Nov 21, 2013

Volume 57, Issue 3

November 21, 2013

Castro Valley High School

www.cvhsolympian.com

Honors Chemistry dropout rate increases

By Jamie Logan Staff Writer

Reema Kakaday / Editor-In-Chief

Two CVHS students climb the locked gate in order to get home after school.

Locked stadium riles students

By Amelia Ortiz Staff Writer

CVHS recently made some changes about the policy regarding locking the stadium during after school sports practices. A guard has been posted at the gate to stand watch during practices and to open and close the gate for athletes entering and exiting the stadium. This policy has many people confused and annoyed.

“If someone wants to get in, they’ll get in, regardless of the fence. I understand the concern but it is really just a pointless waste of money,” said Castro Valley resident Rosa Lopez. Some student athletes seem to also view this new rule as dumb.

“It’s just annoying. As a distance runner I don’t want to come back from a run and be locked out from my stuff and water, waiting for

someone to unlock the gate for me,” said junior and cross country runner Carter Mackey. While other students agreed as well, some understood the reasons why.

“It’s a bit of a hassle but it’s understandable. They’re just trying to keep us safe,” said Caitlyn Ruiz, another junior cross country runner.

Assistant Principal Matt Steinecke stands by the decision, noting some of his reasons for this recent crackdown.

“Nothing has happened yet, true, but the point is that we would like to keep it that way,” said Steinecke. While many understand the concern, they are just confused on why it is being enforced right now.

According to Steinecke, locking the stadium has always been the school policy, but now that CVHS recently go the funding for

the guard, it is happening in full swing. The guard stands by the gate and unlocks it for athletes and coaches going to and from practices and workouts. Paying the guard to secure the gate costs about $11,000 per year.

Community members are still allowed to use the stadium in the evenings starting at 8 p.m. and on most weekends.

Steinecke and other school administrators hope that these added precautions provide a safer environment for athletes and students.

They are aware of the inconvenience it has on parents, but essentially are more concerned for student safety.

But some community members and students still do not agree.

“If I want to watch the football players practice, I should be able to!” said CVHS junior Emily Patton.

There has been an unusual amount of students dropping out of Honors Chemistry this year. More than 20 students have dropped the class from their schedule, which is an abnormally large amount.

The teachers and school administration have been working to figure out some way to help the students, but there seems to be a major reason behind the problem. Deborah Yager and Richard Schneck both teach Honors Chemistry.

“It has to do with having to think about the big picture,” Yager said. “Having general biology for all students last year was the first time we did that. It was an important decision because we are trying to help close the performance gap with our lower-performing students, but we didn’t realize what it would mean in terms of not having an Honors Biology option.”

For the first time, Honors Biology was not offered last year, and teachers along with Yager believe this is a significant cause of the high drop rate.

Due to the challenging nature of the coursework, Honors Chemistry is a difficult class to pass. In previous years, Honors Biology was offered and required the same amount of time and effort to get a good grade. It was a foundation to learn about heavier homework loads as freshmen and helped students prepare to excel in other advanced placement and honors courses.

“We did not do a good job of letting the kids know the workload that would be required in Honors Chemistry,” Schneck said. “Their math grade in Geometry and Algebra is more important of an indicator than anything else and their willingness to work hard.”

“We did not do a

good job of letting the kids know the workload that would be required in Honors Chemistry.

Richard Schneck Chemistry teacher

”

After losing approximately eight students from his honors classes, Schneck allowed a few students on the waiting list to get into the class who have since received a grade of B or higher.

There are many possible reasons as to why the drop rate is so high, but the main goal for the teachers and administration is to give students sufficient preparation for college and other difficult classes in the students’ futures.

“We’re all trying to figure it out,” Yager said. “This was just an unexpected consequence that we now have to think about how to deal with.”

After school tutoring in math and science offered to students

By Callie Ross-Smith Staff Writer

For the past few years CVHS has offered after school tutoring for students who are struggling in subjects such as geometry, chemistry, and biology.

Since progress reports have been sent home, optional tutoring started once again on Mondays and Thursdays for students who have a C or below in these certain classes.

A permission slip was sent home to the parents of students who were struggling with their courses, notifying them of the

Editorial: Stadium security locks out students, residents Page 2: Locked gates generate complaints

tutoring options that is being offered.

Volunteer student tutors such as senior Tia King say they have definitely seen improvement in the students they teach.

“There was a freshman who originally had a 1.6 GPA, but by the end of year, he had doubled it to a 3.2 GPA from

coming after school for help,” King said. “Now, he’s taking honors classes.”

Junior Jasmin Zhang, who has just started her first year of tutoring, helps other people with geometry.

“The students who really do want help regularly come,” Zhang said. “I’ve noticed that

Shh! Sophomores attend Secrets Assembly Page 4: Kaiser Permanente assembly at CVHS

those who really want help will look for it.”

Though the teens who come looking for help benefit from this program, the tutors agree that the time spent after school benefits them, as it’s a fantastic experience because it’s very rewarding and exciting to see their pupils improve.

Arrg!

Tennis team edges San Leandro Page 7: Trojans make Pirates walk plank!

Unlock those stadium gates!

Editorial: This year, CVHS began locking the gate to Trojan Stadium during after-school sports practices and hired a guard to secure it.

But is it fair for the community members to not have access to the stadium until late in the evenings even though they helped pay for it? Many say that it is not. If you spent money for something and were not even able to use it, wouldn’t you be angry and want something done?

Some even believe that instead of paying someone to watch the stadium so people don’t come inside, the school can spend money for new textbooks or more iPads for classes.

The school also doesn’t realize that locking the gates makes students hop the fences, and it also puts pressure on athletes late to their practice, causing them to rush. These actions might result in a student getting hurt. When it occurs, who is to blame, the students or the people who decided to lock the gates? Having students put-

By Robbie Brandt Staff Writer

Lily Carrell / Editor-In-Chief

ting themselves in danger so they aren’t late isn’t worth it.

We at The Olympian recognize that locking the gates improves security, keeps immature kids out and reduces distractions to teams which are practicing. But we also believe there is more bad than

good in locking the stadium.

The Olympian unanimously agrees that the school should reconsider and locking the stadium should not continue. Have a guard for security, but make the stadium open to all.

do just that.

When browsing online, one must be wary of phony web sites, as anyone could create them.

We’ve been taught to question the credibility of online publishers, but I don’t believe the same precaution applies to this site, which is specifically intended to help us in times of despair. It’s called makeeverything-ok.com.

The site claims the button in the center of the page is a magical one.

It promises to make everything OK with a click of the button, and once clicked, a loading bar pops up with the words, “Making everything OK is in progress.” When the process is complete, a message reads, “Everything is OK now. If everything is still not OK, try checking your settings of perception and objective reality.”

In other words, the message states that if you’re not OK by now, it’s your own fault. Sadness

is a state of mind that hinders our objectivity, so how do we ignore ourselves long enough to see the reality of a situation? What this button hopes to accomplish is relieve us of the burden of ourselves; it offers us clarity, if we wish to accept it.

Of course, one could say that the button doesn’t really do anything and it’s all in our minds, similar to the placebo effect. We take from it what we want to.

But does it really matter? So what if the button isn’t magical?

As mentioned earlier, it’s not the authenticity that makes the button meaningful to its audience. On the contrary, it is the hope that the button could possibly work.

So who knows? Maybe there are magical fairies that hear your distress call and immediately work to solve your problems – or maybe we just need permission to be OK.

The Magical “Make-Everything-OK” Button

By Rachel Du Staff Writer

Barney Stinson says in the TV series How I Met Your Mother, “Whenever I’m sad, I just stop being sad and be awesome instead!”

However, for the rest of us, it’s not so simple. We obviously don’t come with built-in switches to turn off the sadness, but it seems someone has created an online button to

It is all right to embrace your lack of height

By Sally Liang

Staff Writer In the world of heights, individuals compare and evaluate each other based on how tall they are. Tall individuals tend to get comments such as “You’re so tall!” or “I wish I was as tall as you!” On the other hand, these four words are often said to short people: “You’re so tiny.”

Fight back against bullying

I am a long term member of the short height committee with a height of 5’2”. You may envy, mock, or feel sympathy for my shortness. In hallways, you may have heard students making envious comments to individuals at a taller height, revealing insecurities.

The big question is, why would anyone care about other people’s heights? Height may determine how tall you are, but it doesn’t determine how tall you see yourself.

Reflecting back to middle school, I was self conscious about being short. Often times my friends would question me, “Sally, why are you so short?” In which I respond, “Why are you so tall?” Although the conversation isn’t traumatizing, I developed insecurities and often I was under the impression that I would often be the shortest person wherever I go. Ever since then, I have struggled to feel con-

fident and would always look for ways to make myself look taller.

As a sophomore at CVHS, I slowly learned to appreciate my height and embrace it. Everyone is perfect the way they are. There is always someone who wishes to be your height. List out all the incredible things and think positively! If you’re someone tall, be grateful that you could stand out in a crowd and grab things that others may not able to reach. On the other hand, if you are someone short, picture yourself wearing those cute five inch heels and the amount of money you save on smaller-size wardrobe. Feel blessed and believe in those advantages.

Although height may determine how tall you really are, it does not determine how you see yourself.

Think highly of yourself and other will think highly of you. Starting today, I love my height. Embrace it!

Depression, self mutilation, and suicide: these are some of the things that happen to people who are bullied over the Internet and at school. When one person’s “joke” goes too far, it turns into bullying, which makes people feel bad about themselves and it has to stop.

If you see bullying happening stand up for that person or at least tell someone. When people just stand there and let these things happen, kids feel like no one cares about them or the situation, which ultimately leads them to depression.

Teachers should also do more things to stop bullying. Don’t get me wrong, the anti-bullying as-

semblies and posters that schools have are great, but are they really working? Is the point getting through to other people? Sometimes talking to a staff member can make the situation worse. I mean, what’s stopping the bully from picking on the person even after they tell an adult? It seems like the only way to get to show the malicious effects of bullying to people is for someone to jump out a window or something worse.

I heard a story once about a kid who was bullied and nothing was done about it. The more he was bullied, the faster he fell into a severe depression. One day he decided enough was enough and he took his own life. The boy put rocks in his backpack and went to a bridge and jumped. I don’t know if the people responsible for bullying him were ever prosecuted or even expelled but it makes me sad that a person could be driven to such lengths. I also heard about a girl who was raped and she was bullied because of this, and this was something she didn’t even do.

Words do hurt people, and some people can take things too far because they think it’s funny or they have a problem. Whatever the case there is, no excuse for someone to treat someone so badly.

PHOTOpinions By: Grace Moon

What is your opinion on the extra security at Trojan Stadium?

“It’s a good and a bad thing. It’s bad because students have to go to practice, but it’s good for the school and security measures.”

Nicole Bagdadlian, freshman

“Since there are locks, it’s not fair to the students who have practices later. But it’s good to a certain extent.”

Keelia Lee, sophomore “I think it’s a good thing that the school’s decided to put extra security. A lot of people loiter after school, and due to this they should keep it locked.”

Justin Wong, junior “I think it’s useful.

There have been many news stories about school shootings, and I believe it’s necessary.

There’ll be less trouble.”

Sarah Lee, senior

The Olympian Nov. 21, 2013

3

Don’t let society Never too old for Halloween determine who we are

By Brittany Roberts Staff Writer

All we see in magazines, TV, and on different web sites are the “newest clothes or the latest fashions,” but is that really what they are trying to convey? Society has a way of making teenagers feel like they need to do whatever it takes to fit in even if it means dressing or looking a certain way. It makes teens feel self conscious by trying to convince us that looks are everything and that we need to have the product or item to be socially accepted.

“In our society, physical beauty is highly valued. You are constantly bombarded in magazines and on the screen with false pictures of the perfect body,” said Jerry Pounds, a psychologist who specializes in teenage behavior, on lifeway.com.

It can be stressful trying to live up to certain expectations of how teenagers are supposed to look on

a daily basis.

“It's important to be aware of these messages our society gives you. Notice the advertisements, commercials, billboard pictures, and magazines covers, and see how subtle and persuasive these messages are. The problem is that we tend to evaluate ourselves with these perfect standards. And none of us can measure up to them,” said Pounds.

Another example of this is modeling. The two types of models are the “normal ones” who are super skinny and the plus-sized models who can look as normal as everyday people. The names of the two different model types just sends a message that people shouldn’t be comfortable in their own skin and should be striving for a certain look. When kids are constantly feel the need to try and compare ourselves to all these unrealistic goals that it can end up lowering their self esteem.

Teens are already facing enough stress, especially during high school. We should be proud to have our individuality and not be afraid of being judged by people around us. People are made to look the way they were meant to, not the way society wants them to. If we want to change something about ourselves, it should be our own decision to change, not because society forces us to conform.

By Eva Chen

Feature Editor Why is there an unspoken rule that teens can’t go trick-ortreating? As children, we were taught and raised to embrace the spirit of Halloween. But suddenly, when we reached the age of 14, we became “too old” to go trick-or-treating?

When I was a freshman, I went up and down my neighborhood streets dressed in my witch costume accompanied by my cousins, celebrating yet another year of singing the “trick-or-treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat” song. When we rang the doorbell for the last house, the resident lectured us for participating in such “obscene” activity for our age. The biggest crime, though, was that she didn’t even give us any candy!

Halloween is a holiday celebrated nationwide, where kids, teens, and adults of all

Eva Chen / Feature Editor

Danielle Vargas, Erika Pendleton, and Melody Platt smile happily in their costumes, ready for some Halloween fun. ages can participate. Individuals enjoy the one day in the whole year where they can dress in

the most outrageous costumes and express themselves outside the normal context of society’s conduct.

Without Halloween, there would always be that dormant side of us that wants to express our favorite characters in movies or books. Imagine never being able to be a superhero for a day. It’s not like we get to dress in our favorite superhero costume every day, saving the imaginary victims and getting that momentary fame where you can’t get anywhere else.

Sure teens aren’t the adorable seven year olds dressed as princesses, pumpkins, or the tooth fairy, but we are still kids at heart, who in our hectic lives, want to enjoy Halloween, basking in the glory of silly expressions and shoving our faces full of candy.

Delta farmer and chair of Restore the Delta.

I feel there are a couple of possible solutions to this problem.

One is to grow xeric plants in the south instead of water dependant plants. In the case of farming, there are some vegetables that do not require as much water. Another choice would be to build desalina-

tion plants which would allow us to take the ocean water and make good use of the salt and water.

This seems like it would be a lot simpler than tunnels for a couple of reasons. First off, they would not have to excavate the bottom of the Delta. Secondly, they would not have to stretch tunnels a long distance.

“...the glory of

silly expressions and shoving our faces full of candy.

”

Water project would hurt California Delta, wildlife

The government is considering starting a 25 billion dollar project of diverting water to Southern California. Their plan is to build two massive tunnels beneath the San Joaquin river to carry the

water south, where it could be put into smaller canals.

"But they don't address the 48 significant adverse unavoidable impacts. Unavoidable means 'sorry Charlie' we're going to damage your area, your home, your livelihood, but we're not going to repair or remediate it," said Melinda Terry with the North Delta Water Agency.

Also, they are planning to drain Folsom Lake which would cause dead pool effects. This is when the lake is almost dried up but still has a little bit of water. Although the dead pool effects would still happen without the tunnels, the tunnels could still worsen them.

I feel as though this is wrong.

If we send the water south, it will allow the salt water to come up into the California Delta which

Editor, I just wanted to write to thank and commend you all for a wonderful homecoming edition of my favorite newspaper. I want to applaud you and your staff for putting out a wonderfully colorful, rich and interesting paper. I always look forward to reading The Olympian, but of course I cannot help but be especially biased towards this one. Your professionalism and journalistic talents are evident in every edition and I want you to know that the brevity of this letter is only because I feel as if my words could not possibly compare to the wonderful prose you and your students put on display.

I especially want to give thanks

and praise the work you put into this edition. At the risk of sounding conceited and self-serving, I wanted to give thanks to your efforts on the pledge of allegiance story with its incredible balance and fairness, as well as the article by Rachel Du in which she warmed my heart and brought me to tears reading that “homecoming at CVHS has only gotten better through the years.” I know that I speak for all of my leadership students when I say that we put a lot of work into making homecoming a memorable experience for as many students as possible. We realize that it will not interest everyone, but I assure you that we work tirelessly to make it as inclusive as possible. Person-

By Daniel Witte Staff Writer

is the Bay Area's main source of drinking water. It seems crazy to pay a bunch of money only to harm the fresh water fish and our main source of drinking water, when that money could go to helping schools and good organizations like the Red Cross. If we harm the seasonal fresh water fish, it will also effect the salt water mammals such as sea lions.

Although the sea lions do not live in the Delta, they still eat the salmon that travel through the Delta. Without the salmon, the sea lions would have no source of food.

"Instead of perpetuating the destructive water export policies, the Delta Plan should be focused on developing regional water solutions that reduce reliance on the Delta," said Wendy Stokes, a

Letter to the Editor

ally I am my own worst critic and I often fear that the spirit might be dwindling. Thank you so much for your kind words about how perhaps our work really is paying off. I promise you that for as long as I have the privilege of being the activities director, I will continue to work endlessly to listen to our students and come up with every way possible to help celebrate the incredibleness of our students and our school.

Thank you again so much and please know whether your articles are complementary or constructive, I appreciate them so much.

Nicholas Whitaker

The Olympian is a publication of the journalism class at Castro Valley High School, 19400 Santa Maria Ave., Castro Valley, CA 94546. © 2013

Editors-in-Chief.....................................................................Lily Carrell Reema Kakaday City Editor......................................................................Joyce Liang News Editor..............................................................Matt Talajkowski Opinion Editor............................................................Suzanna Chak Feature Editors.....................................................................Eva Chen Stephanie Huerta Sports Editor..................................................................Amanat Riar Arts and Entertainment Editor......................................Leia Saelee Photo Editor........................................................Felicianna Marquez Business Manager......................................................Anna Talajkowski Online Editors........................................................................Kelly Chan Evan Kwong Staff Writers: Cameron Beresini, Robbie Brandt, Alison Dhont, Rachel Du, Lauren Jelks, Jamie Logan, Sally Liang, Tyler Macias, Grace Moon, Anna Nguyen, Amelia Ortiz, Tyler Quan, Brittany Roberts, Callie Ross-Smith, Adrianna Vandiver, Olivia Wallace, Daniel Witte Advisor........................................................................Matt Johanson

Stephanie Huerta / Feature Editor

Students in Kathleen Cassidy’s class use iPads.

Classes launch iPad project

By Robbie Brandt Staff Writer

Tyler Quan / Staff Writer

Interact club members sort donations received after a night of “Trick or Canning.”

“Trick or Treat, can I have your cans?”

By Tyler Quan Staff Writer

Clare LePell, the advisor of the Interact club, hosted a "Trick or Canning" event on Oct. 31, Halloween night. Two groups of students split to go to the neighborhoods of Columbia and Palomares Hills where they went to door to door asking for donations of canned food as well as other food products to support the needy in the Alameda County.

Trick or Canning has existed for about 24 years, and LePell has been involved in the program for the past 20. At first, Trick or Canning only began in Columbia, but when the popularity and the demand grew, it expanded to Palomares Hills, a location suggested by one of the students. Throughout the years of being the advisor of the Interact club, LePell has chosen eight committed officers to assist her in the leading the event.

This year, 1,500 flyers were passed to each doorstep of the residents of Columbia and Palomares Hills, announcing that students were coming to their doorsteps and collecting food products. During the event,

some students were sent to each doorstep to collect food products, while others stapled the flyer to the bag filled with food products to donate. Despite

When I see that “students have the

willingness to commit to what is needed to be done, it impresses me and make me feel proud of them.

Clare LePell English teacher

number of donations was a little bit higher than last year since it was raining. Although the number of donations didn't meet LePell's hopeful expectations, she was proud of the sacrifices and committed hard working students that had participated in this event.

“The donations came under expectations because of delays and problems. Mainly communication was one of the problems. However, when I see that students have the willingness to commit to what is needed to be done, it impresses me and make me feel proud of them," said LePell.

For the past two years, social studies teacher Jeff Goldstein has been using iPads to teach and quiz his classes.

Goldstein received a grant two years ago and he used it to get iPads for himself and his classroom. He been using the iPads to assign projects and quizzes to his students and it seems to be going well.

“It gets better and better using these each year, and I’m getting more comfortable with using the iPads,” said Goldstein. “I use this app called Nearpod, which gives quizzes to students, who then receive immediate feedback on their work and can learn the correct answers.”

Students have also been enjoying the iPads and pre-

fer them more than taking paper tests and quizzes.

“When taking quizzes, it’s better to use the iPads because you get immediate feedback on what you did wrong, and you can learn from your mistakes,” said sophomore Armando Manns. “That helps me more than just seeing a percentage on the top of my paper. Plus, it’s easy to type on because it’s similar to typing on a computer or cell phone.”

As it turns out, the English department has iPads to help teach the students as well. The department received two carts of iPads for the students, but unfortunately, the teachers do not have their own.

“The school will receive Chromebooks this fall. We are getting eight carts with 32 of them in all of them, but right now they are being put together,” said Goldstein.

” The secret is out! Kaiser reveals the truth

delays and confusion, there was 1,084 donations from Columbia and 1,025 donations from Palomares totaling to about 2,109 food donations. After they had counted and sorted out the food donations, the club members placed it donations in large barrels that can hold about 500 cans and smaller barrels can hold about 400 cans.

The night went well, and the

By Adrianna Vandiver Staff Writer

Sophomores attended the Secrets Assembly, a humorous yet serious production to educate about safe sex and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) on Oct. 30.

"Growing up, I never had anything like this. You usually get your information from your peers and it’s usually wrong," stated Cameron, one of the actors from the production.

Kaiser Permanente, the medical foundation that runs the show, believes that educating teenagers about how to prevent STIs in a fun and dramatic way with young actors may help reduce infections.

"I thought it was ridiculous.

No one's life is that dramatic, but I think it's a plus when people are aware of what's going on and aware of these issues,"

Adrianna Vandiver / Staff Writer

Kaiser Permanente’s actors pose for The Olympian after their performance for the sophomores. said sophomore Tasha Harger after watching the production.

After the show, many kids had very interesting questions to ask the performers who in return thoughtfully answered all questions. Even after most kids filed out of the gym to break,

a few stayed behind to get the truth on some more personal things they didn't want to ask in front of the crowd.

Hopefully with the help of this very informative production, the amount of STIs will start to decrease.

The Olympian Nov. 21, 2013

5

By Matt Talajkowski News Editor

Photo Credits: Matt Talajkowski / News Editor

Police, SWAT officers and paramedics participated in a 48-hour training operation called Urban Shield on Oct. 26 and 27.

The different groups circulated around the Bay Area, using schools and vacant buildings to set up domestic warfare situations. Members from all teams came to train at CVHS to better protect their communities.

One situation took place on the football field.

As a speaker on a podium addressed the crowd in front of him, a “bomb” suddenly went off, with a gunman appearing from the bleachers, firing blanks down at the stage and crowd. In the next few minutes, SWAT officers cleared the area to rescue the speaker and take down the enemy gunman.

Paramedics rushed to the crowd, desperately trying to save the large number of wounded. By the end of the drill, the track was stained with blood, but it was comforting to see the wounded stand up and smile again.

The teams then jumped back in their vans, and drove quickly to the next situation.

Earthquake Drill Tests Pre–Nursing Students

By Brittany Roberts Staff Writer

CVHS’s annual earthquake drill brings volunteer patients, drama students, and pre-nursing students together to learn the mechanics needed in the event of an actual earthquake.

Here, pre-nursing students treat the “injured” patients, carrying them to safety, taking their temperatures, checking their heart rates, and stopping “blood” flow, putting their first aid skills to the test.

Photo Credits: Brittany Roberts / Staff Writer

Audience Captivated by Prisoners

Saying Goodbye To How I Met Your Mother

By Anna Nguyen

By Robbie Brandt Staff Writer

What if your daughters had been kidnapped by an unknown person in an R.V.? After finding out the criminal’s identity, wouldn’t you do anything to get your children back? That is the case for Keller Dover, the protagonist in the film Prisoners.

The film stars Hugh Jackman as Keller Dover, and Terrance Howard as Franklin Birch, another man whose daughter is also kidnapped. A variety of cast members includes Jake Gyllenhaal, playing Detective Loki who is assigned onto the case of finding the girls. Paul Dano also stars in the film as Alex, the suspect of the kidnappings, whose performance was spectacular. He immersed himself very well in the film and really contributed to the success of this movie.

The film has many twists and mysteries that unfold throughout the plot. The story is about two men whose daughters are kidnapped during Thanksgiving dinner. The detective who is assigned onto the case is said that he has solved every case he is given. As the film goes

After nine years of waiting, fans of How I Met Your Mother will finally be introduced to the face behind the infamous yellow umbrella as the series enters its final season.

For nearly a decade, Ted Mosby has been telling his children the story of how he met his wife.

As he recounts his adventures with his friends Marshall, Lily, Robin, and Barney, viewers have remained by his side, following through his triumphs, defeats, and countless bad jokes.

The plot of the show is centered around New York City, utilizing the hectic city as the perfect setting to the friends’ outrageous lives. The story is told in flashbacks, allowing for a witty, omniscient commentary from “present-day” Ted as the friends venture through family fallouts, relationship woes, and career changes. Each episode takes on a relatable event and propels it into an extravagant experience, complete with intelligent one-liners and memorable catchphrases.

Yet, cheap laughs are rare on the show. How I Met Your Mother’s comedy doesn’t come from cheesy writing or generic gags.

The success of the show depends on the chemistry of its cast. The actors give impeccable performances and work off each other, constantly improving the quality of the humor. Every character is already so unique, but continues to undergo personal development with each episode. There is such depth to each of their storylines, leaving the audience rooting for their success.

In its ninth season run, How I Met Your Mother has become one of the most beloved programs on air, with an average viewership of eight million last season.

Comparisons have been drawn to the classic show Friends, but How I Met Your Mother has a special charisma that distinguishes it from other sitcoms. Its concepts are highly original and have a lasting impression, integrated into pop culture. The Bro-Code, Playbook, Lemon Law, Mermaid Theory, and Slap Bet all have roots in the show, among other phrases commonly used in modern speech.

How I Met Your Mother airs on CBS every Monday night at 8 p.m.

With the series wrapping up in May 2014, there is still plenty of time to catch up on the story of how Ted Mosby meets the girl of his dreams.

the shelves.

The Nexus7 2’s pricing starts at $229 for 16GB and $259 for 32GB, which beat the cost of both Samsung Tablets as well as Apple tablets, depending on their versions.

As before mentioned, the Nexus7 2 has a convenient portable size measuring 200mm in height and 114mm width with the highest 1920x1200 pixels (323 ppi) display.

The tablet only weighs 10.5oz, about 1.5oz lighter than the first Nexus7.

The Nexus7 2 not only shows size and length improvements, but Google also had modified the first Nexus7’s rough-finish back plate with a smooth fingerprint repelling covered back. Additionally, the Nexus7 2 has been greatly improved since the first Nexus7 processor with an astounding 1.5 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro, as well as the latest mobile OS system: Android 4.3 Jellybean. Moreover, the Google

tablet shifts from absolutely no back camera to a great video recording 5MP back camera. These are not the only improvements.

The Nexus7 2 has an extremely powerful lithium ion battery that can withstand nine hours of active use. Like other tablets, the Nexus7 2 receives wifi only to be able to upload or play apps that require the internet.

However, on the downside of the Nexus7 2, there is no SD slot to expand room which places Google at a disadvantage against its competitors. Moreover, the front camera has the same mega pixels as the first Nexus7 which disappoints people who like taking “selfies.”

Overall, the Nexus7 2 is a great choice and a formidable opponent against its competitors. If you are looking for an affordable, small, light-weight tablet with great updates, the Nexus7 2 is one of the best options.

amazing aroma of tender meat and spicy barbeque sauce engulfed us, making us feel instantly welcome.

The restaurant felt a bit like a buffet because the ordering counter was set up in front of the kitchen. It also has numerous televisions showing a football game.

While ordering, my family and I were torn between the many side dishes, as well as the different meats and ways you could order. I finally decided on the rib plate, which came with six pork ribs, my choice of two sides, and a warm biscuit. For the two sides, I decided on baked potato casserole and waffle iron fries.

The ribs were of excellent quality for the $12.95 they cost. They were coated in barbeque sauce, in addition to being super tender and filling. The potato casserole was delicious, with perfect consistency for mashed potatoes, as well as the topping of cheese, and the waffle iron fries were standard for any restaurant’s waffle iron fries, crispy, and salty. Finally, the biscuit was a tad too buttery for my taste.

I can finally say that there is an inexpensive and good quality, barbeque restaurant in our town.

If you are ever in a rush and want some ribs or pulled pork, you know where to go.

Staff Writer

on watchers begin to connect the dots and solve the mystery which leads to the climax of the movie where the audience finds out what happened to the girls who are kidnapped.

The film itself is a masterpiece in its own making. Jackman and Gyllenhaal really made this movie what it is because of the personalities they put into these characters. It seems like the characters were written for them because I can’t imagine anyone else playing their parts.

The story also made this movie with all the mystery and drama in the film it keeps the audience

Grace Moon / Staff Writer

wondering who did the crime.

The film keeps the watchers on the edge of their seats the whole way through, and makes you want to find out what happened to the poor children; however the film does contain very graphic and brutal scenes of torture to a man and it is intense, of course it is rated R. But don’t let that discourage anyone. Everyone should still definitely see this film and it is one that should not be missed.

All and all I would give this movie five out of five stars and I hope that it gets all the awards a crime drama deserves.

Invisibility leaves New Nexus7 2 is picture perfect readers breathless

By Tyler Quan Staff Writer

By Rachel Du Staff Writer

In the fictional novel Invisibility

by Andrea Cremer and David Levithan, the two authors have combined literary powers to reveal the frightening world of an invisible boy.

Before his mother’s death a year ago, Stephen knew he existed. His mother doted on him, despite her inability to see him.

Now that she’s gone, he questions his existence. He lives in New York City, and yet no one knows about him. That is, until Elizabeth moves in two doors down and starts talking to him.

At first, Elizabeth is unaware that no one else can see Stephen.

He shows her around the neighborhood and Central Park, pointing out the different people and their stories that only he is able to witness up close. The two teens click instantly, and their walks grow more frequent as their relationship develops. Soon, their relationship is sailing smoothly and everything seems to be okay.

One evening, Elizabeth introduces Stephen to her younger brother, Laurie, who points out that there is no one there. Stephen finally comes clean and explains that he’s been cursed with invisibility by his grandfather.

Stephen and Elizabeth, along with Laurie, set out to vanquish the curse. The first stop on their quest is at a comic book store.

According to Stephen’s neighbor who frequents the comic book store, a veteran spellseeker, or someone who can detect the presence of curses, works in the back of the store. When Elizabeth enters, the spellseeker, named Millie, immediately figures out that she is also a spellseeker, which is why she could see Stephen. Elizabeth and Millie work on strengthening her powers to prepare her for Stephen’s wicked grandfather.

Both Stephen and Elizabeth are forced to confront their weaknesses and their trust in each other is tested. Elizabeth, who has the weight of Stephen’s curse riding on her shoulders, must figure out a way to lift her boyfriend’s curse or she may never see him again.

The premise of the story is compelling in itself with humor and wit as added bonuses. A colorful world of spells and curses pulls you into Stephen’s story. The middle of the book seems slow, but after that, it jumps right into action again.

Cremer and Levithan do an admirable job of bringing out each character ’s strengths and personality. Stephen’s observations about the world that goes on around him are unique and even relatable at times. Readers, though not invisible, will understand his loneliness and will know his joy when he meets Elizabeth.

Overall, Invisibility is great for those who love magic and teen romances.

The next largest market besides smart phones and computers are tablets, which consist of the infamous Kindle, Nook, Apple iPads, Apple iPad Minis, Samsung Galaxy tablets, and the Nexus7.

There are many tablets that come in different sizes as well as versions, but the question is which one is most affordable, most updated, and most satisfactory.

In my opinion, one of the most affordable and light-weight tablets with appealing updates would be the Nexus7 2, introduced by the partnership of Asus and Google.

The first Nexus7 was released in July 2013, and about two months later, the Nexus7 2 was released with improved features, updates, as well as a faster chip. The minute the Nexus7 2 was released, sales have sky-rocketed and the Nexus7 2 was being swept from

Dickey’s Barbeque a delicious delight

By Cameron Beresini Staff Writer

When searching the area for good barbeque restaurants for my birthday dinner, my family remembered that a new restaurant was recently built in the shopping center that Pyzano’s Pizzeria used to be in. Due to the closeness of the restaurant and the lack of reviews online, our curiosity piqued and we decided to check it out.

As soon as we walked in, the

Girls tennis team serves up San Leandro

By Olivia Wallace Staff Writer

The tennis match came down to a close call, but the CVHS girls tennis team prevailed with a close score of 3-2 against San Leandro on Oct. 29.

This was the last home game for the team, so all players gave it their all to win.

Coach Steve Argyres expects to end in fourth place with a slight hope for third. The players work hard on the court for themselves and their team.

When Argyres was asked who his most improved player was, he said it has to be senior Kimberly Tang. Throughout the four years Tang has been on the team, she has worked hard to constantly improve.

All seniors interviewed replied with how much they love tennis and their team. These girls know that no matter if they win or lose, they love their sport, their team, and their school.

By Sally Liang Staff Writer

Olivia Wallace/ Staff Writer

Madison Lambert returns the tennis ball to the other side.

Golfers putt to second place

By Amelia Ortiz Staff Writer

The girls golf team, led by coach Darrell Lavin, recently placed second at the WACC championships and eleventh at the NCS qualifier.

The WACC championships on Oct. 14 in Alameda went great with four girls on the team qualifying for first Team All League.

The girls who made the AllWACC team were Suhani Abdullah, Emiko Yamamoto, Kaela Dwinell, and Alyah Thomas.

Additionally Halle Champion

Cross country teams dash at WACC finals

and Nastasja Wright made second team all-conference.

The team then moved on to the NCS qualifier on Monday, Oct. 21 at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord, where they placed eleventh out of 17 teams.

Then they moved onto the NCS championships at Peacock Gap Country Club in San Rafael on Monday, October 28. NCS was a little more of a struggle with them missing some key teammates and being put up against tougher competition. In the end they did not continue on to the California State Championships.

Junior Suhani Abdullah really

enjoyed this season.

“I think every single player really improved in many aspects of the game. Also we got new teammates and an additional ‘Coach Mom’ who helped the team get closer than before, so the season was even more fun!” said Abdullah.

Lavin agreed that the team had a good overall season, and the players are all geared up for next year.

“Although the team did not make it to the California State Championships, they had a great year and have a very strong base for next year’s team,” said Lavin.

Achieving an astonishing record of eight consecutive wins this season, the varsity girls cross country team competed against opponents from other 11 schools in the WACC finals that took place at Hayward High School on Nov. 9.

Fully concentrated on the meet, varsity runners showed game faces and put up their hardest efforts in the three mile race. Senior Nicole Anthony revealed her extreme dedication and perseverance. Maintaining her fourth place position till the conclusive mile, Anthony sped up immediately and finished the race in second place. The Trojans took fourth place with a total score of 72 points, right behind third place Alameda High School.

“We are doing great as a team and we are really proud how everyone has evolved as runners and as teammates,” said captain Emma Armstrong. “We came together as a team and we are ready to show we have.”

The varsity boys team also participated in the WACC finals, though the squad was not as successful as the varsity girls team.

Junior Carter Mackey took third place in the three mile race with a time of 15:58. Following him was junior Chris Cervi, who sprinted his way to the sixth place in 16:25.

The varsity boys scored fifth place overall.

Despite the tough loss, coach Dino Cardiasmenos remained optimistic. “They are coming together as a group. Each runner has their individual potential and shows great progress every day,” he said.

Sally Liang / Staff Writer

Nicole Anthony speeds to second place.

“Our team has some very strong runners this year and I think we are going to do well,” said junior Jeffrey Van. Although this race may have been tough, Trojans will continue to work hard. All the runners demonstrated their determination as well as sportsmanship and improved throughout the season.

“The races we run are our own purgatory and only the runner is the judge of whether it is hell or heaven that waits on the finish line,” said Cervi.

B o u n d i n g B r i l l i a n t Ba l l e r s Tyler Macias and Tyler Quan / Staff Writers

Giana Wright, freshman

Playing basketball since she could walk, freshman Giana Wright sets herself to try to be the best basketball player she can.

Wright grew up watching basketball on TV, and when she decided to start playing in second grade, she made first on her team.

She’s now playing with Hayward Swoosh, an Amateur Athletic Union team, and plays inside and out as a power forward, shooting guard, and down low in the post.

“Basketball isn’t just a sport to me; it’s a lifestyle and a passion that I work for every day,” said Wright.

Peter Normann, sophomore

The typical Trojan dislikes running, but Peter Normann loves it.

Normann has been running for the past seven years and won’t stop “until he gets enough.”

Ending his runs in first, third, or somewhere within top ten, Normann is running his way to success and is only getting better as the years go on.

Normann, being in track and cross country, has developed great endurance, stamina, and of course great lungs and to be able to be top ten is a great achievement.

“I like running because it’s a great equalizer and it is challenging,” said Normann.

Daniel Ghoukassi, junior

Junior Daniel Ghoukassi began to participate in the JV football team in the beginning of this year.

Ghoukassi enjoys playing in all the games and persistently continues to play at his best.

He enjoys watching ESPN for sport coverage and observing how the professional sport players perform, so he can improve on how to become a better wide receiver.

One of Ghoukassi’s favorite memories is when he took a trip to Antioch and he had hit a linebacker before falling on his bottom.

“I just like catching a ball and running across the field,” said Ghoukassi.

Alex Wilson, senior

Senior Alex Wilson is a cross country runner who has run ever since he was a freshman. He’s a fast runner and had made a lot of friends through cross country.

One of Wilson’s favorite memories of cross country was when he won a medal at the Castro Valley Invitational during his sophomore year. The award made him feel proud of his efforts, and it foreshadowed a prosperous future for his cross country career.

“You never want to give up,” said Wilson. “It ain’t easy being you, that’s why you you.”

The Olympian Nov. 21, 2013

8

Field trips for everyone or no one

By Rachel Du

Tyler Macias / Staff Writer

Demareyeh Lane smiles and poses for the photo with a football in hand.

Staff Writer Teachers are having trouble raising enough money for field trips because of a new state law that requires schools to take all students who want to go on the trips, even if they don’t pay.

California state law requires that public schools offer free education to all students. In addition, students aren’t required to pay for their own materials and activities. Schools may still charge fees, however, to cover the costs of field trips and can’t deny students the opportunity to participate if they cannot make payments.

As a result of the optional fees, several field trips have struggled to stay afloat due to a lack of funding. The school district relies on participants to fundraise on their own, and if they can’t raise enough money, they don’t have a lot of options to continue with the trip.

"A lot of districts have decided not to allow field trips in the first place, but I'm trying to keep that

from happening to the Close Up trip, which has been offered annually at our school for over 30 years,” said teacher Carmelina Frasca, supervisor of the Washington D.C. Close Up program.

Choir teacher Laryssa Sadoway, leading the Seattle tour, believes the law poses a challenge, but is still fair. “I think the law comes from really good intentions, which is that we don’t want you to have to be rich to do anything at school.

You should be able to do anything no matter what your socio-economic background,” she said.

Along with the Close Up program, other departments such as the arts and ASL programs are also facing difficulties keeping field trips. Organizers don’t know what to do when many students want to participate but are unable to pay.

Students hold car washes and ask for donations from members of the community, but it may not always be enough.

For the school choir’s Seattle tour, the price has already been

lowered from $900 to $600. There’s even an option for a payment plan of one hundred dollars a month leading up to the field trip.

Field trips may be costly, but can be rewarding. They provide opportunities to embrace a richer learning experience, especially for students who are truly interested.

“Compared to other schools, we are lucky that the prices for the field trips are lower. The money which you pay for is mostly used for your own needs,” said junior Nash Reyes.

Unfortunately, money is always an issue – the cost of the Close Up reaching almost $2,000 and the Seattle Tour at $900.

Both Frasca and Sadoway share the same determination in wanting to encourage all students to participate, despite their inability to pay.

“I do think that every student should have the opportunity to go on this trip, and I work really hard to try to make sure that even students that can’t afford it can still go,” Frasca said.

“Touchdown Lane” gets back in game

By Daniel Witte Staff Writer

Demareyeh Lane, the great football player, has returned from an injury to score at least 16 touchdowns for the Trojans this year.

Last year, Lane suffered a foot injury that made him unable to play football. The injury occurred near the end of a really great game, but luckily, it was the last game of the season.

"I got hurt last year in the last game of the regular season,” said Lane. “I caught the ball, tried to make a move, my foot got caught in the grass, and I tore a ligament in my toe.”

The injury was painful and it took a long time to heal. As a result of the injury, he wore a cast for about three months.

Lane has been playing football for a very long time. As a matter of fact, he has played since he was eight and plans to continue playing through college.

Playing football is one of Lane's favorite things to do. He also likes the intensity of the game, along

with the preparation, and getting the opportunity to show off his hard work on the field.

"I like playing football because I can hit somebody and not get in trouble for it," said Lane.

Lane has been in the CVHS football program since his freshman year. Throughout his football career, Lane has won many games.

In his first year, he played the offensive and defensive lines.

Lane has worked with three different people while he’s been playing football: Sara Goalic and Mike Cason, the trainers, and Nic McMaster, the head coach at CVHS. "He is very charismatic and really enjoys football, which is evident when he is out there on the day to day," said McMaster.

During a recent game, Lane ran 175 yards, and the Trojans beat Hayward by 42 points. The score was 42 to 0.

"Everyone's got to work together, but he is definitely a talented player and his skills are on display for everyone to see," said McMaster.

Robert Souza’s first issue of Castro Valley News published in November.

Former Forum reporter starts magazine

By Alison Dhont Staff Writer

Castro Valley may be small, but it sure has a lot to say. Former Castro Valley Forum reporter Robert Souza published the first issue of his new magazine in the first week of November, and is continuing to publish magazines monthly. The magazine is focused on Castro Valley and its local news.

His magazine, Castro Valley News, will work hard to provide Castro Valley with information about everything that affects the life, business, education, sports, and entertainment of local citizens.

“Our goal is to have the magazine available at as many businesses in Castro Valley as possible,” said Souza. “Our next goal is home delivery via USPS.”

Recently laid off from his job as a Forum reporter in late August for economic reasons, Souza feels his new magazine is the best way to start his new future.

The magazine includes stories like “ Businessman bringing Lake Chabot market back to life” about the Lil’ Grocer marketplace building reopening with a new owner soon. It also includes reviews such as Val’s Burgers and local issues in Castro Valley.

There is even a letters to the editor page where you can write in and use your voice to help change something in Castro Valley you feel strongly about. Filled with ads and Castro Valley news, Souza’s magazine is worth reading.

“It’s sad for me, because the nearly eight years I spent with that publication were an exciting and enriching experience that words

fail to describe,” stated Souza. “It was the best job I ever had, and I wish them the very best going forward.”

“We want to use print media to direct those who may not be engaged in social media and online information to what the web has to offer, especially for Castro Valley,” said Souza when discussing his goals with his team.

His team includes Yon Hardisty, webmaster, and Chet Wehe, photographer, who have both never stopped working hard doing what they love.

The magazine already has attention, as its page on Facebook with over 4,000 likes is growing every day.

When asked why people should read his magazine, Souza replied, “Because I know Castro Valley like the back of my hand!”

continue the improvements on the field and to enhance the overall baseball experience.

This important event includes special guest speakers, including former major league baseball players, and a raffle and silent auction on items up for grabs, including sporting event tickets, autographed sports memorabilia, concert tickets, restaurant gift

cards, and more.

Dinner will be catered by Looney’s Southern Barbecue and tickets are only $40 each. All proceeds from the event will go directly to the CVHS baseball program.

So come out, CVHS and support your fellow Trojans!

For tickets and other information, please contact Laura Dobbins at cvhsbaseball@yahoo.com.

Go to bat for the Trojan baseball team!

By Amanat Riar Sports Editor

The CVHS boys baseball team will host their fourth annual fundraising banquet on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 6-10 p.m. in the CVHS cafeteria. This year’s theme will be “Stepping Up to the Plate,” with the goal to raise funds in order to