Ω
the
Hoofprint
Walnut High School Walnut, CA Volume 49, Issue 3 December 15, 2016 www.whshoofprint.com
Riding on the shoulders of team member senior Keisha Lugito, varsity golf player sophomore Akira Romyanond celebrates Girls’ Golf’s state championship win in the Parade of Champions Tuesday, Dec. 6. “I was trying to get Girls’ Golf recognized and show our spirit. Being able to highlight our accomplishments definitely made an impact on our pride,” Romyanond said. “I was really proud about how much we achieved this year, so my energy skyrocketed during the parade.”
PHOTO BY BY JEFFREY PHOTO JEFFREYTRAN TRAN
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02
7
Mission We, the Hoofprint staff, strive to inform the student body in an accurate, timely and objective manner.
Feature
While we take responsibility for the legitimacy of our
Junior Johnathan Chiu works with his team to build an underwater robot.
reporting, we also recognize the freedom of the press and speech given to us under California Education Code 48907. We seek to reflect the diversity of the school and to be an open forum that encourages student expression and discussion. Through our coverage, we hope to represent the distinct character of the Walnut community.
Staff Print Editors-in-Chief: Cherie Chu, Sabrina Wan
table of contents
3
13
Investigative reporting
Arts
Students and staff members address issues regarding the recent decline of school cleanliness.
Retiring music director Buddy Clements recounts his entire teaching career.
Online Editors-in-Chief: Lisa Shen, Jo Ann Sun Media Manager: Brian Wu Managers: Olivia Chiang, Vivian Lee Business Managers: Airi Gonzalez, Jeffrey Tran Photo Lead: Jeffrey Tran Photo Manager: Airi Gonzalez News Editors: Jessica Huang, Melissa Kim
8
Opinion Editors: Brian Chen, Phillip Leung Feature Editors: Natalie Jiang, Albert Law In-Depth Editor: Angela Zhang Scene Editor: Sophia Ding Arts Editors: Kevin Arifin, Angela Cao
In-depth
Sports Editors: Haixin Guo, Julie Lee
This holiday season, examine the different culinary traditions on campus.
Video Manager: Eunice Lin Social Media Editor: Samuel Compolongo Online Media Editor: Caroline Huang Photographers: Jamie Chen, Samuel Compolongo, Sara Corona, Richard Zhang
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Staff Writers: Sarah Aie, Andre Alvarez, Florence Ao, Anabelle Chang, Erica Chang, Amber Chen, Emily Chen, Jamie Chen, Kelly Chen, Nicole Chiang, Jocelyn Chow, Jason Corpin, Sara Corona, Tristan Gonzalez, Brian Honng, Jeremy Hsiao, Justin Jiang, Brandon Lai, Austin Lam, Isaac Le, Samantha Lee, Isabella Leung, Annie Li, Ashley Liang, Ashley Lin, Kyle Lin, Elaine Liu, Cynthia Lu, Jason Luna, Amy Lo, Emily Ng, Bella Pan, Isabella Pollalis, Uniss Tan, Athena Tang, Emmeline Tantry, Sean Wang, Brandon Win, Sherman Wu, Anna Yu, Irene Zhou Adviser: Rebecca Chai
Contact & Media For business/ad inquiries, email business@whshoofprint.com Walnut High School 400 N. Pierre Rd. Walnut, CA 91789 (909) 594-1333 www.whshoofprint.com @WalnutHS_News @WalnutHS_Sports @whspublications @whspublications
5
Sports
Following his parents and grandmother’s footsteps, senior Eric Song continues his family’s tradition of playing basketball.
Opinion
Foreign language classes provide a variety of benefits, but what are some detriments?
11 Scene
Le Pain Quotidien offers a taste of Paris with its simple delicacies and rustic decor.
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december 2016
03 PHOTO BY AUSTIN LAM
Decline in school cleanliness raises concerns A recent rise in littering and vandalism on campus has brought attention to the issue of school cleanliness. Jessica Huang and Melissa Kim
initiative in maintaining a clean
News editors
campus by hosting recycling drives
Recent notice of the decline of cleanliness has prompted students and custodians to initiate change on campus. Some students have taken steps to ensure that the campus remains a suitable learning environment by improving issues with sanitation. “When parents come in to check out the school, the first thing they do is to look at the campus, see how it looks, how the campus is kept up,” custodian Cecil Harris said. “[When] it’s a good environment, it makes the students happy, it makes parents happy and [it] makes me happy.” Several
clubs
and watering plants. “There’s a natural inclination around campus to do the right thing and make our school as clean as possible, and [students] do a good job making sure everything is thrown away in proper places,” junior Adam Ng said. “Personally, it is distracting seeing waste on the ground that hasn’t been thrown away and [has been] left behind.” Despite efforts to preserve a sanitary environment, a recent increase in vandalism around campus has led to restroom restrictions, and has cost the school to replace damaged school materials.
$4,443
including
Environmental Care and Global Awareness (ECGA) and National Honor Society (NHS) have taken
How clean are we?
Students express opinions about their stance in mantaining a better learning environment. COMPILED BY ASHLEY LIANG AND SHERMAN WU
was spent to replace damaged books this year.
SOURCES: ANDREA DELIGIO AND JACQUELINE ROJAS
Alvin Yu, 9
“I do not think that students do a good job cleaning up after themselves. Having an unclean environment can seem unsettling and discouraging. It affects me because it shows that students on this campus do not care enough to clean up after themselves.”
800
estimated books with an average cost of
$100+
will be repaired for damages this year. The C, E and Y Building facilities have been set to close immediately after the school day ends because of the graffiti outbreak in stalls and misconduct of restroom supplies. “This year, [the vandalism rate] has been higher than previous years in general. There have been a number of things, not just in bathrooms,” custodian Patrick McConnell said. Textbooks are also being replaced because of the extensive amount of damage and writing. Likewise, students are writing on desks and causing harm to its surfaces.
“I think that [our school is] pretty clean compared to other schools. We should encourage students to pick up after themselves by promoting environmental Phoebe Cao, 10 awareness, like putting up posters around the school and remembering to keep the world green.”
Although custodians aim to wipe
it’s like that?” operations manager
off any marks, carvings and below-
Jacqueline Rojas said. “That’s just a
surface scratches created by students
known fact. You need to have a clean,
have rendered desks unrepairable
safe [and] healthy environment for
and now require replacement.
kids to be able to learn.”
12 student desks and 5 tables have been
replaced this semester.
$82
Desks cost each, and tables cost
$100 each.
Custodians who have witnessed the deterioration of cleanliness are consistently running eight-hour shifts to address these issues and perform duties such as emptying trash cans and attending to each classroom.
11
There are total custodians in school. “I think there’s a sense of pride
“If you don’t have a clean and
in knowing that your campus is well
safe campus, the kids are not going
taken care of,” McConnell said.
to learn. You don’t want to be in a
“[Walnut] is known in the district as
classroom that’s dirty, or has desks that
one of the cleanest campuses, and it
are sticky, or has food on the floor. How
would be nice for it to continue to be
can you concentrate on your work if
known as that.” Ω
“I think that a majority of students take care of their own trash, but there are people who don’t care and just leave it for other people to pick up. There have been times when I’ve gone to the Alex Tsai, 11 restroom after lunch, and it’s just filthy because people don’t care about picking up after themselves.”
“I think students do a pretty good job of cleaning up after themselves, but there’s a long way to go. We should still be more proactive in doing the Helen Zhou, 12 right thing and cleaning up after ourselves, because the janitors already have a lot of work to do.”
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04
Student statistics
Survey statistics reveal students’ opinions on the tidiness of the school. BASED ON A SURVEY OF 337 STUDENTS
investigative reporting
Q&A: Student initiative
COMPILED BY ANDRE ALVAREZ AND NICOLE CHIANG
Student organizations discuss methods to promote a cleaner environment.
Environmental Care and Global Awareness Audrey Lau
30% strongly agree that the cleanliness 9 in 10 students of our school needs improvement
of students feel uncomfortable using restrooms
70%
students feel that students adequately fulfill
3 in 10 their roles to keep the school clean
Where do you see students litter the most in school?
of students feel uncomfortable using water fountains
82% lunch tables
Co-president
How does your club specifically promote cleanliness? “[ECGA] promotes cleanliness by gathering paper from teachers, recycling bottles, doing park cleanups in our community, raising environmental awareness, promoting eco-friendly activities like hikes and demonstrating simple DIYs to reuse things we would assume had no use.” In what ways do you think students can take better care of our campus? “I think that if students actively participate in the paper donations we have going on at our school, donate bottles, practice throwing away our trash and not walk over the plants, our campus [can be better taken care of].” How does an unclean campus personally affect students such as yourself? “Students may have this false idea that we can continue to litter since it’s so ‘clean.’ But in reality, generating so much trash and leaving it all over the place is still a huge problem for the students of Walnut High School.”
5% of students always throw away litter when they see it
10% classrooms
3%
3%
2%
restrooms
locker rooms
gym
When do you see students litter the most in school? 89%
84%
59% 7% class/tutorial
2%
2%
passing period
after school
Inez Zung
Co-president
students believe a school is judged based on its cleanliness
lunch
National Honor Society
students believe an unclean environment distracts students from learning
How does your club specifically promote cleanliness? “Our purpose is to make sure that the campus looks a little bit more lively. We have Waterworks on Tuesdays and Campus Beautification on Fridays. Waterworks is generally just watering plants. Campus Beautification is watering plus weeding. I hope that what our members get from this is that they’re helping improve our school community. ” In what ways do you think students can take better care of our campus? “I think in general [throwing away trash] keeps everything clean so that people don’t have to walk in messes, and I think it makes the [custodians’] jobs a little bit easier as well.” How does an unclean campus personally affect students such as yourself? “In extreme conditions, if we had a really messy campus that was just not very clean, I think students would tend to have a more careless attitude that would reflect in their work.”
A day in the life of a custodian
Explore the 10 hour schedule of a custodian and the daily duties they fulfill to maintain the school’s appearance.
Day shift
6:00 a.m. Night shift
2:45 p.m.
Unlocking gates
Tidying and vacuuming classrooms
Responding to maintainence calls
Emptying trash bins
Cleaning and locking C, E and Y restrooms
Locking gates
2:45 p.m. 10:30 p.m.
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december 2016
05 EDITORIAL CARTOON BY ERICA CHANG
Editorial Solidarity As homogeneous as we are within the Walnut Bubble, we have varying backgrounds, circumstances and opinions. The diversity of America is reflected in our own. But this issue isn’t a matter of red or blue, or black or white. It is a matter of humanity, of citizenship and of solidarity as we embrace our differences. In light of the election results, it is virtually impossible to dismiss the rising tensions that have permeated the nation. Riots erupted immediately on the streets, #NotMyPresident trended on Twitter and sided arguments have arisen on social media. In our short time alive, we have seen the legalization of marijuana in seven states, the Supreme Court decision to enable gay marriage and increased rights for minority groups. We pride ourselves, as millennials, on our open-mindedness; yet, we throw hate at each other in every way possible. From toxic Youtube and Facebook comments to radical blogs and news sources, people, especially the so-called “accepting” millennials, are suppressing and rejecting ideas that differ from their own. While we have every right to publish our thoughts and speak our minds, we must remind ourselves to concede to our peers in varying degrees: acknowledging, understanding, respecting or even accepting the perspectives they offer. Scornful reactions to ideas unfamiliar to our own cause misunderstanding and division, and the attitude with which we carry ourselves before others is the deciding factor in either mitigating or inflaming disagreement. We, at the Hoofprint, recognize that everyone possesses differing values and viewpoints that should be considered rather than shunned. Attempts to align others’ opinions with ours prevent effective communication that is crucial for cooperation and progress. We must learn to see through the eyes of those around us and overcome differences in order to achieve unity. In the end, all our efforts are expended for the betterment of our friends, peers and communities. Though we may hold strong and sometimes conflicting opinions, we are united in this common goal. And we need to maintain considerate, responsible conversations on campus in order for us to enact the positive changes we want to see. Only through open-mindedness and compromise will our different voices become impactful.
Practicality of foreign languages Though foreign language classes are mandated by UCs and other universities, they generally lack pragmatism in terms of real-world usage. Jamie Chen
is more intriguing or relevant to a
leaves little time for verbal practice. I,
Photographer
future career path? Many say yes,
and presumably many others struggle
but ACT studies show that taking
when the language becomes more
foreign language classes increases
complex than just basic greetings.
linguistic awareness and leads to
We are taught to memorize sentences
higher academic achievements on
rather than understanding the process
standardized testing.
behind them. The low amount
When I walk into language class, I greet my teacher with a greeting and a hearty handshake. It’s a routine now, but I’m starting to wonder if it’s actually teaching me how to greet someone or if I’m just going through the motions. Currently, students are required to take two years of either fine arts or foreign language, but as a requirement for UC schools, many feel obligated to take at least three years of the latter. Though there are clear benefits to learning a second language, the students at Walnut tend to go through the motions and, most likely will never use that language outside of the classroom. Do foreign language classes simply
teach
students
different
languages or do they serve a greater purpose? Could the class spot be
HOW TO GET YOUR OPINIONS PUBLISHED: 1. If you’re interested in getting your work published, type a reply to an article or situation on campus and email it to letter@whshoofprint. com, or draw a comic or political cartoon in black ink and turn it in to Ms. Chai in D-1. 2. Include your name, grade, first period class and phone number. (Anonymous letters will not be published.)
used to take a different class that
The benefits of learning foreign
of verbal practice is what prevents
languages have been evident for
students from truly understanding
quite some time. Reading different
a foreign language, leading some to
languages challenges one to recognize
complain that four years of a foreign
completely
language teaches nothing applicable
different
words
and
meanings, which also raises cultural
to the real world.
awareness. In addition, being bilingual
If we are to address the problem
can also make one more marketable
of students just going through the
when searching for jobs, as it enables
motions of foreign language classes,
individuals to communicate with
we should first look at the classes
more people.
themselves. Foreign language classes
Currently,
the
way
foreign
could be improved greatly with a
languages are taught in school does
different approach in teaching that
not set one up to learn a language
does not focus so much on vocabulary
practically, which does not translate
and basic sentence structure. It is
well into the real world. From the start,
clear that foreign languages are here
students are encouraged to memorize
to stay, but students and teachers
vocabulary and phrases; emphasis on
should consider more organic and
vocabulary and grammar, however,
applicable methods of learning. Ω
Foreign language statistics
28% of students take Spanish 5.6% of people in the world speak Spanish
This graph shows the percentage of Walnut High students who take foreign language classes compared to the percentage of primary language speakers in the world.
4.4% of students take Chinese 14% of people in the world speak Chinese
SOURCES: DUJUAN JOHNSON, VISTAWORLD.ORG
10% of students take French 1.7% of people in the world speak French
4.1% of students take German 3.1% of people in the world speak German
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06
opinion PHOTO BY JEFFREY TRAN
Generation gap Students share their parents’ opinions on the differences between the two generations. COMPILED BY TRISTAN GONZALEZ, ISAAC LE AND SHERMAN WU
“Our parents say that our technology is helping us to have a not only lazy life, but an easier one too. They mention phones, computers, T.V.—all
those
things,
according to them, make our life much
Patrick Dandan, 9
Ω Phon
e
easier than it was merely 20 years ago.”
“When my parents were in school, they had to walk miles from home and back. They were poor so they didn’t have a car that they could use to drive. They see our generation as that one kid who
Yaisha Torres, 9
is privileged, but still does the work. We, in their eyes, are the people who are handed the tools and the equipment and the instructions, but also the ones who are arrogant and headstrong and confident with the legacy that they, we, are building.”
“I feel like [parents] say that because they want to discipline their children so in the future, kids could be independent.
Ashdon LuTran, 10
Katherine Hwang, 12
Comparing the education of two different generations Parents often claim younger generations have an easier school life because of new technological sources, but comparing the education of the two is illogical.
They’re not doing it to annoy their
Sara Corona
walked several miles to school or
Amazon, but according to White
children but really they are teaching their
Photographer
how they had to stay after school
House statistics, we as millennials
and clean the classroom.
have also been handed the worst
children to be more responsible in the future. My parents said that they also
Whether
The comparison between
economy in 80 years. In fact, it
wanted to do their responsibilities chores
it be a teacher,
the two generations is still not
is much harder to make money
because they wanted to lift off the load
a
or
valid when it comes time to see
this generation than the previous
relative,
parent,
off their parents so they could help out
another
older
which had it “harder” in terms
generation,
the family and wouldn’t have to make
generation tends to think that
the
of education or work. With new
between 18 and 34 are earning
their parents to do it.”
the younger generation have life
technological
come
less today in the workplace.
easier. It’s understandable that
elevated standards of education
This is why our parents should
standards
as
Americans
they believe we are the most
and perhaps even a harder
not shun us for having new
“My parents came from a different
privileged generation to date—
curriculum. New resources such
technology
country. They were impoverished and
smartphones, GPS systems and
as laptops and tablets yield a
life”—new eras of living bring
consider the struggles we face today
other surpluses of technology are
higher expectation for quality
new challenges that may not
a distraction. My dad had no shoes
readily convenient. Despite these
work, thus making it perpetually
necessarily be comprehensible by
when he walked to school, or barely
new advancements, however, the
more difficult for students to
different generations.
had enough to nourish everyone. He
two generations should not be
succeed. Online essays turn-
If our parents understand us
thinks that we should be grateful for
compared in terms of difficulty
ins and tutorial videos may be
and we understand them, then
all the luxuries we have. [My parents
in the classroom or in the
different from the old-school
it leads to tolerance rather than
have] taught me to see the world in a
workplace.
chalk and board style of teaching,
mindlessly
but that does not make school any
each other. We as teenagers
easier.
should appreciate the hardships
and
an
competing
“easier
against
different perspective to really appreciate
At some point, teenagers
my life right now. I try not to be as selfish
have heard the classic “When I
with my time as it is disrespectful. They
was a kid I didn’t have this” or
along
our parents went through and
moved to the States for me to get a
“You have it easier than I did when
with education, also presents
likewise, adults should grasp
better education.”
I was your age.” Parents also note,
various differences. Sure, we
the new and developing age of
for example, how some of them
have something like eBooks and
education and work. Ω
The
workplace,
Ω
december 2016
07 PHOTO BY JEFFREY TRAN
My second language is code Junior Johnathan Chiu incorporates his passion for engineering and programming into his robotics competitions. Irene Zhou Staff writer
CALCULATED TO WORK | Junior Johnathan Chiu works with acute accuracy to ensure that his robot will work.
Two years ago, the Hydromechs
hard work has paid off. A lot of teams
team switched from building land to
underwater robots just fall apart in the
underwater robotics.. When building
water because the water gets into the
Robot takeover of the human
underwater robots, Chiu has to use a
system, so it’s a pretty big achievement
race? He likely would have played
cable for communication because Wi-
that ours was so successful,” Chiu said.
a role in that. Junior Jonathan Chiu
Fi and radio frequencies cannot be
The Hydromechs team not only
pursues his passion in engineering by
transmitted under water. Underwater
focuses on competitions, but has started
building underwater robots with the
robotics plays a large role in marine
a new community outreach program
Walnut Hydromechs team.
biology and is very different from
this year. Chiu and other members
normal robotics.
go to the Maryvale Orphanage once
Chiu
developed
an
early
fascination with engineering through
“It’s important to make sure that
a month to teach the children about
helping his dad with projects around
the electricity component of the robot
engineering and to give them some
the house, such as putting up the solar
does not get penetrated by water.
hands-on experience. They teach the
panels for their house. Chiu then
We won second place in state last
girls about robots, build robots from a
joined the Hydromechs team last year
year with our underwater robot and
kit and play a soccer game with them.
to fuel his interest in engineering.
this year we’re hoping to make it to
“I invest a lot of my time in it to
internationals,” Chiu said. Chiu is the engineering focal
“The kids have been through some
in the team and handles all the
traumatizing experiences so we try to
Chiu said. “Robotics is my passion
programming
controls,
account for that when we’re interact
and it’s something that I want to do in
mechanical work, electronics, and
with them. It also helps me develop my
the future.”
wires of the robots. The team works
communication skills and also improve
Chiu gained his first experience
on their robots every Saturday and
my leadership ability.”
with robotics by joining First Robotics
practices driving them. They build
In the future, Chiu wants to build
Competition
Diamond
and test the robots, and if a part does
artificial intelligence systems with his
Bar and building large robots and
not work well, they then redesign and
programming skills, which he is unable
computing them. He then joined
rebuild that part.
to do currently because of a lack of
in
Hydromechs after watching the movie
With previous robots, Chiu has
“Iron Man” and being inspired by all
faced problems with programming,
“Right now, I have a lot of
the robotic elements.
flooding, and electricity components.
science project ideas that I usually
“I joined Hydromechs because I
He and his team were able to solve
enter in competitions but I can only
had an interest in changing the world,
most of these issues this year this year
test with my ideas on the surface. So
and Hydromechs seemed like the
because they were more experienced
I would like to implement my current
perfect opportunity to do so. I feel like
and had a better understanding of
ideas with my skills in the future,”
robotics is the future of the world and
underwater robotics.
Chiu said. “I want to use my skills
I want to be the one to build the most high-tech robot,” Chiu said.
First prototype “We just wanted a working robot, like a drivable one. There were alot of trial and error but we did get [the basis] of the body complete”
“A lot of the kids are really
because I have a lot of interest in it,”
(FRC)
Chiu describes the work in progress he and his crew needed to do in order to finish his robot.
interested in engineering,” Chiu said.
become better at engineering concepts
system,
From start to finish
“I feel really proud when I see that the robot works, because all of our
Intermediate stage “We created our own capsule caps which requiered extreme precision. [The use] of the caps were to tighten the rings on the robot itself”
resources.
to create robots and inventions to improve mankind.” Ω
Final product “[After the body], we moved on to the two arms of the robot. Our robot worked pretty well but there were just a few leaks here and there that we fixed with sponges” COMPILED BY ALBERT LAW
Ω
8 Vegetable oil 3/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 cup yucca flour 1 cup grated feta cheese 1/2 cup grated Queso fresco 2 eggs 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 2 tablespoons sugar
Place all the ingredients, in a medium bowl and mix with hands until dough is soft. Form small balls.
3 cups shredded potato
In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil to 300°F. Carefully drop the balls in the oil. Cover the pot and after about 3 to 4 minutes, turn the heat up and fry until golden brown.
2 eggs beaten
1/4 cup grated onion
6 saltine crackers crushed
Remove from the oil and drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Serve.
1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Mix ingredients in a large bowl
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate
Pour enough vegetable oil into a skillet to 1/2-inch deep; heat over mediumhigh heat.
4 cloves
Drop spoonfuls of mixture, first pressing potato mixture against the side of the bowl to remove excess liquid, into the hot oil; slightly flatten the latkes into the oil with the back of the spoon.
Colombian Buñuelos
2 sticks cinnamon 1 can unsweetened evaporated milk 2 teaspons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
Latkes
Reminiscent of donut holes in appearance, Buñuelos are doughy and savory.
3 recipes in 30 minutes
3 cups water
Cook until browned and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towel and serve.
1 tablespoon milk
Ω
in-depth
A staple food in Jewish culinary tradition, latkes are enjoyed during Hanukkah.
To get in the spirit of communal cooking during the holidays, here are three simple recipes too try out with family or friends. SOURCES: PERUDELIGHTS.COM | ALLRECIPES. COM | MYCOLOMBIANRECIPIES.COM
Food & tradition
Sugar to taste
In a heavy saucepan bring the water to boil with cinnamon and cloves, for 10 minutes.
Student Statistics
Add the chopped chocolate, stirring until melted. Add evaporated milk, sugar to taste, nutmeg, and vanilla essence.
Kirsten Carlos, 9 “I don’t celebrate religious holidays in December; I don’t even really celebrate Christmas. It might seem surprising, but I mostly eat American food over the break. I’ll have some ethnic food like this dish called Keema, which is shredded beef. My mom also makes different kinds of curry and a lot of meat stew dishes.” “I come from a Salvadoran family so for Christmas we usually cook tamales. It’s just always been part of our custom. Our cooking is a representation of where we come from and ties [us] together. I feel like it represents us because it’s food from our native country brought here with us.”
Kareem Majeed, 10
Vivian Corona, 12
“It’s really fun to just make all these meals. I don’t know when this tradition started, but we’ve always just enjoyed these desserts. My favorite part of celebrating is just being able to get together, and also the food. It helps me better understand where I come from.”
“There isn’t really a reason why I like to eat the things I do, but if I had to choose one, I think eating these dishes is just a reminder of my family’s past and my heritage. I’m pretty sure it’s the only Pakistani thing that my family does, really, so it’s one of my only ways to get in touch with my Pakistani culture.” “Cooking with my family just shows that we’re really connected and that we really value family. When we make make our meals together it just gives us more time to spend together and enjoy. I like cooking, it’s really fun and it’s great that I get to experience with my family.”
The best part about the holidays
What types of food do you eat?
Why do we celebrate ?
Cultural 66%
Serve immediately with a dollop of whipped cream if desired, and a sprinkling of ground cinnamon or grated chocolate.
48%
Peruvian Hot Chocolate
Traditional
Thicker than typical hot chocolate, Peruvian hot chocolate is made from rich ingredients and spices.
Tamales are a North American and Central American dish. The process of making tamales is seen as a ritual and done communally. “We only make them during holiday season, so the whole process of preparing everything, cooking and eating them is fun. Our family makes them out of tradition, and it’s just a fun way to bring us all together.” Tamales Tiffany Casillas, 12
Food
Family time
Gifts
Festive mood
26%
22%
21%
24%
Who we celebrate with
Laddu is typically eaten during muslim and hindu holidays or weddings. During these celebrations, people customarily feed each other the dessert. “My first time eating Laddu was when I was five years old at a friends wedding. I saw eating Laddu as a rite of passage from childhood to youth.” Farhan Baig, 12
Laddu
21% 11%
What we celebrate
of students celebrate the
33%
52%
holidays with distant family
96%
2%
of students celebrate Christmas Tradition
Who prepares the meals? 56%
33%
9%
0%
Religion
Adults
Other
The whole family
I don’t celebrate the holidays
Restaurants Do not eat on holidays
Food for thought In many cultures, there is a tradition of food and eating (or not eating – fasting) associated with the holidays.
Many cultural cuisines are closely tied with traditions within that culture. In America, many immigrant families or families with ethnic backgrounds bring these customs as a way to reconnect to their roots. COMPILED BY ISAAC LE, KYLE LIN AND EMMELINE TANTRY “I usually just have a Filipino dish called lechon, and it’s just a whole pig. A drink that we have is Sago Gulaman. That’s like a filipino boba drink. We usually buy these foods or we make it as a family.”
9
Parts to a Plate
The all encompassing term “happy holidays,” overlooks the interesting factors within each religious or cultural holiday. It’s important to not only be respectful of others’ traditions, but also to understand the cultures or religions that are contained in this one saying. Where traditions come from? How people who have different cultures have brought these traditions to America and made them their own?
Dumplings In Chinese culture, dumplings are customarily eaten during the holidays as well as in daily life. Their dome-like shapes are meant to mimic the shape of gold and they represent prosperity and luck. “There are many kinds of dumplings that originate from different places. They probably have different meanings to different people. For me, dumplings remind me how thankful I should be for a family to have good times with and good food to eat.” Megan Chan, 11
There are staple foods in almost every culinary tradition. Without these key dishes, a holiday meal would be incomplete, so here are staple foods from three different culinary traditions. COMPILED BY NICOLE CHIANG AND SHERMAN WU
Many of us are children of immigrant parents, and as a result, holiday dinners aren’t always made the “all-American” way. Our Thanksgiving dinners may not be decked with a 30-pound turkey, but that doesn’t mean they’re anything short of delicious. Where dishes such as mashed potatoes and candied yams are considered traditional foods in America, cultural dishes signify the initiation of new culinary traditions. The food we eat during the holidays brings us back to our roots. Whether it’s simply getting the entire family together or bringing a piece of your parents’ culture to the dinner table, food unites us or introduces us to other cultures. Angela Zhang, In-depth editor
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10
Boxing inside of the ring
feature
Inspired by his father at a young age, senior Elisha Torreyson hopes to use his boxing to get into the U.S. Navy Boxing team for their special boxing programs. SQUARE UP | Torreyson trains for two hours ever week to perfect his combos and punches
Jeremy Hsiao
Boxing Club, the Jerry Ortiz Boxing Gym or the Chino
Staff writer
Hills Boxing Club. Torreyson currently has a record of 12-4. He uses each match and opponent as a way to
Analyze, fight and never underestimate your
cope with pent up emotions.
opponent. Senior Elisha Torreyson has devoted hours
of his life to boxing, beginning at 10 years old while
seeing [my opponent] getting hit or when he hits me
watching boxing on television.
feeds into me to keep going harder and harder. It taught
me to control my [temper] and be patient as well,”
“[Boxing] is an art. It’s not just ‘you learn how
“The straight adrenaline rush I get from me
to fight someone.’ It’s a lot more than that. You learn
Torreyson said.
patience, self-control, and how to never underestimate
With two years of boxing, countless hours of training,
people,” Torreyson said. “There’s a lot of skill required
and 16 intense matches since 2014, Torreyson has faced
to be a great boxer, [including] the ability to not get
many intimidating opponents within the ring. Although
mad and just go crazy punching on your opponent.”
not all of them ended in victory, they were all fights to
Torreyson began boxing at age 15. Although greatly
inspired
remember.
“[In one match], my opponent had a fourinch reach advantage over me and was huge. He had about one year worth of experience on me as well, which scared me,” Torreyson said. “During this match, he split open a gash
by
well
known
boxers such as Mike Tyson and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, his biggest
under my eye and it was bleeding a lot too. Unfortunately, [I lost].”
Torreyson hopes to join the United States
role model is his father, a former boxer and black
Naval Academy Boxing Club or the U.S. Navy
belt in Okinawan-style karate. He sets up circuits for
Boxing Team in the future for their prestigious boxing
Torreyson to train on and provides tips in each match
programs.
to combat the opponent.
“My dad motivated me throughout this
me express how I feel. You should be humble and not
“Boxing means a lot to me because it helps
passion of mine. He [has] trained me and was there
flamboyant or else that could hurt the way you fight,”
at all my fights. He was almost like my own cutman. I
Torreyson said. “The ability to just take a breath even
loved it,” Torreyson said.
though you got hit and focus on what you’re going to
do next is a big skill I believe is needed to become a
Torreyson goes two to three times a week
practicing for one to two hours a day at the La Habra
great boxer.” Ω
Corner talk Torreyson gives analysis on his training and the process he goes through to become better. COMPILED BY JEREMY HSIAO PHOTO BY JEFFREY TRAN
SHADOW BOXING TIME: 30 MINUTES
SPEED BAG TIME: 30 MINUTES
HEAVY BAG TIME: 30 MINUTES
SPARRING TIME: 30 MINUTES
“You stand in front of a mirror and throw different combos and jabs to see if everything looks good.”
“This [technique] is for practicing different and various combos to improve speed and hand-eye coordination. It’s a rubber, inflatable bag that hangs from a free hook.”
“This [training] is for practicing power and to practice how you face an opponent. It’s filled with sand and made with same materials as the speed bag.”
“I try to pair up with someone that’s better than me so I can have a challenge. I usually compare based on height and wingspan.”
Ω
11
scene PHOTOS BY JAMIE CHEN
A TASTE OF EUROPE | A long communal table allows customers to sit together or alone while enjoying refreshments. The cafe and restaurant are delicately adorned with homey decorations that contribute to its European cultural vibes. | A classic chickpea soup paired with an American styled smoked mozzarella tartine with a slice of baguette makes for the perfect combination.
Everyday delights at Le Pain Quotidien With its use of simple, organic ingredients, expertly crafted sandwiches and touches of decor, Le Pain Quotidien gives its customers a refreshing taste of Paris. 88 W. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena
accommodates those looking for a
Classical music played faintly in
Captivated by the sweet, rustic
break from the bustling city.
the background, mixing with the
design of the cafe, I expected the
chicken and smoked mozzarella melt and a raspberry lemonade.
The French styled design and
inaudible chatter to create an air
food to be of similar culture. Le Pain
After a brief wait, the raspberry
decor of the exterior invite customers
of relaxation. With the welcoming
Quotidien prides itself on its quality
lemonade arrived first with a separate
inside for a look at the various foods
atmosphere, customers have the
organic food, as noted on the menu,
glass of the leftovers, coming as a
Jamie Chen
for sale. The cafe provides a small
freedom to either mingle or enjoy
so I was unsurprised by the higher
delightful surprise to me as I was
Staff writer
seating area both outside and inside,
time alone. The walls are a simple,
prices. Looking through a selection
expecting only a glass. The drink
with a communal table that stretches
warm maple color and are sparsely
of drinks, salads and hot dishes, I
was a pink, fruity color with bits of
Nestled in the streets of the
throughout the length of the room.
decorated with striped tapestries.
decided on the Baker’s Lunch. This
raspberry pulp. Taste of the raspberry
Old Pasadena shopping district, Le
Pastries, breads and jams are sold in
Oversized salt and pepper shakers sat
would score me a bowl of soup and
in the lemonade was distinctly natural
Pain Quotidien is a combination
displays in the bakery up front while
on each table while several squashes
a Tartine, an open faced sandwich,
and gave the tartness of the lemon a
of a European styled bakery and
the restaurant is farther inside.
sit along the communal table, adding
at the combined price of $12.95—
fragrant twist. Sweetened with agave
countryside cafe with its specialties
Walking in, I was met with the
to the cafe’s unusual appeal. I sat
cheaper than the two if purchased
sugar and diluted with just the right
in organic, homemade breads and
comforting smell of coffee and a
myself at a small wooden table and
individually. Disregarding my usual
amount of water, the drink was not
dishes. Having both refreshments
soothing coffeehouse bumble of
was given a menu not long after by a
thriftiness, I also treated myself to
cloying but rather refreshing. Ω
and meals, Le Pain Quotidien
customers talking among themselves.
waitress with a friendly smile.
a feast of chickpea soup, a grilled
Places to visit this holiday season Here are a few of our favorite places to visit this winter season.
COMPILED BY ASHLEY LIANG PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSALSTUDIOS.COM AND LAZOOLIGHTS.ORG
Los Angeles Zoo Lights
Continued at whshoofprint.com
Universal Studios L.A. County Grinchmas Holiday Celebration
Nov. 18-Jan. 8
Dec. 3-Jan. 1
Dec. 24
Celebrate the new year with an invigorting experience during the Family New Year’s Eve event at L.A. Zoo Lights. The one-night festivity features and extensive buffet dinner and access to the Zoo’s famous light attractions. Guests also have the chance to view the broadcasting of the Time Square ball drop. The alluring glow of the lights also gives a mystical energy to put a unique twist on the equally remarkable occasion.
When deciding on which of the dozens of theme parks in Southern California to visit during the holidays, be sure to stop by Universal Studios, where festive winter and holiday decor line the streets. The iconic 60-foot Grinch Christmas tree that towers over visitors is a must-see. The grand tree and the elaborate Christmas decorations give a sense of actually being in the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss.
To kick off the holiday season, a celebration will be held on Christmas Eve at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in L.A. It showcases the exceptionally diverse cultures prevalent in the L.A. region through contemporary dance routines and over 20 choral performances. As L.A.’s biggest holiday show, this event will definitely captivate and leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Ω
december 2016
12
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas It’s the season to bundle up and enjoy a Christmas movie marathon with this collection of holiday classics. From comedies to fantasies, there is sure to be a favorite for everyone.
COMPILED BY BRIAN HONNG, ISABELLA LEUNG, AMY LO, EMILY NG AND EMMELINE TANTRY PHOTO COURTESY OF IMBD.COM
Arthur Christmas
Elf
A Christmas Carol
Home Alone
The Polar Express
Adventure/Drama
Fantasy/Romance
Drama/Fantasy
Adventure/Comedy
Drama/Fantasy
This comedic drama is set during
A hilarious comedy about a human
A rendition of Charles Dicken’s classic
Home Alone is an adventurous
This 3D animated film tells a fictional
Christmas
Santa
elf finding his father, Elf subtly infuses
book, Disney’s A Christmas Carol
and hilarious series that tells the
story, but its scenic portrayals give it
miraculously forgets to deliver one
Eve,
witty banter and Christmas spirit
features the life of a stingy man—
story of a young child left “home
a realistic feel. The Polar Express
present. Arthur, Santa’s youngest
with a meet-cute romantic storyline.
Ebenezer Scrooge— who meets three
alone”
Through
transports people of all ages back
son, sets foot on an adventure
Its
and
ghosts one night, warning him to
the trilogy,
a young boy uses his
to their childhoods in which they
to make sure that presents are
vibrant scenes are accompanied by
change his ways. This fanciful tale is
spunky
tackle
remember the joys of the holidays
delivered to children everywhere.
colorful commentary and characters,
brought to life by the stylistic choices
challenges during in the middle of
and the excitement of Santa coming
The movie sends a heartfelt message
which will keep viewers laughing
in color and the meticulous details in
the busiest day of the year. Each
on Christmas Day. The viewers are
that everyone should receive a
through the entirety of the film.
the animations. While not as light-
movie compares the reckless actions
able to follow the main character on
Christmas
lighthearted
backdrop
on
Christmas.
imagination
to
Arthur’s
goofy,
Elf ’s candy-crazed characters and
hearted as most Christmas movies,
of adults with the intelligence a kid.
an epic journey to the North Pole on
personality
helps
outright silly humor will be a definite
it conveys a heartwarming message
It is a comedic must-watch movie
a train filled with occurrences only
illustrate the joys of Christmas.
favorite among friends and family.
perfect for the holiday season.
and guaranteed to make you laugh.
one’s imagination can configure.
yet
gift.
where
charming
The Hamilton Mixtape stars a modern twist The Hamilton Mixtape features a compilation of covers and remixes from the original Hamilton Broadway play from today’s hottest artists. PHOTO COURTESY OF GENIUS.COM
Released Dec. 2, 2016
new lyrics and heavy beats on original
One thing the album does really
samplings and melodies from the
well is that it matches individual
musical.
styles with the subject matter and
The album begins with a rap song
essence of the song they’re singing.
made up of an entirely novel track and
John Legend’s rendition of “History
Angela Zhang
lyrics. It alludes to John Trumbull’s
Has Its Eyes On You” has a soulful
In-depth editor
“Declaration of Independence,” a
tune with his characteristic piano
painting depicting the historic signing
accompaniment and minimal ... The
Hamilton the Musical pioneered
of the document it is named for. This
reflective, hopeful tone of this song
this year as the first rap-musical,
intro song sets up significant thematic
itself complements Legend’s powerful,
a tale “about America then, told
and stylistic motifs in the mixtape.
meaning-fraught vocals.
by America now” starring a cast
For example, it notes that the reality
The comedian Jimmy Fallon
predominantly made up of people
is always “messier and richer, kids,
brings humor to the tape in his
of color. After Hamilton’s debut and
the reality is not a pretty picture,
depiction
meteoric rise to fame, playwright
kids” with a basic cadence and rhyme
-- an extremely ostentatious and
Lin Manuel Miranda organized a
scheme.
flamboyant character -- in his cover
of
King
George
III
23-track album featuring old school
In anticipation of this album, I
of “You’ll Be Back,” a message from
rap, pop and alternative artists titled
searched up artists who might appear
the British empire to the rebelling
“The Hamilton Mixtape.”
on the track and was impressed by the
colonies.
It is important to keep in mind
variety both in terms of genres and
Many themes explored in the
that this is a mixtape, meaning
age groups. Now, actually listening
album are especially relevant to
the songs are meant to be different
to the album, it’s baffling to see artists
recent events. In “Who Tells Your
stylistically. Some songs are so similar
such as Alicia Keys, Nas, Queen
Story,” The Roots rap about racial
to the original versions that they can
Latifah, Common, John Legend, Sia,
profiling and the attack on blacks in
be classified as covers while some
and Chance the Rapper on the same
America. Ω
artists took the liberty of laying down
collection.
Continued at whshoofprint.com
Ω
december 2016
13
A doctor, a teacher, a Buddy For the past 33 years, Band and Orchestra Director Buddy Clements has led the music program toward growth and achievement.. PHOTO BY KEVIN ARIFIN
Growth.
a senior, it was a stronger and a better
better,” Wicks said. “I don’t think
program. Every year, we see that
you’ll find two people who work more
When he first began working
there’s been a steady improvement
effectively and closely than we do. We
His last Orchestra concert. His
in the music department, he had a
in the quality of our programs. The
have a pretty unique relationship that
last homecoming football game
developing vision and a band class of
musicianship of kids at Walnut High
you won’t hardly find anywhere else.
performance. His last Marching
23 students huddled inside a regular
School is just phenomenal.”
And we always finish each others—”
Friendship.
from the room adjacent to Wicks’.
Kevin Arifin and Angela Cao Arts editors
Band
Thinking
classroom. Leading the growth of the
about the “lasts” has never been
competition.
program, Clements, along with co-
easy, especially for retiring
director Corey Wicks, now manages
Band
and
“—sandwiches,” Clements yelled
Even before Clements invited
In addition to a friend and
Orchestra
over 240 Band students and over
Wicks to work with him, they were
working partner, Clements has been a
director
160 Orchestra students throughout
close family friends who played gigs
teacher to Wicks. From teaching him
Buddy
several periods. Years of experience,
together since Wicks was in high
basic director skills such as ensuring
Clements.
supportive staff and an undeterrable
school. But after 21 years of co-
showmanship to showing him the
A f t e r
passion have elevated the music
directing, the pair describe themselves
mentoring abilities to connect with
33 years, not only
department to the prestige it claims
as brothers.
and motivate the students, Clements
has the long chain of
today.
“I would say we are really good
has helped prepare Wicks to educate
school award tags—both
“When I look at where we
friends, but it’s more than that. We’re
the next generation of musicians. Ω
silly and honorable—under
started and I think of where it is now,
more like brothers, and we know each
Continued at whshoofprint.com
his Golden Mustang plaque
I honestly think about all the students
other just as well as two people can
reached the floor of his office,
who built on them,” Clements said. “I
know each other. And we know how
but also thousands of students
always tell our current students that
to use his strengths and my strengths
passing through the band room
they’re standing on the shoulders of
together. We’re able to be a lot more
doors have been impacted by
the kids the year before them that
honest with each other than most
the music that Clements has
took the program when they came in
other colleagues, and that makes
brought into their lives.
as a freshman. By the time they left as
it harder in some ways, but mostly
Year by year: A life full of musical memories PHOTOS COURTESY OF JENNIFER DAVID AND BUDDY CLEMENTS
LEADING THE BAND I Director Clements conducts the band during first period to practice for its winter concert.
1976
1984
1995
2010
During the Bicentennial Special at Disneyworld, Clements gathers with musicians from around the world.
Clements conducts a rehearsal with his students during his first year of teaching at Walnut High School.
After playing a few songs together, Clements poses for a photo with his childhood idol, guitar player Glenn Campbell.
Clements reunites with band directors Dr. Bartner and Dr. Dye during the Disney All-American Band Concert.
Alumni Q&A How has Dr. Clements impacted your life? Before performing for Dr. Clements at his last homecoming game, alumni looked back on the role he has played in their lives. COMPILED BY ISAAC LE, ISABELLA LEUNG AND SHERMAN WU
Andre Beltan Class of 1996
“Dr. Clements had a major impact my life. I’m an elementary music teacher now, so my experience here inspired me to go into music education. Coming from a professional perspective, I know he’s still probably going to be teaching a lot [because] the music educator part never goes out of you.”
Sandy Cheung Class of 1998
“It’s important to have people that we admire and respect to give you guidance. He’s an inspiration. He instilled in me what it was to be a leader. He’s worked so many years and I’m so happy he’s found something else now to add to his list of passions and dreams and I’m so excited for him.”
Susan Muljana Class of 2001
“He taught us to enjoy music because no matter how hard you work, you should still enjoy it because it is a form of self-expression. We were all so different and he was really good at being very positive and encouraging but was still able to discipline kids when he needed to.”
Ω
14 PHOTOS BY SAMUEL COMPOLONGO
arts
Choir hosts Winter Concert Choirs showcase their winter ensembles at the annual concert Dec. 8-9.
HOLIDAY HARMONIES (TOP TO BOTTOM) I Singing a classical song, Men’s Ensemble practices at its third dress rehearsal. I Sophomores Lauren Lim and Rianna Mercado play the tambourine along with Treble Choir as they sing “Gatatumba.”
Nicole Chiang
myself to keep smiling, have the right
to the fact that I could utilize more
Staff writer
facial expressions, stay on my toes
stage performance but because I got
and don’t get too nervous,” Treble
to develop my artistry and take it one
Mustang Singers, Treble Choir,
sophomore Danae Lee said. “ I think
step further too,” Rhapsody in Blue
Rhapsody in Blue, Men’s Ensemble
we did pretty well. I was proud of how
senior Quintero said.
and Chamber Singers performed at
we worked together as a choir and I
Near the end of the concert, the
their annual Winter Choir Concert
hope the audience was able to get into
choirs performed “Peace Peace/Silent
Thursday, Dec. 8 and Friday, Dec. 9 in
the christmas spirit and realize that we
Night,” the only song sung by all of
the Performing Arts Center.
really are a special program.”
the choirs collectively. Treble Choir,
The choirs first sang classical
Five singers were featured during
Mustang Singers and Rhapsody non-
pieces, such as “Cantante Domino,”
the concert. Rhapsody in Blue senior
seniors held candles to contribute
“Belo Que Bonito” and “Sing Dem
Mariah Quintero sang a solo, “Merry
to the tranquil atmosphere. After,
Hern” during Act 1 to emphasize
Christmas Baby.” There were also
Chamber Singers, as an annual
their musicality and aptitude at
two duets, one from Chamber seniors
tradition, ended the concert with “We
learning foreign languages. Classical
Christian
Wish You a Merry Christmas.”
vocal techniques also improve diction,
Maramba, “Baby It’s Cold Outside”
“The coolest thing about singing
vocals and blend of voices. They
and another sung by Chamber senior
‘Silent Night’ is hearing 180 voices in
then performed to more well-known
Adrienne Caparaz and junior Eugene
unison singing a beautiful song,” Men’s
Christmas songs such as “Santa Claus
Lo, “Let it Snow/White Christmas.”
Ensemble junior Dylan Campos said.
Fontejon
and
Janavie
Is Coming to Town” and “Jingle Bell
“Performing “Merry Christmas
“Also, our audience is always full of
Rock,” placing more emphasis on
Baby” was a dream come true.
people and to have them show you
Christmas spirit and joy.
Because I’ve been wanting to sing
how good you did, having at least a
“There was a lot of anxiety about
this song that I had grown up with, it
hundred people clapping and cheering
not messing up, but I kept telling
was personally satisfying not only due
for you feels great.” Ω
PHOTOS BY JAMIE CHEN
SEASONAL SYMPHONIES (LEFT TO RIGHT) I Flutist freshman Yue Zhai plays “Let It Snow” during practice. “I think that the audience will be very pleased to listen, and it really brings the holiday spirit up,” Zhai said. I Cellist sophomore Audrey Heng sightreads her new piece of music. “The concert is after finals so I’m feeling a little nervous. It’s a new song so it’s fun to play,” Heng said.
Band and Orchestra to perform in holiday concert Band and Orchestra have been practicing during and after school in preparation for their annual winter concert Thursday, Dec. 15. Sarah Aie
utilizes a software called Smart
better orchestra as a whole, and
Ride” and “Carol of the Bells.”
ensembles
Staff writer
Music, in which students play their
[can]
In addition, Orchestra plans to
specific areas in their playing, such
incorporate several stunts.
as volume, coordination and sound
hopefully
good
part through a microphone and the
performance
music directors can listen to them
violinist sophomore Tiffany Yeh said.
performing in their annual Home
individually. Orchestra also brings in
For The Holidays Christmas Concert
specialists that teach and refine certain
Thursday, Dec. 15 in the Performing
skills.
Band and Orchestra practice
the
a
Band and Orchestra will be
Arts Center.
to
deliver
audience,”
“I’m
looking
forward
have
been
improving
to
quality. With the guidance of directors
“Before performances, we do like
performing these songs. Christmas
Buddy Clements and Corey Wicks, this
to get together and just play to have
songs are also just really fun to play as
concert will allow Band and Orchestra to showcase their techniques.
fun and loosen up. When you make
an entire orchestra because they’re so
“Listening to each other while
relationships with a lot of people in
high-spirited and joyful. It’ll certainly
“[This concert is] normally more
focusing on our own part and being
Orchestra, it’s definitely more fun to
relieve some of my stress and take
cheerful and gets people into that
period,
able to follow the conductor’s lead
practice.”
my mind off of school for a while,”
holiday spirit,” saxophonist junior
respectively, to improve on execution,
is definitely a difficult thing to do,
They will play a selection of
violinist junior Derek Wang said.
Brandon Bui said. Ω
technique and overall sound. Band
but it really helps us become a
Christmas music, including “Sleigh
every
zero
and
sixth
Throughout the year, the two
Continued at whshoofprint.com
Ω
december 2016
Carrying on a family legacy
15 PHOTO BY JEFFREY TRAN
Senior Eric Song strives to follow in the footsteps of his parents and grandmother. Sherman Wu
relationships of
Staff writer
a high schooler.
whatever I do, and she will be there for
Song has been playing on the
me no matter what. Everytime I’m on
varsity boys’ basketball team since
the court to play, she’s always cheering
From the Olympics to the Walnut
freshman year. Head Coach Joe
me on, and when I do a move, she’s
boys’ varsity team, the spirit of
Khouzam has mentored Song and
always like, ‘Good job Eric.’ It [gives
basketball has persisted through three
helped him mature with pep talks
me] emotional support and it shows
generations of senior Eric Song’s family.
during practice throughout his high
that she cares about me, which really
Song’s grandmother played for
school years. He has played center
makes me happy. It lets me be myself
the Women’s Chinese Basketball
for all four years of high school
on the court and lets me know people
Association from 1960 to 1970, and
and enjoys it as an opportunity
love me for who I am,” Song said.
his mother played college basketball
to showcase his leadership skills.
As the center for the boys’
at Hei Long Jiang University. Song’s
anchor
varsity basketball team, Song has
father was a basketball player and the
of the team. I want to be able to
made lasting friendships with his
flag-bearer for the Chinese National
lead the team and make our team
teammates in order to strengthen their
Team during the 1988 Seoul and
successful. I want to be that guy who
teamwork and cooperation. He views
1992 Barcelona Olympic Games.
others count on. In the team you
his team as a family built on trust.
“I started playing basketball
have to be a leader or else the team
“Bonding with my teammates
because I saw [my dad] and thought
will be dysfunctional,” Song said.
just makes us feel closer to each other
he was a very influential character. There were pictures around the wall with my dad playing basketball so I would see how cool it was to play,” Song said. “When I was little, he would always tell me that I had to
“The
center
is
the
“I had to develop good communication skills and learn to trust the people I play with,”
work hard and that inspired me to
- Eric Song, 12
play basketball. As I got older, he
and the more open you are, the more things we can talk about. I trust them very much because of how we are on and off the court,” Song said. “I don’t need to worry about them because I know we are on the same page.” For Song, basketball serves as a form of self-expression as well as an
just pushed me more and more and
His father occasionally takes
escape from the stress of school and
I started training for basketball.”
breaks from his work in China to
society. It is a way for him to channel
of
view his progress and attends several
his emotions in a productive way.
family outings when they would
of his games. Song’s grandparents
“The sport gave me confidence
bond while shooting baskets and
frequently communicate with him
because I can be myself on the
dribbling on the park courts. As
over text messaging to see how he is
court, and I don’t have to let
basketball
doing, and his mother has attended all
society’s pressure take control,” Song
He
cherishes
memories
encouraged
a
healthy
relationship in his family through communication, basketball currently helps Song with the challenging
the games he has played in high school. “My mom is very supportive of
EASY POINTS | Senior Eric Song perfects his layups through practice. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIC SONG
said. “I don’t have to be anyone else. I’m just me. I’m Eric.” Ω Continued at whshoofprint.com
A family born to play on the court All of Song’s family members have national and international accomplishments.
Bao Zhu Li
Ligang Song
Grandmother
Father
Played on WCBA (Women’s Chinese Basketball Association) Team placed third place nationally in the country
Played in 1988 Seoul and 1992 Barcelona Olympic games The first person to score more than 20 points against the US National Team in China Won title of Asia’s Best Athlete
Maria Jiang
Eric Song
Mother
Son
Played for Hei Long Jiang University team Placed second place in a national tournament for Chinese colleges
Plays for Walnut High School boys’ varsity basketball Awarded the most improved player sophomore and junior year
FAMILY MEMORIES (TOP TO BOTTOM) | Song poses with his mother and father for a family picture. | Song’s father carries the China flag for the 1990 Asian Games in Beijing.
Ω
16
Winter Season Scoreboard girls’ soccer 11/29 vs. Rowland 1-3 L 12/06 vs. Azusa 0-8 L
boys’ soccer 11/28 vs. Ayala 1-2 L 11/30 @ Rowland 0-1 L 12/06 @ Azusa 1-3 L
girls’ basketball 12/06 @ Bellflower 12/08 @ Banning 12/09 vs. Rowland 12/10 vs. Upland
71-39 W 63-27 W 50-51 L 54-40 W
boys’ basketball 12/01 vs. Sierra Vista 12/02 vs. Verdugo Hills 12/03 vs. El Rancho 12/07 vs. Upland
67-48 W 55-43 W 54-51 L 63-66 L
girls’ water polo
wrestling
11/22 vs. Bonita 7-14 L 11/29 vs. Wilson 14-10 W 12/01 vs. Ayala 6-10 L 12/06 vs. Rowland 20-9 W
(b) 12/03 Carter Individual Tournament 1. Colin Hayes, 9 (g) 12/06 vs. Montclair 24-54 L (b) 12/08 vs. Diamond Bar 36-38 L (g) 12/10 @ Diamond Ranch 200-80 W
sports
Winter Break Games girls’ soccer
boys’ soccer
12/17-23 Claremont Turnament 01/04 vs. South Hills
12/21 Don Lugo Tournament
girls’ basketball
boys’ basketball
12/27-30 Ayala Tournament
12/20 @ Salesian 12/26-30 Covina Tournament
girls’ wrestling
boys’wrestling
12/29-30 Santa Ana Tournament 12/16-17 Tournament 12/29 Lady Warrior Tournament