March Issue

INSIDE THE ISSUE

feature 8

opinion 4

a&e 9

opinion 5

the bull’s eye NEWS

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OPINION

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FEATURE

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sports 14

MARCH 21, 2018 VOLUME XXXVI, ISSUE VII ONLINE AT DBBULLSEYE.COM

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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SPORTS

Administration reviews DB school security Precautions, drills are in place in wake of Florida shooting. angela yang asst. News EDITOR Although no school can guarantee the absolute safety of its students, Diamond Bar High School continues to focus on the security measures it sustains in light of the most recent school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

According to DBHS Assistant Principal David Hong, the school plans at least two lockdown drills per year, one of which will take place during brunch or lunch when the majority of students are outside of their classrooms. Several years ago, teachers also received active-shooter training.

“One [message] I would like to get [across] to the students is [that] when the lockdown bell rings, take it very seriously and get to shelter and listen to adults,” Hong said.

During a late start meeting in early March, staff members discussed how to handle a lockdown.

Many have also begun shielding their classrooms from view with window covers and locking their doors during school hours. If an intruder does manage to infiltrate the campus, teachers and administration are prepared to react with immediacy.

“There are things that we can control and things that we can't control. The things that we can

WHAT SAFETY MEASURES COULD BE IMPROVED? SEE OPINION, PAGE 4 control are we can ring that lockdown bell, and we can do that from several phones on campus,” Hong said. “In case it happens in one place, we can ring the bells from another place.”

The message passed to the school from the Department of Homeland Security instructed students, in the event of a situation involving an active shooter, to run, hide and, as a last resort, fight.

Working closely with DBHS, the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department is also disposed to respond to a threat and arrive at the scene in a short amount of time.

“We’re very confident they’re

going to respond very, very quickly if something does happen on campus,” Hong said. “If they hear gunshots they will go toward the gunfire and they will as quickly as possible neutralize the person who’s firing a weapon.”

Students themselves are often the most effective form of prevention, according to Hong.

Social media can accommodate a plethora of warning signs, and most threats that are discovered by administration are brought to attention by students who reported the posts. Hong urges Brahmas to embody the mentality that if they “see something, they need to say something.”

“I would want every student to know that if you decide, ‘oh, this doesn’t need to be taken seriously,’ and it really turns out to be something, you’re going to have to live with that for the rest of your life,” Hong said. “To keep our campus safe, we need you guys.”

Additionally, any student caught making a joke that could be perceived as a threat will face severe consequences—including suspension and possible expulsion—regardless of their original intentions.

CINDY LIU

Rally commemorated 17 lives behind school gates Students participate in a walk-out at the school amphitheater to honor the Parkland victims. angela yang asst. News EDITOR Photo Courtesy of EMPTYVASE.COM

The venue for this year's annual dance will be the Jim Henson Studios in Hollywood, a facility constructed by film star Charlie Chaplin over a century ago.

Fairytale evening in City of Angels Students attending this year's prom will experience the timeless magic of Peter Pan's 'Neverland.'

Tess Guan Web EDITOR On the night of April 28, time will stand still for students attending prom as they escape into a fantasy world inspired by the magic of Neverland.

Presented by the class of 2019, this year’s “Finding Neverland” themed dance takes inspiration from the mythical location.

Appropriately, the dance will be held at a location where the importance of imagination has ruled

for many years, the Jim Henson Studios in Hollywood, the home of “The Muppets” universe.

This year, math teachers Shari De Cambra and Isabella Chiang, as well as Pathways teacher Eleanor Boruah, are helping as advisors for the prom committee.

The theme was originally suggested by De Cambra before being ultimately chosen by prom and class committee members of the class of 2019.

“What really stood out about the theme was the idea of ‘never growing up’ and a place where ‘time stops’,” junior class president Megan Young said.

The broad flexibility and range of ideas associated with “Finding Neverland” made the theme ideal

Prom ON P.3

Students across the nation have not remained silent after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, and voices from Diamond Bar High School were among those joining the nationwide call for action.

At 10 a.m. last Wednesday, students congregated in the school amphitheater for 17 minutes (one for each victim of the MSDHS shooting) to commemorate the young lives lost at Parkland, Florida on Feb. 14. Though teachers were urged by administration not to attend, approximately 10 staff members were seen at the rally.

Organized by Diamond Bar’s High School Democrats of America, the demonstration was approved by Principal Reuben Jones after the club’s officer board submitted a written proposal to Activities Director Janna Van Horn.

“The overall intent of this rally

[was] to have a message that students at Diamond Bar altogether want to say that we stand with the Parkland victims and that we are dedicated to having safe schools,” HSDA president junior Hamzah Daud said.

Donned largely in black, around two-thirds of the student body attended the event, according to HSDA officer junior Amelie Lee. As Brahmas formed a crowd in the amphitheater, adult protesters against the school’s walk-out assembled outside the gates.

The event continued as planned,

Walk-out ON P.3

School district reaches salary agreement with Walnut staff Weeks of silent protests help teachers, staff earn higher pay.

Brian Chang News EDITOR Wednesdays will be looking brighter for members of the Walnut Valley Education Association.

Last Monday, staff members across the Walnut Valley Unified School District voted to accept an agreement to raise salaries over

the next two years.

Under the new agreement, which is expected to be approved by the Board of Education sometime in April, salary will increase for all certified employees of the district over 2018 and 2019.

A two percent total increase will be enacted for this year, while another two percent raise is set for the next. Staff will also receive an additional one-time 2.27 percent payment this year.

The agreement follows silent protests by WVEA members, which began in January. Teachers wore black clothing on Wednes-

days to show solidarity, and some attended the school board meetings in January and February to speak on behalf of the union.

According to Salli Collins, the Diamond Bar High School special-ed teacher and negotiator for the district, representatives from WVEA and the district were still discussing the negotiation late at night on March 2.

“We were at the district office until 10 at night,” Collins said. “We met with [district representatives] all day and then we met with them

Union ON P.2

2

NEWS

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

Students step into senator's shoes DBHS debate students attended the JSA Winter Congress competition.

AMELIE LEE ASST. FEATURE EDITOR While discussing legislation and policy, members of Diamond Bar High School’s Junior State of America Debate club had the chance to receive advice from a California state senator.

Senior co-presidents Pablo Martinez and Marisa Umeh, junior vice president Hamzah Daud, senior treasurer Jonathan Lewin and sophomore Ryan Lou participated in the JSA Winter Congress at the Warner Center Marriott in Woodland Hills on Feb. 24-25.

The competition consisted of students playing roles in a mock Senate and House of Representatives, mirrored after the U.S. Congress.

“In order to win, you have to be persuasive and speak in a manner accessible and clear to other people, working to sway the perspective of the room,” Martinez said.

At the competition, State Sen. Henry Stern (D-Canoga Park) discussed gun control, the power of youth activism and his goal to lower the voting age to 16.

“Especially with how the current fight for gun control has been led by people my age, I was inspired by

the topics he talked about,” Umeh said. “After attending, it made me realize how crucial the leadership positions I hold [are] and the potential that us as a collective youth have.”

During the competition, each student worked to get their ideas and bills passed by persuading those voting. The DBHS students all played senators in the event, speaking to pass certain bills, and voting on others. Awards are given based on student votes on speaking quality and presentation of the bills and ideas.

In the weeks before the tournament, JSA members familiarized themselves with U.S. politics by studying the dynamics between the Republican and Democratic parties and the role the parties play in passing laws. The club focuses on teaching its members the basics of debate, and how to apply their speaking skills to political and practical situations.

“We knew that the current division within the U.S. would be a central issue this year, so we focused on that,” Martinez said.

While the members of the club did not gain enough votes to win awards, they said that they were not discouraged from competing in the future and recruiting more club members.

“Our preparations were lacking this time,” Daud said. “We should’ve done studied the bills in more detail, and done more than just show up.”

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

Emily Jacobsson, Catherine Zhang Brian Chang, Hannah Lee Angela Yang, Cindy Liu

Opinion Editor Asst. Opinion Editor

Noor Naji Ted Yarmoski

Feature Editors Asst. Feature Editor

Emily Kim, Catherine Zhang Amelie Lee Emily Jacobsson, Pauline Woodley Amy Miyahara

A&E Editors Asst. A&E Editor Sports Editor Asst. Sports Editor

Ryan Chae Justin Prakaiphetkul

Photo Editor Asst. Photo Editors

Hannah Lee Ingrid Chan, Amelie Lee

Business Manager

Tess Guan Tess Guan Sophia Kim

Web Editor Asst. Web Editor Staff Writers

Catherine Liu, Christina Liu, Samyuktha Vellaiyan

Advisor

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.

HANNAH LEE

From left, teachers Ces'Ari Delmuro, Vincent O'Connell and Melissa Wilson joined the Brahma staff this semester.

New educators enter mid-year Three teachers join the Brahma family to fill the roles of departed staff.

Christina Liu Staff writer Having said farewell to staff members Anastasia Glasheen, Mary Gaxiola and Brianna Woods, Diamond Bar High School welcomed new teachers into the Brahma family. The new staff includes choir teacher Vincent O'Connell, economics teacher Melissa Wilson and English teacher Ces’Ari Delmuro.

O’Connell is joining the DBHS staff to take over the choir department in place of Glasheen. Prior to coming to DBHS, he was an assistant director at Los Alamitos High School and at Oak Middle School, where he directed dance rehearsals, singing rehearsals and conducted during show choir competitions.

“I’m looking forward to growing our program and getting more students involved in singing and dancing because it is incredibly fun,” O’Connell said.

O’Connell graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a degree in music education. He came to DBHS

due to its solid show choir foundation.

“When I was in high school, I actually hosted Diamond Bar in show choir competitions, so I always loved the program, and I’m very happy to be here,” O'Connell said.

With the recent departure of Gaxiola, DBHS class of 2008 alumna Wilson has stepped in as the new AP economics teacher. Before teaching at DBHS, Wilson taught human geography, world history, and government economics at Lutheran High School.

She said that biggest difference between DBHS and Lutheran is that the classes were smaller at her previous school, with her smallest class having only seven students, while the classes at DBHS are much larger.

“I definitely like it better here because I am able to do more group work here especially with my government class,” Wilson said.

Wilson graduated from Concordia University Irvine with a B.A. in history and political thought and with a minor in classical languages before going on to UCLA for a year to get her post baccalaureate degree in classical languages.

Although she hopes to teach about ancient Greece and Rome in the future, she stated that she wants to remain a teacher in the high school environment for the

time being. “[DBHS teachers] impacted me in wanting to become a teacher and pursuing history, so to come back and do that for other students is definitely what I wanted to do,” Wilson said.

Delmuro is joining the staff as Woods’ replacement and is currently teaching English I, English III and ELD. Delmuro obtained her undergraduate degree at UCI, her masters at Arizona State University and is currently at UCLA for her doctorate in educational leadership.

Delmuro previously taught seventh grade science in Arizona.

Later, after moving to Los Angeles, Delmuro was an administrator for one year at Camino Nuevo Charter Academy and an English teacher for three years, teaching 6th and 7th grade at Magnolia Science Academy-8 in Bell.

“I’m looking forward to not only being able to do awesome things in the classroom, but being able to share experiences outside of the classroom,” Delmuro said.

She stated that the reason she switched from teaching middle school to high school was because she wanted to challenge herself.

“The change that I wish to see in the world, I felt that I could accomplish that through teaching,” Delmuro said.

NEWSBITS

Forget cowboy rodeos; police rodeos are the real deal. A bull came from an unknown slaughterhouse and galloped into Prospect Park, toppling over a one-year-old girl's stroller and injuring her in the process. It then ran into a car before running into the Parade Grounds. There, the chase ended when the bull was hit by a tranquilMEXICO CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA izing dart and trapped between two vehicles.

It was loaded into a New York Police Department truck and sent to Skylands Animal Sanctuary and Rescue in New Jersey.

A group of female Oaxaca Officials and patients at John Anything can happen duractivists have decided to tie Muir Health Center Hospital ing a news broadcast, even a the knot with trees to raise in Concord have complained bird landing on a reporter’s awareness for illegal logging. about aggressive wild turkeys head. San Diego station KFMB Tree bride Dolores Leycigi told that scratch their cars, block morning news co-host Nichelle Ruptly, a news agency, that their entrances and pick fights Medina winged it when a the ceremony was meant to with people in the parking lot.

10-year-old scarlet ibis flew in emphasize the stake of Earth’s Although John Muir officials during her report on the San future. The marriages are not want to resolve the conflict, loDiego Zoo Safari Park. Medina legally binding but do require a cal residents argue that these joked, saying the bird gave her serious pledge. turkeys are like family. a nice scalp massage.

Teachers' silent protest pays off Union from p.1 through the evening. They present theirs, we present our side, and we just go back and forth.”

School board president Cynthia Ruiz said she believes the agreement will strengthen the relationship between the district and the board.

“The board very much respects our teachers, classified employees and staff,” Ruiz said via email. “I believe the new agreement will further strengthen our relationship. With both parties coming to an agreement, this shows that we continue to strive to do what is best

for our district, employees and its students. As a district and board we will continue to fight for fair

"We will continue to fight for fair and equal funding so that we can continue to grow our district..."

CYNTHIA RUIZ and equal funding so that we can continue to grow our district and provide the best for our students and staff.”

While Collins said that the agreement would be good for the relationship between the district and the union, she expressed doubt that the salary raise would make a significant impact on the district as a whole since other districts have also consented to give raises to employees.

“It’s a beginning, it’s a step in the right direction,” Collins said. “Our biggest beef with the district has been about keeping our salaries competitive. We’re still not where we should be. Is this going to catch us up? Probably not...but it is a step in the right direction on behalf of the district.”

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

NEWS

3

French exchange students involved in second incident After a photo posing with firearms is posted, visiting group moves out of host families' homes to hotel.

Christina Liu Staff writer For the second year in a row, the French student exchange program has been marred by an incident outside of the school. On March 1, a photo was posted showing French students posing with guns.

Last year, the exchange students were discovered to have attended a party with DBHS students where alcohol was served.

To prevent the issue from repeating this year, the host families were instructed to “distance yourself and your Frenchies from illegal activities during their stay” and “if your Frenchie wants to pursue illegal activities, let Mr. Tietz know immediately” in the terms and conditions they signed.

A DBHS student alerted school officials to the posting of the pho-

tograph showing French students posing with firearms. According to host student Davis Li, his father— who is licensed to possess firearms—offered to show the French students how firearms worked since they had never seen actual firearms.

It is unlikely for students to ever come across firearms of any kind in France unless they are part of the military.

Li’s father took precautions to keep the French students safe and ensured that the firearms were not loaded during his explanation of them.

“I think it was just a really big misunderstanding and that the picture was taken in bad context, so I don't want it to reflect the program,” junior Li said.

After the photo was reported to the school administration, the Walnut sheriff department was called and investigated the situation, according to an email DBHS Principal Reuben Jones later sent out to parents.

They determined that there was no actual threat.

However, all 12 of the visiting

French students were told to leave their hosts’ homes a day early and stayed in a nearby Motel 6.

Additionally, the school conducted a thorough investigation to clarify the situation, according to Davis Li. “If it really did make someone scared, I’m really sorry about that.

I obviously want to be safe at school as anyone else does,” Li said.

Following the investigation, Jones sent out an email to all parents and students to emphasize that there was no threat made directly to the school, and to ask parents to “talk with your sons and daughters about the importance of if they ‘See Something, Say Something.’”

French teacher Anthony Tietz refused requests to offer details about the incident.

Assistant Principal David Hong said that the school takes every threat seriously and will take the necessary precautions to ensure students’ safety.

“I don’t think it’s the French students’ fault,” Li said. “They were really trying to not get in trouble this year.”

Spending a night in 'Neverland' Prom from p.1 for various decorations and activities the committee has planned.

Originally, there was concern that the theme, which links to childhood characters such as Tinkerbell and Peter Pan, would be too childish, and therefore, the committee decided against choosing Peter Pan as their theme for this year's event.

“We didn’t want people to think

of cartoon Peter Pan, but something more classy like the actual movies of Peter Pan [in] 2003 or “Pan” [in] 2015, or even the play ‘Finding Neverland,’” Young said.

The committee has planned three lunchtime activities for the week leading up to prom.

The first three days will include prom court events and games, and Thursday will be the prom court luncheon.

Inspired by last year’s key hunt,

the committee has also planned a treasure hunt giveaway.

To fund for the upcoming activities and decoration, the group sold pies and sponsored a blood drive event.

Tickets are $90 with an activities card and $95 without during pre-sale through April 9 to April 13, and will be $100 with an activities card and $105 without during regular sale from April 16 through April 24.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: SEOUL KITCHEN A Bull's Eye staff member reviews the newly opened Korean-cuisine restaurant in the H-Mart plaza downhill of DBHS.

BRAHMA PUBLICATIONS COMPETE

Students of DBHS Yearbook and journalism, including members of The Bull's Eye and the Journalism I course, participated in the annual regional write-offs hosted by the Journalism Education Association on March 3.

SINGING UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

Brahmas took their voices to the theater stage on March 2, performing their first show under new choir director Vince O'Connell. The groups showcased song styles ranging from Disney tunes to popular pop ballads.

DANCE TAKES THE FLOOR AT FLORIDA

Competing at the national level, DBHS Dance Company took their teams to Orlando, Florida from March 1 to 5. The groups interspersed leisure trips to Disney World in between the rigor of practice and competition days.

visit

DBBULLSEYE.COM

DB's new royalty crowned At the annual pageant, Shereen Wu was named Miss Diamond Bar. Amy Miyahara asst. A&E EDITOR Photo Courtesy of AISHWARYA RANE

A gathering of approximately 2,200 Brahmas congregated on campus in the amphitheater to take a stand during the DBHS walk-out at brunch on March 14.

Standing up for safety Walk-out from p.1 and six students spoke to address various points regarding safety, activism and gun control. A moment of silence was also held in commemoration of the victims from MSDHS. Daud opened the speeches with a brief introduction before launching into his oration on school security.

He then handed the microphone to junior Ryan Shah, who spoke about a friend of his in Florida who attends MSDHS. “Sofee, a junior like me, who should be thinking about college, SATs and just enjoying the last few months as a junior, is instead attending funerals, one of them being her neighbor’s, who was shot in the head, chest and hand,” Shah said during the event. “She was only fourteen years old.”

Lee and junior Danny Mansour followed, advocating for highschool aged youth to offer input into the political landscape.

“Political activism is more im-

portant now than ever in today’s political climate,” Mansour said.

“No matter where on the political spectrum you stand, those hoping for things to change can no longer afford to sit back and watch things happen.”

The pair closed out their speech by urging students of legal age to take their opinions to the polls.

Senior Shing Lin and junior Yuwen Wang next spoke out on the gun control scene, addressing the lack of legislative regulation surrounding the weapons.

“Today, we demand that our legislators place teachers’ and children’s lives above anyone’s right to easily obtain multiple assault rifles,” Wang said. “Today, we demand that our legislators stop dismissing our opinions on an issue that directly affects our lives because we are ‘only’ children. Because guess what? These children can vote you out of office this year.”

Lastly, Daud again took the stage to conclude the rally, and students returned to their normal school schedules at 10:17 a.m.

While most girls only daydream of becoming royalty, five young women will get to live out this fantasy this year as a part of the 2018 Miss Diamond Bar Court.

The court was selected at the 54th annual Miss Diamond Bar Pageant on Mar. 11.

Out of the nine contestants, Diamond Bar High School junior Shereen Wu was crowned as Miss Diamond Bar 2018.

Diamond Ranch High School junior Athena Barna, DBHS alumna and Mt. SAC freshman Isabella Retamosa, DBHS junior Jenna Wong and Diamond Ranch High School junior Jacqueline Mayorga were the first, second, third and fourth runner-ups, respectively. The four runner-ups were all crowned as Miss Diamond Bar princesses.

Wu said that entering the pageant was a spur of the moment decision and that she was surprised by her success.

“I didn’t know any specifics of pageantry, but I wanted to try something new,” she said via Facebook. “My competitors were all very accomplished women, so I didn’t expect to be the winner.”

Contestants were scored in an interview that took place before the pageant, which was worth 45 points. During the pageant, they

were then asked a randomly selected onstage question, and afterwards scored in a swimsuit competition and evening gown competition, each worth 15 points.

Before the five finalists were announced, additional awards were presented for the contestants.

Wu won both the Miss Congeniality Award, which was based purely on her application, and the MVP Award, which was voted on by her fellow contestants. Barna won the Miss Photogenic Award and Retamosa won the We Love to See You Smile award, which were both decided by Joelle Leder Photography, the company responsible for much of the pageant’s photography.

The five finalists were then announced and asked a final question before the winners and runner-up were announced.

As a princess, Wong hopes to be able to give back to the city.

“Now that I’m sixteen, and I [was] able to enter the pageant, I’ve gained a lot more experience, and I have a lot more of a personal connection to the city, so I want to be able to give back because I’ve pretty much grown up here,” she said.

Wu said that entering the pageant has helped her gain confidence, and she hopes to be a community role model as Miss Diamond Bar. “Being in the pageant is possibly the best choice I ever made. I feel stronger, more powerful, and more confident than ever...I’ve learned to really take pride in the things you do, and to always try something new because you’ll never know how rewarding it [will] be in the future,” she said. “[As Miss Diamond Bar], I hope to be a positive role model to the youth and really get to help the community to the best of my ability.”

Photo Courtesy of SHEREEN WU

Surrounded by the 2017 Miss Diamond Bar and princesses, junior Shereen Wu accepts a plaque and a bouqet of flowers as the new Miss Diamond Bar.

4

OPINION

EYE EDITORS OF THE

Noor in a Nutshell

The immorality of moral institutions

S

noor naji opinion editor

exual harassment allegations have been in the spotlight since the Harvey Weinstein scandal, with many women speaking out about their forced sexual encounters with different actors, directors and more. However, these types of allegations aren’t specific to the entertainment industry. In fact, it is a worldwide disease affecting the personal and professional lives of women, with even our “moral institutions” included.

The United Nations has long been complicit in overlooking gross misconduct by its senior officials, while implementing a system meant to silence victims. An internal 2018 UNAids staff survey found that 42 out of the 427 respondents had experienced sexual harassment by UN staffers, though only two had reported the instance.

This is because women often hesitate to report in fear of losing their jobs. One victim reported to the Guardian that despite summoning the courage to speak out and following all the required processes, “they mobilize friends and colleagues against you… [and send] threats.”

Moreover, a former United Nations investigator, Peter Gallo, said that evidence was often “ignored and facts skewed.” He was also told that “the only rule is not to publicly embarrass the organization.”

An institution meant to protect the vulnerable around the world, in fact, places more significance on its surface image at the cost of muffling the vulnerable voices in its own workplace.

In the very nature of speaking about sexual assault, the words “she’s probably lying” or “there’s no way this many women are speaking out now” are often thrown out. In truth, most women don’t speak out for the attention or money—it often costs them their jobs or reputations—but because it is common for those in power to take advantage of many women who will presumably remain quiet.

However, the accusations don’t end with female staffers. Locals in countries protected by the UN are also affected. In 2015, former judge Marie Deschamps led a review panel on how the UN handled allegations that French and African troops sexually abused children.

About 14 French soldiers were investigated for forcing children to perform sexual favors in exchange for food in the Central African Republic and other troops were accused of raping 8 to 13 year olds in Chad and Equatorial Guinea.

This sexual exploitation and abuse of power has become common internationally, with similar reports from the International Red Cross, Oxfam and more. And when considering peacekeeping troops, it’s a power associated with their gender, age and race. These type of scandals aren’t new, one-time occasions, or “a few bad apples.” They are systemic and structural issues reflecting a globally widespread problem that must be fixed.

Organizations meant to stand up for human rights, end up violating the rules themselves. The hypocrisy is unthinkable.

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

OPINION: There is a newfound need to build upon the recent security upgrades at DBHS.

I

n light of the recent, and unfortunately frequent, shootings, most recently at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, campus safety has been and continues to be a concern for schools across the nation.

Though recently, Diamond Bar High School has spread the word about “run, hide, fight,” there are still changes that the school should make to prevent and mitigate the damage caused by a potential active shooter on campus.

Security at DBHS seems to be more concerned with keeping students in the school rather than keeping others out. While it is important to stop students from cutting class, keeping outsiders from entering also needs to be a priority. Security guards will immediately question a student walking out the gate without fail, yet virtually anyone can slip in without being checked for an ID. Adults can leisurely walk in under the assumption that they are picking a student up early, and anyone that looks young can pass as a late student. Security guards watch the front gate, but there is a severe lack of supervision in the lower football field.

We are not asking for TSA security checkpoints, but simply that guards ensure that everyone entering the school is questioned just as much as those exiting.

Security guards should be present as long as there are students on campus, even after school hours. Many activities are held after school and on weekends with little or no security. The gates are wide open with potentially hundreds of students still on campus.

Many may feel more secure with armed security on campus; how-

ever the number of accidents and injuries may ultimately outweigh the benefit.

There is also a lack of security cameras on campus. If suspicious activity did occur at DBHS, there would be no recorded evidence of it. What goes on inside classrooms is equally as important as in the halls to ensure the safety of the school.

In the past, DBHS has had, at most, two lockdown drills a year, and even with recent events, they are still not taken as seriously as they need to be. Too many teachers simply lock the doors without saying a word to students and continue teaching.

If DBHS wants the students to take these drills seriously, students need to not only be informed about proper procedures, but practice the execution of them, lights off and all. Yes, precious class time is briefly interrupted, but it can drastically change the outcome in the case of a serious emergency.

A large number of teachers have decided to keep their doors locked at all times, which can cause a small inconvenience but is a fair trade-off for safety. However, something to be considered is that if the school were ever to go on lock down, what would happen to the students going to the bathroom or TAs running call slips outside of classes?

We like to assume—and hope— that DBHS will never go through such a scenario where the staff and students are in danger. However, while there is no guarantee that any campus is completely safe and exempt from these situations, there are improvements that could be made to further ensure safety at DBHS.

SCHOOL SHOOTING: An incident where people were harmed by gunfire on campus during school activities

300 injured dec 14, 2012

138 killed

~ 6 attacks (gun violence archive) STATISTICS SINCE 2000 (national center for education statistics)

20% More schools with locked doors during hours 43% More schools that require ids for staff 55% More school surveillance systems From the Brahma Perspective in a survey of: 74 freshmen 21 sophomores 42 juniors 41 seniors

81.5% OF STUDENTS SAID that on campus, THEY feel safe 53.9% said that DBHS needs more security 68.5% said security guards should be armed 69.1% approve of the doors being

amelie lee asst. feature editor To the internet community: With the buzz of attention my content has been receiving lately, I just wanted to send a letter of appreciation to all my devoted fans out there.

This week, I’ve hit almost 70 views on my quickly growing YouTube Channel, and gained ten followers on my third Instagram page. While the attention is a bit overwhelming at times, I have confidence that I will be able to handle it as my follower count continues to rise.

I’m also happy to announce that along with my gaming channel, musical Instagram page and Snapchat makeup tutorials, I will also be releasing vlog-style videos where I discuss my daily life and opinions.

During my 15 years of existence, I think I have gained more than enough perspective on the world to publicize my every thought on subjects ranging from cosmetics, musical instruments and internet gaming to world politics.

I am confident that my voice will be able to spread far and wide, changing the world for the better, and I am certain that the internet

locked

designed by Ted yarmoski

My very own YouTube channel world is fascinated with the ins and outs of my one of a kind high school life.

In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if within the next couple of weeks, my content will gain traction and reach the eyes of millions. Out of the billions of available music, skit and vlog videos on the internet, I feel as if my videos can really benefit those looking for something meaningful and unique.

What I have to offer as a teenage student is far more valuable than people who have been producing videos for decades, and I’m sure the internet audience will jump on the

Feb 14, 2018

Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school

sandy hook elementary school

opportunity to see the quality productions I create using my complex video editor, iMovie.

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SOCIALLY SATIRICAL support me through my path to stardom. I promise not to let the fame change me, and hope to see familiar faces at Vidcon soon.

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My information is in the description below as always, and please make sure to comment, rate and subscribe!

Love, Allystar2003

Cartoon Courtesy of SARAH SEIF

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

OPINION

5

opioid crisis:

Is legalization the right solution to the new american health emergency? these treatments, which mostly rely on opioid-based substances.

This restriction forces people to resort to non-medicated treatments which are often ineffective and lead to a lesser resistance to opioids, according to STAT, a national health and medication publication. This tolerance loss results in many overdose deaths as people turn to the black market after failed treatment attempts.

Restrictions on the purchase of drugs, ted yarmoski while they might lead to reduced use, may asst. opinion editor result in even more deaths as drug mixing To fight fire with fire: An and poisonous formulas become prevalent. often counterintuitive opWith legalization, people could obtain adetion, making opiates legal quate amounts of the drug that they choose, and readily available, may be the most effecavoiding mixing. However, when left with an tive solution to America’s growing health insufficient amount of drugs and an inabilcrisis. ity to obtain more, people More Americans died are left to improvise by usfrom opioid overdoses than ing alcohol and other avail“Only by legalizing breast cancer in 2016, acable substances. This, in these drugs can cording to CNN. The legalconjunction with opioids, addicts access help ization of opioids, along leads to lethal combinawith treatment measures, tions, according to an Ausand treatment would drastically lessen tralian government docuservices without being this number and help end ment. harshly punished and America’s latest health In countries such as shamed.” emergency.

Portugal, Germany and With 259 million preFrance, policies and laws scriptions for opiate painhave been passed attemptkillers written in 2012 alone, according to ing to remove the stigma placed on those the American Society of Addiction Mediwith addictions. These may include desigcine, it’s no wonder why many people have nated drug-use facilities and personal drug become addicted. However, once cut off possession laws. The policies are steps in from their supply, these people are left with the right direction. After decriminalization very little options. in Portugal, drug use has declined across all They must either suffer the withdrawal age groups and overdose deaths dropped to symptoms or turn to the black market for only three per one million adults, the second opioids. The stigma against these drug uslowest rate in the European Union accorders only makes recovery harder, as revealing to the Drug Policy Alliance. America ing their problem comes with social conshould look for ways to motivate and allow sequences. Only by legalizing these drugs addiction victims to seek effective treatment can addicts access help and treatment serfor addictions that they may even not have vices without being harshly punished and had control over. shamed.

Simply prohibiting opioid use would There are already numerous ways to cause more problems than it would solve. treat addiction using specialized medication A gradual process of acknowledgement and and techniques such as opioid substitution treatment will allow those who need help therapy and heroin-assisted treatment, but to seek it out without having to hide and be criminalization usually restricts the use of ashamed of their addiction.

PRO

being sufficiently treated, they prescribed more painkillers, which led to more cases of opioid overdoses.

Instead, we need to redefine what pain is in order to better treat it, without the use of potent drugs.

The first step is to remove it as a vital sign, an indicator of general physical health. The other vital signs, blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature, can all be quantified, while pain cannot be. There is no brian chang way to compare pain levels objectively, and news editor as such pain should not be treated as a vital For many in the U.S., painsign. killers do not just take Reducing the number of opioid prescripminor aches away—they tions will have a twofold effect. First, patake more than 115 American lives each day tients will have reduced access to strong from overdoses, according to the National narcotics. Second, these hard drugs are Institute on Drug Abuse. will be less prevalent in Following president communities as a whole.

Donald Trump’s declaraAccording to Robert Ver“By redefining tion of the opioid crisis as Brugge, a deputy editor pain and reducing a health emergency, many of the National Review, a narcotics sold, the have been lobbying for full large number of addicts government would legalization or decriminalget their painkillers not be limiting access ization of opioids. While from doctors, but from pato opioids, reducing the government needs to tients who are prescribed addiction and find a solution to narcotics narcotics. According to overdose cases.” abuse, legalization is not it.

Vox writer German Lopez, Legalizing opioids will communities across the only cause more deaths U.S. have been awash with than the current system does. Some argue strong opioids, allowing even those who that when reputable firms produce and sell aren’t prescribed painkillers easy access to drugs, fewer people are killed from tainted hard drugs. samples or cartel-related murders, which In addition, the government needs to would probably be true. As the need for a crack down on opioid sales. By both redefinblack market to sell drugs disappears, so ing pain and reducing the amount of narcotdoes the need for sellers and drug lords. ics sold, the government would be limiting Yet, proponents of this argument ignore public access to opioids, thereby reducing the fact that legalizing drugs makes them addiction and overdose cases. more available to everyone. The inherent Finally, the government needs to invest danger associated with buying narcotics off more into addiction treatment centers. By the black market is enough to prevent many recognizing that addiction is what drives from doing so. The entire opioid crisis began many to turn to a life of crime and raising because those in charge failed to consider awareness about the root cause, it can save the effects of making opioids readily availthousands of lives. able.

The government must do more to treat By promoting pain as “the fifth vital sign” current addiction cases, in addition to prein the late 1990s and early 2000s, the U.S. venting future ones, and legalization is not government set off a chain reaction. As docthe catch-all solution many may believe it tors became more worried that pain was not to be.

CON

A collective voice for reform

amelie lee asst. feature editor Despite witnessing more than 200 mass shootings since Sandy Hook, millennials and those in Generation Z are often seen as too sensitive and sheltered, and quickly dismissed for their beliefs and ideals. With the topic of gun control on everyone’s mind, America’s youth must take their passion and become the voice of change.

On Feb. 14, seventeen students were shot and killed in Parkland, Florida. Seeing similar events on the news every few weeks, Americans have been desensitized to the trauma and shock. After nineteen school shootings since Trump’s election, according to ABC News, and zero federal legislation on gun control, the United States seems

to have resigned itself to cycling through an ineffective, brief moment of grief, sending thoughts and prayers to the city in question and then returning to everyday life.

When it comes to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, those affected have insisted on breaking this cycle, refusing to fade away and spearheading the movement for change through social media with the hashtag #neveragain.

These teenagers are taking their trauma and channelling it into making change on a national level.

In this time of controversy and division, the Parkland teens have taken the microphone made available to them and made their voice heard. While it’s easy for other students across the country to assume that their experiences are more meaningful than ours, as high school students directly threatened by school shootings, our voices are just as powerful, and as students we will gain traction amongst those able to make change.

Throughout history, teenagers have been the ones fighting against injustice when legislation fails to create change at a reasonable speed. When given the chance to make a difference, students have

stepped up to the plate with the vigor and determination needed to grab attention and encourage change. Whether it’s the African American high school students boycotting the Montgomery bus services or the college students protesting against the draft for the Vietnam war, youth has never been an excuse for ignorance or inaction. With the issue of gun control after Parkland, students must once again step up when adults have failed to take the reigns.

However inspiring the Parkland teens are, their voices cannot be the only sound of youth activism in the country. As high school students, we cannot ignore the chance to address our own safety and deliberately call the country to action. While we might not be the ones shot at in February, students at Diamond Bar could have been in that exact situation.

As useless and futile as students might feel, we need to realize that the world is waiting on the youth to spur real life change when no one else will. Whether it’s taking to the streets in protest, pre-registering to vote or writing to legislators, collective, youth-led action should be on the mind of every student.

Lunch: Short changed

6

FEATURE

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

A teacher in the making Brian Chang news editor Diamond Bar High School senior Kristen Van de Houten spends two days out of the week returning to her roots in order to help the next generation of students grow.

On Mondays and Wednesdays, Van de Houten spends an hour after school at Evergreen Elementary School, helping kindergarten students with arts and crafts and ensures they are on task. She works with her former kindergarten teacher Mona Warren, who invited her to volunteer at Evergreen when Kristen visited her at the beginning of the school year.

“My mom found my old kindergarten scrapbook, and we were showing it to her,” Van de Houten said. “I mentioned how I wanted to be a teacher...and she asked if I wanted to volunteer there.”

While she enjoys helping the students with their projects, she said it can be occasionally troublesome getting them to understand what they are doing. For example, during a recent activity when students needed to work w i t h watercolors, some s t u dents were u s i n g too

AMELIE LEE

Senior Brandon Samoylenko competes in an eSports event on campus.

club corner

AMELIE LEE

Working with kindergarten students, Van de Houten guides kids during tasks. much paint even after Van de Houten warned them not to.

“Sometimes they’re not really great at understanding exactly what you’re telling them and that can make almost anything difficult. I just have to keep telling them, or try to explain it in a different way.”

In the classroom, Van de Houten hopes to influence the children in a positive way by making the learning process more fun.

“When there’s just one teacher in the class and that’s the only person they’re talking to all day, then when there are other people, it makes

Senior Kristen Van de Houten volunteers twice a week at Evergreen Elementary.

things more dynamic, more interesting,” she said.

Van de Houten said she wanted to be a teacher ever since she was young. She is using the opportunity to broaden her horizons and determine if she wants to teach young children in the future.

“It’s definitely shown me what it’s like to be a kindergarten teacher and how the kids are in school,” she said. “This is their first year in an actual school, and they’re learning more constantly. It’s opening my ideas to what age range I want to teach.”

In the past, Van de Houten has also volunteered through other programs to gain experience working with children. She babysat toddlers at the church her parents attended on Sundays for a couple of years, and the summer after her freshman year, she worked in the Tiny Tots program at the Heritage Park & Community Center.

“I love working with kids. It’s something I’ve always liked doing,” Van de Houten said.

“You’re dealing with these young kids, who haven’t had much in life yet. You’re influencing them a lot, and that’s such an important job. You’re giving them the foundation for the rest of their education. It’s a lot of responsibility.”

Playing eSports pays off

Brian Chang news editor Members of the Diamond Bar High School eSports Club have found a way to turn leisure into potential scholarships and volunteer hours.

The club was scouted by Menlo College, a private college in Silicon Valley that focuses on business. All of the club’s players were offered $25,000 a year in scholarship money if they attended the school.

“It’s near the Silicon Valley, which is very good for business,” senior president Elise Hou said.

“The majors they offer are somewhat related to esports, like business marketing.”

The club also offers volunteer opportunities for members. The club partners with an organization called Gamers Outreach, which creates portable gaming consoles for children in hospitals to use.

Members help build the consoles or play with the patients.

Hou, who has been with the club since its inception, helped the program grow by finding sponsorships from major organizations, including HyperX, the esports branch of computer producer Kingston Company.

These companies supply the club with equipment, such as mousepads, which members then use during competitions.

The club, which started two years ago, hosts tournaments with players from other schools. It has also put on other school events, such as the school’s first staff gaming fundraiser in February. Secretary and Program Coordinator Michelle Li said the club’s activities this year have been tailored to appeal to a wider audience.

“We try to provide events that are more inclusive than exclusive,” Li said. “In the past, it’s been targeted to the best players. Now it’s a very casual environment.”

As a part of its effort to include more students, Li said the club also aims to destigmatize gaming, which she said is “looked down upon” in academically-driven communities like at DBHS. “There’s more to gaming than just sitting at home, locked away in your room. We want to show people if you’re really passionate about [esports] you can have a future in it,” Li said.

A recent fundraising event eSports club held was a staff gaming event on Feb. 22, where students were able to play games against faculty members, like physics teacher Angela Jensvold and class of 2018 GLCs Dave Desmond and Jenna Brummett.

Money raised during the event was donated to an organization called Anxiety Gaming, a non-profit that provides mental health services for gamers.

Hydro Flasks serve as her canvas

EMILY KIM FEATURE EDITOR With many different ways to customize personal items, Diamond Bar High School senior Ashley Hanes has taken to painting blooming flowers and crashing waves to customize her Hydro Flasks.

Hanes originally started by painting her own Hydro Flask. Her friends took notice of the design and complimented it, saying they wanted their own personalized bottles. Word about Hanes’ paintings was only spread among her friends until her closest friends convinced her to post her work on her Twitter, @_ashleyannh_.

“I started painting Hydro Flasks a couple of months ago. It was kind of just a hobby. Instead of putting stickers on them, I wanted to try something new,” Hanes said.

Since Hanes posted the painted Hydro Flasks on March 4, the pictures have gained about 14,700 retweets and 84,200 likes. She has gained about 2,500 new followers since.

“On the first day, I posted it late at night so it started off slow. Then, I remember my friends coming over, and we were just hanging out.

They said it was going up by the hundreds per minute. Everytime we looked back, it was going up by 100,” Hanes said.

With all of the attention that has surrounded the tweet, Hanes decided to close her direct messages

due to the number of requests.

About 150 to 200 people have already asked her to paint their bottles. She has currently painted about 15 bottles amongst her friends. The prices are set by both the size of the Hydro Flask and the complexity of the design requested.

For a 40-oz. bottle, the base price starts at $25 and could increase or decrease depending on the intricacies of the design as well as shipping fees.

Hanes uses acrylic paints on the bottles and covers them with a wa-

Photos Courtesy of ASHLEY HANES

Senior Ashley Hanes has gained hundreds of requests to paint people’s Hydro Flasks since going viral on Twitter. ter-resistant sealant at the end to prevent damage from washing or falling.

Nature scenes, flowers and oceans are recurring designs that Hanes has painted on the water bottles. One of her favorite designs she has painted is a mountain scene as it was the bottle that kick-started her popularity.

Some have requested Hanes to surprise them with a design of her own, while others have a specific idea for what they want painted on their Hydro Flask.

She tries to take in as much in-

spiration from outside sources as possible when designing a surprise Hydro Flask.

When designing for her friends’ Hydro Flasks, she took into account their personality and the things they like, incorporating those ideas into painting speicifc designs onto the bottle.

Hanes plans on opening up an Etsy store to manage the amount of orders that her tweet had garnered. She wants the process to be as a safe and efficient as possible.

She is trying to figure out the logistics of methods customers could

use to ship their bottles to her for the design, before shipping the finished product back to them. She also says that she could purchase the bottle for customers and send back the finished design, accounting the price of the bottle and the painting into the total cost.

“I didn’t think it would blow up this much. I did not expect this type of response. It’s really great because it is such a positive response. Everyone is just positive and telling me to keep it going. I love it. I’m very appreciative of it,” Hanes said.

DBHS ALUMNI EST. 1982

FEATURE

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

A race to the top

Hot Pot Showdown

restaurant review

Catherine liu staff writer En route toward pursuing his dreams, class of 1993 Diamond Bar High School alumnus Jim Liaw has met his goal of working in the automobile industry in the fastest form possible: racing. As the president of drift car race series Formula Drift, Liaw has brought drift racing to the U.S. along with his partner Ryan Sage.

As co-president of the first drift racing series in the U.S, Liaw is in charge of the strategic planning for events along with speaking at motor workshops, discussing emerging trends and events. They plan to hold eight championship races this year, which will be held in seven regions: California, Seattle, Georgia, Florida, Missouri, New York and Texas.

“In comparison to other racing series, we are the new kids on the block,” Liaw said. “Only NASCAR beats us in social media exposure, impressions and engagement. Our Top 10 drivers, collectively, have bigger social media profile than NHRA’s Top 10 and IndyCar’s Top 10 drivers combined.So we are doing good and we are growing.”

Before forming Formula Drift, Liaw studied at UCLA, starting as an economics major before switching to Asian American studies.

“Frankly, I didn’t know what do with the major, let alone what I wanted to do. It wasn’t until my last year [of college] that I boldly, but more naively, wanted to chase after any opportunities in the auto industry since I always loved cars and racing,” Liaw said via email.

After college, Liaw contacted every company, manufacturer and magazine that dealt with automobiles around the area in search of an internship. He had his first experience in the auto industry as an intern at a publishing compa-

EMILY JACOBSSON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

YOJIE JAPANESE FONDUE

Photo Courtesy of JIM LIAW

Alumnus Jim Liaw brought drift racing to the United States for the first time. ny that printed automobile magazines.

“That internship was my foot in the door and led to the career I have now,” Liaw said.

After his internship, Liaw worked as an event planner, but more importantly meet his current partner, Sage, at the company. Liaw claimed that they realized that the company did not value their sponsors, and decided to leave and create their own event company.

“We realized that this company was not taking care of their sponsors, especially in helping them connect with their audience, the car enthusiasts. They just sold them a booth space and left them alone,” Liaw said.

Wanting to improve in helping companies connect with customers at events, the pair created Slipstream Global Marketing. They were able to organize special projects with companies like Mazda and Ebay before learning that the Japan drifting car series, D1 Grand Prix, was coming to the U.S. to host a drift racing event.

“The organizer of the Japanese drifting events, D1GP, wanted to

come to the U.S. for a one-time special event,” Liaw said. “We pitched them, got the deal and created the first D1GP event outside of Japan and the first top level drifting event here in the U.S.” Inspired by the event, Sage and Liaw decided to create their own company, Formula Drift, to bring drifting to the U.S. Since then, his company has promoted the movie “Tokyo Drift” and supplied stunt drivers for the film.

During his time in high school, Liaw was a part of the Academic Decathlon, Key Club and track and field. He states that he remembers his Decathlon advisor, Joe Moran, as someone who impacted him the most.

“He pushed me intellectually; challenged the way I thought about things. He also opened my mind to learn about all kinds of diverse subjects. This set the foundation for my desire to be well educated and keep up-to-date about various subjects,” Liaw said.

Their fifteenth season will start on April 6 in Long Beach. For more information, the company’s Facebook account is formulaDRIFT.

Creating out of Chaos Sophia Kim Asst. Web Editor Inspired to create a brand with both meaning and fashion, Diamond Bar High School senior Thomas Lee decided to take that dream into action.

“Looking at big brands and looking at what’s in the malls, I just felt like I might be able to do better or around the same and hopefully succeed,” he said.

Lee started his brand, CHAOS, in hopes of spreading meaningful messages for teens to reflect on.

Lee’s first collection of his brand focused on the idea of learning and growing from mistakes.

As a Christian, Lee also aimed to spread deep quotes inspired by Biblical verses by implementing them in the design of the clothes.

“Chaos represents suffering,” Lee said. “I wanted to show and explain that we must overcome it and grow and mature from the experiences.”

So far, Lee has released the first collection of CHAOS on Etsy, an e-commerce website, in early March. It includes t-shirts for $15, long sleeves for $20 and hoodies for $30. On the back of each piece is a butterfly that symbolizes different stages in life, and the phrase, “All Great Changes are Preced-

7

Photo Courtesy of THOMAS LEE

Senior Thomas Lee created a new fashion brand, CHAOS, last month. ed by Chaos.”

Lee said that the biggest influence in starting his brand was his father, who works as a custom retailer. Lee’s father was able to provide Lee with the clothes and also guide him through the business.

“I’ve always wanted to start a clothing brand but I just never got the chance to,” he said. “I had all the resources, which is my dad and some friends that support me, so I just tried it out.”

Creating and producing the brand with his father took Lee a couple of dedicated months.

Lee repeated the creative process of brainstorming designs, drawing on Illustrator software, visualizing the designs on Photoshop and creating samples until he was satisfied with the product.

In addition, after the release of his collection, Lee gathered a couple of school friends for models for his new brand.

They

not only modeled for him, but also helped advertise his brand on social media.

Also, DBHS senior Justin Yoo recorded and edited a promotion video to help with the sales.

In the future, Lee hopes to continue his brand and expand his CHAOS Instagram account.

With over 250 followers on his account, Lee dreams of releasing as many collections as possible to reach a global audience.

“If I just keep sending out designs and continue managing my Instagram account and advertising more, I feel like it can still work out in the future,” Lee said.

Despite what the restaurant’s name suggests, Yojie serves shabu shabu in an all-you-can-eat style.

To begin, customers choose one serving of either angus beef, chicken or fish to cook in either a shabu shabu, sukiyaki or spicy miso broth. One pot is shared between two customers, and the split pot means that you are able to pick your own flavor. Aside from the classic shabu shabu broth, the other broths cost an additional $2.

Then, customers are directed to the self-serve bar, which offers a few options such as leafy greens, noodles and tofu. However, I was slightly disappointed, as there weren’t too many options beyond the typical vegetables.

In addition, customers can opt for extra add-ons, and different types of meat were available for additional cost. Yojie doesn’t venture into the large array of sauces to be mixed together like many other modern hot pot places do.

However, the traditional ponzu and goma sauce offered worked well to enhance the flavors of the crispy vegetables and savory meat with-

DETAILS ADDRESS: 2803 S Diamond Bar Blvd, Diamond Bar YELP RATING: out overpowering their taste.

The $16.99 meal, not including different broth flavors or other addons, was satisfying and a good representation of a traditional shabu shabu meal. I was pleasantly surprised by the portions of the meat.

I found that one serving of the beef was more than enough for myself to feel full, though the single serving of fish, which my friend ordered, seemed a lot lighter.

HANNAH LEE

PAPER POT SHABU DETAILS ADDRESS: 20657 Golden Springs Dr Suite 206, Diamond Bar YELP RATING: The specialty of Paper Pot Shabu lies in the uncommon paper lining used in the personal pots. However, beyond my initial interest in this minor unique feature, nothing stood out during my experience.

The 12 broths offered at Paper Pot Shabu are much more flavorful than those I had at other restaurants, and they were the only broths that I enjoyed as a soup instead of simply a cooking medium.

The house spicy broth and Japanese curry were my personal favorites, but I was a little taken aback at the cost of the beef, considering the small portions. I settled on the $21 6-oz. serving of Prime Rib Eye, which, while delicious, was noth-

ing phenomenal. For $3 extra, I upgraded to their Wow Combo, which included sausages, dumplings and fish cakes, among a few other addons, though the portions were, yet again, rather small.

Paper Pot is a worthwhile visit for those who prefer personal hot pots instead of communal ones, but the disconnect between the portion size and price will likely prevent me from being a regular customer.

AMELIE LEE

SHABUYA Withthe surplus of hot pot in the area, it seems pointless to travel far for the same cuisine. However, located across the street from Ikea in West Covina, Shabuya will elevate your hot pot experience.

I don’t usually have hot pot with my parents, as they find the meal overly expensive and too easily replicated at home. However, even they had to admit that the allyou-can-eat buffet was completely worth it. I found the quality of meat and other add-ins, like fish balls and seafood, was the highest

info

INSTAGRAM: @chaosattire NUMBER: 909-767-1423 WEBSITE: etsy.com/shop/chaosttire EMILY JACOBSSON

DETAILS ADDRESS: 147 N Barranca St, West Covina YELP RATING: at Shabuya. While the meat is given in small quantities, and only four plates can be ordered at a time, the waiters checked back extremely often to take more orders.

One pot, which is split in half for two different broths, is shared between up to four people. The Original House and Chinese Hot Pot soup bases both bring out a nice flavoring to the items cooked in it, but I enjoyed the Chinese base a little more because of the added spice.

The large variety of options at the buffet is what places Shabuya above all the other restaurants I had tried.

If the $26.99 per person is intimidating, visit during lunch when the price is reduced to $18.99, although there are fewer options at the buffet.

8 FEATURE

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

Fashion Lookbook

Spring AMY MIYAHARA ASST. A&E EDITOR

Mom Jeans While the term “mom jeans” was originally popularized by Tina Fey in a 2003 Saturday Night Live skit as a way to make fun of the style, these oversized jeans are now extremely popular. Both ripped and plain variations are cute when paired with a crop top or bodysuit and a pair of sneakers for a casual day.

While Southern California might not see a discernible temperature difference from winter to spring, the start of the spring season brings an even more exciting change: new fashion. Here are some of the ways that you can bring life to your wardrobe and look fresh for the upcoming season.

PACSUN

Patterned Pants

TREND2WEAR

A bolder and more exciting look than jeans, these patterned pants have become increasingly popular, whether fitted or loose. Wide leg striped or plaid pants are comfortable and pair nicely with a crop top or plain T-shirt for a casual outfit, while more fitted variations worn with a blouse make for a more elevated look.

Floral Rompers

OMGOUTFITIDEAS

While neither florals nor rompers are a new trend, floral rompers are still everywhere, and it’s not hard to see why. Floral prints are always a spring go-to, and rompers are both adorable and easy to style. Like jumpsuits, they can be dressed up or down for different events and will turn heads either way.

SEASONOUTFIT

Jumpsuits

SHEIN

More people are leaving their dresses on the hanger and opting to wear jumpsuits.

They come in a variety of prints and styles that can be fancy or casual depending on the occasion. Paired with heels and a statement jewelry piece, they make for elegant evening wear, while sandals or fllats make them perfect for everyday life.

Wrap Dresses The wrap dress is one of the most timeless pieces of clothing.

Flattering to a wide variety of body types and available in different patterns and lengths, wrap dresses are easy to customize based on your preference. A polka dot or floral short sleeve wrap dress is perfect for any sunny spring day.

URBAN OUTFITTERS

FASHIONETTER

Statement Earings

Pastel

GLAMRADAR

TUMBLR

If you are looking for a way to brighten up your spring wardrobe, look no further.

Pastels are not only fresh, fun and flirty; they are also on trend this season. From baby pink ruffled skirts to lavender heels, pastels can be used both as pops of color in an outfit or can make up an entire outfit on their own.

JEANJAIL

While statement earrings can sometimes be seen as tacky, if you pick the right ones, it can bring an entire outfit together. Large hoop earrings give a classic vibe to an outfit, while more colorful and creative earrings such as the ones pictured make a bolder statement.

POLYVORE

REALSIMPLE

Design by Amelie Lee

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

While past drama productions have catered to a more mature audience, new DBHS drama director Jacob Kaitz hopes that this year’s production based on the Disney film will reach a broader audience.

catherine liu staff writer

D

iamond Bar High School students will soon be able to relive childhood memories as they are swept under the sea by the Drama Department’s spring musical, “The Little Mermaid.”

“We were trying to pick a show that would not only showcase our students the best but also showcase our program and sell tickets,” newly appointed drama director Jared Kaitz said.

With a plot nearly identical to the 1989 film of the same name, the musical follows the journey of Ariel, the mermaid princess.

Ariel has lived a boring life under the sea until she saves the life of a shipwrecked Prince Eric and immediately falls in love. From there, she must make a major sacrifice to become human and pursue the love of her life.

Kaitz acknowledges that the productions from previous years have catered more to adult tastes, including “Les Miserables,” “Hamlet” and “In the Heights.”

T h i s

year’s musical selection is an attempt to broaden their audiences.

The stage show, based on the movie, ran on Broadway for 20 months and over 500 performances starting in 2012. The original source material is a Danish fairy tale, “Little Mermaid,” which was written by renowned writer, Hans Christian Andersen.

“We also wanted to reach out to the younger people in our school district and hope that they come to see the show because it is a show that is appropriate,” Kaitz said.

Hoping to change things up in his first production as the theater director, Kaitz also plans to incorporate the work of different school departments.

“We’re just trying to include many different people on campus as well to showcase our other programs because maybe they don’t get as much time to show their work so now there is another opportunity for them,” Kaitz said.

Kaitz plans to bring in Robotics to provide a surprise element during the play while utilizing stage crew to help build the set.

Ann Tran’s 3-D printing class will help create pieces of jewelry, while dance teacher Kari Simonson will help choreograph parts of the play.

Drama also plans to have elementary students join in by singing at one of their shows, as they have done in the past.

The lead role of Ariel will alternate between freshman Allison Santogrossi and senior Katelyn Contreras. Meanwhile, the lead role for Eric will be Luke Teerling and Ursula will be Pilar Alcazar.

“For me, I think the hardest thing was just learning to love Ariel and also I’m not so much a Disney fanatic as most of my cast. Some of the songs people knew by heart, while I had no

MUSICAL ON P. 12

MELIE

s by A

Photo

LEE

Top: The cast of “The Little Mermaid” works on their singing.

Middle: Senior Mary Thomas and freshman Melissa Ribeiro work on choreography. This year, dance teacher Kari Simonson helped in choreographing parts of the musical.

Bottom: The cast works with a prop on the “Kiss the Girl scene,” where Prince Eric (Luke Teerling) takes Ariel (Allison Santogrossi) on a boat ride.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE BULL'S EYE

FOREIGN FILM FAVO R I T E S

The Bull’s Eye staff picks films that speak to them even despite a language barrier.

PA N ’ S L A BY R I N T H

P i c ke d by A my M i y a h a r a

Sp a n i s h

Directed by “The Shape of Water” mastermind Guillermo del Toro, this film gorgeously intertwines the world of childlike fantasy and wonder with the dark realities of a war-torn nation. Its visual effects and captivating story make it a masterpiece.

A W E R E WO L F B OY

P i c ke d by S o p h i a K i m

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

Ko re a n

A fantasy romance film starring Korean actor Song Joong-ki, “A Werewolf Boy” pulls on the heartstrings of the audience as they join in on the journey of a handsome werewolf boy learning to behave like a human.

H E LOV E S M E . . . H E LOV E S M E N OT

CJ ENTERTAINMENT

Fre n c h

P i c ke d by A m e l i e Le e

Starting off as a romance, “He Loves Me...He Loves Me Not” ends up a lot more terrifying as a psychological thriller. As Angelique, a Fine Arts student, Audrey Tautou is almost as good as she was in “Amelie.”

YO U A R E T H E APPLE OF MY EYE

SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT

P i c ke d by C a t h e r i n e Z h a n g

A FA N TA S T I C WO M A N

20TH CENTURY FOX

Sp a n i s h

P i c ke d by Pa u l i n e Wo o d l e y

Though unsettling at times, Sebastian Lelio’s “A Fantastic Woman” is a necessary experience.

It follows the life of a transgender singer as she deals with the death of her boyfriend and the discrimination towards her “unconventional” lifestyle.

Stude nts fe e d music al p assio n

Three DBHS seniors use Instagram as an outlet to share their musical talents with the world.

Sophia kim Asst. web editor Instagram is no longer a platform for just selfies. Diamond Bar High School seniors Fayleen Ho, Susie Choi and Hampton Douglas are utilizing the social network to document their musical talents.

“I just feel like it’s a different avenue for me to be able to express myself,” Ho said. “I’ve been watching Instagram singers for a long time and they usually have shorter clips which made it seem easier.”

Ho created her Instagram account, @faysing.thetruth, after numerous friends requested she sing and perform songs on the guitar.

Being in DBHS commercial music class, Music for Healing club and Rowland Heights Community Christian Church’s worship team allowed Ho to quickly gain fans of both her vocal and acoustic-playing abilities.

Although Ho was urged by friends and family to share her music on social media for years, she said that her lack of self-confidence prevented her from doing so sooner.

“I’m glad to finally have started the account because I have an avenue to show my own creativity and to look back on different times of my life,” Ho said.

After years of delay, she finally created her account last October and now posts live, minute-long acoustic covers of pop and Christian songs for her 120 followers.

Also posting vocal covers with guitar accompaniment is Choi, who started singing after she fell in love with the music of singer and guitarist, Ed Sheeran. After learning to play the guitar from her church members in middle school, Choi continued her passion by further learning from various websites.

Choi is now the director of the worship band at her church, a job which includes playing the guitar

and singing during praise sessions. Hoping to grow in her own musical abilities and encourage others to do the same, she started to post short acoustic covers of pop songs on her account, @susienguitar, and is now planning to branch out onto Youtube.

“I made the account hoping to encourage others who are shy or scared of sharing their love for the arts, like singing, playing music, or dancing,” Choi said.

Douglas started his percussion Instagram account, @hampton. music, two years ago as a private account shared just between him and friends.

“At first it was to see our own progress and I didnt’ show anybody, but as I progressed I realized it’s important to start making relationships and network,” he said.

“That’s why I opened it up, to fol-

SONY PICTURES CLASSICS

low new people so I can gain a following.”

On his account, Douglas posts clips of himself playing a variety of percussion instruments such as the drums, marimbas, snare and timpani. He posts excerpts, solo pieces and audition pieces for him and his followers to view.

One of his videos featuring the song Tempo Di Bouree was reposted by a percussion Instagram account with a large following, @ percussivearts, exposing his videos to a much larger audience.

Having played percussion instruments since the 6th grade, Douglas stated that Instagram became a platform for him to share his musical journey with the world.

“I’m planning to do music in college and as I progress through college, I’ll keep posting videos to see where I came from” he said.

Photo courtesy of HAMPTON DOUGLAS

Photo courtesy of FAYLEEN HO

Senior Hampton Douglas, top, posted a video playing “Violin Concerto in A minor” by J.S. Bach on the marimba. Senior Fayleen Ho covered Niall Horan’s “Too Much To Ask” in one of the videos on her Instagram account.

App updates: for better and for worse?

Catherine zhang editor-in-chief

Chinese

This seemingly cliche romcom strays from the typical mold of its genre.

The film incoporates famous actors and actresses, and deviates from the classic “happy-ever-after”ending, instead portraying a somewhat realistic twist.

MARCH 21, 2018

Whether I’m walking during passing period or sitting in my classes, it seems like all the students at Diamond Bar High School chat about now are the various updates that Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter have recently undergone.

Despite these apps attempt to please users, I think I represent the majority of teenagers when I voice my dislike of the new updates, preferring the previous versions.

Snapchat made major changes in the layouts of stories and the friend list in early February, and for many, the app automatically updated with these changes without the user’s permission.

For the most part, these changes were not for the better. My main problem is that I now can’t differentiate who sent me snaps and who posted on their stories.

However, I do enjoy the revamped styles of the Bitmojis as well as the addition of varying sizes and font options for the text, which lead to better expression and creativity among the snaps I send. I thought the revamped styles of the Bitmojis was the most interesting part of the update, since I can adjust even the most specific aspects of my avatar, like ear shape or face width. On

the other hand, Instagram’s last big update received a neutral response from its users. The app added numerous type faces and backgrounds, which could be shared without first taking a picture or video.

I prefer the classic boomerang and photo options when updating my story instead of utilizing the new option. For me, the more annoying aspect of the new update is the new algorithm Instagram implemented to display posts in my feed, instead of the chronological order posts were displayed in previously.

This update claims to show users posts they want to see, but instead it just spams me with every post from a single user I just followed, no matter when the picture was posted, instead of recent posts from my friends.

Prior to the Snapchat and Instagram updates, Twitter led the way with their notable addition of the “Moments” feature. Although I don’t use this app, I can easily see why it is groundbreaking as it gives users the chance to express their thoughts without a 280-character limit. Now, users can piece together multiple tweets into a slideshow-esque format.

This change helps users, especially teenagers, keep up to date on the latest buzz—ranging from a scandalous breakup between two A-list stars to controversial current events.

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

11

Jeremy davis

TAKE TWO Marvel breaks boundaries

DBHS junior has received national recognition for his percussion skills

Emily Jacobsson & Pauline Woodley A&E Editors If you’ve seen “Black Panther” and decided that it wasn’t a good movie, you’re part of the minority. If you refuse to see it because, despite the waves of praise it has received, you don’t think it’s a big deal, you’re wrong.

While the Black Panther may not be the only black superhero within the Marvel universe (others being Falcon, the original Green Lantern and newly introduced Ironheart), he most certainly is one of few. What’s more, with him comes nearly an entire cast of talented black characters—all of which are strikingly dynamic and refuse to fall into stereotypical roles.

We may be used to the white movie characters fighting for some righteous cause while their black best friend acts as a sidekick, never truly establishing their own persona. This movie breaks from tradition and shows black characters dutifully guiding their kingdoms, trailblazing in technological advancements and facing the same troubles that plague our traditional hero.

The media has written off the entire continent of Africa into a single country unified through hunger, helplessness and disease.

Wakanda, while an imaginary African country, challenges this notion with every aspect of its existence. We see a country that is far more technologically advanced than other Western countries and, even more, holds the values and morals that many world powers may have lost. Marvel’s presentation of Wakanda as a vessel of Africa as a whole is rather revolutionary among the movies, articles and books that have conditioned us to see the continent as something “less than.”

“Black Panther” has created something truly special. It stands as a symbol of hope and justice for the black community that anyone would be excited to witness. It is especially important to mention that though this film empowers the black community, its impact will benefit all people of color, as myths of certain movies “not selling” are disbanded at every record broken.

In addition to the diversity seen on screen, the film was equally as varied behind the scenes. Directed by Ryan Coogler, whose other works include “Creed” and “Fruitvale Station,” the film was the highest-grossing film ever made by a black director. The film was written by Coogler and Joe Robert Cole, two African-American screenwriters who were able to tell a story that related to everyone, despite what color you are.

Rachel Morrison, the film’s cinematographer made history by becoming the first female nominated in that category for her last film, “Mudbound.”

In challenging the way we think about black movies and how they are made, “Black Panther” is paving the way for future films starring and made by minorities.

The next generation will have “Black Panther” to thank for the (hopefully) many blockbusters that will star minorities of all kinds.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

AMELIE LEE

Junior Jeremy Davis can often be found practicing after school in the DBHS music facilities. He practices about two and a half hours each day.

Cindy liu asst. news editor Think of the word musician and several instruments usually come to mind: violin, piano, flute. While percussion might not typically get as much recognition as other instruments, Diamond Bar High School junior Jeremy Davis has stepped onto center stage with his accomplishments as a percussionist.

Six years after first picking up the drumsticks, Davis has been featured on the National Public Radio’s “From the Top,” a program which features talented youth musicians in the nation, where he played Takatsugu Muramatsu’s “Land” on the marimba.

“In my mind, [percussion] is the

most fun… to play,” Davis said.

“It’s not something like I have to [make myself ] practice; it’s just a fun activity.”

Additionally, as the winner of the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award this year, Davis received a $10,000 scholarship.

Davis first knew of the opportunity through DBHS band director Steve Acciani, who encouraged him to try out.

The scholarship, awarded to five exemplary musicians in the nation, was given to students based on recordings they sent in.

With the money, Davis plans to buy the assorted instruments he needs because unlike other musicians, percussionists need to master a variety of instruments.

While throughout his childhood Davis had his mind set on

a future playing basketball in the NBA, his life took a complete turn after he decided to try out percussion with his friends from elementary school. In the years since his first experience playing in South Pointe Middle School’s band, Davis has went on to play in the DBHS Symphony orchestra in addition to several top orchestras, including the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America and the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra.

“With that big switch, I had to make a big decision with my life,” Davis said. “Beforehand, I was going to do professional basketball and hopefully be in the NBA and everything, [but] then I shifted and wanted to be in a professional orchestra.”

This past s u m m e r, Davis was accepted to play in NYO for the second year running.

Last s u m m e r, during his time in NYO, a fiveweek program in New York, he performed in Carnegie Hall, studied from top professional musicians and went

Pauline Woodley a&E editor

Though well-intentioned, Disney’s newly released fantasy, ‘A Wrinkle in Time,’ does not live up to the classic novel.

WALT DISNEY STUDIOS MOTION PICTURES

Classic childhood novels are hard enough to reimagine, and sadly, it takes more than a brilliant cast and visually stunning effects to make a movie resonate these days. “A Wrinkle in Time,” starring poised newcomer Storm Reid as Meg Murry, lacks a certain substance that is easily apparent in Disney’s other movies.

Loosely based on the novel by the same name, “A Wrinkle in Time” follows Meg and her band of crusaders through space and time in order to saver her father Mr. Murry (Chris Pine), who is stuck in the universe due to his thirst for knowledge.

Meg, her brother Charles Wallace (Deric McCabe) and her assumed school crush Calvin (Levi Miller) follow Mrs. Which, Mrs. Whatsit and Mrs. Who (played by Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon and Mindy Kaling, respectively) through the universe and must battle the darkness called “It.” Beautifully directed by Ava DuVernay, the movie’s visual aspect was on par with DuVernay’s other successful projects, including films “Selma” and “13th.” However, the fact that the film was nice to look at does not make up for an almost nonexistent plot. With little true development of the characters or themes, the movie did

on a two-week international tour with the orchestra.

Davis studies with Kenneth McGrath—a freelance percussionist who played in top orchestras including the Los Angeles Philharmonic—whom he credits with many of his achievements, including his experience with the NYO since McGrath introduced him to it.

“Jeremy is really fine musician: mature for his age in many regards including his technical abilities and innate musical instincts,” McGrath said via email. “Jeremy’s incredible work ethic and drive to improve his craft are two things that have certainly helped fuel his success.”

Although Davis was initially part of DBHS’s Drumline in his freshman year, he decided to quit because he felt ove r wh e l m e d .

With his personal practicing sessions lasting about two and a half hours every day on top of his school work and other activities, Davis focuses on his dreams as motivation. “[I know] that if I slack off, I’m just hurting myself from my future and what my ultimate goals are.”

Now Showing: not live up to the book’s storyline.

The CGI effects worked well considering the scientific fantasy that the movie follows. It is the lazy script that is its most notable fault and ironically, one of the film’s many overarching themes deals with accepting your faults.

The abstract idea of this movie is appealing, the cast is phenomenal and it’s worth wondering how well it could have done if it gave its audience more credit and didn’t oversimplify the novel’s major themes. “A Wrinkle in Time” seems to be hitting a very specific, limited target audience that many cannot relate to.

In defense of her movie, DuVernay claimed it was made for 8-14 year olds, and though I applaud the movie’s impact on young girls especially, it is worth noting the potential of the film, had it targeted a more widespread audience.

The casting is the film’s strong suit, each actor giving performances true to their character. The standout roles include Winfrey’s Mrs. Which and Pine’s Mr. Murry, as both excel despite having little to work with, script-wise. Their character’s lines alone would not hold up with less experienced actors, but in the hands of the likes of Witherspoon and Kaling, the Mrs. are accurately brought to life.

Overall, its redeeming qualities are not enough to get this film off its feet. Though its efforts won’t go unnoticed, this adaptation of “A Wrinkle in Time” is far from a classic and unlike the original novel, it is lacking the necessary depth.

12 BUSINESS

THE BULL'S EYE

MERMAID ON STAGE MUSICAL FROM P. 9 idea,” Santogrossi said. “I had to listen to the songs, play the songs and actually look at the words.”

Both Contreras and Santogrossi said they hoped that the younger members of the audience will gain inspiration from the play and be inspired to join drama in the future.

“I think that everyone in the show has been so perfectly casted.

It took us a while to see, but once

you see everyone performing their role and everyone just being able to relate to their role—I think Mr Kaitz made an amazing decision with casting and I think everyone is in a role that they really enjoy,” Santogrossi said.

The musical will be performed at the DBHS theater April 13-14 and April 19-21 at 7 p.m. An additional performance will be given at 2 p.m on April 14 to showcase the children’s choir from local elementary schools.

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

VS

SPORTS

THIS JUST-IN...

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with Justin Prakaiphetkul

To Tank or Not to Tank?

PRO

Apparently the next great American war is already upon us. Just this year, battles have already taken place in Memphis, Dallas, New York and Atlanta. No, I am not talking about combat, but rather the tanking warfare that has dominated the sports world for so long.

Most frequently done to the fullest in the NBA, tanking, or what some people may call “rebuilding,” has been a process that takes years of losing in order to acquire the best possible draft picks.

I know the concept of tanking sounds awful in a league built on competition, whether it be the NBA, NFL or MLB. However, when the bigger picture is taken into perspective, it’s the only course of action teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, Indianapolis Colts and the current World Series champions, Houston Astros, could have taken in the past.

In sports, there always seems to be a dominant team that has a chokehold in their respective league. In the 90s, it was the Chicago Bulls. In the 2000s, it was the New York Yankees. Today, the Golden State Warriors occupy that spot, winning two championships in three years and reaching the Finals four three straight years.

So what does a struggling team do when it’s nearly impossible to win the ultimate goal in all of sports, a championship? Dwell in mediocrity and fail to make the playoffs for many years, or attempt to draw in free agents and trade partners with little to no chances of success?

Tanking is criticized and labeled as a method to kill your franchise’s culture, fanbase and competitiveness, but the same could be said for “rebuilding” franchises like the Sacramento Kings, who fail to reach the playoffs year after year. Aiming for a sub-par year for nearly a decade is a slow death with no hope in sight. Tanking, on the other hand, is the chance for a potential rebirth, with a top prospect who can the shape and culture of a franchise.

Most recognized as the posterboy of tanking is the 76ers’ all-star center and “Process” Joel Embiid. Embiid earned his nickname for coining the popular phrase, “Trust the Process,” which represented Philadelphia’s three-year slump in which the team accumu-

lated both the worst record in the league and earned three top-three picks. Two of those picks gave the team star rookie Ben Simmons and Embiid. Since his debut in 2016 after two years of injuries and setbacks, Embiid has led the transformation of the team from a franchise in decline and struggling into one of the most exciting and competitive young teams in the NBA. Fans may feel anger if their favorite team decides to go in this direction. What some fans may not understand is that the lengths management undergoes to ensure that the franchise can survive and thrive in the future, instead of barely staying afloat in the present. Tanking front offices know that they will be crucified by the league and many fans, but they are still willing to sacrifice their own careers to change organizations and push them to compete for championships.

Tanking can take away from the competitive edge of the game. But when the game is already unfair at the top of the hierarchy, then the bottom of the food chain should be allowed to play an unfair game, too. Trust the Process.

CON

There is an ongoing epidemic in the sports world. It has infected all of the major sports leagues, and there is currently no cure in sight. Its symptoms are as follows: excessive losing, healthy athletes resting and productive players being traded.

This disease goes by one name: tanking. To sum up the concept, tanking simply means a team sets out to deliberately lose.

For what seems like forever, teams have purposely blew entire seasons for the chance to draft a potential star. Look no further than the Chicago Cubs, who went 200-286 from 2012 to 2014 en route to a World Series win.

Today, tanking seems to be more prevalent than ever, especially in the NBA. With the playoffs on the horizon, the bottom feeders of each conference continue to lose game after game in an all-out race toward the No. 1 pick.

Currently, there are eight teams in the NBA that are separated by only a few games for the honor of being lottery favorites.

When there are only a few teams tanking a year, it is easy to overlook those organizations. However, when nearly one-third of an entire sports league throws away their sea-

Photo Courtesy of WAGES OF WIN

The Dallas Mavericks are one of the suspected tanking teams in the NBA. Owner Mark Cuban was fined $600,000 on Feb. 21 for voicing his support on tanking organizations.

sons, a red flag should be raised.

Teams that decide to go down the disgraceful road of tanking ultimately hurt their own popularity. By throwing games on purpose, they detract casual fans from watching the on-court product, thus hurting their revenue.

Additionally, by tanking, these franchises are giving their fans the middle finger.

Imagine paying hundreds of dollars of your hard earned money to watch the Memphis Grizzlies play. Going into the game, you expect to see your favorite player, Marc Gasol, in the starting lineup. Yet when the game tips off, you learn that Gasol is out due to rest and instead are forced to watch a starting lineup of Kobi Simmons, Ben McLemore, Dillon Brooks, JaMychal Green and Jarrell Martin for 48 minutes.

If we are being honest, only avid followers of the NBA outside of Memphis would be able to name that lineup. Basically, you would most likely be upset and feel robbed.

By throwing out lineups full of bench players with virtually have no chance of winning, teams are insulting their fan bases, just for the chance of drafting a potential star.

Furthermore, these franchises may disturb their team’s culture. Tanking goes against everything that athletes were taught when they were groomed for their sport.

If players know that the higher-ups of the organization are voluntarily losing, the players may become disgruntled, thus affecting their competitive nature and on-court play.

As a veteran is traded away, it takes away a locker-room presence that may have been able to keep a young team in check, as well as be an example for other players to follow.

Tanking teams also have the potential to damage their athletes’ livelihoods. By benching productive players and limiting their minutes, franchises could cost their athletes millions. Other teams may not be willing to pay these players what they are truly worth after seeing them benched on a losing team.

The pandemic known as tanking is running rampant in the world of sports and there is nothing in place that can stop it. Due to this, franchises will continue to soil the integrity of sports as a whole by intentionally losing game after game. Simply put, tanking has no place in sports and teams should be ashamed of practicing it.

Davies sets sights on CIF SOFTBALL New coach has high hopes despite slow start to the season.

Justin Prakaiphetkul Asst. Sports Editor

With a new coach at the helm, the Diamond Bar High School softball team sets out this season with high expectations: to reach CIF for the first time since entering the Palomares League.

“My goal in the first season is to make the playoffs and ultimately improve every single day that we’re out there. I think if you improve every single day, by the end of the season, you can look back and see what great things you’ve accomplished,” new head coach Kurt Davies said.

Over the offseason, Davies was named the new head coach for softball, replacing coach Roberta Garcia.

Since September 2003, Davies has been an integral part of DB sports, having previously served as the athletic director, and as an as-

sistant coach for both football and baseball.

“I think that I’ve learned how to work the relationships with high school students to try to maximize their effort, and I hope to take advantage of those experiences,” Davies said.

This season’s road to the playoffs has started slowly as the team opened their season with three losses in the Brea Tournament.

The girls lost in their first game in a tight battle against La Habra, 3-2.

In the following game, the team lost to El Dorado in a high scoring bout, 10-9. To end the tournament, the Lady Brahmas were blown out

by La Serna, losing 14-2. “[The two games] were really close. The first innings were kind of tough, and we kind of fell apart in the first innings but after that, we came back really well. We fixed ourselves,” senior second baseman Ellen Lasko said.

In the league opener, the girls lost to the Bonita Bearcats, 6-2. The Bearcats started the game strong, scoring three runs in the second inning. The Lady Brahmas cut the deficit down to one in the fifth in-

ning, but were unable to answer Bonita’s final three runs in the sixth inning.

“I think we just had a really positive energy in the dugout, and we were all kind of cheering each other on and just having that loud, rambunctious group of people,” senior outfielder Shelby Partida said.

The Lady Brahmas also took part in three non-league games following their first league match.

Against rival Diamond Ranch, the girls mounted a comeback to win in decisive fashion, 13-7. After falling behind 5-1 midway through the game, the girls scored 12 runs and allowed only two runs to clinch a victory over the Panthers.

However, the team then lost to Walnut in their following game, 12-4. The two teams remained neck and neck up until the fifth inning when the Mustangs scored eight unanswered runs to close the game.

During the offseason, the girls worked on becoming tighter as a unit. According to Davies, the girls played on travel teams and worked with Marine drill sergeants. He also said that the team learned to come together in times of struggles through these experiences.

Sophomore Sierra Rodriguez pitches in a loss against Walnut, 12-4.

Although Davies has CIF aspirations, he recognizes the fact that the girls are pegged to finish last by their league competition. With having the pressure to succeed, Davies said that the team must be ready to embrace the challenges put forth

INGRID CHAN

by the other teams in league.

“We’re trying to build a program that can sustain itself for years to come, and we do that day by day,” Davies said.

The girls faced Glendora in their second league game yesterday.

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SPORTS

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

Swinging for CIF Finals BOYS GOLF The Brahmas have competed in three tournaments thus far.

Coming off of an undefeated season and nine-straight league titles, the Diamond Bar High School boys golf team is looking to take its success one step further by reaching the CIF Finals.

“We have a strong group back.

We didn’t lose anybody, and everyone worked pretty dang hard in the offseason,” head coach Tony McCabe said.

The boys began league play with a 197-221 win against Bonita. Freshman Wisley Lynn earned medalist honors after shooting a two-over par 38. Junior co-captain Sam Chou and junior Bryan Chiu finished with a score of 39.

“I feel like we can do a lot better but as of right now, it wasn’t too bad for the first opener,” senior captain Thomas Lee said.

In their second league match, the boys once again defeated Bonita in a nail biter, 194-196. Sophomore Leo Lu helped lead the team to a victory, shooting one-over 36.

On March 12, the Brahmas competed in the Linfield Tournament, earning first place honors over 15 other teams. The team ended the tournament with a score of 399.

However, on March 15, the boys dropped a non-league match, 193204, to Ontario Christian.

Prior to league, the boys competed in the Ontario Christian Invitational Tournament, as well as the Ayala Tournament. In the Ontario Christian Invitational Tour-

nament, the Brahmas took third place. According to McCabe, the boys shot about five strokes better compared to their performance in last year’s tournament.

The boys placed fifth with a score of 392 in the Ayala Tournament.

McCabe named Lu as a standout player in the tournament as Lu shot a two-under par 72, a career best round according to McCabe.

The Brahmas also competed in a non-league match before league play, defeating Diamond Ranch, 214-320. Sophomore Keagan Terry received medalist honors.

In preparation for league play, the boys have participated in many tournaments. Multiple Brahmas competed individually against the nation’s top golfers in the Toyota Tour Cup and the American Junior Golf Association tournaments.

“In the last three years, this is the best summer we’ve had.

They’ve played in the most tournaments, the scores are lower, so they really did a good job,” McCabe said.

McCabe pointed to Lee, Chou, Chiu, Lu, sophomore Ethan Thomas and Lynn as key players for the team. McCabe cited Lee and Chou’s leadership as one of the key factors to having a successful year. McCabe also said that Chiu, Lu and Thomas also help the team through their everyday actions.

With the team’s returning experience, leadership and newcomers, McCabe said that it is time for the team to step up to the challenge of placing first or second in CIF. “We’re not satisfied with what we’re doing. We want to get better and that’s a good sign so far,” McCabe said.

Lee’s end goal individually is to win the CIF MVP. In terms of the team, Lee hopes to win the CIF Championship.

stamina for taekwondo. Karyn states that track and field is more of a hobby, but has helped her create friendships and stay in shape for taekwondo.

The siblings said that having each other in taekwondo has motivated and helped them through many hardships that they faced in the sport. Karyn said it is also beneficial since they can practice together and learn different things when giving pointers to each other.

One of the difficulties that Ryan faced was competing with his small

frame. However, through intense training, Ryan was able to overcome this disadvantage by seeing the benefits of his structure and adapting it in his routine.

“I just started training harder and it really has helped me push through that. I was able to see the benefits in life and reap the rewards,” Ryan said.

While they are both undecided about how they wish to pursue taekwondo in the future, Karyn said that one of her dreams is to compete at the Olympics.

Justin Prakaiphetkul Asst. Sports Editor Junior Allison Kang races ahead of the pack for the girl’s track team during a meet against the Glendora Tartans.

AMELIE LEE

Prepared Brahmas off to a running start

TRACK AND FIELD With the addition of full-time event coaches, team has seen improvements.

Samyuktha Vellaiyan Staff Writer

Undeterred by the number of newcomers to the team, the Diamond Bar High School track and field team has been improving their placings at meets this season.

“Compared to the last track and field season, many of us are more prepared and know what is necessary for our improvement based off the typical practices and our attendance to many meets,” junior distance runner Frederick Yang said.

On March 3, the Brahmas competed at the Brea Olinda Invitational. The boys placed second and the girls seventh. According to head coach Malinalli Cooke, this is the best the boys have done at a meet

when compared to past years. The boys high jump, throwers 4x100m, sprint medley and the girls 4x200m all ranked second in the relays.

The Brahmas also competed at a preseason dual meet against Walnut on March 8. The boys lost by only four points while the girls lost by 36 points.

“Those two meets were just to see what the kids can do, and it was a chance to get our rosters set,” Cooke said. “So far, I believe that they are definitely improving, especially the boys.”

This year, Cooke has managed to utilize full-time coaches for most events, after having trouble with coaches last year. Etania Cheng, a 2017 DBHS alumna and past varsity pole vaulter, is coaching as a part-time pole vault coach, while Jim Schmidt is a working as a parttime high jump coach as well.

“Getting coaches in is one of my main priorities because last year, I was not able to get full-time coaches,” Cooke said. “Having full time coaches will give the players more

continuity with their training.”

Senior pole vault and discus captain Samantha Blazek foresees a successful year with the players, even though most of them are new.

“I think the team is coming together really well because so far, I have seen a lot of improvement in the players even though most of them are new,” Blazek said.

Prior to the season, the Brahmas trained based on their specific events. The jump coaches helped the team work on its technique, leg strength and core strength. The throwers worked on their weight training while runners have been striving to improve their stamina and drilling on sprint training.

“We do high intensity training to get their cardiovascular system and strength up,” Cooke said. “Individually the kids are focusing on getting a PR [personal record], and each week, they are getting a little bit better.”

The Brahmas will be competing at the Chino Relays at Chino High School on March 24.

kwondo, the Real siblings developed their skills over the years and earned their black belts in just six years. Holding a third degree out of nine in black belt, Karyn said that they chose to stop belt ranking to focus more on competitions.

“We don’t do the testing anymore because in taekwondo there are two aspects. There are recreationally and competitively, which is sport taekwondo,” Karyn said.

“We stopped belt testing once we got third degree a couple years ago, and we focus more on the competitions.”

Some of their notable achievements were competing at USA Taekwondo National Championships and holding a spot on the USA Taekwondo National Team, which they try out for each year. Karyn has been on the team since 2014, while R y a n started in 2 0 1 5 d u e to the a g e cutoff.

As members of the team, they attend the Pan American Games and the World Championships, which alternate each year.

For Pan American games and World Championships, they travel to different places each time, such

as Limas, Peru or Aguas Caliente, Mexico. Although they’ve earned multiple awards, Karyn said that their most treasured awards are their medals that represent U.S.A at the Pan American Games.

“It really is an honor to stand on the podium with a medal on your neck and your country’s flag around you,” Karyn said.

“It really gives us a great sense of pride and appreciation for the sport and the support we’ve received from our family, teammates and the national team.”

With year-round events, the Real siblings go on independent studies when traveling for taekwondo. Also, practicing on an average from 18 to 20 hours a week, the Real siblings learned early on to manage their time each day.

“The best part of the experience of being on the National Team is when you actually get to go to the competition and you get to compete with other high level people from all over the world,” Karyn said.

They are also currently on the DBHS track and field team to build up their

SIBLINGS DOMINATE IN MARTIAL ARTS

The two Brahmas compete on the U.S.A Taekwondo National Team, traveling to Mexico and Peru.

Catherine Liu Staff Writer

White, yellow, gold, orange, green, blue, purple, brown, red and black. While most who undertake the martial art sport taekwondo see it as means to complete the belt ranking, a pair of Diamond Bar High School siblings have taken it to national competition.

As members of the U.S.A Taekwondo National Team, Diamond Bar High School junior Karyn Real and freshman Ryan Real have pushed past the limits of belt ranking and attend yearly competitions.

“Being able to compete at such a high level and having that opportunity to compete, it really encouraged me to continue training hard so that I can get back up there again,” Ryan said.

The Real siblings were introduced to taekwondo at a young age; Karyn at six and Ryan at four. They started with their older brother, senior Joseph Real, but continued competing even after Joseph chose to stop taekwondo competitively.

Attending Young In Cheon Tae-

Photos Courtesy of KARYN REAL

The Reals have earned medals at the Pan Am Games and World Championships.

THE BULL'S EYE

MARCH 21, 2018

SPORTS

15

On the path to success, again BADMINTON Following a sixth straight CIF title, the team sets high goals in a tougher league.

Ingrid Chan Asst. Photo Editor After winning its sixth consecutive CIF title last year, the Diamond Bar High School badminton team is heading full tilt toward number

seven. Although the Brahmas lost a few core seniors to graduation last year, the team still consists of many talented players and a handful of promising underclassmen. ‘“We should receive the No. 1 seed again, and, though I know it’s really early in the season to say that, we’ve won it so many years in a row, and we did return a big core of our team,” head coach Kemp Wells said.

The team has played eight nonleague games and one scrimmage with Arcadia, which has given

Photos by INGRID CHAN

Seniors Brian Ng, left, and Kevin Nea practice as a doubles team.

Wells a good idea of where they stand among their competition.

Since Arcadia has one of the better badminton teams, DB’s scrimmage with them turned out to be a close game. However, the Brahmas played without three of their starters, which may have affected the outcome of the scrimmage, according to Wells. He also stated that he hopes this gives the team an edge once league play begins.

Besides Arcadia, Mira Costa also seems to be a strong competitor for the title, as they have a strong lineup of underclassmen.

“We did have some really close games, but we should be able to pull through if we have all our strong players present,” Wells said.

“I don’t anticipate losing.”

The team is keeping themselves on their toes by constantly switching up the lineup whenever they have matches with other schools.

Wells claims that almost every varsity player is multi-talented and flexible enough to be moved around to different match types with ease.

This shuffling is necessary for Wells to observe who does or doesn’t work well together, and it is also useful for making players adapt to different partners and situations. In the games they have played so far, none of the matches have been the same.

“It can be dangerous,” Wells

Senior co-captain Vanessa Do volleys the birdie back in a practice match. said. “If it’s an important match, we’ll always work on the pairs and how well they play together the day before.”

Wells currently has his eye on three promising freshmen who have been key additions to the varsity team. Freshmen Claire Wang, Megan Lee and Connor Lam have played well in the most recent matches. Lam is the younger brother of last year’s captain Justin Lam and is exceptionally adept at playing men’s singles. Wang and Lee are capable of playing well in both

women’s singles and doubles.

The team’s best all-round players, however, include seniors Ambrose So and Jasmine Wang and junior Mirabelle Wang. Senior Crystal Wai and junior Miranda Lee are the most active women’s singles players, while seniors Vanessa Do and Lucy Zhang are the main women’s doubles players.

“I’m not worried about how the underclassmen will do without us next year, especially since we have some potential freshmen who are really good,” co-captain Do said.

Discipline carries team to winning record BASEBALL After going 1-14 last year, the Brahmas open up the season with a solid 5-4 start.

Samyuktha Vellaiyan Staff Writer After experiencing a down year last season, the Diamond Bar High School baseball team has kicked off the season with a solid 5-4 record.

The Brahmas are already seeing improvements, winning against teams they lost to last year. They won a double header against Diamond Ranch on Feb. 24, 8-1 and 6-3.

The Brahmas also competed in the Chino Hills tournament in a span of two weeks against four schools. During the tournament, they defeated Adeltano and Shadow Hills, 1-0 and 10-1; however, the team had a tough stretch against Northview and Norco, losing 7-0 and 4-3.

“We were beating [Norco] 3-0 in the 5th inning. Then, they came back to beat us 4-3, but we played very well that day,” head coach Jon Hurst said. “I think it was a big turning point for us, and moving into the season, we will probably continue to move forward that way.”

Prior to the season, the team focused heavily on their fundamentals. The boys have also been training with a strength coach, who has designed workouts specifically for baseball athletes, two to three times a week.

“We are more focused this year, and our key goal is to make CIF,” senior Tyler Liebe said.

The top pitchers this year, according to Hurst, are seniors Cruz Rivas and Richard Teran. On offense, experienced players returning include senior captain Fabian Moran and sophomore Alonzo Fuller, who also won Offensive

Player of the Year last season as a that we have a lot of young players freshman. like Matthew to play next year and Amongst the multiple seniors achieve big roles.” on the team, Matthew Hernando Along with pushing for a sucstands out as the cessful season, only freshman the coach said on the varsity he hopes that “It is in my best team. all of the playinterest to just step “Matthew is ers have fun, back and let them physically very especially the perform and enjoy mature for a 11 seniors in the themselves.” freshman and program. very strong and “I think it will JON HURST very fast,” Hurst be a fun year for said. “He’s very them because baseball savvy and very knowlthey have really put themselves edgeable when it comes to the in a position to be successful. At workings of the game and what we this point, it is in my best interest would do in certain situations. For to just step back and let them perhis age, he is very baseball smart, form and enjoy themselves,” Hurst and moving forward, it’s important said.

AMELIE LEE

Junior Aaron Duran at the plate in a 6-3 loss against the Walnut Mustangs.

INGRID CHAN

Senior Kelsey Lloyd is the defending CIF Women 100 Breaststroke champion.

Treading their way through competition SWIM The team opened the year with two wins over its local rivals.

Angela Yang Asst. News Editor The Diamond Bar High School swim team is entering the pool with a splash this year, defeating Chino Hills and Walnut in all divisions at both preseason meets before the upcoming league season commences.

The girls finished 186 to 98 against Chino Hills while boys scored 177 to 108. The Lady Brahmas topped Walnut by just 6 points, ending with a score of 88-82, as boys tallied 111 to 59.

“It was an amazing feeling after the Walnut meet to walk away as a senior knowing that we swept Walnut,” senior Michael Lee said. “ It was also awesome knowing that there was some real spirit in our swimmers, who were outcheering and out swimming the competition.”

Following the team’s first-place finish at league finals last year, head coach Darlys Ankeny hopes to fulfill the same aspiration this season. The team is also faced with challenging expectations to surpass after their success at CIF finals last May.

“Our goal this year is to win CIF,” senior David Wang said. “We are all excited to race and have fun.”

To maintain top shape during the offseason, many swimmers opt to train with club teams outside of DBHS. Both on and off campus, sprints have been a priority in their conditioning routines. Along with increasing speed, aerobic exercises have been a focal point as well.

“Our strengths are distances, like the 500’s for boys,” Ankeny said. “We’ve been doing more sprinting with the top level, trying to fill in the gaps.”

Ankeny named Wang and Lee as a few key seniors on the boys’ team this year, as well as seniors Kelly Cheng and Kelsey Lloyd on the girls’ team.

The team competed in their first dual last Wednesday against Glendora, resulting in a major boys’ victory of 129 to 41. Varsity girls experienced their first loss of the season at 77 to 93.

“I really enjoy the energy behind competing but I think what’s been keeping me going is that I have teammates that are super fun to practice [and] compete with,” Lee said. “As a team, I really want to see if we can get our team really excited about swimming as a high school and life experience.”

The swimmers competed against Bonita yesterday, and will face Ayala on April 11.

16

SPORTS

MARCH 21, 2018

THE BULL'S EYE

UPCOMING LEAGUE MATCHES BOYS TENNIS

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

SWIM

3/21 Vs Bonita 3/23 @ Glendora 3/27 @ Ayala 3/29 Vs South Hills 4/11 @ Claremont 4/13 @ Bonita

3/22 @ Ayala 3/27 @ South Hills 3/29 Vs Claremont 4/10 @ Bonita 4/12 Vs Bonita 4/17 Vs Glendora

3/22 @ Ayala 3/27 Vs South Hills 3/29 @ Claremont 4/10 Vs Bonita 4/12 Vs Glendora 4/17 Vs Ayala

4/11 @ Ayala 4/18 @ South Hills 4/25 Vs Claremont

BOYS GOLF

BADMINTON

3/22 @ Ayala 3/27 @ South Hills 3/29 Vs South Hills 4/10 Vs Hacienda Heights 4/12 @ Hacienda Heights 4/17 Vs Claremont

3/27 Vs Chino Hills 3/29 @ Webb 4/10 Vs Hacienda Heights 4/12 @ Chino Hills 4/19 @ Hacienda Heights 4/20 Vs Webb

Brahmas raise expectations BOYS TENNIS With the return of ten players, the team looks to repeat as league champions.

Ryan Chae Sports Editor Following an immensely successful season that saw the Diamond Bar High School boys tennis team win the Palomares League, earn multiple honors and reach the quarterfinals of CIF, the Brahmas have set their goals even higher for the 2018 season.

“I think the expectations are, rightfully so, pretty high. We should do either the same or better this year,” head coach Carl Flint said. “We’re actually deeper this year. Everyone has grown bigger, stronger and faster, so I expect big things this year.”

This season, the team is playing without 2017 league singles MVP Neil Tengbumroong and doubles player Vinay Bhupathiraju as the two graduated last year. However, the team looks to be even stron-

ger than ever as those two seniors were the only players to leave the varsity team. Among the returning starters is the league MVP doubles team of senior captain Nicholas Wong and junior Royce Park.

“We’ve returned ten out of 12 players from last year, so we’re filling in the gaps. Our doubles is really strong because five out of six starters returned,” Wong said.

“Singles is always a struggle, with or without Neil. It’s always difficult because everyone always gets better in league.”

The doubles lineup for the Brahmas has been one of their strong points in the past years, and the upcoming season looks to be no different. Returning with Park and Wong is the No. 1 team, consisted of seniors Michael Tran and Eric Peng, and the No.3 team of senior Howard Chen and junior Victor Chai.

In the singles lineup, it’s no question that Tengbumroong, who played in singles for all four years, left a void, but junior Ethan Chen has filled in quite comfortably as his replacement. “[Chen] has always had the big game, but he’s always had these great players above him. This year,

he’s ready. He’s playing well and found his game,” Flint said.

Alongside Chen in the singles lineup are sophomores Adarsh Belliganud and Akilan Arunachalanan. Though their age may say they’re green, their play says otherwise. The two underclassmen started for team last year, even playing throughout the CIF playoffs.

However, it still took some fine tuning for the boys, starting off the preseason with a 12-6 loss to Beckman. Since then, the Brahmas have found their groove and improved every week, winning four straight games, including a dominant 16-2 victory over Crean Lutheran.

Playing their first league game today against Bonita, the Brahmas have high hopes and full belief in this year’s seasoned lineup.

“League is going to be very close this year. Glendora still has two of their best singles players, Claremont lost two of their best double players and one of their best singles players and Ayala has a lot of really good upperclassmen,” Wong said. “It’s definitely going to be interesting, but I have complete confidence we can win league this year.”

INGRID CHAN

Sophomore Adarsh Belliganud is one of two returning singles players.

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH AMBROSE SO The senior captain represented the U.S. in the Pan American Badminton Championships.

Cindy Liu Asst. News Editor Seven years after sitting on the sidelines watching his cousins play badminton, Diamond Bar High School senior captain Ambrose So has represented the U.S. in the prestigious Pan American Badminton Junior Championships as one

of the top young badminton players in the country.

At 15 years old—a year younger than the other competitors in his age category—So defied all expectations when he was selected to represent the U.S. in the championships, where he placed third in mixed doubles. The competition, held in Guatemala, attracted hundreds of the best badminton play-

AMELIE LEE

Senior Ambrose So was ranked the sixth top junior badminton player in the U.S.

ers across the Americas.

“It was always my dream to represent our country,” So said.

“When I made it, I was really surprised [since] I was the underdog. I was shocked, everyone was shocked and I couldn’t believe it.”

Although So earned another spot on Team U.S.A. last year for the Pan American championships held in Tijuana, he lost in the first round to Canada.

So’s skill on the court has been recognized as among the best in the country; in 2016, he was ranked as the sixth top junior badminton player in the nation. In addition to traveling around the world to compete for badminton, he holds titles as a three-time consecutive league individual champion and a twotime consecutive CIF individual doubles champion.

“I don’t usually bring it up that much; I like to stay humble,” So said. “In the beginning, I didn’t play competitively; I just played for fun.”

So’s passion for badminton started at age 10 when he saw his cousins playing and wanted to be like them. He later brought up his interest up with his parents and enrolled at a local training center, the Orange County Badminton Club.

“I always wanted to play with my cousin [and] partner with him,” So said. “I have two cousins [who] both play, and my brother also

plays. I guess it’s a family thing— we’re all in the sport.”

In his freshman year, So decided to attend the badminton tryouts in hopes of securing a spot on the team. There, coach Kemp Wells placed him on the varsity team, where he has played for the last four years.

“I’ve always heard that the badminton team was really strong, and they were CIF champions for so many years in a row,” So said. “I wanted to contribute to [that] so I tried out.”

As part of the DBHS team, So has been one of the top players who have helped the team continue its record as s eve n - t i m e consecutive CIF champions. “ H e ’ s very versatile,” Wells said. “He can play all three events [singles, doubles and mixed doubles] equally well; he’s

very talented.”

While juggling his school work and activities, So usually practices two times a week—each session lasting two to three hours—on top of his usual workout routines at the gym. Whenever So feels the strain of balancing everything and is discouraged with badminton, he looks to his competitive side for motivation.

“I don’t like to lose,” So said. “That motivates me a lot... no one likes to lose; everyone of course wants to win, but sometimes we have our bad days and we just have to accept the loss.”

Although So doesn’t currently have plans to pursue badminton prof e s s i o n a l ly, he plans to continue his badminton career after g raduating from DBHS. “[Badminton] has made my mentality a lot stronger,” So said. “[I learned] not to give up that easily.”