October 2010

Volume 59, Issue 2

Arcadia High School 180 Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA

October 2010

Arcadia Brings It Home for Homecoming

In this issue:

Graphic G raphic hi courtesy off B BLOG BLOG.SACBEE.COM LOG.SACBE SACBEE E.COM COM

NEWS pg. 2 pg Whitman vs. Brown: Learn more about the candidates Californians are divided over.

Photos by ELLIOTT LEE and TOMMY LIAO, photo courtesy of AMY WANG, and graphic by ALWYNA LAU

BRINGING APACHES HOME As a tradition that welcomes alumni back to their alma mater, Homecoming at AHS invited students, current and former, to rally at our new stadium and witness this year’s Assembly, Game, and Dance.

By APOORV CHAUDHARY Graphics courtesy of ADRIANJOURNAL.COM

ACADEMICS pg. 17 ‘Pache’s Declassified: The sequel is out with a guide to making the most out of sophomore year.

Photo courtesy of 8CPASSPORT.COM

STUDENT LIFE pg. pg 19 The Eternal Question: What’s the best candy to eat for Halloween?

Our writers debate a popular few.

Have a question, comment, or concern about the Pow Wow? E-mail the Editors-in-Chief at editorsinchief@apachepowwow.com or find us online at apachepowwow.com.

Staff Writer

As the clock neared third period, Arcadians anxiously awaited the bell to ring so that they could attend the long awaited Homecoming Assembly. For seniors, this would be the fourth and final assembly; at long last, they could cheer their hearts out without fear of being boo-ed. Sophomores and juniors rejoiced, another year meant fewer boos. Lastly, the freshmen sat in their seats, unaware of what to expect, but still excited for their very first Homecoming Assembly and the versatile performances of Orchesis, Senior Men and Women (SMW), Pep Squad, and Associated Student Body (ASB). In the midst of these performances, various athletic teams presented their amazing records while Homecoming royalty gallantly marched out. The assembly ended with freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior united as they sang the Alma Mater.

However, the excitement generated by the assembly was only the beginning. At lunch, Pep Squad and Percussion gave Arcadians another jaw-dropping performance to keep them pumped up for the game against

John Muir High School later in the day.

As evening approached, ASB put finishing touches on the stadium in preparation for the highly anticipated Homecoming Game.

In many ways, the 2010 Homecoming Game would be more special than those of the past.

This would be the first home football game of the 2010-2011 school year, the unveiling of the brand new stadium, and an opportunity for Coach Dimalante to garner his 100th win as AHS football coach. AHS Principal David Vannasdall remarked that he was “extremely excited” for the new stadium. “When people come here, they see the new, state-of-the-art stadium, which is a very good representation of AHS,” added Mr. Vannasdall. Homecoming royalty marched out onto the field and king, senior Brandon Park, and queen, senior Winnie Hui, were crowned.

Eager to provide their coach with his 100th win, the Boys Varsity Football team started strong with a swift 14-0 lead in the first quarter. Carrying this momentum into the rest of the game, the team prevailed against Muir 34-13. Not having beaten Muir since 2003 made the Boys Varsity Football team’s victory even more significant. Junior Tony Zhao

stated that “he was surprised and proud of Arcadia’s success against such a strong team.” In the aftermath of this success, Arcadians were even more excited for the dance the next day.

Held at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the 2010 Homecoming Dance was “truly a night to remember,” according to junior Eddie Lin. “Everything about it was great, the décor, the location, and even the dinosaurs” added Eddie. When asked about her favorite part of the dance, sophomore Aileen Ju stated that she “enjoyed dancing and letting loose for a night.” This marvelous dance or any of the other Homecoming festivities would not have been possible without the countless hours put in by ASB, more specifically the Dance Committee, a division of ASB headed by senior Alan Zhu. When asked about his experiences heading the committee, Alan said, “Heading the committee wasn’t terribly hard, but time-restrictive. We went to the venue, finalized invites, and picked music.” Arriving at school at approximately 4:30 a.m., ASB worked tirelessly in order to ensure a successful Homecoming for all Apaches. apchaudhary@apachepowwow.com

2

NEWS

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October 2010

Debating California’s Future: Jerry Brown and Meg Whitman Drug Smuggling

By EVAN DELGADO

Goes Underground

By CHRISTOPHER CHO Staff Writer

Despite the recent enforcement efforts along the Mexico-U.S. border, a new route north has slowly gained popularity among drug smugglers. This unique method, by which smugglers sneak north undetected, is known as underground tunneling. Over the last four years, more than fifty unauthorized tunnels have been discovered in cities along the border.

With drug profit margins at an all-time high, smugglers stop at nothing to thrust their wares across the border. Dank, dim tunnels built of storm drains transport bales of marijuana into the U.S. virtually undetected.

This underground drug trafficking enterprise has recently found its capital at the border city of Nogales, Mexico. The city itself is estimated to house a startlingly large number of these subterranean passageways, many of which have yet to be discovered. According to the authorities, tunnels appear to sprout out of nowhere. Once a tunnel is disabled by filling it with concrete, another seems to emerge nearby out of thin air.

Both the U.S. and Mexican governments have rapidly increased funding to efficiently stamp out drug smugglers. Tens of thousands of soldiers, Border Patrol agents, and federal police have been positioned to confront threats and seek out tunnels. Border Patrol agents have been advised to monitor storm drains in particular and search for offshoots dug by smugglers. An estimated 28,000 people have died searching for drug cartels since President Felipe Calderón officially declared his offensive policy against drug smuggling four years ago. Seeking to instill public trust and cut off smugglers’ manpower, the Mexican government has launched plans to drastically modify police forces. Faced with the recent upsurge of conflicts, the U.S. government has formally acknowledged that the demand of American drug consumers and the smuggling of American weaponry are partially responsible for the violence taking place at the border.

Freshman Ian Chang expressed, “I think the U.S. should provide funding for the Mexican government to strengthen the Mexican side of the border. This would prevent tunnels from being dug in the first place.”

Our hope now lies on the shoulders of the U.S. government. Now, we can only hope that the Border Patrol can end underground drug trafficking before the issue gives birth to even greater setbacks. ccho@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of 4ELEMENTAL.COM

Staff Writer

As Republican candidate Meg Whitman and Democratic candidate Jerry Brown continue their bid for governor of California, Californians examine their options and contemplate their votes for the upcoming election. It is a very close race, and much of that tension has been visible in the three debates between the potential governors. Despite the fierce campaigning, Californians are still divided on who is the best candidate.

Jerry Brown has a history in politics, having served as California Secretary of State, California Governor, State Democratic Party Chairman, Mayor of Oakland, and attorney general.

Brown has promised honesty in the budget process, no tax increases unless approved by voters, and a return of authority and decision-making to California. Brown also intends to create clean energy jobs in part bby y building 12,000 electricity megawatts of localized elec ctricity generation, and necessary transmission

lines, and developing energy storage. On the other side, Meg Whitman is a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Business School, and was the CEO of eBay for 10 years. Whitman has stated that her run as CEO has given her the economic experience to solve California’s monetary woes. Whitman also intends to assist California’s failing school system, fix the economic crisis by creating new jobs, and fight corruption in the government. Whitman plans to fix the economic crisis in part by eliminating the $800 startup fee required for new businesses as well as eliminating the state tax on capital gains. The candidates completed three debates that will potentially influence Californians’ votes.

In their first debate, which took place on Sept. 28, the candidates battled over their different solutions to the state’s $19 billion budget deficit. During the proceedings, Whitman asserted that Brown was a tool of labor unions. In return, Brown stated that Whitman’s proposed removal of the capital gains tax was directed at millionaires “like Whitman,” and that helping m another $$5 billion tax break would drain money schools. from sch During their second debate on Oct. 2, both Dur candidates discussed Whitman’s employment candidat of an un undocumented immigrant housekeeper.

When W Whitman was asked about firing Nica-

ndra Diaz-Santillan in 2009 after nine years, she denied knowing that Santillan was undocumented until shortly before she was dismissed.

Other issues were discussed such as education and unemployment.

The third debate was held on Oct. 12, and this time it was Brown’s turn to be on the defensive, because someone in his campaign had vulgarly insulted Whitman. This debate mirrored the first two, with Whitman focusing more on job creation and less government while accusing Brown of being in the pocket of unions and other special interests. Brown relied on his using experience against Whitman’s lack of experience to gather support.

The U.S. gubernatorial elections will be held on Nov. 2 in 37 states, with each state choosing their respective governor. On that date, Californians will choose the leader that will hopefully improve the general well-being of California. edelgado@apachepowwow.com

TWO OPINIO OPINIONS Whitman hopes to fix education and create Brow promises to maintain the production of clean jobs, while Brown prot energy and protect the environment.

Photos courtesy of ARTICLES.SFGATE.COM and NEWS.SPREADIT.ORG Graphic courtesy of USFLAGSTORE.COM

Thinking k Pink for Breast Cancer

By ALISON FU & VALERIE YU Staff Writers

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the pink ribbon is back to fight the disease that affects thousands of people across the nation. Founded in 1985 by AstraZeneca, a pharmaceutical company that manufactures breast canccer drugs, this annual international health campaign began on the foundations of promoting mammography to fight breast cancer. Now, it functions as a campaign that not only promotes awareness through sscreening tests, but also raises funds for research. The legacy continues, marking this October as the 25th anniversary of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast cancer is the most common fform of cancer in women, with 200,000 women diagnosed yearly. The life expectancies of patients vary—Stage IV patients usually live only two to three years aafter diagnosis. With advancements beiing made in treatment, these statistics are significantly improving. A new treatment shows promise, offering some early stage cancer patients over 50 a less painful and more effective alternative to traditional m radiation treatments. Another treatment condenses an entire six-week course into one procedure, resulting in a better cosm metic result and a faster recovery. While a

cure is yet to be discovered, organizationss hope that awareness will help.

Numerous organizations pitched in for the cause. Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the world’s largest breast cancer charity, held a series of 5K races around d the world. Beauty company Estée Lauder organized Global Illumination events, where global landmarks were lit up in n pink. Support for the cause even spread d to cartoonists. On Oct. 10, cartoonists colored their comic strips pink and added pink ribbons to their drawings.

AHS students have also decided to o participate. After hearing about Breast st Cancer Awareness Month, junior Annabel Combs began collecting Yoplait yogurt lids to mail out to make use of Yoplait’s promise to donate $0.10 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for every lid it receives.

Hope Can Cure Cancer Club will be attending City of Hope’s “Walk for Hope” on Nov. 11, a 5K walk whose proceeds go o toward cancer research and treatment.

October serves not only as a way to promote the cause and the finding of a cure, but also as a chance to learn more about the disease and find ways to takee action.

LOCAL NEWS IN ONE MINUTE

By KERRY WANG Staff Writer

Arcadia

Rock n’ Roll Robots, a Girl Scouts robotics team from Arcadia, took home top honors from the White House Science Fair.

Three members traveled to Washington, D.C. on Oct. 18, where President Barack Obama presented them with an award for best robot from a middle school team.

West Covina

Joe Hernandez, 33, of West Covina donated his 1966 Ford Mustang—valued between $40,000 and $50,000—after meeting the Northview High School baseball team. The car will be auctioned off on Jan. 8, 2011 to raise money to build an all-weather baseball infield surface, which would be the first of its kind in the San Gabriel Valley.

San Gabriel

afu@apachepowwow.com vyu@apachepowwow.com

San Gabriel Mayor Albert Huang announced his resignation after his arrest on suspicion of robbery and assault.

The decision, made Oct. 12, came five days after Mayor Huang was involved in an argument with a woman. It ended with him grabbing her purse and attempting to drive off with the woman hanging onto the door from outside.

Graphics courtesy of KNOWCANCER.COM

kwang@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of BIGSTOCKPHOTO.COM

October 2010

NEWS

news@apachepowwow.com

The Rose Bowl’s Restyling and Renovation

By CHRISTOPHER CHO & MICHAEL PAI

3

ff f t a s f

Staff Writers

With the coming of the 88th anniversary of its construction, the Rose Bowl Stadium faces an uncertain future. A nostalgic monument of Pasadena’s history, many worry that the Rose Bowl Stadium may be left behind in the times and supplanted by a newer stadium. In response, the Pasadena City Council boldly proposed the launch of a $152 million renovation project to restore the Rose Bowl’s vintage charm to its former magnificence.

The Rose Bowl Stadium holds a historic place in the hearts of countless residents in the San Gabriel Valley. The stadium itself has hosted the Olympics, five Super Bowls, and the annual Tournament of Roses football games. If this restoration project is approved, residents can expect progress by January 2011. Freshman Michael Fluhrer, unsure about the necessity of the project, firmly expressed, “Renovating the stadium might damage its historic status.”

The renovation project calls for the replacement of the scoreboard and north end video board with new high-tech screens. The ten lowest rows of red seats will be removed to reinstate the field’s original oval shape. Widening tunnels and adding aisles will improve walking traffic during major events. Considering that the stadium hosts the annual Rose Bowl football game and various others, upgraded seating would ensure a higher quality experience. “These improvements might contribute to higher annual revenue for the Rose Bowl. However, only time will tell if the renovations will be worth the costs,” mentioned freshman Liam Swan.

More than $100 million in funding will be paid for by federal and local bonds. The remaining deficit plans to be reimbursed by the 2014 Rose Bowl Championship game. Freshman Crystal Kim disapproves of the construction, and said, “The city should wait until enough money is raised before the renovation begins. This money might later be needed for something more important.”

Although these improvements will prove to be beneficial for both the future of the stadium and Pasadena, it is still the residents’ decision whether or not to accept the responsibility of paying off the renovation costs. ccho@apachepowwow.com mpai@apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of BACKGROUNDS.PICABOO.COM

Governor Schwarzenegger’s Bills Pave a Smoother Transfer Path

By BRANDON PANG Staff Writer

Who can save $150 million, eliminate a ton of paperwork, and smooth out transfers for college students? Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger can! He completed this complicated task by signing two bills, the Senate Bill 1440 and Assembly Bill 2302. These two new bills are designed to work together to help make transferring easier for students between California Community Colleges (CCC), California State Universities (CSU), and the University of California (UC) system.

Amidst applauding students, Governor Schwarzenegger signed the two bills into law on Sept. 29. The Senate nt Bill 1440, also known as the Student

LESS STRESS, CHOICES MORE C HOICES The new bills guarantee guarante tee e students sstu ttu udents a transfer to any CSU to earn Bachelor’s their Bachelor or’s Degree.

Transfer Achievement Reform (STAR) act, guarantees students a transfer from any CCC to any CSU after obtaining an Associate’s Degree. This means that once students obtain their Associate’s Degree, they can utilize this bill by attending a CSU to get a Bachelor’s Degree.

The Assembly Bill 2302 works in conjunction with Senate Bill 1440 to allow CCCs and CSUs to work together to influence the UC system into simplifying admission for transfer students. The Assembly Bill 2302 was generally created to set up a similar system to Senate Bill 1440, but instead of CSUs, the bill creates a transfer route to the UC system. However, this is not a guaranteed

transfer, only an eased one. For instance, the UC system must accept junior transfer students only after they receive an Associate’s Degree.

With these bills, community college students can first obtain an Associate’s Degree, then transfer to a CSU or UC so they can earn a Bachelor’s Degree. These bills increase students’ chances of obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree as well, especially for people who go to a community college because of financial problems. Although current high school seniors are going to benefit the most by these bills, they relate to everyone because they may pave way for future legislations that can include even the UC system for guaranteed transfers.

Chancellor oof CCCs Jack Scott underlined the main point of the bills when he “T is about making it eassaid, “This ier aand not having roadblocks when h yyou want a Bachelor’s Degree.”

Degre With Governor Sc Schwarzenegger’s new bills to start reforms in education, students eagerly await for more. bpang@ apachepowwow.com Graphics courtesy of ACHAHOCKEY.ORG, DECAL-ORATIONS.COM, SPORTSLOGOS.NET, and LEARNINGKALEIDOSCOPE.COM

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

Kristie Tom and Christine Xu Melissa Ma Ashley Chi and Alexandria Ethridge Kaitlyn Jeong and Elaine Tsui Eileen Chow and Rhiannon Yee Kate Harwitz, Grace Song, and Nancy Xiao Katherine Bay and Jenny Li Regina Liu and Victoria Tran Sally Chung and Yejean Kim Alwyna Lau Beverly Chen Cherry Mo Becca Lu and Shannon Ng Rachael Tang Elliott Lee Leo Chuang Lena Kalemkiarian, Anna Naran, and Jessica Sunkamaneevongse

Writers News Staff Christopher Chen, Christopher Cho, Evan Delgado, Alison Fu, Michael Pai, Brandon Pang, Justin Park, Christine Sun, Kerry Wang, Jasmine Wu, Valerie Yu Opinion Staff Yejean Kim, Karina Laigo, Utthara Rameshbabu, Hannah Redberg, Melissa Song, Sophia Tang, Josie Yang Performing Arts Staff Annie Huang, Karina Laigo Chris Lee, Stacey Ng, Carrie Qiu, Jasmine Wu, Christina Zhou Student Life Staff Edward Chao, Evan Delgado, Courtney Hang, Karina Laigo, Justin Park, Sophia Tang, Elbert Wang, Rita Wang, Valerie Yu Features Staff Ellison Chen, Tommy Liao, Raphael Lu, Laureen Ma, Carrie Qiu, Sarah Quon, Michelle Zhang Sports Staff Edward Chao, Arnav Chaudhary, Stephen Chu, Belle Chuang, Stacey Ng, Matthew Ormseth, Andy Qin, Christine Sun Academics Staff Apoorv Chaudhary, Christopher Chen, Andy Qin, Rachel Thai, Elbert Wang, Shibo Zhong Center Spread Staff Valerie Yu Calendar Staff Christopher Cho, Brandon Pang, Michelle Zhang, Christina Zhou Campus Focus Staff Courtney Hang Advertisement Staff Arnav Chaudhary, Belle Chuang, Ryan Hajiheshmat, Annie Huang, Chris Lee, Laureen Ma, Brandon Pang, Hannah Redberg Photo Staff Ellison Chen, Tommy Liao Copy Editing Staff Courtney Hang, Hannah Redberg, Elbert Wang, Jasmine Wu, Josie Yang 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. A student’s work does not represent the views of Arcadia High School or the Arcadia Unified School District. Address letters to the editor to: The Apache Pow Wow, 180 W. Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA 91007. To place an advertisement in the newspaper, email ads.powwow@gmail.com. Advertisement rates vary from $30 for a business card advertisement to $250 for a full-page black and white advertisement, with quarter-page, half-page, and advertisement insert options available.

Graphics by ALEXANDRIA ETHRIDGE and courtesy of FREECLIPART.COM and VECTORJUNGLE.COM

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OPINION

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October 2010

Pain and Prejudice: An Atonement and Apology

By JOSIE YANG Staff Writer

Asher Brown. Seth Walsh. And most recently, Tyler Clementi. These are only a few of the teenagers who killed themselves because they were bullied over their sexuality. And all I have to say about this is that it’s our fault.

Why? Because we, as a society, collectively caused these boys to feel so horrible about themselves. I blame us.

These suicides are not an easy thing to discuss. To most people, homosexuality raises divisive questions, just as other factors of discrimination do. People turn the deaths of innocent human beings into a debate over morality and legality. They bring up terms like “14th Amendment” and “Civil Rights Act”. But I find all of that irrelevant. I don’t care which race, religion, gender, or sexuality is better or worse. That isn’t within my rights, responsibilities, or even capabilities to decide. I merely want to point out that we have our priorities skewed. People usually think of discrimination when talking about these deaths, and, in a way, they should. However, we are focusing too much on the ridiculous question of whose beliefs are “right” and not enough on the fact that all of our actions in expressing those beliefs are wrong.

What gives anyone the right to judge people for their lifestyles and then act on those judgments so cruelly? It scares me when I think of how badly those teenagers must have been abused and tormented that they ended their lives just to escape. It doesn’t matter whether their ridiculers had a specific stance on homosexuality. They crossed the line by singling out those boys. We have a right to our

own opinions, true, but nowhere does it say we have a right to force our own opinions on others. When some of Tyler’s classmates secretly recorded him in his dorm room and then posted comments about it online, they were expressing their own opinions, but in the meanest way possible. And the same goes for Asher’s peers, who performed obscene mock gay acts on him in gym class simply because he was different.

The list goes on and on. These suicide victims—yes, I say victims—had to deal with the pressure of judgment, and they couldn’t handle

the way, Seth spent over a week on life support before he died, just in case anyone does not understand the kind of pain that was caused here.) Their actions, according to the law, do not constitute a crime. That does not, however, excuse them, at all. When anyone makes jokes or snide comments about sexuality, race, or religion, he or she is implying that it is all right to abuse others as long as it is within the y make life law. In other words, we can literally ng as it’s legal. Is unbearable for people... so long eedom of speech? this how we exercise our freedom

titudes would affect you. And most of all, I am sorry that we, your fellow human beings, ever thought we had a right to judge. You were probably better than us and never would have treated us the same way. jyang@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of GRAPHICXTRAS.COM

We are focusing too much on the ridiculous question uestionn of whose beliefs are “right” and not enough on the factt that th t allll off our actions in expressing those beliefs are re wrong. wrong. it. Who can blame them?

These deaths demonstrate how powerful judgment can be in hurting others, and people don’t see that. We have singled out certain individuals to blame for the recent suicides, but nobody has stopped to think that all of us have set up a situation in which those bullies found it acceptable to act the way they did. Nobody stepped up and emphatically said, “This is wrong.” Maybe this is why the middle school children who bullied Seth the day he hung himself cried in shame later. They did not stop to think how their taunts would affect another person until it was too late. Even worse, no one had ever given those bullies the idea that they should have thought about their actions. (By

eenageers? Thee cruel By torturing teenagers? h peopl le “exmethods with which people ves” have h led d to the press themselves” ast fivee gay te eenagers deaths of at least teenagers s, and nobodyy seems in three weeks, ations of o these to realize the implic implications tragedies. orry to Asher Brown, B So I am sorry C Seth Walsh, Tyler Clementi Clementi,, and nrecogn nized pe eople all the other unrecognized people ause off judgme ent. who died because judgment. dn’t stan nd I am sorry thatt we di didn’t stand rry that up for you. I am sor sorry now oor we did not know ur care how our general at-

The C-Theory: Working Hard at Hardly Working at All

By UTTHARA RAMESHBABU

ams to guess the likelihood of an answer being correct on multiple choice tests. These, my friends, are the methods of a card counter, and High school is like blackjack. There are they are bound to fail at one point or another. some people who play it with the utmost inCorrect me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t this all tegrity and take their wins and losses as they seem like an unnecessary waste of time and come. And then there are others. These are effort? Furthermore, no actual learning comes the people who have mastered the art of “card out of any of this wasted energy—it substancounting” and want to scam “the system” out tiates short-term goals and adds nothing of of all it has got. These are the people who find value to our work ethic. the most obscure shortcuts for the simplest of But I do not hold myself above this craze. tasks, without considering that these In fact, back in my day, I supposedly shorter routes require was a card counter too. I twice as much time and effort as the read SparkNotes. I relied regular routes and yield the same for a while on the “C-Theresult. And unfortunately, the numory”. But there is one dark ber of this kind of folk is increasing. patch in my past that must Like it or not, we’re all turning into be revealed, in the hopes card counters, and unless we want that people will learn from to get mobbed by the Las Vegas my mistake and never make mafia (or College Board), we need it again. I went to SAT class to turn around and start hitting the all summer long, seeking books—no strings attached. some insider tricks to crack Students today scoff at actuthe test and guarantee myally reading a book before getting self a 2400. I was under the tested on it, or learning how to do a impression that I was lookcertain math problem for an upcoming for a loophole in the ing quiz. I mean, how mundane it test—that it was wreaking Graphic by MICHELLE ZHANG is to just learn material the straightsome sort of psychological forward way! Indeed, it seems that CARD-COUNTERS BEWARE Reading SparkNotes only warfare on my brain and many have grown weary of these seems easier than actually doing the work yourself. these classes could help me Staff Writer

methods and now seek a new, supposedly easier way to get the grade.

For instance, in English class, people have begun to rely more and more on SparkNotes chapter summaries, which lack the underlying messages behind the actual texts. Whenever in doubt during a multiple choice exam in math, many tend to bust out the “C-Theory”, the fallacy that the answer to any hard math problem is choice C. I’ve seen some people go to such lengths as to do statistical analysis of old ex-

TCID:

trick the test right back. Imagine how disappointed I was when I realized that there were no tricks, and cracking the SAT was only a matter of hard work and practice. Devastated, I realized that any “study tactics” I had once known just crumbled before my very eyes, and if I wanted to succeed, not only on the SAT but in school as well, I would have to really know my stuff without any cheap gimmicks or conspiracies in mind.

The fact of the matter is that the tricks people so often feel clever using on standardized tests are just myths—placebos that really have no, or even adverse, effects on the test taker. And even if these were valid strategies only a few years ago, someone on the testwriting-board has probably revised the newer forms of the test so that these tricks no longer apply. There’s no use in trying to beat the system. The obscure shortcuts you learn on the way will only lead to false promise and ultimately failure because they will have taught you nothing of value for application in the future and in the real world. So unless you want to get jumped by College Board while walking home, I suggest (especially to you sophomores) to bid farewell to “No Fear Shakespeare” and just read what the guy actually wrote. I hear he’s pretty famous. urameshbabu@apachepowwow.com

October 2010

OPINION

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5

Don’t I Have Such a Beautiful Face(book)?

By HANNAH REDBERG Staff Writer

You have 11 new notifications. You’re brimming with curiosity as your cursor robotically flies to the little red box on the top left corner of your home page. You click, and the news comes spilling down. That feeling of self-worth is undeniable. It swells as you explore the friend requests and new posts on your wall.

The next day, you feel that slight tinge of disappointment when you arrive at your home page only to find it unvisited. Untouched. Ignored. No one liked your status, and no one commented on the photo album you uploaded last night. On top of that, you see the smorgasbord of amazing things happening in other people’s lives on your newsfeed.

Facebook has some correlation with the self-esteem of and narcissism in its users. Facebook is the perfect tool for people to monitor and even manipulate their appearance and their self-worth. We can choose to portray ourselves in a promotional way, or a misleading way—but whatever way it is, it is of our choosing. We humans have a general propensity toward attention, and we can’t help but be pleased when someone says we look pretty in a picture or that last night was “soooo much fun!!!” It has become almost an obsession now and the sole reason behind posting pictures. You can also gather a limitless collection of friends without straying from your computer screen, and everyone can see just how many you have. It is the ideal setting for creating shallow friendships by offering a gateway for emotionally-detached communication while avoiding genuine friendship and actual care for others. We tend to focus on quantity instead of quality.

Facebook is hardly about keeping in touch anymore. Instead, it seems to be a means of telling the entire world about what is happening in your life at every instant (as if anyone actually cared). You update your profile with the intention of showing the rest of the world. Even researchers claim that those who spend more time updating their profile are more likely to be narcissistic. I’m sure you know at least one person who updates his or her status about ten times a day. But do we really care that you just got back from an excruciating and physically exhausting workout at the gym? Or are you just trying to brag about your physical endurance and fitness?

But “likely narcissistic” leaves some uncertainty. Maybe avid Facebook users could be the victims of low self-esteem. You may find yourself on Facebook when you’re struck with curiosity about the lives of the people who like to publicize them. It is very possible that the crappier the self-worth, the likelier a person is to be Facebooking; someone like this is more likely to focus on what other people are doing rather than themselves. Facebook lets us in on details of a person’s life. And sometimes it’s depressing to see that everyone had a super-awesome-amazing-exciting weekend except for you.

One could argue that social networking isn’t an indicator of narcissism or low self-esteem, but actually an excellent means of retaining old and new friendships. When you’re feeling down in the dumps, and your status shows it, your friends will (hopefully) post supportive and uplifting messages. I guess Facebook isn’t as narcissistic when the focus is on other people rather than ourselves. If you are a truly upstanding citizen and you find yourself on Facebook because you genuinely care about the people there, then good for you. You’re probably one in a million.

So here you are—your life outlined in a one-page profile, with your interests, likes and dislikes, pictures, and friends all organized neatly in hierarchal categories in that all-too-familiar white and blue template layout. I was actually on Facebook while I was writing this article. I seriously wonder which of these categories I fall into. hredberg@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of FACEBOOK.COM

What Goes Around Comes Around

By YEJEAN KIM Academics Editor

As detailed in the Vedas (the oldest texts of Hinduism), if one sows goodness, one will reap goodness; if one sows evil, one will reap evil. If there’s a more succinct way to explain my belief in karma, I haven’t found it. I’ve always believed in karma, but lately I’ve started to think of it as an actual force of nature. It has affected my actions and made me more careful. I don’t want to rack up any more bad karma than I already have with previous misdeeds.

My belief in karma used to be something I joked about. If I was petulant with my mom and then stubbed my toe while dramatically striding away, I blamed it on karma. When I thought mean things about someone I didn’t like during class and then failed a test, it was all karma’s fault. These occurrences could have been explained with the simple cause and effect argument: I was angry and therefore not looking where I was going, causing me to stub my toe; I was so caught up in gossip and drama that I neglected to study, and that’s why I got an F. What I didn’t realize was that karma is cause and effect. Every action has a reaction, and what goes around comes around; those clichés sum it up so perfectly, including things that have actually happened to me. This was the final piece of proof I needed to believe that I could gain both good and bad karma.

“Every action has a reaction.” In fifth grade I went through what some people might call the terrible twos. Obviously I was about nine years late in this, but the point is: I was a menace. It took a breath to set my temper off, and on top of that I was the most arrogant

TCID:

little snot you could ever meet. Luckily, people were falling all over themselves to be friends with me. NOT. Every moment I was sarcastic was repaid with a moment of alienation. I ended up alone. I eventually got over myself and tried to be decent, and people were nice back. The lesson I learned: people reacted the way I acted. Karma is cause and effect, and the magnitude of the effect I generated from people—disdain and annoyance—matched the magnitude of the acts I had committed.

“What goes around comes around.” When someone was mean to me, I thought I had license to be mean back. So when a girl ripped my “vote for me” stickers up in sixth grade, I yelled at her. My sixth grade crush saw this and later informed me that I was the meanest person he’d ever met. We didn’t work out. What I learned: what goes around comes around, and either punches me in the face (what that girl probably wanted to do) or breaks my heart (the loss of my sixth grade crush). I thought that when I was mean to that girl, she would be the only one affected, but that wasn’t so. She was hurt because I was mean to her, my crush lost respect for me because I had changed in his eyes, and I was affected because I had lost the approval of someone I cared about.

These two main incidents and many other minor occurrences have convinced me of karma’s existence. I know now that I can’t do anything bad without it coming back to bite me.

Whether it takes the form of my conscience, my crush’s feelings, my parents’ rules, or even my physical actions, karma always finds a way to get back at me when I’m being mean, and keeps me in my place. ykim@apachepowwow.com

A Shout-Out to the Potty Mouths

By JOSIE YANG Staff Writer

The other day, as I was waiting for the transit, one of my fellow AHS students was having a very vivid phone conversation with his friend that went something like this: “Dude, where the [blank] are you?! I’m [blanking] waiting for the [blank] transit. You’re going to [blanking] miss it, you [blankity-blank]. It’s next to the [blanking] parking lot. Bye.” My reaction: what the [blank]?

I’m sure you have all heard something similar. We use profanity or other “colorful language” in order to express ourselves, especially when we’re angry or upset. In these cases, the occasional expletive is understandable, although undesirable. But what was the point of this guy’s tirade?

The two of them, Transit Dude and Blankity-Blank, k, as I have dubbed them, met up later,, pounded their fists, hiked up their pants (if you can d proceedcall it that), and ed to have a conversation using even n more expressive language. uage. They seemed to be pretty impressed with themselves, as if using monosyllabic, nosyllabic, fourletter words meant possessing some advantage ge or power over others. But I’m m confused here.

What is there to be proud of?

Their limited vocabulary? Their love of crude language? I think that people, teenagers eenagers espeotten the idea cially, have gotten

that using excessive profanity is a show of power and “cool-ness”. This is incorrect.

These curse words are not only inappropriate, but also ineffective. When people say the same expletive over and over again, they only get annoyed. I, personally, am not impressed when someone knows how to pronounce a simple word like the F-word. It only shows the immaturity of those who feel the need to prove something by cursing repeatedly. We can say those words, too. We just don’t feel the need to. Why do you?

Maybe it’s not their fault. Maybe people like those boys are simply disillusioned by the excess of profanity that is already present in our society. After all, our culture is now defined by songs such as “If You Seek Amy” by Britney Spears, and don’t even get me started on rap songs. It is common to hear people greet with insults as a sign of familiarity each other w blanker], what’s up?”). (“Yo, [blanking [b When a few people use profanity on these terms, others start adopting that mindset that cursing is acceptable. We mind aalready al ready want to fit in as teenagers, so when we hear that other people are saying these things, we assume that the more curse use, the cooler we are. words we use So to all al the Transit Dudes and Blankity-Blanks of the world: please spare us from colorful language. We, the people who your colorfu do not curse (often), appreciate your quest to but it’s not working. So [blank] the seem cool, bu blank-blank] up please. [blanking bla jyang@apachepowwow.com Graphic by CHRISTOPHER CHO

PROFANITY It’s time for all the potty mouths to [blanking blank] up.

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PERFORMING ARTS

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October 2010

Performers Work Out to Put On a Good Show Orchestra “Fall”s

By ANNIE HUANG & CARRIE QIU Staff Writers

ADVANCED DRAMA: Acting covers all areas. According to junior Jasmine Falatoonzadeh, Advanced Drama Department (ADD) members have to do mental, physical, and emotional warm-ups before every rehearsal. Jasmine pointed out that they “always stretch [their] muscles beforehand, so [they] don’t cramp up and can be more flexible; [they] never know what [their] scenes may call for.” Actors and actresses also rely on facial muscles to display various expressions that are vital in portraying different roles.

Have you ever noticed the bulging muscles that have developed on some AHS students during the school year? You might wonder what sport they play, but don’t be alarmed when you find out that they are not in a sport, but that they are a member of one of AHS’ many prestigious performing arts groups. AHS’ performing arts groups are not only recognized for their musical and technical abilities but are also admired for their physical strength. Many students will be surprised to hear the countless hours that these dedicated members spend training and strengthening themselves in order to perform beyond expectations. Here are some of the main muscles that members of these performing arts groups have gained from their activities: CHANTEURS/NEW SPIRIT: It may look easy, but singing and dancing can be tough if the right techniques are not employed. Members of Chanteurs and New Spirit are required to use stomach muscles to supply a sufficient amount of air to produce mellow sounds, facial muscles to enunciate each word, and (believe it or not) their gluteus maximus in order to reach the high notes. Senior Stephanie Youssef, Chanteurs Vice President, agreed that “Chanteurs definitely makes good use of abdominals, and because the formations are continually changing, [singers] never really have time to rest [their] legs until the final curtain.”

ORCHESTRA: If you try spreading your arms out to the side and holding them there for a long time, you will get a feel of the fatigue that Orchestra students experience during rehearsals. Strings players need strong biceps to hold up their instruments, and move their bows freely to produce an euphonious sound. They also need flexible wrists in order to control the tone quality and volume. Junior Wendy Wong, an Orchestra 3 member, explained that the hand muscles are very important, and that performers “use vibrato a lot to make the sound better, which is basically the up and down movements of the hand that make the sound smoother.”

ORCHESIS: Want to learn how to turn gracefully without getting dizzy? Well, you should definitely ask an Orchesis Dance Company (ODC) member. In ODC, dancers are required to use their core at all times in order to avoid imbalance. This is obtained through the countless exercises and stretches they use to build up their abdomen muscles. Senior Erin O’Mara, ODC Vice President, stressed that the “core muscles are a necessity to [have] because [they] apply it in all areas of dance.” So the next time an ODC member nails a double pirouette without losing his/her balance, remember not to underestimate the difficulty of this seemingly simple move.

PEP SQUAD: Cheer is essentially a sport.

Junior Tina Tzeng elaborated that members of Pep Squad “need all [their] leg muscles from thighs to toes to have the correct form, and arm muscles are used in order to be sharp.” It requires flexibility, strong calves and thigh muscles, and well-built stomach muscles in order to perform turns, jumps, and kicks.

COLORGUARD: Have you ever seen those impressive biceps on Colorguard members? Spinning flags and rifles are just a few of the numerous ways these talented members obtain their toned arms. Walking and dancing for miles in parades, Colorguard members demonstrate how powerful their arms are as they perform proudly in front of large audiences with their flags.

PERCUSSION: Percussion members have some pretty strong fingers! Senior Dana Tai, who plays the marimba, a xylophone type percussion instrument, said the strength in her fingers is “really helpful because it helps coordinate [her] hands to play the right notes.” However, there are also some consequences from holding their sticks too long. Dana displayed a huge callous on her middle finger that she claimed is “very disgusting,” but she knows that her hands are “getting stronger and [will be] able to make it through numerous songs.”

BAND: Junior Elizabeth Chapton, who plays the French horn, can relate to other members of Band when they feel a certain burning sensation in their calves throughout the school day after morning practices. Their calf muscles are truly put to use when marching backward and Elizabeth said, “we are usually sore, but for upperclassmen it is not as bad because we are used to it.” So the next time you walk behind someone with some nice-looking calves, that person is probably from Band.

PEFORMING ATHLETES Performing arts members may not work out in the weight room, but they certainly are strong.

Graphics courtesy of CLKER.COM, ELDERLY.COM, FIREWORKSGURUFORUM.COM, FRVESTARMUSIC.COM, LONG-MCQUADE.COM, PEFITNESS.COM, TOOTOO.COM, VESHJEBALETI.COM, and WIKIMEDIA.ORG

ahuang@apachepowwow.com cqiu@apachepowwow.com

Into Its Concert

By KARINA LAIGO & STACEY NG Staff Writers

Photo by STACEY NG

ORCHESTRA Students play with grace and precision.

The curtains open to reveal a sea of instruments, black dresses, and tuxedos. You hear the tap of the conductor’s baton, are mesmerized by their pose and grace, and then you brace yourself for the lovely musical medley that will undoubtedly follow.

Orchestra will start the year with its annual Fall String Concert, which will contain an exceptional lineup of songs and will be conducted by directors Tom Forbes and Pin Chen. Rather than only featuring the three AHS orchestras, the concert will also feature the orchestras of the Dana, Foothills, and First Avenue middle schools.

Preparations began in Music Camp and continued through the beginning of the year with daily practices and studentrun sectionals. Since students ran each sectional, opportunities were created for them to become leaders. “I think we’ve all put in our best efforts and it will pay off during the concert,” said junior Lawrence Bai. The musicians will be performing classical pieces beginning with Orchestra 1, which will start off the evening with Irish anthem “Londonderry Air”, and Vivaldi’s “Concerto in G Major”. Orchestra 2 will continue with pieces such as “Divertimento No. 9” by Mozart and “Symphony No. 32”

by Haydn. Lastly, the night will conclude with the finale by Orchestra 3 as it plays “Concerto Grosso” by Vaughn-Williams and “His Eye is On the Sparrow”, arranged by the previous Orchestra conductor, director Rick England.

Although Orchestra has multiple performances every quarter, none of the concerts ever fail to extract enthusiasm from every audience. Sophomore cellist Calvin Huang explained that his favorite part of performing is “seeing the amazement [from] the audience.” Director Forbes reiterated the excitement of performing for a large audience. “It’s an adrenaline rush,” he admitted, and “it makes you feel proud to see [all] the smiles.”

Orchestra’s hard work and preparation will undoubtedly pay off during the concert, which will be held at Pasadena High School on Nov. 7 at 7:00 p.m. With this impressive line-up, tickets will be sure to sell out fast! Admission will be $5, so buy a ticket and enjoy a flawless performance by our very own Orchestra. klaigo@apachepowwow.com stng@apachepowwow.com

October 2010

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PERFORMING ARTS

Musical Men Make Their Mark

By ABRAHAM CHEN

By CHRISTINA ZHOU Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of ABRAHAM CHEN

Photo by TOMMY LIAO

Guest Writer

GLEEFUL Alumnus Abraham Chen and group pose with Taylor Swift.

NEW DIRECTOR Mr. England

I’ve been singing for nine years of my life, have been in an All-State choir, and was Vice President of Chanteurs my senior year at AHS. Though I never planned on pursuing a career in music, when I got to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), I knew I wanted to join an a capella choir. I was blessed to get in to the UCSD group Tritones and had a great time singing with my team, but we didn’t know that it was about to get even better…

In Apr. 2010 our group was contacted

by Taylor Swift’s talent managers and asked to submit videos for consideration to sing with her. Thinking nothing of it, we submitted our videos and moved on, so we were shocked when they told us Taylor Swift had handpicked us to be her back-up singers at the “Academy of Country Music Awards” in Las Vegas. The experience was a whirlwind: rehearsing with her, performing on live television, and even meeting her for a short while.

We also bumped in to some of the biggest names in country music at the show. I was floored by everything that had occurred.

While this may just sound like someone’s celebrity experience, the take-home message is to pursue what you love to do. Don’t give up on what you’re passionate about because you never know what can happen.

With previous Choral Director Rolland Maxon retired and Mr. Rick England to take his place, many changes have been made to the choral division.

Mr. England made the transition into the choral department this summer, so the choral kids grew accustomed to his teaching style before school started. Chanteurs and New Spirit had their own “choral camp”, which “allowed the whole group to bond with [him],” said sophomore Emily Lim. Mr. England is currently preparing Chanteurs and New Spirit for their Fall Concert and Madrigal Dinner fundraiser.

“Mr. England has a great approach to music [and] is a great inspiration to us,” said sophomore Frank Zhou.

Many adjustments have already been made to the program, as Mr. England has spent a lot of time rearranging music scores for Chanteurs and New Spirit. To bring more variety to the group, Mr. England will also allow his female singers to pick slightly different styles for their dresses as well. Knowing he has big shoes to fill, Mr. England and his attention to minor details are sure to help Chanteurs and New Spirit improve. In his words, Mr. England explained that “it’s about you, not me.”

prepares to embrace his new role.

czhou@apachepowwow.com

Pep Squad and the Deathly Halls

hallways, people were immediately shrouded in darkness, fog, and eerie music. Terrorizing beings sprang out of wheelbarrows, burst through Staff Writers windows, slid out of the shadows, and appeared Imagine that you were sitting at home last out of the darkness. Shrieks of terror and deFriday or Saturday night with nothing to do. By light rang throughout the some miracle, you had finished all your hall. But at the end, homework and projects, and boredom yelps of pure joy seemed to loom over your weekend. were heard as But suddenly, you remembered that survivors of the Pep Squad was hosting its annual hallways treated Haunted Hallways, so you headed themselves to over to experience the thrill of a lifefunnel cake and time! carnival games.

From Oct. 22 to 23, Pep Squad Other patrons hosted its annual Haunted Hallways sported customin the halls of AHS. For a $5 premade souvenir sale ticket or a $7 ticket at the door, buttons with AHS students, friends, their pictures and family were on them. With invited to enso much to do, joy the ultimate people enjoyed haunted house the excitement, experience. This not aware of the time until the festivievent offered ties ended at 11:00 p.m. food, games, and Pep Commissioner senior Sharon of course, the Lan, stated that Pep Squad was “ecmain attraction, static to have this event” for students the haunted hallto “celebrate Halloween with friends ways. Though and family.” Sharon also reiterated Pep Squad girls that this event’s purpose was to “proare normally mote school spirit and to get students seen as fun, to have a fun Halloween.” Freshman cheerful girls, for Annabelle Muljana commented that those two nights “this year [we were] all satisfied with they, along hard work because [the hallways] HALLOWEEN FEST Pep our with some vollooked great and it was a successful unteers, were members get their scary face on. fundraiser.” All in all, the girls of Pep transformed into spine-chilling skeletons, grue- Squad and their victims—I mean, customers— some ghosts, creepy chain-saw murderers, and definitely had fun! almost any other frightening monster you can name! clee@apachepowwow.com With a line starting in H-Hall stretching jwu@apachepowwow.com along Duarte Rd., eager thrill-seekers waited Photos by TOMMY LIAO and graphics courtesy of CAE2K.COM for the hallways to open. Upon entering the

By CHRIS LEE & JASMINE WU

A Rose (Parade Victory) By Any Other Name is Just As Sweet

By ANNIE HUANG Staff Writer

Early morning practices. Late night rehearsals. Lunch sectionals.

Meeting new people and reviving old friendships. These are all phrases that encircle the lives of members belonging to three talented performing arts groups. Though school has only just begun, Band, Colorguard, and Percussion have been practicing strenuously for an important date. On Sept. 23, they attended the preliminary Tournament of Roses Parade tryouts at the LA County Fair in hopes of obtaining a chance to perform in the 2012 Rose Parade.

Drum Major senior Brandon Park said that Band represented “AHS and its music program’s tradition of excellence.” This tryout was a great opportunity for mem-

bers to perform their shows for the first time in front of a large audience and experienced judges. It allowed them to continue to maintain AHS’ long-standing reputation of excellence while competing against other schools for a spot in the 2012 Rose Parade. After long summer rehearsals

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and with great results. Band, Colorguard, and Percussion are crowd favorites since they have already marched in the Rose Parade 14 times. Brandon noted that in previous years, they would “get invited to the Tournament of Roses every four years, but now things have changed in that [they] now have to compete against Photos courtesy of RONALD LEE other schools ROSE BRIGADE Dedicated for a spot.” performers win a spot to march Though Band is smaller this in the 2012 Rose Parade. year, Brandon exclaimed that he is “more than confident in this year’s Band because it has a lot of talented and special individuals that contribute so much to and countless hours that each of the 310 Band the overall success of the entire group and suband Percussion members and the 60 Colorguard sequently help everyone else achieve the level members put into preparing for the competition of success [they] always aim for.” Colorguard season, this tryout displayed all their hard work, Co-captain senior Enya Lee also sees a lot of

potential in this year’s Colorguard and pointed out that she is “confident in Colorguard’s abilities [because] members are so dedicated and they work really hard.” Band, Colorguard, and Percussion made it past the preliminary round and competed in the finals on Oct. 1. Exceeding expectations and making AHS proud, these notable groups received top honors as they won the grand prize of $5000 and earned a spot in the 2012 Rose Parade. Brandon said that “this experience helped [them] begin [their] competitive season with a strong start. It boosted [their] confidence and has definitely shown [them] that hard work really does pay off in the end.” The potential of these members of the prestigious music program at AHS is something to watch out for this school year. Band, Colorguard, and Percussion will continue to pursue excellence and make AHS proud. ahuang@apachepowwow.com

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October 2010

Graphic by MICHELLE ZHANG

Dress Up Time!

By MICHELLE ZHANG Staff Writer

Some costumes, such as witch and fairy costumes, have become so trite that they defeat the purpose of wearing costumes. So instead, try some of these costumes, which are not only easy to make, but also a breath of fresh air!

Meat Dress: Lady Gaga is a strange person by default, but the meat dress she wore to the Video Music Awards clears even her own bar of absurdity. Instead of wearing meat, use a peachy or reddish dress as the base of your costume. Then take some felt and cut out the letters “M”, “E”, “A”, and “T” so that each is a little larger than the size of your fist.

You should cut at least five sets and attach them to your dress. To complete the look, buy a blonde wig with Lady Gaga’s signature bowtie, which is available at Party City.

Justin Bieber: Though he is both loved and hated, he is undeniably the pre-teen sensation of the year. Boys, to get his look, start by blow drying your hair while constantly flicking it or by getting a wig that is similar to his hair. Then get a baseball cap and a zip-up hoodie, and pop the hood over your baseball cap. The night before, do some exercises to loosen the muscles of your neck so you will be ready to flip that hair and flash a smile.

Poker Face: If you still want to be Lady Gaga, but find making the meat dress a bit of a hassle, you can try something along the lines of a literal “poker face”. Get two to three poker cards and glue them to a headband; then draw either clubs, hearts, spades, or diamonds on your cheek with eyeliner.

Pikachu: Even though Pikachu is a furry little Pokémon, you can still be it for Halloween. To make Pikachu’s ears, cut out yellow craft foam in the shape of long rabbit ears, color the tips with black paint, and glue them onto a headband. For Pikachu’s tail, cut out craft foam in the shape of a lightning bolt rotated 40 degrees to the right with a rectangular shape attached to the bottom of the bolt. Glue the rectangular area onto a yellow belt. Then don a yellow shirt with two brown oblong shapes on the back and light colored shorts. Now you’re ready to go!

Hello Kitty: Getting a costume to look similar to this feline is not difficult. Cut white craft foam into two triangles and glue them onto a headband for the ears. Then, cut a bow shape out of red craft foam and glue it onto the appropriate ear. Use eyeliner to draw whiskers on your cheeks, and use a dab of yellow eye shadow on your nose. Wear a brightly colored overall or flowery dress with white gloves, and you will be ready to strut on the catwalk. mzhang@apachepowwow.com

Leftover Candy Actually Can Be Handy

By LAUREEN MA Staff Writer

Are you done trick-or-treating with h your friends? Are you pleased with your bags gs filled with delightful treats? Picture yourselff a month from now. How much candy will you ou have left?

Will you be sick of eating it? I bet et you thought you never would be. With these quick and easy directions, you will have the opportunity to get rid of your leftover Halloween een candy fast.

A great solution to getting etting rid of your sugar filled treats is baking. You ou can bake the following: biscuits filled with Tootsie otsie Rolls, cookies with peanut butter cups or M&Ms, Ms, candy corn melted onto candied yams, brownies with funsized chocolate, or a cake made with any extra candy you have lying around. If you are not in the mood to bake, and still have leftover candy, you can make a trail mix with popcorn balls and miscellaneous candy, use it as an ice cream sundae topper, or crush peppermints and marshmallows and put them into a relaxing cup of hot chocolate.

If your candies start to become stale and inedible, grab a group of friends and make fun candy arts and crafts. You can make a Halloween wreath with candy wrappers, candy ornaments or garlands for a Christmas tree, mosaics with

pi crushed candy pieces, candy jewelry, Halloween gingerbread houses, or even use your leftover candy to make Christmas cards and present decorations; the options are endless. This gives you an opportunity to get in touch with your creative side

and reu reuse what you already have.

If none of these ideas intrigue you, then simply save you your leftover sweets for a rainy day. You can have a jar filled with candy and label it “movie ccandy” or even put some candy, preferably not chocolate, in your car just in case kicks in. Whenever you watch a mova craving kick ie or TV w with friends, simply grab the movie candy jar and pass it around. This will save you money and get rid of your extra candy fast if your friends have a sweet tooth.

Another option is donating all the excess candy to local pediatric hospitals, since most c children there do not get the opportunity to go trick-or-treating on Halloween. You can also donate candy to nearby assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Make sure to call in advance to ensure that these donations are welcome.

So, with these simple suggestions, stay in the house and have some fun—whether it is baking a new treat, making arts and crafts, or just watching a movie with friends and family.

It could surprise you how much fun this can be, so stop reading and get to it! lma@apachepowwow.com Photos courtesy of CHANNEL4.COM, ADVANTAGESERVICELTD.COM, THISNEXT.COM, MYBRANDS.COM, and BRITSTORE.CO.UK

Beware, Creepy Crawlies Lurk In Our Beds

By SARAH QUON Staff Writer

When you turn off your lights, get into bed, and drift off to sleep, beware, ware, there can be insect-like vampires lurking in your bed that come out during g the night seeking your blood. You will not be able to see these creepy crawlers wlers during the day, because they hide in the seams of your mattress. Like vamampires, bed bugs come out during the night and feast on your blood.

These brown, red, or rust-colored blood suckers have a circular or oval flat flat shaped body with six legs. Bed bugs usually make their homes on either the he mattress seam or the bed frame. Unfortunately, they can also hide in cracks, s, crevices, and sometimes on our clothes and in our luggage. Bed bugs can n live from six months all the way to twelve months. Female bed bugs lay two to three eggs everyday; therefore, their population increases and their victim’s home h can quickly have an infestation. Thankfully, bed bugs do not transfer diseases when whe they bite you.

When bed bugs bite, the area that is bitten will become itchy and the bite will be red. Bites Wh usually appear on the neck, arms, or any other exposed area while sleeping. However, even if it appears that you do not have any bed bug bites, it does not mean that you do not have bed bugs. Some people le react to it, while others do not. For that reason, checking for signs of infestation is important. You can check ck to see if you have bed bugs by looking for tiny spots of blood from crushing the bugs while sleeping. There also can be small black dots, bed bug feces, on the bed frame.

Luckily, by taking some simple precautions, you can prevent these vampires from roosting and haunting your home. Vacuuming your rooms’ floors, corners, and cracks then immediately disposing of the vacuum’s contents will help take out the bed bugs that are hiding.

Using sheets, mattress covers, and pillow cases will help prevent the bed bugs from reaching you because bed bugs cannot bite or tear through fabric. Wearing pajamas that cover almost every single part of your body will help keep the bed bugs out.

These vampires will stay for more than just Halloween; they will stay until they are taken care of. So beware of thes these creepy crawlers of the night. Good night,, sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite!

squon@apachepowwow.com Photos courtesy of BLOGS.REUTERS. COM and KTWOOD.COM

October 2010

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The Ideal Walking Encyclopedia: Apple’s iPod Touch

By CARRIE QIU Staff Writer

Have you ever been caught in a situation in which your family is taking an eight-hour road trip and stuck in the back of the car with your siblings who are never tired of asking “Are we there yet?” every 15 minutes? If so, it wouldn’t be surprising if you are praying for a computer to appear right before your eyes. Apple’s iPod Touch is a device that will answer your prayer. It is a pocket-sized computer that not only serves to play music, but also contains thousands of applications to gratify recreational and educational purposes. To furnish the ideal walking computer, you need to start with some must-have applications such as “Dictionary.com”, “Google Translate”, “New York Times” or some other kind of news media, “Facebook”, “eBuddy”, and “Backgrounds”. Below are some suggestions for garlanding your iPod Touch with free applications.

Education: The iPod Touch applications offer great varieties of resources to facilitate students in their academic success. A great SAT vocabulary application is “Kaplan SAT Flashcubes”. It contains up to 600 SAT words, provides multiple choice exercises and word in context, and records your progress. Brainscape is also a company that provides great SAT vocabulary applications. A very useful tool for math is an application called “iFormulas”. It provides a comprehensive set of math formulas from Algebra to Calculus, and would be a great tool to facilitate students during their review sessions for final exams.

Outside reading is a part of many English curriculums, and students tend to procrastinate until the last minute to read their 400-page books. “Audiobook” is the solution to that problem. If you don’t have time to read the book, at least listen to the book. I’m sure it is better than reading the summary on SparkNotes the morning of the test.

Games and Puzzles: Donut Games is a company that produces addictive arcade games. Among the many paid and free games offered by Donut Games, “Spikey”, “Jungle Crash Land”, and “Monkey Flight” are three games that will keep you engrossed until the last level. Games sponsored by OpenFeint are fantastic arcade, action, and adventure games. “Whacksy Taxi” and “Stranded” are two of the most popular games offered by OpenFeint. The most exhilarating types of games on the iPod Touch are racing games, because the screen itself is the game control; “Asphalt” is an example of a popular racing game that includes many gadgets and fantastic features. “Unblock Me” is a puzzle game that exercises your logic and problem solving abilities and offers more than 100 levels of puzzles varied in difficulty. One of the best game applications for the iPod Touch is “Hoggy”. Each jar in “Hoggy” is unique in the way that it forces you to use your problem solving skills in order to unlock the next level.

Entertainment: Do you enjoy learning wacky facts? If so, then “10,500+ Cool Facts” is the application for you. This application contains thousands of amazing and unexpected facts in hundreds of different areas. Also, “55,000 Amazing Quotes” is an application that provides thousands of inspirational and witty quotes from eminent people all over the world. This application also sorts quotes by authors and categories, and saves your favorite quotes for future reference. cqiu@apachepowwow.com Photo courtesy of HELPDESK.ILSTU.EDU

Get Silly This Halloween! Witchy Recipes To Satisfy All

By ELLISON CHEN Staff Writer

Looking around campus, it is easy to spot wrists mummified by various shapes and sizes of foreign silicone matter. What could these peculiar objects possibly be? Well, as it turns out, Silly Bandz are back!

In a nutshell, Silly Bandz are colorful rubber bands in the shape of practically actically anything. They can be animals, mals, food, words, or even Justin stin Bieber. Any shape suggested sted to Brainchild Products (BCP) CP) Imports LLC, the manufacacturer of Silly Bandz, may very ery well get added to the collection ction of Silly Bandz. So far, there re are over 500 different Silly Bandz on the market, not to mention on the custom made Silly Bandz offered online. And to think, all this started in 2002 when one man decided to take the production of odd looking rubber bands to a whole new level.

Silly Bandz first started out as an attempt to discourage the disposal of rubber bands, but Robert Croak, founder of BCP Imports LLC, soon found a better use for them. Through sheer viral marketing—the use of social networks w to encourage people to pass pas on a message—Croak popularized the th collecting and trading of Silly Bandz. In no time, the demand for Silly Bandz grew exponentially and became a fad in playgrounds all over America.

In fact, they became such an obsession that many schools banned them during their last rein y over the fashion world. None- theless,, Silly ed Bandz have managed ke to survive and strike a comeback in recentt months.

Despite concernss dz, regarding Silly Bandz, they have once again at attracted the attention of tweens and teens alike. As soon as one person starts wearing them, a ripple effect occurs and Silly Bandz start appearing everywhere. Since Silly Bandz look better when worn in bulk, people are scrambling to purchase more and more unique Silly Bandz to adorn their wrists. Moreover, people love purchasing and wearing Silly Bandz that represent their favorite creatures and people to express their various affinities. Coupled with their low cost, at around $5 for a pack of 24, Silly Bandz sales are soaring even in a time of recession. on, be sure to For this October season, complement your costumee with ly Halloween-themed Silly rBandz or, better yet, purnes chase glow-in-the-dark ones bark on to guide you as you embark he other your quest for candy. On the hand, if you are on candy duty at home, order some Silly Bandz to give to trick-or-treaters. After all, there is no better time to be silly and scary than Halloween. echen@apachepowwow.com Photos courtesy of TOYSGIFTSRUS.COM

By RAPHAEL LU Staff Writer

Halloween is just around the corner; parties are being planned and all the best parties have great food. Here are a few recipes to ensure that your party is the best on the block.

Witch Fingers

For a twist on the average cookie, witch fingers will surely make any partygoer scream.

These tasty appendages are a must for any Halloween party.

The ingredients for this recipe are: • three cups of divided, blanched almonds • four ounces of softened cream cheese • one stick of room temperature butter • ¾ cup of powdered sugar • one teaspoon of almond extract • ¼ teaspoons of salt • 1 1/2 cups of flour • red food coloring or cake decorating gel First preheat the oven to 325º F. Then, set aside 60 almonds and finely grind the rest in a food processor. Beat the cream cheese, butter, sugar, salt and almond extract in a large mixing bowl until fluffy. Slowly stir in the ground almonds until well incorporated in the dough. To create the cookies, using one tablespoon each, make sixty 3-inch fingers. Place the fingers two inches apart on a lightly oiled baking sheet.

Using a cotton swab, paint each fingertip red.

Press an almond onto each painted tip to create finger nails. Lastly, use a knife to create small slits on the lower top and middle of each finger to simulate joints. Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly brown. Cool for three minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Witch’s Brew For a cooling drink, non-alcoholic witch’s brew is perfect for refreshing tired partygoers.

To make this wicked concoction, you will need: • four cups of cranberry cocktail juice • one cup of candied ginger • three medium juiced oranges • one 12-ounce can of thawed frozen apple juice concentrate • one 6-ounce can of frozen limeade concentrate • two cups of peeled seedless grapes • four cups of water • two 32-ounce bottles of ginger ale • one pound of dry ice • a food safe metal cauldron In a medium sized pot, bring the cranberry juice and ginger to a boil. Then, cool this mixture in the refrigerator for at least four hours. In the cauldron, combine the juices, water, grapes, and ginger ale. Slowly lower in the dry ice using tongs and protective gloves. Wait for at least 30 minutes and then serve immediately.

For quick recipes, store-bought foods can be used. A simple change in name and scary plates are enough for the effect. For example, buffalo wings can be renamed bat wings and smoked salmon can be fresh human flesh. Dark or colored lights would also make the food hard to see, making it seem even more realistic. With enough imagination, even the most mundane foods can make for a great Halloween party. rlu@apachepowwow.com rlu@apachepowwow Photo courtesy of SHEKNOWS.COM

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Photos by ELLISON CHEN and ALWYNA LAU and courtesy of AMY WANG, EMILY HARWITZ and EMILY LIU Graphics courtesy of CLKER.COM and FRIARPIC.COM

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A Guide to Homecoming 2010

By ALISON FU Staff Writer

ouuss iou io rious orio c or ct victo vict er a vi after ghht afte nnigh he ni The T Th hinos, hi g rrhino monng mo mon e aamo ted ated at brrrated lebr ele n s cceleb nt deents tud tu stud s H HS AHS A e, e gam i ing hhomecom ral Natu the at e danc elephants, and dinosaurs with a lively was e danc ’s year History Museum of Los Angeles. This Museum”, based on centered around the theme “Night at the wn movie. the event’s unique venue and the well-kno students were Upon entering the museum on a red carpet, of course, and s, saur immediately greeted by two large dino to the next res pictu fellow classmates posing and snapping the nd arou ered gath prehistoric creatures. Groups of friends and th, oboo phot the snack bar, couples waited in line for us tables scattered friends and couples alike rested at vario floor, set up in the e across the museum. The spacious danc ed with music. boom North American Mammals exhibit hall, an educational add People who wanted to take a break or even ce toured the rien touch to this year ’s Homecoming expe opened Age of ntly available exhibits, which included the rece ma. Overall, diora mals Mammals display and the African Mam groups to for ed allow the expansiveness of the venue, which ted an crea e, spac rs’ hang out without encroaching on othe elegant ambiance. ing court, Halfway through the dance, the Homecom en Winnie Que and consisting of seniors King Brandon Park r junio , Chen io Hui, princes, seniors Jon Kim and Serg man fresh and Gabriel Rousset, sophomore Calvin Ho, Chen and William Chang, and princesses, seniors Lily re Aileen Ju, omo Nicole Benipayo, junior Amy Wang, soph the dance onto d duce and freshman Kaelen Wong, was intro r of hono the had floor. King Brandon and Queen Winnie e. danc t shor a leading the rest of the student body in positive; most The reaction from students was mainly as the venue, eum students enjoyed the choice of the mus its numerous and e due to both its large amount of spac thought the Lee ey exhibits to explore. Sophomore Kels not often “it’s since ,” “venue was amazing” and “really cool quiet in so ally norm s that you can experience a place that’ dance the , Yang r Pete such an interesting way.” For senior tasty ns, ratio deco ht was “definitely memorable,” with “brig of reds hund the and , desserts, the dance floor, a sweet date students” to complete his night.

9 as they had AHS students certainly made history on Oct. the museum ing mak ”, an enjoyable “Night at the Museum t that will, nigh a was It come alive with excitement and joy. e. com to s without doubt, be remembered for year afu@apachepowwow.com

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ACADEMICS

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All Gov Team Units Reporting for Duty historical documents with people of similar interests. Patrick asked for instance, “With [whom] else can you talk about the Bill of Rights?”

The bright seniors can once again reflect their diligent work ethic upon yet another year of competition. With new faces and new friendships, “Gov Love” will undoubtedly find a place among this year’s members.

Gov Team competes on Dec. 11 at Regionals, its first tournament of the year.

By ANDY QIN Staff Writer

Among AHS’ impressive academic feats, one of the most groundbreaking was our Constitution Team’s (Gov Team) success under the U.S. Capitol dome. Our 2009-2010 national champions of “We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution” competition are immortalized in numerous posters and the championship plaque. Recognition by all local newspapers was par for the course, as the team of 30 seniors left with unbreakable bonds. Though last year’s seniors have gone on to enroll into prestigious colleges, the unanimous “Gov Love” will be shared between the members of last year’s Gov Team for a lifetime.

Their departure signals the turning of a new leaf for our renowned Gov Team. Needless to say the new team, comprised of an anticipating class of seniors, has large shoes to fill. Head adviser Mr. Kevin Fox recently announced the anticipated unit assignments, delineating which aspects of the United States Constitution must be analyzed in-depth by the six units of five members each.

Contrary to popular belief, being inducted into one unit over another does not necessarily equate being in the best of the six units, but instead the unit that analyzes philosophical foundations. Senior Patrick Han of Unit Two

Math Team Takes The Pi

By RACHEL THAI Staff Writer

What’s the point of learning algebra?

After all, finding X is only useful if you’re a pirate! One academic team at AHS, however, knows all about the value of finding X. In fact, this team puts the “fun” in function. Which team is this? It’s the Math Team (MT)!

MT competed at West Torrance High School after school on Oct. 13. This competition was one of four different competitions in the Bay Math League series. The tested subjects included angles, absolute values, roots of polynomials, limits, and drawing diagrams.

In this competition, seven out of the ten people on the A team got perfect scores of 30 out of 30. The seven were sophomores Aritro Biswas and Edward Pang, juniors Hanning Xing, Ben Li, and Jason Park, and seniors David Ke and Kristi Kwon.

AHS won the competition scoring 288 points. North Hollywood High School followed AHS coming in 2nd with a score of 285. San Marino High School came in 3rd with a score of 266, and Peninsula High School came in 4th with a score of 252.

MT’s next competition is on Dec. 1 at Long Beach Polytechnic High School.

Kristi stated, “We are really excited to start our year with a 1st place title, and we hope to keep this up for the next three upcoming competitions.”

Congratulations MT and good luck in having a successful year! rthai@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of PICSICIO.US

explained that “Unit Two covers the Philadelphia Convention and debates over the Constitution and what should be included in the document.” Each separate unit devotes approximately 20 hours per week to develop its own standpoints on complex issues, allowing its members to analyze material as intricately as required in each respective unit.

Such extensive work brings up an obvious question: why choose to be a part of such a time-consuming extracurricular? Patrick responded that it was everyone’s pursuit “to become bet- NEW SEASON Looking forward to the upter and more informed citizens.” Other coming season, Units Three and Four of Gov reasons included the freedom to discuss Team rejoice in their unit assignments.

Listed below are the Constitution Team unit assignments, each respective unit’s field of study, and a brief explanation of each unit for the 2010-2011 season.

Unit One: The philosophical and historical foundations of the American political system Janna Singer-Baefsky, Jackie Chen, Jason Chern, and William Tzeng Unit Two: The framers’ creation of the Constitution Patrick Han, Alan Kha, Bonnie Lui, Flora Liu, and Michelle Zhu Unit Three: The Constitution’s influence on the Declaration of Independence Elaine Dong, Bryant Irawan, David Ke, Brandon Mittman, and Jacqueline Xu Unit Four: The Constitution’s influence on American institutions Joyce Lee, Vincent Li, Isabel Shen, Melody Wong, and Jeff Xiao Unit Five: The Bill of Rights in-depth Alex Chen, Jane Lee, Alex Lou, Jade Shao, and Jimmy Tsouvalas Unit Six: Challenges to the Bill of Rights in the 21st century Jaspreet Singh, Dionne Sandoval, Garret Henzie, Monica Ma, and Tracy Yao aqin@apachepowwow.com Photos by ELLISON CHEN

Crossing Over to College Life

By APOORV CHAUDHARY Staff Writer

High school to college, no big deal. Nothing at college can faze me after four years of attending AHS. Well, think again. With college comes a slew of new challenges, most of which a high school student living with his/her parents in a respectable community like Arcadia may not have dealt with yet.

The most appar apparent rent change from high fe for most students is school to college lif life the lack of parents aand nd the newfound sense of freedom this entai entails. ils. Unlike high school, there is no longer any anyone yone pushing you to succeed, or even taking ccare are of your basic needs.

In this scenario, one is forced to become self-sufficient. University Univeersity of California, Los Angeles freshman Alex Wang stated, “In college, your own motiv motivation vation results in success.

No one is there to loo ok after you or take care look of you.” Despite thi is air of total indepenthis dence, Wang loves college ll lif life bbecause every day is “spent with your friends.”

Photos courtesy of CARDIFF.SCH.UK, INSIDESOCAL.COM, PICSES.EU, and WIKISPACES.COM

Another challenge students face upon entering college is a difference in education styles. In high school, students are assigned homework on a regular basis and the teacher checks that all the students are keeping pace with the class. If special attention is needed, the teacher meets privately with the student and assists him or her. However, college is a whole different ball game. There is an average of four to five hours of class a week, and generally students are expected to self-study the material themselves to enn class. force concepts taught in

Class sizes vary by college and class.

Colleges that cater to tens of thousands of undergraduates typically have classes with hundreds of students. Compared to high school where class size rarely exceeds 35 students, this can be jarring. Such a change can be detrimental to many students because professors can’t help everyone in such large classes. Most classes do not require attendance, but ditching class is not recommended because doing so means missing important material.

Going to college means better school food. Eating on campus isn’t considered bad because the food served in college cafeterias is much more appreciated than in high school. Some colleges are even located near or on famous streets where restaurants serve some of wh the best food in the city. For example, Telegraph Road near the campus of University of California, Berkeley is renowned for having some of the finest places to eat in the area. Many restaurants nnear college campuses take into aaccount that a majority of their customers are college students aand provide special student discou counts.

apchaudhary@apachepowwow.com

October 2010

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ACADEMICS

Quiz Bowl Attends TWAIN XI

By RACHEL THAI & ELBERT WANG Staff Writers

tournament’s rules dictated that if the correct answer was buzzed in early, 15 points were given. If a wrong answer was buzzed in early, five points were subtracted. If a team member answered correctly and on time, the team received ten points. If a team member answered incor-

Despite the loss of its best player, Torrey Pines High School defeated University High School (UHS) for 1st place in a one-game final, winning the tournament. UHS placed 2nd, La Jolla High School pla placed 3rd, Rancho Bernardo High School place placed 4th, and AHS followed them placing 5th. According to th the National Academic Quiz Tournaments’ qualification rules, the top three teams qualified for the 2011 High School National Championshi Championship Tournament in Atlanta.

Despite the ddeparture of last year’s prominent aand talented seniors, “many prom promising newcomers are more than rready to take on the challenge” of filling their shoes, stated junior Oishee Shemontee.

The 2010-20 2010-2011 QB clearly demonstrated its potential as its members pulled phe phenomenal performances, placing hig high in their lowerlevel brackets. Sop Sophomore Andrew Sun added, “the team team’s devotion and willingness to learn will definitely propel us to Natio Nationals with flying colors.”

OF EXCITEMENT The members of Quiz Bowl Congratulation Congratulations to QB and anticipate a new season of lively competition, close good luck for the rest of the year!

Quick! Which hich state is the only state that is south of the Tropic of Cancer? If you answered “Hawaii”, aii”, you’re correct! Here’ss another one: which academic demic team is quick-witted, d, fun, and ons based on answers questions topics ranging from social science to popular pular culture?

If you answered d “Quiz Bowl”, you’re right again! in! Quiz Bowl (QB) competed at thee Tournament Withg Name XI (TWAIN out an Interesting XI) at University ty of California, Los Angeles on Oct. 2.

QB’s goal at its first tournament o qualify for Nationof the year was to ne of its four teams als by getting one in the top three places at the tournament. However,, the other schools were unexpectedly edly strong and put QB’s dream on a temporary hold. ms from 10 different The 18 teams high schools competed ompeted at TWAIN XI and were divided vided into 3 preliminary brackets off 66. Based on place place- FULL ment in the preliminary brackets, happily teams then advanced to one of three friendships, and memorable moments. playoff brackets. There, they played the other four teams in their playoff bracket rectly after the end of the question, no points that they had not yet competed against. The were given.

rthai@apachepowwow.com ewang@apachepowwow.com Photo by ELLISON CHEN

‘Pache’s Declassified: Sequel for Sophomores

By YEJEAN KIM Academics Editor

irritability toward noise, light, and anyone trying to wake you up in class—where you may have fallen asleep in a puddle of your own drool—are just some of these effects. These experiences should be saved for junior year, and therefore avoided as much as possible sophomore year. y 2. Hone your studyy habits.

If freshman year is the year for forming study habits, sophomore year is the year for sharpening them. Take your already formed habits, weed out the ones that don’t work, and improve on existing ones. This is crucial as teachers start increasing your workload. Many of you are also taking one more academic class than you weree last year yyear, ye ear ar so it’s ar, important to be able to learn a lot of information quickly and effectively. Some may be taking the mental boot camp called AP Biol-

Those of you who read my freshmen survival guide know that I said sophomores pick on freshmen because they are insecure. Consider that statement to be the insecure junior in me talking. But have no fear; I’m more than qqualified to give you advice, having just traveled homore year myself. down the sweet path of sophomore ome by, as it is often This sweet path is hard to come buried under the dense, jungle-like ngle-like growth we call homework, tests, and AP Biology. But there are ways to hack through ough the jungle, figuratively speaking.

1. Do not procrastinatee (a lot).

I know that’s like asking the sun not to shine or people ple to stop drinking boba, but ut eseriously, try not to fall behind, and choose wisely. If it’s between an AIM session on that degenerates into back ck and forth “LOL’s” or doing ng ek, the project due in a week, CHOOSE THE PROJECT.. Your body will thank you that it’s t’s not struggling to consume massivee amounts of Monster because of an all-nighter. nighter. ers, not Speaking of all-nighters, ntal to only are they so detrimental your health they outweigh any academic benefits, but they ey also cause unattractive side de yes PROCRASTINATION MONSTER If you’re not effects. Bags under your eyes that look like they’re packed careful, you could be devoured by monsters like profor a long vacation, bad skin, crastination. Be smart!

ogy, which covers an incredible amount of information. This makes study habits all the more important.

Truthfully, the load of information poured on sophomores is roughly the same as that on freshmen; it’s just poured at hyper speed. So, knowing the study habits that work best for yyou will save hours of time spent staring at a textbook, when those hours could be spent on tex recreational activities like sleep. rec 3. Live it up (sophomores are right in the mi middle of things where all the action is).

As a sophomore, you’re not yet an upperclassman, but you’re not fresh meat either. pe You’re stuck in the “boring” middle. You may Yo protest, but you’re actually right in the thick of pr thi things. Perspective tends to be best from the middle ground. mi Sophomore year is a great development year because you’re old enough to be stuck ye with responsibility, but not so much you panic. wi Yo You’re also young enough that people will still view mistakes as necessary for learning. The vi middle is the best place to be, because being mi too much of one thing (nervous like freshmen, neurotic like juniors, or nap-loving like seniors) ne is usually bad. Take full responsibility for what you do, but gradually, because that’s what yo sophomore year is for. These tips may seem so like common sense, but they’re all a sophomore lik needs to know to succeed this year. After all, ne yo you’ve already survived a year of being at the bottom of a food chain, so you’re tough enough bo to survive being in the middle of one. ykim@apachepowwow.com Graphic by TIFFANY LAI

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College Column: University of the Pacific

By APOORV CHAUDHARY Staff Writer

University of the Pacific (UOP) may have been founded to counter the negative influence of gold rush miners, but it has since become a treasure in its own right. Originally founded in Santa Clara, California, and now located in Stockton, UOP was the first chartered university in California. With its 157 year-long tradition, UOP continues its excellence in education and enrichment today.

With its 6,401 undergraduate and graduate students, UOP boasts the ability to offer a special, personalized learning program for each student. Offering more than 80 different majors at its nine schools, UOP can prepare its students for any vocation from a wide range of careers.

Some notable schools dedicated to particular majors include the McGeorge School of Law, the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. UOP also offers an Honors Program for its ambitious students. Lastly, UOP provides accelerated programs for strongly motivated students.

Alongside its highly ranked academic programs, UOP also allows students to enjoy sports. With its variety of options including baseball, basketball, golf, swimming, and tennis, students are provided the chance to live a balanced lifestyle.

UOP encourages on-campus housing because studies have shown that students who live on campus are more academically sound and have better exposure to the college experience.

With hundreds of clubs on campus, there is a club out there for each and every student. UOP also boasts a strong Greek Life available to all students. UOP believes that clubs, fraternities, and sororities are essential to a successful education. Social development, leadership skills, professional contacts, opportunity to practice the classroom theory, and college life experiences are just some of the benefits to participating UOP students.

With student to faculty ratios of 13 to 1 and an average of 18 students per class, UOP truly displays a commitment to a personalized education. On average, students pay $43,000 for tuition and room and board. However, 81% of students typically receive some form of financial aid.

Admission Statistics: SAT scores: Critical Reading: 575 Math: 610 Writing: Not Considered ACT Composite: 26.5 Acceptance Rate: 42% Tuition: $44,412 apchaudhary@apachepowwow.com

Photo courtesy of PICASAWEB.COM

LUSH CAMPUS The scenic campus and top-notch academics make University of the Pacific a treasured college.

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STUDENT LIFE

Rose Court Princess

Tatyane Berrios

By SOPHIA TANG Staff Writer

For the past three years, at least two AHS students have made it onto the Tournament of Roses Royal Court. This year, 17-year-old senior Tatyane Berrios is continuing AHS’ royal birthright as a 2011 Rose Court Princess. The Rose Princesses will be waving at hundreds of thousands of spectators at the 122nd Pasadena Rose Parade from their seats of honor on the Rose Float. Tatyane and the rest of the Rose Court will grace us with their presence at 150 media functions throughout the year for the Pasadena Tournament, including the 97th Rose Bowl Game.

Tatyane was recognized as a 2011 Rose Princess on Oct. 11, just a day before her birthday. She exclaimed that “it was a very good birthday present!” When asked about her position, she said, “I have never pictured myself as one of the court members. I actually tried out for fun, and it was an honor to make it.”

Tatyane has actually never seen the Rose Parade in person. “I’m really glad the first time I get to see the Rose Parade live is from a float,” Tatyane said. She loves the way different cultures and themes are incorporated into the parade floats. When asked about the dresses for the big appearance, she said, “We’re wearing gowns from Tadashi. I can’t say anymore because it’s a secret!” As for her future, Tatyane is most excited for the children’s hospital visit because she hopes to become a pediatrician.

She looks forward to going trick-or-treating on Halloween with the children.

Although she has only known her Rose Court members for a week, Tatyane calls them her sisters. She said of her fellow Rose Court members, “We’re the best of friends, yet we’ve only known each other for a week. They’re all really funny and sweet and I always have a fun time with them along with the Rose Court committee members.”

Tatyane Berrios and the 2011 Rose Court will be reigning as royalty for a whole year until the next Court comes around. As for this year’s court, Tatyane exclaimed, “I’m so super excited for the following year. I know it will be a lot of work and a huge time commitment, but this is really a life changing experience and it’s worth it.” stang@apachepowwow.com Photos courtesy of ARCADIASBEST.COM

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October 2010

Apaches’ Spirit Comes Home Up next was the spirited Pep Squad. Pep Flags twirled flags to the tune of various pirate songs. Using the wavy design of the flags to form interesting shapes and configurations, the group displayed exquisite unison and artistry in its movements. With many successful catches and no drops, Pep Flags exhibited its precise

Now, the part that we had all been all waiting for: Homecoming royalty—the very special princes and princesses who were chosen by the Staff Writers student body. Members of royalty include freshAt this year’s Homecoming Assembly, men William Chan and Kaelen Wong, sophoOrchesis, Senior Men and Women (SMW), Pep mores Calvin Ho and Aileen Ju, juniors Gabriel Squad, and Associated Student Body (ASB) deRousset and Amy Wang, and seniors Lily Chen, livered delightful performances that Winnie Hui, Nicole Benipayo, dazzled a captivated audience. VariSergio Chen, Brandon Park, and ous sports teams announced their Jonathan Kim. This year’s Homeimpressive achievements made coming King and Queen are Branearlier in the season, while several don Park and Winnie Hui, respecteams have undefeated records. tively.

At the end of the assembly, everyThe ASB skit was a creative one stood together as one, singing and humorous end to the exciting AHS’ Alma Mater as their powerassembly. It parodied the movie ful stomps echoed through the gym, Night at the Museum in honor of symbolizing AHS’ united strength. the Homecoming Dance held at Orchesis started off the assemthe Los Angeles County Natural bly, dancing to MGMT’s “Kids”.

History Museum. The skit also inDisplaying elegance in movement, corporated John Muir, the namethey jumped, twirled, and stepped ALL SMILES SMW members gave a great performance. sake of John Muir High School their way to an amazing performance. The timing and accuracy. Following next, Pep Song and AHS’ opponent in the Homecoming game. dancers truly showcased their excellent flex- paid tribute to the iconic “King of Rock and Through humor and wit, ASB was successful in ibility, fluid gracefulness, and athletic ability in Roll”, Elvis Presley, while inspiring spirit in the getting the school excited for both the Homethis challenging piece. members of the crowd. The fast dance routine coming game and dance with its funny and inClad in their maroon jackets, SMW involved spinning and formations, showing the spiring skit. danced to various songs, which included Far skill and hard work necessary from the girls.

Overall, the performances by all organizaEast Movement’s “Like a G6”, Taio Cruz’s Varsity Pep wowed the audience with a vari- tions were solid and exciting. The Homecoming “Break Your Heart”, Usher’s “DJ Got Us Fall- ety of rocking songs. The group’s courageous Assembly was an inspiring precursor to the exing in Love”, Danity Kane’s “Damaged”, and lifts and enthusiastic cheers brought spirit to the citement of the Homecoming Game and Dance.

Jay Sean’s “Down”. Starting off with incredible school.

Go Big Red! break dancing, SMW impressed students with With all these great performances, everytheir coordination and flair. With their humor- one in the audience was pumped up and ready chang@apachepowwow.com ous dance moves, the members of SMW proved to cheer on AHS’ football team at the evening’s ewang@apachepowwow.com Photos by ELLIOTT LEE entertaining and talented.

Homecoming Game.

By COURTNEY HANG & ELBERT WANG

APACHE SPIRIT Performances at the Homecoming Assembly included ASB, Pep Squad, and Orchesis.

October 2010

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STUDENT LIFE

19

The Great Candy Debate

Some candies are just better than others, but which reigns supreme?

By EVAN DELGADO, SOPHIA TANG, & VALERIE YU Staff Writers

What candy mixes a chocolatey taste, crunchy interior, and a sweet, caramel filling? The best kind of candy—Twix bars. I stand in the firmest affirmation that Twix bars have been the ultimate Halloween candy since their conception in 1979. Firstly, Twix bars are delicious! Secondly, Twix bars have a huge amount of flavors and product variants. And last but not least, Twix bars are getting more and more healthy without sacrificing their great taste!

Taste is exactly where Twix leads on the candy scene. A crunchy wafer surrounded by a combination of smooth caramel and rich chocolate is the perfect recipe for an awesome taste. While other candies may contain caramel and chocolate, they lack the decisive crunch that Twix has, and it is that very crunch that makes the experience of eating a Twix so great.

While the basic formula for a Twix bar is simply delicious, it is not only limited to its base ingredients. How many different kinds of Twix do you think there are? Five? Ten? Try over thirty! ......

Mars, Inc. is also on the forefront of the movement to make candy more healthy. .....

The company’s new brand, Twix Fino, has 48 fewer calories than the original Twix! With the 94-calorie Twix Fino bar, Twix is setting the new golden standard for healthiness among many types of candy. And did I mention that Twix bars also work with a vegetarian diet?

At the end of the day, Twix bars will always come out as the ultimate candy. With their delicious taste, numerous varieties, and adaptability, Twix bars crush the competition. Chocolate is a defining part of our culture, and nothing does chocolate like a Twix. edelgado@apachepowwow.com

Taste the rainbow, and a bolt of electricity. If the Original Skittles came falling from the heavens, then Sour Skittles came pelting down in a lightning storm. A single dime-sized piece holds the original sweetness inside, yet hides a powerful electrical charge from within the outer sour crystals.

Every piece is a whole new experience. When your taste buds first latch onto the rocky, sour bits, you will feel like fireworks are being blasted in a lightning storm—all inside your mouth. When the last drop of acid rain drips away, the original rainbow taste will emerge from the center of the Skittle, leaving a fresh, sweet taste on your tongue. But wait—there’s more.

Sour Skittles come in a variety of tongue-sizzling zests, like blue raspberry, lemon, strawberry, orange, grape, green apple, and watermelon. This will only make choosing a favorite flavor that much harder!

Plus, there’s nothing better than eating rainbow-colored candy. In times of bad weather, you will always have the hope of sunny skies and rainbows when you pop one of these candies in your mouth. The multitude of eye-catching colors and the sour zing make Sour Skittles the ultimate wake-up buddy for your palate. Best of all, the bite-sized pieces will never make you look like a gluttonous, entire-candy-barswallowing-hog. You can eat as many as you like, and people will never suspect. And if they do, you can always share the rainbow. stang@apachepowwow.com

Smarties—those little disks of pastel-colored joy, never too sweet, never too bland; what’s not to love?

B e s i d e s imparting perfect w wisdom unto all who eat them, as their name suggests, Smarties come smartly wrapped in an adorable multi-colored roll, embellished with plastic tweaks at both ends. Smarties are a versatile lot with a range of variations, which include original Smarties, Mega Smarties, iees, Mega Cand Candy Necklaces, and Mega Lollies.

Unlike those th thickly-cemented Tootsie Rolls and always-getting-stuck-in-your-teeth Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Smarties come in siix differe six differently flavored candy tablets, all in the mellow colors of lavender, grass green, light orange, and soft pink. Nothing softens the spiri spirit like the subtle pastel hues of Smarties do. Combined with healthy fruity flavors of strawberry, orange, cream, pineapple, gr grape, and cherry, Smarties win the health and great taste awards; never are those little candies too sweet, overly sugary, or fatty.

This leads us to the second obvious reason why Smarties are the the ultimate sweetie: no guilt is attached to the gulping of Smarties as the wolfing down of many other self-indulging, fat-packed, calorie-infested candy is…like with, ahem, T Twix, Hershey’s Milk Chocolate, Milky Way, Snickers, etc. Those chocolate bars are all packed with a skyrocketing 300 calories and 15 grams of fat at least.

Th They may taste delicious as they melt richly in your mouth now, but when that moment of bliss evaporates with those last traces of chocolate figure he chocolate, so does that slender fi gure and hearty, robust fitness. That’s when Smarties rush in to save the day. In comparison, each roll of Smarties contains only 25 calories, no saturated or trans fat and with a touch of heartfelt consideration, is made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan friendly. Not only that, but Smarties also boast the least amount of sugar at six grams per roll, all together a tremendous amount of nutrition facts more than you can say about those oily, fat-packed chocolate bars.

Ever the smart one, Smarties are always one step ahead of the pack, the leader of the group, and a true two-in-one deal in both health and taste. Bite-size and snack-worthy, Smarties are indisputably the Ultimate Candy in the world of sweets, a fact as clear as candy crystals at Halloween. vyu@apachepowwow.com Photos courtesy of CLAYTONLUXURYHOMES.COM, DANSSCHOENEN2.MY-PHP.NET, HALLOWEENCANDYCOUPON.COM, and NUTSONLINE.COM

20

SPORTS

apachepowwow.com

October 2010

Football Brings Home More Than a Win

By STEPHEN CHU Staff Writer

On Homecoming night when our new stadium was unveiled, our very own Boys Varsity Football team demolished the opposing John Muir team, 34-13. The intensity of the game was felt from the very beginning as AHS jumped to a 14-0 lead early in the first quarter, punishing Muir on defense and forcing six turnovers. The game was never close, with the enthusiasm raging on from the stands. AHS held on to its large lead, earning a well-deserved victory and providing Coach Jon Dimalante with his 100th victory as an Apache.

Although the Apaches started out the season with losses to St. Francis and Monrovia, they hit their stride after wins against Pasadena, Burbank, Temple City, and Muir, which they have not beaten since 2003. “Coach Dimalante always preaches being a hard-nosed, fundamentally sound football team,” said senior Victor Wei. “That’s exactly what we did.”

Coach Dimalante explained the significance of the Homecoming victory, “Our players and coaches did a great job. All my focus is on this team attaining our goals. They made it special for me. All the teams that I’ve coached in my 15 years here shared the honor with me.”

The Boys Varsity Football team’s eagerness and excitement were noticed during practice earlier in the week. “We prepared like we always do for every other game, practiced hard every single day and prepared ourselves both mentally and physically to go out and perform at our best,” explained Victor. Junior Taylor Lagace’s big hit on an opposing Muir player and senior Nader Damouni’s fumble return for a touchdown set the momentum in the Apaches’ favor.

The significance of this game as well as the opportunity to play in front of AHS students allowed the team to take advantage of this highly emotional night. The boys came out fired up after enthusiastically punishing Muir players whenever they got the ball. Although Muir was Photos by ELLIOTT LEE and TOMMY LIAO

Kings of the Cross Country Course and juniors Sergio Gonzalez, Ryan Vargas, and Francis Lee. At the Stanford Invitational, a meet Staff Writer that beckons top-ranked teams from all the way Outsiders know them as the AHS Boys from the Northwest, our boys had a head-turnVarsity Cross Country team. They know them- ing five finishers in the top sixteen. Taking 1st selves as O’ Brien’s Army. In the quintessential place in the contest was Ammar, the defending plot of all truly great sports fairytales, the Cross Gatorade State Runner of the Year recipient, Country team has only reached the rising action. who finished with an average time of 4:42 per Powerade, which sponsors the “Fab 50” nation- mile. al rankings, has given cross country the number These nation-leading, distance studs lead one spot in the nation. The writers of ESPN Rise surprisingly solitary lives in school, taking the suspect that the recognition might have been a usual mound of challenging classes. Outside result of landslide victories at the Woodbridge of the school, however, the team’s treatment Invitational and Stanford Invitational. Our boys can be compared to that of a celebrity’s. The clinched the title at Stanford with a phenomenal Apache runners are sponsored by Nike and Adifive finnishers in the top 16. To put das, receiving complimentary and custom-made that in perspective, any member singlets, backpacks, running shoes, racing flats, of our top seven runners, other- sweats, and more. In light of such luxuries, the wi wise known as the “Varsity team as a whole manages to suppress any excesSeven”, would outperform sive pride. When asked how he felt about being S opponent schools’ leading ranked the best team in the nation, junior Serrunners. gio Gonzalez calmly responded that “it doesn’t The “Varsity Sev- matter. What matters is who’s number one at the en”, or the usual deep- end of the season.” scoring machine of AHS, is sco The true test of aptitude occurs at the CIF comprised of seniors Am- Cross Country State Championships, in which com mar Moussa, Allen Leung, the team will contend for a potential state chamma Esmond Wei, William Tsai, pionship title. So the next time you see our boys, Esm who toil every moment outside of the Photo courtesy of DYESTAT.COM classroom to exemplify Apache domiBOYS CROSS COUNTRY nance, give them a pat on the back for Senior Ammar Moussa paces his their efforts.

By ANDY QIN

way to first place at the statewide Stanford Invitational.

aqin@apachepowwow.com

able to pull off some big gains running the ball, ll, the team played effectively and worked togethher to pull off the blow-out win. The game was as not even close. Victor added, “Our defense and nd offense both played a great game holding an athletic Muir team to just 13 points and scoring ng 34 ourselves. That is not an easy feat.”

With a motivating and impressive victory, ry, the Apaches were confident and exuberant after er pthe game, congratulating each other and pumphe ing the fans up. The fans were absorbed into the game from the start, inspiring the players to pererform at a higher level.

This game was more than just an ordinary ry Friday night high school football showdown; itt marked the start of a new era of AHS football.

Not only were our bleachers entirely remodeled, but our team has also become more focused, determined, and aggressive than ever. As the milestone win for Coach Dimalante passes, es, re he will soon be looking forward to many more victories to come.

“All the energy that was created from all [the fans] just made for the most amazing atmoosphere I have ever experienced. Getting Coach ch D’s 100th win for him might have been one off the most special moments in my life,” said Victor. This team has shown so much potential and dominance on the field that it is destined for great achievements in years to come.

Coach Dimalante explained, “Being at home in our newly renovated stadium on homecoming playing the Muir Mustangs and getting our second league win made it like a dream for me! How about those Apaches!”

Unfortunately, not all news relating to our

team can be deemed pleasant. Recently our Varsity Football team took on Burbank High Sc School and although we came out with the victory, Taylor was the victim of a thre threatening scuffle. After the

play, Burbank H i g h cor cornerback Quortney Brazier conti continued pulling to grab Taylor’s face mask, pu him down to the ground. Emo Emotions ran high as Taylor and Brazier bbegan a heated argument, each ppushiing and d shoving h i th one another.

Burbank assistant coach Stone Wall quickly came over and inappropriately shoved Taylor to the ground. Coach Wall was immediately fired as assistant coach and is now being investigated for criminal charges. Junior Lawrence Chan said, “Not much is known about who it was or what happened to Taylor. He was wrongfully suspended and was the victim of the attack.” schu@apachepowwow.com

Girls Golf: In the Zone the successful season in glory. For senior Mya Maw, this was “the best year [the team’s] ever Staff Writer had.” Senior Joyce Fu agreed, stating that the They are the Tiger Woods of our school team as a whole was much more “consistent —the Kobe Bryants of the league. With an- this year with [its] game.”

Coach Greep praised, “They’ve been other championship title under their belt, an unbelievable asset to the the girls of Varsity Golf growth of the Apache Golf proved their dominance program.” as it secured the top spot With November around in the Pacific League. the corner, the golf season Last season, these is wrapping up its last few girls snatched the number games on the green. For the one spot in the league, seven seniors, this means and on Oct. 14, the girls a goodbye to the team that completed a “three-peat” has stuck with them through by becoming the Pacific thick and thin. As senior Chi League Champions for Chi Min recalled, “I never the third straight year. thought this last season Coach Robert Greep said, would end so fast.” Though “The girls’ success is the she’s sad that she is leaving result of all the hard work an important part of her life they put in during the post behind, she is grateful she and pre-season.” There’s had a chance to be a part of no doubt that their hard this amazing team. Before work all paid off, as winPhoto by ELLISON CHEN long, the seniors will be ning league for three conGIRLS GOLF Senior Jinnee passing the torch to the upsecutive years is no small feat. Senior Hilary Kao Lee sends the ball across the and-coming players on the team. They expressed faith stated, “In the end, it was green. and confidence in the younger players. In Chi worth every moment of my life.”

Nothing short of impressive, the girls Chi’s words, “I see a strong future.” We do, hold an overall record of 25-2 and an unde- too. feated league record of 20-0. The team kicked csun@apachepowwow.com off the season to a strong start and concluded

By CHRISTINE SUN

October 2010

sports@apachepowwow.com

Boys Water Polo Goes Loco said. “Also, with knee injuries from basketball, it was sometimes quite painful to be running. I Staff Writer get in with the athletes to show them exercises, and this is not a problem for my knee.”

Other than their revealing uniforms, the So far, rather positive results can be seen. sports of cross country and water polo have The team’s current overall record is 3-6, a step nearly nothing in common. However, Coach forward from last season when the team finished Raymond Mynster has made the transition from 2-20. A key component to this season’s resurtraining the girls of Varsity Cross Country to gent squad is a strong defense. Captain senior Boys Varsity Water Polo this season. After years Brandon Lui believes that the stronger “team of coaching Girls Varsity Cross Country, Coach chemistry” and “determination” also contribMynster was approached with the opportunity uted to the team’s improvement. However, the to coach water polo. “I had played for three team still has a lot of potential to be even betyears in high school, and a little in college,” he ter and is hungry for more. “I feel the team has improved from last season, but they still have more growth in them,” Coach Mynster said. “If they keep working hard, they have the potential to make CIF this season.”

On Oct. 12, the boys took on Burroughs in a thrilling match that went into overtime. Down by one, junior Connor Bodenshot tied the game with a last second goal. Sophomore Clifford Ly recalled, “We figured out their defense, and adjusted accordingly. We put a good shooter on point and he shot the ball well.” In overtime, AHS’ score went up by one, only to lose 10-11.

Despite the disappointing loss, Coach Mynster said, “I expect the team to continue working hard and to shoot for CIF this season.”

He also said the team should work on “being more aggressive” because “the referees aren’t calling light fouls this season.” There is no Graphic courtesy of WEDDINGCLIPART.COM doubt that the team has taken great strides, or Photo by ELLIOTT LEE should I say strokes, in the right direction.

By MATTHEW ORMSETH

BOYS WATER POLO Junior Steven Heer gets ready to take a shot on the John Burroughs keeper.

mormseth@apachepowwow.com

SPORTS

21

Girls Tennis: Game, Set, Match friendly, supportive, and close,” freshman Ashley Gao said.

Staff Writer On Sept. 16, the team kicked off the seaThe Girls Varsity Tennis team boasts son against our rival Crescenta Valley High both athletic superiority and a sisterhood-like School (CV), pulling in a win with a score bond. Previously ranked number eight in CIF, of 11-7. Excluding playoffs, the CV games these girls have exceeded expectations by are the “biggest and most fun,” Coach Jerry obtaining the number two spot, the highest Dohling stated.

The follow following Tuesday, our girls defeaton the list that hat AHS has ever been. ed Pasadena 18 18-0 and later that week, they Currently, thee team is undecrushed Burban Burbank High School 17-1. feated with an 8-0 league Maintainin its winning streak, the team Maintaining score and an overall record beat Herbert H Hoover on Sept. 28, 13-5. On of 13-0. te Sept. 30, the team again came out victorious Aside Glendal High School, 17-1. Unsuragainst Glendale from attending ng prisingly, the following Tuesday, the girls games on most st Monpummeled JJohn Burroughs High School, days, Tuesdays, days, and leading 1717-1.

Thursdays, the team Lea Leading up to CIF, the girls faced practices for hours on off with CV again in a close match Wednesdays and Friand the they emerged triumphant with days. The girls ls run drills and have the fina nal score, 10-8. Two days later, inter-team scrimmages, crimmages, which on Oct. 14, they once again competed or Michelle Zhu captain senior against P PHS only to defeat them with says are helpful lpful because the an 18-0 win. girls’ “toughest est opponents” are A At this rate, our girls are bound each other. to be titled League Champions. JuThe team’s m’s tight-knit bond nio nior Caroline Young said that is also a key ingredient in their ““despite the frustration and well-deserved d success. With ten anger behind many of the of the twelvee players being points, there is no sensation returning members, Photo by TOMMY LIAO sweeter than the taste of victhe girls share tips, give advice, and GIRLS TENNIS Freshman tory.” cheer each other Ashley Gao prepares to hit the stng@apachepowwow.com on. “Everyone is so ball back to her opponent.

By STACEY NG

Girls Cross Country: Out With the Old, In With the New

By BELLE CHUANG Staff Writer

Among the sea of blue and purple jerseys, erseys the distinct deep maroon of the Arcadia jerseys ere could easily be picked out. The atmosphere was teeming with feelings of anxiety,, while cheers and shouts filled the air, urging the runners on. It was only a few minutes into the race, and it was already ng: no surprise which team was dominating: our very own Girls Varsity Cross Country try team.

This season has been like no other for the team. Unlike previous years, the new season translates to not only a new team, but also a new coach. The team consists of the top seven runners in cross country, and this year, three new varsity runners were added dded to the roster. With a combination of new members and a novice coach, big changes are in store for the cross country girls this year. One of the fresh faces on the team this year is none other than Coach Jenny Landis. Having been on a cross country team not too long ago, Coach Landis knows what it takes to make or break the team. She “completely [loves] the sport and … [wants] athletes to learn about the sport, learn about how far they can put their limits, learn about positive attitudes, dedication, and all the benefits that arise from being a member of a

team. Coaching provides [her] an avenue to be able to do” so.

Through intense daily workouts, this team is risin lesser-known rising to its fu ential and finally full potential gainin some spotlig gaining spotlight of its ow most kids own. While

are enjoying the comfort of their home, the cross country girls are braving the unnatural weather changes during practices that

working up a sweat to achieve their goals. Naturally, the girls “want to win league this year, and make CIF Finals,” reported junior Joyce Liao. She exclaimed, “It would be so amazing if we could all put it together and make [it to] state.” Although the cross country girls are working harder than ever, for now, that goal is a bit far off. Naomi added, “Of course winning is ideal, but true success comes from bonding as a team—being willing to suffer together and rise stronger, helping your teammates through these struggles, and remaining positive and motivated.” And if anything, “we [just] want to make ourselves known, because we’re always overshadowed by the boys,” said Joyce.

Earlier in the month on Oct. 9, the cross country girls showed the Northern Californians up when they nabbed 2nd place in Fresno at Clovis Invitational.

A few days later on Wednesday, Oct. 13, the cross country girls went up against long time rival, CV, at the second league meet. The girls were able to secure 1st place on our home course, outperforming other schools in our league, such as CV, Glendale, and Burbank.

The team outperformed other schools with an overall time of 90:26.

Photos courtesy of TRACY YAO As the team continues to rise in the GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Junior ranks, we can expect our girls to speed Joyce Liao and freshman Miranda Stiver off to victory. Most importantly, as Coach lead the race, fending off any oncoming Landis said, “with a positive team environrunners. ment and dedicated attitudes, nothing will stop the Lady Apaches.”

Running as many as 57 miles per week and 2-8 miles per day, the cross country girls are bchuang@apachepowwow.com go as late as 4:30 p.m. everyday. Although extremely intense, these workouts will essentially pave a path to victory. Last year’s loss to Crescenta Valley (CV) was by only one point, and it really shook the team. Junior Naomi Wilcox admitted, “I learned that wanting to win isn’t enough, and that you’ve got to put in the time and work hard every day in practice to achieve your goals.” With a different coach, workouts have changed some. A typical workout for the week would look something like this: Monday: 1.5 mile warm up, drills, 8 x 100 meters with 300 jog recoveries, a 4 mile cool down, core workout, stretch Tuesday: warm up to Santa Anita hill, drills, a 30 minute hill circuit, cool down back to school, stretch Wednesday: warmup, drills, run, 6 strides, core workout, stretch (about 8 miles total) Thursday: 5 x 1 mile repeats, a 20 minute cool down, stretch Friday: (pre-race workout) 6 miles, 6 strides, core workout, stretch Saturday: cross country meets Sunday: a 60 minute easy run Total Mileage: 57 miles

22

CALENDAR

October Word Jumble

apachepowwow.com

Homecoming Surprise

BY CHRISTOPHER CHO

Unscramble the given letters and write the answer in the boxes below it. Then using the letters in the circles, unscramble the word for the solution of the puzzle. The answers are all words that have some relation to school related acticities in October.

Halloween: Gaga Drama

BY MICHELLE ZHANG

WILL YOU GET TRICKED OR GET TREATS?

Graphics courtesy of DISCOVERYEDUCATION.COM and IMAGINESTAMPS.COM Puzzle courtesy of DISCOVERYEDUCATION.COM

October 2010

October 2010

calendar@apachepowwow.com

CALENDAR

23

The Luck of the Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)

By KARINA LAIGO Staff Writer

There is something about you Libras that has everyone else stunned. Is it the way you carry yourself, the effortless poise you possess? No, it’s your spirit that makes everyone’s jaws drop.

This October, there are opened doors and new opportunities that you should be thankful for. With so many things to look forward to, you will be the envy of your peers.

Represented as a balance, you are someone who always weighs your options, as you should in the coming year

to make good judgments. No matter what grade level or age, there are many obstacles ahead, which demand a deep understanding before you make your decision, so think through all of your plans, making sure there are no flaws in any aspect. To do this, always wish for the best, but expect the worst—so be prepared. And if you do fall off the saddle, ‘fess up. Taking the simple way out may be easier, but it’s not always the best thing to do. Consider all the people and emotions that have entered the equation. All of this will help you decide accordingly to that sticky situation that you’re in. Remember, giving the bad news early is like taking off a

Band-Aid; it stings, but in the end it feels better.

All of this balance relates heavily to harmony. If you are harmonious as well as balanced, you are destined to go far, so don’t just run into things full of adrenaline. Instead, restore peace and harmony to your system. Chances are it will be easier to make your choices and get through life unscathed.

With balance and harmony, you are a natural peacemaker, so you will have to come between two opposing sides.

Keep in mind that they are your friends as well as your rivals. Always live up to your expectations and make yourself known to your friends as someone they

can confide in. Good advice is always cherished among friends.

klaigo@apachepowwow.com Graphic by BEVERLY CHEN

Does Merengue Café Take The Cake?

By GLUTTON GIRL Staff Writer

With the recent PSAT and SAT cramming on top of our alreadyheavy workloads, I think we Apaches are becoming quite prepared for this upcoming holiday. We all have bags under our eyes and a drag in our steps—we might as well change our school’s name to “Arcadia’s School of Mummification and Zombie-ment!”

So, to escape the pressures and stress of earning a perfect SAT/ PSAT score I decided to kidnap my fellow zombied followers and take

Photos by GLUTTON GIRL

TAKE YOUR PICK In addition to pastries and cakes, Merengue also offers salads, hot paninis, Cuban sandwiches, and various finger foods.

them down to Merengue Cuban Café and Bakery on 110 Colorado Avenue in Old Town Monrovia.

Although unknown by many nearby residents, Merengue is a popular celebrity bakery—catering to stars such as Paris Hilton, and designing cakes for Taboo of Black Eyed Peas, Jabbawockeez, and even Usher!

As we trudged inside with our heavy feet, the first things we noticed were the extreme silence and the non-existent communication between monster and employee. Lighting was dim, and the few customers created an isolated atmosphere. The layout of the café made it practically impossible for any interaction to be made, and consequently, the entire bakery had no warm, homey, comfortable aura.

Glancing over the many pastries on Merengues’ menu, most of them range from $1.00 to $3.50, keeping them on the cheap end of the bargain. However, just one measly pastry wouldn’t be enough for me and my starving followers! My minions and I ordered a caramel macchiato and six different cakes: a crème brulee, cheese danish, potato ball, beef empanada, fruit tart, lemon tart, and cappuccino mousse for just a little over $22.

Out of the six pastries, only two really met my expectations from this celebrity-renowned bakery—the beef empanada and fruit tart. The

empanada was beautiful; the toasted golden brown shell was stuffed with marinated and seasoned beef, giving it a wonderful, tangy, sweet, and spicy taste. It reminded me of a soft taco without vegetables; its brilliant

PASTRIES GALORE Whether you’re craving sweet classics like lemon tarts or savory, exotic treats like beef empanadas and potato balls, Merengue has it all!

golden crust deceived us with a soft “munch” instead of a hard crunch.

The fruit tart was amazing. A slightly sweetened whipped cream accented the fruits, and the mini pieshell crumbled in my mouth. It was simple, but delicious.

The other pastries, however, were either just average or not appetizing at all. The lemon tart was probably the worst. Although it had a cute, appealing design, with its white chocolate and fake lime

slices, the tart was overpoweringly sour, almost as if the bakers had forgotten the sugar! And to top it off, the lemon flavor was extremely artificial. The crème brulee was a bit disheartening. Instead of cracking into a fire-torched shell to discover vanilla pudding-like custard, I scooped my spoon into a thick pasty yellow mixture. The signature point of the crème brulee was also lacking; the “fire-torched” sugar was soft, not hardened!

Overall, my fellow monsters and I were quite disappointed by Merengue Cuban Café and Bakery.

There was practically no service offered, the environment was dead, and the pastries were average, if not worse. The only reason I’d go back is to have a cake designed, seeing as that’s one of its specialties. For its service, pastries, and food, I give it a harsh 5 out of 10. It probably would have been more exciting attempting to bake the same goodies with my fellow friends. Who knows? Perhaps we could have created one that ended up tasting better than Merengue’s average pastries and tarts. Until next time! And who am I? That’s a secret I’ll never tell!

You know you love me, XOXO, Glutton Girl. gluttongirl@apachepowwow.com

Graphics courtesy of BLOGSPOT.COM, CAFECREE.CO.UK, CLIPARTHEAVEN.COM, ETC.USF.EDU, EVENTSUPPLIES.CO.UK, FUNSERVICEINC.COM, WORDPRESS.COM

24

campusfocus@apachepowwow.com p @ p p

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- Abraham Ho, 122

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October 2010

f on felt mysel “Once, I something ke li t, lo autopi and I my body, possessed g through in ch at w was just I had no I felt like my eyes. dy or my bo y m control of nge feelwas a stra actions. It able to control be ing to not ” myself… id Liiuu,, 10 - David

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Photos by ELLIOTT LEE and graphics courtesy of SPIRITHALLOWEEN.COM, PARTYAMERICA.COM, REVIEWS.CELEBRATEEXPRESS.COM, 3DRT.COM, and LAKESHOREPRESERVE.WISC.EDU.