Issue 4 2011-2012

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www.trojantimes.org

December 8, 2011

‘It’s been fun, but it’s time to retire’

Caitlin Kelly | Trojan Times

(L-R): Seniors Justin Calpito and Carissa Ochoco and Student Activities Coordinator Gail Nishimura. Nishimura worked in several different fields, such as retail and theater, before arriving at MHS. After 14 years, the longest she has stayed at one job, she is announcing her retirement which will take effect on Dec. 31.

MHS bids farewell to Gail Nishimura after 14 years of service

another journey in her retirement, which takes effect on Dec. From a job in retail 31. to one in education, Student Activities Co- “I’ve gotten to know a lot of people ordinator (SAC) Gail Nishimura has always here that I’m really been ready to take on close to and I’m going life’s next adventure. to miss those people After working for the but it’s time for a change. It’s time to state of Hawaii for be able to do what25 years, 14 of which ever, pick up and go were at MHS, she if I want to,” said will embark on yet

By Caitlin Kelly c.kelly@trojantimes.org

Nishimura. Because of the time she’s put in, she will now be able to receive retirement benefits, which played a part in her decision.

When Nishimura graduated from Leilehua High School, she was unsure of the career she wanted to pursue, but knew

Caitlin Kelly | Trojan Times

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Duncan takes on reponsibility of Mock Trial adviser

By Amanda Thomas a.thomas@trojantimes.org Since its establishment in 2009, Mock Trial Club has been paired with the Advanced Placement (AP) Government class, advised

by Social Studies teacher Amy Perruso. Since that class is not offered this year, she decided to step down from the position and welcomed Social Studies teacher Jason Duncan to take her place as adviser.

“When I was hired, I spoke to (Perruso) and I expressed interest in helping out because she’s been the coach for the past three

Read the rest and more at www.trojantimes.org

INDEX News Trojan Life Chosen Trojans Sports Feature Info Editorial

2 4 5 6 8 10 11

Thursday, December 8, 2011

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

she wanted to receive a higher education. She took a leap and enrolled at William Woods University in Missouri with a major in home economics and business. “Going away for the first time, I had never been to the mainland until I graduated from high school,” she said.

Upon graduating, she held jobs in various fields, from retail to the travel industry. “I started off in retail at a Waikiki resort shop and then I moved to travel and I worked there (for) a while. And then I moved to working for a movie studio; I worked for Magnum P.I. for two years,” she explained.

After a few more jobs in-between, Nishimura returned to school to receive her master’s degree in education from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Her first job with the Department of Education was at Aliamanu Intermediate School, where she worked with special education students. After a year there, she found herself at MHS as the new SAC. “It was kind of a learning experience because the person that was here before me was a former student, so

To the point

she knew what was expected and what the school normally did and I had no clue at all,” she explained.

As years passed and Nishimura gained experience in her position, she acquired one of her most valuable skills: the ability to plan ahead. “You have to do things in advance, so you have to keep on top of it, so like I can’t just have a regular 12-month calendar, I have a three-year calendar because you need to always plan ahead,” she said.

It is that sort of reliability that her students will miss. “Just knowing that since she’s been there for 14 years, she really has the knowledge of what to do.

It’s really a comfort how you can just fall back on her when you don’t know what to do,” said Associated Students of Mililani High School (ASMHS) President John Delos Reyes.

Aside from her work ethic, her students have also enjoyed getting to know her as a person.

“She’s really down to earth, and I don’t know if people know, but she has a really good sense of humor and she’s really easy to talk to. Not just about school related things, but personal things,” said Delos Reyes.

Activities Chairperson and

MHS has been working with the Department of Education (DOE) on a new turf and track construction project and was put on a priority list since 2007. However, funds weren’t approved by state legislators until 2009. Construction on the turf started on Nov. 14, where it will work its way to the track and is planned to be finished in May 2012.

Compiled by Jessica Fontenot j.fontenot@trojantimes.org

After Gail Nishimura (far left) retires, her position will be filled by current English teacher Janet Ward-Riehle (far right). Ward-Riehle has been a teacher for 11 years and looks forward to her new job.

Co-historian Carissa Ochoco agreed, saying, “I’m going to miss her personality.

She’s fun, she tells stories and there’s something about Ms. Nishimura that I’ll miss.”

Once she leaves, Nishimura hopes her students won’t be afraid to try new things, as the events leading up to her job at MHS weren’t always expected. “I never knew I would work for the movie studios, it’s like a whole different world. Or just

even working in travel, it gave me the opportunity to travel and of course the money was just the pits but at that time I didn’t care.

As long as you can support yourself and you’re happy, just go for it,” she said.

Students and staff alike wish Nishimura the best in her retirement. “Ms. Nishimura, I think you deserve this retirement after how many years of service to the high school.

If anything, just have fun,” said Delos Reyes. “Ms.

Nishimura will be remembered for the great things that she did at MHS. I thank her for her years of hard work and dedication,” said English teacher Janet Ward-Riehle, who will take over Nishimura’s position starting in the second semester.

In her retirement, Nishimura hopes to help SACs at other schools around the island, catch up on sleep and travel as she did in her college years.

Students to experience ‘Dancing in a Snowglobe’ themed Winterball

By Jenny Park j.park@trojantimes.org

Jessica Fontenot | Trojan Times

Photo courtesy of Student Activities Coordinator Gail Nishimura

After much planning and thought from the committee, Winterball will take place on Friday, Dec. 16 at the Pacific Beach Hotel. This year’s theme is “Dancing in a Snowglobe.”

“I hope it’s even better than the years before ... Over the past few years we’ve had pretty good Winterballs, but I hope this one is a little bit more unique since our theme is a little bit more unique,” said Jeni Nishimura, Winterball committee adviser.

The theme was created

by Winterball Committee Chairperson, Senior Alyssa Nicole Vallesteros. “We came up with the theme because we wanted something a little different than the usual standard themes like ‘On a Snowy Night.’And I always liked the idea of snow globes, and it deals with Christmas, so it worked out even more,” she explained, continuing, “The theme will be portrayed

through the mini snow globes we’ll be having on each dinner table.”

In addition to a snow globe theme, the event will include entertainment and a few other possible activities.

“For entertainment we’ll be having a DJ like usual, and this year we’re aiming towards a photo booth or either Balloon Monsoon because the two have always been popular with students.

Attendees should be expecting a good time with friends and fellow classmates as well as good food and entertainment and just an overall fun experience,” explained Vallesteros.

Winterball benefits the school by bringing students of all grades together and building a stronger sense of community. It also provides an opportunity for students to put schoolwork aside and have some fun. Vallesteros said, “Winterball is an event where the whole school can join together as one and celebrate the holidays together.” Sophomore Alyssa Fukumae agreed, saying, “It

is the one night where we can have fun somewhere other than Mililani. I think it’s important because after exams, we’ll all be ready to have fun and Winterball should do just that.”

With the date approach-

ing quickly, approximately 430 students and 40 faculty members are expected to attend this event. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the dance will last until 10:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

A record-breaking year for AP Psychology

By Caitlin Kelly c.kelly@trojantimes.org Records are made to be broken, and that was exactly the case with MHS’ 2010-2011 Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology class. 130 of the 136 students who took the course received at least a three on the AP exam, for a total of 96 percent of students with a passing score.

“Now I believe records can be broken because with this last one, (the) class made me a firm believer that it can be, because I never thought I’d ever see a 96 percent,” said AP Psychology teacher Judy Taparra. The closest that an AP Psychology class has ever come to that level was in 2005, where 95 percent of the 68 students enrolled received a passing score.

Achieving such a feat didn’t come easily, as students devoted their time to numerous assignments.

“The work was never too hard, but it challenged us to think. Her assignments are not the ones you can complete five minutes before the bell rings, they

do require some time and effort,” said 2010-2011 AP Psychology student Senior Emily Kelley.

Active participation through projects was also encouraged in hopes that it would be a more engaging way for students to retain information. A popular activity involved construction of the different lobes of the brain with Play-Doh. “I thought the brain project was really helpful because it helped me to remember where everything was and I know that on the exam it asked that,” said 2010-2011 AP Psychology student Senior Shayna Hokama. Junior Greg Watanabe, who is enrolled in the class this year, agreed, “Making the clay brain really helps because that showed me the different parts of the brain in a hands-on way.”

As a way to deepen the understanding of psychological concepts, classes this year are focusing on more intensive essay practice using the term, definition, application (TDA) method. “We have to know what the term is and define it, and then how

Photo courtesy of AP Psychology teacher Judy Taparra

One hundred thirty of 136 AP Psychology students in 2010-2011 received a three on the AP exam, a new high average. Many of the students also juggled extra curricular activites while taking the class. it was used in the activity and the significance of that term. Overall it really helps you to get to know all the terms,” said Watanabe.

This method has been used in past years, but Taparra felt that students would benefit from more practice; she has assigned a TDA journal to be completed after every class activity. “I was thinking about focusing on the essays, because we hardly focused on that in the past except for the TDA’s but

it was never a homework assignment. So I thought if we could do that in a book maybe it would help,” she said.

Students this year are motivated to take on this challenge, despite the commitment it requires. “I think we can reach that 96 percent too because one of my friends last year said we should be able to do good if we study and try our best. So it makes me want to push and do good and get the college credit,” said

Watanabe.

However, Taparra believes that a solid understanding of concepts is more important than any score. “Although we would like a whole bunch of people to do well on their exam because they deserve it, the end result I don’t think that should be the emphasis,” she said.

This year’s class will continue to put their best foot forward until the AP Psychology exam on May 7, 2012.

Third annual Quest for Success begins students’ ‘journey’ to college

By Shan Yonamine s.yonamine@trojantimes.org Thirty-eight MHS students entered the Quest for Success career fair not knowing what to expect but left with a wealth of knowledge on college and career pathways. The event was put on by the Rotary Club of Mililani Sunrise at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Mililani Tech Park on Nov. 16.

“Quest for Success (is) an event that will give (MHS) students … an opportunity to explore the different ways that they can pursue their career paths.

Not every single career has a direct path, many, many careers, if not most, have very, very wandering paths,” stated Quest for Success Director Dexter Yee of the Rotary Club of Mililani Sunrise.

Students were free to research any career they were interested in. Though Quest for Success may appear to be a job fair, the Rotary

Club of Mililani Sunrise’s intent was to create a career fair where students would not gain employment, but basic knowledge about various career options. “It’s called Quest for Success because the idea again behind it is that you’re going on a journey and you’re searching for a career path versus at a job fair. When you go to a job fair you kind of have an idea of who’s there,” stated Leeward Community College (LCC) Job Preparatory Specialist Angela Coloretti, continuing, “It’s not a job fair in the sense that you’re applying for work, it’s more for a career exploration.”

In the opening event, students took the RIASEC test, which is an assessment to determine which career pathways they were most privy to. Pathways included in the test were realistic, investigative, artistic, social and enterprising. “The RIASEC test helped me figure out what my interest areas are and which ca-

reers would best match my personality,” stated Junior Lynn Yokota.

Volunteer representatives from each pathway, both professionals and students, were present to talk about their careers. Many of them were from LCC, who has been in affiliation with the Rotary Club from the first Quest for Success fair three years ago. “To my knowledge this is our third year participating but I think that there was a relationship with the Rotary Club in the past,” stated Coloretti.

Both the Rotary Club and LCC hope that students use their knowledge from the event to benefit themselves in college. “I believe (skills taught at Quest for Success) are important because I’m seeing college students now who are coming out of high school that have no idea what they’re doing. They have no direction and so I think by stopping ... what you’re doing and sitting down half of a

Shan Yonamine | Trojan Times

College and Career Counselor Denise Yamamoto closes the Quest for Success event with a speech of appreciation to the Rotary Club of Mililani Sunrise for organizing the fair. day and kind of thinking about it, it’s just you know beginning your path and it can give you that direction,” said Coloretti.

Yee agreed, saying, “(The Rotary Club of Mililani Sunrise) believes that the future of the world lies in the young people we have today, so our focus is to provide all of the re-

sources and opportunities to the students today so they can make this a better place.”

Based off of feedback from MHS, the Rotary Club of Mililani Sunrise hopes to continue to put on Quest for Success in years to come.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Kaiyo Academy visits, gives MHS students insight into a new culture

By Kimberly Yamaguchi k.yamaguchi@trojantimes.org

On Nov. 18, students from Kaiyo Academy in Japan visited MHS. It gave both the MHS and Kaiyo Academy students insight into the differences and similarities between their homes.

“I feel that (this) benefits our MHS students because they get better cultural experience, seeing how (the Kaiyo students’) culture is different from ours like everydaywise. Like they wear uniforms and we wear whatever we want because we are able to,” said MHS Senior Ryan Houser, who helped translate for the students.

Kaiyo Academy is an elite boarding school for boys from ages 13 to 18, located in the Ibaraki prefecture of Honshu, Japan. There, the students receive a specialized education in their chosen field of work.

The 33 students that visited had applied to come before their freshman year.

“If they are interested in the seas and ships they can apply to come here. If they attain good grades throughout their freshman year they can come,” explained Chaperone Takashige Hiroyuki. Hi-

royuki has been chaperoning boys on this three week boat trip to Hawaii for the last 17 years. Throughout their trip they received hands-on fishing and boating experience. “We went fishing for 45 (minutes) before we came here to fish ahi,” explained Hiroyuki.

Because the environment at MHS is drastically different from that of Kaiyo Academy, the visitors were overwhelmed at first. “This school’s campus is much bigger than our school. People here are very open about things. They just come up and talk to you. They’re bold,” said Kaiyo Academy Sophomore Akano Kazuki.

“They seem to be learning how different it is from their home country, Japan, and the different languages and cultures here,” added Hiroyuki.

However, the students really weren’t as different as they thought. “It’s hard to tell the difference, besides the fact that they’re from another country (and) they speak a different language because they have similar hobbies and they like the same sports, so I think the only difference is that they’re just from another place,” explained MHS Junior Rachel

Kimberly Yamaguchi | Trojan Times

Sophomores Ryuya Iwama (left) and Sinpei Shimizu (center) listen as Sophomore Raymond Delang (right) translates a conversation.

Brewer. Student Activities Coordinator Gail Nishimura added, “This year, I think because more (MHS students) spoke Japanese, they may have enjoyed the exchange better.”

The experience was beneficial to both visiting students and MHS students. “I was very eager to come. This is a fun, good experience,” said Kaiyo Academy Sophomore Sinpei Shimizu. Nishimura added, “Well, (the Kaiyo students) have the experience of being with American students. Because at home they, even now, they’re in uniform and our kids, not

even close to a uniform. And the structure for them is so strict compared to us.”

MHS students benefitted in other ways besides the educational experience. “I think I definitely got friends out of this, even though I might not see them again. And I also got to practice my Japanese so that was good. I just got a really fun experience out of it,” said Brewer.

Students from both MHS and Kaiyo Academy enjoyed the visit, because they learned more about the cultures and customs of each country and made new friends.

MHS’ first quiz bowl team competes in taping of ‘It’s Academic Hawaii’

By Reagan Paz r.paz@trojantimes.org A quiz bowl team from MHS participated for the first time in the taping of the “It’s Academic Hawaii” high school quiz bowl against Mid-Pacific Institute and Punahou Schools on Oct. 29. The competition is a national high school quiz bowl that has aired in other states like Maryland and will be aired for the first time in Hawaii on KFVE in January 2012. Despite getting third place, they feel that they put their best foot forward considering they had less than two weeks notice about the bowl.

“I think for as little preparation time as we had, I think we knew quite a bit.

We did pretty well considering we were against two of the best private schools in the state,” said Senior Sydney Blanke, a competitor in the game show.

A quiz bowl is much like

a game of Jeopardy except it uses high school material. Since it was the first time MHS has participated in a televised quiz bowl, they needed to quickly put together a team and prepare for the competition.

They prepared by meeting twice a week and organized the team with an expert in a certain category like math, geography and science, and chose people who they thought would do well in the competition.

However, since the questions asked at quiz bowls are mostly random, all they could do was try their best to prepare for the competition’s questions. “Well, you can’t really study too much because they’re facts based off of pretty much anything in the world … We get together, we practice previous questions that were on the program before and then we organize the team so that there’s an expert in one category,” explained Blanke.

Photo courtesy of Adviser Mary Jean Fischer

Front row (L-R): Junior Stephen Mau, Seniors Sydney Blanke and Alec Pura. Back row (L-R): Adviser Mary Jean Fischer, Sophomore Natasha Parowski, Seniors Tru Dang and James Lim. Even though the participants knew the answers to the questions, they weren’t familiar with the buzzing system, which they felt affected their performance.

“That was a major problem … I guess the buzzer system is, if (the buzzers) come in and overlap, it’s cancelled … until finally one buzzer

comes in over another and then that one gets it,” said the Quiz Bowl team’s Adviser Mary Jean Fischer.

The National Quiz Bowl Association has invited MHS to host one of the competitions next year. Fischer hopes to start an official quiz bowl team for MHS by then.

ASMHS President

John Delos Reyes

Trojans, we are finally approaching the end of our first semester. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!

Let’s look back at the recent activities that we’ve had.

On Nov. 1, four students from Kamehameha Schools came to MHS to participate in a high school exchange program. Then, on Nov. 3, we were given the opportunity to attend Kamehameha Schools for a day. Nine seniors, along with myself, went to see how they run things at their school. It was a good learning experience, as we were able to observe the different activities and events at their school and think about how to implement them here.

Nov. 12 was the Kapolei Marching Festival, held at Kapolei High School. Congratulations to the Trojan Marching Band for taking first place in division AAA. On Nov. 18, 30 students from Kaiyo Academy got to learn about Mililani, and in exchange, we learned about their culture.

From Nov. 21-22, we held our food bank food drive. Thank you to all those who donated canned goods. Every donation counts, and they will bless another family.

On Dec. 16, our Winterball will be held at the Pacific Beach Hotel. I hope to see you all!

There are a few more weeks coming up before we leave for Christmas break. Let’s finish off the rest of this quarter strong and have a merry Christmas!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Trojanbots tear up the battlefield, two more teams qualify for World Championship

By Reagan Paz

r.paz@trojantimes.org Earning first place at the Oahu East VEX Robotics Tournament held at Iolani Schools on Nov. 11 and 12 qualified MHS VEX Robotics teams 1973 D and 1973 E to participate in the VEX Robotics World Championship. Since then, the teams’ main goal has been to improve their robots. “It’s a great feeling knowing that you have accomplished something like this. Being able to go means a lot to us, and having a chance like this just makes me feel blessed and grateful for all the support we’ve had,â€? said Junior Richie Chio, a member of team 1973 D. VEX Robotics Adviser Timothy Pregana added, “It’s an honor. It’s good, I’m very happy ‌ like any parent would be with a child who does well ‌ I’m proud of my students.â€?

Teams 1973 D and 1973 E mark the third and fourth teams from MHS to qualify for the championship, since

teams 1973 A and 1973 B placed in the islandwide VEX Robotics Tournament hosted at MHS on Oct. 22. In the Oahu East VEX Robotics Tournament, teams 1973 D and 1973 E beat out teams from high schools like McKinley, Iolani, Mid-Pacific Institute and Radford.

The teams want to make sure they put their best foot forward when they compete in the VEX Robotics World Championship. “We still have lots of work because at Worlds everyone’s going to be good. Everyone will have their best robot out,� said Junior Randall Chan, a member of team 1973 E. Chio added, “We plan to work as often as possible on the programming and the robot to ensure that when we get to Worlds we won’t just make the finals, but we (will also) win the trophy.�

Fixing up the robot will help the teams succeed in the upcoming competitions. “(People) know the strengths of my team and they know some weaknesses already. For my students, they’ve got to

kick their robots up a notch to maintain their A-game ‌ they’ve got to find another edge to make the robot a little bit better,� Pregana explained.

The students work diligently to make sure their robot is in good condition. “We work on our robot when time permits, making adjustments and testing out the program to ensure that it works without flaws ‌ whether it means late hours in the room or long nights programming,â€? said Chio.

Team members feel that qualifying for the World Championship was made possible not just by the teams themselves, but by other aspects as well. “The achievement wasn’t mine or my team’s alone, (it was) a group effort and it would not have happened if we didn’t have the support of the other teams, the school and our adviser,� Chio expressed.

Teams 1973 A, 1973 B, 1973 D and 1973 E will be competing at the VEX Robotics World Championship from April 18 - 21 in Anaheim, Calif.

Photo courtesy of VEX Robotics Adviser Timothy Pregana

(L-R): Team 1973 E’s Juniors Randall Chan, Rey Austin Baldugo, 1973 B’s Ryan Taketa and 1973 E’s Freshman Kauanoe Beamer.

Photo courtesy of VEX Robotics Adviser Timothy Pregana

(L-R): Team 1973 D’s Juniors Curtis Frifeldt and Richie Chio, Senior Jeffrey Kleyner and Junior Austin Shima.

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Thursday, December 8, 2011

Going for the gold: Kawana and White place in Wendy’s High School Heisman

By Cyanne Ito c.ito@trojantimes.org Everyone knows that Wendy’s offers burgers, fries and shakes, but not many know that they also offer a sports scholarship through the Wendy’s High School Heisman Program.

The scholarship does take the grades and leadership skills of students into consideration, but the factor that determines a student’s eligibility is whether or not they play a sport. This year from MHS, Seniors Jessica Kawana and Dionte White have been selected as school winners for the program, with Kawana also advancing as a state finalist.

“I just applied for it, I didn’t even think I was going to win for the school.

Like when I looked (at the

winners list) I was like, ‘Oh my goodness that’s my name,’” said White, who is a member of the track team, qualifying him for the program.

In order to be eligible for Wendy’s High School Heisman Program, students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better, be in a school sponsored sport, have a recommendation from a teacher, and have a leadership position in their school or community. “You don’t have to be the best in your sport but you need to be committed to your sport and you need to show up to practice every time and do your best. You don’t have to be the fastest or the strongest ... it’s about dedication,” explained Kawana.

Wendy’s High School Heisman Program is a

nationwide scholarship.

“There’s ... nearly 48,000 applicants nationwide ... It is competitive,” said College and Career Counselor Denise Yamamoto.

At the school level, two applicants were selected as winners. At the state finals level, 20 applicants were selected from each state and two of the 20 won at the state level. From there, 12 national finalists were chosen, and two national winners were chosen. At all levels there were equal amounts of male and female winners and finalists.

As a school winner, Kawana joined her older sisters who in 2007 and 2008 won at the school level for the program. “(Our family has) this joke that it’s a ‘hat trick,’” said Kawana, “A hat trick is in sports where you

Despite setbacks cheerleading takes second at OIA West Competition

By Kara Nitta k.nitta@trojantimes.org

Backbreaking work and rigor. The past month for the JV and Varsity cheerleading teams have been anything but easy. Despite that, on Nov. 19, both teams took second in the Oahu Interscholastic Association (OIA) West Competition.

“The preparation was grueling. We had practices at night from 6:30 (p.m.)

- 9:30 (p.m.) and we went through a lot of trials and tribulations,” explained Varsity cheerleader Junior Kylee Ann Enoki. One of those trials were drastic changes to the JV and Varsity routine that was caused by two major factors: injuries and grades, both of which impacted the progress made. “We had to change our routine … in two and a half weeks.

A completely new routine from preseason,” explained Varsity cheerleader Senior Jalyn Buenconsejo.

For both teams, this meant they had to constantly change their routines to find the best one for their team. What they eventually settled on was a smaller group of dancers to help highlight individual skill. JV had to rearrange who was in their pyramid as well as their stunt

Kara Nitta | Trojan Times

(L-R) Seniors Sarah Almeida and Ashley Toribio from the varsity team performed their new routine at the OIA West Competition. group. For Varsity, the changes involved a complete reworking of their routine.

Everyone believed that the teams performed to the best of their ability. “I always make sure that (the teams) go out knowing that they are doing the best that they can,” said cheerleading Head Coach Renesha Kierstedt. The final scores for both teams was JV with 224, and Varsity with 289.5, putting them just behind Radford, who won first place in both JV and Varsity divisions.

These changes seem to have paid off, as Varsity cheerleader Junior Bounliphone Xayabath explained, “We’re really proud of ourselves that we gave

it one hundred percent.

Our goal was to give it our all and perform our hearts out and we did that so all we can say is that we’re proud and we’re happy and we can’t wait for the next round.” Assistant Coach Brian Rafael agreed, saying, “They always do great, both JV and Varsity. They did everything they can, they performed, left everything on the mat. Not worried about what they could have done better.”

The MHS teams will move on to the next round of competition, which is the State Championship against Moanalua, Radford and Kamehameha Schools.

(L-R): Seniors Jessica Kawana and Dionte White found out about the Wendy’s High School Heisman Program on Edline. win three of the same thing, so we’re saying that it’s a hat trick for our family because all three of us won for the school winners, but then I was the only one (between my sisters and me) who won state finalists, so I was very honored.” This year is Kawana’s fourth year in cross country and track.

Along with the honor of being recognized, White received a Heisman patch and certificate, while Kawana was additionally awarded a $25 Wendy’s gift card. National winners had $10,000 donated to their school in their name.

New assistant basketball coach uses experience to lead team

By Nathan Park n.park@trojantimes.org

The boys Varsity basketball team has welcomed a new member this year, Assistant Coach Linwood Richardson.

Prior to his time at MHS, he coached various sports including little league baseball and football. He is using his past experiences to improve as a coach and to help lead the team.

“He’s a good coach and he knows his stuff and what he’s talking about,” explained Varsity basketball player Junior Riley Borges.

Richardson’s expertise in basketball is related to his involvement with the sport as a child. Ever since his youth, basketball has played an important role in his life. “You stayed in the gym having fun and you stayed out of trouble. Where I come from it’s very easy to get into trouble,” he said.

Since then, he has helped coach several little league basketball teams.

His influence has even rubbed off on his son, Alumnus Hassan Richardson. He, like his father, was highly involved with team sports. “I coached my son when he played here. He was in all-state football and basketball

and I coached him on the side,” Linwood Richardson explained.

Players and other coaches noticed how his basketball experience has enriched his coaching abilities. “As far as educating the players on the different basketball techniques, he’s pretty good,” commented Head Coach Edward Gonzales.

Linwood Richardson tries to keep his interaction with the players fair and balanced. “He pushes us to do things correctly and he’s not a mean coach, but he’s stern and he gets us to work hard,” explained Borges.

The new assistant coach is also known for his humor and positive attitude.

“He has a lot of energy.

He’s happy-go-lucky and he loves the sport,” commented Gonzales. He uses his humor to form relationships with players. “He’s a real funny coach,” commented Borges, continuing, “I say I can ‘ball him up’ and he says he ‘can ball me up.’”

Linwood Richardson recently helped new players train for the Varsity basketball tryouts, which started on Nov. 21, and will continue to work with and help lead the team throughout the season.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Bowling team strikes competition, takes second in OIAs and states

By Kimberly Yamaguchi k.yamaguchi@trojantimes.org

At K-Bay Lanes on Oct. 13, the MHS Boys Bowling Team swept their competition, coming second to Pearl City in the Oahu Interscholastic Association (OIA) team championship, with the girls team following close behind in third. Then on Oct. 24 at Hilo Lanes, the boys team finished again just behind Pearl City, this time at the state level.

“We did good this year.

We improved off of last year and (there’s) room for improvement next year,” said Head Coach Kellen Inafuku.

Senior Bryson Labuguen agreed, saying, “It feels really good, just knowing you’re second in the state.”

Five MHS students placed in the top 15 after the OIA competition with a pin total of 5,508, just over 100 pins behind their main opponent, Pearl City. Sophomore Danielle August, 2011 OIA Champion, led the girls team to third place at the OIA competition with a total of 4,326 pins, 65 pins behind second place, Castle

High School. They shocked themselves and their coach by continuing onto states, where they placed sixth.

“For the girls’ side, they did better than we thought they would. They made it to states. That’s really good,” said Inafuku. August agreed saying, “(Placing at states) felt good, but it was really surprising.”

In preparation for OIA and state competitions, Inafuku emphasized techniques to help pick up spares and focus on spare shooting. “We do something called low game. The objective is to take out the seven and ten pins, the lowest score you can get.

It teaches them to be competitive and to pick up their spares,” explained Inafuku.

The players also put in the required 12 hours of practice a week and whatever extra practice they could get in. “We usually bowl three games, but a lot of people stay after,” explained Junior Cody Wilcher, the only MHS player to place in the top 15 for both OIAs and states.

Not only did their skills

Cyanne Ito | Trojan Times

By Cyanne Ito c.ito@trojantimes.org

Photo courtesy of Assistant Coach Corey Zukeran

Front row (L-R): T. Shim, B. Labuguen, S. Tanaka, J. Moromisato, S. Shon. Back row (L-R): C. Wilcher, W. Miyashiro, R. Miyashiro, B. Basilio, T. Nakata, R. Dagdag, B. Hew, E. Kekoolani, D. August, J. Cosme, L. Seguerre, N. Carlos, D. Torres, G. Yamamoto. improve, but so did the way they interacted as a team. “Well, we were really supportive of each other.

We were more supportive and understanding towards each other’s space and helped each other out,” said August. “They’ll have fun, but like when it’s time to bowl they’ll really get down to do what they’re good at,” Labuguen added.

While they worked well together as a team, they still faced some challenges.

“(The most challenging part was) just knowing that there’s a lot of good people out there that you have to go against,” said Wilcher.

Aside from the competitive aspect, having to travel to a different island and playing in a place they had never been to before was a challenge.

Next year, the team is hoping to beat their toughest rival, Pearl City, and improve their personal scores.

Swim team faces surprisingly large wave of new swimmers

By Ramil Lorenzo Gonzalez r.gonzalez@trojantimes.org It seems the pools are going to be more crowded this year thanks to the recent influx of new students joining the MHS Swim Team, almost doubling the number of swimmers from last season.

“At the swim meet we were all shocked to see how (many) people came,” remarked Swim Team Manager Junior Kelsi Choquette, continuing, “We lost a lot of people but we gained probably twice as many as we lost, so we actually have to cut people this year.”

According to Head Coach Dustin Fukuda, the number of swimmers jumped from a little under 30 last year to a little over 40 this season. Fortunately, a larger team has its advantages. “It’s always good to have a big team … we have a lot of new swimmers that are keen to work hard,” said Fukuda, continuing, “There (are) some good leaders

on this team, so their training environment’s pretty good.” Returning swimmer Senior John McGuire, who has been with the swim team since his freshman year agreed, saying, “More people means you score more points; that’s just how it is.” The two did acknowledge its minor disadvantages, from less space in the lanes to having more names to remember, though Choquette did say she finds it more difficult being the one to break the news to the swimmers that didn’t make the team.

The new swimmers seem to be joining for a variety of reasons, from wanting to just try the sport out to aiming to improve their skills in other sports, as with Sophomore Marlene McGowen. “I joined the swim team to do water polo because my coach told me that I was slow,” she said.

Things have not been so easy for newcomers, however. “It’s been really hard; we have to do a lot,” Mc-

Ramil Lorenzo Gonzalez | Trojan Times

(L-R): Sophomore James Barnes and the other new team members, have been given support by returning swimmers, such as Sophomores Nicholas Babcock and Michael McGuire.

Gowen continued, “Everyone’s really good … so it’s really hard to catch up.”

The new swimmers have been using help from the coaches and the support of returning swimmers to become more proficient in the sport, and many say that they do see a marked improvement. “The people who’ve been coming every day have been improving and they’ve been com-

mitted, so that’s a good thing,” expressed McGuire.

McGowen has also seen progress in herself despite the challenges she faced as a newcomer. “I think my first time for (the 50-meter) was in the 50s (seconds); now it’s like 40, 41,” she said.

The swim team and its new members hope to continue this trend of improvement when the season begins in January.

Bowling has been in Sophomore Danielle August’s life for about 10 years. While being a gifted bowler, August also helps to add energy to MHS’ Boys and Girls Bowling Team.

As a co-captain for this year’s girls portion of the team, August has shown promising leadership capabilities.

“She has a lot of talent and skill for her age,” said Head Coach for the Boys and Girls Bowling Team Kellen Inafuku.

As a freshman, August was awarded the second team all-star award and recently took the Oahu Interscholastic Association (OIA)champion title for bowling. “I think she is capable of taking OIAs and states again,” said Inafuku.

Growing up with bowling has greatly impacted August’s athletic ability. “My parents were bowling since they were kids so I was highly influenced to bowl at an early age,” said August.

Along with her skill, a positive attitude is also something that August added to the team. “She’s funny and she always knows how to cheer the team up no matter what happens,” said Co-captain Junior Breanne Hew. Inafuku hopes to have August as a captain again in upcoming year’s. “I would hope she wants to be a captain. She’s just naturally talented,” said Inafuku.

Bringing the team closer together is one thing that August will try to improve in future years.

D

s e v e n

t o y s

y o u

w a n t e d

m o s t

Gregory Cepeda, 12

“It’s shoes with wheels, who does not want shoes with wheels?”

Conrad Wolfe, 11

“It was new ... like the best that there was to offer.”

at i t s A best

Hina Kimura, 10

“It just brings back all these memories because I went to the after school program for pretty much my whole elementary school life, and that’s a lot of what we did after school. Because usually other board games, they’re like, too hard or there’s too many pieces or too many rules, but Mancala’s just so simple.”

Danielle Guevarra, 10

Gilbert Caraveo, 10

Nastasha Merced, 12

Elizabeth Rodriguez, 10

“They had really cool fashion, I liked to brush their hair, dress them, put them in the little slug bug car I had ... Yasmin was my first doll, little brunette with the little mole on her face because she looked like me.”

Carson Turner, 10

something.”

a rite of passage or

was old, like it was like

the scooter) I felt like I

to ride ... (when I got

only thing I knew how

the scooter was the

I didn’t know how, so

bikes all the time and

their skateboards and

with their friends riding

and then they were

“I had two brothers

Adriene Unpingco, 10

“I would always try to beat my sister’s high score.”

Jaslyn Loftin, 10

“I actually got it from my brother ... so when he said he would give it to me ... I was very excited and I rode it around like so many times when I was little.”

“They were super famous back then, so like everybody had to have the Brat and they were super pretty and you got to dress them and they were the new ‘in’ thing ... It was something new and fabulous so I had to have it.”

Alvin Norman Orense, 12

“I never seen anything like that before ... so when I saw it ... I was really like curious about it because everyone had one and I wanted to know what it did.”

“They were really cute and really cool and they were so fun.”

Angelina Ervin, 10

“I remember my parents ... had it and they were just playing or messing around. I wanted to see what it was so then I was like ‘Oh can I try?’ and ever since I got like hooked onto it and I was just like ‘Oh! I want to beat my parents’ score,’ and I never did but I got pretty close and I still suck, but I did my best.”

Brannon Basilio, 12

“Everybody had them. It was like ... the toy to have, like how the iPhone is ... I felt like a beast when I actually could ride it, then it was fun, but before that it was not fun at all.”

“I played it with my cousin for the first time ... and he beat me like really bad so that was my motivation, to get it so that I could beat him.”

Dylan Taira, 12

“I wanted the Gameboy Color because it had the game Pokemon on it ... and I just gotta catch all those Pokemon; I gotta be the Pokemon master.”

Compiled by Jacquelyn Perreira, j.perreira@trojantimes.org

t h e

N O S TA L G I

I over the toy store’s newest editions. With their appealing commercials and their presence seemingly everywhere we looked, it was hard to resist the toys’ charms, making us feel like we just had to have them. Although we didn’t realize it then, those were the simpler times; the times when the only thing we were concerned about was getting that special item from our wish list. Here are some of the toys that helped make Christmas seem like the greatest day ever.

Christmas has and always will be a holiday for all ages to enjoy.

However, we all remember the days when we would pine

10 C&CC The College and Career Center will be closed during Winter Break.

Please plan accordingly.

Happy Holidays!

Senior Announcements If you have not done so already, turn in your applications and/or transcript requests! If applying online, you still need to turn in a transcript request to C&CC so we can add your list of senior courses and attach our school’s profile.

Let us know if there are any questions.

UH Community College Application The community colleges are a smart choice for starting a four-year degree. With an AA degree from a community college, you can transfer with your “core” general education requirements fulfilled, at a substantial savings. The community colleges provide quality education, more personalized attention and lots of opportunities. Popular programs fill up quickly, so turn in an application as soon as possible.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Selective Service: All males 18 years of age must register In order to qualify for federal student loans, grants, job training and employment, males 18 years of age must register with Selective Service. Go to www.sss.gov for more information.

Financial Aid – Available Online Jan. 1 With all of the economic concerns that are happening around us, financial aid will play an important piece in the college application process. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) provides the foundation for the college financial aid process. Colleges and many scholarship foundations use the report generated by the FAFSA to evaluate an applicant’s financial need. You must file the FAFSA even if you seek only grants, work study or subsidized loans. Request for forms or complete the form online after Jan. 1 at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Each college has a priority deadline and most aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure that you file your FAFSA as soon as possible.

Book Club

to Eastlack at kai.izgrate@ earthlink.net as soon as possible. Thank you!

A Novel Senior Project Senior Kainoa Eastlack is looking for readers to help him with his Senior Project.

He’s written a 220-page science fiction novel entitled “Empiric Empire” as his product and needs to gather data for his study to be complete. He needs people to read a short story by science fiction pioneer H.G. Wells for his “pre-test” and then read and respond to his story for his “post-test.”

You can find a link to the short story, the file of his novel and the writing rubric for a response to both pieces on our MHS Book Club Edline page. The responses are looking for people to evaluate the cause and effect relationship between a person’s actions and how a reader views their actions as something to attack or defend.

If you like to read science fiction and would like to help Eastlack with his project, just go to our page and start reading! You may send your responses

Compiled by Book Club Adviser Lisa-Anne Tsuruda Sample of “Empiric Empire” by Kainoa Eastlack Khî was inside the fortress of Æzbrisz, the religious capital of Ignhürnt, the sole location in which their deity would speak through the Ahnfél. This was the precise reason why Khî was there, as the magical scroll contained information that could affect all of Iyumehan.

He walked through the baroque halls for a time, having no desire to appear out of place. He was dressed in the robes preferred by the numerous sages that resided in the temple’s inner sanctum, where the information he searched for was stored. It was late, and after scouring the nearby rooms with his mind to determine that he was alone, he broke out into a silent run.

He continued for some

Scholarship Award Letter If you received a scholarship or financial award from a school or organization, whether you accept it or not, forward a copy of the award letter to our office so that you can be recognized in the graduation program.

Scholarships Posted on Edline Check Edline or our bulletin board for the latest scholarship listing. Any scholarship money that you receive means less money out of your pocket. Follow the instructions and watch your deadlines!

Other Announcements Registration Information Registration for next school year’s classes will begin in January. Utilize the resources that we have available at MHS by taking interesting or challenging courses. Some colleges require a fine arts class, while others recommend three years of a foreign language.

UH Manoa requires 17 college-prep classes (core classes and world language) Colleges like to see a rigorous course schedule, especially in senior year, so check the website of protime, simultaneously searching through nearby rooms with his mind to ensure that he would not be discovered. He then came to an abrupt halt right in front of a sage who made the obvious and correct conjecture that something was wrong.

“Help!” he shouted out, “An intruder!”

Nobody responded to his cry for help, as nobody but Khî ever heard it. Just before the sage began his noisemaking, Khî flicked his wrist and surrounded the both of them with a translucent green bubble.

“Do not bother,” he said, unconcerned. “They cannot hear you. My, what a foolish mistake I made.

Century after century, I still observe only to what I cannot see. I should really start paying attention to what is directly in front of me.”

His words were interrupted when the sage raised his hand to shoot a bolt of energy at him. The red sphere halted inches away from Khî’s face, then harmlessly disintegrated.

spective colleges and plan your schedule accordingly.

SAT or ACT College Entrance Exams Underclassmen, especially juniors, should sign up now for the SAT, ACT or SAT Subject Tests (if needed). Sites and dates fill up very quickly, so plan accordingly. Go to www.collegeboard.org or www.actstudent. org to sign up for the appropriate test. Our school’s CEEB code is 120-197.

Quest for Success Thank you to the Rotary Club of Mililani Sunrise, and to the students who attended Quest for Success on Wednesday, Nov. 16. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to network with organizations and get information on jobs and programs. Based on the feedback that they received, the Rotary Club considered it a success. They will be planning a similar event next school year and we hope that more students take part in this wonderful event.

Fee Waivers Available Students on free or reduced lunch are available for SAT, ACT and NCAA Clearinghouse fee waiv-

ASACS Underage Drinking and You Facts about underage drinking may surprise or shock you. In the United States, underage teen drinking is widespread. Approximately 12.5 million underage teens drink each year.

According to self-reports by United States students in grades 9 - 12: 1) 74 percent had at least one drink of alcohol on one or more days during their life.

2) 26 percent had their first drink of alcohol, other than a few sips, before age 13.

3) 43 percent had at least one drink of alcohol on one or more occasion in the past 30 days.

4) 26 percent had five or more drinks of alcohol in a row (i.e. binge drinking) in the past 30 days.

5) 4 percent had at least one drink of alcohol on school property on one or more of the past 30 days.

5) Alcohol is a factor in the three leading causes of death for 15 - 24 year olds.

6) People who begin drinking before the age of 15 are

ers. See Mrs. Yamamoto and pick up your fee waiver today.

Running Start The Running Start program is a unique partnership between the DOE and the UH system. It allows public high school juniors and seniors to attend college classes while earning both high school and college credits. Come to C&CC for more information, or visit www.hawaii.edu/runningstart.

Compiled by College and Career Counselor Denise Yamamoto

Important Upcoming Dates Jan. 19 at 6:30 pm – Financial Aid Night Jan. 22 at 1:00 pm – College Goal Sunday Jan. 23-27 at Lunch– College Awareness Week

Feb. 15 at 1:00 pm – ASVAB

four times more likely to develop alcoholism than those who wait until 21.

Although teens and young adults between 16 and 24 years old comprise only 20 percent of the total licensed population; they cause 42 percent of all fatal alcohol related crashes.

It’s “an epidemic of underage drinking that germinates in elementary and middle school with 9 13-year-olds and erupts on college campuses, where 44 percent of students binge drink,” said Columbia University’s Joseph Califano Jr., who heads the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse.

Nearly 27 percent of Hawaii people ages 12 - 20 had an alcoholic drink within a 30-day period surveyed, according to the latest national statistics. And 19.53 percent binged — drank five or more drinks at one time.

Teen drivers are involved in more than five times as many fatal crashes as adults are. Take a stand, stay safe, say no.

Compiled by ASACS Counselor Mary Schwing

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Trojan Times The mission of the Trojan Times is to publicize events, share in the successes of students, promote the hard work of the faculty and capture the dedication of organizations.

Editor in Chief Caitlin Kelly Assistant Editor Shan Yonamine Design Editor Jacquelyn Perreira Business Manager Jessica Antonio Copy Managers Ramil Lorenzo Gonzalez Cyanne Ito April-Joy McCann Adviser Mr. Christopher Sato

Living like it’s Christmas all year round

By Caitlin Kelly c.kelly@trojantimes.org

Pretty much every person in the U.S. is familiar with Dec. 25 and its traditions, whether or not they choose to celebrate the holiday. The days, or months rather, leading up to it involve seasonal music playing throughout department stores, holiday movies airing constantly on television and people getting into that overall “Christmas spirit.” It seems as if goodwill can balloon tenfold during this period but we can’t rely on one holiday to make up for the areas in which we fall short of during the year.

As a young child, I always felt like Christmas was a day filled with magic. I remember anxiously going to sleep on Christmas Eve and

waking up early in the morning to see what gifts Santa had left for my sister and me. On Christmas day, I would attend family gatherings at my aunt’s house and we would enjoy each other’s company. I loved those days, it was as if nothing could go wrong simply because of the date.

At least in my experiences, it seems as though good cheer can be infectious around this time of year. Even for those who don’t celebrate the holiday, it gives them an opportunity to take a break from a busy work schedule that can take over their lives.

Besides the extra time to relax, a big part of the holidays is the opportunity to give to the needy and support those who may have a harder time during the holiday season. Red tins accompanied by bell

ringers are often seen outside of grocery stores and people have the opportunity to “make a difference” by paying 5 dollars to feed a child breakfast for a week.

I suppose it’s nice when people get bitten by the giving bug, but when the effect wears off as soon as Christmas is over, the act is no longer as sincere. We shouldn’t feel proud of ourselves for being generous at one time of the year, but rather for a continuous effort to be kind to others.

Giving someone a gift one day and never taking the initiative to reach out to them again will not build a strong relationship.

Donating a few dollars to charity and disregarding those in need for the rest of the year is not going to eliminate poverty.

Believing that magic will

happen simply because it’s Christmas will not change the world.

It seems that people have this idea that Christmas can break barriers and end suffering, but in reality we must take action ourselves all year round. Even if Christmas holds more significance for some than for others, it’s ultimately the same as any other day: after all, it’s 24 hours long, starts with a sunrise and ends with a sunset. Therefore, we must put in the same effort for its 364 counterparts.

I enjoy the holiday season, but that doesn’t mean it’s a day where everything can be put on hold. It is the conscious effort to create change that will actually make it happen; it can and should be that way any other day of the year.

Principal Dr. John Brummel Staff Jessica Fontenot Kara Nitta Jenny Park Nathan Park Reagan Paz Amanda Thomas Kimberly Yamaguchi The Trojan Times is a monthly production of the Newswriting staff of Mililani High School 95-1200 Meheula Pkwy., Mililani, HI 96789 To voice an opinion or any concerns, feel free to submit a letter to L205 or to c.kelly@trojantimes.org.

The Trojan Times reserves the right to edit letters as they see fit.

Please type your letter and clearly state your name, grade level and period one class.

Hawai‘i Pacific University admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, religion, gender, age, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status and disability.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

HOROSCOPES Aries (March 21- April 19) The holidays are finally here! Spend them with your family and friends, the people who mean the most to you; you won’t regret it.

Taurus (April 20- May 20) If you don’t want coal in your stocking, you’d better shape up! Santa might not be so forgiving this year ...

Gemini (May 21- June 21) You can’t help but feel the urge to spend all your money on Christmas shopping. Be wise and save your money by hand making some gifts.

Cancer (June 22- July 22) Do all of your chores. If you want to get that new pair of shoes you’ve been drooling over for Christmas, show your parents you care.

Leo (July 23- Aug. 22) Don’t be the Grinch.

Give more presents than you planned to this year and maybe you’ll receive something you didn’t expect in return.

Virgo (Aug. 23- Sept. 22) Winter break is just around the corner. Keep persevering and it’ll be here sooner than you know it!

Libra (Sept. 23- Oct. 22) Stop worrying if you worked hard enough in 2011. You did! Now go to Starbucks and buy yourself a gingerbread frappuccino, you deserve it.

Scorpio (Oct. 23- Nov. 21) The holidays are your favorite time of year.

Decorate the house and put up lights to show off some of your Christmas spirit.

Help Mr.King Fish

Mr. King Fish is a fish, and therefore cannot read, so his Christmas decorations didn’t go according to plan. He made 12 mistakes. Can you find them all?

By Ramil Lorenzo Gonzalez

Sagittarius (Nov. 22- Dec. 21) Even if we live in Hawaii, hot chocolate is always good during winter.

Make yourself a cup and see how refreshing it is.

Capricorn (Dec. 22- Jan. 19) You need to make an important decision during this upcoming break but you’re confused. Take a deep breath and follow the way your heart tells you to go.

Aquarius (Jan. 20- Feb. 18) Planning isn’t really your thing. Just go with the flow this break and you’ll enjoy it more.

Pisces (Feb. 19- March 20) This year has gone by faster than you expected.

Take some time to reflect on 2011 and mark goals for next year.

Compiled by April-Joy McCann a.mccann@trojantimes.org

Answers to Puzzle:

Dividing by Zero

By Ramil Lorenzo Gonzalez

Life According to the Internet

By Cyanne Ito