Beckman Chronicle: Volume I, Edition I

B E C K M A N

SEE FRONT COVER ON PAGE 8 CALEB SHIIHARA | RAYMOND VASCO CLARISSA HERNANDEZ | MICHELLE NAZARENO

Evacuations & LOCAL BARN burned down

ALL AROUND ALL-STARS

Student athletes with EARLY ADMISSION

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C O N T E N T S 03 Letter from the Editors 04 Meet the Staff 05 Starting on a High Note 06 Canyon Fire 2 Blazes Through OC 07 Beckman Solar Panel Installations Delayed 08 Fall Style: Male 10 Fall Style: Female 12 Teachers Pay It Forward 13 "What's Your Deal?" with Elis 14 Senioritis, a Virulent Disease 15 ACTs, SATs, and GPAs 16 Stressed Student Skincare: Survival Guide 18 Wilson Lu: Makeup Prodigy 20 Jessica Ark "Focuses on the Bigger Picture" 21 Ivana Rusich Spikes Her Way to USC 21 Digital Artist Megan Dang 22 Bon AppĂŠtit: Featuring All-Natural Dining 24 Athletic Scholarships 26 US Loses Spot at the World Cup 26 Astros Steals the Championship 27 Rigorous Rowing in SoCal Makes a Splash 28 Varsity Girls Tennis: CIF Champions 30 "Stranger Things" Season Two Delivers 31 Dia de Los Muertos: A Celebration of the Dead 32 Beckman Rewind

Letter Editors from the

Dear Patriots, New layout, different style, more creative freedom. Life as a student is all about new experiences to prepare for a life beyond high school; we believe that the Beckman Chronicle should reflect that. In the past few years, our staff count has been steadily increasing. With a large number of new journalists, the Beckman Chronicle decided to move from newspaper publication to magazine production. Additionally, to keep up with the media demands of the 21st century, we revamped our website, www.beckmanchronicle.com, and post new articles weekly. However, this transition could not have been completed without the support and patient guidance of our advisor, Mr. Tanara. He encouraged our creative ideas and challenged us to think outside of the box to cover stories never heard before. We also thank Mrs. Manning for her advice regarding our magazine design and layout. In taking on this new project, we’ve done our best to amplify the students’ voices. We hope you will enjoy the work our team has put into this magazine.

The theme of this issue is "Nights & Lights.” With the year coming to a close and winter settling in, it feels like the end of an exhausting all nighter. However, after this long and troublesome night, we can’t wait for the daybreak of next year. In the next semester, seniors can finally take a breather after the mad rush of completing college applications, students start their classes with a blank slate, and spring sports can launch into season.

This year, we’ve focused on creating and curating more in-depth and creative articles— finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. We hope this magazine inspires adventure, proprovides insights, stimulates conversations peers. as vides newnew insights, andand stimulates conversations withwith youryour peers.

We We wishwish youyou luckluck as you you through flip through the pages ofBeckman the Beckman Chronicle, guided byneon the neon lights. flip the pages of the Chronicle, guided by the lights.

Have fun, The Editors-in-Chief

VOLUME 1: ISSUE 1 | THE BECKMAN CHRONICLE The Beckman Chronicle is a student-run publication that highlights accomplishments of students and faculty and celebrates diversity on campus.

ADVISOR Ryon Tanara

EDITORIAL STAFF (top; left to right) Editor-in-Chief | Director of Innovation | Digital Media Editor Victoria Choi Editor-in-Chief | Sports Editor Gena Huynh Editor-in-Chief Shannon Zhao Photography Editor | Design Editor Karolyne Diep

email: beckmanchronicle@gmail.com instagram: @beckmanchronicle website: beckmanchronicle.com

(right column; left to right) News Editor Ethan Prosser News Editor Stephanie Xu Editorials & Opinions Editor Hanna Kim Editorials & Opinions Editor Soowon Lee Features Editor Ruby Choi Features Editor Cynthia Le Arts & Entertainment Editor Daeun Lee Arts & Entertainment Editor Michael Lee

Front Cover Photo Karolyne Diep Front Cover Layout Victoria Choi Front Cover Model Caleb Shiihara

STAFF WRITERS

GUEST PHOTOGRAPHERS

News Alshaun Rodgers, Leena Shin, Montreh Sohrabian, Srihitha Somasila, Ivanna Tjitra, April Wang

Dyan Jaime & Marva Shi

Editorials & Opinions Dyan Jaime, Thomas Jang, Daniel Kang, Cindy Lim, Mariah Perry, Meganne Rizk, Jessica Vo Features Amelia Chung, Sameer Ghai, Rachel Ker, Nelson Lou, Aastha Sehgal, Emma Trueba Sports Dawson Bartelt, Matthew Basilio, Clarissa Hernandez, Devon McCoy, Allison Perez Arts & Entertainment Alyssa Arroyo, Aarushi Bhaskaran, Lauren Brown, Kevin Mateos, Rumsha Mussani, Keerthi Nair, Abby Pond, Ashley Singh

SPECIAL THANKS TO The Choi Family, Ewha Graphics 4790 Irvine Blvd. #105-151 Irvine, CA 92620 info@ewhagraphics.com www.ewhagraphics.com

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CONTACT US

for more information on how to submit your own work in our next edition, please contact us!

FRONT COVER

STARTING ON A HIGH NOTE Layout by Victoria Choi | Recommendations by the Beckman Chronicle Staff

Want to update your playlist? Consider some music recommendations from the Chronicle Staff.

Some are oldies, some are newbies. Some are chill, while others are more upbeat. Take some time to indulge in new music styles—maybe you'll discover a genre of music to serve as the soundtrack to your afternoon run, or those late night study sessions!

R&B/Soul Stigma Down NYLA Lights On Best Part Sunday Candy Unstoppable

Pop 21 Fire Rain Perfect Wolves Attention Lost Stars Easy Love Bad at Love Dusk till Dawn Good Old Days Too Good at Goodbyes

Alternative Rock V Emily King Blackbear H.E.R. Daniel Caesar (ft. H.E.R.) Donnie Trumpet & the Social Experiment Lianne La Havas (ft. FKJ) Dean BTS Heize Ed Sheeran Selena Gomez Charlie Puth Adam Levine lauv Halsey Zayn Macklemore (ft. Kesha) Sam Smith

Dance/Electronic Silence 4 Walls Sur ma route Sleep Talking Friends

Marshmello (ft. DJ Khalid) f(x) Black M Charlotte Lawrence Justin Bieber & BloodPop®

The Way I Do Bad at Love Out on the Town Electric Love

Bishop Briggs Halsey fun.

Børns

Acoustic Art Exhibit Intertwined La Vie En Rose Something to Believe In [Live Acoustic]

The Things We Used to Share

Young the Giant dodie Daniela Andrade (Orig. Edith Piaf) Young the Giant Thomas Sanders

Oldies Killer Queen Down Under September Dancing Queen Fly Me to the Moon Can't Take My Eyes Off You Dream a Little Dream of Me Never Gonna Give You Up ;)

Queen Men at Work Earth, Wind & Fire ABBA Frank Sinatra Frankie Valli Doris Day Rick Astley 5

Canyon Fire 2 Blazes Through Orange County

By Leena Shin | Photograph Courtesy of Steve Lopushinsky

This is the aftermath of the Canyon Fire 2 at the Peters Canyon Hiking Trail. Smoke clouds the sky and fire rages on.

On Monday, Oct. 9, a wildfire spread throughout the city of Anaheim and surrounding communities, resulting in mandatory evacuations for residents. High winds and low humidity fueled the quick-moving fire, forcing residents of Tustin, Orange and Anaheim to pack up their belongings and leave their homes. Many Beckman students and staff were impacted by the blaze. The Canyon Fire 2, named after the first Canyon Fire that took place in September, started in Coal Canyon near the 91 Freeway. Around 3,580 structures were destroyed, damaged or threat-

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ened during the eight-day battle.

Sophomore Amanda Boktor was one of the many students displaced by the blaze.“I was really anxious because I didn’t want my neighbors’ houses or my house to be affected by the fire,” said Boktor.

“My family and I were not allowed to go home because the fire had gotten so bad. We spent two nights at a hotel, and we were allowed to go home in the morning on Wednesday.”

Because the fire impacted so many students from Tustin, Superintendent Dr. Gregory A. Franklin made the decision on Monday to close all Tustin Unified campuses the following day.

“Initially, I was happy that school was closed,” said junior Connor McGuire. “But I became pretty worried after I started to think about all the people who would be impacted.”

In addition to school closures and mandatory evacuations, many businesses were forced to close down. One facility in particular, the Peacock Hills Equestrian Center, found itself in a unique predicament. The 500-acre horse riding facility was in the direct path

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of the fire, forcing employees and local residents to quickly transport the horses housed in the stables to safety. When sophomore Cambria Cox heard about the need for volunteers, she did not hesitate to drop everything and rush to help. “I texted my mom, ‘There’s a fire and we need to go,’” said Cox, who has been riding at the facility for three years.

Some horses were trailered out of the center while others were walked to a local Albertson’s parking lot.

Volunteers and riders did everything they could to help ensure that these animals reached safety.

The center, a safe haven to nearly 200 horses, was severely affected by the fire. The jumping facility burned down first, and the other buildings quickly followed. Firefighters were able to contain the fire

by Tuesday, Oct. 17. Many families and businesses are in the process of repairing the damage or rebuilding their homes. Fortunately, no lives were lost during the week-long ordeal, but many families from the affected areas are still on edge as the California fire season seems to be growing longer and longer each year.

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Neon Nights Dance - 9/1

Senior Sunrise - 9/2

Beckman students attended the Welcome Back Dance in early September where they danced the night away under the bright neon lights in the Beckman gymnasium.

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Photograph courtesy of Paulina Vitarella

R The senior class of 2018 arrived at Citrus Ranch Park to watch the sun rise and to welcome their final year at Beckman.

Photograph courtesy of Marva Shi

Beckman Solar Panel InstallationS DelayeD

By Emma Trueba | Creative Commons

The Tustin Unified School District (TUSD) has entered a 25year Purchase Power Agreement with Partners For Many Generations Solar (PFMG Solar) to buy electricity at a fixed rate for its schools.

Beckman is one of the 15 sites to break ground on a solar project that will install about 331 solar cells with parking canopies in the front and back parking lots during the 2017-18 school year.

TUSD created this solar project to take advantage of the grandfathering current Time-of-Use (TOU) periods and net metering electric rates. According to a Frequently Asked Questions document released by TUSD, the solar project is estimated to save the District approximately $19-24 million.

The first phase was to be completed by Sept. 14, 2017, but has yet to be started. A major factor contributing to the delay is a shortage of solar cells due to high demand.

There has been a nation-wide solar cell problem due to the bankruptcy of the Solarworld company, the largest U.S. solar panel maker. Due to this bankruptcy, TUSD is unable

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to start construction on the parking canopies until more solar panels are available. According to an interview with Chris Pelissie, cofounder of Senga Energy, there are solar panels available for a project of this size, but when it comes to school districts, “they’re slow.” The panels are available, but due to price gouging, the purchase of the solar panels would be very expensive. If this project is not completed before Dec. 31, 2017, the district will not receive the benefits associated with the grandfathering TOU periods and net-metering rates. The district has filed to extend the deadline to Aug. 31, 2018 in order to be able to complete all of the 15 solar proects.

As of now, there are no senior parking permits being sold, and once construction starts, there will be a significant decrease in available parking spots. Principal Donnie Rafter is aware of these concerns.

“It is going to be a mess, but we don’t have a choice,” said Rafter. “At this point we know this is the right thing to do. We are working with the city to get variance on parking.”

Variance on parking means that

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Club Rush - 10/6

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Solar panels scheduled to be installed in Beckman parking lots were delayed due to multiple unexpected causes.

the no-parking zones on El Camino along the sides of the school would become parking zones. Beckman is also requesting Irvine Company Properties behind the school to open their lots during construction.

However, even if these areas were opened to Beckman students, traffic may still be an issue. “It would still be chaotic,” said senior Baylee Franklin who drives to campus. “It would help, but it would cause a lot more traffic and congestion in the streets.” The long-term benefits of this project are said to outweigh the initial chaos the school must endure in order to install the solar panels.

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Game Concert - 10/18

Beckman clubs recruited new members during the semi-annual Club Rush event. Student leaders promoted their organizations to prospective students.

Orchard Hill’s Symphonic Orchestra and Beckman's Chamber Orchestra played scores from famous games such as “Tetris” and “Kingdom Hearts.”

Photograph courtesy of Karolyne Diep

Photograph courtesy of Ivanna Tjitra

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Fall Style Layout & Photographs by Karolyne Diep

RAYMOND VASCO Raymond prefers an urban-hipster style created by layering different pieces to bring dimension to his outfits. He pairs a Henley shirt with a flannel, throws on a pair of comfy jeans and finishes the look with black Vans. You can find Raymond looking through the clothing racks at ASOS, H&M and Zumiez.

CALEB SHIIHARA Caleb puts his own twist on a sophisticated street style. He purchases staple articles of clothing from stores like Cotton On, Forever 21 and TJ Maxx and makes them his own. Why pay more for ripped jeans and t-shirts when you can DIY? He distresses his clothing and rips holes in his shirts so he doesn’t have to burn a hole in his wallet.

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Distressed & Faded Black Jeans Zumiez

Palm Tree Button-Up H&M Knitted Cardigan ASOS

Olive Bomber Jacket Forever 21 Black Hoodie H&M DIY Distressed LongSleeve Pacsun

Denim Ripped Jeans Cotton On

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Striped Silk Blouse Thrifted

DIY Ripped Black Jeans Thrifted

Brown Suede Jacket Forever 21 Cream Sleeveless Mock Top Tilly’s

Black Button-up Pencil Skirt Tilly’s 10

CLARISSA HERNANDEZ With a cream mock top, brown suede jacket and a black pencil skirt, Clarissa prefers to adhere to a chic style. She highlights accents by pairing pieces that complement each other, bringing more personality to the outfit while still focusing on the overall look. Clarissa’s style is perfect for SoCal’s version of autumn. Her top stores to shop at are Urban Outfitters, Brandy Melville, Tilly’s and PacSun.

MICHELLE NAZARENO Between a vintage and modern style, Michelle likes to find a middle ground that incorporates both aspects into her outfits. She shops at Forever 21 for staple pieces, but prefers thrifting most of her outfits from Goodwill.

Thrift shops give her the freedom to tailor pieces to her own taste, as she likes to recycle old clothing to capture that vintage look. Michelle prioritizes comfort, wearing loose and flowy pieces that align with her aesthetic.

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Teachers Pay It Forward

Layout by Victoria Choi | Photographs by Karolyne Diep

"Being doesn’t

cool matter

in at

high school all. It’s s u c h

Some things that BHS teachers wish students knew...

a small part of your life and you leave. All the drama and all of the pressure doesn’t matter."

B el z

"Don't

feel like you have to take everything on that happens with school, friends, relationships, family, etc. [...] focus on yourself first, and don't let anything else take away from that.

"Enjoy the learning process for what you will gain,

Don't take it on, whatever it may be, if it's going to affect your life in a n e g a t i v e w a y. "

not just for the letter grade you will receive."

S anju r j o

Shekarchi

“Adopt the mindset of learning as a means of developing confidence.

No one expects kids to have the right answer all the time.

So, if a student knows it is okay to take risks, and that it is okay to be wrong once in awhile[...]he or she is much more likely to find success and contentment and confidence in my class. I can teach English; I cannot teach confidence.”

Ha l lst rom “Sleep! It is so hard to put your best foot forward when you are lacking sleep. Sometimes

the best feeling in the world is shutting down the phone and computer and getting s o m e q u a l i t y s h u t - e y e .”

Tig he 12

Responses by Cynthia Le Gena Huynh Soowon Lee Victoria Choi Stephanie Xu Shannon Zhao Daeun Lee

Dear Elis,

How do you stay focused and not get behind in AP US History work?

Sincerely,

Apt Andrew

I'm on a club board right now and the other members on my board aren't carrying out their duties. At this point, I kind of want to deck each and every one of them. Do you have any advice?

Sincerely,

Anxious Avocado

Dear Elis,

Is being “fake” the solution to ending friend drama?/ How do I prevent myself from drama among friends?

Annoyed Anna

To s u b m i t y o u r ow n q u e s t i o n t o E l i s , p l e a s e u s e t h e G o o g l e Fo r m i n t h e l i n k i n b i o o f @ b e c k m a n c h r o n i c l e o n In s t a g r a m .

Apt Andrew, Split up your work into smaller portions. But, let’s be real, you’ve heard this same advice many times before. Despite Mr. McGill, Mr. Friendt and Mr. Goldenberg telling you not to, you’ll continue to procrastinate. After you finish season 2 of “Stranger Things,” then you'll realize the sheer amount of coursework that you have to complete, wallow in your incapabilities for 15 minutes and pull an all-nighter while making empty promises to yourself not to procrastinate on the next unit.

Get a “mom” friend who will nag you when you fall behind on coursework.

Elis

Anxious Avocado, Working with an uncooperative group of people can be very frustrating; however, you should talk to the other board members and express your concerns.

They may then realize that they haven’t been doing their job and work harder to compensate. If all else fails, honestly, just deck ‘em. Just kidding.

Hoping you solve your problems without a referral,

Elis

Annoyed Anna, Although it may seem easy to act like everything is fine, in the long run, it’s going to continuously bother you. Talk to the friend in question and sort your feelings out with each other, but don't push yourself to be friends with those that don’t deserve your friendship; leave toxic people behind.

Don't be a snake,

Dear Elis,

Elis

Although photosynthesis does produce some ATP, these molecules are not used to do the work of the plant cells.

What other process occurs in the cells that provides the ATP necessary to do cellular work such as make proteins, divide cells and move substances across membranes?

Sincerely,

with Elis

Start adulting,

Dear Elis,

Sincerely,

What's Your Deal?

Sciency Sam

Sciency Sam, Please do your own biology homework. Refer to Mr. Kim, Mr. Hu, or Mr. Chow in their respective rooms (211, 218, 209) for help! Or Wikipedia ;)

Yours truly,

Elis 13

senioritis: a virulent disease

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By Cindy Lim

Senioritis: noun. The ill- ceptable for a multitude of reasons. sity has since denied those claims. ness, although not listed First off, all colleges do look Whatever the issue may be, seniors in the Centers for Dis- at senior year grades from second do not want to compromise their ease Control and Pre- semester. In an article published admission to future schools. Acvention A-Z index, is in The New York Times in 2012, cording to the National Association very real and slowly taking hold of the dean of Connecticut College for College Admission Counseling, unexpecting seniors at Beckman. Martha C. Merrill described the approximately 22% of colleges have UrbanDictionary.com describes consequences of students slack- revoked an admissions offer in rethe condition best: “A crippling dis- ing off in their senior year. “Every cent years. If one falters under a ease that strikes high school seniors. once in awhile, I find myself having senior year workload, the possibilSymptoms include: laziness, an ex- to send what I call an 'oops' letter. ity of rejection becomes a reality. cessive wearing of track pants, old This letter informs the student that Some may argue that Seathletic shirts, sweatpants, athletic we have noted a downward turn in nioritis is understandable because shorts and sweatshirts. Also fea- performance and request a written seniors spend months preparing tures a lack of studying, repeated explanation. That response is in- for the college application process absences and a generally dismissive cluded in the student’s permanent while balancing school work. Hitattitude. The only known cure is a record. Students with significantly ting “submit” on that last college phenomenon known as Graduation.” poor academic performance during application can feel like finally

When college applications senior year need to know their of- crossing the finish line. However, are sent off to admissions officers fer of admission can be revoked.” what many students fail to realize around the country, seniors begin Today, colleges are becom- is that completing applications is to let go of their responsibilities and ing more selective, especially due not the end of the journey—it is only focus on having fun in their to the growing competition among just the beginning. For example, a final year. Students no longer find students. The more competitive huge grade dip can affect students’ joy in the day-to-day schedule of at- the school, the more likely that it financial aid opportunities. While tending classes as they realize that a will expect higher excellence in all some students’ acceptances may be mediocre performance will suffice. subject areas. If this requirement safe after a grade dip, some finan However, before all the af- is not met, there is a lower chance cial aid packages may not be imfected seniors’ accumulated accom- of admission and a potentially mune. This is because many merit plishments crumble at the founda- higher likelihood of rescinding scholarships are based on grade tion, it is essential to examine the admissions offers. Just this year, point averages (GPAs). Thus, if a potential consequences of Seniori- UCI rescinded 499 admissions of- student’s GPA suffers during the tis and contemplate the detrimen- fers to incoming freshman just last semester, he or she may not tal impact of this horrid disease. two months before the start of the even be eligible for the scholarship.

The majority of 12th grad- school year. The university shared After examining all the ers are the victims of Senioritis as that some of these students had consequences and explanations they believe that their senior year inadequate grades during their se- above, it is essential that one does does not matter as much as their nior year. After public backlash, the not simply neglect the responsiprevious years. Students should un- university readmitted some of the bilities and duties as a high school derstand that senior year is one of students. Critics claim that UCI senior. Sweat pants and basketthe most important years and ac- did not expect so many students to ball shorts are acceptable. But knowledge that Senioritis is not ac- accept their offer, but the univer- slipping academically….not okay.

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ACTs, SATs & GPAs

By Daniel Kang | Illustrations by Shannon Zhao

In order to get into highly selective universities, high school students take advanced classes—honors and AP courses—and are expected to have an outstanding GPA at all times. On top of rigorous classes, students are constantly burdened by standardized testing. Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT), are the two standardized exams that are critical to the college application process.

The score a student receives can either improve or worsen their college application, and subsequently, affect their entire college career.

However, there is much more to a student than the scores they receive on a few exams. Standardized testing should not be required due to the tremendous amount of issues it creates in students’ lives.

Standardized testing is one of the main factors when selecting college applicants, but applicants should be given the chance to be seen beyond their scores. According to the Washington Post, standardized testing does not accurately assess students on what they have learned. SATs and ACTs only focus on mathematics and English curriculums. Graduation requirements mandate that students take a variety of classes in all subject areas. Art, video production and history are just a few classes that cover some of the A-G requirements, yet students are never offered the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in these subject areas on a

standardized test. Even if students excel in these courses, they never have the chance to demonstrate their full potential and intelligence beyond their level of competency in math and science. According to PBS SoCal, a student in San Francisco scored 800’s on both the Biology SAT Subject Test and the

"There is so much MORE to a student than the scores they receive on a few tests."

toms listed on ADAA website. This must be taken into consideration.

SAT and ACT scores do not seem to be going away anytime soon, but some colleges and universities are starting to remove the requirement from their application process. Yale, Columbia, Dartmouth and other universities are dropping certain standardized testing requirements. Although they have not done away with the test scores completely, it is a sign that things are slowly changing. Hopefully, as time goes on, students will be evaluated more holistically, and non-academic skills, character and citizenship will be weighted more heavily. Freeing the standardized testing requirement from college applications could be the final puzzle piece to achieving fair assessment.

Chemistry SAT Subject Test but only scored a 1250 on the SAT. Is this student a competitive candidate for college admission based on their SAT score? It is hard to say. But then again, numbers only shed light on part of the story.

Test anxiety is another factor that is not taken into consideration. Some may argue that test anxiety is not real. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America Upperclassmen struggle to prepare (ADAA) would disagree. Nausea, for standardized testing on top of headaches and shortness of breath their already-heavy load of mandatory schoolwork. are just a few of the physical symp15

Stressed Student Skincare SURVIVAL GUIDE

By Gena Huynh & Hanna Kim | Layout by Gena Huynh Students today experience great amounts of stress.

It gives us headaches, uncontrollable frustration and worst of all: acne. Being a stressed-out, hormonal teen is the perfect combination for acne to form. Here are some tips and tricks to combat acne!

Step Two: Toner

How Acne Forms

When your blood sugar level rises, your body naturally produces insulin to bring it back down.

However, when insulin gets released into your system, it disrupts the hormone balance which results in an increase of androgen. Androgen triggers more sebum, or oil, to be produced. This sebum is thicker than normal sebum. Due to a differnece in consistency, your pores get clogged and ta-dah! Acne is born!

Where to Start

Starting a skincare routine can be daunting due to the sheer amount of products in the market with vague descriptions on what they actually do. The key is to start slow.

Step One: Cleanser

Cleanse once in the morning and at night. Don’t cleanse too much as it over dries your skin. This causes your skin to overproduce oil, which in turn produces more acne. We reccomend Burt's Bees Intense Cream Cleansers, Burt’s Bees Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream and COSRX’s Low pH Morning Gel Cleanser.

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The toner helps reset the pH of your face.

Your face’s pH is naturally acidic, but is slightly buffered after cleansing. The toner will help hydrate your skin and recover its natural oils.

We reccomend Skinfood’s Tea Tree Clearing Toner for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Step Three: Moisturizer

Moisturizer forms a barrier which prevents water from evaporating through your skin. Even if you have oily skin, use moisturizer! Your skin is dry on the inside and is overproducing sebum to compensate. To combat oiliness, we recommend IOPE’s Plant Stem Cell Cream!

Bottom Row (L to R): Skinfood Strawberry Sugar Mask Wash Off, Acure Pore Refining Clay Mask, Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, Acure Brightening Fask Mask, Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off Top Row (L to R): Avocado and Oatmeal Mask Purifying Clay Facial Mask, Charcoal and Black Sugar Dual-Action Scrub Facial Mask, Honeydew and Chamomile Mask Overnight Cream Mask (All CVS Brand)

Top It All Off: Masks!

Skinfood’s sheet masks contain extracts from a multitude of foods. Their tomato mask helps pack the skin with antioxidants.

When your skin is irritated, aloe helps sooth away all redness.

Lastly, tangerine peel extract helps the skin retain moisture!

Feel like your skin needs an extra pick-me-up? Try a face mask! Face masks act as intensive treatments for your skin when it is in need of moisture or cleansing. For example, if your skin is feeling especially inflamed, a calming aloe or tea tree mask should calm down your skin.

Masks are extremely user-friendly.

Before application, cleanse and tone. Apply the mask as stated on the directions. Sheet masks should stay on for 20 minutes. Masking is a great way to intensively treat your skin, but should be used sparingly.

At the most, you should mask twice a week to prevent overdrying.

The OKA “Buckle Up the Pore” Pore Care Maskpack is perfect for nourishment. The mask contains witch hazel, mugwort, and green tea extracts which help soothe redness and minimize the appearance of pores. Green tea provides antioxidants that are beneficial to the skin.

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Wilson Lu: Makeup Prodigy

By Rachel Ker | Photograph Courtesy of Wilson Lu

Specks of powder balancing on the thin bristles of a makeup brush possess the power to alter an appearance with a few strategic strokes. Often times, makeup is seen as a cover up—a mask to hide flaws and blemishes. This is not the case for makeup prodigy senior Wilson Lu. His passion for makeup is palpable. It is his artform, his outlet, his talent. The faces of his friends and family are his canvas, and over the last few years he has developed his craft.

Wilson’s passion for makeup began with his infatuation with watching “RuPaul’s Drag Race” as a child. This show did not just entertain, it was the inspiration that gave way to his current aspirations.Tra-

sive to women only, and I liked that it’s something different. It really inspires people to go for what they want and not let gender rules stop them from what they want to do.”

When he was a freshman, Wilson started to take makeup more seriously. He began to teach himself how to properly apply eyeshadow and foundation, and with time, his skillset started to take off. According to Wilson, learning to develop his makeup skills on his own was all about trial and error. What he could

“I realized it’s not really something that is exclusive to women only, and I liked that it’s something different.”

ditionally, makeup has been seen as something strictly feminine, but Wilson did not allow gender stereotypes to define what he could and could not do. “I realized it’s not really something that is exclu-

Talya Israel showing off her flawless pink glitter eyeshadow, done by makeup artist Wilson Lu.

not learn on his own, he learned by enrolling in a few makeup classes.

By the end of his freshman year, Wilson started to develop a reputation as a makeup artist on campus.

Wilson started to use his talent to benefit his peers. He was asked by a few friends on his color guard team in marching band to do their makeup. He saw this as an opportunity to practice his craft so he turned to his trusted brands Mac, Anastasia Beverly Hills, ColourPop and Glitter Injec-

tions to get his teammates performance-ready. His makeup sessions with friends slowly evolved into a small business where he is commissioned by parents to take care

“It really

inspires people to go for what they want to and not let gender roles stop them from what they want to do.”

of their children’s makeup needs for homecoming and other events.

With all this talent and a possible business in the making, it would seem that Wilson is destined for makeup fame, but his dreams lie elsewhere. “I may become a makeup artist one day, but my main focus is to be an environmental scientist. If that fails, then a makeup artist sounds cool as a plan B.”

The discovery of a talent is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer, and Wilson has embraced his.

Societal norms may sometimes get in the way, but Wilson has learned to overcome the barriers and break the norms. Rather than using makeup as a cover up, he uses it as a form of art to celebrate his own identity.

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Jessica Ark "Focuses on the Bigger Picture"

By Emma Trueba | Photographs Courtesy of Jessica Ark

With her Nikon in hand, wherever she goes, sophomore Jessica Ark is always taking pictures. From planned photo shoots in Los Angeles with her friends to action shots for the Beckman yearbook, Jessica is constantly capturing memorable moments.

Coming from a long line of photographers, Jessica was exposed to the art of photography at an early age. Her father, a professional photographer, has been Jessica’s role model and they have formed a unique bond through their shared love of photography. “Anytime we do something, he always has a camera on him. We come closer together as a family because he always wants us to do something cool.”

After receiving her first camera at the age of four, Jessica constantly worked toward improving and honing her photography skills. She later received her first professional camera the summer before 9th grade and has not stopped snapping photos since. She pours her own time and effort into making her photos picture-perfect. When she is not editing photos, Jessica spends time planning photo shoots with her best friends Alexis Ton and Nicole Ton.

Every photographer has their own personal style. Jessica prefers blurry backgrounds with the subject of the picture in focus. She emphasizes people as the central 20

component in her pictures, muting the backgrounds in order to enhance the clarity of the person. She shies away from harsh lighting and specifically schedules pictures on cloudy days to achieve a neutral color palette. Her favorite time to shoot photos is between 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. because of the warm lighting it provides. While some photographers shoot raw, unedited photographs, Jessica prefers to edit her photos. “A picture captures something that is really important at the moment and captures emotions.” She

Jessica enjoys taking picutres of her friends. Here, Alexis Ton, Jessica’s best friend, smiles at the camera.

takes great pride in her photos, and spends every spare moment editing them until they meet her standards.

Not only is Jessica an exceptional photographer, she’s also an excellent student. She is deeply involved in yearbook, where she is able to share her passion for photography with the entire student body. “She is a hardworking student and is always full of energy,”

said Mr. Blair, the yearbook advisor.

Jessica’s passion motivates her to get her school work done as quick as she can in or-

“A picture

captures something that is really important at the moment.

It captures emotions.” der to free up her time to work on her photos. “I have to finish if I really want to go to this photo shoot. It makes me want to get work done if I want to have fun.”

Despite her love of photography, Jessica’s dream is to become a pediatrician. Her grandfather, a retired surgeon, inspired her to follow this line of work. She loves working with kids and spends time volunteering to support students with special needs on campus. Jessica is also involved in the Beckman Relay for Life Club, an organization that raises money for cancer patients.

After high school, she will continue to take photographs whenever the opportunity arises.

Ivana Rusich spikes her way to USC

By Sameer Ghai | Photograph Courtesy of Ivana Rusich

At the beginning of Octo- stood out when recruiters watched ber, junior Ivana Rusich commit- her play. On school days, Ivana ted to play beach volleyball for the practices for at least two hours, but USC Beach Volleyball team. Al- on other days, Ivana can be found though playing for one of the top training for the entire day. When teams in the nation seemed like she is not practicing, she is honing a distant dream, Ivana knew that her skills in local tournaments in her hard work and determination Orange County and Los Angeles. would earn her a spot of that level. She has also competed in national

When she found out she level tournaments at Las Vegas and made the team, Ivana was over- Phoenix. She is a decorated athlete come with emotion. “I was moti- with numerous tournament titles vated and excited.” Since entering and trophies. Her notable achievethe Beckman Girls’ Volleyball team, ments include winning “Best of the Ivana has dedicated countless hours Beach,” placing second at nationals to earn a spot on a college team. and third at the Junior Olympics.

With another year to prepare Southern California is saturated with talented beach volleyball play- at Beckman before competing at the ers, so she knew she needed to work collegiate level, she cannot wait to that much harder to make sure she put on Trojan colors and “Fight On!”

Junior Ivana Rusich flawlessly delievers a jump serve at her opponents.

The Paint that Never Dries: Digital Artist Megan Dang

By Amelia Chung | Photograph Courtesy of Megan Dang

As Megan Dang’s eyes fo- deavors, but she never expected that cus on the screen, she carefully her artwork would attract 13,300 sketches out facial features with followers. Her art account displays extreme detail. She uses blobs of a wide range of artworks featuring color to imitate lights and shad- her main interests, which include ows, eventually creating an intri- fanart, pop-art, musical theater and cate snowy background. Freshman culturally-inspired art designs. The Megan is an exceptional artist that imagination that she puts into her shares the beauty of digital art with drawings has no limits and conothers on her Instagram account nects with thousands of people. dedicated to her artistic creations.

Megan’s high-quality, cre In May of 2016, Megan start- ative artwork requires relented her art account on Instagram to less hours and an undying pasdisplay her artwork for other peo- sion for art. Megan spends about ple online. She began posting a cou- one to two hours producing art ple of her sketches, simply doing it for her art account every day to because she wanted to try new en- keep her followers up-to-date .

Exceptional artist Megan Dang celebrates her birthday at Irvine Spectrum.

For Megan, art is more of a hobby and stress reliever rather than a future job. She aspires to keep creating and sharing wonderful artwork that she and others can appreciate.

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BON APPÉtit All-Natural Dining

featuring

Let's be honest, who doesn't love food? We all want delicious food, but sometime we don't have the money or time to go explore for ourselves. In this edition, the editors of the Beckman Chronicle took the opportunity to bring you the best "all-natural" dining spots. We chose to feature restaurants and shops that focus on bringing you the most delicious, organic and pure ingredients.

We hope you enjoy and take these recommendations into account. Bon appétit!

Breakfast Mo c h a L at t e

Av o c a d o To a s t

Tru Bru Cafe 7 6 2 6 E C h a p m a n Av e , O r a n g e , C A 9 2 8 6 9 EDITORS’ FAVORITE: Chai Latte & Avocado Toast Right when you walk in, you are met with a cozy, warm environment decorated with quirky succulents and modern aesthetics. However, what makes this little cafe stand out is their delicious food. Taking a bite of their French Toast or Avocado Toast and a sip of their lattes will keep you coming back for more of their all-natural and organic treats.

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Fre n c h To a s t & C h a i L at t e

Lunch/Dinner Sharky's woodfired mexican grill 6 7 2 5 Q u a i l H i l l P k w y, I r v i n e , C A 9 2 6 0 3

EDITORS’ FAVORITE: Chicken Fajita Bowl What is better than all-natural comfort food?

Affordable all-natural comfort Mexican food!

From the chicken in your plate to the salsa on the counter, Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill offers fresh, vibrant flavors in bountiful portions for a more-than-reasonable price. Try any of their featured dishes.

They will leave you stuffed and satisfied.

O ’ Shine Taiwanese Kitchen 1 3 8 3 4 R e d H i l l A v e , Tu s t i n , C A 9 2 7 8 0

EDITORS’ FAVORITE: Popcorn Chicken O’Shine Taiwanese Kitchen brings outstanding food to the table. The homey, cafe vibe and subtle lighting really helps guests chill out, and there isn’t a single dish here that exceeds $15. O’Shine’s Crispy popcorn chicken with basil is a perfect bite to grab with friends. The subtle, but tasty seasoning brings the flavors of the chicken. Pop in for a fresh bite of poppin’ popcorn chicken with your pops!

Dessert Honeymee 4 1 4 Wa l n u t Av e , I r v i n e , C A 9 2 6 0 4

EDITORS’ FAVORITE: Misugaru Milkshake Finish the day with some cold delights! The sweet, creamy, 100% true milk ice cream at Honeymee is something worth trying. Add a swirl of all-natural honey or a honeycomb, and you will be unBEE-lievably happy that you took our advice. The honeycomb brings in a unique texture with a simple, natural sweetness. If ice cream isn’t your thing, Honeymee also offers delicious waffles, milkshakes, teas and coffees that will satisfy any palate.

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A

THLETIC

By Gena Huynh

Balancing grueling practice schedules, frequent games and academics is no walk in the park, but it is the typical schedule for student athletes at Beckman.

The hard work they have put into their craft is amazing, and undoubtedly, these students will achieve great

SCHOLARSHIPS

Photographs by Marva Shi

things in the future. While they already know their destination for the next four years, unexpected challenges are sure to come. But these Patriot athletes are well-equipped to handle any challenge, on or off the field. We've appreciated all of their hard work in representing Beckman. Congratulations to all Patriot athletes who have received athletic scholarships to universities! Student athletes not pictured will be featured in a photo gallery on the Beckman Chronicle website (www.beckmanchronicle.com).

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U.S. Loses Spot at the World Cup

By Clarissa Hernandez | Creative Commons

The U.S. Men's Soccer Team faces defeat against Trinidad, losing their spot in the World Cup.

On Tuesday, Oct. 10, the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, for the first time in three decades, after their 1-2 loss against Trinidad. This year, 211 nations worldwide attempted to qualify for the World Cup, but only 32 teams earn the privilege to play in this prestigious tournament.

In order to move on in the

competition, the U.S. needed to at least tie against Trinidad. Trinidad lost six straight qualifier games before facing the U.S., so it appeared that the odds were in the Americans’ favor. However, the U.S. did not fare so well.

Defender Omar Gonzalez scored an own goal in the 17th minute after a failed attempt to clear a cross. Less than 20 minutes later, Trinidadian defender Alvin Jones scored from well outside the penalty box, giving his team a 2-0 advantage. At the beginning of the second half, American midfielder Christian Pulisic gave his teammates and fans hope after scoring from the top of the penalty box.

Unfortunately, his efforts were not enough for the U.S to qualify.

In response to the Ameri-

ASTROS STEALS

THE

cans’ loss, Bruce Arena resigned as head coach. The result stirred up various responses across the soccer world, including one from former U.S. national soccer team member and current national broadcaster for Fox Sports, Alexi Lalas. “It is a dark time indeed, but this is a time for leaders to step up,” said a frustrated Lalas in his broadcast following the game. “So, it's time to pay it back, make us believe again. You don't owe it to yourself, you owe it to us.”

According to the Pew Research Center, 94.5 million people in the United States (about 31% of the population) watched at least 20 consecutive minutes of the last World Cup. However, it is improbable that the viewership will surpass this number next year in the absence of the men’s national team.

CHAMPIONSHIP

By Devon McCoy & Guest Writers Connor McGuire and Jacob Halpern | Creative Commons

The Houston Astros win their first franchise championship in the 2017 World Series.

The L.A. Dodgers forced a game seven in the World Series against the Houston Astros but ultimately fell short losing 5-1. Although the Dodgers were desperate for a championship after a 29-year drought, Houston fans definitely needed this victory in the midst of the grueling recovery process 26

post-Hurricane Harvey.

Game seven went south when Dodgers pitcher Yu Darvish allowed a leadoff double to George Springer of the Astros. The Astros wasted no time scoring. Third baseman Alex Bregman grounded out on a pitch from Darvish, driving in Springer, giving the Astros a one run lead. They tacked on another in the inning, jumping ahead by two runs.

The Astros stretched their lead with a surprising run batted in groundout from their pitcher Lance McCullers Jr., and a two-run home run from Springer. With this home run, Springer became the first player ever to homer in four consecutive World Series games.

Darvish was left in for one more batter until Springer homered, which ended Darvish’s night. The home run was Springer’s fifth of the series, opening up a commanding five run lead for the Astros.

The Dodgers did push across a run during the sixth inning.

Charlie Morton, Astros' fifth starter in their rotation, got into trouble after giving up a single to Joc Pederson and walking Logan Forsythe.

After getting catcher Austin Barnes to pop out to shortstop Carlos Correa, Andre Ethier’s single to right field got the Dodgers on the board.

That single would be all the Dodgers could muster off the ‘Stros. The Astros kept the Dodg-

ers’ offense, which was one of the best in baseball throughout the regular season, at bay as Morton shut the door, recording the final 12 outs to clinch the first ever World Series title for the franchise.

Victory for the Astros sent back positivity and optimism to Houston. The players’ resilience lift-

ed the spirit of the city of Houston, ers, their World Series drought a community still in the process of hits 30 years. The loss stings, but recovering from Hurricane Harvey. with the emergence of rookie Cody

Regardless of which team Bellinger, the core of their lineup won, it is impossible to look back set to return (Justin Turner & Coat this seven game series as a dis- rey Seager) and the resurrection appointment, and even the die- of Yasiel Puig, they are, without a hard Dodger fans can tip their blue doubt, one of the favorites to lift the hats to the Astros. For the Dodg- Commissioner’s trophy next season.

Rigorous Rowing in SoCal Makes a Splash

By Matthew Basilio | Photograph Courtesy of Warren Lee

The Southern California taxing sport that requires a great Oct. 28 against some of the top coastline is known for its beautiful deal of endurance and discipline, rowing teams from the West Coast. beaches and its water-based athletic rowing requires a certain amount of Although Beckman does activities. However, there are a few athleticism and team chemistry in not have a rowing team, there are aquatic sports that are not as popu- order to establish a successful team. a few students who participate in lar—specifically, the art of rowing.

One of the most accom- the sport. “You have to be really While high school rowing has long plished rowing teams in South- committed; it's a really demandbeen a staple of the East Coast’s ern California is UCI’s rowing ing sport,” said junior and rowculture, it is not offered at many high team, known as Men’s Crew er Warren Lee. “Definitely during schools around Southern Califorraces, like a 2000 meter, it can be nia, despite its growing popularity. really tiring. You need to push There are two forms of rowing: through it; it really is a mental sweep rowing and sculling. In sport.” Along with taking many sweep rowing, teams consist of four Advanced Placement (AP) classes, or eight rowers, each rower holdLee rows for the Newport Aquating one oar. Depending on their ic Center, while also managing location on the boat, rowers are Link Cru as a student coordinator. referred to as either port or star Living in Southern Caliboard. The port side is also referred fornia, there are many ways to beto as the stroke side; the starboard come active outdoors, like playing Warren Lee tests his endurance as he side is referred to as the bow side. practices for an upcoming competition. basketball, surfing, hiking or beach In sculling, rowers are divided into volleyball, but another way to get in quads, doubles or singles, and each having recently traveled north touch with Mother Nature and get rower holds one oar in each hand. to Folsom, California to race at a great workout is definitely rowing.

Penalties can also occur due to false the Western Conference Cham- There are a multitude of teams and starts, which is when a boat’s bow pionships on Lake Natoma. clubs to choose from. The requireRowing is a universal ments are very simple to join most crosses the plane of the starting line before the green light flashes. sport popular among both men rowing teams and clubs. The criteIn addition, a boat must meet the and women. USC’s women’s ria consists of having some rowing minimum weight—not including rowing team travelled to Lake ability, general fitness and condioars, bow number and items not Natoma in California to compete tioning, a good attitude and coachfastened on the boat. Competitors in the Head of the American Re- ability and a weight adjusted ergommust also be weighed while wear- gatta, which kicked off USC’s first eter (erg) score. Rowing is a great ing their racing uniform, without competition of the 2017-18 year. option to become involved with shoes or other foot gear. As a very Their race took place on Saturday, a team and to get a great workout.

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Varsity Girls Tennis Makes Beckman History as CIF ChampS

By Allison Perez | Photograph Courtesy of Ashley Teng and Nick Friendt

On Friday, Nov. 10th, Varsity Girls Tennis won 14–4 against Marlborough High School in the 2017-18 California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section (CIFSS) Division II Championships.

The team is currently ranked first in Division II of CIF-SS and was first place in 2016 as well.

However, the Patriots placed fourth in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) last year and were unable to continue into the 2016 CIF-SS season.

This year was a different story. Beckman reaped five wins and five losses in this year’s PCL with an overall season record of 20 wins to five losses. One of those losses included a 7–11 defeat to Northwood High School. After some minor adjustments, girls tennis faced Northwood again and defeated the Timberwolves 13-5.

This win pushed the Patriots into third place in league which qualified them for the CIF-SS playoffs.

Before arriving at the championships at the Claremont Club, the girls rid themselves of pre-game jitters during the drive there. “My favorite moment of the CIF tourna-

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ment—besides the matches—were ing moment for the girls, winning the bus rides because that’s where the championships also made we had lots of fun and bonded as a Beckman history. “It feels really team,” said junior second-ranked good to win the CIF title,” said doubles player Gnamitha Naga- Haj. “This year, we made a lot of nathanahalli. Other players agree history. We beat Northwood [...] that their best bonding moments I feel like we’ve worked so hard.” occurred on bus rides, where the team The season was tough, but holdblared music and celebrated wins. ing the CIF-SS title proved to be

The championships show- worth all the struggle and effort. cased the girls’ drive to win, and Now that the CIF-SS season more importantly, their improve- is over, the girls will be receiving ment throughout the season. “In our downtime until next year’s season CIF run, senior Emily Lu and junior begins. For the seniors, like Teng Kayla Cruz ended up going 15-0 at and Lu, this is their final season, number one doubles,” said Varsity but the rest of the team will conTennis Coach Nick Friendt. “Naga- tinue to compete with Patriot pride. nathanahalli and sophomore Isha Shah beat the number two double teams 7-6. Doubles came up big, especially in the playoffs and league.”

According to Coach Friendt, the doubles teams struggled this year, but no such distress was evident in their performance at Claremont.

Adding onto doubles’ success, singles players fared consistently well throughout the year. “Singles was a strength for us, and senior Ashley Teng finishe[d] her career as the second all-time winner of sets,” said Coach Friendt. “Freshman Kensington Mann had a great year; a dominant year at number two singles and sophomore Christelle Haj played number three singles and was very good and probably our most improved player from last year as well.”

Some of the successes of the singles players include Teng concluding this season with a win-loss ratio of 67–9 and an astonishing high school career singles record of 208–32. This record is only rivaled by Beckman alumni Megan Heneghan, who achieved the highest record of 226–18 from 2006-2009.

A defining and exhilarat29

TURNS POP CULTURE UPSIDE DOWN

by Aarushi Bhaskaran | Creative Commons Combining science fiction, ‘80s synth pop, “Dungeons and Dragons” and Eggo waffles, “Stranger Things” took the world by storm when it was released two years ago.

The Netflix original series, created, written and directed by Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer, explores the supernatural in the town of Hawkins, Indiana. Taking on the archetypical setting of a “small town where nothing ever happens,” the series showcases a very Spielberg-esque style to evoke a sense of ‘80s nostalgia. As a boy goes missing, it soon becomes clear that something sinister is afoot, transforming this sleepy town into a highly dangerous place. Season two was released on Friday, Oct. 27, satisfying eager fans of the show.

The interpersonal dynamics between the characters are done excellently. Winona Ryder’s performance as Joyce Byers, a desperate, grieving mother, perfectly captures the character. Her relationship with the broken Chief Hopper (David Harbour), is highly compelling.

The friendship and loyalty within the younger group, Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gates Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) and Will (Noah Schnapps) is heartwarming and recalls children from other science fiction movies in the ‘80s. However, the stunning performance of Millie Bobby Brown, who plays the mysterious Eleven, steals the show. Mike’s sister, Nancy (Natalia Dyer), is soon involved in the strange events that go on in the 30

town, as well as a love-triangle that is entertaining for the audience. While it is clear that Jonathan (Charlie Heaton), Will’s older brother, is the intended love interest for Nancy, the audience finds itself torn as it falls for the unconcerned charm of Steve (Joe Keery), her other love interest.

The series was not expected to become such a global phenomenon, adding great pressure for season two to deliver. The new season ties

“However, the stun-

ning performance of Millie Bobby Brown, who plays the mysterious Eleven, steals the show.” up the loose ends and addresses the cliffhanger in the season one finale. The first season ends with Will having been rescued. However, it hints at further problems for him in the following season. Season two confirms this; Will’s woes are far from over and the residents of Hawkins continue to face the looming threat of the Upside Down. The characters are not allowed to speak of the events that transpired in the previous season and are under constant supervision. The new season also has changing relationship

dynamics, exploring new partnerships and groups and bringing in new characters. Among the new characters are Maxine “Max” (Sadie Sink), a possible new addition to the younger group, and her bad-tempered, abusive and racist step-brother, Billy (Dacre Montgomery). Meanwhile, there is romantic friction between Nancy and Jonathan as they deal the loss of Nancy’s best friend Barb and Jonathan’s problems with Will since his return. Joyce also has romantic entanglements this season, with a new boyfriend, Bob (Sean Astin). At this time, Mike continues his attempts to contact Eleven. Her whereabouts remain concealed from the rest of the characters for most of the season, providing her with a separate, independent plot-line.

Season two of “Stranger Things” mostly holds up the standards set by its predecessor. The new characters are engaging, while the season also expounds upon the relationships between the old ones.

The plot, pacing, atmosphere and characterization are all done excellently. There is little to criticize; however, there are some weaker moments in the season, most notably parts of Eleven’s separate plot-line. The rest of the season is excellent and contains all of the elements that made the series so popular in the first place. Overall, “Stranger Things” has redefined the genre and has carved a place for itself in pop culture.

A CELEBRATION HONORING THE DEAD: DIA DE LOS MUERTOS AT BOWER'S MUSEUM

By Keerthi Nair | Photograph by Keerthi Nair

On Sunday Nov. 5, 2017, Bower’s Museum hosted a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration, commemorating the ancestors of families residing in Southern California. The day consisted of multiple performances that showcased the rich Mexican culture that is an integral part of the community.

The celebrations started at 11 a.m. with face painting booths and art stations. Children and adults could purchase and decorate a calavera de azucar, a sugar skull.

Traditional foods and drinks like Mexican hot chocolate and pan de muerto, bread of the dead, were sold at the concession stands. At 12 p.m., local organizations performed traditional music and dances. The Orange County Mariachi Kids were up first and played rancheras, a type of Mexican country music played with guitar and horns. The performance was followed by a traditional Mexican dance, Danza Azteca.

The dancers wore intricate head pieces decorated with feathers. Inside the museum, classical guitarist Joel Aceves performed songs while guests visited stations that highlighted elements of Mexican culture and heritage. The exhibition enabled visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Mexico’s history and the origins of the celebration.

There was also an ofrenda, offerings on an altar, set up near the ticket counter. The altar was covered with notes from relatives

and pictures of loved ones lost.

Bower’s Museum was able to showcase this holiday through a variety of performances and stands that were set up around the museum. People of all ages were present, whether they be someone’s great

grandmother or a two-monthold baby. It was a place where people from all over Southern California were able to come together and enjoy a Mexican tradition that dedicated a period of honoring toward their loved ones.

Traditional Mexican performers give their last performance of the day.

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Rew 32

ind

Rewind is a collection of photos illustrating student life at Beckman. As the semester closes, seniors struggle to meet college application deadlines, juniors suffer from SAT/ACT preparation, sophomores take on harder classes and freshmen try to find their place. As students, we constantly struggle to achieve success throughout our high school journey. We walk with bare feet, picking up pieces of our identity, trying to glue them together. We work with calloused hands and clumsy fingers.

We laugh just for the sake of laughing. We heal with Band-Aids and ice packs.

Despite all the hardships and struggles, we depend on our family, friends and teachers that support us. We lose ourselves in the good times to savor the taste of nostalgia and to break free from rules and expectations. We join clubs and teams that end up integral to our lives. We create a sense of community, a sense of belonging. As wandering high schoolers, we find ourselves in each other. As you look through this gallery, remind yourself of the moments you shared with others and remember the taste of nostalgia.

Photographs were collected by open submission from students at Beckman. To submit photos for next edition, DM us on Instagram @beckmanchronicle or email us at beckmanchronicle@gmail.com

By Karolyne Diep

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