California Wilfires

Last week several wildfires ran rampant through California, whose Santa Anna winds strengthened the fire for days. In only a matter of days, the wildfires burned 35,000 acres of land and destroyed more than 800 structures causing approximately 36,000 evacuations. These wildfires are a common burden on California and have forced the government to spend upwards of 500 million dollars on the fires since the beginning of the year. The regularity of these fires causes many to worry, including Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger who said, “Everyone has recognized that this is a different situation than we have had in the past. We don’t have a fire season anymore, we have fires all year round.” The record high temperatures in California and the on going drought could have played a major role the frequency of these wildfires. The changing climate that is causing havoc around the world seems to have finally hit America hard. Governor Schwarzenegger is in the process of passing regulations that require fire retardant materials to be used in certain fire-prone areas. From the million dollar mansions to the trailer parks, devastating losses were felt. The homes of Oprah Winfrey, Rob Lowe, Michael Douglas, and Christopher Lloyd were all within the path of the wildfires. However, Christopher Lloyd, the “Back to the Future” star, was the only actor to loose their home to the mighty flames. Thankfully, there were no recorded causalities.

Girls Varsity Tennis 2008

This fall brought Cumberland High School very successful sport seasons, including the Girls Varsity Tennis Team. After being knocked out by Moses Brown last year in the semi-finals, Cumberland bounced back this year, making it all the way to the Division-II finals. The 2008 season seemed bleak due to several injuries and ineligible players, which forced Coach John “Jaz” Jasionowski to make changes in the team’s lineup.

Even with some speed bumps in the way, the girls moved full speed ahead clinching critical wins all season. By the time the playoffs began, Cumberland finished second in the division with a record of 10-2 (the first time in sixteen years Cumberland has won more than nine matches). With two tough loses, one to Moses Brown, one to Tollgate, Cumberland was anxious to begin playoffs. After being granted a bye for the first round, the team advanced to the division finals for the first time in sixteen years, with a 6-1 victory over Cranston West.

Unfortunately, Cumberland lost in the finals to Moses Brown, in a play to decision win. However, the saying is “first is the worst, second is the best”, right? The team has accomplished so much this season and they should be very proud of themselves. This year team mates Sam Curran and Alysa Redlich, 1st and 2nd Singles, were honored with First Team All Division, Singles. Also, Jen Bundy and Briana Tomassini, 1st doubles, were granted First Team All Division, Doubles. Val Conway and Shauna Smith were awarded Second Team All Division, Doubles. Senior Captain Sarah Beauregard was given the Sportsmanship Award for the 2008 season. With only two seniors graduating, the team hopes next season will be just as great.