OPINIONS
“Excessive senior year expenses discourage student participation” pg. 5
FOCUS
SPORTS
Prom 2017”
against Lancers”
“True as it can be...
“Matadors prevail pg. 11
pg. 6-7
THE MATADOR
SAN GABRIEL HIGH/APRIL 6, 2017/ VOLUME 62 / ISSUE 8
WWW.THEMATADORSGHS.US/801 S. RAMONA ST., SAN GABRIEL, CA 91776
Environmental Club camps at Joshua Tree Sydney Trieu Greeted by the sight of thousands of yellow blossoms amid the desert sprawl, the Environmental Club camped at the Joshua Tree National Park for three days and two nights during spring break from March 26 to 28. Twelve students attended the trip, chaperoned by club adviser and history teacher Henry Osborne, history teacher Eric Hendrickson, counselor Solinet Wong, and two San Gabriel High School (SGHS) alumni, Leon Chan and Judy Huang. After meeting at SGHS, the group began the two-hour drive to the park, where they would spend the following days breaking bread and hiking together. “[Camping with the club] was different because the people there weren’t in my close friend circle,” sophomore Wendy Zamora said. “I had to step out more and socialize with near strangers, but the people there definitely made the experience more fun and made me feel less of an outsider.” Without phone signal, the group was far removed from the typical demands of everyday life. Instead, they passed the time playing card games, preparing meals, and above all else—bonding with one another. “I liked hiking with [the group], hanging around the campfire, and having a chance to chat with the students and the people who came with us,” Osborne said. “We were able to get away from school in a beautiful location and spend time talking with [one another].” The company was not the only thing that provided solace to the campers, however. From the towering boulders and Joshua trees to the nighttime sea of stars, the scenery was the hallmark of the trip. “The best part of the trip was how beautiful the park was,” Environmental Club president junior Vincent Tieu
Photo courtesy of Tom Quach
T h e E n v i ro n m e n t a l C l u b s i t s t o g e t h e r o n a l a r g e b o u l d e r a f t e r h i k i n g t o S k u l l R o c k . said. “All the flowers were starting to bloom, especially since it rained a lot recently.” With the Cottonwood Campgrounds on the south side of the national park as their home base, the students and chaperones embarked on Joshua Tree’s iconic trails, such as Barker Dam, Mastodon Peak, Skull Rock, and Wall Street Mill. For meals, the campers had sandwiches and hamburgers for lunch and dinner, respectively, on the first day. On the second day, they had hot dogs for breakfast,
Choreo ends competition season with Nationals Anny Li Wu The San Gabriel High School’s (SGHS) Choreo dance team completed their competition season by attending their first Miss Drill Dance Team USA (MDDTUSA) Nationals. The competition took place at the University of California, Irvine on March 2225. Choreo competed in two categories: Pom and Small Female Hip Hop. The team placed fifth with their Small Female Hip Hop routine. MDDTUSA Nationals took place across three days, but the categories Choreo competed in took place on March 25. Arriving at 9 a.m. and leaving close to midnight, the competition was long and tiring for the Choreo team. “I definitely did not like how we had to watch the [Miss Teen DDTUSA-International, Mr. Dance USA, and Miss MDDTUSA] pageant [in between] our awards ceremony because it was a very long pageant,” senior captain of Choreo Sharon Lee said. “Like congrats to those girls [and boys] but we had to stay until 11:30 p.m.!” Though Choreo competed against familiar faces from previous competitions, they were also against teams from Japan that competed and placed in almost every category they competed in. “It was intimidating because the teams from Japan were so good, and they were so on point,” junior Yamile Monroy said. The event was not only about competing. Throughout the day, different teams supported one another by saying “Good luck” and “Good job.” “I really enjoyed the vibes and energy from the other teams,” senior April Vuong said. “I love how throughout the day, we and other teams encouraged each other before and after performances.”
bagels for lunch, and chili for dinner. Breakfast on the third day, right before leaving the park, was a free-for-all of the leftover food. Overall, the trip was met with satisfaction. “There was windy weather, and people chose not to put the rainfly on their tents. Hot dogs for breakfast was an interesting choice, but it wasn’t altogether bad, I must say,” Osborne said. “All in all, I thought the trip went off without a hitch. It was very successful.”
UC Riverside hosts 28th Annual Chicano/Latino Youth Conference Nian Capili
Photo courtesy of SGHS Choreo
SGHS Choreo takes silly pictures while w a i t i n g f o r j u d g e s t o f i n a l i z e a w a rd s . In addition to awards, the day ended with the top 10 U.S. National Champions, teams that scored the highest points throughout the whole competition, competing with each other for the Grand National Championships. “I loved seeing the [U.S. National Champions] of the entire competition perform again,” senior co-captain of Choreo Ivy Ly said. Without SGHS’s Associated Student Body (ASB), Choreo would have not been able to attend MDDTUSA Nationals. “I didn’t think about the trophy or the placement, just the new memories and experience that I would gain,” junior Fionna Luu said. “Knowing that [ASB] gave us money to go to [MDDTUSA Nationals], I wanted to perform my best for them.” Choreo hopes to compete again next year at MDDTUSA Nationals as better dancers.
The University of California, Riverside (UCR) will be hosting the 28th Annual Chicano/Latino Youth Conference, which is meant to encourage the community, especially youth, to seek a high-ranking education and learn about their history and identity. The event is completely free-of-charge and is open to all high school students and parents on April 29. “El movimiento sigue: Educacion, Orgullo, y Liberación Sin Fronteras,” which translates into “the movement follows education, pride, and liberation without borders” is the theme for this year. The upcoming event will give students the opportunity to attend workshops that give information about universities, admission requirements, careers, and special interests. Not only will there be workshops for students, but there will also be a college resource fair that will provide more valuable data regarding other universities and what they have to offer for everyone interested. To give the students that push they need to feel more motivated, there will also be motivational speakers presenting information to empower and inspire students through the many workshops. The end goal is to persuade students to strive for a higher education. Lunch and entertainment will be supplied to students along with the chance to communicate with current college students and pick up personal experience and information from them. Aside from students, parents and guardians are invited to the event and share this experience with their children. The conference will provide parent workshops and distribute information regarding parent support, academic success, financial aid, and other informative workshops about the success of their children. The Chicano/Latino Youth Conference will be on April 29 at UCR and run from 8:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m. San Gabriel High School will provide transportation; interested students should contact Bea Macias in the office.
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017 NEWS 2 takes field trip to Claremont San Gabriel publications WTTF McKenna, Pomona College during break place in state write-offs THE MATADOR
Photo by Michelle Ho
Michelle Ho
Photo courtesy of Sabina Miller
T h e S a n G a b r i e l p u b l i c a t i o n s t e a m s p o s e w i t h t h e i r a w a rd s a f t e r t h e s t a t e c o m p e t i t i o n a t R a n c h o D o m i n g u e z P re p i n L o n g B e a c h . K at hy Q uach Placing in several events, the Matador Newspaper and El Camino Real Yearbook competed in the Southern California Journalism Education Association (SCJEA) writeoffs held at Rancho Dominguez Prep in Long Beach on March 25. Participants competed in various categories: news, novice news, editorial, editorial cartoon, features, sports, critical review, layout, news photography, feature photography, sports photography, yearbook copy, yearbook layout, yearbook theme development, and a new event, the news quiz bowl. Out of more than 280 competitors, many individual students of the Matador Newspaper and El Camino Real Yearbook took home medals, awards, and accolades. From the Matador Newspaper, senior Shirley Dinh placed second in news; junior Joanne Chau received an Excellent rating in novice news; senior Thomas Wang placed 10th in editorial; junior Jennifer Cheung placed seventh in editorial cartoon; senior Uyen Sy placed 14th in features; junior Michele Thai placed sixth in sports; senior Kim Pham placed 11th in critical review; senior Kelly Ho placed sixth in layout; senior Kimberly Wong placed second and senior Sunny Chen placed fourth in news photography; and senior Sydney Trieu won the Ted Tajima Scholarship for $1,000. From El Camino Real Yearbook, junior Leo Yue placed first and senior Kimberly Wong placed sixth in feature photography; senior Jazmin Campos placed ninth and senior Chi Hoang placed 10th in sports photography; seniors Victoria Vu and Gilbert Gallegos placed seventh as a team in yearbook copy and third in yearbook layout; and juniors Jacob Rodriguez and Sydney Tran placed sixth as a team in yearbook theme development. Each event had different protocol. Writers and artists listened to a conference and asked questions in order to write an article or draw a cartoon, while photographers selected and sent in a picture from this year ’s yearbook. “Photographers had to attend a workshop, where mentors were on site to critique the work submitted by us,” Yue said. “In the end, everyone walked out a more knowledgeable photographer.” The annual competition provided an opportunity for many publication members to grow and develop their skills.
In an effort to give students a taste of college life, Working Towards The Future (WTTF), a club dedicated to preparing students for college, seized the opportunity to tour the Claremont Colleges during spring break, which consists of five nearby private college campuses: Claremont McKenna (CMC), Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, Pomona College, and Scripps. “I was skeptical towards how beneficial the field trip would be because I didn’t believe there was much to know about the colleges. It was right in the middle of spring break, but it was worth my time,” junior Ezra Banlaoi said. “I never even knew these colleges existed, let alone that there were five whole liberal art communities so close to one another.” Although WTTF officially received a tour of only Pomona College and Claremont McKenna, the club’s adviser Melissa Bishop was able to display her personal knowledge by leading the club through the other colleges in between tours. As her father did for her, Bishop wants to give options to students that satisfy their personal interests. “I believe firmly that knowing about options and having choices for your future is an issue of social justice,” Bishop said. “I worry about the access that [students] get to the information, and I want to provide [students] with that access to the best of my ability.” Students were expected to arrive at school at approximately 7:50 a.m. on March 29. About 30 minutes later, a bus with about 25 students arrived at Pomona College, awaiting the first tour. First year Pomona tour guide student Emma Vorenberg briefly shared her college experiences to the club and added in facts about the school. “At Pomona they have language houses, so they have dorms or different buildings that you can choose to live in that only speak one language, like Spanish, Russian, or Chinese,” senior Valeria Duran said. After the first tour, the students spent about an hour and a half walking through all five college communities in order to receive a firsthand understanding of how the colleges differ, despite their proximity. Another tour took place at Claremont McKenna after having lunch at Scripps College. Students were truly able to see that each college has their own distinct educational aspects like various majors that sets themselves apart from the others. Tour guide Griffin Ferre explained that one can differentiate each college in terms of Harry Potter: Harvey Mudd is Ravenclaw of the four houses due to its STEM program; Scripps, being an all-girls school, is the Beauxbatons Academy featured in The Goblet of Fire; and Pitzer is Hufflepuff because of its environmental-oriented properties, such as the succulents they grow. However, there has been debate over which colleges are Gryffindor and Slytherin. “Us students here at Claremont McKenna consider ourselves the Gryffindors, but the people over at Pomona think otherwise because for one, no want wants to be Slytherin,” Ferre said. “Pomona is the first college to be established like Slytherin and we do have the Gryffindor colors.” Nevertheless, the field trip gave students the ability to understand that there are many colleges available, and that they all have on different focuses.
NEWS THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017 THE MATADOR
S G H S h o s t s A U S D ’s first robotics competition
Photo by Michelle Ho
Ei l een O ng San Gabriel High School will be hosting Alhambra Unified School District’s (AUSD) first robotics competition on April 8. MESA adviser Nicolas Nguyen created the Robotics Challenge to provide an opportunity for students to engage in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. “In the United States, the education system has been pushing for STEM learning, and I see robotics as a good fit,” Nguyen said. “[Robotics] involves mechanics, science, and math. It’s very well-rounded; it’s not in one particular area.” Sophomore Abel Sotelo chose to participate in the competition because of his interest in robotics. “[The competition] gives me more hands-on experience,” Sotelo said. “After I finish programming and coding, I move the robot around obstacles and make it pick up a ball.” Despite having no prior knowledge about robotics, students like junior Valerie Montelo decided to make the competition a learning experience. “It was a challenge, because I had a month to build the robot and I knew nothing about robots,” Montelo said. “I’ve been researching information and testing my robot a lot.” The Robotics Challenge is open to AUSD high school students, including those from Alhambra, Century, Independence, Mark Keppel, and San Gabriel. Teams of three to six students will build a robot and compete in a game developed by the coordinating team. The students will also present their engineering design process with a blueprint and an academic poster. The blueprint will include their programming code, while the academic poster will show three math and science concepts the team used. The Robotics Challenge will be from on April 8 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room.
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SAVE visits USC for ‘fake news’ conference
Photo courtesy of Hanya Hendrickson
SAVE members stand in front of the Trojan statue at USC before the conference begins. Kathy Quach Students attended a conference at University of Southern California (USC) on April 1 to explore the origin of “fake news,” its effects, and how it spreads. Upon arriving at 4 p.m., students received free tacos from a Kogi truck and then moved to listen to a panel of four speakers. After the speeches, audience members were given the opportunity to ask questions. Students found the conference very informative and correlative in light of recent events. There were facts and stories presented at the panel, although there was no definitive proposal to combating “fake news.” The speakers presented their different stances on the topic and how they believed it should be dealt with. “One speaker said that we shouldn’t restrict or ban fake news because people can recognize it,” junior Carie Tu said. “Another said that hearing memorable news, even if it’s fake, will affect you and make you spread it.” During the questioning period, junior Maxwell Wong asked for their “thoughts on horserace media coverage and how it affects elections.” “[I] don’t remember the exact wording, [but one of the speakers] responded by pretty much saying they were bad,” Wong said. For junior Britney Ting, the most memorable discussion was the origin of fake news. “One of the speakers mentioned that fake news originated in the poor neighborhoods of Macedonia in which children wrote and published fake articles, and the articles got so popular they began generating money from ad revenue,” Ting said. Students concluded their day at USC around 9 p.m. and took a bus back to San Gabriel.
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THE MATADOR
A better “Tom”morrow
Tom Cheah Trial and error Throughout high school, I’ve always felt as if I was defined by my academic or extracurricular accomplishments. However, to me, the time and effort that I put in towards those accomplishments are what define my character. Over the four years of high school, I’ve learned the most in my struggles. When I first joined Speech and Debate as a freshman, I stumbled over my words and could not get through a speech without distracting pauses. The activity challenged me in ways that I have never imagined before; more often than not, I was unable to learn new techniques within a single practice session. It took multiple trials and errors for me to increase my volume or learn how to use my eyebrows properly. However, I stuck with practice and put hours into perfecting my craft and honing my flow. After four years of speech tournaments and countless hours of practice, I can now speak more fluidly, clearly, and confidently. My journey in improving my speaking abilities has taught me the importance of perseverance and patience. Results do not always come immediately, but it is still important to keep trying. Progress often comes in baby steps, and the struggles make the results so much more meaningful. In addition to being challenged by Speech and Debate, I found myself struggling with a subject that I thought was my strong suit—math. In my junior year, I took AP Calculus AB and often could not wrap my mind around concepts when I saw them for the first time. Initially, the Fundamental Theorems of Calculus did not sound like they were written in English and the heights for the shell method felt like they were hiding from me. After cruising through math classes for 11 years, struggling in a math class was a new feeling and a humbling experience. Though I did not master concepts quickly, I learned from my mistakes and learned how to ask for help. Going to my teacher’s tutoring sessions after school, asking questions, and working through practice problems helped me learn at my own pace. Through trial and error, my mistakes eventually became my strengths. After reflecting on my four years at San Gabriel, I would like to offer some advice to underclassmen—to both the ones that have just begun their high school journeys and the ones who are almost done. Do not compare yourself to anyone else but yourself; it would be an unfair scale. Everyone learns and progresses at different paces. The only person you need to be better than is your past self. Treat every experience as a learning opportunity. Not everything will go your way and that is okay; it is how life works. Often times, you can learn more from a mistake than you can from a success. Learning how to handle and gracefully bounce back from mistakes will definitely help you out later on in life. You will need to work hard in order to accomplish your goals; perseverance and patience are key. Most importantly, stay hungry for improvement and never settle. The four years go by fast, so make the most of them.
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017 Editorial
OPINIONS
District’s free test prep classes fall short of expectations With the ever-present demand of standardized testing in today’s society, the SAT and the ACT are mandatory for most college admissions. Although the impact of the tests vary for each college, it is still optimal to perform well to increase the chance of getting accepted. Because of this, many students take prep classes over the summer or during the school year to raise their test scores. However, these prep classes are often expensive. Recently, the Alhambra Unified School District (AUSD) received a grant that allowed the District to offer a free six-week SAT prep course through Revolution K12, an organization dedicated to helping students achieve academic success, for sophomores and juniors. Students attend after school class from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and take practice exams on Saturdays. Despite the benefits Revolution K12 may offer, the prep course’s quality speaks for itself. First of all, the practice tests are self-scored, meaning that students are required to input every multiple choice answer before receiving their scores online. This is a modern day inconvenience, as the time that could be used for learning. A Revolution Prep scanner to conveniently score the tests could prevent this issue, and scantrons are already provided in the first place. Secondly, there are no proper explanations to incorrectly answered questions on the practice tests. It is inconceivable to think students can improve their test scores without
learning from their mistakes, and since the instructors do not review these questions in class, it becomes counterproductive. Three hours of class time is a lot and it could mean an extra three hours of sleep. Doing sample problems for the entire period will not correct mistakes on the tests. Not only are the practice tests self-scored, but they are also exactly the same as those on Khan Academy. The first practice test, version 1R, was exactly the same as Khan Academy’s SAT Test #1. The rest of the other tests that were checked were found on Khan Academy. However, the only differences are that students do not have to go to school every Saturday to take it. Their tests are scored the moment they finish them, and Khan Academy provides explanations to questions answered incorrectly. Although the essay prompts are different, its significance is miniscule. Although taking the practice exams simulate a similar experience of taking the real exams, students’ comfort and familiarity does not make up for the lack of tools and knowledge. The purpose of the SAT is to test what students have been learning, not their mental state at that time. Despite the District taking advantage of this opportunity, AUSD should offer a more qualified test prep course to better prepare students. Although the District may have to pay an extra cost, it will be beneficial in the long run with potentially higher scores, compounding students’ success and even bolstering the District’s reputation.
College decisions do not define students Tom C heah The month of March has a little something for everyone. For basketball lovers, there is March Madness. For passionate mathematicians or pizza lovers, there is Pi Day. For high school seniors, there are the long awaited college decisions. Emotions run high as students eagerly open their college portals or check their emails. Students experience anything from euphoria to heartbreak as they find out whether they have been accepted to their dream schools or not. In the midst of all the excitement and overwhelming emotions, they often tunnel vision on their acceptances or rejections and lose sight of the bigger picture. College decisions do not define students nor does it reflect upon their self-worth. There is a popular misconception that where students attend college makes or breaks their futures. Getting into your dream school does not magically open all doors of life. Hard work and determination are still required to accomplish your goals. Conversely, getting rejected from your dream school does not mean your life is over. All colleges offer immense amounts of educational and career opportunities.
Your desire to learn and pursue higher education should not be dependent on what colleges you get accepted into. It is up to you to define your college experience. There is no set pathway to success. In fact, the definition of success varies largely from person to person. Try to define what your life goals are and use college as a medium to achieve them. The college applications process can be treated as a learning experience. You win some and you lose some, but there is a lesson to be learned from the craziness of college applications. From the rejections, you can develop resilience and learn how to bounce back gracefully. At the very least, you have gained some experience in the application process that can potentially help in future job applications. College rejections can be tough to deal with. However, it can help to remember that they do not define you or your character. In a year from now, you will be on new adventures and probably not even remember the rejections. Ultimately, it will turn out okay. You are in control of your own future, so keep doing your best. As the college decision season finally comes to a close, seniors should celebrate their high school accomplishments and the fact that they will be graduating soon.
Anti-prom celebrates diverse adolescent counterculture K i m P ham Prom has become a rite of passage, a culmination of four years of high school work and play, friendships and feuds. The typical prom scenario envisioned has probably remained the same as it did when it first came about: buy an overpriced dress or suit that will only be worn once, arrive with the date you stressed out about finding for weeks, and savor every moment of the last dance you have with your peers. But if you remove all the hype, the unnecessary stressing, the popularity contest, the hole in your wallet, what remains is the same: just a gyrating sea of teenagers in a cramped dancefloor, forming the inevitable conga line to Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina.” Welcome to the anti-Prom, which was dubbed the prom “for kids who can’t spend $1000 on a dance, or can’t safely bring a same-sex date, or who simply have subversive personalities,” by Jack Martin, the New York Public Library’s Assistant Coordinator for Young Adult Services. Martin helped plan the NYPL’s fourth annual anti-Prom. Surprisingly, a library
is not the strangest anti-prom location to have popped up over the years. Students have arranged for anti-Proms to come in the form of movie nights, concerts, basements, and even cemeteries. The anti-prom is different. It’s a rejection of prom culture— of excess, consumer values, conformity, social hierarchies, authority and its rules and expectations. It’s this generation’s celebration of diverse counter cultures. Junior Taylor Luu believes that attending one would be a unique experience to recall amongst her high school memories. “I think prom is just like any other dance, except it happens to be your last one,” Luu said. “[Going to] an anti-prom sounds fun because it doesn’t seem like you have to worry about spending too much money or finding the right dress. It’s just chill.” Whether the attire requires black tie or is casual Friday, a party is a party nonetheless. The outfit, the ride, the date—the anti-prom allows these bits and pieces to become even more minute in detail once everyone hits the dance floor. Prom should be about the people you spend it with and what you make of the night, not about what you post on Instagram afterwards.
OPINIONS THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017
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THE MATADOR
Class council fails to facilitate democratic values T h o m a s Wang Democracy is the pinnacle of any government, and like all government systems, it can be deeply flawed. One look at San Gabriel High School’s (SGHS) class council system, and that is apparent. It is not the people who are elected and chosen who are the problem with the class council system but the structure and set up of it. For the most part, class councils are a popularity contest. Most of the time, advertising boils down to cutesy pins to wear and a photo to share on Facebook. That’s it. There is no grandiose claims to make the school any better, no signs to know why they are qualified---just a simple “Vote for me.” Donald Trump at least had a vision. This is just sterile. However, this is not exactly the fault on the candidates themselves. The fault lies in all of us. Oftentimes, the voting population does not ask what exactly the candidates want to do should they be elected. The students are not responsible voters. Moreover, SGHS does not provide a platform where candidates can express their beliefs and policies nor does the school actively promote these behaviors.
Despite Junior Class Council and Senior Class Council going through an interview process, the accountability of these interviewers are in question because they are peer interviews. Even if there is an adult vetting the process, it the students who swing the decisions. It is not uncommon for class council members to be friends. Even if interviewers actively try to be objective, innate bias already exist, and this can jeopardize the legitimacy of the selection process. An objective third party is needed. In order to promote a more dignified class council system, the school should slot time for student engagement with the candidates during school time. Furthermore, the school should take strides in introducing the candidates through social media, as a way to bridge the constituency and the potential members and avoid the popularity contest. Despite taking away valuable teaching time, this is necessary to build a stronger school community. Something San Gabriel severely lacks. Overall, the selection of class council members is deeply flawed. It does not encourage candidates to put extra effort in “selling” themselves, but promotes a culture based on shallow advertisement. Even if the current class councils members are doing a swell job, reforms need to be made to ensure the most effective student government.
Excessive senior year expenses discourage student participation A n n y L i Wu Does it really have to be expensive to attend a night full of memories? It is no surprise that each year seniors spend a lot of money on school activities. Whether it is purchasing a yearbook, going to prom or Grad Nite, purchasing a cap and gown, or paying for graduation tickets for your friends and family, these activities often create lasting memories, despite being optional. Senior school activities for public schools should be a portion of the original price if not free. Imagine not being able to go to any of these activities due to the price being overpriced and staying at home instead of being at prom or Grad Nite where everyone wants you. While these expenses can go towards college tuition, these moments can create everlasting memories. Looking at the school’s demographic, the majority of the students at San Gabriel High School come from a low income background, as over 80 percent of student receive free or reduced lunch. The cost in order to get the full senior experience is a financial burden for many students. Thus, the school should provide opportunities for these students to experience and not leave them out. The school could possibly find other activities that are just as fun and less expensive. Instead of going to Disneyland for Grad Nite, there are other theme parks that could be more inexpensive and equally enjoyable. The prices of certain events and items might be higher than it needs to be. This makes it seem like school is raising the price to make money off of students which is not what a public school should be doing. If that is what the school is doing, they should take that money and pay for those students that can not afford to go to these activities or reduce the original price of the activity and have the students pay the rest.
MATADOR
Editors-in-Chief News Editors
Opinions Editors Focus Editors Life and Art Editors Sports Editors Features Editors Copy Editors Photo Editors Artist Business Managers Website Editors Multimedia Editors Blogs Manager Community Editors Adviser
Sydney Trieu Thomas Wang Joanne Chau Nathan Ta Sunny Chen Eileen Ong Karina Matias Kim Pham Lu Yue Wang Jennifer Cheung Jessica Tran Uyen Sy Kim Ta Michele Thai Selina Han Kelly Ho Shirley Dinh Eva Hernandez Andy Yung Sunny Chen Michelle Ho Vincent Maresca Anny Li Wu Christina Lov Tom Cheah Kathy Quach Kevin Contreras Michelle Ho Vivian Wong Carlos Carillo Virginia Situ Jennifer Kim
Reporters: Nian Capilli, Lucas Jorgensen, Chelsea Li, Vincent Maresca, Kayla Tang The Matador is published monthly by the journalism class of San Gabriel High School. 1,600 copies per issue are published at J. E. J Print Inc. The Matador is a public forum for student expression and highly encourages responses in reaction to issues discussed in the paper. The opinions expressed are those of the writers, not the faculty or administration. Articles without bylines are the opinion of the staff. Submit comments as a letter to the editor, signed (anonymity is guaranteed if requested), to H-2, or Ms. Kim’s mailbox.
Graphic by Sunny Chen and Kevin Contreras
The Matador Bullring What would you like to see at your prom?
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I’d probably like to have a variety of music being played, and also a lot of different activities at prom, such as a photo booth and a good dance floor.” -Joseph Dolloway, 9th grade
I think at my prom, I’d like good food and not anything disgusting.” -Kabrina Bennett, 10th grade
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I would like to see fancy decorations and something that I’d remember for years.” -Marco Tam, 11th grade
I want to see pretty decorations where I could take amazing pictures with my friends.“ -Amy Huang, 12th grade Photos by Sunny Chen
Forecasting “sunny” days
Sunny Chen An open letter to my freshman self Dear Freshman Sunny, I don’t think you’re ready for the amount of personal growth that’s about to take place within the next four years of your life. Physically, I’d say you only get about an inch or two taller (sorry, Mom), but what I’m really talking about is inner growth—growth as a friend, a daughter, a leader, and as an individual. At this time in your life, you have absolutely no clue who you are yet, no direction of where you’re headed, and most definitely not the vaguest notion of what you want to do. So, you’re going to try everything. I know that it’s going to sometimes feel like a waste of time; not everything you join is going to work out for you, and that’s okay. Trial and error has always been your method for self-discovery and sometimes, the path you take teaches you that you’d rather do something else. Towards the end of your high school career, some of your closest friends are from the clubs and sports that you will no longer be in, so no, it was never really a waste of your time. The extracurriculars that do hold your interest however, are credited for some of the more defining moments of your high school career. You are doing things that you genuinely care about, and you give them your all. You’re one of the lucky ones when it comes to friends. As most high schoolers spend the first few months searching for their perfect group of friends, you already know exactly where you belong. It is alongside the people that you have known since elementary school, and it is with them that you develop your sense of humor and outlook on life with. You’ll be happy to hear that you never have to go through the quintessential hallmark of all high school: the struggle to fit in with one particular “clique” (ugh). Although this unwavering friendship is very reassuring, do not let that limit you from talking to your classmates and forming new friendships (i.e. don’t be afraid to talk to upperclassmen). That would truly be a shame in a school full of so many interesting people; people who you have so much to learn from. Even with your amazing support group, high school is not going to be easy. At all. I hate to be dramatic and all, but there are going to be times that you’re going to question everything you’re doing. And at one point or another, you’ll ask yourself if any of it is worth the stress you are putting yourself through. But, as the side of you which I admire the most does, you’ll tough it out, change your perspective, and keep going. I can confidently say that the seemingly overwhelming problems that you are currently going through right now will not even matter in a year. You don’t know it just yet, but these are the days that must happen to you, Freshman Sunny. Have the best time, You (in four years) P.S. You should probably spend more time with your dog.
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THE MATADOR
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017
Get Lit team triumphs at Tri-City Slam
LIFE & ART
Nintendo Switch fumbles during launch Vincent Maresca
Photo courtesy of Catherine Burkhart
Left to right: senior Eva Her nandez, sophomore Donna Hernandez, senior Azucena Pacheco, juniors Erika Duran a n d Ta b a t h a P e r e z , a n d s e n i o r A m a n d a M o l i n a . Eva Her nandez As the school year draws to a close, students are focusing on AP exams, ACT’s and SAT’s, and final assignments. For the San Gabriel High School (SGHS) Get Lit poetry team, however, every moment counts as they build momentum for competition. On March 21, the school hosted the Young Aspiring Writers with Power (YAWP): GetLit Tri City Slam in the auditorium. The SGHS team was joined by the Alhambra and Mark Keppel High School teams, and SGHS alumnus Alex Luu hosted the slam. “I feel like we were the most experienced team,” Catherine Burkhart, English teacher and Get Lit team coach, said. “I feel like it was a very evenly matched competition. But, I think that we have experience and passion on our side, which [allowed] us to win.” Seniors Amanda Molina and Azucena Pacheco, juniors Erika Duran and Tabatha Perez, and sophomore Donna Hernandez performed during the slam, gaining experience at being on stage in front of an audience.
“I think [the team] did really good,” Perez said. “From seeing them every day and watching them at practice, I think we all improved.” However, because the team members had not performed their finished poems in front of a large audience before, their execution was less than perfect. This was taken in stride by all of the members and is being used as a lesson to drive them to improvement. “We have really solid writing,” Pacheco said. “I think we just need to really hype each other up.” Their efforts were rewarded by the end of the day, and the team took home the Tri City Slam trophy, which had remained elusive from the SGHS team for the past few years. “I think [the win] was deserved,” Molina said. “Our performances were really good for the time being, and I think that this is just a precursor of what’s to come for the Classic Slam.” The team performed well overall and was met with healthy competition from the other two teams present at the slam. And, as the days move closer to the regional Classic Slam competition, it is evident that the team will only improve.
Nintendo’s current console, the Nintendo Switch, is nearing its first month anniversary. People now see that it is now safe to talk about and give any criticisms about the console, one being that the overall appearance of the Switch is lacking and rather barren compared to its predecessors. Another common criticism seems to be the lack of launch titles and even the lack of the Switches available for sale. Amazon users are selling their consoles for a quick extra 100 dollars. But in recent news, Nintendo has declared to double their production rate of the console. With every announcement, there is always a criticism here and there, doubting the lack of consoles to be nothing more than a “cash scam.” Various consumers have spoken their opinion on this questionable shortage, calling it a “scam.” But at the same time, customers lust over the Switch’s return in GameStops, Best Buys, and other businesses. Despite the lack of titles, with only four new and original games in Switch’s arsenal as of April, it is certainly shocking that Nintendo would release games long after the Switch’s release instead of delaying the Switch and having many games on
launch day. Despite Nintendo finally wanting to move away from the format of the Wii, the Switch bears shocking resemblance. In fact, the whole system just seems like a more functional Wii U, having a gamepad with removable sides and can be connected to the TV. Even the option of Miis returned, although it is optional. Then again, Miis have become more of an icon and less reliant on the era of Wii, as they are avatars on the 3DS and even have a mobile app based on social media named Miitomo. Although the Switch asks for an account and never mentions making a Mii at first glance, the option is clear in the account settings. Also, the Switch is breaking Nintendo tradition by asking for a paid internet service to support the multiplayer heavy games to come, including Splatoon 2. It seems Nintendo really wants this console to become a new flagship series on its own two legs. However, the barren interface of the gamepad itself compared to the consoles’ interface before is proving rather hard. But within time, the Switch could change the tides of gaming and end up as a spiritual successor to the Wii family. Photo courtesy of Nintendo
Spring Art Gallery set to host student artwork Shirley Dinh Hosted by the Art Club, the Spring Gallery will be held in the foyer of the auditorium from April 12 to 14. Multiple art pieces will be included in the gallery, such as paintings, drawings, and ceramic pieces made by students. Any student on campus may submit art to showcase as long as it does not contain nudity, violence, and offensive or sexual messages. “Since this is a school event, it’s a great opportunity to show everyone, people’s thoughts, art, and creativity,” sophomore and treasurer of Art Club Angela Lu said. There will also be a button making station available
to students in front of the gallery. The custom buttons and pre-made buttons will all be sold for $1. A threeinch diameter circle template will be provided in order to customize the design for the custom button. Students will also be given the chance to vote for their top three art pieces. The three artists of the artworks with the most votes will receive prizes. The Spring Gallery will be open during lunch and afterschool from 3-4 p.m. Art submissions are due tomorrow, April 7. Digital artworks must be sent to artclub.sghs@gmail.com, while traditional fine art pieces must be brought to art teacher and Art Club adviser Karen Keller at SA-8 or to any Art Club member. Students are allowed to submit more than one artwork or art piece.
Movie review: Beauty and the Beast does not live up to hype
Photo courtesy of Disney
Jennifer Cheung A film about a young woman who speaks to talking furniture and develops romantic feelings for her father’s kidnapper who resembles Chewbacca’s cousin with anger issues is not a movie that many would be willing to watch. However, Disney and its whimsical magic prove otherwise. Twice. Set in a tiny village in historical France, Belle, played by Emma Watson, is a beautiful young woman who goes in search of her missing father. On her journey, she is imprisoned by the same person who captured her father—a beast, played by Dan Stevens, who is actually a handsome prince cursed by a spell that disfigured his appearance. Belle befriends the talking furniture inside Beast’s castle, discovering the true nature and personality behind his rugged image. The first issue is Beast himself. When “beast” comes to mind, pretty is the last thing that would
describe the character. Beast is not frightening enough, although his image is more “realistic” than the original. He should have been more horrifying. After all, he is the creature that has been tormenting the village for years. The next problem lies within Gaston, the most handsome man in the village, played by Luke Evans. Although he is appealing, he is as arrogant as he is handsome. His notorious stuck-up attitude is not carried through compared to the original, however. It would have been nice to feel his rotten personality through the screen—enough for audiences to straight up hate the man at first glance. As a regular viewer of most Disney’s films, I feel that their live-action movies do not transcribe the same mystical aura that their animated films do. I remember watching Beauty and the Beast as a child and imagined that I actually was living in a tiny rural French village. That movie was far ahead of its time, teaching children that kidnappers, with enough love, can turn into handsome men, and that the prettiest girl in town might be a weirdo. Jokes aside, I did learn a lesson from watching the film: that others should not be treated based on their appearance. Watching this remake, on the other hand, I felt disappointed that my favorite animated film had been “replaced” with a letdown. Beauty and the Beast released March 17 of this year replaced cartoons with live-action and computergenerated imagery. With most remakes, critics tend to state that nothing can compare to the original film. Unfortunately, Beauty and the Beast proves this stereotype. In retrospect, the movie itself is great when not compared to the original. Disney is talented at creating films that can relate to every child and adult in existence. However, the remake of Beauty and the Beast is overhyped, probably because of Watson’s appearance as the main character. This remake cannot live up to the golden original.
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THE MATADOR
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017
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THE MATADOR
SPORTS
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017
2017 Spring Sports Scoreboard BOYS BASEBALL
BOYS TENNIS
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
VARSITY 3/15 @ Schurr 3/17 vs Bell Gardens 3/24 vs Montebello 4/4 @ Alhambra
VARSITY 3/21 vs Montebello 3/23 @ Alhambra
12-6 12-6
L L
VARSITY 3/16 vs Mark Keppel 3/21 vs Montebello 3/23 @ Alhambra
3-0 3-0 3-0
W W W
JV 3/23 vs Alhambra
9-9 (77-70)
L
JV 3/21 @ Montebello 3/23 vs Alhambra
2-0 2-0
W W
JV 3/17 @ Bell Gardens 3/24 @ Montebello 4/4 vs Alhambra
2-1 3-2 3-2 4-0 N/A 14-0 24-0
L L W L
L L
3/21 @ Montebello
3/21 @ Gabrielino
GIRLS SOFTBALL (B) 129-24 W (G) 105-43 W (B) 111-46 L (G) 83-77 L
JV 3/16 vs Bell Gardens
VARSITY 3/20 vs Alhambra 3/22 @ Mayfield 3/24 vs South Pasadena
16-5 13-8 12-9
W W W
JV 3/20 vs Alhambra
14-7
W
FRESHMAN No games
CO-ED SWIM VARSITY 3/16 vs Bell Gardens
CO-ED BADMINTON
(B) 112-19 W (G) 91-61 W
VARSITY 3/17 @ Gabrielino 3/23 @ Wilson 4/4 @ Alhambra
4-2 6-4 9-5
JV 3/17 vs Gabrielino 3/23 vs Wilson 4/4 vs Alhambra
N/A N/A N/A
TRACK AND FIELD W L L
VARSITY 3/23 @ Schurr FROSH/SOPH 3/23 @ Schurr
(B) 71-56 (G) 70-57
L L
(B) 95-37 (G) 70-62
L W
(B) 109-27 L (G) 92-43 L
Hernandez pitches Matadors to victory over Montebello Oilers Thomas Wang
Photo courtesy of Jazmin Campos
Senior Michael Her nandez pitches a fastball with c o n c e n t r a t i o n t o w a r d s a M o n t e b e l l o b a t t e r.
Pitcher senior Michael Hernandez led the boys varsity baseball team to victory over the former League champions Montebello Oilers, 3-2, as he struck out countless batters. In a tense game between the teams on March 24, the Matadors were able to pull an early lead in the first inning. Capitalizing on the Oiler’s pitching, the Matadors were able to claim bases off of consecutive balls, netting a total of two points. The second inning would follow the trajectory of the first: the Matadors benefitted from the Oiler’s pitching, scoring another point to pull the Matadors to a 3-0 lead. On defense, the Matadors were able to neutralize the Oilers’ offense. Hernandez was able to strike out all of Oiler batters, earning cheers from the crowd. “I felt invincible,” Hernandez said. “When I strike them out, I feel unstoppable. It feels good knowing that all my brothers here have my back.” However, the Matador ’s defense slipped in the third inning as the Oilers were able to bat for two points, putting the score at a close 3-2. On the Matador’s offense, senior Armando Flores displayed an act of heroism. Serving as a runner and ready
to steal a base, Flores earned the attention of the opposing pitcher, causing the pitcher to attempt to get Flores out. However, Flores was able to deflect all of his attempts. In a hail mary run to home plate from second base, Flores was outed in a close call earning the disdain from the home crowd. As the game came to the close, the Oilers and Matadors were in stalemate. The Matadors’ defense proved to be impenetrable as fielders and basemen flowed seamlessly, catching and passing the ball. However, the Matadors struggled to bat in order to score once the Oilers’ pitching improved. During the sixth inning, Hernandez was able to miraculously stave off the Oilers offense, as they occupied all of the bases. Amidst the jeers and heckling from the Oilers, Hernandez was able to strike out the opposing team during the seventh inning, clinching the victory for the Matadors, 3-2. “Our weakness is not necessarily our bat. It’s our attitude, our approach on a day to day basis,” Head Coach Ralph Olguin said. “Sometimes, we have a great attitude and ready to go. Sometimes, we don’t.” With plans to qualifying for playoffs and winning league, the team plans on tightening their offensive shortcomings and riding off their momentum to more victories. The next home game will be on April 7 against the Alhambra Moors.
Matador track and field battles hard, comes up short versus Schurr C a rl o s C a ri l l o Facing off against the Schurr Spartans in their second Almont League meet of the year, the San Gabriel track team fought fiercely across all four divisions but ultimately took narrow losses in three of them—the sole victory coming from the frosh-soph girls. Despite the disappointing team results, there were many astounding individual performances and a general positivity around how the team kept the scores close and came out with at least one victory. The frosh-soph boys recorded the toughest loss with a final score of 95-37 in favor of the Spartans. Still, the young team had some extraordinary performances with sophomores David Clemente, Humberto Rivera, and Kenny Lam taking first place in shotput, highjump, and the 800-meter dash, respectively. The most exhilarating moment, however, came in 4x400-meter race where Lam nearly closed a massive lead the Spartans had in the final leg. “I was running more than my hardest because I knew if I caught up, I’d make my team proud,” Lam said. San Gabriel’s frosh-soph girls registered the most points out of all four divisions in their 70-62 victory over Schurr. Among the leading scorers were freshman Stephanie Calletano, who scored 15 points through victories in the long, triple, and high jumps; freshman Rashell Zamarripa, who scored 10 with wins both the 100- and 200-meter races; and sophomore Wendy Zamora, who scored eight with a
win in the 100-meter hurdles and a second place finish in the 300-meter hurdles. Zamora, a former distance runner turned hurdler, was especially ecstatic about her results. “I was at first sad that I was no longer part of the distance group,” Zamora said. “Going to hurdles really helped me get more motivation to continue in track because I wanted to do it since last year so I felt a sense of accomplishment.” On the varsity boys side, the results were less ideal but still very close, with the Matadors taking a narrow 71-56 loss to the Spartans. The team performed very well holistically, taking both the 4x100-meter and 4x400-meter relays and also having incredible individual performances. Senior David Auyeung took first in the 200- and 400-meter races; senior Daniel Tran won the 300-meter hurdles and the triple jump; and senior Alwin Lee finished first in discus. The Matadors’ varsity girls engaged in a similarly hard fought battle but in the end suffered a very tight loss, falling 70-57 to Schurr. Nevertheless, the team performed well with a victory in the 4x100-meter relay and a nine-point sweep in the 200-meter dash. Individually, senior Sherrie Viraphandeth won the 100- and 200-meter dashes as well as the long jump, senior Vicky Ong took first in the triple and high jumps, and junior Joey Hua threw for first place in shotput. Even though they took losses in three divisions, the slim margins by which they lost, as well as the great individual performances, give the team much to be optimistic about heading into their third league meet against Bell Gardens on April 7.
Photo courtesy of Brandon Lau
Junior Raul Martinez perseveres through the 4x400meter event, sprinting ahead of his opponent.
SPORTS
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THE MATADOR
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017
Freshman Kung brings passion, youth to varsity badminton
Photo by Michelle Ho
Freshman Michelle Kung demonstrates her badminton serving technique. U yen S y Palms sweating, hands shaking, freshman Michelle Kung stepped into the small gym for varsity badminton practice. Faces of her unfamiliar upperclassmen teammates were at first intimidating; however, joining badminton has become one of Kung’s best decisions, as she sees badminton as her key to happiness. Not only has badminton allowed her to meet new companions, but it has also let her release frustration when she plays. “My dad used to play badminton with me while my two other brothers played tennis instead,” Kung said. “When badminton tryouts opened up, I saw it as an opportunity to refresh those happy moments and memories I shared with my dad.” On the court, Kung plays girls double, which she enjoys because she does not “feel alone” knowing that she and her teammate can work towards victory together. “I really like that I have someone else I can depend on while playing, and we’re able to share encouragement and our disappointment together,” Kung said. To Kung, being the only freshman on the varsity badminton team does not hold any significant distinction because they are all “just badminton players.” “In the beginning, I [had] special treatment and got a lot of feedback to help me as the only freshman,” Kung said. “The team still gives me feedback to better myself when playing, but they include me so I don’t feel as left out.“ As it is her first year playing on the team, Kung seeks to improve her weaknesses with determination and hard work. Kung states that every mistake she makes is another opportunity for her to improve; therefore, she is not afraid to make mistakes. “I really want to improve my footwork and [movement] around the court,” Kung said. “Also, like the rest of my teammates, I want to be able to win our games and have a stronger relationship with each other to become closer.” With the kindness and guidance of her team members, Kung appreciates and looks up to every one of them.
Matdors prevail against Lancers Chelsea Li The San Gabriel (SG) varsity boys volleyball team won three consecutive sets against Bell Gardens (BG) on April 4. Each set was peaceful with a few reactions scattered during the play, but it seemed as if the crowd was waiting for the scoreboard to call it an end. The Matadors defeated the Lancers without much trouble, and they aim to do the same in their next game: to win all three sets. “[The game went] pretty well,” Josh Anderson, varsity head coach, said. “We won in three [sets], which was what we wanted. First set went really good, but second set was a little rough.” The first set started out with the Matadors scoring five points in a row. Throughout the set, the team had powerful serves that flew across the court into the other side, followed by steady receives. Seniors David Hoang and Jonathan Situ both blocked the Lancers from landing the ball onto their side multiple times. The ball shot back onto BG’s court when Hoang and Situ hovered over the net. Before the end of the first set (25-9), senior Jarett Tan made the last point and left the Lancers in single digits on the scoreboard. “[The game] was fun,” senior Derrick Lee said. “We are all good players as a team, [and] that is what makes it easy.” During the second set, juniors Henry
Vuong and Matthew Chow were up on the net. The Matadors were less tense and took it easy after realizing the game was about to end. Hitters spiked the ball over, and the audience watched it drop onto the Lancer’s side. BG players fumbled around the ball until the second set ended (25-16). It was another win for San Gabriel. “We just got to find a way to eliminate our errors, to keep those teams lower than they should be,” Anderson said. San Gabriel and Bell Gardens entered the third set, ready to finish the game. The Lancers lacked strategic defense but kept going. It was to SG’s advantage. The Matadors had great coverage from the passers and powerful offense players. Lee made a one-handed save when the ball was about to land in the court, leaving the viewers in awe. The third set finished off (25-12), and both teams shook hands. “Everyone that stepped in [the court] did their job really well,” Anderson said. “[Bell Garden’s] issue was that they only had seven players on varsity so it was hard for them to push each other for scrimmage, but they progressively got better and went on.” The boys look forward to an upcoming game against Schurr High School on Thursday, April 6 with a goal to win three sets again. “Hopefully, it [will be] the same thing as tonight where we can win 3-0,” Anderson said. “Just limit our errors and get everyone in that deserves to play.”
Photo by Michelle Ho
Junior Cedric Casino and his fellow teammate go up for a block as senior Michael Nguyen covers them from behind.
Hendrickson, Keller go mad in March for basketball tournament Mi chel e Thai
Photo courtesy of Eric Hendrickson
Eric Hendrickson fills out a March Madness bracket to compete with his friends.
It is that time of year again when every college rages with pride and excitement. March Madness has finally come, and basketball fans are ready with their brackets. March Madness is a single-elimination college basketball tournament, which features 68 Division I men’s basketball teams, who all battle to be the next national champion. Fans participate by predicting the ultimate winner by filling out a bracket that includes all the teams, in which they determine who moves on in the tournament and who goes home. Peer Counseling and history teacher Eric Hendrickson is one of the many followers who engage in these predictions. “It’s just a lot of fun,” Hendrickson said. “I think it’s one of the few times where most of the American culture is united behind one thing.” Hendrickson was not the only teacher who took part in March Madness. Physical education teacher Jon Keller advised California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) in the women’s tournament, which includes 64 Division I women’s teams. Keller was invited to attend their first game of the tournament because he volunteered to help them multiple times this year. So when CSULB made it into the tournament for the first time in 25 years, Keller could not deny the offer when all expenses were paid for. “I just went kind of for the experience of being involved in March Madness firsthand, behind the scenes, and it was too good of an opportunity to pass up,” Keller said. Both teachers are University of Southern California (USC) fans. However, since USC was eliminated in the
second round, Keller is no longer rooting for any of the other teams in the tournament. Hendrickson, on the other hand, has three more teams to stand behind. Those include Gonzaga University, University of Kentucky, and University of North Carolina (UNC). As Hendrickson had hoped, the championship included two of his picks—Gonzaga University and UNC. Since both of his picks made it into the championship, Hendrickson won his bracket no matter who won the tournament. Both teams are number one in the western and southern region, respectively. This made for the ultimate championship game. The game was head-to-head but towards the end of the second half, UNC pulled ahead and ended the game 71-65. The UNC Tarheels became the new national champion and were finally rewarded with their sixth championship title.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017
FEATURES
San Gabriel teachers dedicate extra hours to students
Photo by Tom Cheah
Math teacher Huong Tran tutors calculus students after school.
Article by Tom Cheah and Thomas Wang
Lessons do not make sense. Grades drop. Students panic. It sounds like a typical school day. Fortunately, there are teachers who come to the rescue. All across San Gabriel, teachers offer small after-school tutoring sessions for students who may be looking for extra help. “I want to give opportunities to have one-on-one tutoring to help [students] because I don’t have enough time in class to help everyone,” math teacher Huong Tran said. Inspired to become a teacher by her high school calculus teacher, Ms. Tran aims to pass on her “love of learning” to her students. “[My calculus teacher] made the class fun. He reaffirmed me as a student that I can do it,” Ms. Tran said. “I was struggling before that. I had a hard time when the teacher didn’t care for me in the way that this teacher did.” Ms. Tran enjoys tutoring because she gets to know students outside of the classroom and “develop relationships with them.” For math teacher Ronnie Woo, teaching and tutoring are how he gives back to the community. “I had a lot of great teachers in the past who helped me out and who went out of their ways to help anyone out,” Woo said. “I think I’ve been blessed in that way.” Woo also said he relates his desire to teach to his experience in martial arts. Reflecting back on his black belt test experience, he realized that his responsibility is passing on his knowledge to the next generation. “I’ve been taught a lot of things by the people before me,” Woo
said. “My way to give back is to pass on knowledge.” Contrasting with Ms. Tran and Woo’s positive experiences with teachers, science teacher Alan Tran became a teacher because he was unimpressed with the performances of his chemistry teachers. “My chemistry teacher was really horrible, and then my AP Chemistry teacher was even more horrible,” Mr. Tran said. “I decided that I could do better than that. And so, I did.” Mr. Tran tutors so that his “students don’t have an excuse for failing.” Staying after school until 4 p.m. every day, Mr. Tran offers his students chances for extra assistance. In the grand scheme, Mr. Tran tries “to teach kids to be responsible for themselves.” “Manage your time. Think positive,” Mr. Tran advises. “Being awesome is not a trait. Being awesome is a choice.” History teacher Henry Osborne tutors to provide students “extra help that they sometimes can’t [get] during class.” “I can look at two essays and spend ten or twenty minutes going through the [specifics]. That’s pretty tough to do in class,” Osborne said. Though he offers to tutor after school, he notes that attendance is “very hit or miss.” “I wish more students would [come] to after school tutoring in our department,” Osborne said. “If we can generate a more consistent attendance, I think we can put together a more consistent program.” Despite the apocalypse that is high school, students need not fret as extra help is right around the corner.
Osborne exhibits passion for music through his band Most people simply recognize Henry Osborne as a history teacher at San Gabriel High School, but not many know him for his passion for music or his role in Djam Karet, an instrumental progressive rock band established in 1984. Djam Karet was formed as an improvisational group, which meant the band had no pre-organized or composed pieces when they performed. “Djam Karet” is a Balinese phrase that roughly translates to “elastic time” or “time that stretches.” “We often concluded a jam and then realized that 45 minutes or more had elapsed when it felt like we’d been playing for a much shorter time, hence the name,” Osborne said. Before the founding of Djam Karet, Osborne and all of the band members had previously played together in various groups and configurations. “Djam Karet formed with the intent of playing music
solely for our own enjoyment and without the need of endlessly repetitive beats, trite lyrics, or catch melodies,” Osborne said. “When we began formally composing tunes, we made music that we liked and enjoyed performing.” Djam Karet has maintained their philosophy for creating music they enjoy for over 30 years and throughout 18 releases. As time passed, however, Osborne’s role lessened due to time constraints. When Djam Karet does get together, Osborne often plays the bass guitar, some keyboard or percussion, and helps write music. “Music has provided me joy for as long as I can remember,” Osborne said. “I picked up the electric bass at about age 13, took lessons for a while, and began playing in garage bands by the time I was 15.” Osborne believes that the best part about being a member of Djam Karet is witnessing the development of both the personal and musical relationships within the band. “When we first put the band together, we would
Photo courtesy of Djam Karet
rehearse at the old Sunkist packing house in Claremont,” Osborne said. “This was a cavernous three-level, 100-yearold structure with huge rusting steel beams and wood floors. We’d practice at all hours of the day and night.” Djam Karet just released a new disc, Sonic Celluloid. Osborne suggests fans to visit <http://www.djamkaret. com> for more information on upcoming projects.
Article by Selina Han
Sumi
Photo by Karina Matias
Valerie Sumi displays two of her crochet projects.
Article by Karina Matias Layout graphic by Kelly Ho
upholds
family
tradition
Weaving a hook through colorful yarn, science teacher Valerie Sumi crochets, a talent that has served as her hobby for many years. From an early age, Sumi was taught how to do different crochet projects. Everything started with learning how to crochet her first vest. For Sumi, it was quite challenging, as she was required to know exact measurements. She also had to know how to increase and decrease stitches. Her projects include the Sanrio penguin Tuxedo Sam; Chewbacca, Yoda, and Princess Leia from Star Wars; and holiday-themed items for Halloween and Christmas. “I have done crochet since I was in elementary school,” Sumi said. “My mother taught me how to start, but then beyond the basics, I had to learn myself.” For Sumi, crocheting has been an important part in her Japanese heritage, and it has continued in her family for years. Before Sumi’s mother, her grandmother used to crochet very often; for her grandmother, crocheting was an activity to pass the time while she was in a Japanese internment camp during World War II. Sumi wants to pass the art of crocheting down to her own daughter. She believes it would help relieve her daughter’s stress, and distract her from everything in society. More importantly, Sumi wants her daughter to help her as she gets older and starts forgetting how to crochet.
of
crocheting
“My daughter needs to have something else than what she does on a daily basis, and I want to hand down the knowledge,” Sumi said. These handmade projects require patience and love. Sumi gives gifts as a way of sharing her work, making blankets, doilies, and holiday baskets for her family and friends for special occasions. “In the science department, when a teacher is pregnant and has a baby, I do blankets, scarfs or pins for them,” Sumi said. At the end of a stressful day, Sumi retreats to crocheting to forget all the concerns on her mind, distracting and relaxing her by doing what she loves in her free time.