

Staff EditorialIn “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” Samuel Coleridge writes, “Water,

water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” Students who survey the school bathrooms on campus may feel like the mariner as well—staring across a vast expanse of something they must confront but cannot touch. We do not face water, however, but disgusting bathrooms.

Toilet paper is left to soak in puddles of liquid and hygiene products litter the floor. And some time between third and fourth periods, the school bathrooms become nearly unbearable to walk into. However, in the morning, other than the graffiti- scrawled stall walls, the bathrooms are spotless and freshly cleaned. This rapid change in the bathroom’s condition leads reveals a lack of respect students have for their campus. By sixth period, many students avoid the restroom altogether. However, a lone huge, toilet paper-using, on-the-floor-peeing, foul-smelling student who ravages campus bathrooms does not exist. The true culprit is the entire student body.

In comparison to other schools, ours is lucky. We have dedicated custodians who ensure a safe and clean environment. Our bathroom doors lock and our toilets flush. Sometimes the dryers do not work and sometimes the faucet is broken, but they are all eventually fixed. However, our inability to clean up after ourselves is a direct result of the disrespect we have for our campus. Although students do not purposely leave the bathroom a mess as an act of rebellion, our laziness to even perform the very fundamental acts of sanitary health (like throwing tampons in the trash), communicates the lack of concern students have for our school.

We have all heard staff members and clubs call for improvement in school spirit. However, the conditions of the school bathrooms signify that many choose to ignore it. Rather than attempting to convince students to go above and beyond and scrub all 14 student bathrooms on campus, we ask them just to simply clean up after themselves.

Improvements such as harnessing wind power are slow to transition, just like gas-guzzling vehicles continue to run rampant on streets.

For the RecordNews: In the article about the evacuation, the quote was not correctly attributed to Bob Parish, assistant principal. On page 4, Paulina Forgette is a senior, not a junior.

On page 3, in the new teachers story, Stacey Jung is a freshman, not a sophomore.

Feature: The picture on page 10 was taken by Heena Morar.

Arts and Entertainment: The photo in the Glee article on page 12 was taken by Connie Jung.In the Glee article on page 12, Alyssa Garcia’s first name is not mentioned.

Opinion: The Small Talk photos on page 5 were taken by Heena Morar.

Sports: The volleyball picture on page 13 was taken by Annie Kim.The quote on page 13 in the water polo story was by Kyle Anderson.

Photographers: Annie Kim, Jeannie Kim, Judy Lee, Matthew Maul, Heena Morar, Jonathan Park Cartoonist: Kathy Simonetta

Alex KoersAdviser

Faye MendozaManaging editor

OPINION12 November 4, 2009

In the morning, [the] bathrooms are spotless and freshly cleaned. This rapid change in condition leads to one logical conclusion—the lack of respect students have for their campus.

Community colleges rise in popularityRANDY LIGGINS Staff writer

Although it may appear like students only aim to enter four-year private and state schools, an increasing number of high school graduates are enrolling in community colleges every year.

“I [wanted to go] to Stanford but they don’t take transfers from four year institutions, so junior college was the best option. It’s cheaper and I can still be with my family and serve in the Brea community,” said Jaken Lindenmeyer (‘09). “I’ve taken courses at local colleges like Hope and Biola and tutored with professors from all over. FJC has some of the best teachers I’ve ever had,” he added.

Community colleges also offer alternative routes for athletes who want to be recruited by a four-year college.

“I hope to go to Mt. SAC to play football after I graduate. From there I want to be picked up by [a four-year school],” said Zach Wall, senior, and v a r s i t y f o o t b a l l

player. Wall mentioned that Mt. SAC is an attractive place for him to hone his skills while waiting for the opportunity to get recruited by a four-year university. In 2008, Mt. SAC’s football team’s website noted that 20 of their players ended up transferring to four-year universities.

Furthermore, after high school, some students are simply not prepared for the commitment and demands of a four-year university. In some circumstances, students even have families to help support.

“I don’t think junior colleges are lesser schools than four-year universities,” said Mike Frisina (‘09). “One of my professors has a Ph.D from Stanford and another one graduated from Boston University and studied abroad in Japan. So the quality of teachers is still the same as a four-year,” added Frisina.

Frisina, currently the kicker for the Saddleback Junior College football team also hoped to parlay his junior c o l l e g e experience

into an athletic scholarship. Another prominent reason for the

growing popularity of community colleges is the moderately low tuition. With the recent 9.3 percent increase of University of California tuition, it may prove to be financially smarter to attend a community college.

“I was accepted by a four-year [university] but just didn’t have the money to pay for everything,” said Patrick Jackson (‘09). “I don’t regret going to a junior college. Lots of people say it’s like the ‘13th grade,’ but it is allowing me to grow up and live on my own, yet it is still close enough to home to where I can still see my family and friends.”

With the cost of tuition for many four-year colleges rising, enrollment in community colleges is sure to increase. With an education as thorough as many four-year colleges, and without the four-year college financial burdens, community c o l l e g e s are a great alternative.

2% 19%3%

Percent of the Class of 2009 attending local community collegesCompiled from 2008-2009 senior surveys

Hwa Eun KimNews & Feature editor

Charissa KimA&E editor

Paul LeeOpinion editor

Anar Bata Connie Jung Sports editors

Rachel Kim Photo editor

Saloni ShahCenterspread editor

Santiago College Mt. Sac Fullerton College

C

Change necessary to halt America’s slide into regression

Girls’ Golf

Girls’ varsity golf ranked second place in Century League with a record of 6-2 and an overall record of 9-5.

Wildcat golfers defeated El Dorado High School, 234-243, Oct. 13. Their victory qualified the girls for CIF.

Ranked first in league, Canyon High School defeated the Wildcats at Western Hills Golf Course, 198-235, Oct.. 15.

Oct. 19, at Diamond Bar golf course, the girls lost to Wilson High School by seven strokes.

Against Troy High School, Oct. 21, the team fell once more in a non-league game by 13 strokes.

CIF competitions begin tomorrow.

Sherman Uyeno

Boys’ Water Polo

Averaging seven goals and seven steals per game, boys’ varsity water polo stands at 6-14 overall and 0-4 in Century League.

Boys’ water polo suffered its third league loss in its last home game, 10-7, against Canyon High School, Oct. 20.

“We almost had them during the third quarter,” said Joe Heiman, senior.

Against El Modena High School, the Wildcats faced a 15-7 defeat, Oct. 27. Kyle Anderson, senior, led the team with three goals.

“I think we’re going to do pretty good. People don’t think we’re going to do good but we’re going to prove them wrong,” stated Cale Engelage, junior.

Randy Liggins

Varsity Football

Standing at 1-6 overall and 0-2 in Century League, varsity football hopes to turn their season around in the remaining three games.

After falling to the Valencia High School, 41-13, in a non-league game, Oct. 9, the Wildcats headed into league with a 2-4 preseason record.

In the league opener against the Villa Park High School, Oct. 16, the offense was shut off, resulting in a 35-0 loss.

Facing El Dorado High School, the Wildcats continued to struggle and fell short in a 28-0 defeat.

The Wildcats take on El Modena High School on Friday.

Matt Schade

Girls’ Volleyball

As CIF approaches, girls’ varsity volleyball enters its remaining games with a 2-2 Century League record and 7-6 overall record.

Against El Modena High School, the Wildcats brought home a 3-0 league victory, Oct. 15, and had another win against Tustin, Oct. 20, with a 3-2 victory.

“It was a game that kept us on our toes the whole time, but we were able to pull through with a victory,” said Marissa Chapman, sophomore.

Wildcat players defeated Villa Park High School with a 3-1 win, Oct. 22.

Girls’ varsity volleyball has its lasts league game against Tustin tomorrow.

Lois Ahn

Girls’ cross country focuses on CIF

NEHA ANSARISTAFF WRITER

With a new coach, captain, and team members, girls’ cross country currently ranks fourth in Century League, 2-3, and sets its eyes on CIF.

The Wildcat participated in three invites: the Clovis Invite, Oct. 10, the Orange County Championship, Oct. 17, and the Mt. SAC Invite, Oct. 23.

To Laurel Mathews, senior, Mt. SAC was the most difficult out of the three courses.

“Mt. SAC had the toughest hills and

it was also really hot that day, so [the team] had a hard time,” said Mathews.

At Carbon Canyon Park, Oct. 28, the Wildcats emerged victorious against El Dorado High School, 25-34. However, they were defeated by El Modena High School, 26-30.

Despite the difficulty of the race, the team’s captain, Kelly Dimeo, senior, was able to beat the record set by Vanessa Hancock (‘08) with a third fastest time of 19:40 on the Carbon Canyon course. She is also currently undefeated in all league races.

“We’ve been comparing our times

from last year and hopefully, by doing this, we can qualify for CIF,” said Sabrina Gastelum, senior.

MATT SCHADESTAFF WRITER

At the Clovis Invitational, Oct. 10, Jake Quattrocchi, senior, ran 16:50, placing 24th overall out of a field of 150 runners. Following Andrew Daedler, junior, Quattrocchi finished second for the varsity team and the Wildcats placed second overall in the Large School Race.

Orange County ChampionshipsAt the Orange County

Championships, Oct. 17, at Irvine Park, the cross country team continued competing amongst some of the best teams in the state and placed 12th overall in the county and third in CIF

Division III. Competing

in the Sweep Six, Daedler finished with a time of 15:42, placing first for the team and 24th i n d i v i d u a l l y overall.

L e a g u e rival Canyon High School, finished just ahead of the Wildcats at tenth place, yet Daedler

finished before all Canyon runners as Tom Howland, senior, followed behind Canyon’s number two runner.

“We will definitely beat them,” Daedler said, in regards to the upcoming league finals where the Wildcats will get another shot at Canyon.

Howland, confident with the team’s recent improvement, said, “We showed that we can hang right with Canyon and that if we get healthy, we can blow Canyon away.”

Boys’ cross country is currently ranked ninth in the state for Division III, dropping five spots from its preseason

ranking of fourth. Previous number two runner Ryan Hightower, junior, number three runner Matt Ellenson and Jared Salvary, seniors, are recovering from injuries.

Of the meet, Howland said, “The race was intense. Hundreds of spectators were lining the course and there was constant yelling on both sides of the path. We were racing against some of the fastest teams and individuals in the country so when we would normally be in the front of the race, there were masses of people right alongside us.”

At the Orange County Championships, Elliot Ramirez, sophomore, placed as the tenth fastest sophomore in all of Orange County.

Mt. SAC InvitationalCompeting in the Mt. SAC

Invitational, Oct. 23, the Wildcats once again improved their times and led the school to a third place finish, behind Granite Hills High School and Golden Valley High School.

Ramirez led the team with a time of 16:17 which placed 13th overall at the event. The Wildcats finished as the top performing team from the Century League at the invite.

“There are definitely areas for improvement, especially with our ability to be able to take a tough situation and get as much as we can from it regardless of weather, mental condition, or even physical condition,” Ramirez said on the team’s performance at Mt. SAC.

Howland placed second for the team with a time of 16:23, finishing 17th overall.

The varsity team finished third in CIF Division III, and managed to beat a few state ranked teams, not only in the CIF Southern Section, but also the defending Alabama state champions.

At the Mt. SAC Invite, Howland commented on the atmosphere of racing in the prestigious race, “The field was still a good one so the race was intense again. We had three guys together for most of the race and had the fastest third guy, so it was nice hearing other coaches screaming at their athletes to catch us because we were such a threat.”

Boys’ cross country continued its recent success in a tri-meet against both El Dorado High School and El Modena High School, Oct. 28.

Against El Dorado High School,

Boys’ cross country heads for league fi nals at 4-1SPORTSDevin Gimbel, senior, and boys’ varsity water polo finished their season, standing at 0-4 in Century League and

6-14 overall after a 15-7 loss against El Modena High School, Oct. 27. 13November 4, 2009

COMING UP...@ CIF Finals

When: Nov. 14Time: TBAWhere: Mt. SACSeason update: Currently ranked fourth in Century League at 2-3, girls’ cross country marks its calender for CIF Finals at Mt. SAC.

Jeremy Mattern

Andrew Daedler

Team plans to ‘blow Canyon away’

FALL SPORTS WRAP

COMING UP...@ CIF Finals

When: Nov. 14Time: TBAWhere: Mt. SACSeason update: With a record of 4-1 in Century League and ranked third in CIF Division III, boys’ cross country heads into league fi nals today. Canyon High School leads league with a 5-0 record.

Photo courtesy of KELLY DIMEO

ON THE RUN: Kelly Dimeo, senior, competes at the Orange County Championships, Oct. 17. Dimeo, currently undefeated in Century League races, beat the record set by Vanessa Hancock (‘08) with a time of 19:40.

the Wildcats won, 20-43, and the team also defeated El Modena High School, 17-46, pushing their record to 4-1 in league.

Mark Svet, junior, finished with a time of 17:37, placing eighth overall and stated, “This race was probably the best meet we’ve had this year from a team standpoint. We all took it out together in a pack and stuck together for most of the race.” Ramirez also put in a great race, finishing second overall

and first for the Wildcats with a time of 16:48.

Boys’ cross country has Nov. 4 circled for League Finals.

“Canyon is leading in league at 5-0, but if we can beat them at league finals, we can tie for league champs,” said Svet. “With the way our training and racing is coming along there is a chance for that to happen.”

“We have a few weeks to get healthy to we beat Canyon,” said Howland.

Devin Gimbel, senior, and boys’ varsity water polo finished their season, standing at 0-4 in Century League and 6-14 overall after a 15-7 loss against El Modena High School, Oct. 27.

SPORTS Sharen Caperton, girls’ athletic director, is known for being a “diehard” Angels fan. She has been an Angels season ticket holder for 31 consecutive years.14 November 4, 2009

MATT SCHADESTAFF WRITER

After clinching the league championship for the third year in a row in 2008, and advancing to the second round in CIF, boys’ soccer hopes to repeat the feat once again this season.

“My expectations are always high. I believe that this team can compete for a league title,” Steve Teal, head coach stated.

Last season the Wildcats finished

Boys’ soccer shoots for fourth straight CIF title

with a 14-7-2 record and captured their 20th league title in 25 years. The team was also ranked number eight in Division II and number 12 in Orange County.

This year however, Teal believes that winning a fourth league title will be more challenging than before.

“We have to work harder than in the past because we lack experience and skill. I believe we have the players in place who are willing to sacrifice and learn. Over the next month that desire will be put to the test as we all will

TERRY KYUNGSTAFF WRITER

Over the last few decades, Sharen Caperton, girls’ athletic director, has seen the differences in the girls’ athletic program as a former student and current teacher.

When Caperton began teaching at BOHS in 1974, there were very few differences between her high

school years and her years of teaching. However, when comparing her beginning years with today, Caperton said, “the faculty was smaller and closer. I got to know them personally and it was easier to communicate and have fun with them.”

Along with a larger staff, the number of students also increased.

“When I went to BOHS, we had less than 300 students in our class year

and we had traditions we believed in and followed,” Caperton said.

Today, BOHS hosts over 2000 students.

In her first year as a teacher, Caperton coached volleyball, basketball, badminton, track and field, softball, and field hockey, which soccer later replaced.

During the years prior to 1977, girls had sports teams, but they did not

compete in competitions, such as CIF. The girls had “play days” instead, in which they had games against other high schools. When girls were finally allowed to compete in leagues, they participated in most sports.

Caperton encourages girls to play several sports as to become “well-rounded.”

As coach, Caperton was able to bring the most out of each athlete and make an impact on their life.

Vanessa Rigsby, a former student of Caperton and current girls’ JV softball coach, said, “Caperton was able to see the potential in all her athletes and would help [them] reach it. As a coach, she was able to provide her knowledge and experience of the game and share that with her players. Having Caperton as a coach helped me realize how much I loved the game and I was fortunate enough to be asked to come and coach after I graduated.”

In 2007, Caperton retired as head girls’ varsity softball coach and is currently working as the physical education teacher and girls’ athletic director.

Although Caperton stopped coaching athletes, she continues to influence current coaches.

“[When] I came back to coach Caperton was somewhat a mentor for me as she has had a successful career

Caperton witnesses change in girls’ athletics

STUDENT BECOMES TEACHER: (Left) BOHS alumnus, Sharen Caperton, smiles for her senior portrait. (Right) Caperton instructs Akshay Verma, freshman, on how to perform a squat in PE class.

Caperton by the

Numbers

33years

JEANNIE KIM / Wildcat

KICKING FOR THE WIN: Elias Hernandez, senior, dribbles the ball down field as Austin Mierau, sophomore, attempts to steal during practice, Oct. 30.

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Girls’ soccer returns with ‘strong group of players’SHERMAN UYENOSTAFF WRITER

Girls’ soccer will begin this season with a core of returning players.

Although last season’s team record was 2-4-2, the girls were able to defeat El Dorado High School, ranked third, in Century Lea 5-3.

Hoping for a better season, Nicole Lundy, senior, said, “We lost three seniors from last year’s starting team but our returners will be able to step it up and play the positions better.”

She added, “[We] have worked more on physical conditioning this year.”

Returning players include Chelsea Braudo, senior, Chloe Kincer and Allison Mortiz, juniors, all of whom were recognized by Century League for their performance last season.

Mortiz was vote to the leagues first team.

According to Emily Schade, senior, Canyon High School seems to be the team’s biggest competitor. However, the girls seem to be thinking positively about the season ahead.

“I think that our varsity team has the ability to beat all of the other teams in league as long as we stay committed to playing hard and as a team every game,” said Schade.

need to ask more of ourselves and each other.”

Matt Spies, senior, realizes this potential in players.

“We are a lot younger and inexperienced, but we are more dedicated on and off the field than in the past years,” said Spies.

As captain, Spies stated that he feels his role on the team is not only to lead the team during games, but to make the team improve throughout the year and help prepare younger players in the program for the future.

Michael Palmer, junior, also commented on this year’s youth. He said, “Last year we had mostly seniors starting and this year we will have a lot younger team especially in the back line.”

As of now, the Wildcats return with no starters from last year’s championship defense and field a defense comprised of three sophomores and a freshman goalie.

Teal knows that the defense will be a major asset as to whether this season is successful.

“Like most teams, the defense is the key to success. This year’s defense is super young and lacks experience, so we need to keep it simple and really work on making good decisions,” said Teal.

“Palmer will be a key player at the defensive mid. If he can read the game well and stay disciplined in the middle we can be very successful. His play can prevent many opportunities on goal,” Teal added.

Both Spies and Palmer agree that the main competetor this season in Century League will be El Modena High School.

“[They will be] a threat because they are returning most of their starters

COMING UP...vs. Aliso Niguel High School

When: November 30Time: 5:00 p.m.Where: Aliso Niguel High SchoolSeason preview: Boys’ soccer will begin their season with the Green/Gold game, in which varsity will play against JV, Nov. 21. Boys’ JV soccer will also play against Aliso Niguel, Nov. 30, as their fi rst preseason game.

48totalyears

Photo courtesy of SHAREN CAPERTON JEANNIE KIM / Wildcat

teaching at BOHSteaching at BOHS35years

34yearscoaching girls’ athletics

as girls’ athletic director

31yearsholding Angel season tickets

11yearsof softball league championships

in the Brea school system

as a coach. [She] is an asset to girls’ athletics,” said Rigsby.

While the program may have changed throughout the years, Caperton’s dedication did not.

“ I love sports and I love what I am doing,” Caperton said. “I have never wanted to do anything else but teaching and coaching sports.”

In 35 years at BOHS, Caperton has had court-side seat to evolution of girls’ sports competitions

from last year,” Spies said. Palmer also added that playing El

Modena will be a rivalry game this season. He said, “We have unfinished business with them,” because El Modena tied with the Wildcats last season as co-league champions.

Teal knows the odds are against the team to win CIF for the fourth consecutive year.

“Most coaches who know the high school game pick us to finish fifth this year. We will have to work hard to overcome every other team’s experience. The last time we were picked to finish this low we came in second in league.”

The players on this team know they are not the favorites, but as Teal stated, “We are a team that is unknown. We can be great or we can lose.”

Players such as Spies and Palmer know what this team is capable of and both have set their goals on capturing the fourth consecutive league title.

Along with working on attaining this title, boys’ soccer will also be participating in the Wildcat Cup, the annual tournament in which other schools from California will participate. Dec. 7 to Dec. 11, and Alumni Game, Jan. 5.

SPORTSKelsey Harris, senior, and the defending national champion Ladycats will host the Ladycat Classic, Dec. 1 to Dec. 6. The annual tournament features some of the best girls’ basketball teams in the country. 15November 4, 2009

Wrestlers eye top 3 fi nish in CIF

Ladycats to defend state title Boys’ basketball to rely on experience, size

CHRISTOPHER SUHSTAFF WRITER

When the winter season arrives and the nights get colder and longer, the few lights that illuminate the school after-hours reveal the wrestling team fo-cused on their training.

Beginning Nov. 16, wrestling will commence its season. Until then, the team has been meeting

every Friday after sixth period for pre-season training and condition-ing.

This is Feargus McTeggart’s sixth year as wrestling head coach. With ten returning varsity wrestlers, McTeggart has high expectations.

“We may not have that many seniors return-ing this year,” said Tom Shore, senior, “but some of our freshmen [beat] juniors and seniors in league matches last year, so winning league [is] a reality.”

“This year, we have a really good balance on the team aspect of wrestling,” added McTeggart. “I expect the returning seniors such as Thomas Shore, Jake Amsbury, and Wyatt Sawtell to stand on that podium for league, CIF and Masters.”

From July 20–24, 50 Wildcat wrestlers took part in the “Camp of Champions,” a wrestling camp hosted by the world’s current number two ranked wrestler, Jake Herbert. Last year, Henry Cejudo, Olympic gold medalist, hosted the camp after winning the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the 55kg weight class.

Tom Shore

“These are Olympic and world class cham-pions that came to our school to teach us how to win,” said McTeggart.

According to the Orange County Wrestling Coaches Association, the Century League is the toughest league in Orange County, due to El Do-rado and El Modena High Schools being ranked number one and two, respectively, in CIF. The league also produces the most CIF, Masters, and State placers than any other league in Southern California.

“Both El Dorado and El Modena this year have lost the majority of their [senior] varsity wrestlers,” said McTeggart. “So if we beat those two, not only can we be league champions this year, we could also be in the top three in CIF.”

However, despite team expectations, there are personal goals as well. To Jacob Castillo, sopho-more, his main goal is “[to survive] the season.”

“The attrition the sport does on you defines your commitment,” said McTeggart. “If you’re lazy during practice, it could cost you an injury during a real match. This sport defines the true champions and the fakers.”

“Our team is young, but when you add all the factors up, I believe our team is a model for suc-cess this year,” McTeggart added.

COMING UP...vs. Magnolia High School

When: December 11, 12Time: 4:00 p.m.Where: TBASeason preview: Wrestling season offi cially begins Nov. 14. The freshmen team hits the mats fi rst with a duel at Sonora High School Dec. 5. Varsity begins their competition season at Magnolia High School Dec. 11 and 12.

RANDY LIGGINSSTAFF WRITER

Being the CIF, state, and national champions of 2008-2009, the Ladycats’ expectations are understandably high.

“I hope we can make it to State again this year. We lost Jonae Ervin [‘09] but our younger players gained a lot of experience from last year,” said Alexis Perry, junior.

Last season, the Ladycats routed Carondelet High School at Arco Arena in Sacramento in the state championship game, 68-45. Kelsey Harris, senior, led the Ladycats with 25 points. The team finished the year with a 33-2 record.

Captains of the current season consist of Harris and Breana Buczek, seniors, and Alexis Perry and Justine Hartman, juniors.

Hartman led the team last year with an average of 14.8 points per game, and was second in rebounds with a 6.8 average.

The Ladycats expect their toughest game this season to be against Mater Dei High School, Jan. 18. Leading Mater Dei is 6-foot Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis, sophomore, who averaged 22.5 points and 12 rebounds per game last season. Espn.com recently named her “one of the best shooters in the country.”

During the last match-up between the two teams, the Ladycats handed the Monarchs--then ranked number one in the nation--their only defeat of the

season, 44-38. Along with preparing for Century

League play, the Ladycats will host the annual Ladycat Classic Tournament, from Dec. 1 to Dec. 6.

Although the Ladycats fell to Cajon High School in last year’s tourney, they are motivated more than ever to be crowned tournament champs.

Players to watch this season include

the 6’2 Hartman (State Freshmen of the Year in 2007-2008), guard Perry (2.6 assists per game last season), 5’11 sophomore forward Keitra Wallace (four points, three rebounds per game last season as a freshman), and 5’9 sophomore forward Jeanier Olukemi (4.1 points per game last season).

The Ladycats begin defense of their state title Nov. 30.

RANDY LIGGINSSTAFF WRITER

Making it to second round of the playoffs last year, boys’ varsity basketball has its standards set even higher this year.

Last season, the Wildcats suffered a loss to Golden Valley High School in the

second round of playoffs, 8 2 - 5 9 , despite then-s o p h o m o r e Kyle Caudill’s 20 points and 11 rebounds. The boys finished the

season at 14-15 overall. Pre-season this year includes games

against Corona Del Mar and La Canada High Schools. Tournaments include North Orange County, Buena Park and Torrey Pines.

This year, the Wildcats are younger than last year’s team with ten out of the 15 players underclassmen. But this inexperience will be off-set by the return of the 6’11 Caudill, who is already on many Division I team’s radars following a season in which he averaged 16.3 points and 12 rebounds.

The Wildcats plan to push the ball

Kyle Caudill

up the court more as opposed to setting up in a half court offense, which they relied on last season and resulted in a 56.7 points per game average.

Canyon High School, defending Century League champion, is expected to be the Wildcats number one competition this upcoming season. The Wildcats fell twice to the Comanches. “We are looking to bring a league title home in the upcoming season. If the CIF divisions stay fair we will be able to make a strong run at CIF,” said Bob Terry, head coach.

Returners looking to contribute immediately include last year’s third and fourth leading scorers Clayton Ragsdale, junior, and Daniel Villavecer, senior.

The team opens play Nov. 20 with the annual Green vs. Gold game.

Jacob Castillo

Green vs. Gold Intrasquad Game

When: November 20Time: 6:00 p.m.Where: Brea Olinda High SchoolSeason preview: Boys’ basketball starts the season with their Green vs. Gold game. The Wildcats are also participating in the NOC tournament later in the season which will take place from Dec. 14 to Dec. 19.

JEANNIE KIM / WildcatPRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: The defending state champion Ladycats practice after school, Oct. 30. The annual Green vs. Gold game is Nov. 21.

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

COMING UP...

HOMECOMING QUEEN CROWNED FRIDAYThe Wildcat

Brea-Olinda High School, Brea, Calif.

VOL. LXXIX, NO. 2 NOVEMBER 4,2009

Angels Stadium Slated for Homecoming, ‘09 style

Five Seniors Vie For Queen Honors

Homecoming candidates- (front row left) Ashley Schweitzer, Ajia Goodson, and Andrea Frisina; (back row left) Melissa Bent and Kaylee Dysart, senior princesses pose in their Halloween costumes.

‘BIG SWING’ THEME FOR HOMECOMING RALLY THURSDAY

As the fi rst formal dance of the school year approaches, students across campus are looking forward to the annual Homecoming dance which will take place Nov. 7. Although Girls’ League has been planning an annual Homecoming since 1927, this year’s dance is to be “extra special,” said Arleen Chadha, Girls’ League member.

On the dance’s location, Cindy Gebala, junior and Girls’ League secretary, said, “Angels Stadium was picked as this year’s location because the Angels are a successful local sports team that has always been popular. So that should make people want to come.”

Although some students may want to “jerk” on the pitcher’s mound, the actual dance will take place at the Diamond Club, which, according to Gebala, “is right behind the home plate so students will have the chance to be in the stadium and see the fi eld up close.” Gebala also said that the club has “a cool atmosphere [with] an excellent dance fl oor.”

The dance’s theme also ties in with the location. “‘The Big Swing’ is an interesting theme that also relates to baseball so it was the perfect choice,” added Chadha.

Since the dance follows Homecoming spirit week and the traditional football game, Chadha hopes that students will be following dress-up days and attending the football game, while also being excited for the dance.

“People should come just because it will be an entertaining and engaging way to celebrate the end the fi rst quarter while hanging out with friends and dancing to some great music,” Chadha said.

Preparing since summer, Girls’ League members hope for the dance to be success. “Not only have we been planning for a long time, but we’ve also put a lot of work into this dance, so we just want people to come and appreciate our efforts,” said Gebala. She added, “[We want] homecoming to be a home run.”

Neha Ansari

Underclass princesses ready for dance

Four underclassmen princesses were announced along with the senior princesses Oct. 2. Heather Lystad, freshman, Justine Garate, sophomore, and Shelby Makris and Savannah Maske, juniors, underwent a nomination and application process, eventually winning each of their respective class elections.

The four girls are prepping for the Homecoming rally and half-time show where they will have their bios read.

Football: 51 years ago2009 Football Captains

Chris Graciarena Joe Martinez Randy Liggins Luke WilliamsPlayers to watch for: Justin Owens, sophomore, Zach Wall, Luke Williams, Derrick Koteita, seniors

Predicted League Champion: Tustin

Team Strength: “We � ght hard and never quit,” said Randy Liggins, senior

Team Goal: To make CIF playo� s

Needs to Improve: “We need to be more aggressive,” said Liggins.

Current Record: 2-6

Next Game: El Modena, Friday at home at 7 p.m.

Future EventsNo School - Friday

Homecoming Football Game- Home, Friday, 7 p.m.

Homecoming Dance - Angel Stadium, Saturday, 8 p.m.

No School - Veterans Day, 11/11

No School - Thanksgiving, 11/26-11/27

Yellow Ribbon Week - Suicide Prevention, 11/30-12/4

Canned Food Drive - 12/1-12/17

Mr. Brea - Performing Arts Center, 12/9

Set for tomorrow, the yearly Homecoming rally has been in preparation for weeks. Homecoming, Saturday at Angels Stadium, is themed the “Big Swing,” in reference to both baseball and the Swing Era of the late 1930’s.

Chelsea Essington, senior and pep commissioner for ASB said, “Wear your class colors because the class competition is still going on and we’ve tied the theme of ‘Big Swing’ into the rally. It’s going to be really fun.”

Varsity football is singing the national anthem, teachers will be performing a skit, and the nine homecoming princesses and their escorts will be walking the red carpet as they are introduced to the school.

Five seniors were voted to Homecoming court, but only one is to be crowned Homecoming queen during Friday’s half-time show.

Ajia GoodsonAjia Goodson has lived overseas in

Macao, China, and Penang, Malaysia, and moved to Brea her junior year. She is president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and co-president of the Girl’s Bible Study club. Goodson said, “It is a really cool honor to be voted as senior homecoming princess.”

Andrea Frisina Andrea Frisina is the captain of the varsity

volleyball team and was voted the most “all-around.” Frisina said, “I am very honored to be a [homecoming] princess and no matter who wins, we are all deserving of it.”

Ashley Schweitzer Ashley Schweitzer is involved in many

clubs and is president and founder of the Brea Museum Historical Society club. Schweitzer said, “I’m really excited to represent Brea Olinda and show people that we have great well-rounded students,”

Kaylee DysartKaylee Dysart is a four year member of choir

and Masquerade and was previously freshman homecoming princess in 2006. Dysart said, “I believe all the girls on court are wonderful girls who all deserved and worked hard to become a role model for the student body,” and added, “it’s not every day you get to feel like you are truly are a princess.”

Melissa Bent Melissa Bent’s “life in Brea revolves around

school and all the activities and responsibilities that come with it.” She has been on the tennis team for four years and currently serves as ASB president. Bent said, “I have a ton of school spirit. I live for it.”

Compiled by Lois Ahn

RACHEL KIM / Wildcat

RACHEL KIM / Wildcat

1958 Football - (From top left) Jim Braly earned a spot on the All-CIF team. (Bottom left) Jim Braly, Dick Skinner, Ken Waggener, and Russ Trader were named to the Orange All-League team. (Top right) Skinner and Waggener were the 1958 co-captains and led their team to a league title.

Wildcat (‘58)