Volume LVIX, Issue 2
15325 East Los Robles Avenue, Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
October 2019
School Policy Holds Students Accountable By Lucy Argaez
Patricia Higgins collecting Adam Garcia’s life changing vote. Photo by Kimberly Gonzalez
12% Could Change Teacher’s Lives By Adrian Banuelos A 12% proposed raise over three years is being voted on this week in the HLPUSD district for all teachers to receive. It’s all up to both the District and the HLPUSD union members to vote on this salary increase. Counselor Patricia Higgins said, “The Union members have to vote on it first. That voting takes place October 14 through October 21. The good news is that teachers may be getting a 6% raise this year, retroactive back to the first day of school.” According to Higgins, if the motion passes, teachers will get 6% for this year and for next year 3%, and 3 % the following year. This would end negotiations after that. If the teachers take that offer, they are set for three full years. Higgins also said, “The last raise all teachers a 2% raise.” A substantial amount of that raise is based on what the state gave the school district for their COLA, which is the Cost Of Living Adjustment. So, it’s not just as if the school is all of a sudden getting money; part of the money came from the state, and then directly from the district. Senior Nick Ross said, “Every single teacher on this campus deserves a 6% raise, because of all the hard work they do every year for each and every student. It has been long enough since all the teachers have received raise.” Each year if there is potential raise, it all depends on the amount of money available to hand to schools in California. This is based on many things one of which is attendance.
Higgins clarified, Hacienda La Puente must be approved by the Board of Education and the Los Angeles County Office of Education. Negotiations happen between the HLPTA and the district each year.
The melodic ding of a phone notification was the start of a troubling afternoon in math class. A response team was rushed to the D wing. Within minutes, the situation was contained by security, and Principal Jeffrey Hess and Assistant Principal Danny Hong. A video had surfaced online of several students concealing what appeared to be weapon on campus. A teacher who was alerted about the video, immediately called administration. Administrators and campus police investigated the potentially dangerous situation. Students involved were escorted out of their class by campus police alongside security officers. Upon concluding the investigation, the potential weapon turned out to be a stapler. A statement was issued over the PA system about the potential crisis, and how administration dealt with it. Principal Jeffrey Hess said, “Before the call, it was literally a normal day. We were supervising lunch and then we get the call from Mrs. Wong. Mr. Hong goes down with officer Barba and they got [were able to view] the video. Then they brought it to my attention. We found out exactly who they [students] were. From there, we went down to the student’s classrooms and pulled them out.” Wong declined to comment about the situation. According to Hess, the response to the video from staff, administration and officers was the quickest it has ever been, a total response time of fifteen minutes. “It was no longer than fifteen minutes and that’s probably the quickest we have ever been able to handle a situation like that. So, I think that the way we processed it and went through our normal routine was great; it was better than it ever has been before,” For Hess, the situation’s containment went beyond identifying and pulling out the students. Although the students received their consequences, there was no way to take down the video from social media, and it spread quickly online. The reason for the course of action at LAHS and the consequences that followed were based a California Ed code. The Education Code § 48900 A student who has commited the following acts is subject to discipline by suspention or expulsion: (m) “Possessed an ‘imitation firearm’. As used in this section, “imitation firearm” means a replica of a firearm that is so substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude that the replica is a firearm.” “The thing is you just have to be careful with social media everyone thinks that social media is a game and they can post whatever they want, but you post things on social media and it gets to Continued on Page 3
Graphic by Lucy Argaez
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October 2019
LA FOCUS
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Mission Statement The 2019-2020 Journalism team strives to provide the school and the comunity with reliable and factual information that encourages thoughful coversations and discourse. On this diverse campus, we hope to report and respect the various viewpoints of all members of our community. We believe this to be an imperative role, as the students of Los Altos are to be future leaders and deserve to be informed. We hold this duty with the utmost respect and responsibility and view ourselves as representatives of our campus.
Staff Editors-In-Chief: Lucy Argaez Danielle Porras
Student Journalists: Adrian Banuelos Clarissa Banuelos Natalie Contreras David Galaviz Kimberly Gonzalez Stacey Medina Rebecca Rangel Lorena Rivas Elias Robles Ismael Torres
Contributing Graphic Designer: Andrwo Kodous
Adviser:
Adriana Guzman
Media & Contact For even more content including up-to-date articles and videos visit our website: The-conqueror.org For any comments, questions, ideas, or concerns contact us through our email: 2019lahsjournalism@gmail.com Journalism proudly contributes to LA Conqueror Athletics: @LAConqAthletics Losaltosathletics.org
Los Primos Hernandez suprised Conquerors by playing sirreño as students danced, cheered, and sang along. Photo By Lucy Argaez
Los Primos Hernandez Attract Lunchtime Crowd for Hispanic Heritage Month Concert By Elias Robles Lunch crowds were recently treated with a special performance from the student made band, Los Primos Hernandez. The group was featured on stage on September 27 to promote their work and give students a chance to enjoy themselves amidst the stress of school. Students enjoyed a day of dancing and the energetic spanish music from the three member group to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Mini-lunch rallies are commonly utilized to bring students together in one common area which gave Los Primos Hernandez a chance to showcase their talents. Sophomore Madison Vargas said, “I really liked how it was during lunch and somewhere where everyone could see and listen to them. It was really fun watching other people dancing in front of the stage.”
Los Primos Hernandez have been together for nearly a year, having their first anniversary coming up this November. The group remains to book various weekend gigs, working towards their goal of eventually getting signed by a record company and becoming more well known. Sophomore Marco Hernandez said, “It all started when I got my guitar which influenced my cousins the idea to start a band together.” The group performed a setlist of various corridos, keeping the crowd engaged with their stage presence. All students could be seen having a great time, appreciating the music being played by their fellow Conquerors. A strong sense of community took over the quad where the concert was, as all sorts of students came together to watch a performance, and sing and dance along as well. The crowd of all different stu-
dents congregated in front of the stage as Los Primos performed a cover of “Caballo Dorado.” “I feel like we should have more of these types of events because, in a way, it brought us together as a school. A majority of us are Hispanic, so having Los Primos perform song we know and like was really good,” said Valdez. These cost free in school events allow students to relieve some stress from the school day, getting them lost in the moment and being present in the contagious school spirit. It is moments like Los Primos Hernandez’s concert that show just how united the student body of Los Altos can be. “Performing at school was an amazing experience, getting to see all the people having fun and dancing. The crowd was really amazing and supportive. We hope to play again soon,” said Hernandez.
Dance Production Amazes Audience at Open House By Stacey Medina Dancers in shiny, silver tops grabbed everyone’s attention on October 4, 2019 at the District Open House. Loud music filled the air and the dancers drew a crowd that was eager for entertainment. Dance Production was invited to appear at the Open House last weekend. The team used two routines that were showcased previously at different rallies. Junior Ariana Villanueva is a very involved dancer at school. She is spirit chair of Dance Production and a member of Dance Team. Villanueva said, “For each of the dances that Dance Production has performed, we prepare by working two to three times
a week on our choreography, and working on our flexibility to make sure we’re fully prepared for each performance.” Despite working on other pieces for the Winter Choreography Concert, Dance Production set time apart to focus on two routines they previously used for rallies. These dances, choreographed in the beginning of the year, were utilized for the Open House performance. They did this to work on their technique and stage presence. Villanueva said, “First, we did a hip hop combo to the song ‘Let’s Get It Started’ by the Black Eyed Peas. We also danced to the song ‘Crazy Benny’ by Safri Duo.” Freshman Caryssa Cavanias enjoyed her first performance at the Open House.
Cavanias said, “Dancing at the open house was a different type of experience than anything we’ve done so far. We’ve only performed at rallies, but dancing in front of total strangers was different for me. The crowd was mostly parents and children, rather than teens like we’re used to. They were all smiling and recording which made it fun to perform.” Was Dance Production proudly walked off the stage, the audience applauded and parents finished recording their dancers final steps off the stage. Cavanias said, “It felt good to pull off another great performance, and I can’t wait to see what this team pulls off next.”
October 2019
NEWS
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GI Bill Attracts High School Senior Enlistees By Adrian Banuelos
Alessandro De La Torre talking to U.S. Naval officer Riguenheart Rosario. Photo by Lucy Argaez
Joining the Military is one alternative for seniors, instead of going straight to college after finishing High school. High school seniors are able to enter the Military, after graduating. To be able to enter the Military, there are only Five requirements to get in. To enlist, an individual must be a U.S. citizen, must meet physical, mental, and moral standards. Recruits must be within the age limits for each branch. In the Army the age limit is 35, in the Navy it is 34, in the Air Force it is 39 and for the Marines it is 28. Enlistees must have a high school diploma, and must pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test. Senior William Gunn said, “I am both excited and nervous to be joining the Marines, because I will be deployed in June. I still have no idea to where I am going to be deployed at.”
The Marines serve on U.S. Navy ships, and help protect the world through air strike force. Marines have to be ready at all times, because they are the first to be deployed in an international crisis. Gunn also said, “I am ready to start a new chapter in my life, because I will start my first official job, as a Marine. My plan is to stay in the Marines for at least 8 years, and plan on working my way up the ranks.” The benefits of going to the Marines is that after serving time a Marine, is able to attend any college of their choice, and it will be 100 percent paid for by GI Bill scholarships and military tuition assistance. Senior Michael Sanchez said, “I have a strong feeling that William will make it very far in the Marines, and I feel that he will become one of the highest ranks there is.” When going into the Marines you are able to choose one of the 35 career fields, which have over 300 different jobs, within the certain career.
Biggest Earthquake Drill In The Country
Sharon Navarro participating in a Conqueror Cancer rally organized by Renaissance. Photo by Lucy Argaez Math teacher Sheng Ho lining up his class and making sure every student is accounted for. Photo by Lucy Argaez By Lucy Argaez California Shake Out is an annual emergency drill that took place on October 17, it is the largest drill in the country. Students and faculty across the state took part in the drill. At 10:25am Los Altos ran through its safety procedures, which are outlined in
their emergency handbooks. Los Altos went over their safety protocol, along with testing their efficiency to follow that protocol. The drill started with a commencement announcement over the P.A. system, it was then followed by the “duck and cover” routine. After one minute, teachers guided students to their schools respective evacuation location.
Teachers then lined up their students and conducted a head count, to make sure all students were accounted for. Assistant Principal Daniel Monarrez said, “We want students to abide by the following 4 rules for building evacuation: Don’t Talk! Don’t Push! Don’t run! Don’t turn back!”
School Policy: Holding Students Accountable Continued From Page 1 everybody within seconds. They may think that they are just sending it to their friends, but then their friends send it to their friends and then it goes out and gets to parents. It’s not funny, it’s
going to turn into a bigger thing like this one did. There is going to be suspensions and consequences for it,” said Hess The video itself was orchestrated by students. The total consequence for the video was a three-day suspension for all the stu-
dents involved. Hess explained the point of the consequences is to demonstrate that the potential safety of other students is no joking matter. “It’s not fair to you guys to be in fear for your life because someone is just making a joke,” said Hess.
Renaissance and ASB Dedicate October to Cancer Awareness By Clarissa Banuelos The color pink, blinding to the eye is one that cannot be missed. The smiles, joy, and relief on the faces of people as they walk around seeing each other dressed out in pink for LAHS’ breast cancer event: “On Wednesday’s We Wear Pink”. Ribbons, socks and shirts are sold to raise $2,000 for the Mary Mallen Scholarship and PIH Breast Health Center. Both Renaissance and ASB has put together events throughout October to help raise money to bring awareness about fight breast cancer. Posters have been put up all around the school stating facts about cancer, which can be shocking to some
students. As students walk around campus seeing the posters they become aware of the harsh reality of cancer. Sophomore Sammy Tang, “After lots of hard thinking and time, meeting with ASB we found the best and most effective ideas to introduce to the school and to raise awareness.” Dedication and effort, on behalf of both Renaissance and ASB, was put into making the posters, signs, and shirts as a means to present a serious topic that needs to be addressed on campus. This not only inspired others to spread awareness and help raise money.” Facts on posters caution students to be safe rather than sorry.
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Month 2018
FEATURES
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Students Preparation Leading to Dia de los Muertos By Clarissa Banuelos
“I can leave the things that were dragging me down behind so I can move forward.” Gervais Photo by Lucy Argaez
Business Teacher Motivates Students through Positive Lessons By Elias Robles Once hearing him speak, students realize that the new Marketing, Finance, and Management teacher, Jason Gervais, has his own way of teaching the seemingly simple topic. Coming from Workman High School, Gervais is a new face on campus. “I talk about that mindset so much because when I was in my 30s I figured that out and got the proper coaching,” Gervais said, ”and if I can talk to a teenager and give them that, it gives them literally two decades of lead time that I didn’t have.” Sophomore Giovanna Fernandez said, “The mindset he tries to instill in his students is something that I haven’t seen from any other teachers as strongly as he does. He always tries to keep us motivated and not think about certain things as negatively as we do.” Gervais’ Business and Personal Finance course teaches students about economic and business related topics that will be or are beneficial once students reach their adult years. The course focuses on ideas such as budgeting, interview etiquette, and taxes. Gervais has introduced new
trips to LAHS students on campus. His upcoming trip is taking over 90 female students to the annual “Hello Future” event, a two-day convention featuring STEAM paths. These science, technology, engineering, and mathematics based career paths give female students the chance to explore various career paths that currently have more males. “The girls build field trip that he is introducing to our school is something new and interesting that I’ve never seen done here because it’s motivating young woman to go out and choose career options that they usually don’t fall into,” said Fernandez. Throughout the year, he plans on taking his business students to the Microsoft store in Century, the In-N-Out University, and the Federal Reserve. “The whole idea behind field trips is to get people outside of where they normally are. Most people stay within a 6-10 mile radius and outside of that, they don’t know what exists,” Gervais said, “The idea is to get people outside of their radius to see what is out there, giving students an opportunity to see what they can learn, what they can see, and who they can meet.”
The smell of freshly cooked pan dulce, the bright colors of the papel picado, and the decorated flowers all around altars. Pictures being put up to honor their loved ones after their passing. Dia de los Muertos also known as the Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico. It is a day to remember as family and friends gather to pray for people who have died in honor of their spirit. Los Altos has been making it an annual tradition to celebrate Dia de los Muertos with families by bringing food, entertainment, and recuerdos. This year the Spanish Honors Society has taken charge of the event. Sophomore Aiyanah Mitchell said, “I have been making many decorations in my art class for Dia de los Muertos. We have made everything from colored paper to drawings of skulls.”
Sophomore Monique Munguia said, “I always attend these events because their entertainment always amazes me.” The event is run by students who have put together donations and decorations to make it possible. “Most of the students in my class have put together many decorations which include picados to pictures representing ciudades hispanohablante. Not only have we made a large amount of decorations, however lots of students have volunteered to bring all sorts of foods to the event which include enchiladas, tacos, menudo, and so much more,” said Muguia. Teachers have offered and acknowledged the fact that not all students have to participate if it is against their culture or their religion. “A paper was sent out notifying my parents that we would be celebrating Dia de los Muertos and if it was ok with them,” said Mitchell.
2020s Summer Spain Trip Excites Conquerors For Travel By David Galaviz History teacher Chris Coleman is offering students a trip to Spain from May 25 to June 5. This Spain trip offers students a trip to Europe to visit Spain and two of its major cities. It’s a twelve day trip where students will get to stay in Madrid and Barcelona for ten days. On May 25 where students will depart to Madrid from LAX on an estimated eleven hour flight. Once the plane lands at Madrid, the students
will be able to explore and get to rest at a beautiful hotel where they will stay until they head to Spain by train. Sophomore Selah Villa is excited for the new journey that she and many other students will be able to experience. “I’ve always wanted to take a trip with my friends to a place out of states but it’s just too hard to plan and workout a certain date… but with this trip, everything is planned out and ready” Villa said.
The trip’s cost is $2,975, which is “very intimidating” according to Danny Castillo and other students. However, the trip contains many tours and activities, which are paid for within the $2,975. One of the leading activities of the trip is being able to eat at the Botin Restaurant, the world’s oldest restaurant in Madrid. The Botin Restaurant was established in 1725 and has been opened ever since. Certified by the Guinness World Records, students will be able
to eat their specialty of Castilian style roasted pig and lamb. Botin also offers other popular dishes. Valeria Lara plans on attending the trip as a chaperone and trying all the new food and getting souve-nirs for her family. “Nobody in my family has gone to Spain and being able to try new food and culture is really exciting. Being able to go to different museums and stadiums and create new memories is something I’m really looking forward to,” said Lara.
October 2019
Corner Building Brings in Yet Another Café: Popping Yolk
FEATURE
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Nintendo’s Mario Kart Rises in Popularity with Many Addicted
By Elias Robles Popping Yolk Café stands, catching the eye of many. But, it felt like it was only yesterday that that same building was home to another café. In fact, over the past five years, that same building has been home to four different cafes and restaurants. Senior Fernanda Espinosa said, “When Bleu House opened back in 2014, it eventually became extremely notable for its aesthetic environment and picturesque food and drink items. Although the menu items were not always the best, the café was still a reliable place for an Instagram worthy food picture. “I think the Bleu House was at its peak. That it’s been having to change so much, shows how little money they used to make,” said Espinosa. As the hype around the shop died down, a change in business came. The Bleu House had become Macchiato, a café owned by the creators of The Bleu House, had an emphasis more on their boba drinks and less on the random tapas. More time passed, and the main sign facing the busy street was seen to have changed again, presenting a whole new restaurant. Next, Republic advertised their restaurant’s wing, ribs, and burgers on signs outside the building, showing a different kind of business for the shop. The business did not seem to succeed, leading to the most recent change, Popping Yolk Café.
Scholarship Fundraiser Dedicated To Mary Mallen Scholarship By Kimberly Gonzalez As October begins, small glimpses of pink showing support for cancer patients begin to appear showing the spirit of those whose hearts are filled with hope and compassion, Mary Mallon’s scholarship fundraiser being the opportunity for students to donate. The scholarship fundraiser will be an opportunity drawing in which the winner will win the grand prize of a 50 LED display Sceptre TV. Every ticket will be sold at one dollar each, giving the opportunity for students to draw at lunch on stage. All the proceeds will go to the Mary Mallen scholarship fund given only to Los Altos students in honor of Ms. Mary Mallen. Mary Mallen was a loved counselor that was a part of the school staff for many years that dedicated her time doing her best to make the school a more welcoming place. The drawing will be held on October 31 at lunch on the stage.
Graphic by David Galaviz. By David Galaviz Mario Kart Tour soared to the top charts this September and straight into the hands of excited students. It was able to reach 10.1 million downloads the day of its release according to Apptopia and over 90 million in its first week out. The new mobile game offers players new and old racing cups to replay from the previous Mario Kart games. Filled with old fan favorite racetracks like Bowser’s Castle and Mario Circuit, as well as new original tracks like New York Minute. Students were excited for the game to be ported to mobile and downloaded it as soon as it came out. Sophomore Dominic Guerro said, “I remember this game as a little kid and was really excited to start playing it again. I like how they added
old characters to the roster and new karts to race with.” Although the driver roster is still slim, Nintendo has added two new characters. They added Pauline and a different Mario variant, Musician Mario. Characters are earned from pulling from weekly “banners” where players raffle 5 gems for 1 random character or 45 for 10. To get these points, players have to login in daily to earn either gems or coins and by beating tournaments. Another way to earn the in game currency is by completing challenge panels. By doing things like landing 3 Bob-ombs hits or doing 50 jump boosts rewards players with coins, gems, and different badges to level up cars and characters. In order to stay in the lead students have to constantly play different races to keep getting higher scores.
When trying to stay in number 1, students can get into problems. Students admit to playing the game too much when trying to beat his friends. Sophomore Erick Delgado “After adding my friends and seeing that it compares our total scores, it made me want to play more to stay ahead. I’ve even walked into class and played in order to get those last 100 points on my record.” The competitive side of the game can be really fun but distracting at the same time. With the highest score being 1,374,277 from the player by the name Free Hk. It can make students want to play the game even more. “Although the game is barley starting out and still hasn’t gotten a multiplayer update. The game has so much potential to staying number 1 for a while.” said Guerro.
Correction:
Annual District College Fair Returns By Natalie Contreras Student’s rushed into the Workman gym as the Annual District College Fair arrived with dozens of students waiting to ask questions. Colleges such as UCLA, Harvard, UCSB, and more arrived to answer student’s questions. The college fair is an important event for many upperclassmen that want to discover what college they can and may get into. The college fair was on September 21,2019 from 10 AM to 3PM. Junior Lauren Stratton said “The college fair benefits the students because instead of reading information on a website they can actually talk to representatives and ask serious questions.” When walking into the school, students hosting the event, handed students complimentary bags.
Junior Yasmine Villarreal said, “The college fair gives a lot of information about not just colleges, but the army and military too.” The college fair is a good way to branch out to other smaller colleges that are not as well known as the Ivy League or the UC schools. Students are able to discover how many universities they are able to go to whether it’s a match for grades or the lower cost compared to a UC schools. “The college fair is important because it gives us comfort that colleges do want you to succeed and aim for a diverse campus.” said Villarreal By going to the college fair, students from all over HLPUSD can received a better understanding of what schools are available to them. Although this fair is especially important for juniors and seniors, it’s also an opportunity for freshmen and sophomores to see what colleges expect from them.
In volume LVIII issue 4 on page 3, a story titled “Immigrant Families Still Being Held in Detention Centers At The Border” was not subjected to our initial degree of analysis as seen fit by The Conqueror Newspaper Editorial Board. The Conqueror Newspaper misrepresented immigrant asylum seekers as, “Immigrant families [that] are being incarcerated and held in detention centers for illegally crossing the border to the United States.” We now retract that initial written statement, and now strive to ensure that all individuals are represented fairly in our reporting. Any questions or concerns may be sent to: 2020LAHSJournalism@gmail.com
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OP-ED
October 2019
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Beginning Guitarist’s Guide
Ibanez VS. Fender Guía Del Guitarrista De Inicio By Ismael Torres Looking into guitars as a new hobby can be hard. Many names and types of guitars can sometimes be overwhelming, and can get to the point of feeling start to despair and not wanting to learn to play the guitar. You should also know that there are different types of guitars, among the most popular models there are acoustic, classical and flamenco guitars, the reality is that there are many different types of guitar that vary in the shape and sound for different types of genres The Ibanez guitars have a wide variety of acoustic and electric guitars. In the case of Ibanez guitars price, guitarist can expect to pay slightly high prices. An Ibanez acoustic guitar can cost around $350. In the other hand, Fender’s acoustic and electric guitars are likewise characterized by having a very good quality and price ratio and being a very good choose for those who are going to start learning to play the guitar.
In quality, Fender guitars are usually very good and it comes with its brand bridge, in appearance the fender guitars usually have classic and elegant looks that look very good, Something awkward about this guitar is that it's a bit difficult when playing notes and chords on the guitar fingerboard because the fingerboard is a bit small. Overall, the best guitar to play is the Ibanez because of its price range, quality and sound. Furthermore, Ibanez guitars can be purchased.at local retailers such as Guitar Center or Sam-Ash music stores.
En Español Buscar guitarras para un nuevo pasatiempo puede ser difícil. Muchos nombres y tipos a veces pueden ser abrumadores, y puedes llegar a sentirte perdido por no saber cómo comenzar a desesperarte y querer aprender a tocar la guitarra. También debe saber que hay diferentes tipos de guitarras, entre los modelos más populares hay guitar-
ras acústicas, clásicas y flamencas, la realidad es que hay muchos tipos diferentes de guitarras que aluden a variar en la forma y el sonido de la guitarra. Las guitarras Ibanez tienen una buena variedad de guitarras acústicas y eléctricas, en el caso de que el precio de las guitarras Ibanez tenga un precio ligeramente alto, una guitarra acústica Ibanez puede costar alrededor de 350 dólares. Las guitarras Ibanez se sienten muy bien para tocar porque están hechas con una gran calidad y tienen un peso muy ligero, solo ocho libras y tienen un sonido muy bueno, el sonido es más claro, más limpio o más bonito. También son hermosos y cómodos en apariencia física, esto es importante porque la guitarra puede ser más cómoda y no es incómoda cuando se toca durante largas horas. Al pisar notas y acordes es fácil de tocar porque es suave, y toca los trastes de guitarra en pocas palabras, es bueno para aquellos que comenzaron a tocar y aprender guitarra recientemente.
Las guitarras acústicas y eléctricas Fender también se caracterizan por tener una muy buena relación calidad / precio y ser una muy buena elección para aquellos que van a comenzar a aprender a tocar la guitarra. En calidad, las guitarras guardabarros suelen ser muy buenas y viene con su puente de marca, en apariencia las guitarras guardabarros suelen tener un aspecto clásico y elegante que se ven muy bien, algo extraño acerca de estas guitarras es que es un poco difícil cuando tocas notas y acordes en el diapasón de la guitarra porque el diapasón es un poco pequeño, pero tiene buen sonido y apariencia. Estas guitarras también se caracterizan por ser buenas para principiantes y por tener un buen precio y calidad para cualquiera que quiera aprender a tocar la guitarra, estas guitarras se pueden encontrar en cualquier tienda de instrumentos, por ejemplo, en Guitar Center o SamAsh tiendas de música.
$200 Charging Cable Threatens People’s Phones and Info By David Galaviz
Graphic by Andrwo Kodous
Apple first changed to their well-known lightning cable in 2012 with the release of the iPhone 5. The charger has been included in every new phone or tablet Apple has made in the past 7 years. Now after a few years, hackers have learned and found a way into breaking into peoples cell phones using a charger. The O.MG cable made by a person who goes by the name “MG” has recently gained attention by news and social media because of its scary abilities. It was shown at the Def Con hacking conference, although it was still in its prototype stage. The Def Con conference is one of the most famous annul hacking convention. It takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada where not only do hacking fanatics attend but lawyers, federal government employees, and many more. The convention has contests and speakers related to computer hacking, cyber security, and any-
thing that can be hacked. The cable looks exactly like a regular Apple charger and will charge your phone like ordinary chargers. Except this cable is fitted with a wireless hotspot that allows hackers to connect their Mac or Windows computers. After connecting hackers are essentially able to do anything like copying or deleting info like pictures or any data on the victim’s phones. Sophomore Caprice Romero is scared of what hackers are able to do with all the power that they have over her phone. “I was not aware. I am scared someone can find my personal information or use my phone to stalk someone or to look something up to try to frame me,” said Caprice Romero. With the ability to send messages or copy phone numbers, hacker can be able to frame victims to be responsible for possibly anything. Sophomore Enrique Gonzalez shares the same fear of Caprice. “I would be worried if hackers
were able to get into my private messages with friends and family and try to leak anything to make look bad.” said Gonzalez. The O.MG cable is being sold on Hak5 hacking website, a site where it allows people to buy different pieces of text like the USB Rubber Duck. A USB inspired from the show Mr. Robot that according to the Hak5 website… “violates the inherent trust computers have in humans by posing as a keyboard - and injecting keystrokes at superhuman speeds... and have it install a backdoor, exfiltrate documents, steal passwords or any number of pentest tasks.” With different pieces of tech ranging in prices, the O.MG cable is priced at $200 dollars and is still listed at coming soon. With the cable being open to everyone, it’ll make borrowing chargers difficult. “With strangers having this type of power in a charger…I’m going to have to start carrying my own.” said Gonzalez.
October 2019
SPORTS PROFILES
Varsity Volleyball Player Sibal Marvels Teammates
Girls Volleyball prepares to set the ball and get it back over the net. Photo by Brayan Larios
Commentary
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By Clarissa Banuelos The sound of the serve and the crowd going wild, chanting her name, “Belen! Belen! Belen!” as she aces the ball yet another time, point after point. Belen Sibal continues to shock her teammates on and off the court as a sophomore playing varsity. Her friends who support everything she does also recognize the amount of effort she puts into the court and her classes. Sophomore Adrian Lopez said, “I am glad to hear that Belen is being recognized after her hardwork and dedication she gives to school and volleyball.” Belen continues to show determination as she takes on challenging honors and AP classes but also manages to maintain As while playing volleyball. Not only do her teammates and teachers see how well she does, but her friends are also capable of seeing how hard she works for her grades. “She does not miss practice for anything whether it be that she
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has a test or a project the next day because it shows how much volleyball truly means to her,” Lopez said. Sibal said, ”I worked hard throughout the year even through the off season to prepare myself for a spot on the girls varsity team.“ Every Tuesday and Thursday the volleyball girls must stay until each game is played to support the volleyball program. “I time manage by setting aside time for my homework and time for my friends whenever I am not on the court practicing or playing a game,” Sibal said. Sibal continues to strive and play harder in hopes of helping her team win in the CIF finals this year. Sibal, a hardworking young woman, continues to amaze students as she practices with enthusiasm and plays while still maintaining a social life and good grades. This student athlete shows dedication and is an example that it is possible to balance it all.
Cheer and Football Appreciate Gifts, Establish Peaceable Exchange By Rebecca Rangel The tradition of cheerleaders giving gifts to football players every week has sparked controversy on campus. While some enjoy the tradition, others argue against the outdated ritual because of the sexism it represents. Cheerleaders are assigned or chosen a football player for the season. Their task is to provide the players with the snacks they enjoy. The tradition seems sweet and harmless, but it does have its downfalls. Sophomore varsity football player Andrew Aranda said the cheerleaders, “Do a great job of getting it to us and being consistent. Some try really hard and do an awesome job.” The football players enjoy getting these gifts from cheerleaders every week, and the cheerleaders seem to
enjoy giving gifts. Sophomore cheerleader Angelica Arroyo said, “I think it’s something really nice that we do for the football players and they’ve earned a reward like that because they’ve worked hard all summer and still each week.” The gifts are not always onesided. “Most of the football players actually get their cheerleaders a gift back, it's not an every week thing but we all end up getting our cheerleaders something. We appreciate [that] they do this so we get them something to say thank you to and show them how grateful we are,” said Aranda. There seems to be peace between the teams. “Honestly I think it's good… because football and cheer have been getting along this year really well and that leaves a good environment overall,” said Arroyo.
Lady conquerors play to win against Walnut High School. Photo by Lucy Argaez
Through Tennis Experience By Natalie Contreras The tennis ball bounces off the racket with force coming from Yasmine Villarreal’s hand as she watches it fly across the net. Villarreal is a varsity tennis player who actively seeks new ways to improve herself. Villarreal balances extracurricular activities and school work such as AVID, an AP class, Conquer the Need club, and a job at a veterinary facility all at the same time. Also, due to the amount of exercise done, Villarreal went from easily losing stamina to an improvement of longer lasting energy during games. Villarreal said, “I really have improved so much since my freshman year, the first time I hit a tennis ball it went directly to my coaches head and that’s how I met him. I can really see a change in my scores and myself” In the beginning the long hours of practice and learning wrist motions were difficult. Villarreal adjusted to the routine and it went from painful practice, to an excitement to participate. “There was times where I got lazy fairly quickly and a ball would pass me, but now I run, jump, and squat
to make sure the ball does not cross.” Said Villarreal Junior Lauren Stratton, who is a Varsity tennis player who plays doubles for the tennis team, said, “ Yasmine is a good player because she has good serves and really knows how to hold her own stamina in a singles game” Even though tennis has quickly became a passion for each of the players, the struggle they face is that they do not have a good court to play and practice on. “I know most people underestimate tennis because it’s a sport that balls play back and forth, but it includes everything in competitive sports want such as running, reflex, wrist back, and catching a ball in the air.” said Villarreal Just like many student athletes on campus who are in sports, the main reason is to either discover something new about themselves or to impress colleges with what they have done. “The reason I chose to play tennis at first was because it was a way to put something into my college applications and I thought it was easy, but overtime I really enjoyed it and I appreciate that we still have a tennis team to this day.” Villarreal Said
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October 2019
SPORTS
the-conqueror.org
Fundraiser Supported During Volleyball Pink Out By Stacey Medina A sea of pink filled the gym as students supported girls varsity volleyball at their annual Pink Out game. On October 10 Pink Out began as a way to spread awareness for breast cancer, and the school was decked out in pink to show their love and support for those who suffer with cancer. The crowd was enthu-
siastic as candy was being thrown at them and raffles were being drawn. Tensions were high but the girls were able to deafeat their opponents. The game was against Walnut High School. Sophomore Katherine Porter hit the winning serve of the game, leaving the crowd ecstatic and proud. Freshman Malia Medina enjoyed the game immensely. Medina said, “It was the first high school volleyball
game I had ever been to. It was a different experience, and the candy and raffles made it even more fun.” This game attracts a lot of people, and the profits of the game make it even more popular. Sophomore Aiyanah Mitchell said, “This game was really intense and kept the audience on edge the whole time.” The final score of the game was 3-0, leaving the Conquerors with another win.
Mitchell also said, “Seeing the overwhelming amount of pink spirit reinforced my idea on how spirited this school is. Everyone is always willing to help a good cause.” The proceeds of the raffles, candy, and food being sold by Renaissance were half donated to the Mary Mallen scholarship while the other half will go to the PIH Breast Health Center.
Water Polo Goalie Olvera Pushes Limits By David Galaviz The Water Polo team’s most recent win against The Webb Schools team with a score of 18-8 had the players practicing harder to be able to keep increasing their wins. Sophomore Erick Olvera had decided to join water polo his freshman year and has been working on himself and his team ever since, pushing himself to better as an athlete. “A regular day for me is getting up early at 5 am to get to school at 5:30 a.m. for morning water polo practice. I then go to my classes and make sure I’m eating constantly to have enough energy throughout the day” Said Olvera. Morning practices are draining and can tire him out throughout the day. He tries to eat snacks and drinks plenty of water to stay filled the whole day. Olvera plays goalie posi-
tion, a challenging defensive position that takes a lot of work. As well as being a main component of the team. “As a goalie, I take on majority of the responsibility when playing. I need to help guide players on defense and block balls, but also help
players make precise passes on offense,” said Olvera. Hardwork pays off for Olvera when it comes to games. He enjoys participating and the competitive aspect of the sport, appreciating his team’s strenuous practice when they are
Erick Olvera leaps out of the water to block the ball.
able to defeat other schools. “It is one of the hardest sports out there but the satisfaction of beating a team proves the determination… I remind myself that I work hard during difficult times not for myself but those who support me,” said Olvera.
Photo By Lucy Argaez
Volleyball Highlights By Rebecca Rangel Natalie Contreras Los Altos Girls Varsity Volleyball has been off to an impressive season winning 23-5 in their overall games. Their most recent being against Charter Oak High School, winning 3-0 in their house. The Lady Conquerors have their last game at home on October 17 where they will battle South Hills High School once again. A team they have already won 3-0. The regular season ends Thursday .CIF Brackets will be released on Saturday at noon.
To Olvera, the one thing that he thinks contributes and can lead his team to success is communication. Being able to talk in or out of the pool and listen to each other’s ideas and strategies. “As a team, we can improve upon communication. Communication is key in any sport but especially in water polo because there is a lot of movement and a lot of noise, which cause teammates to be distracted and lose focus in the game. Communication is critical!” said Olvera. Olvera isn’t the only player on the team that works hard and thrives for success. Everyone else tries their best and does their part when it comes to working together to keep their record.
Sibal Passionately Scores Points While Pursuing Skills By Elias Robles At some moments, you can catch number 3 putting her all out on the volleyball court, and at others, she is leading ASB, serving as a president for the student group, but also as a role model on campus. Senior Soledad Sibal has been involved in volleyball for years, playing on the school team and on the ICON North club team. Her passion has led her to become the team captain of the Varsity Girls Volleyball team. Among all her time on the court, she manages to maintain a 4.33 G.P.A. Her sister, sophomore Belen Sibal, said, “Her dedication really pulls through all of her activities. Without it, she wouldn’t be doing nearly half the things she has accomplished.”
Sibal works her hardest in all her activities, putting forth all her effort into her various passions. Through her dedication and work ethics, she has moved her way up to being a notable leader to students on campus. Soledad Sibal said, “My advice to anyone who wants to improve in what they’re passionate about is to know why you’re passionate about it. Once you understand why, you will find the drive to keep going even when it’s too overwhelming. You can do anything, as long as you dedicate yourself to what you are passionate about.” Putting her leadership skills to work, Soledad was involved with student leadership throughout middle school, carrying it over to high school, serving in ASB. Sibal is also the Vice President of the “Best Buddies” club.
Jenica Hernandez named player of match. “To manage my time, I make lists of things that I need to get done which helps motivate me to accomplish those things and check them off,” said Soledad Sibal. Despite having a long list of responsibilities, she has managed to keep a
smile on her face, handling the stress of her workload while maintaining her optimism every step of the way. “My sister has really taught me the importance of happiness in life. As well as being an amazing role model, she has always made me
Photo By Ismael Torres smile, whether I needed it or not. We’re sisters, so yes, we do fight, but that’s one in a million moments. The times we have laughed to the point of tears significantly outweighs the times we have been mad at each other,” said Belen Sibal.