Halloween Fun!
Menlo had a great Halloween with many creative costumes - here are just a few pictures, stay tuned for more in the print Scribbler coming soon. Click any of the photos below to see them full size.
Prep Day!
By Kate Huneke
On October 30, sixth, seventh, and eight graders rushed off the bus and into the quad. Lots of the girls had on knee socks, pleated skirts, and polo shirts. A few guys had khakis, loafers, sweaters draped across their shoulders, and popped up collars.
It was fun to see everybody dressed up in what was supposed to imitate the East Coast prep school look. Over there, a lot of prep schools have to actually wear a blazer, tie, pants, and plain black shoes.
What we did to impersonate them was crazy! We had hot pink, light pink, blue, brown, green, and red colors galore! But who wants to stick with the basics? It’s spirit week, so lets give ‘em spirit!
Pictures by Taylor Guse
College Basketball
Wade Avery’s Pre-season top 25
1. UNC
2. Memphis
3. UCLA
4. Georgetown
5. Kansas
6. Michigan St.
7. Indiana
8. Tennessee
9. Marquette
10. Oregon
11. Duke
12. Washington State
13. Texas
14. Kentucky
15. Stanford
16. USC
17. Syracuse
18. Kansas State
19. Clemson
20. Pittsburgh
21. Arizona
22. Arkansas
23. Virginia
24. Villanova
25. Gonzaga
1. UNC
2. Memphis
3. UCLA
4. Georgetown
5. Kansas
6. Michigan St.
7. Indiana
8. Tennessee
9. Marquette
10. Oregon
11. Duke
12. Washington State
13. Texas
14. Kentucky
15. Stanford
16. USC
17. Syracuse
18. Kansas State
19. Clemson
20. Pittsburgh
21. Arizona
22. Arkansas
23. Virginia
24. Villanova
25. Gonzaga
NFL Quick Round-Up
By Wade Avery
Undefeated:
The Patriots and Colts are the only teams left with out a loss. Why? Both have unstoppable offenses and defenses good enough to support them. The Patriot star power on the offense is abundant at every position. For Manning, it doesn’t matter if his receivers are good (they are), he can run the offense on his own. Who is better? The Patriots are easily better because they have 4 All-Star receivers, Wes Welker, Ben Watson, Donte’ Stalworth, and Randy Moss. No defense is good enough to stop these guys.
Defeated:
St. Louis and Miami, are in the hole. Miami just lost their star running back Ronnie Brown, which will further stop their little progress. Their Defense is the worst in the league, and they play the Giants in London, who will rack it up on them. St. Louis has been let down by RB Steven Jackson who was supposed to carry the team. Their D has not held up their end either.
Top Performers:
Adrian Peterson: In his first year, he has lead the league in rushing yards and is going to cause hell.
Tom Brady: Given.
Randy Moss: Impressed us from last, he leads receiving yards.
Sean Taylor: The Skins LB leads in interceptions and is helping the Redskins through the season.
Undefeated:
The Patriots and Colts are the only teams left with out a loss. Why? Both have unstoppable offenses and defenses good enough to support them. The Patriot star power on the offense is abundant at every position. For Manning, it doesn’t matter if his receivers are good (they are), he can run the offense on his own. Who is better? The Patriots are easily better because they have 4 All-Star receivers, Wes Welker, Ben Watson, Donte’ Stalworth, and Randy Moss. No defense is good enough to stop these guys.
Defeated:
St. Louis and Miami, are in the hole. Miami just lost their star running back Ronnie Brown, which will further stop their little progress. Their Defense is the worst in the league, and they play the Giants in London, who will rack it up on them. St. Louis has been let down by RB Steven Jackson who was supposed to carry the team. Their D has not held up their end either.
Top Performers:
Adrian Peterson: In his first year, he has lead the league in rushing yards and is going to cause hell.
Tom Brady: Given.
Randy Moss: Impressed us from last, he leads receiving yards.
Sean Taylor: The Skins LB leads in interceptions and is helping the Redskins through the season.
Campus Trash
By Annie Rosenberg
The worst kept secret on campus is still treated as though its identity and existence are kept in the dark. Mrs. Brigham’s goal as Middle School Director is to eliminate the appalling amount of trash on our once lovely campus and restore it back to health and beauty. We have been reminded time and time again about the unacceptable trash but we continue to do nothing to help, but why? Is it that we don’t care or that we’re too lazy? Menlo School is extremely active in the idea of restoring our environment, but we daily contradict our efforts as we do exactly what we are fighting against.
Our world is slowly disinigrating and leaving trash around generates the fact that we are accomplices in the death of our earth.
If you don’t care about any of that, then just pick up trash so we can get our cookies back!
SPEEDO CUP 2007
By Kate Huneke
On November 9, 2007, many boys and girl’s club water polo teams will go to the USA Speedo Cup to play against some of the best teams in the country. The local Stanford team qualified, which consists of Mr. Utsumi, and two sixth graders from Menlo School (myself and Averi Westerman).
Stanford will be one of twelve teams, from six separate states (California, Missouri, Maryland, Florida, Illinois, and Texas).
The Speedo Cup includes twelve 14 year old boy’s teams and twelve 14 year old girl’s teams. This event has been going on for 15 years in the Midwest. This is the national water polo championships for this age group.
Stanford practices four hours per week, two nights a week. Most weekends we have games, and on October 28 we have a lot of games, starting at 9.
To find out more, go to stanfordwaterpolo.com
On November 9, 2007, many boys and girl’s club water polo teams will go to the USA Speedo Cup to play against some of the best teams in the country. The local Stanford team qualified, which consists of Mr. Utsumi, and two sixth graders from Menlo School (myself and Averi Westerman).
Stanford will be one of twelve teams, from six separate states (California, Missouri, Maryland, Florida, Illinois, and Texas).
The Speedo Cup includes twelve 14 year old boy’s teams and twelve 14 year old girl’s teams. This event has been going on for 15 years in the Midwest. This is the national water polo championships for this age group.
Stanford practices four hours per week, two nights a week. Most weekends we have games, and on October 28 we have a lot of games, starting at 9.
To find out more, go to stanfordwaterpolo.com
Charley’s Aunt
By Paul Wat
Pete Foster, who plays Lord Fancourt Babberly in the drama play, Charley’s Aunt seems to have a liking and has high hopes for this play. “It’s fun, but it’s also hard work,” says Foster. Charley’s Aunt may be a funny comedic play, but it’s a challenge for the students. “ We have to balance our homework with spending time memorizing the script. There’s some stress, but everybody was great enough to put on the show.” In Foster’s point of view, it was fun to hang out and just try it. “It was a lot of fun, but even if it wasn’t the best, everyone tried and saw what would happen next.”
Pete Foster, who plays Lord Fancourt Babberly in the drama play, Charley’s Aunt seems to have a liking and has high hopes for this play. “It’s fun, but it’s also hard work,” says Foster. Charley’s Aunt may be a funny comedic play, but it’s a challenge for the students. “ We have to balance our homework with spending time memorizing the script. There’s some stress, but everybody was great enough to put on the show.” In Foster’s point of view, it was fun to hang out and just try it. “It was a lot of fun, but even if it wasn’t the best, everyone tried and saw what would happen next.”
Rock the Vote?
By Lindsay Johnson
Senior Editor
'Cause I've got a crush on Obama, I cannot wait, 'til 2008… Baby you’re the best candidate”
These are the lyrics to the YouTube phenomenon that is “I Got a Crush on Obama”. Featuring a scantily clad, former Miss Hawaiian Tropic beauty queen named Amber Lee Ettinger, the video show Ettinger dancing around and lip-syncing about whom she wants for her next president. This video, with over 3 millions views on YouTube, has sparked “Romney Girls” and “Giuliani Girls” all who seem to be showing their devotion through the limited amount of clothing they wear. These videos are not endorsed by the candidates, but seem to be getting a whole lot of attention by a younger demographic. As the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as bad publicity” I’ve noticed this year in particular that candidates are attempting to reach out to their younger voters, creating Myspace pages for themselves, the infamous YouTube debate, and the “Presidential” girls. Check out Hillary Clinton’s Myspace and you can find out her weakness (chocolate) and what car she drives (she can’t, Secret Service vehicles). On John McCain’s page, you can see his favorite TV show (24) and his favorite book (For Whom the Bell Tolls). I think that these pages are meant to connect with readers, to show that these people are not only accomplished politicians, but average human beings as well.
The YouTube debate featured Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Mike Gravel, Chris Dodd, Dennis Kucinich, Bill Richardson and John Edwards. Questions were submitted via YouTube, and were asked to specific candidates. The main highlight though would be the debate between the two most popular candidates, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. They quarreled over whether it would be suitable for them to meet with the world’s worst dictators, Fidel Castro, Kim Jung II, and Hugo Chavez. Obama said that he believed that the USA needs to move closer to diplomacy as soon as possible, citing former presidents Ronald Reagan and JFK and the progress they made with the Soviet Union as an example. Clinton said that she would not meet with the dictators in her first year until she was fully aware of their intentions. The Republican candidates are set to debate November 28. Missing in attendance will be Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney, who due to schedules will be unable to attend.
Last election year, popular celebrities such as Diddy, Paris Hilton, Adam Brody, and Rachel Bilson all showed their support with appearances on MTV and by sporting shirts with the slogan “Rock the Vote!” That campaign caught the attention of younger voters, and 1.2 million registered to vote on the Rock the Vote website. Sounds impressive right? That’s until you look at the amount that actually voted- a measly 14.4% of youth aged 18-25. With an estimated $70,000,000 being spent by the candidates this year on campaigning, I have to wonder if it’s really worth it. While it’s apparent that youth is interested and excited about these hot, technologically dominated campaigns will they really pull through and put their favorite candidate in the Oval Office?
Senior Editor
'Cause I've got a crush on Obama, I cannot wait, 'til 2008… Baby you’re the best candidate”
These are the lyrics to the YouTube phenomenon that is “I Got a Crush on Obama”. Featuring a scantily clad, former Miss Hawaiian Tropic beauty queen named Amber Lee Ettinger, the video show Ettinger dancing around and lip-syncing about whom she wants for her next president. This video, with over 3 millions views on YouTube, has sparked “Romney Girls” and “Giuliani Girls” all who seem to be showing their devotion through the limited amount of clothing they wear. These videos are not endorsed by the candidates, but seem to be getting a whole lot of attention by a younger demographic. As the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as bad publicity” I’ve noticed this year in particular that candidates are attempting to reach out to their younger voters, creating Myspace pages for themselves, the infamous YouTube debate, and the “Presidential” girls. Check out Hillary Clinton’s Myspace and you can find out her weakness (chocolate) and what car she drives (she can’t, Secret Service vehicles). On John McCain’s page, you can see his favorite TV show (24) and his favorite book (For Whom the Bell Tolls). I think that these pages are meant to connect with readers, to show that these people are not only accomplished politicians, but average human beings as well.
The YouTube debate featured Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Mike Gravel, Chris Dodd, Dennis Kucinich, Bill Richardson and John Edwards. Questions were submitted via YouTube, and were asked to specific candidates. The main highlight though would be the debate between the two most popular candidates, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. They quarreled over whether it would be suitable for them to meet with the world’s worst dictators, Fidel Castro, Kim Jung II, and Hugo Chavez. Obama said that he believed that the USA needs to move closer to diplomacy as soon as possible, citing former presidents Ronald Reagan and JFK and the progress they made with the Soviet Union as an example. Clinton said that she would not meet with the dictators in her first year until she was fully aware of their intentions. The Republican candidates are set to debate November 28. Missing in attendance will be Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney, who due to schedules will be unable to attend.
Last election year, popular celebrities such as Diddy, Paris Hilton, Adam Brody, and Rachel Bilson all showed their support with appearances on MTV and by sporting shirts with the slogan “Rock the Vote!” That campaign caught the attention of younger voters, and 1.2 million registered to vote on the Rock the Vote website. Sounds impressive right? That’s until you look at the amount that actually voted- a measly 14.4% of youth aged 18-25. With an estimated $70,000,000 being spent by the candidates this year on campaigning, I have to wonder if it’s really worth it. While it’s apparent that youth is interested and excited about these hot, technologically dominated campaigns will they really pull through and put their favorite candidate in the Oval Office?
World Series Predictions
By David Ball and Sam Crowder
Red Sox Predictions: The Red Sox finished the ALCS on fire led by Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis. We think that Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz “Big Papi” will break out clutch hits in the World series because of their experience and multiple trips to the playoffs. Dustin Pedroia will remain hot but Kevin Youkilis will cool down a little bit. For their pitching Josh Beckett is expected to get the win with a low era. We do think that he will give up a home run to Matt Holliday. Curt Schilling is going to pitch in a close game that could go either way. Jonathan Papelbon will be dominate all series.
Rockies Predictions: The Rockies have finished the regular season amazingly and won two out of three games at Fenway in June and Josh Beckett had one of his worst games against them. They have swept both series in the playoffs. We predict that they will not keep their amazing streak going. Troy Tuluwitski and Todd Helton will keep up their great defense but their hitting will stop. Matt Holliday will keep up his great hitting. The Rockies pitching will get blown out at Fenway but will be dominate in Colorado.
Final Predictions:
Winner: Red Sox in game 6
World Series MVP: Dustin Pedroia
Game 1: Red Sox
Game 2: Red Sox
Game 3: Rockies
Game 4: Red Sox
Game 5: Rockies
Game 6: RED SOX
Red Sox Predictions: The Red Sox finished the ALCS on fire led by Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis. We think that Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz “Big Papi” will break out clutch hits in the World series because of their experience and multiple trips to the playoffs. Dustin Pedroia will remain hot but Kevin Youkilis will cool down a little bit. For their pitching Josh Beckett is expected to get the win with a low era. We do think that he will give up a home run to Matt Holliday. Curt Schilling is going to pitch in a close game that could go either way. Jonathan Papelbon will be dominate all series.Rockies Predictions: The Rockies have finished the regular season amazingly and won two out of three games at Fenway in June and Josh Beckett had one of his worst games against them. They have swept both series in the playoffs. We predict that they will not keep their amazing streak going. Troy Tuluwitski and Todd Helton will keep up their great defense but their hitting will stop. Matt Holliday will keep up his great hitting. The Rockies pitching will get blown out at Fenway but will be dominate in Colorado.Final Predictions:
Winner: Red Sox in game 6
World Series MVP: Dustin Pedroia
Game 1: Red Sox
Game 2: Red Sox
Game 3: Rockies
Game 4: Red Sox
Game 5: Rockies
Game 6: RED SOX
Boston Red Sox Come Back to Advance to the World Series
By James Huber with assistance from Jackson Dean and Nicky G.
Down 3 games to 1, the Red Sox hopefuls were losing faith that their team would win the ALCS. Led by ace pitcher Josh Beckett, series MVP and strong hitting from rookie Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez the Red Sox pulled through and won the final game 11-2. After seemingly key victories for the Tribe, led by Kenny Lofton’s two run homer in game three and a huge win in extra innings, the Indians seemed on the verge of going to their first World Series since 1997. Josh Beckett, continued his dominance in the postseason by shutting down the strong Indians line-up in game 5. The series went back to Boston for game 6. Rookie pitcher Fausto Carmona and veteran Curt Schilling were given the start and Schilling’s experience showed. Carmona was all over the place with his pitches and slumping J.D. Drew crushed a grand slam in the first inning to bury the Indians. Curt Schilling pitched 7 strong innings to get the win. In game 7, the Red Sox were motivated by Ryan Garko’s quote of “the champagne tastes better on the road,” a reference to his Indians team winning the American League pennant while playing away at Boston. Dustin Pedroia had 5 RBI and Kevin Youkilis continued to stay hot and Daisuke Matsuzaka blew away the Indians hitters to clinch the series.
Down 3 games to 1, the Red Sox hopefuls were losing faith that their team would win the ALCS. Led by ace pitcher Josh Beckett, series MVP and strong hitting from rookie Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez the Red Sox pulled through and won the final game 11-2. After seemingly key victories for the Tribe, led by Kenny Lofton’s two run homer in game three and a huge win in extra innings, the Indians seemed on the verge of going to their first World Series since 1997. Josh Beckett, continued his dominance in the postseason by shutting down the strong Indians line-up in game 5. The series went back to Boston for game 6. Rookie pitcher Fausto Carmona and veteran Curt Schilling were given the start and Schilling’s experience showed. Carmona was all over the place with his pitches and slumping J.D. Drew crushed a grand slam in the first inning to bury the Indians. Curt Schilling pitched 7 strong innings to get the win. In game 7, the Red Sox were motivated by Ryan Garko’s quote of “the champagne tastes better on the road,” a reference to his Indians team winning the American League pennant while playing away at Boston. Dustin Pedroia had 5 RBI and Kevin Youkilis continued to stay hot and Daisuke Matsuzaka blew away the Indians hitters to clinch the series.
Fall Fashion
By Kate Huneke
This fall season, very business-like dresses, wide-legged pants, and printed collared shirts will be previewed. For accessories, such as sunglasses, there will be lots of clear plastic aviators and big tortoiseshell sunglasses. For handbags, we are seeing large metallic animal prints and small high shine black clutches.
And then there’s shoes. Ballerina flats are still popular amongst the younger set. We will see lots of metallics, animal prints, woven flats, peep toes, bright colors, and the original cap-toe Mary Jane’s.
For men’s fashion we are going to be seeing white pants, zip up suit jackets, velvety jackets, riding jodhpurs, and big puffy jackets.
In earlier fall, we saw knits, skinny jeans, leggings, knee high riding boots, plaid pea coats, and pleated skirts. Lots of these fashions are still popular, but for later fall, look here for help!
Happy shopping!
An Inside Look at "Charley's Aunt"
By Pete Foster
This weekend, Menlo’s comedy “Charley’s Aunt” is showing at the commons, and the cast, including myself, is very excited to show what we have been working on the past 5 weeks.
This hilarious British story is based in the 1920’s in the University of Oxford. 2 of Oxford’s undergraduates, Jack Chesney (Brett Caplan) and Charles “Charley” Wykeham (Manny Walton) are desperate to spend a last day with their girlfriends Kitty Verdun (Taylor Stone and Amy Spettigue (Lindsay Johnson) who are going away for the summer. Charley hears Dona Lucia d’Alvedorez (Danielle Brown), his aunt whom he has never seen is visiting him, and the boys seize this opportunity to invite the girls to meet her. (Back then you needed a chaperone when you dated to make sure nothing “bad” happened) At the last moment, she telegraphs she can’t come, and the boys panic, eventually dragging one of their friends, Lord Fancourt “Babbs” Babberly (Me, Pete Foster) to dress up and act as the aunt. As the play unravels, this comedy will have you jumping out of your seat with laughter. Richard Harris, John Welsh, and Clarissa Klein fill out the rest of the show.
Tickets are 5$ at the bookstore, and times are Friday at 7, Saturday at 7, and Sunday at 2 in the Menlo Middle School commons theatre. If you were able to see the preview on Monday, you should have been able to get a sense of what a great presentation this will be, so please come! You can ask Mr. Perez, Mr. Mugglebee, or anyone in the cast questions you my have.
This weekend, Menlo’s comedy “Charley’s Aunt” is showing at the commons, and the cast, including myself, is very excited to show what we have been working on the past 5 weeks.
This hilarious British story is based in the 1920’s in the University of Oxford. 2 of Oxford’s undergraduates, Jack Chesney (Brett Caplan) and Charles “Charley” Wykeham (Manny Walton) are desperate to spend a last day with their girlfriends Kitty Verdun (Taylor Stone and Amy Spettigue (Lindsay Johnson) who are going away for the summer. Charley hears Dona Lucia d’Alvedorez (Danielle Brown), his aunt whom he has never seen is visiting him, and the boys seize this opportunity to invite the girls to meet her. (Back then you needed a chaperone when you dated to make sure nothing “bad” happened) At the last moment, she telegraphs she can’t come, and the boys panic, eventually dragging one of their friends, Lord Fancourt “Babbs” Babberly (Me, Pete Foster) to dress up and act as the aunt. As the play unravels, this comedy will have you jumping out of your seat with laughter. Richard Harris, John Welsh, and Clarissa Klein fill out the rest of the show.
Tickets are 5$ at the bookstore, and times are Friday at 7, Saturday at 7, and Sunday at 2 in the Menlo Middle School commons theatre. If you were able to see the preview on Monday, you should have been able to get a sense of what a great presentation this will be, so please come! You can ask Mr. Perez, Mr. Mugglebee, or anyone in the cast questions you my have.
The Weird News
By Avery Corley and Marisa Ayyar
A man was accused for stealing 350 bras worth $15,000 from Victoria’s Secret. He was caught on the store cameras, but he did it in broad daylight when the store was open. The man stole the bras in broad daylight at the Flagstaff Mall and was not caught until they reviewed the tape. He was suspected to sell them off the Internet for profit.
A 17-year-old man, while waiting in line at McDonalds accidentally shot himself in the leg. He had a pistol tucked into his belt. He wound up being ok, but he was charged with illegal possession of a firearm, maybe the gun had been stolen. The boy is now located at Juvenile Hall.
A man was accused for stealing 350 bras worth $15,000 from Victoria’s Secret. He was caught on the store cameras, but he did it in broad daylight when the store was open. The man stole the bras in broad daylight at the Flagstaff Mall and was not caught until they reviewed the tape. He was suspected to sell them off the Internet for profit.
A 17-year-old man, while waiting in line at McDonalds accidentally shot himself in the leg. He had a pistol tucked into his belt. He wound up being ok, but he was charged with illegal possession of a firearm, maybe the gun had been stolen. The boy is now located at Juvenile Hall.
El dia de los muertos
By Caroline Broderick and Sam Hoag
Nosotros celebramos el dia de los muertos en noviembre uno y dos todo el dia. Nosotros celebramos en el commons con comida y musica.( The seventh grade class is having an all day two day long fiesta in the commons to celebrate the day of the dead. With your teachers permission you can come at any time of the day including lunch. We will have music and food and many festive decorations. We hope you can come!)
Art by Will Petit
Heisman Race
By Wade Avery
This year the Heisman race is busted wide open. Pre-season favorites like Darren McFadden, Brian Brohm, and Ray Rice now have odds smaller than Hitler’s heart. All of the top 4 candidates started outside of the top five in preseason and for the moment the leader is Sophomore Tim Tebow of Florida. Still one fluke can put him behind everyone else. The margin of error is so tight that one interception could change your chances. But who are behind him? In a close second, behind by 2 points is BC’s Matt Ryan. In third is Kentucky senior QB Andre’ Woodson who is 18 points behind. In fourth is Oregon’s Denis Dixon who is behind by 32 votes. In fifth is the emerging Mike Hart who has been rolling as of late who is behind by 33 votes. Trailing in the bottom of the top 10 are Colt Brennan, Ray Rice, Chase Daniel, DeSean Jackson, Darren McFadden, and Glenn Dorsy.
This year the Heisman race is busted wide open. Pre-season favorites like Darren McFadden, Brian Brohm, and Ray Rice now have odds smaller than Hitler’s heart. All of the top 4 candidates started outside of the top five in preseason and for the moment the leader is Sophomore Tim Tebow of Florida. Still one fluke can put him behind everyone else. The margin of error is so tight that one interception could change your chances. But who are behind him? In a close second, behind by 2 points is BC’s Matt Ryan. In third is Kentucky senior QB Andre’ Woodson who is 18 points behind. In fourth is Oregon’s Denis Dixon who is behind by 32 votes. In fifth is the emerging Mike Hart who has been rolling as of late who is behind by 33 votes. Trailing in the bottom of the top 10 are Colt Brennan, Ray Rice, Chase Daniel, DeSean Jackson, Darren McFadden, and Glenn Dorsy.
SEC or Pac-10?
By Wade Avery
This has been a long heated debate. Both sides have good points as to which are better, but who really is? A recent letter to Sports Illustrated by an SEC fan claimed they are better because they have bigger stadiums, drunker fans, more national titles, better recruiting, better rivalries and more NFL stars. That is debatable, but look, the SEC does have bigger stadiums, and drunker fans but USC has won 2 titles this decade, where as the SEC only has one. NFL stars on the offensive side of the ball are fed from the west coast. You have Reggie Bush, Marshawn Lynch, Maurice Jones-Drew, T.J. Houmanzada, Chad Johnson and Matt Leinart are only a few of the offensive stars already off to fabulous careers. Don’t forget you still have Troy Palumalu and John Lynch still controlling the other side of the ball as well. Along with retired stars like John Elway and O.J. Simpson you could easily give the Pac-10 the NFL stars. Recruiting, with USC reeling in 4 top 10 recruits along with Washington, Cal, UCLA, and Oregon picking up other top recruits. But, I would need to cut it even because the SEC gets almost everyone in between. Now Rivalries, oh man, the Cal Play is currently the #1 play of all time, USC-UCLA and USC-Notre Dame have been blood bathes for years producing stars. That doesn’t even mention the Apple Bowl with WSU and Washington where the underdog always seem to take the win. The Civil War when Oregon and OSU square off has been decided by less than 10 points for the last 5 years. Yes, SEC rivalries are good, but half of them are with teams that aren’t even in their conference. Besides would you rather see a Pac-10 game where the score is normally 35-31 or an SEC game where the final would be 7-13, wow exciting!
This has been a long heated debate. Both sides have good points as to which are better, but who really is? A recent letter to Sports Illustrated by an SEC fan claimed they are better because they have bigger stadiums, drunker fans, more national titles, better recruiting, better rivalries and more NFL stars. That is debatable, but look, the SEC does have bigger stadiums, and drunker fans but USC has won 2 titles this decade, where as the SEC only has one. NFL stars on the offensive side of the ball are fed from the west coast. You have Reggie Bush, Marshawn Lynch, Maurice Jones-Drew, T.J. Houmanzada, Chad Johnson and Matt Leinart are only a few of the offensive stars already off to fabulous careers. Don’t forget you still have Troy Palumalu and John Lynch still controlling the other side of the ball as well. Along with retired stars like John Elway and O.J. Simpson you could easily give the Pac-10 the NFL stars. Recruiting, with USC reeling in 4 top 10 recruits along with Washington, Cal, UCLA, and Oregon picking up other top recruits. But, I would need to cut it even because the SEC gets almost everyone in between. Now Rivalries, oh man, the Cal Play is currently the #1 play of all time, USC-UCLA and USC-Notre Dame have been blood bathes for years producing stars. That doesn’t even mention the Apple Bowl with WSU and Washington where the underdog always seem to take the win. The Civil War when Oregon and OSU square off has been decided by less than 10 points for the last 5 years. Yes, SEC rivalries are good, but half of them are with teams that aren’t even in their conference. Besides would you rather see a Pac-10 game where the score is normally 35-31 or an SEC game where the final would be 7-13, wow exciting!
Sports Opinion
By Wade Avery
Senior Editor
• In my opinion if South Florida goes undefeated or has any other type of a shot to go to the National Title they should because if it were any other Big East team like West Virginia or Louisville they would go to the title, so why not South Florida.
• June Jones the head coach of Hawaii criticized San Jose state for the condition of their field. He said his team would have put up 800 yards on them if the field wasn’t in such pitiful condition. That was a dumb and selfish comment. How are they supposed to control the weather and stop the rain from making it muddy on the field, San Jose also has the second lowest athletic budget so why would they waste all of it to put in artificial turf. Part of football is playing in different weather and adjusting, you can’t try to make yourself look good by saying the field was bad. Besides the field would have been twice as bad if it were at Notre Dame or Penn State. To be a good team you have to play well rain or shine.
• Speaking of Notre Dame, Charlie Weis decided not to go with their dorky freshman Jimmy Clausen, and start Evan Sharply the junior who has not started a game and has still thrown more TDs than Clausen. Clausen’s two touchdown drives were from less than 20 yards and of Sharply’s three TD drives two were from over 70 yards out. Good move.
• Sorry MLB but the fact is 5 times more people watch the Patriot, Cowboy game than the Rockies final game over the Diamondbacks.
• When the Bears beat the Vikings, the Bears made the lucky decision to put Devin Hester at WR where he had an 81 yard TD reception.
Senior Editor
• In my opinion if South Florida goes undefeated or has any other type of a shot to go to the National Title they should because if it were any other Big East team like West Virginia or Louisville they would go to the title, so why not South Florida.
• June Jones the head coach of Hawaii criticized San Jose state for the condition of their field. He said his team would have put up 800 yards on them if the field wasn’t in such pitiful condition. That was a dumb and selfish comment. How are they supposed to control the weather and stop the rain from making it muddy on the field, San Jose also has the second lowest athletic budget so why would they waste all of it to put in artificial turf. Part of football is playing in different weather and adjusting, you can’t try to make yourself look good by saying the field was bad. Besides the field would have been twice as bad if it were at Notre Dame or Penn State. To be a good team you have to play well rain or shine.
• Speaking of Notre Dame, Charlie Weis decided not to go with their dorky freshman Jimmy Clausen, and start Evan Sharply the junior who has not started a game and has still thrown more TDs than Clausen. Clausen’s two touchdown drives were from less than 20 yards and of Sharply’s three TD drives two were from over 70 yards out. Good move.
• Sorry MLB but the fact is 5 times more people watch the Patriot, Cowboy game than the Rockies final game over the Diamondbacks.
• When the Bears beat the Vikings, the Bears made the lucky decision to put Devin Hester at WR where he had an 81 yard TD reception.
Playoff Baseball
By James Huber, Jackson Dean and the newest member, Nicky G.
Senior Staff Writers
In the ALDS, the Boston Red Sox, holder of the major’s best record swept the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The Indians looked sharp in beating the Yankees 3 games to 1. Over in the N.L. both the Rockies and the Arizona Diamondbacks swept their series over the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. Moving into the National and American League Championship Series, the Colorado Rockies, wildcard rep from the National League has won 20 out of their last 21 games going back to the regular season. They swept the D’Backs in 4 games behind the hitting and leadership of MVP candidate Matt Holliday. The Rockies also are led by their rookie shortstop, Troy Tulowitski, a candidate for Rookie of the Year. In the ALCS, the Cleveland Indians took a 2 game to 1 lead over the Red Sox. Kenny Lofton, an ex-Giant hit a 2 run homer off of Dice-K Matsuzaka to lead the Indians to the series lead. Matsuzka, the highly touted rookie pitcher from Japan whom the Red Sox have invested $100 million in has not lived up to expectations.
Senior Staff Writers
In the ALDS, the Boston Red Sox, holder of the major’s best record swept the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The Indians looked sharp in beating the Yankees 3 games to 1. Over in the N.L. both the Rockies and the Arizona Diamondbacks swept their series over the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. Moving into the National and American League Championship Series, the Colorado Rockies, wildcard rep from the National League has won 20 out of their last 21 games going back to the regular season. They swept the D’Backs in 4 games behind the hitting and leadership of MVP candidate Matt Holliday. The Rockies also are led by their rookie shortstop, Troy Tulowitski, a candidate for Rookie of the Year. In the ALCS, the Cleveland Indians took a 2 game to 1 lead over the Red Sox. Kenny Lofton, an ex-Giant hit a 2 run homer off of Dice-K Matsuzaka to lead the Indians to the series lead. Matsuzka, the highly touted rookie pitcher from Japan whom the Red Sox have invested $100 million in has not lived up to expectations.
Pumpkin Festival
By Danny Yee and Paul Wat
Staff Writers
In Half Moon Bay there was a huge pumpkin festival known as The Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh Off. Thad Starr, the winner 9,144 dollars in cash for 1524 pound pumpkin. This was Starr’s second year of competitive growing, and this time, he set a record. Perhaps he may go down in history.
Staff Writers
In Half Moon Bay there was a huge pumpkin festival known as The Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh Off. Thad Starr, the winner 9,144 dollars in cash for 1524 pound pumpkin. This was Starr’s second year of competitive growing, and this time, he set a record. Perhaps he may go down in history.
First Half Sizzle
By Wade Avery
Senior Editor
This college football season is historical. The two biggest upsets on paper (Syracuse beat Louisville; spread was Louisville by 34, and Stanford over USC; Spread was SC by 40) and 9 top ten teams losing in two weeks. The App. State win was an appetizer for a banquette of a season. The only question left is who will take it all? Also sleepers have emerged from the bottom of the rankings like Cincy, USF, Illinois, Kentucky and Boston College. Something is really wrong. When you have teams who starts the season unranked be #2 and #3 after six games (South Florida and Boston College) there is something odd. Also the Pac-10 with three top ten teams (more than other conferences) and four in the top 15, despite the SEC having 6 in the top 25. Another race has been going astray this year, the Heisman Race. All four Big East Candidates have fallen dramatically, allowing players who were outside the circle a ticket in. The problem for this season is that people want to keep natural order by not acknowledging players for lesser teams doing better, like Graham Harrell of Texas Tech who has put up numbers like he is playing on X-Box. Who do I like to go all the way? I see Boston College and Oklahoma squaring off in the National title game. I predict that this will be a high scoring affair in the 40’s in which Oklahoma beats BC by a touchdown. But, don’t count on it, anyone in the top 50 could win it by the looks of this season.
Senior Editor
This college football season is historical. The two biggest upsets on paper (Syracuse beat Louisville; spread was Louisville by 34, and Stanford over USC; Spread was SC by 40) and 9 top ten teams losing in two weeks. The App. State win was an appetizer for a banquette of a season. The only question left is who will take it all? Also sleepers have emerged from the bottom of the rankings like Cincy, USF, Illinois, Kentucky and Boston College. Something is really wrong. When you have teams who starts the season unranked be #2 and #3 after six games (South Florida and Boston College) there is something odd. Also the Pac-10 with three top ten teams (more than other conferences) and four in the top 15, despite the SEC having 6 in the top 25. Another race has been going astray this year, the Heisman Race. All four Big East Candidates have fallen dramatically, allowing players who were outside the circle a ticket in. The problem for this season is that people want to keep natural order by not acknowledging players for lesser teams doing better, like Graham Harrell of Texas Tech who has put up numbers like he is playing on X-Box. Who do I like to go all the way? I see Boston College and Oklahoma squaring off in the National title game. I predict that this will be a high scoring affair in the 40’s in which Oklahoma beats BC by a touchdown. But, don’t count on it, anyone in the top 50 could win it by the looks of this season.
6th Grade Boy's Football Team Undefeated
By Paul Roever
Staff Writer
The 6th grade boy’s football is undefeated. We had our team party on Monday, Oct. 15. We have played many games, and haven’t lost a single one. Our most recent game was played against St. Simon’s, and we won 28-13. We play one more game on Tuesday Oct. 16, against Harker. While we hope to win, this game will not count for or against our ranking. Again, the boy’s team was a great success.
Staff Writer
The 6th grade boy’s football is undefeated. We had our team party on Monday, Oct. 15. We have played many games, and haven’t lost a single one. Our most recent game was played against St. Simon’s, and we won 28-13. We play one more game on Tuesday Oct. 16, against Harker. While we hope to win, this game will not count for or against our ranking. Again, the boy’s team was a great success.
Gossip Girl Update #1
By Savannah McKinnon
The best show of the season has hit the cable. Based on the wildly popular books, Gossip Girl is one of the best shows on TV. I totally recommend this show for all viewers even boys. It’s fun and exciting and follows the popularity battle, Blair Waldorf vs. Serena van der Woodsen. These girls are not our idols, they are mean and take advantage of what they have, but it is so fun to watch these girls and all the crazy and outrageous mistakes they make. The drama almost overwhelms you making you have to see what happens next week. This show is on the CW which, on most cable, is channel 12. Be sure to watch it at 9 on Wednesday nights. You won’t regret it. As Gossip Girl Says “You Know You Love Me! XOXO”. This show is for older viewers, if you are under 13, be sure to watch it with a parent.
The best show of the season has hit the cable. Based on the wildly popular books, Gossip Girl is one of the best shows on TV. I totally recommend this show for all viewers even boys. It’s fun and exciting and follows the popularity battle, Blair Waldorf vs. Serena van der Woodsen. These girls are not our idols, they are mean and take advantage of what they have, but it is so fun to watch these girls and all the crazy and outrageous mistakes they make. The drama almost overwhelms you making you have to see what happens next week. This show is on the CW which, on most cable, is channel 12. Be sure to watch it at 9 on Wednesday nights. You won’t regret it. As Gossip Girl Says “You Know You Love Me! XOXO”. This show is for older viewers, if you are under 13, be sure to watch it with a parent.
Stanford Cardinal Pull Off Crazy Upset
By James Huber, Jackson Dean and Nicky Goldman
Stanford came into the L.A. Coliseum playing the #2 ranked team in the nation, a team that Jim Harbaugh had called “the greatest team ever,” and 41-point underdogs. The Cardinal was expecting the worst. What happened in the next 60 minutes of football was one of the most shocking upsets of the year, or maybe of all time. With starting quarterback T.C. Ostrander out with an injury, unknown sophomore Tavita Pritchard played in his place. Stanford kept the game close and had the ball with 2 minutes left down 23-16. However, their drive to win the game looked over when they faced a 4th and 20 in USC territory. However, Pritchard completed a long pass to tight end Richard Sherman to keep the drive alive. A few plays later, the Cardinal had a first and goal with only a minute left. Tavita ran a bootleg for 5 yards down to the USC five. Against common sense, coach Jim Harbaugh passed twice for incompletions, stopping the clock instead of running the ball and winding the time down. On 4th down, a penalty for five yards pushed Stanford back to the 10-yard line. At the line of scrimmage, the play was changed and Tavita Pritchard lofted a jump ball up to Mark Bradford who came down with it for a touchdown. A PAT later, the Stanford Cardinal, 41-point underdogs, was up by 1 point with 20 seconds left. Pete Carrol, USC’s coach had used their last time out on their defense and had none left for their futile drive. John David Booty threw a pick to Stanford’s safety, his 4th of the game and the Cardinal had pulled off one of the greatest upset ever. Earlier in the game, Stanford’s defense blocked a point after attempt and stuffed USC’s 4th and 1 run for a touchdown. If either of those plays had happened, the outcome would have been different. Once again great writing by James Huber, Jackson Dean, and guest starring Nicky G.
Stanford came into the L.A. Coliseum playing the #2 ranked team in the nation, a team that Jim Harbaugh had called “the greatest team ever,” and 41-point underdogs. The Cardinal was expecting the worst. What happened in the next 60 minutes of football was one of the most shocking upsets of the year, or maybe of all time. With starting quarterback T.C. Ostrander out with an injury, unknown sophomore Tavita Pritchard played in his place. Stanford kept the game close and had the ball with 2 minutes left down 23-16. However, their drive to win the game looked over when they faced a 4th and 20 in USC territory. However, Pritchard completed a long pass to tight end Richard Sherman to keep the drive alive. A few plays later, the Cardinal had a first and goal with only a minute left. Tavita ran a bootleg for 5 yards down to the USC five. Against common sense, coach Jim Harbaugh passed twice for incompletions, stopping the clock instead of running the ball and winding the time down. On 4th down, a penalty for five yards pushed Stanford back to the 10-yard line. At the line of scrimmage, the play was changed and Tavita Pritchard lofted a jump ball up to Mark Bradford who came down with it for a touchdown. A PAT later, the Stanford Cardinal, 41-point underdogs, was up by 1 point with 20 seconds left. Pete Carrol, USC’s coach had used their last time out on their defense and had none left for their futile drive. John David Booty threw a pick to Stanford’s safety, his 4th of the game and the Cardinal had pulled off one of the greatest upset ever. Earlier in the game, Stanford’s defense blocked a point after attempt and stuffed USC’s 4th and 1 run for a touchdown. If either of those plays had happened, the outcome would have been different. Once again great writing by James Huber, Jackson Dean, and guest starring Nicky G.
Shadows come to Menlo
By Paul Wat and Daniel Yee
“Shadows are really cool and a lot of fun.” Myles Jeffrey enjoys having shadows and thinks it is real fun. We interviewed some of the 6th Graders about the whole “shadow” idea that is going on at this time. Many think that this is a good idea and are looking forward to being an ambassador. Henry Walker, who has already been an ambassador, says, “Shadows are fun.” Alex Grossman and Jacob Olian both say that they are looking forward to the having shadows in the future.”
“Having shadows is awesomeness,” replies Hannah Lambing.
Many a 6th grader are looking forward to having a shadow, but no one can all go at the same time. Our conclusion of this article is that
“Having Shadows ROCKS”
“Shadows are really cool and a lot of fun.” Myles Jeffrey enjoys having shadows and thinks it is real fun. We interviewed some of the 6th Graders about the whole “shadow” idea that is going on at this time. Many think that this is a good idea and are looking forward to being an ambassador. Henry Walker, who has already been an ambassador, says, “Shadows are fun.” Alex Grossman and Jacob Olian both say that they are looking forward to the having shadows in the future.”
“Having shadows is awesomeness,” replies Hannah Lambing.
Many a 6th grader are looking forward to having a shadow, but no one can all go at the same time. Our conclusion of this article is that
“Having Shadows ROCKS”
Buy or Sell
By Wade Avery
Oklahoma: These guys are dominant on offense and will be racking up huge points all year long. They won’t be very contended with this year and a looking’ good in the long run. They lost to Colorado, but they were sleeping and now they are mad. Look out. Buy!
Kentucky: Get rid of them! They have to play South Carolina, Florida, and LSU all in a row. Uh Oh! Sell!
Boston College: I’d take them because they have three easy games and they should do well against VT and after that they have a couple more easy games. Buy!
Oregon: I think that they are going to have a rough patch when they play USC, UCLA, Arizona State and maybe even against Washington. You never know which Oregon team will show up. Sell!
Purdue: This year the Big Ten is not very good and with their offense they should be a very high contender for the conference title. The Big 10 has no good defenses. Buy!
Michigan State: These guys are really good, but they look like the type of team that gets upset and that cause upsets. I still need to see them play a good team. Sell!
Kansas State: They are beautifully coached they have a superb defense and great special teams. I like their chances. Buy!
Florida: After losing to Auburn at home, they don’t look like the type of team to compete with the likes of LSU or Georgia. Sell!
South Florida: I like this team a lot. The only difference they have from most other teams is their uniforms; otherwise you can’t say they are bad because it’s South Florida. They are good players, just in USF jerseys. Besides, they also have Matt Grothe who is wonderful with a scary defense that is the nations leader in sacks.
Oklahoma: These guys are dominant on offense and will be racking up huge points all year long. They won’t be very contended with this year and a looking’ good in the long run. They lost to Colorado, but they were sleeping and now they are mad. Look out. Buy!
Kentucky: Get rid of them! They have to play South Carolina, Florida, and LSU all in a row. Uh Oh! Sell!
Boston College: I’d take them because they have three easy games and they should do well against VT and after that they have a couple more easy games. Buy!
Oregon: I think that they are going to have a rough patch when they play USC, UCLA, Arizona State and maybe even against Washington. You never know which Oregon team will show up. Sell!
Purdue: This year the Big Ten is not very good and with their offense they should be a very high contender for the conference title. The Big 10 has no good defenses. Buy!
Michigan State: These guys are really good, but they look like the type of team that gets upset and that cause upsets. I still need to see them play a good team. Sell!
Kansas State: They are beautifully coached they have a superb defense and great special teams. I like their chances. Buy!
Florida: After losing to Auburn at home, they don’t look like the type of team to compete with the likes of LSU or Georgia. Sell!
South Florida: I like this team a lot. The only difference they have from most other teams is their uniforms; otherwise you can’t say they are bad because it’s South Florida. They are good players, just in USF jerseys. Besides, they also have Matt Grothe who is wonderful with a scary defense that is the nations leader in sacks.
Varsity Football: The Harker Tournament
By Sam Carver
Harker 7: 28-0 Menlo Wins
St Joseph Atherton 8: 20-6 Menlo Wins
St. Joseph Atherton 7: 6-7 Menlo Wins
Harker 8: 20-20 Menlo loses in over time
In the earlier games Menlo came out on top as they had their first win over the Harker seventh grade team. The Menlo eighth grade team was ecstatic as they ran for long touchdowns and huge blocks. In this game the Menlo A team line really contributed to these points by giving the quarterbacks Tommy Ford and Sam Carver enough time to get the ball off. In the next game against the St Josephs Atherton A team game Menlo was triumphant as they beat the rivals in a “Mini Valparaiso Bowl.” This was a huge confidence booster for Menlo and they came out in the next game against the St. Josephs 7th grade team by only one point. Menlo felt that they were losing their momentum, but were still confident to win the championship. During the Harker game some of the Menlo players said that there were some questionable calls. Wade Avery said, “The rules that they used in overtime were not necessarily the best.” He also said, “After the first couple of games, the team started to get tired and that effected the way we played later in the tournament.” Tommy Ford said, “It was just very unfortunate that it starting pouring down just as we got possession of the football. We had a shot to win towards the end, however we couldn’t come through when we needed to.” Sounds like a great game!!! In the end, I think that we should be proud of our Menlo A team regardless of whether or not they won the championship in overtime.
Harker 7: 28-0 Menlo Wins
St Joseph Atherton 8: 20-6 Menlo Wins
St. Joseph Atherton 7: 6-7 Menlo Wins
Harker 8: 20-20 Menlo loses in over time
In the earlier games Menlo came out on top as they had their first win over the Harker seventh grade team. The Menlo eighth grade team was ecstatic as they ran for long touchdowns and huge blocks. In this game the Menlo A team line really contributed to these points by giving the quarterbacks Tommy Ford and Sam Carver enough time to get the ball off. In the next game against the St Josephs Atherton A team game Menlo was triumphant as they beat the rivals in a “Mini Valparaiso Bowl.” This was a huge confidence booster for Menlo and they came out in the next game against the St. Josephs 7th grade team by only one point. Menlo felt that they were losing their momentum, but were still confident to win the championship. During the Harker game some of the Menlo players said that there were some questionable calls. Wade Avery said, “The rules that they used in overtime were not necessarily the best.” He also said, “After the first couple of games, the team started to get tired and that effected the way we played later in the tournament.” Tommy Ford said, “It was just very unfortunate that it starting pouring down just as we got possession of the football. We had a shot to win towards the end, however we couldn’t come through when we needed to.” Sounds like a great game!!! In the end, I think that we should be proud of our Menlo A team regardless of whether or not they won the championship in overtime.
Latin Field Trip to L.A.
By Paul Roever
As many of you probably know, the Menlo School (including High School) Latin class is going to LA to visit the Getty Villa. This villa was built by J. Paul Getty, and is a museum that he opened. It has many Greek and Roman statues, and was built to be a re-creation of the Villa of Papyri in Herculaneum, thus the reason why we went there. We left from San Jose airport at 6:30 in the morning, and arrived in LAX at 7:30 or 8. We then took a bus to Getty Villa, and got there about 9:15. The Getty Villa is an amazing building, built to look exactly like the building it was based on. It has beautiful columns, and a great architecture. The museum itself is really nice, with many statues and other authentic artifacts. It also has many exhibits that are interactive and interesting. The gardens around the villa are amazing, with many statues and many different varieties of plants. The play that we watched was a little bit strange, many students said that it was not as they expected. All in all, I thought that the Getty Villa was really fun.
As many of you probably know, the Menlo School (including High School) Latin class is going to LA to visit the Getty Villa. This villa was built by J. Paul Getty, and is a museum that he opened. It has many Greek and Roman statues, and was built to be a re-creation of the Villa of Papyri in Herculaneum, thus the reason why we went there. We left from San Jose airport at 6:30 in the morning, and arrived in LAX at 7:30 or 8. We then took a bus to Getty Villa, and got there about 9:15. The Getty Villa is an amazing building, built to look exactly like the building it was based on. It has beautiful columns, and a great architecture. The museum itself is really nice, with many statues and other authentic artifacts. It also has many exhibits that are interactive and interesting. The gardens around the villa are amazing, with many statues and many different varieties of plants. The play that we watched was a little bit strange, many students said that it was not as they expected. All in all, I thought that the Getty Villa was really fun.
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