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the
Hoofprint
Walnut High School Walnut, CA Volume 49, Issue 2 November 3, 2016 www.whshoofprint.com
Walnut High All Male sophomore Nathan Magno performs a choreography to “She Likes” by Pleasure P during the Fall Pep Rally on Friday, Oct. 28.
WHAM practiced for over 30 hours on this piece, which was choreographed by Ryan Yamasaki (alumnus ‘16). “When I was up on the stage I felt so alive, and when I heard the crowd roar, I felt a burst of confidence and energy surge through my body.”
PHOTO BY JEFFREY TRAN
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02
Mission We, the Hoofprint staff, strive to inform the student body in an accurate, timely and objective manner. While we take responsibility for the legitimacy of our reporting, we also recognize the freedom of the press and speech given to us under California Education
table of contents
3
14
Investigative reporting
Scene
Discover how student actions have helped to shape the future of District of Choice.
Start off the fall season with tunes that will put you in the ultimate autumn mood.
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
10
coverage, we hope to represent the distinct character of the Walnut community.
Staff
In-depth
Print Editors-in-Chief: Cherie Chu, Sabrina Wan
Examine the way students learn through audiovisual and social media.
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 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 Sports Editors: Haixin Guo, Julie Lee Video Manager: Eunice Lin Social Media Editor: Samuel Compolongo Online Media Editor: Caroline Huang
5
16
Opinion
For those filling out college applications, it’s time to consider whether outside help is beneficial in the long run.
Photographers: Jamie Chen, Samuel Compolongo, Sara Corona, Richard Zhang Staff Writers: Sarah Aie, Andre Alvarez, Florence Ao,
Arts
12
Marching Band and Colorguard incorporate a new Heroes and Villains theme at their first field show of the year.
Longform
Anabelle Chang, Erica Chang, Amber Chen, Emily Chen, Jamie Chen, Kelly Chen, Nicole Chiang, Jocelyn Chow,
Junior Cyrus Lee tells the story of his move to America, 7,000 miles from home.
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
8
Feature
Junior Fitty Liu supports organizations that help those in need by selling her art.
18 Sports
From league baseball to collegiate scholarships, seniors Dylan Needham and Dylan Zavala share more than just a name.
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november 2016
03
Insight into the role of mental and physical health resources School pressure. Peer pressure. Family pressure. We’ve all experienced the ups and downs associated with the high school experience. However, we often keep our troubles to ourselves instead of seeking outside help, which can be dangerously suffocating during the crucial adolescence growth period. There is a myriad of resources offered to us, whether through counseling or health support, yet we often do not take advantage of these opportunities. Perhaps there is a certain culture that denounces weakness that induces some students to think it uncomfortable to reveal their vulnerabilities. Nevertheless, confronting and learning from these issues are the most crucial aspects of personal development, and we should utilize the school’s support system wisely to enhance this growth.
BY CAROLINE HUANG
Grade Level Coordinators are available to all students at all times for issues, ranging from scheduling academic classes to planning for the future. Class of 2020 Grade Level Coordinator
DuJuan Johnson
“If you ask any student that’s been in my office, usually the first thing I say is ‘we all make mistakes.’ I want them to feel that there’s someone that has experienced what they’ve experienced. There will be consequences, but we can learn from them and move forward. As GLCs, we’re not here to scare kids, we’re here to help and encourage.”
Class of 2017 Grade Level Coordinator
Ken McDill
“Mental health ranges anywhere from listening to a student when they are having difficulties to giving advice to a student from our experiences. People make mistakes, and kids make mistakes. The whole idea is for them to grow up, to mature, to evaluate who they want to be and why they want to be [that].”
Peer counselors are confidential sources with whom students discuss personal conflicts. Peer Counseling Adviser
Drew Johannsen
“People get sad and stressed and angry and hurt. Peer counselors are a safe place to go, they aren’t going to judge you or tell what you say, so sometimes it’s easier, after you get through the initial awkwardness of it, to share deeper stuff. I think people are shocked that advice is not our big thing, it’s mostly listening and helping you make decisions for your own life.”
Peer Counselor
Sydney Montgomery, 12
“Without [school resources] I feel as though students would feel completely alone and unheard. Also, I feel like students are comfortable talking to people who are around the same age as them. The perspectives affect how much a student would trust and share their issue.”
Sports Medicine and the nurse are open to all students in need of physical aid. Sports Medicine Teacher
Nelson Chen
“My position is that I’m an athletic trainer. The other half of my day is probably being a counselor. Honestly, kids just need someone that listens. I think they’ve been told all day from teacher to teacher what they need to do, but they have no one to talk to. I think part of my job is to just listen and to have these kids not bottle up these emotions.”
Nurse
Donna McAnally-Cuelho
“[When a student comes to me] I ask them what’s wrong, and then I try to decide if it’s something medical or if they just need to talk. Sometimes they just need a hug, somebody to tell them it’s okay. [For] some of these kids, there’s a lot of things that happen at home and school that they’re dealing with and they just need to talk to somebody, they need the guidance.”
Sports Medicine Procedure
COMPILED BY JESSICA HUANG
The sports medics follow a specific procedure in times of emergency.
1 Investigate -
Evaluate the situation and surroundings.
?
2 Ask questions Assess the severity of the injury, and find out if it has happened before.
3 Begin protocol Notify parents and decide whether or not physical therapy should be performed in or out of school.
4 Plan Devise a physical rehabilitation program for the student to follow and recover.
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04
investigative reporting
Student statistics
Student Interviews
These statistics reveal the average number of students who seek outside guidance. SOURCES: ROB COAD, DUJUAN JOHNSON, AND DONNA MCANALLY-CUELHO
COMPILED BY SARAH AIE AND NICOLE CHIANG
Students express their opinions on the necessity and usefulness of mental and physical health resources.
Grade Level Coordinators
Emma Yan, 9
Kaitlyn Choi, 10
2-3 students visit per day for academic reasons
7-10
“When you have all that pent-up stress, it can really build and going to resources can help relieve that stress. It depends on what your situation is, but they can give you advice. They can lead you to other people you can talk to and other places you can go.”
students per day
3 students visit per day for personal issues 3 students visit per week to discuss plans for the future
“There’s a lot of kids who don’t have many resources at home, and school is like a second home to them. I feel like if kids are able to open up and be in a more comfortable environment, they’d be more interested in coming to school and staying in school.”
Peer Counseling
500
students per year
3% eating disorders 2% substance abuse 3% sexual identity 4% self-harm 5% academics
18% depression
7% social issues
Kaitlin Shao, 11
“I’ve heard that [school] resources are actually pretty helpful. I know that they see a lot of students. GLCs make it known that they’re here for you for all four years, and peer counseling always comes into classes and talks about where you can go to for help.”
17% anxiety/stress 12% family
12% conflict resolution
David Argueta, 12
“It all depends on the student, how open they are and how badly they need the help. Peer counselors, it’s just their job to get to the source of the problem and help you out, but you think the only people that understand your problems are closest to you, like your friends or family.”
17% relationship issues
Nurse
20-30
students per day
DID YOU KNOW that Walnut High has a Lifeline card? If you feel that you or someone you know needs support or advice, please refer to the following sources, speak to your GLC or talk to your teacher. SOURCE: WALNUTHS.NET
This Card Is A Lifeline! WAL NUT
If you are in need of help and don’t know how to ask for it, give this card to a: • WHS Peer Counselor • GLC or School Psychologist • Teacher • Parent or a trusted Adult
THERE IS HOPE!!!
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november 2016
05 PHOTO BY AUSTIN LAM
Editorial Presidential Election With the presidential election coming up in less than a week, we all probably have a preferred candidate. Much of what we know about the presidential candidates comes from media, and the way that news sources portray such people greatly influences our impressions and opinions of them. Although media and news are supposed to be free of partisanship, many sources are pushed either left or right in order to cater to the largest audience possible. Rather than spreading the complete truth, they choose to selectively publish what demeans the opposing candidate or raises their own candidate on a pedestal. As consumers of media, we are only able see what is given to us and not what is kept hidden, thus getting only half of the whole image. When Saturday Night Live releases exaggerated renditions of the presidential elections and news sources endorse a certain candidate for presidency, we are spoonfed partiality without a chance to create an opinion for ourselves. Although we think we are making informed decisions about the candidates and their policies, we ultimately base our choices on the image that the media has given us. We, at the Hoofprint, realize the importance of publishing content that shows all sides of a story. In fact, our mission to do so is embedded in our policy: “We exercise [the] rights to thoroughly investigate and report all issues in an unbiased, objective manner.” Our goal is to present the facts, and have the readers make conclusions and judgments based on what they read. We strive to uphold this belief in hopes that in this modern day and age, when mass media is within reach and easily distorted, we can take a step back and look at the bigger picture. It may serve as our prime medium of communication and knowledge, but we should still exercise the right to question the level of truth and neutrality in what is broadcasted. Without this practice of questioning, we are blinded from the truth and oftentimes unconsciously support the biased opinion of media rather than our own. It becomes a threat to society when people are manipulated to believe whatever the media wants us to believe. Ω
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.)
Teacher involvement in college apps It’s the season of college apps. How much support can teachers offer? It’s time to get help, but also time to consider if we’re putting in our effort. Brian Wu
the student enjoys the environment
Throughout our K-12 education, our
Media manager
and the vibe of the school. Although
teachers hold our hands and tell us
it may sound cliche, the fact is that
what to do, what to study and when
senior
we will be living there for the next
homework and projects are due.
in AP classes, I’ve
As
a
four years and whether or not we like
However, the majority of colleges
heard
same
simply being there will be crucial to
simply do not allow for professors
complaint repeated over and over
the
our happiness, our academic studies
or even TA’s to guide us through
again: “why aren’t my teachers more
and our social life.
school. We will be one student among
involved in my college applications”?
An important thing to remember
hundreds to even tens of thousands
Everytime I hear this question, I
is that our English teachers do not
of students on a single campus, so
ask myself, “why would I ever want
know us nearly as well as we know
students must keep track of their
my teacher to be involved in my
ourselves.
own responsibilities and prepare for
applications for, arguably, the most
especially the essays, are designed to
important four years of my life?”
highlight our unique characteristics
College
applications,
Although our parents or peers
and our differing stories. These essays
often give their own ideas as to
are also a representation of our own
which colleges are ideal, the choice
voice and ideas, rather than what
is ultimately up to us. There are
subjectively sounds good to someone
many factors such as cost, financial
else.
independence. Instead of asking what our teachers, counselors, or parents can do for us, we should be asking what we can do for ourselves. College is where we make new friends, new connections,
create
and
through
new
ideas,
aid, geographic location, student
Choosing a school that fits our
population, and available majors
academic and social needs is our first
that affects our decision to apply to
step into becoming adults. As college
responsibilities. In the end, our own
certain schools. However, the most
students, we will be responsible our
decision is what matters the most as it
important factor that goes into
own time, money, health, social life,
is ultimately what we will depend on
choosing a school is whether or not
academics, and ultimately our future.
for the rest of our lives. Ω
suffer
newfound
Q&A How much should teachers be helping us?
COMPILED BY ASHLEY LIANG AND SHERMAN WU
Emily Nguyen, 12
“I think that teachers should be involved to a limited extent. I think that they can help students out and everything, but I don’t think that they should really shape what you write or what you decide to do. ”
Gilberto Ochoa, 11
“Teachers should be really involved in college applications, because most of the time, students aren’t too sure how to apply, or what to include in their college applications. ”
Nathan Burdick,12
“They should be really involved because a lot of students don’t know what they’re doing. My teacher helped me a lot. She’s actually gone over my personal questions already.”
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06
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY IRENE ZHOU
opinion
Gossip: The Scoop Gossip is something that constantly circulates around campus; we simply take what we hear for granted. Sabrina Wan
and pieces from what others around
Editor-in-chief
us are saying. Once we’ve compiled enough facts to form a coherent story,
Gossip (noun):
“Unconstrained and casual
we relay them to the next person and so on.
conversation
This perpetual cycle of spreading
or reports about other people,
rumors is nothing new. It reassures us
typically involving details which are
that we are in the loop of the social
not confirmed as true.” According
strata, gaining a sense of connection
to Oxford Dictionary’s definition of
with our friends and classmates. It
the word, there is no validity behind
simply becomes another conversation
such statements. So why do we tend
starter — something we can bring
to take so much of what we hear at
up to in a group discussion when
face value?
there aren’t any other intellectually
When shocking (compelling and entertaining) news about something in our community breaks loose, a sudden urge to find out more takes ahold of us, which eventually festers into an unrelinquishing desire to satiate that curiosity. We turn into detectives: trying to uncover more information about
grounded subjects to take up on. The issue with pervasive gossip is that it has no solid foundation. We pass them around by word of mouth because we find certain statements interesting; however, rarely do we ever stop to think about the impact of the rumor and its authenticity. Ω Continued at whshoofprint.com
what’s happening by gathering bits
Now trending: What makes new viral trends so successful?
PHOTO BY RICHARD ZHANG
Much like last year’s media outbreak, the ALS Ice Bucket Challlenge, the #22KILL challenge has had recent success. Albert Law
to support the cause (source: CNN.
in the activity too. We can raise
that an average of 22 veterans
ups. The organization also sells
Feature editor
com).
The Ice Bucket
Challenge throughout
awareness easily because we have
commit suicide everyday. Veterans
merchandise to donate to the cause
Why was the challenge so
mob mentality; whenever someone
in particular make up for more than
and hosts extracurricular activities including triathlons.
successful? It is the curiosity in our
does something interesting or unique,
50 percents of the suicides. The
spread
nature that makes us so intrigued to
we want to take part to it also. But
movement raises awareness for the
What made this trend so successful
the
see what is happening. When a friend
what is most important is how the
veterans suffering from post traumatic
is
country, with people nominating each
gets nominated to do the challenge,
attention can actually be beneficial
stress, traumatic brain injury and
popularized the ALS Ice Bucket
the
convenience
that
also
other and donating various sums of
the first thing we ask is “What is
toward the cause it is trying to bolster.
other stresses that the military lifestyle
Challenge. The two trends are
money. More than 17 million people
he or she doing?” or “Why is he or
A new type of awareness has been
results in.
simple, easy to film and anyone can
participated in the challenge, and
she doing that?” After we discover
growing: the #22KILL challenge.
The challenge requires participants
donate money to the cause. We can
over 2.5 million people nationally
why they are doing the challenge,
The movement started in 2013 after
to do 22 push-ups each day and has
raise awareness easily because we
donated a cumulative $115 million
we naturally feel inclined to partake
the Veteran Analysis (VA) released
totaled around 44,315,896 push-
have mob mentality Ω
Ω
november 2016
07 PHOTOS BY RICHARD ZHANG
Creativity assignments in modern classroom Creative activities (oral presentation, group projects, video production) are breaths of fresh air, but how effective are they in terms of learning?
PRO
CON
Phillip Leung
Besides, there’s really no alternative:
Opinion editor
if students don’t follow the format, their grades will drop. On the other
Another from
your
rubric
hand,
kindergarten,
elementary,
English
and middle schools have taught
teacher. Another Schaffer-style essay
us all to think outside of the box.
you have to write. Doesn’t sound too
Yet, high schools and universities
fun, does it? A majority of written
reward conformists who follow the
assignments in high school follow
standardized rules.
a format that limits the creativity student can express.
should we implement time into
style essays: it follows the format of
class
TS, CD, CM, CM, transition, CD,
writing? Creativity is one the goals of
CM, CM, CS. Although the CD and
education in general. Independent
CM positions are interchangeable,
writing
the format is restrictive because
thought; perhaps bringing higher
students can only write a certain
success rates when dealing with
number of sentences per “chunk”
academic challenges. Students will
or paragraph. In addition, teachers
also be driven to ask new questions
dock off points if students fail to use
and develop innovative answers.
all parts of the “chunk.”
schedules
creativity
for
encourages
There’s
Many students whom I have
no can
independent
limit bring
to to
what
the Schaffer format prevents them
class discussions will become more
from expressing their ideas fully.
livelier and meaningful. Teachers
Sure, it’s arguable that you can vary
will have more freedom in other
the information in each sentence,
styles of writing or altering their
but it’s just not enough for other
lesson plans. Essays will no longer
students
be a tedious burden to students. Ω
themselves.
76%
Think that creative activities are useful
63%
Think that English classes should assign creative activities
Brian Chen
am not advocating for one-sided
Opinion editor
minds who think to only memorize formulas; I do promote the fostering
Time
to
play
of creative minds with pragmatic
the bad guy. Because
knowledge. Rigor and structure,
we’re trying to learn, let alone pass
ironically, are still the best equation
AP tests at the end of the year,
for
creativity should play no part in the
classes I have taken, such as AP US
classroom.
History and AP Literature, have a little to no creative processes, yet,
presentations, these are not tangible
have proved the most rewarding in
methods of learning. There is a
terms of teaching how to be creative
time and place for these expressive
with essays and analyzing passages.
activities, but in the realms of
Creative minds are ultimately a
English, math, science and history,
byproduct of the solid framework of
they prove inferior. Extracurricular
classes.
skills such as oration and imagination abide by their name: they are extra to seems
to
be
a
misconception that teachers who favor conformity. In reality, they
32%
Certain
ended writing projects and oral
shun creativity are “boring” and Think that math classes should assign creative activities
creativity.
tremendous amount of structure with
There 55%
learning
As much as I like open-
the curriculum.
the
classroom. Thanks to creativity,
express
Like creative projects
independent
spoken to believe this “limit” set by
to
Students give input on creative activities, such as oral presentations, video production, arts and crafts.
So should we introduce a more creative writing method? Or
For example, take the Schaffer-
Student Stats
simply resort to giving students less
As for mathematics, we all know the drill: our classes follow a strict order of lectures and tests —maybe a quiz here or there to excite us. When we receive a project, all of a sudden we celebrate because it is deviant from our ordinary, monotonous
academic freedom. There is very
pattern. These projects, while there is
limited time in the school year —
some validity to them, are generally
less than 180 days, limited further by
unnecessary and simply a way to
interrupting schedules and holidays.
amuse bored students. Ω
To make one thing clear, I
Continued at whshoofprint.com
Ω
08
feature PHOTO BY AIRI GONZALEZ
CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF RAIN | Wong uses his free time to predict the weather forecast
The Weatherman 2: Ben Wong
Senior Ben Wong spends his free time checking the weather and predicting future forecasts with his own equipment. Sherman Wu
from their neighborhood to be
it strengthens our connections and
Staff writer
used in newscasts. Wong has been
shared interests,” Wong said.
a member since last March and
However, Wong’s journey has
frequently shares his observations
met a few difficulties. Wong has met
Ben Wong has kept an eye out for the
with the network.
one certain difficulty along the way.
weather and now records it on his
“Being
Ever since his childhood, senior
accepted
into
the
He has kept his affiliation with the
Weather Watcher network gave
CBS Weather Watchers undisclosed
Wong’s interest in meteorology
me an opportunity to meet others
from his parents because he feels that
began when he was a child. Several
around the southland who all had
it would attract unwanted attention.
meteorologists have inspired him
one common interest: watching the
“It was like a part of me I wanted
over the years such as Dallas Raines,
weather. It’s nice to see others beside
to keep to myself. To this day, they
Garth Kemp and Kaj Goldberg. He
me who share a common passion,”
think me going out every evening to
always watched the weather forecast
Wong said. “It makes me feel like I’m
take photos is simply a hobby, which it
and was fascinated with the forecast
not the only ‘crazy’ one out there.
is, but they don’t know the purpose,”
maps and radars as well as the
Whether or not I would’ve been
Wong said.
temperature trends.
accepted, I most likely would still be
free time.
“When
I
was
younger,
I
doing the same things I do today.”
Wong has made a considerable amount of meteorological predictions
remembered joining my parents for
in the past and uses those experiences
breakfast and dinner and watching
to better his estimates in the future.
whatever
they
were
watching
which were the news. That got me interested into the weather which sparked my interest in it,” Wong said. Wong
currently
owns
a
weather station that has a rain and wind gauge along with a light and humidity sensor that he bought from
“I hope to inspire listeners, viewers, whatever it may be, to simply give the weather a bit more of a thought at the very least.” - Ben Wong, 12
“I take a note on what my prediction was and compare it to what
Tools of the trade Wong’s weather station is equipped with all the tools he needs to make predictions.
actually happened, and hopefully try to increase the accuracy of my next prediction,” Wong said. Wong is still undecided as
WIND VANE
determines direction of wind blowing and displays the flow and wind speed that passes by
to whether or not he wants to become
a
meteorologist
in
the
future. Nevertheless, he aims to
Amazon.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BEN WONG
LIGHT IN THE SKY | Besides meterology, Wong also enjoys photography and takes pictures of the sky.
ANEMOMETER
determines the intensity of wind flow
encourage those who are interested in
“I felt like I was one step closer to
meteorology.
finally getting what I’ve been trying
Other than meteorology, Wong
to reach for a while now. I’m very
also enjoys photography, taking
“I hope to inspire listeners,
grateful for getting [the equipment].
pictures of the sky. He links those
viewers, whatever it may be, to simply
It gave me a sense of officiality finally
photos with meteorology.
give the weather a bit more of a
being able to work hands-on with a
“Whether or not they are
thought at the very least,” Wong said.
certified piece of equipment with
featured on the air, as long as there’s
“And hopefully one day, if I actually do
several instruments,” Wong said.
someone out there that enjoys my
make my way towards a meteorological
Wong joined CBS Weather
photos, it’s enough to keep me going.
related occupation, hopefully I will
Watchers, a group maintained by
I enjoy sharing my photos with
have inspired someone who will have
CBS Los Angeles, where participants
others and it makes me happy to
become passionate enough as I was
submit weather data and photos
know that I have audience. I feel like
to take over my position.” Ω
RAIN GAUGE
measures how much rain there has been throughout the year
humidity, Temperature, pressure sensor
the sensors measure how dry the air has been and how hot or cold the weather is
COMPILED BY NATALIE JIANG, ALBERT LAW, AND SHERMAN WU
Ω
The Dream Team
Seniors Justin Chau, Kevin Chen, Amy Liu, Matt Nieh and Dylan Truong are part of the unoffical League of Legends team that compete in HSL. Austin Lam
actually pretty fun because I was kind
Staff writer
of bored of League for a while, so this
“It’s a really different mentality. In
spices it up again,” Truong said. “It
solo queue, you just play for yourself.
gives me something to play for.”
You try to carry the game yourself, but
For most people, League of
Previous competitive League of
in competitive 5v5s you play for the
seniors Justin Chau, Kevin Chen, Amy
Legends experience inspired Nieh to
team, and you have to follow what other
Liu, Matt Nieh and Dylan Truong
hand-pick his own players to make up
people say. You can’t just do whatever
decided to take it to the next level
his own team to represent Walnut in
you want,” Chen said. “[Playing as a
by creating an unofficial team and
competitions.
team] is kind of like a different game.
“I first was a sub for another team
in the High School Star League (HSL).
but they moved me to a different team
“We
formed
[HSL]
five. You’re playing as one unit.”
and I didn’t exactly like the players that
As a team, they have competed
this is a chance and experience that
were on it. I wasn’t comfortable playing
against three other high schools each in
most people don’t get,” senior Matt
with those players and instead decided to
a best of two series, going 1-1 against
Nieh said. “Most people aren’t able
form my own team so I picked up players
Bonita Vista, 2-0 against Hamilton
to play competitively with games, but
that I’ve played with for the past couple
and 1-1 against Chaparral. During
I gathered a group of people that are
years and just gathered them up so we
matches, they rely on each other to
capable of competing at a somewhat
could play,” Nieh said.
play different roles.
Aside from playing the games
“Everyone has their specific role in
Prior to the team’s formation,
themselves, the team also has to organize
the team. They would consider me ‘the
the players were already well-versed
the games with the other schools,
shot caller’ and we have other people
in League of Legends and somewhat
requiring Liu to step up as their team
like Amy who is our team coordinator
familiar with each other.
coordinator.
and everyone has a part so I’m not
Knowing
that each of them had the necessary
“I do the formal talking with the
the leader but everyone has a main
skills to compete at an advanced level
other teams. I go on the HSL website
role they need to play for the team to
convinced them to join together.
and check the brackets and see who is
work,” Nieh said.
“We made a team so I could
our opponent. Then, I try to contact
Even with their results, the team’s
justify the amount of time that I spend
that person and schedule a time,” Liu
main goal is to get better at the game
on League. [Making the team] was
said.
together rather than just winning the
half and half mine and Matt’s idea,” Liu said. The team arranges competitions against
other
schools
whenever
possible. “[Playing against other schools] is
To the entire team, playing as
Each of the members of HSL plays a unique and important role on the team.
It’s a lot more fun when playing with
because
decent level and represent Walnut.”
Meet the Players
this new way of playing.
Legends is just a game. However,
competing against other high schools
09
tournament and the prize money.
a unified requires a much different
“We just want to get better as a
mentality as it requires all of the
team, we’re not aiming to win anything
players to be on the same page at all
big,” Liu said. “We’re not trying to win
times in order to succeed. Despite this,
HSL, we’re just trying to improve our
all of the players are willing to adapt to
individual skills and teamwork.” Ω
Dylan Truong ROLE: TOP LANE
“The most important thing is that you can’t feed and you have to bring pressure from the jungle and and it alleviates every other lane. [My build] differs game to game because I build [accordingly] to what my team needs”
Matt Nieh
ROLE: JUNGLE
“I try to pressure the lanes and get them ahead. The Jungle role basically controls the pace of the game and can apply more pressure to the game and get more objectives, which can lead to a victory.”
Justin Chau ROLE: MID LANE
“Mid-lane is the center of the map and the main [job] is to roam around the map and help the other lanes. In team fights, the mid laner has to do most damage and often times they have to be the one to engage the fight.”
Kevin Chen
ROLE: ATTACK DAMAGE CARRY
“I play [attack damage] carry. As an AD carry we build up on damage [and] we don’t deal with any defensive items, so the second someone comes on us or we misposition ourselves, we [instantly] die. The team has to protect me, I’m like the main damage dealer.
Amy Liu
ROLE: SUPPORT
“I play Support. Basically you set up kills for your team and make sure that they win. We control the crowd control and we can move the plays [to our favor].”
COMPILED BY NATALIE JIANG, ALBERT LAW, ISAAC LE AND SHERMAN WU
TEAMWORK | Although the seniors do not spend much time together at school, they cooperate and communicate as a team during games to ensure their victory.
PHOTO BY AUSTIN LAM
Ω
10
Ω
in-depth
Is blood thicker than water?
The Quesadas
Student statistics
BASED ON A SURVEY OF 142 STUDENTS
How do you classify your family?
What is family, exactly? Is it the parents and siblings you go home to, the friends you see every day (sometimes more than you want to), or the organization that has become more like a home to you than an obligation? The word family is used loosely nowadays. At the beginning of the year, lengthy captions accompanying the matching club fair profile pictures described every club as someone’s “second family.” Best friends aren’t just best friends; they’re brothers from other mothers and sisters from other misters. Has the word “family” been so worn down that many times, it no longer refers to relatives by kinship?
Nuclear
Same-sex
Single parents
Adoptive
76%
18%
Cherie Chu, Editor-in-chief
*Father was not available for intervview.
I like that they let me make my own decisions when it comes to church and things.
If [a problem] is really bad then i’ll totally go to them, but like that hasn’t happened yet.
[Our family’s] different and I like different.
I think [adoption] was something on my heart for a long time.
I thought, gosh, if were going to give our heart over to having a family let’s do this right and bring in some kids. But you had to get me stuck with 3 girls.
Find a place where you can feel like ‘this is family.
I like the food, the drawing. I love drawing. I like going on hikings and especially ice cream.
Although we’re not all related by blood, we’re still family and so family doesnt have to only include blood relatives.
I like not being related to any one of you. I like that we’re really diverse.
35%
4
10%
3
4% 5%
1
noun a group of people who are related to each other: a person’s children.
“Homie”
noun an acquaintance, or a member of one’s peer group.
Tara Lizzaragga | Psychologist
What support services does the school provide for students? “There are different types of psychological services such as therapy, group therapy, and support groups and different things like that. We have a highly trained peer counseling and school psychologists.”
1-2: 6% 3: 17%
On a scale of 1-5, how safe or supported do you feel among your friends?
4: 42%
42%
4
How do you think students deal with issues alone? “A lot of the students, if they are used to high end stress they feel that they can work on it on their own. A lot of the time we’ll be referred if a teacher is concerned about a student or sometimes the peers are worried about that student.”
5: 24%
38%
5
6 or more: 11%
14% 3% 3%
2 1
Children living with... both parents from first marriage an unmarried parent
two parents, one or both remarried neither parent
15%
34%
In addition...
From day one, they treated [Sarita] like a sister. There was no barrier.
2 million children are raised by gay or lesbian parents
21% of households live
100% below poverty 100% poverty meaning... the average three-person family makes less than $20,000 in annual income
“Fam”
*The US Census Bureau classifies a household as “all the persons who occupy a housing unit as their usual place of residence.”
5%
AVERAGE SIZE OF A US HOUSEHOLD*
1.6 million children live with adoptive parents
COMPILED BY ISAAC LE AND ISABELLA LEUNG
noun an abbrieviation of “family” typically used to refer to a group of close peers.
Many students face circumstances beyond their control with their family. Bad parent-child relationships are not uncommon, and can be detrimental to a students’ success in school.
National statistics
What does it mean to be family? “Family”
3%
How many family members are in your household?
46%
5
46% I think [in a family] there should be something that they would do together, time together.
1%
Family members only
Non-Family members only
SOURCES: PEWSOCIALTREND.ORG | CENSUS.GOV
Different types of family In the traditional sense, family consists of a mom, dad, and kids. However, the definition of family has changed and is constantly expanding to include households with different circumstances and backgrounds. Increasingly, the “standard American family” is diverging from this idyllic image of a perfect, two-parent household.
“Family is someone you hang out with and are really close
“I use the word homie a lot when I greet someone.
“I’d consider the people I call fam to be my support system. My
with. With your genetically related family it’s different
It’s like a sense of breaking the ice. It makes the
friend who I’ve been growing up with, we’ve been good friends
because they already know every aspect of you. At school,
relationship seem closer even if it’s someone new
for more than six years. Even our parents are very close. He is
you hang out with them a lot. If you have that, it’ll help you. If
that I’m introducing myself to.”
someone who I would consider strong support.”
you’re having a really bad day, they’ll help you.”
Tut Tongchantra, 12
Matthew Basbas, 11
Helen Chu, 10
Nothing is picture perfect COMPILED BY EMILY NG AND EMMELINE TANTRY
On a scale of 1-5, how safe or supported do you feel within your household?
3
Albert father, Brenda mother, Sarita 15 years old, Tiara 13 years old, Angelica 17 years old and Carson 13 years old
2%
46% of students turn to their friends first when they have a problem
2
Perhaps blood is thicker than water, but water is cohesive––it sticks together. Family is multifaceted and by no means limited to people who share part of your DNA. Family is a support system, made up of people who love and who are loved. The next time you call someone “fam,” remember: they are nothing short of that.
Other
11
Nuclear
Cross - generational
Blended families
households composed of two biological parents and their children.
nuclear households with a family member 65+ living with them.
households consisting of a nuclear families with parents couple and children from current of the same gender and their and previous relationships. children.
Same-sex
Never-Married
Adoptive/Foster
Single parent
unmarried couples with at least one child
households with an adopted households with a single parent child or supporting a foster child. and children.
Other Family doesn’t fit into clearly defined boxes, and can be any combination of these groups.
SOURCE: HTTPS://WWW.HEALTHYCHILDREN.ORG
How should students deal with serious issues? “If it’s more emotional they can go to our 19 peer counselors that are really trained in the area of emotional support and if it s something more severe than the peer counselors will come to [the psychologists] to wrap that support around them.”
Angela Zhang | In-depth editor “It’s difficult to change your family because you’re born into it, and many circumstances are unforseeable or can’t be helped. It’s important to keep in mind that the family you’re born into isn’t always made up of people who you should look up to, and love can come from other places. It’s also important to seek support from other places such as from friends or other members of your community.” Robin Wong | Student “I don’t advise bottling [your struggles] up like I do, that’s a bad idea, but I advise trying to seek some sort of safe space: going to see your friends or maybe talking it out with someone you trust. It really helps because they’re usually your peers and listen to you and give you advice, and they treat you better. I know it’s different for everyone, but I just advise to lean toward the future. After years of emotional and physical strain you don’t really feel like you can really connect with [your parents] anymore, but when you do, it’s like ‘oh, this is alright.’”
Ω
november 2016
13
By Cherie Chu Photos by Jeffrey Tran kids. They are going to grow up
that’s done in war is done when
who have special needs. We’ve been
homes for foster children, Thompson
is an MVF: most valuable father.
Track coach Keith Thompson
asking questions about where they
kids have to go through foster care.
able to work with physical therapists
has no upcoming plans to expand
He’s a parent of five, but the list
came from, and we’re not going to
They really have a ton to overcome,”
and psychologists and they give us
Bithiah’s House to a capacity over
of his children doesn’t stop there.
have answers for everything, which
Thompson said. “When I look at
strategies, as a family, on how to
six.
Thompson is the co-founder of
is going to be hard,” Thompson
my kids that have gone through
help. It really takes a whole family
Bithiah’s House, a residential
said. “We use ‘tummy mommy’
foster care and adoption, they’re my
to do it.”
treatment center that houses and
and ‘tummy dad’ and we’re like the
heroes. They’ve gone through more
cares for toddlers and infants.
‘forever mommy’ and ‘forever dad.’
than I’ll ever have to go through; I
We always want to have this ongoing
can’t imagine what it is to be them.”
Inspiration. Thompson has always had an
inclination toward helping children, but it was his wife, Michelle, who encouraged him to pursue this interest actively. Her passion sparked when she was young, when she had
communication so that way they’re not surprised.”
23,000+ children are
currently in foster care in Los Angeles County.
worked in orphanages on mission trips to other countries. “When we got married, we started to talk more about [adopting
SOURCE: ALLIANCE FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS
children. My wife] was much more passionate than I was, but the more that I was involved in what was going on, my eyes were open to these kids who have no places to live,” Thompson said. “I always felt that we could provide a bed, food and shelter for these kids. It definitely is a passion of mine that these kids are looked after because a lot of other people can’t.”
According to Children’s Rights,
foster children who are never adopted by families have higher rates of homelessness, unemployment and incarceration when they become adults compared to people who have never experienced foster care.
2 2 adopted children and 1 foster child.
have undergone necessary treatment
because they’re going through so
and have designated doctors by
much more than anyone else,”
created. The name was inspired by
the time they are placed into their
Thompson said. “First, we want to
permanent home.
have this be successful and really do
And thus, Bithiah’s House was
the Egyptian princess Bithiah, who adopted Moses from the Nile River in Christian and Jewish texts and is known as one of the world’s first foster parents. “It all started off as an idea because we just really wanted to help
Initiative.
After their marriage in 2003,
the Thompsons had two biological
some of them have been abused and neglected. Their mom and dad
care license in 2008. Since then,
Pediatrics also reported that exposure
they have adopted two children and
to abuse, violence or negative
fostered over 15, one of whom stays
environments, all of which are
with them today.
common for foster children, impairs
“In our family, adoption is not a secret. We’re very open. We use the words ‘biological parents’
proper brain development at an early age. “They’ve compared the brain of
or ‘adopted parents.’ Right now,
a child who has gone through foster
we don’t call ourselves adoptive
care to [that of] a combat soldier
parents, we’re just ‘parents’ to our
that’s been in war. The same damage
[we may] open up a second home.”
We’ve been able to see really big improvements with our kids, with other kids that have come through
Community. While the house was started
of many people in the community.
Anticipation.
From monetary donations to toy
Our passion is more toward toddlers
stocked with baby goods, Bithiah’s
formula and cribs, have been raised
and infants, but it’s just such a sad
House has been ready to open
to support Bithiah’s House.
thing that kids don’t have homes to
since June. However, the state has
go to,” Thompson said.
been unresponsive in approving the
every single thing to this facility. It is
facility.
beyond just me and my wife doing
a time, and it was just not enough when we’re getting calls from the county that has 30 to 40 kids at a time that don’t have a home to go to.
1,400
children in foster care await adoptive families. SOURCE: ALLIANCE FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS
Bed for Every Baby,” is just that.
The American Academy of
likely that they’ll be able to succeed.
views its growth as the group effort
start completely over,” Thompson said.
year, if things are going smoothly,
left alone,” Thompson said.
to a stranger or a strange facility and
children before getting their foster
kids can have intervention, the more
taken care of. Nobody deserves to be
For a while it was only one baby at
Safety.
they ever have known and have to go
a good job at just this. Maybe next
by him and his wife, Thompson
have lost custody of their kids. And so they’re ripped from anything that
“Our hope that the earlier the
our home. Every kid deserves to be
but really, when you think about to where they are with our family,
they’re at Bithiah’s house, I want
Opportunity.
“People say how lucky [my
what they had to go through, to get
them just to be a number. When to treat them like kings and queens
adopted and foster children] are,
Thompson has biological children,
Bithiah’s House aims to set up
attention as they can. I don’t want
systems for its infants so that they
kids and provide a bed for them.
Motivation.
Security.
“I want the kids to feel like they have as close to a one-on-one
Bithiah’s House’s motto, “A
With a trained staff and shelves
“It’s just a joy. We love
treatment, physical therapy and rehabilitation. “There’s things that you can do to help the baby or the toddler to get back to normal more efficiently,” Thompson said. “It’s a passion of mine because I’ve seen my kids and foster placements that we’ve had
“People have donated just
this,” Thompson said. “The coolest thing is the hundreds of people
Bithiah’s House. It’s emotional
involved in this with some capacity.
because of what it represents and
Bringing awareness to this has been
what it’s going to do for these kids,”
a really emotional experience to go
Thompson said. “We have amazing
through and show just how kind
people who are going to be working
people’s hearts are.”
there, but we’re just waiting for the state to come tour and let us open up. We’re ready to go. If they said we could open today, we’re ready to open.”
facility that houses up to six services including drug withdrawal
items, including diapers, baby
everything that has to do with
Located in Walnut, it is a treatment toddlers and infants and provides
drives, over $120,000 and countless
Bithiah’s House has 1full-time house parent,
Over
$120,000
has been raised by hundreds of donors.
12 part-time caregivers Support. Bithiah’s Boutique, a craft fair and 60+ volunteers. with about 40 handmade vendors,
Focus.
Despite the high demand for
will take place Saturday, Nov. 19 in Chino Hills. All proceeds from the event will go directly toward funding the facility. Ω
12
Ω
longform
Ω
november 2016
15
Ameci’s Pizza serves a spicy twist Ameci’s is the perfect fusion of urban-style blended with traditional Italian. Its Hot Cheetos Pizza is certainly worth a try. every appetite. Upon walking in, I
Upon taking my first bite, I expected
was immediately transported into
the pizza to be spicy but the gooey
a classic New York-style pizzeria.
cheese that melted in my mouth to
The green, red, white and black
counter the spice, making it a perfect
Emily Ng
color scheme and interior are not
blend of salty and spicy. The Hot
Staff writer
only inviting but also gives you the
Cheetos topping, which was slightly
728 S Glendale Ave, Glendale
impression of being in a big city.
soggy at the bottom from the oil,
Ameci Pizza and Pasta is a small
Unlike a lot of other restaurants,
added the right amount of crunch.
urban-styled restaurant located in
Ameci has an open kitchen, which
The slight sprinkle of basil added an
Glendale. Originally opened in 1984
allows
the
earthy aroma, making it taste fresh.
by a Sicilian Italian who moved
workers and customers. It made me
Although the heavy cheese might not
to California, the new owner has
feel like a regular customer even
be everyone’s cup of tea, the pizza is
recently taken over the restaurant,
though it was my first time.
a unique combination only found at
keeping the roots of original items while adding his own twist. Although
between
The cafe’s menu includes a variety of Italian foods, including
Another
customer
favorite
pizzas, pastas, calzones, submarines
is the Garlic Cheese Stick Pizza
industrial part of Glendale, Ameci
and salads, but it is best known for
with marinara sauce on the side.
has a homey feel that is perfect for
its Hot Cheetos Pizza, which can
It’s relatively cheap for the amount
anyone looking for a quick bite to
range from $10 to $25, depending on
that you get. The thin crust topped
satisfy their hunger.
the size. Hot Cheetos on a thin crust
heavily with mozzarella cheese is a
portion
with light tomato and cheese is not
delicate in between of garlic bread
large,
a combination you would be able to
and a cheese pizza. Ω
jumbo, and giant—Ameci satisfies
find in a typical Italian restaurant.
Offering
different medium,
in
Lady Gaga’s “Joanne” tops charts From its rich beats to upeat sound lanscape, Gaga’s new hit album triumphs the charts as a No. 1 bestselling album. PHOTO COURTESY OF ITUNES.COM
WHAT’S ON TOP:
GARLIC, PARMESAN CHEESE, MOZZAERELLA CHEESE, AND OREGANO
Ameci.
an
sizes—personal,
located
interaction
GARLIC CHEESE STICK PIZZA
HOT CHEETOS PIZZA WHAT’S ON TOP:
HOT CHEETOS, MOZZARELLA CHEESE, AND BASIL
Continued at whshoofprint.com
Jamie Chen
relationship. The empowering mood
life. The heartfelt lyrics addressed to
Staff writer
and flawless execution sets up the rest
Joanne show a gentler and typically
of the album with high expectations.
unseen side to Gaga.
Lady Gaga makes a comeback
Continuing
the
rock
style,
The
song
“Angel
Down”
after three years with the long
“Diamond Heart” impresses but also
matches “Joanne” with its emotion
awaited “Joanne,” her fifth album
adds a dash of country and patriotic
and beautiful lyrics. The violin in
that promises a fresh, soul-searching
American spirit. The next song, “A-
the instrumental entangles with her
experience.
newfound
YO,” is a sassy upbeat mix between
somber voice as she sings of “shots
appearance and intense vocals, Gaga
country and pop that gets the listener
fired on the street” and the injustice
overhauls her previous ambiguity
to dance and clap along. The two
of people “ just standing around.”
for her authentic, unrestrained self.
bring the progression of the album
Gaga concludes her album with a
In the 14 tracks of “Joanne,” Gaga
from the heartbreak of “Perfect
solemn but sincere nod to the recent
establishes a connection with her
Illusion” to reclaiming oneself with
shootings of the year.
listeners through the different genres
confidence.
With
her
of country, rock, pop and funk.
“Joanne” tells a story of hope,
Named after the album, “Joanne”
and change throughout its duration.
The album starts off strong with
brings a shift in upbeat songs to a more
The songs go beyond expectations as
the single “Perfect Illusion,” which
mature and slow paced sound. Joanne
they present a variety of themes that
features electric guitar and catchy
represents the change Gaga needed
are not too similar. The songs are
chorus reminiscent of her past songs.
in her life. The album and song titles
rich with meaningful lyrics and will
Gaga sings about mistakes made
are named after Joanne Germanotta,
take time process and enjoy. Though
in love and being awakened after
her late aunt who died of lupus at 19
the songs may not be everyone’s
realizing it was all a “perfect illusion.”
and her own middle name. Although
cup of tea, the songs themselves are
The strong beat complements Gaga’s
Gaga has never met her aunt, Joanne
tastefully made. If you’re looking for
belting voice as she vocalizes the
was the inspiration Gaga needed to
songs to inspire change in your life,
feeling of strength and awareness
stop her drug addiction, which is what
this is the album. Ω
after getting out of an unhealthy
she has attributed to her new, positive
Continued at whshoofprint.com
Ω
14
scene
Dining at Jasmine Mediterranean and Persian Cuisine With its blend of Mediterranean and Persian culture, this restaurant offers a range of food that caters to all taste palettes. flaky wooden frame uncovered. The
and onions from the salad bar. The
ceiling’s bareness is a stark contrast
spices used to flavor the hummus was
to the colorful aesthetics used to
sharp and sour but the mushroom
decorate the walls of the restaurant
salad did a good job of mellowing
and is quite offsetting, giving a
out the sharp taste. The tomato and
Isaac Le
painfully unprofessional contrast to
onion combination added a kick to
Staff writer
the carefully designed restaurant.
the salad, enhancing the flavor and
21130 Golden Springs Dr, Walnut
The Jasmine
Mediterranean
restaurant
was
mostly
leaving a strong aftertaste.
and
empty when I arrived but quickly
When we returned to our seats,
Persian Cuisine is a family owned
grew more crowded as the evening
the waitress took our order. She was
restaurant that showcases a wide
went on. Once my mom and I entered
extremely friendly and familiar with
variety of middle eastern foods.
the restaurant, we were immediately
the menu. The waitress had specific
greeted by a waitress who quickly
recommendations including the beef
seated us.
barg and chicken wrap. She was
When
I
first
entered
restaurant,
I
noticed
the
elaborate
decorations that contributed to the Mediterranean
atmosphere.
Once seated, we were given
also meticulous in her description
The
lentil soup and pita bread as an
of menu items. After contemplating
vibrant colors of yellow and orange
appetizer. The lentil soup was heavy
her recommendations, we decided
that were used to paint the walls
on vegetables but had a very light,
to order a chicken wrap along with a
were reminiscent of the deserts
warming flavor that paired well with
beef barg.
located throughout the Middle East.
the crunchy pita bread.
GATEWAY TO FOOD HEAVEN | Jasmine Mediterranean and Persian Cuisine’s entrance gives customers a first look at the middle eastern culture that the restaurant represents.
PHOTOS BY ISAAC LE
The chicken wrap finally arrived
A plethora of colorful plates were
After finishing our appetizer,
and was composed of pickles, onions,
used as decorations and add a sense
the waitress returned and pointed
tomatoes, lettuce, chicken and a sour
of authenticity to the restaurant,
us in the direction of the $6, all-
sauce all wrapped in a tortilla.The
embodying many aspects of middle
you-can-eat salad bar. The salad
pickles had a very sharp taste and
eastern culture.
bar contained soup as well as a large
were very acidic, which also partly
Although the paint job was
variety of fruits, vegetables and
took away from the flavor of the
generally well done, the ceiling in
sauces. I decided to try the mushroom
chicken. Ω
the dining room was left bare with its
salad, hummus and a mix of tomatoes
Continued at whshoofprint.com
SMOKE AND GRILL | Cooked over an open fire, the beef barg is a specialty of Jasmine Mediterranean and Persian Cuisine.
Tea time at Tranquil Tea Lounge
COMPILED BY NICOLE CHIANG
Located in the heart of Downtown Fullerton, this tea lounge exhibits a peaceful ambiance that invites customers to unwind and have a cup of tea. The hot teas and relaxing atmosphere of the lounge makes it an ideal place for comfort.
PUMPKIN PIE
CHOCOLATE SOUFFLE
The Pumpkin Pie is brewed from pumpkin infused Rooibos, honeybush, cloves, cinnamon and ginger. In the Pumpkin Pie I could only taste cinnamon; everything else was overpowered. After adding sugar, though, the tea became a lot more palatable.
The Chocolate Souffle had a wonderful blend of sweet flavors. It tasted distinctly of honey with hints of rose and caramel. However, despite its name, I was unable to find any trace of chocolate in the drink. The drink left a pleasant floral aftertaste.
Ω
16
arts
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”
Drama has been practicing for the past two months in preparation for its Fall Drama Production from Nov. 2-5 at the Performing Arts Center.
PHOTOS BY KEVIN ARIFIN AND JEFFREY TRAN COMPILED BY ANGELA CAO, NICOLE CHIANG, ISAAC LE, SAMANTHA LEE, ISABELLA LEUNG AND SHERMAN WU
1
2
6
5
3 4
1
2
3
4
5
6
Playing Schroeder, freshman Aiden Borgen sings on stage while expressing his adoration for Beethoven. “I always get a positive feeling when I sing that number because there are a lot of high notes and a lot of choreography. It really gets you pumped and full of positive energy, [and] it really gets you going,” Borgen said.
Sophomore Riley De Leon, who plays Sherman, places a Valentine’s Day card in Snoopy’s collection box. “I was like ‘oh God, Snoopy’s getting away, I [have] to give it to him really quick,’ so [I] was a little rushed. I knew that if I didn’t give him the Valentine, I wouldn’t have been as thrilled,” De Leon said.
Snoopy actor sophomore Tony Voss talks to the audience while sitting on top of his doghouse. “We become attached to these characters that we portray. Their emotions become ours and when the lights go off, there’s a sense of relief and excitement felt by those who watched [and by] cast members,” Voss said.
Acting as Charlie Brown, senior Christian Vidauri expresses his sadness after discovering that his mailbox is empty on Valentine’s Day. “I felt really depressed [before] and I got into character by incorporating some of my memories from the past where I felt really sad,” Vidauri said.
Senior Kammy Ibarra, who plays Lucy, sings the opening song, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” with the cast. “It took me a little while to understand how Lucy acted. I am very much not like Lucy. I am very quiet unless I am around people I know. It took awhile to get over being quiet to being loud and annoying like her,” Ibarra said.
Portraying Linus’ beloved blanket, senior Tessa Wong dances with Linus actor sophomore Tony Voss. “It’s definitely a weird role considering I’m not a human, but it’s fun and I love to dance. So dancing on a stage as an inanimate object is quite interesting,” Wong said.
Ω
november 2016
17 ALL ABOUT THAT BRASS (LEFT TO RIGHT) I Distante spends his lunch playing the tuba. I His snare drum resonates as Distante practices in the band room. PHOTOS BY JAMIE CHEN AND SAM COMPOLONGO
From the eyes of a Pacific Crest member Senior Matthew Distante recounts his experience as a major tubaist in the Pacific Crest Drum Corps. Erica Chang
After experimenting with various
states as part of Pacific Crest to
nothing else. Your life for all of
Staff writer
instruments, Distante discovered the
compete in Drum Corps, a rigorous
summer is band,” Distante said. The
“We were told to imagine
tuba. With time, Distante became
nation-wide drumline competition
only way to describe [Drum Corps]
someone we missed dearly, and we
separated from a loved one.
The field was hot, the sun
more of a principal player and joined
that takes up the most part of the
is marching band to the extreme.
had to reach for that person. We had
beated down and the routine was
Marching Band with the position of a
summer. Since Drum Corps is non
[Drum Corps is] the hardest thing
to display emotion, we had to imagine
challenging, especially while carrying
marching tuba.
school-affiliated, Distante had to go
I’ve ever done, considering how
and give our all,” Distante said.
a 37-pound tuba. Despite the intense
“Once I got in high school is
through difficult auditions to qualify.
heavy the instruments were. You just
“You get so into [the performance]
heat and physical strain, senior
when I really started to discover my
He took the position of the marching
grow more accustomed to it, and you
sometimes; I ended up tearing up
Matthew Distante chose to spend
passion for music,” Distante said. “I
tuba and practiced with Pacific Crest
learn to get stronger.”
because I thought about something
his entire summer as such: attending
appreciate the musicianship that goes
for consecutive 12-hour rehearsals
12-hour practices to train for Drum
into playing [the tuba]. Everyone
called “all-days.”
Corps.
To
make
emotionally
the
show
impactful,
more
really close to me when we were
Pacific
performing in finals night. That’s the
thinks tuba players are just incredibly
“We rehearsed at Diamond Bar,
the
kind of energy you need to display
Distante’s journey with band
basic, but when you unearth that, you
which is a really nice high-quality
union of
America through the
to the audience whenever you’re
was different from most. He was
just realize how beautiful you can
stadium field. Days consisted of
Transcontinental Railroad. Through
playing, whenever you’re not playing
originally placed in drama in sixth
make an instrument sound.”
either travelling, eating, sleeping,
the theme, Distante and his corp
[and] when you’re performing.” Ω
practicing or performing. “There’s
conveyed the hardships of being
grade but transferred into band.
Distante travelled to over 20 PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA LOPEZ
Crest adopted a theme of
Continued at whshoofwprint.com
Rhapsody performs at first festival Rhapsody in Blue attended its first festival Tuesday, Oct. 25 at Vanguard University. Irene Zhou Staff writer
SING IT LOUD (TOP TO BOTTOM) I Rhapsody waits to perform at Vanguard University. I Rhapsody rehearses during one of their Thursday after-school practices.
them.”
“The
festival
was
a
great
learning experience for us because
Rhapsody members performed
we were not only be able to showcase
Rhapsody in Blue performed at
their new classical songs “Il est Bel
our hard work, but also saw what
its first festival of the year Tuesday,
et Bon,” “Confitemini Domino” and
other choir programs are doing,” Xu
Oct. 25 at Vanguard University.
“Velo Que Bonito.”
said. “We listened for tone quality
Rhapsody
PHOTO BY JAMIE CHEN
and learn different techniques from
began
individual,
“Learning the classical music
and blend of voices and watched for
sectional and class rehearsals in
has been tough because the pieces are
facial expressions of other choirs.
the beginning of the school year to
pretty musically challenging. To help
Ultimately these things will help
prepare for its first festival.
each other with music, many choir
us bc we can apply it to our own
“I feel like our hard work has
members have shared helpful tips
performances.”
paid off. In the beginning of the year,
for learning music and pointed out
we would spend a lot of time learning
errors made during class rehearsals,”
professional clinician commented
just a small section of music,” junior
sophomore Anita Xu said. “Knowing
on Rhapsody’s weak spots while they
Angela Yang said. “Now, as we’ve
that the whole choir is working hard
sang. He worked with members to
learned some of the harder classical
and has my back really pushes me to
improve their dynamics and mouth
music, our Christmas music and our
work hard as well.”
shape
show music have been easier to learn
Rhapsody singers were given the
and rehearse. I felt excited for the
opportunity to watch other choirs to
performance because we got to see
learn from the other students.
During
for
the
vowel
festival,
a
pronunciation,
maturing their overall sound as a choir. Ω Continued at whshoofprint.com
Ω
18 PHOTO BY AIRI GONZALEZ
sports
Playing around the world Senior Christopher Ryan fulfilled his dream of playing soccer internationally when he travelled to Sweden last summer. By Ashley Liang
this past summer, players from over
was a special moment and a truly
Staff writer
80 different countries attended. In
amazing experience,” Ryan said. “It
total, about 1800 teams participated.
was really exciting and I felt a huge
Mentally and physically, soccer is
“You get to play against other
rush of emotion. Looking around the
a challenging sport. It demands total
countries, so it’s kind of like a youth
stadium and seeing 80,000 people is
concentration and pushes each player
World Cup,” Ryan said. “The
something I will never forget.”
to the limit on the field. This is what
experience made me realize that I
There were three segments to the
captivated senior Christopher Ryan
have to work harder, since everyone
competition: the group stage, play-off
as he pursued soccer throughout the
outside of the country is really good.
B and play-off A. Ryan and his team
years and motivated him to attend
performed well in the group segment
an international tournament last
where they had numerous wins, but
summer. Ryan
first
started
playing
soccer when he was six years old. Throughout
the
years,
he
has
“Looking around the stadium and seeing 80,000 people is
finals in play-off A.
something I will never forget.”
Ryan
improved his ability, and the sport has
–Christopher Ryan, 12
evolved into more than just a hobby. “It’s a passion––[soccer] is what
“It was kind of disappointing,” said,
“but
also
a
good
experience in the end. I learned a lot just by being able to play against people from other countries, and I
I do,” Ryan said. “When I play, it’s
And it’s a different style of play so I
now know what I have to work on.
a different feeling. It just makes you
realized that I needed to work on a
Since practice started again, I’ve
feel like a different person. You don’t
couple of things as well.”
worked on being more ruthless and
think about the world, you just go out there and have fun.” Through
TWO HOURS A DAY, FOUR DAYS A WEEK | Senior Christopher Ryan looks to hone his soccer skills and improve through practicing, conditioning, and technique drills.
unfortunately lost during the quarter
his
club
The tournament was organized
going after the ball more.”
similarly to the Olympic Games,
Currently, Ryan also plays for
team,
with an opening ceremony prior to
Walnut’s varsity soccer team. After
Legends FC, Ryan was introduced
the event. The players from each
practice at school, he goes to his
to the Gothia Cup—the largest
country walked into the stadium,
club and trains two hours a day, four
international soccer tournament for
carrying flags and parading around
days a week. A typical day consists
youth. The Cup is held annually over
the field.
of
the course of a week in the Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden, and
Boys’ water polo defeats Charter Oak
“They
were
playing
music
and everyone was watching us. It
numerous
conditioning
and
technique drills. Ω Continued at whshoofprint.com PHOTO BY JEFFREY TRAN
Varsity boys’ water polo remains undefeated in league for the second year in a row. Walnut started off the game
By Julie Lee and Haixin Guo Sports editors Boys’
water
polo
defeated
Charter Oak 15-8 at an away game on Thursday, October 27, extending their league record 4-0. Driver sophomore Kyle Green led the Mustangs’ offense with five goals and four assists while center junior Noah Brokaw totaled four goals, two assists and three steals. “[We should] definitely [have] more focus before the game rather than joking around and hitting each
other
and
stuff,”
driver
sophomore Zach Moscoso. “We [knew we could do] really good plays, really good passes and really good finishing in the game so basically just better preparation for the game and more focus overall.”
ending the half with a score of 9-3.
with two goals from Brokaw three
The Mustangs’ defense limited
minutes into the first quarter. Green
Charter Oak to only one goal in
scored two more unanswered points
the third quarter, while improving
off a pass and a steal before Charter
its offense with lob passes to the
Oak countered with a goal after a
center. Green, Brokaw and Moscoso
timeout, ending the quarter 4-1.
each scored a goal to bring up the
“I think we didn’t play that
lead, 12-4 at the end of the quarter.
good, but we still played well. We
“Coach Tyler tells the outside
were too close together and we kinda
shooters to make sure that we’re not
rushed,
underestimated
afraid to take outside shots if we are
them and thought we had to score
not pressed up because their team is
and pass as soon as possible,” utility
giving us an opening to shoot. That
senior
we
just
said.
goal made me feel good about myself
Driver sophomore Patrick Webb
Garrett
Gautreau
because I listened to the coach and
scored the first goal of the second
followed through with what he said
quarter off a pass from Brokaw, and
so it paid off. When I can successfully
utility junior Justin Swafford followed
save a goal or prevent [them] from
up with another goal one minute later,
scoring, I feel very accomplished and
giving the Mustangs a lead of 6-1.
I really feel like I contributed to the
Walnut continued its offensive streak
team as a whole,” Moscoso said. Ω
in the last two minutes with a 3-2 run,
Continued at whshoofprint.com
GOAL TIME | Utility junior Moises Alfaro takes advantage of an opportunity to score.
Ω
november 2016
Fall season overview: positions
19
As the current season wraps up, here is a breakdown of the positions in volleyball, football, water polo, tennis and cross country. COMPILED BY ANDRE ALVAREZ, TRISTAN GONZALEZ, ISAAC LE, JEREMY HSIAO AND SHERMAN WU PHOTOS BY JAMIE CHEN, AIRI GONZALEZ, JUSTIN JIANG AND JEFFREY TRAN
VOLLEYBALL
FOOTBALL
Christian Elias, 11
Nick Aviles, 11
Antonio Scott, 10
“To contribute, I make tackles and sacks because if I don’t stop the run, the score margin would be much higher. My favorite part would have to be going out there and trying to get as many tackles as possible.”
“I just have to do what I have to do, I stay calm and don’t panic. I have more fun playing [defense] than other positions because it has a lot of contact.”
“You have to keep two main jobs in mind. The first job is when it is not a pass play and it’s a run play, you have to block. And your second job is on pass play and the ball is thrown to you, be sure to catch that ball.”
Linebacker, #7
Amber Johnson, 9
Selena Chen, 11
Emily Nguyen, 12
“Through this position, I support my team by blocking or cushioning the blow so that they can receive the ball, or I can totally block out the hitter [to] change their actual formation.”
“Usually the pressure’s on [me] because if [I don’t make] a good pass, then the setters don’t get a good set, the hitters don’t hit, and it’s really like you have to have the perfect pass [to the setter].”
“[My team relies] on me to get the ball to a hitter. I think it’s the best [when I get] to help them score to get us closer to winning the game.”
Middle blocker, #7
Libero, #6
Setter, #32
GIRLS’ TENNIS
Cornerback, #5
Wide Receiver, #84
CROSS COUNTRY Nicole Stout, 9 “Everyone supports each other during races and practices. Without teamwork, we would all see cross country as an individual sport and not try hard to win league meets. We all have to work together to reach [the] goal of winning league or winning state.”
Doubles players: Katherine Co, 11
“I believe it’s important because playing doubles is all about teamwork and knowing each other’s strengths and weaknesses. If one of us were to make a mistake, we shrug it off and focus on getting the next point.”
BOYS’ WATER POLO Noah Brokaw, 11
Eudora Fong, 11 “I like [playing doubles] a lot better than playing singles because you have the support of your teammate and it’s a little less pressure. I feel like if you’re playing doubles you have someone who has your back.”
Set, #13
“I think the importance of my position is that my team can rely on me to get the point when we need it.”
Patrick Webb, 10 Driver, #18
“[My position] allows the team to work together to score a goal [or] set up and give it to a big guy to turn and shoot.”
Ω
20
Fall Season Scoreboard girls’ tennis
girls’ volleyball
10/11 vs. Los Altos 17-1 W 10/13 @ West Covina 14-4 W 10/18 @ Diamond Ranch 18-0 W 10/20 vs. Charter Oak 14-4 W
10/12 vs. Los Altos 0-3 L 10/17 @ West Covina 0-3 L 10/19 @ Diamond Ranch 2-3 L 10/24 vs. Charter Oak 0-3 L
boys’ football 10/07 vs. Chino 13-63 L 10/14 @ Los Altos 7-52 L 10/21 vs. West Covina 7-54 L 10/28 vs. Diamond Ranch 7-35 L
girls’ golf 10/06 vs. Troy 183-192 W 10/10 vs. Diamond Bar 195-210 W 10/11 vs. Charter Oak 215-289 W 10/13 vs. Troy 201-206 W
ADVERTISEMENT
boys’ water polo 10/15 vs. Tesoro 9-7 W 10/15 vs. St. John Bosco 10-8 W 10/15 vs. University 8-7 W 10/27 @ Charter Oak 15-8 W
cross country Mt. Sac Invitational, 10/22
2. Chloe Arriaga 5. Emma Arriaga 100. Evan Sentoso 114. Diego Serrano
17:13 17:41 17:31 18:14
sports
Upcoming Sports boys’ and girls’ wrestling
boys’ and girls’ soccer
Walnut varsity boys’ and girls’ wrestling begins the winter season with the boys’ team having won five league games last year while the girls’ team sent five individuals to state level last season.
Boys’ and girls’ soccer look to improve from last season’s league records of 8-9 and 5-11, respectively. Both teams are beginning to practice before preseason, and girls’ varsity has a new assistant coach.
girls’ water polo
boys’ and girls’ basketball
This year the girls’ water polo team is starting the season with a new coach after an overall league record of 2-4 last year. For the whole season, the girls’ water polo team won seven games and lost 11. Last year, four seniors graduated, allowing several sophomores to join the team this year.
After a 24-6 overall record last season, boys’ basketball starts again this winter after being knocked out in the CIF quarterfinals against Camarillo High School last year. Girls’ basketball also looks to improve from a 15-10 overall record last season.