April 20, 2018 by The Castro Valley High School Olympian

Page 2: Olympian approves of school walkouts VOLUME 61, ISSUE 9

APRIL 20, 2018

Page 4: Poulos embraces the studentteacher life

WE ARE BORN TO SEEK THE TRUTH!

Tears and lessons learned in biennial Every 15 Minutes By Wailea Siler

WWW.CVHSOLYMPIAN.COM

Bathroom threat causes lockdown By The Olympian Staff

Feature Editor

Seniors and juniors gathered in the Center for the Arts on March 23 as they watched fellow students present emotional letters to their loved ones from beyond the imaginary grave. These select students had been pronounced “dead” the preceding day periodically over the loudspeaker as a part of the biennial Every 15 Minutes event. Over 20 students were pulled from their classes at various times, each replaced by a single rose placed across their desk. An officer then read aloud a brief obituary that recounted various details of each student’s life, which had been quickly taken away by an accident involving impaired driving. The goal of Every 15 Minutes is to make students aware of the impact of their decisions and others’ should they drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The event closed

Page 6: Senior Helen Senchev swims to success

Wailea Siler / Feature Editor

Scott Coleman mourns and cries as he reads aloud his farewell letter to family and friends in the audience. with an assembly featuring presentations by the California Highwccmother of Scott Leister who died after an impaired driver crashed into his car, spoke on behalf of MADD. She recounted her personal experience dealing with grief and urged the crowd to make the right decisions. Afterwards, a short video

of the “living dead” students was played on stage. In the clips, they answered questions about their friends, family, and futures cheerfully, allowing the audience to familiarize itself with them. Following the lighthearted interviews was footage of a fake car crash

See 15: Page 8

A threatening message written on a bathroom wall in the 700 hall led to a 56-minute lockdown during third period on April 12. After school officials and law enforcement determined that there was no threat, they ended the lockdown at the end of the class period. Ironically, this lockdown came just hours after a drill during which staff members introduced students to new procedures and responses for school shootings. Principal Blaine Torpey later sent an email to all CVHS families, informing them of the incident, pledging to investigate further and asking parents to discourage their children from playing pranks. Still, the lockdown rattled many teachers and students. “I was nervous, but I felt reassured after reading the message to the staff from the principal. Up to this point, no school shooter has preceded an attack with a written warning on a bathroom wall,” said English teacher Jen Clyde. “I was rattled, given the recent events in this country and ongoing

threats in our community. It’s disturbing to think something like that could happen here,” said English teacher Amanda Staab. Junior Phoebe Chiu was grateful that the school took the possiblity of a shooter so seriously, but stressed that students should be taught that threats “are not okay, especially if it’s a joke.” Because the investigation is still ongoing, the school has released no specific information about the graffiti, including who wrote it and what it said. “Yes, we had a lockdown. It was a little scary but we were able to secure the campus and investigate. Sometimes students are worried that they are making a big deal out of nothing. We would rather investigate and find out that everything is okay than not investigate and miss the chance to be proactive,” said Torpey. “Report behaviors or activities that are not aligned with our mission: to teach, to learn and to grow. You can report anything to any adult staff member, in person, by phone or by email,” said Torpey. “If you see something, say something.”

Voters choose new ASB and class officers

Michelle Terhell

By Rachel Stein Staff Writer

Students of CVHS made their voices heard and have elected their fellow students to Associated Student Body (ASB) and class office positions. Michelle Terhell, the newly elected ASB president, already has high hopes for next year. “I plan to make next year as

Devin Green valuable and useful as possible. I hope to spread positivity throughout the campus and uplift the spirits of the students at CVHS,” she said. Running unopposed, sophomore Devin Green was elected to be next year's ASB vice president. Despite being younger than the other ASB officers, Green has had many years of leadership experience. “I have

Raina Naghieh been an officer in leadership since sixth grade. I have been working to help better the school and my community the past few years through my involvement in school activities and community service,” he said. Raina Naghieh, who also ran unopposed, was elected as the ASB secretary. Naghieh is ready to apply what she learned

Andy Jerome this current year in leadership to helping the school as secretary. “This past year I worked alongside Grace Boyd as your ASB environmental affairs commissioner, and I learned a lot about leading, working with adults and peers, managing my time, and meeting goals,” she said. Andy Jerome, who was elected as the ASB treasurer, plans

Alex Kwan to use his experience — in and out of leadership — to improve the school for everyone. “I have a voice for everyone. I know what it’s like being the shy kid and I can really help people get out of their comfort zones,” said Jerome. “I am really passionate for my school.” Alex Kwan will use his new

See ELECTION: Page 8

Students across the nation protest against gun violence Trojans join movement, but could do more to help

Editorial: Over 150 CVHS students participated in the gun violence protest organized by the Muslim Student Association (MSA), World Citizens Club, and the Black Student Union (BSU) on Wednesday, March 14. As a part of the movement across high schools nationwide, students took 17 minutes out of their day to honor the 17 victims of the Parkland shooting. Throughout the protest, passionate students stood

up and spoke out on the importance of putting an end to gun violence. The protest was not only a stand against the recent school shootings, but a cry for stricter gun laws. Not only did it show that students were protesting for their lives, but it was an indication of how change is needed to before it is too late. It is clear that more work has to be done in order to make the national movement on reformed gun laws and gun violence successful. Based on the fact that National Rifle Association and guns rights supporters spend billions of dollars promoting their lifelong commitment and agenda, it may be that advocates for increased gun control must take bigger

steps in promoting this message to fully achieve their goals. The turnout of CVHS students for the protest was one step in the right direction. It’s important to recognize the empowering students who played a role in promoting more effective gun laws, but only around 5 percent of the CVHS student body got involved with this protest. Some factors like apathy, the consequences of being tardy to class, and concerns regarding effects on grades may have had an impact on the attendance of the protest. Perhaps with more involvement from the rest of student body, involving activism and eventually voting, a bigger impact can be made.

Amina Moummad / Staff Writer

It’s time to get involved with the political narrative on guns

By Rachel Stein

Staff Writer We’ve been through the lock-down drills: we get under our desks, the teacher locks the door and turns out the lights. Many of us remember the Sandy Hook mass shooting from 2012 that claimed 26 elementary school students and teachers. But

not much has changed. Mass shootings in schools, night clubs and churches are now a regular occurence in the U.S. It seems that no amount of innocent civilian deaths can prompt any national gun control legislation. It present times however, with younger people becoming more politically active, steps can be taken to create real change: registering or pre-registering, and then showing up to vote once we turn 18. On Valentine’s Day this year came the mass shooting of 17 students and teachers at Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school in Parkland, Florida. At first, we heard the typical response to the tragedy. Many offered “thoughts and prayers” and President Trump even suggested arm-

ing teachers. But then teenagers from the school got angry. In a widely circulated video, we saw Emma Gonzales articulate the frustration and determination for change that so many have been feeling. Gonzales and her fellow students are demanding actual gun control reforms. They want laws passed to ban military-style assault weapons along with more extensive background checks before people can purchase guns. They appeared on national TV and even made the cover of Time magazine. They organized a nation-wide walk out to protest gun violence in America on March 14, exactly one month after the massacre. Students in schools across America, including CVHS,

PHOTOpinions

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I believe it is something that allows us to raise our voice and make a difference. Jenny Tang freshman

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I think it gives a lot of awareness to certain topics, otherwise the U.S. would not be talking about it so much today.

Addie Bukhari sophomore

”

and the world walked out of their class for 17 minutes, to commemorate the 17 victims in the Florida shooting. So compelling is their case that they raised funds to support a series of marches across the country on Saturday, March 24, including “March for Our Lives” events in Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose and Livermore. An entire movement has taken off thanks to a few brave kids who are demanding change. At the Oakland event, speakers, mostly high school students, talked of changes that will come. “We are tired of hearing thoughts and prayers. We young people are tired of being labeled as a generation that is lazy and does nothing other than sit on their phones. We are tired of

being questioned as to whether or not we are doing the right thing, only because we are young. We are tired. And we are tired of being tired. We know what we want. We know when we want it. But best of all, we won’t stop until we get what we deserve,” said organizer Ivan Garcia, 15. Whatever your views on gun control, it’s time to get involved. The first thing we can do is vote for people who share our views on the question of gun control. Even 16 year olds can pre-register so they are already registered when they turn 18. Visit the California Secretary of State’s web site: www. sos.ca.gov/elections/preregister-16-vote-18/ to sign up. The future is ours, if we claim it.

What do you think about students’ protests against gun violence?

Shaelly Adams/ Staff Writer

“ Protesting gives “ people time to voice their opinions.

Protesting is something all students have the right to do based on the First Amendment.

Melia Room junior

Mustafa Seckandary senior

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I think that we can all agree that our safety at school is paramount and students voicing their opinion has the power to move people.

Blaine Torpey principal

”

THE OLYMPIAN APRIL. 20, 2018

Down to the last plastic straw

By Derek Neyer

Staff Writer Last time you went to a restaurant, chances are your drink came with a straw. Did you ask for it? On Feb. 5, State Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon introduced a bill that would prevent restaurants from giving plastic straws to patrons unless one is requested. His motivation is environmental and his argument is convincing. Up to 500 million plastic beverage straws are used and thrown away per day. Almost everyone in California should know that plastic waste harms the environment and yet for many years this source of waste has gone ignored. One may think that plastic

straws could just be recycled, and indeed straws are often made of recyclable plastic. However, facilities with the capability to recycle straws are rare, and often straws get stuck in machines or simply fall through the cracks. Instead of being recycled, the straws end up in landfills, piling up and taking lifetimes to decompose. Purchasing machines better able to recycle straws would be immensely expensive and draw away funds that could be used better in other areas.

Gubernatorial candidate Travis Allen voiced his opinion that the bill is an overreach of the government and an unnecessary intrusion into the people’s lives.

At first the bill seems to be exactly what he says, an overreach. Yet upon closer inspection, it is hard to find any way in which this bill would infringe on people’s rights as patrons may still request straws if they wish. Not only may patrons request straws, but restaurants may also use washable, reusable straws and be free from the restrictions of the bill. Any food provider with self-serve drinks will not be required to take away the straws, and school cafeterias and other types of similar establishments will be able to continue serving straws to all their customers. The bill is certainly not an overstep of government power, but is rather a nudge to make Californians less wasteful. Even if the bill is not passed, the attention it has garnered has already helped its cause. Californians worried about losing straws should ask themselves why they cannot simply drink from the cup like one has done for thousands of years before the plastic oneuse straw was invented.

Political differences shouldn’t define us

By Sam Ahn

Staff Writer In this day and age most, if not all, Americans identify themselves as either a liberal or a conservative, a left or a right, a Democrat or a Republican. It is the power struggle that existed since the conception of this nation, the cause of our division. It started with our founding fathers and lasted all the way to modern America where bleeding-hearts and hardheads are going at each others’ throats via social media. However, despite the ongoing aggression by the two factions, many Americans do not truly understand the beliefs and differences between the two and simply stoop to name calling and stereotyping without any legit criticism nor the willingness to understand each other. Such division is neither beneficial to our society or our economy. As the nation stands divided we cannot stride to our full potential as an united country. Understanding each other and working together is the key

to continuing the success of America’s “great” past. Despite our drastic differences we have more in common than most people think. Both liberals and conservatives want many of the same thing: prosperity for our people, less crime in the streets, minimized suffering, and a healthy society for ourselves and the future generation; The argument comes from how to achieve these goals. Liberals believe that it is the duty of the government to provide equal opportunity for all people and protect civil liberties and rights. They believe government intervention is essential in providing for the needy, leveling out the playing field for the minority, and making sure no child is left behind. Liberal standpoint stems out of change and acceptance, the need to accept individualism and embracing individual emotions and opinions. Conservatives on the other hand, believe that it is the duty of an individual to solve their own problems, that there should be a limited government and all people are free to compete in the market according to their own ability. Conservatism originates from the belief of a more rigid and structured system, where physical and spiritual purity is valued highly, and respect for tradition and authority is essential. When liberals see a hungry kid, they set out to change the law, amend the Constitution and collect taxes to prevent

the child from going hungry ever again. When conservatives see a hungry child they feed the child and teaches the child how to catch fish so the child doesn’t go hungry again. This is the analogy used by Heather Summerville when she was asked about the fundamental difference between the two factions. Both sides uphold noble causes that mean well and although there is disagreement on who should take care of the child (the government or the child himself), that shouldn’t take away from the respect we have for each other’s opinion and their validity.

Every 15 Minutes opened my eyes

By Mia Babasyan Editor-in-Chief

My name was announced on the loudspeaker, pronouncing me dead. My hands were shaking and I couldn’t make eye contact with my classmates as I left the room. I was fully alive, but the Every 15 Minutes program had given me a perspective of what it would be like if I wasn’t. I was an example, along with 23 other students, of what drunk driving can result in. During the previous weeks, all of the participants prepared for the program. We attended secret meetings, ordered our t-shirts, shot parts`` of the video for the assembly, and wrote our obituaries. I took my role in the program very seriously to make it as impactful as I could for myself and the people I was close to. Even then, during the days before the program began, it never hit me what I was taking part in. However, when the day arrived for our names to be called and our obituaries to be read, I was extremely nervous. Once we arrived at the location of our meet-up, we began with bonding games

to connect with each other more. Our phones were taken, which encouraged us to talk with one another and get to know each other on a more personal level. After playing games, our activities became more serious. A police officer came to talk to us, much like he would at the assembly. We discussed teens using drugs and alcohol and he spoke of his experiences working with drunk drivers. His appearance, after a fun morning, made me slightly scared. We also met a speaker from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MAAD), which were extremely impactful and eye opening to the dangers of underaged drinking. The night before the assemblies, each of us participants had to write a letter to someone we loved. It was the time in the evening when everyone became extremely emotional. We all realized how much of an effect one life has on others. We realized how something so careless as drunk driving can lead to such devastation and heartbreak. During the assembly, the thought of an accident that would take a child’s life and break parents’ hearts made me appreciate the life I do have. It made me think about the decisions I make every day, because in the end, I am not the only one affected by those actions. I am so grateful to have been a part of Every 15 Minutes, as it is not a school event that we all forget about over time. It taught me about the reality of bad decision making and irresponsible behavior which can so easily be prevented.

“As the nation

stands divided we cannot stride to our full potential as an united country.

”

A person can hold a liberal standpoint when it comes to abortion but share a conservative value when it comes to the issue of private property ownership. Liberalism and conservatism are not two factions where we should belong to one and oppose the other, but rather they are two spectrums of solutions to an issue we must understand and choose when facing different dilemmas.

Editors-in-Chief..................................................................Mia Babasyan Hannah Johansson News Editor..............................................................Stella Ho Opinion Editor............................................................Emily Salazar Feature Editor.....................................................Wailea Siler Sports Editor................................................................Pau Gutierrez Arts and Entertainment Editor......................................Da Di Photo Editor........................................................Beruk Tsegaye Video Editor........................................................Mara Moysen Business Manager........................................Audrey Manzano Online Editor..............................................Ria Panjwani Staff Writers: Shaelly Adams, Sam Ahm, Milagros Aquinos, Olga Buzueva, Layne Johnson, Bilal Messaoudi, Hayate Moro, Amina Moummad, Derek Neyer, Nathanial Ortiz, Jenny Pham, Young So, Rachel Stein, Thomas Vergara, Andrew Watanabe, Katelyn Wong, Emma Yin Advisor........................................................................Matt Johanson

4 Poulos: from student to custodian to student teacher

Choirs climb to top in Chicago tour

Ria Panjwani / Online Editor

CVHS A Capella and Madrigals gather together for a group picture during a Chicago outing. By Ria Panjwani Online Editor

Daniel Poulos teaches his fifth period government class. By Emily Salazar Opinion Editor

Daniel Poulos, a former student assistant at CSU East Bay, custodian of CVUSD, and once upon a time a locksmith, is currently designated handy-man of the 100 hall. However, this semester he is taking on the “other side” of working at schools: he takes government classes by storm at CVHS as a student teacher. Having been many things before becoming a teacher, it’s no surprise that Poulos’ aptitude for instructing came later in life. “There was never an actual moment where it felt like ‘aha.’ It was one of those things that developed as time went on, and I feel like I’m doing it at the right time in my life as well,” said Poulos. Poulos has always been a fan of history, more specifically the analysis and thinking behind the subject. As students come into their own in the real world, he hopes to teach them to analyze their new surroundings through multiple angles, and navigate their way to a path of success. A class of 2006 graduate of CVHS, Poulos calls it “surreal” to come back and teach along-

side the people who taught him years ago. “The teachers I had are now helping me to be a teacher like I remember them to be… to be patient and that I will not achieve success overnight. I have to be ready to come in everyday and fail, but it’s okay because I can come in and do it all again tomorrow.” Having never directed a classroom before, the fixerupper turned high school teacher has learned many things in his new vocation. “It is not as easy as the teachers at CVHS make it seem,” he said. “You have to be ready for everything, or almost everything. You have to be yourself. Students, especially high schoolers, see through the fake right away.” As the saying goes, students teach the teacher as much as the teacher teaches the students and it seems as if Poulos is no exception to this seeming rite of passage to becoming a full fledged teacher. “So far, I’ve learned that I have crossed the threshold into being an adult and I’m not all that cool anymore,” he said. “Honestly, the students make it fun for me to come in every day. It sounds cliche,

Emily Salazar / Opinion Editor

but when they are engaged and having a good time or have a solid discussion, it makes it worth it.” Poulos has many people he would like to give thanks to for insight and guidance right here on campus. “The entire social studies department has been extremely supportive and frequently gives me advice and assistance whenever I need it. I’m grateful to them every day,” said Poulos. Carmelina Frasca, once Poulos’ teacher in high school and now one of his teacher idols, commented on the student she re-met twelve years later seeking also to teach. “Mr. Poulos is incredibly hard working and knowledgeable. He cares about students and he cares about teaching,” said Frasca. There's a mantra that this enigma of a one-legged man (“To address these rumors, yes, I have a prosthetic right leg. It’s no secret and for everyone who is embarrassed to ask or curious, it’s easier to get it out in the open,” said Poulos) keeps in mind from a former teacher of his that helps him go on in this field. “Ms. Frasca keeps telling me to have fun teaching, and I find myself trying to come back to this every day. It’s so easy to feel bogged down with getting every fact or detail correct, or making sure every student understands every aspect, but there are times where the candid natures of high school students have to make you laugh. There is no filter from some students, and I love that,” said Poulos.

The CVHS A Capella and Madrigals choirs toured Chicago, Illinois from April 6 to April 9 and competed in the World Strides Competition. Singers took home a stunning six awards from competition including first place for A Capella, second place for Madrigals, the overall first place gold for all choral groups, best individual performances for Bune Locke and Caleb Castaneda, and the best choir with two or more groups. Choir students participated in many forms of clinics and competition to further their musical prowess in preparation for the annual Golden State Choral Competition, just two weeks away. On April 7, students ventured to Plainfield East high and A Cappella concert choir performed their set of three choral songs. Following the A Capella choir, the CVHS Madrigals chamber choir performed their set. On April 9, students attended a clinic at Northwestern University, ranked as one of the top schools for vocal performance and had the opportunity to work with Dr. Albert Pinsonneault, a professor at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music. After the clinic, students traveled to the final stop before the airport which was a cathedral a couple blocks down from Lincoln Park high. Students from CVHS and Lincoln Park participated in an exchange, where A Cappella and Madrigals performed as well as the Lincoln Park chamber choir to listen to what choirs across the country are doing. Aside from singing, students ventured out into the city. On Friday, students saw an improv theatre show in which performers created a show on the spot using Shakespearean language. Students ate world-famous Chicago deep dish pizza, explored Navy Pier and Millenium Park,” took an architectural boat tour on Chicago River, and experienced views on Chicago’s 360

tilt on the John Hancock Building. This involves lying against the side of the building as the floor beneath you tilts forward. When choir teacher Laryssa Sadoway was asked what convinced her to tilt despite a fear of heights, she cited “teenage enthusiasm.” Singers also experienced a Broadway performance of “On Your Feet! The Musical – The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan,” and saw a Medieval Nights show where knights jousted on horseback, and feasted on baby dragons and dragon’s blood (also known as chicken breast and tomato soup). “It exceeded all of our expectations. Students earned the highest of honors at our competition, got to see live theatre, faced our fears tilting at 94 stories above ground, got to see another high school choir in Chicago, and got to share our music with people,” said Sadoway. As students headed home, many were sad to leave Chicago. graduating seniors began to grow wary of the minimal time they have left in the program. “I truly can’t begin to comprehend at the moment how blessed and lucky I am to go on this tour with this group of incredibly diverse and talented people, sharing what we love and exploring new places. Choir has truly has become a community in which I feel welcomed and safe in,” commented co-choir president Maddy Albright. “Choir has made me such a more open person, because when you are singing in a choir, especially in a small chamber choir, you really have to open yourself to be more vulnerable and connect with other people on a level that doesn’t really exist within normal conversation,” said Lauren Fung. Selina Castaneda, a chaperone and choir parent, said, “I was really excited to be a part of this trip going to Chicago as this was my first time. But to share it with 12 other kids and to see it through their eyes was truly incredible. So it was a trip of a lifetime.”

5 “A Wrinkle in Time” invokes curiosity and adventure By Thomas Vergara Staff Writer

Audrey Manzano/ Business Manager

MOD Pizza brings ‘hipster vibes’ to CV By Audrey Manzano Business Manager

A newly opened pizza place has opened in the Castro Village. MOD offers delicious pizza made by a friendly workers that make the pies right in front of you. Aside from their pizzas, MOD also sell salads and sides. Customizable pizzas are made with ingredients displayed behind a glass where the staff can ask for your preference on the pizza. The interior of the restaurant has a modern design with nice lighting and hipster vibes. It also has outdoor seating where you can sit in the sun while enjoying a slice of pizza. The restaurant also has decorated walls on which MOD is spray painted behind the menu. There is also a sticker wall where you can write something and stick it on the wall with other stickers. MOD Pizza is a chain pizza restaurant that compares to other chains like Pieology and Blaze Pizza. In MOD, you can customize how your pizza is made and what goes on it. The restaurant also offers MOD 11-Inch Classics that are

non-customizable pizzas. MOD offers an assortment of pizza toppings to go on top of their two available pizza crusts. They also offer three different sizes of crusts: 11”, 6”, and the Mega Dough 11” Thick Crust. The Mega Dough 11” Thick Crust is a newly released crust while the 11” is a flatter crust that is most commonly ordered. For their sides, they sell Cinnamon and Garlic Strips. The Cinnamon Strip is a dessert that can be dipped in different flavored dips such as strawberry, chocolate and cinnamon glaze. Their Garlic Strips are more of a snack than a dessert. They can be dipped in red sauce, pesto, ranch, or sri-rancha. For their salads, they sell (like the pizza) customizable as well as different classic recipes. Some Classic recipes are Deluxe, Caesar, and Simple. I recommend getting a customized pizza so you can choose all the toppings that you love on your pizza as well as request how much of what topping you want. Overall, MOD Pizza is a tasty, yet slightly pricey, pizza place with great staff.

“Tamborine,” a comedy special by Chris Rock By Thomas Vergara Staff Writer

Famous comedian and actor Chris Rock stars in “Tamborine,” his first Netflix special and his first stand-up comedy show in over a decade. His hilarious satire on issues like police brutality, education, parenting, and relationships keeps his audience laughing and entertained while addressing issues that are very present in everyday American life. Filled with controversial remarks on the treatment of African Americans in our country and his belief that shielding children from bullying keeps them from being emotionally strong, his special contains many risky aspects that touch on sensitive subjects in ways that might make many people at home uncomfortable. The boldness of his rhetoric in the special is admirable and in many

ways enlightening, giving a daring new perspective on so many of his topics. His satirical humor on President Trump, though less unique, is just as forward. Rock goes a little deeper into his beliefs on having healthy and successful relationships. He talks about his divorce and about the infidelity and other problems he and his ex faced. He goes into his thoughts on fatherhood and how he worried that he might never see his daughters again. He said that being in a relationship is like being in a band and sometimes you just have to play the tambourine. “And if you’re on tambourine play it right!” he exclaimed. In his new stand-up and with his ever present comedic ability, he makes brave and important statements on American political issues and has his audience coming back for more.

Have you ever wondered what constitutes the fabric of the universe, what makes up our constructs of space and time? “A Wrinkle in Time” tells the story of a young girl named Meg who is the daughter of two physicists. Her father mysteriously disappears after being ostracised for his outrageous claims that people could manipulate the space-time continuum, or in other words, create “a wrinkle in time.” While everyone has chosen to believe that Meg’s father fell prey to his insanity, Meg clings onto the hope that he is alive and out exploring the cosmos. When three peculiar beings approach them, Meg, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and her neighbor Calvin embark on an extradimensional journey to decipher the truth about Meg and Charles Wallace’s father. Directed by Ava DuVernay and starring Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, and Storm Reide, “A Wrinkle in

Time” is a fun and warm-hearted story of a female heroine and her love and dedication to her family. Following the recent trends of representation of minorities in movies like “Black Panther” and “Coco,” “A Wrinkle in Time” features an African American female protagonist. It seems to be another film that will continue this transition to a culture of representation in the entertainment industry. However, the movie was not as well executed as it could have been. There are portions of the movie that seem to drag on senselessly. The images and special effects do not disappoint, though. Despite the fact that science described in the movie is not meant to be taken seriously, you can’t help but ponder on the constructs of the reality that we live in. “A Wrinkle in Time” contains sci-fi that inspires curiosity about time, space, and our universe. Though a fun and interesting tale of adventure and courage, nothing about the movie particularly stood out. All around, “A Wrinkle in Time” was a mediocre film.

6 CVHS dominates during track meet Trojan swimmers

beat Highlanders

By Nathanial Ortiz Staff Writer

CVHS track and field teams jumped, vaulted, threw, and ran to victory, sweeping all divisions at their annual invitational fundraiser meet. Trojans worked to bring this meet together as well as compete together on March 24, as a majority of the track events during the invitational were relays. “Distance runners don’t usually get an opportunity to do a relay, so when you get the chance to run with your teammates, it’s really fun,” said Reilly Berberian, senior and team captain. Berberian participated in the winning relay team in the boys varsity distance medley run with a finishing time of 11 minutes, 29 seconds. Jared Fleming won the boys discus with a throw of 136 feet, 5 inches. Austin Fields took the win in the boys high jump with a jump of 5 feet and 10 inches and the boys triple jump with a jump of 42 feet and 4 inches. Nyah Pauling won the girls 100 meters with 13.14 seconds. Allanah Lee won the girls long

Swim teams score more than 100 points in all divisions By Jenny Pham Staff Writer

Nathanial Ortiz / Staff Writer

Elijah Washington and Randal Cain race to the finish. jump with a jump of 16 feet and 8.25 inches and the girls triple jump with a jump of 41 feet and 4 inches. The girls varsity teams also came in second and third in their 4x800 relay with 11 minutes and 22 seconds, and 12 minutes and 23 seconds, respectively. The girls varsity sprint medley relay team came in fourth with 4 minutes and 51

seconds. “I was experimenting with different start paces and realized that I was stronger starting off at a medium, not faster pace as I tried during the relay,” said Kaitlin Manning whose team finished second in the varsity girls distance medley relay. The Trojans came out victorious continuing their overall successful season for all teams.

“Swim to the ocean, swim to the sea, swim like sperm to the ovaries! T - R - O - J - A - N - S. What does that spell? Safe sex!” So chanted the Trojan swimmers before their first home swim meet on March 21. CVHS swim teams competed against Piedmont High School at their own swimming pool, winning like usual. Sarah Livingston and Samantha Roberts suggest that the key to their success is effective teamwork and

leadership. “I think we have some really good captains that support our team and help us reach our goals. Our team works together well and we’re always here for each other,” said Roberts. The final scores proved that the captains are doing something right. The varsity boys team won 110-55, and the varsity girls team won 125-39 . Junior varsity boys won by 125-40 and junior varsity girls won by 130-26. “Piedmont is a good team and has some fast swimmers but we were faster,” said Malia Henry, who is on the girls varsity team. Most CVHS students don’t realize how skilled our swimmers are, especially the boys varsity team, ranking first among 11 schools in the the West Alameda County Conference.

Athletes of the Month

Senchev shares her swimming story

By Pau Gutierrez Sports Editor

Helen Senchev learned how to swim at age three. It wasn’t until she was nine years old, however, that she actually took classes to swim competitively in San Ramon, where she was part of the San Ramon Valley Aquatics. “Getting up at 4:30 a.m. to swim is tough, but I would remember how it would probably make me a better swimmer and I’d just get up,” said Senchev. During swim practices,

Helen Senchev gets up at 4:30 a.m. to practice.

the team swims for roughly 4,800-6,000 yards a day. Senchev typically competes in different events, depending on whether it’s a high school or club competition. Her usual events are the 200 and 100 back for high school events, with times 2 minutes 7 seconds and 59 seconds respectively. One of her best times was during the 500 free relay swim that she completed in 5 minute and 9 seconds, which she swum at one of her club events. “I love my team! I’ve swam with my teammates for years

and we’ve all seen each other at our best and our worst,” stated Senchev. The swim team is either constantly swimming with fast intervals, or endurancebased exercises. Although it seems very tiring, it provides a lot of drive to push past physical and mental capabilities. “Swimming is tough because i swim 9 times a week. Balancing practice, school and life is hard,” Senchev said. Senchev enjoys swimming because it shows that hard work pays off.

Garcia strives for greatness

By Shaelly Adams Staff Writer

From playing in CVI Little League to making NCS three times in a row, senior shortstop Manny Garcia has a true passion for playing baseball. He is currently hitting .500 with a .600 on base percentage and has an outstanding statistic of a 1.000 fielding percentage. Garcia started playing baseball around five years old and looked up to his brother who later became a great mentor for him. Once Garcia started playing on varsity as a sophomore, it gave him tons

of confidence and sparked the realization of his love for the sport.

“Sometimes it’s not about wins, it just solidifies that we have a really great baseball program. Manny Garcia

”

He is excited about this year’s team and believes the Trojans can go above and beyond with wins.

“I love playing in the NCS runs, especially the championship we had two years ago against De La Salle, but sometimes it’s not about wins, it just solidifies that we have a really great baseball program here,” he said. Garcia is looking forward to playing baseball in college, and hopefully professionally. “Manny is someone who is harding working, dedicated, and plays passionately. He is really a leader to us all on and off the field. Overall, he is a fun teammate to play with and truly cares about to seeing everyone succeed as a whole,” said teammate Daniel Gutierrez.

Shaelly Adamas / Staff Writer

Manny Garcia plays shortstop and bats .500.

THE OLYMPIAN

April 20, 2018

CVHS tied for first place in badminton competition Trojans defeat the Jets 15 - 0 By Derek Neyer Staff Writer

The birdies whizzed by, lightning quick as the CVHS badminton team played Encinal High School on March 20. The Trojans dominated the Jets 15 to 0, coming back from a loss the week prior. Every single varsity match was won by CVHS players, leaving no doubt of the Trojans’ skills with rackets. Sophomore Regina Lee was happy with the result. “The opposing player was very nice and respectful, despite the difference in skill level,” she said. The focus on the court was tangible, as all players put all their effort into winning their games. As the first games progressed, it became clear

Derek Neyer / Staff Writer

Eason Li and Joseph Chen battle their opponents. CVHS was successful. Jackie Wang commented on the intense concentration, saying “I was impressed by their focus throughout the match even though they were losing.” The Trojans were happy to return to their striking pattern of wins. “After coming back from a loss we shouldn’t have taken, we were validated when we saw the score,” said Jessica You. CVHS has seen a great

season so far, with their loss to Alameda being the only blemish on an otherwise perfect record. The team even beat Mount Eden, a school renowned for badminton prowess. Currently, CVHS is tied for first place in the conference and has a high chance of being able to progress to postseason competition. The team is excited by its repeated victories, and hopes to continue its success for the rest of the year.

Sam Ahn / Staff Writer

Brandon Patterson swings his club during the match.

Trojans win golf match against local high schools By Sam Ahn Staff Writer

Against not just one but two tough opponents, the CVHS boys golf team came out victorious, by a large margin at that. The game was much anticipated as audiences gathered to watch the three-way match between rival schools. The match took place in Contra Costa Country Club on a sunny afternoon. Trojan golfers polished their clubs and readied themselves to face College Park High School and Los Lomas High School. The contest got off to a good start when the team took the lead early on with few well placed shots. Despite going ahead early in the game, the team kept its composure and stayed engaged and focused, not allowing Los Lomas to catch up despite numerous close calls. The game lasted for a few hours and required extreme precision and continuous

concentration. The game ended in an important victory for the Trojans as they scored 193, 13 strokes better than the best record last year. Los Lomas scored 208 for second place and College Park came in third with 258. The best scorers of the game were Travis Miller, finishing with a match low 34, and Nicolo Delucchi, scoring a one-under score of 35. Also contributing to the final victory were Marcus Young, Anthony Bascom a n d Bra n d on Pa t t e rson who scored 41, 42 and 41 respectively. “I think our team play was phenomenal. This is probably the best team from Castro Valley in a long time. We’re definitely going to the championship this year,” said senior Brandon Patterson. “One thing that I love about golf is that, when you’re out in the field, without your phone or any distractions, you feel at peace. It’s just you and the club out on the field, unplugged.”

THE OLYMPIAN

April 20, 2018

2018-19 student officers speak out on new roles Election: from Page 1 position as ASB school board representative, his leadership experience, and his time spent working in the community to help represent all students at CVHS. “For the past five years I have worked directly with refugees and the homeless community in an effort to better their living situations. Talking with and understanding the needs of underrepresented people allows me to better represent CVHS’s diverse student body,” he said. Senior class officers are Nicolette Paredes as president, Chloe Dionisio as vice presi-

dent, Katelyn Wong as secretary, and Katie Tam as treasurer. Paredes, who has served in leadership at CVHS since her freshman year, hopes to make next year as fun as possible for seniors at CVHS. “My goal is to unite my class and get as many people to participate and enjoy the events highschool has to offer,” she said. Junior class officers include Darsh Grewal as president, Kalei Stambaugh as vice president, Anmol Gill as secretary, and Tommy Ryken as treasurer. Grewal has much experience not only in leadership, but also in other extracurricular activities. “Other

than being in leadership as a class officer for the past two years, I am also an officer for two clubs, and love making a difference at our school,” Grewal said. Sophomore class officers include Nadine Ratinho as president, Miguel Bernas as vice president, Rachel Chin as secretary, and Alex Ikuma as treasurer. Ratinho plans on using her experiences from middle school and this year as a ninth grader to help her lead the sophomore class next year. “As a middle school student I was involved with our school a lot just like I am this year at CVHS,” said Ratinho.

15 Minutes changes perspectives 15: from Page 1 combined with audio clips of the students frantically attempting to call for help. Although the video did not feature explicit gore or injury, it got its point across as the CFA filled with silence. Then, a few of the “dead” students received the opportunity to read letters to their friends and family in front of the crowd. The family members of some

of the students also read letters in response. Many of the presenters had to pause from their speeches to wipe tears off of their cheeks as some audience members did the same. “It showed you how much people cared about you. People I didn’t even know cared about me and felt sad about my ‘death.’ It really put everything into perspective on how much control people have over their own lives and others,” said

junior Kayla Jordan, who participated in the event. Every 15 Minutes did not fail to carry an emotional weight throughout its span of two days. Students who felt they needed an extra level of support were welcomed in the new Health and Wellness Center. The event finished by emphasizing the necessity of making good decisions to avoid drawing those emotions in the future.

SBAC season returns for all juniors and seniors By Milagros Aquino Staff Writer

For the first time this year, seniors will need to take the SBAC test. Many seniors are upset as the test is during the week before AP testing, from April 16-26. The SBAC test was made for monitoring how students are doing at school and to help improve education in the school system. There will be a designated date and time, but if a student is unable to attend for any reason there will be make-up dates. There will be rewards for those who take it and do not opt out which students can do as long they have parental permission. The prizes will be two Trojan tickets which could be exchanged for prizes — one is for attending while the other depends on if the teacher thinks the student had good work ethic while taking the test. This year is the first time the students would be taking the 12th grade pilot science test. Although Trojans can opt out, the school recommends everyone take it. Not all students think that it is necessary to take the test because for seniors, the tests

will not affect them in the future. “I don’t think there’s a point in seniors taking it because the information they get from the test won’t help them improve their knowledge. Maybe if they made all freshmen take that test to assess where they are at the terms of learning level, and then use that information to tune the classes to the students’ level, that would be useful,” said senior Abraham Esparza. Students and staff may not think the same things when it comes to the usefulness of the test but the testing itself should not be the problem even if it is before the AP tests. “I believe good test-taking strategies are taught to students in all of their classes; this is information that they know and they’ve learned in classes,” said Assistant Principal Yvonna Rogers. They have known and learned in the classes they have taken, so I ultimately don’t see any issue before the AP test since it is not necessarily the same content being covered and it’s not any additional studying since it is common knowledge that students should know,” said Rogers.

Bill proposes to tax guns, ammo for more counselors By Amina Moummad Staff Writer

A new bill introduced to the California Assembly aims to get counselors into all public schools. To fund the counseling services, the bill proposes an additional tax on gun and ammunition sales. Assemblymember Jim Cooper said the focus is “recognizing children in need of invention early on.” This bill would put school counselors into all public mid-

dle schools and high schools. Not all schools currently have them. The counselors would look for early warning signs of threats. The bill would not ban guns or ammunition, but would tax them. “It’s a small price to pay,” said Cooper. “I think it’s a good thing, especially with students’ mental challenges. The money also has to come from somewhere,” said CVHS counselor Amanda Maloney.