Highlander Vol 13 Issue 4

Volume XIII, Issue IV | Masks unmasked - Page 8 | Students struggle through senioritis - Page 48

CHANGE MATTERS NOW. Read on page 25.

Highlander Staff Highlander Editor-in-Chief Isabelle Nunes

Scot Scoop Editor-in-Chief Elle Horst

ScotCenter Editor-in-Chief Phoebe Gulsen

Social Media Editor-in-Chief Mira Bhatt

Managing Editors Chelsea Chang Amber Chia

Faculty Adviser Justin Raisner

Editors Allison Raisner Andrew Shu Anika Marino Austin Li Chesney Evert

Claire Tseng Erin Kee Grace Wu Raina Lahiri Rebecca Von Tersch

Staff Writers Aidan Lynd Andrew Tolu Anita Beroza Anna Wilkinson Anoushka Mekerira Cali Shohet Cambell Kirk Carolina Cuadros Catherine Eikelbarner Elise Hsu Erin Kee Ethan Man Gem Kryhina Glydelle Espano Isabel Wright Izaan Masud Hayes Gaboury Hudson Fox Isa Khalak Isabel Wright Jack Hansen Jessica Conley Julia Roseborough Kai Yoshida Karla Lee

Kasey Liu Katherine Tsvirkunova Kaylene Lin Kayley Ebaugh Keegan Balster Kiana George Leanna Gower Lindsay Augustine Lucy Lopshire Madelyn Mercado Malina Wong Mandy Mah Marrisa Chow Maya Campbell Maya Kornyeyeva Niamh Marren Nyah Simpson Oliver Fichte Payton Zolck Robin Linares Sabrina Lo Soleil Dam Sophia Gurdus Sophia Mattioli

Highlander is a newsmagazine dedicated to providing Carlmont students, staff, and community with highquality news, features, and opinion articles. We want to keep our readers informed on important issues ranging from events at Carlmont to international news, and want to engage them with unique stories and designs.

Highlander is a publication completely run by the students of the journalism classes at Carlmont High School. Story ideas are generated by the students and the published content is up to the direction of the editorial staff.

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS Dear reader, We hope you are doing well! Upon brainstorming topics for this issue’s center spread, we strived to find a subject relevant to the events in March. When Women’s History Month was mentioned during the session, we knew that it would be a fitting issue for Scotlight.

Since the 1980s, the month of March has been presidentially proclaimed as Women’s History Month. This month is dedicated to recognizing, celebrating, and honoring contributions women have made to American society.

These contributions entail those made within the workforce, and despite the countless progressions women have achieved, equality in salaries is yet to be a reality.

In this issue’s Scotlight, we discuss such discrepancies within the workforce. These injustices have been circulating in our society for centuries, and we hope this Scotlight will increase awareness of the issue. We are ecstatic to give you all the fourth issue of this school year, and we hope you all enjoy it!

Much love,

ISSUE 4 / HIGHLANDER 2022

CONTENTS CAMPUS 13 Dear sophomore Phoebe 14 Carlmont critters 16 Governance Council makes a mark at Carlmont 17 Legacy on walls

SPORTS 18 20 22 23

History of March Madness The rivalry Racing through 2022 A lifetime of competition

OPINION 30 Editorial: schools must prepare students for real life 31 The problem of online consumerism 32 H Mart snack recommendations 34 Are you a wish-cycler?

35 Thank Cesar Chavez for your strawberries 36 Stereotypes about teenage employees are misinformed

FEATURES 38 Are resellers ruining sneaker culture?

FUN 4 Exploring milk alternatives 6 National Cereal Day 8 Masks unmasked 10 Spring into cooking 12 Methods for relaxation

40 Untold stories of 911 operators 42 Let’s talk about it 44 Behind the scenes of Belmont history 46 Origins of Disney stories 48 Students struggle through senioritis 50 Loneliness is...

52 Inked

Exploring milk alternatives Writing

and art by

Maya Kornyeyeva

Soybeans. Almonds. Oats. Coconuts.

What do these seemingly random plant-produced ingredients have in common? The answer is more complicated than it seems.

Let’s start with the basic link: milk. All of these products are manipulated in some way or another to create a milk alternative, designed especially for individuals who are lactose intolerant or those who are looking for a healthy non-dairy solution.

“People who have lactose intolerance are missing a protein that digests the lactose sugar in milk, so drinking normal cow’s milk isn’t an option for them,” said Mark Castro, a senior who works as a Starbucks barista. “Alternative milk varieties like almond and soy don’t have any lactose in them since they are made from plants: this is why they are such a good option for people who can’t consume lactose.”

The trend of opting for milk alternatives first surfaced in the 90s with the emergence of soy milk. Over the 21st century, the popularity and consumerism of plant-based milk have continued to rise, with an estimated $40.6 billion global market in 2026, according to the sustainable foods news website Treehugger.

According to Castro, customers often prefer milk alternatives over regular cow milk. Gen Z leads today’s milk alternative craze, choosing oat milk both because of its unique taste and texture, as well as the environmental implications.

“It’s very advantageous that companies like Starbucks have alternative milk options for lattes and drinks because it allows customers who have dietary restrictions, and those who want to branch out and try new things, to still enjoy their beverage,” Castro said.

Additionally, Carlmont Climate Change Club Vice President Claire Bing notes how making the switch to an alternative milk option can benefit our planet in the long run.

“The main benefit of switching to something like oat milk

or almond milk is that we’re going to transition into a more sustainable means of production. Since cows produce a lot of carbon dioxide and methane gas, which are greenhouse gases, they inevitably contribute to climate change,” Bing said.

“Raising and maintaining cows also consumes a lot of land, which could be used to grow other food we can eat.”

This idea has been visited and revisited by environmental activists and government officials alike. A 2018 study published in the Washington Post found that about 12.4 million acres of forest are cut down each year to clear room for industrial agriculture.

In fact, increased climate awareness in recent years is one of the main reasons why alternative milk options have gained such momentum in the last decade: they have a more positive environmental impact than their dairy counterparts.

Oat milk, which is arguably the most sustainable alternative, uses only 17 to 26 inches of water per growing season and has been proven to yield the smallest carbon footprint, according to data compiled by Columbia University’s Climate School.

“Alternative milk options are produced quickly, take up little space, and actually suck carbon dioxide out of our atmosphere in the process. Oatmilk is no exception,” Bing said.

In the United States, oat milk and almond milk have outstripped other dairy alternatives and are common staples in grocery stores and coffee shops. Various other plant-based milk can also be found, including those made from rice, hemp, cashews, hazelnuts, quinoa, and macadamia.

However, soy milk and coconut milk still reign in coastal areas in Asia, where the cuisine is deeply centered around creamy plant-based milk filled with nutrients and proteins.

Coconut milk is an abundant resource in tropical climates like those found in Hawaii, India, and certain South American and Caribbean countries.

“Growing up in the United States, I only drank cow milk my whole life. Finding out that other alternative milk types are already popular in other cultures and cuisines was a really cool experience because I realized that I didn’t have to consume dairy milk if I didn’t want to,” Castro said.

Soy milk is the original plant-based milk alternative and has a consistency similar to low-fat cow’s milk. It also has a healthful nutritional profile, including essential omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. Soy milk is made by cooking and filtering dehulled soybeans, which are then blended with sugar or flavorings. Soybeans require a third of the water needed to sustain dairy cows, and while they grow as far and wide as China, the Ukraine, and Canada, well over half the world’s supply is grown in South America.

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Enriched almond milk is an excellent source of calcium for those who don’t consume dairy products. According to TreeHugger, 80% of the world’s almonds are grown in California and are California’s largest agricultural export. Because they are harvested from trees, almonds produce the least greenhouse gases of any milk type. However, the almond’s dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides makes it harmful to bee colonies, and the crops consume a vast amount of water each season.

Oat milk naturally supplies nutrients like potassium, which helps promote healthy blood pressure and iron levels. It is also favored as a latte base due to its creamy texture and rich taste. Oats can grow in a range of environments and soil types and are resilient to acidic soil conditions. Russia is the world’s leading oat producer, followed by Canada and Australia.

Coconut milk is a high-calorie milk alternative made from the white flesh of mature brown coconuts. Unlike coconut water, which is found naturally in immature green coconuts, coconut milk is about 50% water and 50% processed coconut flesh. In Thai and Southeast Asian cuisines, thick coconut milk is used in desserts and thick sauces, while thin milk is used in soups and thin sauces.

According to Healthline, coconut milk has properties that benefit weight loss, body composition, and metabolism.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 5

National Cereal Day Celebrating America’s top four breakfast cereals Writing

and art by

Sophia Mattioli

In the mid-1800s, James Caleb Jackson, an avid health reformer, invented a breakfast cereal using graham flour dough that dried out so much it had to be soaked in milk overnight. He called it granula.

John Harvey Kellogg and his younger brother immediately picked up this idea and used Jackson’s methods to develop cornflakes, the first example of modern cereal. As cereals have evolved, companies find it hard to make their dried-out grains stand out from the others, hence the turn to mascots and catchphrases to stay on top.

Every year in early March, we are encouraged to grab a bowl and celebrate National Cereal Day.

Honey Nut Cheerios rank as America’s most popular breakfast cereal. Originally named “Cheerioats,” the brand changed to the iconic Cheerios in 1945. These whole grain “o’s” weren’t always O-shaped; the company tested more than ten shapes and sizes before settling on the O.

America’s second most popular cereal, Frosted Flakes, selected their mascot through a public poll. Tony the Tiger beat Katy the Kangaroo, Elmo the Elephant, and Newt the Gnu to become the face of Frosted Flakes.

Tony developed his character even more in the 1970s when he was declared Italian-American and celebrated by magazines Italian GQ and Panorama.

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Cinnamon Toast Crunch quickly became America’s third most popular cereal after going through quite the rollercoaster with their original mascot, Chef Wendell. When today’s Crazy Squares replaced Chef Wendell and his fellow chef mascots, fans began to spread rumors claiming Wendell drowned the other two bakers in the cinnamon swirl river. In actuality, they were most likely eliminated for marketing reasons.

Lucky Charms, America’s fourth most popular cereal, only featured clover, heart, star, and moon marshmallows in 1964. Now, you can find horseshoes, unicorns, rainbows, and balloons alongside the four original charms.

Lucky the Leprechaun prevails as the brand’s main personality, recently celebrating his fiftieth birthday with an all-green edition of the marshmallow-oat cereal.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 7

MASKS UNMASKED

Which mask provides the best protection against COVID-19?

Writing

and art by

Oliver Fichte

Looking back on the second anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, let’s appreciate what got us here (Hint: it’s on your face).

Face masks have helped us through this difficult time, and we’ve seen them in multiple forms, from cloth masks to respirators. It’s time to settle once and for all: What is the best mask?

NECK GAITER Thick cotton neck gaiters are the most effective of their kind, but not all of these masks provide good protection, as neck gaiters made of thin synthetic material do little to preserve your health.

• •

Material is important Many better alternatives

CLOTH MASK At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, cloth masks were popular but have since been overtaken by surgical and KN95 masks. Many cloth masks are low quality, but some have tightly woven, multi-layered fabric or removable air filters, making them a more reliable option.

• Ranges from very unsafe to somewhat safe • Safer with tighter fabric and air filters

8 HIGHLANDER FUN

SURGICAL MASK Nowadays, these masks are very commonly used. They excel at preventing airborne transmission of viruses while remaining comfortably thin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they can leave the sides of the face exposed, but knotting the straps, folding in the material, and using a nose wire solve this problem.

• Sufficient filtration and prevention of viral spread • Has nose wire, gaps on side can be closed

KN95 KN95s use multiple layers of synthetic material to draw 95% of particles from the air, according to Stanford infectious disease physician Dr. Abraar Karan in an interview with NPR. They are made to meet standards set

by China, but the CDC states that quality is often not a requirement, as 60% of all KN95 respirators are counterfeit.

Regardless, they are a strong choice if you do your research.

• Legitimate respirators are most effective • International/Chinese standards • Many counterfeits

N95 The N95 respirator is considered the king of masks, from viral protection to wildfire smoke filtration. With at least 95% protection against airborne particles coming from all directions (CDC), it’s easy to see why. The N95 respirator is made of the same particle-filtering materials as the KN95 and is also approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which assesses them based on an American standard. Correspondingly, it is also the most expensive.

• Most effective against COVID-19 • Tends to be expensive • NIOSH-approved

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 9

Spring into cooking Maya Campbell Spring is the perfect time to enjoy these sustainable and locally-sourced recipes. Aside from being easy to make, they are all delicious!

Carbonara makes 4 servings

Ingredients: • • • • • •

12 oz of rigatoni or spaghetti 7 oz of guanciale, pancetta, or bacon 4 large eggs 1 cup + 1 tablespoon of pecorino romano 2-3 pinches of kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Pour 12 cups of water and a couple pinches of salt into a large pot and boil over medium-high heat. While water is boiling, prepare the carbonara.

Cut guanciale (if using) into small pieces and simmer in a frying pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally, keeping in mind that the more you cook guanciale, the more crispy it will become. If cooking with pancetta, cook until crispy. When cooked to required texture, cover and set aside.

Whisk the pecorino romano into the eggs, and then add black pepper. Mix quickly with a fork or whisk until a creamy sauce is formed.

Set aside the sauce and add the pasta into the boiling water. Follow box directions and cook to al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

While pasta is cooking, bring your egg sauce near you so that it’s easily accessible. After pasta is cooked, quickly strain and add to the pan over high heat with the guanciale, mix for 10 seconds, and then turn off the heat and add the eggs. Mix vigorously until sauce is creamy.

If the pasta is too liquidy, add grated pecorino. If it’s too clumpy, add 1-2 tbsp of pasta water.

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Apricot Lavender-Honey Refresher makes 2 servings

Ingredients: • • • • • •

¼ cup honey 1 teaspoon of dried lavender 3 apricots ½ teaspoon of cornstarch 2 tablespoons of lemon juice One bottle of sparkling water

Directions: 1.

2.

3.

Make mixture of a 2:1 ratio of honey to water, add dried lavender and cook over medium-low heat. Steep lavender in honey for 15 minutes before straining and cooling.

After slicing, purée the apricots in a blender. Pour in a pot with cornstarch, water, and lavender honey. Cook over medium heat until combined and thickened. Then, let cool for 15 minutes.

Using a cocktail shaker or mason jar, combine apricot jam, lemon juice, and water with ice and shake vigorously.

To the bottom of a 16-oz glass, add fresh ice. Strain the mixture into the glass, filling it up about ¾ of the way. Top off with sparkling water and garnish with lemon slices if desired.

Strawberry-Rhubarb Eton Mess makes 3 servings

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • •

5oz store-bought or homemade vanilla meringue cookies 1 ¼ pound of strawberries ½ pound of rhubarb (if frozen, thaw completely) 1.5 teaspoons of lemon zest 2 tablespoons of lemon juice 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar ½ cup granulated sugar 2 cups of cold heavy whipping cream Mint, to garnish

Directions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Put the meringue cookies into a gallon-size resealable plastic bag. Lightly crush them up with a rolling pin, and make sure they are varying sizes for better texture.

Combine rhubarb, ½ cup of water, granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook until rhubarb is soft, around 10-15 minutes. Let cool, then purée in a blender.

Whip the cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Then, gently fold in the crumbled meringue pieces until well-incorporated.

In a mason jar or 12-ounce cup, layer the strawberrymeringue sauce alternating with the cream-meringue mixture. Garnish with mint, if desired.

Maya Campbell

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 11

Methods for relaxation Writing

and art by

1. Listen to soothing music

According to an article by Stanford University’s Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics, music has therapeutic effects, meaning that certain songs or genres can encourage relaxation. Sounds of nature, such as rain or birds chirping, can be particularly effective at reducing stress, while flutes, jazz, and classical music are used to calm the mind.

3. Drink green tea Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea leaves, is proven to reduce anxiety. Additionally, drinking green tea improves blood flow and reduces cholesterol levels.

Kaylene Lin

2. Soak in a warm bath

Baths have proven to soothe muscle tension and joint pain while also providing a stress-free environment for meditation and self-care. With the addition of Epsom salts, baths can be a wonderful way to relax the body and the mind, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

4. Write

According to a study by the American Psychological Association, writing can alleviate stress by combating negative or intrusive thoughts and feelings. For example, journaling or writing poems allow people to reflect, express emotions, vent, organize thoughts, and more.

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Dear sophomore Phoebe, Two years ago, in January of 2020, you wrote me a letter to open during our senior year. This was prior to COVID-19, however, which you wouldn’t believe happened even if I told you.

The past two years have been nothing close to what you expected, but they have nonetheless been your best periods of growth. You asked many surface-level questions about prom, field trips, and the summer before senior year. Unfortunately, a lot of events you were looking forward to never happened, and the phrase “postponed indefinitely” is something you’ll be very familiar with. Ultimately, online school gave you a much-needed break. Your busy academic and social lives were put on pause, and you had nothing to do but sit in your bedroom and think. You thought about your future and how nothing at this point was guaranteed. You thought about the ways you wanted to improve yourself and what it might take to finally get to the point of self-love. You thought about the people you surrounded yourself with and how strangely this new period of isolation made you happier. You were happier to be away from academic stress. You were happier to be away from constant self-doubt. You were happier to be away from people that were dragging you down.

You do not owe anything to those that make you feel in any way less of yourself. Cutting these people out of your life is not a sign of disrespect towards them but a far greater respect for yourself. I look back on you in amazement for your toleration and survival in such unhealthy relationships. It hurts to know that when writing me that letter, you already felt the weight they put on you. Just know that you remove it eventually, and you are allowed to be unforgiving. I am so proud of you for putting yourself first and making the hard decisions you made. Nothing has given you more freedom and happiness.

Coming back to school your senior year has been nothing short of a full-circle moment. You left sophomore year in a state of confusion, not knowing anything about college, relationships, or what might lie ahead. As I am entering my second semester of senior year, most of your questions have been answered. I have found a deep passion for journalism, which I intend to continue in college. I am so lucky to be surrounded by people who I love and who love me deeply. I would not wish to finish out my final years of adolescence with anyone else. Although these past years have been a whirlwind, remember that you are not alone. As crazy as it sounds, it’s okay to ask for help, and it’s not a sign of weakness to show that you are struggling. You finished your letter with one final question: “Phoebe, are you happy?”

Yes. I am in a place where I am so happy to be me, and I am so grateful for you. Without you, I would have never known my worth, and your experiences have taught me so much over the past two years. Take it one day at a time, be kind to yourself and to others, and know that you are worth far more than you know.

All my love, Senior Phoebe

Phoebe Gulsen

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 13

Carlmont critters A guide on species spotted around campus Writing

and art by

Robin Linares

Mountain lions, spiders, and deer, oh my! Carlmont students are no strangers to seeing many types of wildlife in the community. It is not uncommon to see a deer while heading to school or find the lingering smell of a skunk while on campus. Read more to learn about some of the most common species found in and around Carlmont, what is done with them when they are on campus and their importance to the community.

MOUNTAIN LIONS AND DEER Mountain lions and deer have a known predator and prey dynamic in the Belmont and San Carlos area. Deer, who are commonly out in the daytime, can sometimes be seen in and around Carlmont.

“I’ve seen a couple of deer outside of the biotech classrooms,” said Avantika Swaminathan, a junior.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, our deer species, the mule deer (characterized by “large ears and a black-tipped tail,”) are known to stay together in groups. Their most common predators are coyotes and, not surprisingly, mountain lions.

Mountain lions are rare to see, as they tend to hide from humans. However, mountain lion sightings have become more common in San Mateo County over the past few years. One was one found near Carlmont a few months ago.

If a mountain lion happens to be present on Carlmont’s campus during school hours, there is a plan in place.

“We would be in a shelter-in-place and keep everyone in class until Animal Control is able to locate or identify the animal,” said Grant Steunenberg, one of Carlmont’s administrative vice principals.

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RACOONS AND SKUNKS Both of these animals are nocturnal, so it is unlikely that students will spot them at school. However, skunks especially are known to leave behind a little surprise; their smell.

The two species of skunks native to the Bay Area are the western spotted skunk and the striped skunk. They live in underground burrows and typically come out at night searching for food. In addition, despite the negative reputation associated with them, they only spray when threatened.

While raccoons don’t leave behind a scent, they are known to scavenge through trash and leave a mess behind.

“It’s like an all-you-can-eat buffet for those guys,” Steunenberg said.

According to San Francisco Animal Care and Control, one way to prevent altercations with raccoons and other animals is to try and keep the trash closed tightly and pick up fallen food so it doesn’t attract them.

Thankfully, it is unlikely you’ll encounter either of these animals at school unless you’re out searching for them. Even if you find one, they likely won’t harm you unless you give them a reason to.

SNAKES AND SPIDERS While snakes and spiders can be intimidating at times, many are harmless.

The most common snakes in the Bay Area are Garter snakes and California Kingsnakes, but occasionally, you can come across the Western Rattlesnake. If a snake was spotted on campus, Steunenberg noted the steps that would be taken.

“If it’s non-venomous, we would try to remove it and just put it up on the hillside out of the way from students since they can sometimes do harm to the animal,” Steunenberg said. “If it’s venomous, then we call it to animal control.”

Spiders are dealt with similarly.

“Technically, all spiders are venomous, but for something like a tarantula, we would scoop it up and put it back on the side,” Steunenberg said. “If we saw something like a black widow, we would probably squirt it with some bug spray.”

While being around some of these animals, whether it be spiders, snakes, mountain lions, or other wildlife species in the Bay Area, can be scary at times, it is important to remember that they were here first, and it is important to coexist with them.

BIRDS You may have heard the sound of birds on a typical school day. Sometimes they come in sweet chirps, but usually, they come in large caws.

Many types of birds come out through the Carlmont area, ranging as small as hummingbirds to as big as crows and seagulls. Often, they come for the food students leave behind.

“I’ve seen them hopping around at lunch looking for any crumbs someone may have dropped,” said Lindsay Hauf, a junior.

Steunenberg noted a pattern between the birds and how they interacted with Carlmont and its neighboring schools.

“It used to be so bad that at lunchtime you could see when Tierra Linda [and] Ralston would have their lunchtime because you would look up the hill and see a swarm of seagulls off in the distance [at Ralston]; then they would move to [Tierra Linda], and then they’d come above Carlmont,” Steunenberg said.

While the swarms of birds may look intimidating, it is worth noting that the worst thing that would happen would be getting bird droppings on you.

“That’s honestly my biggest concern when I see the birds,” Steunenberg said.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 15

Governance Council makes a mark at Carlmont W

ho assesses Carlmont’s school-wide policies — the length of our lunchtime, students’ cell phone rules, the homework policy?

Behind the scenes is the Governance Council. Composed of parents, students, teachers, and administrative staff, the council works to gather different perspectives to review the climate of Carlmont.

Founded in 1997, the Governance Council has been around to discuss topics such as the homework load, communication, the number of assessments to give a year, and policies regarding Carlmont.

“We did a lot of mental health surveys for students,” said Julia Smith, a counselor and member of the Governance Council. “During distance-learning, because we were acknowledging that staff was under a lot of pressure and change, [we] collected that feedback and tried to figure out what we’re going to do with it. The respect policy, the bell schedule, putting thought into extracurriculars as well as sleep time, and putting in flex was a huge part of the Governance Council.”

The council holds monthly meetings open for students and staff to communicate problems, which then go onto an agenda of issues to be addressed. Teachers and staff in the council gain feedback from the department chairs, other counselors, and teachers while parents and students network through their other peers for feedback. Meetings are held over Zoom, which are sent out and planned by the Governance Council facilitator. The facilitator creates an agenda of topics or issues to discuss and overall runs and monitors the meeting.

“We always have discussions about ‘Is what we’re doing effective? Is it actually going to help students? Are they going to realize it?’” said Seona Sherman, a senior and active member of the council. “Certain projects take a while because every single time you have it reviewed, there’s always going to be some feedback. So, you have to take it back, and you have to do it until there are no concerns.”

Sherman discovered the Governance Council through a project she was working on. Students have joined the council partly through word of mouth and generally attending meetings if they found an issue concerning. Overall, the Governance Council relies on upper and lowerclassmen looking to get things done.

“If anybody wants to join, all they have to do is show up. At the end of the day, if they just want to pop by one of our rooms or even send an email,” said Daniel Deasy, a teacher at Carlmont and the facilitator of the council. “I think the more student voices we hear, the better things are going to be because how we think probably doesn’t necessarily meet the needs of what students need. We have to listen and find that middle ground that makes it work.”

The Governance Council works to address issues brought up by any student or staff member, coming up with solutions that compromise each perspective.

“This is your school, you attend here, you have to be here every day, so if something is concerning you or there’s something that you really focused all of your attention on, then Governance Council is your place to share that and address that,” Smith said.

-Malina Wong

16 HIGHLANDER CAMPUS

Anoushka Mekerira

LEGACY ON WALLS Anoushka Mekerira A castle rests peacefully on top of a hill. But down the hill, mighty Scots battle fierce dragons, a war breaking out between the two. This is the first impression of Carlmont’s most iconic mural, featured across from the Student Union. The story behind the artwork is one of a kind.

Caught vandalizing the school, Angelo Zhao transformed his hobby of sketching dragons on Carlmont’s walls into a beautiful mural.

“We left a note for the person and said, please come talk to us, you’re not in trouble. And he did. We told him his

artwork is amazing—but you can’t draw on the walls,” said Vice Principal Grant Steunenberg during his first encounter with Zhao.

Instead, Steunenberg and Carlmont faculty offered a better option for Zhao to express himself. Zhao, a junior at the time, was given the opportunity to paint a Carlmont mural and was even allowed to include his dragons.

When asked about the meaning behind the Scots battling dragons in the mural, Steueneberg says, “He really wanted to get his dragons in, so he came up with the idea to incorporate Carlmont Scots and his dragons, and we approved it.”

Zhao’s mural is greatly appreciated

by Carlmont’s student body too.“I love how detailed and dynamic it is. It makes me think of all the time, work, and genuine thought that the Carlmont artist put into this mural,” said Abby Wong, an AP Art student. Even the scales on the dragons are meticulously painted with craft and detail.

The mural has remarkably stayed untouched for seven years now. In addition, Zhao’s talents have inspired other murals to be created across Carlmont’s campus.

“We got lucky. We got someone that had this amazing talent and wanted to benefit the school,” Stuenenberg said.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 17

History of MARCH MADNESS Soleil Dam March Madness is a Division 1 single-elimination basketball tournament that started in 1939. The name originated from a popular high school basketball tournament in Illinois and was adapted by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for its annual tournament.

The tournament generates over 90% of the NCAA’s annual revenue. It has two separate tournaments that showcase the 68-best Division 1 women’s basketball teams and 68-best Division 1 men’s basketball teams in the United States.

This lucrative tournament starts off with teams separated into South, West, East, and Midwest divisions that earn nicknames such as the Sweet 16, Elite Eight, and Final Four as the tournament progresses.

With the rise of sports betting, the tournament has gained popularity and made even more money. Many people fill out a bracket based on who they think will win each matchup. Bettors will put a certain amount of money down in hopes of predicting all winners correctly and cashing in on up to $495,000.

“Sports betting and betting on brackets has affected March Madness positively because it makes any game worth watching because it will matter to you,” said Andrei Tomutiu, a junior at Carlmont.

During mid-March, the full March Madness bracket with teams and seedings is revealed by the Selection Committee on Selection Sunday.

Andrew

Shu

18 HIGHLANDER SPORTS

1939

1966

Under the name March Madness, the first Division 1 men’s basketball tournament was held and the Oregon Ducks emerged victorious.

Texas Western became the first team to have a starting lineup in a championship game that consisted of all Black players.

They went on to win the game 72-65, beat the Kentucky Wildcats, and become national champions.

Soleil Dam

1982 Alongside the men’s tournament, the first Division 1 women’s basketball tournament was held and Louisiana Tech Lady Techsters were crowned national champions.

1982

Emerging UNC star Michael Jordan hit the game winner to give the Tar Heels their first national championship since the 1950’s.

Jordan went on to get drafted to the Chicago Bulls and retire as what some call the greatest basketball player of all time.

1984 Cheryl Miller, the 1984 Most Outstanding Player, led the USC Trojans became the first womens team to win back-to-back national championships.

2006 In the first round against Army, Candance Parker of the Tennessee Vols became the first female basketball player to dunk in an NCAA tournament.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 19

THE RIVALRY

Carlmont and Sequoia’s competitive history

20 HIGHLANDER SPORTS

Nyah Simpson The Boston Red Sox vs. The New York Yankees, The Los Angeles Lakers vs. The Boston Celtics, The Carlmont Scots vs.

The Sequoia Ravens.

Most sports rivalries occur due to close geographical location; the Carlmont and Sequoia rivalry is no different.

“The schools are in close proximity, so they are our natural rival, and they have been for a long time, so the students can get a little more into it,” said Patrick Smith.

Smith is the athletic director for Carlmont and says that the rivalry is not only good for school spirit but also gives players more drive because they are able to get more hyped up for that game in particular.

“It’s a really good outlet for them to understand how things are supposed to be done,” Smith said.

Even though the rivalry is not official, the thought of it gives athletes a different kind of adrenaline, as they hope that their games will end in victories, giving them bragging rights.

“For a while now, we have had specific games at the end of the season for certain sports, where we play Sequoia

to win a trophy,” said Conner Cook, a junior. In each sport where this rivalry takes place, such as lacrosse or football, there is a trophy or plaque given to the winners. For football, the award is the coveted Terramere Trophy that has been passed back and forth between Sequoia and Carlmont since the 1950s.

“The rivalry is very important. It means something to the school and something to the community,” said Eric Rado, Carlmont’s football coach.

Carlmont was established in 1953 and had a rich sports history, winning the Terramere Trophy numerous times.

Before the Peninsula Athletic League was established in 1996, Carlmont and Sequoia had been playing games against each other for 43 years before that.

“It gives the players something to shoot for year-round,” Rado said.

Each game can have different energy depending on who the team is playing; rivalry games have a unique kind of energy as the athletes can feel like they are a part of something bigger.

Not only can the athletes feel a difference, the crowd can too.

“In the championship game in 2010, there was no space available in the stadium. It was at Sequoia, and it was standing room only, and both sides were

completely packed,” said Rob Poulos, Sequoia’s football coach.

The 2010 rivalry game between Sequoia and Carlmont was also the championship game that year, as they both had the best records in the league.

The crowd’s energy at that game was unlike any other.

There was a similar occurrence in 2009 during the rivalry game that was hosted at Carlmont. This was prior to Carlmont having bleachers on both sides of the field, and the stands were so packed that fans were spilling out onto the sidelines of the field.

“I think COVID definitely threw a wrench into things, but this past year our student section has been awesome,” Rado said.

In the 2021 fall season, Carlmont took home the Terramere trophy beating Sequoia 17-7, and Carlmont was able to end their season with a bang.

Poulos explains that the hardest part about the rivalry is figuring out how to be rivals while still maintaining comradery between teams.

“There’s no reason to hate each other all year long. For two hours, we are going to go head to head, and then after that we are going to go back to being friends,” Poulos said.

Photos By Gary Nakayama

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 21

Photos By Andi Mallinckrodt

A LIFETIME OF

COMPETITION Kayley Ebaugh

From skiing to horseback riding to dance, some do it all and everything in between.

Starting at four years old, Lilly Mallinckrodt was pushed into a flurry of competitive sports. Throughout her life, she has participated in skiing, horseback riding, and dance. After years of training and commitment, she was finally ready for a skiing competition called the National Aspen Competition.

Although she was encouraged to 22 HIGHLANDER SPORTS

continue, the pressure of the sport she used to love slowly became a chore.

“I was super nervous about the competition, and by that time, I already hated the sport. No matter how many people told me to keep going, I couldn’t travel with my team,” Mallinckrodt said.

But even with encouragement and years of training, accidents can’t be helped. She ended two rounds of the competition with a blown-out knee. She had ripped both her medial collateral ligament, which holds the bone and cartilage together, and posterior cruciate

ligament, which connects the thighbone to the top of your lower leg bone.

After the experience, she expanded her interests to horseback riding and dance, specifically ballet and lyrical.

She built herself back up with routined physical therapy and eventually was ready for her first major horseshow with the prized Mustang horse she had been training for two years.

“I was so proud of all the work I put into the competition. We won in our dressage category and the hunter hack,” Mallinckrodt said.

Racing through 2022 Anita Beroza Formula One is the most popular car racing sport worldwide. What is it all about, and what will the 2022 season be like?

Formula One has existed since 1946 and is so named because of the racing car model rules that were first developed (that model is called a “formula”), according to the book Formula One Racing For Dummies. Earlier series had no limitations on how a racing car could be built, which made racing very dangerous. Now, Formula One car regulations are one of the core components of the race.

The technological aspect behind each car makes Formula One unique compared to many other races since

each team designs and builds their own. Romit Bhatnagar, a senior, is an avid Formula One fan and was drawn in through the Netflix show Drive to Survive, a dramatized documentary about Formula One racing.

“I was really bored on Netflix, and the Formula One show Drive to Survive was recommended to me,” Bhatnagar said.

“The sport has had a huge increase in viewers that is mainly attributed to the show.”

Each Formula One team has two drivers, and the main draw for most Formula One fans is to root for a particular driver (as opposed to the team). Bhatnagar’s favorite driver is Daniel Ricciardo.

“He hadn’t had a great season in 2021, but I still have hope for him,” Bhatnagar

said.

While many Formula One fans are initially drawn to the sport by rooting for particular drivers, they often gain an appreciation for racing technology and engineering.

“I’m looking to do engineering in college,” Bhatnagar said. “If you’re into F1, it’s something that just kind of comes with the sport.”

This year, each of the ten teams has built a car in accordance with new regulations and modifications to that formula that dictates what can and can’t be raced with. One other major addition in the 2022 season is the new track: Miami will open for its first Grand Prix, or race, on May 8.

Take a look at the 2022 Formula One calendar by scanning the barcode below!

Glydelle Espano

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 23

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24 HIGHLANDER SCOTLIGHT

RILEY BAUM

AN AGE-OLD STRUGGLE FOR EQUAL RIGHTS Writing by Leanna Gower Design by Chesney Evert Art by Phie Wei MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 25

Phie Wei

The notion of feminism in our modern world is often dismissed with the idea, “you have equal rights; what more do you want?” but our work towards gender equality isn’t done yet. Since being banished to the household, we’ve come a long way, but women and feminine-presenting people still aren’t treated equally in the workplace, earning less than men working the same job and facing gender discrimination from employers and coworkers.

“Feminism is still needed today. Maybe not in the way that it was needed in the 1960s, but now even more so,” said María Valle Remond, a genderqueer senior at Carlmont. “It’s not a pro-women and anti-men movement; it’s a movement where all genders and people are equally as valued, and harm reduction is valued in order to destroy the systems put in place that overwhelmingly benefit men and negatively affect women and feminine-presenting people.”

In our modern world, intersectional feminism is key to equality. Intersectionality, the analytical framework for understanding how aspects of a person’s social and political identity combine to create different modes of privilege and discrimination, allows for women of color and queer women’s additional barriers to be recognized and overcome.

“Intersectionality plays a big role in my identity as a multi-marginalized person. There’s sexism, but then the combination

26 HIGHLANDER SCOTLIGHT

of racism and sexism perpetuating stereotypes for women of color.

Countless times I’ve heard, ‘Oh, you’re Asian and a woman, so you really can’t drive’ and worse stuff than that. So because I’m fem-presenting, I still face prejudice because I’m perceived as a woman, so I identify as a woman of color, but I am non-binary,” Weitz said.

The patriarchal society doesn’t just harm women. It adds stigma to men expressing emotions, limits women to work in the household or with childcare, and restricts non-binary people to the binary gender roles it upholds.

“Although I’m not a woman, I grew up as one, and I’m still fem-presenting.

I’ve experienced a lot of misogyny and sexism when I was younger doing more ‘manly’ things, and I still experience misogyny by people who perceive me as a woman,” said Hannah Weitz, a nonbinary senior at Carlmont.

Feminine-presenting people still face injustices in modern American society.

In 2020, women earned only 84¢ for every man’s dollar, according to a Pew Research Center study.

Feminism isn’t a new concept; it was first spotted in 380 B.C. in the classic Socratic dialogue “Republic.” Plato advocated for women, noting that they possess “natural capacities” equal to men for governing and defending Ancient Greece. Women of Ancient Greece then staged protests against a law that restricted their rights to gold and goods, and it was eventually repealed.

Centuries later, the enlightenment fostered its fair share of feminist thinkers. In the 1700s, Mary Wollstonecraft, the author of “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman,” fought alongside Duchess Margaret Cavendish, advocating for equality amongst men.

In the 1800s, many women stood at the forefront of the Abolitionist movement in the antebellum United States, demanding the end of slavery.

Women soon realized that they hadn’t acquired the very rights they were fighting for African Americans to achieve. Once they took to the streets, queer women and women of color were excluded from the movement.

After the Seneca Falls Convention, women frequently filled the streets,

demanding their rights after centuries of being legally inferior to men. Protesters were met with retaliation and, in some cases, arrests, but never any tangible change. Feminists organized nationwide protests referring to their Declaration of Sentiments outlining the rights they were fighting for until, finally, 72 years later, they received the right to vote in 1920.

After the Great Depression, women’s employment rose by 24%. Around 10.5 million to 13 million women were employed, according to History.com. While men lost their jobs left and right after the stock market crash of 1929, white women mainly held onto their “women’s work,” like nursing, teaching, and civil service, which were more stable than the industries dominated by men like coal mining and manufacturing. Though, women of color were constrained mainly to domestic work.

“Feminism belongs in the workplace, but it shouldn’t just be throwing women into jobs usually dominated by men. We can’t expect women to do well in these industries if they’re not given education, training, and resources to succeed and are thrown in unprepared to meet the gender quota,” Weitz said.

Despite making up a quarter of the American workforce, women earned far less than men. In some states, women’s working hours were restricted, preventing them from working at night.

Then, during World War II, women were encouraged to enter the men’s workforce to replace missing workers. A new wave of feminism was born, this time promoted by the U.S. government through massive publicity campaigns. Many were inspired by posters and film reels of women in the workplace like Rosie the Riveter.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 27

Riley Baum

In 1942, the National War Labor Board endorsed policies requiring companies to provide equal pay for women, directly replacing male workers.

The government’s campaigns succeeded, adding an estimated 6 million women to the civilian workforce and adding 310,000 women working in the U.S. aircraft industry in 1943.

Women made up 65% of the industry’s workforce during this time.

But after the war, women were expected to return to their patriarchal households, and those who chose to stay in the workforce were paid less than the men working beside them or were demoted to lesser positions. After women proved themselves in the workplace, many women wanted to continue being self-sufficient and have financial freedom, escalating the efforts to correct gender discrimination in the workplace.

In 1945, the U.S. Congress introduced the Women’s equal pay act, which would’ve made it illegal to pay women less than men for work of “comparable quality and quantity.” The measure failed to pass despite ample support from women’s rights groups, and by 1960 women were earning less than two-thirds what the men in the same position.

In 1963, despite heavy opposition from business groups, Congress passed the Equal Pay Act as an amendment to the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. The act outlined that employers can’t award unequal wages or benefits to men or women working jobs requiring “equal skill, effort, and responsibility, which are performed under similar working conditions.” It also included guidelines for when unequal pay is permitted, based on merit, seniority, worker’s quality or quantity of production, or other factors not defined by gender.

Still, President John F. Kennedy acknowledged that “much remains to be done to achieve full equality of economic opportunity” for women after noting that the law was “a significant step forward.”

Even 57 years later, in 2020, women were still not earning the same as men in the workplace.

Increased education and opportunities for women and legal aids have helped close the gap, but it’s still there. While it may seem small, only a 16¢ difference, it would take women an extra 42 days of work to earn what men did in a year.

Often excuses like, “A lot of women choose to stay home and parent,” or, “A lot of women don’t want to work” along with “Women just choose lower-paying jobs,” are seen on social media, used to excuse the modern wage gap. Still, it exists because of numerous other factors.

Women are two times more likely to work a part-time job than men. On average, women take more time off from employment to care for children or family members, according to Pew Research Center. This reinforces the patriarchal standard that women have to take care of everyone.

The exact reasons for the gap are difficult to measure due to the social stigma associated with asking about pay and workplace treatment. Still, the gap can be largely attributed to gender discrimination in the workforce. According to Pew Research Center, about 42% of working women said they’d experienced gender discrimination at work, compared to 22% of men.

One of the most common forms of gender discrimination is earning inequality. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, women earn less than men in nearly all occupations and earn less compared to their counterparts at every level of educational attainment.

“Feminism absolutely belongs in the workplace. Women should be paid and treated equally to their male counterparts. People need to realize that women work just as hard as men, and sometimes they’re paid less for doing the same job,” said Sophia Cerelli, a freshman at Carlmont.

Despite centuries of fighting, women still aren’t receiving gender equality. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 45% of people who believe it’s important for women to have equal rights with men suggested equal pay as an example of how gender equality can be achieved.

“I think the government needs to make laws so everyone, no matter their gender, will make the same wages. It’s not fair for anyone to do the same job and receive different pay,” said Tyler Newman, a junior at Carlmont.

After over 60 years of fighting for equal pay, now is the time to achieve it.

“Maybe someday people will get it through their heads that women are just as equally deserving as men, and they won’t be demonized for just wanting equal pay,” Weitz said.

328HIGHLANDER

HIGHLANDEROPINION SCOTLIGHT

DECEMBER 2021 HIGHLANDER 4 MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 29

Editorial: Schools must prepare students for real life Hundreds of thousands of high school students graduate with the unit circle memorized every year but without knowing how to pay taxes or interview for a job.

As students’ formative years of learning flow past, they enter an entirely new education arena in high school. In most cases, everyone takes the same core classes to graduate, but there is more flexibility in students’ schedules as they enter their junior and senior years. They can take electives such as ASB and journalism, take more classes in the subjects they are interested in, and even challenge themselves by taking AP or college-level courses.

These choices may seem to provide students with a wellbalanced schedule, but they are often clouded with the looming pressures of college. This strain may come from a variety of different sources, including parents, friends, teachers, and mentors.

The idea that high school’s sole purpose is to prepare students for college remains consistent. However, developing skills beyond general education that are applicable to the real world is especially important for students who do not conform to the expectations of attending a four-year university.

Although core curriculum and general education classes are undoubtedly important, American high schools tend to prioritize testing scores and challenging courses over preparing students for real life. With an overwhelming college-oriented

mindset, many students have limited time to learn valuable skills for a future beyond college.

Testing can only do so much to provide students with relevant experience. While the core curriculum sets a solid foundation to succeed in college, it does not teach students the time management, money management, and communication skills necessary to thrive in their future careers.

Research from the University at Buffalo found that job skills and personal traits are devalued to focus on increasing standardized test scores across schools nationwide. The study ultimately discovered that schools fail to balance academic and soft skills, which are essential to students in their high school career as they prepare for their future.

School curriculum should prioritize balancing teaching information with vital life skills, including communication, teamwork, and complex problem-solving. All too often, schools excel in promoting efficiency and routine while simultaneously discouraging creativity.

Public schools need to prepare students for the real world beyond high school boundaries.

Life skills must be implemented into the core curriculum to prepare students for what is to come, rather than limiting their ambitions to high test scores and GPAs. Ultimately, students should have better access to tools to help them understand the challenges and complexities that adulthood holds.

30 HIGHLANDER OPINION

The problem of online consumerism Catherine Eikelbarner Two-day shipping and 15 clothing items, all for $50? Wow, what a deal!

Although the consumer is filled with joy, there are consequences to their purchase. The environment weakens as the materials to create their purchase are taken. Child labor workers shed tears as they make another item. The economy strains because it cannot keep up. The endless cycle and cost of online consumerism is not a pretty picture, and all who suffer do so only so you can get a pair of jeans to wear next week.

I cannot lie. I have been a part of this inhumane industry, but after educating myself on the effects of how my actions can hurt the world around me, I reevaluated my habits and stopped. I used to think that a shirt for only $7 was a “good deal,” and not that it was causing havoc upon roughly 265 million working children worldwide. The International Labor Organization collected this data in 2013 and is most likely still climbing.

This number, however, is far beyond what should be considered within ethical guidelines.

Child laborers suffer every day, having to abide by strict rules, constraints, and enclosed working conditions that deprive their energy. While child laborers are the ones who experience the most upfront excruciating pain, other parts of the consumerism process are also hurt. Right now, the economy is especially experiencing a relentless strain on its production. Consumers are spending too fast, and there are not enough workers to operate the transportation methods that deliver the consumer’s purchases. I notice this firsthand as a retail store employee.

Our shipment from store orders is exponentially increasing—resulting in smaller increments of shipping time and an abundant amount of stress on everyone.

Most of the economy’s halt is due to the pandemic, where people feel safer shopping from their bubble, closed off from the chaos surrounding them.

As reported by the World Economic Forum, 75% of consumers have tried a new shopping behavior or experience, whether it was shopping online or from different brands. Out of the same surveyed group, 73% stated they would continue to apply these behaviors to their shopping experiences after the pandemic. Some of these newly developed behaviors will help in some cases, like gearing people towards buying clothes they like and keeping quickdecision purchases to a minimum. Still, they do an immense amount of harm.

Plastic consumption, fossil fuels, exploitive labor, and a shortage of utilities are all outcomes of the evergrowing online consumerism system.

This system produces a false sense of what a “reasonably-priced clothing item” is, making me believe the cons outweigh

the pros. Of course, everyone cannot afford expensive, environmentally conscious items, but that is precisely my problem with consumerism.

Online consumerism caters to many people’s needs, but they often ignore its unethical and dangerous practices, and unless that can change, we need to change how we take part in this process.

Those of lower income may shop at these unethical businesses because that is all they can afford. Others may shop online or from unprincipled establishments out of convenience since making a purchase is only a click away.

This system is corrupt, but by trying to be more conscious of where we shop and their policies, we can help lessen our footprints. The reduction of online consumerism is only achievable by recognizing that it is not better than shopping in person.

Change cannot occur unless we recognize what online consumerism’s faults are and how we can take action to fix them. Changing the policies is no easy task, but choosing to abandon the cycle of consumerism is, and not making that $50 purchase might spare the tears of a child laborer this time around.

Rebecca Von Tersch

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 31

snack recommendations Writing

and art by

Glydelle Espano

H Mart opened its first location in West San Jose in 2017. Now, it has become a staple in the Bay Area, where many go to find imported goods from Asian countries.

Cantabile Peach Tea This peach tea tastes like the feeling of summertime as its refreshing flavor hits your mouth. It’s sweet but not overwhelming to the tongue. Cantabile Peach Tea comes in small, portioned pouches so that they’re ready to grab for a quick drink. I like to have it with ice, paired with somekonjac jelly to replicate ordering fruit tea boba.

Body Loves Konjac Lime Jelly Body Loves Konjac Jelly provides a healthy option for dessert, remaining delicious while containing no calories. This konjac jelly comes in small squeeze pouches for convenient consumption. The lime flavor enhances the eating experience and pairs perfectly with the Cantabile Peach Tea.

Daifuku Korean Taro Pancakes Daifuku Korean Taro Pancakes are an absolute must-have. If you had to pick anything on this page, it should be these pancakes. These taro pancakes somehow end up in my cart after every H Mart trip because of how delicious they taste. A quick fry on the stove will get you a crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside tarofilled package of delight.

Samyang Fire Hot Carbo Chicken Ramen Noodles Samyang Fire Hot Carbo Chicken Ramen Noodles provide a heavy punch of spice that’ll have your mouth burning yet craving for more. I highly recommend this for spice lovers, as I had to sip mango juice after every bite.

I recommend the carbonara flavor over the other varieties because it adds a cheesy kick to the noodles.

32 HIGHLANDER OPINION

Haitai Honey Butter Chips Honey Butter chips are always a great pick, with a savory and slightly sweet flavor that floods your mouth with each chip. It has a solid buttery taste, but it isn’t super salty like other chips.

Binggrae Samanco Chocolate Ice Cream Samanco Chocolate Ice Cream are yummy fish-shaped ice cream sandwiches. One layer of chocolate and one layer of ice cream, what more could you ask for? The fish shell replicates sugar cones and envelops the filling.

However, I do wish it had a crunchier texture. This ice cream sandwich is easy to transport, perfect for an on-the-go snack.

Lotte Cheese Mozzarella and Potato Corndog It’s like a corndog, but better! Cheese fills the top half of the stick, followed by half of a fish cake. The fishcake tastes delicious, wrapped in the crispy potato layer. It’s perfect with honey mustard sauce or ketchup. I like to air-fry it for convenience because it gives you a satisfactory cheese pull.

Indomie Mi Goreng Fried Instant Noodles These Mi Goreng noodles are another staple. These noodles are perfect for when you’re too lazy to cook anything grand. They have a salty, slightly spicy flavor, topped with fried onion. Once completed with egg, it reaches the highest peak of deliciousness that instant noodles can get. If you don’t want to add the seasoning, I suggest adding a little “Everything but the Bagel Seasoning” from Trader Joe’s to it, as this gives it a garlicky taste.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 33

ARE YOU A

WISH-CYCLER?

Aspirational recycling is more harmful than you think Writing and art by Kat Tsvirkunova Picture this. You order a pizza, and, once you’ve finished eating, you toss the greasy pizza box into the recycling bin. You’re not sure if it’s recyclable, but you’re throwing less into the garbage, so you must be helping the environment, right?

Wrong.

This is called “wish-cycling,” or the act of tossing something into the recycling with the mere hope that it is recyclable and little evidence to confirm that it is true.

Wish-cycling, or aspirational recycling, has two significant consequences: it generates more waste and harms the recycling industry.

If you recycle something without first determining if it is recyclable, you risk contaminating everything else in your recycling bin.

This renders your recycling unusable, and it will almost certainly get rejected at a recycling facility. As a result, all of your recyclables will go to a landfill anyway.

According to Sage Hill Bottle Depot, approximately 80% of contaminated recyclable waste is buried in landfills

Find your local recycling rules here

due to improper classification and processing.

When you recycle something that isn’t recyclable, you are potentially damaging equipment and adding to the hassle for those who work at your local recycling facility and are trying to avoid these damages.

These facilities were first opened in the 1970s when the United States began its recycling industry in response to public concern about waste. Governments, businesses, and environmentalists used pro-recycling messaging to facilitate recycling behavior.

This was particularly the case for plastics with resin identification codes inside a triangle of “chasing arrows,” indicating that the item was recyclable – even though this was frequently false. Only resins #1 (polyethylene terephthalate, or PET) and #2 (highdensity polyethylene, or HDPE) easily recycle and have viable markets. Others are difficult to recycle, so many recycling organizations do not collect them.

In 1988, the plastics industry created codes to classify various types of plastic resins used to manufacture products.

Surrounding them with ‘chasing arrows’ incorrectly implied that they were all recyclable when many communities only processed the more common types. In 2013, the picture was modified to a solid triangle.

Despite these modifications, wishcycling is still prevalent today. 59% of people believe that most items can be recycled, implying that more than half of the population regularly wish-cycles.

It’s essential to be mindful of what you’re throwing away and encourage others to do the same.

There are a few things you can do to make sure you are not wish-cycling and that you are helping our planet become greener.

First off, work on reducing your waste! Consider investing in reusable products and stray away from single-use plastics. You should also be making sure items are clean and dry before throwing them into the recycling.

Research your local recycling rules and regulations to learn what you can and cannot recycle in your community.

Every area has its own set of rules and exceptions, so make sure you read them all.

Remember: when in doubt, throw it out. In other words, only recycle things that you are 100% sure can be recycled.

34 HIGHLANDER OPINION

Thank Cesar Chavez for your strawberries Elise Hsu Strawberries, grapes, and blueberries are all important parts of a balanced diet. But beyond the supermarket, most people don’t consider how their fruit goes from the plant to the plate.

The migrant farmworkers who spend hours facilitating this transfer are often overlooked, even on Cesar Chavez Day, which falls on Chavez’s birthday of March 31 and commemorates the leader that helped migrant farmworkers fight for their rights.

According to History.com, Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA) in 1962. Three years later, the NFWA joined forces with

the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee (AWOC), a collaboration that would eventually result in the United Farm Workers of America (UFW). Together, they started the Delano Grape Strike, which blossomed into a boycott of California grapes across the nation, lasted five years, and was ultimately successful.

A migrant farmworker himself, Chavez fought hard to ensure produce companies treated their workers fairly, even if it meant risking his own life for La Causa (the cause). According to the UFW, the nonviolent teachings of Gandhi inspired him to found the NFWA with his life savings. He also went on three separate hunger strikes

to promote nonviolent resistance, the longest of them occurring in 1988 for 36 days. In a sense, he even gave his life to La Causa; some of his last hours were spent in court defending the UFW’s right to boycott a vegetable producer, and he passed away in his sleep that night.

Cesar Chavez proudly lived and breathed La Causa right until he died; to honor him, you can localize La Causa by buying produce from your local farmers’ market or volunteering at a community garden near you. And next time you eat a piece of fruit, think about the workers who put fresh food on your table and thank Cesar Chavez for standing up for their equitable treatment.

Rebecca Von Tersch

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 35

Stereotypes about teenage employees are misinformed 3 reviews Rebecca Von Tersch

Lucy Lopshire Customers come and go, but their words stick.

“I walked into the store, and they didn’t even greet me. They just stared me up and down, following me around the whole store.”

Do they know we try to greet people?

Have they experienced five hours of difficult customers and only 10 minutes to themselves?

Slow registers, little stock, and tables left a mess. Refold, unpack the shipments, and ALWAYS keep a smile on your face.

Maybe you were a nice customer, but

Lucy Lopshire

that’s not always the case.

We get blamed for matters out of our hands. You didn’t notice the exclusions on the fine print. The item you wanted was put in the sale section by accident.

Your online return isn’t going through.

You want someone to blame, so you look to us: the teenagers who stand right in front of you.

Next time you walk into a store, consider that the workers are simply learning and trying their best. Be patient with us as we learn to navigate customer service in our teenage years.

For a lot of us, this is our first job and the first exposure we’ve gotten to the workplace, no matter the field. As we

and

learn, we will get better, but the first step is to be patient with us.

Consider our feelings and what you say to teenage employees. One slightly hurtful phrase can make a world of difference in our minds. Alternatively, think about how you would feel in that position.

It takes a lot to handle five hours of customer service with barely a minute to relax. It can be both mentally and physically exhausting, and adding rude customers to that list makes it so much more tiring.

Please acknowledge our efforts the next time you shop since we are just trying our best.

Rebecca Von Tersch

36 HIGHLANDER OPINION

Volunteer Tutors needed!

Help a K-8th grade student with any of the following: Reading, Writing, Math, Homework, Organization, Study Skills, Self Esteem. You tell us which subject(s) you’re comfortable tutoring. Volunteers needed at San Carlos and Red wood City K-8 public schools

We Provide: Training and support Flexible schedule Opportunities for all ages, our volunteers range from 14-95!

Great way for high school students to gain service hours

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MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 37

ARE RESELLERS RUINING

SNEAKER CULTURE? Isabel Wright How much is too much for a sneaker? $1,000? $2,000? What if you knew that someone took a sneaker that retailed for $200 and resold it for $2,000?

This is a relatively common theme in today’s sneaker culture. Popularized apps like Grailed and StockX provide a platform to buy the latest sneakers and even make a fortune off of them, all without the competition of sneaker drops.

“Now it’s all about money. It’s not about shoes anymore. It’s not about the design and the impact of the shoe as whether it’s the new technology or, you know, the latest thing. It’s never thought about the shoe anymore but the value that it holds,” said sneaker collector and YouTuber Roszko.

The concept of having “drops,” or a limited shoe supply, drives the popularity and demand. It has become an economy of its own, with sneaker resellers going as far as purchasing illegal bots to take advantage of sneaker drop websites like Nike’s SNKRS, just for the resell value on the limited inventory.

38 HIGHLANDER FEATURES

Apps like SNKRS and Finish Line use raffle systems to allow a randomly generated person to receive the latest released sneaker.

On SNKRS, you enter through the app at a set time, typically 10 a.m. EST, fill in your credit card and shipping information, and cross your fingers. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get the notification if the user won or lost the raffle.

Some people think of it as a way to make effortless bank if you can figure out how to work the systems. In contrast, others solely interested in owning and using the sneaker get frustrated by the limited supply of bots and resellers.

“You get a lot more kids now that are into the business side, which is great, you know, you no longer you have to sell candy bars to make bucks, anybody can get into it,” Roszko said.

Many have found a way around losing raffles by purchasing illegal bots.

Bots are connected to one’s account to open multiple tabs to gain more of a chance to win the raffles. While some sneaker drop websites have embedded bot protection, many argue that it doesn’t make a difference and that many users can still cheat using the bots.

“It’s not as easy as it seems that everyone thinks it is, where you could flip a switch and stop all the bots. But I don’t see bots stopping anytime soon,” Roszko said, “I think they’re embedded into the sneaker culture now.”

Though bots make it hard to defeat the odds, Roszko suggests that those trying to win the raffles should open extra signups to allow a greater chance for someone, like family members and friends, to score.

Many have argued that sneaker resellers have ruined the chances of people wanting to buy sneakers recreationally. However, many others have also argued that sneaker resellers have ruined the supply of sneakers meant for a specific demographic. In particular, the influx of demand for the Nike SB Dunks has upset many skateboarders.

Peter Cepeda is a teenager and avid skater who works at a skateboarding shop in Los Angeles. Looking at the case of Nike SB Dunks, he explained that reselling

may be a necessary evil in sneaker culture since it is a complicated topic.

“While I do think the capitalistic side of reselling hurts people who want the sneaker, I also think it benefits the community. It takes sneakers to a new level and brings them to the forefront of fashion. It also gives kids an entrepreneurship opportunity,” Cepeda said.

However, he thinks that reselling is more harmful than beneficial to sneaker culture, but not in an economic sense.

“Sneaker reselling ruined sneaker culture by taking away from a subculture built on having things for themselves, and it hurts more people who can’t afford and enjoy the product as it’s meant to be,” Cepeda said.

After Travis Scott, a Grammynominated rapper, collaborated with Nike for the Nike SB Dunks, these specific sneakers have grown in popularity.

Known for its skateboarding-friendly design, Nike SB Dunks were already popular, but the collaboration has caused

Glydelle

Glydelle Espano

a skyrocket in the reselling price. The main cause for this popularity rise was the design revealed when the mudguard is ripped.

“Skateboarding culture was already looked down upon. Now, non-skaters and resellers love the culture and ruin them [SB Dunks] for the people they were intended for,” Cepeda said.

Though sneaker reselling may provide income and a side hustle to some, many believe that the practice as a whole has ruined the spirit and purpose of buying the newest, coolest sneaker.

Espano

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UNTOLD STORY OF 911 OPERATORS Izaan Masud When people hear about the police, many images come to mind. They may picture officers they know in their community or school, the issues of police brutality and the protests of 2020, or even some of their favorite characters in movies and TV shows. However, many don’t think about who they talk to when they call 911.

“Telecommunicators are often overlooked in the world of emergency services, but in reality, they are the foundation for all responders,” said Anthony Green, an officer on the Belmont Police Department.

911 operators are tasked with a wide range of emergencies, whether it be welfare checks, domestic disputes, or even mental health crises. They are expected to respond to any situation, any time. Many incoming dispatchers drop out after the first six months.

Telecommunications offices also range in size and have different relationships with law enforcement and emergency services.

Leah Worthington

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Stacey Foster

For example, in San Jose, there is barely any connection between dispatchers and police officers since there are so many officers in the city.

On the other hand, the San Mateo dispatch team only consists of four people. Two of these dispatchers are Lisa Twito and Ashley Barros. Barros has been on the team for six years, while Twito only joined two months ago but was stationed in San Jose for 10 years prior.

Since the team is much smaller, dispatchers can get much closer with each other and the officers they are sending.

“At least for me, it is nicer working in a smaller agency because you become friends with everyone — we’re all a team working together,” Barros said.

However, teamwork isn’t everything when it comes to being an operator, as dispatchers respond to a barrage of calls every day. According to many dispatchers, this can be mentally taxing, and it can be hard to focus. Incoming dispatchers are thrown directly in, with only a partner to help them manage calls.

“The number one [most important part] thing would be multitasking.

Because if you can’t do that, and you’re one of those people that are focused on one thing, this is not the job for you,” Barros said.

While juggling these calls, dispatchers must remain calm and keep the callers on the phone until authority arrives.

Callers could be in danger if they stay on the phone. However, if they hang up, the dispatcher may not know the location of the crime.

“I tried to kind of slow my pace down, as far as my speech goes, lower my voice a little bit. Because sometimes if they’re frantic, and you match the franticness in their voice, then you’re not going to get anywhere you’re going to hype them up as well,” Twito said.

As a call taker, it is inevitable that not every call will go well. Not everyone gets saved. Operators have to get used to this reality on the job. This is simply normal for dispatchers, something they have to go through every day. Barros recalled a mental health crisis her teammate was forced to react to.

“She [her temmate] took a call with a guy that said that he had cancer and he didn’t want to live anymore. He had a gun with him, and had one bullet. And that was that then he hung up on us.

We tried calling him back; he wouldn’t answer [...], And I think the call lasted hours [...] Unfortunately, the guy did kill himself. He shot himself,” Barros said.

Operators have different ways to cope with stress. Some do therapy, others practice exercise; everyone’s coping mechanism is unique. For Twito

and Barros, coping is often through conversations with close friends and family. Barros even has a sister who is a dispatcher and a boyfriend who is a former officer.

“You tell someone a story and my god and but it’s like, whatever. It’s like no big deal. Like you kind of become numb to it,” Barros said.

But in moments of crisis, dispatchers can make the right call that can save lives. Twito recalled a situation she had back in San Jose, where there were three calls of a stabbing in a minute. While some officers thought the stabbings were all in one location, Twito made the split-second decision to dispatch officers to three different locations, saving two of the three victims.

“I was in control of a situation. It helps, you know, getting the people where they needed to go[...] And it worked out for the most part. But it’s stuff like that where I’m like, wow, I really made a difference,” Twito said.

Being a 911 operator entails a lot of responsibility. However, according to dispatchers like Twito, this responsibility and the reward of helping people in need is what keeps them going.

“It’s such a rewarding career. You are the first responder. You are getting the person help, and that is an extremely rewarding feeling at the end of the day,” Twito said.

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Let's talk about it Therapy is rapidly on the rise Elle Horst *Trigger warning: this article contains mentions of self-harm and mental health struggles that may be triggering for some readers.

Elle Horst

She’s tired, anxious, and depressed. The weekend did little to refresh her. She dragged herself to school but could barely focus and get work done. But it’s finally Wednesday, and the final bell has rung. After what feels like an endless headache of work, social stress, school, she can now get some release. She heads to her weekly therapy session, already feeling lighter inside.

This scenario is familiar to many people. In recent years, therapy has been in increasingly high demand, with a high percentage of these patients being teens and preteens struggling with mental health.

“We have seen a significant rise in the rates of depression and anxiety in our teenage population, [even] prior to the pandemic,” said Casey Sherman, a pediatrician.

Sarah Woods,* a Carlmont senior whose name has been changed to protect sensitive information, is one such teenager. She began seeing a therapist when she was a freshman to cope with declining mental health.

“I had a lot of stuff going on with my family and friends, and that combined with other factors made me feel very overwhelmed,” Woods said. “I started therapy because my mother found out I was beginning to use unhealthy coping mechanisms like self-harming to deal with my issues.”

Since starting therapy, Woods has found it to be a beneficial practice and believes it to be a significant factor in her mental wellbeing. She feels it has given her a safe space to vent and release some of the burdens and pressures she experiences without fear of social repercussions or judgment from her peers.

“I have someone to talk to about my problems that aren’t close to me,” Woods said. “I feel comfortable sharing things I normally wouldn’t with others because [my therapist] doesn’t know everything about me and is more removed and judgment-free about my situations.”

On top of the already rising rates of therapy,

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the pandemic hit and the resulting trauma caused an extreme spike in a short period. A sudden halt to everyday life, combined with the loneliness of isolation and anxiety caused by the uncertainty that lay ahead, caused the demand to skyrocket. Adolescents were left especially susceptible to dips in mental health, as they were forced to deal with trauma amid critical physical and emotional development. Already dealing with raging hormones and changes to their bodies, these groups were cut off from the world, causing detrimental disorders to arise like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders to manifest.

“Prior to 2020, [my group and private practice] would receive an average of 10 new inquiries a month — over the past few years that has increased dramatically — the height being last year when we were getting 10 or more inquires a week,” said Theresa Chesnut, a therapist who specializes in treating patients with eating disorders.

According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), 60% of therapists who treat depression saw an increase in patients.

Three-quarters of psychiatrists who work with patients suffering from anxiety reported a rise in demand in recent years. The pandemic caused a host of stressors that triggered numerous mental disorders.

“The pandemic offered the perfect storm. It forced people into literal isolation, which coupled with the end of ‘normal’ daily life and routine caused people to feel depressed, anxious, and out of control,” Chesnut said.

As a result, many of these students affected began to noticeably struggle, leading them to seek psychiatric help.

“The significant lifestyle changes from COVID-19 were large instigators.

Personally, I have seen more teens and families willing to address mental health topics in my clinic since the pandemic,” Strier said.

But despite how common therapy is becoming, negative stereotypes and ideas have always surrounded mental health. Years ago, those with mental illnesses could be locked up, shunned, and feared by their peers. Insane asylums thrived, filled with patients,

and no legal action was taken against involuntary institutionalization until the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act of 1967, which ended inappropriate, National Alliance indefinite, and nonconsensual on Mental Illnesses institutionalization of people with Helpline: mental health disorders and created 1- 800-950-NAMI due process protections for mental 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. ET National health clients.

Suicide Even in today’s seemingly more Prevention accepting society, there remains a toxic Lifeline: “hush culture” surrounding mental (800) 273-8255 struggles. Shame, feelings of weakness, and a lack of education can keep people from getting the help they need.

“There is absolutely a negative association people can have with mental health and therapy,” Woods said. “I’m only really open about it with my close friends. Therapy can National be looked down upon, and some Grad Crisis people have bluntly asked, ‘What Line: is wrong with you?’ when they find (877) 472-3457 out I see a therapist. No one wants Substance Abuse to hear that.” and Mental Health For some, the cost of therapy may Services Administration also be a deterrent, as each session can National Helpline cost hundreds of dollars. According (800) 662-4357 to GoodTherapy, an organization dedicated to providing mental health resources and providers for the public, therapy can cost hundreds of dollars, making many therapists out of reach for therapist... and typically has lower fees for lower-income families. service as well.”

On top of this, the need for therapy Though there are potential challenges has increased so much that many for seeking the resource, therapy has therapists are unable to accommodate proved a useful tool for many. The APA the large swaths of hopeful patients, reported that about 75% of people who leading to extensive waitlists, making enter psychotherapy show some benefit getting much-needed help difficult. from it, and it has been linked to positive “Most therapists, especially those in changes in the brain and body. For specialized fields, have been overly full Woods, she has found it to be a valuable for the past two years,” Chesnut said. experience that she would recommend “It is common to hear people desperate to those who feel unsure or afraid to get for help and not able to find someone help. qualified to help.”

“If you are a person who thinks you However, there are more accessible might need help but are hesitant to ways to get therapy for those who cannot actively seek it, you should absolutely try find an available therapist or pay the therapy,” Woods said. “It isn’t something high rate that some charge. that works for everyone, but it can be a “With the age of virtual therapy, big help. I would encourage people to a person can search for telehealth try.” therapists within their state, which can open up more possibilities. There are *Woods’ name has been changed due also low fee clinics available in most to the sensitive and personal nature of the larger cities that offer little or no fee to topic covered and is in accordance with people,” Chesnut said. “Businesses like Carlmont Media’s Anonymous Sourcing Betterhelp can offer direct access to a Policy MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 43

BEHIND THE SCENES OF BELMONT HISTORY

Belmont Historical Society

Karla Lee What used to be a Belmont theater is now a gym. What is now a storage unit was a drive-in movie theater. As time moves on, so does everything else. Belmont’s memories and places are left for future people to find out.

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Star-Lite Drive-In Theatre Belmont Historical Society

It’s nighttime. Hundreds of people begin to swarm the parking lot with their cars. A large bright screen pops up.

Sound blares from the metal speakers hung from car windows.

Starlite Drive-In was the name of the place. It was a spot where people could watch movies and films outside at night for entertainment and spend time with friends or loved ones.

Movie and film genres ranged anywhere from horror to comedy to

non-fiction. Starlite-Drive In would also play movies produced by Walt Disney, such as Pollyanna and Old Yeller.

Thomas Goodier, who grew up in San Mateo, went to the drive-in multiple times over the years and made great memories with his friends and family.

“In the 1970s, I snuck into the drivein with my friends. We would drive the car into the exit. There were metal spikes that went towards the wheels when driving in the wrong way. Only once did

it cause our car to get a flat tire,” Goodier said.

Those who lived on the end of O’Neill street could see what was playing on screen right from their homes, so they were able to watch movies for free.

After about 30 years of operating, it eventually closed and was turned into a Coca-Cola factory which lasted for two years. However, warehouses and storage units currently occupy the space.

Amber Chia

Belmont Theatre A conspicuous neon light glows through the window into the comfort of a home at night. Its letters, outlined in red, flicker between “Belmont” and “Bel-art.”

“Belmont Cinema Three” is engraved on a yellow sign. Below it reads “Sling Blade,” a popular movie shown in 1997.

Inside the theatre, the sound of screaming children roars across the lobby room as they wait in excitement for the movie to start. They could buy delicious popcorn from the snack bar and take pictures in the photo booth.

George Metropulos, who has lived in Belmont his whole life, got to experience

the theatre first hand.

“There were ushers in the movie theatres. They would walk up and down the aisle with a flashlight and tell you to get your feet off the seat and be quiet, but we had a great time,” Metropulos said. “You get to see all your friends from school and watch the movie on the big screen, and many children would throw popcorn at the movie screen whenever a certain character would show up.”

Aside from watching movies, gift certificates found on the bottom of popcorn boxes were popular among many children and adults as they had an opportunity to win prizes like a free

movie or a free dinner at a restaurant.

Eventually, in 1997, the theatre closed, and three years later, the building became a means for exercise. Now, the building is more commonly known to Belmont’s residents as Planet Granite.

Zoe Leckey, a Belmont resident and Carlmont junior, wishes that the theatre didn’t close.

“I like Planet Granite, but I’d much rather have the theatre closer to us, and it would be a popular place everyone would go to,” Leckey said.

Today, the tall Belmont sign still stands on the building as a symbol of the Belmont Theatre.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 45

ORIGINS OF

Disney Stories Mandy Mah

Growing up, many were entranced by the magic that Disney brought into their lives. The cartoonish characters donning in layers of sparkling fabric, Prince Charmings saving fast asleep princesses, and ordinary pumpkins transforming into extravagant carriages introduced a whole new world in addition to our own.

These happily ever afters will likely be passed on from generation to generation, influencing children for years to come.

While these stories are etched into everyone’s lives, the stories that Disney took inspiration from are fading into the background more and more.

Although many have noticed that Disney stories share similarities with those from the Brothers Grimm (Jacob Ludwig Carl Grimm and Wilhelm Carl Grimm) and Hans Christian Anderson, few take notice that some of these stories can be traced back to decades before the aforementioned notable fairy tale authors began writing.

Many variations of the stories popularized by Disney can be found throughout each decade, with each author putting their own spin on it.

However, the one factor they all share in common is apparent: they are not nearly

as magical as Disney’s version.

“I think it’s interesting to learn about the source and see how different it was, how it was originally conceived. When you’re able to read it as literature and are not very attached to the story it’s fine … But [the stories] shouldn’t be told to young children because they would get too attached to what they hear as a story,” said Guillermina Castellanos, a third-grade teacher at Sandpiper.

Disney maintained a pattern of lightening up stories that might not have been seen as fairy tale stories for children otherwise. But is anything lost when Disney glorifies these stories?

Carlo Collodi’s “Pinocchio”: Pinocchio, a puppet carved by Geppetto, is troublemaking to the point of being malicious.

As soon as Pinocchio is created, he begins to get involved in all sorts of schemes; he lies and lands Geppetto into jail, kills the Talking Cricket when the cricket admonishes him, and is often led astray at school. Eventually, Pinocchio finds himself swallowed by the Terrible Shark and discovers that Geppetto is also there. Pinocchio decides to save Geppetto and is turned into a real boy by the Fairy with Azure Hair.

“I think this story, at least with the background of contrasting it to the more popularized version, would find a home with almost anyone who feels disillusioned by society in any kind of fashion.”

– Nolan Scheetz, a senior at Carlmont who is planning to attend film school

The original version of The Lion King (an African legend about Sundiata Keita): Sundiata’s mother flees into exile with her children (including Sundiata or “the lion king”) in order to protect them from a power struggle in the palace. Sundiata then builds alliances while in exile after people express their wishes for him to return and take his rightful place on the throne.

In this version of the story, the “lion king” has a disability.

“With The Lion King, the original story had a disability that was taken out. In the Disney version, it was just a normal lion. It might have been better in a way if they had Simba have a disability because it would be more inclusive, realistic, and portray his struggles more in a different way.”

- Nikhila Raman, a senior at Carlmont

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Hans Christian Anderson’s: “The Little Mermaid” The little mermaid visits the sea witch to seek help with her unrequited love for a prince. The sea witch makes a deal with her: her tail will be transformed into a pair of legs in exchange for her voice.

The little mermaid accepts this offer. Although she is able to walk on land, every step makes her feet feel as if knives are pricking them. She eventually fails to marry the prince and watches as the prince takes another princess as his bride. Suddenly, the sea witch cuts her another deal: the little mermaid can still live if she murders the prince. Again, the little mermaid accepts the offer. However, when she sees the infatuated prince again, she finds that she is unable to kill him. She casts one longing look back at him and jumps into the sea, dissolving into sea foam.

“It’s like the author created this story so that when you see foam, you think: ‘oh, it’s the little mermaid.’ There’s also something good or important about having children understand that life is not always rosy and that things won’t always turn out as we would hope or expect. But even so, that’s not necessarily a terrible thing. Like in The Little Mermaid, you can see something positive in this story; the little mermaid became something beautiful in the end.”

- Guillermina Castellanos

Giambattista Basile’s version of “Sleeping Beauty”: The sleeping beauty is impregnated by a king while she is still unconscious and ends up falling in love with him. The king’s wife, the queen, becomes jealous and orders the royal cook to stew the sleeping beauty’s children and feed them to the king. She then prepares a fire for the sleeping beauty to jump into. Both of the queen’s schemes were unsuccessful, and the king ends up ordering her to jump into her own fire. He later takes the sleeping beauty as his wife. Moral of the story: “Those whom fortune favors, Find good luck even in their sleep.”

“This story just struck me with how dark it turned at the end. I don’t remember the Disney version all too well, but I don’t recall it being this dark whatsoever. The moral seems off for what the story promoted, and it’s not one that can really be followed in life.”

-Nolan Scheetz

As these stories begin to become forgotten, many question if the abandonment of these stories is negative.

They ponder if the original versions and older variations would appeal to a modern-day audience.

“None of the [older versions of the] stories seemed positive to me. I think nothing positive was lost. However, I do think that a lot of the underlying themes, which include highlighting the different life elements, were lost. They have more of a storyline where things like it happen in real life, but Disney glorifies it, so it takes away the more realistic problems,” Raman said.

Otherwise, Raman believes that the happier, censored Disney version is to be preferred.

Thinking of the young students she often interacts with, Castellanos said, “I don’t feel comfortable sharing them (the stories of Sleeping Beauty and Pinnochio in particular) with children.

Maybe it’s fine for older children, but not young children that are really so young that innocence is like a gift at that point. Children who want to believe there is a Santa Claus; children who want to believe there’s an Easter Bunny.

There’s something beautiful about that innocence. It’s those same children that believe in princesses and happily ever afters. And there’s something very special about that. I know it’s not reality.

It’s not true, but there’s something special.”

Although both Raman and

Castellanos themselves would rather listen to the Disney version and prefer to have those to be the ones shared with children, Scheetz feels that if the older variations or originals were to be made into films, it’s possible they could find the way into the hearts of the right audience.

“I think that [Sleeping Beauty’s] original story would appeal to fans of Lars Von Trier, which is still a rather niche group. I think parts of the story are a bit too conventionally fairytale to completely fit with that audience, but the almost random bursts of darkness could appeal to that sentimentality. [The Little Mermaid] would appeal to a generally broad audience, given the themes of unrequited love and sacrifice,” Scheetz said.

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 47

Students struggle through senioritis payton zolck

For many seniors, the lectures they have listened to for four years start to resemble the “WA WA WA” sounds in Charlie Brown. Their eyes gloss over as they fiddle with their pencil, their thoughts drawing farther away from the classroom. This description is the typical image that comes to mind when the word ‘senioritis’ is used.

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, senioritis is an ebbing of motivation and effort by school seniors as evidenced by tardiness, absences, and lower grades.

However, is senioritis just a lack of motivation felt by most seniors, or can it signify something else?

According to Carlmont’s Students Offering Support (SOS) coordinator, Shelly Bustamante, the lack of motivation to continue in school is normal.

“If you are like, ‘I’ve got senioritis. I want to be at the beach. I don’t want to

be in class.’ You know, that’s normal and typical. You’ve been here for four years, and you’re getting excited about college or whatever you plan to do after you graduate, and your head is in that space,” Bustamante said.

For some seniors, the feelings expressed by Bustamante are something that can be related to. Many find it hard to stay motivated in school as they look towards the future. However, Cooper Perez, a senior, expresses frustration regarding lacking the motivation to do her work.

“I think I have a little bit of senioritis, and it mostly comes out when I’m doing my homework. I find that I procrastinate more and think of school less after the last bell rings for the day than I have in other years. I do find myself frustrated with myself when I decide to put all my reading to the last minute,” Perez said.

Senioritis stands as more than just a mere lack of motivation for some students. But rather a realization of their view of the educational system and their

role in it. Senior Anna Burford expressed her lack of motivation being mainly derived from her desire to not give in to the expectations of the “system.”

“I think at the end of the day, it’s a realization that maybe you’re not doing school for the purpose of truly learning.

You’re just doing it to climb up the system and do things according to the [educational] system. If there’s a way out of that, then you’re just not really going to care anymore,” Burford said.

Burford regards the lack of motivation often associated with a senior’s second semester can work to reveal to someone what they genuinely care about in such a low level of motivation.

“If you find that you’re still putting your all into certain sports and activities, that’s how you kind of know that you actually do care about them. When you’re losing motivation in almost everything in your life, to be able to be still motivated by something is really livening,” Burford said.

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Despite senioritis being seen as a commonality or way to escape the repetition of a high school schedule, it can also have some consequences.

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, 22 % of colleges revoked an admissions offer in 2009, the most recent year that the group collected data of this sort. Final grades were responsible for the majority of the revocations — 65.3 % — followed by disciplinary information learned about a student and falsified applications.

A disinclination towards school can have consequences for a student’s future, as drops in grades or disciplinary infractions could lead to revoking of admissions and affect someone concerning their educational future.

“I think I overcome senioritis by thinking that I know if I really let myself slip, colleges will see, and I won’t be happy with myself,” Perez said.

Despite affecting someone academically, this state can also have a mental impact. Someone exhibiting the traits of senioritis could be struggling to a deeper level mentally. Bustamante expresses the signs of someone who is struggling mentally from more than the

common case of senioritis.

“Someone who’s really struggling would show signs that are more obvious.

What you see would be a change in who they were before. If they were outgoing, they’d be more isolated. If they were able to keep a job and do a sport and do all these things, all of a sudden, they’re not.

So it’s a change in behavior and mood, and usually, all the signs of depression would be present,” Bustamante said.

Bustamante recommends talking with a trusted person, whether that be a friend or therapist, who can help in dealing with defining the symptoms one is feeling. She expresses talking as the key to addressing these symptoms.

“We’re only as healthy as our secrets and what we put out there. It’s what we don’t talk about that will cause somatic symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, neck pain, things like that, and mental health symptoms. So the talking piece is important, and the person listening will be able to ascertain, you know, by what is being shared if it’s something more serious,” Bustamante said.

Bustamante reveals that mental health symptoms can be attributed to the major stressors of transitioning from this part

of one’s life to the next and that all the what-ifs make it a very stressful time.

“The three biggest stressors in life are death, divorce, and moving. Kids are looking at that safety net being pulled from them because life as they know it of being at home and their routine is changing. So that’s a scary thing,” Bustamante said.

When dealing with stress and a lack of motivation, whether derived from a serious mental health issue or a simple case of “senioritis’, Bustamante outlines simple things such as sleep, water, positive laughter, socialization, exercise, meditation, and mindfulness exercises as critical tools in addressing mental health. Finding a space on campus, whether with a club or a group like SOS or drinking a good amount of water that clears the body of cortisol, a stress hormone, can make a significant difference in someone’s mental state.

Senioritis is a familiar feeling felt by many seniors and can be seen in different degrees from person to person.

Yet, being aware of its consequences and how its symptoms can be applied in a deeper way to mental health can allow for one to seek the help needed for their specific experience.

Nicole Coleman

MARCH 2022 HIGHLANDER 49

JACK HANSEN Chronic loneliness has a mortality rate comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It’s more harmful than obesity. And it’s affecting more and more people every year.

According to a Harvard report, 36% of Americans feel “serious loneliness,” enough for Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to call this prevalence of loneliness an epidemic.

When one looks at the big picture, it’s easy to reduce it into facts and numbers. It gives us reference points and allows us to compare the numbers across years. However, when one looks at the numbers, they forget the people behind them. It turns loneliness from an experience to a number on a scale.

In an informal social media poll, people shared their experiences with loneliness, with the option to remain anonymous.

Loneliness is many things.

Loneliness is forgetting what the

sound of your own voice is. “​​I spent 45 days on a ship 500 feet long with 200 people, but even my own bunkmate didn’t speak to me for much of the time. I nearly forgot what my own voice sounded like because nobody sought me for help, or wanted to chat, or even asked where the closest cleaning gear locker was. I was thousands of miles away from anyone who gave a s— about me. All alone with 200 people I had nothing in common with,” Joey Simone said.

Loneliness is being kept away from friends in the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The virus was spreading quickly, and [my parents] were scared, so they kept me inside and away from others for my own good. I didn’t have many people to talk to or converse with as I’ve never been allowed to have much social media, and, of course, I couldn’t go out to see my friends. So, this led to many days and nights where I sat in my room with myself, all alone. Eventually, I just

Anika

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M

completely felt alone,” said Jaidyn, who did not leave a last name.

Loneliness is being surrounded by friends but feeling isolated.

“I feel lonely every day with the friends that I hang out with. I like them a lot, but sometimes I feel like I’m the last one to be told anything. We have never truly felt a huge connection in the group. Sometimes I feel like I’m a punching bag to some of them. I feel used sometimes because I try to support them and help them with their struggles, but nobody ever asks me how I feel,” said an anonymous respondent.

Loneliness is a feeling that comes when one is thousands of miles away from friends and family. Loneliness is a feeling that comes when one is forced to stay at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Loneliness is a feeling that comes when one is surrounded by friends.

Loneliness is many things. Loneliness is not, however, a statistic. Loneliness is a feeling.

arino

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Inked Kiana George

The needle pounded at their skin. In, out, in, out, in, out. Little by little, the needle was orchestrating a masterpiece - something that would forever dye their body.

Throughout the world, billions of people get tattoos to express their individuality. Depending on the culture, tattoos can be a sign of nobility or a sign of low class. In some countries like Malaysia or many middle eastern countries, tattoos are illegal. Yet, in Italy, a research study found that 48% of people have at least one tattoo. In Samoa, a person is considered naked without a tattoo. Whether communicating status, a declaration of love, religious or philosophical beliefs, membership or belonging, or simply for fun, tattoos tell a cultural story.

Japanese tattoos Japan has a long and complicated history with tattoos. Written records from 300 A.D. indicate Japanese men tattooed their faces and bodies as a social norm. However, by 720 A.D, the government began to use tattoos as a punishment to mark criminals, prisoners, and courtesans.

By the early 1900s, the Japanese government outlawed tattoos, believing that people with tattoos were “problematic” and low class.

Tattoos became legal again in 1946 due to protests. However, there is still a strong social stigma around them in Japanese society. Even today, Japanese believe those with tattoos are related to the yakuza, a mafialike group in Japan. Yakuza members often tattoo large portions of their bodies to show commitment and strength.

Though Japanese tattoos are now becoming fashionable among Japan’s younger generations and tourists, it is not uncommon to see signs in Japan that prohibit people with tattoos from going to beaches, bathhouses, and gyms. “Heavily tattooed people are still considered dangerous in Japan,” said Jordan LeFever, a tattoo artist from Santa Cruz who specializes in Japanese tattoos.

Traditional Japanese tattoo art is known as “irezumi,” which translates to “inserting ink.” Japanese tattoos are distinct due to their bold, vibrant aesthetic. “Japanese tattooing has a strength of design which is hard to match,” LeFever said.

The imagery often includes brightly colored Japanese motifs like dragons, foo dogs, koi fish, birds, snakes, tigers, cherry blossoms, and chrysanthemums. Samurai, geishas, and Shinto spirit masks combined with waves and clouds are also popular.

“The subject matter in traditional Japanese tattooing has background stories and myths. The style has been developed over thousands of years to fit the body well and convey the stories boldly,” LeFever said.

Tattoo artists, known as “Hiroshi,” apply irezumi by hand using wooden handles and metal needles attached to a silk thread. The tattoos are made with a high-quality ink made from pine soot known as “Nara Sumi,” made in Nara City, Japan.

Though Japan still is not entirely comfortable with tattoos, it’s undeniable that Japanese tattoos are beautiful works of art that are part of Japan’s ancient history and culture.

Jason Owens

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American tattoos

American tattoos today are a melting pot of cultural tattoo traditions from around the world.

Originally, Native American tribes embraced tattooing to represent rank and status, battle victories, or spiritual symbolism related to nature and animals. However, when Spanish missionaries arrived in the 16th century, they sought to eliminate the practice.

In the mid-1800s, tattoos were reborn when tattoo artist Martin Hildebrandt opened a shop in New York City. His primary customers were Civil War soldiers who wanted a tattoo for identification in case they were killed while fighting. However, society still associated tattoos with lowerclass citizens such as soldiers, sailors, criminals, and circus travelers.

“THE AMERICAN TATTOO IS ALL ABOUT THE MEMORIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE TATTOOS” DAVE DOBIRK Sailor Jerry, a prominent tattoo artist from the 1940s, is credited with developing a more artistic tattoo style known as American Traditional. Known as the father of the old school tattoo, his experimentation with bright pigments and inks led to the first purple-colored tattoo. His graphic style merged American, European, Polynesian, and Japanese aesthetics.

After traveling the world with the Navy, he set up shop in Hawaii and began tattooing sailors and soldiers as they passed through the island. His iconic designs had symbolic meaning for the servicemen. For example, an anchor tattoo symbolized stability, a swallow bird tattoo depicted “return,” shark tattoos symbolized bravery, and skull tattoos represented commitment until one’s dying day.

In the 1960s, tattoos turned into an artistic movement exploring styles from other cultures, such as Polynesian tribal patterns wrapped around the arm, Chinese characters, and the elegant script lettering found in Chicano tattooing.

“The American tattoo is all about the memories associated with the tattoos. When people look back at their tattoo, they want to think about the positive experience they had with the tattoo and the connection they had with their tattoo artist,” said Dave Dobirk, a San Francisco tattoo artist.

As tattoos become more mainstream in American culture,

artists like Dobirk are taking their passion for the art and transforming it into a successful career in the growing tattoo industry. According to IBIS World, the tattoo market is projected to earn $1.4 billion in revenues in 2022.

“It is hugely satisfying to give someone something that will last with them forever,” said Dobirk.

Samoan tattoos

Historical Samoan legends tell of cultural gods and heroes having tattoos that signified their roles and status within the tribe. Dating back 3,000 years, tattoos or “tatau” are a rite of passage for Samoan males.

When Westerners arrived in the islands in the early 1800s, many tribes were converted to Christianity, and the missionaries outlawed traditional practices like body ornamentation and ritual killings. However, the use of tattoos prevailed, and by the late 1890s, tattoos were accepted by the church as a cultural tradition.

The “Pe’a” is a traditional tattoo that is an integral part of Samoan culture. Anthropologists suggest that Samoans use tattoos to express their identity and experience a sense of belonging as well as connection to the Samoan cultural community.

“Having a tattoo in Polynesia means you are showing people who you are, where you come from, which part of Polynesia you belong to, and the pride you have,” said Takuhei Kaiha, a tattoo artist from the Marquesas islands.

The Pe’a features a symmetrical design consisting of straight black lines of varying thicknesses, geometric shapes, and dots.

The tattoo typically begins mid-torso and extends to the knees.

Men that do not get a tattoo are called “telefua” or “telenoa” which translates to “naked.”

Samoan males who get the Pe’a gain respect for having the courage to endure the painful tattooing process and their dedication to cultural traditions. Si’i Liufau, a Samoan tattoo artist from Garden Grove, California, told Pacific Standard, “You’re not respected without your tatau. You have to have a tatau to be a full man.”

Historically, bones and tortoiseshell fragments were hit with a mallet to drive the tattoo ink into the skin. Today, a razorsharp steel comb is repeatedly driven into the skin to create the artwork. This process is brutally painful and it can take up to a year to heal completely, and there is a high risk of infection. The procedure is also expensive, and many people have to save for decades to afford the cost.

Those unable to finish the painful process are labeled “Pe’a mutu,” a term of cowardice. According to Samoan tattoo artist Li’aifva Imo Leni in Reuters international news publication, “It’s considered a huge shame upon your family, and that burden is carried through to your children, your children’s children, up until somebody in your family finishes the tattoo in your honor.”

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Henna tattoos Though tattoos are often associated with violence, gangs, motorcyclists, defiance, and rebellion, henna tattoos symbolize beauty, joy, togetherness, bonding, and even family.

Over 9,000 years ago, people in desert regions such as Egypt and the Middle East dried, crushed, and grounded henna plants and used them as a natural sunblock. When the henna dried, people noticed that the plant left a reddish, brown stain on their skin.

These stains led to the idea of using henna as an art form. Initially, people applied decorative henna by putting a large circle in the middle of the palm and coloring the tips.

Nowadays, due to the advancement of henna tools, henna designs are much more elaborate and incorporate paisleys, mandalas, geometric designs, and florals.

Showcased at celebrations, special occasions, and religious gatherings, henna body art is used by many cultures. Muslims apply henna as a part of Eid, a worldwide festival that marks the end of the Ramadan fast. Henna tattoos are also common during Hindu religious holidays like Diwali, Karva, or Chaudhry.

“Henna is often considered a pivotal moment which marks the officiation of a special event. For example, a bride in India won’t feel like a bride until her hands are colored red with henna. In many cultures, there are secret meanings attached to henna, such as the darker the color, the more your husband loves you. Or, a bride cannot start any housework until her henna fades,” said Saman Qadri, a San Francisco Bay Area henna professional.

To create the tattoo dye, ground henna is made into a paste and often combined with sugar-lemon syrup to help it stick to the skin. The dye must be left on for four to six hours to achieve a dark stain. Once it dries, it is simply flaked off with a fingernail. The design will initially be neon orange but then turns darker over the next two to three days. After four to five days, the artwork fades away.

“Today, people all over have adopted the ancient tradition of embellishing their bodies with the beautiful natural artwork created from henna,” said Arati Ladda, a henna artist from Fremont, California.

Wrapping it up

Across the globe, tattoos each hold unique meanings, traditions, and origins. The beauty of the tattoo comes from within the connection a person feels to their identity and their ability to forever hold a piece of themselves through permanent ink.

Today, tattoos have become even more mainstream, often showcased on social media platforms like Instagram, and popular amongst celebrities and professional athletes.

“Having a new tattoo is like having a brand new shoe that no one else has. It is like ‘this is me, I am unique,’” Bobrick said.

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Arati Ladda

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