Compromise offered in mascot disagreement

The vote that could be heard all around Laguna has prompted

letters and calls from outraged alumni and students about the switch

from the Laguna Beach High School “Artists” to the “Breakers.”

Natalie Hills, 15, has taken steps to initiate a compromise

between tradition and what some might call progress. But no matter

what you call it, very few have neutral feelings.

“Some students are very frustrated but they don’t want to voice

their opinions,” she said. “This is an opportunity to intervene

before it progresses into something further.”

In a proposal delivered to Principal Nancy Blade and Supt. Theresa

Daem Wednesday afternoon, Natalie suggests “any recognized campus

organization, including sports teams and clubs, may represent LBHS

using the official team name, ‘Breakers.’” However, the proposal also

makes clear that Laguna Beach High School will continue to be known

as “Home of the Artists” and that all students as well as alumni will

be “Artists.”

Artists was one of the selections on the ballot given to students

on registration day prior to the first day of classes. Of the votes,

65% were cast to change the name to Breakers but only 5% supported

keeping the Artists.

“The bottom line is that the name Artists represents Laguna as a

whole,” she said. “It’s not fair that it was changed so rapidly.”

She hopes that by approaching Daem and Blade, all stakeholders can

come to an agreement that will uphold tradition and yet allow clubs

to have a name they’re proud of.

“I think it’s a good compromise,” said Katie Stewart, 16. “People

who play sports can have their name but we have the Artists

associated with our school.”

-- Mary A. Castillo