December 2009

Volume 58, Issue 4

Arcadia High School 180 Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA

December 2009

Maintaining Tradition

In this issue:

Photo courtesy of M. VON KRIEGENBERGH

FEATURES pg. 9 Mrs. Boardman: Her presence will never be forgotten.

Photos by JENNIFER HANG and courtesy of FRANK HUANG THE CITIZEN AND THE CONSTITUTION Above: Mr. Kevin Fox devotes countless hours to prepare the Constitution Team

for competition. Below: The team poses after a victory at Regionals that qualifies them for state level competition.

By DEREK HA Photo by MAURICE IP

CENTER SPREAD pg. 10-11 Holiday Drives: This month, AHS organizations work hard to spread the joy of the holidays.

Photo courtesy of ERIC JOHANSEN

SPORTS pg. 17 Cross Country: The Boys Cross Country team recently competed at its state level meet and the Nike Invitational.

Staff Writer

December is a month of tradition. While families are shopping for gifts or dusting off ornaments, AHS’s Constitution Team has been maintaining a holiday-season ritual of its own—winning. In every year since the program’s 1989 inception, Arcadia has been amongst the four teams that reach the final round of the California statewide competition.

On Dec. 12, this year’s members took the first step towards continuing this impressive record with their teacher and coach Mr. Kevin Fox at the helm. They won the Regional competition at the 9th District Court of Appeals in Pasadena and will now advance to the State Championships, slated to take place early February in Sacramento.

The Constitution Team—known more affectionately as “Gov Team”—is composed of 30 seniors who study the American Constitution and system of government. Divided into six units of five, each with its own scope of expertise, members compete in mock congressional hearings about the past, present, and future applications of America’s foundational document.

Leading up to competition, both instruc-

tor and student devote endless hours to reading, research, and practice. Members meet in class daily, hold regular study sessions with their units, and practice every Monday night at the Arcadia City Council with a group of local attorneys who help sharpen their argumentation and presentation skills. The process sometimes leaves students defeated by exhaustion, but never fails to open their minds to new knowledge.

“We spent our weekends listening to N.P.R., reading the news, and getting drilled

by Mr. Fox,” recalled Tara Sardesai, who was on the team last year, “but it made me more aware as a citizen, which I am very proud of.”

Despite its success at Regionals, Gov Team cannot take even a short break. From now until February, members must prepare new competition material and step up their studying, scouring the Internet for resources and following current events more intently than ever. Ruodi Duan relishes the task ahead of her, stating, “We actually enjoy working.

That is what makes Gov fun—the mutual desire and team spirit.”

If all goes well, Arcadia’s Gov Team may finally reclaim the coveted State Championship title, a feat that will qualify them for the National competition in Washington, D.C. for just the fourth time. Arcadia was fourth in the

nation in 1990, National Champion in 1993, and runner-up in 1997.

“The program is a wonderful microcosm of democratic society,” said Mr. Fox, “Students control their own success while working for the benefit of the entire team.”

Mr. Fox ensures that members never lose sight of this goal, even as they prepare for competition. Michael Kallin, a current member, described Mr. Fox as a “guiding light. He never provides answers, but pushes us to come to our conclusions. We’re forced to think for ourselves.”

With his infectious passion for what he teaches, Mr. Fox inspires students to willingly sacrifice their time and energy to the team.

“He makes us realize just how little we know,” said Gov Team alumna Angela Shen, “which motivates us to go study even harder.”

Not even a bad back can deter Mr. Fox from leading the team. “He threw out his back over Thanksgiving,” recalled senior Winston Chang, “but stayed in contact with us through e-mail and inspired us to organize our own meeting.”

“I am very excited for this year’s group, said Mr. Fox, “They are really getting into a community and family, and I am very hopeful that their efforts will pay off.” dha@apachepowwow.com

NEWS

apachepowwow.com

Cultural Exchange: Japanese Consul

Staff Writer

1. A new wave of burglaries has South African authorities scratching their heads.

However, what’s most intriguing is the fact that the burglars are baboons. These cute mammals travel in gangs of around 30 and have recently become more aggressive, according to local police. As tourists and many locals report, the baboons break into cars and hop through windows in groups in search of snacks. Local authorities have identified the leader of one gang as “Fred.”

2. In Australia, a man and his dog were attacked by a kangaroo. After chasing the kangaroo into a pond, the dog was pinned underwater by the ingenious kangaroo.

When the man went in to rescue his dog, the kangaroo turned and beat the man as well.

The dog and man were injured, but ultimately, everyone was all right.

3. Just as Winston Churchill dreamed of a world free of the Nazi threat, he also envisioned a world in which chicken could be grown without real chicken. Scientists have recently been making strides in synthesizing meat in labs. They argue that it could address the rising demand for meat around the globe, help lower incidences of meat-borne illnesses, such as salmonella and mad cow disease, and also curtail greenhouse gas emissions produced by livestock, a major source of greenhouse gases ahead of cars.

4. Late November, a group of Utah teens who rapped their order at a McDonald’s were given a citation for disorderly conduct by the police. The teens claimed they were just copying a popular YouTube video. One of the teens is challenging the citation, and the hearing is expected to occur late January.

5. A Canadian lawmaker was recently booed by the media when she called a fellow member of Parliament fat on Twitter. The accused stood up during a session of the House of Commons and said, “I apologize that I’m not perfect and perhaps my stature doesn’t meet the criteria that some members of the House might set but I have actually battled that problem since birth.”

6. On Nov. 16, Seattle police found a man dressed as a ninja stuck on a fence. Officers suspected the ninja was involved in a nearby assault case, but the ninja insisted that he was just scaling fences.

7. Late November, a Massachusetts woman found a picture of Jesus on the bottom of her iron.

8. Last month, a group of 6,000 camels attacked and half-destroyed Docker River, a small town in northern Australia, 310 miles south of Alice Springs. According to authorities, the camels stormed into people’s houses, broke into outhouses, and tore up water pipes in search for water. Locals speculate the recent influx of camels to have been a result of the increasingly dry conditions in the surrounding area. To address the solution, the state government is planning on corralling all 6,000 camels and then shooting them via helicopter. alin@apachepowwow.com

PN

By ANDREW LIN

around the central theme of Japanese-American relations as they opened with self-introductions.

Ely and Usyak then asked students about how To many members of our generation, Japan their lives were integrated with Japanese culis merely the producer of pop culture phenom- ture, reminding us that we are a nation of diverena such as sashimi and Gwen Stefani’s back up sity and how important it is to keep these good dancers, not to mention the creator of some sig- relations alive. nificant parts of our lives, like Multiple videos were played during the video game consoles presentation to demonstrate the unique culture and rice cookers. It of Japan. One detailed the country’s society appears that we as through the seasons, displaying rich scena school do not ery and energetic festivals, while another know enough traveled through history to the beginabout the nation ning of the relationship between the to fully appreciU.S. and Japan, covering battles and alate its culture. liances, all leading up to the friendship Working to between the nations today. dispel this ignoThis visit to the Japanese classes rance, the Japawas in honor of the 150th anniversary of nese Consul paid a the first Japanese embassy to the U.S. and visit to the Japanese to promote good relations by instilling posiclasses at AHS to tive ideals in America’s youth. Usyak show that there’s CULTURAL EXCHANGE said, “We value the good relations bemore to their nation Julian Ely, a representative tween America and Japan, and are happy from the Japanese Consulate, than manga and to see so many kids continuing to build lectures Ms. Summers’ class Hello Kitty. the bridge between the nations.” By preon Japanese culture.

On Wednesday senting the beautiful culture and vivacity Dec. 9, Yoshimasa Tezuka, Deputy Consul Gen- of Japan, “We are encouraging these students to eral, accompanied by Julian Ely and Jennifer continue their studies and hopefully give them a Usyak, two members of the Japanese Consul- new perspective on Japan,” said Ely. ate, visited AHS’ Japanese classes to discuss the culture of the nation and the history of its bond aethridge@apachepowwow.com with America. From the very beginning of the Graphics courtesy of CLIPART-E.X0.COM & WORDPRESS.COM presentation, Ely and Usyak’s words revolved Staff Writer

of A

Or Not

By ALEX ETHRIDGE

courtesy

Believe It...

Photo

2

December 2009

News

BRIEFS

December 19

- Hanukkah Ends

21-31

- Winter Break

25

- Christmas Day

26

- Kwanzaa Starts

January 1

- New Year’s Day - Kwanzaa Ends

1-3

- Winter Break (cont.)

7

- PSAT Interpretation Seminar 5:30 p.m., MB-2

13

- WASC Late Start Day

14

- PLAN Scoresback Seminar

18

- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

20-22

- First Semester Finals

23

- SAT Test Date

Kick-A-Ginger: Virtual Bullying Becomes A Reality Ashley Chi

“Small acts of discrimination can elevate into a much larger problem...”

- Andrew Cohen, creator of “Hug a Ginger Day” “It’s unfortunate that people have taken advantage of the Internet to torment others.”

- Anna Wang, freshman “Those who bully others [over the Internet] are [just as] cowardly than the ones who do it in person.”

- Pauline Cheng, sophomore

In response to “Kick a Ginger Day,” 17year-old Andrew Cohen of Agoura Hills High School created a Facebook event called “Hug a Ginger Day,” garnering over 3,000 supporters.

Graphic courtesy of FACEBOOK.COM

There is always a good and bad side to everything. Facebook, one of the most influential products that has come out of the technology wave, is unique in its ability to connect friends around the world, functioning as a meeting place for people through groups and pages and transferral of pictures and videos to others who may be a thousand miles away. However, anyone can use Facebook to harass and emotionally abuse others, either through chatrooms or groups.

On Nov. 20, several students kicked, punched, and harassed red-haired classmates or “gingers,” at a Calabasas middle school, encouraged by a Facebook page that had declared the day “National Kick a Ginger Day.” The page, developed by a 14-year-old in Canada, was apparently inspired by an episode of the TV show South Park. The dark, satirical adult-comedy show had indeed aired an episode labeling red-haired people as “soulless” and “evil.” Ironically, the underlying purpose of demonstrating such behavior was to satirize racial prejudice. Unfortunately, the message flew over the heads of those in the Facebook group who did not process this deeper meaning, as they took the episode literally and proceeded to target and attack redheads.

Only one student, a 13-year-old who had posted a message on the Facebook page, has been charged with a cyber-bullying misdemeanor. The other students who harassed their fellow redhead students were apparently influenced by the one cyber bully who had spread the word via the Internet.

Freshman Wilson Lin said, “Cyber-bullying easily happens online, because of the protection you get from not talking to the person face-to-face.” But the emotional impact of leaving a hateful comment under a person’s profile is no different than that of watching someone getting taunted in real life.

Though “Kick a Ginger Day” brought out the worst of human nature, it also brought out the core of the human spirit—love. The tactic of fighting hate with love was what 17-year-old Andrew Cohen, an Agoura Hills High School senior, had in mind when he proposed “Hug a Ginger Day,” to counteract the “Kick a Ginger Day.” The page, started a week after the “ginger attacks,” has garnered over 3,000 supporters for redheads. Cohen hit it right on the nose when he proclaimed that the attacks were “a hate crime” and how “small acts of discrimination [can] elevate into a much larger problem.”

Despite the gracious outcome with “Kick a Ginger Day,” let us not forget that it was a response to the creation of a web page that targeted specific people. Whether it be chat rooms, social networking sites, or texting, digital grounds are undoubtedly the easiest places for bullies to find and attack targets and to influence others to do the same. Watch out, kids. There’s a new bully on the playground. achi@apachepowwow.com

apachepowwow.com

December 2009

3

LAUSD Counselors Visit Arcadia

Gold Line

On the Line

By JASMINE WU Staff Writer

On Nov. 21, after some long debates about costs and construction, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Board approved $851 million for the construction of an extension of the Metro Gold Line into Arcadia.

The current first stop is at the Sierra Madre Villa station in east Pasadena, and this extension, cutting through Azusa, Irwindale, Duarte, and Monrovia, will make it easier for Arcadian commuters to take the Gold Line.

The trains on the new Gold Line are expected to run through Arcadia for about 1.2 miles over two freestanding bridges. At one point, the tracks will be elevated so the train can go over Santa Anita Ave., coming back to street level when crossing First Ave. Construction is planned to start with the rail bridge in the middle of the 210 freeway as early as June 2010, continuing until an estimated finish date in 2013.

Upon hearing about an extension of the Gold Line into Arcadia, sophomore Aileen Mu said, “Yes! Now it’s going to be easier to go to Chinatown now!” Though the construction may take a while and most students will not be around to use it frequently after it completes, the new Metro Gold Line will be an exceedingly helpful and convenient mode of transportation for Arcadians. jwu@apachepowwow.com

Graphic courtesy of PHWELO.MOBI.COM

By ANDREW CHANG

ible data, the report allows our school to consistently improve with the help of Staff Writer the community. Finally, parent involvement has always been a trademark of the For years, the counseling program AUSD counseling program. at AHS has been a statewide leader in inThe importance of allocating funds novation and efficiency. From winning to a successful counseling program canthe H.B. McDaniel Counseling Award in not be understated. When Senate Bill 2007—given to one school in the state SB 1802 was passed, it allowed enough per year—to having our own Ms. Shafunding to double the amount of counron Sandoval win a Counselor of the selors at each Year award, school.

But it’s quite with the budclear that get deficit, this our school’s funding evencounselors tually became have a lot generalized; the to offer. For money became that reason, the property of on Dec. 4, a California dismeeting was tricts to spend held with the on education in eight district general. Arcaheads of dia, in spite of the Los AnPhoto by MAURICE IP this, continued geles Unified School EXTENDING A HELPING HAND Visiting to allocate these counselors listen in as AHS counselors share funds excluDistrict some of their efficient strategies. sively within the (LAUSD), counseling program. And the success of representatives from various other that decision shows. schools, and our own counseling staff.

Today, AHS stands as a school with The meeting was called to discuss one of the best counseling programs in Arcadia’s successful counseling meththe state—but according to Ms. Kathy odology. According to senior counselor Rapkin, our improvement has not yet Ms. Kathy Rapkin, our school does three reached its peak. “I hope to improve great things in particular. First, the Counvarious aspects of the system, including selor of the Day desk has made great meeting with parents regarding course strides: from the days when students had selection,” remarked Ms. Rapkin. In the to wait a week to meet with a counselor end, our school’s counseling program to today, to those that students can be truly represents Arcadia as a whole: seen almost immediately. Secondly, the simply the best, and getting better.

Support Personnel Accountability Report Card is a document sent out to disachang@apachepowwow.com trict constituents; by distributing collect-

Burglars Invade Arcadia Homes During the Holidays robbed of her wedding ring. The robbers had attempted to restrict them with plasStaff Writer tic zip ties. However, they found these to be too small, so the robbers fled, havOver the past month, many people ing no other prospects. The victims were were robbed of their precious items, innot physically injured, but the act of cluding money and even wedding rings. violence is still very shocking to a Arcadia has been declared one of the community unaccustomed to these best places to raise our children, but occurances. now, even Arcadia’s safe, secluded These acts of violence, howevbubble is being penetrated by the er shocking, cannot and do not relate fiscal crisis. Crimes that Arcadia to the undertakings in other cities police never anticipated are being such as Los Angeles. “It’s amazing carried out by armed criminals and how so many thefts could occur in even unarmed young adults. “I never such a small period of time,” said expected events like these to happen freshman Leslie Ho. Many already in Arcadia, but now, I realize that know that Arcadia is labeled as one we should stay on watch all the time of the safest communities with low despite our so-called safe commurates of poverty, a low percentage of nity.” mentioned freshman Courtney homeless people, and a majority of Hang.

The act of robbery perpetrated Graphic by CHERRY MO injuries being accidental. Because of the number of financially stable on Sunday, Nov. 29, could have HOLIDAY BREAK-INS Although Arcadians people is dropping, the corruption proved more fatal than what had reare accustomed to a safe environment, home of stealing, thieving, burglary, and ally occurred. An armed group of lar- invasions have spiked in light of the holidays. robbery, have all crept into the incenists confronted a man with a gun side of Arcadia’s walls. These rogues on his own driveway; the man had no from his car when he was attacked by have not been caught yet; the sooner this choice but rush into his home where his robbers described to be male teenagers predicament is quelled, the sooner Arca9-year-old son and wife were bound by with medium builds wearing dark clothdia can reinforce itself from any future the criminals. The man was then choked ing. The elderly man was punched multhefts. Now is the time all residents of by the convicts and forced to hand over tiple times in the face and was stripped Arcadia should watch for these aspects all the valuable possessions from his of his wallet containing about $1000. of corruption. home. The convicts were also said to When his wife ran out hearing the vohave threatened to kill the family if the ciferous acts taking place outside, she jpark@apachepowwow.com police was informed. was attacked, shoved to the ground, and

By JUSTIN PARK

NEWS

A similar act of robbery was carried out Wednesday, Nov. 25, when an elderly couple living on West Duarte Rd. was assaulted and robbed of a wallet and their wedding rings. At 7:30 p.m. an elderly man was unloading the groceries

t a f f s Editors Editors-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editors Opinion Editors Performing Arts Editors Student Life Editors Features Editors Sports Editors Academics Editors Center Spread Editor Calendar Editor Campus Focus Editor Advertisement Editors Executive Copy Editors Photography Editor Webmaster Fundraising Chairs

Jennifer Hang and Kayla Pang Joanna Chuang Michelle Chien and Christine Xu Eleana Chiang and Cora Ormseth Melissa Ma and Sammi Wong Velinda Liao and Kate Trinh Elaine Tsui and Emily Yang Kristie Tom and Victoria Tran Jenny Lin and Joe Tian Lauren Wong Melanie Yuen Alwyna Lau Michelle Mak and Bonnie Tam Debbie Jong and Joanna Shen Elliott Lee Carl Trigilio Emily Litvack and Laureen Ma

Writers News Staff Andrew Chang, Ashley Chi, Evan Delgado, Alex Ethridge, Andrew Lin, Raphael Lu, Justin Park, Jasmine Wu Opinion Staff Andrew Chang, Tiffany Gu, Derek Ha, Kaitlyn Jeong, Nuria Mathog Performing Arts Staff Katherine Bay, Eileen Chow, Pamela Huynh, Hana Rudolph, Christina Zhou Student Life Staff Debbie Jong, Lena Kalemkiarian, Esther Lin, Anna Naran, Jade Shao, Rhiannon Yee Features Staff Theresa Lee, Amy Leong, Jenny Li, Ryan Liu, Joanna Shen Sports Staff Katherine Bay, Alex Ethridge, Andrew Lin, Regina Liu, Rhiannon Yee Academics Staff Christopher Chen, Sally Chung, Derek Ha, Joanna Liao, Oishee Shemontee, Nancy Xiao Center Spread Staff Emily Litvack Calendar Staff Beverly Chen, Eileen Chow, Theresa Lee, Cherry Mo Campus Focus Staff Emily Litvack Advertisement Staff Theresa Lee, Kevin Liu, Raphael Lu, Shannon Ng, Kevin Yuan Photo Staff Evan Delgado, Maurice Ip Copy Editing Staff Ashley Chi, Lena Kalemkiarian, Joanna Liao, Regina Liu, Hana Rudolph, Oishee Shemontee, Nancy Xiao Fundraising Staff Katherine Bay, Beverly Chen, Sally Chung, Maurice Ip, Kaitlyn Jeong, Theresa Lee, Jenny Li, Regina Liu, Ryan Liu, Raphael Lu, Michelle Mak, Anna Naran, Shannon Ng, Oishee Shemontee, Nancy Xiao Web Staff Sally Chung, Alex Ethridge, Elliott Lee, Andrew Lin, Ryan Liu, Emily Litvack, Nuria Mathog, Sammi Wong Adviser Mr. Johnny Lee

Publication Information: The Apache Pow Wow is a student publication distributed monthly throughout the school year. The paper has been continuously published since Arcadia High School opened in 1952. Unsigned articles appearing on the opinion page reflect the opinion of The Apache Pow Wow editorial board. A student’s work does not represent the views of Arcadia High School or the Arcadia Unified School District. Address letters to the editor to: AHS Apache Pow Wow, 180 W. Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA 91007. To place an advertisement in the newspaper, call (626) 821-8370 ext. 1148. Advertisement rates vary from $30 for a business card advertisement to $300 for a full-page black and white advertisement, with quarter-page, half-page, and advertisement insert options available.

Graphics courtesy of CKSINFO.COM

4

OPINION

apachepowwow.com

December 2009

When Gift Cards Just Won’t Cut It

By NURIA MATHOG

Staff Writer

Mark your calendars, folks, ‘cause it’s that time of the year again: Ambiguous Winter Holiday Season, formerly known as “Christmakwanzakuh” before the powersthat-be (Hallmark) realized that Buddhists, Rastafarians, and atheists deserve to cash in on that commercial holiday spirit, too. But regardless of its name, the month of December invariably presents a true present dilemma: what the heck to buy. You could purchase an obnoxious singing snowman (small wonder those are perennially on sale), but unless your giftee LOVES “Jingle Bells” (or you include a complimentary package of earplugs), you might very well find your present repackaged and dumped on your front porch with a tag reading “A Very Frosty Christmas to you, too.” Fortunately, with this strategic shopping guide, you can easily avert any gift-related crisis and melt the most frigid of hearts.

There are four basic categories of people to buy presents for: Besties. These are the best buds who join in your epic Guitar Hero battles, who always let you eat their last few French fries, who are more than happy to see Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince with you five times in a row. You guys are so tight that in their case, being a present tightwad is unforgivable. Each winter, they end up with the costly and sentimental gifts that consume ninety percent of

your allowance—and merit every penny of it.

This can cause unnecessary drama during gift exchanges, though, as your other friends are bound to notice the glaring disparity in present quality (i.e. Jane demands to know why you gave Sarah a $300 necklace while she only got a “freaking pack of Bubblicious”). You can avoid such childish complaints with a quick solution: simply buy a pack of candy for everyone, dump out the contents, and replace the insides with your more expensive purchases.

Mysterious rattling aside, nobody will suspect a thing.

Obligatory Giftees. These are the lab partners, creepy neighbors, mean teammates, and random people in the halls who’ve already informed you that they’re in the process of wrapping up your Christmas present, wink wink, hint hint. According to present protocol, you are now bound by Proprietary Law to reciprocate this gesture, or else you’ll look like a major Scrooge. Failure to comply with the aforementioned rule can result in uncomfortable situations, most notably the wounded puppy look—a heart-wrenching expres-

sion forcing you to hastily avert your gaze and stammer, “Why, of course I got you a present.

It’s, um, at home,” and quickly run off to the store (or simply hope that they’ll forget over Winter Break. Junk food overdoses can do funny things to the memory, not to mention the scale). To remedy this problem, simply stock up on spare presents; that should take care of the jerks who try to dump a big old package of ribbons and guilt on you at the last minute. However, be very careful about the size of these extra gifts: too small, and your own present might be retracted; too big, and it’ll seem as though you actually like this person— and that’s a can of worms you don’t want to deal with.

Teachers. Oh boy. Back in the cruel, cruel world known as middle school, giving presents to teachers was socially taboo, destined to earn sneers of “teacher’s pet.” Today, this act can be interpreted as something entirely different and possibly worse: brib-

Graphic by CHERRY MO

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP Merry

ery. Things get particularly awkward when you have a borderline grade and you’re vacillating between a Yoda-like “Present. I have.

Take it” and “These imported Belgium chocolates are sure to rack up points in your books, sir!” Just to be safe, why not go the traditional suck-up route and present your beloved Calc teacher with fresh apples—or better yet, candy apples (one for $1.50; two for $2.00. Hey, the Pow Wow needs some holiday lovin’ too, you know).

Family (a.k.a. yourself). Gifts to family have a wonderful and unique property: they remain in close proximity long after you give them “away.” Consequently, Ambiguous Winter Holiday Season offers the perfect opportunity to subtly purchase all of the things you want. Is your mom allergic to the nutty cookies you just bought her? Why, what a coincidence…that just happens to be your favorite dessert (and what a shame it would be if all that delicious food went to waste)! Is your dad convinced that video games provoke violent tendencies and rot your brain? You would be delighted to put his new copy of COD 3 to good use. The great thing about parents is that they’ll never complain about your gifts. Ever.

It’s rule number one in the parenting handbook. Besides, they’re probably sick of receiving your hideous neckties year after year anyway.

Happy holiday shopping! nmathog@apachepowwow.com

Christmas; here’s your gift.

Santa: Still Trespassing Into Our Hearts

By KAITLYN JEONG Staff Writer

I cried when my parents told me there was no Santa Claus. It started out as a sniffle, and then all of a sudden, tears trickled down my cheeks to fill the empty void in my heart.

No Santa Claus? How was that possible? He ate the cookies and drank the milk, put the perfect gifts under the tree, and even left me a little note thanking me for the sweets. Although I refused to believe them at first, in the years that followed, I, too, thought of Santa as merely a cute story for the kids. Bah, baby stuff. I thought it was entirely childish, up until now.

When my parents told me there was no man named Santa Claus, they were right.

There is no way, logically speaking, that a single man can fly around the entire world in a sleigh drawn by nine reindeer and enter every household to deliver presents; some houses are bound to have locks. Someone (who had lots of time on their hands) also mathematically proved that if Santa and his flying species of reindeer were to personally deliver gifts to each household, all 91.8 million of them, his sleigh would have to move at 3,000 times the speed of sound. It may not be that fast in your opinion, but to the 250-pound Santa (thanks for the cookies and milk, kids!) and his reindeer, that rate would be enough to make them all vaporize and combust within 4.26 thousandths of a second. Perhaps that’s why there have been very few eyewitness accounts of seeing Santa Claus. I really do hope that red suit is fire-proof.

If Santa Claus truly did combust and create a small sonic boom every Christmas Eve before his rounds even began, how can we account for all of the holiday miracles we experience in our everyday lives? No, I’m not talking about winning the lottery and not having to pay a single cent in taxes (although that would be nice). I’m thinking of simple things: the postponement of an AP Biology test, the availability of napkins in the cafeteria, not getting eaten alive by the Spanish teacher after ex-

plaining that a dog really did eat my homework, being able to make someone smile by retelling a stupid-funny SNL skit. These types of things don’t just happen on their own. There must be some supernatural explanation, probably involving crop circles. We generally aren’t given breaks like this, but around the holidays, free passes seem to be doled out generously like germs on a door handle. Everyone seems to be in a cheery mood (unless your last name starts with an “S” and ends with a “rooge”)

Graphic by CHERRY MO

THE REAL POLAR BONDS Santa Claus may be coming to town this December, but he’s really been here all along.

TCID:

around this time of year. It could be because of KOST’s long set of commercial-free holiday favorites, but let’s be realistic: it must be because of the magic of Santa.

We’ve always thought of Santa Claus as a jolly, rotund man in a too-tight red suit with a fluffy white beard. Quite frankly, plenty of people look like that. Many of them hang around malls during the holidays. Santa-wannabes aside, have you ever wondered why Santa has always been depicted as exceedingly plump? It’s not because of Mrs. Claus’ cooking, though I’ve heard that every morsel of her meals is delicious and delectable and that every year the elves go nuts over the feast. It’s because Santa is not one person, but a collection of souls who in turn carry out the Christmas spirit. When I was younger, I failed to recognize that Santa was not a single person, oh ho ho no; he needed a break once in a while in order to keep from combusting, and in doing so passed on the job of miracle-working to others around the world.

That being said, I truly think it’s time for a new generation of Santas. I think it’s time to make some miracles happen. It’s not necessary to buy a red suit and fake beard and call up “Rent-a-Reindeer,” although those would all be nice touches. Nothing extra is required to meet Santa Standards, for each and every person’s inner-Santa can be brought out through singing “Frosty the Snowman.” Sing that song once, and I promise you that you’ll be filling napkin dispensers and training dogs to eat homework for the rest of your lives, all to keep that Christmas spirit alive. kjeong@apachepowwow.com

December 2009

OPINION

apachepowwow.com

The Proletariat of the North

By DEREK HA Staff Writer

Every year on Christmas, it’s Santa Claus who gives presents to kids around the world, right? He’s the one who spends all year preparing for this one magical night, am I correct? In fact, if I stop a random child on the street and ask him where his Christmas gifts come from, wouldn’t “Santa Claus” be his first answer?

Sadly, almost no recognition is given to the dedicated elves who are actually involved in the nitty-gritty details of gift-making. We not only take them completely for granted, but we also go out of our way to extol the virtues of those who are far less praise-worthy.

Without elves, Christmas might as well be canceled.

Who else can we count on to spend their days sewing dresses onto dolls and carving wood into Lincoln logs? In fact, while Santa Claus is binging on cookies and flying around in his version of a private jet, his staff of elves is probably already working on next year’s batch of gifts.

And yet when children open their pres-

ents the following morning, Santa Claus—the useless obese man who simply delivers their presents—is the one they all thank. The old man, of course, is never in a big hurry to give credit where credit is due.

Elves will never find themselves on the cover of glittery Hallmark Christmas cards, nor will any of them ever be the hero of a bad holiday movie. Elves never receive long letters from adoring children, they never star in a Christmas parade, and they certainly don’t set up booths in the mall so that kids can line up to sit on their laps for a few seconds.

No—they do not share their boss’ insatiable need for attention and glory.

Instead, they are perfectly content with remaining unobtrusively in the background, pouring their hearts and souls into gifts for children they will never even meet.

Elves hardly ever complain about their jobs. It is assumed that they are perfectly content with what they do, but is it really possible to find joy in painting dolls’ eyes, assembling bicycles, or wrapping someone else’s gifts all day long? We also

know nothing about the conditions of their workplace. Who’s to say that Santa doesn’t exploit them for manual labor and feed them stale candy canes left over from the previous Christmas?

The point is that no one knows because no one cares enough to find out. Whenever someone is not seen or heard from, we find it all too easy to ignore them. We become desensitized to what they may contribute, never extending our appreciation. In essence, we grow to act as if they don’t exist at all.

Elves don’t strut around in ostentatious red suits demanding attention, but this does not mean that they don’t deserve it. While it may be easy to just thank Santa Claus for filling our Christmas stockings, we cannot forget where our gifts actually come from. This holiday season, let us remember and give thanks to the elves of this world.

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TCID:

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Graphic by CHERRY MO

RESOLUTION SCHMESOLUTION Enjoying your tree-bark soup?

Staff Writer

kjeong@apachepowwow.com

stature, but they are big of heart.

Updating the Will to Change I’m really looking forward to New Year’s and 2010, not only because of the parties or the celebrations, but because the New Year signals a fresh start, a new beginning, a second chance. New Year’s is all about change in your actions and outlook on life, but every year, the only thing that varies is the resolution itself. This year is going to be different. This year, 2009 is not the only thing I’ll be saying goodbye to: New Year’s resolutions have officially left the building of sale-crazy, sleepdeprived, zombie shoppers in search of the perfect gift.

Resolutions are infamous for being ignored and for creating a whole bunch of miserable (and hungry) people. Let’s be realistic here. Where’s the fun in actually sticking to your tree-bark soup diet in an attempt to shed a few pounds? Even if slimming down is the key to ultimate happiness, are the months spent wallowing in calorie-less misery truly worth the trouble? Spending 350 out of 365 days trying to avoid the chocolate and slim down is simply not worth it for me. That being said, I think that the real question here would not be about the sacrifice of happiness in order to achieve goals, but how anyone could possibly

By TIFFANY GU

survive that long without chocolate. It tastes better than tree-bark, that’s for sure. I believe that happiness is the journey, not the destination, and for me, that journey does not involve tree-bark. Whatsoever.

For others, the New Year means a New Image: haircuts, saggy pants, neon and glowin-the-dark shoelaces, and a complete personality makeover are all part of establishing a new and improved rep. These transformations are initially shocking and radical, but let’s face it: we’re not Optimus Prime. You can buy as many pairs of saggy pants as you want and shave your head to mimic crop circles, but these are merely changes on the surface. Attaining a new image is an ongoing process; a total self-reinvention is not going to happen in the span of one year. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day (and apparently neither was Arcadia High School).

Saggy baggy pants aside, 2009, in retrospect, was a truly remarkable year. Looking back at these past twelve months, I know that regardless of whether people decide to set New Year’s resolutions for 2010 or not, the coming year is still going to be spectacular. In fact, any year without tree-bark soup on the menu will be just fine with me.

dha@apachepowwow.com

NOT JUST SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS Elves may be small of

Staff Writer

Still the HapHa a ap Happiest Season of All It’s the most wonderful time of the year, it really is. With a beautiful juxtaposition of red and green that would seem horribly out of place any other season, Christmas-time is a unique entity unto itself. I find that around this time of year, there’s a constant ringing in my ear, not because of some sort of disease or bodily malfunction, but because of jingle bells filling the world with merriness. Though Christmas definitely has changed in meaning through the years, it’s still a time to cherish, an annual bringer of love and appreciation to all those willing to embrace it.

Christmas Eve ten years ago meant staying up as late as possible with the brimming excitement for the day to come preventing any hope of sleeping. It meant watching those classic Christmas movies with Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and the Abominable Snowman. It meant singing Christmas classics on those risers with the rest of your classmates in elementary school and seeing if you finally grew enough to not be on the bottom riser.

Christmas to a kid consisted of bolting down the stairs at the crack of dawn to take a peek at the presents, hoping your parents would have cracked an eye open as well. Christmas fostered the very beginning of those ever-popular reaction videos on Youtube, as relatives would come armed with a video camera to permanently etch the goofy childish grin of yours into tape. It meant writing extensive wishlists in hopes of getting that pony, being on your very best behavior if only for those 25 days so you wouldn’t get that dreaded coal. But of course it would never come because as you got older, as you tucked more Christmases under your belt, the cookies you left out were tucked underneath your parents’.

As you got older, Christmas changed in meaning. There were the few awkward years after you discovered that Santa Claus wasn’t real, a couple years of denial, of trying to hold on to that dream, a couple years where Christmas had lost its “magic” and just slipped by.

But as life goes on, we’ve come to truly appreciate Christma as; to see that it Christmas; it’ss not all abou about presents and ope ening those packages the wa opening way we thought of it as a kids. Not that we’re old oor anything now. Bu ut there’s a different angle tto But be seen this Chris stmas, one that disregards th Christmas, the food and the mat erialism. Perhaps now there materialism. there’s more of an inclin nation to enjoy Christmas fo inclination for the sake of enjoy ying. And although the litt enjoying. little things about Chr ristmas have changed and ou Christmas our responsibilities and a slight growth in age hav have as well, Christm mas is still Christmas. Puttin Christmas Putting up lights and de ecorating the tree remain th decorating the same and the lov ve falling through the air lik love like the snow we see oonly on television is the sam same as well. And for the rest of our lives, thoug though we may partake in different traditions, Christmas forever remains the hap-happiest season of all.

Merry Christmas, everybody!

Graphics by BEVERLY CHEN

By KAITLYN JEONG

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PERFORMING ARTS A New [Christmas] Spirit Profile

Photo courte sy o

fM

AC

E CASTR IE D O

Staff Writer

Senior Macie De Castro is as versatile as they come, juggling AP classes while leading one of the most prestigious performing arts groups on campus. As New Spirit president, she not only has to take responsibility of her own academics, but also be a supporting pillar in the lives of the 20 girls who make up New Spirit.

When it comes to New Spirit, Macie is a natural leader, consistently balancing both professionalism and friendliness. Junior and fellow New Spirit member Amanda Chen praised Macie for “know[ing] when to be a friend and when to get things done.” Another member, junior Megan Truong, described Macie as “very kind, organized, caring, [and] funny.” Megan also added that “when it comes to learning [the] music,” Macie gets strict, but only because she wants the best for the girls.

As president, Macie is always helping others, whether it’s improving dance techniques or offering advice. At each performance, Macie is always there to make sure that all the members of New Spirit have their necessary materials—their outfits, makeup, shoes, and earrings—ready. Just like the previous New Spirit presidents, Macie was given the task to create a unique design for this year’s outfits. The bright pink halters paired with chandelier earrings were chosen by Macie.

To keep herself in line, Macie constantly asks herself, “How would I want to be led?” This helps her see herself through the eyes of her teammates. She keeps herself on task by organizing her priorities in order to ensure that New Spirit looks good.

Macie sees everyday as “a new opportunity ...to learn how to be a better leader.”

Even though it seems that Macie has a lot on her plate, she knows that it is all worth it. “The lessons I’ve learned and the memories I’ve made have formed who I am today,”said Macie. Being in New Spirit, Macie has met many great people and made some lifelong friends. Through all the ups and downs, the group of girls never fails to become sisters through the experiences of New Spirit. Enduring hours of rehearsals and all the dramas that’s common among in an entirely female community, Macie has nevertheless created a friendly atomsphere within New Spirit. When asked about the show choir, Macie will always say, “I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.” phuynh@apachepowwow.com

December 2009

Merry Music Melodies Fill the Air

By KATHERINE BAY Staff Writer

By PAMELA HUYNH

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These days, every radio station in California is blasting jolly holiday songs through the speakers. There is only one reason for this: the holidays are near.

Many of our musically-talented peers got a head start in spreading the holiday spirit when Symphony Orchestra, String Orchestra, Chanteurs, New Spirit, Concert Choir, and Treble Choir performed at the Holiday Concert on Dec. 15.

When Symphony Orchestra and String Orchestra headed down to Pasadena High School, butterflies fluttered within their stomachs,as they hoped they would not make any mistakes. Despite their nervousness, Symphony Orchestra members were well-prepared for the show. The “[Orchestra has] been practicing with Band for a couple of weeks, and had a rehearsal with Percussion after school to merge [Band’s music] with [Orchestra’s] music,” said sophomore cello player Caleb Man. With songs such as “Mendelssohn Symphony,” “Jingle Bells Forever,” and “A Canadian Brass Christmas,” the Orchestra amazed the audience with synchronism. String Orchestra also had a superb performance, consisting of music with a holiday twist.

From “Holiday Carol Collage” and “Rejoice

Greatly” to “Caribbean Carol, Carol,” the songs udience helped everyone in the audience t. truly grasp the holiday spirit.

Chanteurs, New Spirit, Concert Chan Choir, and Treble Choir illustrated their cheer by singing festive tunes. holiday ch Chanteurs rose to the prominent occasion, performing “Bring Them casion Home,” “Baby, It’s Cold OutHo side,” “Now and Forever Christside mas,” “Peace, Peace,” and more, mas, the audience in awe. Their exleaving th citing songs and signature dance moves were coordinated perfectly. Their sister show choir, New Spirit, did just as well, impressing everyone with their talent as they strutted onto the stage with exhiliration. After many hours of preparation, New Spirit sang outstanding songs, such Photos by ELLIOTT LEE as “Christmas Pops Trio,” “Beautiful December,” “Let’s Hear it for Ms. Claus,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” and “I’d Rather Have My Baby Here For Christmas,” and practically tied together all of their numbers with a festive ribbon. Concert Choir and Treble Choir didn’t disappoint either and sang with amazing clarity throughout the Holiday Concert as well.

Those who watched the Holiday Concert left feeling well-spirited and ready to spread holiday joy to all. The show was an amazing collaboration of many of AHS’ wonderful performing arts groups and really showcased what HARK! THE AHS ANGELS our school had to offer. What a perfect SING The dreamlike choir and orches- way to start off the holiday season.

tra rendered the audience speechless at the holiday concert.

kbay@apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of THECOLORINGSPOT.COM

Charity is a Rarity—A Show Filled with Care

By HANA RUDOLPH Staff Writer

Ms. Liza Tedford has always taught her students to dream big and aim high. So it is only appropriate that this year’s Charity Dance Show, an annual event organized by her and the Orchesis Dance Company (ODC), should support those without a chance. This year, on Dec. 17, a production lineup consisting of Orchesis, Colorguard, the Laker Girls, Barcada Modern and many, many more performers will work to raise money for those living in third-world countries.

The goal for this year’s Charity Dance Show is to donate $5,000 for girls who are desperately in need of a dream, giving them a chance to fulfill that dream through the organizations Care and The Girl Effect.

Of course, Orchesis will be at the event, performing five pieces—from classy to sassy to pure entertainment. Since September, Ms. Tedford’s three beginning dance classes have been gearing up for the event, featuring even more dance styles. The girls and boys of Intermediate Dance will perform two pieces: one rock, and one musical theater. The latter will be a joint production with Theater 2—as a tribute to the history of musical theater, the piece will include songs from The Chorus Line, West Side Story, and Hairspray. But Arcadia’s talent doesn’t end there; the juniors and seniors of Colorguard will

display their talent to “It’s the Most Wonderful Time.” The Arcadia BBoys will show off their skills, and the Flipino Club will perform a cultural dance called Tinikling.

Orchestra 3 will also be there, pro-

Company in jazz. Chapman University Dance Team, currently first in the nation for collegiate dance, will also be perform ing for the charitable cause.

This is the 16th time Orchesis has produced the Charity Dance Show. Not only is it an opportunity to see an outstanding showcase of performing arts, it is also a chance to support the important causes that Care and The Girl Effect represent. 50% of the night’s proceeds will be donated to these organizations—so every ticket counts! Minimum donations for these tickets are Photos courtesy of MARISSA TOM $10 each; the Charity Dance Show will be starting on ThursHUMAN PRETZEL The boys and day, Dec. 17 in the AHS North girls of Orchesis practice rare and Gym starting at 7:00 p.m. In the words of Ms. Tedford, the event is difficult moves in preparation for their a way to “feed ourselves, and help annual Charity Show. someone’s life at the same time... viding the music for Orchesis’ Sometimes we get caught up, and it’s important opening number. to realize how much we have in comparison to On top of all that, the night others.” What better way to give to charity than will feature many professional to enjoy a stunning dance show? dancers. As mentioned above, the For more information about Care and The Laker Girls and Barkada Modern Girl Effect, visit www.care.org and www.girlefare among the favorite guest-performers of the fect.org, respectively. evening. Yet even more dance groups will be there: Sahira Dance Company performing in a hrudolph@apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of WEE-CARE.ORG and Bollywood-style dance, and Rhetoracle Dance PPEACH.COM

December 2009

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In Memoriam Mrs. Boardman

By JOANNA SHEN Executive Copy Editor

On this past Thanksgiving evening, Nov. 26, Mrs. Niki Boardman, a member of our beloved administrative staff, succumbed to cancer after a strenuous eight month battle. Mrs. Boardman had been a member of the AHS staff for nearly 17 years, serving mainly as a curriculum secretary in the administration office. Through her years of devotion to bettering our school and unwavering dedication to both the students and the staff, we can still see the impact of her efforts to this day. It is with a heavy heart we dedicate our time, now that she is gone, to get to know the inspirational staff member who had helped make AHS function at its best.

Mrs. Boardman was never a stranger to Arcadia. An alumna of the AHS Class of ’74, Mrs. Boardman had grown up in the district and chose to raise her three daughters here as well.

Mrs. Boardman was a member of the synchronized swimming team with her identical twin back when she was a student. Because she was one of the few administrative members who could easily identify with the students, she had a “special connection” with them, according to Assistant Principal Mr. Craig Wiblemo. Her natural bond with them also stemmed from her previous work experience as Playground Supervisor at Hugo Reid Elementary School. Curriculum Secretary Mrs. Marianne von Kriegenbergh added, “Because she was an alumna, because her children went here…she really cared and thought about the things that had to get done here whether it was part of her job or not.”

Among her co-workers, Mrs. Boardman was known to harbor a secret talent: being

She always took on whattechnology-savvy.

Her ever she was asked.” Her fascination with technolunwavering love for her ogy began at the Pasadena job and others influenced Jet Propulsion Laboratory many to model their lives where she worked for two after her. “What I took years. She also worked most from our working for several years in the together was the attention Technology In Service to detail and organizadepartment and played tion…[that] you need to a major role in the Digido a job. That’s the way tal High School Project. she was and that’s the way Co-worker Technology it translates to me and Assistant Specialist Ms. helps me in all the things Nancy Sager added, “Niki I do,” Mr. Wiblemo said. was my counterpart in a Whether it be organizing male-dominated arena. schedules or managing She worked hard, always college recommendations, put forth her best, but she Mrs. Boardman was alwas never too busy to Photo courtesy of MARIANNE VON ways ahead of the game. share a smile, laugh, or KRIEGENBERGH Her concern and care for hug when needed.” AidDEARLY MISSED Mrs. the school were present ing the counselors with in her multiple activities; the student systems nec- Boardman is gone, but she will she was a member of the essary for course selec- never be forgotten.

School Site Leadership tion, ensuring CAHSEE testing went smoothly, and welcoming incom- Team for six years, joined the emergency preing students from other districts, Mrs. Board- paredness team, and was even given AUSD’s man never faltered when it came to handling the “Profiles in Excellence” award in 1999.

From the start of our high school careers needs of students. “Things that Niki worked on were top-quality. Every ‘i’ was dotted, every ‘t’ to our graduation, Mrs. Boardman had been was crossed. It’s that kind of attention to detail working behind the scenes to ensure successthat was so important,” Mr. Wiblemo said. She ful journeys to our futures. We extend our warm was everyone’s go-to person because of her vast gratitude to an unforgettable member of the staff, an inspiring mentor, and a close friend to knowledge in all areas.

What made Mrs. Boardman truly distinct many. Though Mrs. Boardman’s presence will from the rest of the staff was her warm, glowing be dearly missed, she will never be forgotten. personality. Mrs. von Kriegenbergh fondly rejshen@apachepowwow.com membered that Mrs. Boardman “never said no.

Four Frightening Facts About Your Feast

By JOANNA SHEN Executive Copy Editor

Radio stations are shifting from mainstream music to festive jingles, red blowout sale signs are dangling invitingly in every store, and even though you’re in Southern California, the seasons are finally changing. As winter break draws closer and you are readying yourself for that second round of feasts, it’s difficult not to wolf down endless plates of tasty treats. But before you loosen up your belt a notch, be sure you know what food combinations to watch out for this holiday season.

The Appetizer: With a hearty entrée still sizzling delightfully on the stove top, what better way to start off the feast than with a light, crisp salad, right? Wrong. For those who layer Parmesan cheese and pine nuts on their salad, the combination could be disastrous. Nuts and cheeses are both considered concentrated proteins and are not uniform in composition. When combined, not only is proper digestion difficult, but also the gastric acidity imbalance causes upset stomachs. Rule to be learned: do not consume two concentrated ted pproteins of varying compositions sitions in the samee meal.

The Entrée: Casserole dishes, a roasted chicken, and a hearty pot of cream of mushroom soup arrive at a table surrounded by drooling mouths. A feast fit for a king? Think again.

Chances are, both the casserole dishes and the soup contain hefty amounts of milk. Milk is considered a cooling protein, whereas meats are considered heating proteins. If milk and meats are eaten together, your stomach will produce harmful toxins that slow down digestion, causing food to remain in the stomach for seven to eight hours. Rule to be learned: do not eat food with meat proteins and milk proteins together.

The Dessert: With empty plates and satisfied stomachs, the meal will only be complete with a banana split. What could go wrong with this? More than you know. Whether your dessert platter consists of ice cream or frozen yogurt, avoid drizzling condensed milk or milk at all on your food under any circumstances. Eating bananas with milk produces toxins that trigger sinus congestions, allergies, and even colds.

Melons should be picked out of your fruit cup and eaten separately as well. Melons are 90% water and, if fermented by other foods stay in inside thee stomach, will sta digestive your digest tivve system longer than necessary.

Rule to be nec ceessary.

learned: avoid having milk with fresh fruits and only eat melon by itself.

The Nighttime Tea: As you gather around the warm fireplace and exchange words of gratitude and past memories, it is only suitable to have a warm cup of tea to accompany your cold hands. What harm can a warm drink do? Think again if you decide to reach for that bottle of honey to drizzle into your tea. Once the honey reaches your piping hot drink, it will begin to cook. Cooked honey molecules become nonhomogenized glue that relentlessly sticks on mucous membranes and clogs channels. Rule to be learned: choose your sweetener wisely.

With two weeks of freedom to eat as you please, be careful as to what you gobble down.

A small helping of avocados to accompany any meal will help ease digestion. Now that you’re a bit smarter about food, you can satisfy your cravings more healthfully. Enjoy the winter season, and happy holidays! jshen@apachepowwow.com

HOLIDAY MEAL This holiday season, beware of some toxic food combinations that may just ruin your winter celebrations.

Photos courtesy of CHRISTMASLIGHTSETC.COM, COLLEGEJOLT.COM, DISCOVERLOSANGELES.COM, I.TELEGRAPH.CO.UK, LITTLESCOOPS.COM, WINNIESPHOTOBLOG.FILES.WORDPRESS.COM, and WOODARTISTSGALLERY.COM

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December Delusions Dashed

By RYAN LIU Staff Writer

Christmas: a time when giving is more important than receiving. Originally a Christian holiday, Christmas is now celebrated by many non-Christians who have helped evolve Christmas into what we know it as today. The modern interpretation of the holiday has changed dramatically throughout the years, but there is still a cloud of mystery surrounding it. The interest in the holiday has sparked various myths that are often far from the truth.

Myth #1: Santa Claus was always the chubby, jolly gift-giver. Santa has been made an iconic symbol as a jolly, rather large and bearded man through Christmas specials, books, and songs. People believe he has looked like that since the holiday’s beginnings, but this is false. Santa was based on a fourth century bishop, Saint Nicholas of Myra. Not until after the Civil War did the modern Santa begin to form. Coca-Cola took part in modernizing the image by giving him a large beard and smile, printing him on Christmas-themed cans and bottles.

Myth #2: Companies have shattered the meaning of Christmas. When companies first started using Christmas as an opportunity to sell products, there was major backlash from citizens who claimed that the products were ruining the holiday, but the opposite occurred. Before the Civil War, Christmas was always a time of hostility in Boston, as it reminded people of what they despised: Great Britain. Christmas was scorned so much that Boston banned it for 25 years. It wasn’t until companies helped restore the image with their products that it became a national holiday.

Myth #3: You save a tree by buying a fake one. Christmas trees have always been a tradition, but recently people have been swapping them for plastic trees.

Countless people say that they don’t want to harm the environment, but what they don’t know is that Christmas trees are grown specifically for use during the holidays. It is often believed that the trees are cut straight from the forest, but in reality, farmers rent off plots of land to plant trees just for the purpose of the holiday.

Myth #4: Christmas cards are just a marketing ploy. Throughout the many years that Christmas cards have been given away, people have criticized them as being just another marketing strategy. However, these cards made writing holiday greetings convenient. The first Christmas cards were created by Sir Henry Cole in 1843 because he was too busy to write to all his friends.

It wasn’t until 1875 that the concept of mass-produced cards caught on and were sold to the public.

Although 1,000 years ago people celebrated Christmas differently, it has always been a time for people to relax and reminisce about past memories. While not many people know about the origin of one of America’s most celebrated holidays, they still decorate their houses with ornaments, lights, and the iconic Christmas tree. If people want to truly celebrate the holiday, they must first learn about its history, as well as what separates the truth from the fiction. ryanliu@apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of BLOGSPOON. S3.AMAZONAWS.COM

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the season of giving

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December 2009

By EMILY LITVA

Fundr

During the first week of own Senior Men and Wome annual food drive to benefit th of Arcadia. In preparation, SM campus, bringing an announce event and a cardboard box to every simple: there was no catch. No pizz giving. Ms. Barbara Young found th said, “I will, of course, donate. I am fin humanity, I just feel like that’s what I’m get a donut for it.” Senior Sydney Wallo to…help [others] because during the holida giving should be the focus, not getting presents soup, canned fruits and vegetables, cake mix an Michelle D’Mello, a member of SMW, said that as easy to make” and were not packaged in glass, most everyone is busy celebrating Christmas with their loved from all the chaos and think about those in need.” Fellow the White Christmas food drive, simply saying, “It’s

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December 2009

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the season of giving 11

From Dec. 7 -11, the Student Council Apache Commission (SCAC), a major source of funds for the Apaches, hosted its annual toy and jacket drive. SCAC collected toys, jackets, and various household items to donate to the Apaches in Arizona.

Senior John Paul Karas explained the process of donation, saying, “Mr. [Terry] Schreiner drives a…van filled with students’ donated items from Arcadia ia all the way to Arizona zona before Christmass and stays a few w days to oversee ersee everything everything. g.

Sometimes Mr. [David] Vannasdall all will accompany him.” John Paul addedd that the councilmen off the tribe are ultimately in charge of the distribution n of these items, noting, “Mr. Schreiner er stays for a while longer because he loves to see the joy on [the Apaches’] faces!”

In essence, “This his was a chance chan for students to lend d a han hand to and show support for the he Apaches.”

A This concluded another her year and another successful act of altruism from Apaches to Apaches. es. Surely their time and effort will make for a very merry holiday season! elitvack@apachepowwow.com w.com

ACK

raising Co-Chair

December, Arcadia’s en (SMW) hosted their he less fortunate residents MW made rounds across ement about their charity y homeroom. The catch was za, no donuts—just the joy of his refreshing and positive; she nancially able to and as a part of supposed to do—not because I’ll agreed, saying, “I think it’s great ay season we sometimes forget that s.” SMW collected things like canned nd instant oatmeal, among other items. s long as the food items were “quick and t items were acceptable. She said, “When ones and lots of food, it’s good to step away w SMW member Christopher Paiz synopsized the time of year we need to give back.”

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Photos by EVAN DELGADO and MAURICE IP and courtesy of LEANDRO ALCANTARA. Graphics courtesy of WEBELIEVEINSANTA.COM and DESIGNBLISS.COM

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And a Merry Christmas to You

By SALLY CHUNG Staff Writer

Our parents should have told us long ago, Christmas is a lie! It all started when my mom switched the radio station from KIIS to 103.5 because she claimed that the music was “making me more stupid.” MORE stupid? Thanks, Mom. So I was forced to listen to jolly Christmas music, which actually wasn’t so bad until I started hearing the lyrics. “It’s the greatest time of year!” Greatest time? What about the horrific weather and college cramming time makes it so great? “…And it’s here! We’re gonna celebrate it!” Apparently, our teachers think “celebrate” means piling up essays and projects. Hm, that says a lot about their lives. So some time between my mother calling me stupid and Aly and Aj belching that tune, I realized the truth! Our parents trick us into believing that winter break is a fun-filled holiday so that we’ll feel guilty for hanging out with friends. Oh no, we just have to wait until winter break to have fun with friends, yet parents secretly know how much homework our teachers will pile on to us.

It makes me wonder, what if Christmas songs actually had truthful lyrics? They wouldn’t be so jolly, and my mom would have nothing to trick me with. Here’s what our favorite holiday tunes should really sound like.

APUSH notes don’t help make the season bright And senior class, with their college apps to go Will find it hard to sleep tonight They know that Santa is bringing college to their way He’s loaded lots of essays and other goodies on his sleigh And every senior’s parents are going to spy To see if their kid really knows how to apply And so I’m offering this simple phrase To class of 2010 to 2013 Although it’s impossible to be free during break A very Merry Christmas to you It’s the Most Stressful Time of Year There’s a hectic feeling in the air It only happens at this time of year When everyone is filled with stress and fear ‘Cause that’s what really happens When eyes are drooped with bags Working through the holiday We can feel the anger growing, growing

Arcadia High’s Christmas Song Average-scored tests roasting on an open fire Semester finals nipping at your brain Lehrer’s “Elements” being sung by AP Chemists And Apaches dressed up like Eskimos

It’s the most stressful time of year, and it’s here Help me just get through it With everybody here, friends so dear Let me simply state it This is to AHS students Lift up your books and feel the stress It’s the worst way to spend the holiday

Everybody knows Mists Essays and some

We will get really sleepy by the Macbook

Turn the music up a little higher I don’t think that I could ever feel sadder Decorate the tree, hang mistletoe Do your jolly things And crudely smile at me It’s a perfect moment captured Memories of your lying face to remember It’s the greatest time of year, and it’s here But why can’t I celebrate it ‘Cause while everybody is here, friends so dear Let me simply state it I’ve got no joy in the world If you expect me to make it into Harvard It’s your favorite way to watch me spend the holiday Merry Christmas to you too, Mom. Now we’re more in the holiday spirit! Now, if teachers don’t want us to grow up like the Grinch who couldn’t celebrate Christmas because of stockings full of AP homework, they should probably cut us some slack. Here’s my Christmas wish: less work, more sleep, better grades, and happier parents! Santa should give this to you, if you’re on his nice list that is. schung@apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of EKMEDIA.COM

Mock the Trial - Constitutional Rights Foundation competition. There are two preliminary rounds, followed by octo-finals, quarter-finals, semifinals, and a final round to determine the L.A. Staff Writers County champion. The winner then moves on to the statewide level of competition and if They’re guilty─of being the coolest club the members win there, they proceed to the on campus! Constitutional Rights Foundation national level.

(CRF) is a new academic team that foExperienced cuses on the complicated and dramatic judges preside over processes surrounding a courtroom the trials and detrial. cide the verdicts First of its kind at AHS, CRF, adon the pretrial vised by Mr. Jason Barclay, operates motions and the devery differently from academic teams. fendant’s innocence. Sophomore The club receives the details of one Amit Akula said, “Our judge was murder case, and then spends weeks an actual juvenile judge so he was working with their attorney coaches really comfortable with us. We to prepare both an argument for the even had a question and answer prosecution and defense sides. This session after the round ended.” involves every member taking on a Each round starts off with a specific role in the courtroom, ranging pretrial motion, where the pretrial from attorneys and prosecutors to witlawyers from both teams debate nesses, clerks, and bailiffs. The club’s on whether or not the preclusion attorney coaches are Mr. Greg Fisher of a certain piece of evidence is and Mrs. Tia Fisher; Mr. Fisher is a constitutional. This year’s pretrial successful attorney, and Mrs. Fisher is motion was to preclude “Inbox” a judge who was appointed to the L.A. Photo courtesy of RAY CHAO and “Sent” messages found on a County Superior Court by Governor ArMOCK TRIAL Members of the Constitutional Rights private internet account as outside nold Schwarzenegger. Unlike academic Foundation pose together after their victory to celebrate. the scope of the search warrant. teams, CRF only competes in one anIn both Rounds 1 and 2, senior nual tournament─the Mock Trial Competition, which was held at the L.A. County SuThe competition proceeds in an elimina- Andrew Chang played the role of the pretrial preme Courthouse from Nov. 2-30. tion format, where contestants must win every lawyer and won both of his motions. Opening This year’s case was People vs. Bratton, round in order to advance to the next level of statements followed, where junior Ray Chao

By NANCY XIAO & OISHEE SHEMONTEE

a murder trial in which an aspiring comedian was accused of strangling a mouthy critic after the critic posted a negative review on a business review site. The witnesses for this case ranged from comedy club managers and struggling comedians to doctors and detectives.

introduced the case, witnesses, and evidence. After that, the direct and cross-examination period began where prosecutors had the opportunity to question witnesses.

The closing statements, delivered by senior Carl Trigilio, summa-

rized the entire case and strengthened the team’s arguments. The adviser, Mr. Barclay, remarked, “They were awesome and I feel that they completely deserved to win. They amazed me because they made such a huge improvement.”

Ironically, although AHS won both the pretrial motions and the verdicts, they lost the competition by one point. “Each and every individual in the club was very strong in the courtroom. I happen to think that trial lawyers are born not made and [each member of the club] has the ‘it’ factor to be in a courtroom trying cases successfully,” said Mr. Fisher. oshemontee@apachepowwow.com nxiao@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of REDSTAPLERCHRONICLES.COM

ACADEMICS

apachepowwow.com

December 2009

Talking Up Storms At Fall Varsity

By OISHEE SHEMONTEE Staff Writer

For many, the idea of talking in front of a whole classroom is terrifying. For others─namely, the members of Speech and Debate─performing all day is exactly their idea of a perfect Saturday. At Fall Varsity, on Dec. 12 at Arroyo High School, these talkative teens were not only able to chatter the day away, but also gain honor and distinction by doing so.

Fall Varsity is perhaps the most important tournament of the semester because this is the when the training wheels finally come off. No longer will novices and varsity be separated from each other─at Fall Varsity, all levels of speakers go head-to-head against each other, categorized only by their events. This means that AHS rhetoricians are competing against not only talented speakers from other schools, but also each other.

To make matters more interesting, the stakes are much higher. The first and second place winners of every event receive not only a trophy, but also a “leg.” If, at Spring Varsity next semester, this person manages to gain an-

of luck for next year!

other “leg,” the speaker is automatically eligible for State Championships without having to compete at State Qualifications. However, if the speaker wins second place at Fall Varsity, he or she must show improvement and win first place at Spring Varsity to gain the second “leg.” Only by winning first place at Fall Varsity can the speaker secure immunity─he or she can gain a “leg” with either a second or first place win at Spring Varsity.

The big day arrived with a steady downpour that lasted throughout the day. While many of us were safely nestled at home, our dedicated orators gritted their teeth, clutched their team jackets, and raised their voices over the rain.

The weather was enough to dampen anyone’s mood, but the speakers persevered. “Although it was raining, it was a great experience and I learned a lot from watching the varsity members compete,” said sophomore novice member Farihah Chowdhury.

The team kept its reputation of scoring high, winning with third place overall at the competition.

Congratulations to all the stunningly talented members of Speech and Debate, and best

Results Dramatic Interpretation Joanna Singer-Baefsky─5th Olivia Sui─6th Duo Interpretation Ray Chao and Jason Ouyang─4th Amit Akula and Amy Wen─5th Humorous Interpretation Chris Mckinley─7th Oratorical Interpretation Mabel Lee─1st Virginia Ma─2nd Michelle Zhu─3rd Leah Wong─4th Alex Ethridge─7th Original Advocacy Ray Chao─1st Nancy Xiao─4th Original Prose and Poetry Krystal Valladares─2nd Carl Trigilio─3rd oshemontee@apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of APERFECTWORLD.COM

A Comfortable Victory at Home for QB

By SALLY CHUNG Staff Writer

scoring and received a top scorer award. You’d think all of those “sweets” would’ve caused QB to crash from exhaustion; but no, AHS members only experienced a sugar rush throughout the day. Even with the dreary weather and few losses, the novice members “seemed to enjoy the competition,” according to QB Co-Captain, Stanley Yuan. Stanley is impressed that “even though [they] were all new members, there was definitely teamwork and collaboration.”

Just like how a good box of chocolates doesn’t come cheap, neither does QB. It’s bittersweet that the A Team qualified for nationals considering “it costs nearly $600 just for registering, not including airfare, hotel costs, and food” says Stanley. Fortunately, by hosting ASCII, schools from across Southern California all paid an entry fee. Senior Alex Wang expresses his optimism by claiming, “This is the first time we’ve ever hosted ASCII, and it was a success.”

ASCII sure left a sweet aftertaste and has Photo courtesy of BLOGSPOT.COM QB craving for the next competition.

gave novice members confidence. With guidance from the veterans, AHS took seventh place with a record of 4 wins to 6 losses. Also, sophomore Andrew Wang took ninth place in individual

“Quiz Bowl (QB) is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get!”

In about half the amount of time it took you to read that quote, QB would’ve buzzed in with the answer. However, Forrest Gump is only a fraction of what QB members are experts on.

They sink their teeth into a wide variety of sweets including literature, science, sports and pop culture. With all of these subjects to master in a matter of months, QB members may be overwhelmed. Luckily, ASCII came in just in time to help!

The ASCII was a novice level competition structured so that new QB members can adapt to the quick-paced round-robin format.

AHS hosted the competition on Dec. 12 with one novice team consisting of members Andrew Wang, Jason Wang, Carl Tjo, Connor Lee, and Andrew Sun. Veteran members acted as mentors by keeping novice members focused and giving them valuable advice. Although return- LIKE A BOX OF CHOCOLATE Quiz ing members didn’t compete, their presence Bowl surprised its opponents on Dec. 12.

schung@apachepowwow.com

5 Words from the Academic Claus

By CHRISTOPHER CHEN Staff Writer

It’s Christmas time! What is a better gift than a card adding five more vocabulary words to your already rich list?

Nothing. So have a merry Christmas with these 5 words.

1. Sufganiyot – A deep fried jelly doughnut eaten on Hanukkah.

“Though I love sufganiyot, its 300 calories make me hesitate to gorge myself with them.”

2. Ho-Ho-Phobia – The fear of a portly, bearded man with a red coat and black boots.

“My Ho-Ho-Phobia makes me scared of the Santa Claus in the mall.”

completing the circuit when a light bulb burns out.

“Our father’s Christmas lights didn’t have shunts and the entire strand went out, forcing us to search for the bad bulb for hours.”

College Profile: Bowdoin College

By DEREK HA Staff Writer

If you think that living in Maine means being located hours from all major urban areas and enduring long, miserable winters, then you are entirely correct. For students at Bowdoin College, however, living in Maine also means receiving a great education at a school known for happy students and delicious cafeteria food.

Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin is a private liberal arts college founded in 1794. Today, Bowdoin is one of the most prestigious (but underrated) institutions of higher learning in America. It was the first college to be dubbed “School of the Year” by College Prowler, and it is currently ranked sixth among liberal arts colleges by the U.S. News and World Report. Its strongest majors include natural sciences, classics, German, anthropology, English, government, environmental studies, and art history.

The student-teacher ratio is 9 to 1, and professors are forced to teach every class personally because there are no graduate students. Bowdoin’s students have direct access to the brilliance and experience of their instructors, resulting in the intense and intimate academic environment which students expect when they come to a liberal arts college.

Even in cold, isolated Maine, Bowdoin’s students find ways to entertain themselves.

Three quarters of them take part in field trips which include canoeing, kayaking, or hiking.

On those really cold days, however, students can head over to the dining hall and enjoy what Princeton Review has deemed the second best campus food in America.

Unfortunately, Bowdoin is extremely selective in its admissions process, accepting fewer than 20% of applicants. The most important factors considered by the admissions office include difficulty of high school classes, application essays, quality of recommendations, and extracurricular activities.

Bowdoin’s tuition fee is high, but almost half of its students receive need-based financial aid as well as merit-based scholarships each worth an average of $1,000.

Admission Statistics: SAT Scores: Critical Reading: 650-760 Math: 650-750 Writing: 660-750 Acceptance rate: 18.6% Tuition: $40,020 dha@apachepowwow.com

4. La Befana – A witch who travels by broom, drops through people’s chimneys, and leaves gifts.

“According to legend, La Befana had refused the Three Wise Men shelter, which she came to regret, prompting her later generosity to others.”

5. Krampus – Santa’s assistant who punishes bad children by kidnapping, beating, or lashing at them.

“The legend of the Krampus has long scared children into behaving during the holiday season.” cchen@apachepowwow.com

3. Shunt – The “second net” that connects the electric wire,

15

Graphics courtesy of TRACYAPPSDESIGN.COM

Photo courtesy of BOWDOIN.EDU

BOWDOIN Laying on the Bowdoin Quad, students can relax after tests.

STUDENT LIFE

Thanks For the Gift. What Is It?

Staff Writer

of

courtesy

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te “My sisters and I would wait P every Christmas morning for our grandparents to come to our house because their presents were even cooler than Santa’s. I was six and super pumped for the new pair of softball cleats I had asked them for. I opened my present and it was a man’s dress shirt and jeans. These weren’t the usual oversized clothes that every kid gets to ‘grow into.’ I was so disappointed when I opened it up that I started crying. My grandma had mixed up my gifts with my uncle’s.”

- Stevie Gibbs, junior

PU

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Photos by JADE SHAO and courtesy of JENNY WEI

yo

Kristi Tseng, Senior X 1. A diamond ring.

X 2. Isn’t it the hat that brought him back?

C 3. To get a job and make money for a new Macbook!

Score: 1/3.

A HA F T IAN

u

r “About three Christmases ago, I received my most thoughtout gift. For about two weeks, my friend Mike was building up this amazing gift in my mind.

He was so excited that it excited me. The day before winter break, my gift was presented. I was excited to open it! When I did, I buckled over laughing, nearly peeing my pants. Underneath the paper, was a framed picture of Mike. He was laying down in boxers in front of a fireplace. I must say, it was very strange.”

- Nancy Pulciano, senior s te

Erik Krogen, Junior C 1. Five golden rings?

C 2. Santa Claus.

C 3. To exercise more often so I can become big and strong.

Score: 3/3

“My great aunt came over to my grandma’s house for Christmas Eve. I was opening my presents and saw a weirdly shaped gift; it looked like a bundle of wrapping paper, and there was no card. So, I opened it and there were two ceramic cats with holes in their heads. I had no idea what they were, but I didn’t want to be rude and ask. Finally, my great aunt saw the confused look on my face and told me they were from her. They were salt and pepper shakers.”

- Ariana Haft, freshman AR

Photo co

B

Jenny Wei, Sophomore X 1. I know! Five golden eggs.

X 2. Uh...I don’t know, the little boy?

C 3. To lose some weight.

Score: 1/3

lkalemkiarian@apachepowwow.com

EVIE G f ST IB

Josh Sohng, Freshman C 1. I know this... five rings.

C 2. Oh! Santa!

C 3. I don’t know; to be a better person or maybe to get a new hairstyle.

Score: 3/3

Gifts are meant to be things the recipients would want, right? Well, here are some people who have received gifts beyond what they ever imagined.

o sy

Little Drummer Boy’s drum roll please!

Yes, it’s that time of year again; hot chocolate, boughs of holly, and lots of seasonal cheer. Let’s put your holiday knowledge to the test!

1. What does your true love give to you on the fifth day of Christmas?

Five golden rings.

2. In the cartoon, Frosty the Snowman, who brought Frosty back to life?

Santa Claus.

3. What are your New Year’s Resolutions?

Freebie! jshao@apachepowwow.com Mrs. Mynster, Chemistry Teacher X 1. I have to sing it in my head. It’s four golden rings right? What’s five?

X 2. I don’t know.

Now I know how you guys feel on tests.

C 3. To go to the gym!

Score: 1/3

“I was talking to my friends one day, and we somehow detoured to the topic of bathing. I said that I’ve never used bar soap; I only use bath gel. They decided to get me a bar of soap as a Christmas present. On Christmas, they handed me a box. I was expecting something like a gift card, but when I opened the box, I saw a bar of Olay cucumber soap. My dream of an iTunes gift card was shattered by a bar of soap. To this day, I still have the soap and I don’t plan on ever using it.”

- Jaki Liu, sophomore

rtesy of JA cou KI

Staff Writer

LIU

to

By LENA KALEMKIARIAN

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By JADE SHAO

December 2009

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Holiday Edition

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Trivial Pursuit:

apachepowwow.com

Ph

16

There’s No Place Like Princeton

By JACK CHING Guest Writer

The landscape of Princeton in the fall is just as breathtaking as I had imagined—leaves fluttering to the ground and ivies turning subtle shades of red and yellow on the gothic buildings looming impressively in the distance, a scene you might have seen in the intro to House, M.D. This is Princeton.

After almost three months, the experience of going to school at such a picturesque campus is still a bit surreal. Everywhere I look reveals a little bit more of the history of this magnificent university. Since the Revolutionary Era, Nassau Hall has stood at the northern end of campus with two bronze tiger statues flanking the steps of this iconic building; now, it remains a popular tourist photo-op. Firestone Library, named for the tire tycoon, stands covered with a shroud of mystery around its six labyrinthine floors packed full of knowledge. The University Chapel is another sight to behold, but it was not until I felt the weight of the silence beneath its soaring ceiling pressing against my eardrums did I feel the enormity of this edifice.

Much of the rest of the upper campus shares the same gothic “Hogwarts-esque” architecture, with engravings and gargoyles peering around archways—which can appear quite frightening under the light of a full moon. I sometimes spend my rarely idle afternoons staring at lampposts that look as though they came straight from Narnia. Don’t worry if you never get a chance to visit; every part of campus is as beautiful as it appears in photos and postcards.

The academic atmosphere here focuses on the undergraduates, as we have fewer graduate students, and the residential college system caters mainly to first- and second-year students.

Nearly all of the classes here, including the first year intro courses, are taught by professors, and it is not rare to be learning material from a text-

book the course professor authored. My microeconomics class, possibly the largest class at Princeton, still only enrolls less than 300 students and is taught by Harvey Rosen, former Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors for the US President.

It amazes me how, with such impressive experience, he is still willing to guide us bewildered freshmen through basic economics and stay after lectures to re-explain Photo courtesy of JACK CHING the concepts to those OLD NASSAU Jack poses with one of the Princeton tiof us who (accidentally) dozed off. This gers guarding the entrance to Nassau Hall. is the real Princeton experience: learning from Kemper, who plays Erin on The Office. I do not a professor who cares enough to make the con- believe there is any place outside of Princeton cepts come alive with humor. that can offer this kind of once-in-a-lifetime opAside from academics, the diversity of portunity.

Princeton students naturally leads to a huge No other university can even begin to spectrum of extracurricular activities. From compare itself to Princeton, where we can enthe plethora of a cappella groups (nothing re- joy a unique and intimate community of stusembling Glee, sadly), to the unexpected belly dents that revels in ostentatiously overusing dancing group, to the hundreds more student orange and black, especially when it is not Halinterest and cultural groups, students make sure loween. Boasting the best location on the East the bulletin boards and lampposts around cam- Coast, Princeton is only a convenient hour and pus are always a-flutter with the never-ending a half away from both Philadelphia and New supply of flyers. To me, the Triangle Club is the York City by train, so taking off a weekend for most quintessentially Princetonian of them all, a concert or exploring the city is never out of renowned for being the oldest collegiate musi- the question. Perhaps most importantly of all, cal comedy troupe that tours every year with Princeton is the perfect school for me, and I an entirely original student-composed musical. honestly cannot imagine loving college life as Playing in the pit orchestra for Triangle is awe- much anywhere else. inspiring, knowing Triangle alumni include F. While there is no place like home, I have Scott Fitzgerald, Brooke Shields, and even Ellie found a very close second at Princeton.

S PORTS Boys Cross Country:

apachepowwow.com

December 2009

Ashley Ethridge

Wendy’s High School Heisman

By REGINA LIU Staff Writer

Our very own senior Black Student Union (BSU) President Ashley Ethridge was announced as the 2009 winner of Wendy’s High School Heisman and was presented with a $10 Wendy’s gift card in recognition of “Outstanding Achievements in Scholarship, Athletics and Citizenship” on Dec. 9.

This came as no surprise to most, considering Ashley’s prestigious position as the Girls Varsity Volleyball team captain and a valuable member of Girls Varsity Soccer and Varsity Softball teams—in addition to her outside sports commitments. However, with her humble nature, Ashley felt “shocked and surprised” when she found out. In fact, she said, “I never thought in a million years that I would have won.” She warmly thanks Mrs. Laurie McQuaid for encouraging her to enter this contest, and also for the amazing recommendation letter that she wrote.

With her aspirations, there’s no doubt that Ashley will continue to excel in life. Her hope for the more immediate future is to attend USC with a double major in chemistry and business and a minor in Spanish, always keeping in mind her ambition of becoming a dentist. Her list of goals just keeps getting longer and longer.

Though her future doesn’t appear as if it will hold sports in the highest esteem, that isn’t to say her participation in sports isn’t important to her or a significant part of her life. “It’s almost as if you can’t describe me as a person without [soccer, softball and volleyball],” Ashley stated. “I play [these sports] every day and the girls on the teams I play on are like my second family.”

Perhaps it would be fair to accredit much of Ashley’s well-rounded personality and success to her experiences with sports, considering all they’ve taught her and the motivation that they provide for her to work hard in everything she does.

“My experiences have taught me how to manage my time between AP [classes], sports, friends, and family, and also how to prioritize.” She also added warmly, “But because of sports, I am driven to do well and I always push myself to the fullest in everything I do, whether it’s in school or trying to help others in my community.”

Ashley was clearly the best choice for Wendy’s High School Heisman, as she embodies the best AHS has to offer: ambition, humility, and outstanding ability. rliu@apachepowwow.com

Photo courtesy of ALEX ETHRIDGE

REPRESENTING Senior Ashley

Ethridge proudly accepts the 2009 Wendy’s High School Heisman award. Alongside her are Mrs. McQuaid, Mr. Spruill, and Mr. Vannasdall.

17

Going Against the Nation

By ANDREW LIN Staff Writer

The Arcadia Boys Cross Country team trained for CIF, State, and Nationals. Every mile was run in preparation for these crucial competitions. For the veterans on the team participating in this race, it took not just months to reach this point, but years. Years of cumulative training, of which each race was a stepping stone to the next. Years spent by previous generations, whose hard work paved the path for today’s runners. Crouching on the starting line in anticipation of the gun shot, the Apaches felt the weight of not just individual obligations but history.

On Nov. 21 at CIF Finals, the boys tested their championship mettle, racing on the infamously mountainous Mt. Sac course. As always, the Apaches began their day with a time-honored tradition: body-painting. For those unable to race in CIF Finals, this was a way to demonstrate support for their brethren who were racing. It was a scene out of Lord of the Flies: all around there were scores of shirtless, hollering, screaming, painted boys, tearing up the course waving banners and flags of blood-red.

And so, with this invested emotion, it was hard on the team when they qualified for State w i t h fourth

place medals. With a team time of 77:01, they once the racers pass, the spectators become runran faster as a team than first-place winner Dana ners themselves, off to the next spot to cheer.”

Leaving during the school week, the team Hills, which finished in 77:21. When asked about this apparent contradiction, Coach Jim flew up to Portland, Oregon to race in the Nike O’Brien explained, “Arcadia actually ran faster Team Nationals. According to Assistant Coach but placed our runners too far behind to win.” Alex Fan, “Nationals was an amazing experiDespite the day’s shortcomings, junior Am- ence. Nike treated our team like rockstars for a weekend, mar Moussa placed first catering to our in his race with a time needs for four of 14:32. Junior Allen days and three Leung summed it all up nights. We nevwhen he said, “The best er had to worry part of CIF finals was about what we having everyone there were going to to support. We only ran eat and what we average that day, but just were going to having the team there do next. I think gave us reason to run.” for me, the most Then State came on amazing thing I Nov. 28. Having been Photos courtesy of ERIC JOHANSEN was when there for the fifth conON THE PODIUM The Boys Cross Country saw we walked into secutive year in a row, the Apaches knew just team poses for their victory shot at State. Standing the hotel and what to do when they with them are the coaches that have helped the saw our ‘Arcadia XC Club’ flew up to Fresno to face boys get to where they are today. the fastest teams in the state of California. They banner hanging from the balcony with all the tasted sweet victory, again running the fastest other teams and individuals. I think that was team time of the day and placing third. Re- when it really sunk in that we had finally made counting his own experience at the State meet, it.” Never before had the team been invited to senior Patrick Wrobel said, “The best thing participate in the seeded race. Facing this new about Fresno is i the atmosphere level of competition, the team placed 20th in of tthe race—at every the nation, not as well as they had hoped, while turn there are people Ammar placed fourth. ccheering.

Though all the national acclaim, medals, When runners speed by trophies, and photo opportunities were great, the spectators, in the end the most personally rewarding things their voices go came in between races. Reflecting back on his out in an indis- time at Nationals, Allen recalled the “talent cernible roll of show, in which we sang.” When asked for his th thunder and all you most memorable experience, senior Yufei Fu ccan tell is that they put it best when he said, in the tersest manner aare there to suppossible, “Not really sure. It was all fun.” port their alin@apachepowwow.com team. And

Superstars of XC: Catrina McAlister and Ammar Moussa Alex Fan said, “From day one with Ammar we saw that he was as competitive a person as you could find. We have always said that with him, Staff Writer you better be a ton better than him if you want Last month, Catrina and Ammar placed to beat him because he will outrace and out-grit fourth and first at state, respectively, and were anyone that is even close to his level.” Catrina bases her success invited to the prestigious Nike this year on “getNationals race in Portland, ting to run with Oregon, where Ammar took [the boys’ team]. fourth. He broke the 15-minute [It] helped me three-mile barrier at State, with so much, they a finishing time of 14:59, a feat made me tough accomplished only twice in and when I ran the last 10 years. Catrina took with them it was 22nd place at Nationals, saythe best race-like ing, “It was a great honor to be situation I could chosen; only 3 other girls were sent as individuals to represent Photo courtesy of ERIC JOHANSEN have for practhe entire state of California.” DEADLY DUO Juniors Catrina tice. ” And then Throughout their entire McAlister and Ammar Moussa celebrate there is the quescross-country careers, both ath- after their victory at the State Meet. tion that all of us letes have worked incredibly hard to get to where they are today. Ammar’s sedentary, future Rascal chair-using common sterling performance has been attributed to the folk ask: “Why run?” Upon being asked this amount of work he’s put in, his vast talent, and, question, Ammar paused, laughed, and said, most importantly, his attitude. Assistant Coach “It’s hard to really describe what motivates me,

By ALEX ETHRIDGE & ANDREW LIN

and I get this question a lot. I think the best answer is that I run to compete, push my body to new limits, and to prove others wrong.” Of course, he did not accomplish it all alone, and he couldn’t have done it without his family.

“My family has been my rock,” Ammar said.

“My mom is the amazing one who makes sure I get all the good food that I need. My brother and father are always at my [cross country] meets, cheering me on and being there for me even when I don’t race my best.”

While the year slowly turns towards the anticipated track season, cross country isn’t quite over for them yet. When asked about her goals for the next track season, it’s evident that Catrina still has her eyes on the prize. “Track, I haven’t really thought about that yet!” she laughed. “I still have the USA Cross Country National Championships in February so I’m really looking forward to that. I hope to make it to the world meet this year!” If the goddess Nike has anything to say about it, that hope will become a reality. aethridge@apachepowwow.com alin@theapachepowwow.com

18 CALENDAR The Christmas I Saw Mommy Being Santa Claus

By CHERRY MO Carol Challenge

apachepowwow.com

December 2009

Across: 2) “You’re charming as an ____, Mr. Grinch” 3) “Bells on bobtails ring, making ______ bright” 6) “My true love gave to me ____ geese a-laying...”

9) “All of the other reindeer, used to ____ and call him names” 12) “In the _____, snow is glistening” 13) “Oh the _______ outside is frightful” 15) “A star, a star dancing in the night, with a tail as big as a ____” 16) “You better not pout, I’m telling you ____” 19) “There’s just one thing I ____, I don’t care about the presents” 20) “Hark the herald angels ____” 21) “In a one horse ____ sleigh” Down: 1) “All is calm, all is _____” 4) “Up on the housetop reindeer ____” 5) “Let earth receive her ___!”

7) “Then how the reindeer loved him, as they shouted out with ___” 8) “Frosty the Snowman was ____ as he could be” 10) “Troll the ___ Yuletide carol” 11) “But as for me and ___, we believe” 14) “Three French ___s, two turtle doves...”

17) “Walking ___ from our house Christmas Eve” 18) “This ___ to save me from tears” Graphic courtesy of ANDREADAMS.COM & POLYVORE.COM

123456789 Sudoku

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Young Dong Korean BBQ: Tofu For You were served a small salad with homemade spicy chili sauce). sweet and sour dressing. Opening appetizer, Soon after, the tofu soup was brought Staff Writer I assumed. I took a quick out, bubbling hot, in Oh, the weather outside is frightful. But glance over the menu but a black ceramic bowl the food is so delightful…especially on a cold didn’t find anything out of alongside the steamwinter day eating soup! As the chilly atmo- the ordinary. Combinations, ing hot rice, which sphere of the oncoming season begins to settle composed of either meat or was also encased in in, we begin to crave more and more hot foods assorted mixtures and a tofu a ceramic bowl as to keep ourselves warm and toasty. And what soup, ranged from $12-$15 well. The richness better way to do so than to dine on some spicy (also dependent on dinner and the saltiness of tofu soup? Spotted! T scurries into Young or lunch), everything on the seafood were Dong Tofu for a hot meal on a cold day. the tofu menu was almost perfectly balanced as Located $9, and items I mixed a few bites Photo courtesy of FLICKR.COM of the soup at a time in the Pavilions from the speplaza right next cial menu SIZZLE SIZZLE The BBQ with the rice. The to LA Fitness, on were at highwas soft and short ribs comes to your table tofu 1331 S. Baldwin est $14 and soupy but full of taste Ave #B, Young at lowest $5. sizzlin’ hot. and melded with the Dong Tofu is a Other than their specialty of soup nicely. After a while, the BBQ beef ribs small scale Kotofu, Young Dong also serves up arrived on a sizzling plate and I watched and rean restaurant many other dishes such as cold smelled in amazement as the onions under the easily overnoodles and Korean bean cakes. beef were grilled right before my eyes. The looked by many.

I ordered a BBQ Beef Rib ribs were perfectly tender, evenly marinated, Photo courtesy of FLICKR.COM (also known as galbi in Korean) and cooked to the tee.

This Korean BBQ restaurant CAUTION: HOT The seafood plus a seafood tofu combinaThe meal altogether was very delechas a comfort- tofu is a pairing of both saltiness tion. A few minutes after or- table and taste-bud-stimulating. The contrast able but elegant dering, the side dishes (called between all the cooled side dishes combined look. Its interior and satisfaction. banchan in Korean) came out. with the hot main dishes was an all encomis plain brown and black marbled tables and There were a total of six small dishes. The first passing-treat. Especially with the Christmas wood paneled floors. I arrived at Young Dong was mung bean cake, which is a flat pancake music blasting on the radio, I could definitely Tofu before the prime dinnertime for many, so made with ground beans, green onion and feel the holidays approaching. Young Dong there was no wait time at all. But I have heard bean sprouts. The other sides included kim- provided a tasty meal as well as a spicy culreports about long waiting times on busy Sat- chi, sweet and sour seaweed, spiced squid and tural experience. urday nights and during lunchtimes. cucumber over white cabbage, garlic infused Immediately after sitting down, we bean sprouts, and oi kimchi (cucumbers in gluttongirl@apachepowwow.com

By GLUTTON GIRL

December 2009

apachepowwow.com

Pache’mon Adventures–Episode 3

By BEVERLY CHEN

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CALENDAR Have a Good “Break”!

By BEVERLY CHEN

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