NEWs
TRojan Life
Chosen Trojans
Editorial
A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
Juggling responsibilities
Singing competition
Kneeling for justice
Complex Concert
Students at Work
Schendel takes third
right to REfuse
Balancing school, social and personal lives, students reveal what it’s like to manage work while in school.
Senior Katlin Schendel takes third place, among five other MHS students in a singing competition.
The first Mililani Complex Concert featured ensembles from MHS, Mililani Middle, and Ike Elementary’s orchestra program.
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Anika Ramos | Trojan Times
In efforts to draw attention to the Black Lives Matter Movement, 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick rightfully starts a conversation well overdue.
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Trojan Times KAAPANA TAKES HIS PLACE ON DCI STAFF Tomorrow is Today
Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
By Sierra Gamayon s.gamayon@trojantimes.org
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n exciting opportunity to become a visual tech for the Drum Corps International (DCI) group, “The Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps” was given to marching band, Creative Dance and Music Director Derek Kaapana. “The Troopers” are a professional level marching group that compete with other groups across America. With many years of successful seasons with the MHS Marching Band behind him, when given the opportunity to work with such a prestigious group, Kaapana took it. “I found out about it through the visual captionhead, the one in charge of all the visual staff. His name is Todd Clevenger and he actually writes our drills for the marching band. So he had called me up and asked if I was interested and a few weeks later he called back
and told me I was part of the group and when I was told I felt pretty excited because it’s always a good opportunity to work with other people,” said Kaapana. This is the second time Kaapana has had the opportunity to work with a DCI group and this time around he hopes to bring something new to the table. “The first time I worked (with a DCI group) I was a little bit apprehensive because I wasn’t sure of my own capabilities of working with a group at that level, but this being the second time around and seeing that what we do here (in Hawaii) isn’t that much different than what we do there (is reassuring). Of course the skill level is different, but the organization and the way things are run (in) the design process is not that much different, so I think I am a lot more confident going into it this time around and with that I think I can jump right in and help,” said Kaapana. The MHS marching band
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program means a lot to Kaapana, which is evident through his teaching and the amount of time and dedication that is given to his students. “Mr. Kaapana is more than deserving of this visual tech spot at the Troopers Drum Corp. Although he is a music teacher and has other classes to attend to, Mr. Kaapana’s main focus is always the marching band program day in and day out. During my four years at MHS and the marching band program I would catch Mr. Kaapana fixing drills, music, sewing a flag or even putting together a uniform in his spare time,” said MHS alumna and Color Guard Tech Jerika Gomez. An experience like this will not only have an impact on Kaapana but also the marching band. “The biggest opportunity that comes with working with a drum core group is networking; meeting all the different staff members and knowing what their expertise is. When I was working with The Blue Knights I
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Danielle Smith | Trojan Times
Marching band Director Derek Kaapana and his creative dance class practice and perfect different tosses to improve their technique and skill.
had one of their staff come down to help us, his name is Jeremy Thompson, now he is part of our design team and he writes our electronic
music,” said Kaapana. Kaapana has greatly improved the marching band program, though he doesn’t do it
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Cross Country Runners Hashimoto and Stiles First at Aiea Invitationals By Cameryn Oshiro c.oshiro@trojantimes.org
Photo courtesy of Mila Gaston
At the Aiea Invitationals, Tyler Stiles (12) ran a 17:07 three mile race; earning him first place in the event against five other high schools.
The cross country team started their season off strong at the Aiea Invitational held on Sept. 17 with Junior Katie Hashimoto and Senior Tyler Stiles taking first in their respective events. “It was tough to win the race, because every race is different; different course and competition. The competition is just part of the challenge, but it’s a good
part because the other racers push me to run faster,” stated Hashimoto. The team competed against Pearl City, Aiea, Kalani, Kaiser and Leilehua High School. “I wouldn’t say I’m a better runner than my competition and I also don’t know what I do differently, because I don’t know what they do for their training. However I try my best at every practice and push to break my (previous records),” said Hashimoto. “Running
the Aiea course was really tough, it consists of four laps of long steep hills and so many stairs. After about the first minute into the race I could already feel my calves burning and towards the last lap I just felt dead, everything was cramping,” Hashimoto said. “I felt like a tubby seal going up the last hill. Despite the physical pain, it’s really important to mentally push through. When I race I like to sing songs in my head and think
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NEWS
Trojan Times Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
First Annual Mililani Complex Concert brings orchestra and band students together
Kelikoaelakauaikekai Gongob | Trojan Times
The band and orchestra worked together to perform a total of seven songs. Together, they performed a combined song called, “Danse des Ghazies.”
By Taylor Ann Ono t.ono@trojantimes.org
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n Sept. 22 the MHS, Mililani Middle and Mililani Ike Elementary school music programs performed a joint band and orchestra concert. The Mililani Complex Concert was held in the MHS gym; the goal of the concert was
to create friendships between younger and older students, in an effort to take the music program to a new level. From sectionals to group practices, over 400 students had the chance to work as one and share their knowledge. “I hope that our students see the bigger picture of the music program in our complex and I hope the younger
students see how exciting and how much fun they can have in playing,” said MHS Music Director and Concert Coordinator Kristi Higuchi-Delos Santos. The combined concert was a new experience for students, the younger ones especially. “I think they were just soaking it all in and I think they like to play with the older students; it gives them a really good feeling and I hope that they felt empowered by the older students,” stated Higuchi-Delos Santos. “It was kind of (all) of a sudden today, we’re string ensemble so we automatically practice (the prepared songs) so being here with all the other schools, we don’t really know (what to expect), we just have to adapt (quickly),” added Senior Shakson Isaac, an MHS String Ensemble student. Even experienced MHS students were meant to learn something new from the event. “I hope students at all levels were able to musically gain something from the con-
cert. Although technically the music was simple for the high school students, they should have put in the same amount of care for the music as their elementary and middle school counterparts did in preparing for the concert,” said MHS Music Director Curtis Hiyane. The interaction between all three schools meant that MHS students were assigned leadership roles to provide insight for the younger students. “I hope the younger students see how much fun they can have in playing and hear the differences in our students and be inspired and want to be like them,” stated Higuchi-Delos Santos. “Some of them had to take leadership roles, we talked in the morning about being positive role models. Just remembering that their actions are going to really have a huge impact on what the younger students feel and think.” Although the performance was created for the students, the conductors were impacted
as well. “For me, it’s been good because I went to the middle school to help prepare their kids. We’re giving back to them, helping them out in that sense. I think personally for me, that’s been a good feeling. Just to see these kids engaged and enjoying what they’re doing has been wonderful,” exclaimed HiguchiDelos Santos. “I learned that a joint music performance is possible for all students, at every level. As teachers we wanted the high school students to value the effort, energy and rehearsal time the elementary and middle school students put into preparing for the concert,” stated Hiyane. The music directors plan on having a wrap-up meeting to discuss what they could do to improve and what they felt that worked best. All of the students that participated in the concert did more than just perform; they experienced the beginning of a potential opening for complex student musical interaction.
ASMHS Guides Leaders of Student Council at Uka Elementary By Timothy Won t.won@trojantimes.org
Organizing a day of activities, the students of the Associated Students of Mililani High School (ASMHS) went to Mililani Uka Elementary School on Sept. 14 to guide students in lessons of leadership and public speaking. The day’s events included assisting 25 fourth and fifth graders in student council, making posters and using energizers to demonstrate the qualities of an excellent leader. The interactions between elementary and high school students allowed the two student councils to create special bonds with one another. ASMHS’ annual visits to Uka act as a guide for the elementary students — the future leaders of our schools and community in Mililani. “To see us where we are now, and what we have been able to do it really does give an inspiration to these next generation of young leaders, and it gives them hope to achieve whatever they want to achieve. I hope we do leave a positive legacy and one of inspiration for the next generation of young Mililani residents,” stated ASMHS President Junior Travis Afuso. In portable seven and the
P.E. room at Uka Elementary, each room hosted two different sessions in which ASMHS members would rotate as leaders of each activity they facilitated. One activity was led by Juniors Jessica Delos Reyes and Kaylee Johnson. “We taught them what a facilitator was and the important aspects of leading, like knowing what you’re supposed to say, what you’re supposed to do and being prepared, and having confidence to lead others.” Delos Reyes added,“Being a facilitator is important because you’re going to get thrown into situations where you have to become the facilitator, so it’s important that those kids understand the skills they need to do that.” Senior Airi Morita and Junior Alyssa Ann YamadaBarretto were also leaders in an activity that allowed the elementary students to gain a deeper understanding of the qualities of leadership by comparing it to a pencil. “The lead, it’s not necessarily your exterior but what’s on the inside (that) matters,” expressed Leilani WardRiehle, the Student Activities Coordinator at MHS. “Leaders need to be sharpened. You have to get trained and you have to practice and apply
Photo courtesy of Leilani Ward-Riehle
ASMHS facilitators Kaylee Johnson (11), Alyssa Ann Yamada-Barretto (11), Jessica Delos Reyes (11) and Airi Morita (12) guide the students through energizers while teaching them the qualities of being a leader in student council.
your skills.” Another session led by Afuso and Junior Hoyong Lee talked about using your voice as a tool. Students were given a statement and asked to say it in five different tones of voice to get their message across. “It’s so essential to have that aspect of communication. Being able to properly communicate different ideas, put out suggestions, (and) making sure that everyone understands what (is) being discussed. Because when people aren’t on the same page, then things are not going to
go as smoothly as they could. There’s going to be confusion; there’s going to be times where people are not sure where they’re supposed to be and what they’re supposed to be doing,” expressed Afuso. ASMHS plans to do other service projects at Uka in the near future. “I felt like I wanted (the service project) to be longer. I wanted to spend more time with those kids because we finally built a friendship sort of, like bonding with those kids after going through all of those sessions with them,” Delos
Reyes expressed. ASMHS continues to inspire Uka Elementary’s Student Council to strive to give their maximum effort and use their skills to better serve the community. By offering an insight to the power that student council members hold through visual and verbal exercises as facilitators, ASMHS created lasting friendships with the elementary students while also challenging the members of the student council to serve as role models for the younger generation.
NEWS Tis the Season; Cold and Flu Survival Tips Flu season has come right on time this year with cases cropping up all around campus, and is expected to last well into the upcoming year, peaking in January and February. Many are out sick, and more have come back contagious, making flu prevention essential to students and staff. “It’s everybody, the whole school community, that’s not thinking about proper hygiene, meaning that if they are—let’s say coughing or sneezing—they just kind of cough and sneeze out loud, but actually they’re supposed to be covering up with their elbow or their sleeve area, and not actually transmitting it to their hands,” said Health Pathcore teacher Candace Chun. “It’s all in the air.” These germs can spread on the wind for over a mile, and survive for two to eight hours on surfaces, making infection a possibility anywhere. Prevention can be as simple as keeping your hands clean. “If (you) cannot practice proper hand-washing procedures (soap and water for at least 20 seconds), (at least) hand sanitize your hands and surrounding area if you touched surfaces after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing,” said Health Pathcore teacher Shirlen Tanaka. Vaccines are also recommended to boost your immune system. For those 18 and older, vaccines can be administered at Longs Drugs. The pharmacy recommends scheduling an appointment in advance, but walk-ins are also serviced. Most insurance will cover the cost, but it can rise up to 40 dollars. Rest is also important to stave off the flu. It benefits your body and mind, but students often put homework before sleep. “You have (the) responsibility of doing homework, and you want to do everything perfect, correct, but there’s always (more) things coming up, so each homework has (an) object and goal, but not to kill yourself,” said Health Aide Hiroko Pugliese. The best thing you can do is de-stress. Stress is terrible for your mind, and makes you more susceptible to disease. Take a walk, laugh with a friend; it may not be a vaccine, but it will surely improve your health.
Trojan Times Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
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Boehning Travels Interisland to introduce NHD By Lindsey Scott l.scott@trojantimes.org
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ocial studies teacher Amy Boehning traveled to the Big Island and Molokai, along with visiting Mililani Ike and Mililani Waena Elementary Schools over the summer to introduce National History Day (NHD) to teachers and students alike. Boehning presented materials and activities for teachers and mentored students off-island as well as on-island schools such as Waipahu High School. “The best thing about (the presentations) is I get to meet teachers from all over the state. When you’re (a teacher) especially a high school teacher, you’re in a classroom and all you see is your students and you’re very isolated from the world, (many teachers are). It really gives me a chance to see what’s happening in other schools,” reflected Boehning. Boehning began her journey last year in South Korea, where she led her students to take second place at the national competition.This year, she started on islands outside of Oahu, and used this opportunity to mentor both teachers and students. “So, I (went to) the Big Island recently and I presented at the University of Hawaii, Hilo, to teachers and students (and) also some of the professors were people that were there and (I) gave them information. So I took what I did at the (NHD) Office and I shared that information to help advance Hawaii’s understanding of the process and I also provided
Photo courtesy of Amy Boehning
Social Studies teacher Amy Boehning, the state National History Day ambassador, presents National History Day to other teachers during the Hawaii History Day Kick Off at Chaminade University.
all the (teaching materials),” Boehning explained. In order to teach effectively, Boehning had to identify her audience and the school’s needs concerning NHD. “When I went to the Big Island, (there were) new teachers and only two veteran teachers and all brand new students that had never done (NHD). (I had) to give a presentation for ‘this is what it is’ along with ‘here’s the process’,” said Boehning. NHD has also expanded to the schools throughout Oahu. “I’m going to be doing a presentation at Waipahu High School coming up, (so) I’m going to their school on a Wednesday and I’m going to talk to the different classes. And I’ve also provided materials (to) Waialua High and Intermediate and I may be going down to visit them. So there are brand new teachers at (the) program and I just (teach) them how
to do it in a classroom, how to put it in the curriculum and materials that we’ve used that are vetted, how they can be successful,” explained Boehning. Besides working with high schoolers and teachers, Boehning has also implemented her teachings to elementary school students. “I actually volunteer after school for two hours a day (on) Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at (Mililani) Waena Elementary and (Mililani) Ike Elementary. And, so I’m currently working with over 30 fifth graders and a few fourth graders,” said Boehning. “(We do) exactly what our high school students are here doing on campus. What it is that we’re teaching the skills (that) they will use in all their different classes and they’ll use them for college. I always tell parents who come into my room, my job is not to get
their students, their child, into college, it’s to get them to be able to finish college,” Boehning further explained. The impact of Boehning’s work can be seen in the experiences of her prior students. “I strongly believe (Boehning’s teachings are beneficial), because my sons did share with me that what they learned from NHD prepared them well for college, because, again, it taught them the research skills and perseverance,” said Mililani Ike Japanese teacher Fumiko Yamada, whose sons were mentored by Boehning. Boehning plans to continue to expand the NHD program both statewide and nationwide to help inspire students to continue with their research. For those who are not enrolled in the program, Boehning has shared all NHD materials at mililaninhd.weebly.com.
College fair comes back bigger and better
Elgin Reese | Trojan Times
College and Career Counselor Denise Yamamoto hosted the college fair on Sept. 14 and opened it to all students whereas previously it had only been available for seniors. This year’s college fair hosted many college representatives, as well as certain financial aid and military programs. The fair filled up both lanais and the library, as representatives offered information and a personal connection for those interested in their college. “Last year was the first year we did it, but the college fair was done for seniors only, and this is the first year that we’re opening up to the whole school, and it’s a lot larger, probably twice as many Compiled by speakers and organizations (as) we had last year,” Yamamoto stated. Chaeley Winkler Compiled by Elgin Reese
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Trojan Life
Trojan Times Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
NEWS
The Two Emerge Again; The LGBTQ+ and Art Club Return By Alicya Burt a.burt@trojantimes.org
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Jannah Kalai | Trojan Times
Art Club President Min-Hua “Cindy” Tsou (10) (left) and Vice President Phoebe McNally (11) (right) take possible future projects suggestions.
oining the diverse group of organizations MHS offers to students, this school year reintroduced both the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) and Art clubs. Art Club President Sophomore Min-Hua “Cindy” Tsou and LGBTQ+ club President Freshman Samantha Sasaki saw potential and took the opportunity to revisit why they had discontinued service. Following her discovery of the lack of a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) on the club list for MHS, Sasaki took it upon herself to gather fellow freshmen and begin anew. “It’s not only about getting the word out to people who can relate, it’s also for people who don’t understand it. It can help prevent getting feelings hurt or getting into fights about things like this
so that people understand more,” said LGBTQ+ club Chief of Communications Freshman Daisy Ann Hipolito. Educating and supporting others is what the club is about, emphasizing their motto “We’re not here to hate, we’re here to educate.” As of now, the club is eagerly accepting new members and to anyone who might feel unwelcome, “It’s just like a GSA; we learn about the LGBT community and everyone is welcome. You don’t necessarily have to be LGBT to join,” said Sasaki. Similarly, the Art Club continues to accept new members, regardless of skill level. “A lot of people, they think that they’re not good at art so they do not want to join because they’re afraid that they’ll get made fun of, or they won’t do their best, but my message to them is you don’t have to be good
at art, you just have to have that creativity and you want to show that creativity. Even if you don’t think you have that imagination, art will be your imagination,” said Tsou. Not only do they want to relax and express themselves through art, but they also want to make a difference within the community. “We want to create a place where people can draw but we also want to do art projects. We’re (going to) try to do some community service or fundraisers to help the community,” said Tsou. “We are also coming up with a proposal to paint the school and murals and stuff, like paint the science rooms or the outside of the science room,” added McNally. Both the LGBTQ+ Club and the Art Club are great ways to branch out, meet new people, and try something new this year.
Part-time worker, full-time student; How work prepares students for the real world By Christian Lum c.lum@trojantimes.org
Kicking off his year enthusiastically, Senior Collin Walters’ dream of buying a brand new car is soon to be realized. Over the summer, Walters began working as a courtesy clerk at Times Supermarket and has been saving his money ever since. He has saved over 3000 dollars over the course of about three and a half months. A steady income and learning the responsibilities that come with working is the main reason Walters and many other young adults continue to maintain their part-time job, despite the fact they must also prioritize their education. There are not many legal restrictions and limits for student workers. Students of the ages 14 to 15 can work up to 18 hours. Students ages 16 to 18 can work at any job for unlimited hours, as long as it isn’t deemed hazardous. The reasons for working are pretty straight forward. A student wants to earn extra cash on the side, while also learning valuable skills for the future. Working gives students the opportunity to make cash on the side while also attending high school. “I am a casual part-time worker, so my hours are flexible and
don’t interfere with my school hours. I can make money on the weekend while going to school at the same time,” said Senior Max Higa, who works at Mililani Consolidated Theaters. School and work does not really seem to interfere with each other according to these students. Senior Kamakanamaikala Cordero said, “I balance my homework and school by doing my studying during my lunch break or doing my homework right after school. I go to the library after school sometimes because it offers a great environment to study in.” Higa added, “Working now prepares me for the future because I know how to balance work and school, which is something I will probably have to do again once I’m (in) college.” These students find alternate times to do their work, so it doesn’t interfere with their work hours. If they simply can’t balance out their homework and work that day, they will let their boss know and ask for a reduced schedule. “(The most enjoyable thing about working is) definitely gaining more work experience and learning the responsibilities that come with working (is why I continue to work). The custom-
ers and coworkers also make working enjoyable,” Walters added. The workplace teaches many students how to work well with other people. It also teaches them the responsibilities that come with having a job and how to save money for the future. Higa and Cordero plan on working until the end of the Photo courtesy of Kirra Empting school year. Walters plans on holding onto his job when he Kirra Empting (12), who works as a sales associate at the Fragrance Outlet, is one of the many that take on part-time jobs while balancing school. goes to college. Walters said, “I plan on keeping my job for as long as I need it. I will have a huge student debt at the end of my college career, but working will help to pay Previous work experience. This shows that you aloff my student debt at the ready know what is expected of you as a worker. The same time that I am attending employers will also have an increased trust in you. college.” Working part-time jobs offers many students the opporSpecialties and previous work. For example, if you tunity to get used to working, are knowledgeable in style, that would be a positive and prepares them for the in working at clothing retail. future. Students going in to future work will know how Personal skills. One example is a second language. to hold down a job and what Speaking a second language is an important skill is expected of them. Students that will be handy in communicating with tourists. also learn the value of hardwork and how they must save Dress it up. Appearance is everything when applytheir money, not just spend it ing for a job, it shows professionalism and maturity. all. There is no doubt that the This relates to font, style and layout. student workers will apply the skills that they have learned to Be unique. Most employers get hundreds of applitheir everyday lives and will cations a week and don’t check them all. You have be more prepared once they to stand out to the workplace so they can remember graduate and move on to real your name. life.
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NEWS
Chosen Trojans
Trojan Times Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
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Five MHS Students make top 11 for Koko Marina Soloists Singing Competition
Anika Ramos | Trojan Times
Most of the contestants had less than a month to select their song, practice and prepare their outfits for the competition. While performing, contestants incorporated movements and emotion according to their song.
By Anika Ramos a.ramos@trojantimes.org
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ive MHS students, Seniors Rhiannon Foster and Katlin Schendel, Junior Jacob Weaver, Sophomore Shealynn Foster and Freshman Rowan Foster, competed on Sept. 24 in the finals for the Koko Marina Singing Soloists Competition hosted by the local media group, Dis-n-Dat at the Koko Marina Center in Hawaii Kai. Those who com-
Kaapana DCI continued from page 1
all by himself. “As a former student, I know that Mr. Kaapana takes the time in the summer to go and visit ‘The Blue Knights Drum Corps’, where he does pick up his tips and tricks from other staff and directors. From these summer visits, it is evident that he picks up a lot and he does translate what he has learned to his students. He also gets his visual inspiration from other DCI groups by watching them live, he’ll pick up something he likes and design a similar visual for his students,” added Gomez. Kaapana also believed that working with this group would be beneficial to the Trojan Marching Band program. “Working with a group on a more professional level, you can see their limitations and then being able to go back to a high school group and working with them I can tailor (things) and change how rehearsals are organized to get what (the) best of all sides are,” said
peted sang to win 500 dollars and get a chance to be aired on Dis-n-Dat. Although no one from MHS received the grand prize, Schendel was able to grab third place with the song, “Listen” by Beyonce. “I just started doing competitions and I don’t like losing and it kind of gets me out of my comfort zone so I could see other talents and improve my skills,” stated Weaver. While this was many of
the participants first time performing in the competition, Rhiannon Foster and Shealynn Foster have competed in the Koko Marina Competition twice and Schendel has competed five times. “I just keep coming back because I really want to get the 500 dollars, but after this time I gotta let it go if I don’t win and move on. I like the experience and hearing (the judge’s) feedback,” Shealynn Foster said. The competition has been
Kaapana. Running the marching band program has allowed Kaapana to impact many students lives and many think that he is the best choice for this new job. “I think that he is absolutely deserving of this opportunity; I can tell how hard he works and how much he cares about the program and the kids especially, and to see that he became a Visual Tech for the Troopers is really inspiring,” said Color Guard Captain Senior Lauren Iwasaki. “If I could thank Mr. Kaapana for anything it would be for overall helping me be a stronger performer and attempting to pursue my marching band goals. Ever since freshman year I’ve always wanted to audition for a drum corps during my senior year. With his help throughout all four years, Mr. Kaapana was able to guide me into the correct technique and being able to perform my heart out,” added Gomez. Being a part of “The Troopers” won’t affect Kaapana running the marching band. “The amount of time there will vary, it could be a week or a few weeks. It just depends on how willing they
are to bring me up to Indiana. It will involve me working on the field with large to small groups within their sections, running sectionals, working with caption heads to see what is and isn’t working within the drill and just focusing in on each individual person and helping them to succeed,” said Kaapana. Moving from student to adviser proved to be a smooth transition. “Working closely with Mr. Kaapana is great. It’s ever so slightly different as to when I was a student and now. As a student in the Leadership Corps (LC) he was a wonderful teacher, he was able to get his LC students into great shape by breaking down the technique and being able to strengthen us as leaders. As a graduate it is slightly different but he still is able to pass on his knowledge,” said Gomez. This season marks another year of working with the marching band as they prepare their upcoming show titled “The Universe Within Us” for the competition season, and next summer will offer a whole new set of possibilities and a fresh set of ideas for Kaapana to work with.
a learning experience for all participants. “Well, first of all there’s not really a lot of competitions involving money so it’s one of few competitions for us (singers) and second there’s money and then third it’s gonna air on Dis-and-Dat so it’s kind of like an opportunity for us (singers) to get out there,” said Weaver. Over 100 participants entered, but only 11 were chosen to move on to the finals. Finalists were then asked to choose a song that best suited their style. For Rowan Foster, that song was Michael Jackson’s, “Who’s Loving You.” “To me, the ‘Who’s Loving You’ song, I think it really connects cause I am struggling at the moment with my sexuality so I think that this song is really helpful to all those people who are (helpless). If you’re someone feared, like once that person comes out, they’re wondering who’s loving you, are you ok. If they’re a good person it’s all about ‘Is this person ok now?’,” she expressed. Before and during the performances the singers were presented with physical and mental challenges. “I feel like it would’ve been good if I wasn’t sick today.
I have a cold and I can’t really breathe, but on normal days it sounds good, today it didn’t sound as great,” stated Rhiannon Foster. Shealynn Foster who sang Kelly Clarkson’s original song, “Piece by Piece” added, “I was talking to my voice teacher and we were talking about all these things that made me sad and she said you should choose a sad song to work on your emotion. Because I don’t have the best emotion on stage I’m always kind of like blankfaced. So we were trying to find something that would kind of make me try to show more emotion on my face. So that’s why I chose that song.” Each performer also had to manage with their pre-show jitters. “Just stage presence. I get really nervous when I get up there, but after a while I kind of start getting comfortable,” Weaver said. The Koko Marina Competition has been a great experience for all performers to test their stage presence, voice and audience interactions. Participants enjoyed the competition and those eligible are thinking about auditioning for next year and hope to audition again in the following years.
Photo courtesy of Leilani Ward-Riehle
Members of ASMHS spent hours after school cleaning, de-capping and separating recyclables before sending them off for treatment on Friday.
9053 cans later; Operation Save the Planet is a success MHS 2016 Homecoming Week from Aug. 29 to Sept. 2 rallied students of all grades together to start off the new school year with spirit and to help make a difference in the community. The whole spirit week was filled with fun, excitement and “Trojan Pride.” But along with the festivities of homecoming was the service project “Operation Save the Planet” where students dropped off recyclable items into large bins on the B building stage in hopes of
improving the lives of special needs children in Hawaii. Finishing with a grand total of 9,053 items, ASMHS was able to donate a total of $452.67 to Special Olympics Hawaii. “I think the biggest message is to appreciate what we have and be humble enough to always give back,” said Student Coordinator Janet Ward-Riehle. Information for future service projects will be sent out through advisory classes. Compiled by Maiya Ezawa
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SPORTS
Trojan Times Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
Cross Country continued from page 1
of all the food I’ll eat after.” Co-captain Senior Mila Gaston added, “The boys and girls teams placed better than we did the previous meet at Pearl City (held Sept. 10),” she said. “There aren’t awards at these preseason meets, but there will be ceremonies at Westerns, OIAs, and States that recognize the top 20 runners in every race.” Hashimoto’s passion for the sport has played a large factor ever since elementary school. “Running has pretty much always been in my life since the fourth grade. Although I really hate it at times because it can suck, I also love it. Through running, I was and still am able to experience a gratifying feeling of accomplishment. It’s a great feeling to have worked really hard at something and to finish through. But more importantly, I am able to experience what having a team bond is like— even though it is mainly an individual sport—our team is like a family and I’m so
grateful for that,” explained Hashimoto. Head Coach Nate Aragaki who coaches the XC team, believes his runners can get into the top 20 by the time the October meet arrives. “I expect them to place at Westerns and States, they should—Westerns and OIA—States is a long shot, but it’s not impossible. Tyler Stiles is on the verge, Timothy Schiller too, but he’s a junior. This year, the competition looks a little greater than normal, but we’ll see what happens; they’re working hard,” stated Aragaki. As 2016 graduates begin their college careers, new freshmen have joined the team to take their place. Girl’s co-captain Senior Maya Hoeft said, “We lost three of our top runners from last year, but hopefully this year we can make up for it.” Before the race, there might be tense moments for the competitors. “There’s not much opportunity to talk to everyone else until you’re at the start line, but then you’re usually talking to your teammates.” Riding the bus to races, singing their cheer and having potlucks strengthens the bond between the team.
Photo courtesy of Mila Gaston
Back row; Jasmine Chase (10), Kaela Soberman (9), Skylar Sua (10), Kaitlyn Shimizu (11), Mila Gaston (12), Erisa Castillo (11), Maya Hoeft (12). Front row; Lina King (10), Katie Hashimoto (11), Anika Ramos (10).
“Everyone pretty much supports each other pretty equally,” added Hoeft. “For training, we do a combination of long runs, tempo runs and intervals. Long runs are typically six to seven miles long, tempo runs are four to five miles long and intervals can vary in distance,” said Gaston. “Once championship meets are one or two weeks away,
our training will gradually start to be easier on our bodies in order to have fresh legs for these important meets,” explained Gaston. With the preseason meets out of the way, Hashimoto hopes to earn her spot as a top runner in her event by the time competitive season begins. “Since OIAs and States are coming up, I plan on definitely stepping it up
with my training. I plan on pushing to reach faster splits and running more miles to improve my endurance and pace,” stated Hashimoto. As the team looks forward to a strong season, their Western Divisional Championships will be held on Oct. 8 at the Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park near the Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center.
Grit under Polish; Powderpuff girls suit up for 7th annual game
Danielle Smith | Trojan Times
Before the beginning of the second game, the girls of the sophomore and senior team join together for a moment to collect themselves and share their support for one another, accompanied by their football players as coaches.
By Danielle Smith d.smith@trojantimes.org
After weeks of preparation and vigorous practices, the Lady Trojans geared up to play against one another in the 7th annual Powderpuff game on Sept. 16. The seniors came out victorious after winning their first game against the sophomores and again in the championship a match with the juniors, ending with a score of 20-16. “It’s amazing how these
girls have come from the first day of football when I watched them to now. I feel like they’re all going to be able to watch football and understand it and also be proud of being tough,” Junior team coach Senior Isaiah Longboy said. Before stepping up against the seniors, the juniors played a close game against the freshman. Although unprepared for the fierceness that came from the freshman, the juniors managed a touch-
down in the final minute of the game that brought them to their win.“I would say I’m happy with it because we won but I’m also not happy with it because we were really close to losing. But it’s all about how we make adjustments and how we bring that to the next game,” Longboy said. “I didn’t expect what they gave to us. They held it down, I’ll be honest. The freshman are pretty amazing this year. I didn’t expect them to be so good.”
The game between the seniors and the sophomores was just as tense for both the crowd and the players. “No (we weren’t prepared for what they brought). When we practice, we are only giving 75 percent but during the actual game, all the girls go 100 percent. But it wasn’t anything us senior girls couldn’t handle,” said Senior captain Angellyn Rose Basa. The halftime show featured performances from the marching band and the color guard, as well as Junior Tiani Scott singing the state and national anthem for the first time. “I was really honored that (Powderpuff Chairman Tiare Kahalewai) asked me and I was stoking because I’ve never sang the national anthem in front of a crowd.” Undeterred by the loss, juniors remained proud of their own achievements and the hard work they put into playing the game. “There was a lot more expectations, thinking the seniors are all that and they’re gonna whip us but it ended up being not that hard. The challenge was still there but we managed to keep them to only 20 points. That’s more than I wanted but I’m really just proud of
the way my girls performed,” said Longboy. The seniors, meanwhile, reveled in the win. “I am very tired. My body is aching. But it’s really good that we won, and it was a good game between the sophomores and the juniors,” expressed Basa. Bringing not only flags and football to the field, the Powderpuff games brought light to the excitement and energy of the competition. “I heard a lot of intensity. Everyone was always yelling and cheering for everyone. And the fact that they always stayed together on the field was amazing to me,” Longboy expressed. Weeks spent together also encouraged a growth of friendships within the teams. “First practice, it was like ‘I know that girl or hey, that girl is in my class.’ At the end of this game, I feel like we are all sisters,” Basa said. Taking with them a newfound set of skills, the Lady Trojans intend to apply these in other aspects of their lives. While the seniors begin their last year in a victory, other teams hope to take and expand on their experience for a chance to win in the upcoming years.
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1
Sophistication, style and class are all the things this button down shirt connotates. From New York to London to Milan, pinstripes ruled the runways in evening and casual wear. Tucked into a pencil skirt or jeans, worn over a t-shirt or styled any way you like, this is a shirt not going out of fashion.
Trojan Times
Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
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Velvet is a staple piece for any 90’s baby. While Marc Jacobs and Jason Wu styled modern and contemporary looks for this fabric, you can add life to your wardrobe with velvet in a variety of colors. On everything from chokers, shirts, dresses, pants to shoes, make it yours to accessorize and style. The versatility of this piece extends far in any decade.
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Just as every February is for football fans, fall Fashion Week strikes deep with anyone who experiences shortness of breath and gets teary-eyed from the beauty of Dolce and Gabbana’s 2017 Spring pumps. When it comes to couture fashion, those of us taking the hammer to the piggy bank might not have all the resources to get ahold of this season’s favorites. We’ve narrowed the trends from New York, Paris and Milan’s fashion weeks to bring you the top five trends you may own.
2 It seems even on Fashion Week designers aren’t afraid to go back to the basics. Have a busy top full of color, design and prints? Adding a basic pair of jeans tones the entire look down. Follow in the steps of Dolce and Gabbana and Ralph Lauren by using black slacks or distressed jeans in matrimony with a top.
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When has leather not been in fashion? From pants, to shirts to jackets, channel your inner Olivia Newton-John and rock a classic biker leather jacket for a casual day time look or a classy night time ensemble. Whether you’re pairing it with slimming slacks and Kate Spade heels, or with ripped jeans and converse, nothing is more classic than this.
Take a look at the fashion weeks for yourself at
fashionweekonline.com
Fashion Week ended Oct. 5.
Tan has always been a perfect transition color from summer. Monochromecolors have been a staple of the fashion world for generations, and this fall is no different. Be straight off of New York Fashion week, and put a simple tan shirt over a pair of boyfriend or mom jeans.
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EDITORIAL
10 The right to refuse: A quarterback’s decision to protest national anthem Trojan Times
Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016
against POC in America, evidenced by the killings and mistreatment of victims an Francisco 49ers’ such as Trayvon Martin, quarterback Colin Michael Brown, Eric GarKaepernick has recently ner, (most recently) Terence sparked controversy over his Crutcher and a list of more refusal to stand for the playnames, too long to ignore. ing of the national anthem The movement and its efforts before games, in protest of have become a main topic the injustice he feels has of heated discussion across been done to people of color social media and struck quite (POC) by American law a chord with Kaepernick. enforcement. While Kaepe“I can’t see another Sandra rnick’s controversial protest Bland, Tamir Rice, Walter has received backlash over Scott, Eric Garner,” he said social and mainstream media to The Telegraph News. “At for opposing the unity of our what point do we take a nation, it has created benefistand and as a people say, this cial awareness for the Black isn’t right? (The police) have a Lives Matter (BLM) Movebadge and (they’re) supposed ment; a conversation that to be protecting us, not murdeserves much attention. The dering us.” star quarterback is using his Many are taking Kaeperhigh-end position as a focal nick’s stand as an insult to the center for a media industry United States first respondthat receives more attention ers and service members. than the daily news to rightly Though the national anthem highlight the violence, death is often linked to the sacand injustice within our rifices of service members, government and law enforce- it is a lyrical representation ment. of America’s resilience and Kaepernick’s motives the freedoms it provides its are clear. “I am not going citizens; the very freedoms to stand up to show pride Kaepernick and many othin a flag for a country that ers are exercising to protest oppresses black people and these injustices. Kaepernick’s people of color,” Kaepernick protest and the protests of told NFL Media in an interthe BLM Movement are not view. “To me, this is bigger meant to degrade service than football and it would be members, but rather to bring selfish on my part to look the the rights and lives of minoriother way. There are bodies in ties into the spotlight. the street and people getting Many athletes are joining paid leave and getting away Kaepernick’s protest, includwith murder.” ing the Denver Broncos and The protest goes hand in Arian Foster of the Miami hand with those of the BLM Dolphins. National Women’s Movement, one that proSoccer League player Megan tests the wrongful violence Rapinoe of the Seattle Reign By Mary Conner m.conner@trojantimes.org
S
BringBackFirefly
By Chaeley Winkler
was the first to join arms with Kaepernick, but is protesting with a different perspective. Though Rapinoe is not a POC, she has faced discrimination both as a woman and as a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) community. “I thought a lot about it, read a lot about it and just felt, ‘How can I not kneel too?’” Rapinoe told TIME magazine. “I know what it’s like to look at the flag and not have all your rights.” Various other athletes, including Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers’ player LeBron James, support Kaepernick, but continue to stand for the national anthem. “Me standing for the national anthem is something that I will do,” said James at the team’s annual media day. “That’s who I am. That’s what I believe in. But that doesn’t mean I don’t respect and believe in what Colin Kaepernick is doing. You have the right to voice your opinion, stand for your opinion, and he’s doing it in the most peaceful way I’ve ever seen someone do something.” Though Kaepernick is a POC himself, many argue that his place as a millionaire adopted by white parents makes him an ineligible poster child for this protest. However, discrimination is faced by all POC and these issues are prevalent to all who are affected, with the addition of supporters who may not be. To be a supporter of the BLM Movement does not
mean one must be a struggling face amongst the racial inequality of America’s financial system, rather, to be a supporter of the BLM Movement means one supports the expulsion of discrimination against POC. Kaepernick is aware of the risks he is taking by involving himself in such controversy. “This is not something that I am going to run by anybody,” Kaepernick said to NFL media. “I am not looking for approval. I have to stand up for people that are oppressed. If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right.” So far, Kaepernick has not backed down from his protest and is likely to continue until he recognizes a significant change in the treatment of POC by law enforcement. The discrimination faced by POC is not something that should be ignored. With the recent murder of Terence Crutcher — another unarmed black man — in Tulsa, Okla., the efforts of the BLM Movement, as well as Kaepernick’s resolves have been strengthened. Kaepernick has exercised his inalienable rights as a citizen of the United States, and his position as a focal point in a multi-million dollar industry in order to stand up for the injustices done to minorities by American law enforcement, a subject that justifiably deserves to be at the forefront of spocial issues in the U.S. justice system.
Trojan Times The mission of the Trojan Times is to be the student voice and to publicize events, share in the successes of students, promote the hard work of the faculty and capture the dedication of organizations.
Editor-in-Chief Jannah Kalai Managing Editor Danielle Smith Online Editor Shelby Haygood Design Editor Annissa Burcham Multimedia Editor Kelikoaelakauaikekai Gongob Copy Editor Katlin Schendel Opinions Editor Mary Conner Tech Matthew Feria Camera Man Nick Malae Ads & Marketing Caitlyn Resurreccion Social Media Sierra Gamayon Adviser Mr. Christopher Sato Staff Alicya Burt Maiya Ezawa Katie Hashimoto Christian Lum Taylor Ann Ono Cameryn Oshiro Anika Ramos Elgin Reese Lindsey Scott Aimee Vinta Chaeley Winkler Timothy Won The Trojan Times is a monthly production of the Newswriting staff of Mililani High School 95-1200 Meheula Pkwy., Mililani, HI 96789 To voice an opinion or any concerns, feel free to submit a letter to L205 or to jannah.kalai@mililanihs.k12. hi.us. Please type your letter and clearly state your name, grade level and period one class. The Trojan Times reserves the right to edit letters as they see fit.
INFORMATION Travis Afuso
My fellow Trojans, This year has already proven to be an exciting one. We have traveled through the Trojan Universe and visited the bright, shining stars and planets during our Homecoming festivities. In the annual Powderpuff Games, all of our Lady Trojans gave it their all, but it was the seniors who emerged victorious. Time has truly flown by, and it is hard to imagine that we have already gone through two months of this new school year. Fall Spirit Week is less than a month away, so get your Halloween costume ready! Winterball will be held on Dec. 9 at the Pacific Beach Hotel. Bid Sales will be from Oct. 31 to Nov. 4. As we move forward into this second quarter, let us make an effort to support our peers by attending athletic events, post season tournaments and club activities. I know that for all of us, we have been working hard to balance the demands of school with our extracurriculars and with life itself. There is no doubt that we must continue to strive for academic excellence, for we all stand on the verge of a great new era in our lives, one that requires us to be at our very best. Nothing is out of our reach if we believe in ourselves and have the courage to see things through. In the last issue, I challenged all Trojans to reach for the stars and seize opportunities. Let us continue to do that because in the end, only we have the power to shape our future. We can ride an opportunity to infinity and beyond.
C&CC PSAT Testing: The PSAT will be administered here at MHS for students in grades 9 to 11, on Wednesday, Oct. 19 beginning at 8 a.m. Registration will begin on Monday, Sept. 12 and go until Friday, Sept. 30. The cost is 15 dollars and checks should be made payable to Mililani High School. Juniors who receive free/reduced lunch are eligible for a fee waiver. The PSAT is great practice for the SAT and is the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program for Juniors. Students must bring their ID and fee to the C&CC before or after school, during recess or lunch. Space is limited. Refunds will not be given, so plan accordingly. College Speaker Sessions: All students are welcome to attend our speaker sessions. Last year, 101 schools/speakers visited MHS. If interested, sign up electronically on our webpage. Fill-out the information in your student planner. Ask for permission to attend the speaker session from your teacher at least one to two days in advance. On the day of the session, check into your class for attendance and have your teacher sign your planner.
The teacher has the option of not allowing you to attend and you are responsible for all work missed. The C&CC will stamp your planner to verify that you attended the speaker session. Refer to Page W in your planner for more information. Mini College & Career Fair: Our Mini College and Career Fair held on Sept. 14 was a great success! Over 1500 students and families were in attendance. Thank you to the colleges and organizations that took time out of their schedules to provide our students with this opportunity. Honolulu National College Fair: The National College Fair will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 18 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. at the Hawaii Convention Center. Take advantage of this opportunity to meet with representatives from visiting schools. Register prior to attending the fair to receive a barcode identification sheet. Free registration at www.gotomyncf. com. For more information, visit: www.nacacnet.org. ASVAB Testing (Grades 10 to 12 Only): We will be offering the
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Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 1:30 p.m. in the library. This is an excellent assessment tool even if you don’t plan to join the military. Sign up in the C&CC. The next ASVAB we will offer is in March. Senior English Class Visits: The C&CC has completed all senior class presentations. Testing information, the college application process and the UH Systems application information was presented. If you don’t have an English class or missed the presentation, please stop by the C&CC for information. Testing for Seniors: Sign up immediately! Test dates/sites will close up due to the heavy volume of seniors testing in the Fall. Don’t forget our CEEB Code, 120-197. Send your scores directly to your colleges. Keep in mind that MHS does not have the “score choice” option. If we send your test scores with your transcript, we will be sending ALL of your scores. If you are on free or reduced lunch, fee waivers are available for you. See the C&CC for more information.
FSA ID – REQUIREMENT for Parents and Students: The FSA ID – a username and password – has replaced the Federal Student Aid PIN and must be used to log in to certain US DOE websites. Your FSA ID confirms your identity when you access your financial aid information and electronically signs your Federal Student Aid documents. Create your mandatory FSA ID today! Go to www. fafsa.ed.gov. Financial Aid: Financial Aid starts in October! The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) provides the foundation for the college financial aid process. Colleges and many scholarship foundations use the report generated by the FAFSA to evaluate an applicant’s financial need. You must file the FAFSA even if you seek only grants, work study or subsidized loans. We will be having a Financial Aid Night on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria. Continue to check our webpage or the scholarship bulletin board for any scholarship announcements. FAFSA will be available online starting Oct. 1 at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Important Upcoming Dates:
#HPU4Hawaii ONE IDEA CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE YOUR IDEA CAN CHANGE THE WORLD HAWAI‘I HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: YOUR IDEA CAN EARN YOU A FULL 4-YEAR TUITION SCHOLARSHIP TO HAWAI‘I PACIFIC UNIVERSITY! Develop your idea and take action to create a positive social, environmental or economic impact for Hawai‘i! 1. Create an idea that positively impacts your community. 2. Register at www.hpu.edu/hpu4hawaii and sign up for a workshop. 3. Be prepared to take your concept to the next level at the workshop, where you can transform your concept and possibly your life. MORE INFO: www.hpu.edu/hpu4hawaii
Oct. 1: Financial Aid applications begin – fafsa.ed.gov Oct. 18: National College Fair – Hawaii Convention Center Oct. 19: PSAT at MHS Oct. 25: Application Help Day – Lunch A/B & After School Oct. 26: ASVAB - 1:30 p.m. Sign up in the C&CC Nov. 3: Leeward CC Application Day in the C&CC Nov. 10: HPU Free Application Day – More info coming soon Nov. 15: Application Help Day Lunch A/B and After School Dec. 1: APPLICATIONS DUE! (If not sooner!) Compiled by College and Career Center Counselor Denise Yamamoto
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Slightly Less Lonely Cactus By Mary Conner
Business Birds
By Annissa Burcham
OWO
By Kelikoaelakauaikekai Gongob
How 2 Do Homework By Darius Monroe
Inexplicable Ducks
By Chaeley Winkler
COMICS