Volume LVI, Issue V
15325 Los Robles Avenue, Hacienda Heights
February 3, 2017
Community Urges HLPUSD To Become Safe Haven By Juan Morales Following the recent decisions dealing with immigration laws, President Donald Trump has made public that he will cut funding as a punishment to agencies who do not comply with the regulations of his executive order. As a result, the sanctuary measure was proposed in districts like Basset Unified, Montebello Unified and Pasadena Unified in order to protect the immigrant community that the president may target. This measure stands in defense of cases, akin to the federal government passing any law that asked for the states to unveil citizenship status of its citizens, legally the states are not required to comply. The City of La Puente, with a total of 85.1% Hispanics, has passed a resolution to make its city a sanctuary for the immigrant community. La Puente residents and siblings Enrique and Gilda Ochoa, both Cal State professors, posed urged the Hacienda-La Puente Unified School District (HLPUSD) to pass a resolution to be
become a sanctuary district. Enrique Ochoa, a history and Latin American studies professor at Cal State LA, wrote a letter, that along with a petition, found at Change.org, that asked the board members to release a resolution to ease the uncertainty of the community regarding the protection of the students and families’ status. As of now, 242 people have signed the petition to show their support in converting the district in a sanctuary/safe zone for the immigrant community. Gilda Ochoa who is a professor of Sociology and Chicana/o Studies at Pomona College was the first to speak at the board meeting saying, “We need to stop focusing on the differences we have but rather focus on the similarities.” She made the remark of La Puente’s accomplishment earlier that week by stating, “If the City of La Puente has already passed this resolution, there is no reason as to why we cannot do that same.” In attendance at the city of La Puente board meeting on January 10, was Alessandro de la Torre, freshman,
In a new political climate following the recent election, residents of HLPUSD challenge resolutions and devise arguments mostly in favor of a proclaimed Sanctuary District Status. Photo by Alessandro de la Torre. who assisted along with his father Jeffrey de la Torre, who had previously ran for the Board of Education in 2015. Hacienda Heights resident De la Torre Sr. spoke at the board meeting referring to the immigrant population living in Hacienda Heights explaining, “Our community is constructed of immigrants and children of immigrants who often feel fear and it's our responsibility to
build a school environment in which students come to school without that fear.” De la Torre also stated, “I like to think that the district will continue to put the students first and that people support making this district for all students regardless of religion, background and immigration status.” According to Patricia Higgins, LAHS counselor and HLPTA Union Representative explained, “The Union
voted on Monday January 23 to back the district sanctuary proposal that would make HLPUSD a Safe Haven for all students.” Haley Munguia, San Gabriel Valley Tribune journalist reported that HLPUSD voted and declared “all district campuses are safe zones and safe havens” On December 8 the HLPUSD proposed a resolution that 18 speakers showed up to challenge at the Janu-
ary 12 board meeting. The group of speakers compiled of educators, residents, alumni and students showed up to propose an amendment to the resolution with the purpose of securing students in the district regardless of citizenship status. De la Torre Jr. also remarked that he hopes that HLPUSD would follow in the steps of La Puente and become a safe zone for those amid uncertainty.
Interim Principal Meneses Holds Admin Expectation Meetings By Joshua Sanchez Discussions held the floor on Friday January 13, as the Hacienda echoed with several unique voices. Three separate meetings were held to get student, teacher, and community feedback on this important change of hands at Los Altos High School. With a goodbye to Cheli McReynolds, LAHS awaits her replacement, and the woman who will currently fill in the interim - Yvette Meneses, a former principal at William Workman High School,
and currently the executive director of high schools in HLPUSD. Meneses was joined at meetings with assistant superintendent Jill Rojas and Ed.D director Maggie Hesselgrave of Human Resources, along with administrative assistant Deborah Gatton. These three meetings with Meneses, Rojas, Gatton and Hesselgrave highlighted a focus on leadership and what the community wants for the new prospective leader. Each meeting had the same set of questions, and
despite there being a similar common answer between the groups, each group brought a unique perspective to each question. The student group was a collection of very involved students, with almost every program was represented, including athletics, leadership, and other clubs, sometimes having a single student represent several different programs at once. Several students involved commented they felt heard, and were encouraged to want more meetings like this in the future. Student concerns
Yvette Meneses, Los Altos’ new interim principal has temporarily filled our admin vacancy. Photo by Laila Jibrin.
regarding a new principal were not limited to the standard characteristics, but students urged having a principal that is already in the Conqueror family. They wish for their new leader to be aware of the school’s history, like its strength in sports, and to recognize the achievements of those sports, but to also recognize all other sports too. The students brought up several points about the variety and diversity on campus in its programs, and emphasized the desire that the new leader recognize all talents and achievements. Students resoundingly stated they want the new principal to cultivate leadership on campus, and to help out with the programs and set up to see the effort that goes into LAHS programs. Senior Kevin Pan of LAHS Engineering brought up that his club runs on trust, that students operate some dangerous machinery, but they all trust each other not to misuse it. He furthered by asserting in the meeting “[the] principal [should] give us space, and how we run on trust, the [new] principal should too”
The parent and community meeting addressed many of these concerns as well, but this meeting included a microphone to be passed around. With many parents commenting they wanted someone “invested in the school” that “supports the arts.” Several more stated they want someone to “make connections and bring you in.” Similar to the students, parents wanted someone from within the Conqueror family to lead LAHS. They suggested that an outsider might do “more harm than good” and that it “does not send a good message”, but furthered that they want a visionary with charisma for the incoming principal. The discussion furthered on characteristics that were necessary for an incoming principal, but students like senior Alondra Luna of Renaissance who created lists, dropped off their lists at the end to keep the ball rolling. Jill Rojas, who officiated the meetings, carried on to the next question of “major challenges” which elicited a very thought provoking discussion of the
issues that face the students and campus. Students addressed “motivation, funding, and space” as issues that challenge the LAHS community currently. Students were concerned with gaining student attention and motivating students to work. Senior Irene Chia furthered the AP discussion of before, explaining she tried to create a class for next year, but that they didn’t get the class. “I got 15 signatures for AP Music Theory, but it was too few to get a class,” Chia mentioned in the meeting. She further explained that scheduling conflicts were an internal issue at the school, that when the students brought up there only being one class for AP B.C. Calculus and that students aren’t able to take AP classes because of classes only being at certain periods, it was another issue. The parents built upon the concerns of attendance, but furthered it to issues with perceptions regarding the school. Parents noted the “school [is] good in sports” mantra LAHS has
(Continued on News 3)
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February 3 2017
LA FOCUS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Renaissance, ASB Recruit Future Conquerors
By Analise Pacheco and Christian Ledezma Every year, future Los Altos students are introduced to our campus in a flurry of fanfare and celebration hosted by Los Altos Renaissance and ASB. That was the eighth grade orientation, where eighth graders from Orange Grove, Newton, and Mesa Robles pile onto a bus and make their way to Los Altos to tour the school and get a sense for the programs offered and a general feeling of the Campus. If an 8th grader is not from the area, and wishes to join LAHS, “Early Registration” also called “Open Enrollment” pertains to these students who live “outside the Los Altos area” of La Puente and City of Industry, as the LAHS page states. They can print a form off the Los Altos Guidance page and turn it in at the “Student and Family Services” on 15959 East Gale Avenue in City of Industry. Forms are due on February 1 for those incoming freshmen. Photo by Laila Jibrin
News 3 La Moda Literary Arts Magazine AP Environmental Science Meneses Continued
News 4 Ava Smalley Leaks Plague Los Altos Inside Look On: Varsity Wrestling
Entertainment 5
Dedicated and Determined Varsity Wrestling Captain Pursues Goals
Choir Winter Concert
By Damien Alvarado Wrestling out of weight class 170 lbs, Alex Piña is the Los Altos Wrestling Varsity Sophomore Captain. Pina is a student with a great character and a wrestler with a heart of a champion. Alex Pina started wrestling for Los Altos his freshman year. He has always been a tough kid looking for a challenge so this led him to take a chance on wrestling. “I joined wrestling because everyone told me that it was one of the hardest sports”, Pina commented. Many people think of wrestling as a violent sport but it teaches you a lot about the real world. Pina stated, “You get skills such as dedication, determination, hard work, and to gain the ability of never giving up”. Alex is a captain for the Los Altos wrestling and feels it is a great accomplishment being only a sophomore. Pina’s relentlessness allows him to pursue his goals of going to masters, and his love for the sport is what helps him strive for perfection. Alex Pina said, “You have to love the sport and be dedicated or it will not last”, dedication is a key part of Pina’s highly touted character.
Diary of Adam and Eve
Feature 6 Asian Student Association Lunar New Year
Opinion 7
Dance Team Embraces, Recognizes Their Competitive Nature in Corona
E-book Takeover Sleep Deprived Students
Sport 8 Sports Signing Boy’s Soccer Victor De La Cruz
THE CONQUEROR STAFF Co-Editors-in-Chiefs: Mateo Sandoval and Nicolas Hernandez Co-Managing Editors: Joshua Sanchez and Jeremy Chen Head Photographer: Laila Jibrin Online Editor: Damien Alvarado
By Jasmine Alonzo For rally and game entertainment, the Los Altos dance team had an upbeat and fun performance. On Saturday, January 14th, dance team decided to take their moves to compete at Santiago high school. The students of Los Altos recognized their dance team by the well-executed routines performed at school events. Sometimes gone without notice is the fact that dance team does not only perform here on campus, but competitively at different high school platforms. The LAHS dance team took to their first competition at Santiago high school in Corona, California, competing against dozens of other teams and high schools. The Los Altos dance team performed three pieces, One all group jazz, one small group lyrical, and one medium group jazz. The first dance of the bunch was the full team jazz that could be recognized by the students of LAHS. The small lyrical was composed of girls with beautiful technique and stunning ability. Performing a smooth and powerful piecing, the girls captured the stage in beautiful pink dress. Photo by Joshua Sanchez
Listen to Your Heart
Cartoonist: Analise Pacheco Graphic Arts: Sabrina Sanchez LAHS Journalism Reporters: Valeria Alcantara, Jasmine Alonzo, Caley Asbee,Sumitra Ariel Bernardo, Bianca Flores, Adalilian Franco, Christian Ledezma, Juan Morales, Cesar A. Moreno, Briana Muñoz, Danielle Porras, Brandon Vicuña
By Analise Pacheco
MISSION STATEMENT
The 2016-2017 Los Altos Journalism Staff strives to inform the student body of upcoming events as well as to capture memories unique to the high school experience. It is our duty to ensure every student will have an amusing and informative paper to read and learn about not only the school, but the world at large. With just one paper we wish to unite our school even closer together, and have every reader glad they read this newspaper and “tuned in” to our campus. As for its journalists, the staff and program exists to develop the skills of a professional journalist, practice management skills, as well as provide opportunities for aspiring writers, photographers, and cartoonists to showcase their abilities. This staff produces three high quality publications for the students, about the students and by the students.
CONTACT US
E mai l Websi te -
2017lahsjour nalism@gmail.com T he-conqueror.org
L AHS J o u rn alis m proudly partners with LA Conqueror Athletics
@LAConqAthletics / Losaltosathletics.org
February 3, 2017
NEWS
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Literary Arts Magazine “LA Moda” Showcases Students By Analise Pacheco This past semester the Los Altos journalism staff took on a double amount of work in order to create a literary arts magazine. The magazine was designed to feature talented and skilled students here on campus. Months later, the magazine has now been mass printed and is ready to be sold for three dollars. A corresponding event to the creation of the magazine will be occurring in the near future as well. With the magazine completed and distributing comes the reception of the product. Since it’s release, the magazine has received positive and critical review. Sophomore and talented musician Raymond Arroyo expresses that “To be recognized in the magazine was a very great feeling and blessing, to know I was chosen along with other talented people was awesome!” He
expresses how his musical talent featured in the magazine is a big part of his life, My talent has had the hugest impact on my life. It has shaped me to be the person I am today. I've met various people because of my talent and honestly all in all I'm very very grateful.” Freshman featured visual artist Robin Yi expresses that “it's nice to be featured in the magazine since it is the first time to be featured. Its nice to share and talk about art with other people” Sophomore and skilled hiphop dancer David Zaragoza notes that “ though it was pretty cool to be featured in the magazine because of how many other people we suggest to be in it but I was lucky enough to be chosen.” Others such as photographer Shelby Argabright appreciates the magazine “ I felt like i would never be picked to be featured in the magazine because I’m pretty lame.” and also notes that
“the staff put a lot of hard work into it.” Visual abstract artist Kundai Chamutinyu says that “being in the magazine was cool, yet I wish I got to pick which one of my paintings went on my page” The staff did put a lot of work effort and hours after school to complete the magazine. It was the first time that the school magazine recognized the arts and literature. The magazine was designed to look aesthetically pleasing and fun to read. Within the magazine many unsung heroes are recognized, their art on display whether it be paintings or poems. The magazine will be sold for only three dollars in room H-5. Arroyo concludes that “I loved the school magazine! I have no idea if a lot of people have seen it but I'm very happy with the outcome and I hope everybody gets to see it!”
Incoming AP Enviromental Class Science Seeks Recruits By Sumitra Ariel Bernardo
Graphic by Sabrina Sanchez.
Advanced Placement classes at Los Altos High School will expand this coming fall of 2017, AP Enviromental Science will be a new class. According to Collegeboard, the purpose of AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with scientific principles and methods within the study of the environment. Curriculum for this course will include natural and manmade environmental challenges. This class will allow students to become more aware of the world that they live in. Junior Tiffany Liao comments, “This class will help me by teaching me about the environment and how it will affect my life in
the future, leading me to be more informed as a person.” This class is different from other college preparatory and Advanced Placement classes overall. It is considered as an interdisciplinary field because it combines information from multiple subjects and disciplines of work. Geology, chemistry, and biology are a few fields combined in environmental science. “Having a course that associates multiple science topics will help me further my knowledge even more than focusing on learning strictly one subject,” freshman Aaron Kim remarks. The material is separated into seven topics. These topics include earth systems and resources, the living world, population, land and water use, energy resources and consumption, pollution, and global change.
Liao states, “I know that our environment needs care, especially because of climate change. This class would allow me to learn thoroughly and find ways to prevent and improve it.” This class might provide LAHS students with self awareness about their campus, environment, and world. Liao also states, “I would like to have hands on labs, experiments, and practices in this class. This way, the students can apply techniques that were taught to their everyday routines.” Kim notes, “Hopefully, it will be open to underclassmen as well. I want to be able to take the class next year as a sophomore. It is never too early to start taking Advanced Placement classes and to become more conscious about the environment that we live in.”
The Meneses Discussions Lead To Insight On Future Principal Continued from front LAHS is well-rounded. A push for an academic focus on the school was suggested as well by the parents with it being mentioned that there is no IB program, and that “students that are extremely strong in academics do not go here.” This led to English Department head Shalom Montgomery, whom attended the teacher and parent
meetings, to mention, “We need to have a diversified curriculum.” This sentiment was echoed by the community, as several mentioned it was a balancing act as most students come here for the sports. Several argued regarding “Open Enrollment” and the amount of students LAHS loses and gains through it. One parent in attendance, Anthony De La Vara, furthered, “School Pride is lost, we lose children to other
schools, and we should not lose a student, not a single one” The consensus seemed to be that LAHS has to always look at competition, because it is always there and that “Los Altos can be a premiere school.” The student meeting concluded with the “strengths and needs to be strengthened” portion of the discussion. The major theme of LAHS’ strengths seem to
reside in its community. Students remarked that “we all support each other” and that we “bond together despite tragedies” within our great school spirit. “The environment and energy of LAHS makes it more welcoming” one student remarked in the meeting. The resounding issue that needs to be strengthened however is communication. Despite students also listing the weakness in the roofs and the lack of air condi-
tioners in the J building, and mentioning the band-aids to problems that LAHS students face, one theme held constant - the desire to be heard. This was the first meeting of the kind, and students and parents alike want more. Several students mentioned that only in this meeting did they feel heard, and one parent mentioned that there are just “not enough of these meetings.” With excitement toward the future and voic-
es being heard, the meeting closed with final remarks regarding the replacement. One parent compared the community to the school board in saying “the district is the mayor of the town” and board member Penny Fraumeni furthered that sentiment with “through the long process, we will find the best person, and we are going through [candidates] very thorough.”
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February 3, 2017
NEWS
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Smalley Fills Adminisrative Void
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I care deeply about the students of the HLPUSD district. When I got the call that Los Altos was short administration, I did not want the students or staff to suffer because there was no one to do the work of the administration. It is my desire that you will continue the best possible education that HLPUSD can offer.
By Analise Pacheco An assistant principal vacancy for the remainder of the 2016-2017 school year has yet to be filled. Ava Smalley is temporarily filling this role. Smalley, who is no stranger to Los Altos worked here in 2001 as the Assistant Principal of Instruction Principal William Roberts. While Smalley has not been on campus since her departure in 2003, she continued to work closely with Los Altos as the Principal of Orange Grove middle school, a “feeder” school of Los Altos.
Smalley reminisced about her time here at LAHS, “I enjoyed working with the faculty and staff and being a part of the extra-curricular programs.” Many exciting events occurred during Smalley’s time here, “One exciting memory was winning the CIF championship at Angel Stadium.” Smalley continued,”The School musical in the quad which was a joint effort between choir and drama. The last, but not least, was getting Distinguished School recognition.” During her time on campus, Smalley made several contributions to the school. Smalley shared her ac-
Temporary Principal Ava Smalley already hard at work here on the Los Altos campus Photo by Mateo Sandoval complishments,“During my time, I helped to establish the protocol for Shared Decision Making, write the
Distinguished School Application, manintain budgets and develop the master schedule.”
To this day, Smalley continues to care for LAHS, by filling a vacant assistant principal role.
“
Leaks Plague Los Altos High School’s Staff and Students’ Classrooms By Jeremy Chen
Significant leak on roof of Shalom Montgomery’s class Photo by Mateo Sandoval
During the rainy winter season, both Los Altos staff and students have been the victims of leaky roofs that have deterred and caused frustration among the school body. Currently, these problems seem to bring forth controversy towards the school and its ability to maintain itself. As of now, due to the sunny weather, the leaks have been no issue. During the abnormally rainy weather near the middle of January, however, Los Altos’ staff
and faculty agreed that these leaks could no longer be tolerated and, as a matter of fact, have some concerns about these leaks and what disasters they might bring. Although there were only a few classrooms with these ruptures, the teachers and teenagers fear the damage the rainwater may cause. “Mold in carpets can be a big problem for our school. Unfortunately, this demonstrates the priorities of the district: that their focus is not in the classrooms.” Claims highly esteemed English teacher Shalom Mont-
gomery. Senior Chris Jhaveri adds, “These leaks disturb the class when they drip over students’ papers, causing a whole panic, delaying class time.” Regrettably, the school has not done much to try and resolve the problems involving the leaky roofs, which has stirred up many different opinions. “I, personally, feel like the school has not done enough for the betterment of our classrooms” states junior Michael Sierra. The steps Los Altos has taken in maintaining the leaks
is even more disturbing. “All the school has done is put out five trash cans to catch the drips!” exclaims Montgomery, “this problem is so much more than a quick patch up, and the school is slow to complete substantial repairs, like a new roof.” The only thing the entire school teachers and students are complaining about is that the school take more drastic measures in addressing these sorts of problems that can do substantial harm to the improvement and learning of teenagers and their well-being.
Inside Look On: The Los Altos Varsity Wrestling Team By Damien Alvarado The Los Altos Wrestling team started off their season going 2-2 beating Whittier High School and defeating Pioneer High School 60-20. The team is coached by Head Coach Ignacio Molinar, and Assistant Coach Manuel Molinar. The Varsity team is lead by captains Senior Noah Clark, Noah Vidrio, and junior Adrain Ojeda. Head Coach Ignacio and Manuel took over Los Altos Wrestling with minimal coaching experience and turned the program around. Last year was their first year as coaches and they took one wrestler to masters. The coaches are all for the educational purposes of wrestling but competing and winning competitions is great for the athletes. Coach Manny said " Wrestling teaches you about real life, it shows you how to be a leader and how to build character". Los Altos wrestling has a lot
to offer whether competing in events or building character. " We have a lot to offer, it builds strength and character, as well as a family for the rest of your life", Manny commented. Alumni from the past comeback to their old stomping grounds and are treated as family. Everyone is welcome into the wrestling room no matter what. The wrestling team starts each day off with a run to the hills and back. Coach Manny will often show the athletes a new move or go over some improvements needed from the last match. At the end of practice they condition in order to last longer than their opponents. Coach Manny has high expectations for his team. He wants to win league but what will feel as a huge accomplishment to him is seeing all his athletes going to CIF. The Los Altos Wrestling team helps develop athletes
The Varsity Wrestling Team, has attained a noteworthy record of wins and a drive to retain their signature character. Photo by Laila Jibrin to be better on and off the sponsibility in all things that as a person, as an athlete, we are a full contact sport mat. you do. Senior Noah Clark and as a student". Clark also that involves two opponents Being a Conqueror wres- feels wrestling has taught discussed what the program using grappling type techtler will help you succeed in him a lot about life. "Being has to offer for all newcom- niques to pin each other life and will teach you how in wrestling has helped me ers wanting to join the team, down, trying to prove physito put more respect and re- understand how to grow "In the wrestling program , cal dominance."
February 3, 2017 CHOIR
ENTERTAINMENT
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Choir Prepares For Season Starting With Disney
By Christian Ledezma & Sumitra Bernardo you are and saying, ‘Hey The Los Altos choir is well known for its excellence in the performing arts and well-loved throughout the community for always putting on a performance. The Production Choir and LA Rhythm both have been working hard in preparation for the fast approaching choir competition season. Women’s Ensemble’s first performance at Disney was actually merely last year. This will be their second year attending and performing. Women’s Ensemble will be performing under their show choir name, newly known as LA Rhythm. Out of hundreds of applicants, Los Altos’ very own advanced choirs, Production Choir and Women’s Ensemble were accepted and performed at Disney’s California Adventure on January 18 and 19. Women’s ensemble now called LA Rhythm will make its show choir debut under the direction of Jeffrey Fahey. “Our show theme is coming of age. It’s a story of maturity and finding who PLAY
this is me!’” explains junior Isabel Ivy. This year’s show features selections form No Doubt, The Animals, Jordan Smith, Lady Gaga and a piece from the musical kinky boots. Over the past few years, the advanced choirs have performed their full show choir performances. This year, they are changing it up by performing several more traditional choral pieces and then some musical numbers from their show choir competition set list. Production Choir member, Isaiah Chacon commented on his favorite music piece to perform, “We perform a mashup of the two songs Born to Be Wild and Death Valley. It is so fun to perform and the choreography is different from anything that we have done in previous years.” The mashup is a popular choice and a favorite within Production Choir. Freshman, Amara Overmyer states, “The adrenaline is high during this mashup. It is upbeat and exciting.” Fahey commented that performing
Production Choir gathers and poses for a photo after a hard day of performing at Disneyland and California Adventures. Photo by Salena Ojeda. both types of pieces display a sense of versatility within the advanced choirs’ skills. “I’m really excited for this season because all of the music and choreography are coming together, and it really makes us [the ensemble] feel powerful.” exclaims Ivy. The show’s theme and excitement for the season drive the performers to push and realize what they are performing for. “I feel like we are going to portray this finding
ourselves story and I think that in reality we are actually finding our confidence in ourselves as individuals.” Shifting gears, the Production Choir is also getting ready for a great season with their show theme for this year being a tribute to the movie series, “The Fast and Furious”. “I’m excited because competitions are fun, but I’m also a little stressed because we have a lot of hardcore choreography that requires lots of energy,” says
senior Sabrina Meza. “Practices have been intense with workouts and conditioning to get our stamina up so we can perform our show with no problem,” explains Meza. With all the work put forth by the students and staff have created a show full of excitement, Meza cheers, “We’ve been improving [since the beginning], so this season should be awesome!” After performing, the per-
formers are allowed to explore and adventure around the Disney Park until the night. The students believe that adventuring around the amusement park gives them the chance to bond more as a group. Overmyer comments, “Production Choir has become like a family to me. Hanging out with them at California Adventure gets us to bond more as a group and help connect with one another in our performances.”
The Diary of Adam and Eve Ends Anticipation
By Juan Morales and Adalilian Franco After last year’s “Little Shop of Horrors” performance, Los Altos Drama comes again this year with a new story to share, The Diary of Adam and Eve. The play reenacts the story of Adam and Eve in a comedic twist, featuring the iconic duo, the antagonist, and the animals. The play was performed on January 18, 19, and 20 in the drama room starting at seven. The actors auditioned since December to be a part of this production.
“Just by the author of the play, Mark Twain, we can make an inference at just how great the actual production will be,” explains senior Irene Chia. With high expectations after the spring musical’s success, some are expecting this winter production to amaze the audience even further. “I have been dreading and [anxiously] waiting for this winter play since my freshman year,” remarked senior Joyelle Belloso. “It will be my last, and this just doesn’t seem real.” Several senior returning cast members echo these sentiments, a bittersweet realization that this is
their last winter play. The play of the Diary of Adam and Eve takes on this story of the first man and woman, then twist it to create a comically witty story of love sprouting from indifferences and hardships. The story portrays ideas from the bible, family life, and survival of the fittest. In the play, Adam (Juan Morales) is in disbelief that Eve (Sarah Yee) does not allow him to name anything. She states she does not want to leave him in an “awkward silence” if he does not decide on a name. This way, Eve takes control of naming the animals.
Eve (Sarah Yee) holds the sheep (Irene Chia) while the lion (Nigel Covarrubias) looks on. Photo by Adalilian Franco.
Actors tie the play to a close with the lamb (Irene Chia) and the lion (Nigel Covarrubias). Photo by Adalilian Franco. Not only are human traits often ran on stage carry- clothes were later covered present in the play but also ing signs that defined their with a camouflage tank tops those of animals. Once stanza in the situations. The to symbolize the leaves that peaceful animals who cud- lion ridiculing the meek and cover themselves, after they dled against Eve, became the lamb asking for mercy. have eaten the forbidden the vicious animal versus This created a laugh from fruit. the meek lamb. This por- the croup as they read their Featured in the play was trays the idea of survival of point of view. Juan Morales starring as the fittest, which states the The snake (Joyelle Bel- “Adam” with Sarah Yee as stronger animals will sur- loso) entices Eve to con- “Eve” alongside Irene Chia vive. sume the forbidden fruit as “Lamb” and Nigel CovarThe animals, lion (Ni- and Adam follows. This ac- rubias as “Tiger” and Joyelle gel Covarrubias) and lamb tions causes the harmonious Belloso as “Snake” and Laila (Irene Chia), detail the ex- world to live chasing after Jibrin as the “Dodo”. Their tension of Adam and Eve each other. understudies were Ruben treachery. Not only were The wardrobe of the Campos, Britney Delgado, they kicked out of the Gar- play portrayed the charac- Julio Guzman, Jocelin Narden of Eden, the world was ter which they were playing. baez, and Rosana Lopez reundergoing a vast number Adam wore a khaki with a spectively. These individuals of personality changes. blue shirt, Eve wore a kha- ensured the show will be reThe lion and the lamb ki with a pink short. The membered.
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February 3, 2017
FEATURE
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ASA: Uniting Different Cultures and Students By Jeremy Chen One of the most overlooked clubs at Los Altos High is its very own ASA (Asian Students Association) that has, in fact, an extremely progressive role in teaching students the culture and lifestyle of people in distant Asian countries. Rae Chen, leader of the Chinese program, founded ASA and, to this day, it has been home to students not only from Asian countries but also to curious students desiring to learn more about different traditions. President of the club and senior James Tang remarks, “ASA is really just a great way for students like me to learn about their heritage and it has extremely fun, engaging activities that immerse our members with a deep sense of meaning and culture.” ASA has many events that celebrate holidays of traditional Asian cultures such as the Chinese New Year program which is to be performed at the hacienda Community Center on February second of this year. ASA is not just for students in America, however, it is an institution meant to
Jason Kwan demonstrates the beauty of the Chinese caligraphy, that he created to celebrate the lunar new year festival. Photo By Christian Ledezma. house new, incoming immigrant students from other Asian countries. Secretary of ASA senior Mandy Liu claims, “The first time I came to America was really awkward, I could not really understand the people or the language, but when I joined ASA, I felt like I had a place
full of others just like me, who could understand me.” With this, ASA is able to give immigrant students a chance to meet American-born students and integrate into American society whist still retaining their initial cultural backgrounds. “ASA was almost like a uniting factor
that gave me new friends and the confidence to become and accept myself aa a part of a previously foreign nation.” States Liu. Moreover, Chen is recently trying to recruit new members who are part of the String and Bamboo Music Association so that
students can experience and learn firsthand about traditional Asian instruments. Some of which include the Chinese zither, the erhu, and the bamboo flute. “We really want students to be immersed by the full Asian culture, and what better way to do this than by bringing
in traditional Chinese music?” says Tang. Members of the SAB Association go to schools both far and near the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District and Chen is hoping to unite them to perform for Los Altos in the Chinese New Year performance, bringing schools far and close together. Though the club already has such an integral part in many students’ lives, its true highlight is its celebration of Asian holidays. On those days, the club brainstorms and comes up with fun and entertaining events that correlate to the festivals. For example, during the Chinese Lunar festival, ASA members will make moon cakes for both themselves and the Chinese program, displaying the association’s aptitude for balancing amusement with education of culture. “The main point of ASA is really to give students the opportunity to learn at their own pace and give them time to have a little leisurely fun in the process. School is already hectic the way it is and at ASA we seek to eliminate that stress while still teaching the beauty of another culture.” Concludes Tang.
LAHS Chinese New Year Performance Set to Amaze By Jeremy Chen On February second of this year, Los Altos’ very own Chinese program, run by Rae Chen, is inviting everyone to see their annual performance at the Hacienda Community Center to celebrate Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is a long tradition dating back to an-
cient times that celebrates the turn of the traditional lunisolar calendar. Leader of the Chinese program, Rae Chen, wishes to convey these ideals and teach people ancient Chinese culture. So, to celebrate, the Chinese program has already begun planning a series of traditional Chinese music, dance, and martial arts in order to
Last years performance impressed many with different traditional dances and demonstrations.
teach students the Chinese culture. “Chinese New Year is essentially the epitome of Chinese culture,” states junior Rick Li, “it is a great way for people to be introduced to Chinese history.” The highlights of the performance are to be the students of Los Altos High singing and reciting Chinese customs and, indirectly, teaching the audience the beauty and gracefulness of these practices. Senior Jason Kwan claims, “This part of Chinese culture is a great way to teach people who are unfamiliar with the ideals and history of China. Not to mention it is an exceptional way for us, Chen’s very own students, to learn more and take a deeper interest on the matter.” These songs, dances, and martial arts is said to be carried out by many of her classes, Chinese one to AP, as well as by the Asian Students Association, a club meant to spread Asian culture to students unfamiliar to it. Currently, Chen is having her students rehearse for the upcoming performance with
Chinese watercolor paintings and caligraphy are prepared by the students for the event. Photo by Laila Jibrin. traditional Chinese songs and poems so that she still emphasizes Chinese learning, but in a more indirect and entertaining way. From the words of the host of
the upcoming event, senior James Tang states, “Chen is a great teacher and she explains the relevance of what we learn in class to the wonders of Chinese New Year
and all its festivities. She teaches us the deeper meaning behind different Chinese words which vastly improves our reading and speaking skills for Chinese.”
February 3 2017
OPINION
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Electronic Books Will Send Bookstores into Extinction By Laila Jibrin As technology modernizes, the world is turning away from stores and markets and to the vast options online. However, bookstores are suffering the most, and if bookstores go extinct, a unique experience will die along with it. In 2011, the once striving and prosperous bookstore, Borders, shut down, marking the beginning of the decline of sales in bookstores. In 2014 the major book re-
tailer, Barnes and Noble’s, stock began to drastically drop, and is continuing to decline and lose millions of dollars today, even with efforts to sell and ship books online. Due to the loss in profits, Barnes and Noble had to close stores in smaller cities, including Puente Hills, sending people who are passionate for books in the area to travel far. “I used to be excited to go to the Barnes and Noble by the mall, but now that it closed down, I can’t really
Barnes and Noble stands as a museum of books that are hidden in the exclusive location of one of the few remaining stores. Photo by Laila Jibrin.
Book sales decline as readers gravitate towards ebooks. Photo by Laila Jibrin.
go to a nearby bookstore,” Sophomore Paloma Trujillo explains. “I miss the feeling of knowing that there are other people in the store enjoying the same thing. It was a great experience.” Trujillo shared. This decline is moderately due to the invention of electronic books (also known as e-books) that are only one to five dollars, which is less than half of books sold in stores. “E-books gives me the option to have many books at my fingertips, so I didn’t have to worry about going to the store,” ex-
plains Sophomore Amber Tec, “e-books are also very easy to carry around with you rather than a 600-page book.” Although cheaper and a better option for transporting, studies have shown that the eye movement needed to read a screen, after a long period can result in eye strain, dryness, irritation, and nearsightedness. Not only is it harmful to health, it is also depriving the experience that many people could enjoy. “It makes me sad. I always had a special place in my
heart for books,” explains sophomore Paloma Trujillo. Those who have a passion for books, like Trujillo, have felt comfort in the stories, points of view and lessons offered by books, but also the experience of finding and choosing their next adventure in the pages. “[Being in a bookstore makes me] feel excited, because I go there for a certain book but then I see another book and I end up getting myself into a whole mess of new books,” Trujillo continues. “It’s just nice to just sit
down, have coffee, while shopping for books. I love it. Without [bookstores] the feeling you get knowing that you had an adventure getting the book from a bookstore is gone. [Shopping for books] is so much more exciting.” Sophomore Samantha Gonzales adds. Although it seems useless, bookstores hold an importance that can not be replaced. The only way to stop the extinction of bookstores is to make the choice to go to the bookstore when having the choice, instead of taking the easy way out.
School is Depriving Students of Sleep and Harms Their Health By Laila Jibrin Teens today face the detrimental health problem that has affected conquerors and students across the nation, sleep. Students, puffy eyed and drained of energy, trade sleep for grades, and sleep deprivation is affecting students’ health and ability to learn in school.
“If I have a lot of homework, have [tennis] practice, [or] doing ASB events, I get around four to six hours of sleep,” shares active honors student Sophomore Matthew Shozuya. “If I don’t get enough sleep the previous night, I find myself falling asleep in class, making it harder to learn.” The National Sleep Foun-
dation issued an eight to tenhour sleep range to maintain a healthy lifestyle but unfortunately, surveys show that Los Altos students struggle to keep up with work, since homework robs students of rest and the ability to stay awake the next day. “I usually get six to seven hours of sleep because of the huge amounts of work I get,” Honor student Soph-
omore Sammy Gonzales explains. Students that are active in school or extracurricular activities usually stay after school and get home around four or five o’clock. Once home, the students come home and eat, shower, and do homework, and once finished, the time is usually in the first hours of the morning. “I lose focus and concentration on what I’m working on,” explains honors student Sophomore Britney Cundiff. “and with sleep on my mind, I also lose my motivation to work efficiently.” Less than eight hours of sleep can be extremely harmful to the health of students and impairs brain activity, causes depression, cognitive dysfunction, memory problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, weight gain, weakens the immune response, and makes students more accident prone. Studies done by Harvard Medical School also show that sleeping less than five hours a night increases the
risk of death from all causes by about 15 percent. Sleep is also crucial to adolescence, since the growth hormone is activated in the sleep state, developing the body into an adult. So, overall, homework’s purpose of giving the student the opportunity to remember and practice curriculum causes the negative outcome of teaching a half-awake class. As the class struggles to stay awake and focused, they will have a more difficult time remembering the curriculum. With less homework, the student’s actions in class will be more involved, and will
have an easier time understanding lessons with a positive attitude. “[if school started later,] it would give [students] time for them to wake up and be
able to take in much more information,” Gaytan adds. Although rejected by most schools in Southern California, the idea of late start would benefit Los Altos in the end. Repeated studies show that with later starts, test scores will rise, more students will attend class and a more positive atmosphere will be created on campus, publicizing and inviting more students and funds for the school. “I would be able to sleep in and I would feel more relaxed and less stressed when I come to school.” Cundiff adds. Sleep is not something that should be taken lightly and disregarded to enforce curriculum into students. Sleep is one of the most essential variables in life and can affect students physically and emotionally. Being well rested can be the factor to determine the best or worst day, and tragically is not respected or acknowledged by teachers, the school, or other obligations in helpless students’ lives.
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February 3, 2017
SPORTS
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Boys Soccer Dominates Game Versus Diamond Ranch High School By Caley Asbee On Wednesday January 11, Boys Varsity soccer played at Diamond Ranch High School. The game was their league opener. It ended in a 4-1 win, starting the season off to a great start and making CIF seem like an easily approached goal. Senior Victor De La Cruz, scored a total of 3 goals and Senior Edgar Chavez scored one. Junior Simon Buendia remarks, “Victor’s amazing goals gave the team a lot of motivation.” De La Cruz conducted a flawless hat-trick, by scoring three consecutive goals. One with his right foot, one with his left foot, and one with his head. De La Cruz says, “Scor-
ing three goals in our first league game just shows how complete we are as a team, I didn’t do everything to score those goals is was a team effort and without them I wouldn’t score as much as I do.” Diamond Ranch’s varsity coach was the previous varsity coach for the Conquerors, and earlier this year in a tournament Diamond Ranch beat LA. Last year, the team lost Diamond ranch 0-1, proving that this year they went in for the win. The team set themselves up for a great season, but success has not come easy. Buendia states, “Training has been hard on certain days buy overall it’s all fun. If we just keep putting in work and never giving up, I believe we can go far in CIF.”
Boys Soccer gathers for a group photo celebrating their win against Diamond Ranch. This year the varsity team will play Diamond Ranch once again at home on January 27, the game will be highly anticipated due to the
current status of them winning against them. If the boys continue the way they started the season then CIF does seem to be in
the cards for the team. De La Cruz says, “Out of all my 4 years on varsity this team has to be the team with the most chemistry with each
Photo By Nellie Cobos. other. For that reason I do feel like we’ll win league and go far in CIF.”
Tyler Nevens and Andrew Manuele Conquer The National Signing
Nevens and Manuele sign for college football, ready to conqueror in the big leagues. Photo By Laila Jibrin.
By Damien Alvarado The college football recruiting season is over and today was commitment day for young high school ath-
letes throughout the nation. The Los Altos Conquerors’ football team had two athletes commit to play college football in the gym: senior Tyler Nevens and senior Andrew Manuele.
Los Altos football had a remarkable 13-1 season this fall led by both Manuele and Nevens, All San Gabriel Valley athletes. Nevens accumulated 5,576 rushing yards and an amazing 81 touch-
downs. As for Manuele, he has a career total of 19.5 sacks, and 140 total tackles on defense. Tyler Nevens committed to San Jose State University this afternoon, passing up on schools such as Portland State, Northwestern, and Montana. His decision was not solely based on football, but for what the school had to offer for his major. “I want to major in computer engineering and they are ranked number two in the nation in their engineering program. This should give me the opportunity to set up my future beyond football,” Nevens commented. As for the football aspect,
Nevens added, “The people are great, all the football players are close to one another just like how it is here. That was one thing I was looking for.” Andrew Manuele committed to Bemedji State University. The school is in Minnesota, and had everything Andrew was looking for. Manuele stated, “The reason I committed is because it had the major I wanted, and my visit there was awesome.” The Bemedji State Football teams’ 36-23 victory over Washburn in the Mineral Water Bowl last season is what caught Andrews’ eye. “The team won it in surprising fashion and the reno-
vation of their facilities were great as well which made it the right fit for me,” commented Manuele. Head Coach Dale Ziola who stepped down as football coach earlier this year, supported his players reflecting on what they have done for the program. Ziola commented, “I am super proud, they have represented their families, our football family, and our school community so well. I feel very fortunate to know these guys let alone coach and be able to watch them develop as young men. Now they have an opportunity to better their future and play at a couple fine institutions.”
Soccer Captain Kicked His Way To The Top Of The Division 5 League By Juan Morales Senior, captain and forward, Victor De La Cruz is ranked number one of the Southern Section Division 5 for high school soccer, placing him at the top of the stat leaders board. In the timespan of 13 games, De La Cruz now holds 53 points (pts) and 23 goals, playing an important role in the success of the conquerors this season. The conquerors hold a 4-2 streak in league with De La Cruz scoring an average of 1.8 goals per game. De La Cruz who held 4 pts and 2 goals the winter of his freshman year in 2014 has come a long way over the course of the years.
“It is pretty impressive how when I look back I was only able to score two goals my freshman year but it has definitely been a motivation to do better,” commented De La Cruz. Having the privilege to lead his team into CIF last year, De La Cruz hopes to do so this year as well. Being able to get to the second round showed De La Cruz of his capabilities. “It would be nice to be able to get to CIF this year and at least get to the second round, but my goal is to get further this year,” stated De La Cruz. Being ranked number one however took time and dedication and Victor remarks over the amount of effort and practice it takes to be able to get to where
he is at today. When asked about what has been one of the most difficult things he has had to endure over the course of these years, De La Cruz remarked, “Having to go to practice during school for soccer and then attend to volleyball practice in the night, these practices really got me exhausted.” De La Cruz has felt honored to be ranked number one in the valley but knows it was not by luck that he came upon such an accomplishment. The season has just begun and De La Cruz hopes to continue to lead the conquerors to victory. “Having accomplished this much only pumps me up to do better for the entire season, yet we will see what will happen, I hope for the best,” De La Cruz stated.
Victor De La Cruz charges to kick and score; dominating the field early for a varsity win. Photo By Valeria Alcantara.