September 2020

INSIDE THE ISSUE

opinion 4

feature 6

sports 15

a&e 10

the bull's eye news

opinion

feature

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020 VOLUME XXXVIV ISSUE I ONLINE AT DBBULLSEYE.COM

arts&entertainment

sports

Safety tops reopening concerns

Brahmas adapt to virtual semester

Parents, teachers and students look ahead to inperson learning resuming at DBHS.

Issues surrounding cheating and a possibly diluted curriculum arise due to distance learning.

steve qu asst. news editor Though state guidelines prohibit Diamond Bar High School from opening its doors to students for the foreseeable future, there are plenty of ideas and opinions among the high school community regarding the campus closure and eventual reopening.

Despite circumstances, the community reception of the transition to distance learning is generally favorable. Most agree that the school needs to stay closed for the safety of the community.

“I think school administrators are doing [a] good job,” Korean teacher Robert Hwang said via email. “During [a] pandemic,

“I think it’s even better than traditional classrooms since you get some personal time with teachers" TONY WU school should be closed for students and staff’s safety until [the] pandemic is over. Safety is the most important for [the] DBHS community.”

Many parents also agree with the notion of prioritizing safety over convenience. It’s clear by looking at other U.S. schools that have reopened that to do so is an enormous risk, with cases spiking not only among students but entire counties where school reopens.

“School should open whenever it is safe to, I don’t want to risk the lives of people if it’s unnecessary,” parent Geraldine Budiman said via Instagram.

Another parent, Yang Yu, said that the school should continue its online operations until the pandemic is under control and we have a vaccine, no matter how long it takes--which, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, may not be until early 2021.

“School can open when we can control the pandemic and have [vaccines] for COVID-19,” Yu said via text. “It may take years to [vaccinate] everyone and people aren’t staying at home so we should keep learning online.”

admin on p.2

Photo courtesy of dbhs.org

Steve Qu Asst. News Editor

DBHS class of 1997 student Elizabeth Chang returned to the school this year to serve as the school’s assistant principal.

Welcoming new administrators

Alumna Elizabeth Chang joins DBHS as assitant principal. reyna wan opinion editor Though the fall semester will be remote for the foreseeable future, Diamond Bar High School welcomed aboard a few new staff members and has promoted others into new positions.

Among the new Brahmas are As-

sistant Principal Elizabeth Chang and Chinese teacher Jared Wu. After being an educational specialist for 12 years at Walnut Valley Unified School district, along with a two-year stint at Chino Valley Unified School District, DBHS alumna Elizabeth Chang has returned to the district, this time in the No. 2 position at DBHS. “I wanted to support education in a capacity where I can continue to help teachers, staff, students and families access more resources,” Chang said via email. “ In the role of assistant principal, you have op-

portunities to build relationships and engage with students in life long lessons, restorative processes, and guidance that is unique to each situation.”

At DBHS, Chang hopes to use her experiences as an alumna to build a rigorous learning environment for students without compromising on communication and connection.

“I hope to support teachers with a safe instructional space, students with a joyful learning experience, and our community with a secure

As school continues in a virtual setting this semester, students and teachers have varying opinions on this new learning format’s success.

The new school day consists of 40-minute periods with five-minute passing periods between them, and hour-long 1A and 6A classes.

It isn’t until after the school day is over, at 12:30 p.m., that there’s a 30-minute lunch break.

“I think having shorter periods restrict the teachers from going more fully in depth with the material in classes while also having more of a rush during quizzes and tests,” junior Rebekah Tsai said via Instagram.

In an effort to make up for the

staff on p.3

Distance learning on p.12

District works to overcome financial challenges Budget takes hit due to reduced state funding and decreased enrollment rate.

Marcus hseih asst. news Editor The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Walnut Valley Unified School District, exacerbating its financial plight and increasing the possibility that cuts will be made to this school year’s budget.

WVUSD serves roughly 13,500 students enrolled in nine elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools and one Alternative Education program. The district began the 2020-21 school year with $32.4 million in reserve, but projects a 3 percent reduction to $31.3 million by the end of the year.

For comparison, the school district started the 2019-20 school year with a balance of $29.8 million and ended the year with $29.5 million, a 1 percent decrease.

According to public budget documents, the cause of such drastic losses rests mainly in decreasing enrollment, state-wide budget cuts and steadily rising costs.

The school district estimates enrollment at 13,547 students for the

2020-21 school year. This 10 percent decrease in enrollment compared to a decade ago is largely attributed to the capping of District of Choice applications.

“At least 95 percent of the school districts out there experience declining enrollment and that’s because there are just fewer students in public schools right now than ever before and that number con-

tinues to drop,” Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Matt Torres said.

In addition, Prop. 98, a formula for finding minimum annual funding for K-12 schools based on the overall state budget, has allotted just $70.5 billion for this school year compared to $77.4 billion last year.

“When the state economy

shrinks, the state budgets shrink, then sometimes, school districts feel the brunt of that and have to be hit with less revenue coming in from the state than anticipated,” Superintendent Robert Taylor said.

Such reductions are seen as unavoidable as the pandemic contin

finance on P.3

JOSH CHOU

2

NEWS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

Wellness under new guidance Athletics director Albert Lim takes over position as adviser this school year.

Center has shifted its attention from consulting students in oneon-one sessions to working on projects, such as virtual events, that will leave a lasting impact on an individual’s well-being. In order to compensate for the lack of face-toface interaction, the wellness staff is planning a virtual wellness outreach program for DBHS students, although it’s still in the developmental stage.

Senior wellness consultant Cassidy Apolo said that Davis was very consistent and punctual when it came to the Wellness Center and coordinating its events.

Since her retirement, the absence of these qualities has been a duly noted, especially with classes being online this year.

“Mrs. Davis was on top of schedule and the pacing of our preparation for our events,” Apolo said via Instagram. “But we are communicating much more closely and directly with the [Social-Emotional Learning] committee and Mr. Lim our current advisor.”

Due to the school’s abrupt end in March, the Wellness Center did not have time to conduct interviews or train new staff members, so new consultants were not picked for the 2020-2021 school year.

“Even if we elected new consultants, they would not be able to

somiya jiajeh Asst. feature Editor As the Wellness Center navigates through the new school year, it has had to adapt to the changes brought on not only by distance learning, but by the retirement of its previous adviser, Sandy Davis.

Davis, who founded the Wellness Center in 2018, retired this summer after 18 years at Diamond Bar High School.

Taking her place as the new adviser is athletics director and peer counseling instructor Albert Lim. Lim said that his involvement in sports helps him advise both classes, as it has familiarized him with the “adapt and overcome” way of thinking.

“The biggest change for the Wellness Center has to do with distance learning,” Lim said via email. “As a result of distance learning, students are not able to counsel their peers virtually because of lack of supervision by a licensed-certified staff.”

According to Lim, the Wellness

Photo courtesy of Cassidy Apolo

Wellness members go over new terms by playing pictionary on Zoom calls. sultant Jacquelyn Tsui mentioned that the Wellness Center is coordinating events related to exercise, communicating with teachers and proper sleeping habits.

Although these events are not yet set in stone, the staff hopes that it will leave a positive impact on the wellbeing of fellow DBHS stu-

dents.

“To demonstrate our appreciation and sincerity for our program Wellness Consultants are to focus on maintaining our current quality of service,” Tsui said via Instagram. “During this difficult time, wellness hopes to emphasis the message that ‘you are not alone!’”

School faces hurdles to reopen

the staff

Admin from P.1

Editors-in-Chief

Josh Chou, Camille McCurry

News Editor Asst. News Editors

Anika Yatawara Marcus Hsieh, Steve Qu

Opinion Editors Asst. Opinion Editor

Camille McCurry, Reyna Wan Rachel Lee

Feature Editor Asst. Feature Editors

Emily Koh Somiya Jajieh, Kelsey Wu

A&E Editor Asst. News Editors

consult,” Apolo said via Google Docs. “At this moment, we can not counsel one on one. The wellness loop was specifically designed for face to face services.”

Although the Wellness Center can no longer host one-on-one peer counseling sessions, they have been planning virtual events in an attempt to improve the well-being of other DBHS students.

According to senior wellness consultant AJ Cembrano, the wellness members have been brainstorming ideas to stay invested in students’ well-being, such as holding mental health polls on their Instagram and creating an outlet where people can ask consultants questions.

“There’s been a lot of ideas circling around but hopefully we find well that works well with the students,” Cembrano said via Instagram.

On Wednesdays, the wellness team, peer counselors, DBHS’ psychologists, GLCs and the SEL teacher team will hold meetings during tutorial to learn about wellness.

During these meetings, the staff will provide students with wellness strategies and tools with the intention of helping students learn about themselves and others.

In addition, senior wellness con-

Josh Chou Natasha Chang, Marykate Palaris

Sports Editor Asst. Sports Editors

Victoria Artale Deesha Pathak, Charles Tam

Photo Editor Asst. Photo Editors

Victoria Artale Tiffany Lee, Kelsey Wu Ryan Chan Connor Cho

Business Manager Asst. Business Manager

Reyna Wan Natasha Chang

Wed Editor Asst. Web Editor Staff Writers

Kyle Hong, Lyndon Kaneko Edward Kim, Vera Wang

Adviser

Doug List

contact us Diamond Bar High School, Room 459 21400 Pathfinder Road Diamond Bar, CA 91765 Phone: (909) 594- 1405x33459 Email: eye.editors@gmail.com Business Inquiries: thebullseyebusiness@gmail.com

editorial policy The Bull’s Eye is a public forum that welcomes the views of our readers. Letters to the Editor and Op-Ed pieces will be accepted only if they are signed. The author may, however, request anonymity. The staff reserves the right to edit letters without changing content. You may forward letters to Room 563 or submit them online at dbbullseye.com.

Once DBHS can reopen, though it’s currently unclear to predictwhen that will be, many parents like Budiman have a few ideas as to how the administration can safely get students on campus each day.

“Students should be distanced everywhere on campus, and if it can’t be done in classrooms use the outside since [COVID-19] is more dangerous inside anyways,” Budiman said.

She also said that there should be options available for students to continue learning from home if they feel safer that way. She said this could be accomplished by having teachers record their classes shared with the students at home.

Though popular with students and parents, this idea has drawn mixed reactions from teachers for various reasons.

For history teacher Becky Bevans, the idea has both ups and downs.

“I only see a potential benefit of recording direct teacher instruction. However, I don’t believe that daily video recording would be beneficial on days where students are working in collaborative groups, watching a video or using materials at school that students may not have at home,” Bevans said via email. “I am concerned

that students watching online may actually feel more excluded when they see their peers attending school, participating in live lessons, and interacting with others.

They may feel as though they are ‘missing out.’”

The prevailing opinion was that students and staff should follow the basic social distancing guidelines to minimize contracting the virus.

Hwang said the CDC will give the administration strict guidelines to follow for reopening, and that with them, the administration will have a better idea of what needs to be done.

“Aerosol of COVID 19 is alive 3-4 hours in [the] bathroom after using [the] toilet according to Health Care Institutes. So students should wear a mask , [keep] social distance, [wash] hands in [the] bathroom as well as in class and school should disinfect each period to protect students and teachers from COVID-19,” Hwang said. “Each class should be minimized and put [a] divided shield on [each] student desk.”

As for computer use on campus, some believe that each student should be required to bring their own laptop and that the school should provide one for those without them.

This is because communal laptops and computers have frequent-

ly-touched surfaces used for long periods, making them viral hotspots.

“I think everyone should just use their own laptops instead of using public computers, since most people at DBHS have one, there should be enough chromebooks for the people who don’t,” Budiman said.

“I want my children to be as safe as possible with their own devices.”

Although the school library may be harder to maintain when school reopens, many believe its value justifies the extra effort.

A school library is an essential tool for students who are in need of a quiet area to study, do research or print necessary documents, especially while most public libraries continue to remain closed due to quarantine.

“Even though [it’s] difficult to disinfect the people who use the library. [They] know the risks and [choose] to accept the,” junior Grace Tjiptadjaja said via Instagram. “Maybe providing disinfecting wipes as well as staying six feet apart and limiting the number of people that can be allowed in the room can keep [it] clean.”

DBHS will reopen once the Los Angeles County infection rates drop below a certain level; however, how the campus will manage to resume in-person remains to be seen.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

NEWS

THE BULL'S EYE

3

Educators joining DBHS this fall staff from P.1 place to come together,” Chang said. “ Quarantine has proved to be an obstacle for Chang. However, she has openly embraced it as she prepares the agenda for the coming school year.

“Starting a new job during this time has its drawbacks too,” Chang said. “I am looking forward to reopening school so that we can exchange an authentic smile, connect the community to school, and have a meeting without technical difficulties.”

A theater arts major, Wu did not find his passion for teaching the Chinese language until he had the chance to work with a group of middle school students in Taiwan.

“Returning to the U.S, I talked to and observed my friend who is also a Chinese teacher at Venice High School, and then decided that this was the career I’d like to pursue to help students learn and grow,” Wu said via email.

After earning his teaching credentials, part of which included a one-year stint as a student teacher at DBHS, Wu taught social studies and Dual-Immersion Chinese for three years at South Pointe Middle

School before eventually returning to DBHS. “Chinese is my first language, and it is a difficult language to learn, so I want to give students who are interested in learning Chinese culture and language an enjoyable experience by bringing in some different perspectives,” he said.

Despite being in the middle of a pandemic, Wu hopes to take this year as an opportunity to learn more about the campus and connect with his students.

“DBHS has some of the most helpful teaching staff, and students are motivated to learn,” Wu said.

“This place has always been my “home,” so I chose to come back to where I started.”

With over 17 years of experience as a WVUSD math teacher, Jennifer Burns is now, temporarily, replacing Nicole Cabase as the DBHS AP Coordinator.

Though she is still maintaining one of her math classes, Burns will be assuming all the department chair duties starting this school year.

Joining the front office support staff is Martiza Bernal, while educational specialist Joohee Lee has joined the special education team.

Photo courtesy of @db.keyclub Instagram

Keyclub President Akash George made a promotional video for the club alongside other members to gain new recruits.

Annual club rush goes virtual USB continued to host the annual event online in light of distance learning.

Tiffany Lee Asst. Photo Editor In lieu of the usual club rush event, during which students roamed from table to table in the upper quad, Diamond Bar High School’s USB came up with a different way for students to find out about the different extracurriculars on campus--a virtual club rush. In preparation for the Aug. 31 to Sept. 10 event, Inter-Organization Council Chairperson senior Chloe Chung worked with Activity Director Janna Van Horn to form an IOC committee. The committee made a Google form and contacted the representatives of every club, asking them to submit materials including a promotional club video and a short description of the club.

They also made sure to get the word out to all students through their Instagram account and the school webpage.

As for the event itself, the committee made a Google document organized by categories like service clubs, STEM clubs and cultural clubs. Each page contained a description of a club, its promotional video and an interest form. This document was added to the @diamondbarioc Instagram page’s bio, as well as the school website.

“We were able to work together and finished the final Google document as a whole and made this club rush successful,” Chung said.

Key Club, a service club with hundreds of members at Diamond Bar High School, had plenty of promotional material. Junior Brian Hsu made two recruitment videos, and in addition to that, the club’s publicist and junior Katie Choi designed flyers to get the word out on social media. Key Club has already scheduled virtual social events and fundraisers and plans to hold future meetings on Zoom.

Key Club president junior Akash George said that the virtual event was more successful because they were able to gain a higher reach with their audience.

“To be honest, the format of this year’s club rush allowed us to recruit more members than ever before and we are very excited for the year,” George said.

Habitat for Humanity, a club that focuses on building homes for underprivileged people and promoting fair housing policies in Pomona Valley, also created a video to promote their club to its potential members. In the video, members of the club shared their mission statement and what a typical service event is like. Their goal during club rush was to recruit more underclassmen and establish a connection with them by having members personally reach out to them. Although the pandemic has put a stop to almost all in-person activities, Habitat for Humanity continues to plan online fundraisers, social media campaigns and donation drives to prepare for when they resume their activities.

“Since we cannot attend build sites, we are currently focusing on recruiting and posting campaigns during the first semester, so that

we can make the second semester even better,” senior historian Rachel Jang said. “Despite the pandemic limiting access to build sites, we are still dedicated to taking on homelessness and California’s housing crisis.”

Another service club, Best Buddies, campaigned through social media flyers and word of mouth.

“Some challenges are that we’ve never had to do this before and that word doesn’t spread as easily about our club but we’re doing the best we can to get past that,” senior friendship coordinator Esther Lim said.

As a club that strives to create friendships with students who have disabilities, Best Buddies’ officers want to host Zoom meetings as a way to allow members to connect with students with special needs. Officers have already gotten in touch with buddies’ parents to schedule future virtual bonding calls. Neuroscience club, , looked to gain new members by posting flyers and videos to share the club’s goal and activities with potential members.Although the members aren’t able to dissect brains, which was one of the club’s major activities, officers plan to start hands-on activities as soon as school opens.

In the meantime, they are still planning to engage members in the club through Kahoot! games and preparation for the Brain Bee competition.

“It’s definitely harder to attract members compared to regular club rush since everything is online, and some students aren’t able to join clubs as easily as before,” junior vice president Elise Kwon said.

WVUSD foresees some budget cuts finance from P.1 ­–ues to take a toll on the economy.

However, a financial aid package from the federal government could increase educational funding and minimize the impact of the fiscal deficit.

“Typically, we adopt a budget based on what we think the projections are going to be and it’s normally right in line with what the state adopts as their own budget,” Torres said. “After we adopted our budget, the state came out and adopted a completely different budget and that… changed our projections for the better.”

The primary source of revenue for WVUSD will be the Local Control Funding Formula, which allocates between $7,830 and $8,813 per student per year, depending on grade level.

“Our district is one of the lowest funded school districts in the state due to the Local Control Funding Formula and our demographics,” Taylor said.

Federal sources such as the Gen-

eral Fund will also contribute $3.5 million through grants and entitlements.

In addition, California provides $8.4 million to WVUSD for special programs, with $1.1 million earmarked for the Mental Health, Workability and Pathways programs.

“Unfortunately, creating or increasing revenue isn’t easy for school districts. We get our money from the government and it’s difficult to have them increase money for us,” Torres said.

Local revenue from miscellaneous sources also adds another $11.2 million to the district budget, with $9.4 million set aside for Special Education.

“We have really explored a lot of different things, we have explored different fundraising opportunities for our school sites and community,” Torres said.

“We have explored parcel taxes, we have explored increasing enrollment.”

In total, this adds up to $148.4 million in revenue.

On the other hand, WVUSD estimates $149.4 million in expenditures this year, creating a $1 million deficit.

“Currently, a $1 million deficit for a district our size is actually pretty small, so we’re pretty pleased with where we’re at right now and happy that the state has made some adjustments,” Torres said.

The bulk of the expenses lie in salaries and employee benefits, which make up 87.3 percent of all projected spending. The majority of the remainder is allocated to supplies, services and operating expenses.

“At this time, we’re not certain how deep or necessary any budget cuts are,” Torres said. “We don’t necessarily target one or two schools to take the brunt of all those reductions, we try to spread that out across the district.”

Taylor also mentioned that a small budgetary deficit of $1 million can be made up as long as reductions are made in operational services such as energy­‑costs.­

4 OPINION

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

- OPINION-

The student paper provides a forum for Diamond Bar High School student’s perspectives. Contact us to voice your opinions about issues discussed in The Bull’s Eye

A

merica was built upon freedoms: the freedoms of religion, speech and the press.

Newspapers have been in circulation for over 300 years, and editorial articles are a major part of any journalistic enterprise. While news articles report the facts or describe events, editorials allows writers to express their opinions and share them with the public.

The whole of the Bull’s Eye is, essentially, a slice of reality among all the purple-gold hype. For students, the Opinion section is a forum in which students can discuss their opinions on a multitude

of topics, from the condition of school bathrooms to the popularity of presidential candidates.

Our goal is simply to dedicate our writing and ourselves to the freedom of expression of student opinion. Diamond Bar High School is considered by many to be one of the best schools in the nation, but like all schools, it has its flaws. The articles discuss the unsavory aspects of high school that students whisper about in the hallways, cutting through all of the fluff and the pro-high school propaganda that thrives on every school campus.

High school, while exciting and

commonly regarded as some of the most important years of people’s lives, has its ups and downs, and that’s what the Bull’s Eye is all about. Our goal isn’t to tear down DBHS’ carefully crafted reputation, but rather to expose issues that students experience so that these problems can be solved.

The Eye of the Editors, usually accompanied by student quotes, represents the collective opinion of editors, while opinions expressed in regular editorial articles are those solely of the writer. Additionally each issue contains editorial cartoons, each of which ex-

presses a perspective through art and allows readers to interpret the image as they wish.

However, the Opinion section isn’t only for the staffers. The Bull’s Eye encourages the entire student body to keep the discussion alive by sending in letters expressing different perspectives, some of which may also end up printed in the newspaper or on the paper’s website.

In a society in which teenagers’ opinions generally aren’t given much value, this is our way of being heard. Opinion is the exception to the rule, the one section to which

anybody can contribute—take advantage of it. Email bullseyeeditorial@gmail.com or use the QR code below to submit your opinion. Be Heard.

Appropriation, not appreciation: Fox-eye trend

emily koh feature editor

S

ocial media influencers are flooding our screens with the hottest new trends in fashion and makeup. Every month there seems to be a new look to obsess over. This month’s trend is based around achieving a more narrow, almond-shaped eye- the “fox eye.”

The influencers promoting the “fox eye” look claim that their goal is to achieve a slimmer eye shape, but the only thing I see is the face of someone culturally appropriating the natural eye shape of the Asian community.

Cultural appropriation. Often misused, the actual meaning of this phrase is the borrowing of elements from another culture, usu-

ally by a more dominant group in society. While it may result from the desire to incorporate specific styles from different parts of the world, appropriation is almost always the outcome of ignorance.

Instead of trying to learn more about the meaning behind the borrowed culture, people use them as costumes or unknowingly mix two items from two completely different cultures.

The “fox eye” is achieved through several methods: shaving and reshaping the eyebrow to appear more straight, using eyeliner to extend the corners of the eyes and pulling back pieces of hair or the temples of the head to stretch the eyes. While each method holds its own level of insult, posing for a picture while stretching their skin back from the temples is by far the most offensive. Often used to make fun of Asian eyes, people would pull their eyes or temples in different directions, each way mocking a different Asian ethnicity.

In the 1960s and early years of Hollywood, makeup artists would

A peaceful distance learning environment

use techniques to create whitewashed Asian characters in a process now known as yellowface.

These narrow eyes, a trait of most East Asians, were part of the pattern of discrimination against Asians. It is important to note that what is now seen as beautiful today, by people such as Kendall Jenner or Megan Fox, was once seen as something to make fun of and slander.

Unfortunately, this recent trend isn’t the only instance of Asian cultural appropriation in the entertainment and fashion industries. In 2016, Gucci was ridiculed for dressing white models in Sikhstyle turban. Two years later, Dolce & Gabbana was accused of cultural appropriation of Chinese culture in one of their online campaigns by people on social media. The campaign video exaggerated Chinese stereotypes, and when a fashion blogger called the brand out, they responded to the blogger with “eat dogs.”

In 2013, pop stars Selena Gomez and Katy Perry were accused of a

influence each other. There is a difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation. Appreciation respects the culture and understands how to use that culture in an appropriate way. However, it is absolutely necessary that, when we borrow these elements, we show respect to their cultural significance. A person’s ethnic identity isn’t a costume that one can put on and take off at their leisure.

6A splits student attention

Anika yatawara News editor

T

Cartoon Courtesy of JAMES WU

similar form of appropriation. In one of her music videos, Gomez wore a traditional bindi, a decorative forehead mark that holds traditional and religious significance in Hindu culture. Perry was involved in a similar situation when she dressed in geisha fashion and combined Chinese and Japanese culture in her insensitive AMA performance.

It is inevitable that cultures will

o limit students’ screen time during distance learning, Diamond Bar High School has readjusted its bell schedule, making classes significantly shorter.

Moreover, there’s a new time slot called tutorial, that allows students to seek help from teachers when needed. However, this new schedule disrupts sixth period science classes and needs to be revised.

Currently, classes are 40-minutes long with a five minute break in between them to allow students to prepare for their next class.

Originally, AP science classes were given 81 minutes of class time to fit in lessons and labs. With the new schedule, an extra 20 minutes is allotted to these courses, which are held at the beginning and end of the school day in extended periods called 1A and 6A. Therefore students with a 1A class start school 20 minutes earlier, experiencing one hour of uninterrupted learning.

For students with a 6A, things ar-

en’t so smooth. Tutorial and lunch interrupt their class time, causing the original one-hour period to be split into 40 and 20 minute intervals with a two-hour break.

Needless to say, two hours is an unreasonable amount of time for students to be on break from a single class. Compared to 1A classes, which go through lessons efficiently, those with a 6A are at a clear disadvantage.

After a two-hour break, anyone--teachers and students alike-would need a few minutes to recollect themselves before resuming the lesson. Add to this the time it takes for students to return to the call and for instructors to take roll, and almost a fourth of the remaining class time has already passed.

Not to mention, the 40-minute period on its own feels evanescent, as most teachers can’t cover full lessons on advanced courses in this limited time. Keeping that in mind, it is completely nonsensical to expect students to gain much from 20 minutes of instruction. The splitting of sixth period is highly dependent on both how quickly students can readjust and focus after a long break and also how quickly a teacher can resume a lesson.

Additionally, this extensive break has the potential to devastate a course’s curriculum. Students with a 6A may lose significant instructional time while transition-

ing into the second half of their class, causing them to fall behind on certain lessons. This will have a lasting impact on students because, if in-class learning resumes this year, 1A classes may be further ahead than their 6A counterparts.

Although the problem of classes on the same subject completing the curriculum at varying paces is somewhat common during traditional school, this is a more pressing concern during distance learning. Students are already working with a condensed curriculum. Due to their expeditious nature, AP courses can’t afford to have such a prolonged break that could put students’ learning potential at risk.

To resolve this issue, the school should extend 6A into the tutorial period. At an hour and a half in length, tutorial provides more than enough time for all students, even those with a 6A who would miss the first 20 minutes, to discuss lessons with teachers if necessary.

Furthermore, the school should set protocols or direct channels of communication so that students have no issue getting in touch with teachers, whether it be to schedule a meeting during tutorial or to ask a quick question over email.

Ultimately, moving the remaining 20 minutes of 6A courses into tutorial would be impartial to all students regardless of what classes they are taking.

OPINION

THE BULL'S EYE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

5

A moderate compromise VEra Wang Staff Writer

Trump wrongs W voters’ rights Camille McCurry editor-in-chief

E

very month it seems like the headlines announce a new attack on American democracy—voter fraud, election interference, the list goes on. However, the most recent assaults come from an unlikely source: our president.

It’s no secret that Donald Trump is unafraid to use whatever means possible to take and maintain control; one the articles of impeachment brought against him was abuse of power. Though he was acquitted, it clearly set a precedent for his latest series of power-grabbing moves.

On Sept. 30, the 2020 Census , which will determine states’ congressional representation, will end. According to the U.S. Constitution, the count must include every individual residing in the U.S. Despite this, Trump asked the head of the Census Bureau to exclude undocumented immigrants.

Though it would at first seem that such a change wouldn’t impact states’ representation, estimates show that California and Texas would see a decrease in seats if this move holds. Some experts have said that it’s unlikely that the Census Bureau will be able to accurately tally the number of undocumented immigrants by the end-ofyear deadline.

If they are left unrepresented in the census, there will be a shift in

representation away from urban areas, which lean Democratic, to rural areas, whose residents are usually Republican. Trump is blatantly abusing his power to shift power into the hands of the Republican party.

However, it’s unclear whether the same can be said about his other, more controversial move. This fall is election season, and, because of the pandemic, many voters are expected to send mail-in ballots. To handle the higher volume of mail, the Postal Service would need an increased funding of billions of dollars—none of which Trump is willing to provide.

He believes that mail-in ballots would lead to voting fraud, claiming that the Post Office has “millions of ballots coming in from nowhere.” This claim is unproven, though. States like California have been sending ballots to every eligible voter by mail for years now without issue.

Though it originally seemed like Trump intended to slow down mail-in voting as an effort toward his own campaign, he later redacted the statement as it became clear that such an issue would harm both Democrat and Republican voters. In fact, according to a Pew poll conducted in April, 49 percent of Republicans support universal voting by mail. Such a significant portion of the Republican Party should not be ignored by Trump, especially with his chances of reelection already wavering.

While it seems that Trump is determined to undermine democracy at every turn, only time will tell whether he succeeds. And, if he does, we can expect to see his name in the headlines for another four years.

ith Election Day less than two months away, many American voters continue to remain on the fence about both candidates. While Democratic nominee Joe Biden holds an early lead over President Donald Trump, it could easily change by Nov. 3.

This year’s election is shaping up to be another intense standoff between parties. Although Biden has the support of most Democrats, some progressives are dissatisfied with his policies and are boycotting elections. We may see a similar situation to the 2016 elections this year- whereas then, many Democrats didn’t vote because they thought Hillary Clinton had a surefire chance of winning, this year they’re straying away from polling centers out of dissatisfaction.

Despite Biden’s accomplishments as a senator and vice president, many Democrats remain skeptical of his ability to govern the country. With instances of incoherent speaking and a more moderate agenda, young Democratic voters are hesitant to vote for Biden, instead casting ballots for a third party or even refusing to vote.

After a 36 year career in the US

Senate, Biden went on to serve as Barack Obama’s vice president for eight years, during which he strove to improve the living standards of middle-class Americans, diminish gun violence, and expand LGBTQ rights He helped implement the Recovery Act, bolstering the American economy following the 2008 financial crisis. Now that we’re headed in a similar direction economically, his experience is even more valuable in combating the impending financial crisis.

After emerging victorious from one of the most divisive primaries in the history of the DNC, Biden announced his running mate, Kamala Harris, who, for a short period, ran for the position of Democratic nominee. Having experience as both the California attorney general from 2011-2017 and a U.S. senator for California, Harris’ political experience is apparent. In addition, though she isn’t exactly young, Harris is 22 years younger than Biden, meaning she can better represent the younger generation, as well as appeal to voters who are worried about the old age of most candidates.

Her background of being African and South Asian American would also add diversity to the ticket, something that many Democrats were hoping to see this election. Considering Biden’s age, Harris is more likely to assume the role of president than past running mates, making her policies and experience vital to the success of the Democratic campaign. Depending

Joe - BIden • Served as vice president under Obama for eight years • 77 years old • Wants to raise minimum wage to $15/hr • First two years of college should be free • Would expand college debt-relief programs • In favor of universal background checks for gun owners • Opposes Medicare for All • Would boost defense budget • Supports increasing teacher pay

edward kim staff writer

W

hen I look at the list of candidates for president, only one name inspires me with hope for this nation. No, it’s not President Donald Trump, nor is it former Vice President Joe Biden. It’s none other than famed rapper Kanye West. After all, with backers like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, how could I not vote for him?

Even though he’s just started his political career, West already given so many inspiring speeches about everything America is worried about right now: like abortion, gun control and addiction. While some of his stances may seem a little unrealistic, like giving $1 million to every single mother or ending the separation between church and state, I’m such a loyal fan of his

his Twitter for campaign updates anyways.

Technically, West isn’t on enough states’ ballots to become president. However, he is still seen powering through this obstacle, with the encouragement of his rival and supporter President Trump, and continuing his campaign, doing anything to keep it going. So regardless of whether he

Kamala - harris • U.S. Senator from California • Former California Attorney General • Dropped out of 2020 Democratic Primaries • 55 years old • boost teacher pay • Believes students shouldn’t have to take on college debt • Against electoral college • Wants to repeal statute criminalizing illegal borders • wants to slash defence budget

A yeezy choice for president music that how could I not support him.

Even his choice for vice president, Michelle Tidball, has brilliant ideas: she stated that the best way to treat mental illnesses is to do chores. West has also talked about his deals and contracts with both Adidas and GAP, topics that should obviously be prioritized in a presidential campaign speech. His contract with Adidas is especially significant, as I would never vote for anyone who supports Nike.

Out of everything he’s done, West’s campaign tour is the most compelling reason to cast your ballot for the rapper. He arrived at his tour sporting a bulletproof vest, showing his foresight and attention to security, valuable skills for a president. This alone was enough to make up for the lack of social distancing at his rally, but it is unrealistic to expect him to get everything right.

Some people might think that his lack of a microphone was thoughtless, but I think it’s a great strategy--it made the event feel more natural. It’s alright if I didn’t hear anything he said, since I can check

on her performance in office, it’s likely that she will potentially lead the Democratic Party in future elections as a presidential candidate.

Biden’s policies may not be the most progressive out of all theDemocratic candidates, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t somewhat progressive. When it comes to the climate, Biden plans to ban new oil and gas leases on federal land and end offshore drilling through the Green New Deal. Biden, though not a proponent of Medicare for All, wants to bolster the Affordable Care Act and reform the medical system to mitigate the financial impact of hospital visits.

He also supports universal background checks through a national firearm registry and a buyback program for assault weapons; while Trump’s presidency has seen gun violence flourish. Biden also believes the first two years of college should be tuition free. All of these stances are clear improvements over Trump’s. Though he may not be the best option, it is critical that Democratic voters support Biden, as casting votes for third parties or not participating in this election at all will only benefit Trump.

Though both candidates can be said to have a positive vision for America, Biden’s progressive policies and honesty, as well as genuine care for the needs of the ordinary people, holds a great appeal to an apprehensive nation eager to rebound from a traumatizing pandemic and economic disaster.

SATIRICAL subversively

can “legally” become president, I support him for his great music, not to mention that he’s God’s chosen candidate (at least according to West--and why would he lie?)

Surprisingly, West is an advocate for the anti-vaccine movement, and he has brought up several enlightening theories regarding it. He once claimed that the coronavirus vaccine will be used to insert

Cartoon Coutesy of HANNAH ZHOU

microchips into people to track them during everyday life. He advises people to stay away from any COVID-19 vaccines that might come out, showing his empathy for the people.

As for his backers and funding, West is a self-made man. That’s why he donated $6.7 million to his own campaign, just to top off the staggeringly immense sum of $12,000 he’s raised so far.

Sadly, though, this amazing candidate was removed from the Virginia presidential ballot for rather silly reasons, like fraudulent documents. It’ll all work out for him, though, because so far he’s on the ballot in Kentucky, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Tennessee and Utah.

For some strange reason, West was also booted from Arizona’s ballot, supposedly because his appearance would create confusion for voters. Alongside this ridiculous excuse, they also claimed that his documents are illegitimate, which is completely uncalled for and probably unproven, too. After all, who wouldn’t trust the great rapper and promising presidential candidate Kanye West?

6

FEATURE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

Making a difference with jewelry somiya jajieh ASST. FEATURE EDITOR

Homemade Takeout By: Tiffany Lee

By opening up her own jewelry business, Diamond Bar High School senior Keili Ishitani accomplished two things at once: raising money for worldwide charities and combating the negative effects of fast fashion.

Ishitani started her business in late August, selling hand-crafted

earrings on her Instagram account @madebykeili. One dollar of every purchase will go toward charities, which range from animal to human crises. She offers three charity options that a customer can choose from on her website that she plans to switch out every other month in order to help as many causes as possible.

Currently, she has charities listed to help Lebanon and organizations such as Canine Angels and St.

Getting a kick from jumbalaya pasta

Photo courtesy of KEILI ISHITANI Senior Keili Ishitani started her jewelry business over the summer, selling earrings she makes by hand.

Photo courtesy of KEILI ISHITANI

ty of the piece, some [items] take longer than others,” Ishitani said.

“Earrings are the simplest to make, while earrings and bracelets are more time consuming.”

In order to test her products, she and her family wear her jewelry for an extended period of time to ensure the quality of the material won’t have any negative effects on potential customers. As her business continues to grow, she hopes to put as many designs as possible on her website.

She only plans on selling earrings on her website until her business starts to build traction; she will eventually put her bracelets and necklaces up for sale.

Apps for a new school year

With the virtual school year starting, it can be difficult to get back into the swing of things.

But there are many apps and websites that can be used to make things easier, from learning new material to keeping up with academic tasks.

Alarmy is an alarm app that does more than make an obnoxious noise to wake you up. On

ALARMY

Alarmy, you can choose to do a task upon dismissing the alarm, ranging from completing simple math problems to shaking your phone back and forth up to 30 times. I found these features helpful for getting active right away. There is also an option to make the sounds grow progressively louder, which makes it more difficult to stay asleep. While there are some ads on the app that could be removed with Alarmy Premium, I don’t find them too distracting as they are only on the user interface as opposed to pop-up ads. I enjoy using Alarmy and would recommend you try it out for its effective features.

With distance learning, understanding lessons can be difficult with the lack of hands-on lessons. The Khan Academy app makes it easy to stay ahead as well as review older concepts that you may need to use during the school year. It’s very organized and shows what topics you need to do next in a separate tab. There are many Khan Academy videos within the app that go over a wide range of topics in subjects such as mathematics, science, language arts and computer science. In my experience, it has been easy to go over topics and learn new ones using their thorough, yet easy to understand videos and lessons. Overall, I would suggest trying out Khan Academyas an add on to lessons or for extra review.

KHAN ACADAMY

DUOLINGO

Learning a foreign language can be difficult, especially without easy access to communication with teachers. Duolingo teaches foreign languages such as French, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese. It encourages practice in small intervals, which makes practicing easy.

Using Duolingo everyday for 10 minutes has helped me learn French as well as improving my syntax. The app uses methods like matching words together to construct a sentence, and matching words to images, which is effective since it’s an intuitive and easy way for someone to pick up a new language. Duolingo is an app that has been recommended to me by several foreign language teachers, so I would highly recommend it.

Trello makes doing projects with other people easier and more convenient. It allows you to share a list of tasks that need to be completed, tasks that are being done and tasks that have been finished with other people. The tasks are organized in the form of cards, where you can add attachments and descriptions to them, as well as tag members who need to complete a specific task and assign due dates. The app does feel a bit messy at times with a lot of features tightly packed into one place, but once you get used to it, it’s quite simple to use and can help you stay organized. If you have an upcoming project, this app makes it

TRELLO

For those who are craving dishes from popular restaurants that have been closed during quarantine, this is the place to find some similar recipes to your favorite dishes.

This column covers restaurants of different cuisines, ranging from California Pizza Kitchen to Genghis Khan Mongonalian Grill, and will help to ease any cravings.

Originating from Louisiana, this jambalaya pasta dish gives off a spicy kick and is different from your typical spaghetti. After trying out this recipe, which I adapted from one I found on the Dinner then Dessert website, my family and I concluded that it is quite similar to the California Pizza Kitchen recipe.

I was able to add more Cajun spice to give it a jolt of flavor. However, this recipe lacked the smoky aspect to the dish as my stove doesn’t have the heat needed to attain the same char. To replicate the smoky flavor, I added some paprika spice into the dish as I was coating the noodles with the sauce. Here’s the full recipe: Ingredients (4 servings): 3 tbsp cajun spice 12-16 deveined shrimps 1 red bell pepper diced 1 jalapeno diced 1 medium red onion thinly sliced 1 lb cooked linguine pasta 1 andouille sausage sliced 1 ½ cup chicken stock 1-2 tbsp tomato sauce ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp ground black pepper 3 tbsp oil 3 cloves garlic minced 3 tbsp cooking oil Note: Before you start this recipe, I recommend you open the windows or turn on the fan because the scent of cajun spice can get intense.

Place all prepared ingredients except oil, pasta, chicken stock and tomato sauce into a large bowl.

Toss the ingredients until they’re mixed well. I recommend wearing gloves for this but tongs work just as well. In a large skillet, add the oil on high heat.

For around four to five minutes, lightly sear the ingredients until they are cooked. To see if the ingredients are cooked through, the vegetables should have a slight char and the shrimps should curl inwards and char at edges. After the ingredients are cooked through, add in the chicken stock and tomato sauce.

Occasionally stir the sauce with tongs for one to two minutes. Add the pasta and using the tongs, coat the noodles with the sauce. I recommend using another utensil such as a wooden spoon or another tong to help coat the noodles better.

Garnish the dish with parsley and red chili flakes, if desired, and voila you have a delicious meal to show off to your friends and family.

Jude Children’s Research hospital.

Her prices range from $10 to $25.

“I initially started making jewelry for myself since finding affordable jewelry was difficult,” Ishitani said via Instagram. “However, during quarantine with all the things happening in the world, I decided that I could help someone by selling some of my jewelry.”

Ishitani also places an emphasis on sustainability when creating her products. She said she focuses on the trustworthiness and reliability of each store she considers buying materials from to ensure each piece she creates will last a long time. Also sourcing materials from various small businesses on Etsy, she makes sure the shops she buys from use ethical practices to create their products.

She said she either buys plated gold, gold-filled or silver to make her jewelry since they are known for their durability. She also purchases items such as charms, hooks, jump rings and clasps that are essential in creating each product.

Although it may sound extremely time consuming to make good-quality pieces, Ishitani said it usually takes her 15 minutes or less to create each of her products.

“Depending on the complexi-

easy to organize what needs to be done and what has already been done.

By: Kyle Hong

THE BULL'S EYE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

FEATURE

7

Seniors unlock new life skills Connor cho Asst. buisness manager While most students spent their summer break locked in their homes, four Diamond Bar High School seniors found interesting internships to liven up their summer experience.

Senior James Wu had the opportunity to assist former California Assemblywoman Young Kim with her campaign for Congress, to represent California’s 39th District.

Starting on June 8, Wu was assigned to the campaign’s strategy team for his internship, which was held over Zoom.

“My responsibilities include phone banking, hosting meetings and keeping other interns account-

able, brainstorming engagement activities for the campaign, ideas for potential speakers for the campaign, etc,” Wu said via text.

Wu came across the opportunity to apply for the internship after his APUSH teacher, Ty Watkins, gave him the contact information for the regional field directors managing the campaign.

“I’ve been able to experience the inner workings of a political campaign,” Wu said. “I’ve made relationships with the field directors managing us, as well as Young Kim herself, which is awesome to think about.”

In need of an internship for Brahma Tech credits, senior Jasper Lin had the chance to apply for one during quarantine through

Photo courtesy to JASPER LIN

Jasper Lin lies down under a car in order to get footage for a promotional video.

his friend’s parents, who own an automotive store. He was offered the internship and worked at Brite Alert during June.

Lin said that he was given tasks to help manage both the advertising and social media departments of the company. Using his experience in photography and design, he helped them create manuals and a catalog for their products. In addition, he filmed an introduction video that displayed the company’s products.

After his internship ended, Brite Alert offered Lin a job, which he accepted. Lin admitted that he was assigned more work since he was hired.

“The best part of the internship was just how open everyone was,” Lin said. “We had weekly meetings and I basically got to share all my projects with them and ask for any suggestions or comments.”

Meanwhile, senior Amy Chen had the opportunity to intern for NASA. Chen was offered the summer internship at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory with her mentor, Jonathan Jiang. Jiang is the group supervisor and principal scientist at JPL. Chen shared that he worked on a few projects with him such as a methodology on ways to measure the distance between the Earth and the sun.

After applying, Chen was accepted for the 10-week internship.

“My main job was to research for evidence that proves the

Photo Courtesy of AMY CHEN One of Chen’s presentation slides on the Fermi Paradox, part of her internship for NASA.

possibility of extraterrestrial life forms,” Chen said via text. “Some of my responsibilities also included preparing weekly informational meetings, creating weekly progress reports for the professors and presenting my new discoveries each week.”

With many assignments to complete, she admitted that the internship was quite stressful.

She had to finish a 10-page report and also had to give out her final presentation at Caltech. Chen said that finding new information for her research was the main problem she encountered. Despite this, Chen stated that she learned much about herself from this experience.

“Looking back, my biggest gain from this experience would be pushing myself way beyond what I thought I could manage,” Chen said.

Lastly, senior Harris Daud

received an internship revolving around real estate through personal connections with his family.

For his internship at the company, TA Partners, Daud said his task was mostly to learn from the other architects, real estate agents, engineers and contractors.

“I did things as basic as filing payment orders, to reading through countless pages of architectural plans and finding any inconsistencies,” Daud said.

Daud’s internship lasted during break until the beginning of the school year.

“Being the only intern made it easier for me to form relationships [with co-workers] and I also learned quite a bit about real estate development,” Daud said. “I certainly have a lot more to learn, but looking back at what I knew before this internship, I definitely learned a lot.”

A cultural experience Natasha Chang Asst. a&E Editor Given that a majority of Diamond Bar High School’s student population identifies as Asian American, junior Kyle Shiroma and senior Joshua Shiroishi decided to start a club that accentuates one of Asia’s popular cultures.

“It started in chemistry class, where we found out that we were both Japanese Americans,” Shiroishi said. “Soon after, we realized how interested we were in our own Japanese heritage, and decided to start a club for everyone.”

Shiroma and Shiroishi, the co-presidents of the Japanese Cultural Society, started the club in late January to educate students about Japanese history and culture, from the geography of the country to its iconic foods such as mochi and sushi.

Due to COVID-19, the club was relatively new when school was shut down in March. This severely limited their time to promote and attract potential members. The inconvenience however, hasn’t stopped the club and its eighteen members from making the best of the situation.

“Although it has been difficult for all of us, this hasn’t stopped the JCS,” Shiorishi said via Instagram.“I think our members are getting closer because this

summer, we have been expanding and improving our social media platforms to our members to get announcements and be able to participate in the club’s activities.”

The Japanese Cultural Society has continued their monthly meetings this year, through virtual means.

“Communication has been more difficult since we are now at home all the time,” Shiroishi said. “But this is our chance to explore new ways to spread the news of who the Japanese Cultural Society is.

We are planning to have a meeting this month through Google Meet.”

Despite the unprecedented cancellation of the club’s volunteer opportunities and activities, the duo said they are still hoping to serve the community remotely.

“We unfortunately could not execute and do the volunteer activities we planned due to the event being planned right when the pandemic hit,” Shiroma said.

“However, we are planning to write and send messages and artwork displaying kindness, love and encouragement to senior citizens of a Japanese retirement home in L.A.” Through this difficult time, the club’s leadership remains positive and strives to make the most of the unprecedented flow of events.

“We are just adapting to the situation, and making the best of it,”

RYAN CHAN

Matchi Tea Bar adheres to the COVID-19 restaurant regulation guidelines, with no in-seat dining to keep customers safe.

Mixed reviews on Machi Ryan Chan Buisness Manager Formerly known as Tancca Tea House, Machi Tea Bar recently reopened with a new array of drinks. Judging by what I ordered, the quality of its drinks is inconsistent.

The restaurant, located in the Towne Centre Village in Diamond Bar, was following the strict social distancing procedures, which I appreciated. While most restaurants are allowing customers inside to place orders, Machi Tea Bar workers stopped me at the door and had me place my order without entering the restaurant.

But I did notice the interior, which was clean and polished aesthetic featuring marble floors and white walls decorated with paintings and neon signs. The furniture was temporarily pushed up against the walls to make it easier for them to take orders from the door.

I ordered a large taro-flavored milk tea with boba ($5.00) and a large mango slushie ($5.50). At the time, the restaurant was running

a buy one get one 50 percent off sale, which cut down my total order to around $8.

After five minutes, they came out and gave me my drinks, which I sat and enjoyed at the outside tables.

The taro-flavored milk tea definitely did not live up to my standards.

The drink had a chemical tang to it, tasting like it was expired. I could immediately tell that they used taro powder to flavor it instead of fresh taro.

Although the drink was only $5, I was still disappointed since I knew many other boba places used fresh taro to

give their drinks a cleaner taste.

The boba also tasted too sweet and some of the boba pearls were also somewhat melted and deformed.

After I drank the taro flavored milk tea with boba, I moved on to the mango slushie. The mango slush was without a doubt worth the price. Unlike the taro milk tea, it tasted freshly made and more natural. Furthermore, the slushie wasn’t too watered down and had perfect consistency. It was the ideal drink to cool off with on a hot summer day.

I would recommend Machi Tea Bar to anyone looking for a moderately priced boba drink.

Although I wasn’t happy with the quality of the taro milk tea, I do know that other restaurants like Lollicup also use powders to flavor drinks due to how cost effective it is. Overall, the mango slushie made my trip to Machi Tea Bar worth it.

8

FEATURE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

Boy Scouts of America

Photo Courtesy of JUSTIN LOU

Justin Lou built storage units and cornhole tosses for nonprofit organizations.

Photo Courtesy of EVAN THOMAS

Evan Thomas built a fence in the Diamond Bar Community Garden behind the United Church of Christ.

Justin Lou

Marcus Hsieh ASST. NeWS EDITOR Years of giving back to the community have earned multiple Boy Scouts at Diamond Bar High School their Eagle Scout ranks.

The Eagle Scout rank is the highest any Boy Scout can achieve and is carried for life after completion. It requires a capstone volunteer Eagle Project as well as a leadership position and board interview.

Senior Evan Thomas became the 129th Eagle Scout of Troop 730 on Aug. 2, and completed his

Photo Courtesy of BRANDON WU

Eagle Project in February.

His project included the construction of a fence around the pollinator plants at the Diamond Bar Community Garden behind the Diamond Bar United Church of Christ.

“My inspiration was a multicolored fence in the Fullerton Arboretum’s children’s garden,” Thomas said via BAND. “I chose to complete this project so that I can help beautify the pollinator garden, which in turn can help future generations to appreciate nature a little more.”

Thomas said that the hardest part of his Eagle

h oma nT a v s E

Project was the initial start-up and building the surrounding fence.

Junior Brandon Wu became the 131st Eagle Scout of Troop 730 on Aug. 9. His project consisted of landscaping the garden at Saint Matthew’s United Methodist Church. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic led to additional difficulties, requiring additional precautions such as limited numbers of volunteers and protective equipment.

“I first came up with my idea to do my project at Saint Matthew’s United Methodist Church when I attended my first

Brandon Wu landscaped the garden at Saint Matthew’s United Methodists Church.

ndon Wu a r B

few Order of the Arrow Meetings,” Wu said. “I decided that I wanted to leave a lasting impact on the birthplace of Eagle Scouts and also do my duty to God.” Order of the Arrow is an additional honor society within the Boy Scouts for those who best exemplify Scout values.

Wu, who has been a Boy Scout since 5th grade, attributes his parents, fellow Boy Scouts and his Troop’s adult leadership with helping him complete his Eagle Rank.

“After four years of hard work and rank advancement, I was able to work on my Eagle pro-

cess with the help of very supportive adults,” Wu said via Messenger. “I personally believe that achieving Eagle was a lifelong journey for me.”

Junior Justin Lou was the 130th Eagle Scout of Troop 730, completing his Eagle Project early this year and earning the distinction on Aug. 7.

According to Lou, he wanted to benefit others through his Eagle Scout project.

“I built four cornhole tosses and two storage units for the Heart of Hope club,” Lou said via Messenger. “They specialized in helping special needs kids.”

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE BULL'S EYE

9

{gaming in quarantine With teens spending more time at home than ever, video games have grown in popularity like never before. Viewership on Twitch and YouTube has also skyrocketed as players found themselves cooped up at home, looking for some interaction.

Over the past few months, a few games have stood out in popularity amongst Diamond Bar High School students for their communication, skill requirements or just being downright chaotic and fun. story by Lyndon Kaneko and Edward Kim, design by Josh Chou

Among Us

Valorant Riot Games’s “Valorant,” a new tactical, first person shooter that draws inspiration from other popular titles like “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” and “Overwatch” exploded on Twitch after its release and has only attracted more attention since.

Its simple visuals and colorful environments are both satisfying to look at and functional, since its simplicity makes exploits like one-way smokes harder to find. While fun to play alone, it’s much more enjoyable with friends. But if competition rather than cooperation better fits your taste, “Valorant” also has a

ranked mode where you can test your skills against other players. Its music is nothing special, but it makes up for that in creative ability design, replacing commonplace utilities like flashbangs with fiery balls of light or a floating purple eye.

It’s a free-to-play game, with money only netting you in-game aesthetics, so in the end the price is up to the player.

“It’s a mix of CS:GO and Overwatch and it accommodates new players, so it’s less intensive and toxic.

I can enjoy the game and it’s easy to pick up,” said junior Ranbo Zhao .

“Among Us” is a casual party game that resembles “Mafia,” the goal being to find the impostor among a group of four to ten people. It has three maps, two of them being spaceships, and one of them being a base in a snowstorm.

The impostors are tasked with sabotaging and killing the other players without revealing themselves. The crewmates, known as innocents, can win the game by completing tasks or discovering the impostors’ identities.

The controls are simple, with elementary tasks not meant to challenge the players, allowing you to focus on discovering the impostors. Impostors are given opportunities to sabotage the crew by removing oxygen

or lighting, while the innocents have to fix these problems and solve the task before time runs out. Added to the many problems already on the ship, impostors have escape vents that they can use in order to leave crewmates guessing as to who committed the murders.

Though it costs $4.99 on Steam, it’s free on mobile and easy to set up. If you ever choose to play, hop on a call with your friends and have fun deciding who gets thrown out the airlock.

“I like how it’s free and I can play casually with friends, especially when I can’t see them in person. Also, stabbing people as the Imposter is also very therapeutic,” said sophomore Angelina Wang.

Fall Guys If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun and goofy game, you should check out “Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout.” A massively multiplayer party game, “Fall Guys” throws 60 people, the titular fall guys, into a lobby from which they are then flung into random arenas and minigames of pandemonium and fun, making for a unique type of battle royale. At the end, only one victor emerges as the king of all Fall Guys and claims a crown as their reward.

Every match is different from the last. There are over 25 mini party games—both team-based and

individual—each with their own bundle of craziness and amusement.

This variation guarantees that you’ll never get bored, even after hours of gameplay. Other features like the option to play with up to three friends and to customize your Fall Guy make this the perfect quarantine game.

“I enjoy playing video games as a way to calm down and unwind, which is why I enjoy Fall Guys so much,” said Senior Mara Anica.

“It’s a fun game with a happy atmosphere while still being quite competitive.”

10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

s k ip it o r s t r e a m it

Drama drifts too far AWAY Lyndon Kaneko Staff Writer 88Rising NIKI on tour in 2018; since then she’s racked up over 160 million Spotify streams.

tune in: MOONCHILD Josh CHou Editor-in-chief I knew from the start that NIKI’s first studio album, “Moonchild,” was going to be a risk: the first single she released from the album in April, “Switchblade,” threw me entirely off-guard by how much it diverted from NIKI’s usual refined contemporary R&B. With deep, layered synths and metallic, clinking drums accompanying NIKI’s ethereal vocals, this first single felt uncharted and almost extraterrestrial. The music video accompanying it was no different; sporting a full head of white hair, NIKI explores a shimmering Avatar-esque alien planet under a full moon. While many fans were conflicted over the drastic change in style, I thoroughly enjoyed the rhythmic nuances and unique amalgamation of styles.

I decided that if the new album would be full of the same experimental approach, I was completely on board.

What we got instead was something very different: while many of the tracks indeed branched out from NIKI’s usual style, the majority didn’t meld with the contemporary R&B elements from NIKI’s past work quite the same way “Switchblade” did and thus, failed to become memorable or likable. The songs that do, such as “Selene” and “Pandemonium,” are the standouts on the album while others, while “Wide Open (Foreword)” or “Tide” are too bland,

aggressive or harsh for my liking.

“Selene,” which was also the second single released earlier than the album, remains my favorite track from “Moonchild.” The funky, retro bassline combined with glittery production and catchy melodies explores a new side of NIKI that I wish the album had shown off more.

“Pandemonium,” surprised me with its mellow lo-fi inspired charm and echoey feel, creating a gentler vibe that I know will make the song perfect for late night playlists.

The only other notable track is “Lose,” a classic heartbreak song on acoustic piano. NIKI has always captivated me with her acoustic covers of previous songs and I’m glad she was able to lean into that strength here.

It’s clear to me the amount of artistry and creative effort that went into creating “Moonchild.”

Every aspect of the promotion, visuals and sound design seems to be pointing at a narrative that NIKI wants her listeners to experience immersively.

However, the inconsistency in song quality and tone made it too laborious to find.

While overall the four tracks that I enjoyed—out of ten on the album—rank among NIKI’s best songs, the remaining six nearly leave me wishing NIKI had spent that creative energy on a more sustainable balance between her old production style and newer elements to produce fewer, more grounded tracks.

Netflix’s “Away,” starring twotime Oscar winner Hilary Swank and Josh Charles, launched into orbit this month, and came crashing back down.

The show centers on the Green family: Emma Green (Swank) is a former Navy pilot who has been chosen to lead the first manned mission to Mars. Her husband, Matt Logan (Charles), is a NASA engineer who will be manning mission control for Emma’s journey while caring for their teenage daughter, Alexis (Talitha Bateman), at home.

The pilot opens on a lunar base 24 hours before the crew will take a three-year journey to Mars.

Through flashbacks, we see Emma’s final goodbyes with her family and the introduction to our supporting characters. It’s immediately made clear that a few people on the crew don’t quite trust Emma as the head of their mission. An early mishap forms a rift between them, coincidentally between modern-day political enemies, pairing India with Britain and the States against China and Russia.

At first glance, “Away” might remind you of past space adventures like “The Martian,” but on closer inspection, it’s more akin to the American drama “Friday Night Lights” due to its focus on character dynamics and backstories.

Despite the story mainly focusing on drama, a majority of the team’s chemistry is built through trust gained from averting crises on and off the ship. Though this is a legitimate way of building bonds between the crew, many of them follow the same, mundane formula of crisis, backstory then resolution.

Rinse and repeat for ten hour-long episodes, and it starts to make the series a test of endurance rather than form of entertainment.

Swank’s character, Emma, is either cold and disciplined or extremely emotional, and the dialogue doesn’t give much leeway for

NETFLIX

Oscar winner Hilary Swank (above) plays the astronaut-mother Emma Green.

Swank to properly segue the two personalities. She is a good actor, don’t get me wrong; she does a good job of mimicking the mannerisms of a lifelong military character like Emma. But the way Emma is written stifles her acting prowess, burying it in awkward character transitions.

Because a majority of the crew’s chemistry is built from intense conflicts and problem-solving, we don’t get to see the crew interacting much in everyday activities, a part of the show I wished we could see more of. For instance, I found myself truly enjoying a scene in the pilot in which the astronauts play soccer in zero gravity, but not much more of this type of scene appears in the rest of the show.

Matt Logan’s character writing faces the same problem as Emma’s--he’s either angry and frustrated, or affectionate and supportive. This severely limits what actor Charles can do with the character and really holds back his performance in the show.

“Away” does not care all too much about the realism of some of the technical conflicts that the crew may run into; it makes it clear that it is more of a family drama than a space exploration film.

Many of the members undergo family strife similar to that which Emma goes through. Crew chemist Lu Wang (Vivian Wu), however, has a background that stands out from the rest, as it is centered around separation and forbidden love.

“Away” drags out drama and takes too long to advance the plot, with roughly ten hours of boring, predictable content. But the show has a little bit of something for everyone, with nerve-wracking and suspenseful scenes to long, yet enjoyable, family scenarios. It’s not something to watch on your own, but leaving it on to play in the background while you chat with friends may enrich the experience instead of making it your sole focus.

FINAL VERDICT: s k i p i t

Our picks for the 2020 Emmys Vera Wang Staff Writer Since the first Primetime Emmy Awards 71 years ago, television franchises and actors alike have strived for the honor of receiving their own 24-karat gilded statuette.

None, however, were prepared for the challenges presented by 2020.

In a letter sent to nominees in late August, this year’s host, Jimmy Kimmel, as well as other executive producers, announced that the entire award ceremony would take place online; the participants would be provided with a camera crew and filmed for the live Emmy Awards event on Sunday.

Reviewing this year’s prospective candidates, it’s apparent that the majority of categories contain very strong contestants, many of which are productions from heavyweight networks.

Drama: Among these, HBO’s “Succession” and Netflix’s “Ozark” take the lead in the drama category.

Detailing the life of the Byrdes family after the father’s mon-

HBO

NETFLIX

In the world of “Watchmen,” members of the police hide their identities.

A scene from “Ozark.” In three seasons the show has already won two Emmys.

ey-laundering business goes awry, to describe “Ozark” as intense would be an understatement.

Jason Bateman gives a stellar performance as the arrogant financial advisor-turned-money launderer Marty Byrde, as does Laura Linney as his neglected and unfaithful wife Wendy Byrde.

The phenomenal casting not only bolsters Linney’s chances of winning Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, but also places “Ozark” amidst the top five drama contestants.

Another strong contender for the drama category is “Succession,” a satirical series that makes

of strong contenders in other categories, “Watchmen” seems to be dominating all other limited series. Decorated with 26 nominations thus far, the murder mystery show incorporates allegories of modern societal issues into its plot. It takes place in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and begins as white supremacists attack a local police department. “Watchmen” sheds light on the legacy of racism in America, and features actors Regina King and Jeremy Irons, two nominees likely to clinch the titles of Outstanding Lead Actor and Actress in a Limited Series.

Despite the success of “Watch-

fun of common reality television tropes. The HBO series documents the consequences of endowment jealousy and abuse of wealth by tycoon Logan Roy, and his son Kendall Roy, respectively played

by Brian Cox and Jeremy Strong, both of whom are also strong candidates for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. With nine nominations under its belt, the combination of brilliant directing and screenwriting, in addition to its popularity, gives “Succession” a leg up on the competition.

Limited Series: In contrast to the multitude

men,” Netflix’s “Unbelievable” and “Unorthodox” are also more than worthy of trophies, both telling the heart wrenching stories of women facing struggles that put their lives in turmoil. In “Unbelievable,” a young teen named Marie is faced not only with the trauma of rape, but of social persecution under the scrutiny of a community that accuses her of lying. “Unorthodox” spotlights the journey of a Hasidic Jewish woman, whose escape from an arranged marriage casts a dark shadow over her future.

Emmys on p.12

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

A&E Commentary “Mulan” sees backlash from students As a major film intended to represent Asian culture and those in the entertainment industry, the movie “Mulan” was highly anticipated. However, following its release, the film has become involved in many controversies, causing outrage among its targeted audience.

Because some of the filming was done in China, Disney cooperated with the Chinese government, a relationship that has drawn criticism from many due to the controversy with the Uyghur concentration camps. Another major point of contention with some fans was lead actress Liu Yifei’s public support of Hong Kong’s police amid August protests. These controversies left some students at Diamond Bar High School disappointed.

“I was heartbroken at first because I thought Mulan would be a great film for Asian female representation in Hollywood,” senior Iris Lee said. “I was disappointed but not surprised she would publically announce siding with the CCP.” Disney’s actions left many Asian-American students feeling cheated from the representation the film was supposed to offer.

“At this point I believe Disney made ‘Mulan’ for the sole purpose of gaining profits from China,” Lee said. “They even thanked the Communist Party at the end of the film. This is complete ignorance to the protests for democracy and the inhumane ethnic cleansing of Uyghurs. It really reveals Disney’s stance on human rights.”

The film credits actually thank various public agencies in the area of Xinjiang.

Disney’s silence on the matter, in addition to Yifei’s support of government violence in Hong Kong, showcasing to the world the questionable morals of those behind the making of “Mulan.”

Alumna Venira Asker, who is of Uyghur descent, looked up to Disney as a source of inspiration to continue on an artistic career path.

Yifei’s actions and words however, against HK’s independence, as well as the filming of the movie in Xinjiang, where millions of Uyghurs are being taken into concentration camps to be tortured, was an absolute disappointment to her and shows a lack of responsibility on the company’s end.

Film critics have not been kind to the movie either, rating it as mediocre at best. For a film with a very large budget and featuring some of Hollywood’s most celebrated Asian actors and filmmakers, many felt that the film didn’t live up to its full potential. The anticlimactic end result for this highly anticipated movie, combined with the unusually expensive streaming cost have left viewers feeling shortchanged.

“It’s repulsive that they are getting any money out of this film when they have exploited the beautiful geography of Xinjiang to make money, while there are millions who are suffering at that exact location. They would’ve passed by at least seven concentration camps on their way to film,” Asker said.

11

the show must go on BAND & ORCHESTRA During summer, leaders of each instrumental music program discussed plausible ways to circumvent the difficulties presented by distance learning, and collectively decided that the focus of their class would need to change in order to adapt.

“We needed to pivot our purpose temporarily away from group performance to individual skill and knowledge improvement,” DBHS music director Steven Acciani said via email.

To make this change, Acciani is using various online applications, like Google Classroom, where students can access sheet music and complete weekly assignments.

Acciani said that regardless of being apart, students still perform together during class meetings to receive feedback and interact with one another, but usually in their respective sections rather than as an ensemble.

“We have to trust that the students are doing what we ask of them, and we are teaching them to better self evaluate,” Acciani said.

“I think it’s a great way to get individual help,” sophomore Allison Yuh said. “But all of us are kind of sad we can’t see each other and welcome new members.”

DRUMLINE Quick to adjust to the pandemic, drumline actually started hosting weekly meetings a week after school shut down in March.

“These meetings were somewhat of a mental check up on how everybody was doing,” said senior section leader Julian Martinez.

The group wasted no time, taking a month after the lockdown to recuperate, before they continued their practice regimen.

“We would split up between the rums and the front ensemble to slowly learn more and more about technique,” said Martinez.

“It wasn’t anything crazy but definitely a way to reconnect and back into the swing of things.”

It was during this time that drumline also started to welcome the incoming freshmen, getting them involved with their regular wellness check-up calls. For this school year, the ensemble has two online practices a week, each two hours long.

“I feel drumline has really taken this time to grow and learn together,” said Martinez.

“It’s definitely been a learning experience for everybody.”

Natasha Chang & MaryKate Palaris asst. A&E Editors While sitting down and teaching through a screen has become the new normal for teachers who cover traditional academic topics, things are more complicated for those classes whose very objective is to perform.

In order to adapt, performing arts classes on campus have taken unique approaches to maintain their skills from home.

COMMERCIAL MUSIC

Natasha Chang asst. A&E Editor

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE BULL'S EYE

Though one may think that, as a performing arts class, Commercial Music would be suffering many of the same plights as other, similar classes on campus, the opposite is true--they’re thriving.

“It’s actually made easier through software that is made for music,” student leader Brandon Kwan said via messenger.

DRAMA Senior Pailey Kao, the secretary of the Drama Department, said that the learning environment of the class is interactive, with improv activities done in the beginning of each class, followed by acting technique lessons. “[It] not only improves our acting skills, but also allows our class to bond,” Kao said

COLOR GUARD Both a sport and a performing art, Color Guard has been handling these tough times as best as they can with using virtual applications.

“We started with giving everyone the proper equipment at home, freshmen with flags while the returning members have flags and weapons at home,” said senior captain Gracel Mutuc.

Color Guard student leaders also provide inexperienced members with video tutorials posted through Google Classroom, while returning members go over exercises

from seasons prior.

“We are still approaching this the same way we would in person but since it is online we are going slower than we would like,” said Mutuc. “Since I’m a senior and this is my last year with my team, I am bummed that I might not be able to spin and connect with my team due to our circumstances.”

Despite the circumstances, Color Guard is hopeful that they can use this year to improve underclassmen’s skills for successful seasons after the pandemic.

Through Zoom, they continue the usual activities that take place this time of year, like teaching basic music theory.

Students practice their instruments twice a week, and occasionally the group’s adviser, Derek Kowalski has invited guest musicians to the class.

via Messenger.

In addition to these other assignments, she said that students are working in groups on presentations about important Broadway figures in order to enhance their theater knowledge.

“Even though it’s not hands-on, we are still learning and improving,” Kao said.

CHOIR During distance learning, Diamond Bar High School’s Choir is retaining its harmony via Zoom rehearsals.

Though students still rehearse songs synchronously, as they did when they were in the classroom, now everyone except the director is muted. Diamond Tones president Kasee Verma said that there are difficulties to this, as it is impossible to know if students are singing at the right pitch.

“It’s harder to make sure that we all have

the notes correct or are doing the correct moves,” Verma said. “But it keeps us engaged and ready for when we get to come back to school.”

Besides vocal activities, choir students are continuing to bond online by playing games such as 20 Questions and “Never Have I Ever.”

“It’s a great way for everyone in choir to connect,” Verma said.

MARCHING BAND

DANCE Because its activity relies on coordination between every member of the team, the DBHS Dance Company has had more than its fair share of struggles regarding distance learning.

Due to their inability to practice together, online classes are focused on conditioning and self-improvement, which will help dancers’ performance once they return to the stage. The self-improvement studies emphasize how an individual’s body weight connects to the ground. Additionally, choreography-related tasks are assigned via

Flipgrid, an application in which a student may post videos for their teacher and peers to see.

“The restrictions of distance learning enables dancers to be more in tune with their bodies and to strive for self-improvement,” student leader Shulamite Yang said via Messenger.

The biggest disadvantage of distance learning for the Dance Company is the inability to rehearse for competitions.

“Competitions are the highlight of our year,” Yang said.

Undeterred by not being able to meet in-person for practice, the band program is still operating at full steam. Classes are mostly focused on personal skill improvement during virtual meetings via Zoom.

“We make adjustments for the troubles that the pandemic has caused,” said senior section leader Peter Chang. “Once we are able to meet in-person, we will emerge stronger and ready to perform at our highest levels.”

Like other instrumental music groups,

marching band doesn’t always meet as a full group. When the full ensemble does gather online together to work on the repertoire, however, only the section leaders play as an example for others.

“I am glad that our band directors have chosen this route to take,” said Chang.

“Even in the face of adversity, the band continues to prove that we are a rigorous and adaptive program that will never stop improving.”

12 BUSINESS

THE BULL'S EYE

Many outstanding nominees for Emmy Awards on Sunday EMMYS FROM P. 10 Meawhile, Amazon Prime’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and Pop TV’s “Schitt’s Creek” are creating a great rift between comedy fans. Despite trailing the other by five nominations, the sitcom “Schitt’s Creek” has been garnering more and more attention since the premier of its third season.

Many believe, despite the show’s popularity, that it is severely underrated.

A riches to rags story, “Schitt’s

Creek” illustrates the experiences of Johnny, Moira and their two children who embark on a jarring journey to adapt to the poverty they now face, a stark contrast to the posh past they left behind.

On the other hand, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” follows the trek of a young Jewish housewife who finds passion in stand-up comedy, forging her own path in small gigs all throughout New York. Though “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” as well as its cast is undoubtedly deserving of an award, Catherine

O’Hara’s role as an unsung comedic genius in “Schitt’s Creek,” as well as the superb end to a wellreceived final season, ultimately outweighs its competitors, in my opinion.

Though I was disappointed that shows such as “Dark” and “Euphoria,” both highly acclaimed and immensely popular, were not nominated, this year’s nominees include phenomenal programs and actors alike, living up to the Emmy Awards’ reputation as a hard call to make for fans .

Distance learning opinions LEARNING FROM P.1

administration also added a 90-minute tutorial period that takes place after lunch ends, giving students time to consult with their teachers or work on projects with classmates.

So far, some students have found this new tutorial period helpful because it allows them to interact with their teachers oneon-one.

“I think it’s even better than traditional classrooms since you get some personal time with teachers,” junior Tony Wu said via text.

“Even though it’s pretty short, you get stuff done fast without twenty other students watching.”

As for teachers, they have concerns about the educational experience students will receive from home--specifically during exams.

Because students have access to the internet at all times during the school day, cheating has become a

significant concern among teachers.

Because it’s hard to tell who is and isn’t cheating, many have decided to give students the option to use their notes during tests to level the playing field. Others still modify the exam questions themselves, opting to make multiple, unique versions of every test while requiring that work be shown.

“I try to circumvent a breach of academic [honesty] by requiring a response which may require cited evidence,” English teacher Connie Chen said via email. “In that case, the student has probably researched some information but has done their due diligence, avoiding plagiarism.”

Another issue with distance learning is the lack of communication between students and teachers. Not only does the shorter period make it harder for students to find time to ask questions, but being online makes it harder for

teachers to gauge how students are responding to the material.

To make up for this, teachers are checking their emails more frequently than ever and taking full advantage of the tutorial periods to ensure that students can reach them.

“I try my best to answer emails, Classroom Private Comments, and Tutorial Page questions in a timely manner. In addition, students who ask me questions in our meeting chats will hopefully gain clarification,” Chen said. “I’ve noticed quite a few students do not hesitate to privately ask me questions during instruction and I think that’s a strong strategy to have.”

Nevertheless, distance learning still takes away the majority of the interaction and community that a traditional classroom offers.

Elective classes like choir and band, which focus more on group performance than individual work, have faced other problems.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

SPORTS

DBHS athletes prepare for games

Despite the coronavirus pandemic, students work with coaches on Zoom to keep in shape.

Deesha pathak asst. sports editor Photo courtesy of NATHAN SINN

Cross-country finds a new alternative way to compete Senior Nathan Sinn trains for a virtual racing competition and the upcoming DBHS cross-country season next semester.

Runners continue to race in the extended preseason with the help of technology. charles tam Asst. Sports Editor

Amid the postponement of fall sports, Diamond Bar High School’s cross country team is keeping up with the competition while still taking necessary precautions.

Runners are trying an unconventional approach to the track this season, though: they’re registering for virtual races. Head coach Malinalli Cooke proposed the idea to students after the team was invited to Woodbridge High School’s virtual invitational.

“I thought it was a great idea because it would give the athletes a sense of purpose in this extended preseason,” Cooke said via email.

“Also, since we can’t meet in person right now, holding virtual tryouts seemed the way to go.”

The Brahmas will be placed into

a heat based on school size and diers, she says that some of the vision. Once they have registered, freshmen have been impressive.

Cooke will create a three-mile Notable runners include junior course and time the athletes in Andrew Kim and freshman L’Mio small groups. Their times will then Edwards, who are the fastest boy be uploaded to the host school’s and girl on the team, respectively. website and, just like an in-person It has yet to be determined by competition, the winners will rethe state and the district when the ceive medals.

Brahmas will be able to practice Cooke has been putting the extogether as a team given current tended presearestrictions on son to use by group gatherings.

“Also, since we can’t training athIn lieu of meetings, meet in person right letes to avoid ininformation about now, holding virtual juries and foster training, tryouts tryouts seemed the better perforand virtual races way to go" mance for the is shared during upcoming seaclass via Google MALINALLI COOKE son. The team Meets. is currently pre“[Class] is the paring for their first virtual time for them to ask me race, the Woodbridge Invitational, clarifying questions, let me know which will be held Sept. 11-17. how they are feeling, and just get “For those who did not train ‘together’ and stay connected,” over the summer we are building Cooke said. our base,” Cooke said. “For those With having an extra semester who did train over the summer we to train, Cooke has high hopes for are maintaining higher distances the team’s performance. This seaand pace and we are incorporating son, the Brahmas are a part of the speed work.”

Hacienda League, where they’ll According to Cooke, the returncompete with students from Rowing athletes improved without land, Wilson, South Hills, Los Almuch training. As for the newcom tos and Walnut High School.

While fall sports were cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, coaches at Diamond Bar High School are working toward finding a safe and productive way for student athletes to start practicing at school.

Though fall sports are not practicing in person, athletes are holding meetings through Zoom during the sixth period.

Athletic director Albert Lim has been hosting Zoom calls with his sixth period athletic conditioning class. During this time, Lim talks with the athletes about exercise, mental health and transitioning back into high school sports.

Lim said that the official plan is that all sports will be pushed back, but athletes should prepare in the meantime.

“The plan to resume sports is based on meeting the local and state health guidelines. When given the green light the students will be able to return,” volleyball coach Lauren Adnoff said via email.

“Safety and health precautions are currently being discussed.”

One new guideline following the COVID-19 situation is that volleyball players must wear face masks during their games. This is intended to prevent the transmission of the virus between players on the court.

“This change is for the best because it is all about health and safety for everyone involved, “ Adnoff said via email.

Adnoff said she remains positive

about the situation and said that she is still providing workouts to her players in order to prepare for their upcoming season.

“Volleyball student athletes are a part of athletic conditioning during class time. There are also home workouts, volleyball specific workouts/tips, and some other materials available for the student athletes on the Volleyball athletics page,“ Adnoff said.

A majority of the athletes say that they have spent time working out or practicing specifically for their sport during the school closure.

“They have been putting out optional workout videos and [we] do two check-in zoom calls twice a month,” said sophomore Makayla Struble, who is on the volleyball team. “They said we might have games in December so I’m hoping to have games by January.”

Volleyball players are currently in Lim’s sixth period athletic conditioning class, along with girls and boys water polo and soccer.

“Our coaches are doing a great job about keeping us informed about returning home on campus for practices,” said sophomore Ingrid Gonzalez, a water polo player.

“As of right now, they are planning on putting precautionary measures in place to go back as soon as October.”

Athletes have been told by Lim that they can expect to return to campus for practices as soon as October. If athletes were to start practing, health procautions would be put in place.

“They are urging us to practice at home and do our drills.

Along with practicing our movements and exercising to build up strength,” water polo player Nichole Arancibia said.

Overall, athletes are eager to return to the field, pool, or court.

“I hope that we get the chance to play this year,” Gonzalez said.

College athletes remain resilient DBHS Class of 2020 committed athletes find their footing in college during COVID-19. vera wang staff writer Among the thousands of athletes around the world whose lives have been altered by Covid-19, Diamond Bar High School’s class of 2020 collegiate athletes are being limited to practicing in nearby open fields and community facilities.

The process has forced athletes to display self-discipline if they are going to maintain their skill and fitness levels.

“Practice during quarantine is very hard for me because there’s nobody that can be there [due to distancing] that can be of authority to push me,” Samantha Ruelas said via Instagram. “I’ve had to learn very quickly to be very self motivated.”

Recruited by UC Davis’ soccer team, Ruelas is attending classes on campus and practicing with her roommates at available fields nearby until further updates about team practices. Nevertheless, Ruelas continues to view the situation in a positive light.

“There’s a lot of gray area when it comes to these [uncertainties],” Ruelas said via Instagram. “At the end of the day, I am the only one that can either make myself better or tear myself down, so I think that

it’s a very important part of growth as a person.”

Meanwhile, Marissa Vasquez has already begun to train with her soccer teammates at the University of San Francisco.

“It’s been harder training with masks to breathe but just being able to train in our small groups has been a blessing,” Vasquez said via Instagram.

Placed in groups of four, Vasquez and her teammates are required to keep a distance of 30 yards, posing challenges for team chemistry as well as drill variety. With the addition of the recent fire, air quality concerns have further impeded the team’s progress.

Similar social distancing adjustments have been enforced by Weber State, where softball player Emily Ruhl is designated access to her school’s equipment on only one specific day of the week.

“Only a few players are allowed at the field at a time but we are trying to make the most of it,” Ruhl said via (insert). “Everyday, players are able to come practice at the field but only during designated times to meet protocol.”

Regardless of the hassle, Ruhl reflects on how the virus has changed her outlook on the sport.

“Seeing how quickly something can change definitely gave me a new perspective on life,” Ruhl said via Instagram. “Being an athlete during covid is definitely challenging, but now I cherish my time on the field and with my teammates so much more.”

Coronavirus has also made

Photo courtesy of KATELYN ARAUZ

Class of 2020 Alumni, Katelyn Arauz, is practicing college waterpolo on her own. training extremely inconvenient for those who require special facilities, such as Whittier College’s Katelyn Arauz, who needs a pool to practice.

“Practicing during quarantine for me is hard because I play water polo and that requires a pool,” Arauz said. “I have a pool but it is pretty small and what I can practice is limited. Also waterpolo is a team sport so without others, you are really just conditioning not really practicing.”

Driving to the community pool to pass balls with a former teammate from DBHS, Juliana Longoria, Arauz’s workout mainly consists of cardio and available weights at home for the time being.

“For me not playing water polo is very hard because it’s an outlet for me to focus on other things be-

13

sides school and work,” Arauz said via Instagram. “It has been really hard for me to be motivated to practice and workout when I’m not playing or practicing with people or the right facilities.”

Though she misses the social interaction created with teammates, Arauz has been utilizing her time wisely by reviewing game tapes to review mistakes made in prior seasons.

On the other hand, athletes participating in sports such as golf and track have faced a lesser impact.

“Golf is pretty much a social distancing sport in itself, so my practice has luckily not been affected much, we just take extra care to wear masks around people,” Angelica Kusnowo said via Instagram.

A member of St. John Univerhe

sity’s golf team, Kusnowo has decided to remain home for the fall semester due to the cancellation of the Big East Conference this season.

With the closure of many golf courses during the beginning stages of the pandemic, Kusnowo has redirected her spare time to bond with her family as well as taken interest into new hobbies outside ofher athletic relm.

“I felt empty without the ability to practice like I normally do, I felt like there was so much free time on my hands, I didn’t know what to do with it,” Kusnowo said via Instagram. “I think the experience during the pandemic has humbled me and showed me that I need to be well rounded outside of my sport.’”

As for Lukas Amare, who will run track for UC Irvine, isolated practice has been majorly beneficial. Clocking in around 40-50 miles a week, Amare has been training with a personal coach during quarantine, steadily improving himself for the possible season postponement in spring.

“Our official practices start in October so I am voluntarily practicing right now,” Amare said.

“I’m excited because I know I’ll be in the best shape since we have so much time [to ourselves].”

Despite the obstacles presented by the virus, the athletes remain hopeful for a season sometime next spring. Taking advantage of these times of adversity, many continue to push themselves both physically and mentally, waiting to turn this setback into a greater comeback.

14

SPORTS

THE BULL'S EYE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Kicking off her college career Senior Emily Le has already decided to play soccer at Trinity International in Illinois.

Deesha Pathak Asst. Sports editor Senior Emily Le, who first picked up the soccer ball when she was 4 years old, has had her childhood dream of playing college soccer come true.

In June, she committed to play for Trinity International University, a Division 1 private Christian school in Deerfield, Illinois.

In addition to being on the Diamond Bar High School girls varsity soccer team, Le is also involved with the club Legends FC. She has won several soccer awards in DBHS, including Rookie of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year and was chosen as first team AllLeague Honors for Southern California. Le was also selected to be a representative of her club at the Southwest Girl’s Academy.

“A lot of my success has been due to the great amount of support I have always gotten from my parents as they are always my number one and my rocks,” Le said via Instagram. “I’ve also had many great coaches and friends along the way that I will always be eternally grateful for.”

Before she selected Trinity International, Le received offers from

Carnegie Mellon University, John so welcoming. A few of them are and Wales University, Westmont mutual followers with me on social College and Notre Dame de Namur media as well.”

University in Northern California.

Aside from college, Le said that “I chose Trinity as I know it’ll soccer has played an important help me and benefit me most to role in shaping her life, and she has reach my ultimate goal of entering made life-long friends and memothe medical field, while still being ries through the sport. able to play soccer at a higher level “I’ve always had a bittersweet in college,” Le said via Instagram. relationship with soccer, but it is Le said she will be playing on obviously a huge part of my life. both an academic and sports scholI have learned so many lessons arship. through the game and am so grate“I’ve always known I wanted to ful for all the opportunities it has leave California for college, and brought me,” Le said via text. “My was always told by my parents that best memory was winning a tourI couldn’t unless nament in France it was on a schollast summer “A lot of my success arship. I received called the Paris is due to the great both sports and World Games, amount of support I academic scholwhich was pretty have always gotten arship,” Le said awesome.” from my parents." via Instagram.

Le referred According to to soccer as an EMILY LE their website, emotional outlet Trinity Internathat allows her tional offers merit-based to be herself while she is on scholarships to students based on the field. “rigor of and performance in sec“When times get stressful or ondary school coursework, stanwhen I tend to get bad anxiety, dardized test scores, strength of playing soccer just lets me be free essay, involvement outside of the and escape from it all.,” Le said via classroom, and recommendations Instagram. “It allows me to express from school officials.” myself in a way I’m unable to show Le said that she looks forward to off of the field” playing soccer with her new teamLe said that there are many mates at Trinity. things she would like to tell a kid “I went on an official visit in Febwho wants to play college soccer ruary and got to stay in the dorms when they are older. with all the girls and met pretty “It’s important to push yourself much everyone, but many of them out of your comfort zone and learn will probably have graduated when to adapt to new environments I attend,” Le said via Instagram. and situations and to always trust “They’re all super kind and are themself,” Le said via Instagram.

Soccer coach uses his experience on DBHS turf

Looking ahead to Lakers-Heat

T

he NBA playoffs are underway after a successful season resumption at the Disney World Bubble with zero positive COVID-19 tests.

There have been many exciting series so far including the two seven game series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets in the first round and the Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors in the second round, with the Rockets and Celtics ultimately coming out on top. In the second round, there were many unexpected results that shocked the NBA community. The Miami Heat upset the No. 1 seeded Milwaukee Bucks, winning in five games and the Denver Nuggets defeated the No. 2 seeded Los Angeles Clippers after trailing 3-1 in the series. The Los Angeles Lakers also advanced to the Western Conference Finals after defeating the Rockets in five games.

In the Western Conference Finals matchup between the Lakers and Nuggets, I predict that the Lakers will win in six games. First and foremost, the Lakers’ superstar duo, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, is undeniably better than the Nuggets’ Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic. James and Davis are both currently top-five players in the league, and they have been performing exceptionally well since the playoffs began.

I believe the Nuggets’ momentum will end against the Lakers.

Davis will easily dominate in the paint, as centers Jokic and Mason Plumlee are simply not defensively good enough to guard him. He has already shown his dominance against the Nuggets, scoring 25 or more points in the regular season.

Photo courtesy of EMILY LE

Senior Emily Le looks forward to playing college soccer at Trinity International.

They will probably look to restrain Davis by double-teaming him, allowing him to find open teammates. Despite Murray putting on offensive clinics in his recent performances, the Lakers will find a way to contain him like they contained Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard in the first round. The Lakers are also 3-1 in the regular season series against the Nuggets.

In the Eastern Conference Finals matchup between the Heat and Celtics, I predict that the Heat will win in six games. I believe they have the right pieces to advance to the Finals. Alongside the offensive threat of sharpshooters Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson, Heat’s All-Stars Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo are also great both offensively and defensively. Not to mention that their starting point guard Goran Dragic has been consistently performing well, and they have a clear shot at the win. However, the Celtics’ defense will be a challenge for the Heat.

Ultimately, the Finals matchup between the Lakers and the Heat, I believe that the Lakers will win in six games. In my opinion, Davis and LeBron James are far too powerful for the Heat. Davis will be able to guard Adebayo and James can match up with Butler. Lakers’ guards Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Danny Green are also capable of guarding Herro and Robinson, however, they will have to step up offensively as well. Furthermore, the Lakers have an established precedent for success, having gone 2-0 in the regular season series against the Heat.

I look forward to seeing the Lakers win their 17th championship, in tribute to the late Kobe Bryant.

Boys soccer coach has experience coaching both recreational and club soccer.

Kyle Hong staff writer

Pete Orosco, a soccer coach who has moved through many schools and organizations, has found his place coaching Diamond Bar High School boys soccer.

Orosco started out his career in coaching when he decided to coach his daughters’ soccer team about 20 years ago, when they were six years old.

“A lot of parents don’t have experience in coaching, so then I made the decision to start coaching, learn the game and started in the Phillips Ranch area of Pomona, and eventually started taking their all-stars team and was really successful at it,” Orosco said via Zoom call.

Orosco was later asked by Paul Caliguiri, a USA Hall of Fame soccer player, to bring his recreational team to play club soccer for Caligiuri’s club at Cal Poly. From there, Orosco served as the assistant coach at Mt. SAC for three seasons under head coach Melinda Bowen before transferring to Cal State Dominguez Hills for one season.

He then got a call from CDA Slammers, a large soccer club in Southern California, where he has been coaching for the last four years.

“The head coach from the girls program at Diamond Bar High School, Matt Franco, had reached out to the athletic director, Albert Lim, and had mentioned my name as a coach. I met with him last season and made the decision to pick up the team with very little time to prepare and after the season I

Photo courtesy of PETE OROSCO

Pete Orosco first started coaching when his daughters started playing soccer. made the decision to stay with the same formations that we use for team,” Orosco said. He became the offense and defense, we should be boys head coach last year, replacable to move any player from any ing longtime coach Kemp Wells. level into any position and have Orosco had ideas he wanted them understand the strategy, to implement for the upcoming which is important.” season, but COVID-19 has forced Orosco said that structure is changes. a large part of long-term success “We had big plans for this seaand that any player should be able son. This season we were going to step into any position. This has to run a summer program, which been something Orosco has been the school hadn’t done for many planning to implement into the socyears.” Orosco said. “We were gocer team starting with the planned ing to run clinics and a summer summer programs. program for the boys to start get“I want to work with the organiting a lot of the new players in and zation to make sure we get press,” the boys who had played JV to give Orosco said. “These guys work them an opportunity to work hardhard to represent DBHS, they sacer.” rifice things, and I want to make COVID-19 has forced a halt on all sure DBHS shows support for the activities both in school as well as team.” club soccer for Orosco.

Orosco says he wants to build a “It’s unfortunate what has haplot of structure and foundation for pened because we had the whole the team and says he thinks once program layed out,” Orosco said. the season starts up again that he “The philosophy is if you teach two knows the boys will make it far systems of play through frosh, JV since he has seen incredible talent and varsity, and they all learn the on the team.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE BULL'S EYE

SPORTS

15

Jason Wright

DBHS Alumnus broke football barriers becoming the first Black president of an NFL team.

N

ine years ago, Diamond Bar High School alumnus Jason Wright retired from the NFL as a part-time player.

Now he’s back in the league as the first African American team president in league history.

The 38-year-old was hired by the Washington Football Team, which recently dropped its longtime nickname, Redskins, due to mounting pressure over the name’s racist overtones. By hiring Wright, the team is taking another step toward equality within the world of football. He will also become the youngest team president in league history.

“The transformation of the Washington Football Team is happening across all aspects of the organization — from football to operations to branding to culture — and will make us a truly modern and aspirational franchise,” Wright told NBC. “We want to set new standards for the NFL.” In addition to the team’s recent struggles on the field, the Washington Post reported this summer that former employees alleged being sexually harassed while working for the organization. An investigation is underway.

As president, Wright is in charge of the business side of the franchise, which includes marketing and sales. Although he is new to this position, Wright said that he is already looking forward to establishing a “new identity” for the team.

“You know, we’re getting ready to establish a new identity,” Wright said to CBS after his promotion. “That’s going to inform the way that we impact the world.”

After graduating from Northwestern University, Wright was

signed as an undrafted player by the San Francisco 49ers. He went on to play with the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns and Arizona Cardinals before he decided to retire from professional football in 2011.

In addition to his experience as a football player, Wright is also wellversed in the world of business.

After leaving the football scene, Wright earned his MBA in operations and finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. This led to his employment as a partner at McKinsey & Company, a New York City-based management consulting firm, where he worked until he was offered his current position..

“The fact that I happen to be Black and the most qualified person is a boost,” Wright told TMZ. During his time at DBHS, Wright played varsity football and track.

He graduated from high school in 2000. Before graduating he helped the Brahmas win both the 1998 and 1999 championships. In the 1999 championship, he claimed the CIFSS Division II title.

The DBHS coach at the time, Terry Roche, commented on Wright’s success.

“Jason was always an A-plus kid,” Roche told the San Gabriel Valley Tribune.

He then went on to play football at Northwestern University as a running back where he was co-MVP of the 2003 Motor City Bowl.

He ended his college career with 32 touchdowns on 487 carries as well as 577 yards and two touchdowns on 54 receptions. He was also the fourth all-time leading scorer at Northwestern, with a total of 210 points.

Story & design by Victoria Artale, Sports Editor