Issue 4 2014-2015

Trojan Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Times

www.trojantimes.org

SWEET

Issue 4 Volume XLII

Wide Receiver Bronson Ramos (12) catches a 15-yard pass and runs it all the way for a touchdown after breaking a tackle, scoring another six points for the Mililani Trojans.

worked hard to get there. We played the best and it was definitely rewarding.”

On Nov. 21, MHS’ varsity The championship game, football team topped off their and all those before it, were 13-0 undefeated season with preceded by off-season trainthe title of state champions. ing and summer workouts, as With a final score of 53well as regular practice days.

45, MHS finally got their “We practice every day,” said long-awaited revenge on the Timoteo. “We worked hard, former state champions and prepared ourselves (physilast year’s opponent Punahou, cally and) mentally as well.” and their first state football Putting that training to use, championship in school histhe Trojans had a strategy to tory. help them against Punahou.

“I was feeling over“We always have a plan and whelmed because all of the then a contingency plan,” hard work (paid) off,” said said York. “The game is like Quarterback Junior McKena chess match. Basically our zie Milton. Wide Receiver game plan worked. Just throw Junior Kalakaua Timoteo III the ball.” Timoteo added, added, “It was surreal. (An) “From day one our strategy indescribable feeling. Like was the same in every game: Christmas morning and win- execution.” ning the lottery in the same Besides training, the Troday.” jans received motivation from Off to a strong start, by the fans as well. York stated, halftime Mililani led the “The crowd that night motigame with a score of 46-31. vated us to keep going. Every Then in a turn of events, time we scored there would with an 80-yard drive by be the roar behind of us and Punahou, the Buff ‘n Blue when you looked back you scored a touchdown, bringcould see the Trojan crowd ing the score to 46-38. With cheering. The crowd that Mililani back on offense and night was a big motivator.”

Punahou nipping at their Timoteo said, “When the heels, Mililani scored another clock hit zero and I looked touchdown bringing the score into the stands, hearing the to 53-38. Third quarter ended roar from the crowd and with another touchdown by feeling all their energy, then Punahou, bringing the score seeing all my teammates on to 53-45. Fourth quarter was the field knowing what we a stalemate with both teams just accomplished, that’s a fighting for another touchmoment I’ll never forget.” down but finding no opporIn the wake of their victunities. The play clock timed tory, the team has found time out before the game clock. to thank those that helped With two seconds left and them along the way. “(I’m at Mililani’s gates, Punahou thankful for) God, Coach tried to score another touchYork, Coach Joel, my parents down but was stopped short and my team. I’m just thankand the game ended with ful for all of them and (I) love Mililani’s historic victory. them all,” Milton said.

Going up against the same The Trojans plan to start opponents from last year, anew when Feb. 1 rolls Mililani was excited for the around to begin off-season game. “We loved it,” said training once again, not necHead Coach Rod York. “We essarily with another champiwere honored. To be the best onship in mind but to give it you have to beat the best. We their all, no matter what.

Father and daughter, Sengchanthavong holds onto hope

TROJAN LIFE

REVENGE STATE CHAMPIONS Matthew Kawamoto | Trojan Times

By Lauren Barbour l.barbour@trojantimes.org

While most students settle in to spend the upcoming winter holidays with their families, Sophomore Dasia Sengchanthavong will have returned home to Rhode Island, having spent the last semester in Hawaii, her last point of contact with her father before he was

declared missing two years ago. Sengchanthavong requested her father’s name and case not be disclosed. Since losing him, Sengchanthavong has done her best to uphold his memory, an effort which included the brief transfer.

“It’s really hard because I was so used to him being there for me and being the person I can turn to, the person that can make me happy and now I don’t have

that,” said Sengchanthavong.

“It’s just all gone in the blink of an eye and it really sucks because you’re just missing a big part of you that you have no idea where it went.”

Sengchanthavong spent her childhood alternating between staying with both of her parents, who split up when she was young. Even after her father moved to Hawaii, the two kept in contact and

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By Jacob Balatico j.balatico@trojantimes.org

FEATURE

NOTHING BUT A DREAM With new director Julia LoPresti in charge, CTAA’s fall production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” transported its audience into a magical world of fairies, love potions and teenage relationship problems.

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Let the holiday season start on a sweet note with this selection of wintery recipes.

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NEWS

Trojan Times Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Saving Pahole one tree at a time, Adopt-A-Forest introduces sustainability

Risa Askerooth | Trojan Times

Students at Mililani Uka were able to learn the proper way to plant koa with the high school students that were visiting that day, Samantha Alvarado (12), Nicole Antos (12), Risa Askerooth (11) and Vanessa Roybal (11).

By Risa Askerooth r.askerooth@trojantimes.org

In an effort to promote a greener future for Hawaii, MHS is taking part in its fourth year of the Adopt-AForest program (AAF), an initiative that focuses on the growing and planting of koa trees. After being visited and educated by MHS environmental science students, classes from Mililani Uka, Kipapa, Solomon and Hale

Kula Elementary Schools will be responsible for growing the baby koa, which will then be planted at the Pahole Reserve in spring 2015.

“I think it was important to teach them about the koa trees because I don’t think a lot of them knew that it was a Hawaiian species and it only grew here. So we need to take care of those, especially because they’re not found anywhere else in the world,” said Senior Nicole Antos,

who participated in a visit to Mililani Uka Elementary School on Nov. 21. “Teaching them when they’re young is just kind of opening their eyes.”

While at each of the four elementary schools, MHS students presented a slideshow about the importance of preserving endemic species such as koa. “We got to teach the kids how to plant koa trees and each kid planted their own tree. So it was really fun,”

said Antos. “It’s an awesome program that connects bridges between the high school and elementary students of Mililani,” stated Kupu Natural Resources Outreach coordinator Maeghan Castillo, who works both with the Science Learning Center and Kupu, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating Hawaii’s youth. After the koa have sprouted, MHS students will return a second time to transplant them to dibble tubes until they grow large enough to be moved to a greenhouse.

At the Pahole Reserve, about 60 environmental science and 72 biology students will be able to transfer the koa themselves into the ground.

With three consecutive years of AAF, the amount of koa grown has burgeoned from 80 into 200 trees and about 500 have been planted in total. “I mean, we can just do some stupid forest worksheet or learn about forests in a book or we could just go to the forest and do something that really matters,” expressed Science Learning Center coordinator Sandy Webb. “I believe that kids have so much to offer in terms of helping and they’re learning and it’s fun.”

AAF is coordinated by

They’re back, Kaiyo High School returns for 10th visit

By Misha Lawrence m.lawrence@trojantimes.org

After travelling over 3000 miles from Japan, the students of Kaiyo High School finally arrived and received a warm welcome from the students and staff during their 10th annual visit to MHS on Nov. 10. ASMHS, the Junior Reserves Officer’s Training Corps, Japanese language students, Kumu Wong’s hula students and the MHS staff played important roles to ensure that the day was exciting and memorable for the students from Kaiyo High School.

“It’s a tradition that’s been kept at (MHS) for a very long time. So it’s really an honor to keep this going and it’s really a rewarding thing to see them come to enjoy themselves and see our school and our students,” said ASMHS President Senior Austin Ajimura.

Japanese language students and other volunteers led the visitors through different classes and other locations on campus. “I was really excited to meet the Kaiyo High

School Japanese students since it was my first time doing it this year. I enjoyed spending time with them and asking questions to get to know them,” said tour guide Sophomore Andriana Oshiro, who helped show the students around. “I was excited because I like Japanese a lot and the people from Japan are really cool. So I really wanted to meet them,” said tour guide Junior Mikala Regohos.

All students had the chance to get to know one another and enjoy the time they had together. “My favorite part was playing games with them because even though we didn’t fully know what the other person was saying, we bonded a lot during the games. The games showed a lot about the character and how they are as a person, so that was fun,” said Regohos.

The visit allowed the students and teachers from Kaiyo High School to learn more about Hawaii and what the schools are like here. “I like the nice people, low stress and the beautiful ocean,” Kaiyo Assistant Teacher Masaki

Misha Lawrence | Trojan Times

Many of the Japanese students were able to interact and socialize with students other than their tour guides as they toured the campus.

Shimizu said. “In Hawaii, the classes are more diverse. There are a lot of different classes and subjects.”

Many of the students from Kaiyo were already enjoying Hawaii and everything it had to offer. “The beach is very beautiful,” Kaiyo High School Junior Naoya Tabita said. During their trip they were able to try the different foods around the island that

are unique to Hawaii. “I really like the pancakes here,” Kaiyo High School Junior Takahashi Akakibara said.

After the exchange of cultures and the strengthening of the bond between schools, students from both MHS and Kaiyo look forward to the continuation of the visits in the future.

the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife.

The program originated after Webb met conservationist David Anderson at a 2006 Hawaii Conservation Conference. Through three to fourhour meetings after work, Webb and Anderson came up with the idea to both educate and expose students to native Hawaiian forests. “What I love about David Anderson is he could have quit on the program like, ‘Oh, this didn’t work.’ But he has put his heart and soul into making this work,” said Webb.

In fact, the success of AAF caused its expansion last year to Waipahu, Radford, Campbell and Waialua high schools and the Mid-Pacific Institute, which now comprise a broader army of people struggling to preserve the environment.

“It takes a community and I know how amazing you guys are and now other people are starting to say, ‘Yeah. High school kids are pretty amazing and elementary school kids can grow koa,’” stated Webb.

With the trip to Pahole in spring and Mililani elementary school visits still underway, AAF is at its strongest and will continue to impact education and ecosystems.

MHS’ Happy Healthy Club makes cards for elderly On Dec. 17, members of the Happy Healthy Club will be creating Christmas cards for the elderly at their first annual Christmas party. “I thought it would be a nice thing to do because they are all alone in that house and I like to make art,” said Junior Vanessa Roybal, president of the club. The club plans to distribute the cards at The Plaza Assisted Living in Mililani Mauka.

The club will give the cards out around or on Christmas Day to help the elderly stay cheerful over this holiday season.

Compiled by Steven Chapman

TROJAN LIFE

Trojan Times Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

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End of ‘Uprising,’ Trojan Bandfest concludes Marching Band season

By Lauren Barbour l.barbour@trojantimes.org

this is what we host. Two, it’s the last one of the season so they’re a little better prepared The Trojan Marching than they are in the previous Band ended their season on weeks,” said Marching Band a bittersweet note with their Director Derek Kaapana. last performance of the show “There’s a lot of pride and “Uprising” at Trojan Bandfest also heart that goes into what on Nov. 14. After reigning they’re doing for this particuvictorious in the sweepstakes lar event so I think that they category of both competitions put out everything. They did they took part in, the band’s an amazing job that night and season culminated in one last, I think everyone is proud of emotional performance on what they did.” their home field.

Similarly, the band’s sea“From my standpoint, I son was a set of its own highs thought it was awesome. En- and lows, although band ergy on the field was there, it members are satisfied with its was a lot of energy. Especially conclusion. “This past season considering it was our last was a little rough. We defirun of the season ever,” said nitely had some downs but Drum Major Senior Daniel also a lot of ups,” said ClariNakayama. “As far as how net Section Leader Senior well it went, it wasn’t our best Aimee Gaza. “Some of the runthrough but it was defidowns were probably just at nitely the most memorable.” practices. You know, someDespite hiccups in the times there’s low energy and presentation, the exhibition sometimes not everybody’s was considered a successdoing that great musically ful one by its performers. and visually but some of the Nakayama explained, “Well ups are definitely being able as far as ‘Every note was hit, to take home sweepstakes at no one was out of time, stuff both of our competitions and didn’t go wrong,’ stuff went winning and just the feeling wrong. That’s bound to hapafter Bandfest of lying down pen but as far as how we felt on the field and just feeling so personally and how much satisfied with what we did this emotion and energy we put season.” into the show, it was probably For seniors such as Nathe best that way, as opposed kayama and Gaza, the perto, ‘Oh, everything was done formance carried additional correctly.’” emotional weight. “It was Various factors contribdefinitely very bittersweet. uted to that impression.

Because on one hand, march“One, it’s our home event and ing band takes up so much

Sengchanthavong continued from page 1

she continued to visit him.

“We were really close,” she said. “We spent every day together, and he would get me whatever I wanted and there wasn’t a day that I doubted that he loved me.”

Sengchanthavong remembers her father as a kind and thoughtful person. “He was a great father, he would do anything for his kids,” she recalled. “He would never make anyone feel left out. All the time, he’d just try to help anyone who needed it.”

After losing contact with her father, Sengchanthavong decided to move to Hawaii in order to fulfill his wishes.

While here, she stayed with her aunt and grandmother.

“He always asked me when I was younger if I wanted to move here and I always said no because he lived out here for so long and I knew he was fine by himself,” she said.

“This is what he wanted for a

long time and I never gave it to him.”

During her stay, she enjoyed connecting with her grandmother and aunt, who became her source of support. “They spent basically most of their life with him and they saw him every day and they just knew the kind of person that he was and we all had that special connection with him so they can all support me and feel what I feel when times are rough,” said Sengchanthavong.

Even after returning to stay with her mother, Sengchanthavong will continue to live honoring her father’s wishes for her. She said, “I’m trying to live out life happily and I want it to be so that he can be happy if he ever does come back and see me be the person I plan to.”

With those aspirations in mind, she holds onto the hope that her father may return. “I hope every day for him to come back happy and safe, ready for us to help him

Lauren Barbour | Trojan Times

The show “Uprising” told the tale of a battle between machines, represented by the band members, and humanity, portrayed by the Color Guard, with humankind the eventual victors.

of your social life, it’s just so hard to get anything done but on the other hand it’s like my last year ever doing this and it was very emotional, I have to say,” said Nakayama.

Gaza said, “It’s very bittersweet knowing that I’m done performing but it’s also very satisfying knowing that you finished the season strong and you did your absolute best.”

This year’s show, “Uprising,” was a story of man versus machine and contained a storytelling element not prominent in other schools’ performances. Nakayama said, “I want to sound modest but I really can’t. If you look at all the other bands and you look at our band, the amount of work we put into the show is the same but the concepts,

as far as Mililani is concerned, it’s a lot more artistic and it’s more of a story-telling thing.”

The show, having been designed by Kaapana and his staff, had additional benefits.

“I think it benefits them because we can write and tailor things to the strengths and to the weaknesses from the viewpoint that (is) trying to make those weaknesses into strengths in the future,” said Kaapana. “So I think that’s a real benefit, as opposed to giving them something they may be able to achieve, they may not. We kind of work things and change things as we go along.”

This year also marked the start of preparations for the band’s upcoming participation in the Bands

of America (BOA) Grand National Championships next year, where the students will be able to take part in the national competition in Indianapolis, Ind. “We’re really trying to step up our game because next year we’re going to be competing in Indiana for the BOA Grand National Championships so this year was really just trying to make sure we’re prepared for next year,” said Gaza.

Despite being unable to join the rest of their bandmates in Indiana next year, Nakayama, Gaza and the rest of the seniors still lend their support and best wishes, while Kaapana continues to provide a unique experience for both his students and their spectators.

if he needs any help,” she said. Sengchanthavong also holds on to her realization of the importance of family.

“Family will be there through thick, thin, bad or good,” she said. “Whether or not

you disagree or have a falling out, family will always come together and there is no better comfort from people who genuinely care about you and can understand the comfort you need in rough times.”

Although she planned to stay for the duration of the school year, Sengchanthavong has chosen to return to Rhode Island to be with her mother and will be moving back at the end of the year.

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TROJAN LIFE

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Austin Ajimura

Happy holidays, Trojans. I hope you had a successful second quarter and a very memorable first semester. As we move into the Christmas season, I’d like to share a few things.

First off, I’d like to extend my gratitude to all of you. Being the student body president is not always an easy job, but I can say with the utmost confidence that I am honored and blessed to serve you.

MHS is a place where people are able to come together and share a common bond, our Trojan Pride, and it means the world to me to represent that.

With that being said, I want to encourage you to take time to reflect on what you’re thankful for and celebrate in the spirit of giving. This truly is the most wonderful time of the year because we are able to spend it with friends and family.

Something that I am proud of when it comes to our school is the time and energy that you all put into academics and extracurricular activities.

However, as much as we get buried in work, we don’t want to forget to make time for those we love and make the most of the holidays.

Finally, with a brand new year just around the corner, we have the amazing opportunity to take advantage of new beginnings. This is a time to reflect on the previous year and get ready to make the next one better and brighter.

From my heart to yours, I hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!

‘Peter Pan’ takes flight: Students participate in DITR community production

By Harlan Rose h.rose@trojantimes.org

Several students from MHS proved they could fly in Diamond in the Rough’s (DITR) production of “Peter Pan” at the Paliku Theatre at Windward Community College from Nov. 21 to 23. Directed by MHS alumna Kristi Kashimoto-Rowbottom, the musical retold the classic Disney tale and starred Senior Nicholas Howe as the titular character.

“It is actually very fun to perform with the community because you get experience (with) different people, not just Mililani because with high school (productions), it’s pretty much just with the kids that’s around high school,” said Junior Lizbeth Orego, who portrayed Tinkerbell.

“But with (DITR), it’s pretty much everyone around. Anyone can audition.”

Most of the actors decided which role they would audition for based on their career goals. “I’ve never gotten the lead before. I’ve gotten leads and principal roles, but I’ve never gotten ‘the’ lead, so I think this was the next step in my career path to kind of get to the next level,” expressed Howe. Junior Alexandria Ireijo, who portrayed Mr. Smee, said, “As the actor who plays Captain Hook is actually an actor in New York, I really wanted to, I guess, get a chance to work with somebody who’s at the next level.”

Photo courtesy of Lizbeth Orego (11)

The actors in the musical were (L-R) Alexandria Ireijo (11) as Mr. Smee, Nicholas Howe (12) as Peter Pan, Lindsey Cambra (12) as Nana, Lizbeth Orego (11) as Tinkerbell and Alanna Poelzing (11) as an ensemble member.

In order to assume their roles, the actors each went through individual rehearsal sessions with KashimotoRowbottom. “For my character, especially since I cannot speak to portray my emotions and feelings and other such, we had a whole session one time during rehearsals, so it was just me and her for a whole hour,” explained Orego.

“We pretty much sat in front of the mirror and worked on facial expressions because I have to be very good at emoting.”

Between schoolwork and the play, the students discovered the importance of time management. “It’s been very hard because I don’t have that much time to do my homework and during the rehearsals, I’m pretty much involved for the whole time and I don’t

have any time to do it,” said stage crew member Junior Seth Thomsen. Ireijo added, “I’m pretty sure that the balance isn’t as hard, you just need to know how to manage your time wisely.”

Overall, those involved felt that the production came together well in the end. “The actors are great, the singing is great, the dancing is great, but the production is pretty immense. The set is elaborate, the costumes are detailed, it’s pretty amazing,” said Howe.

Thomsen added, “It (turned) out pretty well, all the actors (were) pretty good, the sets (weren’t) too hard to move around.”

Additionally, KashimotoRowbottom was pleased with the musical’s successful run. “I was extremely proud of our final product. I felt that the cast

worked really hard to display my and my team’s vision and I was so pleased with their dedication, hard work and talent,” said Kashimoto-Rowbottom.

The actors each felt that they gained unique experience by performing for the community. “It feels really great.

It’s not a school production, so the public is open to seeing it, as it is with (the Central Theatre Arts Academy), but there’s more of a higher chance (of others seeing it), especially because you’re at Paliku Theatre and you’re in a giant stage,” expressed Ireijo.

“So it’s nice to entertain others outside of the school community.”

Many of the actors have been involved in past DITR and CTAA productions, with some also taking part in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

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TROJAN LIFE

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Was it real, or simply ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream?’

CTAA’s first production with new director working together. “It was good. Any change is gonna be difficult, even though it’s the same sort of program, it’s With new director Julia a different school and each LoPresti at the helm, Censchool runs things differtral Theatre Arts Academy’s ently, as far as logistics and (CTAA) fall production of the production side of it,” Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” opened said LoPresti. The actor who portrayed Nick Bottom, on Nov. 29 and continued Senior Nicholas Howe, said, with shows on Nov. 30 and “I think (being involved in Dec. 5 and 6. The play and CTAA is) extremely importhe program behind it emtant, especially because we phasized the importance of the participation of both cast just have a new director. So I think that everybody from and audience in theatre.

“Anything in the arts, not the past year (should help) just theatre, anything related her out, showing her the ropes, kinda being involved to the arts is important for and trying to make this prothe students who are pergram better than it was.” forming, for the students as Students that contributed audience members,” exto the play included not only plained LoPresti. the actors, but those who “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” follows the lives of a helped construct the set and multitude of characters who costumes by hand. “A lot of Jesika Henson | Trojan Times all play a role in the conflicts my time has been devoted (L-R): Naomi Ingram (11), Anna-Kate Womack (9), AnnEstelle Montalbano (9), Karlee Skaggs (9), Jordan to making costumes and centered around indepenGreene (9) and Anna Eggleton (10) all took on several roles within the play. Ingram, Womack and Montalbano building the set as well as dence and love. “I would the other actors,” said Howe. played citymen-turned-actors, while Greene and Eggleton played Hippolyta and Theseus respectively. think that teenagers might identify with (the) aspect of “It’s been a lot of time, but payoff belongs to them as “I like watching the stulife, about culture, about hiswanting their independence it’s worth it because the outcome, you can say, ‘I well.” dents, especially the begintory, you can take anything from their (parents), espeThis production and ners, grow from being very away from a play that you cially in matters of the heart. did this,’ and I think it was a pretty good outcome.” many like it have provided shy and non-performers to want,” explained Howe. “I Things happen to the charSophomore Anna Egglestudents with the opportureally getting a handle on think that everybody should acters where love triangles ton, who played the roles of nity to take the spotlight. their parts and learning the experience a play or a musiget reversed and it probably Theseus and Oberon, added, “This has (been) my first Shakespearean language.” cal at some point.” happens in real life and you “I spent a big chunk of time time on stage and each CTAA’s goal is not only LoPresti and the studon’t need a magic love ponight was truly exhilarating. to entertain, but to encourdents in CTAA will be hard tion for that to happen,” said in rehearsal, memorizing lines and helping with the Having a spotlight pointed age student involvement in at work once again to put LoPresti. costumes, but I have to say at you while on stage and theatre, whether as actors or on their production of “A This particular play was there are many crew memfeeling the audience with as part of the audience. “I do Little Shop of Horrors” next a new experience for both bers who have spent even you is such a trip,” said think that going to see a play spring. the actors and LoPresti, Eggleton. LoPresti added, can teach you a lesson about since this was their first year more time than me and the

By Jesika Henson j.henson@trojantimes.org

Assisting the ‘Uprising’: Alumni return to Trojan Marching Band

By Harlan Rose h.rose@trojantimes.org

Even after graduation, many alumni can be found returning to MHS to assist with programs they were involved in during their time as students. Three such alumni have continued to return to the Trojan Marching Band to assist with this year’s show, “Uprising.” After dedicating many years of hard work to the program, these alumni wanted to help the band succeed in their performances.

“Marching band was such an influential part of my life that it actually inspired me to become a band director. Coming back is a way for me to help others have a great high school experience like mine, as well as helping me gain knowledge of how to run a marching band whenever I get the chance,”

said alumnus Michael Hartsock, who graduated in 2013 and assisted with last year’s performance as well.

The alumni primarily focused on helping the marchers learn the routines during practices. “I (helped) the students on the field when they are learning how to play or march. If there was anything that someone was doing or looking wrong I would go up to them and and fix them,” said alumnus Bradley Yoshida, who also graduated in 2013 and assisted with last year’s season. Alumnus Jeffrey Caballes, who graduated last year, said, “(I took) rookie marchers on the side, (oversaw) the brass winds and (provided) extra eyes and ears on the field.”

While they primarily focused on assisting the band as a whole, the alumni would occasionally help marchers on an individual

basis. “I try to help individuals when asked upon. I am always willing to give lessons or extra help to those that I can, but for the most part I work with the band as a whole,” Hartsock said. “I tend to focus on the brass marchers since that is what I’m more proficient with, being a brass player myself.”

Caballes added, “(The) majority of the time I worked with specific wind sections.

During preseason I spent much of my time with students who had just started playing brass and those who were switching to other brass instruments.”

As the season progressed, the alumni saw marked improvement from the band. “As always the band made major improvements.

From the rookies to the seniors. They always strive to improve themselves and become better with every

practice. We provide the information, they take it and make themselves better,” Caballes explained. Yoshida added, “Every year from start to finish I have seen the band improve musically and visually. They work very hard every practice or performance they go to.”

In the end, the alumni felt that the marching band had a successful season and were proud that they placed first in the sweepstakes categories in both of this year’s competitions. “I am very pleased with how it went.

Seeing the progress that they made as a group from when they started in June compared to the end result was really amazing,” expressed Hartsock. Yoshida added, “There were many bumps in the road during the season, but the students never stopped believing that they could do it. They finished

strong and did awesome.”

Should the opportunity present itself, each alumnus would return to continue assisting next year, as the band will be competing in the Bands of America Tournament of Bands, which will be held in Indiana. “I do plan on coming back for next year,” Hartsock said.

“The marching band is actually going to be traveling to a national marching competition in the mainland, so I feel that the help from the staff will be very beneficial for their next season.”

While Hartsock is the only alumnus choosing to major in the music field, they each intend to share their love for music in the future. Aside from the marching band, alumni have returned to assist with this year’s VEX Robotics and Color Guard seasons, alongside several sports teams.

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SPORTS

Trojan Times Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Behind the medals: Dewald goes beyond cross country

By Jacelyn Hamamoto j.hamamoto@trojantimes.org

Timothy Leoncio | Trojan Times

Besides being an avid runner in cross country, Jakob Dewald (12) also enjoys other activities such as swimming, participating in triatholons and BMX biking.

Since starting cross country, Senior Jakob Dewald has grown into an exemplary athlete, placing in competitions throughout all four years of his high school career. As a result of his own perseverance and willpower, he stresses to fellow runners to never give up.

“It actually feels really good to accomplish something. At the end of the day it’s just all about trying your best and having fun, that’s it,” said Dewald.

Dewald has been driven by a passion for athletics since he was small, despite any injuries he incurred. “As a kid I had always wanted to become an athlete. And I just kept trying and trying so it’s pretty natural for me,”

Dewald said. “I used to go to the hospital a lot, like I would break my leg and all that stuff, so I would always be the one to get back and never (be) giving up on my dreams.”

Besides his desire for success, Dewald’s father also played a part in his son’s determination. “My dad had a lot to do with it. He used to do a lot of sports too,” said Dewald. Dewald’s father, Steve Dewald, added, “I never pushed Jakob to do sports as a child; he was always intrinsically motivated to do athletics. He always wanted to run every morning, he would wake up and go for a run and instead of me inspiring him, he inspired me.”

Throughout his cross country career, Jakob Dewald achieved much. “I went to

states all four years, so even as a freshman I went to states.

My junior year, I placed ninth at states, and this past year, my senior year, I placed seventh,” said Jakob Dewald.

Head Coach Nathan Aragaki added, “Any time a public school kid can place at states, it is quite an accomplishment.”

It wasn’t easy for Jakob Dewald to stay on top of his game from beginning to end. “Early on, he would try sometimes, but the last couple of years at practice he would go until he was ready to drop,” Aragaki said. “Basically, he went from thinking he could do well but not being committed, to knowing he could do well if he committed himself.”

Though balancing three sports, school and a social life can be hectic, Jakob Dewald

stepped up his work ethic. “It takes a lot of time, like I want to become a pro, so with that and balancing colleges and stuff and applications, you just have to take time to go through it. It’s all about willpower at the end of the day,” said Jakob Dewald.

Jakob Dewald tries to motivate his peers to do their best. “I think that everyone can be self-led. I do lead them in the right direction to be self-led,” said Jakob Dewald. “He leads by example and everyone likes him because he is friendly and has a good sense of humor. Also he encourages his teammates to always do better,” said Aragaki.

Balancing other priorities with his own goals, Jakob Dewald has become an example to all athletes and students.

Landing in third, MHS cheerleaders compete in state competition

By Danielle Smith d.smith@trojantimes.org

A season of newfound friendship and family among team members led the MHS cheerleaders to the Hawaii High School Athletic Association (HHSAA) championships on Nov. 15 at the Blaisdell Arena. Competing against 16 other schools, the team scored third place in the last competition of the season.

“The cheerleading team is my second family. I know I can go to them for anything.

We’re all really close,” Junior Paige Ahlo said. “The coach is my second mom and they are all my sisters.”

The team dedicated many hours to preparing for the competition, taking time out of their days to practice their routines. Their efforts paid off as they finished off the season. “They’ve reached every goal and beyond,” Head Coach Renesha Kierstedt said. “They started off at an average of eight. And every team is scored at the highest level of 10. We’ve already reached the highest goal of cheerleading.”

As was the case with the rest of the season, the team had to work through several challenges before the competition. “Although all the obstacles that we went through like the injuries and people getting taken out, we’ve been pushing it really hard,” Senior Jalene Alviar said. “I think this season had the

most obstacles due to all the injuries and grade issues.”

However, their problems didn’t prevent the team from striving for perfection.

“There’s going to be bumps and bruises and there are going to be things that try to stop you from doing what you wanna do and reaching what you wanna achieve.

Either you can let it stop you or you can just bust through it and keep going. And that’s what the girls did,” said Kierstedt.

Although the team felt apprehensive going into the competition, they were able to push through their nerves and perform to the best of their abilities.“It is very stressful because I think the nerves get to us. When we’re at practice, we are all psyching ourselves out,” said Ahlo, “But then we would have these team talks and it’s always been right before every competition. It always turns out great in the competition.”

While the atmosphere at the championship was full of positive energy, there was also a sense of farewell that lingered in the air for some team members. “There are seniors on the teams and this will be their last official time competing at high school level,” said Kierstedt. “Every year I’m always emotional because I see these girls go from one level throughout the whole season and they finally end their journey.”

Alviar said, “I’m just really

happy I was able to finish my senior year with this team.”

As the season finishes, members leave with not only new experiences and lessons learned, but with a newfound family. “All the cheerleaders, sidelines and competitors, are my family,” said Alviar. “They’re weird and they’re crazy but that just makes it better.” Ahlo added, “We’d always tell each other that we can do it and we motivate and believe in each other.”

As the year goes on, the Trojan cheerleaders will continue to practice and perform their routines at various school events.

Timothy Leoncio | Trojan Times

(L-R): Jalene Alviar (12) and Paige Ahlo (11) supported and bonded with each other, as well as the rest of their team, over the course of the season.

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STRONGER BOND, STRONGER BAND

By Misha Lawrence m.lawrence@trojantimes.org

W

ith Trojan Bandfest in November, the competitive season for the Trojan Marching Band has drawn to a close and nostalgia, along with unforgettable moments, fills the hearts of its students.

Many members were moved by the tremendous amounts of effort and time they put into the band this year.

“This season was definitely a great one, but it was also a very hard one. It was very challenging not only for me but also for the rest of the band,” Drum Major Senior Daniel Nakayama said.

The band experienced countless memorable moments throughout the past season. “We have two camps where we spend the entire day with each other for a week and it was just a lot of bonding time. It was just a lot of time to spend with your friends and the people you enjoy being around,” said Nakayama. “A memory that I will always remember from this past season was when my section and I were having a difficult time playing part of our music. We tried continuously to work on it but it would never really come out. But after countless reps, we were finally able to play it consistently and very well. I just remember my section and I jumping up and down screaming in joy once we played it,” said Drumline Base player Sophomore Tori Yamauchi.

Alongside moments of bonding came accomplishments within their competitions. With effort, of course, there was success. “Winning sweepstakes at both of our competitions and even at our home competition, the bandfest. We don’t win anything because we host it, but we do get scores and we won first overall,” said Nakayama.

“We received the Class AAA first place Sweepstakes award at the Kamehameha Tourna-

ment of Bands and the Kapolei Marching Band Festival.

We also scored the highest out of all marching bands at all three of our competitions,” said Xylophone player, Sophomore Justin Kimata.

“It’s definitely a very rewarding moment when you put in so much time and energy into marching band and just the feeling of accomplishment is like no other,” said Clarinet Section Leader Senior Aimee Gaza.

Becoming drum major was an emotionally demanding role for Nakayama but led to emotional growth.

“To be the drum major I had to gain a lot of confidence.

Before that, I wasn’t a very confident person, but being the drum major helped me to be more confident and be a little bit more strong, taking charge and leading the band. If I had to take away one thing that I learned, it had to be confidence,” said Nakayama.

The season also brought forth changes in the character of other band members. “I noticed that throughout the season my peers had a new set of mind and a new focus.

We all eventually realized how important this season was and that we all needed to push harder and keep trying,” Yamauchi said. Kimata added, “Marching band has allowed me to meet a lot of great people that I wouldn’t have gotten the chance to know. I used to be really quiet and not have a lot of people to talk to, but I have made so many friends and it has allowed me to break out of my shell a little bit.”

As the members changed over time, they also grew together as a family. “I have also seen everyone come out of their shells and come closer together to create more of a family atmosphere. Some people that would not say more than two syllables at a time will be talking non-stop on the bus ride to a game,” Saxophone Section Leader Senior Taylor Kon-Hanada

“UPRISING”

From preseason camp in July to the final days in November, a look at the Trojan Marching Band’s 2014-2015 season.

By the end of the season, new friendships and bonds are made. The members of the band grew close to one another throughout the months of practice, performances, parades and football games spent together.

said.

This season, being their last, was especially emotionally significant and meaningful for the seniors.

“It being my senior year, I wanted to make it the best year. So I’ve definitely put a lot more time and effort into the marching band. I always do but this time it was on a more personal level just because it’s my senior year, it’s my last one and I want to make it the best,” said Nakayama. “I took away a sense of accomplish-

Photos courtesy of Aimee Gaza (12), Nicole Nakamura (12), Taylor Kon-Hanada (12), Christine Galvizo (11), Madison Anzai (10)

ment that I was able to do my part in something bigger, to leave my legacy with those that will come after me, and that I have taught the next generation of marchers to hopefully be greater than I was,” said Kon-Hanada.

As the band with the “Eyes of fire and heart of gold,” the 2014-2015 Trojan Marching Band has once again completed a successful season.

DESIGN BY I. CASTILLO

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE BAKING, YO

Hot Cocoa C upcakes

T

he holidays are here again and what better way to enjoy them than sharing some delicious, homemade sweets?

These four recipes range from super easy to a little more involved, but the end product is definitely worth it. Most of the ingredients, you may find, are already in your pantry and if not, there is nothing so exotic that you can’t find it at your nearest convenience store.

Even if you aren’t the most skilled baker around, as long as you follow the instructions, you should have no problem creating something everyone can enjoy.

These recipes are great for impressing your friends at potlucks, ending Christmas dinner on a sweet note or anything else you may need of them during the season.

So get into the holiday spirit, have fun and bake to your heart’s desire.

Instructions:

Cool in tin for 10 m let them cool com inutes, then For the Cupca pletely on a kes: Prerack. heat oven to 350 de For the Whipp In a large bow grees. l, ed Cream: In a medium bowl, bine flour, sugar, comcombine heavy cocoa cr powder, baking so da, baking eam, powdered sugar and vanilla extract. W powder and salt.

Usi ith mixer on medium an electric wire whisk, blend ng a the dry Ingredients: sp until thick, cream eed, beat ingredients thorou -1 teaspoon vanilla y ghly. stiff. Don’t overbe and slightly -2 eggs, lightly be extract Add the oil, prep For the Cupcake at ar at ed en s: To Assemble . hot cocoa, vanilla -½ cup mini choc -1 ½ cups all purp the Cupcakes: an ol d at eggs Pipe e ose chips to the dry ingred th e flour sw ee te ne ie d nt For the Whipped cream onto the co whipped Whisk together un s.

-1 ¼ cups sugar C re am: ol ti -1 ¼ cups heavy Sprinkle with min ed cupcakes. lumps remain. St l no -¼ cup unsweete cr ea m ir i ne in d th co e - -⅓ cup powdere coa powder lows, mini chocol marshmalchocolate chips. d sugar Th ate chips and en po -½ teaspoon vani ur crushe -1 teaspoon baki the batter evenly lla d pe pp ng er m so in in da to extract 18 -½ teaspoon baki mini candy cane ts. Add a lined cupcake tins ng tucked into Garnishes: . powder th

e si B de ak e to th fin e cu is h off the “mug.”

-Mini marshmallo pcak -½ teaspoon salt Serve immediate 18 to 20 minutes es for -Mini chocolate ws ly. Cover and , or un -⅓ cup canola oi til refrig it passes the toot l er at e -Crushed pepperchips an y le ft hp overs.

-1 cup prepared ho ic k test.

-18 mini candy camints chocolate, cooled t nes

Spiced White Christmas Cocoa Ingredients: -16 ounces white chocolate -4 cups milk -4 cups heavy cream -2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract -2 star anise -¼ teaspoon ground cardamom -¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg -3 cinnamon sticks -Whipped cream (for garnish) Instructions:

Break apart the white chocolate and

isp Apple Cr Ingredients:

sliced -5 to 6 cupspples (any and pared a kind) (sifted) -1 cup flour sugar (de-½ to 1 cup sweetness pending on of apples) baking -1 teaspoon powder salt -¾ teaspooner (soft-½ cup buttm temened to roo perature) -Cinnamon : Instructions Use a pastry all ix blender to m

(except the ts n ie d e r g in ther. apples) toge bottom Line the ttered of an 8x8 bue apple pan with th kle apples slices. Sprin on (stir with cinnam around). ping over Press top prinkle apples and s innamon. with more c degreees, Bake at 350for 30 to uncovered, 40 minutes.

Food courtesy of H. Rose and K. Neill Design by T. Leoncio

Ginger

bread

Ingredie

nts:

For the cake: -3 eggs ro om temp erature -¼ cup m olasses -¼ cup h oney -1 tablesp oon melt ed butte -¼ cup su r gar -1 cup a ll purpo se flour -¼ teasp oon bak ing soda -½ teasp oon grou nd ginge r

-½ teasp oon cinn amon -Pinch o f salt -Powdere d sugar (f or dustin For the g) filling: -1 ½ cup s heavy c ream -⅓ cup p owder su gar -1 teaspo on cinna mon

Instruct io

ns:

Line a 1 with par 5x10 jelly roll p chment a paper an n d

place it in the bottom of a slow cooker.

Add all of the remaining ingredients, except the whipped cream, to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about two hours, stirring every 20 minutes.

You will notice a skin forms on the top of the cocoa; simply stir it back into the cocoa and re-cover.

Top each cup with whipped cream and grated nutmeg (optional). *You can keep this warm for several hours.

Roll Ca ke

grease th or oven to oughly. Heat the 375 deg pan for rees.

In a mix thr sprinkle ee minutes, heav egg yolk ing bowl, beat t po ily so he damp te wdered sugar on thickene n high speed un a a t o til d. wel. honey an Add the molass C a r e fu ll es, d resting it y turn the pan, mix well melted butter an on the t . d owel. Re the pan In a clea move a n d g e n n t b ly owl, bea parchme p whites u t egg nt paper. eel the ntil soft Then ro the cake peaks fo Slowly a ll up , st rm. dd side, wit arting with the tinue wh the sugar and c s h or wit onisking u hout wit hort towel an ntil form. Th h the d let it c en, carefu firm peaks ool co into the In a clea ll n, grease mpletely. egg yolk y fold it in s mix -free mix g bowl c Sift the ombine flour, ba ture. c t h r e e heavy a salt and m k in , sugar an g soda, spices ab d cin and star ove mixture, t whiskin namon slowly fo the egg g on c r easing sp ld making eed until low, insure you ing in, fo firm pea don’t los rm. the air th ks e all at with the was incorporate Unroll t h d egg whit e c ake, ing the t es.

Pour bat owel and gently peelt e r spread ⅔ in t h t e o pan and filling ov of bake for prepared er the ca a g a a ke. Roll bout 11 minutes in witho it u or until t t he to the rema top sprin back wh ining fill wel. Spread gs en touch in the cake ed.

While th . Sprink g on top of e cake co le cinna t o p (optiona ols in th l) and le mon on e few hou t it sit fo rs before ra serving.

DO

DONT

S D I K E H T R O F O O D W T O T Y T T E A N H I W N O T E N O M It’s that time of year again, guys. This is a howFRO to guide to being the best gift-giver, carol-singer,

When the holidays come around, lights are hung, decorations are

up and the music of Christmas fills the air. However, there’s always one person who has to ruin the fun: the “grinch.” Now, I advise you to not be this person as it brings everyone’s shining spirits down. A grinch usually has a negative attitude about the holidays, complains about Christmas music and is ungrateful for everything that they receive. Yes, we have all been there at one point or another, but try your best to embrace the holiday spirit. Although the holiday season can be a troublesome time of the year for some people, try to be considerate of others and show kindness. Uplift your spirits with family and friends and give back to others.

FROM JACELYN

gingerbread-muncher, sweater-wearer, wreathhanger and cocoa-sipper you can be. So get to it already and start decking the halls.

Along with the holiday season come a lot

of great stories about really awesome people doing really awesome things; I’m sure most of us have our own mental checklists of people we want to take care of or express our feelings for. But now, somewhere along that list, I’d like to remind everyone to add themselves. In other words, be kind to others, definitely; but treat yourself well too. It’s easy to get caught up in shopping lists and promises, but everyone needs a break. Take some time to relax with a beverage of your choice, or spend a little extra on a present to yourself, if you want. Being nice to yourself isn’t going to ruin the holidays for anyone else; in fact, it won’t make much of a difference at all, except to make you happier. And that’s just as important.

FROM LAUREN

As the holiday season rolls around, it’s imperative that when purchasing gifts you consider the practicality of it. Christmas is about giving, but giving without considering practicality could make it useless to the person receiving it.

Gifts should be chosen with the recipient’s personality and lifestyle in mind so they can use their gift as much as possible. The recipient

will appreciate your present even more if it suits them. When purchasing anything, see if you can picture the receiver using, wearing, etc. the gift. If you can imagine the receiver with that gift in their life, then it’s a practical gift!

FROM NATALIE

While the holidays may be about giving and receiving gifts and spreading good cheer, spending quality time with family is perhaps one of the greatest blessings this season brings. Rather than wasting away your three weeks off of school, take the time to engage in unifying and fun activities with your family. Take a trip to the beach, go see a movie, eat out at a nice restaurant or even do something as simple as playing a board game at home. Whatever you choose to do, be sure it involves your entire family. As high schoolers, your time with your family is slowly slipping away before you venture off into the world on your own. Utilize the holiday season to maximize your time with your family and, of course, to express your love for them.

FROM HARLAN

Getting into the holiday spirit is one thing, but try not to go all out when buying a new tree. The last thing you want is the excitement to drop into your stomach when you realize the worst has happened: your tree doesn’t fit in your house. Then you are left to drive all the way back to the store to get a less impressive, more disappointing tree that doesn’t live up to the first one. Don’t put yourself through that. Know your limitations before you raise your hopes and measure for the right sized tree.

FROM KAREN

If you have the perfe it in a plastic bag anct gift for someone, please, oh please, your intended “gifte d call it a day. Even worse, don’t justdon’t throw loud! Gals and guys e” unwrapped! This is Christmas, fo hand it to judged by its cover, , despite all that you have heard, the r crying out sentation. Show th so take some time with your wrapp book is still ing and preeffort into your giftat you have actually put some time, th the person. And tru, which, in turn, shows your true app ought and reciation for ents under the tree st me, it’s much more fun having wra parcels and packages and watching everyone snoop arou pped preslost as soon as the gi , guessing what they have than the sund, shaking second to none. So ft is placed. Plus, the joy of tearing o rprise to be pen a gift is get wrapping!

FROM TIMOTH Y

It’s that time of the season. Presents galore. Yet, you don’t have time to buy a significant gift for everyone so you choose the easier option of buying gift cards. Nothing wrong with that. Gift cards make lives easier. I know that from experience. However, it’s never a good thing when they’re empty. I know this from personal experience as well. So in this season of gift wrapping, ribbons and gift cards, don’t forget to put money on the card. If you’re one of those people who put the card just for show, in hopes of creating an illusion of a Christmas gift, you are surely wrong.

FROM IRELAND Design by T. Leoncio

12

EDITORIAL

Trojan Times Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Trojan Times

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 Lauren Barbour Managing Editor Ireland Castillo Design Editor Timothy Leoncio Copy Editor Jesika Henson Video & Photography Editor Jacob Balatico

Assistant Video & Photography Matthew Kawamoto Opinions Editor Karen Neill Online Editor Harlan Rose Business Manager Risa Askerooth Community Editor Makanalani Yamanoha Adviser Mr. Christopher Sato Principal Mr. Fred Murphy

Dying with dignity: It’s a personal choice

By Karen Neill k.neill@trojantimes.org

Life is about the decisions we make, and we make decisions that determine our future every day. However, the problem and the controversy surrounding this fact is: what do we do when those decisions are about the way we end our life? The battle for the “right to die” when terminally ill is ongoing and will include casualties either way.

On Jan. 1, Brittany Maynard, a 29-year-old woman, was diagnosed with stage four brain cancer and it was then that she started considering physician-assisted suicide as an option. Shortly after, she was told she had six months to live. She was confronted with death far too early in life, but she chose the path she thought was best for herself, which is all we can really ever do. In People Magazine, Maynard explained, “My glioblastoma is going to kill me and that’s out of my control. I’ve discussed with many experts how I would die from it and it’s a terrible, terrible way to die. So being able to choose to go with dignity is less terrifying.” Maynard died on Nov. 1, 2014, after her doctor prescribed her a fatal dose of barbiturates.

When people are faced with this sort of decision, it is not anyone else’s choice to make. It is between the patient and the doctor. Nobody, especially strangers, should

have the right to tell a person that the path they want to take is unavailable because of their own beliefs and morals. The decision to end your own life is hard enough; people deserve to be able to make it in peace. If you respect them as an individual person so much that you want them to live, respect their personal decision to die. Trust when I say that nobody takes this matter lightly, not the strangers, the loved ones, the doctor and especially not the person themselves. In the end, a life is lost. But society should have compassion towards those making this choice. It is a brave thing, to want your body to still be your own in the end.

We should not be trying to decide the rights the terminally ill have over their own bodies; we should instead be trying to make them feel as comfortable as we can, letting them know that we care in ways other than saying that we know what’s better for them.

Of course, there are those who are terminally ill who choose to face their illness head-on. This again is a brave decision and one I respect greatly. People have their reasons for choosing what they do; the point is that they should have the right to choose freely.

Make your last hours count with a natural death

By Jacob Balatico j.balatico@trojantimes.org

Many people dream of passing away peacefully, or of passing without feeling any pain. Sadly, this can’t always be the case. Some people are diagnosed with terminal illnesses such as cancer that destroy the possibility of a peaceful death. After taking their time to reconcile themselves however they see fit, a person has things to figure out. One of those things may be whether or not they want to take part in an assisted suicide.

Physician-assisted suicide consists of a doctor giving a patient information about lethal doses of drugs and prescribing or otherwise supplying those drugs. Other names include “death with dignity,” “dignity in death” and the “right to die.” But how much dignity would someone with a terminal illness really be dying with if they take their own life?

Organizations such as Dignity in Dying in the United Kingdom campaign for access to a full range of medical services, including providing terminally ill adults with the option of a painless death. However, even if it is painless to the person, what about the person’s family? I believe that we should all live out our days to the end because it would be selfish to take your own life to end your suffering

By Me For Me

By Jesika Henson

Steven Chapman Jacelyn Hamamoto Natalie Koch Misha Lawrence Caitlyn Resurreccion Danielle Smith

monthly production 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 l.barbour@trojantimes.org.

Please type your letter and clearly state your name, grade level and period one reserves the right to edit

Casualties of Finals Week

when in turn, your own family and friends can’t spend that full time they have left with you. People who decide to partake in assisted suicide cut their strings short and don’t take advantage of the time they have left to spend with their loved ones.

Ending your life means not being able to fulfill your life dreams. Lauren Hill is a college freshman who was diagnosed with a deadly form of brain cancer in her senior year of high school. Despite having only a few months to live, she has decided to play basketball for Mount St. Joseph University. Even though it gets hard and she feels tired when she plays, Hill perseveres. “I knew that when I was diagnosed with this, it’s a challenge. It’s a really big challenge,” she said in an article by National Public Radio. “But I decided to face it.”

Since then, Hill has played in her second game and has brought much awareness to the battle against cancer. She didn’t give up. She decided to do something that could help others. To me, Hill has won the battle with cancer.

I think what Hill really teaches us is that even when facing death, we can make a difference.

In the end, it is a very difficult choice and a personal one, however I still encourage people to not give up and to keep fighting.

13

EDITORIAL

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

The Editor Antics CRAFTING THE DAYS AWAY

By Risa Askerooth r.askerooth@trojantimes.org

The best projects are those that can be done neatly, and in the end, turn out to be useful and versatile. Pressing flowers is a painless way to make art, albeit without any paintbrushes, colored pencils or other artistic tools. Pressed flowers can add color to anything, whether you want to frame them, keep them in a favorite book, use them in a collage or paste them

to the front of a card. All it takes are a few flowers, wax paper and a very, very heavy stack of books.

1. Place flowers of choice on a sheet of wax paper.

2. Place a second sheet of wax paper on top, making sure that petals are flat.

3. Cover wrapped flowers with at least three very thick books (Harry Potter books or old dictionaries are usually most effective).

4. Wait at least three days

We are officially halfway through the school year, the holidays are on the horizon and if there is one thing I know for sure, it’s that everyone deserves a bit of a break.

School is a major cause of our stress, so take the time to forget about it for a while.

Hang out with your friends, go to the beach, spend some time with your family over the holidays and if you ever get bored or you end up doing all of the above in a week, throw some popcorn in the microwave and search for a good show on Netflix.

I know, your parents probably wouldn’t be happy with you spending all your time watching T.V., but personally, I always find binge-watching a new show an excellent way to relax after an entire semester of math problems and English essays.

I think we’ve earned that much.

The great thing about T.V. shows is that, similar to reading, you get way too attached to the characters and also the opportunity to completely forget about your own problems for 45 minutes (except when I read; it usually goes from when I wake up until I go to sleep). So if you do happen to get bored and find yourself wanting to start a new show, but don’t know where to begin, I have a couple suggestions.

1. The Flash/Arrow: These are actually two differ-

flowers and leaves to the front of gifts or cards is an easier way to make a gift look even more effort-filled at the last minute.

If preferred, the wax paper can be sealed around the flower with glue and cut so that the contents inside its protective casing last even longer.

In addition, assembling the various flower and leaf shapes into different images and forms can be very fun. One of the easiest is a butterfly made out of four petals.

When I see these pressed flowers and leaves, they remind me of nature even when I am inside. And although they are not as vibrant as when living, they outlive any flowers in a vase by years.

that the ball bounces off your foot more often than not, be content with being a frontcourt player. Having good possessions is important, and the less turnovers you have in a game, the more chance you have at winning.

2. Create space: Basically, don’t force anything.

If you have an open, clear shot, take it, for goodness sake. If you have a defender or two crowding you on the other hand, don’t chuck the ball and hope it goes in (because more often than not, it won’t). In basketball, footwork is just as important as the rest of the basics. Remember that you can pivot!

Throw out a few pump fakes, get an opponent jumping, and then clear yourself for the shot. If you can get your defender leaning, you can break free a lot more easily.

Keep the ball moving. This ain’t the NBA finals and you ain’t Kobe Bryant. Play less

isolation and more motion; remember this is a pickup game and everyone wants to get some touches. When you pass the ball around, defenders will have a harder time in transition, or lose someone, making it much easier to score. I guarantee that everyone on the court will have more fun the more assists there are. Think San Antonio Spurs.

3. Be a good sport: It’s not about your ego. Suck up your losses and realize that wins don’t really mean anything.

If anything, pick-up is just practice, and unless you’re going pro (or semi-pro, or whatever), then it’s just practice for the next pick-up game. Nobody wants to play with a jerk or a self-involved loser; don’t be that guy/gal.

Ultimately, it’s about the game, and all that matters is if you’re enjoying it every single time you play.

Keep ballin’!

BALLIN’

Just the Pilot

By Karen Neill k.neill@trojantimes.org

before removing them. They should be relatively flat; if they are still thick, place them under books another day.

5. Optional: Coat flowers on both sides with a flower preservation spray (found at a local craft store) to save color for an extended amount of time.

Make sure the flowers that you choose to press are not too thick. For example, carnations turn out ugly and lumpy due to their mass of petals. On the

other hand, pansies, daisies and lavender are some of the flowers that I’ve used that have turned out most successful.

The flatter and drier, the longer they last. Leaves are also a great item to press, as their flatness makes it very difficult to press them incorrectly. Taking home a maple leaf after its colors have changed for fall serves as a great way to preserve memories and color.

After the flora has been successfully preserved, the next step is up to you. Keeping them pressed between the pages of a textbook can evoke nostalgia when opening it after leaving it untouched for months. Framing flowers is a simplistic but pretty way to decorate. Attaching the pressed

ent shows on the CW that air Tuesday and Wednesday nights respectively. They each follow their own superhero (Green Arrow and The Flash), and from their origin story to when they start making saving people’s lives their everyday mission, you get hooked. You don’t need to have read the comics, but I would probably suggest starting with Arrow since the shows do follow the same timeline and The Flash doesn’t come until the end of season two.

2. The 100: Strangely, a teacher actually recommended this show to me and its plot and characters have made it impossible for me to stop watching. It also airs on the CW on Wednesday nights. Although it only has one season on Netflix, I am too ashamed to admit how short a time it took me to catch up to season two. There are some characters in the beginning that I absolutely hated and never expected to learn to love, and as a fan I have become invested in what happens to these people. It is an adaptation of the books

by Kass Morgan who, along with the show’s creators, has woven a story that fits a postapocalyptic plot into a “Lost” setting perfectly.

As of now, I am caught up on just about every show I watch, so even though I too will be seeing friends and whatnot, you can bet that much of my time at home will be spent looking for new shows to invest my time in.

By Timothy Leoncio t.leoncio@trojantimes.org

Basketball season is in full swing here in December, and at one point or another, you’re definitely going to want to shake off that rust, grab a ball and play a game of pickup.

But, whoa there partner, don’t go rushing in without a game plan unless you want to be the last round draft pick for the rest of your life! There’s got to be a method to the (not March) madness. We got to keep a few things in mind going in: 1. Gauge your ballhandling: This is a key factor that some people tend to look over. If you have handles, and you know you have handles, go ahead and keep the ball, be a point guard. Do as many ankle-breakers as you want. But, if you know

‘Mockingjay - Part 1’ satisfies emotionally

By Harlan Rose h.rose@trojantimes.org

The final book in The Hunger Games franchise, Mockingjay, is considered by many to be the weakest installment in the series.

While the attack on the Capitol in the second half of the book is thoroughly gripping, the first half is a complete bore to read and

the ultimate conclusion has left readers disappointed and dissatisfied. As such, when Lionsgate announced their intentions in 2012 to adapt Mockingjay into two fulllength feature films, many were instantly skeptical, as it was believed there simply wasn’t enough content in Mockingjay to produce two satisfactory films. However, such is the skill of director

Francis Lawrence that “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1” proves to be an emotionally gratifying penultimate chapter, albeit still held back by some limitations.

Part 1 picks up directly where Catching Fire left off, with Katniss Everdeen Read the rest at www.trojantimes.org

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Trojan Times Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

INFORMATION

Book Club Student Book Club Review “The Scorpio Races”

by Maggie Stiefvater

“This is no romantic fairy tale, but a powerful one. This novel is a Printz Honor book and is in the process of being made into a film. I can’t wait.”

English teacher Lisa Anne Tsuruda

Maggie Stiefvater (The “Shiver” series and “The Raven Boys” cycle) is an amazing paranormal writer.

She tries to incorporate magic into everyday life in her work and “The Scorpio Races” is no exception.

Set on a very small, insular island (a little like Ireland), every November brings the cold and the capall uisce (pronounced CAPple ISHka). These water horses aren’t loving and gentle. They are dangerous and will kill you if you don’t pay attention, but the people of this island try to catch them and Sean is the most talented. He trains horses for the Malvern stables and has won the race

Teacher Book Club Review for the past couple of years.

This year, if he wins, he will have enough money to buy from his boss. But the reader also has Kate, called Puck, to cheer for. The capall uisce killed her parents and her older brother is leaving the island and Puck and her younger brother Finn behind. She needs to win the race to have enough money to survive. Told in alternating chapters, I was immediately drawn into their world.

This is no romantic fairy tale, but a powerful one.

This novel is a Printz Honor book and is in the process of being made into a film. I can’t wait.

Compiled by English teacher Lisa Anne Tsuruda

“Larger than Life”

by Jodi Picoult In Jodi Picoult’s brilliant novella “Larger than Life,” we are introduced to Alice, an elephant researcher in Botswana, Africa, who faces many choices in this brief chapter of her life. As a scientist, she is not to interfere with nature; she must be objective. However, when she comes across the scene of slaughtered elephants, her heart breaks. And when Alice sees a baby elephant peeking out from behind the elephant’s slain mother, Alice knows there is only one action to take. What follows is a slice of Alice’s life and a sneak peek at the riveting lives of the ma-

jestic elephant. “Larger than Life” entices the reader to want to know more.

Compiled by English teacher Stephanie Grande-Misaki

C&CC The College and Career Center will be closed during winter break. Please plan accordingly.

Happy holidays!

Senior Announcements: Application Deadlines If you have not done so already, submit your applications and/or transcript requests! Stop procrastinating! If applying online, you still need to turn in a transcript request to C&CC so we can add your list of senior courses and attach our school’s profile. Let us know if there are any questions.

UH Community College Application The community colleges are a smart choice for starting a four-year degree. With an AA degree from a community college, you can transfer with your “core” general education requirements fulfilled, with substantial savings. The community colleges provide quality education, more personalized attention and lots of opportunities.

Popular programs fill up quickly, so complete the online application as soon as possible. To apply, go to apply.hawaii.edu Scholarship Award Letter If you receive a scholarship

or financial award from a school or organization, forward a copy of the award letter to our office, whether you accept it or not. We will use it for our report and you will be recognized in the graduation program.

Financial Aid – Available Online Jan. 1 With all of the economic concerns that are happening around us, financial aid will play an important part in the college application process.

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.

Request forms or complete the form online after Jan. 1 at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Each college has a priority deadline and most aid is awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis, so file your FAFSA as soon as possible.

Reminders College Goal 808 – Jan. 25 at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

College Goal 808 (Leilehua High School) – Feb. 4 at 6 p.m.

College Goal 808 Get FREE help completing the online FAFSA. It’s the first step toward getting the student financial aid available to you. It is recommended that you register online, however walk-ins are also welcome to attend – go to www.collegegoal808.org to register or for more information.

Selective Service: All Males 18 Years of Age Must Register In order to qualify for federal student loans and grants, job training and employment, males 18 years of age must register with Selective Service. Go to sss.gov for more information.

Scholarships Posted on Edline Check Edline or our bulletin board for the latest scholarship listings. Any scholarship money that you receive means less money out of your pocket. Follow the instructions and watch your deadlines!

Other Announcements: Thursday, Jan. 29 – College Planning Night at 7 p.m. in the Cafeteria You are invited to attend a free, informative presentation suitable for students in grades nine to 12 and their

families. Sessions include high school preparation, choosing a college, financial aid and more! Each family who attends will receive a free workbook. Hope to see you then!

Tuesday, March 3 – ACT/ PLAN/EXPLORE Test Day Mark this date on your calendar! We will be administering these various tests to ALL ninth to 11 graders on Tuesday, March 3. More information will be forthcoming.

PSAT Test Results are In! Thank you to everyone for your flexibility with the postponement of the PSAT. If you have not already done so, you can pick up your score reports from your grade level counselor.

Registration Information Registration for next school year’s classes will begin in January. Utilize the resources that we have available at MHS by taking interesting or challenging courses. Some colleges require a fine arts class, while others recommend that students take three years of a foreign language. UH-Manoa requires 17 college-prep classes (core classes and world language).

Colleges like to see a rigorous course schedule, especially in senior year, so check

the websites of prospective colleges and plan your schedule accordingly.

SAT or ACT College Entrance Exams Underclassmen, especially juniors, should sign up now for the SAT, ACT or SAT subject tests (if needed).

Sites and dates fill up very quickly, so plan accordingly. Go to collegeboard. org or actstudent.org to sign up for the appropriate test.

Our school’s CEEB code is 120-197.

Fee Waivers Available Students on free or reduced lunch are available for SAT, ACT and NCAA clearinghouse fee waivers. See Mrs. Yamamoto and pick up your fee waiver today.

Running Start The Running Start program is a unique partnership between the DOE and the UH system. It allows public high school juniors and seniors to attend college classes while earning both high school and college credits. Come to C&CC for more information, or visit www.hawaii. edu/runningstart

Compiled by College and Career Center Counselor Denise Yamamoto

INTERACTIVE Awkward

By Misha Lawrence

My Wandering Mind

By Jacob Balatico

Plethora

By Timothy Leoncio

By Me For Me

By Jesika Henson

Trojan Times Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

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INTERACTIVE

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

Trojan Maze

The Trojan Warrior ate so much pie after his Christmas dinner that his food coma has affected his memory.

Help him find his way home to his family for New Year’s Eve before he collapses.

Visit trojantimes. org/answer-keys for the solution.

LEVELS OF SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH Caribou Reindeer Dasher Dancer Prancer Vixen Comet Cupid Donner Blitzen

C DW Y S R A R B N K M C P S G O I A F L E E N E D E A Q RYN M P T Z L I E N AD R Z E Z Y I E UC A E NR S N I N L T DHY T C H KB D H M B O T O E I P L T H O OV E S O AN D E S LL F S K P J R E U T AG P G I E O B R E C N A R P O E S I S M D DA R E CN A D R F V M T C R I U U NE X I V B B N X E I E AWR P RO O F T O P O N I H C M L F J

Rudolph

Speedy

Herd

Watch

Red-nosed

Antlers

Rooftop

Bells

Flying

Hooves

Listen

Magical

Fill in the missing numbers, making sure each row, column and box has every number from 1 to 9.

Easy

1 2 3 5

WHEAT

_______ Sound effect

_______ Recuperate

_______ Copying answers

_______ Story

_______ Light blue

_______ Inexpensive

_______ Glance

_______ Inform

_______ Bird noise

LOON

TALL

CREEP

3 7

4 6 8 1 1 9 3 5 7 6 2 2 9 6 5 8

5 4 7

Invented by Lewis Carroll, doublets test your vocabulary and logic. Turn the first word into the last by changing the words one letter at a time.

HEAD

2 8

2

Intermediate

DOUBLETS BANK

5

1 5 4

5 2 3 1 4 3 6 5 1 9

8

1 9 7

3

2