November 2019 Issue

CHRONICLE the harvard westlake

Studio City • Volume 29 • Issue 3 • Nov. 13, 2019 • hwchronicle.com

BACK TO BACK TO BACK

By Lucas 12, Lee the By Casey The field hockey team finished Kundefeated im for a third consecutive and season

and won its third consecutive

LLos indsay Angeles Field Hockey Association (LAFHA) Championship.

The team has W u Demo-

not lost or tied a game since the 2016 season I n and has won four consecutive rleague e -championships as well. s p oThis n s e year, the senior captains contosisted aof midfielder Rachel Brown ’20, Photography cmidfielder o m - cand r a tChronicle ic pEditor l a i n tAstor Wu ’20 and forward Sam f Yeh i l e’20, d who led the team to the title. by “The an captains did all the small adetails n o n - to make sure everything was yrunning m o u s smoothly and worked to keep P a r t yand motivated all wthe h iteam s - focused tleblow• Continued on D2 er Aug. PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ASTOR WU

Slattery appointed Head of Upper School beginning 2020

By Luke Schneider Following a months-long, nationwide search, Upper School Deans Department Head Beth Slattery will assume the position of Head of Upper School, effective July 1, 2020.

Laura Ross, who currently serves in the position, will become Associate Head of the school simultaneously.

Because the school conducted such a comprehensive process, Commons said that

promoting internally seems illogical but was the best decision due to Slattery’s qualifications.

“It wasn’t a choice of convenience,” Commons said. “It was a choice of conviction.”

The school’s search committee found Slattery’s expertise particularly notable, President Rick Commons said.

“At each stage in the process, [Slattery] stood apart for her deep understanding of student experience, broad background in secondary and

higher education and abiding commitment to the mission of Harvard-Westlake and the people in our community,” Commons said.

During the application process, Slattery’s interview helped set her apart from a highly-qualified applicant pool.

“She left the office, and we all looked at each other in the search committee and said, ‘Wow, she just gave the best interview we could have imagined,’” Commons said.

BRUSH FIRE: The Getty Fire blazes behind Brentwood homes, forcing widespread evacuations in the middle of the night.

— Rick Commons President

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“Every question we asked her, she didn’t just give the answer that was at the back of her head because she works at Harvard-Westlake; she gave an answer that made us believe that she could make this school stronger and better and more unified.”

During her 13 years at the school, Slattery has demon-

strated the ability to communicate effectively with students and parents, Commons said.

“She knows how to relate to students,” Commons said.

“She knows what is on the minds of sophomores, juniors and seniors graders because she spends all day meeting with [them]. She also knows

was safe to open at 5 a.m. the morning of the fires, Commons said.

“The Getty Fire never threatened the property of either campus,” Commons said.

“But then we [took into consideration] the community and who was evacuated and how difficult it might be for people to get to school because of the road closures or because of the evacuation.”

The administration is considering options to address the increased frequency of fires, including incorporating “fire days” in the new late-start block schedule to be implemented next school year, Ross said.

After monitoring the air quality and the fire’s impact on the community, the school

decided to open the following day, while recognizing that students would have difficulty attending school and completing their work.

“I think it varies department by department, teacher by teacher and class by class, but in general, teachers were asked to be flexible and understanding, knowing that some students were evacuated and that they did not have access to their computers or their beds to get a good night’s sleep,” Commons said. “So I think if this were to be something that we encountered more regularly, then we would have to come up with policies, but at this point, I think it is just practices that involve understanding, kindness and an ability to be [as] flexible as possible.”

• Continued on A7

Getty Fire prompts community evacuations, campus closures

By Casey Kim

JULIAN ANDREONE/CHRONICLE

“

[Because Slattery worked at Harvard-Westlake], every question we asked her, she gave us an answer that made us believe that she could make this school stronger and better.”

Both the middle and upper school campuses canceled classes and all school activities Oct. 28 due to the Getty Fire, which threatened homes in Bel Air, Westwood and Brentwood, according to KTLA. Members of the school community received the closure announcement via the school’s emergency notification system.

The school’s Crisis Response team, which includes President Rick Commons, Head of Middle School Jon Wimbish, Head of Upper School Laura Ross, Head of Athletics Terry Barnum, Community Health Officer Milo Sini and other faculty leaders, discussed whether school

A2 News

Jones promoted to Chair of Deans

By Lindsay Wu

Effective July 1, 2020, Upper School Dean Chris Jones will replace Beth Slattery as Upper School Deans Department Head, following her promotion to Head of Upper School (A1).

During his eight years at the school, Jones has worked with students and families, helping them navigate academic and social concerns. In his new position, Jones will not only continue these duties, but also assume a leadership role.

“I’m excited to be able to serve this community in a different way,” Jones said. “I think it will demand displaying skills and talents that I haven’t necessarily had to show before, but I’ll be able to do that now. That will make the job even more fulfilling than it already is, and I’m excited to take on that challenge.”

Beginning next year, Jones

will represent the dean team in meetings with administrators and the Faculty Academic Committee.

Especially with the implementation of the new block schedule next year, he and the eight other deans will work to support school initiatives promoting social-emotional learning, Jones said.

“We’re continuing to look at proven practices of the field [of education],” Jones said.

“We’re taking inventory of a lot of things we do, all of our processes. Then, when we audit, if there’s something we need to change, then we look at what other comparable schools are doing and start making changes from there. I’m interested to see where that will lead, and that’s really the most important part, is to make sure we’re not resting on our laurels because there’s always • Continued on A7

The Chronicle

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FRANK JIANG/CHRONICLE

J ONES STRIKES A POSE: Upper School Dean Chris Jones, who will replace Beth Slattery

After a two-year vacancy in the position, the school appointed Reverend Anne Gardner as the school Chaplain.

The appointment of Gardner, who will serve as Chaplain on both campuses, fills the opening left by the retirement of former Upper School Chaplain Father J. Young and the departure of Middle School Chaplain Rabbi Emily Feigenson.

Gardner, an Episcopal priest who previously served as Director of Spiritual and Religious Life at Phillips Academy Andover, will join the school next summer. Head of Upper School Laura Ross

said she hopes that Gardner will continue the legacies of Young and Feigenson, while also bringing new perspectives and ideas to the position.

“What stood out to us [in her interview], and when we called her references, what they talked about was her connection with students,” Ross said. “That felt to us like it would be honoring the legacy of [Young] because it was something he cared about so much. It was clear to us that what was most important to her was building strong enough relationships with students that she will be able to figure out what we need.”

During her tenure at An-

“

as Upper School Deans Department Head beginning July 1, 2020, sits in his office and smiles.

Reverend Gardner to serve as all-school Chaplain next year

By Tammer Bagdasarian

Nov. 13, 2019

dover, Gardner introduced community-building initiatives, such as a school-wide activities to commemorate Veterans Day and open discussion groups that examined culture, politics and religion in today’s society. Gardner said that she aims to bring this approach to the school, serving as a counselor for not only Christians or religious students but also for all members of the school community.

“The most important thing is that I need to get to know all of you,” Gardner said. “Before anything else, I need to get to know what your community is all about, and the best way to do that is not to talk but to listen. To listen to students,

It was clear to us that what was most important to her was building strong enough relationships with students that she will be able to figure out what we need.”

— Laura Ross Head of Upper School

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to listen to faculty and to listen to staff about what kinds of things they may want from someone in this position.”

After Young retired in 2018, the school administration weighed the positives and negatives of having a chaplain at a non-sectarian school. President Rick Commons said that the administration launched a search in 2018 to find someone who could provide an ethical and spiritual perspective, but was not looking specifically for a religious leader. In the wake

of deaths of history teacher Eric Zwemer and Associate Head of School Liz Resnick, the school realized the important role that religion has for many community members and decided to renew a nationwide search for the role of Chaplain, Commons said.

“In times of normalcy, I hope [Gardner] will give us a reminder of things beyond ourselves-purposes, ideals, concerns beyond the ones we have,” Commons said.

C3

D2

• Continued on A4

In the issue ...

A3 FERRIS BUELLER’S NIGHT OUT: Upper school students

participate in Community Council’s drive-in movie event.

A10 EXPLORING “ASIANNESS” IN AMERICA: A student examines the various complexities of her Asian-American identity.

B3 SUICIDE IN THE MEDIA: Students reflect on sui-

cide and its representation in the mainstream media.

The Chronicle, the student newspaper of Harvard-Westlake School, is published 8 times per year and distributed for free on both the upper and middle school campuses.

There are about 730 students at the Middle School and 870 at the Upper School.

Subscriptions may be purchased for $20 a year for delivery by mail. Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the seniors on the Editorial Board. Letters to the

MAKEUP AS ART: Members

of the community describe the freedom of expression that makeup art provides them with.

THREE-PEAT: Varsity field

hockey beats Newport Harbor to win the LAFHA championship for the third year in a row.

editor may be submitted to chronicle@hw.com or mailed to 3700 Coldwater Canyon Ave., Studio City, CA 91604. Letters must be signed and may be edited for space and to conform to Chronicle style and format. Advertising questions may be directed to Zack Schwartz at zschwartz1@hwemail.com. Publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product or service by the newspaper or the school.

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/news

Activists discuss identity

News A3

By Lauren Cho and Tanisha Gunby Non-binary activists Jacob Tobia and Tyler Ford, the first all-school speakers of the year, discussed their experiences as gender-nonconforming individuals Nov. 6.

To begin the assembly, Tobia read a part of their book, “Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story,” which touches on their experience of growing up while hiding their identity from society.

Ford then addressed the stigma regarding gender fluidity by explaining that it is not something that should be ignored in schools or other communities but should instead be embraced.

“Part of making the world a safer place for not only trans people and queer people, but also for everyone, is to make space and let people do their own thing,” Ford said.

Tobia also provided advice for those who are struggling with their gender identities.

“You don’t have to be so worried about the taxonomy of things,” Tobia said. “You don’t have to worry about the specific labels. You can just mess

CRYSTAL BAIK/CHRONICLE

REIMAGINING GENDER: Non-binary activists Jacob Tobia and Tyler Ford engage in a conversation about gender and sexuality Nov. 6

in Taper Gym. Both speakers encourage students to overcome the stigma associated with “coming out” and transcend gender stereotypes.

around with gender and have some fun.”

Event organizer and Gender and Sexuality Awareness Club leader Felicity Phelan ’21 said that the assembly was a good opportunity for students to learn more about the changing roles of gender in various communities.

“It was just good to hear something that’s so relevant for the trans and non-binary

population within the school,” Phelan said. “Also for kids who don’t identity with that, even if you have that in your radar, you can be more worldly and aware.”

On the other hand, Griffin MacDermott ’20 said he believed the assembly’s message was not universally applicable.

“I felt that the assembly was, as [Upper School science teacher and Coordinator of Di-

versity, Equity and Inclusion Nate Cardin] said, good for morale for the LGBTQ+ members of the student body,” MacDermott said. “However, I feel that it was presented in a way that isolated or at least didn’t really help the non-LGBTQ+ members.”

Emery Genga ’21 said she enjoyed the opportunity to speak to influential members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“They did a phenomenal

HW Venture hosts annual Hackathon

By Sophia Musante

FRANK JIANG/CHRONICLE

VIRTUAL ENTERTAINMENT: Team SoloMid Executive Walt Wang ’13 speaks to members of HW Venture about his experience as a professional in the Esports gaming industry at the middle school on Nov. 1.

Venture invites Esports professional

By Frank Jiang

ball? Not really, but in the gaming industry, someone acWalt Wang ’13, a senior tually owns the game. Someexecutive for the Los Angeles- thing that’s different about based Team SoloMid (TSM) our industry is that there are Gaming, spoke about his ex- people that actually own the periences in the professional game, and really, they hold the power over who plays Esports industry at a their game. If the ownjoint middle and upers of the game proper school HW Venhibit you from playture event Nov. 1. ing, what can you do?

Wang first deNot much.” scribed the differences In addition, Wang between traditional discussed interacsports and Esports, tions between Esas well as the latter’s ’ ports organizations rise within the modand large game corern economy. SpecifiSophia porations, which own cally, Wang discussed Rascoff ’23 video games such as the gaming ecosystem and its individual components Fortnite, League of Legends of platforms, players and own- and Apex Legends.

Afterward, Wang explained ers. Wang continued to explain how his organization, TSM fits Esports companies’ methods for generating revenue and in.

“Does anyone own the subsequently investing that game of football?” Wang said. money. The main factors that “Does someone own basket- an Esports company considers white s

before participating in certain tournaments include viewership, brand sponsorship and the game owners’ economic policies.

“Some publishers are very team-friendly, like Riot Games, so they help by giving a cut to the team, since being more team-friendly means they make more partners,” Wang said. “Some publishers don’t really care about the teams, they don’t care about the Esports factor, and so they don’t really help the teams grow or provide financial aid.”

To conclude his presentation, Wang answered questions from the audience.

“Personally, I have never heard about that industry before,” Sophia Rascoff ’23 said. “[Wang]’s presentation about Esports gave us a look into the economics and logistics behind Esports which I’ve never considered before.”

job speaking about a subject that is hard for many to understand, and I commend them for their bravery and transparency,” Genga said. “I thought the effect that they had on the students afterwards at the meet and greet was wonderful. Many people had many different opinions, but the thing that’s most important is that we’re talking about it, not just sweeping it under the rug.”

enjoyed last year’s event and wanted to improve his proUpper school students gramming this year while havparticipated in the third an- ing fun. nual Hackathon in Mudd Li“Last year’s experience brary Nov. 8 to 9. was pretty memorable,” Shen The event, which Lukas said. “I learned to work on Seklir ’21 and Amaan Ir- code with other people and fan ’21 organized, featured collaborate, which is entirely workshops about developing different from working on a presentations, artificial intelproject alone. I hope this year, ligence and other facets of promy team and I can create gramming. Students furthered their programming skills and something beyond just a barecompeted in small teams of up bones frame of a program, to four people to create a new which is what we kind of did last year.” project in 36 Participant hours.

Liana WadhTo conclude the I had only worked wani ’22 said event, teams the event alalone on projects presented lowed her to in the past, and the their program grow as a proto a panel of six Hackathon allowed me grammer and alumni judges. bond with her to work with a team.”

The first, secteammates. ond and third —Lukas Seklir ’21 “I learned place teams Hackathon organizer how to work received $150, when there is $100 and $50, a very pressrespectively.

Seklir said he was inspired ing deadline,” Wadhwani said. to help lead this year’s event “Programming has taught me because of his positive expe- that [if] you don’t get somerience co-leading a team last thing right the first time, all year. you have to do is keep work“I had only worked alone ing at it.” on projects in the past, and Seklir said he hoped for the Hackathon allowed me this Hackathon to be as much to work with a team,” Seklir of a success as last year’s. said. “This was very valuable “I hope students come for me, and I am now working away from the Hackathon on a few projects in teams. I have continued to program in having enjoyed the experience, my spare time and have great- furthered their friendships ly developed my knowledge with teammates, increased through writing lectures and their interest in computer science and with the start of a projects.”

Hackathon attendee Pe- project that they can carry on ter Shen ’22 said he greatly and develop,” Seklir said.

“

A4 News

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

HWPA assists families

By Melody Tang

ETHAN LACHMAN/CHRONICLE

A NIGHT OFF: Brendan Kang ’20, Tali Tufeld ’20 and Kate Konvitz ’20 lie in the back of a car while watching “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” in the se-

nior lot Thursday. Community Council hosted the drive-in movie after a month of planning, and donated the profits to the Make A Wish Foundation.

Drive-in raises funds for Make-A-Wish

By Ethan Lachman

To raise money for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Community Council hosted its first ever drive-in movie, where it screened “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” in the senior parking lot Nov. 7.

Students had the option of parking their cars in spots sold for $40 each or sitting in individual seats for $15. Community Council projected the movie on the wall of Hamilton gym and used radio channel

88.1 FM so students could tune into the movie in their cars.

The council utilized the event to involve the student body more in their community-improving activities, Community Council member Carli Cooperstein ’20 said.

“Our goal was really to bring together the community in a really fun event to benefit Make-A-Wish,” Cooperstein said. “So we wanted to help them in a way that sort of integrated community and included everyone in a style of event

we’ve been trying to put on for so long.”

Cooperstein said she was happy with the turnout of the event.

“Overall, it was largely a success,” Cooperstein said.

“We were so glad we had such high turnout and so many people seemed like they had such a fun time.”

Despite the event’s success, Community Council member Grant Keller ’21 said he still would like to make adjustments in the future.

“I would’ve changed the

Reverend Gardner to replace Father Young as Chaplain • Continued from A2

“I hope she will help us be a stronger community. In times of celebration, I imagine at convocation when we all come together to have a blessing, I expect Reverend Gardner will seek blessings for all regardless of faith. And I know that

it will be the case in times of grief, having her consoling us and reminding us how to grieve and remember and recover.”

Though Gardner said her role at the school will be a new challenge, she looks forward to working together with students and administration and

to helping the community in any way she can.

“I am going to have to figure out what works best so that I can really maintain a presence at both campuses,” Gardner said. “I want to make sure people don’t feel that just because the role has been now relegated to one person, that

LGBTQ AWARENESS: GSA Club members Alexandra Du Manoir ’21 and Natalie Ayeni ’21 encourage Grace Kosten ’22 to join their club.

“

In times of celebration, I imagine at convocation when we all come together to have a blessing, I expect Reverend Gardner will seek blessings for all regardless of faith.”

— Rick Commons President

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that will be the only religious perspective that the school has. I will work hard to ensure that everyone who belongs to

whatever religious tradition they have is suited and served by the chaplaincy at HarvardWestlake.”

Sarina Smolev ’22 said that by packing lunches and kits, she was able to realize the importance of helping those in need.

“It was a very fun experience, and it allowed me to help the community and support those who are less fortunate by making something as small as a sandwich,” Smolev said.

Juniors worked with non-profit organization Rise Against Hunger to prepare over 18,000 packages of rice, soy and vitamins to help combat hunger in communities.

Emery Genga ’21 said that packing food was a good opportunity to help not only her own community, but also international communities.

“It just felt good, especially after seeing the videos beforehand of how much of a differ-

ence we’ve made in people’s lives,” Genga said.

The senior class listened to two former gang members, who now work with Homeboy Industries, describe their experiences before transitioning into a stable environment.

The council also held schoolwide fundraisers for Make-A-Wish Foundation and BearBoxes, in which students were able to support by donating.

Community Council member Brase Dottin ’20 said that providing the opportunity for many students to help the community made the week worth the effort.

“Community Council is a way for me to be part of a community out of school and support a lot of great causes in the Los Angeles area,” Dottin said.

Community Council encourages students to aid their community

By Lauren Cho

HANNAH HAN/CHRONICLE

system we used for handing out food,” Keller said. “It was easily the most rushed aspect of the event, as we handed out numbers, but we had no idea where those numbers were.”

Roan Yeh ’21 said he enjoyed the movie and was happy to contribute to the greater cause.

“I think it’s really touching for the kids and it’s nice to see Make-A-Wish in action,” Yeh said. “I saw [Henry Reed] coming to school last year, and it’s really nice to give a kid a happy moment.”

Students volunteered at Aviva Family Services in a community event, where they played with kids in daycare Oct. 20. Aviva Family Services provides children, who have suffered from abuse and exploitation, with living arrangements and care.

In partnership with the Aviva Volunteer program, the HW Parent Community Service Program organized this excursion. The association organizes trips each year, and invites both upper and middle school students to participate.

“For this event, people were put into groups to get different projects done,” volunteer Helen Graham ’21 said. “I personally spent some time painting a fence outside and interacting with some kids.”

Volunteers assisted the program by organizing rooms and creating kits with donated school supplies, toiletries and baby supplies.

Students also helped arrange gifts for the parents and children staying with the program, in efforts to further improve their holiday seasons, Graham said.

“The event made me feel grateful and humbled because I saw so many children who are going through so much but still have a smile on their [faces],” volunteer Britt Gronemeyer ‘20 said.

Community Council held Community Service Week from Oct. 21 to 25, giving students an opportunity to learn about ways that they can contribute to communities.

The week began with the Community Service Organization Fair, where many clubs set up activities and booths that allowed students to contribute to a variety of causes.

In order to give all students a chance to participate in the week, Community Council arranged different events during each grade’s class meeting.

Sophomores packaged sandwiches and hygiene products in decorated bags to send to North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry.

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/news

News A5

Prefects coordinate seasonal festivities

By Ethan Lachman

mance, and I don’t think we would have won if we didn’t,” Students gathered in the Genga said. “[Phelan] also said lounge to watch their class- that ‘Wicked’ was their favormates compete in the annu- ite musical, and that they al Halloween costume con- wanted to be the Elphaba to test and ate free Cinnabons, my Glinda. Their costume was courtesy of Prefect Council on pretty easy for them to find, Oct. 31. Like last year, Hal- but I kind of had to order mine loween-themed movies played in separate parts and piece it throughout the day, along together, and I was so happy with the new additions of with how it turned out.”

Senior Prefect Jaya Nayar pumpkin decorating and free ’20 said members of Prefect candy on the quad.

Due to the increased num- Council planned the event in an attempt to re-enber of late starts ergize the community. this year, Hallow“We just wanted een happened to fall to bring some school on a block schedule spirit to Harvardday, which allowed Westlake,” Nayar Prefect Council to said. “There was a hold the celebration little bit of a downfall during the schoolwith Fanatics Fest, wide lunch period. and so we just wanted Community ’ to get people back up Council also took Emery and excited, especialthe opportunity to Genga ’21 ly with something like start selling tickets the fires going on.” for its drive-in movie, Genga said she enjoyed a showing of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” which took place participating in the costume contest, and that to her, it Nov. 7 (A3).

Emery Genga ’21 and Fe- was very representative of the licity Phelan ’21, who dressed school’s inclusive environup as Glinda and Elpha- ment.

“It was just really fun beba from “Wicked,” won best overall costume. Genga said ing up there with my best she originally planned to be friend, singing our favorite Glinda, but after talking to musical and hearing all of the Phelan, they bonded over their excitement from the crowd,” shared love for the musical, Genga said. “I really do love which prompted them to dress the Harvard-Westlake community, and I love that I feel up together. “[Phelan] did not want to comfortable getting up in front do the lip syncing at first, but of everyone and just being I convinced them to, so we completely goofy without fear made it into a bit of a perfor- of judgment.” white s

ETHAN LACHMAN/CHRONICLE

FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD: Best overall costume winners Emery Genga ’21 and Felic-

Pollyanna Conference members discuss sexuality, gender norms

By Caroline Jacoby Upper school faculty members attended the third annual Pollyanna Conference at the Middle School Nov. 2. In accordance with this year’s theme, “Everybody, Everybody: Reimagining Gender and Sexual Orientation in Our Schools,” representatives from 15 schools around the country discussed diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as how to become more welcoming toward members of the LGBTQ+

community. “[This year’s topic is] a pretty big theme of LGBTQ+ and gender topics,” event organizer, Nate Cardin, science teacher and Upper School Coordinator of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, said. “That seems very broad of a topic, and that’s a little bit intentional because where Harvard-Westlake is [in relation] to a lot of those topics could be very different than where other schools are at. We want to bring all these different schools in and

“

ity Phelan ’21, dressed as Glinda and Elphaba from “Wicked,” walk down the runway in the lounge.

say, ‘no matter where you’re at on the topic, here’s a day to kind of think about it and hear from other people and see how you can move yourself forward.’”

The event began with a presentation from keynote speaker Rodney Glasgow, Head of Middle School and Chief Diversity Officer at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. Glasgow shared his experiences with his gender identity and sexual orientation, facilitating conversation regarding intersectionality.

We want to bring all these different schools in and say, ‘no matter where you’re at on the topic, here’s a day to think about it and hear from other people and see how you can move yourself forward.’”

— Nate Cardin Upper School Coordinator of DEI

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Afterward, attendees met in smaller pods to discuss the topics in more depth.

“It was an amazing practice to set a safe space for a group of strangers, and I was really amazed by what everyone was able to share and how vulnera-

ble we were able to get with each other in a two-hour period of time,” video art teacher Reb Limerick, who led one of the pods, said.

The conference concluded with a panel of students from all 15 schools.

Spanish-speaking cultures approach death with this hopeful and positive outlook,” Riemer said. “It’s not something to fear, but to accept and even celebrate.”

In addition, family members prepare “ofrendas,” offerings of the favorite food and drinks of those honored.

“A big part of being Latino is [that] we tell a lot of stories about past people and try to honor those ancestors as much as possible, so I think that this

day really highlights that,” LAHSO leader Diana Castellanos ’20 said.

Approximately 70 members of the school community attended the event, where they watched parades of indigenous dancers and admired altars created by members of the Los Angeles community.

“We broke up into groups and spent a few hours walking around,” Riemer said. “My group admired the altars and shopped at the booths.”

LAHSO celebrates Day of the Dead

By Jane Hamilton

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF DIANA CASTELLANOS

MONARCHS: Criselda Mele ’20, Diana Castellanos ’20, Lupe Lu-

cero ’20 and Osi Holt ’20 partake in the Day of the Dead festivities.

Latin American and Hispanic Student Organization (LAHSO) members participated in festivities as part of the group’s annual event to celebrate Día de Los Muertos on Nov. 2 at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

Trip chaperone and Spanish teacher Margot Riemer said the holiday is joyous, despite the inherent sorrow of death.

“I love the fact that so many

The middle and upper school communities will stay at home to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday.

WinterFest Activities:

12/03

Student musicians will perform classical music at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in North Hollywood.

Thanksgiving Break:

12/02

The UCLA Blood Drive will be open for faculty and students in Chalmers Lounge from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Instrumental Music Concert:

11/27

Upper School Blood Drive:

11/22

11/15

Upcoming Events

Students will attend various winter-themed activities and receive complimentary hot chocolate and cider.

Upper School Dance Showcase Students learning dance will perform in Chalmers Dance Studio from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

A6 News

Students assist in cleaning up beach

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

By Celine Park

up can change this feeling because it makes us see that Students in AP Environ- we can do something to heal mental Science (APES) trav- nature.” eled to Santa Monica Beach APES student Natalie PhilOct. 26 to participate in a lips ’21 said that partnering coastal cleanup organized by with Heal the Bay was imHeal the Bay, an environmen- portant to her, especially betal non-profit organization. cause she spends a significant “All kinds of trash ended amount of time at the beach. up on the beach because of “I was so happy to be able the drainage system,” APES to partake in this event bestudent Bencause whennett Markinever I go to son ’21 said. the beach, I “Plastic gets To be able to see love seeing broken into the whole community sand and wasmall pieces so ter rather than lined up along the animals think sand, trash they can eat beach cleaning was and water,” it, but because really cool.”

Phillips said. plastic doesn’t After the decompose, it —Bennett Markinson ’21 beach cleanis horrible for APES Student up, Eisenkolb them.”

Students and three othused data er APES stuanalysis sheets to track the dents attended the Ocean types of trash they collected Planet Conference, where they and compared their findings learned more about increasto recent years. ing and raising awareness for These data collections are ocean conservation efforts. usually presented to lawmakMarkinson said he was ers in order to persuade them pleased with the event’s turnto pass environmental protecout. tion laws, Markinson said.

Overall, he felt like the The event gave attendees event was a success and the opportunity to participate in a tangible effort that ben- thought that the number of efitted nature, APES teacher people who came was much more than he had originally Nadine Eisenkolb said.

“I think we get inundated expected.

“So many people showed with bad news about the state of the environment,” Eisen- up to help, which I didn’t exkolb said. “This can make us pect,” Markinson said. “To be feel hopeless and very small, able to see the whole commulike nothing that we do mat- nity lined up along the beach ters. Going to a beach clean- cleaning was really cool.”

“

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF MERCEDES BARLETTA

A VILLA VISIT: (From left to right) Franklin Wimbish ’25, Addison Konwiser ’25, Maddie Hliboki ’25 and Chazzy Cho ’25 pose for a photo with the rest of their Latin IA peers in front of the Getty Villa’s long pool.

Latin students visit Getty Villa

By Sandra Koretz A group of about 30 students and teachers from Latin levels IA to III Honors visited the Getty Villa in Malibu on Oct. 26.

Students visited an exhibit called “Buried by Vesuvius: Treasures from the Villa dei Papiri,” and other Greek and Roman antiquities on display, Latin teacher Brad Holmes said.

“The Getty Villa is like this ancient treasure trove in the middle of Malibu,” Latin III Honors student Avery Konwiser ’22

said. “I’d have to say my favorite part was seeing the new exhibition about Pompeii and all of its amazingly preserved artifacts.

It’s really hard to believe that [these pieces were once] covered in 75 feet of ash.”

As part of their excursion, students also examined restored historical scrolls, which were damaged during the eruption of Vesuvius.

“I think [the trip] was a good experience to be able to go see a historical and archeological exhibit not only with peers, but

also with teachers,” Latin III Honors student Eva Salas ’22 said.

In addition to perusing the displays inside the Getty Villa, the group enjoyed the museum’s outdoor landscaping, Holmes said.

“The museum also has full replicas of Roman gardens as, again, it is modeled after an actual Roman Villa,” Holmes said. “So even when not viewing the collections, there are lots of pretty places to go and walk around while there.”

Astronomy students visit Mount Wilson

By Sarah Mittleman

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ANDREW THEISS

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND!: (From left to right) Robotics teacher Andrew Theiss, Erik Anderson ’20, Page Clancy ’ 22 and Dean Reiter ’20 pose in front of the SpaceX rocket with their new SpaceX logo cups in hand.

Robotics students visit SpaceX Center

By Tessa Augsberger Robotics team members Erik Anderson ’20, Page Clancy ’22 and Dean Reiter ’20 toured the SpaceX production facility with computer science teacher and Robotics Coach Andrew Theiss on Oct. 29.

During the visit, students learned about SpaceX’s internal operations and assembly strategies.

Clancy, who plans to participate in the American Rocketry Competition this year, said she enjoyed the visit and learning about SpaceX’s inter-

nal operations.

“I loved it,” Clancy said.

“Getting to see the process of building the rockets up-close was a unique opportunity. I had a great time getting shown around and watching what goes on within the facilities.”

The visit provided the group with a unique opportunity to learn about the company’s newest technology, Theiss said.

“We were fortunate enough to see the production of a fullflow stage combustion engine being manufactured, probably one of the first 10 in exis-

tence,” Theiss said.

The SpaceX Raptor uses a full-flow, staged combustion engine and is the only orbital rocket to ever have been fueled by methane.

Clancy explained that it is sometimes challenging for women to work in the male-dominated field of engineering.

Nevertheless, Clancy said the visit allowed her to visualize a career in STEM. “Getting to see where robotics could take me in the future was super inspiring,” Clancy said.

was really cool,” Eitner said.

Upon arrival, the students Eight students in Astron- attended a presentation about omy attended a weekend trip spectroscopy, the study of to Mount Wilson Observatory, electromagnetic radiation. Latwhere they spent the night in er, the group participated in a famous astronomers’ dwell- geology walk and ate dinner ings and observed constella- on top of Mount Wilson. That evening, they also studied the tions Oct. 25 to 26.

The group first toured the skies, using a 60-inch telebuilding where astronomers scope built in the early 1900’s.

“We were looking straight held court in the 1900’s. These at Saturn and the scientists, such as stars,” astronoEdwin Hubble, found my student Owen evidence in support of Hudgins ’21 said. “It the Big Bang Theory, was just weird knowas well as the exising how small we tence of other galaxare.” ies.

The next morning, “It’s the obserstudents used a solar vatory where severtelescope to general major discoveries ’ ate a spectrum of the were made at the beBlaise sun’s wavelengths. ginning and middle Eitner By viewing the elecof the last century, tromagnetic radiation [which] included the dimen- from the sun, the students sions of the Milky Way and were able to learn about its full also the main observation- light absorption. al evidence in support of the “[The solar telescope] is general expansion of the uni- used to make a spectrum of verse,” science teacher Blaise the sun, so we’ll see the abEitner said. “All of those were sorption and the spectroscopy some of the major discoveries of the sun,” Eitner said. “Last that were made up there, so year’s trip was the first time [the observatory is] a very his- I’ve ever seen the full absorptorically significant place.” tion spectrum of the sun. That The students also explored particular instrument was one the astronomers’ common ar- of the first, if not the first, that eas before retiring to the lat- was used to identify its chemiter’s sleeping quarters. cal composition.” “[Sleeping] overnight where After watching the sunrise, the astronomers stayed and the students received breakjust realizing the history that fast on the mountain and rehad been accomplished there turned home by bus. white s

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/news

News A7

Jones to be Head of Deans • Continued from A2

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF NADINE EISENKOLB

Making a Change A JOYOUS REBELLION: (Left to right) Sophia Ekstrand ’20, Erica Ekstrand ’20, Annabel Zimmer ’20, Patrick Hyde ’20, Grace Burton ’20, Otis Gordon ’20 and Abe Kaye ’20 spend the day outside of school to protest the changing global climate and enjoy a day in the sun with the leader of the political revolution, Swedish climate change activist Greta Thunberg.

Head of Upper School chosen for 2020 to her interview, she spent a lot of time thinking about things the search committee how to both understand and did not already know support the parents about her. of those students, Slattery said she and I think that that she felt a mix of that is a really key emotions before stepaspect of the Head ping into the interof Upper School’s view. job, whether it’s in “I was nervous,” setting up a new Slattery said. “But initiative or a proat the same time, it gram or an eve’ was so comfortable to ning event for our Beth be with people that I parents or whether Slattery knew really well, so it it’s responding to a was both easier and concern that a parharder.” ent has.”

Rather than planning new Slattery said that, prior

• Continued from A1

white s

initiatives, Slattery hopes to stabilizing for people.” focus on implementing the Senior Prefect Clay Skaggs school’s ap’20 said he is proved changsupportive of es, such as the Slattery’s proWe have had a lot motion schedule, she and of changes, and I think said. expressed his “We have gratitude for part of the reason I got had a lot of her work. the job is that I provide a changes, and “[Slattery] I think part is an outstandkind of stability.” of the reason ing dean and a —Beth Slattery I got the job great person to is that I protalk to,” Skaggs Head of Deans vide a kind of said. “I know stability and she is going continuity in a time that feels to be a great Head of Upper uncertain for some people,” School, and I feel lucky to have Slattery said. “I hope to be her as a dean.”

“

Literary magazine receives Gold Crown

By Crystal Baik

ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

The Columbia Scholastic Press Association awarded the Columbia University Scholastic Press’s Gold Crown Award to Stone-Cutters, the long-established student literary magazine, distinguishing it as an outstanding high school publication.

Stone-Cutters editor Nicole Austen ’21 said she was especially proud of creating an environment that encouraged students to submit their work.

“I felt great about winning the Gold Crown Award,” Austen said. “I think a lot of it is making people feel comfortable submitting their work to StoneCutters because it can be very difficult to put your work out there, especially artistic work because it can be very personal.”

Award-winning writers, such as the late recipient of the Poetry Society of America

Chapbook Fellowship Max Ritvo ’09, contributed to StoneCutters.

Stone-Cutters has recently expanded its scope to include more media in the magazine, including visual art, photography, sculpture and other art forms.

English teacher and StoneCutters faculty adviser Lucas Gonzalez said anyone interested in connecting with other writers and artists should involve themselves in the magazine.

“We’ve begun to envision ourselves not just as an eclectic arts publication, but a collective,” Gonzalez said. “[Stone-Cutters is] a vibrant and interconnected community of students who write, design, create and make art at Harvard-Westlake.”

Stone-Cutters will accept submissions until Dec. 13 for the winter tabloid. Works can be submitted through the website via submittable.com.

something you can do to improve. We want to make sure that we’re doing it.”

For the administration, promoting Jones was a natural choice because of his strong leadership qualities and highly-respected reputation within the school community, Head of Upper School Laura Ross said. “[Jones] is the kind of person who’s able to think through situations from many different perspectives,” Ross said. “When you’re in the dean’s role, you’re the person right in the middle.

You have lots of students, faculty members, parents and administrators coming to talk to you about things.

He’s really, really calm and he’s able to take in a lot of information about what the right thing to do is, even when there are multiple people in a lot of different places at the same time. He’s so smart and thoughtful.”

In addition to serving as a dean, Jones coached boys’ JV and varsity basketball until last year.

He is also currently a faculty advisor for the Black Leadership Awareness and Culture Club (BLACC).

“We were really excited about the opportunity to have [Jones’s] broad wingspan and expand his reach,” President Rick Commons said. “He’s the kind of person who, when he says ‘hi’ to you, you just feel better and you feel understood. There’s something about how he greets people and engages instantly in conversation that makes you feel appreciated and you feel connection. And for that reason, to have him influencing the Upper School more broadly is just a great opportunity.”

Corrections While robotics subteam 62X, composed of Justin Ansell ’20, Katie Mumford ’20 and Dean Reiter ’20, won the Design Award at a competition at Arnold Beckman High School on Sept.

21 for completing the most comprehensive engineering book, the team did not qualify for the VEX California State Championship for the 2019 school year.

A8 News

Branching Out

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

Upper school students performed in the fall production of Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Into the Woods” by Stephen Sondheim in the Rugby Auditorium on Nov. 8 to 11. After months of hard work, the cast performed the musical together for their peers and families.

CAITLIN CHUNG/CHRONICLE

INTO THE WOODS WITH MILKY WHITE: Jack (Osi Holt ’20) stands with his cow and his mother (Dahlia Low ’20) as he prepares to journey into the sinister and wicked woods (Jake Schroeder ’20).

CAITLIN CHUNG/CHRONICLE

MR. WOLF: The Big Bad Wolf (Alec Davila ’20) waves hello to the audience as he sings and dances the musical number “Hello, Little Girl.”

CAITLIN CHUNG/CHRONICLE

KNOCK KNOCK, IT’S THE NEXT DOOR WITCH: The Witch (Bianca Garfinkle ’20) comes to visit the childless Baker (Walt Schoen ’21) and his gloomy wife (Maddie Boudov ’21). She delivers a quest for them to complete and promises to lift the curse she placed on them several years ago to keep their family tree barren forever.

CRYSTAL BAIK/CHRONICLE

THE ROYAL DUET: Prince Charming (Tyler Ganus ’20) and Cinderella (Asia Fuqua ’21) sing a song during the production.

CRYSTAL BAIK/CHRONICLE

THE LAST BALLAD: The Witch performs a solo song in “Children Will Listen” in the finale of Act II as the Mysterious Man (Blaine Browning ’20) and a fellow ensemble member (Lilah Weisman ’20) look on.

C HRONICLE the harvard-westlake

Editors-in-Chief: Tammer Bagdasarian, Lindsay Wu Print Managing Editors: Kyra Hudson, Casey Kim, William Seymour

Opinion The Chronicle • Nov. 13, 2019

Los Angeles • Volume 29• Issue 3 • Nov. 13, 2019 • hwchronicle.com

editorial

Digital Managing Editors: Luke Casola, Jessa Glassman Presentation Editors: Spencer Klink, Keila McCabe Executive Editors: Jeanine Kim, Will Mallory News Editor: Luke Schneider Assistant News Editors: Crystal Baik, Hannah Han, Siobhan Harms, Tanisha Gunby, Frank Jiang Opinion Editors: Emma Shapiro, Amelie Zilber Assistant Opinion Editors: Ethan Lachman, Austin Lee Features Editors: Joanna Im, Lauren Nehorai Assistant Features Editors: Lauren Cho, Ruoshan Dong, Mak Kriksciun, Marina Nascimento, Chloe Schaeffer A&E Editors: Jordan Murray, Sarah Reiff Assistant A&E Editors: Emma Limor, Celine Park Sports Editors: Zack Schwartz, Eugene Wyman Assistant Sports Editors: Eugean Choi, Lucas Lee, Jaidev Pant, Kyle Reims, Charlie Wang Multimedia Editor: Annie Beckman Photography Editors: Caitlin Chung, Jay Lassiter, Astor Wu Broadcast Producers: Coleman Katz, Yoohan Ko, Alex Mork Business Manager: Zack Schwartz Community News Engagement Editors: Sarah Healy, Zoe Redlich Events Engagement Editor: Madison Huggins Assistant Business Managers: Lucas Lee, Emma Limor Assistant Broadcast Editors: Alex Amster, Alice He, Kyle Reims Junior Art Director: Evie de Rubertis Senior Staff Writer: Lee Nichols Freelance Artist: Hannah Mittleman Freelance Writers: Allie Landecker, Anusha Mathur, Valerie Velazquez Layout Assistants and Staff Writers: Tessa Augsberger, Julian Andreone, Milla Ben-Ezra, Katherine Burry, Elise Chen, Marine Degryse, Quincey Dern, Ava Fattahi, Mia Feizbaksh, Sydney Fener, Justin Goldstein, Jane Hamilton, Caroline Jacoby, Keira Jameson, Sandra Koretz, Gemma Lippman, Sarah Mittleman, Caitlin Munoz, Jason Morganbesser, Sophia Musante, Liam Razmjoo, Ryan Razmjoo, Amelia Scharff, Katharine Steers, Melody Tang, Maxine Zuriff Broadcast Assistants: William Moon, Zachary Berg, John Coleman, Ely Dickson, Benjamin Jacoby Layout Assistants: Alexis Arinsburg, Brittany Brahn Advisers: Jim Burns, Max Tash The Chronicle is the student newspaper of Harvard-Westlake School. It is published eight times per year. Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the seniors on the Editorial Board.

Letters to the editor may be submitted to chronicle@hw.com or mailed to 3700 Coldwater Canyon, Studio City, CA 91604.

Letters must be signed and may be edited for space and to conform to Chronicle style and format. Advertising questions may be directed to Zack Schwartz at zschwartz1@hwemail.com.

Publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product or service by the newspaper or school.

ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS AND CAROLINE JACOBY

Giving thanks to our capeless heroes Gratitude and thankfulness are central themes of the fall season—Veterans Day just passed, and Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. During this time, it is commonplace to thank veterans for their service and to express our appreciation to close family and friends, but the current pessimistic state of affairs has made these actions all the more important now than they have been in the past.

Veterans Day initially served as a commemoration of World War I’s first anniversary, and it has since become a day for widespread military service appreciation. Because younger generations have never experienced a global conflict to the scale of World War I and World War II, it is easy to neglect this holiday’s significance.

This is especially true for younger United States citizens, who live without daily fear of drone strikes, insurgencies or coups, despite the United States’ involvement in overseas conflicts since the beginning of the millennium. However, this stability is made possible by the sacrifice of currently and formerly deployed soldiers.

Now more than ever, it is time to be grateful for the individuals who have protected the privileges we enjoy. Without them, we would likely lack the ability to freely express ourselves as student journalists. Even though we cannot directly see the courage each veteran displays on a daily basis, we ought to be considerate of the sacrifices they make to keep us safe and protected.

Additionally, even though Veterans Day serves as a celebration of military heroes, we should all show our appreciation for other, more localized servicemen and servicewomen, such as firefighters and first responders. Although the responsibilities

differ between these groups, they all sacrifice their own safety in a selfless pursuit of the broader public’s well-being.

In light of the many fires terrorizing our communities across California, it is especially important to appreciate the firefighters who work tirelessly to extinguish the flames. Many members of our community are directly affected by the efforts of these individuals, who worked grueling 12-hour shifts, stretched their stations thin and risked everything to protect houses in Brentwood, Malibu, Porter Ranch and other communities. It would be a monumental mistake to gloss over these firefighters’ incredible feats of heroism.

For other communities, there are different first responders who deserve gratitude and recognition: those who respond to hurricanes like the recent ones in Dallas, those who rush into gunfire to protect students during shootings and those who risk their lives to dispose of bombs. This season, let us thank not only our families, friends and loved ones, but also recognize those who risk everything for our safety: the men and women who have chosen a career path dedicated to the security of our communities. These incredible people deserve more than just a holiday.

The sheer patriotism these people display when fighting fires, battling criminals and rescuing individuals is fractionally reported. We should not just acknowledge their feats and acts of bravery when larger news conglomerates report them. We should recognize the integral role that our first responders and military play in keeping our nation stable, and always be sure to express our gratitude, even if it is not Veterans Day.

A10 Opinion

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

Respecting our reporters

By Jessa Glassman

I

n my first period art history class, I sat taking detailed notes. Having woken up roughly an hour earlier from an unhealthily short night of rest, I was nearly lulled to sleep by my teacher’s rhythmic computer clicking as she passed through a presentation of slides. But, one painting she analyzed quickly brought me out of my early morning fog. My fascination with “The Death of Marat” came not only from my appreciation of the piece’s captivating execution, but also its content. The image revealed a pen-holding man dead in his bathtub, and I soon learned he was a radical journalist murdered by political opposition during the French Revolution.

This painting stuck with me because, even more than 200 years later, Marat’s death eerily resembles the fate of many modern journalists worldwide.

Jamal Khashoggi, Jan Kuciak, Chauncey Bailey, Elsa Cayat. This is just a short list

of many who were killed for being journalists. A report from the Committee to Protect Journalists found that 34 journalists were murdered in 2018 alone. Even more shocking is that this number is nearly double that of the previous year, according to the same report.

Most Americans associate these killings with other nations. In Russia, critics of Putin are mysteriously found dead; in Mexico, the media is brutalized by gangs; in the Middle East, perpetrators of complicated webs of conflict threaten the lives of any and all opposition. But, in recent years, murdered journalists have become a domestic phenomenon too. According to Reporters Without Borders’ 2018 report, for the first time ever, the United States became one of the top five deadliest nations for journalists. In an era of increasing anti-press rhetoric, the mistreatment of journalists is not surprising,

but its dangerous turn should cause more alarm.

Murders aside, rates of imprisonment and the numbers of journalists missing or taken hostage have also risen.

But even more generally, the culture of disdain for journalism and the tainting reputation of “fake news” has caused sharp divisions between the government, the media and the people. While American journalists are lucky to be constitutionally protected, recent evidence of rising anti-press violence discussed above proves that there is only so much the curly script our Founding Fathers wrote can do to protect reporters. And for international reporters, these protections are meaningless.

As a student journalist, I am aware that high school students covering soccer games and school announcements can in no way match the magnitude of undercover reporters investigating nuclear arsenals and authoritarian

governments.

But I believe that creating a culture that welcomes inquisitive young people, eager to make their voices heard, is a precursor to changing the way journalists are perceived globally. Especially because of the current press climate, it is of the utmost importance that educators nationwide provide a safe and supportive environment where students feel not only comfortable challenging the status quo and making their opinions known, but also where they feel encouraged to do so. Anything else would negate the very purpose of schooling: to help students develop and grow into individuals. Regardless of if people believe a mistake was made, a piece is too nosy or an opinion is far-fetched, all members of school communities should play a role in maintaining a supportive environment that molds powerful journalists

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who are willing to question their surroundings. The media is not perfect, especially for students who are still learning, and there is potential for mistakes to be made as there is in any other academic subject. Nevertheless, these moments should be taken as opportunities to start respectful discussions instead of demonizing students who were brave enough to speak their truths. It is time to change the way journalists are treated worldwide, and schools should be ground zero for this movement.

How many more Marats will it take for this problem to be recognized?

Accountability for our planet

By Sydney Fener

E ILLUSTRATION BY ALEXA DRUYANOFF

Appreciating my ethnicity

By Hannah Han

E

ight years ago, in the mornings before school, I brushed my teeth with Colgate toothpaste and glanced at my reflection in the bathroom mirror, lips stinging from the cold mint. I imagined myself morphing in the smudged glass, my features reconfiguring themselves until I had luminous blue eyes, freckles and a ski-slope nose.

My wish to assimilate was subconscious; it had been ingrained in me ever since I downloaded my first dress-up game on my dad’s iPhone as a child. In the app, all of the models had variations of the same pale eyes and light skin, but none of them resembled me. In the commercials and television shows I watched after school, clean-cut families ate salads in kitchens drenched with sunlight, but none of those families looked like mine. The only coming-ofage books I read that starred Asian characters were purely about the Asian-American experience and nothing more.

It was only in middle school that I became more aware of my “Asianness” and, subsequently, began to accept my race as essential to my identity. When people asked me where I was from—no, where I was really from—I said that I was half-Chinese and half-Vietnamese without hesitation. Yet with that ac-

ceptance of my ethnicity came a new fear: that I was just another “quiet Asian girl.”

In elementary school, I attributed my introversion to my own fear of being judged and viewed as inadequate.

In middle school, however, I saw my “quietness” as a deficiency, and, even worse, as a manifestation of my race.

When I researched personality types for an article I was writing in ninth grade, I typed “introverted” and “extroverted” into the thesaurus. The results for “introverted” were tainted with negative biases— “uncommunicative” and “standoffish”—while “extroverted” brought up synonyms, such as “congenial” and “friendly.”

American society has long been fixated on extroverts and the ideals of individualism, striving to distinguish itself from other nations since its founding. The “model minority” stereotype directly taps into Americans’ darkest fears of losing their identities and of turning into a homogenous mass of silent, submissive people that “all look alike.”

One of the most infuriating results of the Asian stereotype was when my peers attributed my drive to my race.

They assumed that the hours I spent studying for a chemistry exam or working on an English paper and my con-

sequent grades were due to the pigmentation of my skin, not to my own work. If I did not do well in school, I “disappointed my ancestors,” but if I did do well, I was reinforcing the stereotype that had been thrust upon Asian-Americans.

I became paranoid; I felt the need to subvert these labels at all times, to defend myself against the image of a shy, vapid student that had been projected on me.

But I realized that by adopting this mindset, I was no better than the people who had founded the idea of the model minority. Like them, I had inextricably linked these stereotypes with the race, not the individual. I had thought that these labels followed me, and while they did, I had also tied myself to them, unwittingly dragging them behind me for most of my adolescence.

While I still sometimes feel the need to overturn these stereotypes, I now recognize that I am a quiet Asian girl because I am quiet and because I am Asian, not because the two are interconnected.

Now, in the mornings, when I climb out of bed and brush my teeth with mint toothpaste, I look at myself in the mirror—undeniably Asian, yet also undeniably American.

And I see only the face that stares back at me, and nothing more.

veryone is missing Greta Thunberg’s message, especially world leaders.

Greta Thunberg, a 16-yearold Swedish environmental activist, has become a major player on the world stage. She addressed the United Nations about climate change and led a series of school strikes, one here in Los Angeles Nov. 1, for the same cause. Thunberg has drawn the pressing issue of climate change into the limelight, encouraging world leaders to do all they can to combat climate change.

But those leaders weren’t really listening. In fact, hardly anyone is.

Everyone has let Thunberg’s message fly over their heads. Well-intentioned statements like “Greta Thunberg will save the world!” run rampant on Twitter and at protests, but that sentiment is exactly what she wants to stop.

“My message is that we’ll be watching you,” Thunberg said during her speech at the United Nations summit in New York Sept. 23. “This is all wrong. I shouldn’t be up here.

I should be back in school on the other side of the ocean.

Yet, you all come to us young people for hope. How dare you.”

And she is exactly right.

It’s not her job to “save the world” or reverse climate change single-handedly. It is in the hands of global leaders to make the material change of which she is not capable.

While she is passionate and intelligent, there is only so much she can do as an individual and as a teenager.

Those global leaders seem eager to receive her counsel, but this too is often just for show. Prime minister of Canada Justin Trudeau met with Thunberg after approving a controversial oil pipeline dig in his country a few months before, which will damage the

climate, according to NPR. Trudeau is a repeat offender in this respect; he often puts on a progressive image while implementing policies that contradict this attitude.

This type of showmanship and hypocrisy is emblematic of the attitudes of many world leaders, who would rather relegate responsibility to the next generation under the guise of empowering them, rather than actually making change.

Thunberg was expected o win the Nobel Peace Prize, but ultimately did not. It has been speculated that she was not awarded the prize because her mission was not exactly what the prize is awarded for, according to the Washington Post. There is not a specific conflict she is working to solve, and the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to those who endeavor to ameliorate global conflicts.

However, it seems more likely that Thunberg did not receive the prize because those in political power are afraid to allow her a bigger platform.

Often, hot-button issues will remain mainstream for a short period of time, but they soon fade, allowing leaders to hide behind superficial commentary. If Thunberg won the Nobel Prize, she would stay relevant for longer, and the people receiving her messages would hold global leaders accountable for their lack of action.

That terrifies the world leaders who want to immediately move on from controversial issues such as climate change.

Greta cannot do it alone, and she should not have to try. World leaders need to captain this endeavor. If they have the audacity to belittle, ignore and patronize young activists, then they need to show us that they are more capable.

The world is counting on their contributions.

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hwchronicle.com/opinion

Nov. 13, 2019

Opinion A11

Reach out for outreach

By Celine Park

W

ithout fail, there is an ever-familiar wave of panic that hits the student body every year: the stress of fulfilling community service hours.

The school’s 12-hour requirement does not seem too difficult to complete, yet many struggle to find organizations that they truly connect with.

As a result, students resort to jumping from one service organization to another, just to stock up on hours. Rather than merely regarding community service as a requirement, however, students should strive to volunteer for the sole purpose of benefiting the community.

Compared to other private schools nearby, 12 hours is a meager requirement. Campbell Hall requires its students to complete 20 hours of volunteer work, and Oakwood Middle School integrates its Service Learning program into the classroom.

Though we pride ourselves for attending a rigorous school, we do not seem to excel in community service outreach. In essence, the extremely competitive culture of our school should revolve not only around academic, athletic and artistic excellence, but also around having a meaningful impact within the community service realm.

Students should want to say that they attend a school that truly cares about their community, environment and the world at large.

Students often dismiss volunteer work, arguing that, between numerous assessments and other extracurriculars, they do not have enough time in their daily schedules for self-care, let alone community service.

However, if students really care about their community, they will make time to help out. This is what the mantra for volunteering should be.

Instead of working at a dozen random organizations for only one hour each, students should establish relationships with organizations they love. Volunteering with them for long periods of time is more worthwhile for students, as well as for the greater community.

This does not mean that students must stick with just one organization each.

Rather, they should search for causes that resonate with them in order to promote lasting changes in society.

Luckily for us, we attend a school with a cornucopia of resources and available opportunities. For one, community service fairs and other special activities run by the school’s Community Council can open new avenues for students’ volunteering endeavors. Students should want to take advantage of the connections that the school provides and not let them go to waste.

Our school provides a wide variety of options for community service, which students can start exploring at the beginning of middle school in order to find a specific service group they connect with.

Finding the right organization would not only enable students build stronger relations with those working at the volunteer service, but the experience itself would be more personal and impactful.

Another problem with the community service culture at our school is that most people complete their 12-hour requirement exclusively during the summer.

Although summer is the optimal time to work for organizations for a long period of time, students should attempt to make a habit of reaching out to volunteer organizations during school weekends

Guest Editorial

throughout the year. Being constantly involved in one’s community is just as important as completing one’s hours on time.

The practice of participating in community service should not be confined to the scope of our high school lives. Volunteering endeavors can continue even after high school, throughout college and well into adulthood.

Our individual impacts do not need to be as grand as starting a non-profit organization or becoming a full-time philanthropist, but we should maintain the innate human desire to help others.

Whether it is reading books to children from lowincome families, building hygiene kits for those in need or cooking at a local soup kitchen, it is crucial for students to willingly help their communities, not just to check a box on the list of requirements needed to graduate from high school. Students would then feel a sense of accomplishment while directly aiding those around them.

All in all, students should try to spend time figuring out how they can positively affect their communities and volunteer because they truly want to, not because they have to.

Do you think the community service system should be altered?

Completely: 13.0% Not at all: 33.5% Somewhat: 53.5% *224 students polled

Noah Aire ’20 “I think it should be altered somewhat, but we should definitely open the dialogue to this conversation just so that we can reevaluate where are values are being placed.”

ETHAN LACHMAN/CHRONICLE

Kennedy Hill ’22 “I think it should somewhat be altered because we’re busy students, and we don’t have time sometimes for community service.”

ETHAN LACHMAN/CHRONICLE

“I think it should be altered completely because I think one defining aspect of community service is the voluntary portion of it, so forcing kids to go out and do these activities is not really community service.”

ETHAN LACHMAN/CHRONICLE

ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

The Chronicle invites Shiveer Ramphal ’20 (Westville School for Boys) from the World Leading Schools Association to write about his experience living in South Africa after the Apartheid.

By Shiveer Ramphal ILLUSTRATION BY ALEXA DRUYANOFF

E

veryone knows the story of South Africa and the struggle of liberation from Apartheid, but sadly the fight has not ended. Today, there is a new battle within our country: the struggle against crime.

Unfortunately, fear for our personal safety has plagued the South African way-of-life. Lately, crimes such as rape, murder and kidnapping have drastically increased. In 2019 alone, 52,420 cases of sexual offense have already been reported. However, this number should be greater to reflect the astronomical crime rates in rural, poverty-stricken areas. These offenses often remain unreported, as victims fear possible retaliation from their

Pat Otero ’21

assailants or communities.

In addition, 21,022 cases of murder and 170,979 cases of physical assault have been reported. This, unfortunately, is my home.

From the perspective of a South African, I cannot say I am surprised. The social imbalance and lack of respect for the law forces us to live on the edge. I am always wondering if today, tonight or maybe tomorrow, I will be a victim. We hear gruesome reports about the molestation of young girls, who are subsequently thrown in ditches, cut up and burned. The media reports nothing but murder, abduction, rape and destruction. We have become a society scarily despondent from these horrific crimes;

we hear of them so often and accept that they are part of living in this country. Every night before we sleep, we lock up all of our gates, windows and doors.

We switch on the electric fence, as well as the internal and external alarms.

Our government seems to acknowledge the fact that South Africa is burning. We have repeatedly addressed the situations we face, yet we are still waiting for action. We watch in despair as politicians fight amongst themselves and ignore the pleas for help from those who are disadvantaged or reliant on the government.

Unfortunately in South Africa, you cannot rely on anyone but yourself.

Growing up, we have

always been told to always remain on our toes, even in our own homes. We do not know what it is like to walk safely down our city streets or live without walls around us. We do not know what it is like to look through windows without burglar bars.

We are angry, scared and frustrated. Angry at what we have let ourselves become, scared of the violence that defines our nation, but ultimately frustrated because we young people cannot do much to change it. I love South Africa; it is my home, rich in culture and diversity. But we seem to be spiraling into anarchy, and right now, our rainbow seems to be dimming under the grey skies.

An update on behalf of business

By Lucas Lee and Emma Limor

T

he Chronicle Business Team concluded our first fiscal year with our investments. By investing in brands that are morally sound in their practices, we use our assets to do good in the economy and world. With our profit from last year, the team was able to donate to a nonprofit organization on behalf of the Chronicle staff seniors.

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Community The Chronicle • Nov. 13, 2019

Garlock Fault line shifts over

By Crystal Baik and Frank Jiang

City attorney petitions for dispersed flight path, reduced noise pollution in Studio City

ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

By Hannah Han Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer issued a formal request to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Oct. 18, demanding that, within the next 30 days, the organization enforce the airplane departure procedures implemented at the Hollywood Burbank Airport in 2017.

The original departure procedures called for a dispersed route, in which all airplanes leaving the Hollywood Burbank Airport were required to fly in a fan-like formation to distribute noise pollution over a greater area. However, failing to enforce this policy, the FAA instead concentrated flight paths over Studio City and the San Fernando Valley, sparking outrage among citizens living in the affected areas and sparking protest, Feuer said.

Studio City for Quiet Skies, noise,” Wagner said. “If [the a grassroots organization FAA] reverts to the old disfounded in 2017 to mitigate persed path, no one will be unnoise pollution caused by der a focused, single-file path. aircrafts in the Los Angeles We’re very eager for change area, supported Feuer’s let- after almost three years of ter to the FAA. this, so we’re Co-founder of very hopeful.

Studio City For It would be If [the FAA] Quiet Skies a great thing Suellen Wagfor us, and we reverts to the old ner said that hope that the dispersed path, no one residents hope FAA will rewill be under a focused, spond responFeuer’s letter will force the sibly.” single-file path.”

FAA to reverse Los Ange—Suellen Wagner les City Councurrent flight paths, which Studio City For Quiet Skies c i l m e m b e r have constantPaul Krekorian ly disrupted also addressed the daily lives of residents liv- the importance of open coming in both Studio City and the munication between the FAA San Fernando Valley. and local residents. “[The current flight path] “My top priority is to ensure is horribly invasive, and there community members are being isn’t a single daily activity heard by the FAA, that they’re that isn’t accompanied by jet getting answers to their ques-

“

tions about the changes to the flight path and that we begin implementing changes to mitigate the impacts that are so adversely affecting the East San Fernando Valley,” Krekorian said in a press release.

Wagner said that if the FAA complies with Feuer’s request, the aviation organization could set a positive example and precedent for future cases related to air traffic and noise pollution in residential neighborhoods around the country.

“Everybody is thrilled that the city of Los Angeles has stepped up,” Wagner said. “If the city of Los Angeles is successful in getting the FAA to respond, that will be a big deal for people all over the nation because it could set a precedent for the FAA, where they are listening and responding to issues that they caused on the ground.”

The 6.4 and 7.1 magnitude Ridgecrest earthquakes that occurred earlier this month were the largest earthquakes in Southern California in two decades. These earthquakes caused the Garlock Fault to slide for the first time in recorded history, according to a Caltech study published Oct. 18.

Caltech’s latest study regarding the recent Ridgecrest earthquakes also discovered that earthquakes are not necessarily caused by the sliding or rupturing of a singular faultline or fault, but rather several faults rupturing almost simultaneously, which result in an overall larger earthquake.

Beverly Hills resident Grant Palmer ’20 said that although he was initially startled during the tremor, he felt that an earthquake had been long overdue.

“I was confused, because I was trying to fall asleep in my bed and all of a sudden my house and everything in my room started shaking for a few seconds,” Palmer said.

“I wasn’t nervous though, because we live in Southern California so I’m kind of used to earthquakes.”

Caltech Assistant Professor of Geophysics Zachary Ross is not entirely certain what the shifting fault means for the future of California, as the repercussions of the geographical event remain unknown.

“It’s not entirely clear what might happen,” Ross said. “It could just go away on it’s own and nothing will happen, but there have been some cases that we’ve seen before in Southern California where this creeping behavior seems to be accompanied by earthquake swarms. But we’re not seeing any of these earthquakes like that in this area just yet.”

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Features The Chronicle • Nov. 13, 2019

Planets Apart Students share the emotional and social effects of having a parent who works and lives in a foreign country.

• Continued on B7

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SIOBHAN HARMS AND MAK KRIKSCIUN

B2 Features

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

CARP00L1NG Students reflect on their experiences with carpooling and how the new recent parking restrictions have affected their transportation

By Siobhan Harms and Marina Nascimento

can act as a chauffeur so they can study.”

Mathematics teacher Derric Standing in her driveway at 7 Chien said he carpools around a.m., Kylie Azizzadeh ’21 waited twice a week. He said that when for her carpool to pick her up. he carpools, he is able to unwind She thought excitedly about her before and after work.

“I really enjoy the days I carcommute to school, complete with close friends, upbeat music pool because I can just relax in the car,” Chien said. and fulfilling conversations.

In terms of students carpool“There are no disadvantages,” Azizzadeh said, “I would definite- ing, Chien said he thinks that students taking the initiative to ly recommend carpooling.”

In an effort to combat its park- find carpools is beneficial to the ing shortage, the school has in- community.

“I think it’s helpful tentionally made spaces for kids to carpool to harder to obtain. school mainly so that With the implementhey don’t have to intation of new policies dividually drive every that prohibit parking in day,” Chien said. “Adsurrounding neighborditionally, carpooling hoods, carpooling is the would allow for more most cost-effective way parking spaces.” to get to school, Katie Owen Hudgins ’21 Kennedy ’21 said. ’ said he loves carpooling “Carpooling saves Owen because of the bonds money, because you Hudgins ’21 he has formed. He said don’t have to pay as much for your spot, and it helps that driving with others also dethe other person who’s driving creases commute time because he is able to utilize the carpool you to school,” Kennedy said.

Juliette O’Brien ’21 said she lane.

“I love [carpooling] because I’ve often rides with her teammates to and from water polo games. made a new really close friend,” Rather than carpooling to re- Hudgins said. “It’s a great time duce traffic or the cost of a space, in the morning when we listen to O’Brien said she chooses to car- music and vibe.”

On the other hand, Skylar pool because it benefits the enviGraham ’20 said she believes ronment.

“The people I carpool with that for those who live in neighcan also drive, but we choose borhoods with few other students to carpool because its good for who attend the school, arranging the environment and more fun,” a carpool can be difficult.

“I definitely think it would O’Brien said. “Sometimes we switch around who drives be- be a challenge [to carpool] because if someone has a test, we cause, on the bus I take, there white s

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS AND SIOBHAN HARMS

are only two people who get on at cause it can be very difficult commy stop,” Graham said. “It’s the ing up Coldwater in the morning, new Baldwin Hills bus. There trying to get into the parking lot,” are only about 13 people who get Graham said. “I’ve heard a lot of on in total, and most of them are students complaining about how sophomores who don’t drive yet.” it’s hard to get out of spaces, beGraham said she believes that cause they get blocked and cars the stress she experiences from get hit.” her early wake-up times could be Upper school security guard relieved if more people in her area Sean Horton said he believes were able to drive legally. that the new parking rules have “I wish there [was] someone benefited both students and on the bus who had a license, neighbors by improving the flow so I could carpool with them, be- of traffic. cause it would make it easier on “If [many people ride] togethme because er, it eases traffic I wouldn’t congestion on the have to get highway,” Horton

Carpooling is up as early or said. “It also eases not only a great way have to be so traffic congestion frantic in the to get around but a on our campus, bemorning try- great way to build cause we are already ing to catch restricted to the limrelationships.” the bus at an ited amount of parkearly time,” —Kylie Azizzadeh ’21 ing spaces we have Graham said. available, so if you Although carpool, it frees up carpooling makes parking on space. We have to be creative in campus more affordable, Gra- making sure [people] have a safe ham said she does not think that way to park that’s not going to the price of a spot is worth it. disrupt emergency responses or “I think the high prices dis- an ability to function as an insticourage me [from parking] in tution, so that’s how carpools are the lot.” Graham said, “Is [car- able to help.” pooling] really worth it to pay so Azizzadeh said she has found much money a year to have a new friends through her sophoparking spot?” more and junior carpooling expeAt least one security guard riences. patrols Halkirk, a neighboring “Carpooling is not only a great street, in the mornings to ensure way to get around but a great that students comply with the way to build relationships,” Aziznew restrictions. Graham said zadeh said. “Over the last year, I she feels the school’s new mea- got extremely close with my carsures are unnecessary. pool, and this year, I am as well. “[The school] should open up It’s a great way to start and end Halkirk for students to park, be- the day.”

“

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/features

Features B3

On the Edge Students discuss their personal experiences with depression and the medias influence on the topic.

By Siobhan Harms and Mak Kriksciun

the show garnered over six million views in its first three days on Netflix.

“I felt like [the show] romantiAs Sierra* ’21 sat on the cold, unwelcoming linoleum floor of a cized suicide and showed the benresidential treatment center, she efits of suicide,” Sierra said. “For said she felt alone and misunder- example, like the amount of love stood, isolated by a mental illness given to you after your death.”

Of the people she met at the that was misrepresented by both her real surroundings and the facility, Sierra said that she was one of the few released. She still media.

Sierra’s struggle with seri- keeps in contact with the others, ous depression began in winter who were transferred to longer of 2017, soon after she switched term care facilities.

Blake* ’21 has also struggled anxiety medications and lost a close family member. Over the with depression, brought on partcourse of that year, Sierra’s de- ly by his bipolar disorder. Unlike pression progressed until she Sierra, his illness developed in was deemed a threat to herself, middle school, the effects first becoming noticeable while and she subsequently he was in sixth grade. checked into a residen“[The] worst, worst tial treatment center. time of my experience Unlike the portrayal with mental illness was of mental illnesses in daily suicidal [idealizamany television shows, tion] and suicide atSierra said her experitempts,” Blake said. ence at the treatment “That all happened when center was miserable.

I was really young, which “[The treatment ’ is sad.” center] was terrible,” Beth Although he said he Sierra said. “There Slattery originally struggled to were extreme rules.

You could not be friends with oth- recover, Blake said that his coner people, and you could not talk dition greatly improved with a to other people. The kids there strong familial support system were also not as well-function- and coping mechanisms develing [as I was], and they were way oped during therapy sessions.

“By the time the pressure was worse with serious traumas. It was very restrictive, you are kind really amped up at Harvard-Westlake, I already had good coping of on lockdown all the time.”

Sierra said that her depression mechanisms and skills in place,” is now easier to manage, due to Blake said.

Recently, Blake has had to the new perspective she gained stop attending therapy because of while in the treatment center. “[I am feeling] much better his lack of free time.

“I just did not have the time, than before,” Sierra said. “Being gone and realizing that I had no on a Harvard-Westlake workfreedom [at the treatment cen- load, to go see a therapist, which ter] made me appreciate [real life] is unfortunate,” Blake said. “So, as of right now, I am completely more.”

In recent years, television self-coping and self-managing, shows focusing on depression which could be going better but and suicide, including “13 Rea- has not infringed upon my ability sons Why,” have capti- to do work and be a part of the ty.” vated millions, Si- c o m m u n i B e cause of the erra said. During his illness, its second season, nature of white s

Blake said he still endures periJohnson said she feels that odic rough patches. When they Hannah Baker, the protagonist in occur, Blake said that he finds “13 Reasons Why,” and her suiteachers to be very understanding cide were portrayed incorrectly about his condition. and harmfully.

“I don’t make a point of it, but “Suicide is final.” Johnson if I wake up or I’m having a stretch said. “Individuals who commit where I feel it will start impact- suicide no longer have a voice in ing my ability to work, I will give our world. This is a fact that ‘13 my teacher a heads-up,” Blake Reasons Why’ fails to address said. “I’m fine writing a note that when it glorifies Hannah’s voice I’ve been feeling really down this after her death.” week, and I might not be as reThere are several ways in which sponsive in class as usual. I think the school handles students who one of the reasons I have the lux- are struggling with mental health ury of doing that is that I’m usu- said Upper School Deans Departally very, very engaged in class ment Head, Beth Slattery. On and that does make it easier to campus, deans usually handle check out when I need time.” day-to-day issues like fights with Blake said he befriends, but lieves that suicide the counseling is incorrectly porteam handles

Individuals trayed in “13 Reaongoing issues who commit suicide no sons Why.” that students longer have a voice in “I definitely think may experisuicide is glorified,” ence. our world. This is a fact Blake said. “The “We have that ‘13 Reasons Why’ idea of ‘fixing dea meeting evfails to address.” pressed people’ or ery single ‘kissing scars away’ week with the —Sophie Johnson ’21 [is featured] very deans, Head of prominently in meSchool, Head dia. I don’t even know if glorified of Athletics, Dean of Students and is the right word. [It’s] just like the counseling team to talk about the really morbid fascination that any kids who are in crisis, so we non-depressed people think they can triage and see what exactly have with suicide and self-harm. our plan is moving forward,” SlatIt’s disgusting and disrespectful.” tery said.

Sophie Johnson ’21, who medSlattery said that Peer Support icates for depression, said she and observations from both stufeels that the media often misin- dents and teachers play a role in terprets suicide. Johnson finds identifying students who may be the depiction of suicide in “13 struggling.

Reasons Why” as the most prom“When things [come up] in Peer inent example of an inaccurate Support that arise to the level of and dangerous representation of being a crisis, then confidentialiteenagers struggling with suicidal ty can be violated,” Slattery said. thoughts. “[Additionally], a lot of times kids “[The show] falsely depicts the come to us about other kids. Also, majority of people who suffer from there is just observable behavior. depression,” Johnson said. “Be- I mean, if I notice or a teacher nocause of [the show’s] high profile, tices a kid not acting like themthe show has given our society selves, we usually do a check in the idea that suicide is something to see what’s going on.” to be romanticized, when in reality, it is nothing more than the *Names have been worst side effect [of] depression.” changed.

“

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ASTOR WU AND MAK KRIKSCIUN

B4 Features

The Chronicle

Fleeing from the Flames Students discuss their experiences of evacuating their homes during the fires and how they coped with the possibility of losing their belongings.

PHOTO BY JOANNA IM AND LAUREN NEHORAI PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SIOBHAN HARMS, JOANNA IM AND ASTOR WU

Nov

v.

13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/features

By Austin Lee Ethan Lachman

were without power, with 17 fires still active as of Oct. 29.

Deven Dees ’22, who lives Shortly after the Getty near one of the 10 structures Fire ignited in the early hours destroyed by the Getty Fire, Oct. 28, Charlie Albert ’21 re- had to evacuate around the ceived a notification instruct- same time as Albert and said ing him to prepare for evacua- the early morning evacuation tion. A few hours later, Albert’s was overwhelming. street was placed under man“I just was so panicked,” datory evacuation and, hold- Dees said. “I wasn’t even ing his most valuable belong- scared, I was just trying to ings, he departed quickly into figure out what to pack. I the morning darkness. couldn’t think about what was “At first I packed my car actually happening because I and my mom’s car with pho- was just so rushed to get evtographs and paintings, things erything.” which we wouldn’t be able to Similar to when the Skirreplace had they been de- ball Fire in December 2017 stroyed,” Albert said. “I orig- resulted in a two-day school inally drove with closure and revision my dog into Santa of the midterm asMonica in order to sessment schedule. get away from the Students took to sosmoke and closer to cial media to offer the house I would be support to their peers staying at.” as word from the It was only school’s emergency when he began the notification system evacuation process informed the com’ that Albert was able munity that school Charlie to comprehend the would be canceled Albert ’21 true magnitude of Oct. 28. More recentthe fire, he said. ly, the Woolsey Fire “I only had a few gallons of in November 2018, which ocgas left in my car, so I went to curred in Los Angeles County refuel, which was when I saw and Ventura Country, burned the extent of the smoke,” Albert 151 square miles of land, over said. “That was the first time 96 thousand acres, according I had been outside, and even to the Los Angeles Times. in Santa Monica, the smell of Recently, poor air quality the smoke was strong. The gas due to smoke from the Sadstation lights also allowed me dleridge Fire prompted canto see the large amount of ash cellations of the middle school that was falling.” football and junior varsity and The increasingly frequent varsity field hockey games at wildfires peak annually during the annual Homecoming Fair autumn, a season character- on Oct. 12. Science teacher ized by dryness and little rain Steve Yang ’08, who was forced en route to its title as the fire to evacuate due to the Sadseason. In addition to the Get- dleridge Fire in Porter Ranch, ty Fire, the Easy Fire, the Ma- said that though he had more ria Fire and the Kincade Fire time to prepare for evacuation are among the recent flames than those caught by the Getsuspected to be in some way ty Fire, he was still surprised caused by power lines, accord- by the speed at which the fire ing to KTLA . spread.

In recent years, these “The fire had already been fires have burned vast areas of burning since 6 p.m. or so out land and interrupted the daily in Sylmar,” Yang said. “The lives of thousands of people. main thing was that we didn’t According to CNN, more than realize it would reach the other 94 thousand acres had been end of the valley so quickly.” burned throughout California Albert lives in the Pacific and over one million people Palisades and was not as close and

white s

Features B5

to the flames as others at the all day long,” Yang said. “Rathschool, but he said he was er than sit around, I simply worried about his community got ready as part of my normore than himself. mal routine and got to school “I wasn’t too worried about by about 4 a.m. School was a my house being directly affect- great place to wait it out in the ed by the fire as I wasn’t as morning, as I had power, reliclose to it as others were, but I able internet and easy access was very concerned about how to copious amounts of coffee.” a fire in the location that the Although this interruption Getty Fire was in would affect from routine could be academmany of my friends, some of ically distressing for students, whom lived only a mile or two Albert said that teachers were away from what was already understanding of evacuees’ burning,” Albert said. situations.

President Rick Commons “Everyone was great in said he and the Crisis Re- terms of making accommodasponse Team, which consists tions,” Albert said. “All of my of ten faculty members includ- teachers were super undering Head of Middle School Jon standing and gave us extra Wimbish and Head of Upper time to turn in certain asSchool Lausignments that ra Ross, met students who at 5 a.m., were evacuated

I couldn’t 12 p.m. and didn’t have the 9 p.m. each think about what was resources to day during complete while actually happening the week of evacuated.” because I was just so the Getty In prepaFire to maxrushed.” ration for the imize the imminent re—Deven Dees ’22 ality of future entire community’s well wildfires, Combeing. Nevertheless, Commons mons said the administration said the team also considered is considering more long-term the idea that coming to school solutions for possible school might provide a sort of haven closures. from the chaos that was the “We are thinking about fires. whether we need a schedule “What was interesting to that has flex days built in, eiconsider was that for a good ther close to spring break, or part of at least one of our con- toward the end of the year,” versations, we were talking Commons said. “That will be about school being a safe and new to us. We are in such a reassuring place for people to new reality with regard to the be because the school was in fires and other weather events, a safe zone relative to the Get- where we need to think about ty Fire,” Commons said. “That it, but we haven’t made that [meant] school [was] a place decision yet.” of normalcy, friends and a The idea of preemptive chance to be in a comfortable emergency days may be undeplace where you don’t have to cided, but Commons said that think about the potential of di- regardless, Californians must saster in the moment.” address the urgent issue of Likewise, Yang said that the numerous and destructive even though he had the op- fires. portunity to not go to school “I think we all have to the day of his evacuation, he keep in mind that there are thought working would be people who are still suffering beneficial. as we speak,” Commons said.

“I had thought about “It’s a huge concern for all of skipping school that day, but us that live in California and I realized around 3:00 a.m. how we are going to reckon or so that even if I skipped, I with this new reality of fire wouldn’t have anything to do danger in the fall.”

“

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SIOBHAN HARMS, CASEY KIM AND SPENCER KLINK

B6 Features

Nov. 13, 2019

The Chronicle

Paid to Play Students debate the passing of the Fair Pay to Play Act and its possible effects on college athletes.

By Tanisha Gunby and Sandra Koretz

concerned that collegiate sports will turn into essentially a sports league, as players will be treated After hearing about the Fair as professional sports players.”

Pay to Play Act, which was passed Water polo coach and future by the California legislature this 2020 Olympian Johnny Hooper October, baseball player and ’15 said that the possibility of Stanford University recruit Drew making collegiate athletics more Bowser ’20 grew excited about similar to professional programs how the new regulations would is not a fault within the act, but impact his future. Because the act rather a strength. will go into effect in 2023, Bows“I do think it would be good to er will have the opportunity to be [pay college athletes], and then I compensated for the use of his im- think you treat it more like a proage, name and likeness. fessional sport,” Hooper said. “If Bowser said that, due to the you are going to be paid a lot to be physical strain of playbranded and marketable ing a sport, receiving for these companies and athletic compensation for the school, then you will benefit athletes and are going to take your their families. sport more seriously.”

“I feel like it’s a great In the past, the Naidea and very importtional Collegiate Athletant for college athletes,” ic Association (NCAA), Bowser said. “They put which brings in over $1 their bodies on the line billion annually, banned ’ every day and make athletes from receiving Rachel money for the schools. compensation, but its Brown ’20 Allowing them to be governing board overpaid will benefit not only ruled the previous ban them but also their families.” in a unanimous vote Oct. 29, acThe Fair Pay to Play Act will cording to CNBC. allow collegiate athletes to be Soccer player Grace Shin ’21 compensated for the commercial said that the Fair Pay to Play Act usage of their image, name and will benefit not only athletes, but more, starting in 2023. The act also the colleges they represent by will not allow athletes to earn a increasing school publicity. salary, but will grant them the op“These schools make so much portunity to hire an agent. Foot- money selling merchandise with ball player Brendan Kang ’20 said players’ names on it that the playthat though he can see the act’s ers should get a part of that bepotential positive effects, he also cause otherwise, they are losing recognizes the dangers of mone- their right to their identity,” Shin tizing college athletic careers. said. “Allowing them to get spon“The commitment of training sorships makes sense firstly beevery day and missing classes for cause the schools aren’t losing out traveling to away games [makes] on money, and through a player’s collegiate sports at a high-level sponsorship, the athlete’s school essentially jobs,” Kang said. “It will also get more publicity.” would only be fair for players to On the other hand, 2008 Olymhave some share of the massive pian Peter Hudnut ’99 said he beprofits colleges and companies are lieves the act will create further making at the expense of players separation between collegiate athand their images. However, I’m letes and the rest of the student white s

body. earned during high school.”

“Scholarships are a great opBasketball player Kiki Iriafen portunity for kids, but when you ’21 said that the act may benefit start adding on ‘play,’ for some of female basketball players who do them, for the elite, it further dis- not receive as much recognition incentivizes them to be in school,” as their male counterparts.

Hudnut said. “Already at some “For female basketball players, universities, there is that awk- the Women’s National Basketball wardness between student-ath- Association is often overlooked letes and the student population, and they don’t make the most and I think the opportunity to fur- money unlike the athletes in the ther fragment that will come with NBA,” Iriafen said. “I feel that this the act.” act can help female collegiate athField hockey player and Yale letes make money earlier that can University commit Rachel Brown help sustain them if or when they ’20 said that because the time pursue a professional career in commitment of playing a sport is the Women’s National Basketball almost equivAssociation.” alent to that of Stanford Universia job, athletes ty water polo recruit,

I think for deserve to be 2016 Olympian and smaller market sports, paid. future 2020 Olymsuch as water polo, “I think pian Ben Hallock student-ath’16 said the act will there won’t be a huge letes are alaffect only a small effect. ready devoting number of athletes.

—Ben Hallock ’16 so much time “I think it is poto the coltentially beneficial Olympian lege. A lot of to a very small perathletes who centage of college are currently in college can’t get athletes,” Hallock said. “I think jobs and other forms of income typically, the high profile or because their sport is taking so high-revenue sports and the stars much of their time,” Brown said. of those sports will be most affect“It’s almost like a job to them, so ed and have the most opportunithey should have the opportunity ties to use their name, image and to be able to get paid.” likeness. But I think for smaller Similarly, Head of Athletics market sports, such as water Terry Barnum said the act will polo,there won’t be a huge effect.” not directly affect high school athAlthough the act may not imletes, but they should have the pact all sports, Bowser said he is ability to make money off their happy that California has passed representation, just like non-ath- the act, as it will hopefully encourlete students who make money age other states to do the same. from their jobs. “[Because California is] a very “Right now, [high school] stu- big and influential state, was the dents can make money off their first, many other states will follikeness, and it does not affect low,” Bowser said. “California has their high school eligibility,” Bar- Stanford [University], [University num said. “The only way that of Southern California], [Universithis may affect students is that if ty of California, Los Angeles] and they are talented enough to earn many other great institutions. an athletic scholarship, they will So, being the first serves as a role not be penalized for money they model for others.”

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ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

Nov. 13, 2019

Features B7

hwchronicle.com/features

C nnecti ns Acr ss C ntinents Students provide insight on how having a parent abroad in Asia has affected their lives. main in Asia and constantly fly between countries.

Wang said she finds joy Every afternoon, Jasmine when her entire family is togethWang ’21 checks her phone on er.

“Because [my dad] isn’t here her way home, eagerly awaiting her father’s usual call that much, it makes the time when she updates him about our family is able to spend all her day at school. Because her together all the more special,” father lives in Hong Kong for Wang said. “I get to spend time business purposes, Wang has with him during school holilived in the United States with days, for example, so that’s a only her mother and brother bonus.”

Nancy Zhang ’21, whose since she was a young child.

Nevertheless, Wang knows that father also lives and works in Hong Kong, has lived her father supports with just her mothher from thousands of er since she was four miles away, she said. years old.

“Of course, from “We really value time to time, I’ve the time when we’re thought about what it together,” Zhang said. would be like to have “Probably three or four both parents [living times a year we are all with me], but it doesn’t together, [but] when make me sad, it just ’ I was younger it was makes me contemplaJasmine even less. We go on tive,” Wang said. “Even Wang ’21 family dinners and oththough my dad is not er family activities.” [in the U.S.], I can find General Practitioner Mark comfort in knowing that he’s always [here for me] if I need him, Braunstein said the environand he’s always down to sup- ment children grow up in during their first few years shapes their port and talk to me.”

According to Reuters, Asian perceptions regarding family parents often send their chil- separation.

“The most important thing dren abroad with their mothers due to dissatisfaction with the during one’s childhood is what rigid educational structure of happens before age five, and their countries. Other families going even further, the child’s live abroad in order to nurture environment before age two,” their children’s English skills, Braunstein said. “If [the child] which are crucial in Asian so- knows [the parents] are there, ciety. Many families also believe it gives them an inner sense of that learning English will open stability and reassurance that up a variety of future opportu- they are being taken care of.”

Students’ relationships nities.

According to the Korea Edu- with their parents can also cational Development Institute, change if they are separated, more than 18,600 Korean fam- Interdisciplinary Studies and ilies lived separately in 2011, Independent Research teacher and counselor Michelle Bracken compared to 4,600 in 2001.

These families are consid- said.

“I think we learn about reered “goose families” in Korea or “astronaut families” in China lationships from our parents,” because the fathers usually re- Bracken said. “Even though

By Lauren Cho and Celine Park

white s

teenagers don’t always like their grew up with a father who freparents, there is still something quently traveled to Seoul and that we are learning from them, later permanenetly moved to so when the parent isn’t there, it Korea when she was 13 years does have an effect on the rela- old. tionship with the parent.”

“I think I’ve definitely beThe experience of having come more independent bea parent abroad can differ de- cause I have to take more repending on each family’s partic- sponsibilities at home, stuff ular situation, Bracken said. my dad would normally do, like “Some students think that locking the door at night or takhaving a parent abroad does ing out the trash or cleaning the not greatly affect their emotion- kitchen,” Shin said. “I’ve been al or mental well-being,” Brack- living like this for a while, so en said. “To compensate for the this has been my normal rouloss, students tine.” have different Despite the ways to approach advantages of the situation. Evgaining matu As long as both ery situation is rity, a child livyour parents care about ing apart from unique.

When you’re in middle you, and show that, a parent could school and in and you feel loved then potentially lead high school, you to a lack of comit’s okay ” start to recogmunication benize that people —Nancy Zhang ‘21 tween the two, have different Bracken said. situations than “If you have yours.” a parent who is Ben Kim ’21 said he main- gone for most of the time and tains close contact with his fa- you see them for two months ther, who is often in Korea work- in the summer, they aren’t going in the newspaper industry. ing to know about the whole “I call my dad every week, 10 months of your life,” Brackso it’s not that bad,” Kim said. en said. “As a teenager, you “I guess it would be nice to have change a lot during that time. my dad watching me at [events So that person will not underlike] fencing tournaments, but stand when you start talking I’m used to it.” about some things. They won’t Zhang’s family dynamic fos- understand because they havtered her independence at a very en’t been present and they hayoung age, she said. ven’t been there. How that af“I have more freedom, but fects you, there’s no formula.”

I’m more responsible for myAlthough Zhang is not able self, my grades and my health,” to see her parents often, she Zhang said. “I’m able to plan said she is comforted by the my trips [individually], like fly- fact that she knows they both ing [in an airplane] by myself love her, regardless of how far at a young age, for example. away they live.

Sometimes when kids leave high “I do not think it’s terrischool [for] college, they are de- ble to have parents overseas,” pendent on their parents, and Zhang said. “As long as both of this could be a huge issue, but your parents care about you, this won’t be for me.” and they’re there, then it is Similarly, Grace Shin ’21 okay.”

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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

hwchronicle.com/features

Nov. 13, 2019

Features B8

Taboo Tattoos Students express their thoughts regarding teenage body modification and the recent stick-and-poke trend.

By Ruoshan Dong

that they offer. Stick-andpokes are typically smaller, When the buzz- simpler and more delicate than ing of the tattoo gun fi- traditional tattoos.

Stick-and-poke tattoos are nally left his ears, Matthew Berg ’19 glanced down at his created entirely by hand, alnewly completed sleeve, which lowing those who receive them he spent two years designing, to spend more time and have marveling at the way the tat- more meaningful conversatooed serpent seemed to bite tions with their tattoo artists.

Because stick-and-pokes are into his vein.

“I was really nervous,” typically done by inexperienced Berg said. “Sleeves are pret- artists, students often receive ty intense, and I had to get it them from their friends.

Professional hand poke done in parts. At the end, it was definitely worth it. I earned artist Katie Rita said that stickmy sleeve, and I’m really proud and-poke tattoos offer a personalized, meaningful experience of it.”

Inked sleeves are large col- beyond just body modification.

“I believe people lections of smaller tatare attracted to the toos typically linked kind of experience that by a common theme, hand-poked tattoo artand usually cover ists offer,” Rita said. arms or legs. Ever “Many tattoo shops since his sophomore have a doctor’s office year, Berg has spent vibe and a depersonhundreds of hours alized feel about them. designing his sleeve, ’ Hand-poked tattoos drawing inspiration Rafaella often happen in much from his friends, famRubenstein ’21 more intimate settings, ily and works of art. allowing people to con“My sleeve’s meaning is derived from three nect with their tattoo artist and different main bodies of work— experience the tattoo process in Gustave Dore’s [‘The Destruc- a more meaningful way.”

Raffaella Rubenstein ’21 tion of Leviathan’], the classic Fellini film ‘La Dolce Vita,’ as said that she chose to give herwell as some Fear and ‘Loath- self a stick-and-poke tattoo ing in Las Vegas,’” Berg said. because she wanted to have “My piece is about existential- control over her tattoo experiism. I’m both my own enemy ence and because her parents but also my greatest motivator. opposed the idea of her receivAs a filmmaker, I try to tell sto- ing a tattoo.

“I got bored one day, and I ries that have meaning to me and express my worldview. I wanted to do a tattoo,” Rubenwarned my family beforehand stein said. “My dad has tatand asked my friends’ opinions toos, and I think they’re really on what the artwork should cool. I gave myself a Libra symlook like, but ultimately, it was bol on my ankle. Stick-andpokes are so much cheaper and my own creative work.”

According to a 2017 Statis- it feels more intimate because ta survey on tattoos and body I did it to myself. My mom is modifications, tattoos are often also very against tattoos so she viewed as a symbol of coming- didn’t find out, nor did I need of-age, with the majority of tat- parental consent. It hurt pretty too recipients being teenagers badly, because I did it to myself and young adults. 39 percent with a sewing needle and India of surveyed individuals with Ink, but overall it was worth it.”

Like all minors living in one or more tattoos received their first when they were 18 or California, Berg had to wait until his 18th birthday to get younger.

Recently, younger teenag- tattooed at a certified parlor, ers who seek more convenient, rather than receiving an uncost-effective and accessible al- authorized stick-and-poke. Acternatives to traditional tattoo cording to the California Penal work have begun to use “stick- Code 653, anyone under the and-pokes,” a do-it-your- age of 18 is prohibited from reself tattoo style that involves ceiving a tattoo, no matter what dipping a needle into ink and the circumstances may be.

Many teenagers, including using it to puncture dots into Kai McGrath ’21, also plan to skin.

Over the last few years, get tattoos in the future. Acstick-and-pokes have gained cording to a 2018 survey conpopularity because of the in- ducted by the C.S. Mott Chiltimacy involved with the dren’s Hospital, 27 percent of procedure, as well parents of teenagers between as the unique the ages of 16 and 18 reportaesthet- ed that their children had api c proached them about receiving a tattoo. Yet, nearly 78 percent of parents identified themwhite s

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY MAK KRIKSCIUN AND RUOSHAN DONG

selves as opposed to the idea of Psychologist Wes Crenshaw. teenage body modification.

“Ink can be addicting. I’ve “My parents are opposed to had numerous well-tatted cliall types of body modification,” ents express disappointment McGrath said. “I think I might at 34 in art they loved at 21,” plan on getting a tattoo once Crenshaw said. “No matter how I’m legal, but I haven’t thought perfectly teens follow my sugtoo much about what I want. gestions, there’s a good chance What I do know for sure is that they’ll want a change someday. it has to be something mean- It’s hard at 18 to know what ingful to me. I’m not the type you’ll like at 35, but that has to of person to just get a random be your goal.” picture because it looks nice.”

In addition to fearing the Common parental con- permanence of tattoos, teencerns include the potentially agers said they were hesitant negative health effects of bodi- to receive tattoos because they ly modification. The American believed body modification Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) would hurt their future job recommends prospects. Huthat pediatriman Resource cians inform Management

I was really their adolescent Professor Anpatients about drew Timmings nervous. At the end, it the importance said that emwas definitely worth of cleanliness ployers’ percepit. I earned my sleeve, and hygiene in tion of employand I’m really proud of ees with visible piercing and tattoo parlors. tattoos varies it.”

Tattoo artacross occupa—Matthew Berg ’19 tions. ist Brian Keith Thompson said “Sometimes that he strives to keep his it depends where the tattoo is customers safe by ensuring on the body, and the demothat his equipment and studio graphic of customers is key,” meet the California standards Timmings said. “If you are tarof sanitation, sterilization and geting younger customers who safety. may have tattoos themselves, “I want to leave the stu- there is usually no problem, dio today the same way I came but if you are targeting older in—disease free,” Thompson customers, you may still be said. “I’m a former Marine, so told to cover up.

I am the commanding general Despite the decreasing [of] inspecting [and upholding] stigma surrounding body modsafety.” ifications in the workplace, However, stick-and-pokes Daniel Ju ’22 said that he is are less sanitary than tattoos still hesitant to receive tattoos. performed at traditional par“I feel that tattoos are a lors. Due to the DIY nature of cool way to tell your personal stick and pokes, health regula- story, and I respect people that tions cannot be fully enforced. get tattoos, because it’s their According to Infectious Diseas- body and their choice,” Ju said. es Specialist Dr. Celine Goud- “But, I feel that having visible er, sharing needles between tattoos could possibly make friends increases the likelihood your future employers look of diseases such as HIV, Hep- negatively towards you. Even atitis B and Hepatitis C from though tattoos are extremely spreading. common these days, I feel that Joy Calderon ’20 said that, they are not associated with although she was aware of the the characteristics that most health risks associated with employers are looking for.” stick and pokes, she took preThompson said that alcautionary steps to make sure though he also encourages her tattoo experience was safe. self-expression in the form of “My best friend is an artist, tattoos and piercings, he beand she’s done them on kids lieves that body modification from her school before,” Cal- is a monumental decision that deron said. “She used brand should be carefully considered. new, sterilized products, so I He said that he often counsels wasn’t worried. I’m not [18], his younger customers against so I can’t get a tattoo [from a spur-of-the-moment decisions, certified parlor], but since I’ve warning them about the long always wanted [tattoos], stick- -term impact of their choices. and-pokes were the way to go.”

“I’ll tell them, ‘no, Because of the lack of le- you’re 19, you should gal restrictions imposed on wait,’” Thompson said. the stick-and-poke indus- “[I tell them to] stay try, teenagers receiving hand away from the face. poke tattoos are more likely to We call that the job go overboard with their body stopper; if you don’t modification, according to Ad- want to get employed, tatolescent Therapist and Family too your face.”

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Arts & Entertainment The Chronicle•Oct. 2, 2019

Artwork-ing Off Stress Art students, faculty and psychologists discuss how praticing visual and performing arts helps relieve stress.

By Celine Park

play piano because you’re practicing. However, if you’re For Mimi Offor ’21, work- doing [art] for yourself, to ing on art portfolios or set- make yourself happy, it can ting up a photoshoot in Feld- really relax you.” man-Horn allows her to focus Melissa VanderKaay Toon what she loves, while also masulo, an Associate Protaking her mind off of the fessor of Psychology at St. many responsibilities school Michaels University, said brings. Offor said painting art, specifically painting and liberates her, and acts as a sculpture, provides an outlet form of therapy and a source for releasing stress because of escape. it gives the artist a sense of “I’m glad that I’ve found accomplishment. a passion for art,” Offor said.

“I think [the way art re“Whenever I take time off my lieves stress] comes from the school work pride from and I’m able what you’re to work on There is something p r o d u c i n g , something— and stopabout using your hands especially if ping your it’s a projbusy life to for art or your voice for ect outside do one thing singing that makes you of class— at a time,” there is no Tomasulo connect to yourself in a pressure, said. “When different way.” guidelines y o u ’ r e or due date.

—Olivia Gubel ’21 t a l k i n g It’s just me about artand my art, work, like a and there are no limitations, painting, you have something which is so freeing to me.” tangible to look at in front of Alex Poe ’20 said that you, to show that you’ve crefilmmaking is a way to show- ated something, and you can case her emotions in a cre- see your effort paying off.” ative light, and that using According to 37 studies art as an outlet for stress is a from the United States Namore active approach to deal- tional Library of Medicine ing with individual issues.

National Institutes of Health, “Sometimes I’ll write practicing art led to a reducshort films about things [in] tion in stress levels. In four my everyday life,” Poe said. of the studies, when partici“I’ll do films about struggles, pants engaged in more activabout social anxiety of teen- ities related to art, they exage girls. [Producing films] is perienced decreases in levels a creative way of dealing with of cortisol, a hormone which [my stress], rather than just corresponds with stress. watching television.”

Three of the studies indicatOlivia Gubel ’21, who ed positive mood changes, sings, paints and acts, said and two discovered better she believes art can alleviate sleeping habits. stress if practiced solely for Gubel said she thinks personal enjoyment. that art is relaxing because it “The process of creat- engages the five senses. ing anything can relieve “There is something about stress,” Gubel said. “It’s not using your hands for art or stress-relieving if you create your voice for singing that art because you need to fin- makes you connect to yourish it for a class, or act be- self in a different way,” Gubel cause you’re in the play, or said. “And that is whether

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ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

you’re singing, painting or and become fully aware of playing the piano or guitar.” the present when we experiThere is a direct correla- ence the flow of creativity.” tion between physicality of Whenever Alon Moraart and reduction of stress, di ’21 steps onto the stage Tomasulo said. during rehearsal, he said “Anything that you’re do- that he feels a positive shift ing in life that causes you to in his mood and a burst of be mindful has been found passion not only because he to relieve stress, [whether] is doing what he loves, but you’re playing an instrument also because he gets to enor creating a sculpture,” To- joy his craft with people that masulo said. “There is re- share his interests. search that shows that just Moradi said he believes creating something leads to the arts are a great outlet for changes in your frontal lobe, cooling down after a stressful which increases day at school. connectivity, re“[Art is] a really duction in negagood way to think tive emotions and about your feelings,” reduction in what Moradi said.

“If we call the stress something is botherresponse, which ining me, I can always cludes hormones.” turn to my work, Similarly, Sean whether that’s in Duffy, an Associate choir, or in a show Professor and Psyor any other artistic ’ chologist at Rutgers endeavor. The last Tina University, said that thing that comes to McGraw ’01 art can be a benefimind is my quiz latcial coping mechaer that week. Somenism, especially during the times I can get lost in my struggles of high school. [performing arts] and priori“Teenage years are tumul- tize it over my school because tuous [and] full of stress and it is something valuable to uncertainty,” Duffy said. “Art me, in terms of being able to provides a venue for making get a better understanding of and identity formation. Not myself. Having this shared every teenage photographer experience with other peers or potter is going to [pursue also makes all the more difan art career], but it does ference.” provide them with a positive Taylor Dees ’21 said actactivity that allows growth ing is a good way to relieve in creativity and meaning, her stress because portraywhich are important for the ing another character can next decade in life.” separate students from their Head of Peer Support and personal problems.

Psychology Teacher Tina Mc“Art is a good escape if Graw ’01 said she believes I have stress or drama; to art is a beneficial outlet for get on stage, perform and to releasing stress for all ages. live in someone else’s world “[Art] naturally activates for a day or for a rehearsal different parts of our brain definitely relieves the rest of that puts us into the pres- my world,” Dees said. “I also ent moment and relieve us of think performing brings a lot stress,” McGraw said. “Many of clarity; living in the psyche people see art as a of another person or anothmeditative p r a c t i c e er thing really helps me put because we often tran- a lot of things into perspecscend our distracted minds tive.” white s

C2 Arts and Entertainment

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

tHE KEY TO COMPETITION Students discuss how participating in music competitions has had an impact on their development as musicians.

By H annah H an

performed at the winner’s recital in Carnegie Hall.

Competition has been The morning before her an integral part of Shellive audition for the Elite ton’s musical career since International Music Compeshe performed in the Southtition, Mia Shelton ’21 ate western Youth Music Festiher usual breakfast, a cup val at age seven. of yogurt, and ran through Other musicians, ina series of pre-competition cluding Kailey Suh ’21, berituals. gan participating in com“I have a breakdown if petitions much later. Suh, these [superstitions] don’t an aspiring professional happen,” Shelton said. “For violinist, said that she has example, I need to get out already witnessed the ruthof bed on my left foot, and lessness of her peers, deI have to play through the spite only entering the compiece an odd [number] of petition scene in 2018. times before performing.” “ C o m During petitions inthe week prispire you to or to her au Competitions want to work dition, Shelharder and inspire you to want to ton slept five to be better hours and work hader and to be because you spent another better because you want want to be two practicing technique to be at that higher level.” at that higher level, but drills each most people night, due to want pre-competi—Mia Shelton ’21 just the awards,” tion anxiety.

Suh said.

While Shelton “They’re like usually plays sharks and will do anything the piano for a total of 15 that they can to get what hours per week, her practhey want.” tice time can increase to 25 Suh practices the violin hours the week before a mafor at least 90 minutes every jor competition. day, sometimes beginning Shelton entered the at 1 a.m. due to her fencElite International Music ing schedule and academCompetition with three piecic course load. Listening to es prepared, among them and performing for other Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in highly-trained violinists at G Sharp Minor, Op. 32 No. competitions pushed her to 12, a work characterized by practice more, she said. light, delicate repeated fig“[After playing in my ures in the right hand and first competition,] I defilarge leaps in the left, she nitely learned how to work said. With the adjudicaharder,” Suh said. “My contors watching and the stage fidence went up too, belights bright against her cause in order to do well in back, she placed her fingers competitions, you need to on the keys and began to have stage presence, as well play. Halfway through the as technique.” performance, however, she Like Suh, Shelton has paused. become more aware of the “I had a memory slip cutthroat nature of compeand missed two measures of titions. The pool of musithe climax of the melody,” cians that she usually comShelton said. “Right after, I petes against has narrowed couldn’t even speak to the significantly, resulting in judges to say thank you. increased rivalries and a Right as I walked out of the more hostile environment, room, I started sobbing.” she said.

Despite her technical “Not only are compemistake, Shelton placed titions stress-inducing befirst in the competition and

cause of yourself, but at the in competitions because his level that I am now, I often parents, who are both incompete with the same peovested in the music world, ple,” Shelton said. “The cirpushed him to compete. cle has gotten smaller, and However, many others perwith this, the competitiveform only to build their reness has gotten worse.” sumes prior to applying to Because voting in comelite universities, he said. petitions is often biased, “Some [musicians] may some musicians actively compete to add accolades seek advantages over their to their applications, and peers by warming up to the some may want to showcase judges before their perfora hobby that they’ve poured mances, Shelton said. work into,” Gong said. “I “I’ve found that even don’t think any of these reaindirect relationships have sons is more correct than an impact on [competition the others. That being said, results],” Shelton said. “I’ve I think people who play museen a judge and a sic just to accrue kid talk before, [and medals are throwthey] were mutual ing away a valuable family friends. That opportunity.” person placed third, Certain comand technically, I petitions are able don’t think they deto provide students served third.” with the chance to Violinist Radevelop their muchel Mugemancuro sical skills and en’22 said she found hance their college ’ her competition exapplications, while Andrew perience to be more other competitions Gong ’21 inclusive and less instead exploit the stressful than Suh’s performers, perand Shelton’s. However, she forming arts teacher Mark had to learn how to adopt a Hilt said. different mindset in order “Competitions can be to avoid succumbing to the resume builders, regardless pressure, she said. of if you are going to major “For the most part, peoin music or not,” Hilt said. ple are friendly,” Mugeman“Some are very useful becuro said. “It’s easy to get cause they’re about the perin your head during compeson and their performance, titions, but due to the fact but some [competitions] are that it’s an equalizing expeways for the organization to rience, and you have to go make money.” through the same stress, Despite her mounting you don’t usually see inanxiety due to the intense fighting.” nature of musical compePianist Andrew Gong titions, Shelton never seri’21 has also found the clasously considered giving up sical music community to the piano. be welcoming, since most Throughout the nine musicians respect each othyears that she has competer, even in competition seted, music has remained a tings, he said. critical outlet for expressing “Although my family herself, she said. comes from a background “Piano is something steeped in music, I’m not where I can see clearly for immersed in any sort of the amount of work that I ‘competition culture,’” Gong put in, the more beautiful said. “I remember numerthe product,” Shelton said. ous times when complete “Listening to something strangers who were comthat you’ve spent so many peting against me would hours on is the best feelcongratulate me on how I ing in the world. It’s so inplayed.” grained in my life now that Gong said he performed I can’t imagine not playing.” white s

ILLUSTRATION BY ALEXA DRUYANOFF ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/ae

A&E C3

Makeup or Made-up?

Makeup art gains popularity during the holidays, but other artists oppose the validity of the new artform.

By Emma Limor

while being festive at the same time.”

While Marron creOn Hal- ates more makeup looks loween, Adri- during the fall, holidays enne Usher are not the main reason ’22 strutted she practices the art, she down the said. stage at the “I’ve always been inschool cos- terested in makeup art tume con- because I find it fascinattest, model- ing how one can transing not only form into something undisco-zombie imaginable with the help attire, but also of some makeup,” Marron s e l f - a p p l i e d said. “It connects to other makeup arts in so many details. ways, whether Fake blood it’s in the depths and shards and volume of of glass, created the face or trywith a prostheting to create abic makeup SFX, stract designs appeared to prowith makeup.” trude from her Achieving face, completing these looks may her gory look. seem deceptively ’ “I can really easy. Although Felicity express myself makeup art can Phelan ’21 through SFX,” be taught and Usher said. practiced, be“Most people don’t know cause every face is difabout it or how complicat- ferent, no two looks will ed it is. Once it’s October, ever be the same, Patrice I begin to craft my looks Evangeline ’97, a profesand buy SFX supplies in sional makeup artist and preparation for Halloween owner of Paint by Patrice, and Day of the Dead. With said.

SFX I can make some re“Painting on the face ally horrifying looks.” is more difficult because SFX is a subset of you have to consider colmakeup art, which also or theory, from under eye includes body painting darkness to variations and cosmetic applica- in skin tone to following tion for the stage and the the bone structures and runway. Makeup art has eye shape you’re working recently gained popular- with,” Evangeline said. ity among high school “You are not starting with students and young a blank canvas.” people, especially Despite these differfor Halloween and ences, painter and makeDay of the Dead, up artist Echo Seireeni ’21 Jasmine Marron said she takes a similar ’22 said. approach to makeup as “I usually she does other art forms. don’t do make“For me, ‘makeup art’ up art on a isn’t much differentiated daily basis from other art that I do,” but I like to Seireeni said. “I just like e x p e r i m e n t to play around with my with makeup hands and makeup is sufor Hallow- per tactile. You have all een,” Marron these different textures said.

“These and colors and you’re makeup looks adapting your look to difallow me to ferent faces. The topograexplore some phy of each face is very techniques and different. The shape of an styles that eye socket, skin texture, I don’t brow thickness and other usually tiny details are what sepap r a c - rate faces and make each t i c e , of them a unique artistic challenge that warrants white s

ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS

a personalized approach. looks, in reality, are unSo, just like all forms of in- attainable. When they do terdisciplinary art, you’re this, it makes it hard for changing your techniques people to take the indusand not staying static or try and the art form serialways applying the same ously.” process to each piece.”

Trained SFX makeup Makeup art is not artist Em Singband said taught in high school that they use their makeclassrooms as traditional up to express their opinvisual art is, prompting ions and raise awareness individuals to learn infor- on social media about ismally through online plat- sues that are meaningful forms, such as YouTube to them. and Instagram, Usher “In my work, I try said. to express feelings and “About things that three years I feel are ago, I was important, looking up as For me ‘makeup such Halloween ‘commentart’ isn’t much makeup ing’ on gun ideas when violence or differentiated from I happened expressother art that I do. It upon a ing LGBT has all these different YouTuprid e , ” ber named Singband textures and colors.”

Elimacs said.

SFX makeEvan—Echo Seireeni ’21 up,” Usher geline said said. “I bathat her sically learned from her career as a makeup artist the basics of SFX make- has allowed her to forge up. Also, her looks are all new relationships with low cost, which is amaz- others. ing if you’re a beginner “A lot of my cliand just want to make a ents have become close basic look. From there, friends of mine,” Evanit was a lot of research, geline said. “You never watching tutorials and know who you’re going to trial and error.” meet. When I do services Because makeup art on people, we often talk is temporary and cannot candidly. The process of be displayed in a gallery, applying makeup is unsocial media serves as an deniably personal and in important platform for my experience, I find that makeup artists to gain people want to open up.” prominence and present For students who pritheir work to a larger au- marily refrain from doing dience, Marron said. makeup art every day, “Whenever I finish up each look is meant to cona look, I like to take pic- vey feelings and its applitures of it and post them cation provides a relaxing on Instagram,” Marron and reflective experience, said. “Social m e d i a Phelan said. is a great way to “If I had more time, I share your a r t - would do makework while gaining up art evinspiration from other ery day,” makeup artists.”

Phelan Due to the nature of said. social media, makeup artists often edit their posts digitally to make their work appear artificially flawless, Evangeline said.

“It can be frustrating that amateur YouTube artists are using filters, Photoshop and huge amounts of foundation and concealer,” Evangeline said. “It’s not realistic, and these

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PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ADRIENNE USHER’22

C4 Arts And Entertainment

Autumn musical “Into the Woods” premieres

By Chloe Schaeffer The Performing Arts Department opened its fall musical, “Into the Woods,” on Nov. 8 in Rugby Theater after three months of rehearsal.

Written by James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim, the Tony Award-winning book and score follow the story of a baker and his wife who encounter many familiar fairy tale characters during their attempts to magically create a child.

Assistant Director Alon Moradi ’21, who played Cinderella’s father in the musical, said that this show is more complex than others in the past.

“There’s a lot of unexpected turns and in general, [‘Into the Woods’] is about our expectations,” Moradi said. “It’s about the relationships that we have with other people and how we might be surprised by them, and questioning our faith. It has a lot of confused morals.”

The cast has been working on the musical since the first week of school, when they began the lengthy audition process. Shortly after casting was announced, the cast began their rehearsals, which consisted of the cast going through the staging of each scene in the musical.

The actors then took notes afterward and tried to portray the writing of the script in their mannerisms and vocation. Maddie Boudov ’21, who played the role of Baker’s Wife,

said that rehearsal could be intense, but the process helped the cast bond.

“In a normal rehearsal day, certain characters would be called, or the entire cast would be called,” Boudov said. “We worked on specific scenes or group numbers, and we probably ran that scene or [musical] number multiple times after learning it.”

The cast began teching the production about a week before opening night. Boudov said that during tech week, the actors extended their rehearsals until 7 p.m. so that they were able to run several scenes.

The cast also added new factors to their staging in order to bring the rehearsal to life and simulate what an actual performance would feel like, but without the pressure of a live audience, Moradi said.

“Tech week is different, because we add all of the final components of the show together,” Moradi said. “It’s not just the actors, the directing and the staging. We’re also adding in the lights and the sound and the costumes and the microphones and the orchestra. All of those components come together over the last week-and-a-half of the show. It can be hectic at times, but it’s also very exhilarating.”

Many students, faculty, parents and community members attended the show in order to support, including the baseball team. The team

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

CRYSTAL BAIK/CHRONICLE

HITTING THE NOTE: Maddie Boudov ’21 gazes into the distance mid-song as she brings to life the Baker’s Wife. She was accompanied by Walt Schoen ’21 who played the Baker in the fall musical. watched the musical to support teammate Tyler Ganus ’20, who played the role of Prince Charming. Ganus’ teammate Pete Crow-Armstrong ’20 said that Ganus would do the same thing for one of his teammates if he were in the same position as them.

“Since [Ganus] works so hard at both baseball and his

music and acting careers, it’s important to show him our love and support,” Crow-Armstrong said. “We also know how much he cares about both fields and the fact that he’s able to balance school, baseball, theater and music is really impressive.”

Tali Tufeld ’20 saw the musical opening night and said

she liked the fact that the cast was varied.

“I really liked the set, and I think they did a phenomenal job,” Tufeld said. “I think the diversity in casting of all the actors and actresses was really impressive. I also really enjoyed seeing my peers and everyone put a lot of hard work into their performance.”

Crossword

Cryptic Crossword

English teacher Amanda Foushee presents Harvard-Westlake with a crossword challenge. In this issue, the crossword is filled with a variety of literary references.

26. The crew of Ahab’s ship or those that accompany Viola ashore, say 27. Wife of Abraham 29. Mixtures 31. Done without passion 33. Panacea 36. Land near the Red Sea 40. A dry wine 41. And rave 43. Not liquid nor gas 45. Ginger is one variety 46. Midleg 47. Of passage 48. Players positioned on the line of scrimmage 50. Perhaps where your coffee is from 53. A Prometheus or Robin Hood, say 54. ______ Pursuit, a group game 55. Helmsman 56. The Lost Boys have this bias, perhaps 57. Enhancing quality 58. Related maternally

Down

CROSSWORD BY AMANDA FOUSHEE

Across

1. Metamorphosis author 6. Homophone for fruit, plural 11. Peeves or Puck, say 13. APA. MLA. Chicago 15. WWI battle locale

16. Space between 17. Gatsby outside Daisy’s kitchen, say, or athletic footwear 18. How Shakespeare’s plays were meant to be consumed

19. Jaunty 20. Huge 22. Impressed 23. More Crafty 25. No Longer at ______ Chinua Achebe

by

1. In metaphorical use: the most important parts 2. Setting for Camus’ The Plague 3. Filling in 4. Twist or curl 5. Tiptop 6. Critically 7. A Farewell to _____ 8. highest form of flattery in action 9. Alice Munro collection title but with a tense change 10. An actor, archaic

11. Devices for fastening 12. Steadiness or sense of courage 13. An instagram dance, past tense 14. Maybe sledges in Tolstoy 21. Winnie-the-pooh author 24. To rank or evaluate 28. Literary listened 30. Cleaners used in “Barn Burning” (oops?)

32. For you to map out when you’re going to do that English essay 33. Protozoa 34. No conclusion 35. Stephen King miniseries, early 2000s 37. Once a region of the Czech Republic, and an Italian writer 38. In Defense of _____ by Joel Stein 39. NO340. Empire ______ by Richard Russo 42. Shell of a seed 44. Passes out cards 49. Extra 51. Craving 52. Demeanor

Scan for Answers!

Sports The Chronicle • Nov. 13, 2019

Girls’ Golf

Players rally to CIF Qualifiers

Football

By Lee Nichols The girls’ golf team finished its 2019 season with a second place finish in the Mission League Championship and placed sixth out of 19 teams at the CIF Qualifiers.

After facing internal issues, the team failed to accomplish its goal of winning the Mission League title. The team won 6th place in CIF for the second year in a row.

Following the suspension of three of its players, the team struggled to perform while missing the support of the one of its co-captains and two of its other top members. Players said that after the three-game suspension, the three athletes were asked to leave the team.

However, the players will have the opportunity to rejoin in the 2020 season. The coach did not respond to requests for a comment on the matter.

The girls said that they have overcome these obstacles, and remain optimistic with regards to their 2020 season.

“Although we were not able to four-peat as Mission League Champions this year, the team as a whole gained a lot of experience,” co-captain Skylar Graham ’20 said. “I am especially proud of our freshmen and sophomores, who rose to the occasion and showed a lot of grit.”

The team finished with two qualifiers for CIF individuals, Graham and Chronicle Layout Assistant and Staff Writer Maxine Zuriff ’22.

“Like any team, we faced our set of challenges and successfully overcame them,” Graham said. “If there’s one thing we’ve learned as a team it’s that you’re not going to make every putt, but it teaches you to be resilient and when you win, it makes it much sweeter.”

KYLE REIMS/CHRONICLE

HOWE DID THIS HAPPEN: Quarterback Marshall Howe ’21 reflects on the previous drive as the Wolverine defense kept the St. Genevieve High School offense at bay in a 27-21 win on Homecoming. Howe rushed for one touchdown and threw for another.

Squad misses playoffs despite final win

By Kyle Reims

another game.”

These promises may have The football team’s season inspired the team on its way officially ended after its 30-27 to winning the game, seemvictory against La Salle Col- ingly sneaking into the playlege Preparatory on Nov. 1, offs as a result, Harleston said. That changed despite Athletic DiNov. 3, when Barrector Terry Barnum num sent an email implying otherwise to the players, exbefore the game. plaining that the “During a talk on team had missed Thursday, Barnum the playoffs. told us that if we “Last week, I beat La Salle, then was excited about we were guaranteed our team’s oppora CIF playoff berth,” ’ tunity to qualify Wide receiver Chase Chase for the CIF-SS DiHarleston ’21 said.

Harleston ’21 vision VI playoffs “Other members of if we were able to the coaching staff had said the same thing dur- defeat La Salle,” Barnum said ing the week, so I believe a in the email. “I shared that large majority of the team was excitement with the team and under the impression that af- several parents. I did so with ter getting a win, we’d earn the knowledge that the third white s

Boys’ Water Polo

place team from our league had made the playoffs every year for over 10 years. Even in years when we did not finish in the top three in league, we had applied for an at-large berth and received it. Unfortunately, due to strong performances from other schools in our division, our overall record was not good enough to qualify us for the playoffs.”

After receiving the email, players said they were unhappy with this turn of events.

“I think right now a lot of people on the team are just very upset that we didn’t make the playoffs when many people were certain we would,” Harleston said. “Personally I just feel frustrated because I want another chance to go out on the field with my brothers.”

One player, Alonzo*, said

he sympathized with seniors.

“Many of [the seniors] will never put on pads again, and having their last opportunity seemingly ripped from their grasp is a terrible way to show them respect for all they have given to our program,” Alonzo said. “They deserved much better, and they never got the opportunity to say a last farewell to the game and the team they have put so much hard work into.”

Lineman Vito Ameen ’20 described the flurry of emotions he experienced after receiving this disappointing news.

“I’m heated,” Ameen said.

“The whole team is heated. We feel lied to and we feel like we can’t trust them anymore.

• Continued on D3

Water Polo wins Mission League

By Jaidev Pant

JAIDEV PANT/CHRONICLE

SHOOTERS SHOOT: Nicholas Tierney ’20 shoots against the New-

port Harbor High School defense in an 11-9 loss on Homecoming.

After completing the regular season with an overall record of 24-2 and winning a Mission League title, the boys’ water polo team looks to continue its success as they head into CIF playoffs.

“Our team’s success comes from grinding every day at practice,” Center Christopher Arakelian ’23 said. “We work to improve ourselves every rep, every day and every game.”

The squad competed in the Elite Eight Water Polo Tournament, where it faced Newport High School in the finals. After outscoring the Sailors 5-2 in the first half, the team defeated its rivals 9-8 to become champions. In a home rematch against Newport Harbor High School Oct. 12, the squad experienced its first defeat of the year, losing 11-9 in the homecoming matchup.

The team then traveled to Northern California for the annual North-South tournament.

The Wolverines reached the finals, where they faced Mission League rival Loyola High School for the second time this season. The squad fell to the Cubs 8-7 Oct. 19, marking its second loss of the season.

“We were obviously disappointed that we lost, but we were winning for most of the game, and knew that was a game we should have won,” goalkeeper Jake Engelberg ’21 said. “We knew what we had to improve, and spent the next two weeks working on it.

I think we were motivated to win our league, and getting a home game in the first round of playoffs.”

After finishing second in the North-South tournament, the squad played in two away games, defeating Mater Dei High School 12-7 Oct. 22 and Santa Margarita High School 15-7 Oct. 26.

To end the regular season, the Wolverines faced Loyola at home in the Mission League championship Oct. 29. At

this point in the season, both teams held undefeated records in league play. After securing three empty-net goals, the Wolverines took the lead in the second half, winning the match 12-7 and earning their 21st Mission League title.

Goalkeeper Asher Schwartz ’21 said that despite the big win, the team must focus on the challenges it has yet to face.

“Obviously it was great to beat our rivals in our home pool, but right now we have our heads down going into playoffs, and we’re working hard because we’re about to go into the most rigorous part of the year,” Schwartz said. “Our goal has always been to win a CIF championship, and it’s time to make that happen.”

The boys entered CIF playoffs as the number one seed, defeating Mater Dei in the first round of playoffs 11-3. The team will play in the semi-finals against Huntington Beach High School Nov. 13.

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/sports

Sports D2 Girls’ Tennis

Field Hockey

Girls head into second

game of CIF

By Jaidev Pant

LUCAS LEE/CHRONICLE

BROWN GOES THE COMPETITION: Midfielder Rachel Brown ’20 tries to perform an obstruction with her stick to steal the ball from her opponent at the game against Edison High School on 0ct. 31. This game was the second round of playoffs, and the team won 2-1.

Squad wins third championship in a row

• Continued from A1 the time,” Yeh said. “The senior class as a whole worked together to set a good example and share our experience.”

On its path to the championship, the team came seconds away from losing the undefeated streak in its match against Chaminade High School. “[Chaminade] is our rival, so that game was really personal,” Yeh said. “Their players and ours train together or play together in the club season, so it was a little uncomfortable knowing them on a first name basis.”

In the final minutes of the game, the Wolverines were tied at 1-1. As the clock expired, Chaminade received a foul, extending the game and allowing an overtime possession for the

Wolverines. The team won on a goal by forward Ella Ganocy ’22 in one of the most intense games of the season, Smolev said. If the team had lost possession of the ball on the short corner, or if the ball went out of bounds, the game would have ended in a tie.

“The stakes were really high because we had to keep our streak, and we knew that short corner was our only chance to score because the clock ran out, and our incredible twins were able to pull it off,” Yeh said. “Honestly I’ll never forget that game because I was just so happy we won.”

Assistant Coach Taylor Swezey said that she is proud of the team and that the girls definitely deserve their win because of the hours and dedication they put into achieving

their goals.

“The team constantly works hard at communicating on and off the field,” Swezey said. “They have also put a lot of time and effort into field hockey outside of school, through the club on the weekends. We have a very strong team that builds on their skills each year, and it definitely shows when they step out onto the field.”

The team is preparing to lose seven seniors to graduation after this season. Forward Bella Ganocy ’22, Ella Ganocy and midfielder Fiene Oerlemans ’22 have been on varsity since their freshman year and started for all of the 2019 season. Forward Penny Juarez ’21 said the junior and sophomore classes have big shoes to fill in the coming season. Next year, JV players will likely join varsity to fill

in for the seniors, Smolev said.

“The current junior class is really strong with defensive and offensive players like [Natalie Barnouw ’21], [Juarez] and so many others,” Yeh said. “The sophomore class is obviously incredible too with [Oerlemans], [Ella Ganocy] and [Bella Ganocy]. I have high hopes for them next season.”

The team’s offensive production has remained steady, with 92 goals in the 2019 season and 89 goals in the 2018 season.

“I think that our defense improved over the season, but we have a young defensive squad, so the defense was not as experienced as the 2018 team,” Juarez said. “That being said, they were very strong over the whole season, including our championship game.”

After starting the season with a 2-3 record, the girls’ tennis team bounced back, finishing first in the Mission League and securing the title for the first time since 2017.

The Wolverines lost to Westlake High School 10-8 Oct. 7, marking its third loss and its last non-league match of the season. Isabella Rodriguez ’21 described the team’s mentality after the loss to Westlake.

“We were frustrated after losing to Westlake because we knew that we could have beaten them, but that was toward the beginning of the season, so we knew that if we stayed confident in our abilities that we could start winning those matches that hadn’t gone in our favor originally,” Rodriguez said.

The team rebounded from the loss, winning its next four league matches. The Wolverines brought the season to a close with a win against Marymount High School on Oct. 14, finishing with a 7-1 league record and clinching the league championship. Doubles player Kylie Azizzadeh ’21 attributes the team’s success to the camaraderie the team developed this season.

“Last year, we had a very new team, but after spending a year together, we we are able to work a lot better together as a team, which ultimately lead to our team spirit and success,” Azizzadeh said.

The results of the CIF second round match Saturday were unavailable as of press time.

Girls’ Volleyball

Group loses second

round of CIF playoffs

By Eugean Choi After beginning the season strong with an undefeated 3-0 record in the Ann Kang Invitational Tournament, the girls’ volleyball team lost its second game of the CIF Regional Playoffs against Westlake High School 3-1, ending its season Oct. 26.

Although the girls were disappointed that their season concluded early, many were satisfied with their performance, captain and libero Josephine Amakye ’21 said.

“I’m really sad that our season ended, but not in the way where I am regretful,” Amakye said. “I am more sad that we were achieving a lot and I wanted us to get even more. We definitely worked hard this season and I have no regrets.”

Program head Hayley Blanchard said she believes that the returning players will improve during the offseason.

“I think it’s best to look at the end of the season in relation to our whole season,” Blanchard said. “Looking at

how much each individual girl and the team as a whole improved was really neat to see for our coaching staff.

Our starting line up for the majority of the season was very freshman and sophomore heavy, and we are very excited for next year when those girls, who already had a ton of success this year, have even more experience and growth.”

During the season, two of the starting seniors, outside hitters Carly Wallace ’20 and Lola Craig ’20, suffered from injuries mid-season. Outside hitter Ava-Marie Lange ’23 said that despite the loss of key senior leadership, the team was able to exceed the coach’s expectations.

“We had a lot of struggles with so many of our teammates getting injured,” Lange said. “When [Wallace] and [Craig] both came down with injuries, we were really worried about what we were going to do next. But instead of being worried about something we can’t fix, we just played our hardest and did

EUGEAN CHOI/CHRONICLE

EYES ON THE PRIZE: Captain and libero Josephine Amakye ’21 and outside hitter Ava-Marie Lange ’23 lunge for the ball in order to keep the rally. The girls won against the Buckley School for Girls 3-0. what we could. It didn’t affect us in a negative way, but instead gave us motivation to win in order to honor them.”

Going into next season, opposite Eva Lekovic ’21 said that the seniors’ presence helped the team become a family.

“I love the seniors so much and I don’t know what I’m going to do without them,” Lekovic said. “It was so hard to see them on the bench for

their last high school season, but we kept improving and playing better for them and for each other. I know that they are going to do amazing things, and I’ll be rooting for them always.”

Amakye said that facing obstacles throughout the season has helped the team increase its confidence for next year.

“Since we accomplished more than anyone expected

of us, we will use this season as a reason to have more confidence in ourselves,” Amakye said. “[We will] be able to accomplish so much more next year. I feel like considering all the injuries we had, we continued to play at the level that was expected of us.

That makes me so excited for next season and what we can achieve. I can’t wait for how strong, successful, and fun next season will be.”

Nov. 13, 2019

hwchronicle.com/sports

Sports D3

inbrief

Football

Basketball ranked sixth to start year

The boys’ basketball team is ranked sixth in Southern California and eighth in the state, according to Scorebook Live’s preseason top 25 rankings. After losing small forward Johnny Juzang ’19 to reclassification, the players expect center and Princeton commit Mason Hooks ’20, shooting guard Holden McRae ’20, point guard Spencer Hubbard ’20 and small forward Brase Dottin ’20 to lead the team.

The Wolverines will begin its season against Van Nuys High School in the Wolverine Invitational at home Nov. 19.

-Lucas Lee and Jaidev Pant KYLE REIMS/CHRONICLE

MARK-ING HIS TERRITORY: Wide receiver Mark Cho ’22 surveys the field while returning a kickoff at home against league opponent St. Genevieve High School on Oct. 12. The Wolverines won the homecoming match 27-21, bringing their league record to 2-2.

Players upset over season outcome • Continued from D1

They told our parents we’d make it, so I had to come home from an ACT crying while trying to explain to my mom that we didn’t make it and my season was over. I had one more in me. I was mentally ready for one last game with my brothers. What I wasn’t ready for was an email saying my season was over. Having to explain why we didn’t make it when we thought we were in hurt so bad. Having to walk around crying my eyes out while people asked me what was wrong was heartbreaking.”

The team’s relationship with the athletic department became more tense throughout

the year, beginning with former program head Michael Burnett’s unexpected resignation, and concluding with this recent series of events, Alonzo said.

“For all the hard work that my teammates and I put in, this season was extremely disappointing from start to finish,” Alonzo said. “I believe a big part of that had to do with the actions of the athletic department starting from the top. Time and time again, we were given shocking or disappointing news which led to a demoralized team, and poor results.”

After the incident, Barnum took responsibility and apologized for what happened.

“I should have been a little

more clear in my messaging to the team, and for that I’m sorry,” Barnum said. “I should have done a better job of that, I know there were a lot of kids that were disappointed and I take full responsibility for misleading them. That was not my intent, but I understand how they were disappointed by it.”

Wide receiver Brendan Kang ’20 said he was happy with the team’s fight and how his high school career came to an end.

“Of course the season didn’t end how we would have liked, but I’m extremely proud of all of my teammates,” Kang said. “I had some of the most memorable games and moments of my life in this season alone, and

I am excited to see what this team accomplishes with all of the young talent we have. This season has bonded me with my teammates closer than I could ever have imagined, and I could not ask for a different ending to my four years of playing for the Wolverines.”

The team finished the year with a 4-6 overall record and a 2-2 league record, missing the playoffs for the first time in five years.

The team heads into next year with questions still left unanswered, including who will replace interim program head Ramsey Lambert next year. *Names have been changed.

Cross Country

Team improves to seal its CIF spot

By Charlie Wang The cross-country team finished regular season competition at the Mission League finals last Wednesday. The girls advanced to the CIF preliminaries after finishing in third place, while the boys missed the CIF playoffs after finishing in fifth The girls’ team ended the regular season with only five varsity runners. Isabel Lawrence ’21 led the team with a second place finish and a time of 20 minutes 26 seconds. The team looks to extend its season to the CIF Southern Section Division IV playoffs.

Cross-country programhead Jonas Koolsbergen, said that regardless of the squad’s final result, the team has grown together and that he is very happy with its performance.

“We have had a strong season with good results and lots of improvement throughout the team,” Koolsbergen said. “I am happy with what this team has done together. We have been in many tough meets and close battles, and those experiences are always excellent

for any athlete.”

While both the boys’ and girls’ teams qualified for CIF preliminaries early in the season last year, this year’s teams did not clinch their spots until their final Mission League meets.

In previous Mission League meets, the boys’ team finished in third place and the girls’ team finished in fourth.

The boys were led by captains Nathan Aloisi ’20 and Diego Ahmad ’20, who placed 16th and 19th respectively. On the girls’ team, Violet Barron ’22 finished in fifth place, and Chronicle Assistant Features Editor Chloe Schaeffer ’21 finished ninth. At the 72nd Annual Mount San Antonio College Invitational, the boys had a very successful outing and finished in third place. Ahmad said that the meet displayed the hard work the team had put in.

“We ended up taking third and everyone ran very well on what is known to be a very challenging course,” Ahmad said. “The meet really showed how our training paid off.”

The girls’ team only had two healthy runners, Barron

Alumnus named as All American Middlebury College tennis player Stanley Morris ’18 was named a College All-American after advancing in the ITA All-American Tournament in Rome, Georgia on Oct. 17.

Morris became the third Middlebury tennis player to make the ITA Cup Singles National Title on Oct. 19. As a Wolverine, Morris led his team to CIF Division I titles in 2017 and 2018. During his senior year, Morris also helped the Wolverines secure a Mission League title and win the CIF championship.

-Liam and Ryan Razmajoo

Baseball alumni start in playoffs St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jack Flaherty ’14 and Atlanta Braves reliever Max Fried ’12 played a game against each other in the National League Divisional Series. Both pitched in Game 5 Oct. 9, where the Cardinals defeated the Braves 13-1 after scoring 10 runs in the top of the first inning. Flaherty was a first-round draft pick in 2014, straight out of high school. In 2012, Fried was also a first-round draft pick, and finished with an earned run average of 4.03 this season. The Cardinals advanced to the National League Championship Series, losing to the Washington Nationals.

-Marine Degryse

Alumnus makes collegiate debut

CHLOE SCHAEFFER/CHRONICLE

NATHAN FOR YOU: Runner Nathan Aloisi ’20 crosses the finish line in the Mission League Meet Final at Crescenta Valley Park. and Ari Ogden ’22, both of whom did not place in the team event. Lawrence said that, while the season has not been perfect, the team has learned many valuable lessons.

“The regular season didn’t really go as we expected initially, but I think we’ve done a great job of handling it all as

best we can,” Lawrence said.

“As a team, I think we are learning to stay more positive and uplifting throughout this whole process. I think to improve and succeed in the postseason, we can’t be too fearful, we just have to be willing to push ourselves and see how far it’ll take us.”

Former Wolverine guard Johnny Juzang ’19 debuted his college basketball career at the University of Kentucky in a game against Michigan State University on Nov. 5.

Juzang is ranked 30th in the nation in his class, according to ESPN. In addition, Juzang averaged 19.9 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game in his final season for the Wolverines, according to Maxpreps. In his senior year, he led the Wolverines to a Mission League title.

Juzang came off the bench and played two minutes in the first half of the Wildcats’ 6962 victory.

-Maxine Zuriff

D4 Sports

The Chronicle

Nov. 13, 2019

WOLVERINES ONLY

BY DIEGO AHMAD “There he is!” The words rang through the air, even though they were impossible. He couldn’t be here now, a hundred and fifty meters from the end of the race, only 13 minutes and 20 seconds in. No one had ever gone that fast. And yet, there he was: Nico Young, barreling straight down the home stretch to finish his three miles in a national-recordsetting 13:39.7. The voices of each and every one of us in the crowd filled the air with jubilation as we shared vicariously in Nico’s accomplishment.

My cross-country career has been filled with brushes with greatness. As I stood there among my awe-struck teammates, watching a hero perform an inhuman feat, my mind wandered to the other legendary events that had inspired me on my journey to this point.

When I first joined the team, I heard frequent mentions of the 2015 varsity cross-country team, our strongest of all time. I had just missed witnessing them win the CIF championship. A year later, I raced on varsity at those same CIF Finals, where we just missed making it to the California State Meet. As a junior, I got to watch as our incredible captains, Andrew Shibuya ’19 and Keon Mazdisnian ’19, broke school record after school record, and our freshman superstar Daniela Quintero ’22 won CIF as an individual. Watching all that success from the sidelines was both amazing

and inspiring. Even more, though, seeing so many others revel in the joy of victory made me hungry for it. I wanted to be better than good; I wanted to be the best, the greatest Harvard-Westlake runner of all time.

My desire to be great has long since transcended motivation and developed into what most would call obsession. I run eleven times a week in varying distances that usually total more than 60 miles. My coach’s suggestion that refined sugar might be slowing me down led me to remove every trace of it from my diet. When I can’t sleep at night, it’s usually because I’m lying awake on my phone on athletic.net, looking at the times of anyone I ever have raced or might race, or brainstorming different combinations of improbable finishes that could be enough for us to win our league meets. And when I do fall asleep, I’m greeted by nightmares where I watch helplessly as a race clock ticks up, up, up, and past my goal time.

In the face of Young’s splendor, with his glorious 13:39.7 casting shame on my hard-won 15:55.9, I was struck by a realization: I didn’t have it. The thing that made all these runners amazing, that unexplainable extra something that made them succeed where I always failed, was something unique to them that I simply did not possess. How’s that for a twist: this is the high-school ath-

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF THE EAGLE CROSS COUNTRY INVITATIONAL

letics story that defies the cliches and tells you that no, you can’t do whatever you put your mind to. I realized in that moment that no matter how hard I work, how much I train, I will never go under 14 minutes like Young, probably never even go under 15 minutes like my former captain Shibuya. I will never win the State Meet, and no matter how much I want to, I will never be the fastest runner of all time.

But just because I won’t ever be the fastest, doesn’t mean that I’ve given up on leaving a legacy of greatness. Though I know now that future generations of Harvard-Westlake runners won’t look back with eyes full of admiration on my race times, I hope that they’ll remember me as the captain who never in his life voluntarily missed a day of practice, who didn’t ever shy away from a grueling workout and who always crossed the finish line giving it his all, no matter how he was feeling. Make no mistake: I still want to take my team to the State Meet this year, and if everything goes right, I think we can do it. But even if we succeed, my more important legacy will be passing on the inspiration that I’ve benefited from for all these years, handing down this spark I carry until one day, some stronger runner than me can do what I never could. If I can help that future come to fruition, that’s great enough for me.