Sweet Seniors win Homecoming
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weet seniors who sported a Candyland theme took home the gold, leading to the ultimate sugar high. Their decadent spirit smashed the competition, making them victorious in their final Homecoming.
Photos by Wailea Siler, Bilal Messaoudi, Layne Johnson and Thomas Vergara
Page 10: Class of ’67 reunites 50 years later
Page 4: In support of Trojans who take a knee Volume 61, Issue 2
October 31, 2017
Page 11: Sophomore shines on court
We are born to seek the truth! www.cvhsolympian.com
Smoke chokes Trojans Fires force Homecoming assembly into gym By The Olympian staff Poor air quality caused by severe wildfires in the North Bay forced CVHS to shut down Homecoming events. School administrators canceled the Homecoming parade and football game. The assembly moved indoors to the main gym for the first time in more than 20 years. “Having a parade and fo o tbal l g ame are part of the CVHS Homecoming tradition, so realizing that we couldn’t do that on my last year of Homecoming was very discouraging,” said senior Chris Kusumonegoro.
Emma Yin / Staff Writer
Cameron Mai and other students are affected by the heavy smoke caused by Northern California wildfires. While students were disappointed by the Homecoming disruptions, many thought moving the assembly indoors turned out better than expected. “At first I thought it wouldn't work out. But seeing everyone
so close and cheering each other on made it way more fun and loud,” said ASB Club Commissioner senior Eman Nagi. “Next year’s class should definitely have it in the gym again, because it was something I will never forget.”
Journalism students set up a livestream so the dozens of parents who could not fit in the main gym could still watch the assembly from the cafeteria. Health teachers passed out masks to students throughout Homecoming week, and warned them of the health risks of the polluted air. “It is important for people to understand their risks when it comes to air quality,” said health teacher Sue Anderson. “People who have sensitive respiratory system issues such as asthma need to be particularly cautious.” While Anderson and other teachers worked to keep students healthy, others began to think beyond the effects of the fires on CVHS. Science teacher Ashmeet Sahni collected donations for relief supplies and delivered them to displaced fire victims on Oct. 14. Inspired by Sahni, social studies teacher Kathleen
Cassidy also collected donations. Between student, staff, and her own donations, Cassidy was able to buy hundreds of dollars worth of supplies. “I am overwhelmed at the generosity of my students,” said Cassidy. “While it won't put out any fires, I think people are looking for a way to feel useful when a tragedy hits so close to home.” Princip al Bl aine To rp ey reminded CVHS families in an email to parents before Homecoming week that while this year’s Homecoming would “not be as big and brash as in the past,” it would “be a symbol of our Trojan community and our community’s resilience.” “I’m really proud of the students at our school for continuing the Trojan spirit despite all the mishaps and making my last year of Homecoming really great,” said Kusumonegoro.
Swalwell holds candlelight vigil for Las Vegas victims By Stella Ho News Editor
Hundreds of Castro Valley community members gathered together to honor the victims of the Las Vegas shooting at the corner between Castro Valley Boulevard and Redwood Road where Congressman Eric Swalwell held a candlelight vigil on the evening of Oct. 8. The shooting had occurred exactly one week prior on Oct. 1 during a country music festival. A gunman fired into the crowd from the 32nd floor of his hotel room continuously for several minutes, resulting in 58 dead and over 500 wounded in what is now known as the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. Members of the community held candles and spoke about the victims they knew. Reverend Arlene Nehring of Eden United Church of Christ led a prayer at
the beginning of the vigil. “These kinds of occasions, even for people who aren’t particularly practicing a religious faith, raise deeply spiritual questions and concerns and it creates a kind of spiritual wound in people’s hearts as well as their psyche,” Nehring said. Religious leaders from other groups were also present to share some words of reflection. Swalwell spoke to the public about past public mass shootings and about the Las Vegas shooting. He praised people who did their best to help others. “This shooting, unlike any before, provided over a thousand different perspectives…we saw the best of people, moments after we saw the worst of one person,” said Swalwell. He invited members of the community to step forward and name victims of the shooting. “This was an opportunity to call the community together.
Someone in our area had been a victim of this and so I wanted to make sure that family saw that there was support for people that they’ve never met before, but also express that there is a need for us to do what we can to protect the community,” said Swalwell. Swalwell also voiced his opinions about what actions Congress should take to prevent future mass shootings. “Congress should act to give people the freedom to live, to be safe from violence. To me that means background checks for those with criminal records and the mentally ill and to make sure that these devices that made weapons fire faster are banned. We must also be allowed to know more when people start to collect a mass amount of weapons in a short period of time,” he said. However, not everyone approved of new gun control laws. A man in the crowd
Stella Ho / News Editor
Congressman Eric Swalwell invites members of the community to speak about the Las Vegas shooting victims. carrying an American flag expressed his opposition. “People lost their lives, but
others should not lose their rights,” said the man, who declined to give his name.
THE OLYMPIAN
Oct. 31, 2017
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Math department creates new programs Beginning cyclists learn By Emma Yin Staff Writer
The math department has been coming up with new ways to teach math for about three years. New classes present many challenges to students and teachers alike, and now, the arrival of a new course is near in the future. This year, junior and sophomore students in the Integrated Math Program who are looking to take AP Calculus in the following year have the option to enroll in the new class called Integrated 3 Advanced (3A). This course was created to combine both Integrated 3 and Pre-Calculus content into one class, making it possible for students in Common Core to skip the Pre-Calculus class and move directly to AP Calculus. “Integrated 3A will be the hardest math class you’ll take on the campus, it is two years of math condensed into one,” said department chair Tommy
Maloney. The program has offered a challenge to students who are interested in math and are willing to push themselves. Like all advanced courses, Integrated 3A is meant to test a students’ willingness to try new things and better prepare them for college. Students in the past have complained that Common Core Math was not “challenging” them enough, but this new, advanced course has offered students just the difficulty they were looking for. “Many students complain that the new math system is difficult to understand, but I have heard that the previous system was even more challenging… it really just depends on how you put the time in to understand the material,” junior Ingrid Wells said. To add onto the classes offered at CVHS, there has been planning for a new course in Logic that students who have
taken Integrated 1 could take. This class would be a combination of numerous topics, such as Philosophy and English, thus creating new and interesting curriculum. “I loved it,” said math teacher Anissa Gerdts about her feelings toward the presentations on Logic that Stanford had given to teachers and professors. Gerdts thinks that Logic could be offered as an “alternative” class to students struggling in regular, mainstream math, or to those done with all math classes offered at CVHS. “Students might struggle,” Gerdts admitted, because the class “covers so many different themes and subjects,” but it also “offers potential power to its students” by helping them form good arguments with the knowledge they will be learning. The department does not yet know who will teach Logic but math teachers hope to make the class a reality in the next few years.
work. But it’s ok because we can use that training for other upcoming meets,” said cross country athlete Lindsey Shak, sophomore. A volleyball game against Bishop O’Dowd was also cancelled. “It was cancelled due to the smoke, and they were afraid that the insulation at the other school’s gym would let the smoke in. So they were just worried about our safety,” said volleyball player Amina Moummad. Several tennis practices and games were cancelled due to the air quality, as well. “I’m really sad that they had to be cancelled, and the practices, too. But it was definitely the right decision,” said Tania Beringer, sophomore tennis player.
But perhaps the one that has the most people riled up is the cancellation of the annual Homecoming football games for the freshman, JV, and varsity teams, that were supposed to happen on Oct. 12 and 13. “It’s really disappointing since we’ve been working hard all year to play against a good team like O’Dowd. But nothing can be done about it now,” said football player Lennart Richter. The athletes all seem to voice similar opinions; disappointment, but understanding why the decision was made. With the smoke now gone, the athletes can get back to their hard work and hopefully make up the time lost because of the fires.
Smoke cancels sports events By Olga Buzueva Staff Writer
Smoke caused by the fires in northern California have been giving off a massive negative effect on the students and faculty of Castro Valley High School. The smoke has had a bad impact on everyone, but it can be argued that the sports teams have received the very short end of the stick in this situation. Since breathing becomes a difficulty as the foul air clogs the lungs, many sporting events have been cancelled for the safety of the athletes. One of the events cancelled was the cross country invitational meet that was supposed to happen on Saturday, Oct. 14. “I feel kind of disappointed because we put in a lot of hard
Friday school replaces Saturday school By Isabelle Voix Staff Writer
CVHS has implemented a new disciplinary program this year which replaces Saturday School. This new program, known as Friday School, is a new step in the progressive discipline process at CVHS. Friday Schools are used by administrators as a learning opportunity to teach about expected behaviors at school such as a growth mindset, cell phones use, and anti bullying. “Now we’re using this opportunity for a learning experience for children against bullying,” said Assistant Principal Yvonna Rogers. Students are assigned Friday School for excessive tardiness, skipping class, failure to show up to detentions, and an array of other rule breaking activities. Souleyman Moummad was assigned Friday School for making inappropriate jokes while Principal Blaine Torpey
was behind him, the freshman said. During Friday School students are required to read an article about improving behavior, discuss it, and watch a video on it. “During Friday School, I had to read an article about antibullying,” said Moummad. With this opportunity of learning, students who were assigned Friday School are able to know how to improve behavior. “This is very effective,” said Rogers. To ensure that students learned about their expected school behaviors, their exit ticket is to fill out a 30-question answer sheet and a presentation discussing their newfound knowledge. Friday Schools are located in the CVHS library from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and have already been held five times. Failure to show up to Friday School may lead to a one day
suspension and a loss of school privileges. There are many strict rules and regulations when it comes to Friday School such as arriving on time, bringing schoolwork, signing in, turning off electronics, following the proper dress code, and not bringing food. If a student is disrespectful then that student is immediately sent home and suspended for a day. After attending Friday School, students who need to improve their behaviors are often times enlightened by their new life lessons that they received in that hour. “I guess if I was a bully then I would’ve learned a lot, but I’m not a bully,” said Moummad. Friday School is successful because the administrators are making progress by teaching them important lessons and expected behavior instead of punishing the students for their misconduct.
the basics of biking
Hayate Moro / Staff Writer
Students mount on their bicycles to begin practicing. By Hayate Moro Staff Writer
A bicycle program started three years ago at CVHS with the help of a non-profit organization, Cycles For Change. About six different instructors from the organization come out during the four day lesson to teach students in PE. On the last day, a trip to Lake Chabot awaits the trained students as they get the chance to put their biking skills to use and bike off campus. “(Principal Blaine) Torpey had an idea about bringing bicycle awareness to our school. He introduced it to our department and we ate it up,” said PE teacher Mark Williams. The students learn about the safety, laws, hand signals, and the ABCQ checklist all cyclists need to know. Safety includes wearing a helmet and the ABCQ checklist. The checklist stands for Air for tires, Brakes, Chain, and Quick release. No matter how experienced a cyclist may be, if any of these failed to function, trouble would ensue. Hand signals are crucial ways of communicating when pedaling and sharing the road with others. Bending the left arm in an “L” shape means turning right, and extending the
left arm parallel to the ground informs the cars behind that the rider is turning left. To make the hand signal for stopping, an upside down “L” is made with the left arm. This rule also applies to the DMV test. “For me, as an experienced biker, the best part about it was hanging out with my friends at Lake Chabot and also just a change of the same PE routine. It also helped me remember stuff that'll be on my permit test,” said sophomore Jaret Unit. Considering the positive responses Williams gets each year from students who have taken the biking unit, he hopes for more of these types of classes in PE. The class he wants to add the most to the PE curriculum is a class for walking. “Not everyone can do bleachers, not everyone can lift weights like these guys…it’s intimidating to see those people with nice six packs but everyone can get involved in walking,” he said. In past years, there have been swimming classes taught in PE. However, the time it took to get ready and shower took up most of the class period and made it an overall unproductive period. Being able get out of school and bike to Lake Chabot is a much better use of time.
Mariachi music brings cultural fun By Bilal Messaoudi Staff Writer
Castro Valley Unified School District partnered with the Voces del Valle Mariachi program and started a mariachi program for third through 12th grade students. The program takes place at CVHS in the annex and 300 hall classrooms. This is the second year of this after school program, starting from a vision from the CVUSD Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi. “It started last year and grew organically out of a music program,” said instructor Karen Canady. The program runs every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and the students are taught both singing and how to play instruments such as the guitar, vihuela and guitarron. The
classes are organized by grade, instrument type and skill level. The students are practicing every week and will have a final performance in May. “I am here to learn more things, and learn Spanish,” said sixth grader Xander Eakin, who attends Canyon Middle School. This is the second year that this program is operating and it has grown a lot since last year. The program serves to expose students to new music and culture while having fun. When people think of mariachi, they are most likely reminded of Mexican or Latino culture, but if you attend one of the practices, you will find that that is not the case. “It was originally conceived as a program for Latinos but it is very diverse,” said Canady.
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Football players who take a knee make a worthy stand Editorial: 49 e rs’ q u arte rb a c k C o l i n Kaepernick sat during the national anthem before games in protest against racism and stirred a lot of controversy. This past September though, Kaepernick’s rhetoric has gained more support in the world of the NFL, and after President Trump’s critical remarks about players who kneel, it has become a major topic of debate in American politics. Now football players at CVHS are taking the same bold stance in their own protest against racism. They have the support of The Olympian staff. The Olympian supports these acts because racism is a problem in America and it takes courage to bring light to the situation so that something might be done. With the growing issues of police targeting people of color
Katelyn Wong / Staff Writer
in America and the recent farright rallies in Charlottesville, racial tensions in our country are higher than they’ve been in decades. There have even been
instances of racism here in Castro Valley when racial slurs were found written at Canyon Middle School and CVHS earlier this year.
Protests in the NFL received a negative backlash. Many said that it was disrespectful to the troops who allegedly fight for our freedom. However, none
of the protesters at our school or the NFL have said that their intentions are to protest or disrespect American soldiers, rather to raise awareness of an issue that has burdened our nation since before we became independent. Others worry that if a school team gets into politics it could create division and controversy to the team and that it could affect its performance, but the protests are simply a personal choice apart from anything the team does. Players who have taken this brave and courageous path to raise awareness of a problem that has been a stain on our country’s legacy for centuries deserve recognition for their boldness whether you agree with them or not. These acts of valiance come to show the American values of free speech and standing up for what’s right.
Volunteering is more than worth the time and effort
By Amina Moummad Staff Writer
Saving the world one hour at a time
It’s important to keep our environment clean and as healthy as possible. Keeping our natural resources sustainable and beautiful should be a goal for everyone. A lawyer, Afroz Shah, moved to Mumbai for a beautiful
view of the Arabian Sea, but instead got a view of trash. Shah decided to do something about it, so he and his neighbor put on gloves and face masks, and started to pick up the trash. Soon volunteers and sometimes tourists starting helping out. Over the course of 98 weekends they gathered 11 million pounds of trash. The way we treat our planet is uncalled for. It is not a garbage can that you can use at your own disposal. We should be more aware of what we do. All of Mumbai’s Versova Beach sand is covered in shopping plastic bags, packages, soda bottles, and snack wrappers. People can’t enjoy the beach when they can’t walk on the sand. This is unethical to the planet. People need to be educated on our planet and effects littering. That just may be the issue, people just don’t know. There are 1.3 billion people in the country if India and 18.4 million in Mumbai alone; lit-
tering adds up and shows its side effects. We should as a whole learn and what to take care of our planet for ourselves and the future. One environmental activist
calls India’s garbage problem “a ticking time bomb” unless people stop littering. Every day each Indian generates up to 1.3 pounds of garbage. There is definitely a problem when it comes to garbage in India. The consequences of littering is huge on our planet. It can clog rain storm drains,
PHOTOpinions
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If people want to kneel, they can, it’s their right and it doesn’t bother me.
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Souleyman Moummad Freshman
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They’re showing solidarity for those affected by police brutality and racism. Cameron Muldrow Sophomore
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cause flooding, increase algal blooms in water, and reduce the amounts of available oxygen fishes. The impact on the earth by recycling, reusing, and reducing (the 3 R’s) is also huge and has a positive impact. Recycling helps reduce pollution caused by waste and reduces the use of raw materials so forests can be preserved. You can implement the three R’s in your everyday life by avoiding food waste, drinking filtered tap water, buy refillable products, use rechargeable batteries, and restrict printing paper or print on both sides of the paper if needed. The List goes on and to learn more just simply go online to find ways to make an impact. There is a trash problem here at CVHS also. The janitors clean up, but we need students to help out and take action. If you see trash left on the floor, pick it up. Not only are you helping out our school and janitors, but you’re benefiting
the environment. It’s been three years seen Shah has volunteered picking trash up at Versova Beach, and nothing has changed. People still throw plastic bags full of trash into the water which goes out into the sea. That affects
“The way we treat our planet is uncalled for.
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wildlife in the oceans and the natural resources. I hope people stop ignoring this situation and not just do something about it when it’s too late. What Shah did was so kind and I hope others follow in his footsteps. Shah and other leading small citizens’ movements are what India and the world needs.
How do you feel about the football player protests?
By Amina Moummad
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If the CVHS football players choose to kneel, they have every right to do so. Marcella Ku Junior
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It represents their thoughts on the presidency and how it affects their lives. Samantha Jewell Senior
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“I support anyone’s right to their freedom of speech. Elisa Frozena English Teacher
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The Olympian Oct. 31, 2017
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We are haters, we are humanity Grief from a world away resonates negative feelings toward certain people every time those feelings come up. Given, there are definitely people in this world who deserve to be hated. But, there are plenty of people that we really just need to see at more angles to understand the whole picture. We often have expectations for people and allow these expectations to come to conclu-
By Nathanial Ortiz
Staff Writer Recently I had a huge realization that someone I had been antagonizing constantly was just human. Just like you or I, this person had a heart and had many of the same values as I had. I had held onto a grudge for too long, making me resentful of this person’s mere presence. When we actually opened up to each other, I realized that I hated an idea I created in my mind of this person not this actual person. I had been creating a monster out of someone who was actually a person I value so highly and am so glad is in my life. This new understanding and appreciation I had for this person made me realize that maybe we all are too harsh on people in our lives. Maybe we should wonder why we feel
“Every person
is an onion full of layers, not just ogres.
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sions that may or may not be the best. It is easy to assume that every person’s personality is cut and dry, but in fact every person is an onion full of layers, not just ogres. Many people have a lot going on in their lives that they don’t share publicly, stuff that can be really hard and often affect behavior towards others. More often than not when someone gets mad at you or says something simpleminded or mean, it is probably because of something that has nothing to do with you at all.
I often think to myself don’t think say something about someone that you wouldn’t want to be said about you. For example, as a liberal I automatically become sceptical when someone claims to have conservative viewpoints. Sometimes, if I give that person a chance, I am able to see that our opinions aren’t as different as we think and we are all just trying to do our best in creating the opinions we have with the little knowledge we have obtained in our lives. This may not work in all cases, like if that conservative also discriminates against people different than them. Yet, allowing more leeway for others in your life will allow you to loosen up the expectations on yourself. Thus, not only transforming a hatred into a friendship, but also helping accept yourself in the end. Overall, I am not trying to say that everyone should stop hate. Some hate is definitely necessary. However, many of the people that we cut out of our lives for one reason or another are good people. They just have flaws like all of us. Next time you see that one person you hate or make an negative assumption about a someone you don’t know that well, remember that everyone is human and makes mistakes.
Hydrogen cars help reduce pollution
By Young So
Staff Writer Hydrogen powered (H2O) cars have been around since the first inventions of automobiles, but they never seem to have gotten into the public market before the conspiracies of oil companies hit them. On Nov. 17, 2014, the Toyota Mirai was announced to come out and run on only hydrogen with an ability to drive 300 miles with a single tank, a full tank of hydrogen costing only five cents. Recently, on Sept. 20, 2016, the pricing for this hydrogen vehicle was announced and is now seeming to become a reality. “Our fuel cell vehicle runs on hydrogen that can be made from virtually anything, even garbage!” announced Toyota when it first announced the car in 2014. While many motor companies have prototypes and design ideas for the hydrogen car, Toyota has finally re-
leased one to the public market for a price around $57,500. This is a very low price compared to other motor companies, but a very high price in the Toyota market. General Motors and Honda created a joint company to develop and produce hydrogen fuel cells for hydrogen cars in Michigan. “General Motors and Honda today announced establishment of the auto industry’s first manufacturing joint venture to mass produce an advanced hydrogen fuel cell system that will be used in future products from each company,” announced General Motors. The only disadvantage of hydrogen as fuel is that to produce hydrogen as fuel, you need to use coal or nonrenewable gas. The stations to refuel hydrogen cars are also limited. The average gas price today is $2.67 per gallon while a gallon of hydrogen is $0.15. This may be a reason oil companies seemed scared by the innovation of hydrogen powered vehicles. This may also help in the prevention of global warming and climate change. Toyota claims that the car would reduce harmful emissions and only release water vapor which would help with our current climate change crisis. Surprisingly, the car is now finally a reality. One disadvantage to these vehicles is the inefficiency of their energy conversion from
hydrogen to electricity. “Looking at the facts and statistics, the electric car with lithium batteries are much more efficient and helpful to the en-
“The hydrogen
vehicle was only a dream, but now it is a reality
By Jenny Pham
Staff Writer A phone call from Vietnam. My grandma has passed away and my parents are grieving. I want to cry, but I can’t. I’m sad, I really am, but I’m not sad enough to cry. I barely knew my grandma, let alone recall any good, or bad, memories of her. In Vietnam, my aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews look down into her casket and revisit their last moments with her, which may have been only a few days or hours prior. Yet, here I am halfway across the globe shrinking in shame as I attempt to reminisce the one conversation I had with her four years ago, a conversation in which I could count on two hands the number of words spoken. Emotional detachment is a cost that many must pay for separation from their family and loved ones. The decision to leave your birth country is not one to make when in the mood for spontaneity. Whether it was made voluntarily or not, you are parting from your foundation, from everything and everyone that you’ve ever known. The older you are during the move, the more difficult it will be, and even more so if you’re a parent. Connections and relationships will be severed and lost. The death of my grandma has not been the first experience where I have been at guilt of my
emotional detachment. High school graduations, college acceptances, and marriages are all major milestones that I have failed to be a part of in my extended family’s lives. Even though we have been living in the U.S for 13 years already, I still see the melancholy in my dad’s face every time he ends a call with his brother or sister. I have been complaining this whole article about my struggles, but the real internal conflicts lies within my dad. His whole family is back home in Vietnam, his eight siblings and every other blood relative besides my sister and me. Not only is his heart weighed, his physical health is also unstable due to his laborious job. Yet, he always prioritizes my education above anything. This is the reason why I am a “try-hard” at school and why I don't sleep. In order to give my parents the fulfilling and comfortable life they can’t have at the moment, I am motivated to work only harder every day. The achievement of my success would to have the ability, in the future, to buy my parents a plane ticket back home whenever they desire. I think that for those with parents who immigrated here for their children’s futures, this should be everyone’s goal. Setting aside the sacrifice of familial bonds, I think it was worth it. Although I miss my family and the heightened culture. Although I would trade anything to relive in those mornings again, waking up to the sound of roosters and opening the windows to morning greetings from everyone, the comfort of life in America and knowing that the “American Dream” of success is so within reach outweighs the regret that I left Vietnam.
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vironment than the hydrogen cars,” said Stephen Barlow, an engineering teacher at CVHS. This car should be used by everyone in the country and other countries like China to reduce the pollution produced by the estimated two billion cars on the world’s roads. In the past, the hydrogen vehicle was only a dream, but now it is a reality and it should be celebrated and adored by everyone. Although electric cars are more efficient in energy conversion at 69 percent compared to the hydrogen car at 23 percent, it would be great to have a variety of cars to combat global warming. If everybody begins to adopt this new technology and invests in it, the technology may be able to gain speed and develop faster creating better cars and better technology in general.
The Olympian is a publication of the journalism class at Castro Valley High School, 19400 Santa Maria Ave., Castro Valley, CA 94546. © 2017
Editors-in-Chief..................................................................Mia Babasyan Hannah Johansson Copy Editors......................................................................Nisha Lal 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, Gianna Ellis, Layne Johnson, Bilal Messaoudi, Hayate Moro, Amina Moummad, Derek Neyer, Nathanial Ortiz, Jenny Pham, Young So, Rachel Stein, Thomas Vergara, Isabelle Voix, Andrew Watanabe, Katelyn Wong, Emma Yin Advisor........................................................................Matt Johanson
Jumanji Juniors journey in jungle
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elcome to the jungle! Juniors, clad in bright blue, explored Homecoming week with a Jumanji theme and their binoculars. They weren’t monkeying around. Their adventurous attitudes were enough to take second place. The jungle explorers were satisfied when they left their world behind.
Photos by Wailea Siler, Emily Salazar, Jenny Pham and Katelyn Wong
Dungeon-dwellers slay dragons
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ophomores slayed Homecoming with the fiercest Dungeons and Dragons warriors and wizards, covered from head to toe in a warlike red. Their adventure led to a third-place finish, but their magic and bravery persisted until the very end.
Photos by Wailea Siler, Jenny, Nathanial Ortiz, Katelyn Wong, and Thomas Vergara
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Growing up at “The Edge of Seventeen” By Milagros Aquinos Staff Writer
“The Edge Of Seventeen” is a teen comedy-drama movie that came out in November of last year. The story revolves around Nadine, a girl who has never been the best. Her older brother has always seemed to have it better than her, but she did have one friend who she made in the early days of elementary school. One day, their mom leaves town and one thing leads to the other. When her best friend starts dating her brother, she feels more alone than ever. Nadine, the main character, was always that awkward kid, she didn’t have any friends. However, she finds a friend named Krista at age seven. Everything seemed okay with her and her dad, they made life better for her. When Nadine was thirteen, she went into an awkward phase and while they were driving, her dad had a heart attack. Nadine suffered tremendously from this incident and the next years were substandard and depressing. At seventeen, her brother Darian and Krista end up getting together after Nadine falls
Da Di / A&E Editor
asleep. This makes her point out that Krista can only choose between her brother or her, and after she said no Nadine told her she couldn't be friends with her so, Krista just said fine and walked away. She then started coming to eat lunch with her teacher Mr. Burner where she let out all her feelings, after a
while she starts hanging out with one of her classmates, Erwin, who likes her. At first, she looks at him like he’s “puppy dog cute” but after a while of hanging out, they become really great friends. After she gets into a troubling situation her teacher comes to pick her up and have her hang
out till her mom picks her up. While her mom is busy freaking out over her robbing her car and still hadn’t returned even though it was turning darker outside. Darian puts on his adult pants and goes to pick her up, bringing Krista along with her. Not happy, Nadine refuses to go and Darian yells at her about the attitude she gives while she is screaming about how he only cares for himself. After she ends up going home she goes to her brother’s room and apologizes for the way she had been acting. The next day she makes progress with Krista and actually talks to her, making her really happy. “The Edge Of Seventeen” was overall a great movie and that had excellent casting. Hailee Steinfield, who played Nadine really brought the character to life with her sarcastic and socially awkward acting. Along with the clothing which included colorful skirts and a complementary top that made her look unique and different from how her best friend Krista. Krista was played by Haley Lu Richardson which made the story have an excellent plot with her looking like she fit in with everyone.
Murder mystery makes “Wind River” a majestic film Marvel stars trade masks for magnifying glasses By Andrew Watanabe Staff Writer
Imagine running for six miles in thin clothes, in freezing cold snow in the dead of night. Imagine doing that scared, beaten, and sexually assaulted. Then after doing all that, only to die, because your lungs have burst and you’ve drowned in your own blood. That is the
story of the new movie “Wind River.” The movie takes place on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming. It follows wildlife officer, Cory Lambert, and FBI agent, Jane Banner. C o r y d i s c o ve rs a d e ad woman’s body in the snow frozen solid. Jane is called out to the reservation to investigate. With Cory as her guide and along with the local police, they work to find out what really happens and along the way the investigation takes many twists and turns. The main actors of the film are Jeremy Renner playing the wildlife officer, Cory Lambert, and Elizabeth Olsen playing the FBI agent, Jane Banner. Renner is most known now for his role as Hawkeye in the Marvel Comics movies. Olsen
is most notable for her roles in the Marvel Comics movies as well. The acting in this movie is phenomenal. I am used to seeing Renner as the funny parental figure, who kicks ass in Marvel movies, but in this film he deviates from his usual role. He becomes this strong, stoic figure, who’s wise yet also kind and compassionate. Olsen undergoes the same change in this movie. I think of Elizabeth as the sorceress from the Marvel movies who is strong and powerful, but an outsider because she is dark, grim, and suffers from her own inner turmoil. In “Wind River,” she does an excellent job of playing the role of an inexperienced FBI agent, who demands a presence. She is still an outsider in this
movie, because no one takes her seriously and she’s not a local with the natives on the reservation. This movie is filled with suspense and is actually quite sad. One of the most memorable quotes from the movie was when Cory was talking to the father of the dead girl. “I got some good news, and I got some bad news. Bad news is you’ll never be the same again and you can never replace her. The good news is that once you accept that and let yourself grieve, you’ll remember her and love she gave you,” he said. The movie isn’t mainstream or as well known as other movies, but it is one of the best to come out this year. I highly recommend people go to watch it.
Here comes the iPhone X By Sam Ahn Staff Writer
What is the difference between the iPhone X and earlier models? Why are they so expensive? These are some of the many questions people have whenever Apple releases a new addition. Whenever Apple releases a fresh iPhone into the market, Apple stirs up international hype around the new product by introducing new technology and next generation features. The biggest critics of Apple will tell you there’s little difference between the new product and the one from the previous generation, but there are some features that’ll prove that the iPhone X is featuring innovations never seen before. The biggest new feature on the iPhone X is the newly introduced facial recognition, which instantly allows you to unlock your phone, pay for your apps and authenticate in just a glance, even in the dark. Furthermore, the precise mapping allows for the phone to recognize you even after you change your hairstyle, grow facial hair, wear glasses, hats or accessories. Facial recognition provides absolute security as it can differentiate facial features between twins, pictures and masks. Another tremendous factor contributing to the iPhone X hype train is the fact that Apple decided to, after countless requests from the consumers, install wireless charging to iPhone X. This means that as long as you have a charging pad, you’ll be able to charge wherever you go without the need of a plug, and it charges as much as 50 percent in a mere 30 minutes. However the battery pad must be purchased separately for the price of $60. Speaking of prices, the iPhone will cost at a whopping $999 (starting price) and will range up to $1150 depending on its storage. The price will no doubt be the biggest reason consumers will refuse to buy it and turn to cheaper alternatives. Many feel that the price is grossly inflated through being overhyped. Critics have labeled the iPhone X as overpriced and expects it to flop upon its release in November. However, only time will tell if the iPhone X and its frontier innovations can live up to the monumental hype and expectations of audience and critics alike.
THE OLYMPIAN
Oct., 31, 2017
Pampas Cafe: nice place, cheap price
Share laughter with “Def Comedy Jam 25” By Layne Johnson Staff Writer
Hayate Moro / Staff Writer
Pampas Cafe is located in front of the Castro Village Shopping Center. By Hayate Moro Staff Writer
Locals in towns are always alert for new and easily accessible eateries to bring their interest. A small Argentinian cafe, Pampas, opened just at the right time to catch their eye. Pampas Cafe started business in November 2016, serving the most perfect breakfast and lunch one can demand. What caught many of the food lovers’ attention was the wide variety of empanadas and drinks to choose from. Empanadas are baked or fried pastry filled with different types of ingredients such as cheese, chicken, sweet potato, onions, mushrooms, spinach and etc. While many eaters can experience a little bit of Latin American
culture from eating these empanadas, taking a bite at the cafe teleports you to Argentina. The building can be seen in a combination of antiquity and modern-like, and welcomes you with two old-fashioned doors. As you enter with curiosity, the left side of the room is designed with brick walls decorated with archaic coffee “mate calabaza,” coffee beans, mug cups, and pictures. Outside, there are chairs and tables for customers to peacefully enjoy their treat. One type of table, however, forced me to its way due to its uniqueness. On one side of the cafe, a long rectangular wood piece is embedded onto the wall to create a table higher than normal to have you stand.
Family matters in “LEGO Ninjago Movie” By Thomas Vergara Staff Writer
A fleet of Garmadon’s jets and his powerful army ravage Ninjago city, and the only thing standing in the way of his domination is the Green Ninja and his ninja team. An evil warlord and his heroic teenage son face off in a battle for Ninjago, and rekindle their broken relationship along the way, in “The LEGO Ninjago Movie.” Action-packed and emotional, this movie is great for younger audiences, sending a message of familial unity and happiness. The journey made by Lloyd and his father Garmadon conveys that the bond between father and son can
never be broken. Directed by Charlie Bean and Paul Fisher, and starring Jackie Chan, Dave Franco and Justin Theroux, “The LEGO Ninjago Movie” is a spin on the popular Cartoon Network show that aired in 2011. The movie gives a new and interesting version of the original characters from the show while still retaining their original characteristics, like Jay’s cowardly attitude and Kai’s arrogance. This movie deserves a 4 star review because of the fun and sentimental message but not 5 stars because of the cliche of the “meaning of family” message that is often seen in movies directed towards younger viewers. However, it is highly recommended for children that enjoy the show but also any child that enjoys a funny and action-packed film.
During Fall Festival, Pampas Cafe sold about 1,000 empanadas in two days! Along with the attractiveness of the bistro and the quality of the menu, location also gives the eatery the oxygen it needs for a fire. Located at 3483 Castro Valley Blvd., Pampas is less than a mile from CVHS. When students are looking for a scrumptious lunch for less than $5, they know exactly where to go. In less than a year, Pampas Cafe achieved an overall 4.9 star review on Yelp. If you haven’t been there yet, I can assure that you will be the one to complete the big star.
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Name something that’s unapologetically funny, raw, vulgar and black. Def Comedy Jam comes to mind, huh? Earlier this week, Netflix added a new special to its list of programs, “Def Comedy Jam 25.” Russell Simmons founded Def Comedy Jam with Stan Lathan in 1992 because he knew that the urban community needed a comedic relief. The 80s and 90s were flooded with police brutality, riots and the outbreak of AIDS. Def Comedy Jam gave black comedians their big break into the industry and their own platform. Def Comedy Jam was fearless and boundless. This Netflix special celebrates 25 years of Def Jam. It was a great event. The original Def Comedy Jam DJ, Kid Cupri, worked the event and the cameos were amazing. Huge stars showed up to support Def Comedy Jam. Dave Chappelle, Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, Martin Lawrence, Tiffany Haddish, JB Smooth, D.L Hughley, Bill Bellamy, Eddie
Griffith, Melanie Comarcho, Craig Robinson, Mike Epps, Katt Williams, Deon Cole and, the Queen of Def Jam, Adele Givens, attended the event. Many other comedians like, Chris Rock, Kevin Hart, Ice Cube and Trevor Noah, showed their support and appreciation by sending video messages to the show. The audience could not stop laughing. Comedians roasted the audience and took jabs at Donald Trump, R. Kelly, and even the Charlottesville riots. The night was filled with flashbacks from previous shows, from old catch phrases, dancing, celebrity cameos, Michael Jackson impressions and unforgettable moments. There was a tribute to the female comedians of Def Comedy Jam, the comedians that passed away, and even a tribute to the overlooked white comedians like Honest Jon, Richard Vos and Dave Tulis. The special was absolutely spectacular. It was great seeing old school comedians relive their prime. The event really was a blast from the past and I enjoyed every minute of it!
10 Jared Darling captures campus athlet ics
Rachel Stein / Staff Writer
Jared Darling snaps a photo in Trojan Stadium. By Rachel Stein Staff Writer
Senior Jared Darling has made his passion for sports and photography pay off. The Advanced Photography student landed a paying job photographing CVHS student athletes for a student sports photo website, prep2prep. com. Darling, who was confident in his chances, was accepted after filling out a form on the website and submitting three of his best photos. “I want to be a sports photojournalist and I thought this job would help me get my foot in the door,” said Darling. “I love sports. I never played them but I know a whole lot about them. And it’s a way that I can be part of it but not necessarily play,” explained Darling. Darling has photographed CVHS athletes in a number of sports, including football and volleyball, but his favorite sport to photograph is baseball. “Baseball is my favorite sport in general,” he said. “I like watching it, it’s a lot
Members of the class of 1967 watch a CVHS football game.
of fun. I like going to baseball games, I like that atmosphere.” It’s not so much the action shots that he is after as the meaning of the photos. Darling tries to capture the mindset of his subjects. “I try to focus on the emotion. You can get action shots anywhere. I want to tell the story of the game, deeper than the actual game,” he said. Darling is fairly new to photography. “I didn’t really know I was into it until I started taking the class,” he said. “Mr. V. is the main reason why I am doing what I am doing. I really like taking pictures, and it just kind of turned into me wanting to be a sports photographer.” Inspired and encouraged by CVHS photography teacher Jeff Vendsel, Darling is considering a career in sports photography. “I hope he will go far in the photography world. Jared seems to have a balance of drive and ability that not all photographers possess,” Vendsel said. A sampling of Darling’s photos can be viewed on his Instagram account: @jareddarlingphoto.
To kick off their 50th class reunion, members of the class of 1967 gathered at the CVHS football game on Sept. 15, where they reminisced about everything from McDonald's to the Vietnam War. Some of the alumni still live locally. However many are spread across the state, and even across the country. They talked about why they made the trip to revisit the place of their teenage years. “I haven’t been here in 50 years. I wanted to see how the campus has changed,” said Robert Chung. Earlier that day leadership students had taken the class of 1967 on a tour of the school. One of the most notable changes was the stadium. “The stadium was here but t here were wood benches. We didn’t have metal during the (Vietnam) war,” said Phil Mougey. “We were the first school in the Bay Area to have lights. Everyone wanted to play here,”
wonderful voice that sounded like a Disney Princess, and left the audience on their feet. Some of the songs in act one were funny and garnered laughs from the crowd, while others left the them in silence. Senior Lauren Fung’s rendition of “Someone to Watch Over Me” from “Oh, Kay!” brought the crowd to its feet, cheering. She sang beautifully, with perfect pitch and timing, and was deserving of all the applause she received. The closer for act one was Jailiah Brooks who sang, “One Night Only” from “Dreamgirls.” Brooks took the stage with authority, hit the high notes, and when she finished the crowds cheers and applauds were so
loud, you knew that she encapsulated all the talent of the previous singers and gave us one last amazing song of act one. Intermission allowed performers to relax and receive congratulations. Cabaret was great for showcasing the talent of some of choir’s students, but it was also a fundraiser for the Chicago trip A Capella choir will be taking in April of next year. There was a raffle and a prize giveaway and that rounded off intermission. “This year’s Cabaret was very successful for funds raised for choral projects during the year, including our Chicago Trip. The students really worked together to put on a great event that drew an awesome crowd.” said choir
Hannah Johansson / Editor-in-Chef
A nostalgic night with ‘67 alumni By Hannah Johansson Editor-in-Chief
said Bill Kelly. The group eventually moved beyond the school and began to talk about changes in the town. In the 60s, Castro Valley was an agriculture-based area, dominated by chicken ranches. “My folks moved to Somerset Avenue in 1948. It was called Williams Road then. Everything to the north of Somerset was chicken coops,” said Mougey. All shopping and dining had to be done in Hayward, so it was especially exciting to the thenteenagers when McDonald’s came to Castro Valley. “That was so exciting! Hamburgers at McDonald’s were 13 cents,” said Charlotte Fernandez. But the alumni did more than cheerfully reflect on their youth. They did not shy away from less positive memories about being young in the late 60s. “How come girls didn’t get letter sweaters?” Shelly KingDavis asked rhetorically. KingDavis played on multiple sports teams, and expressed her frustration that she does not have a letterman jacket to commemo-
rate them. CVHS used to allow boys but not girls to leave campus at lunch, which was another complaint the former teenagers had from the “different times.” After graduation from high school, some went to college, some went to work, and some went to war. “When I got out of high school I went to Vietnam,” said Mougey. “Our class only lost one person, Jerry Duffy,” said Charlotte Fernandez. The alumni had a small memorial planned for their fallen classmate the next day at the hotel where they were staying. While the conversation had serious moments, it was generally a positive reflection on their youth and time at CVHS. Davis-King, along with her classmates, praised her teachers for preparing her for a career in archaeology. “I would say that my teachers here at Castro Valley High School truly inspired me to become a professional,” said Davis-King.
Cabaret colorfully chronicles cool choir’s capability By Andre Watanabe Staff Writer
The stage is set for the grand performances of choir students. Audio is set up, the lights are adjusted, and the line outside grows longer. The palpable energy filling the cafeteria added to the emotion when performers sang. A couple minutes before the show people started yelling, “Start the show!” Then the lights turned off and the show began. The first act was amazing. The crowd took videos and sat in silence, awestruck by the amazing talent and voice behind everyone who went onstage. Junior Ria Panjwani and entered the stage and sang, “Quiet,” a Cabaret song. She had a
teacher Laryssa Sadoway. The second act consisted of mostly romantic songs. Some were funny, some were sweet, and others were sad. The trio of Anjali Bhat, Anna Wesner, and Kody Swenson sang “Been a Long Day” from “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” The song was endearing and funny. One interesting aspect was how well they sang in unison. Two people singing in unison is a difficult task, but three is incredibly ambitious, and they pulled it off splendidly. For the pre-finale song Sadoway sang “I’ll be Here” from “Ordinary Days.” It was a bittersweet song. The audience could see the emotion Sadoway put into it while she was sing-
ing. Her eyes looked glossy and she choked up, then continued singing with the same passion as before. The finale of Cabaret 2017 was an ensemble of all the performers of the night singing “All that Jazz” from “Chicago.” It was a lively upbeat song, and everyone sang in perfect harmony with each of their unique voices, and they all linked arms and danced. They ended the show with jazz hands, singing in a quiet whisper, “All that Jazz.” “Cabaret was an amazing life changing experience, and I’m glad I did it,” said Cabaret performer, Bryanna Craig.
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Football players bring #TakeTheKnee to CVHS
By Derek Neyer Staff Writer
Several football players from CVHS have started kneeling during the playing of the national anthem before games, mirroring a trend across the nation of football players protesting in even greater numbers by taking a knee for “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Some football players have joined the protest to show what they characterize as their support of minorities facing systematic oppression in America, while many Trojans have remained standing for the national anthem. “This country is about freedom. I don’t support how they’re carrying out the freedom,” said varsity player and sophomore Marcus Miller, referring to the government. Colin Kaepernick, former quarterback for the 49ers, started protesting racial injustice in August of 2016 by not standing for the national anthem, but there has been a huge increase in the number
CVHS football players kneel during the national anthem. of athletes who partake in the protest since President Donald Trump made inflammatory comments about the protesters in late September 2017. CVHS players who kneel during the national anthem have expressed a variety of reasons for their actions, but they all share a disgust with institutional persecution of
people of color. “We’re not trying to disrespect the country, we’re just trying to stand up for minorities,” said senior Will Sualua, who has been kneeling for the anthem since before Trump’s comments. The idea of wishing no disrespect on the country was repeated by senior Aaqil Ansar. “It’s got nothing to do
Jared Darling / Photographer
with the flag or the country,” said Ansar, who agrees that the protest is simply about showing they do not support what they perceive as regular abuse of all minorities, and adds that for him, it doesn’t have anything to do with Trump. Not all football players have exactly the same view about the protests however. Jared
Athletes of the Month
Gibb feels that the protests do not make sense. “Why go off by yourself and take a knee? I don’t understand why you would want to go off by yourself and take a knee,” he said. Junior Matt Tognolini does not partake, but finds no fault in those that do. “It’s a personal choice. I don’t think it’s a problem,” he said. He believes that the players feel misrepresented by their government, and sees this form of protest as a reasonable way of expressing that. There is no consensus on if or when the protests will stop, but multiple football players vowed to continue indefinitely. There has been much diversity in the way professional football teams have dealt with kneeling during the national anthem. Coach Denny Molzen only offered one statement. “I would like to show unity as a team in whatever we do but if players want to kneel I wouldn't/couldn't stop them or think of them any differently,” he said.
Ansar: “a great competitor” By Shaelly Adams Staff Writer
Aaqil Ansar prepares to throw a pass during practice.
Shaelly Adams / Staff Writer
Senior Aaqil Ansar, running back and defensive back of the varsity football team, has scored two touchdowns and 310 yards in the past five games. “I don’t know what exactly inspired me to play, but I remember being cut from my first team at eight years old, and being so determined to make the team next year. I then developed a huge passion for the sport and never looked back,” said Ansar. Ansar explained that he idolized NFL players like Mar-
shawn Lynch and DeSean Jackson; they were the reasons for his choice of the number ten jersey. Aside from football, Ansar has many other interests. He enjoys watching the NBA ,UFC, and participating in track and field. On his social media, you can find him cooking full course meals or showing off the personal haircuts he gives his friends. Excited to graduate with the class of 2018, after high school Ansar said he wants to study kinesiology, and possibly become an athletic trainer or physical therapist if he falls
short of the NFL. “I think one thing that really stands out about Aaqil is that he cares about your wellbeing and isn’t a selfish person,” said quarterback Daniel Gutierrez. “He just wants to see others succeed. He is also a great competitor on the field and is someone I look forward to playing by my side every Friday night, because I know that he is going to give 110 percent for every single play. Aaqil inspires me because he is such a dedicated person and I haven’t seen anyone work harder in the off season than he does.”
Lottich aims for greatness
By Mara Moysen Video Editor
Elena Lottich is a sophomore on the varsity team who outshines her competition. Living only two blocks away from the tennis court, Lottich started playing tennis around the age of six. “I like playing because I’ve made lifelong friendships with the people that are around me and the tennis community. It's something I feel passionate and feel really good about,” said Lottich.
Lottich used to also play softball, but seeing as she liked playing tennis more and that it took up most of her time anyway, she committed to sticking to tennis. “She works really hard. She’s somebody that really cares about tennis. She goes and works with a coach at Chabot several times a week, in addition to being on the best part of the team,” said coach Steve Argyres. Her strengths include her forehand and serving because those are the aspects
of the game she likes the most. “She was all league as a freshman. My guess is she has a good chance be that again this year. She’s only lost once this year,” said the coach. In the future, Lottich hopes to play division one tennis at Stanford. “That’s a dream and it's really hard, but that’s the ideal,” says Lottich. Her passion for the sport shows through her work. Overall, Lottich is one hard worker that deserves to be recognized.
Elena Lottich practices with the CVHS tennis team.
Mara Moysen / Video Editor
Freshmen find their first Clue
A
fter inspecting the
scene, dusting for fingerprints, and a trip to the coroner’s office, the freshmen got a Clue of what Homecoming is like for the very first time. Dressed in black, they were sure to go incognito for this case, finishing fourth. Photos by Wailea Siler, Mia Babasyan, Derek Neyer