2008 december

Volume 57, Issue 4

Arcadia High School 180 Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA

December 2008

Home Is Where the Heart Is

In this issue:

Graphic by REGINA FANG

FEATURES pg.7 Holiday Playlist: Need some holiday cheer? Here are some suggested holiday tunes.

JACK LAIDLAW Mr. Laidlaw is touched by the holiday spirit as his family, friends, and the AHS staff offer emotional and financial support as he treads through a tough patch after losing his home to the Sayre Fire.

Dear Santa... his

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Photo Courtesy of LLOYD FUJIWARA Graphic by REGINA FANG

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Photo Courtesy of PHOTODIGEST.COM

CENTER SPREAD pgs.8-9 Our Holiday Wish: Inside are blurbs on what your peers are wishing for this season.

Photo by YENTL IP

CAMPUS FOCUS pg.16 Shake It Up: Find out what the performing arts groups are doing this holiday season.

By LISA CHANG & LAURA KELLY Editors-in-Chief

During the holiday season, people give presents, money, and holiday cheer, but do they really lend a helping hand? During the current economic crisis, people have been losing their jobs, their cars, and even their homes, making it even more important to give. One AHS teacher, Mr. Jack Laidlaw, endured the 11,000-acre Sayre Fire which destroyed his house and virtually everything he owned. But with the love and support of his friends, family, and colleagues, Mr. Laidlaw was able to get back on his feet.

Mr. Laidlaw has taught in the Arcadia Unified School District for 38 years and created the courses Classic Film 1 & 2 in 1994.

His passion for film has spread to his students through these elective courses, inspiring and guiding them. As fellow AHS teacher Ms. Janet Baker says, “He has a wonderful knack.

The kids just really love him.”

One student, senior Casey Wong, said, “Mr. Laidlaw is a dedicated individual of his craft, which is teaching. He [seeks] to emphasize the importance of film history, rather

than just showing a black and white film for face value. I was influenced by the Universal Horror films growing up, and for a teacher like Jack Laidlaw to show those films with an appreciation, was truly an amazing experience. The impact that Mr. Laidlaw had on me was that he was a historian who truly loved the films of the ‘20s & ‘30s as much as I did.”

In late November, Mr. Laidlaw lost his home, $10,000 worth of lobby cards, and roughly 500 DVDs, among other valuables due to the Sayre Fire which destroyed 480 other homes at the Oakridge Mobile Home Park. Awakened in the middle of the night and forced to evacuate, Mr. Laidlaw was only able to salvage his most treasured possessions: a book of star autographs, three cats, and a few lobby cards. He and his daughter left the house to stay with a friend, only to find out later that their home had been destroyed, along with a lifetime’s worth of possessions. But even so, he is among the luckier victims of the fire. Hundreds of other civilians who live at the Oakridge Mobile Home Park were unable to salvage any personal possessions–causing more reason to give this holiday season.

Through this challenging time, Mr. Laidlaw has remained strong with the help of friends and

family. Mr. Laidlaw has been staying with Ms. Baker since the fire and has received much support from his friends inside and out of AHS. Mr. Laidlaw said, “There are no words to adequately thank [everyone] for all the support [they] have given me both emotionally and financially.”

As we look for people and organizations to help, it is important to remember those who are around us. The city’s support of Mr. Laidlaw is extremely admirable and yet, there is still so much more to give. Mr. Laidlaw is only one among many people in Arcadia who are facing immense obstacles. During this holiday season, it is vital to reach out to others. Giving is not limited to money or mere material possessions, but is also found in emotional support and heartfelt kindness.

A little can go a long way. You have the opportunity this holiday season and all the seasons hereafter, to affect someone in a positive way.

As Mr. Laidlaw said, “Clarence the angel in the classic It’s a Wonderful Life told George Bailey that if you have friends your life won’t be empty.

My life has never been empty, but now is fuller than ever…because of all of you.” lchang@theapachepowwow.com lkelly@theapachepowwow.com

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NEWS s t a f f Editors

Editors-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editors Opinion Editors Performing Arts Editors Student Life Editors Features Editors Sports Editor Academics Editor Center Spread Editor Calendar Editor Campus Focus Editor Advertisement Editor Executive Copy Editor Photography/Graphics Editors Webmasters Fundraising Chairs Publicity Chair

Lisa Chang and Laura Kelly Veronica Lim Iris Chen and Erica Win Andrés Delgado and Kayla Pang Kristen Shields and Daphne Tan Melissa Chen and Cora Ormseth Eleana Chiang and Emily Rueter Kristie Tom Tracy Lee Jennifer Hang Velinda Liao and Emily Litvack Joanna Chuang Michael Chen Christine Xu Regina Fang, Yentl Ip, Ashley Johnson, and Gregory Zajac Billy Cao and Yentl Ip Christine Howard and David Yao Aisha Elmasri

Writers News Staff Michelle Chien, Jenny Lin, Emily Litvack, Elaine Tsui Opinion Staff Nuria Mathog, Lauren Wong, Christine Xu, Emily Yang, Bill Zhou Performing Arts Staff Katherine Bay, Eileen Chow, Laureen Ma, Sammi Wong, Marissa Xing Student Life Staff Lena Kalemkiarian, Melissa Ma, Linda Wang, Christine Xu, Melanie Yuen Features Staff Celeste Cheung, Amber Kakish, Alwyna Lau, Amy Leong, Gloria Liou, Joanna Shen, Melanie Yuen Sports Staff Aisha Elmasri, Shawna Lim, Victoria Tran, Gregory Zajac Academics Staff Celeste Cheung, Richard Fu, Jenny Lin, Sean Maroongroge, Joe Tian Calendar Staff Katherine Bay, David Hernandez, Lisa Hung Campus Focus Staff Angela Shen Advertisement Staff James Chung, Gavin Fu, David Hernandez, Lisa Hung, Stephanie Lee, Gloria Liou, Erik Stratton, David Yao, Ashley Young Photo Staff Peter Huang Web Staff Jennifer Hang, Peter Huang, Ashley Johnson, Stephanie Lee, Amy Leong, Velinda Liao, Emily Litvack, Laureen Ma, Nuria Mathog, Angela Shen, Joe Tian, Victoria Tran, Melanie Yuen Adviser Mr. Johnny Lee

Publication Information: The Apache Pow Wow is a student publication distributed monthly throughout the school year. The paper has been continuously published since Arcadia High School opened in 1952. Unsigned articles appearing on the opinion page reflect the opinion of the Apache Pow Wow editorial board. Student’s work does not represent the views of Arcadia High School or the Arcadia Unified School District. Address letters to the editor to: AHS Apache Pow Wow, 180 W. Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA 91007. To place an advertisement in the newspaper, call (626) 821-8370. Advertisement rates vary from $30 for a business card advertisement to $380 for a full-page black and white advertisement, with quarter-page, half-page, and advertisement insert options available.

Photos Courtesy of freeprintablecoloringpages.net & abcteach.com

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December 2008

Meier’s Happily Never After

By MICHELLE CHIEN & JENNY LIN Staff Writers

For a while, thirteen-year-old Megan Meier lived in her very own fairy tale. She had just recently met her “Prince Charming” on Myspace. Their month-long relationship escalated to a level where she forgot her problems with self-image and depression, looking at herself in a new light. It wasn’t until one day, her “Prince Charming” told her, “You are a bad person and everybody hates you...The world would be a better place without you.”

On Oct. 12, 2006, Meier was found dead in her closet after disparaging remarks were sent by an online “crush” on Myspace. It was later discovered that the “crush” was in fact the mother of one of her classmates who had created the account with the intent of discovering personal information about Meier, whom she believed to have started a rumor about her own daughter.

The mother, Lori Drew, created the identity of Josh Evans, a cute, home-schooled sixteen-year-old, who recently moved to town. Meier and Evans never met in person but would talk

endlessly over the internet. Meier has a known history of ADD and depression, so when “Josh” abruptly ended their month-long internet relationship, she was crushed. When he began sending her hostile messages encouraging her to end her life, she did just that. Her father found her in a closet where she had hung herself.

Nearly two years later, Drew has finally received her due. After a lengthy and emotional trial, the United States District Court convicted Drew of computer fraud, finding her in violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986, which until now had been used almost exclusively to prosecute internet hackers. Junior Stephanie Fu said, “What Ms. Drew did was horrible. No adult should even consider bullying a teenager online.”

Still, while Meier may have been vindicated, the ruling does not get to the core issue of cyber-bullying. “There are lots of kids hurting badly online,” said Danah Boyd from the Berkman Center for Internet and Society at Harvard, “And guess what? Because it’s more visible online, people are blaming technology rather than trying to solve the underlying problems of the kids that are

hurting.” This begs the question: is cyber-bullying due to the technology that enables it or the people who thrive in the anonymity of cyberspace?

Many of us go with the flow, creating AIM, Facebook, Myspace, Xanga, and the list goes on and on. While these networks may facilitate us, they leave us vulnerable to a slew of stalkers, rapists, and bullies. In Meier’s case, she dealt with the most extreme case of cyber-bullying. Junior Kevin Yuan agrees that “by exposing ourselves to websites, we make ourselves vulnerable to other people’s demeaning comments, aimed to lessen our self-esteem.”

Even if there is no intention to damage another’s self-esteem, any act of harassment or bullying will affect the victim’s mind. Junior Nathan Castro reacts to the Meier’s death by saying that “depressed people, like Meier, don’t see the other options when faced in a situation and figure that suicide is the only way out.” Keep in mind, it’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

Photos Courtesy of ices.ca & marketingbean.com

mchien@theapachepowwow.com jlin@theapachepowwow.com

Claremont Children’s Costumes Cause Chaos

By ELAINE TSUI

celebration. Because Raheja is a professor at UC Riverside, many believe that Staff Writer she is nothing more than an elitist, hoping to “[use] those children as a political It seems that the pursuit for politiplatform” for her own agenda, according cal correctness has spread to constructo Constance Garabedian, a mother of a tion-papered kindergarten classrooms Mountain View kindergartner. Refusing throughout Claremont. The traditional to back down, opponents of the costumes story of how the Native Americans and called the supporters “ignorant.” On the the Pilgrims came together in a moment day of the event, numerous parents and of peace to share a meal has long been their children still dressed in Pilgrim and accepted as the origin of Thanksgiving.

Native American costumes, intent Told for decades through chilon defying the school district’s dren’s cartoons, this story seems decision to hold the event without harmless enough, but some now costumes, while opponents probelieve that this story is spawning tested them, carrying signs that condescending stereotypes aimed said “Racism,” “No Thanks No at a racial group that has suffered Giving,” and even, “Don’t Celmuch through the nation’s past and ebrate Genocide.” are going so far as to compare the “Comparing the event to a celebration of Thanksgiving to the celebration of genocide is going celebration of a genocide. a bit far,” said sophomore BonClaremont parents are nie Lui. “They’re just kids. They sharply divided over whether the four-decade Thanksgiving tradiPhoto Courtesy of claremont-courier.com don’t even know what’s going tion between Condit and Moun- THANKSGIVING FEAST Children happily on. I mean, I get where [Raheja] tain View elementary schools is celebrate Thanksgiving while parents argue over is coming from, but they’re just children’s costumes.” racially insulting. Dressed in their the morality of traditional costumes.

This controversy has caused hand-made feather headbands and Claremont residents to re-examfringed vests, kindergartners from one mouth was that the event was going to of the schools would dress up and visit be cancelled, enraging many parents. ine the true meaning of Thanksgiving. the other school, whose students would During a school board meeting the week Is it a commemoration of the Native have clothed as Pilgrims to welcome before the event, parents from both sides Americans and Pilgrims that lived so them, in a simulation of the first Thanks- of the issue were involved in a heated de- many years ago, a damaging holiday giving feast. However, Michelle Raheja, bate, which came to a halt when District that inspires stereotypes, or a celebration the mother of a kindergartner of Seneca Superintendent David Cash declared that of the many things to be thankful for? descent at Condit, met with teachers and the two schools had decided to continue Whatever the meaning of Thanksgiving administrators, asking the district to hold holding the event but without the cos- is, parents from both sides of the debate all failed to recognize that the actual para public meeting to discuss replacing tumes. the tradition with another event that celThe war of words, however, was ticipants in the event—the children—did ebrates Thanksgiving without mocking only beginning. Many parents believe not care whether they were elitist or igher ancestry. Along with 15 to 20 other that the school district’s decision was norant; they just wanted to have fun. parents, Raheja wrote to the schools, just ultimately hurting long-held tradietsui@theapachepowwow.com calling the costume portion of the event tion—in this case, an innocent children’s “demeaning.” She said, “I’m sure you can appreciate the inappropriateness of asking children to dress up like slaves (and kind slave masters), or Jews (and friendly Nazis), or members of any other racial minority group who have struggled in our nation’s history.” However, she never demanded the district to cancel the event entirely.

Then, the rumors began to spread, and a war quickly exploded. Word of

December 2008

STUDENT LIFE

3 ‘Tis The Season To Be Jolly

theapachepowwow.com

By MELANIE YUEN Staff Writer

The holidays are nearing and it seems as if everyone is brighter and happier thanks to the holiday cheer. There are countless

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things about the holidays that we know and love, from the jolly Christmas songs on the radio to the brightly colored lights illuminating people’s homes. This month, 332 AHS students were polled, “What do you love most about the holiday season?”

The following are the results: Spending time with family/friends Holiday shopping & sales

Photo By MELISSA CHEN

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APACHE TO APACHE Juniors Tiffany Huang, Stephanie Fu, and Andrew Chang collect donated items for the White Mountain Apache Tribe.

SCAC Warms Hearts

This holiday season, the Senior Council Apache Committee (SCAC) hosted its annual district-wide Toy and Jacket Drive from Dec. 8-12. New or used jackets, clothing, toys, and household items were donated to each school in Arcadia. Here at AHS, boxes for donations were located in the ASB Office and Main Office.

Since Christmas is coming up, the Toy and Jacket Drive is a great way to contribute to the world and make a difference in someone’s life.

It doesn’t matter if the items are used because the White Mountain Apaches live in “extreme poverty and most of what they wear comes from our donations,” said SCAC member junior Tiffany Huang, “and since winter is coming up, they need our donations to keep warm.”

Each year, the city’s generous residents donate to the White Mountain Apaches. On Dec. 12, members of SCAC, Senior Men and Women, and ASB worked together after school to sort out the donations contributed by the community. The donations were then packed up and delivered by Mr. Ed Schreiner, the person in charge of delivering the donations to Arizona,

Testing Your Holiday Spirit

By MELISSA MA Staff Writer

jlin@theapachepowwow.com 1. How many candles are on the Hanukkah menorah? (nine) 2. What does your true love give to you on the 11th day of Christmas? (11 pipers piping) 3. Name Santa’s reindeer. (Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, Rudolph) mma@theapachepowwow.com

Patrick Vossler, freshman X 1. fourteen?...wait no seven X 2. I have no idea…I know up to five X 3. Rudolph, Blitzen, Comet, Cupid, Donner… that’s all I know Score: 0/3 Brandon Mittman, sophomore C 1. nine X 2. I don’t know X 3. Blitzen, Donner, Rudolph, Comet, Dancer…I don’t know Score: 1/3

Monique Spata, junior C 1. nine X 2. doves?

X 3. Rudolph…Hank?

Dave? Blitzen…Chester, Dancer, Prancer, Comet, Veronica Score: 1/3 Sharlene Tsao, senior X 1. seven X 2. I don’t know…a monkey X 3. Dasher, Prancer, Rudolph. Okay I’m done Score: 0/3 Photos By YENTL IP

Christmas songs

myuen@theapachepowwow.com

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Staff Writer

Festive decorating & decorations

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By JENNY LIN

where the reservation is located.

SCAC advisor Mrs. Heather Moore reminds her students how meaningful and touching one small thing can do for someone less fortunate. One year during the Toy and Jacket Drive a used skateboard that seemed broken with “the top part falling apart and wheels unbalanced was donated and everybody questioned whether or not it should be brought to the reserve,” said junior Stephanie Fu. It turned out, a young boy from the reserve was overjoyed to be able to receive a skateboard for Christmas.

Despite the skateboard’s worn-down condition, the young boy appreciated the present and sent Mrs. Moore a picture of him with the skateboard, thanking SCAC for holding the Toy and Jacket Drive.

“Even the smallest things can make them so happy,” said Stephanie. With the story of the young boy and the skateboard on their minds, SCAC is determined each year to help make a difference in the lives of those living in poverty. The Toy and Jacket Drive remains one of the biggest contributions to the White Mountain Apache Tribe.

Giving/receiving gifts

ALUMNA

HARVARD

By BONNIE CAO

Guest Writer

Blame it on Gossip Girl, Legally Blonde, or the fact that people refer to my school as “Hahvahd,” but when I first arrived on campus, my greatest fear was that I would be surrounded by East Coast prepsters, permanently clad in some form of argyle, with Louis Vuitton book bags, last names rhyming with Shmockefeller, Shmennedy, and Shmanderbilt (if you catch my drift), and all with some hidden agenda and secret weapons at the ready to claw their way to the top–-without even breaking a nail.

Thank John Harvard’s lucky disease-ridden bronze foot that I was wrong. Granted, there are a few famous faces here–-I walk to dance practice twice a week with a Disney Channel Movie Surfer, saw Quantum of Solace with a world champion pole vaulter, and have gotten lunch with Eliot Spitzer’s daughter a few times. But one of my favorite things about Harvard is that these aren’t things people wear on their sleeves. In fact, more often than not, you’ll sit down in our Hogwarts-like dining hall next to a math genius or a musical prodigy and either have to pry these things out of them, or hear about it afterwards from someone else.

But the best thing by far about Harvard is the sheer number of opportunities available to us. At the beginning of the year, I applied on a whim to the Fellows and Study Group program at the Institute of Politics here and now work as a liaison for Alex Castellanos, who’s a Republican CNN commentator and media strategist (regardless of political affiliation, he’s one of the coolest people ever), and through him, I’ve had lunch with Donna Brazile, Mike Murphy, and Fred Thompson. In one week alone I saw Al Gore,

Photo Courtesy of BONNIE CAO

“THE GAME” Bonnie Cao roots for her school at the Harvard-Yale football game.

Ban Ki-Moon, and Sandra Day O’Conner speak, and have also heard Antonin Scalia, Secretary of Education Margaret Spelling, and President of Chile Margaret Bachelet. And we’re only two months into the semester!

Not to mention that Harvard is the second richest organization in the world, second only to the Catholic Church. Translated, this means that pretty much anything you want to do can get funded by the school, from a “juicing club” that the school bought two $100 automatic juicers for, to parties where the school essentially hands money to the organizers, which then goes to buying everything from chips to Solo cups.

All in all, Harvard is just an amazing place to be. There’s so much history in these hallowed brick walls (and rooms! I’m currently living in Henry David Thoreau’s old room), so much history being made, and so much history in the making.

“There’s so much history in these hallowed brick walls...so much history being made, and so much history in the making.”

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OPINION

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December 2008

Don’t Be a Grinch—‘Tis Not the Season of Taking

By NURIA MATHOG Staff Writer

Call me paranoid, but there are times when I’m sorely tempted to chain all my personal items to my wrist. In my former days of blissful ignorance, I was prone to leaving my belongings out without worry or inhibition, a typical naïveté that vanished once they started to disappear randomly. Until that point, it hadn’t occurred to me that anyone would actually steal my things; I thought theft was reserved for fortunes and buried treasure, as the movies so often seemed to indicate.

I quickly learned otherwise, and to this day, I make sure that none of my property leaves my sight.

Being a theft victim is a truly awful experience, a situation we take every precaution to avoid. The fear of losing our possessions drives us to compulsively feel for the familiar bulges of electronic devices, reassuring ourselves that our beloved iPods and Sidekicks are still tucked away in a secure location. Nothing compares to the acute thrill of horror when our routine checks turn up empty pockets and bags, an intense panic that leads to half an hour of desperate searching (Where is it? Did someone take it?). Everyone becomes a suspect; the world is suddenly transformed into a dark and ugly place (Who’s responsible? That guy

over there looks suspicious. But that girl has a shifty expression). Then there’s the unhelpful attitude of those trying to act sympathetic, the uncomfortable, non-eye-contact countenances and inaudible mumbles of “Don’t worry...I’m sure you’ll get it back,” though they clearly don’t believe it and neither do we. Really, what is there to say beyond, “That sucks...start saving?”

I have a very simple, if unattainable, dream for the future. I want to be able to leave my backpack unattended for five minutes and find it in exactly the same condition, complete with all of its original contents. I’d like the size of my wallet to remain consistent throughout the day when I’m not extracting any money from it. Frankly, I’d like to live in a world where we don’t feel compelled to take things that clearly don’t belong to us. I recognize that stealing is inevitable, and, at times, understandable under extreme circumstances. However, a lot of the theft that occurs at this school is inspired solely by greed. What justification exists for that? How can anyone possibly defend stealing somebody else’s cellphone? Aesthetic appeal?

Uncontrollable malevolence? The unfortunate fact is that people do get away with theft. I never recovered most of the items stolen from me; for all I know, they’re sitting neglected in somebody’s closet at this very moment. And because people who steal don’t always get caught, they form the false impression that

Graphic by NURIA MATHOG

A SHRIVELLED HEART ‘Tis the season to be jolly, so let’s not be Grinches this season—and for the rest of the year.

theft is somehow acceptable. It’s not a crime until the court says so, eh?

What I find most frustrating is the fact that most of us are genuinely honest people.

I’m willing to bet that the majority of students here respect personal property, at least to the extent that they find no need to stake additional claims. But the ones who do choose to steal make it difficult to have complete faith in anyone. I’d love to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, to trust somebody I have just met on principle alone, to have the audacity to think, “I barely know you, but I’m confident that you won’t steal my stuff.”

I want to believe that each individual here at AHS would hesitate to pocket someone else’s belongings. And I’d hope that anyone who caught someone in the act wouldn’t hesitate to say something to stop the thief. But that just doesn’t happen; most don’t make the effort to stop themselves or others. I’d abandon my reservations in a heartbeat if I thought there was even a remote chance of such a reality, but common sense prevails.

It’s unwise to let our guard down when the risk of loss is very real, because like it or not, we’re going to have to make an extra effort to keep an eye on our belongings. Basic respect—now there’s something worth stealing. nmathog@theapachepowwow.com

A Heart the Size of My Wallet Money Can’t Buy Happiness

By BILL ZHOU Staff Writer

Christmas is finally here, and you know what that means? That’s right. The biggest lie in the entire world.

No, I’m not talking about Santa Claus— the jolly old man who creeps into houses at night and drops off coal after stealing some milk and cookies. I’m talking about an abomination that is much, much worse. Its inherent message is a concoction of the devil, designed to bail out his minions from angry gift recipients.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, you guessed correctly: “It’s the thought that counts.”

Yeah, right. Can I get you a rubber band so you can stretch the truth some more? Despite what childish fancy you might still be harboring, “it’s the thought that counts” is an anachronism that even your parents won’t buy.

Case in point: me. During my young and foolish years, I would typically show my affection for my mom with cutesy, sentimental Christmas cards decorated with a mess of glitter and paste. Today, they sit on top of my mom’s dresser with crisscrossing phone numbers scrawled over my heartfelt words.

Am I the only one brave enough to state what is truly going through everyone’s mind?

Christmas, as much as we hate to admit, is solely about the monetary value. Call me a cynic, but in the end, I’m only preaching the truth.

Every Christmas, we are slammed with ad after ad, demanding that we spend those few extra dollars to show our true gratification for the special people in our lives. America is a country of consumers that buys rather than makes. Who else but Americans would invent things as blatantly greedy as wish lists and wedding registries? Christmas greed is just a part of life; it’s the Grinch that resides in all of

us, one that is perpetuated by societal expectations. No matter how much we clamor for sentimental pictures or that I-know-you-so-wellI’m-going-to-make-you-something junk, in the end, we are still left thinking, “I spent 60 dollars getting you that designer scarf and all you got me was a card? So I’m only worth two dollars to you, huh?”

Christmas isn’t really Christmas without the fervent price searches on the internet after the opening of gifts. This holiday, don’t disappoint your friend by showing up empty-handed or with those homemade cookies that taste like rocks drenched in rat poison. To those die-hard sentimentals out there, I think I speak for all of us when I say, “Please, for the love of all that is good and precious, for this one Christmas (and for every other Christmas as well), opt for something better than the usual, ‘priceless’ garbage you pick up off the street.”

By CHRISTINE XU Copy Editor

bzhou@theapachepowwow.com

Amidst all the fervor over buy-one-getone-free (BOGO) sales, gift wrap, and purchasing decent gifts, it’s not an exaggeration to say we all drive ourselves a little crazy during the holiday season. We worry to the point of insanity about little details, like how much we spend on people and whether or not our recipients will give us gifts that are monetarily equivalent to the ones we gave them. At times, we fail to see the point of holiday season: to show our appreciation for the people who are important in our lives.

Take a look at the gifts you were given last year. Were they generic, costly, or even suspiciously regifted? Chances are, your giftgiver was probably fretting over what to give you, discarding each potential gift they took into consideration as “too cheap-looking” or “not good enough.” But when did the defini-

Graphic Courtesy of STEFANY CHEN

Graphic by LAUREN WONG

MIND OR MATTER? Is the secret to happiness money or love? Your answer may decide how you approach the holidays.

TCID:

tion of “gift” change from “This is something I want you to have” to “This is something to get you off my back for the holiday season so our friendship remains stable?” People fill their heads with the notion that bigger is always better, expensive is always satisfactory. And although we’d be crazy to refuse those Dolce and Gabbana sunglasses or that sweater from J.Crew, the gratification we feel from receiving a homemade scrapbook of our friends or a decorated picture frame is tenfold the amount we can ever get from something that only indulges our material wants. We are more than our property, and thoughtful gifts reflect this.

Everyone really just wants to be cared for, and what better way to do so than to give a gift that embodies your relationship with someone, whether it’s a hot dog hat from an inside joke or a coffee mug adorned with pictures through the years of a friendship? Anything is better than the “mass gifts” some people give (or even distribute)—the ones that make you feel like you’re just another item to be checked off on a to-do list, only given thought to when the giver counts you as another person to waste money on. And while it’s nice to be given a gift at all, you can’t help but feel like you were better off gift-less, knowing that at least the empty space under your evergreen tree is contributed to sincerity.

The “thought that counts” is never overrated. Some might think the saying is an excuse to save your money, but even cynics should know that a simple, written card, costing only two dollars is worth the heart of one who is close to you. And really, the holiday season doesn’t get any more complicated than that.

So how about it? This season, tell yourself you don’t need a budget, because your heart doesn’t need one. Just like a picture, a thought is worth a thousand words. cxu@theapachepowwow.com

December 2008

OPINION

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Please Santa, No Coal this Year Hey Santa, What’s up (other than the North Pole)? I’m good, except I need a favor.

See, for sixteen long years, I have been doing my best to be good just for you.

I’ve only been falling asleep in class once a day. I’ve reduced the amount of time I bully my little brother (four hours a week!). I’ve hidden only half my veggies in my napkin every night, yet every year I jump out of bed on Christmas only to be disappointed, my sole annual wish ungranted. Where are my followers? My fans? My legions of nannies? I only wish to be a rock star with enough fame to last me for years after my death. Is that too much to ask?

Rocking Out, Emily Yang

Graphic by DAVID HERNANDEZ

THE OPINION FAMILY Left to right: Emily Yang, Lauren Wong, Nuria Mathog,

Santa Claus, Why do people waste their time, constantly seeking desperate measures to remove a couple decades’ worth of lines off their faces, resulting in stretched-out, too-tight, never-frowning countenances (synonym: Joan Rivers)? Those who are truly worthy of respect—people like Ellen DeGeneres, George Clooney, and you—are wise beyond their years and have the faces to prove it. So this Christmas, I would greatly appreciate your efforts to naturally add on three years to my visage, so I can actually look 15 years old. And while you’re at it, seven inches to my small frame wouldn’t hurt; it adds to the overall effect.

Please, Christine Xu

Andrés Delgado, Christine Xu, Kayla Pang, and Bill Zhou. Spend your Christmas with people you love; we know we will.

Dear Santa, I was wondering if you could do me one teensy-weensy favor. In an effort to avoid looking greedy, I told my friends that they didn’t have to get me anything this year. Unfortunately, it seems that they actually took my suggestion to heart—trust me, I will never make that mistake again! Santa, I don’t think I’m asking for too much, but a generous contribution on your part would be greatly appreciated; I would really like to avoid a giftless Christmas. My holiday philosophy is quite simple: learn from the past and live for the presents!

Thanks, Nuria Mathog

To Whom it May Concern: On behalf of the Union of Fanciful Folk (UFF), we demand the immediate release of the vertically challenged fairies, more commonly referred to as “elves,” which you have enslaved to perpetrate your toy monopoly. These “elves” are entitled to 10,000 dollars in compensation and in 2,008 years of backpay. Failure to comply will result in immediate legal action. Yes, we will send an extraction team all the way up to your sweatshop in the North Pole.

Signed, Andrés Delgado & Kayla Pang P.S. We want an xBox 360.

Yo Santa, Listen up, old man, I’m not putting on a “nice” act anymore until you meet my demands. This year, I want your big, red sack. Yes, the bag. After years of dealing with stockings of coal, I think the least I deserve is to have all the presents in the world. Don’t fret; the nice kids will condone this. They’re nice, remember? No need to wait a whole year—just get your lazy rear end out of the North Pole now! Oh, and don’t even consider skipping my house…unless you want Rudolph’s head decorating my wall.

Love, Bill Zhou P.S. Have a Merry Christmas.

Santa, This holiday season, my heart yearns for the soul of every chick flick I’ve seen this year: my own personal knight in shining armor, ready to sweep me up on his white pony and ride with me into the beautiful California sunset.

He should have stellar looks, a great physique, a stunning smile, a heart of gold, and a charm that dazzles every member of the female population into thinking, “Oh, how I wish he was mine!” Please, oh please, Santa, won’t you give me a Disney happily ever after?

XOXO, Lauren Wong

The Gift that Just Keeps on Giving and Giving and...

By EMILY YANG Staff Writer

Way back when we were learning to chase the bunny through the hole to tie our shoes, we prepared for the holiday season by making all sorts of Christmas-themed crafts to brighten up our families’ homes. Now, as high school students, we have the opportunity to participate in a different, subtle, and yet magnificent art: regifting.

I don’t know why anyone would have a problem with regifting. Some people claim that it’s the lazy way of buying presents, but it actually requires a great deal of precision and talent, which I have, if I do say so myself. I mean, not everyone can remember exactly who gives what to them and where the best place to recycle presents is. Through my years of practice, I have learned that one of the most important things to remember is that regifting to a different circle of friends than from the one the gift originally came from minimizes potential complications. Christmas of 2004 was sad indeed when I neglected this rule. (Let’s just say X found out that the teddy bear she gave me for my birthday was sitting in Y’s bedroom.

Bitter, unnecessary arguments ensued among

TCID:

the three of us, none of us have spoken to each other ever since, and the only remnant of the teddy bear found was one of its eyes. But we don’t need to get into all of the gory details.)

With the current economic downturn, regifting is the obvious way to go for the holidays. Save some green while giving away those horrible socks you got last year from your former friend; it’s a win-win situation—for you! That poor soul who will receive my set of scented candles I never used… Oh well, at least I get to cross another name off my Christmas list, which strangely enough is growing shorter and shorter every year. Fortunately for me, that leaves more presents to recycle for next year!

That hideously old-fashioned shirt your aunt gave you for your birthday last month? It would definitely suit your friend in third period a lot better—or at least that’s what you should say to get it out of your closet. That DVD that looks like it’s been making the rounds for the past couple years? Hmm, let’s not break the tradition by not handing it out again this year.

Oh, you can totally tell this handmade picture frame was created with hours of tedious work; it’s time to pass it off as your own and hear how wonderful you are.

Graphic by EMILY YANG

WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND If you didn’t enjoy a couple

of gifts, odds are others might enjoy them instead. You would be doing people favors by distributing your gifts.

This holiday season, let’s all unite in an eco-friendly chant of the four R’s: reduce, reuse, recycle, and regift! It’s quite wasteful to keep something you don’t want, so pass it on to someone who (probably) needs it and even

wants it more than you do. Ah, regifting is truly the gift that just keeps on giving.

And giving... eyang@theapachepowwow.com

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December 2008

December 2008

FEATURES

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Lighting Up the Holiday Spirit

By AMY LEONG Staff Writer

It’s that time of year again! Neighbors are starting to be friendlier to each other. People everywhere are rushing to the mall to buy presents for their loved ones. Take some time off the holiday frenzy; stop and smell the roses.

Take a look at the luminous lights displayed all around. You can even watch the holiday spirit come alive, as neighbors compete with one another for the best decorated house on the block.

Christmas lights stretching across roofs and chimneys just aren’t enough to stir up the appropriate holiday spirit. One of the most famous places to go for sightseeing is the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. You can take a boat ride or stand on the dock, while watching boats circulate the harbor. Filled with extravagant decorations, the area features snowmen, candy canes and reindeers at every corner. The most popular attraction is the boat, where you can drink some hot chocolate and

enjoy the cozy sensation.

If you’d rather not go on a boat, try the DWP (Department of Water and Power) Light Show. Take a quick ten-to-twenty-minute drive through a parade of Christmas lights, while you enjoy the jolly music in the background and watch the animated creatures come alive.

It also features all the famous places of Southern California for an enhanced holiday experience. Free of charge, the DWP Light Show is located at Griffith Park and is one light show you can’t miss!

Located in Altadena, the Balian House is known for its spectacular holiday decorations.

Achieving quite a history from selling their Balian ice cream, the house has kept their tradition every year, displaying over ten thousand colored lights all over their three and a half acre property. Countless decorations cover the house and its surrounding lawn.

As for competition with neighbors, every street in Upper Hastings Ranch features something new every year, as residents participate in a team effort to make their street look better

than that of their competing neighbors. They cover every street with Christmas themes, creating a cheerful atmosphere for all to enjoy.

There are never-ending displays of lights, with some houses planning extravagant decorations to stand out from all the others.

Are you a fan of seeing Christmas trees?

Well, you’re in for a huge extravaganza. Every year, Christmas Tree Lane decorates three blocks of trees with colored lights. Simply take a stroll or drive through to appreciate the lights that are displayed way above the ground. Christmas Tree Lane is located in Altadena and is an exciting route to take during the holidays.

Here are just a few places to go to see Christmas lights. Get into the Christmas spirit this holiday season by spending time with your family and going on a drive for fluorescent light sightseeing. Enjoy a boat ride while watching a parade. Make every moment count —entertain yourself this Christmas! aleong@theapachepowwow.com

You Want for Christmas Is This Holiday Playlist ByAll JOANNA SHEN

By MARISSA XING

Staff Writer

December is a month of gifts, fruitcakes, and holiday music of all sorts. From the classics to the modern pop and rock, there are countless songs to choose from.

Here is a recommended playlist of different genres for music lovers to share with friends, family, and that special someone during this holiday season.

Pop “It Just Don’t Feel Like Christmas Without You” -Rihanna “My Only Wish” -Britney Spears “Baby It’s Cold Outside” -Jessica Simpson “The Christmas Song” -Christina Aguilera “My Grown Up Christmas List” -Kelly Clarkson Rock “I Won’t Be Home for Christmas” -Blink 182 “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” -InMemory “All I Want for Christmas” -My Chemical Romance “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” -Relient K “Christmas Day” -MxPx Alternative “My December” -Linkin Park “December” -Weezer R&B “This Christmas” -Chris Brown “All I Want for Christmas is You” -Mariah Carey “Eight Days of Christmas” -Destiny’s Child “What Christmas Means to Me” -Stevie Wonder mxing@theapachepowwow.com

Staff Writer

can surprise her with this great organizing gift to cushion the punishment.

Teenager: Guitar Hero for the Nintendo DS. The widely popular video game has just gotten small enough to fit into the pockets of all gamers.

Te e n s everywhere can rock to their favorite tunes and battle others through a wireless network as well.

Photo Courtesy of GIFTS.COM T h i s Dad: USB Beverage ROCK OUT Guitar Hero is now available on compact game is Chiller. With a swift plug the Nintendo DS for teenage gamers. sure to into the USB port of your keep you occupied during the two-week winter computer, you can activate the chiller to keep break. your drinks nice and cool for those late night assignments. This classy Kid: computer accessory that Chicco Vespa Scooter. Even doesn’t require an exthe little siblings deserve some ternal outlet is sure to love around Christmas time. turn heads.

The Vespa Scooter features an accelerator, brakes, headMom: lights, and a horn, givVo i c e ing the rider the full activated experience of a mogrocery tor vehicle. Though list maker. you may be sitting This gift around waiting to get is perfect for your license, your little making Mom’s sibling will be just cruising life a little easier on by. as she constantly runs around town tending With all the presents nested to house needs. By comfortably under simply saying an item’s the tree, you can now name, you Photo Courtesy of GIFTS.COM kick back and enjoy can make CRUISING BY Show your little siblings some the coming of winter the machine love with the gift of their very own motor vehicle. and the delight of the add it onto holiday season. your list and can even print out a hard copy.

Though Mom may not thank you for getting in jshen@theapachepowwow.com the house at half past one in the morning, you Road rage at the mall, last minute project-cramming and crazy Californian weather. Ah, it’s that time of year again; the holiday season has arrived. With all this holiday spirit floating around, it’s no surprise that all of Arcadia is bustling about to accommodate the winter season. As the holidays draw closer, the time for stressful gift shopping for your best friend or significant other does as well. To make your holiday shopping easier, here are some quirky gifts that will be sure to please your family and friends so you can hit the dinner feast faster.

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Cultural Potluck

By CELESTE CHEUNG Staff Writer

We all know of the traditional cups of eggnog, light-up reindeers, and phases of uncontrolled eating.

However, we often overlook the cultural diversity that can and should be celebrated.

In China, Dun Che Lao Ren, Old Man Christmas, delivers hong bao, or red envelopes, to children. Bowls of oranges and tangerines, symbolizing wealth and good fortune, are traditionally displayed in the home. “Trees of Light” are decorated with papers with words for luck, prosperity, happiness, longevity, and freedom from restraints, as well as colored lanterns and depictions of the Golden Pheasant, Phoenix, and Giant Panda.

Japan celebrates the holidays through the ancient art of paper folding known as origami. Classic shapes include the tsuru, or crane, and flowers. As told in the story “Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes”, a thousand paper cranes will make a wish come true. Senior Charlie Tran added, “My family and I always eat mochi during Christmas and New Year’s, because in Japan, New Year is the most important time of the year, like Christmas in America.”

Germany introduced to the world many of our modern Christmas traditions, like Christmas trees, Christmas cards, and Santa Claus. A popular German Christmas dish is lebkuchen or pfefferkuchen, a soft gingerbread-like pastry flavored with many spices, such as cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and coriander. Freshman Steven Heer said, “My favorite part of Christmas is St. Nickolaus Tag because you get a present early. You put your shoe out on the fifth, and then on the sixth, you wake up and get a present in your shoe. It’s really nice because…you can enjoy one present before Christmas.”

In France, Christmas is known as Noël, which comes from the phrase “lesbonnes nouvelles,” or “the good news.” Santa Claus is called Pére Noël, meaning “Father Christmas.”

The most popular French Christmas symbol, by far, is the nativity scene, called Christmas Crèche; santons, meaning “little saints,” are often included to represent biblical figures and everyday people, such as bakers and policemen.

Christmas in Korea is celebrated by a Christmas pageant on Christmas Eve, followed by midnight caroling in the neighborhood. When one hears carolers outside one’s home, it is traditional to open the door to listen, then invite the entire caroling group inside for snacks and hot drinks. A Korean Christmas dinner often includes bulgogi, barbecued beef; kimchi, pickled Chinese cabbage; and naeng myeon, clear noodles made from green mung beans.

So this holiday, step away from the tangled strings of lights and deadly, rock-hard fruitcakes. Instead, celebrate the holidays with the traditions of another country. ccheung@theapachepowwow.com

8 All I Want For Christmas

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December 2008

“This Christmas, the greatest present of all would be the happiness of everyone around me. But of course, I would like some material things – I want a G phone.”

Andy Han, senior

“I wish my The Mists of Avalon project would write itself.”

Melissa Ma, sophomore

“Time. All I want is time...to finish by extraneous amount of homework.”

Jason Pang, sophomore

“I wish that people would stop wishing and start doing. That way, maybe some of their dreams will come true.”

Torie Jee, senior

“This Christmas, I want world peace...and some candy.”

Mason Khoo, junior

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All I Want For Christmas 9

“For Christmas this year, I wish that those families with soldiers fighting overseas will have a great Christmas filled with hope for their loved ones.”

Kim Selinske, freshman

“I wish one day was 36 hours long. That way, I’d have more time for sleeping, working, and playing games.”

Joe Tian, junior

“I wish for sleep. Because this is my junior year, I would be happy just to have a lot of sleep this Christmas.”

Joanna Shen, junior

“My wish this year is to drain all my mistakes away under a winter moon.”

Sinthia Perez, freshman

Th

December 2008

is

si m

ish , w m g y n o g l e r f i own l y

up Ch r

istmas wish

Photos by Gregory Zajac, Peter Huang, and Emily Litvack

ACADEMICS

10 What Do You Get a Nerd for Christmas? College Profile:

By RICHARD FU Staff Writer

Having trouble brainstorming fun, unique, yet practical gifts for nerds? I have good news, for there exists a simple solution that will wipe away all your headaches and dilemmas: reflect upon a day of your own life and assess the needs and desires of an Arcadian teenager.

3 a.m.: Three hours of YouTube and textmessaging later, you buckle down to tackle the vocabulary list from AP French, take-home essay from AP English, assignments #42-44 of Calculus BC, and article on Christmas presents for nerds. And what do you know, suddenly you feel sleepy. In this critical juncture, sleep is the last thing you can afford. I introduce to you the Mana Energy Potion. Each tiny vial of this energy drink gives you as much as two Red Bulls or four cups of Starbucks’ worth of irritation, life-span loss, and sleep deprivation.

Fortunately, sleep deprivation is exactly what you need. So drink it. (http://www.thinkgeek. com/caffeine/drinks/a273/) 6 a.m.: Forget about first period. Or second. Or third. Just show up fourth to take that darn calculus test. But how can you ensure you’ll wake up in time to make it for the test?

What if you accidentally oversleep because that Mana Energy Potion fundamentally disoriented your body’s nervous system? What you need is a Sonic Bomb SBB500ss. Also known as the “Bomb,” this alarm clock is equipped with night vision display, pulsating alert lights, and a ground shaking super-charged bed shaker with a one-hundred thirteen dB extra loud alarm.

Even better, the clock comes with a One Year Sonic Alert blast proof warranty. Not sure if the warranty is for the clock when you smash it or

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at your unfinished homework that she unplugs the Internet connection. Uh oh.

UC applications due in two hours. You desperately wander the streets with a laptop seeking Wi-Fi. But it is extremely inconvenient to have to crack open the laptop just to check for Internet acPhotos by YENTL IP cess. In your IMAGINARY VS REALITY The dream: chillin’ with a babe and your state of panic TI; the reality: ...no. This is why we must find alternative gifts. you just might drop your future your ears when it bleeds dry. Whichever hap- job, family, car, vacations, and funeral. I mean, pens first, I guess. (http://www.sonicalert.com/ your computer. Laden with UC applications.

Therefore, I proudly present the Wi-Fi Detechtm/clock.htm) tor Shirt. With glowing bars on the front of the 1:15 p.m.: Your body is suffering from a shirt that change as the surrounding Wi-Fi sigfatal disease called boredom. People die from it nal strength fluctuates, you can at last walk in every year. How else do you explain fatalities at peace. (http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apWal-Mart and Toys-R-Us? I digress. But to miti- parel/interactive/991e/) gate your boredom, a Stainless Steel 8GB Video And voilà. There you have it, the four most Watch with full color 1.8” screen and massive 8 GB of internal flash memory has been invent- essential gadgets to surviving an Arcadian life ed. With a built-in voice recorder, high quality packed with procrastination, AP overdose, nonspeaker with earphone jack, and the ability to existent sleep, and angry parents. Try them out view JPEG pictures while simultaneously lis- sometime and give me a little feedback. Who tening to music, who needs Vladimir Putin and knows? They just might make you as crazy as his Playboy-esque flex? (http://www.thinkgeek. I am. com/electronics/portable-audio-video/a442/) 10 p.m.: Your mom becomes so infuriated

Gov. Rocks Regionals

By SEAN MAROONGROGE Staff Writer

rfu@theapachepowwow.com

S&D: Simple Domination

By JENNY LIN Staff Writer

The Constitution Team (Gov. Team) competed on Sat. Dec. 16 at their annual regional competition, placing first. This is their 21st consecutive first place victory at the regional level, allowing them to continue on to state once again.

Although history is on the team’s side, members studied and practiced intensely to keep up with their winning tradition. Between class time, unit meetings, self-study and “chambers” for competition simulation, members usually devote about 20 hours each week to improving.

Because Gov. Team is an all-senior academic team, its Photo Courtesy of MONICA SHEI members have SMELLING ROSES The Team pauses by ros- little experience es for a moment, but Victory is much sweeter. with the competition between years. Winning year after year requires the ability to field a diverse group of students time and time again, demonstrating the strength and dedication of Apaches on the whole, as well as the excellent coaching provided by Mr. Kevin Fox and his staff.

During competition, students must make stands on different topics ranging from the principles behind the Constitution to their applications such as immigration and domestic policy. Competing teams never hear each other compete because the scoring is based on how effectively students convey and defend their ideas, so sharing ideas and arguments with other teams would devalue research efforts. In order to score their best, the team aims to be “succinct, complete, and utterly convincing,” a guideline which can be found posted in Mr. Fox’s room.

By the time state rolls around in early February, the team looks to improve even more and continue their success. Good luck Gov. Team!

The kids of Speech and Debate competed at La Costa Canyon High School from Dec. 5-7 at the 38th Annual San Diego Winter Classic.

“Usually, competitions are open to anyone who wants to go; however, for La Costa, there were only 18 spots open, so students who wished to compete had to audition before Ms. Novak and Ms. Barbour,” said junior Derek Ha, one of the members fortunate enough to attend.

On Saturday, the 18 rhetoricians went to La Costa where they each competed in their own events in the A-round/B-round pattern. Every event, except Congress, had 2 preliminary rounds on Saturday.

The next day, they went back to La Costa to attend the third and final preliminary rounds. Junior Andrew Chang placed 6th for Congress, while senior Justin Lu placed 9th. Senior Derek Tran placed 1st in TI, sophomore Michelle Zhu placed 3rd in OI. Juniors Derek Ha and Jamie Griswold placed 5th and 6th respectively in OA. Sophomores Ray Chao and Olivia Sui placed 3rd in DUO. And sophomore Enid Lee placed 6th in the DI. The semi-finalists were: junior Winston Chang for Extemporaneous, sophomore Alex Ethridge for Congress, senior Hanna Lee for TI, and seniors Beverly Chiang and Kritika Jinagouda for DUO. “La Costa was an opportunity for us to demonstrate the skill that we have for months been honing and refining. Arcadia’s performance at Photo Courtesy of STEPHENNIE TENG this tournament EASY PEASY The blood, sweat, and tears exemplifies the put into prep don’t show in these winners. dedication held by members of the entire team and indicates that the team is capable of phenomenal success and progress on a statewide, even nationwide, level,” said junior Andrew Chang.

smaroongroge@theapachepowwow.com

jlin@theapachepowwow.com

December 2008

Boston College

By JOE TIAN Staff Writer

Boston College (BC) is a private university located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts with a historic campus set on a hilltop six miles west of downtown Boston. The university ranks #34 among all national universities in U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges 2009.”

Boston College was founded by the Society of Jesus and opened its doors on Sept. 5, 1864 with 3 teachers and 22 students. Through its first 70 years, it remained an exclusive liberal arts institution with emphasis on Greek and Latin classics, English and modern languages, and philosophy and religion.

Similar to most colleges and universities, Boston College offers a variety of majors including Art History, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Foreign Languages, History. Their most popular one for Bachelor Degree is Business and Marketing.

Boston College is among the most selective universities in the United States; some important admission factors include excellent standardized test scores and outstanding high school GPA. Other important factors include alumni relation, character or personal qualities, class rank, application essay, extracurricular activities, teacher or counselor recommendations, and volunteer work.

Boston College is home to a rich mix of cultural organizations, including musical performance groups, dance troupes, and theatre productions, ranging from classical to contemporary.

Boston College offers a variety of assistance programs to help students finance their education. The Office of Student Services administers federal financial aid programs that include Federal Stafford Loans and Federal Work-Study as well as need-based institutional undergraduate grant and undergraduate scholarship programs, and undergraduate state scholarship and loan programs.

Generally referred to as the “Eagles,” Boston College’s athletic teams participate in NCAA’s Division I-A as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference. Boston College has an excellent men’s hockey team that won the 2008 NCAA Championship on April 12 with a 4-1 victory over the University of Notre Dame in Denver, Colorado.

Admission Statistics [from Collegeboard]: SAT Score: Critical Reading: 610- 700 Writing: 620- 719 Math: 630- 720 ACT Composite: 28- 32 Percent of Applicants Accepted for the Class of 2011: 27.3% In-state Tuition: $37,950 Out-of-state Tuition: $37,950 jtian@theapachepowwow.com

Photo Courtesy of BOSTON COLLEGE

ROBSHAM The first designed permanent home for theater production at BC.

December 2008

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SPORTS

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winter s p o rt s “Even though we’re coming off a loss, we’re still going to try to walk away with a league championship. We’re one of the smallest teams in the Pacific League. We’re going to have to hustle hard against big teams and work harder in practice.”

- Sophomore Kiran Koneru

“This year, for the Girls Varsity Soccer team, we’ve set a lot of goals for ourselves. So far, we’ve made really good progress on meeting them, which proves that this is going to be an amazing season.”

- Junior Joleen Pimentel

“I know for a fact that this season will be a successful one if we perform at the highest level in our practices and in games. We have to put goals of the team above our individual desires and work hard at all times to improve our skills.”

- Senior Kim Wong

December 2008

Boys Cross Country Makes History

By GREGORY ZAJAC Staff Writer

The last fall sport still in the running at AHS finished their season on Dec. 6 at the Portland Meadows Nike Cross National Race. They finished as the first American team in the Open race.

This competition was preceded by the Apaches’ performance in what has been dubbed by coaches and sportswriters alike as “the greatest overall state meet ever” on Fresno’s Woodward Park Course. They cut through the thick fog of that Nov. 30 morning to receive a 4th place finish in the state meet, with a team time of 79 minutes flat. Poizat earned a 5th place medal with a time of 15:12. He was followed by the fastest sophomore in the race, teammate Ammar Moussa, who captured 25th place in 15:38. Sophomore Allen Leung finished 47th in 15:56, sophomore Eric Garibay 50th in 15:57, junior Charlie Johansen 86th in 16:18, junior Nick Shar 94th in 16:25, and sophomore Esmond Wei 129th in 16:42.

The next week, the team traveled to Portland to see what they could accomplish in the Nike Cross Nationals Open Race, and what mud, hay bales, and cold weather will do to athletes from sunny Southern California. Moussa blazed the trail for AHS this time, finishing 9th in 16:33.

Leung finished 14th in 16:47, Garibay 17th in 16:58, junior Bryant Chan 23rd in 17:07, Johansen 26th in 17:10, Shar 33rd in 17:17, junior Christos McClain 38th in 17:20, Wei 42nd in 17:24, and junior Gabriel Weil 50th in 17:32, for a team time of 84:38. The Apaches finished as the first American team in the race, second only to an all-star team of Photo by high school cross country runners from GREGORY ZAJAC Kenya, making it the best finish for AHS in the three years they have run this race.

Poizat, due to his 5th place finish at state, flew to Oregon as an allexpenses-paid competitor in Nike’s premier Cross Country event. The level of competition was radically different from that of any race he had run in before. Poizat described it as “a totally different race that no one ever runs in high school.” Despite the feeling of being a small fish in a big pond, he had a successful race, leaving California State Champion Tyler Valdez in his dust, demolishing AHS’s course record from last year by 56 seconds, and earning his place in school history as the first Apache to receive the honor of running in this prestigious race.

With Poizat as the only Varsity runner graduating, AHS has six returners for next year. Leung said that racing in a field dominated by upperclassmen is “intimidating, because everyone is three heads taller than you and their elbows are at your head.”

Coach Jim O’Brien said, “We absolutely reached the highest level of potential we could this season,” but adds that “I think that we will raise the bar [once again] next year.” gzajac@theapachepowwow.com

“We have great team chemistry, on and off the field. Everyone gets along a lot better than last year.

We have a really strong defensive line, and our season’s looking pretty good so far.”

- Sophomore Daniel Ortiz

“We only have nine girls on the team this season, which is a really low number. However, it allows us to become closer as a team. I think we’ll have a great season as long as we keep improving on our game at practices.”

- Sophomore Stephanie Chang Photos by GREGORY ZAJAC

December 2008

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PERFORMING ARTS

Stringing Their Way Into the Winter Season Major,” and “The Village Dance.”

This concert was very important to OrStaff Writer chestra 1 because they were the only group that Holiday tunes are unavoidable during De- performed. Being put in the spotlight definitely cember. No matter where we go—the market, added pressure to every member, but at the the mall, or even Barnes & Noble—merry holi- same time, they were proud to be playing a solo day songs fill the air. To blend in with the at- without Orchestra 2 and Orchestra 3. Freshman mosphere, Orchestra 1 played a Winter Concert Peggy Galvez, a member of Orchestra 1, said at Holly Avenue Elementary School on Dec. 9 that “the freshman orchestra...really doesn’t do at 7 p.m. Some of the pieces that Orchestra 1 as much as Orchestra 2 and Orchestra 3,” so played included “The Shepherd’s Dance,” “The “being able to [participate in] a concert [all on Wassail Song,” “Concerto Bernardi,” “Air in D their own] is something that [she is] very proud of.”

Most of the Orchestra 1 members had a positive view toward the performance.

Freshman Jessica Namkoong said that she felt “extremely proud to be able to perform in front of many family members and friends.” However, freshman Vaishravi Balendiran was “really nervous because this was Orchestra 1’s first concert by [themselves].” Even Photo by KRISTEN SHIELDS though they are conNOTES OF HARMONY Orchestra 1 performs at the sidered to be the less Winter Concert after months of practice. experienced orchestra

By MARISSA XING

members, Vaishravi still thought that the members of Orchestra 1 were ready because of their conductors, Mr. Rick England and Mr. Tom Forbes. Feeling excited or nervous is a common emotion experienced when performing, but freshman Fannie Chiang said that she “felt very relieved because [she’s] been practicing so hard, and it all paid off with this concert.” She also said that she “loves orchestra and playing with all [her] friends because being in orchestra is like being in another world.”

Prior to playing in this successful concert, Orchestra 1 members spent many hours practicing and rehearsing to perfect their performance.

During periods 5 and 6, the Orchestra 1 members practiced separately, but all 130 members met after school to rehearse.

So far, Orchestra 1 has performed in just one other concert, the Fall String Concert at Pasadena High School. Although members of Orchestra 1 may not be as experienced as members of the other orchestral groups, freshman Ingrid Hong said that she “loves [how] everyone is unified in playing.” Orchestra 1 member freshman Vicky Ho added, “We spend a lot of time together as a team and [during] practice, so [the concert] really means a lot.” Freshman Angela Chen surely spoke for all of Orchestra 1 when she said, “Even though we are seen as the least experienced group, [we are] still really excited about having concerts and making each better than the last [one].” mxing@theapachepowwow.com

Band Heads to the Happiest Place on Earth

By LAUREEN MA Staff Writer

The AHS Apache Marching Band and Colorguard are headed for an exciting 7-day, 6-night trip to Jacksonville, Florida, from Dec. 29 to Jan. 4. They will be performing at the Konica Minolta Gator Bowl as well as parading down the streets of Disney World. The band and Colorguard will also be participating in the 2,000-student halftime spectacular with other high school bands and colorguards.

In Florida, the two AHS groups will perform their 2008 field show, entitled “Hemispheres,” which has won them numerous trophies and awards. Mr. Kevin Sherrill, the band director, arranged the piece, which is based on the human brain. The band and Colorguard have been preparing for this important trip ever since marching band season started, which was late summer. Freshman

Garrick Kwan said, “From early morning practices to late night outings, I can truthfully say that band and Colorguard have gone through it all.” Freshman Amber Young said, “We have had a bunch of practices and rehearsals, [so] I really feel that we are ready. Everyone is really pumped up to go, and it is really a team effort.

When we get onto the field, the spectators don’t view us as individuals but rather as a unified and synchronized group.”

Band and Colorguard are making the 2,413-mile trip to Jacksonville, Florida with their peers and a few chaperones, making the experience even more enjoyable. Freshman Aaron Shar said, “Since the band has worked so hard for this, everyone, including me, is excited to go because this is really the chance of a lifetime. The band and Colorguard only get a big trip every four years so you can’t really not go.” Freshman Alison Fu agreed with Aaron and said, “I’m unbelievably excited for Disney

World and the Gator Bowl. After all, we only get one big trip in our whole career in band, so this is a once in a lifetime chance! Also, I’ve never been anywhere near Florida, so this is going to be an interesting little adventure for me.”

This trip isn’t all about performing, though; members of the band and Colorguard will also have time for fun and relaxation. In Disney World, they will have time to explore the amusement park, ride all the rides, and play all the games. The schedule for this trip has not yet been released but, of course, when hard work pays off, everyone goes to Disney World. Freshman Jasmine Wu said, “Band and Colorguard have put in so much effort that we owe it to ourselves to have some fun.

Although this trip is a bit pricey, the whole experience will definitely be worth it.” lma@theapachepowwow.com

Photos by SAMMI WONG and Courtesy of CELESTE LI

MARCHING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND 1) Band and Percussion practice on Campus Drive for their performance. 2) Colorguard drills flag twirls to strive for perfection. 3) Band steps in unison during practice.

theapachepowwow.com

December 2008

Improv[ing] Friday Nights

By EILEEN CHOW Staff Writer

Photo by GREG ZAJAC

IMPULSE Seniors Derek Tran and Andrew Picasso create a skit.

Most of us are familiar with NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), the Emmy award-winning comedy show that entertains its audience with humor and some superb performances. On Friday, Dec. 12, the Advanced Drama Department (ADD) was pleased to present their own rendition of SNL, entitled “Friday Night Live” (FNL). The show appeared live in the Little Theater at 7:00 p.m., and tickets were sold for $5 at the door. According to ADD student senior Torie Jee, “People have been filing into the theater every year to get into the show. We only perform it for one night, so tickets sell fast!”

FNLs are presented once in each half of the year and are unlike the productions that ADD usually performs; while most of ADD’s productions are extensive and scripted, FNLs are quick shows (usually running for about one and a half hours), which contain short, improvised skits.

For the Dec. 12 showing of FNL, the ADD students performed various improvised scenes, which they created on their own. “It’s a really funny show that [ranges] from poking fun at celebrities to audience participation,” said ADD student senior Shae Palic. According to the adviser, Mr. Steven Volpe, the show contained “a [ton] of high energy and loud music.”

Since FNL was almost purely based off of improvised scenes, ADD did not have an official practice schedule for it.

However, ADD students did hold improvisation workshops during class. During these workshops, the students came up with ideas for high-quality scenes. Then, they took “what’s funny and [made] it into a deliciously funny skit,” explained Torie.

On the night before FNL, the ADD students once again gathered and discussed any ideas that they had. Afterwards, the performers stayed to practice, cutting out scenes that weren’t as great.

Reflecting on the latest FNL performance, senior Iris Guo said, “It is always a great way for the entire class to get involved in something. It [was] a lot of fun,” Torie added, “A lot of the skits we did [made] me laugh extraordinarily hard, and I’m sure they [made] a lot of other people laugh, too.” echow@theapachepowwow.com

December 2008

CALENDAR

theapachepowwow.com

15

Spotted! Glutton Girl Scoping Out the SGV Cliché Little Wordsearch

By LISA HUNG Staff Writer

Morning, lower west siders! Glutton Girl here, your one and only source into the guilty pleasures of Arcadia’s elite. Spotted! Glutton Girl wandering around in San Gabriel Valley in hopes of finding a new restaurant in a different city. Sick of the same old food? Try the SGV, which is a strip of shopping plazas and restaurants which lies on the borders of Arcadia.

I sat down and ordered what was familiar: beef stew noodles. There was a good eight seconds where the waiter, with persistent silence, waited for me to continue my order, “…and…?” And nothing, that was it. He eventually suggested the smelly tofu, coffin bread, and shaved ice for dessert. Like always, I complied. Mmmm...

My dishes swiftly came out, one after the other; when the waiter placed my smelly tofu on the table, I realized that these deliciously flavored squares smelled of feet. The more I enjoyed the taste, the less I noticed the smell. Next was the coffin bread; it was like an Asian bread bowl. You know the ones in San Francisco with clam chowder in it? Only better. The bread was toasted to perfection, and delightfully crunchy. The corn soup was filled with potatoes, carrots, and peas. And last but not least, my beef stew noodles, which were spiced to the tee. Just when I thought it was over, my

shaved ice came. I know what you’re thinking: the shaved ice may be good but incomparable to “Guppy House” ice. NAY. Although Guppies’ seems larger in size, Pa Pa Walk provides both practical and indulging amounts for apPhoto by LISA HUNG proximately a dollar DISHES These choices at Pa Pa difference. I could Walk are reasonably priced and virtually hide behind good enough for Arcadia’s elite. the mountain of ice toppled with condensed milk and freshly cut fruit.

SGV is definitely worth the drive. After all, gas is under two dollars now. There are numerous places to walk around, like shopping centers and department stores. And for you picture lovers, Cue is just around the corner. Go check it out because you won’t regret it! And who am I? That’s one secret I’ll never tell. You know you love me. XOXO, Glutton Girl.

“Betcha can’t solve it...”

See theapachepowwow.com for answers

lhung@theapachepowwow.com

Adventures of Emily and Velinda

By Emily Litvack and Velinda Liao

The Curious Career

PHOTO OF THE MONTH

By David Hernandez

Photo Contest Winner Elliott Lee My picture is simply a holiday decoration in a sea of blurred lights. Who doesn’t like decorations or depth of field? The decoration was knee-height, though, so getting this shot with a tripod and only the viewfinder hurt my neck.

Alison Yeh, junior, took second place with a photo of a store shelf stocked with goodies in shades of red and green. Well, as they say, ‘tis the season to be shopping! Or was it jolly...?

Did you Know?

Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, was born on Christmas. Barton was inspired

by Switzerland’s Red Cross, which was founded for years before America’s was! Have a “Did you Know?” of your own? Email elitvack@theapachepowwow.com to have it in our paper!

16

CAMPUS FOCUS

theapachepowwow.com

December 2008

AHS Shakes Up the Holidays

menting the season. For these musical groups, much time and energy have been devoted toward the show, with an average practice time of three extra hours Staff Writer per week outside of class. Chaunteurs performed the classic, “You’re a Mean One, As the month of December passes by and our much anticipated winter break rap- Mr. Grinch” as well as a holiday medley called “Let It Snow,” while Orchestra 3 idly approaches, AHS lit up these past few nights with spectacular shows filled with played “A Most Wonderful Christmas,” arranged by Robert Sheldon, and “Christdancing and music to spread the holiday cheer. Many students and teachers created mas Fugue,” by Robert B. Brown, with the help of a few wind and percussion the beautiful performances, including Orchestra 2 and 3, Treble and Concert Choirs, musicians. “The purpose of the concert is to share the holiday joy with family and Chaunteurs, New Spirit, Orchesis Dance Company, and FBLA (Future Business friends through music,” said Orchestra director Mr. Tom Forbes.

Leaders of America). The performances not only showcased students’ talents, but Every year, students look forward to the widely acclaimed Charity Dance also supported charities and other causes as well.

Show, where some of the most prominent dance groups and individuals light up For the second consecutive year, FBLA hosted a benefit concert themed is the stage with original choreography. The show is more than eye-catching en“Green FTW (For The World),” which promoted environmental awareness and tertainment—50% of proceeds go to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for the preservation. The concert, held on Dec. 6, served as a fundraiser for an upcoming Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles. Mrs. Liza Tedford, the director of the show, environmental fair in February. “The fair is going to educate our community about said, “This is an incredible event because so many groups from all over are able to the importance of saving our planet,” said sophomore Leslie Chang, the Community perform.” This year, a variety of performers, including Kaba Modern from AmeriService Director. With live performances from YouTube sensations Olivia Thai and ca’s Best Dance Crew, Orchesis Dance Company, the Laker Girls, and many others Joanna Chi, as well as rising music groups Thomas’ Apartment and Far East Move- will be stealing the spotlight on Dec. 18. Orchesis member junior Connie Chen ment, the concert was packed with energy. Many of our own AHS students persaid, “We’ve worked so hard over the past few months! I want all of Orchesis to formed in the concert as well, contributing talents such as singing and speech for the show everyone what we’ve got!” During a season of goodwill, the Charity Dance cause. With a myriad of aspiring new talents, the vibrancy of the concert more than Show truly embodies the spirit of giving, while producing exciting performances at satisfied all those who attended. the same time.

Another production, the annual Holiday Concert, captivated the spirit of Christmas on Dec. 16, at Pasadena High School. Orchestra 2 and 3, Concert Choir, ashen@theapachepowwow.com Treble Choir, Chaunteurs, and New Spirit performed holiday-themed songs comple**Special thanks to Katherine Bay for contributions to this article.

By ANGELA SHEN

PHOTOS by YENTL IP AND FBLA/PHOTOS COURTESY nicheresaleprofits.com, school.discoveryeducation.com, and respective owners.