F RI DAY, M A RC H 1, 2013
A look into Tino’s Alumni and History
It’s time to abolish slavery LIFESTYLES page 8
It’s not about the looks
Sol’ Power SPORTS page 11
FEATURES pages 6 & 7
VOLUME 54 NO. 5
OPINIONS page 5
The Prospector
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Student Newspaper of Cupertino High School
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UNDER GROUND
News briefs Pope Benedict XVI, leader of the Catholic Church and Sovereign of Vatican City State has decided to resign at the end of February due to his “advancing age” (85 years) and is the first pope to resign since 1415. A 10,000 ton meteor streaked into Russia on Friday, Feb. 15, at the speed of 33,000 mph, and injured approximately 1,100 people. It is the largest object to fall into the Earth’s atmosphere in over a century.
CHRIS CAI
opinions assistant
VINITRA SWAMY news assistant
Olympic and Paralympic Oscar Pistorius, the first double amputee to compete against able-bodied runners at the Olympics, is accused of shooting his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp, on Valentine’s Day.
Sophomores Maddy Scales and Ruci Karangutkar, along with fellow sophomore Neela Koduri of Saratoga High School, are the editors of a new independent publication on campus. Their literary magazine, No Shame in My Game, brings music appreciation to students in a new format. From Nirvana to One Direction, their magazine prints band spotlights, original poetry, pictures, song interpretations and numerous other literary discourses. Although the fledgling magazine currently has a limited circulation of only 75 copies, it already enjoys a small but
30 women were sworn into Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council, a previously male dominated body. Many consider this a step towards women’s rights in a country plagued by sexism.
It’s definitely interesting, especially because it’s about music. Everybody loves music
South Korea elected its first woman president, Park Geun-hye, on Monday, Feb. 25.
- Sophomore Margarita Valencia ardent audience. The magazine is printed with their own resources and distributed among the classes at their own respective schools. Co-writing the magazine seemed to be the obvious choice, as Karangutkar and Koduri have been friends for “forever and a day” and after meeting Scales in the seventh grade, the three have been friends ever since. “We all have the same taste in music, for the most part,” Karangutkar said. “The main thing we all have in common is that we like Nirvana. However, Maddy’s very ‘pop punk’ and Neela likes One Direction.” Inspired by the movie “Beware the Gonzo” and the book “Perks of Being A Wallflower,” the three founded the literary magazine in order to better circulate their own ideas on music and music culture. Said Scales, “We wrote the [magazine] for ourselves,
Two Tibetans set themselves on fire to protest China’s rule in Tibet. At least 106 Tibetans have set themselves on fire in this protest. A hot air balloon fell 1,000 feet on Tuesday, Feb. 25 and crashed in the city of Luxor in South Egypt, killing 19 tourists.
PHOTOS BY JESSICA SHIN
STUDENTS PUBLISH UNDERGROUND MUSIC MAGAZINE cont. page 2
Extra $6 on AP exams goes toward administrative costs CHRIS S. YOON news editor
CHRIS CAI opinions assistant
The Advanced Placement exams are officially priced at $89, yet they are sold at this school, as well as at other schools in the Fremont Union High School District (FUHSD), for $95. Though $6 more expensive than College Board’s price, this additional fee helps cover administrative fees necessary for routine testing. The school’s intentions with the extra cost is to ensure that the testing process progresses as efficiently as possible while maintaining standards as set by the College Board corporation.
“The biggest expenses are the proctors,” assistant principal Geoff Wright said. “As you know, you have to have a minimum of one proctor. But as the number of students testing goes up, there is a matrix that tells us how many proctors are needed. Here at [the school], those costs are not quite as apparent because we have a great tradition of teachers acting as proctors.” The school is the only one in the district that uses teachers as volunteer test proctors. This does not, however, reduce any administrative costs since the school has to pay for substitutes to replace proctoring teachers. The benefit to this arrangement is that students are given a friendlier testing environment, thus making the already difficult testing experience more comfortable and less formidable. In addition to substitute fees, the school also uses the extra $6 for testing essentials such as table rentals and secure storage for exam materials. Teachers volunteer to proctor AP exmas cont. page 3
Cupertino became the first majority Asian American district in mainland United States. Recent studies show 70,000 Indian children have worked in mines without protective gear since the passage of a landmark 2010 law requiring children from ages six through 14 at attend school. The Supreme Court of the United States rejected a lawsuit against the federal government’s electronic monitoring of foreigners suspected of terrorism. COMPILED BY MICHELLE CHEUNG & TRINA BHATTARAI
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News
The Prospector
S TA F F 2012-2013
Cupertino High School Established 1958 Vol LIV, No. I | 2012 editors-in-chief azadeh rongere jesse zhou news editor seong hwan yoon opinions editor nikhil kanthi features editor laura kao lifestyles editor natasha sharma sports editor abhishek zaveri flip side editor michelle cheung copy editors alya omar anand hemmady katie martin victoria duan photo editor jason chen business manager kevin chu
The Prospector
Student’s art shines through silver screen ABHISHEK ZAVERI sports editor
In the recent Parent Teacher Association Reflections Contest, a competition created by the National PTA Reflections in order to help students enrich their art education, several students were commended for their creative and artistic efforts in various categories, such as Film Production and Photography. While many competed and put forth their best work, 21 students were chosen to move forward to the next level of competition and eight of those students received scored high enough to receive awards in the category of “Interpretation of Theme or Artistic Merit and Mastery of Medium.” Among these competitors, senior Ritvik Dhavale was given the Award of Excellence based on his artistic ability, as well as his ability to interpret the theme of “The Magic of a Moment” in his film production “Blink.” This short film details the beginning and the end of a romantic relationship and the poignant moments that occur between two people. Disregarding any fears of failure or disappointment, Dhavale succeeded in his efforts of creating a film with critical acclaim. In preparation for his piece “Blink,” Dhavale had to overcome many obstacles of film production to which an amateur filmmaker is often subjected. During the making of the film, Dhavale was taking part in a week-long film production course
at Stanford University learning the basics of film production, such as editing, shooting and directing actors. Prior to this course, Dhavale had only experience in making films for ASB as a school historian and had no skills in creating a film that involved thematic elements or a concrete narrative. Despite his inexperience, Dhavale was able to learn from the mistakes he made during the production of “Blink” and has no regrets from this first filmmaking experience. “When I started the course I didn’t have any high expectations,” Dhavale said. “My only expectation was to learn, which I did. That’s why there is no possible way I could be dissatisfied by this project.” Startled by the news of his first award, Dhavale does not want to keep high expectations at the state competition. In an attempt to dismay any feelings of anxiety at the state level, Dhavale hopes to detach himself from the film and begin work on others. “I feel like I have tried my best and all I can do now is wait and hope,” Dhavale said. “I am just grateful that my film got this far. It’s best not to get attached to the film and worry.” Despite the acclaim that he is receiving, Dhavale continues to strive for growth in his abilities as a filmmaker and is always formulating new storylines, concepts and settings for his future films. For those who wish to view Dhavale’s films online, they are available at vimeo.com/ritvik.
March 1, 2013
Book drive for Ethopia proves successful NIRMIT SHAH On Friday, Feb. 15, senior Juanita DeSouza began sorting books for the school’s United Nations Club’s book drive project. The project, which began several years ago, donates books to Books for Africa, a foundation hoping to end illiteracy in Africa. The club placed boxes at both this school and at the nearby Sedgwick Elementary School in an effort to collect as many books as possible. “I [started this program] because I felt that illiteracy is a major problem in Africa,” DeSouza said, “Reading is extremely important to me because it can put [one] in a fantasy world that can be better than reality and I really want to share those experiences with other people.” In previous years, the group donated books to an organization called Books for Asia; however, at the beginning of this year, the organization began to ask for books in mint condition, which would mean many of the donated books could not be used, ultimately resulting in a large waste of literature. The school’s United Nations Club then made the decision to switch to the Books for Africa organization. DeSouza’s efforts have resulted in the donation of thou-
news assistants
diana kruzman vinitra swamy michael li
Students make history on March 5
opinions assistants
trinia bhattarai chris cai
JESSICA SHIN
features assistants
keely zhang kevin chu
lifestyles assistants
thu dam youseph pavlovic
sports assistants
nirmit shah tanay tandon
flip side assistant
jessica shin
photo crew
nirmit shah thu dam jessica shin adviser ann peck
Editorial Policy “The Prospector” is an open forum of expression for student editors to inform and educate their readers. It will not be reviewed by or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisors may and should coach and discuss content during the writing process. The staff of “The Prospector” seeks to recognize individuals, events and ideas and bring news to the Cupertino community in an accurate, professional and unbiased manner. “The Prospector” will not avoid publishing a story solely on the basis of possible dissent or controversy. If you believe an error has been made or wish to have your opinion expressed in “The Prospector,” please contact us via mail or email. Letters sent become the sole property of “The Prospector” and can be edited for length, clarity or accuracy. “The Prospector” editorial board reserves the right to accept or reject any ad in accordance with its advertising policy. Contact Us The Prospector 10100 Finch Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014 prospector.chs@gmail.com
flip side assistant
Groundbreaking ceremonies often leave spectators unenthusiastic because they know the building will not be finished for years to come. However, the topping off ceremony has brought excitement to campus as the progress of the construction is much more visual and changes are able to be witnessed firsthand. A topping off ceremony is one that commemorates a milestone in the construction of a building, and this milestone is one that the school is soon to reach. The construction on campus has finally reached the checkpoint of completing the “skeleton” of the building. The topping off ceremony will be held on March 5 with dignitaries, board members, the superintendent and other guests present for the celebration. “[In the layout], there is a bridge that connects the two parts of the building and the ceremonial piece will be in that bridge in the connector, which is kind of symbolic,” principal Kami Tomberlain said. “We’ll have [the ceremonial piece] down and outside the fence for students and faculty members to [sign so they can] have their signature on the beam when it gets placed; [it will be like] it has a part of us within the bones of the building.” With sliding doors that open up to the quad, a cool breeze can be expected to flow through the new building on a typical clear and warm California day. Although the number of students who are
PHOTO BY NIRMIT SHAH
sports assistant
aware of the exact layout or details like these sliding doors of the new buildings is limited, many have complimented the beautiful exterior design, which can be seen in pictures on the construction gates. The unique layout of the extensive library, which will span the second floors of both buildings, is also exciting news for those who feel that the current library is too small. Said sophomore Myojung Yang, “Since the library is going to be so much larger, there will be a lot more space for people to work without being jostled and crowded like they are in the current library.” The construction has impacted the students negatively so far because of the discomfort caused by a lack of space. The diminution of the quad, the lost senior lawn and the disappearance of a proper cafeteria left students feeling inconvenienced at the beginning of the school year. However, as the building is gradually becoming visually appealing, the students have started to feel that the construction is worth the wait. “I think that the addition of the new buildings will make our school look a lot nicer and more like college campuses, which are known for being beautiful,” junior Katerina Gurzhi said. “I’m really excited that it is planned to be done before I graduate, and even if it is not done by then, I am definitely coming back to see it.” Although the short term effects have been negative, the long term effects of the construction are expected to be a definite reason for graduated students to come back and visit.
PHOTO BY JASON CHEN
sands of books to Ethiopian libraries and schools. Ethiopia was the nation of choice due to a 2009 trip during which United Nations Club members experienced the poor living conditions of the country. This experience sparked motivation to change these conditions. The majority of the donated books came from Sedgwick Elementary School as the sophomores at this school were not granted volunteer hours for the books they donated.
Students publish underground music magazine Cont. page 1
really. There was no original plan of “We’re going to write this, and people will like this part, and this part and this part.” It was more like ‘I draw and write a lot, and we might as well show it to people.’” Although the original plan was only to write it as a creative outlet, the No Shame in My Game fanbase has been steadily growing. Sophomore Margarita Valencia is the magazine’s self-proclaimed “number one fan.” “I think it’s really cool that they take the time to talk about their opinions,” Valencia said. “It’s definitely interesting, especially because it’s about music. Everybody loves music.” Because they are independently funded, budget constraints limit distribution expansion. They encourage aspiring student writers to submit original work and ideas to their email address noshameinmygamezine@ gmail.com and request to pick up a copy. “You could send in poems, pictures, stories you’ve written, drawings; literally anything we’re open to putting in our [magazine],” Scales said. “There’s contact info on the back of every one.” A new issue comes out every month. The most recent issue was released on Feb. 25, and the next version is scheduled to debut in late March. For many students, it is not only inspiring to see a third type of student publication blooming at this school, but also a great way to learn about music tastes and read others’ opinions. Future developments with the No Shame in My Game magazine are sure to spur on active student literary appreciation.
The Prospector
March 1, 2013
News
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Letters to the Editor Teachers volunteer to proctor for AP exmas Dear Editor, Scouting benefits many young men by teaching them lessons they might not learn until well into adulthood; that a Scout who wants to be honest about his sexuality would be denied this experience is repulsive. Homosexuality by no means equates to being less capable of self-management, control, leadership, or discipline. Boy Scouts of America is more progressive than most religious groups for having even considered resolving the issue, but it has a difficult choice to make in May: to support a minority in the Scouting community but become a much more respectable force in society, or to remain on the side of its more religious-minded, and numerous, donors and members. While the consequences will be great in the immediate future, BSA should join the other Scouting organizations in the United States in opening up its policies so openly gay Scouts can join without fear of expulsion. Then there will be less hypocrisy when the Scout Law demands Scouts to treat others the way they want to be treated as a part of saying Scouts are kind. Sincerely, Eric Chen Dear Editor, I recently attended Winter Sports Awards Night on Monday. It was as usual, enjoyable to see our Tino athletes be recognized for their accomplishments in their respective sports. Unfortunately, this recognition was also a little disappointing. I witnessed a CCS Champion in wrestling who also placed 6th in the California State Meet be denied the highest athletic award available to athletes at this event. Although the freshman CCS Champion did receive “Freshman of the Season,” this wrestler should have gotten more recognition for her accomplishments. There is obviously an issue in regards to the manner in which recipients for awards are chosen. I hope for the next Winter Sports awards night that whoever is in charge please consider how much merit any athlete, freshman or not, can bring to a school before deciding the overall MVP award. Sincerely, A disgruntled athlete If you have an opinion regarding any school or nationwide issue, submit a letter to the editor through prospector.chs@gmail.com. If you do choose to submit a letter, The Prospector holds the right to edit it for clarity and accuracy.
PHOTO BY THU DAM
Cont. page 1
For AP foreign language and Music Theory tests, on the other hand, the price goes up to $105, a $16 increase from the
The biggest expenses are the proctors... Here at [the school], those costs are not quite as apparent because we have a great tradition of teachers acting as proctors.” - Assistant Principal Geoff Wright College Board’s set price. This is due to the heavy reliance on technology in these tests. For example, the AP Chinese and Japanese tests are computer-based tests, whereas the AP Spanish, French and Music Theory tests are dependent on cassettes. CDs
and cassettes, computers, CD players and cassette players require calibration and maintenance per each testing season. All the extra money that students pay when purchasing their AP exams is collected into one AP account managed by the district. Nevertheless, there are programs that do not necessarily require withdrawal from the AP account. “With regard to the subsidized costs to people who need some assistance, that is born by the district so the extra money coming from exams can help fund that, but that’s not dependent upon it,” Wright said. “The district is committed to having students have access to AP exams and that money should not be an impediment.” Each school district annually sets its own prices for AP exams and, although the FUHSD has endeavored to maintain costs at the current $95 to $105 fee for the past few years, there is no guarantee that the cost will stay the same for the upcoming years. “There is no plan to raise the cost right now,” Wright said. “I do know that it is something that we have discussed in our Advanced Placement meetings at the district level, so it’s always something that’s on the table as costs rise.”
Opinions
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March 1, 2013
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Eighth graders no longer required to take algebra TANAY TANDON sports assistant
The decision to discon- ested in the field of mathematics from participattinue Algebra I as a middle ing in more advanced classes. Furthermore, the school graduation require- change is applicable to those in middle school — a time when students are independent ment presents an interesting argument on preenough to assess their own collegiate education. Our current system learning styles, but also heavily promotes general educa85% amenable enough to setion as a way to ensure compeof American riously take a parent’s tency in the fields of mathematworkers are advice. This ensures ics, language and science. For that lazy students decades, much of the world over-educated for their will not drop classes has followed a similar strucprofessions to make life easier ture of first offering a genfor themselves. eral education, followed by Opponents of courses tailored for a specific the action state that career. With the state’s decino education is lost edsion, however, it appears that ucation, and that extra administrators are encouraging an schooling does no harm. earlier decision regarding classes However, by lowering the bar, to suit a future career. The modification educators are not decreasing the optimizes the education system by catering to students of all learning paces, and is a welcome education being delivered; they are simply specializing it. There is a misconception that students not change to the one size fits all mentality. The truth is, an estimated 85 percent of stu- pursuing a deeper level of mathematical study are somehow completing less work. Such a claim is not The change is simply alter- only deeply flawed, but also offensive to students working at a pace different from the “norm.” ing the pace at which stuThe purpose of education is to predents are allowed to take pare students for a fulfilling future. math courses, not limiting anyone in The moment our system begins functioning otherwise, we are any way rendering the very principle of school useless. It is our respondents educated through the public system are over- sibility to ensure that the next educated for their future careers. This is not just generation is efficiently prepared wasted time for the students; it is a massive mis- for their future — not premamanagement of educational funding and a loss of turely filled to the brink with formuch-needed financial fuel. By lowering the gradu- mulas and theories. By lowering the ation bar for mathematics, students now have an middle school graduation bar for math, opportunity to explore an education path based on the board is ensuring that Algebra I is their own interests without the pressure to meet an offered at the appropriate time arbitrary graduation requirement. Students wish- for each student — thereby ing to become arts majors have no need to finish increasing the knowledge calculus by their junior years of high school. In absorbed by a student, this sense, the change is simply altering the pace at and also tailoring the which students are allowed to take math courses, education system to the goals and aspinot limiting anyone in any way. The decision is not going to stop those inter- rations of all.
MICHAEL LI news assistant
However, there are impeding facThe recent decision by the tors that make algebra so difficult for California De- the vast majority of students. Algebra I is the class in partment of Education to remove which one Algebra I as an eighth grade does not requirement is poorly made Algebraic simply and will have serious conseskill is the best inpunch quences for students in the dicator of success in numfuture. Forty-five states bers have made the controvercollege into a sial change in an attempt calcuto implement the Comlator; a mon Core State Standards true unInitiative, a plan to unify derstanddiverse education curricula ing of the throughout the United States. subject is cruThis choice demonstrates cial. Students become a negligence to consider the current state of mathematics frustrated when they attempt and fail education. Out of the devel- to obtain answers using elementary oped countries, American methods. Developing understanding students are ranked 32 in of the topic should be the main goal. It is completely possible to mainthe world for mathematics. Now, students have tain the requirement of Algebra I for been given the chance eighth graders. Jaime Escalante, a high to opt out of eighth grade school teacher in Los Angeles, ran a algebra. The lax culture successful high-school AP Calculus toward algebra is a trait not program. In Escalante’s program, stumirrored by our neighbors. dents were immersed in the curricuReacting to a difficult subject lum and learning math at an accelerby lowering the standards ated level. However, Escalante faced is an extremely igno- criticism from school officials who rant decision and wanted to do what the state of Califorteaches students Keep going like the bad habit of simply givthis and high ing up when expectations are faced with a challenge; going to be an idea of the past this will affect them nia did: lower the standards instead of t h r o u g h - actually attempting to teach the mateout their rial. Escalante left the school in 1991 entire lives. and that year, very few students passed T h e the AP Calculus exam. CNN claims that Americans topoint of algebra is not for day are “overeducated” for their jobs, every student to and that these sort of decisions are get an A; it is to build justified. However, why would being analytical reasoning and overeducated negatively impact someone? Having more knowledge is a critical thinking skills as gift that should be appreciwell as offer students their ated instead of scorned. first glimpse of abstract Out of all the It makes no sense concepts. Algebra I developed nations, to set lower goals; is a fundamental the US ranks 32nd in goals are purposely building block, and math proficiency high so people can according to a restrive to meet them cent article in the and then improve San Jose Mercury further. Reacting to a News, “Algebra I is challenge by setting the best predictor of the standards lower college graduation.” only leads to similar Proficiency in algebra patterns in the future, until high is an indicator of academic excellence and thus should be maintained expectations are merely an idea of the as part of the eighth grade curriculum. past.
Which side of the spectrum do you fall on?
MARK ST. JOHN guest contributor
A few weeks ago, California’s decision that middle school students will no longer be required to take an algebra class elicited mixed reactions. I was elated. Why would a math teacher be pleased with the recission of this mandate? It was my appreciation of math and my recognition of what a potent tool true knowledge of mathematics is, that led to my elation. Before we go any further, let me state unequivocally that I am a firm believer that students should begin to learn algebraic
Algebraic thinking is not the same as Algebra I thinking as early as third grade. However, algebraic thinking is not the same as Algebra I, the course that is mandated in California schools. The Algebra I course consists of a laundry list of “standards”which are primarily a set of techniques that children are required to be able to use. For example, one such standard says, “students know the quadratic formula
PRO CON
and are familiar with its proof by completing the square.” This standard causes us to drill students so that they can recite the quadratics formula, and even sing it to the tune of “Pop Goes the Weasel.” But does that foster algebraic thinking? Algebraic thinking comprises, among other things, understanding the relationship between quantities, analyzing how a change in one value affects another and proving and justifying conjectures. The laundry list of standards that the Algebra I course mandates too often coerces the teacher into emphasizing the techniques, rather than the thinking. The elimination of the mandate that all students should take algebra at some point in middle school frees the teachers to focus on developing students’ ability to think algebraically without unduly hurrying through a list of techniques disguised as standards. I look forward to the results that will emanate from richer thinking.
The Prospector
March 1, 2013
Opinions
5
More to women than meets the eye
Father, I have sinned!
STAFF EDITORIAL
Confession box replaced by internet
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited Bangladesh last May, urging the country’s leaders to set aside their differences in favor of constructive political dialogue regarding the disappearance of a top official. This act of diplomacy, however, was viewed by many as second in importance to Clinton’s makeup — or lack thereof. The press was quick to cover what is surely the scandal of the century — a woman appearing in public without cosmetics? For shame! — and accompanied their exposés with photos of Clinton wearing only glasses and a hint of lipstick. This is hardly an isolated incident: prior to her confirmation in 2010, Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan was subject to media scrutiny regarding her appearance as well. Snide comments, courtesy of high-profile conservative news personalities Jason Mattera and Michael Savage, compared Kagan to a “linebacker” and decried her as “look[ing] like she belongs in a kosher deli,” respectively. Savage went on to mention that the “aesthetics” of judges should be considered during the appointment process, as the public “[has] to look at these people” — imagine, we poor citizens could be saddled with the unbearable task of seeing justices who do not resemble
A crumbling ALYA OMAR copy editor
There is nothing that can make one feel more helpless than wandering around the city of Cupertino knowing fully well that the rights of one’s cousins, aunts and friends are hanging in the hands of a brutal totalitarian regime 7,000 miles away. After many years under the rule of dictator Hosni Mubarak, the day of the election of Egypt’s first democratically elected president was intended to serve as a milestone of the country long awaited liberation. Today, the country hangs over the abyss of disorder and fascism. The newly elected president Mohamed Morsi and members of the Muslim Brotherhood — a conservative group that wants the government to reflect their extremist ideals — have used their newfound power to assume the position of kings of the sandpit, refusing to allow the input of any individual who has experience in drafting legal documents. Furthermore, the first draft was drawn up by the Constituent Assembly, who has a reputation of sidelining women, ignoring Christians and giving the government the responsibility of “upkeeping the virtues of the people.” Religion and government are slowly becoming indistinguishable rings in the new regime. Though actions being put into place are merely ripples at this
Victoria’s Secret models. These problems, unfortunately, are not exclusive to women, but the standards to which female public figures are held are much more exacting. News sources as well-respected as the Associated Press and the Wall Street Journal frequently publish pieces detailing the clothing and makeup of such important women, from Ann Romney’s “tasteful” attire to the lipstick stains on Condoleezza Rice’s teeth during her fiery speech at the 2012 Republican National Convention. Beauty, however, is a fine line, as being deemed too pretty is a liability as well: the firing of females whom their bosses claim to be “distracting” in the workplace has recently sparked debate regarding employee rights. Calling abilities into question due to appearances is a shameful practice, and one that has become commonplace in our society. Most of the aforementioned women are appointed officials, whose jobs are to use their expertise in their respective fields to better the country. They were not nominated to look beautiful, nor are they serving the public for our viewing pleasure. It is a clear dismissal of the abilities of these women when critiques and compliments alike so often focus on external features while all but disregarding her actions, statements or the content of her character. Certainly there are legitimate criticisms that can be directed towards these women. But concentration on an unflattering haircut or a poorly-cut pantsuit is just demeaning. Our condemnation of women in the public sphere who do not fit the nearly unattainable standards for beauty perpetuates the message that no matter intelligence, compassion, talents or achievements of a female, her appearance is what determines her worth. An environment in which women and girls feel the need to prioritize their looks above all else for fear of criticism is an unhealthy one. Females are much more than their exteriors and it is high time we begin treating them as such.
nation point, Egypt is quickly morphing into a country that its revolutionaries would never recognize. YouTube videos are already being blocked from the country, the only explanation being that it is “due to a legal complaint from the government.” In drafting a constitution to govern the people, Morsi and the Brotherhood stomp on “by the people, for the people” in order to satisfy their personal philosophies. So how did a nation come to elect a man with no intention of caring about their quality of life? With democracy so new, figureheads so corrupt and the people so poor, votes were bought in exchange for bags of rice and a few minutes of credit on people’s cell phones. The passion and the fight for democracy that was set ablaze by the young and the educated last year was an unsustainable revolution. It is impossible to establish a sense of social responsibility when the enticement of an easy way to feed one’s family for a week trumps the appeal of voting for the right man. So the world watches as a crumbling nation throws away its hope for a democratic government for a handful of rice.
EDITORIAL CARTOON
KEVIN CHU business manager
AZADEH RONGERE editor-in-chief
Already a repository for “TMI” as users divulge their every intimate thought, the Web recently extended its reach into territory that face-to-face communication once dominated. The increasing prominence of social media has made it easier to remain anonymous while sharing information, asking questions and commenting. Unfortunately, this method of writing anonymous confessions online has infected the Fremont Union High School District. LynMy dog didn’t eat brook High School’s journalism program my homework ... publishes monthly student confessions on I did. their website Alethia, which translates to “truth” in Greek. Though many confessions are harmless, others are detrimental. Each month a new theme is introduced, from race issues to sexuality struggles. By bringing these anonymous confessions to the public’s attention, the staff is condoning sharing personal information online as a substitute for confiding in someone who can provide guidance. People are unlikely to learn from their mistakes if they don’t accept the consequences of their faulty choices. It is disturbing to see people replace brave honesty with cowardly, corrupt confessions. It is even more appalling to see the implications of moralizing this misguided act to the future of the world. Even though most of I cleaned the Aletheia’s submissions are innocuous, we fear toilet with my that the good intention brother’s can easily turn into a detrimental outlet, toothbrush. such as the notorious Formspring and AnonNews. These websites ran viral in 2009 and they allow anyone to submit anything from confessions and partial news to hurtful commentary. Websites allowing people to publish these anonymous comments not only promote dishonest behavior, but also expose readers to unsettling truths about people, from friends to strangers across the globe. People confide their darkest — and often most disturbing — secrets, some as frivolous as favorite workouts but others as serious as suicide notes, to websites such as PostSecret. On PostSecret, people send decorative homemade postcards to the founder, Frank Warren, who publishes all postcards — even those that describe illegal activities — and preaches this “therapeutic” technique in shows at esteemed universities. He claims that anonymous confessions allow people to wash away their guilt and eventually help them move forward with their lives. He fails to mention that using his website does not solve the problems they have created. In addition, prestigious universities exercise Warren’s unhealthy system through Facebook confessions, in which people send confessions about the school to a Facebook page that is viewable to anyone who “likes” it. These have included confessing hatred for a teacher, planning a campus shooting and discussing illicit actions like underage drinking. By publishing these superfluous and n o Li often dangerous cone th o Id fessions, these students King thing with promote anonymous declarations as a substitute for taking my cat. responsibility for one’s actions. School must remain a safe environment, and the arousal of fear among students that accompanies these confessions must not be condoned.
Features
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Dress Code circa 1970 Boys’ hair cannot cover the ears or eyes, go below the eyebrows, or touch the collar if combed down
Slang of the Decades Slang has changed just as dramatically as our culture has in these past few decades; if you were to write “#yoloswag” on a shirt in the 1960s, others would react with shock and ask you whether you have some odd obsession with hashtags. Understanding slang changes will help one understand cultural shifts. COMPILED BY ANAND HEMMADY
1950s: “Big brother is watching you” — taken
Boys should be clean shaven with no facial hair visible Teachers were required to wear coats all the time outside of class, even if it was hot
Collars have to be worn down Shirts can only have one button open at the collar
March 1, 2013
T-shirts are not proper outer garments Shirts should be free of writing
No shorts
from George Orwell’s “1984,” this phrase means that the government is watching over you. 1960s: “The man” — a way of referring to authority. 1970s: “Catch you on the flip side” — a way of saying goodbye. 1980s: “Gag me with a spoon” — this phrase is used when one is disgusted. 1990s: “Phat” — used to describe something considered cool or beautiful. 2000s: “Sweet” — means cool or awesome. 2010s: “YOLO” — means “you only live once,” said when doing something particularly daring.
A girl’s skirt had to touch the bottom of her fingertips when her hands were down
Blue jeans were not considered proper school attire Saggy or baggy pants are not allowed COMPILED BY NIKHIL KANTHI
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Vietnam Memor
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WES MORSE
JASON CHEN
For most students, the slab of granite that st trees and bushes in the East Quad does not warra glance — it appears to simply be there, as it always h probably always will be. A closer look reveals that War memorial is not merely a piece of furniture, bu purpose, history and meaning. The memorial wa 1970 and is dedicated to 11 students who died pr country, mostly during the Vietnam War. It is a stirr current students to realize that the soldiers were o them. “They sat in these chairs, had classes at this sch that they would die for their country,” teacher Wes A separate memorial, located next to the larg Quad, commemorates Greg Cardott, class of 1977, deeds and service to the school and country, the m known. However, the memorial holds deep signific “[The memorials are] representative of how th In 2002, students of Dick Klokow, a math teach lost in combat, proving that although the war occur “At the end of the day, everyone wants to be re
Did you know...
An article titled: “CHS Science Wing to be Demolished” appea inthe 1985 April Fools edition of the Prospector. Roughly1 months later the science building burned due to arson and h to be demolished.
The school first opened on Sept. 15, 1958 with 700 freshmen and sophomore students. The principal at the time was George Fernandez.
In 1971, the CHS Marching Band once played for then-President Richard Nixon and future President Ronald Reagan at the same place: the San JoseCOMPILED CivicBY YOUSEPH PAVLOVIC Center.
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The Prospector
March 1, 2013
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Marc Samaha
High school was definitely not easy for alumni Marc Samaha. As a student afflicted by a learning disability, Samaha found it often difficult at times to get through the week without his teachers and friends who supported him. “I would not have been able to make it through high school emotionally and grade-wise if it were not for my Special Ed teacher [Charity] Purse,” Samaha said. “She helped shape me into the man I am today by teaching me to work hard regardless of my learning disabilities, and believed in me when I wanted to quit.” However, despite challenges he faced back in high school, Samaha remained vigilant in his many extracurricular activities. Although he was a prominent athlete on the wrestling team and an avid volunteer at his local church, Samaha was also a Scan the QR code below teenage actor on various commercials, a pastime that he still sporadito see Samaha in action cally continues now. in the 2013 Toyota Tundra Samaha’s most recent commercial advertised the 2013 Toyota Superbowl ad. Tundra. However, he admits that filming commercials has not been his priority for quite a while. “My agent has been sending me two to three auditions a week for the last three years for various jobs such as commercials, movies, and print work,” Samaha said. “I turned every one of [them] down and didn’t attend a single audition. I did this because I was far too busy with working my job, working at my church, and being a full time college student. I am not highly motivated to become famous and draw attention to myself, because that would be too small of a purpose to COMPILED BY JESSE ZHOU live for.”
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The school is currently undergoing construction and is slated to be completely renovated in the fall of 2014.
PHOTOS BY JASON CHEN
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tands among ant a second has been and the Vietnam ut a relic with as erected in rotecting their ring experience for once students just like
hool, and probably had no idea Morse said. ger Vietnam War memorial in the East , who lost his life while on a peacekeeping operation in Haiti. Sadly, despite their heroic memory and legacy of Cardott and the other eleven honored students are largely uncance for those in the school who understand why it is there. he school loves its history,” Morse said. her and World War II veteran, held a memorial service to renew the memories of students rred almost half a century ago, the lives of these home-grown heroes are not forgotten. emembered, somehow,” Morse said. COMPILED BY DIANA KRUZMAN
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Features
In 1964, The Beach Boys performed some songs in the quad and stayed for an autograph session in Room 55.
Azadeh Moaveni is more than just as a renowned author, brave voyager and ethical journalist: she is also an alumnus of the school. Moaveni graduated from the school in 1994 and her interest in people and adoration for geography encouraged her to pursue first journalism, then nonfiction and fiction novels. Her first reporting job was at a magazine in Cairo that was deeply invested in the Tahrir Revolution. Thus began Moaveni’s career in journalism. “It was crash course in hard-nosed journalism under a dictatorial regime, and that experience was invaluable to all the later years of my reporting,” Moaveni said. Moaveni eventually worked for TIME Magazine and The Los Angeles Times. Her proudest article, she says, is her cover story for The Los Angeles Times that exposed the fragile and dangerous state of Baghdad after Iraq’s liberation. After Moaveni’s career in journalism flourished, she co-wrote “Iran Awakening” with Iranian author and 2003 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Shirin Ebadi. Moaveni then wrote her 2005 best-selling memoir, “Lipstick Jihad,” which documented her experiences of travelling to post-revolution Iran as a journalist, and “Honeymoon in Tehran” in 2010, which chronicles President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s rise and society’s rebellions against Islamic obligations. Due to the Islamic Republic’s strict regulations about press and non-Islamic citizens, Moaveni risked her life as well as her family’s fortune to expose the disturbing realities of Iran’s corrupt government in her books. But the truth conquered the consequences. “I wanted to illustrate for people in the West that Iranians have a rich tradition of cultural resistance, that they live in opposition to their rulers and that they are not the fanatical, America-hating caricatures of stereotype. That they write novels and drink wine and wage protest and make underground music, and are human, in the end, just as Americans are,” Moaveni said. Moaveni is now creating a news site in Farsi and English to cultivate safe yet honest journalism for Iranian citizens. She is also freelance reporting, working on her third book and living in London. “When Ahmadinejad was elected president in Iran, working as a journalist became increasingly difficult. I had also started a family in Iran, and it was clear the country was going down a very dark, fraught path. I was threatened by the authorities the summer before I left, an empty threat as it turned out, but it seemed to confirm our decision that it was time to leave,” Moaveni said. Even though Moaveni has achieved international success, she still reminisces to her first mentors, American Literature teacher, Susan Stimson, and British Literature teacher, Karen Lilly, who taught her how to appreciate reading like a writer. “I would pass along exactly this advice — to leave the country, to experience another culture, to volunteer doing something different and broadening — monitoring elections somewhere troubled, teaching English somewhere misunderstood. There is much to be learned from places that make us uncomfortable,” Moaveni said.
Azadeh Moaveni
COMPILED BY AZADEH RONGERE
COURTESY OF AZADEH MOAVENI
Lifestyles
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March 1, 2013
PHOTO BY THU DAM
Take the pledge: fighting aganist human trafficking COMPILED BY NATASHA SHARMA
27 million slaves worldwide
1-2% of victims are rescued
12 years old is the average age of trafficking victims NATASHA SHARMA lifestyles editor
Human trafficking is an issue that haunts every country across the world. People often associate it with third world or economically backward countries, but the shocking truth is that it exists everywhere, including the United States. Human trafficking is the second largest organized crime in the world today, with over 27 million enslaved. It is a staggering number, much larger than at any previous point in history. While there is nebulous knowledge about trafficking, many do not grasp the gravity of the situation. The newly launched A21 campaign, founded by Christine Caine, a world-traveling motivational speaker, is focused on spreading the word about this social evil and getting people to join the fight against human trafficking. Its main goal is to create awareness among youth that people their age are being exploited, stripped of their childhood and being brought into a world of crime, abuse and control. The objectives of the campaign are clear and concise. Its strategy is divided into four parts: prevention, protection, prosecution and partnerships. With offices in the
United States, Greece, Bulgaria, Ukraine and Australia, they have created a strong global network using social media as well as the voices of the youth. A21 is using an innovative approach with technology as a platform to solve an age-old issue. A21 has built a collective consciousness through social media sites such as Tumblr, Facebook and Twitter. The hashtag “#shockingtruth” has been circling the Web on popular websites with facts and statistics to inform readers. The power of the cyber world is truly building the network and a significant number of people have taken the pledge to fight human trafficking. The organization has distinguished itself from all other movements by taking a progressive path to conflict resolution. They realize that power to bring about positive transformation is vested in the minds of youth. A21 travels to high schools, universities and orphanages to educate teenagers and young adults about trafficking and the urgency for action. The organization has also traveled to six countries to make prevention presentations in an effort to create awareness in different communities. 27 million slaves all around the world is not just a statistic. It is imperative to stop and realize that each victim has paid a heavy price: loss of dignity, hope and spirit. A21 is using the power of a collective, awakened voice in several forms to convince people to take a stand.
“Mind Games” brings an unexpected twist DIANA KRUZMAN news assistant
Starting with the publication of “The Hunger Games” in 2008, a wave of “dystopian romance” has hit the young adult literary genre across America. This type of book follows a tried-and-true formula: strong female heroine plus helpless nice guy plus extremely good-looking bad-boy who treats the heroine terribly but is somehow irresistible equals love triangle, with a side of conspiracy and the goal of bringing down a cruel and totalitarian regime. Though the appreciation for its creativity is well-deserved, the once-original idea of “Hunger Games” has been emulated by so many contemporary authors of teen fiction that it has become a clichéd and grossly overused plot. Anyone with this mental bombardment of “Hunger Games”-esque fiction fresh on one’s mind will not have high hopes for Kiersten White’s “Mind Games.” Its plot synopsis screams “been there done that” — in the book, 17 year old Fia is forced to kill people for a mysterious corporation in order to protect her sister, and is torn between kind, gentle Adam and dangerous, womanizing James. The aforementioned sister, Annie, also has to make difficult choices on how to protect Fia. It’s safe to say that anyone who has waded through the waves of dystopian romance
novels spilling off of bookshelves in the teen section of Barnes & Noble will start “Mind Games” with more than a little bit of skepticism. However, the book goes a lot deeper than its seemingly overused plot. Fia’s job description calls for a lot of action scenes, which shakes things up a bit. Furthermore, behind the obvious overall plot, each character has a backstory, and White weaves these subplots with care and finesse, revealing them slowly and in pieces until the puzzle finally comes together and you really understand each character. What is most surprising about — and redeeming toward — this book, though, is its emotional depth. “Mind Games” travels the whole spectrum of human emotion, from amusement to anguish, and evokes these emotions from the reader. Characters are another aspect of the book White did well on. For the most part, they are relatable and real. None of them are perfect, as they all have distinct personalities, flaws and problems. As can be expected, “Mind Games” has its issues. The romantic aspect is poorly developed and somewhat shallow, and, as previously mentioned, the plot is a bit too simplistic and overused. However, the story draws readers in and keeps them hooked with great characters and heaps of emotion, which make up for the aspects in which it is lacking. Who knows — maybe there’s hope for young adult fiction after all.
Lifestyles
The Prospector
March 1, 2013
Vine or Vine Not? JESSE ZHOU editor-in-chief
JASON CHEN photo editor
“Pics or it didn’t happen” is taken to a whole new level thanks to Vine by Twitter, a new iPhone application that allows users to share six-second videos called “vines” as a form of social media. Vines, when played either online or on the application itself, behave like an animated Graphics Interchange Format file — colloquially known as the .gif — with the extra benefit of sound. As for the format, Vine is much like Instagram in terms of usability, since viewing or making clips only takes a couple of seconds to learn via a very accessible tutorial. However slick and appealing the concept may be, the application itself still has some issues, especially for those concerned about seeing inappropriate vines. Because the application allows for the posting of short “creative” clips on the go, a majority of the video clips are only suitable
#tr
for older audiences since many of Vine’s users are adults. In other words, the application does not have any sort of “Safe Search” function like Google search does, or a way to flag overly inappropriate or pornographic videos. The chances of finding such a video is slim since Vine has already removed lots of inappropriate content, but the chance remains nonetheless. On the app store, Vine does ask for age confirmation, but that can be easily sidestepped with the push of a button. Admittedly, making a vine is entertaining and enjoyable. Recording video itself is easy, and the app makes uploading video an extraordinarily minimalistic experience compared to other video mediums like YouTube and Vimeo. However, because uploading a vine is so easy, many people who have the application choose to post random videos that have very little significance whatsoever. It seems these users view Vine as just an exciting way to make pointless status updates through visuals. This is not to say that Vine will forever be categorized as a form of social media. When Twitter debuted, many
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questioned its utility in the real world since its emphasis on being concise seemed difficult, especially for those who had a lot to say about their lives or world events. Yet Twitter proved to be immensely helpful by providing a window of accessibility to popular celebrities, enablement of the Middle Eastern revolutions and more. Although it will take time for more serious videos to emerge on Vine, the potential it has for creating something politically or socially important is greater than many other products on the market. But potential has no weight when it all boils down to the million-dollar question: do we really need another form of social media? Is it really necessary for us to expose ourselves in idiotic ways when YouTube already exists? Do we really want to watch a guy dancing in his laundry room or a dog licking its owner’s face? Do we really want to wait until more serious videos start to emerge, at the risk of seeing something risqué by accident? Regardless, Vine offers just one more avenue to expose more of people’s daily lives to the eyes of an ever-curious public.
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Sports
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March 1, 2013
Freshman talent shines in varsity tennis team TANAY TANDON sports assistant
ALL PHOTOS BY NIRMIT SHAH
THE FANTASTIC FOUR | Normally devoid of freshmen members, the varsity tennis
team has found itself with an unprecedented four ninth graders. This will help ensure success for the team in seasons to come.
High school varsity sports are always extremely competitive, both during tryouts and the season. This year’s boys’ varsity tennis team holds four talented freshmen players: Gautam Bulusu, Alexander Duong, Aditya Goyal and Ethan Shen. Bulusu, who has been playing the sport for the last six years, says that making it on the team has been a long term goal of his. “Being a part of the team makes me feel amazing. Now that I’m on, one of my goals for this year is to go undefeated,” Bulusu said. As a team, there are a total of seven matches played — four singles and three doubles. Bulusu, who plays fourth singles on the team, feels his strong practice habits heading into the season had a big impact on his rise to a singles position on varsity. “I’ve been working really hard in the past few months. There’s been a lot of practicing, both on court and off. I’ve been playing at least two hours of tennis every day. Overall, I’m happy to see that it has paid off.” Making the team as a freshman is not only a big achievement, but also a unique skill-building opportunity. Players get a chance to gain experience and build their technique for the next season. Said Duong, “I think I have an advantage as a
freshman because I can learn from the teammates above me.” In this sense, playing at a high level as an underclassmen always has its benefits, because it allows players to grow through their high school career. Following last year’s great record in the league, the team is hoping to make a deep run in CCS. Sophomore Chirag Narayanakere, who plays third singles on the team, says that having a good record in the league and playing well in the regional tournament is a major priority. “We’re playing in Division One, which means that there will be tough opponents. I want to get past at least the second round of CCS this year,” Narayanakere said. Narayanakere was one of the two freshmen on the team last year. Having four on the team this year is a big positive for the school’s tennis program and promises a bright future. On average, most teams have only one or two freshmen players. A higher concentration of young talent is definitely a big advantage for upcoming tennis years, and ensures an abundance of experience for the next season. “The exposure and playing time that I get this year will definitely help me succeed in future years,” Shen said. Narayanakere believes that with a good balance of older experience and fresh talent, this year’s team can go far.
Dancing with the Golden Spurs
Dance team prepares for national competition in Florida THU DAM lifestyles assistant
As the Golden Spurs dance team prepares for Nationals, the dancers assemble a variety of dance pieces that they have been working on throughout the entire year. Though they have been known in the past for their more upbeat hip-hop dances, this year’s dance coach, Kim Caldwell, has decided to focus more on slower dance routines, replacing hip-hop with jazz. The team covers a wide variety of other dances including kick, character, medium and lyrical. Every Saturday, the Golden Spurs have a dance competition at a different high school in the bay area. They perform alongside five to six other schools and present multiple dances and routines to a panel of judges. The team’s hard work and focus on execution has paid off this season, impressing the judges and earning the dance team second place multiple times in lyrical dance at the Homestead, Bella Vista and Monta Vista competitions. The dancers hope to improve on their other dances as well in order to keep all their scores up. In addition to their after-school practices, the girls are also expected take outside dance classes on their own time in order to ensure that when the season begins, each and every member can perform to the best of their ability. At the end of the season, the dance team has the opportunity to compete against teams all across the nation. Nationals, which is held beginning Feb. 28 in Orlando, Florida, is a two-day event that exposes the Golden Spurs to a different and much more competitive environment. The team is given the chance to experiment with different dance routines and see where they place on a national scale.
All of the team’s preparation leads up to this point, and although the atmosphere is highly stressful and competitive, the girls on the dance team perform confidently together since they know they worked hard all season. But preparing for such a big competition like Nationals is not only about the moves. The Golden Spurs have to embody every aspect of the dance, including showmanship and synchronization. After countless hours of repeating dance moves, muscle memory kicks in, allowing each dancer to focus on the smaller details of their performance. Point. Smile. Do not overthink. As performers, the dancers aim to have the audience believe they are having fun. When the dancers enjoy what they do, competition judges can see the difference. “I mainly focus on my showmanship, but for some reason, sometimes I end up thinking too much about what comes next,” dance captain Charity Caldwell said. “I just remember to focus on smiling and having the audience enjoy watching us.” After their performance at Nationals, the team takes a trip to Disney World before accepting their awards. Gift exchanges and team dinners also keep the girls unified and in good spirits. The team finds that strong bond with each other is not only important for their performance during Nationals, but throughout the season. Supporting one another and keeping each other company creates a team dynamic that can be seen on the dance floor. “Knowing that everyone is there for you and that everyone is there for the same reason helps you compete better,” sophomore dancer Caroline Jacquet said. “It keeps you motivated, because you don’t just want to win for yourself, you want to win as a team.”
JASON CHEN
Sports
The Prospector
March 1, 2013
Game summaries
Freshman wrestler competes at States
Varsity Girls Basketball Feb. 1: Junior Jeri Perkins scored a personal best 16 points during a game against Fremont, but the visiting Pioneers fell 50-41 in a close loss to the Firebirds. Feb. 6: Although the game had been close in the first half, a 14-2 defeat during the third quarter gave way to a 35-23 Monta Vista victory as the host Pioneers were unable to regain traction. Feb. 8: A strong third quarter could not prevent host Los Altos from running away with a 51-27 win. Feb. 13: Although the host Pioneers ousted Mountain View 9-2 in a successful second quarter, they ultimately fell 40-20 after repeatedly being outscored. Feb. 15: Freshman Celina Arranga scored a game-high 7 points, but the visiting Pioneers were overwhelmed by Santa Clara, falling 44-18 in their last league game of the season. Varsity Boys Basketball Feb. 5: The long match versus Palo Alto proved a tough loss to the boys team, with the final score being 60 - 19. Although there were valient efforts to push ahead, the Pioneers ended up unlucky this time around. Feb. 12: The team lost to both Mountain View, albeit strong performances by both Akash Chandani and Robert Hou. With 57-35, the team was unable to claim a victory at this game. Feb 15: Despite the great playing by both offensive and defensive, the team lost 53-18, ending the season on a bitter note. Varsity Boys Soccer Feb. 6: Although a strong first half was played, with the boys tying with Monta Vista at 1 - 1. However, although much effort was put into gaining the lead, the team lost by the end of the second half at a score of 4 - 1. Feb. 13: The team played a close game to the very end, until Palo Alto scored in the second half, leaving the last game of the 2013 season a 2 - 1. Varsity Girls Soccer Jan. 6: The team played a game at Santa Clara. The first time that they had played against Santa Clara, they had lost 3 - 0. However, this time, they managed to score two goals and really came together as a team despite their loss of 3:2. Jan. 9: At this game versus Miliptas, sophomores Stephanie Magellan and Lauren Rowe were both able to score goals during the first half. They were able to hold on to the 2:0 lead until the end.
JESSICA SHIN
VINITRA SWAMY news assistant
Not many of this school’s athletes can boast being champions at the Central Coast Section (CCS) tournament. Even fewer can claim that achievement as a freshman. However, Solin Piearcy can do all that and more, as the first freshman female wrestling champion that this school has ever seen. “As a freshman taking place at CCS, it was nothing short of a dream come true,” Piearcy said. “All my friends and family were there to support me all the way, as well as my wonderful coaches and teammates.” At the young age of 14, Piearcy has already achieved so much athletically and academically. As a year-round athlete and member of the field hockey, track and wrestling teams, it is easy to describe her as a star athlete. For wrestling, she has already taken first place at the CCS tournament, the girls Lynbrook Tournament, the Peninsula Invitational at Half Moon Bay, the Terra Nova Tournament, the Hollister Bailers Bash and the Los Gatos Frosh-Soph tournament, along with a sixth place title in the State championships during her first year. Adding to that the first place at CCS for her varsity field hockey team and her additional judo class achievements makes for a long list of stellar athletic accomplishments. Piearcy has always found a love in numerous
sports, and she seems to excel at everything she tries. From middle school onwards, Piearcy was involved with basketball, softball, track and judo, but enjoys the high school teams significantly more because of team bonding. However, wrestling has become her first priority. “Joining sport teams not only keeps you healthy, but also gives you the opportunity to make lifelong friends,” Piearcy said. “I love everything about it.” Due to wrestling being a primarily male sport, Piearcy has faced a lot of snide comments and strong opinions since middle school. At the Los Gatos tournament, Piearcy was faced with the daunting challenge of wrestling bigger, more muscular males. However, her bright outlook and self-confidence far outshine any derogatory remarks that were made. Said Piearcy, “These comments from people are inevitable, but I still ignore it and put it off to the side because I love wrestling and no matter what anyone says, I’m still going to go out and do it.” Finding the balance between social and academic life as well as participating in one sport, let alone year-round, is a challenge many students face. However, even with the constant upkeep of competing in various sports all year long, Piearcy’s 4.0 GPA is stellar. Her ambitious drive academically and athletically makes her a formidable opponent to all her competitors. “I’m planning to be a year-round athlete with field hockey, wrestling and track throughout the entire year while trying to maintain my straight A’s, even though that might be hard during sophomore and junior year,” Piearcy said. “In wrestling, specifically, I would like to keep trying to defend my CCS title, place higher in states, and maybe even go to Nationals. For the future, I’m looking for some type of scholarship for wrestling or in track, and hopefully getting into a really good college.” While it is not clear what’s in store for the young superstar wrestler, field hockey player and track runner, it is clear that her athletic career at this school will be nothing short of extraordinary.
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Flip Side
March 1, 2013
FEBRUARY IN PHOTOS NIRMIT SHAH
NIRMIT SHAH
NIRMIT SHAH
COURTESY OF LUCY CHIAN
COURTESY OF LUCY CHIAN
POWDERPUFF | Senior Lee Ann Vuk grabs for history teacher Kimberlee Konwinski’s flag at a friendly teachers versus students football match.
CHEER SENIOR NIGHT | Senior Emma Beall stands on the support of her team mates in the last home basketball game of the season.
VALENTINE SERANADES | Senior Nir Avrahamov recieves a seranade from a beginning girl’s choir group at brunch.
NIRMIT SHAH
JASON CHEN
WINTER SPORTS AWARDS NIGHT | Sophomore soccer player Stephanie Magalhaes is chosen as the MVP of the winter season.
VARSITY BASEBALL | Freshman Ben Champion readies the ball and pitches at a game against Santa Clara High School.
Siddarth Sundaram, raising money for cancer Sophomore Siddarth Sundaram is currently involved in Team in Training, an organization that works with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to raise money to fund cancer research. His online information page is http://pages.teamintraining. org/sj/sntacrzh13/Sid. Q: How does Team in Training work? A: Team in Training prepares a team to run different races. What they do is they condition you and prepare you for the marathon and as a part of that I pledged to raise $2000 to go towards cancer research. [My focus is] on teen and childhood cancer predominantly, and the rate of that has significantly reduced as a result of Team in Training and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s efforts.
Q: Do you have a specific amount of money you want to raise for each race? A: I only have to raise money for the half because I’m running the Santa Cruz Half with Team in Training. I’m doing the Oakland Full separately because of the age restrictions. I have to raise $2000 but my personal goal is to JE SS ICA raise about $2500 to $3000. SH Q: How much money have you raised so far? A: So far I’ve raised about $550, however with the support of the Tino community I could raise a lot more. Q: Where do most of your donations come from? A: Most of my donations come from family members and friends so far. I’ve also spoken to a few teachers and asked if they’d like to support me with donations or just spreading the word. I’m thinking of doing a fundraiser at a restaurant, preferably somewhere close to [the school].
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Q: How did you get involved with Team in Training? A: I got involved through my dad because he actually ran a marathon with Team in Training two years ago. He ran it in honor of one of h i s friends who had cancer and is no longer with us. When I was running the last few miles with him I had a greater sense come to me and I wanted to train with the team and run a marathon [myself ] because I saw how much good my dad was doing to society. I felt touched at what he was doing and I wanted to give back as well.
Q: How do you accept donations? A: You can donate to me online, however if you can’t donate to me online you’ll be able to find me on campus and tell me that you want to donate. Q: Do you have any long term goals? A: My long term goal is to keep giving back to society. I personally feel that you don’t have to be told to act; you have to feel within yourself that you want to give back. COMPILED BY VICTORIA DUAN
NEXT MONTH: MARCH Spring musical: West Side Story
Masterworks Concert Tuesday, March 5
Friday, March 15 & 22 - Saturday, March 16 & 23
CAHSEE
Challenge Day
Tuesday, March 12 - Wednesday, March 13
Spring Sports Rally
Tuesday, March 19
International Week
Friday, March 15
Monday, March 25 - Friday, April 5
CHRIS CAI CHRIS CAI
WEB EXCLUSIVE www.chsprospector.org Weekly Obsession: Jae Choi enlightens us with his ideas on the world of fashion
Tino’s Got Talent highlights: Watch some of the most talented people on campus perform
JASON CHEN
Q: When did you get involved? A: When I was 14 I made a promise to myself that I would run with Team in Training when I turned 16, and on the day of my birthday I registered to run.
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Q: Which races are you planning on participating in in the near future? A: I’ll be running the Oakland Full on March 24 and the Santa Cruz Half on April 7. What I’ve heard is that the Oakland course is actually hilly so I’ve been preparing for that in my training by running hills whenever I do my long run. The coaches are really good about preparing you because they know what challenges you’ll face in the marathon and they prepare you according to that.
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Happy S.A.D. column: Trina Bhattari tells you why it’s ok to be single and ready to mingle
Valentine’s seranade photos: Relive the season of love with photos of seranaded students
I’m consistent ASHLEY LIU features assistant
A couple weeks ago, I wore the same exact clothes for five days straight. Disgusting? Probably. Tactful for Valentine’s Day? Probably not. But a good experience? Interestingly enough, I’d say absolutely. Let me start with some background. I’ve secretly always wanted an excuse to do something like this. Back when I was a sassy seventh grader, one of my closest mentors encouraged me to try wearing my ugliest clothes for a week — that is, sweatpants and sweatshirts, which I now wear on a near-daily basis — just so I could see how much I actually cared about my appearance. I flatly refused, but then again, at the time all I could stand wearing was skinny jeans and Aeropostale jackets. Years later and considerably more open-minded about fashion, I wanted to try it out with the passable excuse that I was doing it for journalism. Fast forward to Monday morning, day one. That week, the stars mysteriously aligned and dictated the breaking of the furnace in my house, such that I would feel compelled to wear four layers. Also, the great outdoors happened to be about 20 degrees above the winter average. Come sixth period journalism, Jessadeh raised an eyebrow and exchanged a secret journalistic wink before saying, “Ashley, we would like you to write this article! Looks like you picked today to start!” Monday came and went. Tuesday, not a single person noticed outside of journalism. Wednesday, though I witnessed journalistic winks everywhere during block sixth, no one noticed. It was only Thursday that someone other than Ann Peck & Associates, Inc. obnoxiously asked if I was “homeless or something.” I responded with a glare. In conclusion: barely anyone noticed. The one person who did notice didn’t care. At first, I was a bit let down by this. This social experiment was basically a massive epic failure. Honestly though, who cares? In the end, the only one who cared that I wore the same exact thing for five days straight was myself. In fact, when I asked my girlfriends what they thought of it on day five, one of them said that she just assumed that I were studying too hard to care about what I wore. I think this is a testament to the strength of our school’s environment. No one judges you for who you are, much less what you wear. Now if it weren’t for those snarky journalistic comments and the coincidental heat wave, I might as well wear the same thing for the rest of the year.