May 2019

INSIDE THE ISSUE

opinion 4

a&e 10

feature 8

sports 15

the bull’s eye NEWS

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OPINION

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FEATURE

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MAY 22, 2019 VOLUME XXXVII, ISSUE IX ONLINE AT DBBULLSEYE.COM

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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SPORTS

School to extend passing periods As some classes move to portables next school year, administration plans to adjust schedule.

Abigail Hong Asst. Photo Editor Diamond Bar High School will have a new bell schedule starting next school year due to many classes moving down to the portables on the old JV baseball and softball fields.

All of the teachers in the 500 building will be relocating. The administration will extend the passing periods to nine minutes starting in August after extensive data collection to determine how much time would be needed during passing periods.

According to Instructional Dean Gabriel Aguilar, some staff members timed how long it would take to travel from the portables to the 300 building.

They timed themselves during the regular six-minute passing periods students currently have.

This allowed them to have more accurate data collection based on student traffic and popular student routes.

More time from fourth period is expected to go into the extended

passing periods since fourth period is four minutes longer than other periods. There is no intention of taking minutes out of brunch or lunch, but the additional time allocated for passing periods would increase the duration of lunchtime by three minutes.

Aguilar said that the time for lunch and brunch may change, however, due to the additional three minutes that students can take if their classes are not far away. He believes that students will start walking later, and they would not feel as rushed to go to class.

Even with the minutes taken out of class time, the amount of required instructional time, 1,080 hours per school year, will not change. The passing periods are included in the required time that schools set aside for classes.

There will be classes in the portables for about five years because DBHS will start construction on the 400 building once the 500 building is completed. The new bell schedule is planned to stay in effect uring this time.

During the next school year, the administration will observe how well the bell schedule works and will make adjustments if necessary. Aguilar said he is fairly confident the new bell schedule will give a sufficient amount of time for the students to travel from one side of the school to the other.

TIFFANY LEE

Among those going to renowned schools, include top row from left, Hamzah Daud, Alice Wang, Amy Miyahara, Samantha Hong, Andrew Chang and Austin Hyun; bottom row from left, Devany Du, Karyn Real, Christine Zhou and Darren Chiu.

Taking on top universities A small group of Brahmas will attend prestigious schools in and out of state.

Grace Lee Opinion Editor Among the high-achieving crowd of purple and gold, a handful of Brahmas will venture away from Diamond Bar to pursue a degree at some of the nation’s top colleges.

A few Brahmas have found a new home at Ivy League schools:

Andrew Chang to Columbia (and Julliard), Darren Chiu to Princeton, Samantha Hong and Christine Zhou to Brown, Austin Hyun to Dartmouth and Arron Ku to Yale.

Also choosing high-profile private schools were Karyn Real and Devany Du (see page 6), who will attend MIT, and Hamzah Daud, Alice Wang and Amy Miyahara, all headed north to Stanford.

Heading off to Providence, Rhode Island, Zhou has yet to decide on a major to pursue at Brown, though her original goal was medical school. Zhou’s top choice was

Brown because of the school’s close proximity to the Rhode Island School of Design, which gives her the opportunity to pursue her interest in art.

“They have a really strong art program, so I’m hoping to go to Brown and have a challenging enough education, while also taking art courses at RISD,” Zhou said.

At Diamond Bar High School, Zhou was involved in numerous activities including robotics, badminton and marching band. She served

TOP COLLEGES ON P. 12

DBHS ranks Top 80 in California After a shift in ranking standards, DBHS loses its spot in the top 400 public high schools in the nation.

Vera Wang staff writer

VICTORIA ARTALE

Korean teacher Hyun Lee shares Korean proverbs during class to inspire her students to make good decisions in life.

Lee begins a new chapter DBHS language teacher plans to spend more time with family and friends.

Josh Kim A&E Editor Hyun Lee will both greet and say goodbye to her students in Korean one last time as a Brahma on May 30.

Lee, who is in her 45th year of

teaching, expressed her wish to relax and enjoy what life has in store for her upon her retirement. Over the course of 13 years at Diamond Bar High School, Lee has taught levels one through four of regular and honors Korean in addition to Algebra 1.

“I think I deserve [a break] after 45 years of teaching,” Lee said. “I want to do whatever I want to do.

A small part is also my health, but it’s OK.” A graduate of the Seoul National University of Education, Lee began

her career in Korea, teaching for 22 years at elementary schools. After immigrating to the United States, Lee received her teaching credentials in mathematics and Korean at Cal State Northridge. She then taught at Corona Norco Adult School until 2006, when she began teaching Korean at DBHS. In addition to her work at DBHS, Lee has also been the president of Dream Language School in Pasadena for 23 years.

RETIREMENT ON P. 3

The 2019 Best High School Rankings results, released April 30 by the U.S. News and World Report, showed Diamond Bar High School ranking 542nd in the nation, dropping in ranking in the last few years, from 277th in 2017 and 375th in 2018. But part of the reason for the decline may be the greater number of schools being ranked.

The online magazine revised its previous ranking methodology and utilized the new regimen for the first time this year, which U.S. claims improved on multiple aspects of its evaluation, improving the accuracy of its results and helping users better understand the basis of the system.

Expanding its area coverage by more than seven times, U.S. News classified more than 17,245 schools out of the 23,000 they reviewed, compared to the 2,700 schools it

ranked last year.

Introducing a mass of new schools to the already existing bracket drastically shifted many of the previously established rankings.

Among California schools, DBHS ranked 76th, while Walnut High School followed, placing 99th in the state and 704th nationally. Nearby Troy High School ranked 35th in state and 278th in the country.

Amidst the numerous schools ranked, Whitney High School was ranked 1st in the state, followed by Oxford Academy, Dr. J.T. Owens Gilroy Early College Academy, Pacific Collegiate Charter, and many more.

Previously, schools were deemed ineligible if they did not meet the minimum requirements for state assessments or graduation rates, which caused more than half the schools originally gathered to be eliminated from consideration.

The high schools were also measured on AP and IB exam participation and performance, therefore prompting the expulsion of schools that do not offer such programs or lack sufficient numbers of participants, even if the schools excel in

rankings ON P. 3

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NEWS

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

MAY 22, 2019

THE BULL'S EYE

Scholarships enable opportunities Various organizations provide financial aid to reduce college tuition.

Somiya Jajieh Asst. Feature Editor

ANGELA YANG

itor Former News Ed

Y

’know, I totally expected to leave some sort of meaningful legacy in wisdom-infused ink on my very own, long-awaited senior column—the last story I would ever print in this little publication that has transformed my life. Instead I find myself sitting before a barren Google document for the sixth time today, all cognizable thought evanescing down the drain as my final deadline creeps ever closer.

High school, at the end of it all, is best summed up as one haphazard experiment. My parting message to all younger peers is this: forgive yourself for making mistakes, because these few years encompass the least consequential interval in which you can.

Perhaps it was instilled by an early upbringing that weaved between apathy and hostility, but I grew up excruciatingly shy. In kindergarten I elected to wet myself rather than ask to use the bathroom. It didn’t get too much better over the years. So when I wandered through the gates of a new school in ninth grade, I decided to simply flip a switch. Just turn off all that timidness.

Turns out, that’s all it took. I forced myself out of my hermit shell and discovered that when I talked, people didn’t actually hate it. Over the years I would stop wondering if anyone did or not; I believe now in the value of my voice.

(It helped when Mr. List eventually replaced his reliable eye-rolling at my every utterance with genuine attentiveness.)

Freshman year turned out perfect: I made more friends than I had ever expected, was having a blast with a new boyfriend I adored— and still do, more than ever—and rounded off the year with an accidental 4.0 GPA. Sophomore year came my downward spiral. My grades tanked when I faltered in recognizing the importance of academics, and I tasted my first toxic dose of high school drama. Lost in the search for an identity, I severed many relationships and allowed others to fade, all the while retreating further away into room 563.

Junior year was when I began to get my act together. I probed my passions by starting a blog and launching a website; I stayed in studying far more than I went out partying, and spent a portion of my summer exploring journalism in New York. Senior year saw me snag my first job: I now worked threehour shifts every weekday before carving time out for an external research-based course on my new interest in international relations.

Any work ethic I hold now may have developed too late to afford me a chance at my top-choice colleges, but I don’t regret having veered off path. I’ll close this chapter knowing I’ve lived my adolescence to the fullest (having undergone every phase and confronted every experience high school has to offer), yet as it all wraps up, I’m emerging a healthy student who loves to learn and knows what she wants. That’s not a place I could’ve arrived at had I not taken all the detours.

A handful of Brahmas, graduating in a just a few days, will be leaving with scholarships resting on their shoulders.

Rachel Wang and Rachel Ahn, this year’s winners of the 14th annual Girls’ League scholarship, will each receive $500 to go toward their college tuition.

Wang plans to continue her academic career at UC Irvine and major in English. She hopes to become a teacher and applied for the scholarship due to her passion for helping the world around her.

She considers one of her greatest high school achievements to be her self-published children’s book, “Fighting Problems,” which follows two horses in their journey to peacefully divide food among themselves without using violence.

Publishing the book in her junior year, Wang has donated nearly 20 copies to Maple Hill Elementary School and Quail Summit Elementary School as well as Diamond Bar’s Tiny Tots Program.

“The reason why I published [the book] is so I can hopefully inspire children to follow their dreams like I did,” Wang said.

“Fighting Problems” is also available in Spanish, a language Wang has utilized to help her

TIFFANY LEE

Rachel Ahn, left, Rachel Wang, center, and Katherine Tran are among a handful of students who received scholarships to help them pursue their passions. peers. She received the Spanish student of the year award in her junior year during the All School Awards Night.

Meanwhile, Ahn plans to attend University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. She applied for the scholarship since tuition is more expensive for out-of-state colleges.

She said she made fond memories when participating in the school’s American Red Cross club, which hosts blood drives to save over 600 lives per year.

“Working with such amazing students, officers, advisors, and staff made [the American Red Cross] the best experience I had on campus,” Ahn said via Instagram.

Ahn believes the best part of the American Red Cross is that any DBHS student can be a part of the club. She is grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the community.

Girls’ League adviser Lisa Pa-

the staff Editors-in-Chief News Editors Asst. News Editor

Maggie Liu, Elizabeth Peng Renee Elefante, Elizabeth Peng Anika Yatawara Grace Lee Reyna Wan

Opinion Editor Asst. Opinion Editor Feature Editor Asst. Feature Editors A&E Editors Asst. A&E Editor

Kate Zheng Somiya Jajieh, Emily Koh Josh Kim, Maggie Liu Josh Chou

Sports Editors Asst. Sports Editors

Ryan Lam, Johnny Wang Victoria Artale, Alex Chun

Photo Editor Asst. Photo Editors

Victoria Artale Abigail Hong, Tiffany Lee

Business Manager Asst. Business Manager Web Editors Asst. Web Editor Staff Writers

Nia Mitchell Ryan Chan Renee Elefante, Josh Kim Reyna Wan Connor Cho, Vera Wang

Adviser

Doug List

contact us Diamond Bar High School, Room 563 21400 Pathfinder Road Diamond Bar, CA 91765 Phone: (909) 594-1405 x33563 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.

checo said she chose Wang and Ahn for the scholarship due to their authenticity and the unselfish motives they had when helping their community—they provided assistance because they wanted to see the world improve.

“We want that spark and that passion for giving back and helping to make the world a better place,” English teacher Pacheco said. “They’re both stellar young ladies and very deserving of their award.”

Amy Miyahara, the recipient of the second annual Bull’s Eye scholarship, will attend Stanford University to pursue a journalism-based career. Miyahara said she applied for the scholarship in order to help pay for college and to continue journalism. The scholarship covers $1,000 of her tuition.

She said her greatest accomplishment was being one of the editors-in-chief as well as the sports

editor of the Bull’s Eye in her senior year, along with reporting on topics students would otherwise be oblivious to.

“It was exciting to bring attention to certain aspects of culture or help Diamond Bar High School students become a little bit more educated and aware,” Miyahara said.

Katherine Tran, a recipient of the Air Force ROTC scholarship, applied for it because of her wish to become an officer in the Air Force after college. The scholarship will pay approximately $15,000 of her college tuition.

Tran said her greatest achievement was being a member of the DBHS dance team. As the captain of this years dance team, she took charge of a team that relied on her.

“That was the best part of my high school career,” Tran said. “It taught me how to become a leader later on.”

Additionally, Timothy Yeh won the $2,500 National Merit scholarship. To qualify for a National Merit scholarship, one must be selected by a committee of college admissions and high school counselors.

The group then considers the applicant’s academic achievements, success on standardized tests, leadership skills and a letter of recommendation from a school employee.

Involved in a DBHS math club, Yeh said he was fond of the memories he made while participating in the activity.

“I was [the] Math Team president this past year and I really enjoyed competing in Math Madness with all my friends,” Yeh said via Messenger.

Measles cases spread in state Walnut Valley Unified School District on alert after viral disease hit Southern Calif. last month.

Tiffany Lee Asst. Photo Editor In the most significant outbreak of measles in the United States in over 20 years, over 800 cases in 23 states have been reported since the beginning of the year.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 39 cases in California, including a Placentia resident who traveled to Vietnam, a foreign country that had a measles outbreak. The affected individual attended a viewing of “Avengers: Endgame” in Fullerton.

The Diamond Bar High School Wind Ensemble’s performance at UCLA on April 26 was canceled after a UCLA student contracted the highly contagious disease and was quarantined, along with 119 students and eight staff members.

Many had to be isolated for a week to see if they were vaccinated. The incubation period ended on April 30.

Measles, also called rubeola, is caused by a virus that lives in the nose and throat and spreads through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms associated with measles include a fever of 101 degrees, dry cough, sore throat, runny nose and a rash of red spots.

After being near the virus, people can go up to 21 days not showing any of the symptoms.

Nine out of 10 people who have not received the vaccine will get the measles when they have been to exposed to them, according to the UCLA Newsroom.

After hearing about the UCLA measles outbreak, district nurse Terry Guest said that the Walnut Valley Unified School District was on alert, waiting for warnings or any updates on the measles outbreak from the LA County Health Department.

The mandatory immunization California policy was established in 1950s and will be later updated on July 1, 2019 with the most recent regulation.

It states that anyone attending California schools, including those in WVUSD, must receive the Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine in order to go to school.

This vaccine has two doses, which are administered when individuals are at 12 through 15 months of age and when individuals are four to six.

“The measles vaccine has been proven very safe, and research has shown that it does not cause autism, which was one of the biggest things out there,” Guest said.

“People need to be vaccinated, and I think it is the best way to prevent the outbreak from spreading.”

For more information on measles and how to protect themselves, the LA County Health Department encourages California residents to visit publichealth.lacounty.gov/ media/measles.

CORRECTIONS Last issue, Jacob Panduro’s name was misspelled in the first generation college students photo caption. Julia Ruelas’ name was misspelled in the “Daisy and Peach“ photo caption. Teresa Hebert’s name was misspelled in a photo caption.

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2019

ACROSS

THE WORLD

JOURNALIST FACES DANGER IN MEXICO

Mexican crime reporter Francisco Romero was murdered on May 16, the fifth journalist to be killed this year in one of the deadliest countries for reporters. He was shot in Playa del Carmen near the Caribbean Sea, according to Al Jazeera Media. Prior to his death, he had been under a federal protection plan for journalists, while working at the newspaper Quintana Roo Hoy and operating the Occurio Aqui (It Happened Here) Facebook news page.

U.S. CHINA TRADE WAR INTENSIFIES

After the U.S. announced that it would raise the tariffs on $200 billion worth of imported Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent starting May 10, China said it would increase tariffs on $60 billion worth of American goods starting June 1 in response.

TRASH PILES UP ON TROPICAL BEACHES

At least 260 tons of trash washed up onto the Cocos Keeling Islands beaches, located 1,000 miles northwest of Australia. Around 373,000 toothbrushes and 977,000 shoes were included in the trash, according to University of Tasmania marine biologist Jennifer Lavers.

Photo courtesy of USA TODAY

FRENCH DOCTOR ACCUSED OF KILLING NINE

French anesthesiologist Frederic Pechier is accused of poisoning 24 patients within a decade, nine of whom have died. The accusations began in 2017 when seven of his patients were allegedly poisoned, but the number increased to an additional 17 on May 16. He worked at two private clinics in the eastern French city of Besancon.

CRISIS AFTER CRISIS FOR NORTH KOREA

North Korea revealed that it is suffering its worst drought in 37 years. The news comes after the UN disclosed that an estimated 10 million North Koreans are facing severe food shortages due to a bad harvest. South Korea announced that it will provide $8 million in humanitarian aid.

NEWS

In memory of an ROP teacher DBHS teachers remember former ROP Business instructor after he passed away on April 10.

Renee Elefante News Editor Former Diamond Bar High School ROP Business teacher Daniel Gorden was an easygoing man who loved his music, his children and his wife. He was 38.

According to the GoFundMe page created by his sister, Gorden died of an opioid overdose. The page has raised $4,840.

In addition to his teaching, he was also a professional drummer for around 25 years. He was a member in the school’s staff band, which was created by history teacher Christian Calero in 2010, along with Commercial Music teacher Daryl Hernandez and history teacher Emily Clark.

After he left DBHS in 2016, Gorden joined Dead Man’s Party, a tribute band for American band Oingo Boingo.

Tribute bands play music recorded by the more famous bands that inspired them.

Hernandez first met Gorden in 1998 at Citrus College when they had music class together. Gorden was already in the program learning jazz while Hernandez learned classical guitar, but the two had fundamental music courses together and would see each other in the hallway.

“Danny was an amazing drummer, very talented, very disciplined,” Hernandez said. “He was always easygoing, he was always

very funny. He had gone to Citrus before I did and we met back up when I started working here at Diamond Bar...so it was like time never passed in a sense.”

Clark first met Gorden when the staff band was created. He helped all of the band members during their rehearsals.

“He was the glue that kept us together,” Clark said via email. “At every rehearsal and performance, he was always so encouraging of us and really helped us learn.”

Clark recalled a hip-hop set the bad was working on several years ago.

“I was singing Eminem’s ‘Lose Yourself’ and struggled with getting my timing down. At rehearsal, Mr. Gorden worked with me over and over on the timing of when I came in and really helped me become more confident. He did that with all of us in the band. He was always the consummate professional and so patient and understanding with those of us who were enthusiastic but inexperienced,” Clark said.

ROP Health Sciences teacher and athletic trainer Chase Paulson first met Gorden in 1995 through Gorden’s younger sister and Paulson’s older sister. They reconnected in 2012 when Paulson started working at DBHS. He said his favorite memory with Gorden was when they attended the 2014 Educating for Careers Conference in Sacramento.

There, the two had the opportunity to talk about their lives and their experiences from teaching ROP students.

“He was genuine, had a good sense of direction of what he wanted out of life,” Paulson said via email. “He was kind-hearted.”

Lee reflects on time teaching at DBHS RETIREMENT FROM p. 1 Lee said that the most rewarding aspect of teaching is having the opportunity see her students share Korean culture with others through K-pop, food and more. A fond memory of Lee’s is of her students learning Korean for the first time.

“In Korean I, they [students] do not have any previous knowledge about Korean,” Lee said. “But only after four weeks, they can read and

write and speak all the while understanding Korean culture.”

In her retirement, Lee plans on spending more time to be with her family and spending time alone.

Lee will continue to preside over and teach Korean at Dream Language School.

“I plan to read books that I did not have time to read when [I was] working,” Lee said. “I also plan to volunteer at places that might benefit from my help. Of course, I look forward to relaxing with my fami-

Taking a nosedive in national rankings rankings FROM p. 1 the other aspects of the inspection.

In past years, U.S. News received numerous complaints on the lack of clarity in its labyrinthine filtering process. The U.S. News utilized a new system that aggregates a school’s overall score, or the percentile a school ranked nationally.

There are six elements to gauging a school’s overall score: college readiness, college curriculum breadth, math and reading proficiency, math and reading performance, underserved student performance and graduation rate.

Making up the largest percentage in the weight of the general score, college readiness and curriculum breadth is defined as the the proportion of a school’s seniors who took and passed AP or

IB exams.

Meanwhile, math and reading proficiency relate to the students’ state assessment scores in math and reading, while the math and reading performance is based on the total assessment of scores compared to the predicted demographics, according to the magazine.

Furthermore, underserved student performance pertains to the learning outcomes of students of African American or Latino ethnicity, as well as low-income students.

U.S. News evaluated the performance of these participants along with the performance of the non-underserved students.

Finally, another factor is graduation rate, which is the measure of the portion of students who graduated after receiving four years of education at a school.

ly.”

Above all else, Lee said that she will miss her students, both past and present.

“During [the time] teaching my students at Diamond Bar High School, I had numerous unforgettable and invaluable memories,” Lee said. “I will surely miss everyone at Diamond Bar High School. Most of all, I will miss my students, who demonstrated interest, passion, joy and tenacity in learning Korean language and culture.”

Looking back on her journey in life, Lee hopes she had an impact on her students. During her Korean classes, Lee often imparts Korean proverbs, with sayings like “Well begun is half done” or “The walls have ears,” to help guide students’ choices in life.

“I wish they [students] find a goal in their lives and keep making progress toward their goals. I want them to strive toward the goal so that they won’t live a life of regret,” Lee said.

jamming out

TIFFANY LEE

Class of 2018 alumnus Donovan Klein, left, senior Jackson Otero and Commerical Music teacher Daryl Hernandez played at Brahamapalooza on May 11.

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Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

CATHERINE LIU

s Manager

Former Busines

J

oining journalism wasn’t something that I ever expected to do. Sure, I enjoyed writing short stories in my free time, but the idea of writing stories on actual people scared me. I felt as it there was a chasm between my goals and actually joining journalism.

As a freshman, I had my entire four-year schedule planned out, with each year jammed with six to seven classes and supplemental summer school courses. However, having failed to make the badminton team my freshman year, my dreams suddenly seemed impossible.

Having heard about journalism from my best friend, Cindy, I decided to try it out in my sophomore year. Taking seven classes, I was drowning in my exhaustion.

Sleeping in all my classes, I would only remember bits and pieces of the lectures. Yet, journalism fascinated me with its complexity, and I found myself wide awake for Mr. List’s lessons.

From learning about different time periods to discussing current events, I always found it entertaining to listen to my bald advisor in my class of seven students. However, things took a turn when I entered my first year on the newspaper staff and came face to face with the true difficulties of being on the paper.

From interviewing different people to rushing in stories for deadlines, I found out that writing a single story was no easy feat. However, it was a different feeling from badminton, because unlike the feeling of helplessness in a game, I knew that I was able to secure the win in making a story.

After taking on the position of Business Manager with Cindy, I was determined to make big bucks for our account. From working at the football concession stand to walking in the pouring rain at the Chino Hills Shoppes to find new advertisers, we were unrelenting in our cause. Even up to the day before our end-of-the-year banquet, we were out in front of Albertsons begging for money.

Having received constant support from others, I would like to thank all my friends who’ve made my life more enjoyable with them.

I’m thankful to Erin, who has been the most helpful in my helpless journey in college while chatting on our way to psychology.

Although journalism was stressful, I appreciate Samyuktha who didn’t mind that I would be third-wheeling on trips with Christina to her house as we failed at our food videos. I also appreciate having Queena escort me everyday from English to journalism as we talk about the day and plan hangouts, like watching endgame.

To Nick, he has been the ultimate blessing who would drive us home everyday as we complained about the volume and rant about everything.

Although I will miss the time I’ve spent with my teachers and friends, I’m ready to move on to the next chapter of my life.

4

OPINION

THE BULL'S EYE

EYE EDITORS OF THE

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

I

TED YARMOSK Former Opinion

W

Editor

hen I stepped into the journalism room for the first time, I was still stuck deep in my shell. I was intimidated by the upperclassmen who seemed to fit right into the team, laughing and joking around yet efficient and productive at the same time. That level of comfort, with staff designing pages while simultaneously playing obnoxious songs to annoy their friends, seemed unattainable to me.

However, as I started to become more integrated into the activities and duties that were part of being on the team, I made an effort to follow their example.

Along with the communication that was necessary to conduct interviews and report on stories, I tried to socialize at every opportunity with other staff members.

Tired of holding it back like I had in the past, I revealed my strange sense of humor and was relieved to find that they actually enjoyed it.

One of the best parts of oom 563 is that it’s one of the most politically aware zones on campus.

Everyone seems to know exactly what is going on, both locally and nationally. I have overheard or participated in discussions about everything from city policies to Trump’s ideologies.

Caught up in the fervor of it all, I formed my daily habits of reading the news and staying up to date on politics. With this knowledge, I was able to express my thoughts on various political issues in my opinion pieces as well as actually understand what’s going on in the world and in political conversations or debates.

However, the political aspect of the room also shaped me in another way. With so many different viewpoints all with the means to be expressed, there were definitely debates and conflicting opinions thrown out into casual discussions.

There were countless times when I had to completely reconsider my thoughts because of something one of my fellow editors said. As a result, my ideas began to shift and mature. I found that I was open to new perspectives and able to accept the fact that I am not always right (pun intended).

Room 563 at Diamond Bar High School is paradoxical to me. In one sense, the journalism room has remained my source of constancy and consistency throughout high school, the one place I can always fall back upon. However, my source of consistency was also my source of change. Of course, I developed my work and writing skills significantly through the newspaper, but that room has molded my character in meaningful ways that I will proudly carry on into the future.

Thank you to Mr. List and every single Bull’s Eye staff member that has blessed me with their presence. And good luck to next year’s staff!

Sincerely, Ted

MAY 22, 2019

OPINION: The school should provide proper locker room facilities for students in P.E. if it insists on having a swimming unit.

T

hough swimming classes are obsolete at most high schools, Diamond Bar High School freshmen who take P.E. are required to complete the unit.

Swimming for P.E. sounds fun in theory, but it is pointless because it doesn’t properly teach inexperienced students how to swim.

P.E. teachers are responsible for overseeing around 30-40 students all at different skill levels in the water. Once the students are separated into groups based on swimming skills, it’s hard to get students who are inexperienced to be comfortable in the water and to improve the skills of experienced students.

For students who can swim, they are required to swim laps during the time spent in the pool.

Although it is good exercise, only a few students can really benefit from this, making the others feel like it is a waste of time.

The major component lacking from this unit is an actual swim instructor who can make sure that class time is being spent properly.

Not knowing how to swim at school after spending weeks in the pool is another reason why students feel frustrated. But the struggle to maneuver through the locker room and its strict rules is an even greater issue for students.

Many who take P.E. first period are forced to jump into the pool after spending an hour getting ready for school in the morning. What makes this worse is that students cannot thoroughly shower in the locker rooms after swimming. Although there is a row of showerheads in the locker room, students are only allowed a few seconds to rinse off in the outdoor showers next to the pool.

Even outside of the swimming portion of the class, students aren’t

allowed to shower after sweating in P.E. The shower facilities are off limits, and students resort to washing their faces in the bathrooms.

Not being allowed to wash off after any physical activity also affects others, as students exude body odor after a physical workout.

At one time, the school offered the option to shower after P.E. and sports competitions, but it got rid of that privilege after students didn’t take advantage of the option.

However, this was the case several years ago; providing students with the option to shower is crucial.

Another problem with the swimming unit is dressing and undressing in the locker room. During adolescence, many teens are may deal with self-esteem issues. Having to fully undress from head to toe to put on swim gear can be an uncomfortable experience for some.

These students turn to changing in

the bathroom but are kicked out by the locker room staffers, because the stalls are restricted to students using the toilet.

By the end of the unit, students who know how to swim spend their time doing laps, and students who don’t know how to swim leave unable to swim or even float on their backs. After all the hassle that the students go through during the unit, it is unfortunate that this is all that is gained.

Although knowing how to swim is an important part of life, teens should be responsible for learning how to in their own time. If the school insists on continuing the swimming portion of P.E., they should at least provide proper facilities, like showers, more swim instructors and places where students can change without feeling self-conscious. Then maybe the swimming unit would be worth it.

Having to go to your next class wet and with chlorine in your hair is something I don’t like about it.

Teachers have to distribute their times with the groups, so you’re not really getting that much attention.

JOSEPH CHOI (11)

KAYLA TENG (11)

From the Brahma Perspective

A big issue was that people couldn’t get changed and get prepared in enough time.

AKILAN ARUNACHALUM (11)

Yes, we need to use the showers because chlorine’s in your hair and your scalp gets all nasty.

SAVANNAH MORENO (9)

Minority vote

Undefined by likes

I

Cartoon courtesy of SARAH SEIF

Camille mccurry CONtrIBUTING writer

n a society where technology dictates how we communicate with one another, social media platforms like Instagram are essential parts of every teenager’s life. However, the way they track popularity has bred unhealthy competition among young, impressionable minds—comparing their followers and likes, primarily.

In an effort to shift focus toward content itself, Instagram is testing an update that hides like counts on its users’ posts, a change that will largely improve the platform.

Although the reception to this change has generally been positive, a group of people who are against the change still exists. The most prominent complaint comes from those using the site for business.

Influencers and models depend, in part, on like and view counts to get paid and sponsorships. Without them, owners believe that their business models will be ruined.

However, this is an exaggeration of the truth. Users can still view their own like counts, which they can share with potential advertisers. Additionally, follower counts will still be displayed on users’ accounts, so businesses and their customers can still determine influencers’ popularity. These changes allow businesses and models statistics to work with so that they know their posts’ reach.

The reason for this change, the mental health issues some users face, has been justified by many studies. One of these is a 2016 study oncluding that social media use “may facilitate and contribute to symptoms of mental illnesses.”

The head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, explained that removing like counts is intended to decrease competition on the site and allow users to focus on content. Though this is a step in the right direction, many mental health problems users face have more to do with feelings of being left out than with competition.

There is nothing Instagram can do to change this, as it is the nature of their platform, so their current changes are the best solution to this widespread problem.

There are other possible effects of the change, some of which reach beyond mental health and into the realm of mindfulness. The update will promote independent thought—it is human nature to want to agree with the majority, so by hiding like counts, users will be more free to create their own opinions on the content they see. This increase in thought makes using the app a more engaging experience in contrast to the mindless scrolling of many users.

People may also comment on their friends’ posts more often because likes are less relevant with this feature. Commenting encourages a sense of community among users who will connect on something more than a little heart icon.

Despite the naysayers, Instagram’s platform update responds aptly to support the wellbeing of its users. Although a change so large is unprecedented on social media, it may be the change our generation needs, whether we realize it now or not.

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2019

OPINION

LETTER EDITORS A need for mental health awareness T TO THE

he news lately has been abuzz with the cheating scandals involving applications for college entrance as well as those regarding SAT testing. Diamond Bar High School’s Bull’s Eye newspaper recently published an investigative piece, “Offering Tests Under the Veil of Guidance.” This article exposes a cheating scandal within our own community: tutoring centers knowingly providing students with advance copies of tests for classes at DBHS. As a local tutoring center that has been mentoring students over the past 25 years, we at Keystone Education want to make it perfectly clear that tutoring, when approached properly, does not equate with cheating.

Certainly, we are often confronted with questions from anxious parents and nervous students about how to achieve a strong GPA and score high on the SAT. And the advertising from other test prep companies often promotes shortcuts and test-taking “tricks” as quick solutions. There is no such thing.

Learning, acquiring knowledge, constructing an edifice within the architecture of your brain – edification – is hard work. It takes time, focus, and concentrated effort. At Keystone Education, this has always been our guiding philosophy.

Our mission has always been to assist students in reaching their educational goals, not by any means necessary, but by painstakingly

helping them build strong foundations in English and math so that they are fully prepared for the challenges they will face in high school and beyond. Our students come to realize that the process of truly learning a subject cannot be replaced by last minute cramming.

Or cheating.

Unfortunately, in competitive school districts such as ours, the pressure to cheat is especially intense. As educators, we have a responsibility to guide both parents and students toward the proper path.

We must continue to stress the importance of actual learning.

Those who cheat may never get caught, but they will be left unprepared for the rigors of college-level academics. Likewise, top careers require solid skills for advancement and success. As part of our counseling program, we challenge students to understand that they are learning for their futures, not just to ace a test or pass a class.

We are proud of the Diamond Bar High School students who have exhibited the courage to stand for what is right. They are the role models who give us hope for the future of our youth. Our world today faces many challenges, but we must always denounce dishonesty and encourage others to do the same. Unethical shortcuts are not an option.

Diane Sartor Director, Keystone Education

BE HEARD Submit your opinion about issues discussed in the Bull’s Eye for a chance to have your content published in the paper.

T

CONNOR CHO staff writer

he Netflix show “13 Reasons Why” quickly became popular after its debut in 2017 with its focus on suicide. In the month after it began airing, suicide rates for boys increased.

Although people may be quick to criticize the show for romanticizing suicide, the problem does not lie in the show itself, but with the overall mental health issues among teens across the country. Based on a 2007 book written by Jay Asher, the show tells the story of a teenage girl, Hannah Baker, who takes her own life, leaving behind 13 messages for other students she holds responsible for her death.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide rates among boys between the ages of 10 and 17 rose by 28.9 percent in April 2017, a month after the show was first released.

Although there is no evidence that the show inspired the increase in suicides, “13 Reasons Why” makes many viewers vulnerable to the idea of suicide. It portrays the false idea that the victim’s suicide is the only way to bring awareness to the victim’s problems.

However, instead of making changes to the show, steps should be taken to prevent suicide by increasing mental health awareness and advocating mental health resources in schools and at home.

According to the CDC, suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people. The National In-

Warning: spoilers ahead

W

Josh kim A&E Editor

ith the release of the highly anticipated conclusion of the “Avengers” series, I have officially assumed the position of movie enlightener. No, I don’t spoil movies for people—I warn them instead.

To those with high blood pressure, previous instances of heart attacks and, in general, a strong emotional connection with movie characters, thank me later. It may seem like I am merely informing people about the most important scenes in a movie, but I’m slowly easing them into the jaw-dropping ending so that they aren’t as shocked as I was when I first experienced it.

Whenever the latest movie comes out, I rush to the movie theater to make sure I watch it as soon as possible so I can warn unwary moviegoers about surprising scenes. As I buy my ticket online, I can’t help but think of all the loving and thankful gazes I will get when I tell people about the movie’s most distressing and game-changing scenes.

I don’t mind having to pay the

online convenience fee to get the earliest showtimes. I consider it my duty as the informant to make small sacrifices—convenience fees and possible heart attacks included.

Take “Avengers: Endgame,” for example. Arriving an hour prior to the showing, I made sure to bring my notebook and pen to take note of every single minute detail of the movie, just in case I would forget.

With people’s health on the line, there is no reason for me to take it easy in my duties.

To stay on top of things following the film (after I almost suffered a mild heart attack, mind you), I immediately jumped on all of my social media and let people know how amazing the experience was.

Making my posts as detailed as possible on the ending of the movie, I delighted at the thought of how appreciative everyone would be of me.

However, to my confusion, when I went to school the next day, nobody wanted to talk to me. Then, I realized that it must have been

stitute of Mental Health reports that many teens who attempt or think about suicide have some type of mental health disorder, such as depression. Among all Americans, 20 to 25 percent are affected by this mental health disorder. Suicide attempts among teenagers are often connected to feelings of stress from academic pressure and self-doubt, according to studies.

From the perspective of a student who attends an academically competitive school, I often see teenagers who feel intimidated by an overwhelming amount of work from classes, which can create stress. It’s unfair that some decide not to live out the rest of their lives because of a mental health issue.

Kaiser Permanente recommends that the first step to helping people is by recognizing any noticeable signs. Many teens who do think about suicide often make openly suicidal statements. People often don’t take these statements seriously, but the statements should be taken into consideration as they can be an obvious cry for help.

Most teenagers with suicidal thoughts also want somebody to talk to, according to Kaiser Permanente. Listening to the teens and being understanding will make it easier to recognize their problems and create opportunities to offer a safe solution. Providing help can also make a significant difference in their lives and even save them from making the wrong decision.

Help is also provided at the Wellness Center program in Diamond Bar High School for students that want to talk about their problems.

Although “13 Reasons Why” glorifies the idea of suicide, it is not at fault for the rising suicide rates because the show only reflected on what was happening and the suicide rates for teens had already been rising before the show.

To combat mental health issues among teens, society should be more attentive to the tell-tale signs.

SHOCKINGLY SATIRICAL because they were in awe of how the movie concluded. I’m sure that deep down, my fellow students appreciated my brief and concise summary of the movie.

Afterall, it’s the same concept as going on SparkNotes to find a short synopsis of assigned reading books.

As I patted myself on the back for doing such an amazing job, I checked the internet for new and upcoming movies to inform others about. There aren’t any off days for me.

Cartoon courtesy of JAMES WU

5

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

ERIN LI nion Editor

Former Asst. Opi

T

o the person I doubted, hated and torn down the most during my high school career—myself: Erin, I know these past four years haven’t been easy. And last April somehow managed to be the worst month of your life. Also, spoiler alert, you will graduate with many regrets, one being not joining the Bull’s Eye sooner.

Freshman year was a blur—full of mistakes and confusion. You learned that high school is nothing like middle school; you went from straight A’s to doing math homework for two hours every day but still fail all the quizzes.

Sophomore year, however, surpassed freshman year in terms of misery. You made the most mistakes during this year and truly hit rock bottom. But what people say about hitting bottom is true: the only way left to go is up. You will later finally quit something you no longer loved and took a chance on journalism instead. That was the first decision in the right direction.

During the summer before junior year, you reinvented yourself.

You finally decided on what major to pursue in college and explored colleges and internships to apply for. When junior year started, you quit the clubs you no longer cared for and joined new ones.

Then came senior year. Still managing to survive with barely any self-esteem, you applied to more safety schools than reach and reasonable college options combined. And because all your safety schools were early admission, all your acceptances rolled in at once, followed by only rejections and wait lists. You even managed to get two full-ride offers. Not because you’re smart, but because you allowed your withering self-esteem to chose the easiest schools to get in.

So you got rejected from your dream school. Hell, you got rejected and wait-listed from your top five options. But you will later settle on a university you barely considered throughout the year, and after visiting, you will learn to love everything that school has to offer.

One of the most important things I’ve learned from DBHS is that you can’t rush the process of becoming better. Mistakes are inevitable, insecurities can be overcome, and doubts can be conquered.

To my friends, especially Salina, thank you for believing in all these years despite my countless failures. To my classmates, I have finally come to terms that I don’t need to score higher than all of you in order to be successful. To Mrs. Thomas, thank you for taking a chance on me even though I gave the worst audition for Mock Trial that you have probably ever seen.

To the Bull’s Eye, thank you for accepting me and all my flaws. To Mr. List, thank you for teaching me to be less ignorant and for showing me that journalism is so much more than the typical twisted, unethical reporter that Hollywood loves to portray so much.

And lastly, to you, Erin, I forgive you.

6

FEATURE

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

CINDY LIU Former Feature

D

MAY 22, 2019

THE BULL'S EYE

Editor

espite having spent four years wandering the hallways of Diamond Bar High School, I only know one room number by heart. It’s a room whose nooks and crannies have documented the highs and lows of my high school career and the memories that I will carry to college.

The world of journalism I found inside room 563 as a member of the Bull’s Eye has cemented a place in my heart and played a critical role in shaping my perspective. Yet, while my time on the Bull’s Eye has become the highlight of my high school life, it almost didn’t happen.

Four years ago, as I sat in my GLC’s office finalizing my schedule for my freshman year, I almost decided to take orchestra instead of journalism. Orchestra had seemed like the obvious choice: I would be continuing the music path I had been on since childhood.

Yet, a last-minute change of mind led to me to embark on a rollercoaster ride that would catapult me out of my comfort zone and shake up the lenses through which I viewed life. Little did I know, this unexpected change of events was only the first of many to come.

Before I entered high school, I had a mindset that essentially worked for me all my life. If I put in a certain amount of work, my effort would inevitably lead to my desired result. As I took challenging classes and struggled to stay afloat of everything, I learned the hard way that effort doesn’t always come with results. I was further forced to come to terms with this as I dealt with my disappointment with not placing at my first writeoffs competition, not being chosen as an assistant editor for the Bull’s Eye my first year on the staff and later not being chosen for my topchoice section despite doubling my efforts.

However, I improved my writing as a staff writer, became the Feature editor after three years of moving around different sections of the Bull’s Eye and even managed to win first place at write-offs.

My shyness, which usually resulted in me becoming invisible in my classes and being too anxious to talk to others, was also forced to take a side seat. In my newfound role as a journalist, I tracked down teachers for interviews, approached random students during lunch for quotes about their life and even begged strangers for donations outside of Albertsons for a fundraiser.

As I prepare to wrap up my high school journey and spend my last days in room 563, I look back on the memories I made there—the frantic brainstorm sessions to solve last-minute layout crises, the people I formed close bonds with and the lunches I shared with friends— and I will be forever grateful to the people who made them possible.

To most, this dingy room with broken air conditioning and tempermental computers may not seem like much. But to me, it’s the place where I discovered a passion and a home during my high school years.

future scientist shoots for the stars ANIKA YATAWARA Asst. NEWS EDITOR Through building a self-driving car and designing a new type of facial recognition, senior Devany Du has found her calling in physics; in fact, she is headed for MIT, where she will major in that field.

Du found her way into the world of physics through neuroscience.

In the summer of her sophomore year, the alumna attended a guided research camp at Carleton College.

The camp offered courses in neuroscience and astrophysics.

“I came back for physics and it was really like finding true love,” Du said.

Following her newfound passion

Photo courtesy of DEVANY DU

Du poses with the self-driving car she built at physics camp her junior year.

for physics, Du attended a physics camp at MIT through a connection with one of her friends in the summer of her junior year. After submitting her application and passing a small entrance exam, Du was accepted into the camp. In this camp, Du was given the opportunity to build her own self-driving car.

The senior said she could make the car identify and respond to stop signs, hiked signs, curves and straight roads.

After learning how to use facial recognition code in a camp hosted

by Tsinghua XLab, Du entered into a competition in which she utilized her newfound abilities to identify lost children, a major issue in China.

For the competition, Du said she made her own product design, a wrist band, and was successful in making the code and building a cost efficient design.

This earned her first place in the competition.

Her design was proven to be effective in an experiment when a child and their guardian each were wearing the wristband. When the child attempted to leave the building without their guardian or was farther than 15 meters from them, both their wristbands would start buzzing. Du said she tried to build the wristband so that it was successful in multiple scenarios.

In another tested scenario, a kidnapper attempted to take a child.

Photos courtesy of DEVANY DU

Senior Devany Du, third from the left, poses with her classmates as they showcase their moon-landing device that they created at a satellite camp in China.

Once the child reached the main entrance, an alarm went go off, making it clear to other customers that the child was being kidnapped.

If the kidnapper tries to take off a child’s wristband, the electromagnetic lock within it triggers another alarm once it is broken.

The only way a child could leave a building without setting off an alarm requires a scan of their guardians’ face ensuring the child is safe.

Du also attended a satellite camp for the China Academy of Space Technology, a Chinese space agen-

Counting on the abacus CONNOR CHO STAFF WRITER Students typically use a calculator to perform math calculations, but the Abacus Club at Diamond Bar High School are hoping to bring back the traditional method of using the abacus instead.

Led by junior president Alec Chung and senior vice president Andy Tseng, the club was established in February.

Chung is a part of a nonprofit organization known as the United Abacus Arithmetic Association.

It is a volunteer program that focuses on teaching children how to use the abacus and how to improve their mental math in general. Chung typically spends around three to four hours every Saturday there.

Senior volunteer coordinator Justin Hsu is also president of the United Abacus Arithmetic Youth Association, a specific division for the youth that was established by the UAAA. Despite the fact that the abacus is an unpopular tool to use for calculations, Chung said he believes that it benefits students by helping them build their mental math capabilities.

“Abacus helps you because it gives that image in your mind and it will help you in mental math,”

Chung said. “It will be especially useful for the non-calculator portion of the SAT test.”

The UAAA has held hundreds of events since 1996 and provided many volunteer opportunities for their members.

Their most recent event was the 2019 UAAA International Global Cup Abacus and Mental Arithmetic Championship held in January, which had hundreds of contestants from different countries competing in abacus and mental math.

Besides from hosting competitions in different countries, the UAAA also organizes assessment tests for the Abacus Club.

A few members from the club volunteered to take an assessment test to complete their level of abacus and mental math capabilities and receive a certificate. Other students, ranging from kindergarteners to high schoolers, visited Diamond Bar High School on May 8 to take this test as well. According to Chung, students that are interested in pursuing a business career are recommended to join the Abacus Club because they will be able to continue their interests by sharpening their skills with the tool.

“I do want to go into a business major, specifically entrepreneurship or finance,” Chung shared.

“Finance deals with a lot of numbers, and I feel that I’m really good with that because of the abacus.”

TIFFANY LEE

Junior Alec Chung volunteers with the United Abacus Arithmetic Association.

cy and the main spacecraft development and production facility in the country.

Du said the camp taught her how to use SystemsToolKit, a software that aided her in measuring the trajectory needed for her moon-landing satellite. The software also revealed more about the job of a NASA scientist to Du, furthering her interest in physics and the path to becoming a scientist.

Despite all her accomplishments, Du feels lucky to have been accepted into MIT. “I think a lot of qualified people

“On a group project, someone did not finish their slides the day before the presentation, and I was able to remain optimistic by finishing their work with the other team members.”

- Summer Wang (11th)

“When I was in Chaparral Middle School, my parents told me we had to move to Arizona. I was actually really excited at first, but I was diagnosed with depression there because I couldn’t relate to the other kids there...”

-Christian Vargas (10th) (10th)

“High school relationships don’t last because of college. It’s hard to stay connected and communicate with your partner when you’re miles apart.”

- Jean Kal (11th)

HUMANS OF DBHS

FEATURE

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2019

The stage becomes Yi’s office CHRISTINA LIU Contributing writer As the lights dimmed on the stage of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” Joy Yi raised her bow to her viola.

Slowly, the curtains swept open amidst a shower of applause to reveal the band Bastille surrounded by musicians as it performed the first bars of the hit song “Flaws.”

Seven years after playing in Diamond Bar High School’s Symphony orchestra, Yi works as a freelance musician. Aided by social media and word of mouth, Yi makes a living conducting private music lessons, performing at recording sessions and playing with orchestras and for weddings.

“I think performing is easier than teaching because I just bring my viola or violin and just play,” Yi said. “When I coach at DBHS, I have one goal, and it’s to make the orchestra sound better, so it’s a lot repetitive work and breaking things down.”

With experience on the violin and viola, Yi often receives opportunities to perform with different artists.

Along with her “Ellen” appearance, Yi has performed at the MTV Music Awards with Sam Smith, played on Deadmau5’s “Where’s the Drop” album, recorded an unreleased song for Chance the Rapper and collaborated with many other pop stars.

“I always loved rap since I was 9 years old, so when I got to record with Chance the Rapper I was so happy,” Yi said.

Yi played the violin in the DBHS symphony orchestra for four years, working her way up to first chair concertmaster her senior year.

“Mr. Acciani is the reason why I ended up pursuing music in college because he believed in me and encouraged me through my doubts,” Yi said. “If it wasn’t for Mr. A, I would probably be living at home with my parents and still figuring my career choices.”

Yi attended Cal State Long Beach for two years before transferring to California Institute of the Arts, both with a full ride scholarship for playing the violin.

During college, Yi began working full time, teaching and doing freelance jobs since her family couldn’t support her living expenses.

At CSULB, she learned more about orchestral playing, which has helped her know what to expect when playing orchestra gigs.

On the other hand, CalArts focused more on contemporary pieces and pop music.

It was during her time at CSULB that Yi’s friend introduced her to the viola and she has continued playing it ever since then.

“It just has a deeper sound to it, which I think goes with my personality and even my regular voice,” Yi said.

Additionally, her experience helping coach the viola section at DBHS about once a month often reminds Yi of when she used to lead sectionals as a student.

“I wanted to coach at DBHS because I wanted to give back to the community that helped me find myself,” Yi said. “I hope that I can help the students feel great about music and who they are as a person.”

Although it is exciting for her to work with well-known artists, Yi said she struggles with working unpredictable hours, as there are days when she returns home in

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Take Magazine

Drive-in Theaters This event may seem a little outdated, but it remains as enjoyable as any other outing. Few remain in Southern California, but two are within a close drive from Diamond Bar. Mission Tiki Drive-in Theatre is located in Montclair and has an admission price of $9, while the Vineland Drive-in Theater is located in Industry. General admission is $10. Enjoy the latest movies outdoors while sitting inside your car or in lawn chairs beside the car. The audio can be connected to the bluetooth of cars, allowing for a more personal experience. People tend to bring their own snacks and blankets, creating a homey atmosphere.

Shopping in this way is becoming exceedingly popular with students who are looking to buy new outfits that are trendy yet budget-friendly. Goodwill is a popular location that many thrifters begin at.

The store takes donations and sells used items for far less than their original price.

Clothes are sold at an average of $5. Goodwill also auctions clothes online to their customers.

Another popular outlet for used clothes is Sunday’s Best Thrift Apparel, located in East Los Angeles. It is known for having clothes that are vintage.

The store also has a cat, many reviews say that the service is very good. Here, most of the clothes are on a slightly pricier scale of $15-20 due to the better quality of the materials.

Thrift shops Pinterest

Senior

the afternoon and days when she returns at midnight. Despite this, Yi has expressed her satisfaction working as a freelance musician.

“The thing I love the most about my career is I get to make people happy. Music brings a lot of memories to people and also holds a lot of tradition and history,” Yi said.

“I think the only difference from my job [to other jobs] is the crazy hours and all the driving I have to do.”

HEZ

KRISTEN SANC Former Feature

I

Photo courtesy of JOY YI

Alumna Joy Yi ,third from left, has performed with multiple stars such as Sam Smith and Bastille, and also on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.”

Summer elicits memories of endless days spent enjoying the sunshine and relaxing with friends, but in reality the majority of vacation is spent lying in bed, finishing summer homework and being attached to cell phones. Yet, even the simplest of things can be fun and exciting, especially when hanging out with the right crowd.

ABIGAIL HONG ASST. PHOTO EDITOR

Wikipedia

Hiking trails This activity allows one to meet up with their friends and get some exercise at the same time. Located in Diamond Bar, the Summitridge Trail is popular among locals due to its scenery and easy hiking.

Many do not realize that it is actually three trails combined into one. Parking is free, and the hiking trail has no cost.

The trail can start and end in the Diamond Bar Community Center.

Another popular hiking trail is the Claremont Wilderness Trail, which a fivemile hike located in Claremont. Like the Summitridge Trail, there is no cost to hike here, but the parking gets packed very quickly. The trail is a loop and contains a gazebo at the top.

7

Going to the beach is an essential activity during the summer season. The oceanside is the perfect location for bonfires and biking routes. Santa Monica Beach is very popular for its pier, which contains an amusement park and an aquarium.

The amusement park offers games and rides that are priced individually at $5-10, while admission to the aquarium is only $5.

Abalone Cove Ecological Preserve is another great beach to visit.

There are many tide pools to enjoy and places to hike while soaking in the sea. However, it is a longer drive since the preserve is located in Rancho Palos Verdes. The cost of parking depends on how long one stays, but it is a flat rate of $12 after staying there for two hours.

Beaches and piers

Loews Hotel

Asst.

think what got me through these past four years was my perpetual fear of hitting my peak in high school. You see, nothing seemed more tragic to me than when people told me that high school were the best years of their lives.

Nothing more dreadful than the thought of returning to school post graduation to relish in yet another football game or visiting teachers who wouldn’t remember my name.

Now don’t get me wrong, I have countless fond memories of high school and I’m confident I spent my time here appreciatively. But I don’t care what anyone says, I couldn’t be happier to leave.

Seriously, could not be happier.

The one thing, however that does hold me back from an entirely cheery goodbye of Diamond Bar High school is of course the thing that didn’t feel like a traditional high school experience at all--being part of the newspaper. My year spent on The Bull’s Eye allowed me to scratch the surface of what it really means to think for myself.

Thinking outside of the curated Diamond Bar bubble that is easy to feel trapped in.

Mr. List always likes to poke fun of how gullible we all are, believing any ridiculous thing he tells us.

Watching our jaws drop as he would say something stupid off the top of his head in conversation. It’s like he was testing us, proving his point that we will believe anything that any sort of authoritative figure tells us--and why shouldn’t we? That’s how we have been conditioned in school.

Before this year, I always did prefer to live in a sort of denial.

Going with the flow and never really questioning anything. Many do this and rightfully so as it is not particularly cool to care about anything that isn’t included on Twitter’s trending tags.

Many are under the impression that they are thinking for themselves even though in reality they are simply regurgitating popular views and taking things as they are. Whether it was conscious of him or not, Mr. List was always teaching us not to think so absentmindedly.

In addition to learning how to stretch my curiosity, I also learned that ignorance is infact, not bliss.

Suddenly, after unknowingly surrounding myself with the funniest, most intelligent and socially aware people I’ve met, I too wished to go against the grain and equip myself to stand strongly behind the truths I believe.

I wish I could express to people why I don’t care that I spent my time on a newspaper that so many students deem worthless and I wish I could express to people exactly why it isn’t worthless but those are conclusions they have to come to for themselves.

Primarily, I’ll always wish I got to enjoy The Bull’s Eye for just a little while longer. However, I know that everything happens for a reason and I don’t think I could have appreciate journalsim the same in any other set of circumstances.

8 FEATURE

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2018

Healthy 2019 Food Trends Story by: Josh Chou

Design by: Kate Zheng

Pinterest

Smoothie bowl What is commonly referred to as healthy eating has drastically changed in the past few decades. From lemon juicemaple syrup cleanses to fat free diets, people have tried a wide variety of trendy approaches to health. In the past months, a select few foods have risen in popularity for their aesthetics, social media presence and nutritional value.

Convenient, colorful and tasty, this dish stands out for its versatility. These bowls start with a smoothie base, with possible ingredients ranging from leafy greens to dark chocolate. To finish, add toppings for flavor, color and crunch.

Consider granola, pumpkin seeds or coconut flakes as delicious additions to this dish.

Smoothie bowls make ideal breakfasts or snack items. Swap out your usual cereal and milk for this healthier option. All one needs to begin are a blender and an open mind.

Pinterest and Simairel

Avocado toast

Pancakes

The origins of this dish can be traced back to the Los Angeles cafe, Sqirl, in 2011. Since then, the avocado toast has gained popularity through social media and become as infamous as pumpkin spice lattes. As the name suggests, the dish is comprised of sliced or smashed avocados on top of toasted bread. The toast is usually topped with tomatoes, flaky salt or an egg, fried or poached.

Avocados are packed with potassium, fiber and healthy fats. Adding them to the toast creates a unique, delicious lunch or afternoon snack.

Although this dish makes an iconic breakfast, pancakes are not usually touted as a health food. However, the nostalgic taste does not have to be sacrificed to make this stacked meal more nutritious. One alternative for a healthier batter includes adding grated carrots, which also brings a sweeter flavor to the dish. Seeds such as flax or poppy also increase protein intake without altering the flavor. Swap out eggs with chia seeds (pre-soaked in water) to reduce cholesterol intake.

There are endless ways to indulge in this childhood favorite.

Pinterest and Etsy

Ice cream

Plant milks

An excess of dairy is unnecessary to get the same nostalgic creamy texture and taste of an ice cream pint. New plant-based ice creams meet and surpass these standards.

Made using healthy ingredients like coconut cream, nut milk, bananas or even avocados, nondairy ice creams are now widely available in local grocery stores.

The variety of different bases provide both new and classic ice cream flavors. With a broad spectrum of flavors to choose from, finding one’s personal favorite is a simple task.

Popularized online by social influencers such as Emma Chamberlain, nut milks remain a staple in healthy diets.

Compared to standard milk, nut milks have less calories and are a great substitute for the lactoseintolerant community. These alternatives can be found in any grocery store. Walnut, cashew, hazelnut, peanut, almond and macadamia milks can all be easily found in the dairy aisle.

The next time you make or order coffee, try using a plant milk.

Swap regular milk with plantbased ones in almost all your cooking and baking adventures.

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Doodlewash and 123RF.com

Pinterest and Vectorstock

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

9

Boys to remember

Story by: Josh Chou Design by: Maggie Liu

Love them or hate them, boy bands have been a powerful cultural force for decades.

Although their songs may be initially marketed toward young women, boy bands continue to find dedicated fans among people of all ages and genders internationally.

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MOTOWN

Hailing from Philadelphia, this R&B quartet is comprised of tenors Shawn Stockman and Wanya Morris, baritone Nathan Morris and bass Michael McCary. The group’s popularity skyrocketed internationally in the 1990s thanks to its singles, "Motownphilly" and "It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday." These songs were soon followed by “End of the Road” in 1991, which stayed on top of the Billboard Hot 100 list for 13 weeks, breaking the previous record held by Elvis Presley. Their record was broken four years later by their collaboration with Mariah Carey, “One Sweet Day,” which was on top of the charts for 16 weeks. It is currently tied with “Despacito” for the longest reigning single hit. Boyz II Men continues to tour today, drawing audiences from around the world.

Most famously remembered for their hit single, “I Want it That Way,” Backstreet Boys remain a music icon even today. Their success began in 1996 with “Backstreet Boys,” the group’s debut album. The next year they dropped their second album, “Backstreet’s Back.” Both were extremely popular and helped Backstreet Boys garner a worldwide audience. Over the next 20 years, they consistently released critically acclaimed albums. The band’s latest record, “DNA,” dropped in January 2019 and peaked in tahe U.S. charts. Singles like, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart,” helped them become the first boy band to top charts in three different decades. With over 130 million albums sold worldwide, they are the most successful boy band in history.

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NSYNC 2000s

Ironically, rejection from the Backstreet Boys led Chris Kirkpatrick to form his own boy band. Kirkpatrick gathered a group of male singers and in 1996, NSYNC emerged from Orlando. The band soon released its self-titled debut LP, where songs like “I Want You Back” and “Tearing Up My Heart” made them overnight successes in Europe and later on, in America. With the release of their album “No Strings Attached,” NSYNC reached its peak. Over one million copies were sold on the first day, and its three singles ranked among America’s Top Five: “Bye Bye Bye,” “It’s Gonna Be Me” and “This I Promise You.” “No Strings Attached” was the most popular album of 2000, selling almost 10 million copies.

However, the band broke up in 2002 after Justin Timberlake and Jason Chasez both left to pursue their solo careers.

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A South Korean-Chinese group from Seoul, EXO debuted in 2012 with its EP, ”Mama.” It was soon followed by the group's first album, “XOXO,” which contained the hit single “Growl.” It sold over 6.1 million copies, making EXO the most successful Korean group in twelve years, an honor previously held

by H.O.T. In 2014, Forbes Korea Power Celebrity ranked them as the most influential in the celebrity category. Since then, the band has continued to be an international sensation and played a major role in the mid 2010s K-pop explosion.

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10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

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AMY MIYAHAR

-Chief

Former Editor-in

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hroughout high school, I always felt like a contradiction— by that, I mean that who I aspired to be was the opposite of who I really was. I wanted to be productive, but the hours I spent procrastinating on my phone continued to rise. I wanted to be healthy, but spent more time eating ice cream than working out.

I wanted to be socially aware and kind, but constantly found myself trapped in my selfish bubble of first-world problems. I wanted to be outgoing and outspoken, but was often too deep in self doubt to openly express how I felt.

Though I am still inherently insecure and largely inferior to the person I want to be, more so than anything else, journalism helped me bridge the gap between the ideal version of myself and the actual one. There’s no doubt that journalism has made me into a better version of myself: one that is more cultured, caring and confident.

Before taking journalism, I had close to no awareness of anything that didn’t directly impact me. I remember one of my first weeks of Journalism 1, we were discussing the upcoming 2016 presidential election, and my peers started making jokes about a man named Donald Trump. I pretended to laugh along, but secretly, I had no idea who they were talking about.

That quickly changed, as did my apathy toward the broader world.

Through current events quizzes and editorial assignments, I gained the capacity to formulate educated opinions. Joining staff gave me the platform to share these opinions: I had the chance to write about everything from gun violence and affirmative action, to my first school dance experience and my dislike for “The Greatest Showman” (“La La Land” is better, don’t @ me).

Within the walls of Room 563 I felt as if I had found my niche as an English nerd in the Diamond Bar ocean of prospective doctors and engineers. Seeing my names in the bylines of the paper was empowering and addictive. I was used to trying to blend into the crowd, so to suddenly have people reading and commenting on my writing made me feel like I finally had something that made me unique. It was a small step toward becoming the bold kind of person that I’d always admired, but never embodied.

As graduation approaches, I’m faced with another internal contradiction: I’m both entirely ready to graduate and wholeheartedly convinced that I don’t want to leave.

I can’t wait to leave four straight years of waking up for zero period in the past, but I’m also sad to leave behind memories of late-night New York outings with orchestra, single-point senior night victories and deadline night runs to Ten Ren’s.

Most of all, I’ll miss the relationships that I’ve fostered: the teammates and stand partners I’ve shared inside jokes with, the Bull’s Eye staffers who have constantly supported me, and the mentorship of extraordinary teachers, namely Mr. List. To The Bull’s Eye, thank you for everything!

MAY 22, 2019

THE BULL'S EYE

Keeping Mr. Wick Alive Tiffany Lee ASST. Photo Editor Although any hype connected to the release of “John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum” was overshadowed by the end of the Marvel saga, the movie speaks for itself as an action-packed film that continues the story of dog-loving Wick.

In the wake of killing a member of the hitman organization High Table in the Continental Hotel, a place where any violence conducted by a member is forbidden, John Wick (Keanu Reeves), finds himself with a $14 million bounty on his head. Fighting for his life Wick becomes the target of the world’s most ruthless killers. In this installment of the series, the

dogs in the story becomes even more crucial to the plot.

After watching the recent installment of the series, I was left speechless once again. The action scenes completely overwhelm the viewer with nonstop knives, guns and dogs.

While many sequels falls short of the original movie, “John Wick: Chapter 3” stood on its own with its signature dark tone and fighting scenes of the series. One of my favorite scenes follows Wick, Sofia (Halle Berry) and her two battle-ready dogs in a gruesome showdown with one of the members of the High Table and his men.

In addition to the film’s original cast members, including Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne), Winston (Ian McShane) and Charon (Lance Reddick), this film adds in interesting characters, including there were also new members debuting in the latest installment such as Sofia (Halle Berry), the Director (Anjelica Huston) and Tick Tock Man (Jason Mantzoukas).

As a die-hard fan of the John W i c k series, I was disappointed that the c h o r e o graphed stunt work at the end of the film didn’t match

NOW SHOWING: JOHN WICK 3

LIONSGATE MOVIES

Zero (Mark Dascos) is the latest villain in the third John Wick film. previous scenes. There were many instances where Wick could have died, but due to his opponents going easy on him, he survived. Also, some of the fighting scenes looked too overly coordinated, as it seemed like Wick and his opponents were dancing around each other rather than trying to kill each other.

Compared to past films, a variety of props other than the usual guns and knives were used. In the second installment, one of the more memorable scenes was when Wick used a pencil and repeatedly stabbed his attacker until he bled out. In this installment however, there was not any differentiation in props other

than a book and dogs.

The John Wick series sets itself aside from typical action movies.

Compared to regular action films, where protagonists seem to be nearly invincible and have endless amounts of ammunition, the installments are very realistic as John Wick has to reload in every gun scene and often is injured.

Best of all, Wick is a dog person who would do anything for his furry companion.

Even at two hours and 10 minutes, the film moved along at a fast pace. Every scene was engaging and suspenseful, more than making up for some of the film’s flaws.

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Kim, center, announced retirement from entertainment industry.

Kate Zheng Feature Editor The entire nation of South Korea was taken aback the morning of Feb. 2, when the Korean tabloid magazine, Dispatch, released screenshots of a group chat including idol Kim Seungri, discussing date rape.

The youngest member of one of the most successful boy bands in history, Seungri was a member of the K-pop group Big Bang (formed under YG Entertainment). After a few years with the team, which won the title of Korea’s “National Boy Band,” Seungri branched out and started his own businesses.

The idol became the CEO for two companies: Aori Ramen and Burning Sun night club, which is at the crux of the scandal.

The accusations against him for sexual crimes and drug abuse began when Sangkyo reported seeing a woman being assaulted at Seungri’s night club. After rushing over to help the female, instead of being rewarded for stopping the assault, he was physically attacked by two bouncers. When the police finally arrived, the night club framed him as the sexual assailant, leading to his unfair arrest.

Sangkyo appeared on television with a statement, and announced that he was being accused of

crimes he did not commit. The public turned their back on the police, believing they were being bribed to cover up the issue for Seungri.

But further investigation into the incident turned the case around a full 360 degrees, as the case resurfaced with shocking evidence of Seungri’s involvement in sex bribery. Screenshots from a Korean messaging app, Kakao Talk, released by insiders from the Burning Sun, showed Seungri offering prostitutes to a multitude of foreign investors for his many companies. Most of the women being “offered” were under the influence of date rape drugs or were extremely drunk.

The idol eventually turned himself into the police for investigation, in an attempt to “prove his innocence,” but suspicions rose to a higher degree after footage of a shredding company, organizations that shred documents and computer files, at YG Entertainment was released. To top off the list of crimes Seungri had already committed, he was then charged with gambling, illegal drug abuse, tax evasion frauds and illegal distribution of spy cam footage.

The scandal only intensified when a few other popular idols including soloist Jung Joonyoung, Hong Jonghyun from CNBlue, and Choi Jonghoon from FT Island were also discovered to be members of the groupchat.

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Kim, T.O.P., Taeyang, G-Dragon and Daesung on their MADE tour in 2016.

The involvement of other betook a major hit after the scandal. loved singers caused the nation to As a $5 billion industry, Korean pop take a step back and reconsider not only encourages tourism for their views on the entertainment the country, but it also promotes industry. Based on the fake, cheerthe sales of the nation’s consumer ful images that K-pop idols illicit products, such as skincare and coswhen they are on television, nometics. Stocks for merchandise and body would have ever guessed that these products have all gone down such a horrid crime could be comsince the scandal. mitted by these same men.

For a country that has built With the large amount of negaup much of its global presence tive attention, the public forced the through its music and entertainSeungri to publicly announce his ment industry, Seungri’s mishaps retirement from Big Bang and the have exposed the nation’s toxic entertainment industry. After the masculinity culture that is still predicament unfolded. very prevalent. Although there was The controversy has resulted in a strong #metoo movement that many fans reevaluating the fairstarted in the nation last year, the ness of the K-pop system. In such rallying cries of protest have been a competitive industry, idols eiignored by many men. ther receive everything from fame Yet, the idol industry of South to fortune to cultural privilege, or Korea has responded to Seungri’s they get the short end of the stick scandal by taking a deeper look and train for tens of years without into their celebrities’ backgrounds, earning a single penny or even deeven exposing many trainees for buting. The realization that a corillegal activities, such as drug use, rupt man such as Seungri made it before their debut. to the top of the industry just led The issue leaves fans wondering fans to wonder whether this diswhether this controversy is just an honest mentality is what is needed individual scandal, or if the web of to become successful. lies connects itself to other idols South Korea’s reputation also and entertainment companies.

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2019

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Mason Fox The sophomore sketches and designs masks along with other art on his Instagram account.

reyna Wan ASST. Opinion Editor From simple sketches in his notepad to working with special effects designers, Diamond Bar High School sophomore Mason Fox has turned his childhood hobby into a career goal.

Like many students, Fox spent much of his middle school life sketching on the side of notebooks and assignments. It was not until high school that he became serious about it and began posting his artwork on social media.

After gaining popularity from creating custom shoe designs on his Instagram, @foxx.art, Fox began posting pictures of his drawings and artwork.

“I wanted to build some kind of relationship with my followers and show them what’s going on my life, because I thought it would be interesting,” Fox said. “I started sharing more personal pieces that looked good and told a story,” Filled with sketches and graffiti-style artwork, Fox’s Instagram feed has a slightly darker tone than most.

“I’m used to more monochromatic tones since I started out with pencil sketches and not really including bright colors or coloring in general,” Foxx said.

Originally catering to his audience, Fox only recently began experimenting with different types of artwork

and colors, some of them being sculpting and mask-making.

After one of his Fundamental of Art classes, DBHS art teacher Vianney Hwang told Fox about an opportunity in his Studio Art class. Students were competing for a chance to work with reality show “Face Off” champion and special effects director, Andy Freeman, by designing and creating skulls.

Taking the challenge, Fox was eventually chosen by Freeman and given the chance to sculpt and create different masks at his studio.

There, he learned different techniques such as making the mask more comfortable and the different textures used for sculpting. “What I’m struggling with right now is making the masks moveable with your face but also visibly seen through,” Foxx said. “Some people hide the eyes and nostrils by creating fake versions of each.”

Starting the process with sketches of what he envisions, Fox begins each piece by deciding which textures are applicable to the project.

Once the design is set in stone, he begins, using clay, to create the foundation of the mask.

“Once you’re happy with the forms that you have, you want to add texture which is something that must be different to show the facial structures,” Fox said.

After layering the mask with its textures, Fox studies the different proportions of the creature’s face before adding any color or final touches

to the mask.

Depending on the type of artwork, Fox enjoys experimenting with different colors and angles before finding a desired design.

“I take notes of all that I see but what inspires me the most is the different feelings I’ll have and trying to create a piece that other people can truly relate to,” Fox said.

The majority of his posts are also always captioned with sentences and phrases that represent the mantra of the specific drawing. One of his most frequently used quotations is learning how to find the beauty in tragedy.

“I take my mistakes or sorrows and turn it into a display for everyone to admire,” Fox said. “I believe that not being afraid to show off your mistakes and acting on any regrets is the best way to live.”

Having sold some of his artwork in the past with his posts, Fox continues to perfect his style. With winning the competition and Freeman having invited him back to the art studio, he hopes to continue pursuing his creative artistry in the future.

New talent to mentor choir Maggie Liu Editor-In-Chief

After only serving as the Diamond Bar High School choir director for a little over a year, Vince O’Connell will be replaced by Chaparral Middle School’s choir teacher Richard Langham.

For many students in the department, the change was unexpected.

“It was March when we found out, but we were not sure if it was just rumors at first or [if it] was actually true,” junior Hannah Lee said.

Over the past few years, there has been a trend of teachers coming in and out of the program.

After the retirement of longtime director Patty Breitag, her replacement, Anastasia Glasheen, lasted just two weeks before being dismissed by the school. After the choir worked under a long-term sub for much of last year, O’Connell was hired during the spring semester.

According to Lee, this instability has pushed choir students to become more independent, but the introduction of O’Connell to DBHS was a welcome change. “There was a shift to Mr. O’Connell, who is so

VICTORIA ARTALE

Students perfroming at the Spring Choir Concert on May 17 in the theater.

incredibly enthusiastic about our Langham’s previous post at CMS program and has literally lived helped shape the music departand breathed show choir,” Lee ment there. said. “When we found out that he “I’m proud of the program that was not coming back next year, we I’ve developed there, which started were really shocked and upset.” as one choir of 40 students and is Although the now three choirs reasons behind of 150 students,” why O’Connell Langham said by "My hope for any will be leaving email. music program is that remain unclear, L a n g h a m it provides students some students looks forward with a well-rounded look forward to to making immusic education." the upcoming provements RICHARD LANGHAM change. to the current “Right now, DBHS choir proonly Marquis gram. and Solitaire are really represent“My hope for any music proing choir during concerts, so I gram is that it provides students think the other two choir groups with a well-rounded music educaneed to be showcased more,” jution, which includes the developnior Adam Lin said. ment of instrumental/vocal skills, Langham has an extensive challenging and engaging reperbackground in choir. He not only toire, a variety of high quality perhas earned a bachelor’s degree in formance opportunities, rigorous music education from USC and musicianship and ear training and a master’s degree in choral conexposure to many functions of muducting from CSULA but also has sic in human culture,” Langham sung with both the Long Beach said.

Camerata Singers and the Con AnLee and others in choir have not ima Chamber Choir. Langham has been deterred by the changes in dibeen directing school choirs for 16 rectors in the past year. years.

“We’ve had so many changes “I feel that with his previous exthat I feel like there’s been so much perience, we will be able to raise growth in such a little period of the musicality and caliber of our time,” Lee said. “I’m optimistic choirs, as well as bring a different that what happened happened for a style and perspective to our show reason, and next year, we’ll continchoirs,” Lee said. ue to grow as a department.”

11

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

AMELIE LEE

-Chief

Former Editor-in

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espite being a high-energy person, I spent most of my high school experience being tired.

Unlike classmates who thrive on a meager two hours of sleep and two cans of daily Red Bull, my feeble brain cannot seem to function properly without a solid seven hours. For four years, I was physically tired, dragging my unwilling body through the day, constantly looking forward to when I could sink into the sweet abyss of my bed.

During moments of rare coherency, I was tired of listening to high-achieving students around me—always gossiping about who got above a 1550 on the SAT. Most of all, I was tired of feeling as if I didn’t measure up to those around me, convinced that I wouldn’t stand out in the midst of our campus’ college-centered culture. After four years, the tired feeling hasn’t gone away. I’ve spent most of my DBHS career frustrated, overcompensating in English classes like an over-enthused Asian Hermione, while insecure about my inability to succeed in STEM. Despite my perpetual exhaustion, my time at DBHS prompted pivotal moments in my self growth.

My junior year on campus led me to Mock Trial, where my love for words and the art of persuasion solidified. The opportunity to work with some of the smartest and most ambitious students on campus spurred me to work harder and start placing goals for myself.

Most importantly, high school gave me the chance to commit three years to the pages of our school newspaper. While I never really found a home in news writing, my interest in social issues and my inner childhood bookworm manifested itself in dozens of impassioned editorials and critical reviews.

I’ve spent more time in Room 563 than anywhere on campus, with editing and designing occupying my time for hundreds of lunches.

My fondest memories of my time at DBHS are of deadline nights, the vague feeling of abject panic while working alongside my brilliant coeditor-in-chief and amazing staff.

Along with the cynical yet patient guidance of Mr. List, I found my place among the writers of The Bull’s Eye, learning how to express myself along the way.

Many years from now, I’ll be reminiscing about my time at DBHS with rose-tinted nostalgia, forgetting the pain of taking fourhour AP tests. While I might blot out the embarrassment of freshman year or the time I got 30 percent on a Calculus test, I know I’ll see the important parts clearly.

Among them, I’ll remember the adrenaline of delivering a closing at the LA County Mock Trial finals or what it felt like getting into my dream school. I’ll remember laughing about irrational jokes with my best friends and singing Halloween songs in the journalism room.

Most importantly, I’ll remember the passion I felt for writing about what’s important to me, sculpting my place in the world through the work I did on The Bull’s Eye.

12

THE BULL'S EYE

BUSINESS

Off to the big leagues TOP COLLEGES FROM P. 1 as the president of Red Cross, Planet Arboretum and Alzheimer’s Association on campus. Aside from these, she also entered science and art competitions, like the annual U.S. Congressional Art Competition in which she won first place and Fan Favorite.

While other students must choose one college to spend four years at, Chang will travel to New York City to participate in a dual degree program for a bachelor’s degree at Columbia University and a master of music at the Juilliard School. Like Zhou, he is uncertain of which subject to major in, but Chang said that he is planning on taking the pre-medical route.

“I’d be able to continue playing music at a conservatory and study at Columbia so it works out,” Chang said.

Chang, who played the clarinet for seven years, spent his time participating in music-related activities, including the Colburn Youth Orchestra, the DBHS orchestra and band and a National YoungArts Foundation competition.

“I was pretty excited [when I got my acceptance] because I knew I wanted to study something and music as well, so that was kind of the perfect program for me,” Chang said. “I don’t really have an established goal, [but] I’m just going to see and experience things and see what I want to do, kind of find what I want to do later.”

Meanwhile, Daud is planning on majoring in political science at Stanford. He was drawn to Stanford due to its strong political science department and computer science program.

“I think the future of education is bipartite: it’s the Constitution and computer science. So I think a mixture of both of those at my future college would be optimal,” Daud said.

Daud was involved in many activities on campus, including TEDx Diamond Bar as the lead curator, Mock Trial and Debate Club and We the People Club as president. He also helped organize the District of Choice rally in 2016 and the national school walk out for DBHS last year. Daud said that his applications showed more of his personality than the activities he participated in during high school.

At Princeton, Chiu is planning on majoring in electrical engineering and computer science and minoring in music. During his time at high school, Chiu joined multiple extracurricular activities involving music, such as playing in the National Youth Orchestra and the National Association for Music Education All-National Honor Ensembles as the principal oboe.

“I really want to start branching out and having a lot of relationships with people...I know people there are really successful, and that’ll probably help me in the long run in like getting a job,” Chiu said.

MAY 22, 2019

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2019

SPORTS

13

Embracing role of developing NFL future After playing center for the Brahmas, alumnus Eric Acciani now coaches at Old Dominion.

Alex chun Asst. Sports editor When former New York Giants wide receiver and Super Bowl XLII champion David Tyree went up to the podium to announce the 95th pick of the NFL Draft, he called out the name Oshane Ximines, who became the first player ever to be chosen from Old Dominion University.

This came to the delight of Diamond Bar High School 2008 alumnus Eric Acciani, who serves as a graduate assistant coach at ODU. After Ximines, Old Dominion wide receiver Travis Fulgham was chosen by the Detroit Lions in the sixth round and three more players from the Virginia school, Jonathan Duhart, Jeremy Cox and Tim Ward, were signed to free agent contracts from various teams.

“Tim Ward and Jeremy Cox both battled with injuries, so it was great to see teams show their faith in them,” Acciani said. “Both of them, along with Jonathan Duhart, have a great chance to stick with their teams long-term.”

During his high school days, Acciani, son of DBHS band director Steve Acciani, was involved in a number of eclectic activities,

ranging from playing the trumpet to dominating on the football field.

However, as soon as his senior season of football came to a close, he was offered a unique opportunity to pursue a career in the coaching realm.

“After November of 2007, our head coach John Martin asked me if I would join his coaching staff,” Acciani said. “I started coaching right away during the spring semester of my senior year.”

From that moment onwards, Acciani acquired a passion for developing athletes to their full potential. He attended California State University Fullerton to continue coaching the Diamond Bar High School football team in order to gain more experiences at the rudimentary stage.

“The entire time I was at CSUF, I coached high school football,” Acciani said. “I took a few ‘coaching’ classes, but coaching high school football was more beneficial than any class could be.”

Even after his years of advising the DBHS football team while studying as a university student, the young coach continued to pursue his dreams outside of Diamond Bar, moving to coach at El Toro High School in Lake Forest for a couple of years. He also spent a year coaching internationally, obtaining a job for the Allgau Comets of the German semi-professional football league.

“Because many of the players

Photo Courtesy of ODUSPORTS.COM

Photo Courtesy of SPORTSMOCKERY.COM

Eric Acciani contributed to the drafting of multiple Old Dominion football players, including linebacker Oshane Ximines. had other priorities other than football, you had to change your plan on the spot, even if practice was planned to work on certain things,” Acciani said. “You had to constantly be creative, and this ability to think on my feet has definitely helped my coaching career here [at ODU].”

Dedicated toward finding work in a collegiate level program, Acciani decided to find a coaching job back in America, where he was more familiar with the football system. After sending about 1500 e-mails across the country, he received a response from one of ODU’s coaches, who informed Acciani that a spot was open in their school’s football program.

“My experience as an offensive coordinator in Europe and as a high school coach was appealing to ODU,” Acciani said. “I wanted them to remember me for that open spot.”

Once he received the job, Acciani was in awe with the history of ODU. Having one of the top offenses in college football history, the school was a perfect fit for what he envisioned as a coach, since his philosophy was primarily offense-oriented.

Now in his fourth year of coaching at the university, the experienced coach continues to enjoy his job training the offensive linemen and tight ends of the team. He instructs these players on specific

formations in the offensive playbooks and is flexible with the plays during real games.

“During games, you feel a mix of nerves, excitement, anxiety, all types of emotions,” Acciani said.

“Whatever job you have at a given time, you have to lock in and focus solely on your role in the team, whether it be on offense, defense, or special teams.”

Although he has already coached for over a decade, this is just the beginning for Acciani.

“I started off as a volunteer because that was my only chance to coach collegiately,” Accaini said.

“From there, I’ve worked my way up and hope to continue rising in the profession.”

Tennis meets their match

TENNIS Despite another early exit from CIF, the boys achieved many league awards.

Victoria Artale PHOTO editor

Despite being undefeated in the Mt. Baldy League, Diamond Bar High School’s boys tennis team lost 17-1 in the first round of CIF team play to Beckman, a team it lost to in the preseason. This was the second year in a row that the boys have been unable to advance past the first round of CIF. “I wanted to win, but knowing that we were coming out of a league that was nowhere near Beckman’s caliber, we knew we were not going to win,” senior team captain Royce Park said.

Besides losing in the first round of CIF, single players juniors Ethan Chen and Akilan Arunachalam competed in CIF Individuals on May 17. Arunachalam was able to advance to the second round of individuals while Chen only competed in the first round.

ally play tennis, and [they] gave us The team of Park and fellow segood competition,” Park said. nior captain Victor Chai qualified The team’s other accomplishfor individuals, but were unable to ments include beating Don Lugo, attend due to other commitments 13-0 and 18-0; Chino, 18-0 and 18-0; such as AP testing and out-of -state Ontario, 17-1 and 14-4; and Chaffey family events.

“I’m definitely proud of my team 18-0 and 16-2 earlier this season. because [a] majority of the league “We were definitely used to just awards came to DBHS, including being able to hit the ball over and me winning win the point; MVP,” Park said. we definitely "I’m definitely proud “This season, underestimated of my team because the team chemthe teams we istry was amazplayed,” Park [a] majority of the ing because we said. “That atleague awards came hyped each othtitude didn’t to DBHS." er up and I feel help us in CIF ROYCE PARK like that contribthough.” uted to us doing With graduawell.” tion around the Besides the training implementcorner, seniors like Park are reed by first year head coach Troy flecting on what they have learned Wong, a lack of competition in the and accomplished while playing Mt. Baldy League also contributed for the DBHS boys tennis team. to the team’s success during sea“Without tennis, I wouldn’t son. know how to handle myself in cerDBHS dominated every league tain situations where I am under match, and its closest competitor pressure, because tennis puts you was Montclair, who was defeatunder pressure a lot and the sport ed by Diamond Bar 15-3 and 16-2 has taught me to deal with it,” Park during league season. said. “I would be a very stressed “Montclair actually surprised us out person without tennis in my and showed us that they can actulife.”

Photos by VICTORIA ARTALE

Senior captain Royce Park, left, and Nathan Tengbumroong competed against Beckham in the first-round playoffs at CIF.

with RYAN LAM and JOHNNY WANG

Harmonizing the bond between ref and player

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hroughout the history of the NBA, players and coaching staff have frequently clashed with the officials over controversial calls. Often, the players and coaching staff are in the wrong, but in the case that they are right, the play is seldom reviewed, and the player simply receives either a technical or an ejection for arguing with the referee.

For example, superstar Lebron James had his first ejection in his 15 year career last season for arguing excessively with a referee on a missed foul call during his drive.

Instead of watching the play again to determine the optimal call, the referees instantly punished James and ejected him from the game.

This problem can be solved if the referees rewatch the play, determine the right call and give a decision after the call. Instead of leaving the players confused and frustrated, the officials should give valid reasons for their calls. Additionally, referees should be open to changing previously made calls and acknowledging that their decisions may be wrong.

For instance, turning to the differnet sport of soccer, Fédération Internationale de Football Association, or FIFA, implemented the just system in Video Assistant Referee.

This ensured the quality of the calls and left players admitting to the decisions of the referees.

For instance, in last year’s World Cup, there were numerous calls that were either overturned or reviewed during the final between France and Croatia. Through recorded officiating, the matches were played more fairly.

Not only are the referees granted power to completely shift game’s tide with poorly made calls, but they can also remove a player or coach from the game for any minor

altercation. During this season, San Antonio Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected just one minute into the game against the Denver Nuggets for the same reason as James. Another popular example is from 2007, when AllStar player Tim Duncan got ejected from chuckling on the bench in a close game against the Dallas Mavericks.

In addition to receiving a $25,000 fine for the ejection, the Spurs also lost to Dallas in the game, losing their chance at earning a second seed in the Western Conference.

If referees continue to abuse their powers instead of officiating fairly, the games could easily be swayed more towards one team and consequently be seen as rigged.

Bad calls from referees ruined several big games such as the playoff game of Houston Rockets against Golden State Warriors, where All-Star James Harden had contact on the way down from his jumpshot. To be a playoff referee is a big deal, and to miss these key calls can drastically change the outcome of the game. Since Harden wasn’t put on the foul line, the Rockets lost the game by four points.

Also, referees miss simple calls, which shouldn’t be happening. On “Shaqtin’ a Fool,” a NBA blooper show, many travels were showcased without a call from the refs.

If the officials are missing the easiest calls, how can they judge the playoffs to the best of their abilities?

We need the officials to listen to the players and coaches from time to time. Although they may seem biased, sometimes the players are right, and the way the play is judged can determine the game’s outcome. For the sake of the game, officiating needs to evolve.

14

SPORTS

MAY 22, 2019

THE BULL'S EYE

A season of breaking DB track records TRACK The Brahmas reign as league champions, along with individual successes. alex chun asst. sports editor After an undefeated regular season, an updated coaching staff and new school records, the Diamond Bar High School track and field team has had a breakout year.

Head coach Malinalli Cooke said she was impressed by the way track performed throughout the year. In their major meets in the Mt. Baldy League, the Brahmas blew out four of the five teams with impressive double-digit margins, while obtaining one of their wins against a tough Ontario hiteam.

“We’re in a slightly easier league than the year before, so that helped,” Cooke said. “We definitely got more league championships than I expected, which was amazing for the team.”

The success of the team was especially prevalent during its run in league finals at Montclair High School.

On the track, sophomore Jadyn Sanchez dominated not only individually but also on relay teams, obtaining the title of league champion for the 400 meter race, while contributing to the Brahmas’ wins in the 4x100 and 4x400 events.

Junior Lukas Amare was also crowned victor of the 800 meter,

TIFFANY LEE

Senior Paula Williams competes in high jump during a meet against Ontario.

1600 meter and 3200 meter races.

6’4, qualifying him for the next Outside on the field, sophomore level. He will be competing at state Emily Chen performed astoundingnext week on May 25th at Clovis. ly in the pole vault event, achieving Senior Matthew Uballe also had a new personal record and ranking his share in the CIF finals, placing fourth on the seventh in the all-time DB list.

110 meter hurDespite the dle event.

“We have a lot of conclusion of The team young athletes that the main meets, obtained these just need another year some athletes v i c t o r i e s or two to peak.” went past their through more limits and had vigorous practhe opportunity tice sessions, MALINALLI COOKE to thrive in the even elongating postseason. the duration of Senior Kai the workouts to Smith qualified for the CIF finals in make sure that the athletes were high jump and placed second in the ready for competition. Junior hurcompetition, punching his ticket to dler Chris Lee mentioned how the the CIF Masters meet. training was more intense comDuring the Masters meet in El pared to last year.

Camino college, Smith jumped a Cooke also complimented the in-

DIAMOND BAR HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETICS FOOTBALL • • • • • • •

3RD PLACE IN LEAGUE 47 TOUCHDOWNS

VOLLEYBALL •

CROSS COUNTRY

•

1ST PLACE AT FINALS

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LEAGUE CHAMPS

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CO-LEAGUE CHAMPS

CIF QUARTER-FINALISTS •

WRESTLING

1ST PLACE AT FINALS LEAGUE CHAMPS

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CIF MASTERS

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LEAGUE CHAMPS

GIRLS WATER POLO

BOYS WATER POLO

BOYS BASKETBALL

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TRACK & FIELD

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CIF 1ST ROUND

CIF SEMI-FINALISTS

• •

LEAGUE CHAMPS

CIF QUARTER-FINALISTS •

BOYS SOCCER

3RD PLACE IN LEAGUE

•

2ND IN LEAGUE DEFENSE •

BOYS TENNIS

LEAGUE CHAMPS

CIF 1ST ROUND

BADMINTON

LEAGUE CHAMPS CIF CHAMPS

GIRLS BASKETBALL 4TH PLACE IN LEAGUE

2ND IN LEAGUE DEFENSE

GIRLS SOCCER

LEAGUE CHAMPS CIF 2ND ROUND

GIRLS TENNIS

2ND PLACE IN LEAGUE

BOYS GOLF

•

•

LEAGUE CHAMPS

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CIF CHAMPS

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LEAGUE CHAMPS

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CIF FINALS

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4TH PLACE IN LEAGUE

• • •

CIF 1ST ROUND

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CIF FINALS

CIF FINALS

SWIM & DIVE

CIF CHAMPS

BASEBALL

166 RUNS

• • • •

dividual responsibilities that some student-athletes had to bear in order for the team to stay on the same page. One athlete she `explicitly mentioned was senior Jeremiah Chukwudobe, who seemed to have a profound influence on the players.

“He [Chukwudobe] was really good at getting the athletes warmed up and ready to go before practice, basically serving the role of team captain,” she said.

In spite of all the achievements that the Brahmas earned during the season, Cooke said that there remains room for further improvement.

“I am working on getting the athletes more base training, or preseason training, for both our winter and non-winter sports athletes,” she said. “The time period we have, around six weeks, is not a sufficient amount of time to get them fit for competition, so we need to start earlier.”

While achieving major successes this year, the future looks bright for the DBHS track team. Along with new training staff who are willing to remain in the program, Cooke expressed optimism when describing the potential results for the years to come.

“We have a lot of young athletes that just need another year or two to peak,” she said. “With a lot of our top athletes leaving this year, I don’t know if we will have the same successes next year, but I think the year after will be a good year for us.”

Soaring into CIF championship BADMINTON The team made a comeback against Arcadia in the finals to capture its 8th title. kate zheng feature editor The CIF championships were not looking too promising when the Arcadia Apachesw took an early 4-1 lead over Diamond Bar High School badminton team. It was the first time Brahmas trailed a CIF championship game in eight years.

Yet the tables turned as soon as the DB badminton team went on an eight-point run, winning its eighth straight championship, 14-7.

Leading the Brahmas was freshmen Ashley Wan and Kodi Lee, who swept up all four points for women’s singles. Lee also scored a third point when playing in mixed doubles with junior Brandon Zhou.

Although senior Daniel Huang and junior Owen Che were paired for men’s doubles for the first time, they were able to win two points.

Huang earned his third point after partnering with freshman Codey Ma for mixed doubles. Ma also competed in men’s singles and won two points.

Finally senior Mirabelle Huang paired up with sophomore Claire Wang to score two points in the women’s singles division.

The badminton coach mentioned Huang’s leadership and playing skills. Naming her as one of this season’s most influential players, Wells also mentioned that she had been on varsity all four years of her high school career.

“Mirabelle Huang is definitely stronger on the women’s side,” Wells said.

CIF individuals took place May 14 and May 15 with Wan placing first in women’s singles and Huang and Ma placing first in mixed doubles. This has been Huang’s fourth consecutive title in mixed doubles.

Wang and Lee from women’s doubles finished second while Huang and Josh Lee finished fifth in men’s doubles. Last Saturday, the team played in the Southern California Regional Tournament where Huang and Ma placed first in mixed doubles and Wang and Lee took first in women’s doubles.

As the season wraps up, Wells has a main goal in mind for the badminton team next season.

“Next year will be just like this year,” Wells said. “We’ll try to win as many games as we can and do it the right way.”

CIF 1ST ROUND

GIRLS GOLF

3RD PLACE AT STATE CIF STATE

SOFTBALL

2ND PLACE IN LEAGUE CIF 2ND ROUND

AMELIE LEE

Sophomore Claire Wang, left, and senior Daniel Huang play mixed doubles.

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

CHRISTINA LIU Former Asst. Web

W

Editor

hen I entered Diamond Bar High School my freshmen year, I prayed that it would end soon. Despite the accomplishment of having perfect attendance, I don’t recall a week where I haven’t madly dashed to class, even with my parents’ hectic driving that has no doubt riled up numerous DBHS drivers. Now as senior year comes to an end, I wished I enjoyed it more.

Starting my freshman year, I made up my mind that I would clutch the valedictorian title. This naive wish was unsurprisingly and quickly dashed my freshmen summer when I earned a B for Computer Systems.

I realized that what truly made my high school experience was the teachers and students I had the privilege of meeting throughout my four years.

Group projects, seating charts, orchestra, badminton, journalism, clubs—even becoming a TA for the front office. All of these became an invaluable way to meet different students and staff on campus, and are what made my high school experience memorable.

Having let go of my brainwashed beliefs that grades were everything my freshmen year, I recall my hectic sophomore year where I decided to overload on seven classes. Lacking sleep, everyday I would arrive late to Ms. Piña’s Spanish class despite having come directly from zero period and then fall asleep.

THE NERVE. However she lightheartedly joked how we beelined to her class just to nap.

During my junior year I definitely miss laughing at Sophia’s wild stories or at Suzie’s RBF as we talked about life in general. This year I was definitely carried by my seniors, as they showed me the different tips and tricks for life problems from their personal experience.

Finally when my senior friends graduated, I thought that my senior year marked the end of new experiences. However, I’ve come to love my first period English class and looked forward to Monday chats. Also, choosing to TA for the front office was the best decision I made as a senior. It made me realize how underappreciated the front office was, and that I will miss Mrs. Yee, who managed to make my day, everyday.

Final thank you to all my friends who I will definitely FaceTime in college. Samyuktha, my web-assistant and partner in crime, who I’ve come to realize loves watching horror movies.

Cindy, for sharing her food with me in the morning and sending me lovely dog pictures.

Erin, for always watching out for me and making my jaw drop multiple times. Queena, who listens to me rant about petty things and always making time to hang out.

Nickolas for literally driving me and Catherine everywhere whether its out to eat or home.

Looking back at my time in DBHS, I’ll remember the people that impacted me and grown together with me, making me into who I am today.

THE BULL'S EYE

MAY 22, 2019

Reflections from a Bull’s Eye

Senior

oto Editor

Former Asst. Ph

W

hen I first came to DBHS, saying that I was quiet and reserved was an understatement. I was so socially withdrawn that I would very much characterize myself as the timid version of Violet from the movie “Incredibles.” That being said, it was no hidden fact that I had a hard time finding my niche at school.

During my freshman year of high school, I was fascinated with how people were outgoing and easily could make friends. So in attempt to break out of my shell and improve my communication skills, my naïve self joined the water polo team and journalism.

Obviously, I did not succeed immediately. In fact, it almost came to a point when I wanted to quit both extracurriculars because I knew that they included an environment I was uncomfortable being in.

Rather than considering these activities as burdens, I took on the challenge and maneuvered my way through my journey on the Bull’s Eye and the water polo team to better myself, which I do not regret doing.

I experienced drastic improvement with my shyness but still struggled with the concept of making friends. I spent most of my time with my school “friends” completing either homework or assigned group projects. I realized that the majority of my “friends” on Facebook were those I will never see after I graduate.

And when I see my teammates and everyone working on the Bull’s Eye staff easily bonding with each other, I always contemplated trying to transform myself into an individual that people would accept.

But in turn, I learned to just be myself and not change to be accepted into a social group.

Things didn’t take effect until senior year. I never would have imagined how much I could accomplish within my last year at DBHS. From becoming a four-year athlete to boosting the Bull’s Eye website with videos and photos as assistant web and photo editor, I defied what I initially believed was impossible to achieve.

Most importantly, I went from being the person who went from practically being invisible in a classroom to having the honor of being called out twice by Ms. Jensvold for talking too loudly during class.

Now, I have filled my high school career with many precious memories and will cherish my final days as a high schooler. I enjoyed cheering “Physics!” after completing strenuous worksheets with my iconic Physics group. I loved gossiping and “singing” with the real Jackson Five. And I am going to miss filming, ranting about life, baking failed Halloween treats, eating Chipotle and watching Black Panther and The Conjuring with the best twins, Catherine and Christina.

Knowing how much I have grown as an individual in high school, I now know that I have the potential to flourish into the “superhero” version of myself in the future.

15

Flipping from beams to boards After suffering multiple setbacks from gymnastics, freshman Mackenzie Kim found her niche in diving. victoria artale photo EDITOR

SAMYUKTHA VELLAIYAN

SPORTS

Mackenzie Kim, who spent eight years as a gymnast, has switched from flipping on a balance beam to jumping off a 10-meter platform.

The freshman is one of the two divers who represent Diamond Bar High School, despite the school not having a diving coach. Recently, Kim took 2nd place at CIF with a score of 470.80, breaking her own school record of 420.55.

“Diving for me was very similar to gymnastics because I already had the twisting and flipping skills from my years as a gymnast,” Kim said. “It was [an] easy transition, and it worked out well for me.”

From age 6 to 14, Kim represented California several times at all levels of gymnastics including

competing at Level 10, the highest level at the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympics in 20xx. But gymnastics became a struggle for Kim, as she continued to face back and elbow problems.

“If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to not give up on what you want to do and even if you get hurt, there is always another option,” Kim said.

Just three months after quitting gymnastics because of the multiple injuries, Kim decided to take her flexibility into the water. Because both gymnastics and diving share the same fundamentals, it didn’t take Kim long to thrive in the aquatic sport.

“Gymnastics was very hard on my body, so I decided to switch into a sport that doesn’t have me breaking my bones,” Kim said.

Kim practices with the SoCal Divers club team at California State Fullerton College with her coach Scott Rick.

While being a part of SoCal Divers, Kim has received the chance to compete in high-ranked competi-

Photo Courtesy of MACKENZIE KIM

Mackenzie Kim competes at the 2017 Junior Olympic Nationals in Georgia. tions, including USA Diving Junior Nationals in Georgia.

Kim has also experienced some of the dangers associated with this sport.

“Sometimes when you’re learning a new skill, it might be terrifying because you are up high and you could mess up and smack the water,” Kim said. “That happened to me once, and I was left with welts and bruises on my back.”

With the support of her parents and her coach, Kim plans to pursue diving in college.

She is also scheduled to compete in Texas with a chance to qualify for Nationals again later this year.

“Even though you might feel intimidated sometimes and you can’t do anything anymore, just reach for your goals because nothing can get in the way of your goals besides yourself,” Kim said.

Brahmas end season far from home BASEBALL Growing potential for the future after a rocky season on the mound this year.

VICTORIA ARTALE

maggie lIU editor-in-chiEf

Emily Ruhl hits a low pitch during the eam’s first round CIF playoff game.

Girls slug their way into the CIF playoffs SOFTBALL In the Mt. Baldy League, the Brahmas advanced to the second round of CIF.

since you’ve been in the playoffs, it’s difficult. Next year, with a little bit of playoff experience that we learned this year, I think that we’ll be able to take a few more steps in that direction that we want to go,” softball coach Kurt Davies said. nia Mitchell Before their CIF playoff games buisiness EDITOR began, the girls played their last three league games, one against Don Lugo and two against MontThe Lady Brahmas softball team clair. showed major improvement from The girls suffered a heartbreaklast season, advancing to the secing loss against the formidable Don ond round of CIF playoffs and endLugo High School team, losing 9-1, ing their season in a memorable but quickly came back when they way. won against Montclair twice, first The team had a consistent re8-1 and then 7-1. cord throughout the entire season, “The girls have a great attitude, with an overall record of 18-7 and a they did last year also, but any league record of 11-4. time that there is a change in leadOn May 7, the girls played Mira ership, it takes Costa in Mana while to get hattan Beach, into a routine hoping to bring “You are only as and to know home another strong as your weakwhat’s expectwin and move est link, which is why ed of you and on to the next we try to focus on we hope that CIF round, but every year we their journey executing as a team.” just get better,” had ended there KURT DAVIES said Davies, in with a valiant his second year 4-2 loss. as coach.

The softball All of the girls contributed to the team has not competed in CIF in success of the team and they hope five years and has not made it to the to keep up the good work throughsecond round in 13 years, so qualiout next year. fying for CIF this year was a large Some key players (who have accomplishment for the team. given the Brahmas consistency in “Comparing last season to this terms of games played) include season shows that we’ve made a junior catcher Emily Ruhl, sopholot of progress, and we’re hoping more pitcher Alexis Martinez and to continue it through next year,” freshman Tiffany Pope. junior Liliana Ruvalcaba said.

“Softball is a team game, everyIn their first CIF game on May body’s going to contribute. You 2, they completely dominated the are only as strong as your weakest team from Santa Monica, 7-1 in a link, which is why we try to focus home game, sending them to round on executing as a team, not just on two. an individual basis,” Davies said.

“Any time that it’s been a while

Diamond Bar High School baseball lost grasp of CIF, but head coach Jon Hurst is looking to next season.

The team ended this year with an overall record of 14-13 and a league standing of 6-9. The Brahmas lost the CIF qualifying game against Montclair, 4-3, on April 23.

This game and many others throughout the season were lost due to weaknesses in pitching.

“We always could score runs very easily but had trouble keeping runs off of the board,” Hurst said.

According to Hurst, too many free bases were given up due to walking and hitting batters. In addition, this season did not live up to Hurst’s expectations due to the inconsistent lineup.

“Overall, I think we were definitely better than we ended up performing, at least on paper,” Hurst said.

The struggles the Brahmas have faced this year will be a starting point for next season.

“I think we have a lot that we can build off of,” Hurst said.

The team will be focusing on lower body strength training during the offseason in an attempt to build better defensive skills.

“We will introduce some new stretching techniques and things to make sure that they’re prepared for a season long worth of pitching,” Hurst said.

Aside from his new plans for

training, Hurst is confident in next year’s baseball players.

“Next year is the best senior class we’ve had since I’ve been here,” Hurst said. “I’m very excited about what they can bring to the table.”

Many of the returning varsity players will be pitchers, potentially alleviating troubles with pitching.

“It’s good and bad because our pitching has struggled this year, but we have lots of guys that have the opportunity to get better,” Hurst said.

Juniors Ryan Wang, Jacob Vargas and Jacob Parkin are the few lead pitchers for next season.

Wang struckout 7 batters and had an ERA of 3.50 out of the 16 innings he pitched this season. Vargas had an ERA of 5.88 and also struckout 7 batters. In 15 innings, Parkin had 13 strikeouts.

Another standout player and hopeful leader for next year is junior Alonzo Fuller.

In 27 games, Fuller connected for 36 hits, scored 26 runs and collected 22 RBI. “Fuller has been arguably our best payer for the last three years now,” Hurst said.

A leading rising outfielder is junior Chase Ferguson. He totalled six runs, five hits and three RBI in 23 games.

“He’s extremely fast, he’s a good hitter, he’s got a good arm, he’s got a great attitude and he’s a smart baseball player,” Hurst said.

Despite the hurdles the team faced this year, Hurst is excited for the following season.

“I think right now the program is in a really, really good point to kind of take a step forward, because we’ve kind of been at the same level the last couple of years,” Hurst said.

VICTORIA ARTALE

Junior Will Murphy had a .288 batting average and scored 12 runs for the team.

16

SPORTS

DBHS ATHLETES

oct

sept

OF THE MONTH

Jeremiah chukwudobe

kailie vongsaga

Nov

dec

raphael mutuc

myles corey

jan

FEB

MAr

Apr

Connor Diamond

jordyn beaulieu

SEAN MArTIN

MIrabelle huang

T F H O E E M T E

ON

K

ev

as

TH

ATHL

MAY 22, 2019

THE BULL'S EYE

in Varg

Already a nationallly ranked athlete, the senior broke many Diamond Bar swimming records this season.

Emily koh ASST. feature editor Since he learned how to swim at the age of four as a safety precaution, senior Kevin Vargas realized he had the potential to achieve greatness and began to do just that at the age of seven.

Vargas is currently ranked seventh out of all high school level swimmers in California and 55th

in the nation, according to College Swimming.

During the last CIF competition of his high school career, Vargas managed to break two of his own Division IV records. Working with his Diamond Bar High School teammates, Vargas set the new record for the 200 meter medley relay race.

He also set a new record for his specialty, the 200 individual medley, which is a combination of fly,

Photo Courtesy of KEVIN VARGAS

Kevin Vargas swam the 400 IM at the Speedo National Championships in Indianapolis, placing first with a time of 4:21. back, breast and free strokes.

Aside from competing on the DBHS swim team, Vargas is also a member of the La Mirada Armada, a private swim club. With this team, he has the opportunity to travel all over the nation to swim in different elite-level competitions such as the Speedo Champion Series in Indianapolis, where Vargas placed first in the 400 IM. “The biggest difference is we compete nationally, so I compete against people who are ranging from 15 years old to 28 years, which means they can race better,” Vargas said. “They know what it’s like to compete nationally and it puts

pressure on you.”

Another incredible accomplishment Vargas is proud of is being a part of the National Junior Team last year. The USA Swimming organization picks the top two swimmers in the nation from each of the 18 events to be a part of the team.

Vargas was chosen for the 400 IM category.

In order to succeed, Vargas trains seven days a week, sometimes twice a day. Four days a week, he has one three-hour practice every day. Three days a week, Vargas has two practices every day for a total of six hours.

“I think people don’t see exactly

how much swimming swimmers put into the sport. I don’t know many other sports that practice two to three hours 11 times a week,” Vargas said. “It’s just completely different from any other land sport because you’re in the water.”

Vargas has several goals lined up for his future swimming career. He plans on participating in a competition this summer that will be held in France and Barcelona called the Mare Nostrum.

He is also committed to the University of Florida, and one of his ultimate goals in the sport is to qualify and compete at a high level in the Olympics.

Chipping in to meet expectations

VICTORIA ARTALE

The girls scored 302 points at CIF Finals and placed 65th out of 75 high school teams at the state championships.

Brahmas pool in records and wins SWIM DB athletes conclude record-breaking season after ending competition in state finals.

Camille Mccurry CONTRIBUTING WRITER Following a successful season as league champions, the varsity swim team dominated the waters in CIF. However, their victories did not continue into the state championships.

“We are proud of how far we came as a swim team, and we are especially proud of the swimmers who made it to state,” sophomore Hanna Alrez, the swim team manager, said.

Diamond Bar High School swim team took first place overall in the league finals on April 24. Competing against five other schools, the Brahmas came out on top with 1,317 points, leading the second place team, Don Lugo, by 745 points.

“We had more competition [at CIF] than [at] league,” head coach Darlys Ankeny said. “The other schools just didn’t have the depth that we had, so they had just one or two fast people, maybe three, and

we had a lot more backup.”

In winning league, the team broke a wide variety of both school and league swim records, including 14 Mt Baldy League finals records and three for DBHS. Freshman Kaimin Tsuei, sophomore Vincent Cheng and senior Kevin Vargas each set a new Diamond Bar record for the girls 100-yard backstroke, boys 100-yard backstroke and boys 100-yard breaststroke respectively, along with several other records for the league.

The swimmers traveled to and from Riverside City College, where the CIF Diving competition, qualifiers for the diving state competition, CIF prelims and CIF finals were all held.

In the first of these competitions, sophomore Luke Huang placed first and freshman Mackenzie Kim, second. Additionally, the latter of the two broke her own diving record, 420.55, with a score of 470.80.

They both qualified to dive at the state competition as well.

The next events, CIF prelims and finals, spanned seven days from April 30 to May 3. At prelims, 24 swimmers from Diamond Bar qualified to move on to CIF finals, with qualifying swimmers in all but four events. Several Brahmas also set a

new record for CIF division four and the school, with seniors Nathan Chow and Vargas and sophomores Cheng and Timothy Jia swimming a 1:35.98 200-yard medley relay. Vargas also set a 1:50.47 record for the division in the 200yard individual medley.

At CIF finals the same week, Diamond Bar took first place by a wide margin overall, scoring 876 points to the second place school, Beaumont’s, 385. Alone, both boys and girls placed first with 574 and 302 points, respectively. “[DBHS] did receive some negative comments from the audience because [the school] should be placed in a higher division, but ...were placed in the Mt. Baldy division resulting in an unfair competition on both sides,” Alrez explained.

On May 9, members of the team left for Clovis West High School to swim in the State Championships.

At the competition, the only athlete to place was Tsuei, who took 14th in the girls 100-yard backstroke. Overall, the girls came out 65th out of 75 schools and the boys did not place. “[State championships] was a great experience,” Ankeny said.

“There...kids there this year, faster than it had been in the past.”

GOLF In familiar territory, the golfers won their tenth consecutive league championship. johnny wang sports EDITOR

After a 10-0 sweep in the Mt. Baldy League and several tournament titles under their belt, the Diamond Bar High School boys golf team stepped into both CIF individuals and CIF team division with their heads held high.

The season concluded on April 29, the day the Brahmas picked up its 10th straight league championship.

“Going into the new league, we knew we would take the league champ title even without our top six [players],” senior Sam Cho said.

The boys have not lost a single league game in four years, under head coach Tony McCabe’s guidance. Cho, who has been on the varsity team since his freshman year, won league MVP as well as the league individual title.

Seniors Cho and Brian Chiu, as well as juniors Leo Lu and Ethan Thomas, all competed at the CIF individual divisionals at Canyon Crest Course in Riverside on May 9.

Cho shot a 78, which was three over par, to qualify for CIF individual finals, but he missed state regionals by three strokes, shooting a 79 when a 76 was needed to qualify Lu and Thomas both shot a 77, one stroke more than the cut-off score of 76 needed to qualify for CIF Finals, while Chiu shot a 82.

Though Cho was the only one to

advance to CIF individual finals, the team placed second out of 17 teams in the CIF Western Divisionals on May 13.

“We all focused on our own game and all did what was best for the team,” Thomas said.

Thomas shot a career low of 71, one below par, to lead the team to their second place standing, five points behind first place. Freshman David Cho and his brother Sam shot a 74, Lu and freshman Josh Chen shot a 78 and Chiu shot a 80 to bring the Brahmas’ overall score to 375.

By placing second, the team advanced to the CIF Finals, where they could qualify for the May 23 Southern California Golf Association divisionals and play against all the teams in SoCal. “Although we didn’t win, we played very well, set a tone, and learned what we must do to do well the next round,” Cho said. “We all stayed focused through till we finished, and we tried to minimize mistakes that would impact our score heavily.”

However, at the CIF Finals on May 16, the Brahmas didn’t play at their best, as Lu shot the best with a 77. They played against the top teams at Goose Creek Golf Course in Mira Loma and shot an overall 397.

“Going into the second round, we didn’t know what to expect and we didn’t play well at all. I feel that we’ll come back a lot stronger next year,” Lu said.

Not only are the boys hoping to claim another league title to continue their streak next year, but also they hope to compete at the state level.