At the beginning of the second semester of the 2018-2019 school year, Crescenta Valley High School (CVHS) reintroduced a student senate with the intent of exposing the school to the views and opinions of select students who represent their classmates.

Th e senate was an active part of CVHS several years ago but was temporarily disbanded until recently. At the 2018-2019 senate’s fi rst meeting on Jan. 22, CVHS’s principal, Dr. Linda Junge, reestablished the group’s purpose. Dr. Junge expressed her hopes that the school would become chiefl y student-centered, after discovering that CVHS performed inadequately in a schoolwide Panorama survey about belonging within the school environment.

Equal representation was key for the student senate to become a realistic depiction of the entirety of the CVHS student body. Each second period homeroom class chose a delegate, either by teacher selection or student vote, to speak for their specifi c class.

Th e senate’s fi rst meeting focused primarily on whether students felt safe and comfortable at school. During the

period, delegates were given colored paper that evenly separated the senate into groups where students exchanged their views on the matter. Each table group was provided with a mediator such as a counselor or teacher to steer the group in the right direction. A secretary was also present to document the discussions and points made by the students.

Towards the end of the period, Dr. Junge had the senate regroup for a consultation; several students suggested the idea of increasing the number of assemblies at CVHS in order to benefi t school spirit.

Many mentioned that school spirit could rise if CVHS implemented Rosemont Middle School’s Competition for Enjoyment (CFE). CFEs are monthly school spirit events

where students from each grade compete against each other. Th e majority of the delegates agreed that they felt more connected as a class during these games whether they were participating or simply watching.

By implementing another source of student body unity, CVHS would establish a greater sense of belonging due to the schoolwide belief that students' desires and opinions are more directly expressed to staff and administration.

Th e return of the student senate is a benefi cial step towards increasing student involvement and making CVHS students feel as if they belong. Th e next student senate meeting will take place on Apr. 2.

CRESCENTA VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Volume LII • Issue VI • March 8, 20192900 Community Avenue, La Crescenta, CAThe Falcon

OPINION P. 3-4Read one staff writer's opinion on the stigma around therapy.

LIFESTYLE P. 8-9Look into the history and benefi ts behind edible bugs.

SPREAD P. 6-7Revel in the successes of CVHS's student entrepreneurs.

SPORTS P. 11Read about senior lacrosse player Lexi Ballard.

SENIORS P. 5 & 12Learn more about seniors Brandon Song and Anna Giboney.

A&E P. 10Learn about senior Sarahbeth Zohrehvand.

ORoa

By MELANIE KHASHADOURIANSTAFF WRITER

After several months of strenuous rehearsal, the theater department at Crescenta Valley High School (CVHS) debuted their annual spring musical on Feb. 22. Th is year, the show was Th e Addams Family, a heartwarming story about an eccentric family’s journey to acceptance of their daughter Wednesday’s fi ancé.

Th e curtains drew back to the tune of “Overture/Prologue,” played by the CVHS orchestra and ancestral voices, to reveal the stars of the show.

Featuring seniors Nick Zamora, Hannah Goodwin, and Sarahbeth Zohrehvand, the CVHS students wowed the audience with their impressive vocal and dramatic skills.

Zamora, who played Gomez Addams, the patriarch of the Addams family, performed several numbers, particularly songs such as “Two Th ings,” “Wednesday’s Growing Up,” and “Happy/Sad.”

Goodwin played the matriarch of the Addams family, Morticia Addams. Draped in a dramatic gown and dark wig, she dazzled the audience with exciting performances of “Just Around the Corner” and “Let’s Live Before We Die.”

Zohrehvand, who played Wednesday Addams, the daughter of Gomez and Morticia, also performed with stunning vocals in “Pulled” and “Crazier Th an You.”

Th ere were also characters for comedic relief, such as Uncle Fester, portrayed by senior Lucas McNevin, Grandmama, played by senior Sara Schulze, and Pugsley, who was played by sophomore Isabella Mangahis. Th ey performed pieces such as “Fester’s Manifesto,” “But Love,” “What If,” and various others.

Surprisingly, impressive dance numbers also had a place in the show. In the song “Tango de Amor,” Morticia and Gomez Addams had a dramatic dance accompanied by featured dancers, and in the number, “Th e Moon and Me,” Uncle Fester danced with a graceful ballerina, portrayed by freshman Madeline Novak.

Opening night was phenomenal, and the bond within the cast certainly came through in the obviously well-prepared show.

“Since you’re seeing the entire cast everyday, everyone gets super close and really invested in putting on the best show possible. Even though it’s a lot of work, it’s really rewarding to watch the show come together - from the music, orchestra, lighting, [and]

costumes - to opening night,” Zohrehvand said.Th e vocals, instrumental music, acting, and dancing were all

very impressive for a high school production. It was clear that directors Kay Cole and CVHS teacher Brent Beerman outdid themselves once again.

After the great show CVHS put on this year, 2020’s spring musical will be awaited with much anticipation.

By EVE MCCREARYSTAFF WRITER

2900 Community Avenue, La Crescenta, CA