Los Altos High School, Los Altos, CA ■ December 16, 2014 ■ Volume XXX, Issue 4
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
SUPERINTENDENT BARRY GROVES TO RETIRE BOYS BASKETBALL OFF TO SOLID START With a recent win against Valley Christian High School, the boys basketball team is slated to do great things this season. Sports, 20
Passerelle’s downtown involvement investigated Passerelle is an investment company that has been involved in the development of downtown Los Altos for years, but the company’s secrecy has led to many questions about the nature of its involvement. The Talon answers some of these questions with new information about Passerelle and its satellite companies. News, 4
“Brown Girl Dreaming” tells story of civil rights movement Author Jacqueline Woodson’s “Brown Girl Dreaming” may be written for children, but its portrayal of the civil rights movement of the ‘60s and ‘70s through the eyes of a child is a must read for young readers and adults alike. Read one writer’s take on this book of children’s poetry. Entertainment, 15
Explore the World: Learn a Language Read about two students’ opinions on the advantages of seeking out-of-school language programs for immersion. Opinions, 7
Gearing up for Common Core As the school plans to implement Common Core, students will be sitting for the Summative Assesment. News, 2
UPCOMING EVENTS December 17
Finals: Periods 2, 6, 7 December 18
Finals: Periods 0, 1, 5 December 19
Finals: Periods 3, 4 End of first semester December 22–January 6
Holiday Recess
January 7
Second semester starts
IAN MACKEY
Superintendent Barry Groves attends the ALearn Fundraiser in Los Altos Hills in May 2014. Groves, who has been the MVLA superintendent since 2006, announced his retirement at a board meeting on Monday, December 8. His retirement will be effective June 30, 2015.
SPENCER DEMBNER
A
Staff Writer
t the Mountain View Los Altos (MVLA) school district board meeting on Monday, December 8, MVLA superintendent Barry Groves announced his retirement after eight years in the position, effective June 30, 2015. He thanked the community for their support. “I want to thank the School Board for the confidence and support during my tenure,” Groves said. “I believe there is no better faculty and staff than the dedicated people we have working in our schools.” Groves joined MVLA as a superintendent in 2006, following the retirement of his predecessor Rich Fisher. Before
coming to MVLA, he worked from increased and the district’s finances are 1992-2006 as the superintendent for sound, after being strained during the 2008 Great Recession. Cambrian school district in San Jose. Groves said that he would miss the Groves was originally a history and district’s students the English teacher and most. worked as the assistant “I chose education as principal of Crittenden a career so that I could Middle School and the After 37 years do good things for kids,” principal of Sunnyvale in California Groves said. “[Students’] High School. He later sense of humanity, soearned a doctorate in public schools, cial justice and being education from Stanford 23 as a superingood citizens and stewUniversity before coming tendent, I now ards of the environment to work at Cambrian. have the opcontinue to amaze and Under Groves, MVLA impress me.” has seen its academic per- portunity to try The December 8 meetformance and test scores something new. continue to improve. — MVLA superintendent ing was also the first of the Barry Groves new term and hence the Teacher salaries have also
TEACHERS
News Editorial Opinions
2 6 7
Features Entertainment Sports
Staff Writer
The Talon’s 10 14 18
UC Regents increase tuition
DAVID LISBONNE
AMELIA BAUM In-Depth Editor
MENSON LI
English teacher Michael Smith works with a student during a break. An alumni of the school, Smith studied at UCLA and works in the music industry. made his class very enjoyable, and in turn helpful.” However, the path back to LAHS was not a straightforward one. After graduating high school, Smith attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he left after just one semester because the atmosphere did not match his educational values. “I didn’t like it,” Smith said. “I was just not very pleased with what I was getting for the money I was paying.” He left the college and returned
to Los Altos, where his relationship with his own family grew strained. Being so academically oriented, Smith felt set apart from his family, who did not believe or invest in education the way he did. “I lived with my family, but we were in such different places that at that point it was better for me not to be in the house,” Smith said. “At the time, I didn’t talk to them for a while, around a year or year and a half.”
“Smith” continues on page 2
January 13
PSAT Night–Eagle Theater @ 7 p.m.
COLLEGE
English teacher’s past leads to music “If you can beat me in a freestyle contest, you automatically get an A.” The challenge comes from English teacher and alumni Michael Smith ‘96 because when it comes to freestyle rapping, Smith’s talent is unparalleled. Smith graduated LAHS as a bright student looking forward to a life in the “real world.” At the time, Smith was a passionate student singing in Mainstreet and involved in ASB. “[I] was trying to be patient enough to trust that getting a solid education was important enough,” Smith said. “Not just because my parents told me so, but because in the world that I lived in and saw, people who had an education had more opportunities. It was that simple.” Four years later, Smith’s love of English and education led him back to LAHS, where he would become an English teacher teaching freshman Survey Composition and Literature classes, as well as junior and senior Global Connections classes. “Mr. Smith’s class was a genuinely positive experience as he combined his humor with teaching,” sophomore Kimia Shahidi said. “That
first for board member Fiona Walter, who was elected to replace Judy Hannemann. The board elected Susan Sweeley as board president, Phil Faillace as vice president and Debbie Torok as clerk. After moving on from his job as superintendent, Groves has no intention to stop working in education. “After 37 years in California public schools, 23 as a superintendent, I now have the opportunity to try something new,” Groves said. “I will be retiring from work as a California public school educator, but will continue to work for public education as a consultant and coach to others in the coming years… [and] to continue my efforts with the many wonderful non-profit groups in our area.”
Holiday Recipes
2 peppermint treats to warm the soul
Page 14 Entertainment
University of California tuition is set to increase by 5 percent each year for the next five years, following a 14-7 vote by University of California (UC) Regents on Wednesday, November 19. The ruling will increase in-state tuition from $12,192 to $12,804 next year, eventually climbing to $15,564 by the end of the five-year time period. The increases are contingent on the 2015 state’s budget announcement in January and will go into effect if the budget does not include state funding increases to the UC. The board of regents is the UC’s governing body and is made up of a total of 26 members. Gov. Jerry Brown and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, both regents, were among the seven who voted against the hike. The governor has been consistently opposed to UC tuition increases throughout his term in office.
“UC” continues on page 2
SIX THINGS TO D O OV E R BREAK F L I P TO PAG E 2 0
The Talon December 16, 2014
Get daily LAHS updates and read the news archives at lahstalon.org/news
School prepares for Common Core Exams EMILY AOKI EMILY TERADA Staff Writers
In May next year, all juniors at the school will take the Summative Assessment, a new exam that follows Common Core standards designed to replace the old California Standardized Tests (CSTs) including the Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) test. The testing date was decided by the district in November; state law requires that, at the high school level, only juniors take the assessment. However, grades three through eight also take a summative assessment. The exam focuses on synthesizing knowledge rather than rote memorization of knowledge and consists of a math portion and an English language arts portion. All public schools in California will administer the test. “Part of the challenge is that the state it’s a massive undertaking, and the state has been working on this through the The process contractors that they of making hire,” Assistant Prin- these changcipal Galen Rosenberg es will take said. “The Smarter Balanced Assessment some time . Consortium (SBAC) — Assistant Principal Galen [is] the organization Rosenberg that’s being paid by
Tuition CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT PAGE “The governor remains opposed to tuition hikes for students,” governor spokesman H.D. Palmer said in an interview with the Sacramento Bee. “The governor has made his view on tuition hikes very clear.” The decision is controversial among both students and state government leaders, many of whom see the increase as an unnecessary move that will decrease the affordability of public education in the state. However, the decision comes as a result of the UC’s continued financial deficits, which UC president Janet Napolitano says is a result of the state’s lack of funding of higher education. After losing $750 million in state funding during the 2011 recession, UC has been receiving four percent funding increases from the state each year. Brown’s budget outlines 4% increases for 2015-2016 and 20162017, but this funding is contingent on the University holding tuition at 2011-12 levels, so the tuition increase plan could potentially put this state funding in jeopardy. Some UC leaders say that amount is not enough to cover inflation and increasing costs of retirement benefits and employee pensions, prompting the most recent tuition increase. It is not yet clear what the repercussions of this will be on the funding agreement with the state. In addition to covering mandatory costs, Napolitano has indicated that the money will make it possible
VANESSA MARK
to create all this stuff and all the infrastructure behind it in terms of creating a test that actually does correctly adjust[to student responses].” The Summative Assessment will be taken in two parts. Both will take approximately three hours to complete, with testing
spread over the course of two weeks. The test will be taken on a Chromebook and will adjust in level of difficulty based on responses made by the student. In order to help students prepare for this new form of testing, there are also practice tests available online at the SBAC portal. “[The assessment] is more about complex application of the knowledge and skills that you have rather than just learning
stuff [and] memorizing things,” Rosenberg said. The SBAC also created two other types of tests: Interim Assessments and Formative Assessments. The Interim Assessment can be given at any time by teachers and is meant to provide information regarding student readiness for the Summative Assessment which will benefit both students and teachers. Formative Assessments are mostly for the
teacher’s benefit. “Formative Assessments are tests, usually locally created, to help teachers gauge students’ readiness on a particular standard,” Associate Superintendent Brigitte Sarraf said. “Interim Assessments are provided by the State; they mirror the Summative Assessments.” Teachers can give Interim and Formative Assessments at any time, in order to gain an understanding of what their student already knows or is struggling with. “I think the process of making these changes will take some time.” Rosenberg said. “Most teachers think, [Common Core is] much more valuable to students in the long run than the old standards were, like the STAR tests.” The old standardized testing often led to students learning all of the information to be seen on the exam at a shallow level, rather than truly gaining an deeper understanding of each concept. Common Core is meant to provide deeper learning to students by replacing this rote memorization with conceptual understanding. “I think most teachers, almost all teachers, think this is a good thing…” Rosenberg said. “It is a much better way for students to learn and for [for teachers] to teach.”
reversed.” UC San Diego hosted a large protest on the campus’ main walkway, Library Walk, and a sit-in aimed at UC In-State Tuition publicizing the event in the media. Some campus faculty joined in to State UC Funding $15,000 support the students, despite the fact that some of the revenue generated by increases is allocated for employee Recent Tuition retirement benefits. Increase “Professors were on our side in this Proposal $10,000 struggle as well,” UCSD freshman Cody Fowler said. “They care less about employee pensions and more Expected State Funding about us as students.” Levels according to 2014-2015 Budget Across all campuses, students argued that the tuition increases $5,000 were unfair in light of what most of the revenue will support. UC regents say that much of the money must be allocated towards an employee pension fund that has 2016-2017 2014-2015 2018-2019 2007-2008 2011-2012 been “neglected” for the last sevAMELIA BAUM eral years due to decreased fundto enroll 5,000 more California stu- smaller protests at UC Merced and pied the humanities building from ing, but students are angry that November 20-26, in protest of the tu- the increases come at a time when dents across all UC campuses within other UC campuses. Students from UC Berkeley and ition hikes. Campus police informed several UC administrators, includthe next five years, following an ining chancellors of UC crease in out of state enrollment to other campuses were bused to the re- the students on TuesMerced, UC Santa gents meeting at UCSF’s Mission Bay day, November 25 that meet funding demands. Cruz, UC Riverside Napolitano says that the increas- campus on November 19. Protests at they were occupying These hikes and UC Santa Barthe meeting were initially peaceful the building illegally, es are planned in this way so that bara are being given tuition will remain as constant as but became violent after students but students decided could mean the raises of up to 20 perpossible for the next five years, tried to enter the building, which to end the protest be- end of some stucent on top of nearly even with uneven state funding. was surrounded by a police barri- fore any further actions dent’s ability to $400,000 salaries. cade. A glass door was shattered in were taken by law enAccording to the online magazine pay for college, Protests died down SF Gate, UC tuition has not been the process and UC Berkeley student forcement. over Thanksgiving “These hikes could and other stumaintained at steady level in the Jeff Noven was arrested on charges of break, and have not mean the end of some dents will have last 20 years, with increases of up vandalism and starting a riot. started up again as of UC Berkeley students staged a students’ ability to pay to take out more to 26 percent in one year. the press deadline. six-day occupation of Wheeler Hall for college, and other In January next year, starting Wednesday, November 19, students will have to loans. Protests/Student Pushback Brown will unveil the — UCSC freshman Immediately following the deci- and ended with a retreat just before take out more loans,” Ana Rubio state’s budget for the Thanksgiving break. The occupaUCSC freshman Ana sion, there were student protests of year. The amount of varying degrees at all UC campuses, tion and several other protests at the Rubio said. “The immoney allocated to with major demonstrations at UC campus were organized by Open mediate goal of the San Francisco (UCSF), UC Berkeley UC, a student run movement against protest was to show that all UC’s the UC will determine whether tuwere against the tuition hikes and ition hikes will become a reality for (UCB), UC Santa Cruz (UCSC) and the tuition hikes. At UC Santa Cruz, students occu- were working toward getting the law future UC students. UC San Diego (UCSD). There were
University of California Tuition and State Funding Levels Over the Last 8 Years
The Talon December 16, 2014
DTA and CSEA negotiate one percent pay raise SPENCER DEMBNER HANNA KHOSRAVI Staff Writers
At a November meeting this year, the Mountain View Los Altos School Board approved a one percent retroactive raise, meaning all staff members employed during the 2013-2014 school year will earn one percent beyond their initial salary. The raise was negotiated by the district’s two unions: the District Teachers Association (DTA), which represents teachers and the California School Employees Association (CSEA). The CSEA represents classified employees, staff such as custodians or facility teams that don’t have teaching roles. The district and unions are forced to agree on compensation before knowing exact figures for the district’s budget. As a result, the district may end up with significantly different funds than it expected, and there is a ‘look-back’ process to revise compensation accordingly. Salary increases are the result of
a long process, as there are many ary] negotiations have been settled different steps regarding the terms each year. The look-back is in place of the agreement and their legal- should the actual [surplus] come in ity. First, topics for negotiation significantly higher or lower than are “sunshined,” or released to what was forecast.” The raise was negotiated excluthe public in the board packet, sively between the before any actual nedistrict, CSEA and gotiations can occur. DTA, but it affects Once negotiations all employees, inconclude and a deal This is one of cluding administrais reached, the board the best distors and managers passes a Memoran- tricts to work that are not part of a dum of Understandunion. As a retroacing (MOU) to ap- in. The school board has been tive raise, the deal prove the deal. will affect 2013-2014 Once the MOU is very generous school year compenpassed, salaries are to the people sation and will congenerally settled. working in this tinue on as an addiHowever, the district tion to each person’s ended last year with district. a 1.65 percent budget — CSEA Head Negotiator salary in the years to Jay Santiago come. Employees who surplus, and accordworked last year will ing to the terms of the receive the one perMOU, the unions have the right to negotiate for another cent raise, even if they left or retired from the district, while new hires raise if there is a budget surplus. “Property tax revenue is not fi- this year will also receive retroacnalized until...June 30 each year,” tive compensation for the months Assistant Superintendent Mike they have worked in 2014 and 2015. Negotiators have expressed Mathiesen said. “This is after [sal-
ZACH COHEN
support for the deal and the district’s posture in determining compensation. They find that the district administrators made the process pleasant and reliable. “We are comfortable with the agreement that we made,” CSEA
Head Negotiator Jay Santiago said. “This is one of the best districts to work in. The school board has been very generous to the people working in this district, and they are very aware of what our needs are.”
The Music Boosters
The Talon looks into how parents and students help fund the school’s instrumental music program. CLAIRE BAI OLIVIA JERRAM Staff Writers
ELVIS LI
A Music Boosters parent sells the Marching Band Season CD and playing cards at an instrumental concert. The Boosters fundraise for the school’s instrumental music department.
Nearly 300 students participate in the 10 ensembles of the instrumental music department. In order to accommodate the cost of these students and their needs as instrumentalists, the music department requires a significant yearly budget. However, as electives, music classes are not fully funded through the Mountain View Los Altos (MVLA) School District budget, receiving $3500 annually and no money from the MVLA Foundation. Consequently, the parentrun Instrumental Music Boosters organization compensates for the needed money through fundraisers and other programs. “Any time anything is needed, if there’s an emergency that needs to be fixed, that’s what [the boosters are] there for,” instrumental music
department director Ted Ferrucci said. “[They help] with everything from concerts… to the logistics of marching band, of touring, you name it. That’s what they are: a support mechanism for every element of the program.” Through traditional annual fundraisers such as the holiday plant sale of poinsettias and more, and the current emphasis on direct donations from the Los Altos community, the Music Boosters raise approximately $50,000 every year. “This year we decided to do a Direct Donation Appeal where we would seek monetary donations instead of doing a lot of fundraisers that do not bring in a lot of money,” IMB presidents Gaye Heck and Sylvie Lee said. “Most of our budget this year is from the Direct Donation Appeal cam-
paign, with over 50% of our families participating.” Combined with the profits from the fundraisers, this money goes toward student scholarships and provides school instruments to students in need. The budget covers the purchase of these school instruments and the repair and maintenance of older ones. Furthermore, it pays for ample food supply and outside instruction for marching band events that require travel. However, not all roles are centered on raising and collecting money. Parent volunteers also engage in the logistical support of the music department, mostly for the Marching Band and Color Guard. “[They] cook meals, move equipment, drive trucks, build props for
the show, hem pants and help the students with hair and uniform dress,” Heck and Lee said. All this requires the work and dedication of parent volunteers and student participants, who attend monthly Monday meetings to update and plan for each following month’s activities. “It basically runs like a club or the PTA,” regular meeting attendant junior Rory Maclean said. “[The two booster presidents] discuss what the budget was, what they spent, what they plan to spend, how much they fundraised, if they need volunteers...They organize all of that.” Ultimately, the work of the boosters pays off, and their dedication to the instrumental music department shows in the quality of the music ensembles.
Alta Vista evolves from traditional continuation school COLE HANSON SITARA SRIRAM Staff Writer Senior Writer
At a recent board meeting, Alta Vista High school (AVHS) principal Bill Pierce evaluated the evolving purpose of his school in an annual report about AVHS to the Mountain View Los Altos (MVLA) school board. In his report, Pierce emphasized that AVHS functions as a school for students who are behind on credits and at risk of not graduating, not a place for students with disciplinary issues. AVHS was founded in 1994 as a traditional continuation school. Continuation schools were originally designed for students who had jobs, but also wanted to continue their education. Thus, these schools, including Alta Vista, had special accommodations like shortened days for students with part-time jobs or family responsibilities. Alta Vista’s structure has shifted since those days. “About 20 years ago we created AVHS,” Pierce said. “[Since then] we’ve opened it up [and introduced]
more elective classes, we have a slightly longer day, and then over the years we slowly morphed away from typical continuation schools into a more alternative high school.” As time passed, in a further attempt to break away from the traditional continuation model, AVHS altered its foundational expectations of what kinds of students they would provide services to in the future. “We [started] looking at who we might be able to serve besides the standard continuation school, [such as] a student who maybe had some attendance issues at the traditional schools, maybe was also starting to fall back in some their classes and credits,” Pierce said. However, due to common misconceptions over the past few years, Pierce also felt the need to mention that AVHS is not a school for students with disciplinary problems. “Many students who come here have had discipline issues, but we rarely have students who come here because of discipline issues,” Pierce said. “A student who has significant discipline issues will go to Terra Bella Academy. When discipline issues do come up, it’s a
GINA KERMODE
Since its founding in 1994, Alta Vista continues to deviate from traditional continuation school models with modifications including lengthening the bell schedule and adding a freshman class. special case, and I always have the smaller, more personalized setting,” opportunity to make the decision. Pierce said. “For some students If I feel like it’s the student’s best [MVHS and LAHS] are just too interest to come here, and it is in large, and they don’t feel connected the best interest for the school, [I [to the school].” Today, AVHS continues to deviate will allow them to attend].” The structure and flexibility from the traditional continuation AVHS provides appeals to many model, both by lengthening their students, so much so that about school day and adding a freshman 20 percent of students who attend class. Continuation schools typically only serve juniors and seniors. AVHS are self-referrals. “We took a look at the freshman “[Some] students ask to come here because they’re looking for a who would typically go into the
traditional schools and weren’t successful, and then who would have to wait a full whole year [before coming] to us as sophomores,” Pierce said. “We thought well maybe we could meet those freshman early on, have them have a successful first year of high school and then [have them] transition to the traditional schools once they had a more secure academic situation.” In the future, Pierce feels AVHS will continue to follow aspects of the traditional continuation model as it was originally intended to. However, he hopes to broaden the kinds of courses the school offers and develop more career technical opportunities for students. “We’re working with Adult Education to expand our career courses,” Pierce said. “Our health science career program that we started this year is going very well; we want to expand that. Our construction class is also going very well. In a couple years we [also] want to add a childhood development program here. We really want to try to round out the offerings we have so students can come here [and take classes in careers they’re interested in].”
4
The Talon December 16, 2014
Local News PASSERELLE INVESTMENT CO. Altos, most of them focused on children and families. In addition, Paserelle has also helped In the past five years, down- some downtown veterans stay town Los Altos has seen a reviv- in business, such as Linden Tree Books. The iconic al, with new busibookstore moved nesses moving in into a new locaand a dramatic tion, owned by increase in foot In total, Passerelle Passerelle, due to traffic. Passerelle holds at least 10 a lower rent. Investment Com- parcels of land In total, Passerpany has been a in downtown Los elle holds at least major part of this 10 parcels of land revival, buying Altos, including in downtown Los properties and the large retail Altos, including drawing business- buildings at First the large retail es to Los Altos, and State and at buildings at First including the resand State and at taurant Bumble, 160 State Street. 160 State Street. Red Racer Hobby Based on county Based on county Shop and others. property assessproperty assessFounded in ments, their their comMarch 2010, Passecombined value is ments, bined value is over relle has acquired $36 million. a number of prop- over $36 million. Passerelle Inerties along First and State streets in downtown vestment Company has never Los Altos. It has focused on disclosed its investors in dedrawing new businesses to Los tail. Starting in 2012, news out-
SPENCER DEMBNER
PHOTOS BY RILEY MOULDS
Clockwise from left: Bumble, a restaurant, Linden Tree Books and Red Racer Hobby shop are located in properties owned by Passerelle.
of Passerelle’s properties are necessarily owned directly by Passerelle Investment Company LLC. Passerelle continues to buy new properties. Its most recent known purchase is 141 First Street, next to other properties that they own. Acquired in January 2014, the property is owned through 141 First Street LLC. However, another property, 139 First Street, was acquired in July by Los Altos Holdings LLC. As with PIC, Christine Wade is the only person listed for Los Altos Holdings. Passerelle is based at 108 First Street, a building that Passerelle constructed. Like many companies, Passerelle owns its properties indirectly. For instance, the large building at the corner of first and state is owned by
First and State Retail Building LLC, which in turn is owned by Passerelle. Store personnel and records suggest that in 2012, Passerelle tried to purchase 252 State Street, adjacent to 242 State Street which Passerelle already owned. 252 State is home to Exotic Silks, which has inhabited the property for decades. A company, ‘252 State Street LLC,’ was formed under Passerelle’s control, presumably to carry out the purchase. It’s unknown whether Exotic Silks would have been able to stay in the property, and attempts to buy it were ultimately unsuccessful. As of press deadline, Passerelle has not been available for comment.
Staff Writer
BERKELEY PROTESTS
lets, including the Wall Street Journal, began speculating that Google co-founder Sergey Brin was behind the project, and these rumors were confirmed in June 2014, when his wife, Anne Wojcicki, disclosed that she and her husband helped form Passerelle. According to the Secretary of State’s business records, Passerelle Investment Company LLC is either owned or managed by another company, PIC Advisors LLC. PIC Advisors in turn is owned or managed by Christine Wade, a partner in the San Francisco based SSL Law Firm, which focuses on real estate law. Although she is the only person listed on documents, Wade’s relationship to Passerelle is unclear, and furthermore, not all
ing that he ‘can’t breathe.’ In November, grand juries chose not to indict in either case, and protests against the decisions spread to garnered national attention and SPENCER DEMBNER major cities across the controversy over the HANNA KHOSRAVI United States. ProtestFerguson police departStaff Writers ers adopted Garner’s ment’s use of military Police respondlast words, making In the past weeks, protests over po- weapons and tactics, signs and chanting ‘I ed with the use lice violence against African Ameri- the demonstrations recan’t breathe’, and in cans have intensified after grand mained largely limited of rubber bulNew York City protestjuries chose not to indict police of- to Ferguson. lets, tear gas, ers shut down major ficers in the cases of Eric Garner and In Staten Island, New smoke and highways and bridges Michael Brown. Most of the protests York, Eric Garner died throughout Manhattan flares in an efhave been peaceful, but in Berkeley, at the hands of police and Brooklyn. California, demonstrations turned over the summer, when fort to disperse In Berkeley, a city violent and confrontations occurred officer Daniel Pantaleo the crowd. Two known for its student between protesters and police. placed him in a choke- police officers activism, students orgaProtests began in Ferguson, Mis- hold to subdue him. nized a series of demonsustained misouri, outside St. Louis, after police The incident was capstrations against the two nor injuries. officer Darren Wilson killed black tured on video, where decisions. According to teen Michael Brown. The protests Garner is shown repeatthe San Jose Mercury News, protests began peacefully on the afternoon of Saturday, December 6, but turned violent Saturday evening at around 6 PM, when protesters began looting a Trader Joe’s and other stores. Police responded with the use of rubber bullets, tear gas, smoke and flares in an effort to disperse the crowd. Two police officers sustained minor injuries during the protests, and six protesters were arrested on unknown charges. The Contra Costa Times states that City Council members Jesse Arreguín and Kriss Worthington called for an investigation of the police’s use of tear gas against the protesters. Police state that use of force was necessary to avoid further looting. However, protesters argue that it was disproportionate and punished many demonstrators who held no PHOTOS BY FLICKR USER ANNETTE BERNHARDT involvement in the looting. USA Today reports that protests On the second day of protests, a protester holds up a sign referencing the police brutality in the cases of Eric Garner and Michael Brown. once again turned violent on Sunday Though most protests nationwide have been peaceful, the protest at afternoon, when several protesters UC Berkeley turned violent after the first night. bashed in the windows of a Radio
Shack on Shattuck Avenue and stole meeting. electronics. Other protesters sought “The people in the Bay Area are to stop the looting and were injured sensitive to worldwide issues,” Bates in the process. said on Sunday, according to the One key confrontation happened Washington Post. “Unfortunately, on Sunday on Highway 24, which there is a small element that uses vioconnects Berkeley to Walnut Creek. lence at times to make their point.” Protesters made their way past CaliAccording to the San Jose Mercury fornia Highway Patrol officers to News, on the evening of Wednesblock the road for over 45 minutes, day December 10, approximately 100 and police responded by firing tear protesters broke into Wheeler Hall gas in an attempt to clear the road. on the University of Berkeley (UCB) Protests Sunday night were campus during billionaire and Paymarked by disagreement amongst pal co founder Peter Thiel’s question the demonstrators. While some and answer session with UCB stuprotesters were looting stores and dents. The event was hosted by the attacking police, others urged them Berkeley Forum, a student-run orgato remain nonviolent. Some linked nization which invites experts from arms in an effort to keep looters away different fields to speak with stufrom stores. The Berkeley BART sta- dents and “foster dialogue.” The distion was shut down, and much of ruption included protesters shouting Shattuck Avenue has been damaged “No police state--no NSA” and varior burned in the demonstrations, ous signs, some displaying phrases which lasted until 4 AM. such as “We revolt, simply because, Outside reactions to the protests for many reasons, we can no longer have been strong. Twitter users have breathe.” The protesters continued to tweeted on both sides of the is- march towards the city after disruptsue, and some Facebook users have ing the event. changed their profile pictures to Following the disruption, the black in solidarity with Berkeley Forum issued protests in Berkeley and a statement, stating nationwide. According that “while we respect to the New York Times, Unfortunately, and sympathize with Columbia Law School there is a small the protesters’ right to even announced that demonstrate, the right it was allowing some element that of free speech and disstudents to delay their uses violence cussion is a two-way final exams, saying at times to street...Peter Thiel was that the grand jury de- make their preparing to answer a cisions had shaken the question regarding his point. faith of many in the views on the value of — Berkeley Mayor justice system. political protest...Sadly, Tom Bates USA Today reports [due to the disruption] that protests continued the opportunity to enMonday night, with gage in productive dis223 people arrested and charged for cussion on the matter was lost.” blocking the Interstate 80 freeway. As of the press deadline, the Protesters marched to take over city most recent protest occurred hall during its meeting, but Berke- Wednesday night. ley Mayor Tom Bates cancelled the
The Talon December 16, 2014
National News IMMIGRATION REFORM ALICE DAI
Entertainment Editor
President Obama announced his executive order regarding immigration across the U.S.Mexican Border in a national address on Thursday, November 20. According to his address, the new order will redirect deportation efforts to “felons not families” while also further generalizing requirements for programs like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). DACA helps undocumented children and teens temporarily stay in the United States by expanding the population eligible for the program and extending work authorization from two to three years. It is predicted to take effect in late February. The order is comprised of three parts: fortify the southern border, assist business leaders, entrepreneurs and highly skilled Mexican citizens to contribute to the U.S. economy and protect long-term undocumented immigrants currently living in the country. Part three of Obama’s plan, protecting long-term undocumented immigrants by creating a new program called Deferred
Action for Parental Accountability program (DAPA), has garnered the most national attention due to both the benefits and disadvantages it will give to millions of undocumented immigrants. According to the New York Times, there are currently over 11.7 million undocumented immigrants residing in the U.S. DAPA could potentially apply to over five million undocumented immigrants if they qualify for all of the following parameters: those who have resided in the U.S. for more than five years, have children who are U.S. citizens or legal residents, have passed a criminal background check and pay U.S. taxes will be able to register for temporary immunization and work authorization six months after Obama’s address. “You can come out of the shadows, and get right with the law,” Obama said in his national address. “That’s what this deal is.” According to an article released by the White House, allowing undocumented immigrants to “get right with the law” is projected to improve the country’s economy holistically in terms of increasing small business job demand, improv-
OIL BOOM KEVIN YEN
Copy/Content Editor
In the last six months, consumer gasoline prices have been steadily decreasing in response to a 39 percent drop in crude oil prices, according to the New York Commodity Exchange. Crude oil prices have been sliding because the U.S. has become the single largest oil producing country beginning this year. The US decided to increase oil production after a spike in oil prices between 2008 and 2010 made the use of hydraulic fracturing profitable.
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Because the U.S. has been increasing oil production, the U.S. has been able to contribute to a global oversupply of 2.1 million barrels a day. The growing American influence on the oil supply and price has unsettled the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which has historically used its near-monopoly on oil to influence price; OPEC produces nearly 40 percent of the world’s oil. Consequently, OPEC de-facto leader Saudi Arabia asked its members to combat the rise in production of U.S. shale oil by keeping OPEC’s target oil production unchanged at
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ing the country’s growth domes“Mass deportation would be tic product (GDP) and ensuring both impossible and contrary to technological advancement in our character,” Obama said. U.S. soil. The reform will also aid However, members in Congress millions of families who qualify have vocalized their criticisms for the new program. over Obama’s order to override “We were scared to go far away, congressional processes. we were scared to go on vaca“The president has said before tion, now we’re out that ‘he’s not king,’ of the shadows like and he’s ‘not an emObama said. We’re peror,’ but he sure out,” Yesenia Guer- Mass deporis acting like one,” rero, an undocu- tation would House Speaker John mented immigrant Boehner, R-Ohio, said who qualifies for the be both imin a Reuters article rereform, said in a FOX possible and garding Obama’s latarticle. contrary to our est order. The new order is a character. National security double edged sword, concerns are also — U.S. President and Obama’s latsurfacing because of Barack Obama in est attempt to imthe expanded DACA his immigration reform address prove what he calls a requirements and “broken system” has new DAPA program. stirred controversy. “We will see a wave In his speech, Obama addresses of illegal immigration because scrutiny that Republican repre- of the president’s actions, and sentatives of Congress have over in no way is the Department of bypassing Congress and deem- Homeland Security prepared to ing the order amnesty. handle such a surge,” Republican
chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security Michael McCaul said in a Reuters article. Because the plan is classified as an executive order, Congress has yet to officially establish the order as a law. However, until the end of Obama’s presidency, the order carries “the same legal weight as laws passed by Congress,” according to an article on This Nation. Many undocumented immigrants fear that the deal could be revoked if Obama’s successor does not continue the order and as a result hesitate to take advantage of the immunization offer. Obama is currently urging Congress to “pass the bill” in order to create a lasting legislative solution to immigration, but static reforms and current disagreements between parties in Congress could leave the country’s immigration system in a similar state to where it started. Obama’s reforms will take effect in 2015.
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Left: Four years ago, protesters in Washington, D.C. spoke out about President Obama’s lack of reform regarding immigration; the protesters were later arrested, an action that prompted widespread criticism on the Obama administration. Right: On November 20 of this year, President Obama announced his executive order regarding immigration across the U.S.-Mexico Border. Members in Congress vocalized their dissent about his order to override congressional processes.
a high level of 30 million barrels per “We are together,” Venezuelan Then they might stop flooding the day during an annual Foreign Minister Ra- market, giving Saudi Arabia back its OPEC meeting on fael Ramirez said in position as the world oil leader.” Thursday, November response to rumors By 2035, the International Energy 27. According to the This new stance that there was a price Agency expects the U.S. to be enWall Street Journal by [OPEC] is war within OPEC. ergy independent, with the ability and Reuters, OPEC On December 10, to export surplus oil. Whether the has decided to keep likely a politiOPEC released a 12- current price instability will severely its production con- cal tactic. Saudi year low forecast of impact U.S. oil production depends stant despite low Arabia wants the 28.9 million barrels a on upcoming oil demand, OPEC demand in hopes price of oil to go day for the daily global persistence and the strength of the that as global supply oil production in 2015. global economy. The next half year low enough that outstrips demand, This release of a low will determine how successful the oil prices will fall and American producforecast caused oil U.S. oil industry will become. American shale oil ers in the newly prices to plummet companies who can- drilled shale bato a five year low. not afford the price sins aren’t making “This new stance drop will be forced by [OPEC] is likely a out of business. After any money. political tactic,” Busithe meeting, OPEC ness Insider reporter — Business Insider reporter Shane Ferro’s Secretary-General Shane Ferro wrote commentary in an article Abdalla El-Badri statin a December 10 ared that the plan is set ticle. “Saudi Arabia for a six month trial, wants the price of after which OPEC will assess the oil to go low enough that American market reaction and accordingly producers in the newly drilled shale decide the next step. basins aren’t making any money. FLICKR USER CHATHAM HOUSE “The outcome of [the OPEC] meeting marks a watershed for the oil market,” British banking firm Barclays said. “In keeping the production target at 30 million barrels per day, OPEC is clearly signaling that it will no longer bear the burden of market adjustment alone.” The four hour long meeting faced opposition from less prosperous members such as Venezuela and Iraq who insisted on cutting FLICKR USER CVRCAK1 production and raising prices in order to boost their own econo- Counterclockwise from left: An oil drill in North Dakota contributes to mies. However, both countries the 11 million barrels of oil the US produces per day; OPEC headquarters eventually agreed to Saudi Ara- in Vienna, Austria hosts representatives from its 12 members; OPEC bia’s proposal of waging a market Secretary General Abdallah Salem el-Badri announced OPEC’s decision to keep production levels at 30 million barrels a day in late November. share battle with the U.S.
The Talon December 16, 2014
Please send letters to the editor to talon.lahs@gmail.com
School’s promotion of computer science education is commendable On Wednesday, December 10, the school participated in the second annual Hour of Code event put on by code.org. The Hour of Code intends to expose students of all backgrounds to computer science through a series of online coding games. While excitement over the activities themselves differed amongst students, the Hour of Code accomplishes its fundamental goal of increasing exposure to computer science. As demand for high-tech jobs continues to grow, the disparity in the number of minorities holding jobs in the computer science industry becomes more apparent. The school uses opportunities such as the Hour of Code and many other new resources such as STEM clubs to support the advancement of diversity in the field of computer science and should continue to do so. According to a statistic compiled by code.org, while computer science offers some of the highest paying jobs in the world, 75 percent of the population is underrepresented in the AP Computer Science courses nationwide. Of students enrolled nationwide, only 15 percent are women and 8 percent are of color. At the school last year, only 16.3 percent of the students at the school who took the AP Computer Science test were female, and the gap is similarly large in technology jobs. The school must continue to implement programs and resources that help to work towards closing this gender gap in Computer Science education. This inequality is largely a result of lack of exposure at a young age. Without being surrounded by it from a young age, computer science can appear inaccessible. At LAHS, students are lucky to have opportunities that allow them see computer science as a
Editor-In-Chief Carly Cohen Managing Editors Maya Acharya (Print) Zach Cohen (Print) David Wu (Web) News Editor Sofia Guo Features Editor Katherine Yen In-Depth Editor Amelia Baum Entertainment Editor Alice Dai Sports Editor Daniel Rosenbaum Media Editor Noy Anisman Copy/Content Editors William Jow, James Sun, Maya Varghese, Kevin Yen Business Managers Johnny Scher, Leonardo Wai Senior Writers Robert Chin, Perla Luna, Sitara Sriram
NOAH TSAO
A student works on the Hour of Code assignment while volunteer mentors help out. The Hour of Code is just one example of the school’s dedication to promoting the diversification of STEM education among the student body. plausible career path. Many students find themselves with at least a basic understanding of what computer science is and the opportunities in the field before graduating high school. While the Hour of Code activities may not be geared towards experienced coders, this event and others like it are crucial to increasing diversity by exposing the topic to a broader range of students. Along with support for events such as the Hour of Code, which the math department offered both during class and at an after-school event, new classes and clubs offer students a way to invest in gaining
knowledge of computer science. AP Computer Science and Intro to Computer Programming offer two different entry points into a computer science education. These opportunities are crucial for students to gain exposure and feel comfortable taking future classes in the subject. Basic programming skills can also prove helpful for students who do not plan to become computer scientists, providing skills such as logical thinking and problem abstraction. As society becomes more technology dependent, coding is a necessary skill for almost all professions, not just computer science.
Clubs that exist on and off campus, such as the Girls Who Code club, aim to pull more female students into the field of computer science. Clubs such as Women in STEM directed towards supporting STEM as a whole show recognition of the issue at hand. While there is always more to be done to combat the issue, exposure to the field as a whole is the necessary initial step. The school fosters an environment that supports technological drive of the area. As the industry continues to grow, the school has a responsibility to show further support for student exposure in computer science.
Correction: On November 25, 2014, The Talon published an article with the following quote: “I formed a guitar ensemble, taught them music, led them as a group...Tickets sold increased by the hundreds compared to the previous year’s sales.” Senior Ashwin Vaidyanathan was incorrectly identified as the speaker. Junior Ashwin Krishna was actually the speaker of the quote. The Talon sincerely regrets this error.
Dear Editor, The murders of Michael Brown and Eric Garner and the failure to indict the police officers involved are clear examples of racist violence by white police officers against black people. While there may be conflicting accounts regarding the initial altercation between Officer Darren Wilson and Michael Brown, it is clear from the autopsy reports that Michael Brown was killed when he was standing at approximately 30 feet away, unarmed, and Wilson shot him multiple times, including two shots to the head. There are multiple witnesses who reported that Michael Brown was trying to raise his arms up and did not make a mad charge at the officer, in contrast to the testimony of one anonymous witness. Regarding the murder of Eric Garner, there is no such complexity. If you have any questions, watch
Los Altos High School
201 Almond Ave., Los Altos, CA December 16, 2014 Volume XXX, Issue 4
the video. These cases are emblematic of the long history and enduring reality of amerikkkan injustice, from Emmett Till to Michael Brown, the “Scottsboro boys” to Alex Nieto, and so many others. The message to black people in particular and people of color in general is blunt and cruel: your lives don’t matter so much, your bodies can be left out on the street for nearly five hours before they are covered up and removed (what happened to Michael Brown). We call upon all students and staff to join us in the next march for justice. This is the beginning of a new movement.
THUMBS DOWN to the new punitive Holiday Faire Policy. However, clubs should recognize missed opportunity.
Due to especially low registration for the school’s Holiday Faire this year, participation was made mandatory for all clubs planning to fundraise during second semester. While the new policy is problematic and should be reconsidered, clubs must also recognize and take advantage of the fundraising opportunity the Holiday Faire represents. Since the Holiday Faire represents one of the limited three fundraisers the school can host during school hours during the year, the decision was made in order to maximize the fundraising potential of this event. However, clubs were not notified of this decision until Monday, December 8, just four days before the Faire, which was not enough notice to give clubs enough time to organize a team to make a product and staff a booth. Though the enactment of the new policy was untimely and inconsiderate, clubs should realize that they are doing a disservice to themselves and to the school by not participating in the faire.
Organizers of the March for — Justice
THUMBS DOWN to the decline in student participation in the
The Talon welcomes letters to the editor. E-mail letters to talon.lahs@gmail. com, drop them off in room 409 or the box in the attendance office. In the case of spelling or grammatical errors, obscenities, libel or personal attacks, a letter may be edited or not run. Letters must be signed, but a name may be withheld upon request. Letters may be published online, in print or both.
The school’s food drive raises monetary donations and canned food for Second Harvest Food Drive. This year’s total was 20,033 pounds, including monetary donations, down from last year’s 23,427. Though the efforts of students, teachers and ASB raised a commendable donation from the school, the decrease in this year’s donations is a disappointing trend that should not be continued. The student body must recognize the potential for the food drive to help people in need and should seek to increase the amount of donations next year and in the future.
annual food drive.
Staff Writers Emily Aoki, Claire Bai, Teddy Chmyz, Hannah Craford, Spencer Dembner, Annie Gaffney, Anneliese Gallagher, Cole Hanson, Olivia Jerram, Hanna Khosravi, Jessica King, Josh Kirshenbaum, Eric Kopps, Elaine Lee, David Lisbonne, Alexandra Milkey, Emily Terada, Eric Thiem Photographers Ian Mackey, Brandon Hong, Allegra Maeso, Noah Tsao, Elvis Li, Menson Li, Gina Kermode Graphic Artists Amanda Mell, Vanessa Mark Videographers Bonaventure Duprat, Carl Faust, Brandon Hong, Ian Mackey, Riley Moulds 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 fulltime coverage. The Editorial Board sets the policies of The Talon and crafts its editorials and thumbs. Its members are Maya Acharya, Noy Anisman, Amelia Baum, Zach Cohen, Spencer Dembner and Perla Luna.
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Talon Supporters Honorary Pulitzers Kamal and Sharmila Acharya, Hadas and David Anisman, Holly and Andy Cohen, Henry Dai and Dan Shen, Chuyen Do and Quyen Nguyen, Anne Marie Gallagher, Lisa Gordon, SuJane Hsieh, Jerry Scher and Susan Stark, Lillian Terada, The Varghese Family, Talon Volume 26 editors, Tracy Weatherby, Wendy Yang, Yongmei Zhou
Silver Supporters Sam and Ann Baum, Bruce Cohen, Amy and John Gaffney, Bob and Janis Harrison, Samrand Hesami, Rick and Corrie Jow, Jade Kandel, Hanna Khosravi, Vivian Mao, The McColl Family, Angie and Steve McDonald
The Talon December 16, 2014
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Students’ perceptions of stress need to change which puts a lot of pressure on you and the people around you.” Too often, students follow strict goals that they know are out of their Staff Writers control without understanding why. Such goals are personified by the college application process. Students The existence of stress amongst can work to achieve every possible teenagers is no secret. However, un- success in high school, have straight derstanding that the problem exists A’s and hold leadership positions isn’t enough. Students, along with in several extracurriculars, but the their parents and teachers, must truth is that they have zero control over the admissions understand that stress process. While they is often caused when may have indirect conthey set goals that are A feeling that trol leading up to it by outside of their direct working hard and docontrol. This problem one doesn’t ing the best they can, can be resolved if the have control of a dangerous amounts community works situation is often of stress are due to the together to push stu- what causes fact that students have dents to aim for goals no direct control over without the “wild card” stress. the outcome. factor. “[Even] once you submit [the colA feeling that one doesn’t have control of a situation is often what lege application], it’s still stressful causes stress. For example, students because then it’s no longer in your frequently find themselves very hands, you’re waiting for the person busy without feeling any stress at all. to get back,” senior Savannah BuchHowever, as soon as they feel that ner said. “And I guess a lot of stress there aren’t enough hours in the day is worrying whether or not you get to accomplish the tasks they’ve set in or not.” Students must realize that while for themselves, the stress begins to they may not have control over largmount. “Just being a senior is stressful er goals regarding the future, they among itself,” senior Elena Strawn do have the ability to reduce their said. “It’s sort of like an in-between stress levels. By setting expectations state where you… don’t know for themselves that are feasible, they whether or not you’ll be successful can have a greater chance of reach-
ALEXANDRA MILKEY EMILY AOKI
ing some sort of success and greatly reduce their stress in the process. Whether this takes the form of increasing a grade in math or working toward a project a student is particularly passionate about, these can be accomplished if a student works hard. While students should continue to work toward large goals, maximizing one’s amount of control in a situation can directly reduce stress levels. While a student has the responsibility to manage their goals to reduce stress, they are often influenced by their parents and society as a whole. By placing such an emphasis on unrealistic ideas of success, society has set up a system that inherently
VANESSA MARK AND AMANDA MELL
fosters stress and is to blame for these heightened and unrealistic expectations. Society has created an atmosphere that allows stress to flourish and encourages students to feed into this system and allow it to continue. This idea must be understood by the parents and school faculty that support a student. It is unreasonable to ask as student to overcome such societal norms on their own, and if parents continue to work against their children by encouraging ideals of success that lay outside of their control, stress levels will continue to skyrocket amongst teens. Parents have a responsibility to take care of their kids, and part
of this is acknowledging the uncontrollable aspects of their futures and encouraging them to look for other ways to feel accomplished. Many students find that one of the most significant ways to decrease stress it to pursue their own passions, which makes for a much more positive work experience. “[My summer internship] was a weird experience because I was doing just as much work as I would for school…but I got to choose my assignments, I got to choose what I wanted to do and I was doing things that I was super passionate about,” junior Julia Khan said. “That was cool because I wasn’t really stressed.” It’s these types of projects and attainable successes that are crucial for students as they attempt to combat stress. Teenagers need to realize that merely stating the fact that their stress exists is not enough. To fully combat the overwhelming amount of stress students face, they must take actions into their own hands and with the support of those around them, surround themselves with goals and achievements they can control and excel at. Stress is an ongoing issue amongst teenagers and will continue to be covered in future issues.
Students should seek out-of-school language programs OLIVIA JERRAM EMILY TERADA
Staff Writers
Japanese, German, Hebrew, Korean, Arabic, Russian, Sign Language, French, Spanish, Latin and Mandarin—these are all languages offered through either Foothill Community College or Brigham Young University online. Although Spanish, French, Latin and Mandarin (the classes offered at LAHS) are good options, there are so many more. Alternative language programs, such as those offered at community colleges or online, provide a wider variety of classes that students should be aware of. “The language options are limited [at LAHS],” junior Selynna Sun said. “Out of the many languages in the world, LAHS only has four… There are other major languages out there that LAHS should include to account for the people whose interests lie elsewhere rather than in the languages we currently offer.” However, just because LAHS doesn’t have enough interest to offer and fill a wider variety of classes doesn’t mean students should be slogging through a two-year class they never wanted to take. “I take [an] AP Japanese class outside of school,” junior Erika Ozawa said. “One of my friends was already taking the class, so I started taking it because Japanese is my home language and I want to
keep [it] intact…I’ve gone through the whole [Japanese] course—all 6 years and the AP class.” Erika has been taking Japanese classes for a total of eleven years. “I would highly recommend taking extra classes outside of LAHS if [you] have the time because you [have more options and] get to learn more,” Erika said. “If you really love the subject that you’re taking [or] the class that you’re taking, then go after it.” One option is to take a class at Foothill Community College. Unlike LAHS, Foothill offers Japanese as part of its language program. High schoolers, as well as college students, can take one of thirteen Japanese classes ranging in level from beginners to advanced and spanning all aspects of the language, including culture and
calligraphy. Furthermore, these classes count towards the “A-G” UC application requirements, the same as any French, Spanish, Latin or Mandarin class. “We have quite a large number of high school students every quarter from all over the Bay Area,” Foothill Japanese Program Chair Ikuko Tomita Rakow said. “In fact, when I taught evening [Japanese] 1 last summer, about two-thirds of the students were high school students.” However, most students feel stressed enough without adding additional classes to their existing schedule. Furthermore, adjusting daily agendas in order to attend these classes and finding the additional time to drive to another school can deter students from pursuing these options. “I have to go commute to my [AP
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Japanese] class, and the commutHowever, school counselors are ing time is very long and tiring,” less eager to recommend online Erika said. classes. They warn A possible solustudents that not tion could be to all outside classes take the class on- I would highly fulfill the “A-G” reline. In taking an recommend takquirement list due online class, stuto the UC Board’s ing extra classes dents are able to newly implementwork when conve- outside of LAHS ed policy of having nient, a benefit of if [you] have the to approve online the flexible learn- time because you courses for credit. ing environment. Likewise, language [have more op“Taking an online teachers also criticlass was good for tions and] get to cize online courstime management learn more. es, saying they do because I could work not provide stu— junior Erika Ozawa at my own pace,” Sedents with a prolynna said. “There gram to practice isn’t a set schedule speaking. for online classes so there’s a lot of Yet, there are other motives leeway for what you can do during for taking a class besides being the class, like breaks and pacing.” guaranteed credit towards UC applications and becoming fluent. Students who take online language classes still learn the fundamentals of that language and, more importantly, they are allowed to explore their passions and interests. “Intrinsic motivation is one of the factors that help you learn a language, so any student who’s not motivated to learn the language is much less likely to be successful in a language,” world language department coordinator Robyn Hughes said. “So the more motivation you have, the more successful. So I would advocate for any student to take the language they’re passionate about because they’re going to have VANESSA MARK more success learning it.”
If you would like to write about your stance on an issue that’s affecting students at our school, email Opinions Editor Steven Cui at talon.lahs@gmail.com with a summary of your idea.
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OP I N ION S
The Talon December 16, 2014
Christmas spirit compromised by electronics ANNIE GAFFNEY Staff Writer
This Black Friday, Target sold 1,800 TVs and 2,000 video games each minute in the first hour after its opening, according to the New York Times. In Houston, Texas, armed police officers broke up a mob of Walmart shoppers diving onto discount Samsung TVs. Best Buy’s website crashed due to an unprecedented online demand. American holiday culture has bred an unhealthy obsession with gifts that has driven us into a competition that takes away from the true intent of the holidays. The hysteria, now closely associated with Black Friday and the holiday season as a whole, largely stems from our society’s electronic craze. While the madness extends throughout a variety of other markets, the electronic business is projected to grow at a faster rate this season than other indus-
tries. According to CNBC, sales in the electronics category are projected to grow upwards of four percent this season, while apparel is expected to grow a “sluggish” 2.4 percent. Our society’s obsession with getting the latest, hottest electronics is what drove the shoppers of Victorville to camp overnight for a shot at a Panasonic 50-inch for $199.99. The competition between consumers to purchase the cheapest electronics now lays close to the heart of Christmas shopping. According to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), holiday spending on electronics is projected to hit $33.8 billion this year. The CEA also expects 63 percent of adults to purchase an electronic gift this season. Such numbers ref lect the culture Americans have created, one that breeds an expectation of expensive gifts. The tradition of giving meaningful presents such as homemade but inexpensive gifts has passed. Solidified by the electronic boom, we have largely come out of the era of homemade picture frames
and gift baskets. Individuals are now drawn towards a new Kindle, iPhone or video game, thereby reinforcing the trend of depersonalized gifting. The expectation of expensive gifts and consequential emphasis on monetary value has diverted us from what the holidays ought to be—a time to enjoy festivities with friends and family. The holidays are meant to celebrate relationships, not gifts. This infringement on “holiday cheer” is also seen on social media, where individuals can post
and gloat about their holiday experience. Check Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook in December, and you’re bound to see pictures uploaded of the Christmas trees of teenagers’ families. Often, those deemed social-media-worthy are no ordinary Christmas trees. Rather, they are intricately and often expensively decorated. Though festive and seemingly harmless, we glaze over the fact that such posts overvalue material possessions and add to the seasonal pressure we place
AMANDA MELL
on each other to spend, spend, spend on festive decorations. The fad worsens with the posting of Christmas gifts. On Christmas morning, Instagram and Twitter are f looded with pictures and lists of gifts. Whether an individual depicts quality, quantity, or neither, the posting of our gifts inevitably causes us to compare our holiday experience to those of our peers. With this tradition of posting everything-Christmas on our social media networks, we’re thrown into a silent competition of who can out-buy, out-give and out-decorate. Electronics only add to the hysteria of the holidays. We have turned the holidays into a time to celebrate possessions and a time to compare our experiences to those of our peers on social media. ‘Tis the season to enjoy the festive atmosphere, family, friends and the occasional Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange. It’s time to drop our obsession with getting the latest smartphone and remember what the holidays are for: bringing people together.
Community Colleges provide viable option for students ERIC KOPPS Staff Writer
Community colleges perpetually help students in their academic careers, yet they often do not receive the credit they deserve. The negative stigmas that surround the community college title need to be expelled as many do not see community college for what they can do for students. Community colleges offer many benefits to those who are unable to initially go from a high school setting to a full size university, thus making them a viable option for students who wish to progress their education for two years, with the added possibility of transferring to a university. Public colleges in California are divided into a three tier system: University of California schools (UC), California State Universities (CSU) and California Community Colleges. University of California schools are
research based. CSUs have an emphasis on undergraduates and aim to prepare students for the workforce in a variety of fields. Community colleges are designed as vocational programs that grant occupational certificates or associate degrees. While some opt to end their college education with an associate degree, the fact of the matter is that they have the potential to be more: they can be used to transfer to either a CSU, UC or another four-year university. According to Study in the States, a study conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, community colleges serve the purpose of paving the way to a four year degree. Students are guaranteed an associate degree once they complete either 60 semester credits or 90 trimester credits. Community colleges also offer students a f lexible schedule and very promising transfer programs to get admitted into a four year university. For example, Transfer Agreement Guarantee is a transfer program for students planning
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on applying to one of the six participating UC campuses: Davis, Irvine, Merced, Riverside, Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz. This program is designed to assist students who have done exceptionally well in their first two years of community college a spot in a UC school. Depending on which UC a student is applying to, the requirements may differ, but overall, students are held to a high standard if they wish to continue their education at a UC. CSUs also have transfer programs that allow students who have completed their associate degree and have maintained a minimum 2.0 GPA while in community college to be admitted. Because community college can be an alternative for the first two years of college, there are a variety of options for students. Depending on where students are at in their learning careers, they can take courses ranging in difficulty from high school level classes to advanced college level classes. According to Scholarships. com, “Community college is what you make of it [and] putting in the time is entirely up to [you].” How much a student gets out of any college, community or university, depends on their commitment and where they wish to end up. Another advantage that community colleges offer is their small class sizes, as one of the things students struggle with at a university are the large and impersonal classes. According to Collegefinder.org, class sizes in universities can reach 300 students per professor. This is intimidating to many students who may learn more efficiently in a more personal environment. The average community college class size ranges from 25-35 students. This gives the student more opportunities to talk to the professor and get a better grasp on whatever the topic may be. The low cost of community colleges compared to CSU and
VANESSA MARK
UC schools is also a benefit that community colleges offer. According to the Wall Street Journal, it is not uncommon for students to graduate from a university with over $30,000 of debt. In fact, over 70 percent of university students in 2014 took on debt. For many who cannot afford to go to a university, community colleges are an excellent alternative for the first two years. The Wall Street Journal also reports that a year of tuition at a California State University costs roughly $5,500 if you are a California resident; likewise, a UC school costs an average of $35,000 per year. That being said, community college costs about $1,400 in tuition and fees, which for some, is much more reasonable. These fees include textbooks, food, transportation, parking and any other accommodation that requires payment. In many colleges, the first two years consist of furthering basic knowledge. Often, students don’t begin taking classes based on their majors until late sophomore year or early junior
year. Community college allows students to save their money rather than take out loans for courses that aren’t going to get them any closer to their major. For those who are not academically or financially ready to attend a four-year university after high school, community colleges are a valid alternative to furthering their education. Many community colleges allow students to pick their classes based on their own schedule, giving them time to work, spend time with family and work on internships. The common characterization of community colleges as limited to vocational education is unfair because it disregards the many other opportunities schools have to offer. A more accurate understanding of the role of community colleges is critical to students hoping to make sound decisions about their post-high school plans. Though attending a community college may not be the right choice for all students, the opportunities they offer many students should be recognized.
OP I N ION S
The Talon December 16, 2014
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UC budget mismanagement is responsible for tuition hikes WILLIAM JOW
Copy/Content Editor
In response to the University of California’s (UC) recent decision to increase tuition by as much as 28 percent over the next five years, hundreds of UC, Berkeley students walked out of classes and occupied Wheeler Hall on Wednesday, November 19. In light of the current situation between the state and the UC, this tuition hike will be inevitable unless the state agrees to provide additional funding—a course of action that appears unlikely. While the proposed hikes are partially justified by a decline in state finances, UC is also responsible for re-examining its budget and plans for expansion. Advocates of the tuition increase argue that the extra money is necessary to cover mandatory and other high-priority costs. This “reinvestment in academic quality,” includes increasing staff salaries, construction and expansion of California enrollment. Though it is legitimate for UC to aspire to this academic quality, they are not the “mandatory costs” that UC regents claim. In a time where the state is faced with difficult economic decisions, neither is entirely justified at the moment.
Many of these costs originate from the UC Retirement Plan, which provides pension benefits for retired UC employees. In 1990, UC decided to temporarily cease all state and faculty support for the plan because it had enough funding for “many years in the future.” However, in 2010, UC’s poor planning became evident when it had to reinstitute mandatory contributions from both its core budget and employee’s salaries at increasing percentages due to inflation and a lack of continued funding. It was irresponsible of UC to neglect these payments for 20 years, and it is unfair to place this mistake on the shoulders of students in the form of exorbitant tuition raises. A second priority for UC is
raising its staff salaries back to competitive levels. UC salaries recently dipped below 90 percent of market rates, which is concerning for UC’s ability to keep pace with other research institutions. However, a significant factor in these rising costs is a disproportionate growth of management staff. In the past twenty years, the total number of employees has grown 47 percent while management and senior professionals have grown 220 percent—professional and support staff outnumber academic staff two to one. In 2013, UC paid $2.3 billion alone to management and support staff, more than half of what they paid academic staff. UC is spending too much money on depart-
Two Sides to the Tution Increase Controversy
4% per year state funding increases hinge on tution remaining flat Raises for administrators at several campuses State has not fully recovered from 2008 recession
Need to reinvest in UC employee retirement and pension plans Pressure to increase enrollment for California students Desire to stop volatile tuition levels and avoid future hikes
AMELIA BAUM
ments that are not directly involved with its students’ academic experience, and should reconsider its need for management staff when student tuition will be covering the costs. Furthermore, UC has been investing unnecessary amounts of money toward construction and maintenance. UC Berkeley alone has spent over $220 million on construction every year since 2004, much of which is for new developments. UC justifies this extravagant spending by claiming that its budget plan does not allow the funds to be used for other operations, which is debatable as UC’s budget plan is changed every year. UC should change the plan to route the surplus of construction funds to pay for its salary deficits. On top of UC’s questionable management, the state’s recovering economy and budget is a principle reason for UC’s budget deficits, which UC cites as the reason it needs to increase tuition. Due to the fact that UC receives a significant portion of its core funding from the state, its tuition is closely tied to the state’s fiscal condition. In times of economic downturn, UC must raise tuition to compensate for state budget cuts if it has any hope of maintaining its budget plan. For example, in 2011, UC tuition increased by 17.6 percent as the byproduct of Governor Jerry Brown’s plan to
tackle a $26.6 billion debt. Still, the state contends that it is making an effort to increase UC funding. For the past two years, Governor Brown has provided UC with annual 5 percent increases in state funding, which he claims are enough that UC shouldn’t have to raise tuition. These increases follow a $750 million cut in state funding in 2011. However, it is important to recognize that these increases are miniscule in light of significant inflation and costs UC must maintain. The increases of $105.9 million in 2012 and $256.5 million in 2013 have not even made up for half of 2011’s budget cuts. These modest increases in funding cannot match a consistent decline in state support to UC since 1990, a trend that simply must be reversed in order for state support of UC to have a significant impact. At the moment, an increase in UC tuition seems inevitable. In light of the state’s economic disinvestment in higher education, UC must alter its spending practices, and put expansion on hold so that these deficits are not unfairly ref lected onto students. In order to maintain its role as a premier public university, UC must make efforts to make sure that its funding issues do not affect the accessibility of higher education for thousands of students.
Student grade perception requires re-evaluation HANNAH CRAFORD Staff Writer
It is around this time in the semester that students turn to their textbooks and delve into a world of stress and studying. Many stop thinking about what they know or what they have left to learn and instead stare at the percentages and letters that make up their final grades. Students have lost sight of the purpose of grades. They need to understand that grades were originally set in place to help and not hinder our education. Grades should be used to motivate students to be better, but today they are often used to compare students to one another. What we need to focus on is how students and teachers view grades; if we can fix that, then we can fix how society views grades. There are many problems with how people perceive grades today. Alfie Kohn, author of “The Schools Our Children Deserve: Moving Beyond Traditional Classrooms” and “Tougher Standards,” writes that there are three different ways in which students’ perceptions of grades negatively affect their daily lives. One way in which students are affected is that their interest in the learning itself is diminished. Sometimes, students resort to cheating on tests or homework because they care more about the grade that ends up on SIS than actually learning the material. There are students who don’t cheat and may not focus on learning everything that they are supposed to. Students tend to forget what they learned more quickly when their end goal is the grade and not the
information. Students can cram and cram for a test to get an A, but there is little long term retention in cramming for a test. While it is true that students might get a decent grade, it will be more beneficial in the long run if they study over a long period of time. The third way that grades affect students is by pushing them away from challenging themselves. Many students will go for the easier essay topic or project because they know they will get an A, instead of challenging themselves and getting a B or lower grade. However, by not challenging themselves students don’t learn as much as
they could. Grades were intended to allow students to see when they needed to improve. Students should be pushing themselves to go beyond what they have already mastered. Getting a good grade does not mean students should stop pushing themselves further. On the other hand, people who receive poor grades should not view them as a reflection of their intelligence but rather as a wake up call to the fact that they need to dig deeper into the information they are being given. Grades have turned into a way for society to rank people by their intellectual abilities, which has the
AMANDA MELL
effect of keeping students from their full potential. Colleges need some way to choose who it is that they want to admit. Grades have become a huge factor in getting into college. While it is true that grades are not the only thing that colleges look at, it is also true that grades are a major deciding factor. By choosing to use grades in this way, colleges effectively limit students’ potential. This emphasis on grades rather than understanding the material does not help the student in the long run; in fact, it hinders the student. “Grades are supposed to reflect the student’s mastery of a body of material or their mastery of skills,” history teacher Derek Miyahara said. “Colleges and universities, though, often use grades to sort applicants, and that’s unfortunate.” In response to these problems with grades, certain schools across the country are looking for a way to change their education systems to better assist their students in learning. For example, teachers from Girls Middle School in Palo Alto do not hand out grades. Instead, teachers allow students to review their own work and later write progress reports on how each student is doing. “Every semester, students write reflections about how they are doing in each class. Their teachers write detailed narrative reports in response to those reflections,” Girls Middle School principal Jessica Ayer said. “Teachers make sure that every girl knows what she needs to do to become a more powerful learner.” These teachers have stopped grading their students by how much they know. Instead, this method of teaching without grades allow students to challenge themselves further in their learning. They can grow past the high marks and really begin to learn more about the materials that are being
taught. Also, by no longer having grades to discourage the students that are getting lower marks, the teachers are able to help the students see how they can improve. “We find that strong students keep setting higher goals for themselves which they might not do if they earned straight A’s,” Ayer said. “Weaker students are not as discouraged as they might be by C’s but can focus step-by-step on the things they need to do to become stronger students.” While taking away grades altogether is extreme, this example shows that it is possible for students to excel without the constraints of letter grades. Feedback is necessary for growth, but it doesn’t necessarily have to come in the form of a letter grade or percentage. Switching to a new system of not giving grades would be tough for high schools due to the fact that colleges use grading as a major portion of their admissions process. Nonetheless, it is important for colleges to recognize that grades do not define students and that more should be taken into account when admitting students. Overall, grades have turned into something that no longer aids students in learning. We need to understand this as a society and change student mindsets about grades so that students challenge themselves more rather than strive to become satisfied with a top mark. On the other side of the spectrum, students who receive lower marks should not feel as though they are not smart, but should instead understand that the grade just means they need to push harder. Society has to see that lower grades are a sign of needing to improve and not a final say in the students’ intellectual abilities. People need to understand that the purpose of grades is to motivate the students and not to rank them.
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The Talon December 16, 2014
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Club offers outlet for aspiring writers JOSH KIRSHENBAUM Staff Writer
Standing in English teacher Jonathan Kwan’s room in front of a small club at lunch on a Monday, junior Emily Goto takes a deep breath and starts to recite a poem about screams. Her delivery isn’t perfect; it’s the first time she’s performing this one to an audience. She isn’t thrilled with the current state of the poem either. “I’m thinking of seriously revamping it, because I like the idea,” Emily said. “But I want to change it a lot...I want to get across more [meaning] than it is [doing now].” But that’s why Emily came to room 504 today. “Since freshman year I’ve been wanting to be in a creative writing place at this school,” Emily said. “And I came today because [junior club president Kalie Oku]
told me ‘Hey, there’s a poetrygroup-thing’ and I was like, ‘That sounds really cool.’” The “poetry-group-thing” refers to Kalie’s brainchild, the Divulgence club, which meets on Mondays at lunch in room 504. Kalie first developed her passion for poetry in her Survey Composition and Literature class freshman year and has expanded her experience to judging the Freshman Poetry Slam last year. This year, she organized the club as a way of inspiring new poets and giving help to more experienced creative writers. “We accept songwriting, slam poetry—any kind of poem—short stories and rap,” Kalie said. “[For] anyone who wants to creatively express themselves in written or performance work, we will all watch them, critique them and help them get better at what they want to do.”
PHOTOS BY ALLEGRA MAESO
Above: Divulgence club members juniors Amanda Mell, president Kalie Oku and Tiffany Johnson (left to right) make silly faces for the club. Below: Freshman Langston Hay looks towards Kalie for advice after delivering his poem “Sound.” Divulgence is a new club that aims to provide an environment for creative writers to express themselves. Much of the benefit comes from group work, where students can work, practice and perform poems in a setting that is more open than the average English class. “You’re afraid that everyone in [English] class is going to despise you for wanting to show everyone else what you’ve done,” Emily said. “It’s really negative, and I’ve experienced a lot of that. So it’s really cool to feel like you have a place where you don’t have that; you can just say what you have and be proud of what you have brought and have other people get inspiration from that.” This openness has created a teamwork mentality among club members with everyone being willing to contribute. “Everyone’s really encouraging, and if you want criticism, you can just try and people will give you some constructive criticism on your poem,” junior James
Naumovski said. “Everyone in there has a pretty open mind.” So far, Kalie has been very happy with the way the club has gone this year. “We have new faces every other week, and people do show up and remember to come,” Kalie said. “It’s really exciting, and I feel like people are really developing in my club...People are actually getting better at writing and performing.” With the current success of the club, Kalie looks forward to future events. In April, Youth Speaks, a non-profit organization focused on bringing poetry to students, will hold its annual Unified District Poetry Slam where schools from all around the Bay Area are invited to send a team of four to six poets to compete. The contest will include both individual performances and a team performance. “I want to get together five
people from anywhere in the school,” Kalie said. “[They don’t] have to be part of my club, just people who are really interested in slam poetry.” According to Kalie, the schoolwide tryout will be held soon so that the assembled team will have plenty of time to brainstorm, write and rehearse the individual and team poems. As of press deadline, the tryout is set to be on Monday, January 12 after school in the Eagle Theater. Kalie hopes that as time goes on, more and more people will come to the meetings and join in club events. Her aim is to create a place at our school where any aspiring poets can hone their skills, and anyone new can try poetry out for themselves. “I welcome people all of the time,” Kalie said. “There isn’t an enrollment. Just walk into my club, I’ll welcome you and we’ll get started.”
Castleman blends math and science in the classroom “While the material we learn is difficult, he takes away a lot of Visit Adam Randall’s sixth pe- stress in the class by the way he riod physics class and you might teaches,” senior Kathryn Mueller notice the presence of an extra said. “Mr. Castleman also uses student. He’s not enrolled in AP physics to help us understand the Physics C, nor is he an observing calculus more. He’s done demschool administrator. In fact, onstrations with a spring showthis student is math teacher ing harmonic motion, showed us Charles Castleman, who occa- multiple graphs using formulas sionally listens in on Randall’s from physics and demonstrated lectures as part of his effort to some of the [Calculus] processes integrate physics into his AB himself visually.” Though Castleman has already Calculus classes. made great strides “One of my biggest toward math-science complaints about the integration, he hopes math curriculum nathat one day all math tionwide is that a lot The students and science classes of it I feel is discon- here make this will be combined nected from what job the best even further. He en[students] are doing teaching job visions a combinain science and pracI’ve ever had, tion similar to the tical applications,” by far. LAHS course Global Castleman said. Connections, which In order to bridge — calculus teacher Charles Castleman is a two-period class the gap between combining English math and science, and History. In the Castleman teaches applicable areas of physics to science portion of Castleman’s his calculus students, some- ideal course, he would have stutimes borrowing lab equip- dents participate in labs and othment from Randall for demon- er hands-on activities, as many strations. Thus far, he has used classes do already. In the math kinematics topics in physics to portion, he would have students help explain derivatives and practice math problems that apply directly to their activities in limits in calculus.
ANNELIESE GALLAGHER Staff Writer
the lab, like calculating force or balancing chemical equations. “[If ] I got to run education by fiat, I would completely change it to where a lot of the math classes, especially when you’re a sophomore, would be more focused on supporting the math you’re doing in physics and chemistry,” Castleman said. Castleman’s reform-oriented methods stem from his unusual background. After completing two years at San Diego City College, Castleman transferred to the University of California, Davis, where he majored in mathematics, with a minor in history. Then, Castleman enrolled as a law student at Washington and Lee University in Virginia. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do, and I got a good score on the [Law School Admission Test],” Castleman said. “And I figured, ‘Well, I can get into a really good law school.’ But only after a little while did I really realize that I didn’t want to practice law. I just don’t like sitting at a computer all day.” After graduating law school, Castleman decided to pursue a career in teaching rather than law. When he made this decision in October 2008, it was too
ELVIS LI
Calculus teacher Charles Castleman smiles as he calls on a student for a question. Castleman has been working to integrate physics into his calculus classes and hopes to one day teach a combined math and science class. late to enroll in the teaching credential program for that year. So he spent the remainder of the year working as a pair educator, a paid individual who works one-on-one with students, at Ralston Middle School. In Castleman’s case, he was assisting a student who suffered from muscular dystrophy. “I got a chance to get in front of the class a couple times, and
I found that I really did like that job,” Castleman said. From then on, he knew for certain that he wanted to become a teacher. Hoping to further the teaching methods he has initiated, Castleman looks forward to the time ahead of him at LAHS. “I love teaching here,” Castleman said. “The students here make this job the best teaching job I’ve ever had, by far.”
The Talon December 16, 2014
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From NFL to Adult Ed, Moody gives it his all and rural families in the migrant workers education program durFrom Super Bowl champion to ing their offseason. This sparked Adult Education Director, Keith Moody’s interest in the opporMoody has done it all with his tunity to work in the education “go get it” attitude. However, field. Moody always knew he the one thing that has never was going to be in education bechanged in Moody’s life is his cause that was where he would be able to shape the future of the love of education. next generation. His After growing up father, an educator on the East Coast himself, also pushed in North Carolina, Moody from a young Moody played foot- I don’t want to age to pursue a career ball as a defensive in education. back, punt and kick- have a medio“[The survey] gave off returner at Syra- cre school and me an opportunity... cuse University and a mediocre to start working in a graduated with a so- curriculum. I program that was ulciology degree. He is want to have timately going to benow also a member come my profession of the Syracuse ath- it be the best afterward,” Moody letic Hall of Fame. and that is my said. “And I knew He was then drafted goal here. from the facts about in the 10th round of — Director of the lack of longevthe 1976 NFL draft Adult Education Keith Moody ity, that [my footto the Buffalo Bills. ball career] was very However, it was not temporary and that easy for him to make the team. He broke his hand in I better start working on somethe last preseason game, forcing thing for the future.” After playing three seasons the head coach to give him an ultimatum. If he caught nine of 10 with the Bills, Moody was tradpunts, he would make the team. ed to the Oakland Raiders in Moody did better than that: he 1980. In his only year as a Raider, he won Super Bowl XV 27-10 caught all 10, one handed. “The biggest accomplishment against the Philadelphia Eagles. is having the naysayers eat their This coincided with the end of words,” Moody said. “A lot of his career in the NFL, and he people said I wouldn’t even make focused on getting an education it at the college level, but I went to become an administrator and counselor. Moody went to Fresall the way to the pros.” While in his first season with no Pacific College for his counthe Bills, the NFL Players Asso- seling degree and then to Fresno ciation passed out a survey asking State and San Jose State for his players to work with inner-city administrator credentials.
DANNY ROSENBAUM Sports Editor
In 1988, Moody started working for the Clovis High School District near Fresno, California, where he worked within the migrant workers education program. He decided to move to Mountain View High School (MVHS) in 2001 because it offered an environment where administrators could focus on the curriculum rather than discipline. Three years later in 2004, Moody became principal of MVHS. “I really love the whole school district,” Moody said. “[There are] great kids and parents who are committed and involved and want the best for their students. And students have great goals…and work hard, so it is kind of an administrator’s dream to work in this district.” Moody has been the director at the Adult Education Center in the MVLA school district for the past year and a half. The previous superintendent moved him over so that he would have a lighter workload and be able to spend more time with his family and kids. As director, Moody oversees the curriculum, teachers and implementation of Adult Education’s three main programs: English language, career technical education and general educational development for high school diplomas. “My role is more like the football coach,” Moody said. “I am no longer in the game, but I am on the sidelines observing and making recommendations and suggestions. It is really rewarding to see all the people whose eyes I have helped light up, to see what they can do with education and how far it can take them.”
Away from school, Moody enjoys fishing, especially back east in Buffalo, New York, where he can catch largemouth bass. He also spends his time with his family, watching his son excel in football and track and his daughter shine in volleyball. His biggest takeaway from football and what has kept him pushing throughout life is his “go get it” mentality.
“You are always wanting to compete [because] you want your school to be recognized… principals want their school to be the best,” Moody said. “Those things have really helped me in terms of not accepting mediocrity...I don’t want to have a mediocre school and a mediocre curriculum. I want to have it be the best and that is my goal here.”
COURTESY WXXI
Director of Adult Education Keith Moody and his daughter gather at a family reunion. Moody was a former NFL player and Super Bowl champion before he joined the MVLA district.
Crossing guard overcomes childhood disease to help others ERIC THIEM Staff Writer
Anyone who has driven past Almond Elementary School before or after school has probably seen a man in a bright yellow vest diligently helping kids cross the road safely while joking around with young elementary school students. Crossing guard Amir Boulett, a 22-yearold ‘10 alumni of the school, has been helping kids and parents across the street at Almond, Egan Junior High School and all over the Bay Area for four years. After Boulett graduated high school, his mother enlisted him to help with her co-owned crossing guard company, All
City Management Services, that she and a friend started in Los Angeles 25 years ago. In that time, the company has grown to privatize over 130 crossing guard programs all over the California. At the time, Boulett was working as a drive-through attendant at a local Taco Bell, so his mother offered him a job as a crossing guard for her company. She felt that that this job would be perfect for him, and she was right. “I wanted to keep kids safe and also be involved with an environment that surrounds myself with people that love safety,” Boulett said. “I love working as a crossing guard.”
However, the job doesn’t come without challenges. Many people believe that the job of a crossing guard is an easy one, but Boulett disagrees. He considers it a high-risk job that puts many peoples’ lives in his hands. After nearly five years of service, Boulett has learned how to deal with the pressure. He remains constantly vigilant of everyone around him because he knows they trust him to keep them safe. “One time, I was crossing kids for school in the morning and a car wasn’t paying attention,” Boulett said. “A kid from the other side of the road started to cross so I ran across to stop
GINA KERMODE
Left: Almond Elementary chool crossing guard Amir Boulett air guitars his stop sign. Right: Boulett smiles with an elementary school student. Boulett is studying to become an immunologist, a career path motivated by his own genetic immune disease.
him from getting hit. The car Boulett was born with a gecrossed through the crosswalk netic immune disease called without any intention of stop- common variable immunodefiping. I was very fortunate [to ciency (CVID), meaning he sufbe] there for that young student fered from frequent infections because he could have been se- due to a weak immune system. riously injured.” Diagnosed at birth, he was given The job isn’t all diving from five years to live. The disease is danger, though. If anyone were treatable but not curable. Bouto watch for five lett bounced in and minutes how Bouout of the hospital lett acts while workevery few days, so ing, they would in- People welhis family thought it stantly understand come me with was a miracle when why he is perfect he made it to seven. for his job. From air open arms, and From there, Bouguitaring his stop they treat me lett’s condition besign to fist bump- like their family. gan to improve as his ing nearly every stuimmune system ma— crossing guard dent that walks by, tured more, and his Amir Boulett the young crossing hospital visits grew guard clearly loves more infrequent. every minute of his job, and the Even today at 22, he still has to kids like him, too. go to the doctor every month “He jokes around a lot and due to frequent infections, but he’s really good at remember- Boulett hardly lets this deter ing people’s names,” Almond him. In fact, it only serves as a Elementary School fifth-grader stronger inspiration to study the Kaitlyn Cuppett said. “He also immune system and help others makes people excited about with similar diseases. crossing the street.” “I wanted to know what it In addition to helping as many meant to have this disease,” Boustudents as he can, Boulett still lett said. “I wanted to understand manages to make time to ensure what it was doing and what I resuccess in his own future. He is ally had. This is what motivated currently saving money to help me to become a doctor.” get him through his second year In spite of a his disease, Bouof medical school as he studies lett still cares for the well-being to become an immunologist, a of others. It’s clear that whethdoctor who specializes in the er it is helping kids across the immune system. street or patients in future hos“I attended University of San pitals, Amir Boulett has and Francisco for undergrad but will be ensuring people’s safety now I’m in the process of trans- his entire life. ferring to Stanford as a medi“I love my job,” Boulett said. cal student,” Boulett said. “I’m “People welcome me with open looking forward to becoming a arms and they treat me like doctor soon as I grow up.” their family.”
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The Talon December 16, 2014
Public library welcomes addition of 3D printer piece skull model can take more than three hours per piece, and The latest addition to the Los often times the printer encounters Altos Public Library has gone be- errors that prevent it from finishyond its shelves of books, CDs and ing the construction. Corn-based movies and into the realm of cut- plastic Polylactic Acid (PLA) filating edge technology. In early 2014, ments are liquified and then exthe Friends of the Los Altos Library pelled through an extruder that funded a $3,000 Makerbot Replica- constructs an object additively off of the printer’s build tor 2 3D desktop printplate. Filaments come er. 3D printing was in a variety of colors considered a novel and immediately soconcept until recent- Everybody is inlidify and cool in the ly. However, with the terested in the shape of the object right amount of pre- printer...which once expelled. At first cision and patience, is very unique glance, the concept is the Makerbot has the because usufairly simple, but afability to create virtuter hours of printing, ally anything and is ally it’s just the an object must be recurrently on display at adults or the started if the extruder the library. kids. gets jammed with “It’s a great addition — Adult Services filament or the build to the library,” Adult Librarian Nicholas plate is not a level Services Librarian and Clayton plane. unofficial point per“You want to keep son for the library’s everything working perfectly,” 3D printer Nicholas Clayton said. Currently, the library’s Makerbot Clayton said. “The process is not is available for the public observa- just start and go. You can’t have a tion. Patrons can watch the print- nice lunch and come back. This is er create objects seemingly from where you watch it…the instructhin air, but in reality, the process tions say don’t leave it alone.” The library uses its Makof 3D printing is arduous and time erbot for demonstraconsuming. Building a complex tion purposes three-
ALICE DAI
Entertainment Editor
Smith
vacation, I was going on vacation. If they were going to Kentucky for the national [club volleyball] championship for their daughter, CONTINUED FROM THE I was going to Kentucky.” FRONT PAGE Smith said he was not left out of anything, even to this day. He In particular, Smith stopped joins them in their family photos talking to his brother due to a and participates in holiday tradisingle underlying reason: they tions with them. had different ambitions. Smith Smith fit in with the was concerned with getting a Bjorklunds much better than good education, preparing him- his own family because they had self well for his future and pass- very similar and overlapping ing on knowledge values, mostly reto fellow academgarding education. ics and students, They believed in whereas his brother All I wanted to the importance of a could not see the do was be the good education, and value in school. those ideas coincid“All I wanted to do first to graduate ed with Smith’s. was be the first to college. “I was able to get graduate [college],” a second chance for — English teacher Michael Smith Smith said. “I am the my education and only person in my figure out, ‘Where do family to have graduI really want to go to ated from college...all of my sib- school?’” Smith said. lings went here and only one of Smith eventually found an us graduated. That’s not a very educational environment that good ratio.” suited him in nearby Foothill After returning to Los Altos, College. During his two years of Smith reunited with old high study, Smith boarded with the school friend Pete Bjorklund and Bjorklunds to save on living exhis family. Smith initially met penses as he was already paying Bjorklund’s parents through high for his own tuition. school fundraisers for Main Street “I ran through Foothill and and soon formed a special rela- loved it because I had a great edutionship with the entire family. cational experience,” Smith said. “[Bjorklund] is very much like “[I had] super challenging teacha brother to me,” Smith said. ers. Many of my professors taught “I was really considered [the at Foothill and Stanford.” Bjorklund’s] adopted son. They After completing Foothill Coltreated me as if I was a family lege, Smith transferred to UCLA member. If they were going on and finished his degree in Eng-
every Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. Library staff showcase the printer’s capabilities by printing a variety of objects for the public to observe. All are welcome to attend, and so far the printer has had a warm reception in the community. “Everybody is interested in the printer,” Clayton said. “Not one particular group is more fascinated on a whole…kids are very interested in this but overall, it’s all age groups. Everyone stops, which is very unique because usually it’s just the adults or the kids. Not everyone’s seen a 3D printer, so it’s reached everyone.” The innovative nature of the Makerbot has garnered considerable attention within school students and has inadvertently promoted STEM education. “3D printing involves a lot of things: designing, coding and changing things,” Clayton said. “If you want to change [anything] you have to go in and code that differently.” The Makerbot can construct a wide range of objects. Mini Bach bust statues, iPhone cases, Pikachu and Totoro characters and dinosaur skull models are just the beginning of the printer’s capabilities. Instructions for printing objects are downloaded into the Makerbot in the form of computer code, and the printer can store more than 40 design files at once. “I’m plan-
lish. While there, Smith also began pursuing his passion for music when a friend’s mother offered him an internship in her music studio. Because of this opportunity, he discovered a talent for freestyle rapping. In addition to this, Smith began to contract with other small music studios writing song lyrics and distributing them to major artists. Though Smith has written music for some very popular music artists, he remains reticent about discussing it in full detail. “The songwriting thing has to be this mystery,” Smith said. “I think people keep adding on to the story and growing it. Basically, I worked for a very small music company in Santa Monica...and just doing small projects. I have done that ever since. I will work a few projects a year.” Despite Smith’s love and career in music, teaching is his true love. After graduating UCLA, he returned once again to Los Altos and jumped at the opportunity when an English teacher position opened up. Smith understands the value of a good education, and in a town such as Los Altos where opportunities are plentiful, he wants to help prepare students for the future. “I love teaching at Los Altos because of the way that the community supports the teachers and students,” Smith said. “Everyone really works together here to give [students] a better learning experience, and that is where [students] come out on top.”
PHOTOS BY MENSON LI
Above: the Los Altos Public library’s Makerbot 3D printer prints out filament for an object. Below left: a 3D printed “Read” ornament. Below right: a printed dinosaur skull. The library recently acquired the 3D printer and now puts it on display Tuesdays and Thursdays. ning on test printing the Yosemite month. Patrons must bring code Valley,” Clayton said. “It’s actually files compatible for the 3D printer, a topographical map, which are available in with all the mouna number of websites tains and ridges.” tailored for 3D printAlthough 3D print- You can proing codes. The 3D ing is in its foun- gram and printing community is dational stages, the build with the growing, and patrons library is taking adcan choose from a vantage of this tech- printer, and large variety of objects nology by not only people who see that are pre-coded onexperimenting with this in action line. new designs but also are interested “The future of 3D making the printer printing could be anyand submit accessible to everyone thing,” Clayton said. in the community. requests. They “Technology like this For those who are in- are part of this is expanding libraries terested in bringing creative projinto another territory. home their own 3D You can program and ect. printed object, the build with the printer, — Adult Services library is currently and people who see Librarian Nicholas accepting patron rethis in action are inClayton quests and allowing terested and submit one lucky patron an requests. They are under-three-hour construction per part of this creative project.”
PHOTOS BY MENSON LI
English teacher Michael Smith displays his diverse facial expressions. Smith graduated from LAHS and has found his true passions in teaching and music.
The Talon December 16, 2014
13
District retirements
Board loses longest-serving member, Judy Hanneman Hannemann is proud of the fact that MVLA keeps its meetings short and the board can be efficient. At the Mountain View Los “On the board, you get used Altos (MVLA) School Board’s to the fact that we can all have Monday, November 24 meeting, done our homework and asked the boardroom, usually empty, our questions beforehand, was packed. Dozens of local ofand we don’t all feel that we ficials, education advocates and have to talk about everything,” community members came to Hannemann said. “When we get pay tribute to Judy Hannemann, a new board member, I usually who is retiring after 33 years take them out to lunch and say, on the board. This was the last ‘It’s not important for us to all meeting for Hannemann, who have to talk.’” has become a highly respectHannemann has been a guide ed figure among school board for the board in other ways, members for her diligence and encouraging members to be as long service on the board. involved as she was with other Hannemann has served on board members and districts. both the Los Altos School Dis“I’ve pushed for each of the trict (LASD) and MVLA school NOW: 2014 THEN: 1985 superintendents and board boards, as well as PTAs, the HOMECOMING PARADE BOARD ELECTIONS members to be on other things County School Board Associatoo,” Hannemann said. “[They tion and numerous other orgaPHOTOS COURTESY JUDY HANNEMAN nizations. She has been exposed Left: MVLA board member Judy Hanneman smiles in a 1985 school board election photo. Right: shouldn’t] think that they know to a wide variety of people while Hanneman participates in the October 2014 Homecoming parade. Hanneman retired in November everything and they wouldn’t after 33 years of service to the district. learn by hearing what’s going on serving on the board. in another district. I think that’s “I served with 20 different “The three of us that joined really been good for our board board members on the two and went to work as a dean of years, she moved to the MVLA the board [in 1981] had all and our school district, that [boards] put together, and un- students there, where she mar- high school board. been active in the high school people know who we are, and “I think I was ready for a litried her husband. She left Stander six different superintendents,” Hannemann said. “Each ford when she had her first child tle change,” Hannemann said. PTA and volunteering in the they know that [MVLA is] a good in 1966, and it was at this time “Two of my kids were already schools,” Hannemann said. “We place to donate or volunteer.” one was very different.” Starting at the board’s Monday, Hannemann grew up and went that she first became involved in in the high school, so I thought had a different idea [than the local politics, join- [MVLA] would be the next thing superintendent], that we really December 8 meeting, Hannemann to school in Dening the League of after four and a half years on the wanted to be part of the deci- was replaced by Fiona Walter, a ver, Colorado and sions that were made.” Women Voters. The elementary board.” former Mountain View Whisman received her BachSince joining the board, board member and MVHS PTA For her first few years, she League is an orgaelor’s degree from I think I was has nization created to struggled to get involved as a Hannemann president. As for Middlebury college ready for a little promote civic en- board member, since the dis- faced a number of Hannemann, her in Vermont. She change. gagement for wom- trict administration tended to hard election fights to first priority foloriginally planned exclude the board when making retain her seat, espe- On the board — MVLA board member en. lowing her retireto study the sciencJudy Hanneman any kind of decisions. cially when she sup“The League of ment is to catch up es and moved into “[In high school districts] the ported controversial you get used to Women Voters was on email. education almost by “I have had four accident, switching her major very good for me because it was a superintendent really just want- school funding bond the fact that... we don’t all feel eye surgeries in whole group of women of the same ed to have a ‘yes’ board that measures. so she could ski in college. “Gary Wesley...was that we have the last year, so “At Middlebury, you could age,” Hannemann said. “They pro- would come and say, ‘That’s a I’m way behind on go to your classes in the morn- vided babysitters for us to make it good idea,’” Hannemann said. a lawyer in town who to talk about reading email and ing, go to lunch, then catch the easy to go to meetings, and all of “Superintendents [at that time] ran against me at least would be happy if there wasn’t twice,” Hannemann everything. mail,” Hannemann bus to a really nice ski area,” our kids grew up together.” said. “Then he had Hannemann’s first school ever a board meeting.” — MVLA board member said. “I’m hoping Hannemann said. “But if you Judy Hanneman Hannemann was elected to the people that he would to also do more were in biology and sciences, board position in 1977 was in with my grandchilyou had to take labs all after- the Los Altos School District. MVLA board in 1981, and two get to run [for board]... dren. I have three children and noon, so I decided that I wasn’t She was inf luenced to run by candidates with similar views He was against the her friends and won with the were elected along with her. To- bond measures and that was why seven grandchildren. The ones going to take biology.” After Middlebury, Hannemann backing of a group of local citi- gether, they shook up the board I kept running, because I felt that are nearby are a lot of fun, received her master’s in educa- zens aimed at replacing the in- by demanding greater involve- so strongly that we needed the and I just enjoy taking part in bond measures.” their activities.” tion from Stanford University cumbents. After four and a half ment in decision-making.
SPENCER DEMBNER Staff Writer
Head custodian Nacho Ortega to retire after 20 years PERLA LUNA Senior Writer
ELVIS LI
Head custodian Nacho Ortega zips around school in his golf cart. Ortega has been working at the school since 1996 and is retiring at the end of the first semester.
If you’ve ever stepped on campus, chances are that you’ve caught a glimpse of head custodian Nacho Ortega diligently at work keeping our campus clean and beautiful. Ortega is retiring from LAHS this semester after having worked at the school since 1996. “I’m choosing to retire now because it’s about time,” Ortega said. “I’m the right age to retire.” Part of the reason he chose to work at LAHS was because of the benefits, like insurance, offered to him and his family as an employee of the school. After having worked at the school for such a long time, Ortega is looking forward to having a relaxing retirement. “Since I have met him, he has been working hard,” custodian Adriana Bonilla said. “I’m glad that he’s retiring early so that he’s still young and has time to do things that he enjoys.” Since the beginning of his time here, he has witnessed many changes made to the LAHS campus. The 900 wing of the school is the latest addi-
tion he has seen as a custodian at the Ortega said. “I am going to miss school, but he has also witnessed the my coworkers. ” remodeling of the quad and 200 and The sentiment is mutually 100 wings. shared by his fellow custodians. During his time here, he has en“He was the first person I met joyed working alongside his nephew, when I came here” Adriana said. Gerardo Ortega, “I was working at anand his fellow cusother school and he todians. Although was doing gardenworking with a rela- I’m not going to ing there and when tive can sometimes miss the work. I I came here, I felt put a strain on re- am going to miss comfortable because lationships, both my coworkers. there was at least one men have mutually person that I knew — Head custodian benefited from the while I was here.” Nacho Ortega experience because As for his retirethey feel comfortment plans, Ortega able around each other. wants to divide his time between “I like working with my nephew home here in the U.S. and the one because I can trust him,” Ortega said. in Mexico. “I can tell him to do certain things be“After retiring I plan to go back cause I have more trust in him. and forth between the U.S. and However, Ortega admits that the Mexico,” Ortega said. “I don’t have day-to-day work of his job—which any plans to leave the U.S. perincludes anything from maintaining manently because all my family the grounds to cleaning bathrooms is here and they wouldn’t want to to helping clean up after school move over there.” events—will not be something he Ortega will be missed by all for misses as he eases into retirement. his hard work and dedication to “I’m not going to miss the work,” the school.
The Talon December 16, 2014
Catch reviews of new movies, music and more, plus +read the entertainment archives at lahstalon.org/entertainment
TRENDING NOW: HOLIDAYS
STEVEN CUI
Opinions Editor
L
ooking for some homemade holiday treats to enjoy with friends and family? These recipes are creative and easy peppermint-themed delights for the upcoming season. Instructions are simple; no cooking experience is required to get into the holiday spirit andwhip up a batch of The Talon’s favorite recipes. Total prep time: 10 minutes | Makes 1 cup
Ingredients | 13 tablespoons cocoa powder | 3 tablespoons warm water | 1 ½ tablespoons peppermint syrup | 4 ounces espresso | 12 ounces steamed milk Total prep time: 1 hour | Makes 12 ounces
Ingredients | Aluminum foil | 12 ounces white chocolate | 12 ounces crushed peppermint candies | 1 ½ teaspoons peppermint extract GRAPHICS BY VANESSA MARK | RECIPES FROM FOOD NETWORK AND FOOD.COM
LOCAL
Stanford Theater offers 1920s charm in downtown Palo Alto HANNA KHOSRAVI Staff Writer
Many argue that the intricate style and luxurious grandeur that was established in the Roaring 20s has never been duplicated in any other decade. The Stanford Theater, which opened in 1925 and has labeled itself as “Palo Alto’s Premier Movie House,” has managed to merge the beauty of the past with the present day lives of the area’s residents by premiering the most famous of classic films daily, always to a large group of viewers. Over the years, it has been a staple of Silicon Valley’s charm through its screenings of American classics that share the gift of the old Hollywood cinema with families and students in surrounding neighborhoods. Located on University Avenue in downtown Palo Alto, the Stanford Theatre is a popular hub for viewers of all generations. The vast and enchanting theater is usually packed to the brim and filled with a sense of ageless magic. One of the theater’s most popular screenings comes during the holiday sea-
son, when the theater celebrates Christmas Eve with their annual airing of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Their showing of this Christmas classic is so popular that advance tickets go on sale on December 12. After buying the ticket from a booth at the outside lobby, the viewer ventures into the theater. Lights decorate the opulent decor and elegance that is indicative of a traditional 1920s movie theater. The enormous auditorium holds a f loor seating area parallel to the stage and also a balcony adorned with seats for viewing the film at an upper level. Before the movie begins, an organ player rises up out of the platform of the stage and plays a continuous melody of the theme song of the upcoming movie. A mural on the ceiling, speckled with varying arrays of colors, contains a detailed pattern which makes it a signature aspect of The Stanford Theater. When the film starts, the red velvet curtains enveloping the screen begin to part just as the organ player’s platform settles under the stage. Followed by the rising of a very chic sheer valance, the screen is then finally
displayed to show the classic film that the viewers are wistful to see. The Stanford Theater is one of the most famous and popular antique movie theaters in the country. According to The Stanford Theater’s website, in 1992, during the 50th Anniversary of Michael Curtiz’s American classic “Casablanca” (the film that championed the famed line, “Here’s looking at you, kid”), more people viewed the film at the Stanford Theater than anywhere else in the United States. The Stanford Theater plays one or two movies a day, often displaying the films at random or celebrating certain genres, actors and filmmakers during “festivals,” where each film that is played applies to the specific theme. The theater usually shows a film two to four times a day depending on its length, as there is only one movie screen in the theater. However, the Stanford Theater consistently shows films every day of the year. They often exhibit movies in double features, such as during the theater’s Alfred Hitchcock commemoration, where the theater plays movies like “The Birds” and
BRANDON HONG
The Stanford Theater is located in downtown Palo Alto. The theater is reminiscent of the 1920s era in both its showings and decor. “Psycho,” drawing in many lovers of the original horror films. The Stanford Theater recently celebrated the life of late 1940s Hollywood starlet, Lauren Bacall, by playing a series of her ten most famous films over the course of two weeks, from October 17 to November 2 of this year. This classic theater is an American treasure embedded in our highly modern society. Not every city is lucky enough
to have a historic gem such as this one providing a doorway into the bygone era, and we should value the opportunity to be exposed to the excitement of the past. Whether it’s “The Wizard of Oz” or “Gone with the Wind,” if it is a classic, the Stanford Theater will show it. The experience of watching a movie there cannot be compared to any other theater experience in the Bay Area.
The Talon December 16, 2014
Sound Bites: Zach’s Picks
GAMES & TECHNOLOGY
>> The future of driving JAMES SUN
Copy/Content Editor
By Zach Cohen
Azealia Banks Azealia Banks, the “Harlem girl from the block,” the surreptitious Illuminati witch, the girl who turned the whole world against her in a colossal twitter feud with Perez Hilton, pioneer of a rap/ electro style that doesn’t fall nicely into any one genre, the (self-titled) “Yung Rapunxel” is a bit of a puzzle. That’s probably the way she wants it, too: to be just one step ahead of everyone else. With her recently released album, “Broke With Expensive Taste,” Banks reveals herself beyond her perplexing contradictions: she’s an artist with serious craft and ambition, a force to certainly be reckoned with, if not revered for her skill. With her first album, Banks established herself as a female rapper with tremendous talent and audacity. Her rapping pace and cadence (referred to as “flow”) on the tracks were nearly as unique as her lyrics were raunchy. Banks lines up words to challenge the listener with successive lines of assonance, pace-switch and alliteration; then, she plows through stanza after stanza effortlessly. “Broke With Expensive Taste” blew into the rap charts with a breath of fresh air. “Idle Delilah,” the first track on the album, is perhaps the only rap-country song in existence, mixing elements of ballads, techno and R&B all circulating around Banks’ incredibly poised and refined lyrical mastery. “Soda,” a slower track on the album, mixes Banks’ distinctive rapping style with her singing voice, creating a more intimate experience. “Broke With Expensive Taste” goes hard in its highlights, but it sometimes slumps in tracks that appear to be needless tack-ons. “Nude Beach A Go-Go” is a glitzy 1950s emulation track that rarely accomplishes the level of artistic bravado that tracks like “212” are able to muster. “Desperado,” while catchy at times, gets boring after the first few bars, and “BBD” is simply unentertaining. Despite its minor weak points, “Broke With Expensive Taste” is an elaborate and diverse album. What it lacks in cohesiveness it makes up for in genuine uniqueness. “Broke With Expensive Taste” sounds like nothing else on the market right now. Even though it’s the only album of its style, it captures so many different musical elements of seemingly disparate genres that it feels like more than the 16 tracks delivered at face value. As Banks basks in the praise her album is garnering, the rest of us are waiting for her next move. A week after dropping the album, Banks released a brilliantly choreographed music video for “Chasing Time,” hinting on Twitter that more videos were to come. Whatever may happen, at least one thing is for certain: her production will be solid and her music will be electrifying and varied. How could she have it any other way?
The modern car has drastically evolved since the invention of the Model T in 1885, and the latest crop of hightech vehicles is defying the standards of on-road innovation. Models such as the BMW i8 and Toyota Mirai are introducing novel mechanical concepts and sleek, contemporary designs that are pioneering the next generation of sports cars
< BMW i8 > ENGINE:
Hybrid C O S T:
$135,000 R E L E A S E D AT E :
December 2014 SIMIL AR TO:
Mclaren P1 ▼
With its next generation model, BMW’s new i8 provides the most aesthetically pleasing car in its lineup yet. Because the the i8 has a hybrid-based engine, the car’s fuel consumption is comparable to that of a compact car. The i8 utilizes carbon fiber layering technology to boast an aerodynamically efficient design. Starting at $135,000, the vehicle comes with a hefty price tag. While Tesla models offer a more well rounded driving experience, the i8’s price is justified in its aesthetics. With 357 horsepower, the i8’s hybrid engine may not provide as much horsepower as other sportscars, but the car still accelerates from zero to 100 in 4.4 seconds. Due to the car’s electric nature, it can access its torque instantly, which results in an impressive acceleration. The BMW i8 matches its sleek exterior with the mechanical innovation of a sports car fit for both comfort and speed.
< Closer Look: BMW i8 >
< Toyota Mirai >
Hydrogen Fuel Cell C O S T: $58,000 R E L E A S E D AT E : September 2015 S I M I L A R T O : Audi A7, Honda FCX Clarity ENGINE:
Before the twentieth century, the idea of running cars on the same material we used to fill the Hindenburg was inconceivable. With rapid developments in modern technology, Toyota created the Mirai, the first car fueled completely by hydrogen. Pumped into a specialized carbon fiber tank, hydrogen is combined with oxygen in the atmosphere to create electricity suitable to power a car. The byproduct, water, is siphoned out of the car while hydrogen is pumped into the carbon fiber tank at a hydrogen gas station. The energy created by the fuel cell powers not only the engine, but also additional features such as a specialized heated driving wheel, heated side mirrors to prevent fogging and noise-reducing windows. The innovative, aesthetic and mechanical features of the Mirai combine to fully embody the future of automotive technology.
BMW eDrive Hybrid engine 357 horsepower
Aerodynamic design
Carbon layering technology
Emission of compact car BONAVENTURE DUPRAT
FOOD
Tin Pot Creamery: bold, gourmet ice cream DANIEL ROSENBAUM Sports Editor
Tin Pot Creamery
Ice cream, baked goods
201 First Street Los Altos, CA Price Range: $$$
★★★★☆ The art of ice cream creation has gone back to its roots. A simple vanilla sundae out of the carton is no longer considered decadent; instead, ice cream lovers have returned to the original, richly churned homemade ice cream. Tin Pot Creamery has mastered this new (or shall we say old) process, and its second location is now open for business in downtown Los Altos. The new shop continues its standards for old-fashioned ice cream with a gourmet twist. Tin Pot Creamery ensures both quality and taste, because the shop values small production. Ice cream and assorted baked goods are made fresh daily with natural ingredients, and the menu changes to incorporate seasonal ingredients. Tin Pot’s small batch approach creates unique flavor profiles. This fall, the shop’s flavor line includes ice creams such
as Cinnamon Snickerdoodle and Pumpkin with Oat Pecan Streusel that are reminiscent of the holiday season. Tin Pot Creamery caters to a wide range of customers. The shop’s ice cream does not hold back in terms of its intense and fullbodied options, such as Birthday Cake and Cookie Monster (cookies and cream), which are popular among customers. Flavors such as MOOtella (chocolate hazelnut) are elevated to give both a creamy, aromatic taste and texture that is argu-
ably even better than Nutella itself. Some of the shop’s options may seem unconventional, but they pair unexpectedly well. Flavors such as Roasted Banana Fudge Ripple, Earl Grey Tea and Sweet Cream with Honey Balsamic Swirl are unique must-tries for the more adventurous. Tin Pot Creamery also provides vegan sorbets and dairy free ice creams such as Baked Apple sorbet and ChocoCoco for those with dietary restrictions. Tin Pot Creamery complements its epicurean ice cream with freshly
GINA KERMODE
Tin Pot Creamery is the latest addition to downtown Los Altos. The shop churns homemade ice cream daily, and flavors are both unique and delicious.
baked brownies and cookies. With the addition of waffle cones, customers can transform their ice cream into an even more indulgent sundae or cookie sandwich. Tin Pot emulates downtown’s neighborhood-friendly ambience. Metal taster spoons and recyclable paper cups and spoons are used as a concerted effort to be eco-friendly. These small touches along with the shop’s simplistic design make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy gourmet desserts with friends and family. Tin Pot Creamery’s gourmet ice cream comes with a few drawbacks. Prices are high; a single scoop costs $3.50, two scoops is $4.50 and three is $5.50. Sundaes are around $7.00 and ice cream sandwiches are $4.25. One can also buy pints of ice cream for $11 or add any sauces and toppings to their order for 75 cents each. Seasonal flavors vary, meaning that certain flavors are not guaranteed to be available every trip. Also, many flavors are currently exclusive to the Palo Alto shop. Despite its high prices, Tin Pot Creamery’s quaint atmosphere, friendly staff and homemade ice cream with-a-twist are sure to be welcome additions to downtown Los Altos.
The Talon December 16, 2014
MUSIC
EVOLUTION of BOY BANDS SITARA SRIRAM | PERLA LUNA Senior Writers
TIMELINE
SUCCESS
1991: B OY Z II MEN From the start, this African-American R&B group achieved success and rose to stardom through their silky smooth vocals and harmonies. In 1991, Boyz II Men released their first album,“Cooleyhighharmony,” which sold 9 million copies and won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance. Their success paved the way for their successors, the Backstreet Boys, whose pop-rock music style deviated greatly from Boyz II Men’s soul-inspired R&B.
From Boyz II Men to One Direction, boy bands have remained in popular and thrived in the demanding world of mainstream music. The Talon takes a look at some of the most successful boy bands in recent history.
FLICKR USER NAJEEB ISHAK
1993: B AC KST REE T B OY S This Florida based group rose to fame with their 1996 international album, “Backstreet Boys,” and have taken the world by storm ever since. They have sold more than 130 million records worldwide, making them the best-selling boy band in history. Naturally, as the band matured and came into their own, their sound began to shift. They tried to break away from the traditional boy band mold and sang much of their music acapella. They were even resistant to being called a “boy band” originally. “We’ve always prided ourselves on just being a vocal harmony group,” Backstreet Boy member AJ McLean said in a 2010 interview with Out Magazine. “And we fought tooth and nail for the first, probably, five, six years of our actual career to claim that name. And now, if you wanna call us a boy band, call us a boy band. It’s kind of cool— it’s retro.”
The growth in the recent successes of boy bands can be attributed to their appealing to a more diverse audience. “The allure is that they are clean cut, so parents will say, ‘Let’s go see this show,’” consultant to New Jersey boy band Diverse David Fiorenza said in an interview with the Chicago Sun Times. “They don’t just drop kids off anymore. Parents will go in with them and pay admission. It’s a win-win situation: a built-in audience of older people and also their children.” There are a few essential elements to success as a boyband, particularly, producing catchy “all appealing” songs that anyone can sing along to. The ability boy bands have to relate to a wide group of people through
their music is an important part of achieving success. But perhaps most importantly, being thought of as “good looking” by their target audience is an essential part of a boy band’s success. Good looks, and charm to go with it, is part of the package people seek from boy bands and is what leads one or all members becoming a teen sensation. Teens hang posters of these members in their rooms and spend hundreds of dollars on shirts that go as far as to say things like “Mrs. Harry Styles.” This creates a greater tie between the band and the fan, in which fans are not only interested in the boy bands for their music but also for their overall physical appearance and personality.
SHELF LIFE FLICKR USER JUSTIN HIGUCHI
1995: N SY N C Boy band NSYNC, most well known for member Justin Timberlake, received their name after Justin Timberlake’s mother commented on how “in sync” the group’s singing voices were. They were known for their well-choreographed “in sync” dance moves and smooth pop songs. The eventual rise of singer Justin Timberlake broke up the group in 2002. Since then, a new boyband has emerged, one that threatens to rival the success of even the Backstreet Boys: One Direction. FLICKR USER JONOBACON
2010: O NE DIREC T I O N One Direction is comprised of five boys brought together by chance on Simon Cowell’s reality TV show: the UK X Factor. They placed third in the show but, through the coupled power of their fans, strategic advertising and sheer luck, they made their way into becoming one of the most successful vocal groups of all time. They are the only group in Billboard 200 history to have all four of their albums to date debut at No. 1. Their third album, “Midnight Memories,” was the biggest selling album of 2013. In 2012, they sold out Madison Square Garden in a mere ten minutes. What factors have led to this success, and what factors make a boyband successful in general? FLICKR USER HINDE BEN
The day a boy band is formed is also the typical bubblegum pop sound the day an expiration date is marked. of boy bands. Examples include For one, the preteen and teenage fans Justin Timberlake, whose music has that were drawn to boy bands will find changed dramatically since his time themselves becoming disinterested with NSYNC. Internal friction along as they mature. This is especially true with overexposure from the media if the music doesn’t mature with the are all factors that inevitably lead to target audience and the boys of the disbanding. However, regardless of when boy band themselves. Since a boy band is bands break up, they typically made up of guys leave a legacy behind in their late teens to early that often lasts for twenties, they will tend decades. The impact to lose the appeal of their The impact boy boy bands have lasts fans as they grow older. bands have much longer than the Record labels and lasts much years when they make management compalonger than the music. nies are all too aware of Boy bands such as the fickle nature of boy years they make One Direction recogband fans. Bands like music. nize that their fame One Direction, for example, have released an album every could end at a moment’s notice and year since debut. The pressure to therefore strive to make the most of perform can cause internal friction their time in the spotlight. “No matter what we do after this between the producers who control sound and image and the members we’ll never, ever beat this,” One Diof the band. This is especially true rection member Niall Horan said if certain members want to go in a in One Direction’s documentary different direction musically than “This is Us.”
Catchy tunes, plastic faces: the truth behind K-pop CLAIRE BAI Staff Writer
In 2012, South Korean pop sensation PSY overwhelmed the internet with his notoriously catchy song, “Gangnam Style.” The viral video, which has garnered over two billion views on Youtube, was outrageously choreographed to mock the lavish and superficial lifestyles of wealthy elites in Gangnam, South Korea. Welcome to the world of Korean pop (K-pop), a booming musical industry that has made its way into the international scene in the past couple decades. This genre, however, is not all catchy tunes and flashy dance moves. Its flaws, which have been mainly overlooked until recent years, range from meticulous restriction of singers’ lives to widespread plagiarism. K-pop started to gain a loyal following during the 1990s, a time when girl groups and boy bands all over the world were rising to international prominence. While groups such as the Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls and Destiny’s Child were popular in the United States, in South Korea, similar bands such as Baby
VOX and Shinhwa formed. More than a decade later, solo K-pop artist BoA broke the Japanese pop market, and girl group Wonder Girls jumped into the U.S. industry with their quintessential song “Nobody.” Rapper G-Dragon became renowned for his connections to the American rap community, even collaborating with Flo Rida and befriending Dok2. Today, the K-pop industry is dominated by major entertainment companies including the big three: SM, YG and JYP. There are many other smaller entertainment companies, but the groups the big three have founded have the most profound influence on the K-pop culture through advertisement and in number of fans. Girl groups Girls’ Generation and 2NE1 have set the stage for an either cute or sexy image, and boy bands like EXO and GOT7 experiment with themes like robot men or werewolf boys. These top groups have also set the modern physical standard for Asian idol images. Artists usually conform to Asia’s doll-like standards of beauty; in a world that heavily values physical appearance, it is hard for the
singers to resist these perfectionist standards. Those who fall short of the ideal image are often criticized as unfit for the stage. Female artists are labeled ugly if they do not have porcelain skin and thin bodies, and males are expected to rock six-pack abs and charming, hairless faces. Famed for their incredibly smooth and pale skin and multicolored hair, K-pop artists are subject to heavy use of cosmetic plastic surgery. From liposuction to double eyelid operations, almost every performer has been speculated to have had some form of plastic surgery. Unfortunately, this inter-artist obsession over synthetic beauty has become a nationwide issue, with the public imposing pressure on Kpop idols and regular citizens alike to look a certain way. Besides plastic surgery, entertainment companies often force their artists to train tirelessly, and to practice overly restricted diets in order to maintain slim figures. This harsh treatment often leads to poor health and creates situations where artists are known to faint during performances. Because of this mistreat-
WIKIMEDIA USER PURAMYUN31
Girls’ Generation is one of the most successful K-pop girl groups to date. The K-pop industry is slowly gaining traction in the mainstream media. ment, singers have been known to peal of K-pop can be seen at Los Altos quit their stage lives at the peak of High School too, and student fans their careers. are a part of the audience that can Although K-pop has gained con- prolong the K-pop industry’s appeal. siderable traction since its birth, it is It is up to entertainment companies only now that people are starting to and artists to fix the flaws overlooked pay attention to its serious underly- in their pursuit of fame and wealth, ing ethical issues. It is up to the fans, because only then will K-pop live up who are made up especially of the to its potential glory. People, howteenage demographic, to continue ever must continue to stay aware of this trend of popularity and support the imperfections that accompany of K-pop groups. The widespread ap- its growing popularity.
The Talon December 16, 2014
BOOKS
“Brown Girl Dreaming” tells civil rights story through poetry were told repeatedly by their mother and by their grandparents that they were “just as good as anybody” yet at the same time were taught Brown Girl Dreaming to keep out of white peoples’ way Jaqueline Woodson, Aug. 2014 on the streets. She also shows how ★★★★☆ everyday life continued for children during the movement, despite Author Jacqueline Woodson their awareness that something was has won numerous awards for changing. Woodson remembers fictional literature for children thinking, “there’s a war going on in and young adults. However, when South Carolina/and even as we play/ she stepped up to receive the Na- and plant and preach and sleep, we tional Book Award for “Brown Girl are part of it.” Dreaming” on November 19, the Not all of the book is about race situation was different—this time and race relations. Woodson writes the main character of her award- about her gifted older sister and winning non-fiction book was her how she always felt like she was bechildhood self. ing compared, as well as her fears of Written in verse, the New York losing her best friend—experiencTimes bestseller “Brown Girl es that children of any race might Dreaming” recounts Woodson’s go through. However, Woodchildhood growing son named her book up in Ohio, South “Brown Girl Dreaming,” Carolina and New and though the entire York in the 1960s Woodson book is not about race, and ‘70s. Each poem captures the the memories Woodis a different, dis- changes occurson discusses are colconnected memory. ored by her experiences ring across the However, when they as a black girl growing are pieced together, nation through up in a time of change. the poems offer a the words of a What’s distinctive unique look into a child. about “Brown Girl black child’s percepDreaming” is how tion of the world Woodson captures the around her during the height of changes occurring across the nathe Civil Rights Movement. tion in the words of a child. With Woodson writes the poems in the most authors such a point of view perspective of her childhood self might be limiting, but Woodson is and her writing illuminates a child’s able to paint pictures with a very confusion about race relations. Her limited vocabulary. Through her writing juxtaposes the mixed mes- writing she highlights how even sages she and her siblings received after segregation laws changed to when living in South Carolina; they promote integration, reality did
MAYA VARGHESE Copy/Content Editor
not. For example, her grandmother continued to take her grandchildren to the backs of the buses after the laws changed, and Woodson remembers thinking, “But we aren’t dirt. We are people/paying the same fare as other people./ When I say this to my grandmother/she nods, says, Easier to stay where you belong.” The simplicity of Woodson’s writing makes her points come across as powerful. Taking place in the ‘60s and ‘70s, the book fills in recent history that is not frequently covered in children’s books. However, much of what Woodson discusses—how she was followed in stores because of her race, her distress at seeing her uncle in prison—is not only relevant to the past. Though the protests of the Civil Rights Movement are over, there have been recent protests across the country about the decisions in the cases of Michael Brown and Eric Garner, and many children and youth have participated. Woodson’s poems shed light on how a child interprets protest movements and is affected by growing up in a time of change, making this a relevant book today. Though it targets elementary and middle school students, “Brown Girl Dreaming” is a worthwhile read for youth and adults alike. Woodson portrays racial inequalities, usually only discussed in literature for adults, in the refreshing perspective of childhood innocence. The stories she tells are relevant to recent history, but also help illuminate the issues surrounding race relations today.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY BRANDON HONG
Jaqueline Woodson’s book, “Brown Girl Dreaming,” has won numerous awards, most notably the National Book award. Woodson’s book is a collection of childhood memories craftfully constructed into poems.
TELEVISION
“Faking It” steps in right direction for LGBT+ representation ALEXANDRA MILKEY Staff Writer
‘Faking It’
Network: MTV Season 2 continuation date TBA
On first glance, MTV’s show “Faking It” appears to be the latest in a long line of high school comedies. Drama abound, there’s a heavy emphasis on romance and the fights and make ups are endless. But “Faking It” sets itself apart because of its characters whose gender or sexuality differs from what’s considered “the norm.” It’s generally successful at accurately representing the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) community. However the show occasionally slips into overdone stereotypes. Two best friends fake being lesbians to be popular. The initial premise of “Faking It” is problematic because it trivializes the experiences of some real LGBT+ high schoolers. As the show goes on, though, it improves from its initial bad impression, mostly because of its characters. As the show goes on, one of them, Amy Raudenfeld, realizes that maybe she’s not as straight as she’s always thought herself to be. Though the show follows Amy the most closely, it also introduces two other diverse characters: Shane Harvey, a popular kid at school who’s also gay, and Lauren Cooper, Amy’s new step sister, who’s intersex. “Faking It” does well in portraying some members of the LGBT+ community. From the beginning, two characters, Lauren Cooper and Amy Raudenfeld, aren’t constrained by
FLICKR USER DOMINICK D
The cast of MTV’s “Faking It” participates in a panel at PaleyFest 2014. The show had a successful first two seasons full of diverse characters and progressive storylines. any stereotypes, causing them to be much more nuanced. When it sheds stereotypes of the LGBT+ community, “Faking It” stands out and proves itself to be a progressive show. Through its characters, “Faking It” proves that sexuality and gender identity are important and that they aren’t anything to be ashamed of. Lauren Cooper exemplifies this more than anyone else on the show. At the beginning of the second season, Lauren reveals that she’s intersex. She has Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, meaning that she has XY chromosomes but was born phenotypically female. She’s hidden her condition out of shame, but when others find out, they support her. In part because of this backing, she realizes that although being intersex might be a part of her, it’s not something she should be ashamed of.
Amy Raudenfeld is another example of a character who brings positive representation because she goes against stereotypes. During the show, she starts to question her sexuality, and when another character tries to categorize Amy’s sexuality by the people she’s slept with, Amy retorts that it’s much more complicated than that. Sexuality isn’t always black-and-white, and having a main character who shows this is essential. By showcasing diverse characters who don’t play into stereotypes, “Faking It” emphasizes the importance of sexuality and gender equality without overshadowing other factors of individuality. Some elements of the show have problems, most of which stem from some characters’ heavy reliance on stereotypes. This is most obvious in Shane Harvey. He’s depicted as a gay
male who watches Project Runway and loves anything flamboyant— the more sequins the better. There’s nothing wrong with either of these characteristics, but something is wrong when the only gay character for the majority of the show doesn’t
move even slightly past stereotypes. With Shane, the writers initially fail to look past the characteristics of a stereotypical gay male. This causes Shane to be generic and also makes the show appear offensive. As the show goes on, though, it improves upon this by introducing another gay character in the second season,, a Mixed Martial Arts-hopeful who goes a long way in deviating the show from stereotypes. Though its romantic comedy plotline and tendency for the dramatic might not appeal to everyone, the mostly realistic portrayal of different sexualities and gender identities in the show definitely should. The importance of diversity without stereotypes can’t be overstated, and the show’s mostly honest portrayal of LGBT+ characters make the show more than just another high school comedy. While some aspects of the show fall short because of the characters who fall prey to rehashed versions of old stereotypes, “Faking It” is a step in the right direction for representation.
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The Talon December 16, 2014
Get daily updates on Eagle athletics and read the sports archives at lahstalon.org/sports
Double Agents: Coaches and Teachers A look into two of the double agents on campus SITARA SRIRAM, ANNIE GAFFNEY Senior Writer, Staff Writer PHOTOS BY ELVIS LI, IAN MACKEY
Bob McFarlane
V
arsity boys basketball coach and special day class teacher Bob McFarlane first got involved with the basketball program in 2001 and has never looked back. “I’ve been coaching for about 13 years,” McFarlane said. “[A job as the] frosh/soph coach opened and I took it. I was a frosh/soph head coach and varsity assistant for the bulk of those years until I took over when the varsity coach resigned three years ago.” McFarlane finds that the relationship between a coach and an athlete can often be deeper than that between a student and a teacher because coaches often see athletes in an environment where they tend to be more passionate about what they are doing. “The teacher-student relationship can be an excellent relationship, but I just think [as a coach] you have an opportunity to see [students] in an element that they’re so passionate about and that they’re willing to make an exceptional commitment to,” McFarlane said. “When you have a mobile force of people that are super
committed, super passionate you can do things that you can’t do and experience things with those students in a classroom environment because you’re never going to have the level of commitment, buy-in and excitement for what you’re doing.” Additionally, coaching students has given him a deeper appreciation for the value of participating in extracurricular activities and has given him a broader view of the campus. “I think I have learned to appreciate more the complexities of what is going on across campus and how many different students are so committed on another level,” McFarlane said. “Because if you don’t run a program or aren’t involved in sports you don’t realize the amount of time these students probably put in to their sports, not just during the season or on game day when you see them dressed up, but all throughout the year in training.” Perhaps most importantly, coaching has given McFarlane a greater appreciation and respect for coaches of all kinds of sports, because he recognizes the difficulties involved in run-
College athletes should not get paid TEDDY CHMYZ Staff Writer
The approach of the college football bowl and playoff season means the return of a controversy surrounding all college sports. Many people argue that college student-athletes should be paid, because some are responsible for a lot of profit for their colleges. This payment, however, is unnecessary, since student-athletes receive many other benefits. Colleges also do not have enough money to pay the players beyond the scholarship system in place already. The myth that all colleges are making incredible profits on their athletic departments and that they could easily afford to pay their revenue-earning athletes is simply a myth. According to USA Today, “[just] 23 of 228 athletics departments at NCAA Division I public schools generated enough money on their own to cover their expenses in 2012. Of that group, 16 also received some type of subsidy.” Even some of those programs that generated a profit required subsidies from the NCAA. While some sports, especially football and men’s basketball, bring in revenue, that money is necessary to fund other sports. If colleges were to pay their high-profile money creating athletes, they would have to cut funding on or even eliminate other team sports from their program. The high-profile athletes for whom payment is proposed already receive full scholarships and many other benefits such as extra facilities and help with classes, which is more than
enough compensation for playing a sport. Many of these students get a full ride to a college that they could never normally afford or get into academically, and graduate debt free, unlike the majority of their fellow classmates. Most of the high-level athletic colleges are expensive, and four year scholarships can be worth up to a quarter of a million dollars. Colleges also provide players a stepping stone to a professional career in sports. The players with the skill to go pro gain large salaries immediately after college—for NFL or NBA rookies, often multi-year, million dollar contracts. This is something very few other career paths offer. Paying college athletes would also change the student-athlete’s focus. If a college were to pay an athlete, the athlete would be much more likely to ignore the educational side of college because they have money at stake with the sport. While scholarships already have begun this process, currently the focus in college athletics is claimed to be on the student part of student-athlete. If players were paid, that would change, as the players would be at college in order to receive a paycheck instead of an education. Players would want to focus all of their energy on ensuring they keep earning a salary from the school and would no longer really be college students, but professional athletes. Advocates of paying college athletes do not realize that doing so would completely remove the student from the word studentathlete and turn college sports into a business, when the focus should remain on education.
ning a quality athletic program. “It really seems easy when you haven’t done it, that it’s just ‘hey you show up and coach basketball,’” McFarlane said. “But there’s hours and hours and hours of planning [involved]. As you [get more] involved in the school community, you learn and see what different people are doing and you can appreciate the success that they have or the experiences they create for the kids, regardless of the win-loss column.”
Kiernan Raffo
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hysical education teacher Kiernan Raffo has been playing field hockey for as long as most LAHS students have been alive. Raffo is originally from Lake Forest, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. She began her field hockey career the summer before her sophomore year, following her move to Virginia Beach. Wanting to continue her career, Raffo went on to play field hockey for James Madison University, a Division 1 program ranked in the top 25 nationally. After graduation, she began coaching at the collegiate level, first at the College of William and Mary and then as an assistant at Stanford. Then, once tired of the travel that comes with coaching Di-
vision I athletics, Raffo moved on to teaching and six years ago joined the Los Altos staff as a coach and instructor. During her time at Los Altos, Raffo spent her first two years as the associate head coach for the varsity girls team. She then took the head coach position of junior varsity for two years and now coaches only part time. Currently, Raffo attends one to two practices a week and specifically works with the team goalies—her position before she began to coach. Raffo attributes her decision to cut back to time management and her motivation to take on other responsibilities. “It started to get more difficult timewise. I was teaching an extra class, so I was on the go all day. I would get to work early then teach all day and get my grades in or go to meetings and then go to practice,” Raffo said. “You find a balance, and you find time, but it was getting to the point that I wanted pursue other avenues.” For Raffo, “other avenues” included taking on new leadership positions around campus. She was a class advi-
sor for the class of 2014, and is chair of the physical education department. As a coach and a teacher, Raffo has seen some overlap between her players and students which has allowed for her to develop deeper connections with her players. “You already have a connection with the kid, especially with field hockey being a fall sport, you meet the kids before school starts,” Raffo said. “I feel like you get to know the kids on a whole other level—their families, their work ethic.” Player-coach relationships also introduce new expectations into Raffo’s teacher-student relationships. “You almost expect more of them in the classroom because you do know them so well,” Raffo said. “They work so hard on the field, and you expect the same in the classroom.” To Raffo, the benefit is mutual. Having a coach who’s also their teacher allows students to have an adult on campus they trust. “Its a huge benefit, I think, having coaches that are teachers as well,” Raffo said. “The kids I think feel like they have someone to go to, someone they know. To have them in the classroom is just a bonus.”
Soaring Eagle
JOYCE CHRISTIANSEN-SALAMEH ERIC KOPPS
serving points with 230. “My success completely depends on Co-captain senior Joyce Christian- my team,” said Joyce. “Because everysen-Salameh helped lead the girls body is responsible for an area of the volleyball team to a NorCal cham- court on defense, or has a job for ofpionship, CCS championship and fense, were all reliant on each other undefeated league title this year. She for every touch we get on the ball. In has shown leadership, determina- volleyball it’s really important that evtion and heart this past season, set- eryone is ready and on their game, it’s ting the team to victory. Joyce led the 100 percent a team sport.” Volleyball is an exhilarating and entire De Anza league in assists with stimulating sport that 1,204 and an average of requires dedication, 10.8 assists per set. and genuine love for the She has been playing My success sport. Joyce in particular club volleyball for City loves volleyball for the Beach since fifth grade completely team cooperation, and and has been on the var- depends on the memorable moments sity Los Altos team since my team during games. sophomore year. Having — senior Joyce “Really, I just love the played for the last seven Christiansensport, and my favorite years, Joyce knows what it Salameh part about volleyball is takes to stay in shape and definitely the glory moon top of her game. Her game is also a key component to the ments,” said Joyce. “Diving after the ball and making an amazing save or team’s success. “A good setter can make a weak team having a hitter bounce the ball on the decent and a good team exceptional,” 10 foot line. Those moments are rePeggy Kane-Hopton writes on the ally exciting.” In particular, Joyce’s favorite moUSA volleyball website. “If you analyze the most successful teams, they usually ment of this past season was the quarhave one thing in common: a quality terfinals game against Oakmont. “We were off to a rough start and setter. One common thread is obvious at any level: the setter is the glue that down two sets, but we had an amazing comeback and were able to play keeps the team’s parts together.” Joyce is a starter and has shown her three of our best games under presleadership playing the most sets on sure to advance to the next round of the team this year with 111. She has states,” Joyce said. Throughout the season, Joyce has been a key contributor the past two years when the girls volleyball team shown leadership, persistence and love won league and went to the NorCal for her team and the game. Although championship game. She is also an all she doesn’t plan on playing on a college around player, coming in fourth place team, she does plan on playing for fun in kills on the team, 61, and second on anytime she gets the chance. Staff Writer
THE NUMBERS DON’T LIE: 1204 ASSISTS 10.8 ASSISTS PER SET NOAH TSAO
Senior Joyce ChristiansenSalameh sets the ball. She led the league this year with 1,204 assists as the volleyball team won league and came in second in NorCals.
The Talon December 16, 2014
Bay Area Sports Round-Up
Instant replay is staying in sports JOSH KIRSHENBAUM Staff Writer
By Josh Kirshenbaum
With New Coach, Cal Basketball Aims to Sustain Past Success Cuonzo Martin changed schools, time zones, fan bases and conferences, but in the end, he really just jumped from one famed predecessor’s shadow to another. After three seasons at Tennessee trying to replace the popular coach Bruce Pearl, Martin has come to the Bay Area to be the coach of the University of California, Berkeley men’s basketball team. There, he will try to fill the void left by Mike Montgomery, who lead the Bears to some of their most successful seasons in fifty years. Martin’s years at Tennessee were not as successful as Pearl’s; under his leadership, the Volunteers only reached one NCAA tournament, compared to six straight appearances under Pearl. At one point early last season, roughly 40,000 fans signed a petition to fire Martin and bring back Pearl, who had been fired after an NCAA investigation. In April, Martin left Tennessee and came to Cal, which has gone to the NCAA tournament four out of the past six years. The team he inherits is in a retooling phase but looking to continue the success that Montgomery started. Despite some key losses, the Bears still have some of the core players from last year. Senior forward David Kravish looks to be the leader and stabilizer of the team. Last year, he was third in the Pac-12 conference in blocks— so far this year he leads the team with 17. Despite the graduation of Justin Cobbs, Cal returns its next three best guards from last year: junior Tyrone Wallace and sophomores Jordan Matthews and Jabari Bird. In five games, Wallace and Matthews lead the team in points per game, and Wallace leads all players in minutes per game, points per game, assists per game and steals per game. Coming in to a new team, Martin will employ a simpler system based on speed and flexibility that is tailored to the individual strengths of the players. “If you’re a guard and you can post up, then you post up,” Martin said in an interview at the Pac12 Media Day. “If you’re a big, you can play on the perimeter. It’s a free-flowing offense with a lot of spacing, setting screens and attacking the rim.” With this flexible offense, a plethora of guards and only one veteran big man, it’s not uncommon for Martin to play Kravish and four perimeter players. So far, Martin’s Bears have achieved success, including an upset over 23rd ranked Syracuse. The sole blemish in their 7-1 season came against Texas, who is now ranked eighth in the country. Going into Pac-12 Conference play, the Bears and their new coach are looking to surprise some people with a solid season.
Contrary to the usual claims made by angry players and fans, most referees are not blind. On the other hand, despite what some referees may think, they are not infallible. In recent years, the use of replay review has allowed officials to become somewhat closer to that mark. By now, all major sports utilize instant replay. Even with this widespread usage, there are arguments in most sports about how much review should be used. Those in favor say that more views of a play with more angles almost guarantees a correct call. Others say that replay
slows the game down and gets rid of the human element of officiating. The use of instant replay needs to be implemented to ensure the right calls, but it also has to be shortened such that it doesn’t stop the flow of play. There are two main uses officials have for replay: delayed and immediate. In most sports, league officials use replays after games to make rulings regarding whether or not suspensions should be dealt out for hits, fights or other incidents. For instance, after his famed biting incident in the 2014 World Cup was reviewed by FIFA officials, Uruguay attacker Luis Suarez was given the longest ban in World Cup history, along with a heavy fine.
VANESSA MARK
In-game replay is both a cause and Loath as some Americans may be a solution for controversy. Though to admit it, the most efficient review many claim that the most important system might be in soccer. After Frank part of officiating is getting the call Lampard’s famous no-goal in the 2010 right no matter the cost, others argue World Cup, many soccer leagues have that it adds unnecessary length and instituted goal line technology sysremoves the traditional tems. To decide whethhuman element from er a goal was scored refereeing. or not, the English Proponents of video Replay adds a Premier League uses a review claim that it gives level of certainty system where multiple the referees a much bet- that a few sets cameras triangulate the ter chance of getting the of human eyes position of the ball relacall right. For instance, tive to the line. Within can’t provide. if umpire Jim Joyce had a second, the system the benefit of review sends a signal, in the during Armando Galarraga’s infa- form of a buzz, to the referee’s wrist mous “Imperfect Game,” he almost watch to tell him that the ball went certainly would have called Cleve- in. Play doesn’t have to stop unless the land’s Jason Donald out at first, and referee blows the whistle and calls the Galarraga would have completed the goal. Similar replay methods are used 21st perfect game in MLB history. in tennis to determine whether a ball Despite any possible shortcom- was in or out. ings concerning adding length to Overall, replay adds a level of games, video review is here to stay certainty that a few sets of huin sports, and all that can be done is man eyes can’t provide. While to make it as successful and quick as some might not want to admit it, possible. Baseball took this step by referees do get calls wrong, and limiting replay to a challenge ba- replay lessens the consequences sis; calls are only reviewed upon a of a close call, because they will coach’s challenge, and if a challenge often have cameras to back them fails and the call is upheld, the coach up or correct them. However, loses his ability to challenge for the the game should still belong to rest of the game. This is in contrast the players to let them play and to the NFL, which along with coach- the game f low. While each sport es’ challenges, allows reviews at the uses review in slightly different referee’s request including review- ways, successfully incorporated ing every scoring play, every play in video replay will enhance the the final two minutes of a half and quality of officiating and with it every play in overtime. the quality of play.
Junior Kelsey Moran excels at jump roping ANNELIESE GALLAGHER
Triple Unders. “Jumpers do triple unders until they make a mistake,” Kelsey said. For most, jump rope is merely a “It’s essentially a ‘last man standing’ sidewalk game played years ago. But kind of thing.” The ability to land just one Triple junior Kelsey Moran has taken jump roping to a new level: the national Under is an accomplishment that level. Kelsey is a member of the USA takes many hours of practice. After national jump rope team, a position years of training, Kelsey Moran is she has earned through her hard able to execute several consecutive Triple Unders during competitions. work and dedication to the sport. Though Kelsey excels in all twelve “I just enjoyed doing it out on the blacktop in elementary school and jump roping events, her favorite is really, the Disney Channel movie Double Dutch Freestyles, in which ‘Jump In!’ inspired me to take it fur- she works with her teammates to construct and perform a difficult ther,” Kelsey said. When she was eight years old, routine that meets competition criKelsey joined the jump roping teria and demonstrates originality. “We can make up new tricks, new team “Jumping for Joy,” which later turned into the internationally switches, new interactions, anyranked team Sol Jumpers. The Sol thing we can think of really,” Kelsey Jumpers regularly send athletes to said. “You can take everyone’s best tricks and then chalthe world jump roplenge each other to ing championships, take it even further in including Kelsey. order to make the best The sport of com- You can take routine possible!” petitive jump roping is everyone’s best This year, Kelsey complex because it replaced sixth nationally quires both endurance tricks and then in Double Dutch Pairs and agility. In total, challenge each Freestyle and ninth in there are twelve jump other to take it Double Dutch Singles roping events that fall even further in Freestyle. Through under the two cather performance at egories: jumping speed order to make the US Trials Qualifyand freestyle competi- the best routine ing Tournament, she tions in both Singles possible. also earned a spot on and Double Dutch. In — Junior Kelsey Moran USA national jump speed competitions, roping team, which individuals jump as fast as they can in the allotted time (30 travels to the World Championseconds, 1 minute or 3 minutes). In ships every two years. Kelsey is acfreestyle competitions, athletes pre- complished as an individual, but pare a routine filled with stunts and she knows that teamwork is crucial tricks. Freestyle competitions can to her success as an athlete. “You have to know everything include either a single jumper or a about your teammates: their double dutch group of four. Individuals may also participate strengths, weaknesses [and] where in Double or Triple Unders. In these they are going to be at any given events, competitors must jump moment during the routine,” Kelsey rope as long as they can while turn- said. “Teamwork is very important. ing the rope multiple times for each This is true for all team sports of jump: two turns per jump in Double course, but I think it’s especially relUnders and three turns per jump in evant in jump rope.” Staff Writer
COURTESY KELSEY MORAN
Junior Kelsey Moran competes in a freestyle event. She is a member of the USA national team as well as an internationally ranked cub. ADVERTISEMENT
The Talon December 16, 2014
Six ways to feel like an athlete
OVER WINTER BREAK... WE WILL ALL BE TRYING TO CATCH UP ON SLEEP. BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN WE SHOULD FORGET ABOUT OUR BELOVED SPORTS. HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO HELP KEEP US ALL ACTIVE, ENTERTAINED AND UP TO DATE ON OUR FAVORITE TEAMS:
(even if you’re not)
VIDEO GAMES
ERIC THIEM
OR AT LEAST SOME COUCH TIME
Staff Writer
WATCHING FOOTBALL NOT LIKE WE NEED TO TELL YOU It’s time to take a load off and do what millions of Americans do Sunday night, and Monday night, and Thursday night… all right, pretty much all the time. Simply watch some good old American football. There are regular NFL games going on all break, plus the new College Football Playoff as soon as we get back. Formerly called the Bowl Championship Series, in this new tournament we get to watch four college teams duke it out for the chance to be the national champion. To get you pumped for this new tournament, you can watch Stanford play Maryland in the Foster Farm Bowl on Thursday, December 30 and then watch the two semifinal matchups at the Rose Bowl between Oregon and Florida State and the Sugar Bowl between Alabama and Ohio State, both on Thursday, January 1.
Since the winter is so cold in California, it might be better to stay inside and try your hand at some video games. Grab the newest Madden, NBA2K or FIFA, find a comfortable spot on the couch and get playing. Video games may not be the most adrenaline pumping activity, but people underestimate the workout that a controller can give your thumbs. Although a sports video game can’t compare to the real thing, getting a new game may curb your cravings for cleats and the smell of fresh cut grass until next season. Good luck. Just make sure not to throw the controller, or at least wear the wrist strap if you are playing Wii.
GO ON A HIKE AND ENJOY THE OUTDOORS Another fun activity that you could do would be enjoying some of the outdoors and going on a hike. This would also be a perfect opportunity to show your outdoorsy side on Instagram. There are many places around us with many miles of trails either around the Dish, or in the Rancho Preserve.
SKI TRIP OR ENJOY THE RAIN Drive up to Lake Tahoe for some skiing or snowboarding. Whether you are riding the slopes of South or North Shore, the recent, heavy snowfall should provide plenty of powder for an amazing day full of slopes, jumps and the occasional hot chocolate break. For the best mountain terrain, Sierra-at-Tahoe and Diamond Peak are great choices, but after years of skiing and snowboarding all over Tahoe, a personal favorite is Heavenly Mountain. Offering an amazing village and slopes for all skill levels, Heavenly is the perfect peak for everyone, from the die-hard skier to the first-time novice.
SUPPORT BLUE CREW AND ALL WINTER SPORTS If you instead feel the need to watch real people instead of pixels, help the Blue Crew out and support Los Altos winter sports. Boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer and wrestling all continue through the break. I would recommend finishing off your break by supporting boys soccer and basketball as they start league play at home on January 6. COURTESY SCOTT DELAMARE
SPIKEBALL TOURNAMENT AND ULTIMATE FRISBEE
ELVIS LI
The Blue Crew dresses in pink for the Dig Pink charity game versus Palo Alto. Right, junior Rachel Glein makes a diving hit during a game of spikeball on the beach.
The school’s very own spikeball and ultimate frisbee clubs are hosting tournaments over break and encourage everyone to come play. This gives you the perfect opportunity to practice your diving plays and possibly get a new Facebook cover photo out of it. Just make sure to bring an extra set of clothes. I’ve seen some spikeballers drenched in mud after an intense match up, especially with the rain we’ve been getting. Grab a few buddies and head over to the school to join in. The spikeball meetings are on Wednesdays in Room 707, and the ultimate frisbee meetings are on Fridays at lunch on the back field. The clubs don’t yet know when over break they’ll be hosting games, but both have Facebook pages that will be updated.
With younger team, boys basketball looks strong DAVID LISBONNE Staff Writer
The boys varsity basketball team has dominated the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League the last two years with a cumulative league record of 22-2, taking them to the CCS semifinals both years. As a new team emerges, they aim to recreate the glory and attempt a threepeat for their success. “We have a pretty solid crew coming back this year from last year’s league championship roster,” senior Patrick McColl said. “We still have some work to do, but I like the way we’re looking right now and the way we compete on the court.” The varsity boys have seven returning seniors, two of which were unable to play last year. Despite the relatively large returning force, the team has notable underclassmen representation. The team’s youth is a response to losing four of the five starters last year and six total seniors. This leaves the positions to newer, less experienced players. “It’s a great chance for me to learn from the older players,” sophomore Tommy Andrews
said. “It helps me become a better player by playing with better competition in practice and games.” Los Altos has had an average start to the season, with a record of 1-2 in the Cupertino Shootout Tournament, where the team finished sixth. However the issue is not with the teams skill, nor their chemistry, according to coach Bob McFarlane. “Our challenge this year is going to be experience,” McFarlane said. “We don’t really have a lot of game experience.” As the first league game approaches, on Tuesday, January 6, McFarlane has a positive outlook on the progression of the season. “Right now we are progressing at a really good trajectory,” McFarlane said. “They [players] are very competitive and play well together, so I am sure we will still be a very competitive team. We have shown that so far.” The boys team played in the championship game against Half Moon Bay in the Burlingame Tournament on Friday, after press deadline. They were able to knock off home team Burlingame, on Tuesday and Valley Christian, on Wednesday by an average of 18.5 points.
NOAH TSAO
Senior Thomas Kelleher takes a shot in practice. He is one of seven seniors on a team that has six underclassmen.
NOY ANISMAN