The Pinion Vol. 95 No. 4

THE PINI N

Serving the Tiger community since 1920

Student-edited paper of McKinley High School

Photography Club takes trip to Europe Vol. 95 No. 4

Honolulu, Hawaii

May 2017

Students visit historical sites of Barcelona and Paris

by Sonya Park Smith, reporter

T

he Photography Club visited Europe over spring break.

They went to Paris, France, and Barcelona, Spain.

Including the students and chaperones, eleven people went on the trip.

First they went to Paris then took a train to Barcelona.

In Paris, they saw the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe. In Barcelona they saw the La Sagrada Familia, a church designed by Gaudi and some of his other structures.

Art teacher Lillian McLeod and adviser of the photography club said that she enjoyed seeing the students explore new places that they had never been to before.

Junior Romel Galanto, secretary of the Photography Club, said his favorite part of the trip was seeing all the old architecture.

“It amazes me how it’s still standing up here today and it just opened my mentality about the world,” Galanto said.

Galanto compared Europe to Hawaii.

“Hawaii’s so small and going to Europe is like ‘Boom!’ Where has this been my whole life?’,” Galanto said.

Junior Shaye Witkus, president of the Photography Club, said her favorite part of the trip which was the Louvre in Paris.

“My favorite I would say would be the Mona Lisa because I’ve heard about it and how it’s so little,” she said. “It’s something that you dream of and (when) you see it, you’re like ‘wow.’’’

She said her favorite part of Barcelona was seeing Park Guell.

“Growing up, I used to watch the Cheetah Girls. One of the group leaders was from Barcelona and it was really cool walking on the same stairs as they did,” Witkus said.

“Hawaii’s so small and going to Europe is like ‘Boom!’ Where has this been my whole life?’”

- Romel Galanto

The Eiffel Tower is located in Paris, France and named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel. Its construction started on January 26, 1887.

It is the tallest structure in Paris, at 984 feet high. At night, the tower is lit up with thousands of bulbs and strobes making it a popular attraction. In 1909 the tower was almost torn down but it was saved because it could be used as a radiotelegraph station.

Photo by Romel Galanto.

RS 17-1255, May 2017

2 THE PINION

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News

The Pinion Staff Editor-in-Chief Anela Chavez Assistant Editor

Alexandria Buchanan

Reporters

Kirt Choi Lacey Hayashi Jaycee Paat Sonya Park Smith Aidan Sakaio Eileen Wang

Photography club members and adviser on trip in Europe. Photo contributed by Shaye Witkus.

Adviser

Cynthia Reves

Mission

The Pinion staff strives to provide and maintain accurate, entertaining and informative news for the students, staff and alumni of McKinley High School.

We strive to show diligence in creating all our content so that we can make a positive contribution to the public.

Publication Information The Pinion is published by the Newswriting class and printed by Reprographics Learning Center.

The Pinion McKinley High School 1039 South King Street Honolulu, HI 96814

Email comments or questions to pinion@mckinleyhs.k12.hi.us

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La Sagrada Familia is a Roman Catholic Church located in Barcelona, Spain that, was designed by Antoni Gaudi. The site is not yet complete and isn’t expected to be until 2026. Its construction first started on March 19, 1882. When complete there will be 18 towers. One will represent Jesus Christ, four towers for the gospels, one dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the other 12 will represent the Apostles. Photo by Shaye Witkus.

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THE PINION 3

Scholastic book fair held at MHS News

by Aidan Sakaio, reporter

Kenny Thai, Shani Huang, Melanie Lau, Mikaela Rivera and Britney Chang (left to right) will be the 2017-2018 student body government.

Photo by Alexandria Buchanan.

Student officers newly elected

The Book Club hosted a scholastic book fair in the library during April. There were many books and items to choose from.

They were able to sell over $300 worth of merchandise.

Sophomore Andrew Kalani-Velles went to the book fair and purchased two items, a Shonen Jump magazine, and ‘Last Descendants,’ an Assassin’s Creed novel. ”It’s a good opportunity for me to look around and to discover new, different types of stories,” Kalani-Velles said.

Book Club adviser Matthew Johnson said he thought the book fair would have been more popular than it was.

“It’s kind of a smaller turn-out than I thought. I thought that maybe more people would be walking in, at least looking,” Johnson said.

He said he became adviser for the Book Club because of his love for books. He said Book Club membership fluctuated throughout the year, but they usually maintained an average of eight students.

Junior Jahanavi Priya is the president of the Bake For Friends Club, which currently has about 15 members. They were selling baked goods like muffins and croissants during the book fair to raise money for Shriner’s Hospital.

by Alexandria Buchanan, assistant editor The school year is coming to an end, and as we move on we can remember all of the memories we made this year. From the welcome back assembly and homecoming, to more recent events like prom, the fun times we had this year will be remembered for a very long time.

To ensure we can continue events like these, we have elected our 2017-18 student government officers. Next year we have president Melanie Lau, vice presidents Britney Chang and Mikaela Rivera, secretary Shani Huang and treasurer Kenny Thai.

“I wanted to run because the mentality I want for students is to really participate in high school,” Lau said. “Here’s four years of your life and a lot of kids waste it. I really want students to make the best of these years and look back and think, ‘wow school really was fun.’”

This year the officers are focusing on encouraging participation in spirit weeks among the student body.

“I want students at McKinley high school to participate more in something they want to do, but they’re too afraid to do it,” Huang said. “I want students to be inspired and not be afraid.

Do what you want to do, and don’t let anybody hold you back.”

Andrew Kalani-Velles was one of many who purchased the Naruto manga, which eventually sold out. Photo by Aidan Sakaio.

4 THE PINION News

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Art by Lacey Hayashi.

Class of 2017 plans ahead

20/20 Time in, Tiger Time out

Art by Jaycee Paat.

Advisory, D.E.A.R. to be affected, also

by Jaycee Paat, reporter

Starting next school year, McKinley High School’s Tiger Time and DEAR will be replaced by a program called 20/20. It will consist of 20 minutes of reading and 20 minutes of doing homework.

Committee member Matthew Johnson said the change started with the Tiger Time committee and was then voted on by the teachers. The new program will be held after the first period of each day, followed by recess. Students will be assigned a teacher for the allotted time. Once a month, this time will be used for advisory, which may result in some students getting a new advisory teacher next year.

Many felt that Tiger Time wasn’t effective. It left teachers too busy to help students who really needed it.

20/20 will give students the opportunity to read and do homework, and if student needs help from a particular teacher, they will have to find some other time to do so.

Next year, students will be asked to evaluate 20/20 The committee wants feedback from students to see if changes still need to be made. Johnson said he gets mixed reviews on Tiger Time. Some students think it is a waste of time, while others actually value the opportunity it gives them to complete schoolwork.

by Lacey Hayashi, reporter The McKinley High School Class of 2017 is approaching graduation day. The commencement ceremony will be held at 5:00 p.m. on May 21st. A minimum 24 credits must be met by 8:05 a.m. on May 12, 2017 in order to participate.

“I know wherever I go, I must try to think positive and love who surrounds me,” senior Katelynn Mika said.

Mika said she is excited and nervous because she will be moving on to bigger and better things.

“I want to continue working so I can save up money for college,” Mika said.

She is going to Hawaii Community College for two years, then to the University of Hawaii for another two years.

“Graduation means I’m free and moving on the next step to be an adult,” Mika said.

Senior Gabriella Crisosto said she does not think anyone can be fully prepared for life after high school because the only way to prepare for life is having a job that will help you through life.

Crisosto said she feels good about graduation because its something one earns after going through four years of high school and seniors deserve to celebrate.

“Graduation means I’m free and moving on the next step to be an adult.”

- Katelynn Mika

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‘13 Reasons Why’ brings attention to teen angst Netflix series and book very popular

by Lacey Hayashi, reporter “13 Reasons Why” is a popular but controversial Netflix series about a teenage girl named Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford) who died by suicide after making a series of tapes detailing how she felt her classmates had mistreated her.

Variety magazine reported that “13 Reasons Why” is the most tweeted about show in 2017 so far.

On their website, the American School Counselor Association wrote, “The teenage years are typically marked by turbulent emotions and stress. The Netflix series ‘13 Reasons Why’ has highlighted the impact and consequences when friends, parents, teachers and school counselors aren’t aware of or don’t know how to intervene when a student needs help.”

Junior Shayla Lyman said she found out about the show because everyone tweeted numerous comments on it.

Senior Lillyann Fredrick said she saw that it was a new release on Netflix so she decided to watch it with a bunch of her cousins.

“I’d say it was the best Netflix movie so far,” Fredrick said.

The series is based on the book by Jay Asher, which was published in 2007. Fredrick said she found out about the book after researching on Google to better understand the Netflix series.

THE PINION 5 News

13 Reasons Why is available on Netflix. There are 13 episodes, representing each of the tapes. The series was also produced by artist/ actress Selena Gomez. Screenshot from Netflix page.

She’s considering buying the book.

She is not the only person interested in reading the book now.

All copies in the MHS library and state library are checked out.

Fredrick said she thinks the story is popular because teens can relate to it.

“It gets you aware of how you respond to people,” Fredrick said.

Early Childhood/Health and Nutrition teacher Heather Itokazu watched the Netflix series and has heard about it from her students. She said it was good as far as the insight of the lives of high school students and the things that might happen, like bullying or depression.

Negative comments were made regarding the plot in the show.

Itokazu said the show has some problems, though. She said it makes it seem like suicide is the only option and did not give enough other options for struggling teens.

Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi released a letter in early May stating the concern the Hawaii Department of Education had with the series and its graphic content. They recommended that students watch the series with an adult.

If you or anyone you know is thinking of suicide or has been sexually assaulted, visit: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org OR call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Suicide Crisis Line at 1-800-784-2433 or RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

6 THE PINION Features

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What it takes to be a great leader

by Lacey Hayashi, reporter

English teacher Jude Waterman explains the American Literature textbook to junior Carol Vo and Michelle Huynh (left to right). Photo by Eileen Wang.

Teacher effectiveness plays role in student achievement

by Eileen Wang, reporter “Research using student scores on standardized tests confirms the common perception that some teachers are more effective than others and also reveals that being taught by an effective teacher has important consequences for student achievement.”

RAND Education Corporation “[Being effective] means to help student learn from school and enjoy the class with teachers,” junior Sidney He said.

According to He, junior English teacher Jude Waterman is an example of an effective teacher. She said he always makes the student enjoy and participate in class.

“Students love him so much because his class is a free class and we can share whatever we want him to know. Also, he won’t give too much homework,” He said.

In last year’s School Quality Survey, the McKinley High School community gave a five (with seven being completely agree) for the statement: “I am satisfied with the quality of teaching most of my teachers provide at school.” “[Good teachers] have good relationships with students and care about them. Also they need to know their content,” math teacher Jennifer Nakamoto said.

According to RAND, teacher effectiveness matters the most among school-related factors. According to their website,“A teacher is estimated to have two or three times the impact of any other school factor, including the student government service and the school leadership system.”

Lance Fukuhara, a junior math teacher, is another teacher that He considers effective.

“He always shared some other knowledge besides the class, like the experiences he got from the society and the experiences of learning. That’s nice and useful to me,” He said.

According to Google, a leader is a person that leads or commands a group, organization, or country. There are average leaders and then there are great leaders.

“The difference is how much effort the person puts in his whole self into it,“ senior Jerome Cruz said.

Cruz said it takes effort and determination not to give up in situations that may seem difficult because there is no excuse for not placing enough effort in any situation.

“I would want a leader to be blunt, assertive, influential, competent, diligent, and productive,” junior Shani Huang said.

Huang said great leaders put forth the best quality and achieve more than they planned to accomplish, while an average leader does not strive for greater outcomes beyond the expected.

“I think people can learn to become a great leader if he or she strives for it,” Huang said.

Senior Ryo Takemura does not agree. He said leaders are born.

“A great leader knows sacrifice,” Takemura said.

Leaders can be anyone around the world, which is why students are recognizing the great leaders in their life.

Sophomore Sapioamoa Steffany said Kylah Sagucio is a leader because she knows how to control her stress, while Cruz said, “I can’t name just one.

“A great leader knows sacrifice.”

- Ryo Takemura A great leader knows how to lead people to the right path,” said Sophomore Kamalei Vanuaria.

Vanuaria said, being in a positive state of mind is important for every leader.

Steffany said she agreed and that managing stress is something a leader should have as well.

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THE PINION 7

Public speaking: Easier than you thought possible Features

by Anela Chavez, editor-in-chief McKinley High School’s speech team is a place to make friends and enhance public speaking and performance skills.

Although they originally had a debate aspect to their team, this year they ended up only focusing on speech.

“Once you start, you get hooked and then it just snowballs until you’re an addict,” junior Melanie Lau said.

Speech tournaments consist of five to ten minute speeches given about a certain topic/category. Awards like trophies or certificates are given and there is a states tournament available. In order to make it to states, you have to succeed in the qualifying season against other schools.

Speech team at Parker School on the Big Island for the Neighbor Island Tournament (NIT). Photo contributed by Naomi Franklin.

“Once you start, you get hooked and then it just snowballs until you’re an addict.”

- Melanie Lau

Speech members Lynn Nguyen, Josephine Kaohi, Naomi Franklin, Winton Young, Thompson Wong, Jasmine Quilit and Luka Masuda (left to right).

Photo contributed by Naomi Franklin.

“I always thought, ‘Man, I’m so normal’, but speech actually like cultivated my competitive spirit,” senior Josephine Kaohi said.

Lau went to the neighbor island tournament her freshman year but wasn’t successful. However, this year at states, she won second place in the story telling category and fifth place in oratory.

“That was really cool. It like chartered my growth as a speech person,” Lau said.

Senior Luka Masuda started his junior year in story telling. When he went to states this year he switched to the category of dramatic interpretation.

“I felt really happy that after all that practice and all those performances, finally led up to that moment where I got into states,” Masuda said.

At her first tournament this year, senior Jasmine Quilit won first place in the category of impromptu even though she was scared of the category she was competing in.

“You’re always your own worst critic and so I realized that sometimes I just have to step back,” Quilit said.

8 THE PINION Features

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Dating in high school, pros/cons Art by Aidan Sakaio.

by Eileen Wang, reporter

Teens love romance. Just look at the popularity of Nicholas Sparks’ books.

“I think the relationships in high school are the best experiences,” senior Yuting Zhang said, “because it is simple and nobody cares about the benefits they could get from each other.”

Having a relationship in high school could give mutual support. Being in a relationship with another person is not always solely romantic. By spending time together, two people are able to express their feelings openly, whether happy or sad, to one another. This emotional bond couples share is a good outlet for relieving some of the stress that comes from daily life.

There are also cons in high school relationships, such as caus-

ing dramas between a group of students, immature acts, and sometimes broken hearts.

“Although people could get experiences from their high school relationships, ...,” senior Zhi He said, “but still, we are only high school students, we are immature.”

Time management in a relationship is also a problem. He said that he did not have enough time to deal with other things at school because he was spending time with his ex-girlfriend.

Although high school relationships have issues, students still want to have an unforgettable date during their high school life.

“You have to admit it. High school relationships are the most simple and pure,” Zhang said.

‘Good student’ gets defined

by Aidan Sakaio, reporter

What are the traits that define a good student? According to a few students around McKinley High School, a good student is defined by the following traits.

Freshman Tri Huyn said, “A good student is someone who makes sure they do all of their work.”

Someone who people look up to can definitely be considered a good student. You can set an example for other people by volunteering to help other students with their work.

Freshman Dahn Luu said, “A good student sets the example for other students by getting good grades.” A person who can get scholarships in sports or academics should also be considered an exemplary student because they will most likely get into a good college and be set for life.

Freshman Brycen Lagunero said, “Good students strive to participate in extracurricular activities. They also plan on going to college after they graduate from high school.”

THE PINION 9

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Features

Profile: Rendall Choy

by Sonya Park Smith, reporter

Rendall Choy has been working at MHS since 1999. Photo by Sonya Park Smith

Rendall Choy is a science teacher at McKinley High School. Before being a science teacher Choy sold comic books.

Choy graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington with a religion major.

What Choy likes most about being a science teacher is that he gets to teach things that matter.

“I get to teach things that affect the world and the future,” Choy said.

Choy has his students write vocabulary words from the textbook along with their meanings and also a picture of the vocabulary word. Most days, he gives a lecture to his class and shows a slideshow.

He gives out Cornell notes worksheets and has his students write the question and fill in the blank.

Choy’s students value how he teaches and gives directions.

Sophomore Scott Nguyen said Choy is easy going with all of his students.

Sophomore Sapioamoa Steffany said she likes how Choy is eager with his students.

“He’s really active. He’s an active teacher,” Steffany said.

Profile: Syhmon Lazo

by Jaycee Paat, reporter

Art by Syhmon Lazo.

Syhmon Lazo is a ninth grade student with a talent for art. Most of his art is based on anime, such as characters or fan-art. During his free time he likes to draw a character called Rem. He says the design of the character is interesting. His drawings impress people due to the looks and design. Since Lazo has had experience with drawing, his art teacher has made an exception for him to not do assignments that deal with shading or sketches. What makes his art so interesting is how detailed he makes them.

Whether it was drawn by color pencil, or regular pencils, he finds a way to create detail. Sometimes he likes to trace them with a pen to ink them.

10 THE PINION Editorials

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High marks for ‘Arrival’

by Aidan Sakaio, reporter

‘Zootopia,’ a place for predator, prey

by Aidan Sakaio, reporter

“Zootopia” is a movie about a farm-girl (bunny), named Judy Hopps, who hopes to make a living as a cop in the big city of Zootopia. Ever since she was a child, Judy Hopps has aspired to live and work in the great city of Zootopia, where both predators and prey have put aside their differences, and continue to live in peace and harmony.

After becoming a full-fledged police officer, Judy comes to realize that this “perfect” society that she had dreamed of as child wasn’t all that perfect. As she tries to cope with the sudden realization that she may never achieve her dream to actively help others’ as a cop, she unintentionally accepts a case to find a missing otter. To make matters even worse, she unwittingly stakes her career on this case.

Officer Hopps is then given a maximum of 48 hours to find the missing otter. If she doesn’t complete her assignment by the given time, then she will be out of a job. Hopps takes a look at the case-file, and sets out on her assignment. Her first and only lead is a fox named Nicholas Wilde. After he refuses to cooperate, Hopps blackmails him, thus forcing him to cooperate.

Wilde and Hopps later discover that the missing otter was only a small part of a massive case involving over 14 other missing mammals.

After cracking the case, Officer Hopps gains the respect of the citizens of Zootopia but she wasn’t very happy.

Solving the case had put the city in a state of uncertainty. Prey turned against predator, out of fear for their lives, and the lives of their children. Large anti-predator movements were put into motion, and amidst all the turmoil, Hopps loses a close friend, Nicolas Wilde. She upsets him during one of her speeches about the “savage” mammal cases, in which she talks about their biology playing a large role in their actions.

Hopps later realizes her mistake and asks for forgiveness. WIlde forgives her and they become friends again. They then go on to finish cracking the case, apprehending the real culprit, and then restoring peace and harmony to the city of Zootopia.

I like this movie because it has a lot of references to other films, and it contains multiple “Easter eggs.” Such as a poster in the background with Moana on it. The characters also had well-defined personalities. For example, Nicholas is a slick, narcissistic fox who makes a living ripping people off, and Judy is an optimistic police officer who likes to help people. The movie also had a great deal of humor, and a well-constructed plot.

When twelve alien spaceships mysteriously land on Earth, protagonist Louise Banks, an expert linguist, must find a way to communicate with the aliens.

I think this movie was great, because the visuals were fantastic. The special effects used by the studio, like the explosions, were awesome. I especially enjoyed seeing the scene where the ships suddenly disappear, leaving matter behind in a gaseous state.

After watching this scene, I could tell that a lot of time, effort, and money was put into the production of this film.

Another aspect of the movie that I found interesting was the plot. I loved that the plot was different, and not clichéd like most other alien-invasion films.

This movie did not involve aliens trying to conquer earth with giant robots and laser beams, but instead involved aliens coming to earth with peaceful intentions.

The final thing about this movie that I found entertaining was definitely the characters, and their personalities. All of the characters contributed a specific role to the development of the story.

The main character, Louise Banks, has a personality that is very “human.”

The way she nervously approaches the alien vessel is proof that she is obviously scared, and is more than likely thinking about all of the possible worst case scenarios.

In my opinion, having a character like this is important and helps a film, or novel be successful because people can relate to how the protagonist is feeling.

It keeps an audience at the edge of their seats.

I recommend people over the age of ten watch this movie, due to scenes with intense violence, and use of language.

This movie was brilliant, and the director deserves a medal. You should definitely consider watching this in your free time. I’d rate this 10/10.

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THE PINION 11 Editorials

Using social media the way you want

by Lacey Hayashi, reporter

Fun Fact: Reading reduces stress and anxiety levels. Photo by Sonya Park Smith.

Summer reading is time well spent

by Sonya Park Smith, reporter With summer fast approaching, students are looking forward to putting away the books. However, it is important for students to read over the summer.

“We’ve all experienced the moment you’re done with school (and) you forget everything by the first day of the next year,” English teacher Thomas Favors said.

“It’s important every day to constantly stimulate your mind.

And, no, playing video games doesn’t count,” Favors said.

Favors is aware that as soon as students are finished with school they forget the things they learned and that’s why it’s important to keep your minds active. Favors suggests to find an interesting book to read.

Junior Drayken Ly agrees that reading will help students be ready for the next year.

“It will build up an education and help them to be prepared,” Ly said.

Sophomore Darion D’Antin said that reading is useful to keep brain active.

“Summer break should be used to pull yourself together before you get back to school. ...You want to make sure you read, and keep your mind in a good shape,” D’Antin said.

Favors encourages his students to find a book genre that interests them.

“I’m always motivating my kids, especially Anime Club, to read comic books or manga because, you know, even if it is a comic or graphic novel, it’s still better than reading nothing,” Favors said.

Social media is popular among teenagers and adults. Its purpose differs for each person.

Senior Tyler Momohara said he uses social media to talk to others and spread news.

Momohara said social media represents freedom because on social media people can say how they feel when they feel as if talking face-to-face is impossible.

Momohara has Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat.

“That’s how I contact my friends. That’s how I see what’s going on with people and that’s how I get to know people by seeing their posts,” Matsumoto said.

Senior Kyla Idouchi also uses social media to stay connected to the world.

“I have them to see what other people are doing and to keep in contact with friends,” Idouchi said.

Despite its advantages, social media has been criticized for the chances of harmful incidents.

“My biggest rule is not to make other people feel uncomfortable by my posts,” Matsumoto said.

Momohara added it is also important “to have proper grammar and make sure you have common sense.” He also said he does not use social media in class unless it has to do with school.

Idouchi said she has no rules for posting on any accounts and she has never been flagged on social media. She considers all her posts to be appropriate.

Fun Fact: Facebook is the most used social media site. Art by Lacey Hayashi.

12 THE PINION Editorial Caroons

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Art by Aidan Sakaio.

Art by Eileen Wang.

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THE PINION 13

Commencement ceremony traditions need to be updated Editorials

Name-calling: Rite of passage students deserve

by Alexandria Buchanan, assistant editor

McKinley High School prides itself on its many traditions, such as the Lighting of the M and not walking on “the oval” until graduation. Traditions bring students closer together and make their high school career memorable.

One tradition that has generated a lot of buzz around campus is the commencement ceremony. When the seniors graduate, they get to walk across the oval, but graduates’ names are not called. MHS is one of the only schools to not call graduates’ names.

In 2014, student Netty Leviticus created a petition to make name calling a new tradition at MHS. This petition was denied.

Reasons against name calling during graduation are that it would lengthen the ceremony and MHS students should be graduating as a class, not individuals. Unity is a major characteristic stressed at MHS that students will supposedly take with them long after graduation.

It is true that students should feel a bond with their class. Most have spent four years together, and graduation is their final event as a Tiger. For four years, students have dealt with school work, personal responsibilities and extracurriculars before graduating. However, each student finishes these things individually, not as a class.

To graduate, students need to get the required amount of credits. Some may get help from classmates but your whole class does not help you to accomplish these things.

You do what is required for yourself so you can graduate. Commencement is a time for family and friends to celebrate all of that hard work, and name calling is one major event at most ceremonies that graduates will always remember.

Previous issue of The Pinion, from December 2014, that headlined a petition It is also true graduation would be a lot longer if we made by Netty Leviticus to change commencement traditions. called names are called. However, if students want to be recognized, why are we restricting them from this? Students’ It’s not right, even if it is a “tradition.” wishes shouldn’t come second to convenience. Students have MHS students and staff take pride in maintaining traditions. made it clear that these commencement traditions should be However, traditions can be changed to make them better. If updated, yet nothing has been done. students continue to protest and give resistance, maybe it’s time Adults on campus may say this is tradition and that the lack of for administration to start listening. We should not continue changes is for the greater good, but with the students’ constant robbing students of this recognition if they continue to ask for resistance, maybe it’s time for a change. change.

14 THE PINION Sports

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Athlete Profiles

by Alexandria Buchanan and Kirt Choi, reporters

Collin Guttenbeil

Collin Guttenbeil is a freshman on the McKinley football team. He played last season, and was moved up making him the youngest varsity player on the current roster.

Last season, Guttenbeil played corner. He enjoys the position because the ball motivates him to work hard and make plays.

Guttenbeil has noticed a change in the program since the start of practice and says the team has a more disciplined attitude about practicing.

“We can achieve more by working in a team,” said Guttenbeil. “I want us to have discipline and respect for not only the coaches, but each other. We have to push each other.”

“We can achieve more by working in a team.”

Photo by Alexandria Buchanan.

“We’re improving and becoming stronger as a team.”

- Collin Guttenbeil

- Nu’u Koli

Nu’u Koli The McKinley High School football team is saying goodbye to many of their starting seniors this year. Fortunately, the juniors are training to take over for the former starters.

One of these juniors is Nu’u Koli who plays quarterback and wide receiver for the Tigers.

Pre-season training started in March and the team is still going strong. Koli says there’s a more positive attitude from the players about coming to practice, and he hopes this will motivate them to work harder.

“I want everyone to do their best and put in the work needed to make this season successful and fun,” said Koli.

The Tiger’s new coaching staff have been working hard to make sure this season shows improvement. Koli believes the coaching staff has been doing a good job so far.

“We’re playing a sport we love and getting more experience,” said Koli. “We’re improving and becoming stronger as a team. Hopefully it shows this season.”

Photo by Alexandria Buchanan.

THE PINION 15

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Staff Tribute

Hawaii High School Journalism Awards Contest

The Pinion staff earned awards in the following categories: News Writing

“MHS supports Ephraim and the Lanki Family”

by Anela Chavez

Alexandria Buchanan, Anela Chavez, Eileen Wang and Lacey Hayashi attended the annual luncheon at the Pagoda for high school journalists.

Editorial Writing

“Teachers should be graded by students”

by Alexandria Buchanan

Sports Writing

“Restoring the Roar”

by Alexandria Buchanan

Editorial Cartoon “Trump’s Wall”

by Aidan Sakaio

Junior Anela Chavez was voted Most Valuable Staffer by The Pinion staff.

Freshman Alexandria Buchanan placed in the Sports and Editorial categories in the public school division.

Freshman Aidan Sakaio’s winning editorial cartoon showed how a border wall would divert money from other important areas.

Layout and Design Vol. 95 No. 1 pages 8-9

Website

mhspinion.com

16 THE PINION Online Highlights

mhspinion.com

Answer our Tiger Tally @ mhspinion.com Question: What do you think of the new track & field?

Question: What are your plans for the summer?

A) I like it a lot B) Could have been better C) It was a waste of money D) Don’t have an opinion E) Wish it had bleachers

A) Getting a job B) Going to the beach C) Taking a trip D) Summer school E) Staying home