The Talon | Issue 2 | October 24, 2017 The Talon

Los Altos High School, Los Altos, CA ■ OCTOBER 24, 2017 ■ Volume XXXIII, Issue 2

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Approaching math with pragmatism: Review, resiliency and financial literacy Elective math course Essential Math Concepts prepares students for math placement exams at junior colleges.

JOCELYN MAEYAMA Staff Writer

YAMASAKI

Math teacher Betty Yamasaki won Teacher of the Year for her prioritization of individual student success. News, 2

A teen-friendly Los Altos Amidst the new downtown revisioning process, In-Depth Editor Javin Pombra advocates for teen-friendly improvements to Los Altos. Opinions, 6

Overcoming firstgeneration obstacles Senior writer Emily Meza-Perez navigates the struggles of being a first-generation student applying to college. Opinions, 7

Berea College Berea College offers a Tuition Promise Scholarship, in which students work jobs to cover their tuition. Features, 12

Little Mozart

When math teacher Betty Yamasaki heard from junior college representatives that incoming college freshmen tested at a significantly lower level of math than they completed in high school, she started to work on a solution with special education teacher Dan Carter.

“There was this one story of this girl who took calculus here, and she placed at a Geometry level in the placement exam for math at the junior college,” Yamasaki said.

Last year, Yamasaki and Carter introduced the result: a course called Essential Math Concepts.

Students planning to enter junior colleges — two-year colleges that offer Associate’s degrees — must take a math placement test to bypass prerequisite classes they already took in high school. The new course aims to help seniors place well in those tests and incorporates lessons on pragmatic skills such as strategies to build resiliency and financial literacy.

KATRINA ARSKY

Special education teacher Dan Carter helps senior Leslie Rojas Naranjo review for the junior college math placement exam. Essential Math Concepts supplements review with lessons on developing financial literacy and building resiliency.

As far as Yamasaki and Carter know, it’s the first of its kind.

At the beginning of the course, students take a placement exam to determine the concepts they

already know. The exam’s results are synchronized with a program called MyFoundations, which presents review topics through videos, practice problems and

Emily Macway’s path to teaching

Seniors Rose and Ray William share their love for music with underprivileged youth.

Features, 13

Mental Health in Hip Hop Typically stereotyped by excessive materialism and crude behavior, hip hop artists like Kid Cudi and Kendrick Lamar have pushed a new front: discussing mental illness and self awareness. Arts & Culture, 16

Fenty

Rihanna’s new makeup line Fenty offers over 40 shades of foundation, gaining unprecedented popularity on social media for its inclusivity. Arts & Culture, 17

Kevin Andrews Kevin Andrews has made an impact as the only freshman on the varsity cross country team.

Sports, 19

UPCOMING EVENTS October 25

Concert Band & String Orchestra Fall Concert October 26

Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Band, & Wind Ensemble Fall Concert October 31

Halloween

November 5

Daylight Saving Time Ends November 6

Food Drive Starts November 11

Veterans Day News Editorial Opinions

2 5 6

Features 9,12 In-Depth 10 Arts & Culture 14 Sports 18

KYLIE AKIYAMA

Math teacher Emily Macway helps freshman Elana Eisenberg with an assignment. Macway began as a student teacher at Los Altos under math teacher Betty Yamasaki and now teaches full time.

ALEX LUNA EMMA KWAN Sports Editor Senior Writer

Emily Macway would start her mornings at Los Altos and finish her nights at Santa Clara University every school day last year. Her schedule, from teaching Algebra 2 at 8 a.m. to taking classes until 10 p.m., is common for a student teacher. The experience, while tiring, taught Macway essential skills to become a full time teacher at Los Altos.

As a student teacher under a SCU program, Macway taught Algebra 2 and Trigonometry Honors classes under the supervision of math teacher Betty Yamasaki. After those periods, she would go to Santa Clara for evening classes. Although the road to becoming a teacher was not easy, Macway dedicated time to her

profession by taking math teach- felt unsure of how to talk to stuing method, psychology and ethics dents who needed help, but soon classes at SCU while aiding Yama- found the courage to engage with saki in the classroom. students to become a “It was very exbetter instructor. hausting at times,” “I was hesitant about Macway said. “I was It was very even approaching stuhere every morning, dents with classroom exhausting at teaching three perimanagement conods, and in the eve- times. I was cerns, or [if ] I see that nings, I would have here every they’re struggling,” class until 10 p.m. I morning, Macway said. “Somewas just constantly teaching three times you just have working, [but] it was to jump in and call those mornings that I periods. them out, or just ask — math teacher was here that I loved them… A lot of those Emily Macway the most.” experiences in student While Macway obteaching gave me the served Yamasaki during first se- courage to now approach students mester, she took on the challenge with questions and really find out of teaching second semester. Once what I can do to get to know them she took over, she found it difficult as a [person].” to approach students about class“Macway” continues on page 12 room or at home concerns. She

other learning resources. Students must take a quiz to demonstrate their mastery of each topic.

“Concepts”

continues on page 4

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The Talon October 24, 2017

Get daily LAHS updates and read the news archives at lahstalon.org/category/news

Betty Yamasaki wins Teacher of the Year

District commends long-time math teacher for prioritizing individual success “It’s not me,” Yamasaki said.

“Honestly, I think it’s a representation of what I received here. Ms. Math teacher Betty Yamasaki re- Satterwhite’s philosophy that the ceived the 2017 Teacher of the Year wellness of the student matters Award for the MVLA School Dis- and having this common goal is trict and was honored at an awards a message she’s given me over the course of the years ceremony last month, I’ve been here. I think for her prioritization that’s why I got the of individual student success.

Anyone can see award.”

But senior Maddy As the Math De- how much she Dees said she bepartment Coordinagenuinely cares lieves the award was tor, Yamasaki eased given to Yamasaki the math department about kids and due to her committhrough the transi- teaching. ment to her stution to Common Core — senior Maddy Dees dents. Maddy took curriculum and rose Yamasaki’s Math Esto the challenges set

by Principal Wynne Satterwhite to sentials class last year, a course get all students to pass Geometry, designed to prepare students then Algebra II. She also helped for placement tests at junior colincorporate new classes into Los leges, along with incorporating Altos’ curriculum, including the real-world math.

“She always found time to help computer science courses, the Math Essentials course and three me specifically even though she had a class full of 30 kids,” Maddy said. engineering courses.

Maddy said Yamasaki pushed While Yamasaki currently teaches Algebra I, Algebra I Enhanced her to challenge herself and learn and Math Essentials, she has more than in other math classes taught every college preparatory she had taken, asking her to take level of math from pre-algebra to on more difficult problems to decalculus in her 22 years teaching in velop her skills. Maddy also said she loves Yamasaki’s passion for the school district.

When asked what she did to teaching and helping her students.

“Anyone can see how much she receive the award, Yamasaki was quick to attribute the achievement genuinely cares about kids and teaching,” Maddy said. “She’s alto the school.

JOCELYN MAEYAMA Staff Writer

ways in a good and happy mood which makes my day and makes the subject that much better.”

Yamasaki’s work as Math Department Coordinator also exemplifies her commitment to teaching. Math teacher Eunice

Lee said she was “phenomenal” in her leadership skills and added her own personal touches to the role.

“It's not an easy role to take on, but she did it with professionalism and hard work,” Lee said in an

email. “She would always attend meetings and share information with us in a timely manner. In addition, she made sure to remember our birthdays and organized mini celebrations throughout the school year.”

COURTESY BETTY YAMASAKI

Math teacher Betty Yamasaki stands with Superintendent Jeff Harding and MVLA School Board President Debbie Torok at the Heritage Theater in Campbell, where she received her award on Thursday, September 14. Yamasaki was awarded Teacher of the Year for her prioritization of individual student success.

News Briefing Recap: October and September Inaugural STEM Fair Los Altos hosted its first STEM Fair on Monday, October 16, featuring STEM courses and clubs including Advanced Scientific Investigations (ASI), Biotech, Robotics, and 3D Design and Prototyping.

The fair intended to showcase STEM opportunities students can access on campus, especially as Los Altos’ engineering department expands. This year, the fair only featured Los Altos classes, but fair coordinator and chemistry teacher Danielle Paige hopes to bring in local colleges and organizations in the future.

“Sometimes we feel that it might be daunting for students to listen to these [STEM Week] speakers,” Paige said. “Students think, ‘I have all these years of college to get through and all these things I still have to accomplish. How do I even get started?’”

Homecoming parade canceled; game postponed The Homecoming Parade was canceled and the football game was postponed to Thursday, November 9, at 2:30 p.m. at Los Altos due to air quality concerns from wildfires in Mendocino, Napa and Sonoma Counties, Assistant Principal Suzanne Woolfolk said.

All indoor and outdoor physical activity in P.E. classes and athlet-

ics were also canceled. The top two Homecoming Seniors, Maddie Chu and Juan Palominos, were announced at Saturday’s dance.

Fire at Egan A fire at Egan Junior High School almost destroyed an entire classroom after a boarding locker caught flames, on the weekend of Saturday, September 30, resulting in the demolition of an entire wall by the fire department to contain the blaze.

Unknown individuals came to the school and began lighting objects on fire near room 22, Principal Keith Rocha said, citing physical evidence found at the scene.

Over a series of several hours, the locker began to smolder, causing the back of the classroom to catch fire. The roof caught fire, and its highly flammable insulation burned down parts of the ceiling.

“The classroom is a total loss,” Rocha said. “The back of the classroom is completely shredded, ripped to pieces because the firefighters had to go back in and rip off the walls to make sure nothing else burned inside.”

The Santa Clara County Fire Department is offering a $10,000 reward to anyone who can provide information that leads to arrest and conviction.

New and Upcoming Facilities plan unveiled The MVLA School District unveiled a proposal at a planning meeting on Wednesday, October 4, to create a two-story student services and administrative build-

ing to replace current administrative offices, create a two-story classroom building to replace the current 600 wing and portables and enlarge the small gym.

The proposal comes in light of the district’s expectation that the student population will grow to 4,576 students by the 2021-2022 school year. The proposed student services and administrative build-

ing is intended to provide more space for students to socialize, study and eat.

The changes are part of a preliminary version of the Facilities Master Plan, which will create a roadmap for the district’s facilities for the next decade. Architects presented the final Facilities Master Plan at the board meeting Monday.

KRISTEN FAN

A fire at Egan Junior High School significantly damaged room 22 and shut down electricity and Wi-Fi for the wing, forcing teachers in four classrooms to relocate. Unknown individuals came to the school and began lighting objects on fire, based on physical evidence found at the scene, Principal Keith Rocha said.

The Talon October 24, 2017

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Los Altos Hills Mayor proposes ZIP code changes EMMA KWAN Senior Writer

Creating accurate demographic data: Census and demographic data is collected by ZIP code, so changing the ZIP code would allow for more accurate data.

Los Altos Hills Mayor Gary Waldeck has announced plans to change the ZIP codes of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills to match their city boundaries, and will propose Decreasing insurance rates: the change at a joint City Council Los Altos Hills insurance rates meeting in Novemwould decrease due ber. The proposal has to its lower crime garnered controversy, rate, as insurance as Los Altos Hills The same companies determine council members berates partially by lieve the change may reason that it ZIP codes. Los Altos prove difficult for would be benehas 11.25 crimes per residents who need to ficial — the fact 1,000 people, while update their address- that the ZIP Los Altos Hills has es to family members crimes per 1,000 code is used for 7.36 or friends. people, city analytics The two cities cur- so many things website Neighborrently share ZIP — is why it hoodscout said. codes 94022 and might be pain94024, but the lack ful to change Increasing propof separate identierty value: Los Alties creates problems our ZIP code. tos properties would for both communi— Los Altos Hills increase in value Council Member ties, Waldeck said. as Los Altos Hills Robert Spreen ZIP codes aren’t only homes are worth less used for mailing, they in dollars per acre. reflect how communities are per- Property values are determined ceived and thus have economic by ZIP code. consequences. Waldeck believes the ZIP code change would benResident safety: Residents in efit the cities and residents in the Hills are threatened by latefive main ways, outlining the rea- night mail deliveries, as residents sons in a document to city coun- that pick up their mail in the evecil members titled “Rationale for nings are in danger of being hit by seeking Unique but Different ZIP passing cars. The post office takes Codes for the Los Altos and Los requests for mail to be delivered Altos Hills Communities:” earlier by ZIP code.

Clarifying sales tax jurisdictions: Sales tax is currently divided

by ZIP code jurisdiction, not city, leading to tax payments that do not go to the correct city.

But Los Altos Hills Council Member Courtenay C. Corrigan was unsure that potential costs in legal counsel and logistics would be worth the benefits of the change.

“The city will incur costs both by having to engage our staff and even possibly legal counsel to pursue this,” Corrigan said. “[There’s also the] cost to individual homeowners to have to spend time changing their address with all the people that mail them.”

Waldeck said the cost would be minimal, as most of the work of changing mail routes would be on post offices.

“There’s no evidence of a financial cost other than the posting that says change my ZIP code,” Waldeck said.

“That would be about it. There’s no cost to the cities, there’s no cost in terms of the post office, the cost for changing routes is internal [to the post office.]”

Residents would need to pay for the cost of informing non-commercial mail sources of their address change, but Waldeck said most commercial sources as well as credit cards should update addresses automatically. The post office will continue delivering mail for one year to the original address to give time for residents to inform family and friends of the change.

ANNE SCHILL, JASMINE SHEN

Maps show how the proposed ZIP code change would affect Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. Los Altos Hills Mayor Gary Waldeck believes the change would benefit residents by creating distinct identities for each city, granting economic advantages and increasing safety, but other councilmembers argue the change would be a “hassle.”

ANNE SCHILL, MAX WEIRAUCH

To gauge residents’ opinions, Los Altos Hills Mayor Gary Waldeck sent out a survey about his proposal to change ZIP codes on neighborhood social networking site NextDoor.

Los Altos Hills Council Member Robert Spreen was concerned by the “hassle” associated with changing the ZIP code. He believes that manually updating ZIP codes will cause more difficulty to residents and that the benefits of the change may not be worth it.

“The same reason that it would be beneficial — the fact that the ZIP code is used for so many things — is why it might be painful having to change our ZIP code in all those systems,” Spreen said in an email. “How many letters won’t be delivered after the oneyear forwarding period due to senders (like, say, family members) who don’t update their contact info? How many people won’t understand the benefits of the change, and thus see it as a lot of hassle for nothing?”

Municipality and community leaders must write to one of 80 USPS district managers to request for the ZIP code change, where district managers evaluate the viability and reasoning of the request, Congressional Research Service (CRS) Report “Changing Postal ZIP Code Boundaries” said.

If Waldeck’s proposal is approved by district managers, a formal survey will be sent through the post office to affected residents, requiring a simple majority to pass.

The CRS report also identifies a few issues that might prevent citizens from agreeing to change the ZIP code, stating that the resident survey “might reveal that most cus-

tomers would prefer not to notify their correspondents, change their magazine subscriptions, replace their stationery, go to a different post office to pick up left-notice mail or perhaps to identify with a different ‘community identity.’”

Proposals must be sent to district managers by December this year to have the ZIP code changed in July next year.

Waldeck will seek majority votes at the Los Altos and Los Altos Hills joint council meeting in November.

If both councils approve the change affected residents will receive surveys from the post office, asking them to vote “yes” or “no” to the proposed change. If only one council were to approve the change, residents would be asked to vote on implementing a new 940 ZIP code in their city.

A few months ago, citizens’ reactions to the change were mixed when Waldeck sent out a survey to residents on NextDoor, a neighborhood social networking site.

Corrigan believes that many residents will not feel strongly enough about their ZIP code to warrant going through the process.

“I don’t really think people care,” Corrigan said. “Very rarely do people refer to themselves as ZIP codes. Mayor Waldeck made some compelling arguments that if true, I think are really interesting but I don’t know if [they are] in fact accurate. I said I’m willing to hear from residents, but if they don’t want it, I don’t see any value in spending time or money pursuing it.”

Transfer policy from Los Altos to MVHS proposed Seventy-eight slots may open next year to alleviate overcrowding at Los Altos

that every year we’re increasing our enrollment by another 50, 60, 70, 80 students. Well three years from now, Superintendent Jeff Harding we have a big problem here.”

The transfers would be open to has proposed an intradistrict transfer policy that would open current Los Altos students and in78 slots to students who want to coming freshmen awarded through transfer from Los Altos to Moun- a random lottery if more than 78 tain View High School to allevi- people apply.

The change would mostly affect ate Los Altos’ overcrowding issue, students who go to Blach Junior starting next year.

High School but must Harding’s proposal attend Los Altos — a responds to the sympminority since most toms of the 300-stuBlach students attend dent difference be- What we’re MVHS — because of tween Los Altos and trying to do is district lines.

MVHS’ populations, to be forward “I started to miss with Los Altos’ facilities my old group more already at maximum thinking. and wanted to go back capacity struggling to — Superintendent Jeff Harding to Mountain View,” a accommodate new freshman from Blach students. Students can currently only switch schools if they who requested anonymity said. “Behave a sibling that goes to the other ing in a different school, it's harder school or emotional distress at the to communicate with them or get together because of different schedules present school.

“What we’re trying to do is to be so it's been difficult.”

The MVLA School Board voted on forward thinking,” Harding said.

“The demographics study shows the policy on Monday, October 23.

DANIELA GLOSTER Staff Writer

ASHLEY CAI

Due to overcrowding issues at Los Altos that have drained facilities and resources, Superintendent Jeff Harding proposed a transfer policy starting next year that would open 78 slots for Los Altos students to attend Mountain View High School instead.

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The Talon October 24, 2017

Conversation about double block schedule continues said he believes a change in the block schedule will give students more learning opportunities beStaff, administration and par- cause they can finish entire lesents are debating the possible sons in one sitting without having expansion of the current block to revisit them.

While junior Adrienne Mitchel schedule to cover four days, from Tuesday to Friday, instead of two agrees with Messner, she also sees at both the school and district the negatives of having 90-minute level. Although the possibility has periods four days a week.

“With block days you get less been discussed for at least four years, teachers and administrators homework, and you also have are uncertain about when changes more time to focus on a specific topic,” Adrienne said. will be made.

“But block days can Students surveyed get very long and by the school’s Stress boring, and I don’t and Wellness Com- A lot of people know how well peomittee two years on both cample will be able to ago said they would puses are concentrate.” learn more material realizing that Other teachers and and be less stressed this bell schedstudents share conwith a changed block cerns that teachers schedule because they ule we’ve had are not prepared to would have more time for close to 20 teach such long class in a class period as well years could be periods and that stuas outside of school to improved. dents will struggle grasp concepts.

— English teacher without daily practice “A lot of people on Margaret Bennett of course material. both campuses are “Teachers need to realizing that this bell schedule we’ve had for close to 20 be supported,” Assistant Princiyears could be improved,” English pal Suzanne Woolfolk said. “With teacher Margaret Bennett said. “A regards to it being boring, I think lot of us feel that if you look around students will very quickly see the benefits of actually having time campus, there’s a frantic feeling.”

History teacher Mike Messner to discuss the homework or move

NOELLE HANSON Staff Writer

Concepts CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT PAGE Students study at their own pace with help from two instructional aides along with whole-class review, with a minimum — but often surpassed — requirement of passing one quiz per week.

The teachers rotate through the classroom and help students who are struggling with concepts.

They work with students individually or pull together small groups of students struggling with the same concept.

Yamasaki and Carter also select topics to review for the entire class. They assign homework on these topics, typically pre-algebra and algebra concepts, and review the assignment the next day.

“The homework covers the gen-

between two lessons. By practice, I am a language teacher and I’ve seen gains by offering more in-depth [lessons] and not losses when it’s three days a week versus four.”

Mountain View High School has

made a transition to include a tutorial period this year which makes it impossible for them to also prepare for another big change regarding the school day schedule.

“We keep getting stopped at the

district level,” Woolfolk said. “The board would like both schools, the large schools, to do things the same. So Mountain View would have to try at the same time and they are not ready.”

ASHLEY CAI, ANNE SCHILL

A preliminary outline of potential changes to the bell schedule is shown above. The changes would result in one day with a normal Monday schedule and alternating even and odd period block days for the rest of the week.

eral topics that we think are nec- dents may have struggled learnessary to be supportive of their ing the first time. general understanding of core “Ninety minutes of straight topics,” Carter said. math is pretty brutal, so I thought Because Essential Math Con- ‘Can we break it up and give them cepts is an elective class, Yama- stuff that would be applicable to saki and Carter wanted students what they’re doing?’” Carter said. to get even more out of the course “I think so far students look forthan just being preward to it because it’s pared for junior colsomething different. lege math placement “Sometimes stutests; they wanted Sometimes dents have never their students to be students have thought about resilprepared for life be- never thought ience before, but at yond high school. about resilience the end of the year To make sure their they have their own before, but at students are resilient working definition of enough to be success- the end of the resiliency and that in ful in the course and year they have itself is huge.” beyond, they inte- their own workTo teach resiliency, grated part of Carter’s Yamasaki and Carter ing definition resiliency curriculum discuss stories about from his Life Skills of it. students who overclass into Essencame obstacles. Stu— special education teacher Dan Carter tial Math Concepts. dents learn about The course revolves aspects of resiliency around self-guided learning and including relationships and inderequires returning to topics stu- pendence in order to understand

how to utilize resiliency. in real life?’ and so we thought For students, participating in that there's a need to teach [fithese discussions about resil- nancial literacy] in this class,” iency can involve a Carter said. level of vulnerabilYamasaki and ity not common in Carter teach finanother math classes. We always hear cial literacy second To make sure their students say, semester through students feel com- ‘When are we EverFi, an online fortable in the class, program where the Yamasaki and Carter even going to entire class works take time to build a do this in real at the same pace community within life?’ and so we through modules their classroom. Stu- thought that on credit, taxes and dents share their other important fithere’s a need “chills and thrills” nancial skills. of the weekend ev- to teach [finanIn order to better ery Monday — low cial literacy] in their course, Yamasapoints and exciting this class. ki and Carter are tryevents that they exing to figure out how — special education perienced. to best seek feedback teacher Dan Carter Alongside resilfrom students and juiency, Yamasaki and nior colleges to evalCarter incorporated another uate and improve it. practical life skill into Essential “That's our big goal at the end Math Concepts: financial literacy. of the year: how do we know this “We always hear students say, is working, and if not, how do we ‘When are we ever going to do this improve it?” Carter said.

ADVERTISEMENT

KATRINA ARSKY

Senior Cristal Acevedo Erostico works on a math problem in Essential Math Concepts. The individually paced course, designed to prepare students for the placement exams required by junior colleges, also incorporates lessons on resilience and financial literacy into its curriculum.

The Talon October 24, 2017

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Please send letters to the editor to editorial@lahstalon.org LOS ALTOS HIGH SCHOOL

ASB has disappointed Los Altos by reinstating gender-based homecoming voting After a class vote and revote, ASB decided against having gender-neutrally chosen Homecoming Seniors. It’s a step back for Homecoming's inclusivity.

The decision comes after ASB was lauded for taking out the gender binary aspects of Homecoming: placing nominees into couples and losing the “King”

and “Queen” titles. And after the senior nominees were chosen without regard for gender, it seemed ASB had charted a path toward inclusivity for years to come. Yet for the two Homecoming Seniors — the pinnacle of the festivities — ASB shrunk away from including all students on campus.

To know that the largest group Los Altos community. While of campus leaders feels uncom- ASB claims it’s constrained by fortable imagintraditions, those ing two Hometraditions only coming Seniors serve to exclude that aren’t a girl- While ASB claims transgender, nonguy pair is more it’s constrained by binary gender and than dishearten- traditions, those non-heterosexual ing — it’s a disap- traditions only students. pointment to the ASB’s decision serve to exclude to remove the tratransgender, ditional “King” non-binary and and “Queen” titles is still comnon-heterosexual mendable.

The students. larger groups with a focus on court members’ campus contributions was refreshing.

Yet when it comes to Los Altos’ choice of the best school representatives, ASB balked.

Yes, it takes courage to establish gender-neutral chosen Homecoming Seniors. But ASB needed to push past reservations to create important change and include genderqueer students. For good leadership, courage is expected.

Outspoken and supportive, Los Altos’ march fostered campus solidarity for DACA recipients After President Donald Trump see so many speak in solidarity placed Los Altos’ DACA recipi- for the rights of DACA recipients ents at risk of on campus, and deportation this it’s even more inSeptember, Los to see the DACA recipients play spiring Altos rallied back. number of camIn an important vital roles in socipus groups that feat of activism, ety... and their rights came together: students and staff are as inalienable as Teachers in Solimarched and darity, Black any citizen’s. spoke out for unStudent Union, documented imLatino Student migrants’ fundaUnion, Social Inmental rights. Our U.S. Congress justice Club and Haiti Solidarity representative Anna Eshoo’s Club. The organizational efforts words speak to the admirable from both student and teacher achievement of activism resulted Los Altos’ proin a forceful mestesters. sage of solidarity “Our future de- Los Altos’ protestand compassion. pends on the con- ers have been exemStill, the stutinued advocacy dents and teachand engagement plary in creating a ers who protested of young people supportive and outrepresent only and I’m so proud spoken community a fraction of the that you chose to for those at risk. school. It may be speak out on this a tall order for critical issue,” Esevery Los Altos hoo wrote to Los student to march, Altos in a letter. but it would further strengthen It’s impressive and inspiring to Los Altos’ community if more

students — even those not directly affected by the repeal — had shown support for DACA recipients. And more than ever, it’s crucial for all of us to understand and keep mindful of the risks many on campus now face.

DACA recipients play vital roles in society — they become America’s lawyers, doctors, teachers,

innovators, fathers and mothers and more — and their rights are as inalienable as any citizen’s.

We don’t just want them here, we need them here. As Eshoo fights for immigration legislation at Capitol Hill, Los Altos’ protesters have been exemplary in creating a supportive and outspoken community for those at risk.

201 Almond Ave., Los Altos, CA October 24, 2017 Volume XXXIII, Issue 2 Editor-In-Chief Alex Wong Managing Editors Akhil Jakatdar (Print) Miranda Li (Print) Avi Varghese (Web) News Editor Danny Vesurai Opinions Editor Maddie Chu Features Editor Yalda Khodadad In-Depth Editor Javin Pombra Arts & Culture Editor Emma Van Geuns Sports Editor Alex Luna Media Editor Anne Schill Copy/Content Editors Anisha Desai, Savita Govind, Yolanda Spura Business Managers Francesca Fallow, Julia Santos Senior Writers Priya Dixit, Nathan Godderis, Brian Huebner, Emma Kwan, Rachel Lu, Emily Meza-Perez, Julia Santos, Madison Woo, Justin Yu Staff Writers Mayu Alten, Isabella Borkovic, Kristen Fan, Daniela Gloster, Noelle Hanson, Daphne Ih, Jocelyn Maeyama, Zooey Nguyen, Ethan Ruyack, Mia Scher, Ian Tseng, Cathy Wang Photographers Kylie Akiyama, Katrina Arsky, Emily Aronovitz, Francesca Fallow, Kristen Fan, Rachel Lu, Hassib Rangeen, Sean Scott, Max Weirauch Graphic Artists Ashley Cai, Carissa Lee, Jasmine Shen, Max Weirauch Videographers Bobak Afshari, Nicholas Borda, Noah Tesfaye, Arjin Unlu Adviser Michael Moul

POLICIES Los Altos High School’s Compositional Journalism class is solely responsible for The Talon, which is published eight times a year. The Talon also updates its website, www.lahstalon.org, with full-time coverage.

The Editorial Board sets the policies of The Talon and crafts its editorials and thumbs. Its members are Akhil Jakatdar, Alex Luna, Miranda Li, Javin Pombra, Anne Schill, Yolanda Spura, Avi Varghese and Danny Vesurai.

ADVERTISE & SUBSCRIBE Send advertisement and subscription inquiries to Francesca Fallow and Julia Santos at business@lahstalon.org.

TALON SUPPORTERS Honorary Pulitzers Protesters march against President Donald Trump’s DACA repeal on September 29. The march fostered solidarity and was an important moment for the Los Altos community.

THUMBS UP to the EdTech committee for implementing new digital citizenship discussions This year’s digital citizenship program, organized by the EdTech committee, will featue a video of students’ experiences and a reflective discussion during a tutorial period. In changing the format from a one-sided, assembly-style lecture to small group discussion, the EdTech committee has taken important steps to educate a more receptive audience on important netiquette.

Jacqueline Denkabe, Vaishali Dixit, The Fallow Family, Kendall Goto, Jean Wong

Silver Supporters Natalie Arsky, The Carrie Family, Vaishali Dixit, Dragoli Family, Shawna Hui, Cleo Kiros, Leigh Anne Miller, Sepideh Mostashiri, Uma Panda, Jasmeen Pombra, Susan Stark and Jerry Scher, Irene Shih, Deirdre Crommie and Randall Stafford, Ruxandra Tico, Jelle Van Geuns

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The Talon October 24, 2017

Read more opinions articles at lahstalon.org/category/opinions

Downtown Los Altos: Don’t forget the teenagers JAVIN POMBRA In-Depth Editor

On a Friday night, it’s common to see barren parking lots in downtown Los Altos. Quite frankly, it’s common any night.

Los Altos has made it a mission to become a family-friendly town, but a large demographic is missing from that family: teenagers.

High schoolers and middle schoolers who attend school in Los Altos often travel miles to Mountain View, Palo Alto or beyond to find coffee shops and stores more friendly to their age group. Teenagers without car access must be begrudgingly satisfied with the antique shops within walking distance from them.

As Los Altos begins to plan the visioning process for its downtown, a procedure that will create the image of downtown for years to come, it’s especially important now to consider teenagers’ desires for our city.

Looking to neighboring cities, it isn’t hard to find ways to make Los Altos a bit more teenfriendly. The most important feature that we lack is places for teenagers to stay for hours, doing homework, playing cards or just talking.

For instance, take Red Rock Cafe in Mountain View. The second

floor, large and spacious, is the perfect place to go to after school and do chemistry notes with friends.

The Mountain View library is similarly more teen-friendly than our own, having a number of conference rooms that teenagers can use for free to do work in.

Creating places like Red Rock and modeling our library after Mountain View’s is a good start.

Large green spaces and outdoor seating can also be the perfect destination for a sunny afternoon. The First Street Green Project that was proposed ear-

lier this year, for example, would help our city become more attractive to teenagers.

New, larger coffee shops and public places would also allow for other indoor events such as open mics or movie nights. Los Altos has multiple art festivals and car shows throughout the year, all dedicated to older populations.

It wouldn’t be difficult to host, say, music festivals as Palo Alto does, or to allow teenage bands to perform in green spaces.

It’s also important to be mindful of how open retail spaces are

used. Los Altos is plastered with town more enjoyable for my age group. antique shops O b v i o u s l y, and art galleries building multi— and more, vaple coffee shops cancies. Why not Creating places like and expandgive one of these Red Rock and modeling the library spaces to stores ing our library after along with addthat are more Mountain View’s is ing a park is a directed to teenlot to ask. But agers? Adding a a good start. Large boba place to Los green spaces and out- even with just a new boba place, Altos or more door seating can also Los Altos could teen-friendly re- be the perfect desbe a town for tail spaces could tination for a sunny antique-enthugo a long way siasts as well as in making the afternoon. boba-lovers.

The number of teenagers in Los Altos will only grow. The city’s population is changing: more and more families are moving to the town, attracted by career opportunities.

The prospect of making Los Altos teen-friendly isn’t only something teenagers can benefit from. More feet on the streets of Los Altos will always be a plus for our town revenue and the attractiveness of retail spaces in Los Altos.

Beyond just dollar signs and decimals, a teen-friendly Los Altos creates a more cohesive town culture — a town where groups of senior citizens and seniors in high schools can sit at nearby tables in a coffee shop laughing and talking for hours. The best way to make Los Altos this picturesque, family-friendly town is ASHLEY CAI to make it friendly for everyone.

Pros of a politically correct punchline inclusive version of comedy. This shift in progress comes only at the cost of PRIYA DIXIT bruising the egos of people who think Senior Writer that society makes too big a deal out of observing political correctness.

An example of a comedian who Amidst the chaos of contemporary overstepped the boundaries of popolitics, comedians are attempting litical correctness is Dave Chappelle, to voice their opinions and establish whose insensitive comments about a spectrum of perspectransgender people in tives on current events. the military — perpetuA byproduct of this ating several misconphenomenon is the Consistently air- ceptions — provoked trend of comedians toe- ing borderline outrage. ing the line between A misconception hateful and fulloffensive humor and concerning the arguwhat’s considered po- on insensitive ment over political corcontent in the litically correct. rectness’ role in comedy This raises the ques- name of humor is that satire and comtion — is political cor- allows marginedy are synonymous — rectness strengthening that is to say, comedy is comedy, or is it holding alized people to inherently satirical. The it back? And more im- fall into untrue reality is the contrary: portantly, why does it and harmful satire involves taking a matter? Opponents of generalizations subject, usually a conpolitical culture argue troversial one, and usthat PC culture ruins in the eyes of ing irony in order to comedy because people those who condemonstrate an acceshave to walk on egg- sume comedy. sible argument about shells to avoid offendreality. It’s a higher staning people. After all, dard of comedy than they argue, it’s only satire. Isn’t there your casual joke on race, or, in the case freedom of speech? of some comedians, offensive slurs or But observing at least some part generalizations. of political correctness in comedy is So if your favorite comedian or talk a better alternative to a definition of show host is tossing around slurs to comedy that eschews it to be inten- gain a cheap laugh between sets, or tionally offensive. Political correct- even using slurs in a punchline, it ness, despite its negative, humor- cannot be written off as satire. Using restricting reputation, provides an transphobic language to further a joke

ASHLEY CAI

is not equivalent to taking an ideal and critiquing it.

When it comes to comedians and talk show hosts being overly offensive, consider how many -isms and -phobias lace their routine. For all intents and purposes, racist, homophobic or transphobic slurs, and outdated and derogatory terms such as “retarded” in the name of humor can be categorized as overtly offensive and not in accordance with the culture of political correctness. It’s not just that they don’t fall in accordance with a societal rule: rejecting political correctness in comedy continually reinforces stereo-

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types against minorities.

Consistently airing borderline hateful and full-on insensitive content in the name of humor allows marginalized people to fall into untrue and harmful generalizations in the eyes of those who consume comedy. The dehumanizing aspects of comedy aren’t restricted to a 10-minute riff about transgender people in the military: the harmful stereotypes and generalizations depicted play out into public perception of groups that struggle to find positive and accurate representation. Comedy and satire are accessible ways for people to be exposed to new

ideas and opinions. With a more inclusive version, we can take a step toward a more equitable and less judgemental society. Political correctness is one way to get there.

Politically correctness in comedy is not as boring or limiting as its opponents make it out to be. Being conscious of the experiences and opinions of others and employing thoughtfully and critically crafted satire does not break any “rules” of political correctness. If your punchline relies on disparaging minorities, it wasn’t a very good one in the first place.

If you would like to write about your stance on an issue that’s affecting students at our school, email Opinions Editor Maddie Chu at opinions.lahstalon@gmail.com with a summary of your idea.

7

The Talon October 24, 2017

Miranda Writes

Hold celebrities accountable: stop complicit consumption ANISHA DESAI JUSTIN YU

Copy/Content Editor Senior Writer

By Miranda Li

This Place Los Altos sits in an odd overlap between the cozy, ranch-style houses of suburbia and the decadent wealth and privilege of the Silicon Valley. It’s the kind of place where the high school parking lot is a hodgepodge amalgam of used Craigslist Toyotas and Benz’s, where 12-year-olds use their parents’ Nikons to take Instagram pictures.

Soon, I hope to get on a plane with two large suitcases and f ly to the East Coast.

Eventually, the house I live in will become “my parents’ house.” Los Altos will become a hometown, three assonant syllables dripping with nostalgia and an escapist longing for the blissful naivete of childhood. Childhood.

I won’t see Google selfdriving cars or preteens taking pictures of themselves in Brandy Melville for months at a time, then years, and then I’ll return to the bed I slept in for 17 years and the memories will come rushing back.

But I’ll have forgotten the details of this place: the feeling of biking with a backpack on and a Starbucks in one sweating palm, the hellish gladiator ring that is the front parking lot after sixth period. These things will be gone, but their residual feeling will remain.

Because I love this place, dammit. I’ve worked for the past four years to run to the East Coast, as far away from Rainbow sandals and selfdriving cars as possible, but no matter what I tell myself, I love this place.

There are also so many things wrong with this place: Los Altos is a homogeneous bubble of wealth, STEM-centric and bland. With a subtly proud, guilty amusement we joke about our privilege: “That’s the most Los Altos thing I’ve ever seen” tends to refer to freshmen driving orange sports cars or head-to-toe Lululemon, headed to Soulcycle.

Los Altos is all of its problems but also all of the people in it, the people and places that I’ve grown up with.

It’s being a fourth grader and walking with friends to Andronico’s to buy candy and eat it on the grass, sitting on our backpacks. It might be problematic, but it’s home.

I’ve wanted to leave this town since I was old enough to walk home from Loyola.

But now that I’m on the cusp of going, I find myself grasping at the details of Los Altos, bits and pieces that will eventually slip from my fingers like fine sand. I’ll miss this place.

History is repeating itself with Harvey Weinstein’s recent scandal. Again, a successful Hollywood celebrity has stayed above the law for years. Victims’ testimonies are only now uncovering his acts of sexual assault.

Weinstein's influence in Hollywood forced actresses to keep quiet, and even worse, news outlets sat on this story for months without breaking it. Fans who consume the art of celebrities like Weinstein are implicitly supporting their acts and the message they perpetuate. The only way to bring these celebrities to jusThere are two kinds of people tice is for audiences to cut all ties.

Joseph Onfroy, known by rapper who support celebrities accused of name XXXTentacion or X, exempli- heinous crimes: those who idolize them, and then those fies this growing probwho purposely iglem. Onfroy is on trial nore their faults. for charges of sexual These fans blindly assault and battery — Fans who continue support celebrities accusations that have to consume the art because it’s easier to only caused his fame of these celebrities ignore far-away accuand success to grow. sations — audiences X’s idolizing fan- are implicitly supwould rather turn a base has long denied porting their acts blind eye than conhis girlfriend's ac- and the message front issues. When cusations, claiming coverage dies down, she is spreading lies they perpetuate. the celebrity makes a to benefit herself. It seems obvious, but fans often for- successful comeback with the supget that admirable work does not port of ignorant audiences.

Given that so many students listen equate to admirable character. It's difficult for fans to come to terms to X’s music, it’s important to ask: with their idol's faults, and their does supporting the art mean conreluctance can drive crime-commit- doning the artist’s actions? The answer is both yes and no. ting celebrities forward.

ASHLEY CAI

An artist and their art two separate entities entirely. An artist is capable of committing sexual assault and battery, but their art is merely an expression of creative skill. In a perfect world, fans could go enjoy the art without supporting the individual.

Artists always gain popularity and money because people consume their art, so whether they mean to or not, fans are directly contributing to their success, implicitly supporting them as people. An artist may not be their art, but their success is a very real part of who they are.

Success in spite of behavior is further bolstered by the entertainment industry. Take Mel Gibson as an example. When police arrested him on suspicion of driving under the influence in 2006, Gibson went on an anti-semitic rant at the arresting officer. More, Gibson's ex-girlfriend ac-

cused him of spousal battery in 2011, to which he pleaded no contest. In spite of his racist, homophobic and abusive behavior, Gibson received Hollywood’s most prestigious nomination for Best Director at the 2017 Academy Awards.

After flying under the radar for a few years, Hollywood accepted Gibson back into prominence — Gibson never faced any real consequences for his actions. While his name disappeared from the major box office titles for a time, Gibson is now back like nothing ever happened.

We need to rethink the way we treat celebrities, both in context of society and the law. Audiences shouldn't idolize celebrities, and celebrities should not receive special legal privileges. Otherwise, we hold equality back for all members of society.

Social media stars: the dangers of following false idols EMMA VAN GEUNS MAYU ALTEN Arts & Culture Editor Staff Writer

For decades now, fame has been a relatively difficult goal to achieve.

But, with the recent influx of the popularity of social media, it has become less a matter of how hard you work, and more about who can produce the most dramatic content.

As a result, we can easily add social media stars to the list of people who largely don’t deserve the attention they receive.

Those who typically occupy the largest spotlights on social media today get there by creating scandal, exploiting themselves and others in order to attract more followers.

Instead of Audrey Hepburn posters on their walls, young kids now idolize social media stars such as former Viners-turned Youtube personalities Jake Paul or Lele Pons, who have been involved in a series of highly publicized feuds.

Jake Paul, for instance, broke up with his ex-girlfriend Alissa Violet and forced her out of his house. She later admitted that he had been verbally and physically abusive to her for years and had cheated on her countless times. By exploiting their personal issues, these public figures have increased their subscriber count by the millions. Both parties are using the attention they receive from creating scandals to propel personal fame.

Creating material by sitting behind the camera can be desensitizing, removing creators from social pressures and facilitating the production of juvenile content. Many

social media stars are supported by a teenage fan base that encourages their crude behavior. For instance, Jake Paul and Team Ten, Paul’s group of digital stars that releases content featuring each other, accused Violet’s new boyfriend of physical assault with little to no evidence. Paul retreated once additional information that refuted his claims surfaced, and the issue didn’t reach court.

Juvenile content of this kind can severely affect younger audiences by demonstrating how popularity can stem from bad behavior. What young social media stars forget is that their uncorrected mistakes and wrongful actions don’t just dissolve — their audience learns to exemplify them.

Hurtful pranks and intentional stereotyping are a norm in social media culture, and it would be a mistake

to allow them to leak into American raised $2.6 million for Hurricane culture and influence children.

Harvey relief. By using these platConsequently, new forms to attract specific viewers — like young and dedicated audichildren — may ences, social media stumble upon media What young stars can raise a signifithat negatively affects social media cant amount of money the way they view the stars forget is for a good cause. world. For example, It may be fun to watching content pro- that their uncor- watch stars stir up duced by over-sexual- rected mistakes drama, but it can ized social media stars and wrongful translate into desuch as Amanda Cerny actions don’t structive norms may have a direct imfor audiences. Aljust dissolve — pact on mental health though regularly regarding body image their audience watching social learns to exemand anxiety. media stars online But social media can plify them. may grab viewers’ also be used for good. admiration, they People can start camshould keep in mind paigns to raise awareness on world that following someone online issues — look to Casey Neistat, who doesn’t mean that they should

ASHLEY CAI

The Talon October 24, 2017

First impressions: When do they matter? immediately cuts them out of the potential friendship equaYALDA KHODADAD tion, because they’ll never be Features Editor offered another opportunity to leave a good impression. But people inevitably change after you meet them, making first If you knew me in seventh impressions pretty unreliable grade, you might notice that in a social context. a lot of things have changed. I We’ve all had a rough introducno longer have braces, I cut off tion sometime in our lives, so ten inches of my hair and my when meeting someone in a casuT-shirts are no longer embla- al environment, it’d be fair to cool zoned with smiling pandas or it on the judgements if they didn’t lime-green musical notes. 11th come off as the most dandy pergrade me prefers drinking kom- son. Meeting people is scary, and bucha out of Klean Kanteens, it’s fair to say that you’d probably toting around an eco-friendly like to be given the same leniency lunchbox, and wearing her the next time around. mom’s “vintage” J. But, this isn’t to Crew sweaters. say that you can just Perhaps you did completely rely on know me in seventh I’ve learned the fact that somegrade, yet you can’t that more one might forget really remember your previous self. what I was like. And often than not, Let’s say you were I don’t blame you. people don’t not-too-nice in sevI’ve realized that as really remementh grade — you my classmates and ber what you can probably bet on I grow together, our the fact that people look like — they perceptions of each will remember your other change as we remember the not-too-niceness. If change. I’ve known way you made you were just a little many of my friends them feel. awkward though, for years but can (and I mean who only imagine them as isn’t when meeting their current selves. someone new?) you’re good to So when someone tells me go. I’ve learned that more often that “First impressions are ev- than not, people don’t really erything,” that only has limited remember what you look like application. People often as- — as Maya Angelou said, they sume that a bad first impres- remember the way you made sion in a casual introduction them feel.

This doesn’t apply in all situations. Let’s say you have a really important job interview tomorrow. You wake up late, spill coffee on your white blouse and all around have a pretty awful day.

That’s not going to give you an excuse with your potential employer. In terms of the professional working environment, you probably lost this opportunity because people looking for an employee have higher standards and less time than people looking for friends.

So, if you were mumbling

8

when you met a new classmate, petition or an application to see but hey, you didn’t who can become snap their pencil someone’s friend in half and steal first. their lunch mon- So, if you were mumAs much as first ey, you’ll be fine. bling when you met a impressions do Being awkward is new classmate, but matter in the projust part of the hu- hey, you didn’t snap fessional world, man experience. we should view their pencil in half If people didn’t first impressions make friends just and steal their lunch as a natural part because they were money, you’ll be fine. of a relationship: awkward the first they happen, time they met, they’re probably would any of us know each oth- awkward but hey — will anyone er? Probably not. It’s not a com- even remember them?

ANNE SCHILL

Overcoming obstacles as a first generation college applicant EMILY MEZA-PEREZ Senior Writer

Obstacles and challenges in life can be perceived in one of two ways: either you become overwhelmed and let them overpower your drive for success, or you become stronger and use these hardships as motivation. I have chosen the latter, but it hasn’t always been that way.

I’ve kept a part-time job since I was a sophomore, working after school and on weekends in order to help my family with whatever expenses possible. My body’s hurt from overworking myself for a job that pays minimum wage and doesn’t even require a high school diploma.

I’ve witnessed the adults I’ve worked with struggle to make sure their families have everything they need.

It’s this future of financial instability that I’m trying to avoid. The worries of living pay-

follow their ways.

JASMINE SHEN

check to paycheck paired with are a stressful experience for it has been incredibly valuable an understanding of the value all high school students, it’s to have a community throughof hard work have pushed me especially challenging for first- out high school that shares to find the resources I need to generation students. It doesn’t similar struggles to my own; it achieve a higher education. My matter if you’re capable and in- makes the dream of college less telligent if you scary and less lonely. fight with anxidon’t have the Personally, while college has ety has also chalresources for been a goal which I have had to lenged my conthe college ap- constantly push myself toward, centration and I want to prove to plication pro- it’s never been a given. The academic perfor- those who doubted cess at all. Find- thing is, I don’t have any money mance. and discriminated ing resources for college. I’ve always known My parents and my people that imand reaching that where I end up in life will my roots are my out for help is be determined by whether I ultimate motiva- migrants are here to how I’ve learned kept driven or gave up. There tion. When my work hard and be a to face my ob- are many students at Los Altos mother and fa- part of a more diverse stacles head on. who are not AVID students who ther immigrated and understanding AVID, which can still relate, but there are reto this country environment. a p p r o p r i a t e l y sources for everyone. from Mexico, stands for AdAn example is the Cash for they left behind their lives, starting from the vancement Via Individual De- College Workshop, which is held bottom in American society for termination, is the program annually at Los Altos. This year, the chance of better opportuni- that has guided me through the event was a success, and the ties. I want my parents to know the college process since I was library filled up with students their struggles were worth it a freshman. AVID is designed and parents who received help because I was able to attain a for first-generation students, in completing and submitting either the Free degree to provide me with the and provides stuApplication for connections and education for dents with tutorFederal Student a happy and comfortable life- ing for their high Aid (FAFSA) or style. I want to prove to those school courses, My AVID peers and I the California who doubted and discriminated preparation for make up 10 percent SAT/ACT of Los Altos’ student Dream Act apmy people that immigrants are the guidance plication.

Los here to work hard and be a part and body, and it has been Altos and its of a more diverse and under- through A-G requirements and incredibly valuable administration standing environment. strives to proIt’s hard to sit down and re- extracurriculars, to have a commuvide first-generf lect on the last years of high which are crucial nity throughout high ation students school when a lot of it was me for college appli- school that shares with resources freaking out about my future. cations.

Despite my similar struggles to and events that Looking back to junior year, it will provide diwas a blur of 50 percent stress parents not be- my own; it makes the rect assistance and 50 percent sleep depriva- ing able to assist dream of college less with the protion. While those factors have me through the scary and less lonely.

AVID cess. As a stuall been a part of my experience process, dent it's vital to as a first-generation student, has been the being first-generation is also the backbone of my motivation to- seek out that information and root of the insight and wisdom ward a college degree. My AVID take advantage of the free repeers and I make up 10 percent sources, and to always choose to that sets me apart from others.

While college applications of Los Altos’ student body, and view hardships as motivations.

The Talon October 24, 2017

9

Read more features articles at lahstalon.org/category/features/

Stephen Palumbi: Saving the seas with STEM KRISTEN FAN Staff Writer

Growing up near the Atlantic coast in Maryland, Stephen Palumbi always wanted to work close to the ocean. As a child, Palumbi went to the beach every week with his family, cultivating his dream to study the fascinating creatures in the sea. Now, as a Stanford marine biology professor, he hopes to channel his same passion for the ocean through his work teaching a new generation.

After graduating from John Hopkins University, Palumbi later went on to earning his Ph.D. from the University of Washington in marine ecology. Since then, he has had the opportunity to travel around the world, studying different marine organisms living in the great sea, and share his dedication with his students all around the nation.

“Biology is a broader umbrella,” Palumbi said. “For ecology, I was drawn in very early because I was surely interested in the way ocean critters interacted and what their ecosystems were like.

I was more interested in being out there in the field and studying them than anything.”

From working at University of Hawaii to Stanford University, Palumbi’s fieldwork takes him all around the globe. According to Palumbi, one major perk of working in such a global enterprise like the ocean is the experience

NICHOLAS BORDA

Stephen Palumbi talked to Los Altos during STEM week to inform the students about the increasing danger of climate change and how coral reefs can be a solution. he gets while traveling around the world, doing what he loves.

“The coolest project was going to the Japanese fish market and buying whale meat,” Palumbi said. “We put it in a suitcase in Tokyo, setting it up in a hotel room and then finding the molecular genetics of the whale meat to find out what species were there. It was a hoot, and it told us an awful lot that was very powerful in getting whales extra protection.”

As a full time professor at one of the top schools in the U.S., Palumbi hopes to share his devotion to the ecosystem with his students to carry on the importance of keeping the ocean healthy. His goal is to keep his students aware of the rising dangers and spread the message about how important it is to keep the water and the species living in it safe.

“I hope that my lectures have influenced [my students] to

want to know enough about the ocean,” Palumbi said. “To go ahead, research, learn even more, and to appreciate the diversity that is there and want to save the ocean.”

In 2002, Palumbi wrote his first book, “The Evolution Explosion: How Humans Cause Rapid Evolutionary Change,” to serve as an informative but humorous way to spread awareness to all audiences. Much like his first book, Palumbi has published three

other books about Monterey Bay and the creatures living out in the ocean, in attempt to educate a broader audience by making the subject entertaining for his readers.

“What drives me to write books, especially for non-scientists, is that scientists know an awful lot of stuff and it’s piled up into their brains,” Palumbi said. “It comes out in scientific papers, but not really many people read those.

Yet there is an incredible trove of knowledge, experiences, observations and thoughts. It's backed up there, and they don't have any other outlets, so I wrote the books in a way to be accessible, informative, and even entertaining to a broad number of people.”

Palumbi hoped that his STEM talk during sixth period today sparked conversations among students about taking actions to save the environment. He introduced a topic that he has been researching for decades: can coral reefs fight climate change?

“You guys are going to be in charge of the world,” Palumbi said. “So what I'm trying to do is to give you all as much power, ammunition, encouragement, fuel and tools to be able to approach the next 50 to 100 years.

You can't breathe without the environment. Somehow we get the idea that all we have to do is turn a switch and the environment is okay, but it's not.”

For the Miyaharas, school is a family experience NOELLE HANSON ZOOEY NGUYEN Staff Writers

For many students, the most interaction their parents have with Los Altos High is dropping their children off on campus and attending counselor and teacher meetings. For the Miyahara family, seeing each other on campus is a more frequent occurrence: sophomore Lauren and senior Ryan Miyahara’s parents are teachers.

Working on the same campus as one’s parents could at first seem like an awkward relationship. But the Miyahara parents — teachers Derek Miyahara and Joanne Miyahara — recognise the importance of their children’s independence.

“We’re trying to not be helicopter parents, which would be super easy to do, because you’re a teacher at their high school,” Mrs. Miyahara said. “We really try… to find that balance. Being interested and involved, but not micromanaging.”

The Miyahara parents try to ensure Lauren and Ryan’s high school experience is not significantly affected by their unique relationship.

For example, the Miyahara parents avoid asking their colleagues about Lauren and actively involving themselves in Lauren and Ryan’s time at school.

“We try to make them interact with the school the same way other kids interact with the school,” Mr. Miyahara said. “If she needs to buy something through the finance office, it’s pretty easy for me to do that during my prep period… but I say, ‘You’ve got to go over there just

like everybody else does.’"

Likewise, Lauren tries to stay out of her parents’ work-related discussion.

“Sometimes I'll just hear them talking in the kitchen about what’s going on, but I don't comment on anything,” Lauren said. “I don't really take in any information because I know that I'm not supposed to be hearing it.”

In other cases, avoiding a conf lict of interest is more complicated. There are no formal restrictions on children being assigned to a class that one of their parents teachers. If that were to happen, the Miyaharas say they would actively make their classes more difficult in hopes to eliminate any sense of favoritism. But Mr. and Mrs. Miyahara make sure they are never put in that situation.

But the boundaries that exist between family and school life do not isolate the Miyaharas from each other. They greet each other in the hallways, and knowing what goes on in each other’s lives has strengthened family bonds.

“It’s been nice to be able to talk more specifically about what goes on [at school]. I think often, if you ask ‘How was your day?’ You’ll get, ‘fine’” Mrs. Miyahara said. “It’s easier to find that common ground and have a conversation… because we have a shared experience.”

Both the parents and children have come to understand each other perspective in regards to school work. Mr. and Mrs. Miyahara have

FRANCESCA FALLOW

The Miyahara family, consisting of sophomore Lauren, senior Ryan, and teachers Mr. and Mrs. Miyahara is currently all at Los Altos. The Miyaharas have found that the experience of coming to the same place every morning is a unique bonding opportunity for them as a family. a better sense of student workloads because they see them placed on their own children. This viewpoint has made them more sensitive to issues like weekend homework and their students lives in general.

Lauren and Ryan can appreciate how much teachers care about students due to getting to know their parents’ colleagues and seeing how hard their parents work.

“When [Lauren] came on cam-

pus… she knew more teachers than she knew kids,” Mr. Miyahara said. “She would spend time in my classroom and she is Mr. Moul's favorite Miyahara.”

“They definitely see how much time I spend grading papers, and how we really try to be there for students,” Mrs. Miyahara said. “I think they see those same kinds of qualities in their teachers and appreciate that.”

So, while many other families with two working parents may struggle to find time to bond as a family, the Miyaharas have developed a special relationship with each other as a result of sharing a campus.

“This is a really cool experience that all four of us get to share together,” Lauren said.

“It's just nice to have something to relate to as a family.”

12

The Talon October 24, 2017

Berea College: Education without a cost This article is part of a series of features on unique colleges. Look out for the next issue to read about another school you may not have heard of.

YOLANDA SPURA RACHEL LU

Berea’s Associate Provost for Enrollment Management Joseph P. Copy/Content Editor Bagnoli Jr. said to the New York Senior Writer Times. “We call it the best educaAffording college is difficult — tion money can’t buy.” the average undergraduate stuIn exchange for free tuition, dent faces $30,100 in loans when students work a minimum of they graduate. By not charging tu- ten hours in campus and service ition, Berea College offers a solu- jobs as part of its Labor Program. tion to this issue.

The goals of this All students reprogram are to ceive the Tuition help students Promise Schol- Berea exclusively develop responarship, which sibility, accountadmits academically amounts to nearability, teamwork ly $100,000 over promising students and initiative, as the course of four whose family income well as allow stuyears. Although falls within the botdents to work in the scholarship tom 40 percent of U.S. areas that would doesn’t cover support their cabooks, supplies, households. reer interests. housing or meals, Students are asstudents can also apply for other signed a job for their first year on grants and scholarships. campus, and are then given the Berea was established in Ken- freedom to secure their own positucky in 1855 as the first inter- tions in subsequent years. racial and coeducational college “Students can often tailor the work in the South, and exclusively component of their education to isadmits academically promising sues they care deeply about,” Clear students whose family income Path College Counseling founder falls within the bottom 40 per- Mark Clevenger said. “Many Berea cent of U.S. households. students are working in social jusThe college is able to offer 75 tice-related jobs. These experiences percent of its students free tuition may lead to career paths they didn't through its $1.08 billion endow- originally consider.” ment, with the rest of its free tuBerea has BA or BS offerings in ition scholarships coming from 28 fields. Additionally, Berea has alumni donations and state and a very strong nursing program federal financial aid. with an 5 ranking by TopRNto“We can literally come to Berea BSN.com, an information site for with nothing but what you can nursing students. It also offers carry, and graduate debt free,” a dual degree program with the

Macway

the SCU program involved her students as well. During one of Braden’s classes, students were CONTINUED FROM filmed while Macway taught, and the recordings were sent to her THE FRONT PAGE school. When Braden heard about her workload, he was impressed “I was hesitant about even ap- by the hard work she put in daily proaching students with class- to become a better teacher. “[It] was really impressive room management concerns, or [if ] I see that they’re strug- that she was taking on the initiative of teachgling,” Macway ing multiple said.

“Someperiods, getting times you just While reading and feedback from have to jump in students, getand call them studying [teaching] ting feedback out, or just ask theory is definitely a from her [masthem… A lot of very important aspect ter] teacher and those experi- of being a teacher, bebeing a student ences in student herself,” Braden teaching gave ing in the classroom said. “By the me the courage and practicing it is end of the year, to now approach really the best way to I thought she students with prepare for that job. would be requestions and — math teacher Emily Macway ally prepared to really find out teach, and so what I can do to get to know them as a [person].” did the school.”

Getting comfortable with Junior Braden Koch was in one of Macway’s Algebra 2 students was just one step in classes last year. He observed the process. Macway was forher ability to control the class mally evaluated by Yamasaki increase as she gained more throughout the year, getting confidence in her interactions feedback on her interactions with special need students with students.

“Once the year progressed, and her ability to manage you could tell she was more her classes.

“How am I meeting the needs comfortable taking on her position as teacher,” Braden said. of students especially in spe“She was not afraid to take con- cial need areas, such as [Engtrol of the class [or] call out lish Language Learner Stusomeone who was not paying dents]?” Macway said. “How attention when she might have am I changing my instruction let it slip by in the beginning of to help people of all needs? A lot of the feedback I got was the year.”

Some of her assignments from that because I was younger, I

FLICKR USER IMCBEREA COLLEGE

Berea College, located in Berea, Kentucky, provides Tuition Promise Scholarships to all of its students, allowing students to attend free of charge. Students work 10 hours a week in its Labor Program in order to contribute to their expenses.

University of Kentucky, where all people. It also values diversity, students can earn with one in three a BA degree from students being an Berea and a BS ethnic minority.

We can literally in engineering Berea is selective from the Univer- come to Berea with — it has an accepsity of Kentucky. nothing but what tance rate of 33.7 Since the student you can carry, and percent — but it’s to faculty ratio is graduate debt free. also been ranked 10-to-1, students as the number one — Berea College can expect small liberal arts school Associate Provost for class sizes and the by Washington Enrollment Management Joseph P. Bagnoli Jr. chance to become Monthly because of we l l - a cq u a i n te d how well it serves with their professors. low-income and first-generation The college emphasizes commu- students. There is no fee to apnity service, living sustainably and ply, and although an interview is promoting understanding among required, free housing is provided

for families who are bringing their students to interview on campus.

Money is often a limiting factor in the college selection process, and student debt poses a big problem for many individuals — according to the US News and World Report, it takes 21 years on average to pay off loans for the average bachelor’s degree. For some, a tuition-free education from Berea College may be the solution.

“Particularly for underserved populations, tuition-free colleges can be life-changer,” Clevenger said.

“Students often come from families who could simply not afford private college tuition otherwise.

was more relatable, which was good for the students and that I helped students to feel less stressed out.”

As a master teacher, Yamasaki worked with a SCU field supervisor to give formal evaluations and advised Macway on grading papers and lesson planning.

“The responsibility of a master teacher is to help interns find their own teaching style by being exposed to different varieties of teaching practices, management, and organization,” Yamasaki said in an email. “Ms. Macway progressed throughout the year, by gaining more confidence in her lesson delivery, teaching practices, and working with the stu-

place where I was a student teacher.”

Macway’s first year as a fulltime teacher at Los Altos has her teaching Algebra 2 Honors and Trigonometry Honors.

With evaluations from administrators coming toward the end of this year, she hopes to continue learning to improve her teaching.

“I get administrators here evaluating my teaching and giving me feedback as well as student surveys,” Macway said.

“We’re here because we care about education, and we’re passionate about helping people learn. I just think it’s fun to be in a community as a teacher.”

dents effectively.”

While her studies at SCU were beneficial, Macway felt that her role as a student teacher contributed the most to her growth as a teacher, as she became comfortable getting to know her students and changing her instruction on an individual basis. Teaching, she found, was a skill best learned through practice.

“While reading and studying [teaching] theory is definitely a very important aspect of being a teacher, being in the classroom and practicing it is really the best way to prepare for that job,” Macway said.

“I’m grateful that I can have my first teaching job at the

KYLIE AKIYAMA

Math teacher Emily Macway helps a student with an assignment. Macway began as a student teacher at Los Altos under Betty Yamasaki and now teaches full time.

The Talon October 24, 2017

MADISON WOO Senior Writer

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ANNE SCHILL Media Editor

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tudents sang “Mary Had Through the process of trial a Little Lamb” at the top and error, they have modified of their lungs while clapping their teaching style to be more in unison to the rhythm of the helpful and effective. song. Joined by their student “We tried to encourage the teachers, seniors Rose and Ray participation of shy students William, the kids then transi- [by] mirroring hand gestures tioned from singing to theory when teaching at the front of lessons, tossing around a rub- the class,” Rose said. “We’ve ber ball to the tune of Strauss’s learned that details matter and “The Blue Danube” while an- add up to create a conducive swering class questions. Rose learning environment.” treasures moments like this Because most students’ parwith her students. ents only speak Spanish, teach“It sounds cliché, but my stu- ers are encouraged to be prodents are my pride and joy,” ficient in Spanish in order to Rose said. “Being their teacher communicate with parents and friend is the greatest gift of about homework assignments. all, because I get to be a part of Students also tend to become their transformation.” restless and lose focus when With over ten lessons are not years of musias interactive. To cal experience, combat this, Rose Rose and Ray It sounds cliché, and Ray incorpodecided to chanmore handsbut my students are rate nel their passion on activities such for piano into my pride and joy. as coloring in musomething more Being their teacher sic workbooks or than a certificate and friend is the having students of completion. pin magnetic greatest gift of all, During their junotes to a whitenior year, they because I get to be board to improve founded the club a part of their transtheir note-readLittle Mozart to formation. ing. provide musiBeyond their — senior Rose William cal education to students’ musiunderprivileged cal abilities, Rose students in the Bay Area. and Ray value the relationship “Once we finished the high- they’ve fostered with their stuest level, we didn't want to have dents. the certificate on our wall not “Some highlights include mean anything,” Ray said. “We watching the shyest student thought that the best way to simultaneously play and sing use our skills was to have other ‘Mary Had a Little Lamb’ at the people do piano too. We wanted top of their lungs and receivto share our passion for it.” ing crayon drawings and hand Little Mozart provides chil- picked f lowers from my studren with student teachers, dents,” Rose said. “These are piano keyboards feelings that can’t and music books, even be described allowing children and memories ages 5 to 7 to par- We didn’t want that will never ticipate in a free, to have the cerfade.” hands-on 10-week tificate on our wall As Rose and musical curricu- not mean anyRay have grown lum. At the end of their program the program, the thing. We thought with more teachclub holds a charity that the best way ers and classes concert for parents to use our skills of four to five and local visitors was to share our students, they’ve which in turn helps also noticed a to fund students’ passion for it. growth in their — senior Ray William education for the students’ personfollowing year. But alities and pasin creating “Little sion for music.

Mozarts,” Ray and Rose have “The students’ reactions to found a host of obstacles. us pushes us to continue,” Ray When first designing Little said. “Just seeing their happiMozart’s curriculum, Rose ness lets us know that we are and Ray did not anticipate having a positive impact.” the struggle for students to “Amazing things are created understand “intuitive” musi- in our classroom,” Rose said. cal concepts.

“On their very last day of class, “We were surprised to discov- I remind myself that though er that the children had a hard it is the end of our journey totime differentiating between gether, it is only the beginning high notes and low notes,” Rose of their journey with music.” said. “They thought that if a note was played louder than a consecutive note, that it must be higher in pitch.”

COURTESY ROSE WILLIAM

teenFASHION 10 The Talon October 24, 2017

More than keeping warm: What does clothing mean to us?

DANNY VESURAI, NEWS EDITOR | YALDA KHODADAD, FEATURES EDITOR | FRANCESCA FALLOW, JULIA SANTOS, BUSINESS MANAGERS |EMILY MEZA-PEREZ, JUSTIN YU, SENIOR WRITERS | MAYU ALTEN, ISABELLA BORKOVIC, CATHY WANG, STAFF WRITERS |EMILY ARONOVITZ, PHOTOGRAPHER | CARISSA LEE, JASMINE SHEN, GRAPHIC ARTISTS

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Style with Kyle: Hair is independence

or senior Kyle Sandell, hair To Kyle, hair isn’t just dead skin is a “visual expression” of cells on top of his head — it exists as himself — his love of water-polo a symbol of his independence. and his development as a per“My fashion was very defined by son. Hours of spending time in my parents for some time,” Kyle chlorine-filled pools and under said. “I wore what they bought me, the bright sun has made his hair I cut my hair how they told me to bleached and blond like most get it cut and I just did that. And other water polo players at Los then [my hair] was the one thing Altos. But unlike his teammates that I kind of started doing myon the varsity water polo team, self… like I'm going to do my hair Kyle has, by far, the longest hair. like this and I'm not getting a numKyle’s locks are the result of a ber three buzz cut.” bet with his friend last year. After Further, Kyle’s hair symbolizes Kyle started growing his hair for his independence from society’s a few weeks, he decided he liked standards. In a world where man the look of it. But his decision to buns are dying and undercuts are on grow out his hair has not always the rise, long hair is becoming rarer been met with support, especial- and rarer for men. Even though Kyle ly by his parents. will continue to grow his hair out “[My parents] as a high schooler, he admits even tried to that when he grows older pay me to “[My parents] even his hair probably won’t get my hair grow longer. tried to pay me to cut again,” “I feel like havget my hair cut...And Kyle said. ing longer hair I just stuck with this “My mom on guys isn't the because I like it [and] was like ‘I social norm,” it’s my decision.” will give Kyle said. “A lot you $70 of people keep — senior Kyle Sandell to get your their hair relatively hair cut back short and when I'm an to normal.’ And adult if I decide to cut it I just stuck with this short it'll be kind of a combecause I like it [and] it's my deci- pliance thing… Having longer sion… Now it gives her something to hair as you get older is kind of poke fun at.” weird, you just start looking like Snape. ”

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Carissa Lee & Jasmine Shen: A medium for “Esthetiq” Carissa

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STHETIQ started from procrastination. Over the summer, I was bored and uninterested in writing college applications. Instead, my goal for the summer was to start a clothing line as an enjoyable way to earn some extra income.

With my mother’s encouragement, I printed a sample shirt with the tentative logo of my original brand and sent a photo to my friend and fellow artist, Jasmine. Her response was enthusiastic, to say the least. Our weekly college application meetings became brand brainstorm sessions as we abandoned productivity for the infinitely more exciting pursuit of starting a fashion label. Within two weeks, we had established a label, a handful of designs and ordered a test batch of shirts to print.

I took inspiration for our shirts from street fashion photoshoots. I imagined how the shirts would complement other articles of clothing, and I created designs with versatility in mind. But, rather than focusing solely on elements of fashion, my designs are more reminiscent of the contemporary art found in museums like MoMA. Artists like Keith Haring and Jason Polan encouraged me to develop a scribbly, loose style.

I also played around creating stark and simple black lines that emphasize the minimalistic elements of our brand identity.

Cathy Wang: Cargo Pants to Cardigans

f you met me two years ago, you of putting on this show of passiv- be — someone confident and would’ve found a girl hopelessly ity. I was done changing my image someone ecstatic at the opportrying to scramble for a “cool girl” to become someone who didn’t tunity to wear a bright, yellow image and a nonchalant-ness that care about their image. I began to crop top. only made her a watered-down ver- tentatively venture into a world I Fashion can be chalked sion of herself. call: Wearing Clothes That Make up to be a silly thing, esGrowing up, I would watch the Me Feel Pretty. pecially when you look usual fare of kids programming After six years of looking like a at arguments about and in each show, ashuman trash bag it was easy for male rompers or the mosaulted by images me to slip back into old hab- notony of the “who are of the mean, its: both because of the you wearing” question popular girls I was done changfamiliarity of the space I on the red carpet. All in pink mini- ing my image to was in and the fear of kids of that, though, can’t skirts, done- become someone who had known me since discredit the confidence up hair and who didn’t care kindergarten calling at- and security I feel in a glossy lips. tention to this change nice outfit. It’s not just On the other about their image. in the Cathy Brand. But me, many going through side was our when I moved here from tumultuous times like hero: the girl who the conservative and pain- high school can gain some didn’t care about the fully white Kansas in July 2016, I positivity from fashion. clothes she wore or the makeup she was confronted by a place that was I’ve come to find that fashput on. In the end, she was always a stranger to me. Nobody knew ion has become a way for the one that won. me to show the progme, so there were no preI had to be Selena Gomez in “An- conceptions of the seriress I’ve made in other Cinderella Story,” with her gi- ous, apathetic Asian up. I dress I’ve come to find growing ant cargo pants and horrendously girl. I could become for myself and that fashion has long shirts. Selena didn’t care about someone new.

I love me and become a way how she looked, and she got to date every bit of my The change was the pop star. So maybe that’s how I gradual and diffihappy, ‘trendy for me to show was supposed to be. teen clothes, cult. Before I knew the progress I’ve What followed were years of it, I was the loud cares too much’ made growing up. carefully constructed indiffer- and talkative friend wardrobe. ence toward my appearance, ripe who wore dresses as with ill-fitting graphic tees and often as they could and nasty yoga pants and the belief lived for the calm routine that this constant discomfort of putting on makeup. I’ve come would make me desirable. All it to relish in the feeling of putting did, though, was present an im- together an outfit and presenting age of a lukewarm girl. to the world an image of the Cathy By the age of thirteen I was tired that I am now and always want to

Kyle

Jasmine

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he screen-printing process was no cake walk. We purchased a cheap kit and relied on YouTube videos to guide us. The whole endeavor cost us a hefty $150 for mixed results.

But, as we’ve learned, entrepreneurship is all about trial and error. While we successfully screen-printed one design, it was clear that a more efficient, made-to-order printing method would be required.

I base my ideas off casual street fashion to create comfortable, simplistic designs to appeal to a wider audience. Unlike Carissa, I don’t have any specific artists that I model, rather I’m influenced by trends as a whole.

For example, I try and work toward the likes of Commes des Garcons, a fashion brand famous for its iconic heart logo. It’s a simple design, yet instantly recognizable and versatile. I strive to create a design that is equally discernible, but with my own personal touch. Another influence, or more accurately, an anti-influence, was seeing overused concepts on graphic tees, namely those bearing the words “SLAY” or “SAVAGE.” It was a constant, frustrating search for simple graphic apparel that had designs with real thought and effort put into them — real art instead of meaningless phrases. I’ve tried to make sure we analyze the current trends and incorporate them into our graphics without sacrificing our integrity. More and more people are looking for eye-catching designs that aren’t overly complicated or generic, and I believe our brand exists to meet those demands.

The Talon October 24, 2017

In the halls of Los Altos: How do we decide what to wear each day?

I usually just think about colors and how the clothes I wear make other people perceive me differently.

I try to see what kinds of things I’ll have to do in the day. Like if I have to go talk with an advisor, I’ll try to dress nicer. If I have a big test, I’ll dress comfortably

— senior Frank Zhou

My style is depending on the weather. Usually on windy days I’ll wear leggings [and] Uggs. I get the Ivivva ones from Lululemon.

On hot days, I’ll just wear a Brandy Melville tank top.

— senior Allison Wang

Name brands don’t matter to me really. I usually ask someone else’s opinion, basically whoever is near me. It could even be my baby cousin.

— senior Angel Sanchez

— junior Tanya Sangani

EMILY ARONOVITZ

The newest trend at Los Altos: Confidence and comfort

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rends and brands rule teen look so different from everyone else, fashion, especially in an en- but I thrive on that challenge and personal risk.” vironment where kids Like Lisa, Megan struggle to fit in. But doesn’t adhere to a senior Lisa Deng single category. and sophomore “My fashion style is rooted in my personShe observes Megan Liu al confidence and that many tend wear whatever to confine makes them being satisfied with themselves to feel comfortwhere I am and not one, whether able in their wanting to be anyit’s “grungy” or own skin. one else.” “minimalist,” as Both Mean effect of group gan and Lisa see — senior Lisa Deng mentality. She adfashion as the way mits that “some teens people present their feel like they need to folpersonality to the world. low trends or follow what everyThey’ve found that confidence and fashion form a sort of symbiotic one else at their school is wearing.” relationship: Lisa traces her fashion To Megan, these labels aren’t worth sense to her confidence, and Megan credits her newfound confidence to her fashion choices.

“I feel more confident in myself, and I'm able to get out of my comfort zone and express myself more in ways other than just clothing, like by speaking up during class and bringing up new ideas during discussions,” Megan said.

Although Lisa followed trends in middle school, she increasingly began experimenting with out of the box styles, as she grew up and gained self-confidence, even wearing a jumpsuit for Homecoming court.

“My fashion style is rooted in my personal confidence and being satisfied with where I am and not wanting to be anyone else,” Lisa said. “I know I'll get judged because I

their limitations — they make people feel that their selection of trends to follow narrows.

Through her ventures, Megan has learned how her fashion choices can empower others and sees it as a large part of her life. She strives to dress in a way that promotes confidence in others as well as herself.

“It's a big part of how I feel about myself a lot of the time, and so it makes me feel more sure of my decisions, Megan said. “[Fashion] helps me be more helpful to the people around me because it helps create synergy between people.”

On the other hand, Lisa understands that, while fashion may be a way for her to express herself, other people find confidence in

other ways. At the end of the day, it all comes down to achieving a certain degree of confidence and comfort.

“I don't think fashion’s that important if you're comfortable with who you are,” Lisa said. “For me, fashion is an outlet and I feel comfortable doing that. For other people, fashion might not be their priority or the way they feel good. If you're comfortable with who you are and happy with your life, then it doesn't matter.”

Megan Q&A with Professor Elizabeth Kessler

Lisa

E

lizabeth Kessler, a program coordinator in American Studies who teaches classes on the history of fashion at Stanford University, recently discussed teen fashion with The Talon . While her interests within 20th and 21st century American visual culture are quite broad, she maintains a passion for fashion and is currently working on a project on fashion photography.

Q: What separates teen fashion from other kinds of fashion?

A: While this isn't the only thing, price can distinguish teen fashion. The styles shown on the runways of fashion week are often quite expensive, and they're marketed to an older clientele. With the rise of fast fashion, however, clothes inspired by some of those runway looks are more available at less expensive prices.

Q: How have you seen fashion evolve over the year?

A: I think more people are paying attention to fashion today than ever before. Everything's now online, making it much easier to see every look that walked the runways during fashion week in New York, London, Milan, and Paris. This wasn't possible until the early 2000s and before that time, fashion shows were attended mostly by journalists, department store buyers and a few celebrities. Blogs, Instagram feeds and other forms of social media also make it easier to see what people are wearing on the street all around the world. And more attention is now paid to menswear, whereas in the past fashion largely meant women's fashion.

FRANCESCA FALLOW

Q: How has fashion media evolved over the years?

A: For most of the 20th century, fashion media was dominated by fashion magazines, especially Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. But it was also covered by other print publications such as major newspapers and other news magazines; almost every city newspaper had a fashion reporter. Today, fashion magazines still have some influence, but very few newspapers cover fashion, mostly just the largest ones, such as the New York Times and the Washington Post. Fashion media is largely a digital endeavor, and Vogue, for example, has a large website that covers current fashion, as well as archives fashion shows from the last 15 years. And, of course, fashion blogs and Instagram feeds are very popular, allowing many more people to participate in the conversation around fashion.

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The Talon October 24, 2017

Catch reviews of new movies, music and more, plus read the Arts & Culture archives at lahstalon.org/category/artsculture

Bonchon Chicken fulfills the fundamentals MADDIE CHU Opinions Editor

Bonchon Chicken

Korean Chicken

260 Castro Street Mountain View, CA

★★★☆☆ Given the immense popularity of the Bonchon Chicken franchise around America, the opening of a downtown Mountain View location on Castro Street was highly anticipated by many. Bonchon’s specialty and main selling point is Korean fried chicken, but it also offers a wide variety of Asian American fusion cuisine. And, long story short, get the chicken — stay away from the rest.

Bonchon’s sleek bar, flat screen TVs and bustling environment provide the perfect atmosphere for a night out with friends or family, and despite the fact that I went on a Sunday night, the restaurant was completely full.

Small Combo Plate for $12.95: six wings, three drums, half soy garlic, half spicy sauce I had high expectations for the fried chicken, and to my delight, Bonchon met them. There are two different flavors for the chicken: soy garlic and spicy. Although the flavors are different than the conventional American fried chicken I’m used to, they complement the chicken well.

Whether it’s a drum, wing or strip, you can choose a varying number of pieces to order, and the small combo plate was more than enough to satisfy my hunger. Each order comes with a small dish of pickled radish, providing a sharp palate cleanser to cut through the heaviness of the fried chicken. The chicken had a densely crispy crust and juicy meat, allowing its flavors to shine through. The soy garlic provided a sweet balance to the savory chicken, and the spicy sauce had the perfect amount of kick to it.

Bull Dak for $14.95 Bonchon’s extensive Asian fusion menu prompted me to try their Bull Dak, spicy chicken stir-fried with rice cakes in a “fiery sauce,” covered in scallions, onions and mozzarella cheese. It was served with white rice and the portion size was decent, but the flavors fell short. Despite the “fiery sauce,” the rice cakes and chicken weren’t spicy at all, and in general the whole dish was bland and underwhelming.

Fried Calamari for $13.95 I also tried the fried calamari, which was simply fried calamari with soy garlic sauce. Considering the fact that a small combo plate of fried chicken is a dollar cheaper at $12.95, the calamari really isn’t worth the price. It was bready and dry, and the chewiness made it difficult to enjoy the dish. Although the soy garlic sauce was

the same, there wasn’t much flavor and it left me unsatisfied.

The fried chicken is no doubt the defining dish of Bonchon, and if you’re looking for a place to

satisfy your chicken cravings, this is it. But it’s not worth it to check out the other dishes on the menu: they pale in comparison to the fried chicken and are overpriced.

Bonchon's take on chicken, while not revolutionary, is different than the fried chicken Americans are used to, and is definitely worth checking out.

EMILY ARONOVITZ

Bonchon Chicken’s Small Combo Plate is a mix of soy garlic and spicy chicken, with a small portion of pickeled radish. The restaurant chain recently opened a location on Castro Street in downtown Mountain View, due to its popularity in surrounding areas like Sunnyvale and San Jose.

‘Mother!’ and ‘It:’ Horrifically disappointing

MIA SCHER Staff Writer

Just in time for Halloween, The Talon critiques the hottest new horror movies in theaters.

PARAMOUNT PICTURES

“Mother!”

September 15, 2017 (R) Directed by Darren Aronofsky Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem

Jennifer Lawrence had something profound to say about her latest movie, 'Mother!,’ a psychological horror film, written and directed by Darren Aronofsky.

"It depicts the rape and torment of Mother Earth... I represent Mother Earth; Javier, whose character is a poet, represents a form of God, a creator; Michelle Pfeiffer is an Eve to Ed Harris's Adam, there's Cain and Abel, and the setting sometimes resembles the Garden of Eden,” Lawrence said.

When I read this quote after I watched the movie, I began to question if I watched the right movie. Nothing about this film depicted what Lawrence claimed it does.

The story portrays Mother, played storyline, but parts of the film

by Jennifer Lawrence, whose isolat- were so unrealistic that it became ed life with her husband, Him (Javi- comical. In one scene, Mother gets er Bardem), is interrupted by the ar- pregnant — then gives birth what rival of a mysterious man whose wife seemed like a week later. While and family later follows. The man’s this part confused me a little, it got family drama enters the house and even more irrational when Him eventually, Mother and Him end up took the baby and proceeded to in the center of a weird crowd surf it across cannibalistic cult that the cannibalistic cult. turns their home into a When the cult then madhouse. broke the baby's neck Nothing about Introducing can- this film depictand ate the child, nibalism to the film I almost turned was meant to be a ed what Lawaway. Not because metaphor for some- rence claimed it it was too scary, but thing larger, but the does. because it seemed gruesomeness disdumb. It felt I had tracted us from the acgone from watching tual message. In no way could I see a horror movie with a great cast to that “Mother!” represented Mother a comedic parody on Youtube in a Earth, Him represented God or the matter of minutes. couple represented Adam and Eve. The film wasted good actors and The movie could have easily gotten held no essential point whatsoevthe message across while avoiding er. Overall, it was a failed attempt unnecessary violence. at being the next Silence of the This movie has a strong cast and Lambs or Cape Fear.

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

“It”

September 8, 2017 (R) Directed by Andrés Muschietti Starring Bill Skarsgård, Finn Wolfhard

“It” captures the essence of 1980’s adventurous kids that we have seen in fan favorite TV shows Super 8 and Stranger Things, but it didn’t hit the horror button for me.

The movie seemed like it was supposed to scare my 9-year-old self — but instead, it gave me nostalgia — the clown looked like the clown I had at my seventh birthday party.

If the film made the clown a little more washed up, like the stuffed bear in Toy Story 3, it would’ve been more frightening. Instead, the clown's almost-perfect makeup and outfit gave the impression that it was a costume. Even if the film attempted a jump scare, I still would only see a silly clown.

The film felt rushed, not giving

audiences enough time to learn about the individuality of each character. As a result, the kids blended together, each having only one or two distinctive characteristics. For example, Wyatt Oleff’s (Stan) complete characterization is “a Jewish kid with a bar mitzvah approaching,” and Chosen Jacob’s (Mike) is “a black kid who lives on a farm.”

Because we did not know much about the characters and their fears, it was hard to relate to how they felt during intense scenes — contributing to the film’s weakness in the fear department. If the audience knew more about the character’s fears or how they felt when interacting with the clown, the movie would have been more emotionally terrifying.

The film had the necessary standards of a good movie: a good cast and a clear purpose. But “It” failed in the fear department because of the clown’s non-threatening physical appearance and the lack of character depth.

A R T S & C U LT U R E

Celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month

The Talon October 24, 2017

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DAPHNE IH JOCELYN MAEYAMA ASHLEY CAI ANNE SCHILL Staff Writers Graphic Artist Media Editor

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ctober is LGBTQ+ History Month in the U.S., coinciding with National Coming Out Day on October 11. While its June counterpart, LGBTQ+ Pride Month, revolves around the present, History Month looks back to see the progress members of the community and their allies have made in the fight for civil rights. People who identify within the community are often erased from history due, in part, to the belief that describing a person as gay or transgender is too explicit for educational settings. October is the time to bring to light the oppression LGBTQ+ people have faced and their fight for equality.

Ancient Greeks / Romans -- 800 BC to 500 BC

Same-sex relationships between men were socially acceptable in civilizations like ancient Rome. Female-female relationships were more uncommon and often met with public disapproval, but Sappho, a Greek poet from the island of Lesbos, wrote love poems to women. Both her and her work have become symbolic of love between women — the word “lesbian” comes from Lesbos.

The Holocaust -- 1933 to 1945

Gay men were among many groups persecuted by the Nazis, who believed homosexuality could be cured. Prisoners were marked with downward-pointing pink triangles and were one of the most abused groups in concentration camps. Over time, the pink triangle has been flipped to point upward and was reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of pride, second in popularity only to the rainbow flag.

Lavender Scare -- 1950s

While the Red Scare that occurred simultaneously involved the persecution of suspected Communists, the Lavender Scare targeted gay people and fired them from federal jobs. Joseph McCarthy, who influenced anti-Communist sentiment, linked Communism and being gay. Consequently, many viewed gay people as they did Communists: people who were morally weak and possessed murky pasts.

Stonewall Riots -- 1969

In what is often considered the event that sparked gay rights activism, LGBTQ+ community members took their first unified stand against New York police after they raided a bar at Stonewall Inn. At the time, LGBTQ+ Americans were seen as criminals by the public, and during the 1960s, New York City supported a gender dress statute that allowed police to arrest people who wore clothing that wasn’t indicative of their biological gender. Some of the uprising’s prominent figures included drag queens Marsha P. Johnson and her friend Sylvia Rivera, frequent patrons at Stonewall.

Beginning of the AIDS epidemic -- 1981

The AIDS epidemic disproportionately affected members of the LGBTQ+ community due mainly to the practice of unsafe sex. Within the first year of the epidemic beginning, members of the LGBTQ+ community comprised 71% of the 3,064 reported cases. AIDS used to be called GRID, or gay-related immune deficiency, perpetuating the stereotype that continues today that AIDS is a gay-related disease. Members of the LGBTQ+ community honor those who have passed by hand-stitching quilt panels for the AIDS memorial quilt that travels around the nation. Currently, part of it resides in San Francisco and will be there until December 5.

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” -- 1994

Passed during the Clinton administration, this policy prevented discrimination against closeted members of the LGBTQ+ community in the army. In the context of its time it was considered progressive, but it forced many gay people to keep their identity secret or run the risk of being discharged. However, in 2011 it was repealed because it was considered too conservative.

Proposition 8 -- 2008

Voters approved a ballot proposition to make same-sex marriage illegal in California in November 2008. Protests erupted and lawsuits were made against the legislature, and the initiative was eventually overturned by the Supreme Court in the case Hollingsworth v. Perry in August 2010. Even though California often takes liberal stances, its opposition to gay marriage left many gay residents heartbroken.

Art teacher Kalia DeMarquez was engaged to her partner when Proposition 8 passed, banning legal recognition of gay marriage in California.

“It was really heartbreaking, “ DeMarquez said. “What my future was going to look like got snatched away from me when that passed. I went out to rallies, I protested, I did everything I knew I could do to try and fight it.”

History teacher Sarah Carlson also took to activism after the proposition passed.

“At the time, it felt like someone had died,” Carlson said. “It was like your state voted to take away your rights. I was president of the Student Coalition for Marriage Equality, and we did a lot of letter writing campaigns. We did demonstrations where we would have couples come in and show what a gay marriage looked like, and [that] really it’s not that scary.”

To marry her now-wife, P.E. teacher Kiernan Raffo went to Boston, where gay marriage was legal.

“I would’ve liked to get married in Tahoe but you know, it was what it was at the time,” Raffo said. “But looking back, it seems crazy that we even had to do that, and that was only 2011.”

Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage in U.S. -- 2015

In Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court ruled to legalize same-sex marriage in the United States in a 5-4 vote. In response, supporters cheered and waved rainbow flags to celebrate America becoming the 21st country to make same-sex marriage legal nationwide. President Obama also personally congratulated Jim Obergefell, the case’s main plaintiff, and all LGBTQ+ Americans on their victory.

The Pulse Orlando shooting -- 2016

Omar Mateen killed 49 people at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub in one of the worst massacres in American history. Nearly 90 percent of his victims had been Hispanics celebrating the club’s Latin night, proving this to be not only an act against the LGBTQ+ community but also a crime against Latinos. After holding several people hostage, the gunman emerged from the club and was eventually taken down by police.

T

he struggle for LGBTQ+ equality is certainly not new — gay rights have been a part of history since the time of the ancient Greeks and other early human societies. Activism in recent years has undeniably progressed the global gay rights movement, but even so, there continues to be opposition against the acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.

“You’re never done fighting,” DeMarquez said. “In the Bay Area, we are very open and accepting, but that doesn’t mean there still aren’t underlying issues and things to fight for...[To] anyone in the community who feels like they don’t have an outlet for themselves— there’s people around that are there for [you and] there’s nothing to be afraid of when it comes to being yourself.”

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A R T S & C U LT U R E

The Talon October 24, 2017

Raising mental health awareness through hip hop BRIAN HUEBNER KRISTEN FAN Senior Writer Staff Writer

When Kid Cudi checked himself into rehab in 2016 for depression and suicidal urges, the hip hop scene woke up to the real world of mental illness.

“I simply am a damaged human swimming in a pool of emotions everyday of my life,” Cudi wrote in a Facebook post.

“My anxiety and depression have ruled my life for as long as I can remember and I never leave the house because of it.”

Although his transparency in talking about his illness created a larger impact, it’s taking actions like checking himself into a rehab facility that opened the eyes of many. Rappers like Cudi build the bridge between hip hop audiences and mental health, encouraging other artists to make more socially conscious music.

In 2015, American rapper Kendrick Lamar released his album “To Pimp a Butterf ly.” Throughout the album, he talks about his suicidal thoughts, rapping “The world don’t need you, don’t let them deceive you,” in his song “u”. After reading over the lyrics, the effects of hurtful remarks made by by the antagonists in his life are clear. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Kendrick

admits how tough the writing process was as he let himself open up to the world.

“That was one of the hardest songs I had to write,” Lamar told Rolling Stone. “There’s some very dark moments in there. All my insecurities and selfishness and let-downs. That s--- is depressing as a motherf-----. But it helps, though. It helps.”

Mental health is often a taboo among the hip hop community, but when Kid Cudi and Kendrick Lamar opened up about their depression, other artists started following in their footsteps.

These artists, previously stereotyped as shallow and materialistic due to the content of their songs, are turning into activists and role models to share bigger and more important topics than just money. Aesop Rock, Kanye West and Tyler the Creator, among many others, are breaking the stigma, opening the media to the harsh reality of mental diseases through their lyrics.

However, some artists take the important topic of mental illness and use it as a way to appear “deep,” even if what they have to say is actually surface-level and shallow.

Logic’s hit song “1-800-2738255” encapsulates this issue of “fake deep” perfectly. He tries to tell the story of a person who is feeling suicidal and calls the Na-

tional Suicide Prevention Hotline. In interviews, Logic says he wants people to know that suicide is never the option and there is always help. He describes talking to his fans and hearing about their struggles with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

As well intentioned as the song was, it falls short of his goal. Instead of lyrics that tackle depression in an important and nuanced manner, they are broad, general and surface-level.

Depression is a very personal issue that stems from deeply rooted troubles one has in their lives. The song fails to encapsulate that in its shallowness. With lyrics like “I feel like I'm out of my mind/It feel like my life ain't mine/Who can relate? Woo!” Logic seems to assert that everybody has experienced depression and related to it at some point, marginalizing those who actually have felt the pain of depression.

The song comes across as shallow

— it’s only “riding the wave.”

It’s great that hip hop is embracing mental illness and creating awareness about it. To those who are depressed, suicidal or suffer from anxiety, having someone who uses their art form and platform to relate and help people can be life saving. Yet artists should still be wise when dealing with serious issues like mental illness, because their music might end up harming more people than it helps.

JASMINE SHEN

Broken Box: From script to stage ETHAN RUYACK JOCELYN MAEYAMA Staff Writers

Broken Box, Los Altos’ Acting II course, remains an enigma to many. Its members can be seen in character promoting productions on the morning announcements, or sprinting through the quad in end of the year initiation rituals.

But in the theater, their talent and hard work shines three times a year as they perform stories from all-age comedies to critiques of social inequality. To understand this feat, The Talon took a look inside the seven-week process of putting on a play.

Picking a Play Acting teacher Nancy Moran

directs and chooses the plays.

Her first selection this year is the never-performed murder mystery/comedy, “The Lonely Hearts Club,” written by Don Zolidis. Moran chooses comedy plays as the first show Broken Box puts on to encourage bonding and provide an easy entry point for new actors and audiences.

The first students to receive the script are costume designers senior Allison Wang and her mentee junior Chamu Palaniappan. They begin outlining ideas for each character’s costume, which are solidified only when they see the actors perform.

“We can tell from the words what the character is like, but watching them act it out is much different,”

Allison said. “You see more personality, something more human.”

Week 1: Auditions The actors begin with a readthrough of the script to decide the role they want. Moran assigns roles based on auditions and actors’ preferences.

Sound designer sophomore Tom Hocquet notes the sounds the script indicates, then searches YouTube for sounds or produces them himself using everyday objects.

Weeks 2-6: Rehearsals After the actors receive their roles, Moran blocks the play and instructs actors how and where to move while the rest memorize lines.

Senior Beatriz Valente, a thirdyear member of Broken Box, says guidance from returning actors

EMILY ARONOVITZ

Broken Box members, from left to right, Braden Koch, Jessica Aaron and Jake Jacobsen rehearse a scene from their upcoming play, “The Lonely Hearts Club.” The cast spends seven weeks to prepare for each of their plays in order to fully thresh out their characters and settings.

helps new actors adjust to Broken creates posters and writes scripts Box’s fast pace. for announcements, enticing “There's always more that you people to watch the show. can do and more that you can help Allison, Chamu, Sydney and other people with,” Beatriz said. Mia’s work is often underap“You're always adapting to figure preciated by those who do not out how to add to the understand their community and the role in the process whole process.” of putting together Beatriz takes an ac- Seeing different the play. tive role in connecting kids in different “I think it's importo all actors, helping types of roles tant everyone knows others read lines and without the tech and watching getting to know peopeople, the actors ple. The collaborative them really take would just be standaspect of the process ownership is ing on a dark stage shapes the cohesive what makes me with no costume, dynamic Moran has no blocking and no love this job. noticed especially in sound,” Sydney said.

— Acting Teacher this year’s cast.

“We put a lot of work Nancy Moran “The returning into creating the members are the show as well.” ones who are really making the Week 7: Tech week and shows effort to make sure everybody The four-week rehearsal period feels comfortable,” Moran said. culminates in three days of tech, “I don't sense any clique-y-ness where actors and tech members or that attitude of ‘them and stay after school to run the show us,’ which helps the dynamic of with blocking, sound, lighting the group.” and costumes.

One character costume Allison The show is performed Thursand Chamu changed according day, Friday and Saturday. During to the actor is Cindy, an eccen- the show, Allison and Chamu tric, blindly optimistic character. apply makeup and make cos“When we read Cindy, she was tume adjustments, Tom controls a bit of a wildcard,” Allison said. the sound booth and Sydney “But when we look at Rachel, [the announces cues for lights and actor playing Cindy], it’s a little sound. The shows end with a cast bit clearer to see which direction party, before the process starts we should pursue and how we again the next week. can complement her acting style Moran attributes the outstandand her attitude as Cindy.” ing performances the students They relay their adjustments to put on as tributes to their dedistage manager sophomore Syd- cation. ney Enthoven, who adjusts the “It's new every time, it's excitlights accordingly. Sydney also ing,” Moran said. “Seeing differmanages the props and helps ent kids in different types of roles read lines for absent actors. and watching them really take To advertise the show, sopho- ownership is what makes me love more Mia Van Deloo serves as this job. I can do the directing but Public Relations, a new position they have to be the ones who recreated this year by Moran. Mia ally follow through.”

A R T S & C U LT U R E

The Talon October 24, 2017

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty: Makeup for all R

obyn Rihanna Fenty, Women and men with diversity, it tends to have few aka popstar and fashdarker skin tones have to options with far less considerion-beauty icon Rihanna, rely on specific brands like ation for different undertones had not only her fans, but Black Opal that they find to for the darker shades. It’s as if the entire makeup industry work with their black or dark skin clutching their pearls when skintones. Many is an afterthought she dropped her new makebrands have only to prevent an upup line Fenty Beauty on Septwo or three dark- It’s as if black roar from a market tember 8 at midnight. er shades, while or dark skin is that has consisMs. Fenty came out with there’s a variety of an afterthought tently been underthe Pro Filt'r Soft Matte 10 or more lighter represented. to prevent an Longwear Foundation shades.

Fenty Beauty (40 shades), the Match The foundations uproar from a capitalizes on Stix Matte Skinsticks (20 I currently use market that has that lack of conshades), Shimmer Skinare MAC and bar- consistently sideration and of sticks and Killawatt HigheMinerals. Though been underrepcourse it’s become lighters (10 shades each) and they match my a big hit — espethe Gloss Bomb Universal tone, they both resented. cially its Pro Filt'r Lip Luminizer, along with have the wrong foundation in 40 brushes and other tools for undertone for me. shades. The darkapplication.

See, people’s skin have difer shades have especially been She promoted the line as ferent tones underneath that popular, consistently selling an inclusive brand and vicontribute to its overall hue. out online and in store. able option for all people, Some people are more cool Trust me, I know. It took me making sure to address the tones (blues), more warm three weeks to finally get the full spectrum of skin tones tones (reds, yellows, etc,) and foundation online after being from lightest to deepest. others are generally neutral. matched at Sephora.

“Fenty Beauty was created The problem with using founA Sephora worker was so for everyone: For women of dation that doesn’t match you shocked by the amount of all shades, personalities, atis quite obvious. It doesn’t Women of Color (WOC) she titudes, cultures, and races,” match you. You saw in her store, she tweeted, Rihanna stated look crazy and “I work at Sephora and I’ve on the official your body and NEVER SEEN SO MANY Fenty Beauty site. face are two difWOC IN OUR STORE. Plus, As a young This statement ferent colors. It’s all the deeper shades of Fenty is the first thing black woman not a good look.

Beauty are sold out. That’s viewers see. “I with a warm Let’s use Chaamazing.” wanted everyone nel as an example This tweet came around 48 undertone, it’s to feel included. of many brands’ hours after the product was That’s the real very difficult prioritization of released. reason I made to find shades more fair comAffinity Magazine tweeted, this line.” of foundation plexions over “The dark Fenty Beauty founFenty Beauty is that cater to my darker ones. A dation shades are sold out important. For so quick search on everywhere! This is for all the skintone. many reasons. I their site and makeup brands who think the could talk about you’ll find their dark shades won’t sell well.” this from a sociUltrawear Flawless FoundaThere you have it. People etal standpoint, and point tion. There are 12 variations of color are not only an imout that in a time where of the color ‘beige,’ two variaportant group to cover simply black and other minority tions of the color ‘caramel’ because they exist, they are a communities feel constantly and two variations of the market that can bring in serejected by American policolor ‘chocolat’. Brands like rious revenue. Black women tics and society, this line Maybelline, Too Faced and spend approximately $7.5 bilcan represent, especially for Tarte follow a similar trend. lion on beauty products anpeople of color, a message of Makeup brands can have 10 to nually, and Rihanna’s line has our ever-present and impor20 shades and not even begin been one of the first high-end tant voices. to touch on darker shades. lines to directly include this And I could continue to go That, in a nutshell, is the group in such on but I’d rather write from a problem an encommore personal place and let with the passing way. that idea sit as it is. makeup inI hate to use As a young black (black dustry. Even this phrasing not just in culture but in when it skintone: richly melanimarkets for nated) woman with a warm undertone, it’s very difficult to find shades of foundation (the base of makeup) that cater to my skintone.

When I do find my shade in makeup, I am often the darkest or second darkest shade. This is ridiculous to me: if I look back on all the shades of brown and black I’ve encountered in my life, I see women of several beautiful shades darker than me. What do those women do?

Lowkey Codi

By Ashley Cai

Circles of Me

O

TINOMUDA TUGWETE CARISSA LEE Senior Writer Graphic Artist

PRODUCT REVIEW

nce I got the foundation I found it matched with my skintone well. Some shades oxide (meaning that after the foundation dries, it may become a shade darker). It’s medium to full coverage and tends to dry fast, so blend fast and well. If you want to build it to full coverage, make sure to wear a primer and be careful because it can be streaky when too many layers are applied. It lasts really well throughout the day and works well on me (I have oily, combination skin). The finish on the foundation is beautiful and I appreciate the ‘real skin’ appearance it gives off.

More, I was surprised when I saw the prices. I was accepting Rihanna to charge high-end prices as certainly her celebrity would allow her, but the line is generally affordable. The foundation is $32, the Match Stix highlighters are $25 each, the Killawatt foundations are $34 each and the Gloss Bomb is $18. Overall, I’d say the pricing is medium range, not drugstore, but not as expensive as some of the higher end brands.

There are several items I have yet to try from her line, but overall, I’m impressed. The makeup itself is not ground-breakingly amazing, but it’s great quality for the price. For what it may lack in makeup innovation, it makes up for in inclusivity done well. because people on the internet use it too often, but Rihanna’s makeup line is truly ‘for the culture’.

Rihanna’s celebrity definitely helps in the success of her brand to an extent. Other brands such as Black Opal, Bobbi Brown, and Black Up have been on the same trend of trying to be more inclusive of people with a range of skintones.

With the huge wave Rihanna brought over social media and the makeup world, other brands have begun trying to play up their “inclusivity.”

Meanwhile, my other WOC and I are out here laughing: it took one smart woman to invest in the idea to remind us of the power of catering to all markets of people.

Many celebrities, especially in the past year have broken into the cosmetic industry. Kylie Jenner with Kylie Cosmetics, could have very easily used a similar model of diversity to draw the same level of attention to her line, but she, like many people who appro-

priate cultures, didn’t seize the opportunity to give back to the black and minority communities she’s exploited in her success.

Rihanna Fenty Beauty is projected by Forbes to outsell Kylie Cosmetics by 2018, which is fast approaching.

It’s also estimated to outsell Kim Kardashian’s line that came out earlier this year.

This line is not the first to ever cater to women of color, but Rihanna hit the perfect timing socially and in a fashion that leaves many doors open for the expansion of her empire as a multi-million dollar mogul and business woman.

I’m excited to see what else this line will produce and how creative Rihanna can get with her branding and products. She has a new collection coming out for the holidays named “The Galaxy Collection,” and I can only imagine all these beautiful girls of many beautiful skin tones “shining bright like a diamond” in her line.THIS IS BODY TEXT.

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The Talon October 24, 2017

Get daily updates on Eagle athletics and read the sports archives at lahstalon.org/category/sports

Matt Eberle takes his talents to Pomona

What makes Matt stand out is his determination and drive in both school and basketball. I know Number 30 calmly dribbles up that he has worked very hard in the floor. At 6-foot-5, he’s taller school and it has clearly paid off than most guards and quicker considering he will be playing at than most forwards — a night- one of the top academic schools mare of a matchup. He sizes up in the country.”

Driven by his passion for the his poor defender with a couple of slick driblle moves, as if he is game, Matt has invested copious toying with them. Then, with- amounts of time into improving out hesitation, he elevates for a his skills since fourth grade. And it’s shown on the court, too. He’s three-pointer.

Swish. The crowd erupts into a huge part of Los Altos’ basketball success; he’s been on Los cheers.

Altos’ varsity Anyone who team since he has watched was a sophovarsity boys more, and he b a s k e t b a l l He is an amazing shooter became a cogames over that also finds creative captain of the the past few and crafty ways to score. team during years knows What makes Matt stand his junior year. about senior “I rememMatt Eberle. out is his determination ber I had the While he may and drive in both school opening three come off as a and basketball. versus Mounfriendly, stu— senior Nolan Brennan tain View last dious classyear,” Matt mate who said. “It was would be nice enough to let you borrow a pen- just a fun game to play in. I [also] cil, on the court, he’s a merciless had some game-winning free throws last year, and I remember assassin.

“If I had to compare Matt to I scored 25 points against Gunn. an NBA player it would be Klay That was a big moment for me Thompson,” senior teammate last year.”

Last summer, Matt attended a Nolan Brennan said. “He is an amazing shooter that also finds basketball camp at Brandeis Univercreative and crafty ways to score. sity, a Division III basketball school

IAN TSENG Staff Writer

TALON FILE PHOTO

Senior Matt Eberle facing off against an opponent last season. Matt recently committed to Pomona College for basketball but is also looking forward to his final season playing for Los Altos. where he caught the attention of many college coaches. Fast-forward a couple of months, and he’s now committed to Pomona College. “[At the camp], I played pretty well and got some attention from probably 25 D3 schools,” Matt said.

“I’ve just been narrowing down and taking visits since then, and I decided on Pomona. I really like the campus, I love the location, I really like the coaching staff and the program.”

While Matt’s commitment is quite an achievement, it doesn’t come as a surprise to those who know him well. Many have helped him throughout this process, and he attributes most of the support to his dad and the coaches he has had

through the years.

“I've really enjoyed the opportunity to coach Matt for the last year and a half,” Varsity Coach Trevor Naas said. “Matt worked hard to put himself in this position and it's exciting to see him accomplish his goal of playing college basketball at a high[ly] academic school. The smile on his face says it all. He's thrilled to be going to Pomona to play basketball, and I couldn't be happier for him.”

Matt takes two-plus hours from schoolwork everyday to train at the gym, and he can’t wait for what’s in store at Pomona. He’s itching to play in his first college

basketball game, and he’ll be playing alongside former Eagle Daniel Rosenbaum ‘15. On the other hand, he’s excited about Pomona as a highly academic school and the educational opportunities it can offer for him. “[I’m] definitely lifting weights and getting stronger,” Matt said. “That’s the major difference because I’m 18, and I’ll be playing against some 21, 22 year olds. I’m looking forward to just kind of getting that college basketball experience.

But m ost of all, Pomona’s a great school, andwant to see how that liberal arts education helps me learn.”

Baseball in Japan: Respectful yet loud MADISON WOO Senior Writer

If you visit a Japanese ballpark, the first thing you’ll notice is the noise. It comes from the “Oendan” or thousandmember “cheering squads.”

They’re like American cheerleaders, but with a much larger focus on creating noise — they yell into microphones, beat on drums and use horns to create excitement regardless of which team scores. And along with the oendan, fans of the batting team yell and cheer the entire game.

“Spurred on by energetic cheerleaders and the pounding rhythm of taiko drums, horns, whistles and other noisemak-

ers, [a Japanese person] becomes a veritable wildman, yelling and screaming nonstop for nine solid innings,” Richard Whiting wrote in his book about Japanese baseball, “You Gotta Have Wa.” Japanese baseball still carries basic rules from America, but that’s where the similarities end. The U.S.-born sport is Japan’s largest spectator sport, and it’s developed its own culture and norms. Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball is far more boisterous than America’s MLB, yet has somehow maintained an unrivaled level of civility.

See, while Japan’s ballpark atmosphere is louder than America’s, it’s also more

courteous: no one fights over foul balls, there’s no booing, there’s no brawling.

“They’re very respectful,” Oakland A’s first baseman Dan Johnson told The San Jose Mercury News. “...When their players do something bad, they’re not getting on them.

All they do is stay positive and cheer. I didn’t even hear them yelling at the umpires.”

“The fans of the team in the field maintained a respectful hush, interrupted only by an exuberant wave of applause after each out,” Ingrid Williams wrote for the New York Times. “Questionable calls were never booed. No jeers rang out when an error was made.”

JASMINE SHEN

It’s not a lack of love for the play. Sacrifice bunts, which sport or a lack of competition put batters out but allow base that creates this atmosphere runners to advance, are glori— Japan’s customs for respect fied. Teams never argue against and politeness dictate specta- each other. Violations of any tors’ and players’ actions. To rules are shunned.

Williams, “These fans radi“The Japanese love to sacriated only love for their teams.” fice for the team,” former YoBut along with social norm, miuri Giants coach Shozo Eto competition seems muted in told PBS. “It’s considered an Nippon Professional Base- honor.” ball partially because rules Further, Japanese baseball only allow allows people for 12 inrespite from a nings, creculture of quiating many When their players do et politeness. ties. Once something bad, they’re Even though 12 innings not getting on them. All — and perhaps hit, Wil- they do is stay positive because — liams said, Japanese cus“ E v e r y o n e and cheer. I didn’t even toms tend topacked up hear them yelling at the ward respect, their para- umpires. baseball games phernalia become a time — Oakland A’s first baseman Dan and quietly and place for Johnson to The San Jose Mercury News shuff led out loud yelling. out of the Along with the stadium. oendan, each Game over.” baseball team has their own Japan’s cultural focus on “fight song” sung by the audi“wa,” or team harmony, has ence to foster excitement in the also played an inf luence on crowd and players. players’ experiences — most Japan’s culture has diffused exemplified in their salary. In into its baseball over the deAmerica, sports players are cades. Its differences from viewed as celebrities. The aver- American baseball abound — age major league player has an stands sell sushi, grilled eel annual salary of four million and rice balls, and spectators dollars a year. Compare that often wear traditional Japato the average Japanese major nese dress for a big game. But league player, whose average most importantly, Japan’s valsalary is $29,294 a year. Their ues of respect and “wa” have salaries, because of custom, transformed America’s rivalare rarely negotiated. rous sport into a unique blend And the focus on team har- of deafening excitement and mony trickles down into game- hushed respect.

The Talon October 24, 2017

19

Girls golf: Putting fair in fairway hear that a girls golf team exists.

The community’s acknowledgement of the team is important, as they seek greater recognition along with a larger support group at school.

As a second year team member, junior Natsumi Hayashi experienced questions about the existence of the team last year. But before her time with the team, she was similarly unaware of the large group of high school female golfers that competed at tournaments around the area, much like many of her peers today.

“Some people didn’t even know that golf was allowed for young people,” Natsumi said. “Even for me, before I started golfing, I thought golf was for old men.”

The team’s relative anonymity

at Los Altos and golf ’s associa- team is so small, but I was able tion with “old men” was initially to make friends and find people a challenge for freshman Annika who I could be on the team with,” The girls golf team’s second Gaglani, who played both water Annika said. “I’ve gotten a lot of season has been above par, with polo and golf before coming to [questions], and I’m a little ema group that is thriving with afLos Altos. She chose golf when barrassed [by] it, but I don’t want ter moving into the SCVAL El she was forced to choose one to be because they don’t really Camino lower division. Despite sport to play, even though her understand.” placing second in their league, peers quesBut wearthe players have a larger battle: tioned the ing her golf performing better to break comsport’s popuuniform and mon golf stereotypes — like the larity and the Some people didn’t even carrying golf perception that all golfers must team’s size. clubs around know golf was allowed for be old and male.

“It was hard young people. Even for me, school on The stereotype’s prominence because you tournament has been a barrier to making girls get a lot of before I started golfing, I days helped golf an established team at Los pressure from thought golf was for old bring awareAltos since its creation last year. other people men ness for the Although the team’s success has [that say] you team to her — junior Natsumi Hayashi played a role in increasing recogshouldn’t do classmates acnition for their players, the playgolf because cording to juers still say many are surprised to it’s not a popular sport and the nior Brynna Mitchner.

“There will always be the stereotype of rich old men playing golf for business meetings,” Brynna said. “But the fact that we have a golf team, and we’re doing really well will help break the stereotype.

Even though that may be one portion of the group that plays golf, seeing people play here shows that more than one type of [person] can play this sport.”

The team also aims to teach more beginners as their numbers expand. Three of the players are juniors, and in the absence of senior golfers, they have taken on unofficial leadership roles. Brynna began playing golf during the summer of 2015, allowing her to draw from her previous learning experiences when teaching beginners.

“It’s cool because the juniors are COUERTESY MICHELLE NOETH also the ones that played last seaThe girls golf team taking a team photo after a match against Mountain View. Now in their second year, son, so we were ready to take on the team is also striving to get more recognition, since it is a sport that not many people know about at school. a leadership role because we had

EMMA KWAN Senior writer

been here before,” Brynna said.

“Golf can be really frustrating, [but] I know what was helpful for me when I was a beginner, so I can use that to help other beginners.”

Natsumi dedicated time to teaching new members about the various rules in golf and helping them focus on their own game.

“We’d have to explain to them every single rule, and golf has so many rules,” Natsumi said. “I had to constantly keep talking while playing [which was] really hard because you need to focus whenever you hit...but they learned a lot and it was really fun. We juniors, we try to help them whenever we can.”

And with their success this year, the team’s hard work has paid off. Both experienced and novice players have contributed to tournament wins.

“Everyone, especially the beginners, are really proud of how far [we’ve come],” Annika said.

“There were a lot of other people that dropped another sport to do golf, [so] I’m really happy that they’re proud to be a part of the team.”

In the future, the team hopes to increase awareness for their success at Los Altos and continue to show that girls in high school are capable and proud of playing golf.

“A lot of people don’t know that girls golf exists,” Natsumi said. “We’re part of your athletic program. This isn’t a sport [where] we can get support by people watching us, because each match is three to four hours, [but] it would be really cool if people actually came to watch us. Although it’s only our second year having a team, [we are] definitely getting better.”

‘Flying through the air’ with Kevin Andrews TINO TUGWETE ZOOEY NGUYEN

But for Kevin, cross country is not just about mile times. His Senior Writer love of the sport has made it inStaff Writer tegral to his life and how he deThough he’s just started high fines himself.

“Just going on runs is always school, freshman Kevin Andrews has already gained a repu- really fun.” Kevin said. “Running tation for positivity and impres- fast… it’s like flying through the sive race times as the youngest air. If I didn’t have running, it’d member of Los Altos’ varsity be pretty hard.”

Kevin has cross country had his fair team. share of com“Kevin is parisons with full of energy Just going on runs is his older and genuinely always really fun. Running brother, track enjoys be- fast, it’s like flying through & field star ing out there the air. If I didn’t have run- Tommy Anon the trails drews ‘17. But pushing him- ning, it’d be pretty hard. instead of self,” Coach —freshman Kevin Andrews shying away Stephanie from such Mackenzie comparisons, said.

“The only complaint we ever get is he cites his brother as one of the that he wants to run more miles.” sources that encouraged him to Kevin had years of experience pursue the sport.

“My brother… was a sprinter, in long-distance running before joining the team. He won I’m a long distance runner,” Kevthe 1320m event at the Junior in said. “But seeing his success Olympics in his fourth, fifth and seeing how much he had and sixth grade years. On Egan’s fun during track and field [intrack & field team, he ran an spired me].”

And Kevin’s not intimidated impressive 4:48 mile to finish second in the league. His exten- by the upperclassmen — he sive practice and natural talent consistently places top three led him to quickly land a spot in the team. The supportive on the Los Altos’ varsity cross environment of cross country, country team, where he has in which members cheer each achieved much success. With a other on during races and keep time of 16:26 for the 5k at the an- pace by running in groups, is nual Clovis Invitational, Kevin is ref lected in his teammates’ support of him. competing with the elite.

“It's a little hard since they know the courses, but they’re willing to tell me, ‘This is what you need to do, this is where you need to push,’” Kevin said.

This team culture is important to Kevin, who stays positive during intense practices, encouraging his teammates while pushing himself.

“He is very mature for being a varsity teammate as a freshman,” Coach Abraham Galvan said. “He wants to be a part of the team and it shows. Like every great athlete, he enjoys the good parts and is also critical of himself when he needs to be.”

Kevin and other varsity members are working with each other to qualify for the CIF State Championships this year. And though he won’t have to worry about college applications for a few years, Kevin hopes to eventually run at UCLA. Due to his strong performance in his first year on the team and the clear goals he’s laid out for himself, both Kevin and his coaches are excited to see where his running career goes in the future.

“Sometimes standout freshmen can burn out… and lose the joy in running and competing. I just can't see this happening for Kevin,” Mackenzie said. “He… loves to run for all the right reasons, so I think he will do big things in high school, college and beyond.”

COUERTESY MALCOLM SLANEY

Freshman Kevin Andrews races at Toro Pak in a cross country race.

Kevin is the only freshman on varsity, and is on track to become a top athlete for Los Altos in the future, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Tommy.

The Talon October 24, 2017

Eagles strive toward CCS

Field Hockey

“Knowing our teammates’ playing styles and strengths [also] allows us to predict how we will play and what strategies will work well [to] maximize each other’s strengths and DAPHNE IH make our team play [better] as a whole.”

Staff Writer The girls have become more comfortable Halfway through the season, the varsity with each other through weekend movie girls field hockey team has a record of 11-2 nights and group trips — last month, they — the most wins they’ve had in years. The had an overnight outing in Aptos. But more girls have lost only twice, than that, team bondand they attribute their ing has also played a success to this season’s crucial role in helping Knowing our teamthree priorities: comthe girls execute their mates’ playing styles and municate, conquer and new strategy. strategize. Together, This season, the strengths [also] allows us the first letters of each girls decided to emto predict how we will play word spell “CCS,” their phasize their attack and what strategies will ultimate goal. more since Los Altos This year’s team in- work well [to] maximize has found limited cludes experienced play- each other’s strenghts and success as a strictly ers from all four grades make our team play [betdefensive team. At who participated in confirst, players strugter] as a whole. ditioning, drills and other gled to coordinate — senior Tanya Matthews field hockey clubs during and cleanly finish the offseason. But cotheir offensive plays captain senior Tanya Matbecause they didn’t thews believes that their victories were the know each other very well. But by staying result of strong team chemistry more than connected outside of practice, freshman good stick skills.

Elana Eisenberg said they’ve been learn“[Hanging out] off the field translates into ing to communicate better on the field to connected play on the field,” Tanya said. smooth out their gameplay.

Girls Volleyball KRISTEN FAN Staff Writer

After a rocky start to the season, the varsity girls volleyball team found a new rhythm, and they’re working to maintain that connection and play with more

consistency as they look towards a challenging second act. For many of the Eagles, this is their last year to represent Los Altos.

“Personally, I want to finish the season knowing I left my heart on the court,” co-captain senior Quinn Lavin said. “Not play[ing] volleyball in college will be tough, but this will be the last time I can show what I’m capable

MAX WEIRAUCH

The girls volleyball team during a game against Monta Vista. The team initially struggled at the beginning of the season, but are now hoping to end their season strong.

Girls Water Polo CATHY WANG Staff Writer

Following a successful season, the Eagles have seen a young team come into the fray with half the team being comprised of girls coming up from JV and even some freshmen players. The team is spending this season focusing on strengthening their defense and learning to play well together.

“Moving onto this year, we have a lot of [new] girls on the team [and] we’re still trying to figure out how to mesh all together and empower one another, both [in] their strengths and weaknesses,” Coach Katie Tasman said.

Due to the wide range of skill levels that comes with a young team, the girls are working toward getting every player comfortable and ready to handle pressure from more experienced teams. For both the more experienced but especially younger players, it’s crucial to be able to make quick decisions and tough calls under the chaos and pressure of a game before even thinking of working out inconsistencies.

“When you’re in the water there’s all this chaos happening,” sophomore Alesia Piercy

said, “[There’s] splashing around you, sometimes you can’t see, sometimes you’re getting kicked, you don’t really know what’s happening [overall] because you’re level with everybody else.”

The team has started to fit in more scrimmages and pressure passing drills, in which an offensive player tries to execute a successful pass when blocked by a defensive player.

“We've been working on understanding each other, listening to each other and trusting each other,” Elana said. “If one [player] line tells you to scoot over to the left or push up, you have to learn to trust [that] your teammates [are] saying the right thing.”

Their next game on Friday will be against Cupertino, a team they defeated earlier this month. To qualify for CCS, the girls must be

one of the top three teams in the league by the end of the regular season.

“It’s a good, hardworking group of kids,” Head Coach Mary Donahue said. “A lot of them have been with the program since they were freshman, and [they’ve all] worked really hard to get to this point, so I'm hoping that we [can] get to CCS to reward them for all their effort.”

SEAN SCOTT

A field hockey player fights for control of the ball during a game against Saratoga. This year, the field hockey team has had their best record in years and are making a push for CCS, currently placed second in the league behind Los Gatos. of and [the last] chance to represent my do this well will do well.” school.”

After playing for a couple of months Compared to last season, in which together and getting used to their dythey finished with a record of 22-15, the namic on the court, the girls are workgirls are striving to improve their cur- ing to tighten up their weaknesses in rent standing and come close to last upcoming games. When it comes to low season’s record. They are still looking to points during matches, the girls strive to improve on consistency and aggressive- have more energy to persevere through ness when they are losrough rotations. Along with ing a set. Although seemthat, Head Coach Peter Kim ingly struggling at some counts on consistency and points during the season, It is important to aggressiveness to win the Eagles fought hard to keep the team in a a game. consistently push their positive mentality “ We n e e d t o i m p r o v e games to five sets, even o n t h e consistency of our when their energy was and always bring plays,” Kim said. “We, like diminishing. Over time, each other up. Any all teams, have our ups and they’ve developed a bond team that can do downs during games, but of trust, finding a new this well will do staying consistent and enlevel of confidence that ergetic can surely decrease well. they hope will help them our losses.”

— senior Hanadi Nassif improve their record.

The Eagles are far from “It is important for all giving up as they struggle teams to have an open ditoward a possible CCS win alogue and be very straight up and hon- this season, but they are excited to est with one another in order to create an welcome new players to their family understanding and connection through- next season. out the team,” co-captain senior Hanadi “I think we will make it to CCS,” Nassif said. “It is important to keep the sophomore Sydney Enthoven said. team in a positive mentality and always “From what we've been doing, we have bring each other up. Any team that can a very strong team and strong players.”

These practices are meant to get the new players comfortable with high pressure environments much like those prevalent during games.

“A big part of water polo is being able to pass the ball safely under pressure so we take a good amount of time to make sure we’re comfortable under pressure, especially in game situations where adrenaline’s

MAX WEIRAUCH

The girls water polo team taking on the Willow Glen Rams. After losing many starting seniors this season, younger players have had to step up.

pumping through you and you’re tired.” Alesia said. “In those moments, you definitely need a safe pass so we try to take time out of the practice to do pressure passing.”

In addition, a new practice, Chalk Talk, was introduced. After a game, the players and Tasman watch footage of their games and discuss both their successes and failures. This ability to press pause and reflect and see how each player contributes to the overall unit serves to help them see their strengths as well as what still needs to be worked on, both wholly and individually.

For the rest of the season, the team is looking forward to their continued improvement as they grow more comfortable with each other and sure of themselves.

That’ll only come with hard work, and for young players like Alesia, it’s well worth it.

“Getting played more and scrimmaging against each other has just really given me more experience because before I had no idea what I was doing,” Alesia said. “Through this and the older girls helping me and asking them questions and giving me advice, it’s definitely helped me in knowing what to do in [tough] situations. Walking into games you don’t know what’s going to happen. You have to work harder, it’s higher intensity and even though it can be harder and more frustrating it’s really rewarding.”