WILDCAT UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL
11800 Texas Avenue XCI Issue 6 Instagram: @wildcatpaper Happy Birthday Sarah! Los Angeles, CA 90025 Thursday, April 27, 2017 wildcatpaper.com
Trump makes new energy plan
No plan B? By: Melody Fuentes Staff Writer President Trump has followed through on his word to advocate for pro-life values and prevent abortion services by trying to defund Planned Parenthood. On Jan. 25, Trump signed an executive order to withhold federal funds from any organization which offers abortions. This executive order, known as the Global Gag Rule, has passed through both houses of congress, which means that states now have the power to choose what to do with funds that were supposed to go to the organizations that provided abortions. Planned Parenthood provides many other health services besides abortions. By defunding it, the government risks putting millions of women’s health at risk, especially those with low income. According to the University of Miami’s social issues department, out of the total 10,943,609 services performed annually by Planned Parenthood, only 3 percent of them are abortions. The organization also provides birth control, cervical cancer screenings, STD testing and treatment and other health services. In addition, they perform nearly 1 million pap tests and about 830,000 breast exams each year. It is shown that 1 in 5 women have or will require help from Planned Parenthood in the future. Jose Sernas, a sophomore, said he believes it’s wrong to defund Planned Parenthood because of all of the other useful services offered that help millions of women. “I’m completely against it. Without Planned Parenthood, people of all ages wouldn’t have easy access to sex ed,” Sernas said. Meanwhile, a user on the Daily Wire that goes by the name Rusty53, expresses his belief on how abortions are a terrible practice and should not be tolerated. “It’s not about the government controlling a woman’s pregnancy, it’s about the killing of innocent human life...abortion has become a form of birth control,” Rusty53 said. Some students are undecided where they stand on the issue, such as freshman Kimberly Anguiano. “I agree with Trump on how he wants to stop abortions,” Anguiano said. “But I also support allowing people under 18 to be able to get free access to birth control. I’m stuck in the middle.” In the end, the outcome of this new executive order is still uncertain and there is no definite way to know what the result will be, but whatever happens will surely affect millions across America.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, renewal energy made up only 10 percent of U.S energy consumption in 2015. President Trump aims to increase production in gas, oil, and coal.
By: Sebastian Orozco Staff Writer President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order named the “Energy Independence” Executive Order on Tuesday, March 28 aimed at rolling back President Barack Obama’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions through the Clean Power Plan. This fulfills one of his main campaign promises, calling the order, “The start of a new era of American energy production.” Trump’s new energy policy is mainly aimed at rearranging domestic energy and environmental priorities and would allow for federal lands to drill for gas, oil, and mine for coal. “The Trump Administration is committed to energy policies that lower costs for hardworking Americans and maximize the use of American resources,” the Trump team said in an official statement on their website, whitehouse.org. This is a considerable turn in the opposite direction from the previous administration, considering that Trump would shrink the Environmental Protection Agency to an advisory council and completely dissolve the Clean Power Plan. Signed by Obama
To film or not to film?
Being at the heart of the film industry, UniHigh’s campus is notorious for attracting filmmakers far and wide. The campus has hosted several shows and films such as “The Wedding Ringer,” “Jane the Virgin,” “The Goldbergs,” “Husbands of Hollywood,” and “Breaking In”. And while the school receives money from filming, many students question why we allow these distraction to disrupt our daily routine. “We couldn’t get to where we needed to be on time,” junior Nakia Phillips said. “The film crew would ask if we could quiet down at nutrition [and] it was difficult”. With film crews and equipment taking up large sections of the school, students are often forced to take different routes to reach their classes. Combined with the construction of the YMCA structure at the school’s southern gate, filming has posed problems not only for stu-
back in 2015, it aimed to enforce stricter regulations on energy producers throughout the country. “These are hard times and the energy and ecological crisis is a byproduct of capitalism, with the only solution being to remove the source,” sophomore Crystal Mendoza said. Environmental groups have since voiced their concerns, mainly focusing on health concerns regarding the new regulations under Trump. The Environmental Defense Fund predicted that Obama’s plan would prevent around 3,600 premature deaths linked to pollution, and a staggering 300,000 missed work and school days per year. They claim these bnefits would be curtailed since the cutback on regulations will allow for more coal mining and coalfired plants, which are a contributing factor in respiratory and cardiovascular problems. “I see minor differences between Trump and Obama’s energy goals as both used unsustainable resources and even if one favors clean energy, it still isn’t enough to save the planet,” says Mendoza.
By: Deja Knox and Andrea Parker Staff Writers
dents, but for parents as well who are trying to drop off their kids at school on time. While it may seem as if film crews simply come and cause disorder, they try their best to put everything back in place when they leave. “Well we cleaned a lot of things up. We definitely made things nicer. We will take the doors we added in and the office that we put in the hallway but, as far as painting they would stay the same, it’s up to the school to keep or change it back,” said Casey Stoll, the film set painter and designer. While Uni experiences a few inconveniences to filming, it also reaps significant gains from allowing a film to take place on its property. From these contracts, the student body received about $200,000 this year for the 25-30 different filming contracts alone. This money is then deposited into the school’s 4242 account.
The money received from film contracts is used to fund the newspaper, graduation, CIF dues, and various athletics also many more. “Filming generates revenue that our school desperately needs,” assistant principal Dan Blank said. Yet students raise questions about how the money is allocated. “The school doesn’t provide us with the things we need such as not having enough tissue in the bathrooms or soap in the bathrooms,” Phillips said. The administration explained that the school has another account named 3938 that is used to fund textbooks, buses, and school materials. “Mr. Davidson has always determined where the money is placed based on the needs of our school,” Blank said. Find the SkaterCat within the newspaper!
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UNIVERSITY HIGH WILDCAT
Meet Nancy Gomez BS
y
FEATURES Blood drives Uni together
Ashley Ortiz Writer
taff
Nancy Gomez, 12th grader, was recognized by the Brentwood Community Council for her community service at LA’s BEST, a summer program that provides homework assistance, recreation and enrichment opportunities for elementary school students. She had spent over 100 hours volunteering. The BCC award recognizes students for their outstanding concern or action to improve the the Brent- Senior Nancy Gomez gets wood community. Once a recognized for her outstanding year, they recognize four volunteer work in efforts to students who have made a improve the community. noteworthy contribution to the community. To receive the award, Gomez wrote an essay pertaining to her volunteering with kids at a local elementary school. Cynthia Headrick, assistant principal, read the essay and chose Nancy to represent Uni for the award. “I wasn’t expecting it at all so I was shocked,” Gomez said. “My parents were really proud of me! My mom attended the ceremony with me at the Brentwood library and told me that all my hard work paid off.” Prior to this award, Gomez was also a gold recipient for the Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards in community service. Gomez has recently committed to Macalester College in Minnesota, where she will continue to volunteer for civic engagement.
Prom is easily the most anticipated high school dance that you will remember forever. The point is, prom is a pretty big deal. And whether you’re freaking out because you have not found the right dress or date, don’t stress. Here is everything you need to know to have a bangin’ time at your senior prom. University High School’s Prom, “Enchanted Forest” will be held on May 13th, 2017 at 7PM at the MountainGate Country Club. Prom tickets are now on sale during lunch and nutrition at the student store for $120 if you did not purchase one with your senior packet. Prom is a formal event, the school dress code and all school rules must be followed at this event. THE DRESS Finding the perfect prom dress is easily one of the most stressful things for us girls. I understand completely that you want the perfect dress. When dress shopping, don’t say “YES” to the first dress you try on, unless you truly feel YES about the dress. Here are some of the best stores to find very nice prom dresses at affordable prices: us.boohoo.com, missguidedus.com, Forever21.com, lulus. com, promgirl.com, Windsor, Noell, Couture Shop, Atria Clothing, and La Femme.
MAKEUP/HAIR/NAILS- GIRLS After finding the right dress, brainstorm about how you want you hair, makeup, and nails to be. After you know what you want, make sure to book your glam team ahead of time! Undecided about Hair/makeup? YouTube Channels for Hairstyles: Cute Girls Hairstyles, Milabu, Missy Sue, and Luxy Hair.
Photos by Jennifer Cortez
44 Uni students and staff members participated in the blood drive organized by junior Zain Faraht with the help of the UCLA Blood and Platelet Center on April 20. “I decided to organize this because I wanted to help save lives. The blood drive would help a lot of people, especially cancer patients,” Faraht said. Uni Leadership plans to organize the blood drive next year and hopes to host it twice a year.
How to prepare for prom
THE TUX When thinking about what you want to wear to prom, remember one thing: let your date find her dress first, then you can find a nice tux to match with her. Pick the tux with the appropriate color scheme to match your date (if you have one) and make sure to feel confident in what you’re wearing because when you look good, you feel good. Make sure to have your prom attire ready at least one week before the prom, guys! Check out these local tux stores for your next rental: Friar Tux and Elite Tuxedo.
April 27, 2017
By Mariah Ajanel Staff Writer
YouTube Channels for Makeup: makeupshayla, NikkieTutorials, Desi Perkins, Carli Bybel and Shani Grimmond. GENERAL PROM TIPS- FOR BOYS It’s prom, so make sure that you have a nice clean look. Clean your fingernails, clean up the facial hair and make sure to book your barber ahead of time! When picking up your date, greet her family, make sure you present yourself as a gentleman. Great places to buy Prom corsages: etsy.com, French Florist, Sharon Flower Design, and Angie’s Flowers of Los Angeles. Need to brush up on your dance skills? Check out “How to Dance - For Men” on YouTube. TRANSPORTATION Talk it out with your date, friends, parents and figure out the best and most convenient way to get around on prom night. UberSELECT offers more luxurious cars above UberX at cheaper prices. From Uni to MoutainGate Country Club it will cost you roughly $30 and your UberSELECT will sit up to 4 passengers. There are also other various luxury options you can choose on Uber for other prices. LyftPremier offers high end rides that seat 4 people and it will cost you roughly $74 from Uni to MoutainGate Country Club. Another suggestion, may be getting a limo or party bus and splitting the cost among friends. A limo will cost you roughly $175 an hour.
Senior Danny Garcia promposes to senior Kimberly Corto in the Grove. His poster read “Will you be my dangerous woman at prom?” (a reference to Ariana Grande) and Corto responded with a “Yes!” Photo by Rosa Martinez.
THE DAY OF PROM Have a clear schedule of when you will be getting your hair, makeup and nails done on prom day. Have a plan of what time you want to leave and come back home. Suggested Prom schedule (girls): Hair- 10:30AM, Makeup- 11:30AM, Pictures- 1:30-3PM, Retouch hair and makeup (if needed)- 4:00-5PM, Champagne party- 5:00-6:30PM, PROM- 7PM-12AM, and After prom- 12AM to whenever. Most students attend an after prom party, but other after prom suggestions are going to eat after, a bonfire on the beach, or even just watching the sunrise with friends.
April 27, 2017
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UNIVERSITY HIGH WILDCAT
Uni
FEATURES
students travel for enrichment
Brandon Nekookar
By Mae Wang Features Editor
Senior Brandon Nekookar was chosen to participate in the LANSCA Japan Student Exchange program during the summer of 2016. “I was just always interested in Japan since my mom lived over there for a couple of years, so she would always tell me these stories. It sounds like a nice place,” Nekookar said. In the program, students were required to complete projects with the theme “Nagoya Through My Eyes.” Nekookar based his project on fashion by comparing different clothing styles in Japan. He took pictures with many strangers, noting their clothings in differnet cities. Through his exploration, he learned of the various uniformities based on different sectors of Japan. To name a few, black tuxes were common in the Downtown area of Tokyo and traditional clothings were seen at Japanese shrines. “I got to experience a whole different culture. The people were really welcoming and the hospitality were really good. I only experienced a small language barrier. But still, even through that, it felt great to be with them,” he said. Nekookar was able to meet city officials, Nagoya Board Education leaders, high school students and teachers, and various Japanese families. Along with that, he had a lot of free time to explore and shop in Nagoya, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Hakone, and Tokyo throughout the program. “I learned that curiosity can go a long way whenever you want to do something. Be opened minded, curious, and adventurous.”
Claire Hafteck
Before her junior year started, junior Claire Hafteck was informed by her mother—a UCLA professor in music education—that the whole family would be going to Hong Kong for half a year in light of receiving a Fulbright scholarship, which allowed her to conduct research in another university outside of California. To make up for her expected absences in her first semester of junior year, Hafteck registered for online courses with an American-accredited online school curriculum to transfer in her credits; with that, she was able to have the time to try new experiences in Hong Kong. “I was able to take some kung-fu and Chinese folk dance classes [as well as] practice my Cantonese. Additionally, my mom brought me along on two trips to mainland China as she was invited as a guest speaker to lecture at different universities on several occasions, which were honestly life-changing,” she said. Overall, Hafteck’s trip to Hong Kong was claimed to be “an amazing and eye-opening experience.” She was able to reconnect with her Chinese roots as well as come across “interesting” reactions from the inhabitants of Hong Kong in unexpected discovery of her fluent Cantonese, despite not being full Chinese. She encourages those studying abroad to truly learn about other people’s backgrounds and understand ways of thinking differently. “Try new things! Don’t let doubts about your difference in culture or any language barriers hold you back from meeting new people, learning new things, and making memories.”
Photos courtesy of Sarah Rios and Francesca Cojuangco Junior
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Photos courtesy Claire Hefteck Mae Wang
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By Mae Wang Features Editor
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By Amy Oh Features Editor
Earthwatch is an organization dedicated to engaging people from all around the world in scientific research and education to promote the measures that need to be taken in order to sustain the environment. Junior Francesca Cojuangco traveled to Utah, where she attended lectures on important environmental issues and explored the landscapes. “Our environment is so much more than just trees and flowers,” Cojuangco said. “There are animals like flammulated owls who need out help and attention, and it was rewarding to be able to contribute in the preservation of their habitats.” Former Uni student and junior Sarah Rios traveled to the University of Nevada, Reno to research about caterpillars and climate change. “Earthwatch was an amazing experience,” Rios said. “I ended up bonding with the others on the trip, and we had a chance to contribute to the research of a brilliant team of scientists studying climate change.”
Mae Wang
By Denisse Gonzalez Staff Writer
Junior Mae Wang had the summer of a lifetime when she participated in Girls Who Code program and got the opportunity to go to the Bay Area. Paula Van Norden sent out an email of the program to all Uni students. Wang took it upon herself to take advantage of this offer and the rest was history. Girls Who Code is a national non-profit organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology. Tech jobs are among the fastest growing professions in the country, but women are being left behind. GWC takes a huge step to changing that by encouraging the growth of girls interested in tech. GWC teachers girls how to program and takes them to field trips to tech companies for an experience in working in the tech field. “In the end of the program, we had to create a group project. We created a VR game app by ourselves by learning how to use Unity. We successfully made it in the end,” Wang said. Wang plans to major in computer science and apply what she has learned at GWC to pursue her future career.
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April 27, 2017
UNIVERSITY HIGH WILDCAT
ENTERTAINMENT The Coachella Experience BY DREW HATCHER Staff Writer
Coachella is typically the most sought after festival of the year. It begins on April 14 and ends April 23, and is held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California and people paid between $399 to $899 to attend. People get the opportunity to see many of their favorite artists perform live in a single weekend and attracts a huge crowd of about 125,000 young people looking for fun. Some famous artists that performed this year included Kendrick Lamar, Lil Uzi Vert, Kehlani, and many more. Senior Matthew Horwitz attended Coachella and was asked about his experience: Was this your first time going? This was my first time going and it was definitely worth it. The whole atmosphere of the event was very upbeat and everybody seemed really happy to see some of their favorite artists perform. What were some of your favorite artists that performed? I can’t say I had a favorite artist who performed just because so many of my favorites were there. One of the best ones was Kendrick Lamar; he didn’t just rap for us, he put on a show. What made his show intriguing were the songs he performed and he even brought out Travis Scott which got everyone really hyped. What artists would you want to see next year? I think Kodak Black would’ve been fun to see. Some classic rock groups would be awesome to see too. How do you think Coachella could improve next year? I thought it was perfect. The only thing I would like to see is if they could maybe add a couple more tents for shade, other than that, it lived up to ev- The lineup of artists this year are listed on Coachella’s updated poster, including the replacement of Beyoncé by Lady Gaga. erything I imagined it would be. I loved it.
Smurfs: Hit or miss?
SOURCE: SONY PICTURES ANIMATION
Follow along as Smurfette leads The Smurfs on a whole new adventure, this time involving some unexpected guests.
Unless you are a young child, a parent of a young child, or simply just a Smurfaholic, “Smurfs: The Lost Village” is not on the must see list. With its all new cast of voice actors, its very predictable plot, and the vaguely interesting ‘danger’ scenes, this movie is really only average. Much like many other recent films, the director decides to give a girl power twist to the franchise. With new characters such as SmurfWillow (Julia Roberts), SmurfLily (Ariel Winter), and SmurfStorm (Michelle Rodriguez), this movie was sure to be a hit with the younger generation. After all, what little girl doesn’t
BY ALYSSA KAUTHEN Staff Writer
enjoy a movie that shows off our female strengths, even if it is just in animated form? However, they may actually be the only audience this film would entertain, even with it’s female empowering plotline. In the movie, Smurfette starts to wonder whether or not she is a ‘real’ Smurf, seeing as she was created by Gargamel. She starts to try and figure out what she is meant to do, much like the other Smurfs who have their destined jobs in their names. This then leads to her realization that there must be another Smurf village in the forest, causing Gargamel to somehow find out — like he always does — and decide that she needs to go find them. Throughout the Smurfs’ adventure, the audience is presented with the ever so popular ‘conflict,’ where the Smurfs find themselves in a life threatening disaster while the others have to try to figure out how to save them. However, this time it just seemed way overdone. It was the same plot as many of its predecessors. The ‘conflict’ was merely Gargamel trying to kidnap some Smurfs again, but this time it happened to be the mysteriously never before mentioned, female Smurfs. Overall this movie really isn’t worth your money. Stay home, buy some cheap snacks from the store, and watch Netflix. It really would be a better use of your time and budget. Rating: 3/5
Logan: A Review
SOURCE: 20TH CENTURY FOX
“Logan” is a very personal and violent film that centers around the famous “Wolverine” in his later years.
“Logan” centers around the titular character, played by Hugh Jackman, as he tries to take care of both himself and the dying Charles Xavier. Logan offers a great look at what a hero’s life looks like after his golden years — all the physical duress and emotional turmoil has finally caught up with him, and he’s no longer able to function as effectively as he used to. He’s taken a job as a full time limo driver in order to make ends meet for him and Xavier. In addition, he’s saving up to eventually get a boat where he and Xavier can spend the rest of their days. While on the job he is confronted by a woman who seeks his help as “The
SOURCE: GOLDENVOICE
BY JUSTIN REECE Staff Writer
Wolverine”, and he is then faced with a decision that will ultimately change the course of the rest of his and Xavier’s days. With it being the last time that both Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart will portray Wolverine and Professor X, this film was very emotional. Jackman gives a very intense performance; he manages to convey the broken down hero with a sense of realism as he struggles to keep it together doing some of the most basic things. Stewart gives a very raw, emotional and Oscar-worthy performance as this rather naive and hopeful Charles Xavier. Newcomer Dafne Keene shines as Laura. It’s somewhat a comedic and heartwarming role as she discovers the world in the stressful adventure the protagonists go on. Boyd Holbrook plays an almost forgettable villain who sometimes feels like he’s there just to look cool; The only sense of tension that is ever caused by his presence is when the heroes seem to be in a bad way, but it’s never because of Holbrook directly. Aside from being an immensely emotional movie, “Logan” is also very violent and not for the faint of heart. The future that the film presents to us is one that lacks hope, and the brutality and gore present in the film reflects that. “Logan” isn’t your average superhero movie that was pumped out by a studio just to make some money— it’s both a swan song and a love-letter for the character. Rating: 5/5
April 27, 2017
UNIVERSITY HIGH WILDCAT
ENTERTAINMENT
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Shrek The Musical: By Trixie Valdezco News Editor
Behind the curtains
Senior Charlene Herrella, who plays Princess Fiona, and Billy Ortiz, Shrek, Photo By: Mekhi Marcelino meet for the first time when he rescues her from the high tower castle.
Uni High finishes off the school year with a bang with its musical production of “Shrek the Musical,” directed by Ronnie Sperling. The production follows the story of Shrek, senior Billy Ortiz, as he embarks on an adventure to rescue a mysterious princess from a high tower guarded by a fire-breathing dragon. Forced to take on this quest by Lord Farquaad, junior Allen Tehrani, Shrek begins to shed his thick “onion” layers by opening up to his new friend, Donkey, senior Jalon Moore, and soon-to-be love interest, Princess Fiona, senior Charlene Herrella. Besides focusing on Shrek’s adventure, the play elaborates on both Shrek and Fiona’s past. The story reveals how they were both abandoned by their parents when they were 7 years old and were forced to battle isolation throughout their lives. With the clever use of flashbacks and rotating actors, the play portrays the heart-breaking scenes of Shrek being feared and reviled, and Fiona spending years and years hoping for her true love to rescue her from her solitary perch. Senior Erin Washington does well in portraying an adorable young Shrek looking nervous and scared as his parents tell him to live in solitude and to appear frightening in order to protect himself from the harsh, brutal world. The play highlights the importance of inner beauty over outer beauty, as well as learning to love and accept oneself. Furthermore, the audience learns that love comes in all shapes and sizes, as demonstrated not only by Shrek and Fiona, but the supporting char-
acters as well. The actors and stage crew combined their talents to create a truly unique performance. From the start, Ortiz fully immerses himself into the Shrek character, bellowing and stomping and earning himself a well-deserved round of applause from the audience. He does well in portraying Shrek’s transition from a gruff, unpleasant character to a brave hero capable of loving others. In terms of singing, Herrella and Jasmine Mentzer, portraying sultry Dragon, exceed the audience’s expectations, earning themselves a riot of cheers from the crowd. Their projected voices are clear and melodic, effortlessly staying on pitch and wowing the crowd with every number. They capture the essence of the characters as best as they can and channel that spirit through their performance. Donkey, who Moore brought to life by paying homage to Eddie Murphy’s original performance and by using his own charm, is a constant crowd pleaser. He earns continual laughter, whether it be by rolling around stage or donning hot pink sunglasses as he comments on Shrek and Fiona’s budding relationship. And last but certainly not least, the stage crew of the drama department adds to the overall charm of the production. The bright, popping colors mark the set and costumes of the actors, as well as well-coordinated lighting and number cues. The crew and cast’s 4 months of hard work is evident, making “Shrek the Musical” a delight to experience.
Lord Farquaad, played by Allen Tehrani, interrogates Photo By: Mekhi Marcelino Gingy, played by Akira Shelton, to find out where Princess Fiona has gone.
By Jasmine Mentzer Staff Writer
Every semester, a special few take on the challenge of their lives: Ronnie Sperling’s amazing shows! For the 2016-2017 spring semester, one team assembles to bring joy into the hearts of the masses with “Shrek: The Musical.” The Musical is an adaptation of the Dreamwork’s movie Shrek, in which an Ogre named Shrek fights a dragon and saves a princess to gain back his swamp. Along the way, Shrek meets an eccentric bunch: a smart mouth donkey, and a princess with a secret. Some of the cast are alumni from the fall show, “The Fantasticks,” but a few brave newcomers took on the huge task that is a Uni High show. This production will follow the same storyline with a few modifications to choreography and set design. “We have to make the choreography simple enough that it is easy to learn,” says Lindsay Lorenz, the show’s choreographer. “We have a smaller stage and we limit movement to twirls [spins etc.], walking around the stage and interacting with the stage, and some basic dancing.” Director Ronnie Sperling admits there are challenges to bringing an iconic show to a smaller stage. “We’re doing the same show but we don’t have the same Broadway budgets for sets, costumes, and actors. We have to be creative and adapt things to make it work for a high school production,” Freshman Akira Shelton, who played Gingy and the ugly duckling, reflects on the logistics of bringing a beloved classic to life. “Of course we have fun times, but when it’s time to get to work, it can be challenging sometimes.” One thing that always makes things better is the cast’s relationship. Fiona, played by senior Charlene Herrella, gushes about her experience with the cast. “I appreciate every moment even though we have good days and bad days because I know we share the same Shrek spirit. We are like an onion. We have many layers, and different layers surface. I am just so thankful I get to experience every layer of rehearsal with the cast.” Some of the Stivelman theatre alumni offered insight into the challenges of the process. Senior Jalon Moore returns to the stage as Shrek’s hilarious sidekick Donkey. Moore says one of the hardest parts is “staying patient.” Sometimes it’s easier said than done, but that is just one of the sacrifices you make to do the thing you love. By now, the show is already over and everything went off without a hitch. We will say goodbye to our beloved seniors and wish for the best as they move on to other journeys, but the rest of us will be left behind to carry out the Uni High tradition of theatrical excellence.
The three little pigs, played by Shandira Sequra, Ginetta Photo By: Mekhi Marcelino Roble, and Mikaela Haley, gather and sing in Shrek’s swamp.
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April 27, 2017
UNIVERSITY HIGH WILDCAT
OPINION
RED TIDE
The 1970s harkens back to a time when students everywhere were protesting the Vietnam War and women’s rights was in a major upheaval. At that time, Uni High students created the Red Tide, an underground newspaper that voiced their concerns about their civil rights in relation to local and national issues. The original staff of the Red Tide was often targeted and challenged by the school administration, however, students are now protected under the California Student Free Expression Law, also known as the California Education Code 48907. This ensures that students are able to publish their opinions as long as it is not obscene, libelous, slanderous or incite violation of school laws. Under this code, writers are not subject to punishment or prior restraint. Revived in 2014, the current Wildcat has released an annual issue of its own Red Tide i to promote the power of the press and commemorate our freedom of speech.
By Sarah Short Co-Editor-in-Chief
TECHNOLOGY FAILS TO MEET CLASSROOM NEEDS
We live in an age of artificial intelligence. Simply the words “Alexa, what is 27 grams in pounds?” gives you a converted number within seconds. It sounds like a sci-fi novel, am I right? However, as you walk through the classrooms of Uni High, it’s almost as if you’re taken back into time. In a class like AP computer science, you might expect higher quality computers with decent processors to code on. But one step in the room and you’ll notice the archaic computers without internet all plugged into one electrical outlet. First off, this is a serious safety hazard. By plugging 26 computers into one outlet through a series of power strips not only can trigger the fuse to blow at any moment, but also cause all the computers to crash with just the slightest nudge on the chord. “I really feel that the computers in our classroom significantly limit our ability to complete work in class. We spend half the time waiting for them to load and open our
By Kate Im Sports Editor
documents, and they often don’t work at all,” senior Isabel Hausrath says. The lack of ethernet cables to provide internet to the computers, wifi cards
are used as students cross their fingers with hope that those four bars of wifi will appear. This creates a tremendous inconvenience for students as they
waste precious class time trying to get online to download the classwork files. In fact, most of the technology within classrooms are on the LAUSD wifi. Although the wifi is heavily restricted for sites like YouTube for students, the teachers face the most of this burden when trying to use these restricted sites as educational tools. In addition, technology isn’t readily accessible within classrooms for students to research, word-processing, presentations, among many other activities. Most laptop or iPad carts have a maximum of 20, just running short of the average class size of 30 at Uni. On the contrary, the school is making an effort to fix this dire technology issue, but not at the rate it should be at. The budget committee has just approved two new chromebook carts for next year and room 127 has been remodeled with four tv screens and 18 Mac desktops thanks to several grants and planning over the last 8 years. Despite this effort, students are severely limited to modern technology in the era of innovation.
Cartoon by Julie Han
Public Education Funds Looted Away
Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos’ blatant refusal to answer most of the Democrats’ questions during the Senate confirmation hearing on Jan. 17 rang alarms for supporters of both public and private schools. Unfortunately, this bright warning signal correctly foreshadowed the bleak future of America’s education department. In addition to Trump’s detestable blueprint of cutting funds up to $9.2 billion away from the Education Department, DeVos plans to take money away from public schools to encourage her agenda of school choice. DeVos’s mission to cut funding for public schools, like Uni High, will dramatically affect our lives. To lowincome students, school is a safe haven. The, admittedly, mediocre Breakfast in Classroom and lunch can be the only reliable meals a student has during the year. In addition, DeVos’s plans of cutting public funds means no after-school programs or summer programs. For many within the LAUSD district, LA’s Best was an afterschool program that students remember attending until 6 p.m.
Wildcat
University High School
11800 Texas Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025 The Wildcat student newspaper is published by the Journalism class at University High School. Letters should be directed to room 127, Wildcatpaper@gmail.com or the Journalism mailbox in the main office. Please include full name and grade. Letters are subject to editorial discretion. Call (310) 914-3551, ext. 504 or email Wildcatpaper@gmail.com to place an advertisement.
because their parents could not afford a costly and trustworthy afterschool program. Furthermore, according to a report on 21st Century Community Learning Centers, “(afterschool programs receiving federal funds) showed that 45 percent of all participants improved their reading grades and 41 percent improved their math grades.” To take away funding from these critical programs would mean that the federal government is clearly abandoning the future of low incomes students in exchange for the richer students. After all, this prejudiced system will continue to oppress the poor by denying them an education that allows an opportunity break out of the cycle of poverty. The battle for education is not over yet. As students under the public school system, it’s our job to get involved starting in the local community in various ways: volunteering and supporting after school programs, public libraries, public schools, and other organizations geared towards helping kids in need. Most importantly, during the midterm elections, be aware of which senators and public officials voted away the students’ right to a quality education.
Co-Editor-in-Chief ....................................Sarah Short and Emmett Krantz News Editor...................................................................Trixie Valdezco Opinion Editor.........................................................................Julie Han Feature Editor.......................................................Amy Oh and Mae Wang Entertainment Editor...................................................... Julie Lee Sports Editor........................................................Kate Im Photo Editor................................................................Mekhi Marcelino Cartoonist.........................................................................Julie Han Writing Coach.......................................................................James Ward Journalism Adviser......................................................Alexandria Janda
Cartoon by Julie Han
Wildcat Staff: Mariah Ajanel, Sammie Blue, Annie Chavez-Majano, Dumitru Chiriac, Jennifer Cortes, Melody Fuentes, Esther Han, Drew Hatcher, Alyssa Kauthen, Deja Knox, Rosa Martinez, Erika Mendez, Jasmine Mentzer, Sebastian Orozco, Ashley Ortiz, Andrea Parker, Zerrick Payne, Delia Ramos, Justin Reece . ************************************************
The Wildcat is a student-run, student-operated student-produced newspaper, which does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the administration or the school at large. Staff editorials represent the collectively agreed upon opinions of the Wildcat editors. All writers published in the Wildcat are protected under Calfiornia Education Code 48907.
April 27, 2017
UNIVERSITY HIGH WILDCAT
SPORTS Boys volleyball digs for a seat in playoffs
Page 7
The boys volleyball team heads to the end of their season with an overall score of 21-12-1 and a league score of 5-5. Even with a tight score, the boys have a high possibility of advancing to the Division I playoffs after LACES forfeited during the Uni boys’ senior night on April 20th. The LACES volleyball team forfeited the game as many of their players decided to go to Calculus camp. As a result, the boys varsity volleyball team scrimmaged against JV. Even with their tough practice, the boys had difficult competition this year as other “easier” schools showed massive improvements. As a result, the boys are still on the lookout for ways to improve. “The team needs to improve on the little things like passing, setting, and playing together as a team,” said senior outside hitter Kenrick Usher. The boys volleyball team will have a meeting to confirm their seat in the playoffs on Saturday April 28. If they are confirmed, their first playoff game will be next Thursday on May 4.
By:Annie Chavez-Majano and Samera Blue Staff Writer and Staff Writer
Top Left: Sophomore opposite hitter Orlando Alvarez goes in for a block against Venice’s #10 at a home game on April 5. Bottom Left: the Boys Volleyball team celebrates their senior night, the last home league game, on april 20 after LACES fofeits. Bottom Right: Senior Alwin Roble, setter, blocks a shot that Venice high tried to score at a home game on April 5.
Photo by: Mekhi Marcelino
Photo by: Mekhi Marcelino
Photo by: Jennifer Cortes
Softball steps up to the plate
By: Zerrick Payne Staff Writer The Uni softball team is continuing into the second half of the season with an overall score of 5-8 and league score of 3-6 as of Wednesday, April 26. This year’s team has a new plan of action, an influx of promising players, and a strong team chemistry. The girls are also confident that they will be the best Uni softball team in recent memory. “By our second game this season, we had already won more games than last season. We have more confidence,” senior shortstop Yisel Salazar said. This season, daily practice is mandatory for all the girls, including during the weekends and school breaks. They are currently focusing on strengthening their defense and fundraising to replace the broken equipment left by their predecessors. “Unfortunately, we were unable to pull through [the April 6] game against Fairfax,
whom we had [beaten] before,” said senior outfielder Alyssa Suzukawa. “I commend the determination the team displayed on the field. We had underestimated our foe and played a tough game of error after error.” However, senior outfielder Carolina Castro is not deterred by the team’s losses. Castro cites the team’s preseason victory in the games against LA High and their regular season game against LACES as examples of their newfound drive to succeed. “We’ve been working hard during practice... last year we lacked the ability to set goals...but now we are all driven to potentially fight for the Division 4 Championship,” Castro said. The Uni softball team is excited for playoffs and hopes to become Division 4 champions. They will continue to approach every future game with confidence and positive attitudes. Support the Wildcats today at their away game against Westchester!
Photo by: Annie Chavez-Majano Freshman pitcher Juliana Jimenez pitches to home base. The Uni Softball lost against Hamilton high school with a score of 4-12.