2020 February Eagle Eye

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VOL 34, NO. 4 FEB 2020

Happy Martyr’s Day → By Kaycee Nakashima (‘20)

EDITORIAL

In sophomore year, we took a survey to discover what our love language is.

Receiving gifts was at the very bottom of my love language list.

When Valentine’s Day rolls around, I’m not drawn to the things that other people love about it, especially when it comes to giving and receiving gifts. When I see a bouquet of flowers, I see something that will die within the week. I appreciate the effort that many people put into Valentine’s Day gestures, but it’s just not my thing.

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Valentine’s Day is a wildly celebrated event across the world, where couples express their love to one another through gifts and romantic dates. Despite its popularity, most of us don’t know how the day came about or who Saint Valentine might be.

There are varying accounts of detailing Valentine’s Day’s origin, but it is generally agreed upon that the February date coincides with what was originally a pagan festival called Lupercalia to ward off evil spirits and welcome fertility.

The festival involved animal sacrifice, violence towards women, and drunken revelry. Later, in the 3rd century A.D., Emperor Claudius II executed a man named Valentine, whom the Catholic Church later canonized. It is unclear why he was martyred, but some believe he disobeyed Claudius’s orders by secretly marrying couples so that the husbands didn’t have to fight in war. Others believe he was killed for saving Roman Christians from persecution. Subsequently, another emperor declared February 14 as a day to honor Saint Valentine, in part because of a desire to eliminate the pagan rituals of Lupercalia. It was only much later that CARTOON BY DANIEL JUREK (‘21) the day became romanticized (some attribute this shift to Shakespeare and Chaucer). While the true story behind Valentine’s martyrdom is unclear, historians agree that he was a real person and If you truly enjoy expressing your romantic love or appreciation for someone on Valentine’s Day, by all means, do it with all your heart. who was killed for defending his beliefs.

But for those of you who dread the occasion, take comfort in the fact Today, Valentine’s Day celebrations are focused on romantic love with that Saint Valentine was far from shallow or frivolous; he was killed for little or no connection to its namesake, Saint Valentine the martyr. If something he believed in. What if Valentine’s Day became a day to think you don’t have that special someone to share it with, Valentine’s Day about what it means to be a hero? There are definitely a few people in can take on negative connotations. It’s understandable why many feel your life who have lived sacrificially for you. What if you took the time the holiday is pointless, ridiculous, and a waste of time. This cynicism to appreciate (not necessarily through extravagant gifts) or to reflect is partly rooted in a sense that the occasion is a display of shallow on those who have provided a roof over your head, food on your table, sentiments or a way for stores to sell more merchandise. I feel that your private school education, emotional support, or who have just the most visible parts of Valentine’s Day are superficial. The boxes of stood by your side in your best and worst moments? I think Valentine’s chocolates, red balloons,and flowers are unnecessary especially if you Day would feel a lot less like something to roll your eyes over; it might find yourself guilty after eating the chocolates, your balloons deflated actually become a day that takes on significance and meaning, and after a day, and your flowers wilted after less than a week. Why do we feel challenges you toward selflessness and sacrifice. obliged to express our love in extravagant ways on Valentine’s Day when it can also be done any other day of the year for a much smaller price?

FINDING YOUR WAY THROUGH

TEEN DATING CULTURE → ByJohanna Seng (‘21) FEATURE

As the world commemorates Valentine’s Day, many teenagers find themselves focusing on the exciting notion of a romantic relationship, whether by simply longing to enter one, by actively investing in an existing one, or by rejecting the concept entirely.

All things considered, teen dating is an entire culture in and of itself, with its own ideology and etiquette. The path to a successful relationship is complicated and nerve-wracking, filled with treacherous social situations and the looming possibility of rejection. Yet, many consider the prospect of a happy relationship worth these risks, because “you learn more about the other person [and] discover who you are at the same time,” according to Daniel Jurek. Jurek, an HBA junior who has had multiple romantic relationships, considers the many downsides to crush culture: “Rejection sucks. It’s just this awful feeling of not being able to be with the one that you genuinely want for their company.” Even so, Jurek urged, “Go with [your] heart. [This sounds] like a no brainer, but I’m sure that there are those out there who need to hear that.”

Adults are often baffled by the complicated routines teens engage in to find a girlfriend or boyfriend, but the evolution from strangers to Valentines can seem second nature to the teens themselves. Jurek described the process almost poetically: “You develop feelings for someone. You spend time with them…

Your feelings grow. [They] fester. It keeps you up at night. You practice asking them out over and over… You gather the confidence. You lose it… You find your confidence again. You pull off your stunt. You either get rejected or hit with the ‘I have feelings for you too.’” An anonymous sophomore considers dating a much simpler affair: “I think the process of liking someone to dating them is just spending a lot of time together and talking to each other until [the relationship] becomes more than friends.” She also compares having a relationship to “having a super tight best friend” and adds, “It’s nice to always have someone to talk to and be there for you when you need it.”

By Kaycee Nakashima (‘20)

Back Cover Photo “Makapu’u Blowhole”

By Jarin Ashimine (‘20)

EAGLE EYE Hawaii Baptist Academy 2429 Pali Highway Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Hawaii Baptist Academy’s Eagle Eye is a student-run and student-centered publication.

Opinions expressed in letters and columns are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hawaii Baptist Academy or the Eagle Eye staff as a whole.

CO-EDITORS TJ Halemano-Reed (‘20) Kaycee Nakashima (‘20)

STAFF Jarin Ashimine (‘20) Noah Camacho (‘23) Dilan Chock-Makiya (‘23) Timothy Dixon (‘20) Michael Garces (20) Grace Glenn (‘22) Daniel Jurek (‘21) Johnson Lin (‘21) Johanna Seng (‘21) Lance Tasaka (‘20)

ADVISOR Eunice Sim

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February 14 presents teens with the opportunity to gift their significant others with small tokens of affection or confess to their crushes. (February 15, by contrast, presents single people with the opportunity to buy all the discounted chocolate.) However, even throughout the rest of the year, teens still spend plenty of time pursuing romance. “In the beginning [of the relationship] I spent about 84.3% of my time thinking about my relationship,” said an HBA senior who wished to remain unnamed. Crushes have long remained a highly popular topic of conversation and much of the media teens consume—music, movies, YouTube videos—centers on relationships. High school students often find themselves sweating in preparation for sending their crush a risky text or debating whether or not to ask someone to prom.

Cover Photo

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These sentiments seem logical enough, but one must consider the added complication of discerning attraction and intent from communication over social media and texting.

The tiny nuances in vocabulary, emoji choice, or the length of time before responding can drastically change meanings and perceptions.

For example, an anonymous junior designates responding to Instagram stories or “[sliding] into their DMs” as the best way to communicate to a crush via social media. She offers this piece of advice: “[Reply] fast, but not too fast, and [don’t] leave them on read or open.” She points out how even spelling and capitalization differs while texting a romantic interest vs texting friends (“Haha vs HAHA”). All these minute choices add stress to already stressful situations.

Easy access to communication via technology In the U.S., February is designated as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. This poster can also tempt teens to replace face-to-face is produced by an organization (LOVEISRESPECT.org) that seeks to “engage, educate, and interaction with some form of online messaging. empower young people to end abusive relationships.” According to their research, “One in Many consider the prospect of actually walking three teens in the U.S. will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by someone they up to a crush and striking up a conversation to are in a relationship with before they become adults.” POSTER FROM LOVEISRESPECT.ORG be an unfathomable challenge, meaning that, sometimes, interaction is limited to being over the internet. Described as the online disinhibition effect, many of us However, she said, “Some young people are ready to date in a way are braver while texting than while talking. According to Dr. John Suler that is healthy and constructive. I’ve seen high school relationships of Rider University, this can lead people to “share very personal things at HBA that were very helpful to the students involved—even if the about themselves. They reveal secret emotions, fears, wishes.” Though relationships didn’t work out, ultimately.” Taylor firmly believes that beneficial to helping two people get to know each other, this can also the key for cultivating a healthy high school relationship is balancing lead to increased discomfort surrounding in-person conversation. it with family support and other key friendships and interests.

This adds another layer of complication where teens have to manage a balance between virtual and in-person socialization, not to mention Overall, the goal of teen dating is often not to find a person with which any dangers that might arise from actually meeting someone online, to spend the rest of one’s life. Some high school couples do end up as opposed to meeting someone in real life first. “They could be really marrying, but the majority split before graduation. “I think it’s okay perfect on paper, but they could be a… horrible person… people can sell to date without the end goal of marriage,” said Jurek. “I do it so I can themselves to be someone they’re not,” said sophomore Grace Glenn. learn more about people, like how I should interact. It’s trial and error.”

However, Glenn recalled how a close friend of hers first met someone Experience seems to be a common motivation for dating among HBA online and subsequently developed a healthy romantic relationship. students. They date to gain knowledge for future encounters. Yet, many But she was still adamant that “face to face communication can never teens are simply looking to spend time with someone whose company be replicated in a text.” they enjoy. “[Teen relationships are] fun, with no strings attached. It’s a good thing that you’re not thinking too much about the future,” said Dating’s all consuming aspect can be another peril. While being involved an anonymous student. For those looking for words from the wiser, with someone can certainly bring immense joy and interest to life, Taylor, who did not date in high school but did frequently in college breakups or fallouts can bring immeasurable lows, catalysts that can and beyond, sees high school dating as “an opportunity to practice a affect all aspects of teen life such as academics and athletics. “During lot of skills that do not come naturally to people (particularly the part the breakup,” said Jurek, “it’s kind of like your head is just flowing with about self-control).” She adds, “The reality about romantic relationships all these emotions, and you can’t understand what the [heck] is going or marriage is that your timeline is way shorter than society has you on.” He described his own experience: “I literally could not think, I could believe, especially if you’re a woman and you want children.” She not move, I was just putting my head up against a wall… just the world supports high school dating as a means of practicing essential dating was spinning around me.” Similarly, English teacher Alexandra Taylor skills in a supportive, “low stakes” environment and even acknowledges said, “Dating has the potential to be a powerful idol. Romantic feelings the possibility of finding a spouse. Taylor does caution that America’s are designed to be overwhelmingly strong… If you need romantic love dating culture “has nothing to do with unconditional love...if you’re in order to feel OK, you are going to have a much more difficult time dating in high school in an immature way, it could possibly lead to making good choices.” Taylor believes teens are easily susceptible to more harm than good. But if you get a bit hurt, hurt someone else a depending on validation from a significant other, something that can bit, but dust yourself off and learn some stuff for next time… [that distract from other important areas of life like academics or athletics. can be] pretty helpful.”

Juniors Challenged To Look Beyond College and Career → By Johnson Lin (‘21) NEWS

On January 16, the junior class arrived at Pu’u Kahea Conference Center in Waianae for their annual grade camp. Titled “Living A Life of Purpose,” the camp challenged the students to consider what their life’s mission is, one that is bigger than just a career or a college degree.

Bible teacher and Christian Ministries Advisory Team leader Tony Traughber began the first chapel by acknowledging that it would be difficult for Junior Camp to top the emotional high that many felt at Sophomore Camp. He encouraged students to create and cherish their experience at junior camp nonetheless. Guest speaker Jordan Seng, senior pastor at Bluewater Mission and parent of junior Johanna Seng, then kicked off the camp theme by introducing himself with stories from his itinerant childhood, where he and his “hippie parents” were often on the run from law enforcement officials. Through unstable family circumstances, and through successes and failures in his adult life, Seng learned that having goals in life—getting into college or landing a prestigious job—is not the same as having a purpose in life.

(Seng graduated from Stanford, has a PhD in Political Theory, and did postdoctoral work at Harvard.) He offered a three step process to students struggling to find purpose: identifying a mission, developing

a method, and setting positive mindset. When asked later about the mindset behind his teaching, Seng explained, “I wanted to encourage young people to navigate according to their God-given purpose as [they] prepare to leave home for college and have to make all sorts of decisions about how to navigate education, careers, and other pursuits.”

In addition to Seng’s teaching, class advisor Alexandra Taylor explained how students can find purpose despite the cynicism that they face.

She said, “Having a comfortable life is mutually exclusive with having a meaningful life.”

Social co-chair Cheyenne Yim felt that the chapels taught her a lot.

“Instead of focusing on success, I should focus on my purpose. That is something I will need to figure out for myself but I know I will get there eventually and be able to fulfill my purpose,” she said.

As with all camps, there was time outside of chapel for the students to enjoy each other through games and competition. This year, class advisors Jenn and Isaac Duncklee planned a pirate-themed Capture the Flag titled “Curse of the Junior Jewels.” Students attempted to place “cursed items” into an opponent’s bin while guarding their own bin. Every item was assigned a point and the family group with the least amount of points won. A highlight of the game for many juniors was when class Continued on Page 9

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The Class of 2021 gather for their annual camp photo in front of the Big House at Camp Pu’u Kahea. This is the second-to-last group camp photo that they will take at HBA. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JACOB NORIMOTO (‘21).

Japanese International School Visits HBA

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→ By Lance Tasaka (‘20) NEWS

(Above, second from left to right) HBA Japanese Language students Regina Kanu-Rogers, Sarah Ushigome and Kaitlyn Hasegawa accompanied their Japanese students up to the North Shore to eat at Matsumoto Shave Ice. (Top right) Cobi Pimental (‘20) (second from left) enjoys Matsumoto Shave Ice with three Japanese students. (Middle right) HBA students eating lunch with the Japanese students in C202. (Bottom right) Japanese student, Ace Tani, presenting his research project to HBA students. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CLARK MEMORIAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL.

On the first week back to school this January, students were greeted by Spirit Week along with students from Clark Memorial International school in Japan.

Over the weekend, HBA students accompanied the Clark Memorial students on a sightseeing trip to the North Shore. On the following Monday, they had another group trip, this time to Ala Moana Shopping Center. Sophomore Amanda Sato said, “I really enjoyed going shopping with them...because I was able to talk to [my guest] more in depth, and I got to show her around These 14 Japanese students were paired with the mall, which was very fun.”

HBA students during their stay in Hawaii and shadowed their HBA partners to class for about Some of the Clark Memorial students were two days. involved in a joint project with HBA students.

Clark Memorial and HBA have been been sister schools for over 20 years, but student exchanges stopped for period of time before resuming five years ago. This year’s group is the largest thus far, with five students from their Osaka campus and the other nine from their other campuses.

This year, the Clark Memorial students got to visit HBA during of of the most exciting weeks of the year: Spirit Week. Clark Memorial student Aiko Sasaki said her favorite part of the week was the Platform Jam, because “[she] had never seen anything like it before.”

Aimed at helping the Japanese students practice their English, the project had the Japanese students write research essays, which were then reviewed by HBA students. Seniors Amber Palama and Cobi Pimental worked with Japanese student Ace Tani on his research essay. Palama said, “Cobi and I would give Ace feedback and our opinions and Ace wrote an essay for his class.”

According to high school principal Marsha Hirae, Clark Memorial will return next year during Spirit Week again. And come fall break, HBA students will get a chance to visit their counterparts in Japan during HBA’s biennial

Japan Trip. Hirae said, “Our students will be staying in the dorm at the Hokkaido complex and visit the Clark Memorial school.” The Japan Trip is open to HBA’s Japanese 2 through AP Japanese students.

Freshmen Take Stock of Spirit Week → By Dilan Chock-Makiya (‘23) & Cameron Pien (‘23) NEWS

Freshmen Elijah Wong (left) and Trent Mitchell (right) get ready for the Tug-of-War against the sophomore boys on the first day of Spirit Week.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JARIN ASHIMINE (‘20)

This year’s theme this year was “Scrambled Cinema,” and each class was assigned a movie franchise along with a specific time period in history.

While the senior class found their stride as a unified group and won themselves the Mana Cup, the week proved to be a tough one for the freshman class. They finished second to last, beating only the seventh graders in overall score. All week, the freshmen had middling scores in the dress up category, placing in third or fourth place each day for costume participation. However, on the last day, they were able to achieve 100% and tie for first place in the category with the sophomores and seniors. Reactions to the results were mixed; freshman Ha’e Kahana said that she was “really, really frustrated [about the results].” She added, “But on the bright side, we’ll be motivated to do even better next year.”

Classmate John Yamamoto was less surprised by how things turned out as he thought the eighth graders were more spirited than his class and therefore deserved to finished ahead of the freshman class.

Throughout Spirit Week, former vice principal Ryan Frontiera, now back in the classroom as an English teacher and freshman advisor, encouraged the freshmen to do their best and have fun. Reflecting on the results after Spirit Week, Frontiera had this piece of advice for the class: “Even if you don’t care about the activity, consider doing it just because. Very rarely do you get a chance to be a part of a large group of people doing something together, and there is something good about being a part of that experience.”

The freshman theme was The Fast and the Furious in medieval times.

Freshman mascot Timothy Shimizu, a first year student at HBA, donned a medieval plague mask for his role. While he acknowledged that he didn’t know what to expect when he signed up to be a mascot and that the role pushed him out of his comfort zone, he said that he was glad for the experience. “It was a great first experience because it was a great chance to bring our class together in a fun way and for the school to bond more,” he said.

One of the unique challenges that freshman classes have during Spirit Week is that it is the first time that they do not receive help from teachers.

Freshman Braeden Fukuda described what many of his classmates felt, saying, “It was tough going through this year’s Spirit Week because we weren’t really prepared with any of the cheers and not a lot of people seemed interested in it.” Class president Lauren Toda admitted to feeling discouraged but optimistic for next year. She explained, “I know we could’ve done better, but if anything, it gives us a lot of room to grow for next year. We can only go up from here!” Toda was a fan of this year’s mash-up theme and liked how it was an original idea. “The theme made it challenging to the script writers, and banner creators, trying to put the two themes together to create a fluid storyline. Although together with their creative talents, they did a really good job,” she said.

Freshman advisor Stan Herder is proud that the class rallied toward the end of the week, even though they had a tough start, losing to the sophomores in Tug-of-War on the first day and then taking last place in Platform Jam. “It started a little bit slow and without a lot of enthusiasm, but it certainly picked up during the week and I thought by Thursday and Friday the class as a whole was showing a lot more commitment and unity,” he said.

Continued on Page 9 Class council secretary Caley Chun said that

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As the new decade started off for everyone around the world, middle and high school students and faculty at Hawaii Baptist Academy had another reason to celebrate as they returned to school in January: Spirit Week 2020.

Dear Tara, Michael decided to waste his ad on a meme. This shouldn’t be anything new considering that he enjoys memes. Just in case he forgets, congratulations on 1 year.

T.D.

I care for you D <3!

Anonymous

I love my family, Dorian Ho, and my sponsored child Reggin <3 Logan Wong

Sasha you look sharp today :) U2 Jhennai & TJ Paige ur fun Regan Nishimura

FROM ME

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To the girls, thanks for making every day crazy and fun. Thanks for being there for me through thick and thin too. To the bois, thanks for always being down to go out and stay out till midnight. Sasha. Why you built like that?

TJ

Dear Tara, Michael may love you, but I love you Michael, but I remember the first tim ‘No amount of Nerds or Netflix can su K.N.

Hey Kiki, You never cease to make me smile. Continue to brighten the world with that smile of yours. So will you be my Valentine?

Noua’a

Joe Fung is hot.

Makua Marumoto

Dear Dayna, Here’s your prom-prosal, despite me just asking you. May as well add a lil’ bit of spice to your life, right? ;) Love, :0

Dear Mr. Hu & Ms. Mishima, Thank you for giving us a home in your classrooms.

Love, You-Know-Whos

To Noah Hu, Phantom of the Opera is way better than Les Miserables.

Anonymous

Dear Dear Dear Dear Dear Phoe

u more. I would NEVER waste my ad on a meme. I don’t know about me I laid eyes on you. No one can ignore the connection between us. ubstitute the love we have. Happy Valentine’s Day T.

A love poem for Mrs. Duncklee from Mr. Duncklee (Based on “L.o.v.e.” by Frank Sinatra) L is for the way you turn my head Ω is gone, for you my resistance is dead v is my heart’s instantaneous velocity mf between us creates a high potential energy

Dear Star Loser, Love is love and we all accept you for who you are. We are very fond of your unique choice of fashion and are all looking forward to you being the next Mr. HBA. Top Player

For the boys.

Fisher Jardon

Dear Ms. D, Thank you for checking in all the seniors and always welcoming us to school with a smile.

Love, The Senior Class

Follow Juhnizzle on Spotify, Soundcloud, and Apple Music. New Single Out Now! Josiah Flores

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TO YOU

To Marisa Uehara, Cydni Yoshida, Ashley Oshiro, Amy Lee, Riyana Werny, and Melanie Le #yolo #lovevibes Love, Your BFF Aly xoxo

Krystn, Love you <3 Dayna, I love you more than Krystn <3 <3 <3 Justin, I love you more than Dayna xoxoxoxoxo Ape Boi Sean, We miss you *Gorilla Grunts* Phe, Why you packing? enyx Aguada

Dear Jordan Deponte, Why you built like that tho? <3 Norman Tu

Les Miserables is 10,000,000 better than Phantom of the Opera.

Anonymous

SPIRIT WEEK from Page 6

one of her favorite memories of Spirit Week is the class cheers on Friday, “because everyone participated and cheered together.”

When asked about her hopes for next year’s Spirit Week, Toda replied, “I hope that we can make more noise and have even more fun and more school spirit.” Advisor Sean Shiroma echoed this sentiment, saying, “Just have fun with the week, grow in unity as a school and class and don’t worry about the outcome so much, enjoy the process!”

(Left) Freshmen cheer on the last day of Spirit Week as the macots lead them in a final cheer.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JARIN ASHIMINE (‘20); (Right) Freshman mascots Ashlee Cole and Timothy Shimizu.

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PHOTOGRAGH BY BRENT LOW (‘20)

(Left) Juniors participate in a family group relay race. (Right) Students move a “cursed” item to another family group’s home bin during the “Curse of the Junior Jewels” game. Every “cursed” item is assigned a point value. Family groups competed to finish the game with the fewest points. PHOTOGRAPHS BY TIFFANY HAMADA (‘21).

JUNIOR CAMP from Page 4

advisor Kenai Duran appeared as a kraken in the midst of the mayhem. Jenn Duncklee summed up the goal of the game: “[I hope the class] would have fun and be able to bond over a game that couldn’t be played during a regular school day.”

the course of their lives with God’s help and leading. That it is more than just getting a good job, getting married, and having children,” he said. Duran echoed the same thoughts, saying, “I hope that they learn not to put their identity into what they do, or what career they choose.

Plans fail and jobs are deleted, but what you want to do for the world should remain.” Guidance counselor Jennifer Garriss offered some Even though it was her fifth HBA grade camp experience, Yim said that advice for those who struggled with defining their life purpose. “I also junior camp was unique and memorable. “I was able to experience think it is important to note that high school students may not yet know something new and different. I was able to make new memories with new their life purpose, and that is to be expected. Hopefully, however, with friends, participate in new activities, and adopt a new understanding of more time and experiences, their life purpose will become clearer.”

God.” As students return to their school routines, class advisor Garrett Omoto hopes students have gained a better perspective on their future plans. “I hope that the students will be able to think about how to shape

Just Scrap. → By TJ Halemano-Reed (‘20) SPORTS

Senior Skyler Suzui (right), representing the PAC-5 varsity team, competes against a wrestler from Mililani High School.

PHOTOGRAPH BY RISHA MISHIMA

Just scrap. Concede nothing. This is the motto that PAC-5 wrestlers live by during the season.

On top of all the hard training and strict dieting, PAC-5 athletes are also faced with more obstacles than the average team. Since PAC-5 is made up of different schools, team cohesion does not come by without extra effort. However, head coach Jared Ellis takes these challenges in his stride. Ellis and his staff created a logo for the team in hopes of building a team identity that goes beyond individual schools. Ellis is also very intentional about building unity throughout the season through the way he coaches and what he says to the team. The bottom line, however, according to Ellis, has to do with the athletes’ attitudes.

“We just have great kids who buy into our team culture… We wouldn’t be as successful as we are with kids who aren’t awesome,” he said.

Classmate Micah Shibuya, who also participates in judo, has only been wrestling for a little over a year. He joined the sport as it helps him prepare for judo. Before stepping foot on the mat, Shibuya mentally goes over all the techniques and skills he has learned in practice and then focuses on clearing his mind. “The reason why I do this is because I need to go off of whatever feels right, and if I try to think about what I’m going to do during the match, I’ll be too slow,” he explained.

Physically, Shibuya says conditioning and training before and during the season is crucial. A typical wrestling match lasts for six minutes and sometimes goes into overtime. “I need to be conditioned to go the whole six minutes without getting gassed out,” he said.

This year, out of the 76 PAC-5 wrestlers, 13 are HBA students, including senior Skyler Suzui and the only girl from HBA, sophomore Kelcie Ito. Suzui’s main goal for the season is to bond closer with his teammates and to win at States. During the wrestling season Suzui trains and diets to keep his body in shape and to manage his weight. His diet consists of high protein and low carb foods. “I eat things like chicken breast, egg whites, and fish… The only carbs I eat is sweet potato. I also eat a lot of fruits and vegetables,” he said. Although Suzui has been to States multiple times, he hasn’t been able to place in his designated weight bracket. This year he hopes to have a chance at winning the title of state champion.

While Ellis is also hoping to see his team qualify and succeed in the state tournament, he says he’s more concerned about his athletes’ experience along the way and wants them to put all of their effort on the mat. “I don’t necessarily want them to be satisfied with their performance,” he said, “[and] I don’t want them to enter the off-season with regrets on effort or attitude.”

The state championship will take place on Febrary 21 and 22 at the Blaisdell Center, and both Ito and Suzui have qualified to compete.

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While wrestling does not have the same appeal of popular spectator team sports like basketball and volleyball, it is one of the most demanding sports when it comes to an athlete’s commitment and determination. In addition to training for their sport, students have to watch their weight throughout the season to make sure they are eligible to compete in their weight class.

Sophomore Kelcie Ito, who has been wrestling for almost six years, has a longer term perspective as an underclassman. Although her goal for the season is to also win states, Ito added, “I just mainly want to grow this year since I know I have a lot to improve on.” Although she’s the only girl from HBA, Ito sees it as an positive because she doesn’t need to compete against another girl from HBA. She also takes advantage of sparring against the boys on the team. “I feel like sparring against boys is very challenging… but I like to go with them to push myself further,” she said.

Our Island Beckons

A SHORTLIST OF HIKING ADVENTURES TO GET YOU OUTDOORS

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→ By Michael Garces (‘20) FEATURE

A bird’s eye view of the Ko’olau mountain range and the H3 freeway in Kaneohe. Getting to this vantage point, close to the end of Stairway to Heaven, will take you all day via the Moanalua Middle Ridge Trail, which is the only legal way to access this hike. PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL GARCES (‘20).

Though Oahu is the most developed island in Hawaii, it still offers a lot options for outdoor adventures.

From the mighty Ko’olaus, to the peaceful, shimmering tide pools of China Walls in Portlock, there is a lot to see and do.

and wear lots of sun protection as there is no shade here or during the hike.

Remember, the Makapu’u hike is a popular one so be prepared to park far away if the parking lot is full, especially on holidays and weekends.

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LULUMAHU FALLS Located near the Nu’uanu Reservoir along the Pali Highway, Lulumahu Falls is short but rewarding hike.

I have hiked and explored all over the island and Hikers shoud get day-use permits from the Hawaii have seen many beautiful places on this small rock. Division of Forestry & Wildlife as it is technically a Here is a shortlist for those of you who are looking restricted area. The permit is free, even though there for a worthwhile outdoor adventure or just a place is a processing fee of $2.50 if you get the permit to take photographs. Just a side note: You are online. The beginning of the trail is at the end of responsible for your own safety if you choose to go Nu’uanu Pali Drive. The hike takes you to a waterfall on these hikes. And for specific directions to these that has a small pool. places—where to park, trailhead location—you’ll MOANALUA MIDDLE RIDGE TRAIL find them easily online. Now let’s get started.

This is a long day hike, covering about 10 miles total. This advanced hike takes you to the top of MAKAPU’U LIGHTHOUSE This East Oahu hike is both easy to accomplish the infamous Stairway to Heaven, which continues and to access, making it one of the most popular to be closed to the public. The Moanalua Middle hikes on the island. The hike takes you on a paved Ridge Trail is becoming increasingly popular as road from the parking lot all the way up to the top word spreads about it being a legal option to get and is stroller friendly. Along this road, there are up close to the stairway. whale watching stations that visitors can use to spot humpback whales and their calves during the The hike begins at Moanalua Valley Park. From there, months of December to May. Once at the top, visitors the first two miles to the start of the trailhead is are able to see the lighthouse (from a distance), a therapeutic walk through the forest. There are Makapu’u Beach, Rabbit and Shark island, and most several small stream crossings along the way. When you get to the trailhead, you still have three miles of the Waimanalo coast. or so to go before you get up to the top of the ridge.

For those who are more adventurous, the Makapu’u Lighthouse area offers some lesser known experiences. Be prepared for steep inclines, muddy (and slippery) For starters, going during sunrise will enhance the terrain, treacherous segments with cliffs on either side experience of this hike immensely. The colors of the of the trail. Some of these areas have ropes to help sky, the shade of the water and the smell of fresh hikers along but don’t assume they are all in good ocean air in the morning will astonish most. You condition. The view of the surrounding mountains can also take a few side trips in the area. The first and the valley along the way is breathtaking. When destination is Alan Davis Beach. The path to this you’re at the top, if it’s not cloudy, you’ll see a radio beach is located near the parking lot. A long but tower in the distance. At this point, you’re aout flat walk takes you to a peaceful beach area. There halfway through the hike if you’re planning on getting are cliffs to explore and a mostly flat beach to hang closer to the Stairway to Heaven. out with friends and family.

As you walk along to ridge toward the radio tower, Next is the Makapu’u tidepools, accessible via a you’ll be able to see Kaneohe all the way up to Kualoa steep hike down from a whale watching station near Ranch and some parts of Kailua. The ocean is dark the top of the main hike. There is blowhole by the blue, while Kaneohe Bay is an assortment of light tidepools and is it named Dragon’s Nostrils due to and dark blue. The Ko’olaus stand on the side, dark the two holes through which the water blows out. green and sometimes peppered with waterfalls.

When you’re down here, you get an different view of This view is awarded to those willing to make the the lighthouse. The tide pools have clear water most long but legal journey. (Remember, it is illegal to of the time and are home to a variety of marine life be on the stairs.) so bring your snorkels if you want to take a peek.

This hike provides a great backdrop for scenic photos Things to look out for here are the tides and waves. but bear in mind the difficulty of the hike and the The surf can get huge here so stay away from the weather conditions when deciding what camera pools closest to the ocean. Make sure to bring water equipment to bring.

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This view awaits those who are willing to head up to the Makapu’u Lighthouse area for the sunrise.

(Back cover) Blowhole at the Makapu’u Tidepools. PHOTOGRAPHs BY JARIN ASHIMINE (‘20).

HO’OMALUHIA BOTANICAL GARDENS If you want to go outdoors but aren’t into hiking, this botanical garden in Kaneohe is a beautiful place with lots of things to do and see. The 400-acre garden offers all sorts of activities, from camping (with a permit), catch and release pole fishing, a nature walk, a nature drive, and a site for great photography.

The road into and through the garden is relaxing drive and provides a quick escape from urban Oahu. The first parking lot you come to is the main parking lot, and this is where the visitor center is located. This is also where you would park if you’re headed to the pond. Visitors can rent bamboo fishing poles at the visitor center for a small fee. This is also a great spot for family outings as there are pavilions and picnic tables.

Past this parking lot, there many more places to stop and explore, not to mention the wealth of interesting plants found throughout the gardens.

OLOMANA PEAK This 2.5 mile hike is another advanced trip that requires good fitness and experience. Be prepared to climb in some spots using your hands and feet. Again, there are ropes along the way but don’t assume they are reliable as they are not maintained by anyone.

The first peak is where most people stop and the view from there is second to none. Your 360 degree vantage point­—a small area surrounded by steep drop-offs—includes Kailua, Kaneohe, Waimanalo and the Ko’olaus.

Some hikers go on to the next two peaks but the route is treacherous due to crumbling rocks and dangerous cliff faces.

Parking at Olomana is a challenge within itself. Access to the trailhead is via the driveway of a private golf club so there is no parking there. If possible, hikers should get dropped off or take the bus, as the public road leading up to the private driveway does not allow parking either.

SOME ADVICE AND TIPS * Aside from Ho’omaluhia, all of the hikes here do not have access to bathrooms so be prepared. * Pack enough food and water. * Someone in your group should bring a basic first aid kit, or have one in the car. * Bring bug spray. * Bring a portable phone charger, especially if you plan to take a lot of pictures or videos. * Bring a flash light if you attempt the sunrise missions. * Dress appropriately and wear the right shoes if there will be rough, wet or muddy terrain. * DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! It’s important to do your homework before you go. There are lots of resources online. * Respect the ‘aina by picking up your trash or other trash you find on the trail. Minimize any impact you may have on the enviroment. * Stay on the path, and always look for trail markers. * Use your common sense; don’t proceed if things do not look safe or if you’re unsure. * Check the weather conditions before you go. Obey flash flood warnings. * Don’t hike alone and always make sure someone knows where you are going and when to expect your return.

→ Grace Glenn (‘22) RECIPE

FOOLPROOF DARK CHOCOLATE FUDGE RECIPE From Borden Inc. INGREDIENTS 3 cups semi sweet chocolate chips 1 can (4oz) sweetened condensed milk Dash of salt 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or almonds) 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract ILLUSTRATION & PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE GLENN (‘22).

If you’re looking to make a quick but decadent dessert, try this easy fudge recipe. There’s no baking involved; all you need for cooking is a stove and a pot, and some time to let the fudge solidify in the fridge.

Measure out three cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips.

STEP 4 Stir until fully mixed then pour the mixture into an 8 to 9-inch square pan, lined with aluminium foil.

STEP 2 Chop up the nuts.

STEP 5 Let the mixture cool in the fridge for two hours or until it is solid.

STEP 3 Melt the chocolate chips in a medium sauce pan.

Once the chocolate is melted, add the chopped nuts, sweetened condensed milk, salt, and vanilla extract.

STEP 6 Once it hardens, cut the mixture into equal square portions and serve in individual cupcake liners.

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STEP 1

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