The Aztec- November 2016 Issue

THE AZTEC VOLUME LXXVIV NUMBER III

VIEWPOINT PG 3-5 The month of the turkey slaughter

News in Brief Trump Protest Takes Over San Gabriel High School 150 to 200 Students at San Gabriel High school walked out and faced their backs against their school as protest to Trump’s victory and progress to presidency. They chanted profane terms and held signs, such as “Not Trump, No KKK, Not in the USA”. The school district and staff remained silent throughout the protest.

A Christmas Carol musical A Christmas Carol hosted

by MKHS Theatre Company will take place December 1-3 (7:30 PM) and December 3-4 (2 PM). Tickets will be $12 at mkhs.myschoolcentral.com and $15 at the door.

Bill Introduced to Scrap Electoral College After dissatisfaction over Donald Trump winning 2016 election based on electoral votes, and not the popular vote, Senator Barbara Boxer introduced a bill to legislation that would discontinue the use of the electoral college and instead rely on the popular vote.

November 17, 2016

FOCUS PG 6-7 The roles of leadership: nationally and locally

SPORTS PG 11-12

A&E PG 8-9 Afters Ice Cream shop opening on Main Street

Behind the scenes of the pep teams

Trump crushes Clinton with electoral votes ANITA GOU & ANNY JIANG Staff Writers After waiting 12 hours for every state's’ poll results, Republican nominee Donald Trump defeated Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton on November 8th, with 290 electoral votes, securing his position as the 45th president of the United States. Donald Trump won 31 out of 50 states, even some states that are usually more Democratic, including Florida and Pennsylvania. Clinton came close in electoral votes when she collected 55 votes from California, but Trump closed the gap when he won 29 votes from Florida. Even Californians rush to vote before polls close at 8 p.m. though Clinton won the popular vote, appealed to were a lot of white men who lost 60,467,601 to 60,072,551 as of now, the elec- their jobs because of loss of manufacturing to toral vote determines the winner. Clinton other countries.” called Trump after the election and conceded When Donald Trump moves into the White to him.

House, his first order of business would be to Large amounts of white voters contributed build a wall to keep out immigrants. World towards Trump’s win. They preferred Trump History teacher Mr. Tran thinks that building over Clinton by 21% (58 to 37) according to a a wall is impossible. “Logically, it'll be almost poll conducted by Edison Research of the Na- impossible and to pay for it, it'll bankrupt the tional Election Pool. While Clinton did win country…You can't make another country pay over lots of minority voters, she lacked sup- for it [the wall], it just doesn't work that way.” port from those groups to overcome her gap Many critics argue that Trump is incapable among white voters. Counselor Mrs. Sesztak to be president because he is politically inexsaid, “He [Trump] voiced what a lot of people perienced. Principal Scanlan said, “I personin this country think and feel….The people he ally believe that business and government

THE AZTEC/VICTORIA RAMIREZ

are two different purposes….I hope he realizes that and adjust accordingly.” Business and politics do have something in common: negotiation. Trump’s business experience can help him negotiate deals with other countries.

Sophomore Wilson Yeung said, “We must remain optimistic about the future of this country, because if millions of us worked together, we can't let one man bring us down.”

Despite all the criticism, it is important to accept that Trump will be the next president of the United States and we need to give him a chance to be a great president.

Out of this world and into the music JASON SANCHEZ Staff Writer

Your calendar Tomorrow-Minimum Day 11/1-English Language Advisory Council #3 (6:30–7:30 pm at cafeteria) 11/2-Collaboration Day 11/10-Drama Boosters Meeting (7–8:30 PM in A114) 11/11-Veterans Day (Holiday) 11/16-Collaboration Day, PTSA Meeting (7-9 pm at cafeteria) 11/18-Minimum Day 11/21 to 11/25- Thanksgiving Break 12/6-English Language Advisory Council #4 (6:30– 7:30 PM at cafeteria)

theaztecnews.com

Tyler Lao (10), Logan Tanaka (10), and Joshua Pulido (10) prepare their instruements while waiting for the bus to take them to Tri City.

THE AZTEC/VICTORIA RAMIREZ

The 30th annual Tri-City Band Day was held at San Gabriel High School on November 16th as Alhambra, San Gabriel, and Mark Keppel’s marching bands collaborated to perform four songs.

Future band director Mr. Lee said before the actual performance “I am excited to now be a part of Tri City as a director. I actually went to one, maybe five years ago.

I was representing Alhambra High School at the time. But this is my first time being a director and I'm looking forward to it very much.” Although this was a different experience, it is nothing that Mr. Lee does not want. Mr. Lee had envisioned himself as a music teacher since high school.

Keppel's marching band did a lot to prepare for this year’s Tri-City. Besides their fourth-period class, they had practices on Mondays and an additional weekend rehearsal. The songs that all the schools performed together were chosen by each other,

each school individually chose one. The songs chosen were Bang Bang, Ex’s and O’s, and the one that our marching band chose seven nation army. Bang Bang was performed at Keppel’s Homecoming Pep Rally, prior to the combined performance.

All three high schools were joined by the eighth-grade bands from Garvey and Temple City Elementary, to perform the four combined songs.

Throughout their own field show performance, they performed the Star Wars theme, Fly Me to the Moon, Venus, and Jupiter which came after the others school's own field show performances. This year’s drum major Anna Wu led Keppel's marching band at Tri-City, like last year's student conductor Lauren Fukushima. Fukushima said “I'm sure Anna can’t wait to show everyone what they have just like I did last year.”

Spanish teachers celebrate Day of the Dead TIFFANY LEUNG Asst. News Editor

Keppel’s Spanish teachers remind students of their ancestral past by having their pupils create decorative pieces for the Day of the Dead.

In many Spanish-speaking countries, Día de los Muertos, translated to Day of the Dead, is the last day of a three-day celebration where families gather to honor the lives of their deceased ancestors. On the holiday, some believe deceased souls return to earth to visit relatives and share a brief day with them. “It is a day where the

living brings the dead to life through memories”, said junior Brian Ha. The Spanish teachers believe it is significant to understand such a day as part of their students’ curriculum. Mr. Inthisane, a Spanish teacher for almost 13 years at Keppel, believes involving students in such holiday allows them to differentiate between two distinct cultures. “Most students get to learn about the culture of Spanish-speaking countries, not just simply the language”, said Mr. Inthisane about the benefits of partaking in the celebration.

The teachers had students handcraft

decorations in honor of the celebration. Students built ofrendas, or altars with offerings dedicated to one deceased individual.

Mr. McElhaney had his students create papel picado, or paper decorations that had been cut into intricate designs with whimsical skulls.

“When I remember my relatives, I’m remembering my heritage and the good times I had with them”, said Mr. McElhaney about remembering loved ones through simple, yet effective decorations.

Ms. Alexander presents an ofrenda made by a student.

THE AZTEC/ KENNETH LIU

Speech asks the Big Questions

Asian American Scholarship

KEVIN LIU Asst. Copy Editor

Mark Keppel’s Speech and Debate program will expand into metaphysics and epistemology categories following the Big Question format and topic.

In previous years, Mark Keppel only participated in normative ethics, which focuses on the values of human action.

However, with the introduction of Big Question format this year they will be expanding into epistemology, which is the study of knowledge and metaphysics, known as the study of truth.

“We use our own sources to build a base because the [categories] are very open-ended,” says junior Stanley Lin, who is captaining the two new categories. “When I was teaching this year’s topic, I [even] found the ‘wilderness

theory’ [from ecology] helpful.”

The Big Question competition format is designed to pit opposing views in an effort to lead students to explore in-depth argumentation. In addition, schools can host debates as fundraisers for their programs and classrooms.

“We also hope that classrooms and speech and debate teams can benefit from the money infused into their programs through this event,” says National Speech & Debate Association manager of the Big Question debate series.

According to competition rule, each debater introduces their reasons for preferring a side of the resolution for five minutes each before engaging in a question segment where both speak-

ers ask each other questions. Following constructive speeches and the first construction segment, each debater delivers a rebuttal addressing each other’s claims for four minutes each, ending in another question segment. “[Though] I am familiar with the format, I don’t really like it,” says sophomore Kirby Lam. “I would rather not have eight-minute constructive speeches.

Each debater then proceeds to give a three-minute summarization of the speech at its core elements. A two-minute summation of the central arguments that prove their side based on reasons already discussed in the debate will end the debate.

Get Lit for second Annual Poetry ZERLINDA LEE Staff Writer

Keppel students will be given another opportunity to be in the Poetry Slam team. Competitors will perform their chosen poem and response poem in the school auditorium. This will be the second annual Get Lit poetry contest for Keppel. The top six will be able to make the team.

The poetry slam was introduced to Keppel by English teacher and SNAP advisor Ms. Burkhart. To participate, students have to be a member of SNAP or be in a class where Get Lit is being taught. The top five in the class competition will move onto the next competition in January 5th, 2017.

Ms. Burkhart said, “My advice would be to keep [memorizing] every day. Be ready to go when it’s time to compete!”

Contestants will be judged on their accuracy, physical presence, voice and articulation, and their evidence of understanding their poems. Freshman Alyssa Ngu, who was in the top 10 for the Poetry Out Loud school competition, suggests enjoying the experience in competing. “Even though you’ll SNAP advisor Ms.Burkhart and students pose for picture THE AZTEC/ LESLIE SOTO be nervous at first, you’ll have power in your words.” The purpose realize that it’s actually pretty fun,” says in having the Poetry Slam team is to help Ngu. Previous Poetry Slam team member students see each other as compelling and senior Dana Gil describes how imindividuals with powerful voices. It also portant it is to be comfortable when recitallows them to express themselves in a ing a poem. “A recitation should sound as concise and figurative way. if you wrote the poem yourself. You must

HELEN LUU Staff Writer

The Asian American Association offers a scholarship to all Mark Keppel seniors. The scholarship application is accessible on the school’s website until early December.

Applicants must provide their hobbies and involvement in school organizations and the community, and must have proof that they have enrolled into a secondary institution.

Each applicant must write a 500-word essay about how they used their character traits to overcome an obstacle, and how these traits correspond to their future goals.

One winner is chosen from one of the five high schools in the Alhambra Unified district.

The Association will announce the winner in late December, given a prize of $800.

Keppel Career Center staff Ms. Yu said, “It’s a great scholarship, since it’s only offered in this area, and anyone can apply for it.’’

No Substitute BIANCA CRUZ Staff Writer

New long-term substitute teacher Mr.Keller came in October to fill in for English teacher and yearbook advisor Ms.Alburger.

“I plan on doing more projects with my students because they seem to enjoy it,” said Mr.Keller. He likes that students are interactive and expressive, but even though he enjoys teaching, he does not enjoy the paperwork.

“He makes use of students’ opinions based off of Ms.Alburger’s past teachings,” said freshman Kaylie Chuman. Freshman Spencer Lin likes how the tests have shortened. “This is a giant improvement and it gives students more time to think about what they’re answering and double-check,” said Lin.

The Aztec 2016-2017 Victoria Ramirez Editor-in-Chief/ Chief Photographer

Angela Chen

Asst. Editor-in-Chief

Sophie Wong News Editor

Eric Tam

Viewpoint Editor

Aurora Zeng

Wesley Zeng

Sports Editor/ Business Manager

Anita Huang Web Editor

Kenneth Liu

Multimedia Editor/ Photographer

Timothy Chuman Copy Editor

Focus Editor/ Head Cartoonist

Daniel Lu

Cristina Gonzalez

Kevin Liu

A&E/Features Editor

Copy Editor

Asst. Copy Editor

Tiffany Leung Asst. News Editor

Miranda Kwok

Asst. Viewpoint Editor

Bailey Huynh

Asst. Business Manager

Jamie Chau Historian

Katarina Fernandez Photographer

Anthony Gabrie Videographer

Scotty Hong Photographer

Callista Liu Photographer/ Videographer

Leslie Soto

Michelle Dang

Crisalis Flores-Rios

Laura Chen

Evan Cheng Kellie Chin

Michelle Chu

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Anny Jiang

Sherry Liang Cartoonist

Tommy Chao

Megan Yan

Faith Torres

Maya Cuevas

Jasper Duong

Jessica Chan

Rachel Yamamoto

Trixie Tairas

Nicole Hernandez

Bianca Cruz

Photographer

Staff Writers

Jason Sanchez

Alissa Hilton

Iris Chung

Maple Duong

Mayra Gamboa Tommy Gao

Brenda Giang Celeste Gil Anita Gou

Tiffany Guan

Marissa Heidt

Fatima Hemdan

Anthony Hernandez

Trevor Kwan

Alexander Kwok Brandon Lam Zerlinda Lee

Sherry Liang

Christopher Liu Helen Luu

Amber Mak

Selina Martinez Justine Mejia

Gordon Meng

Maliah Pierribia

The Aztec is published monthly by the journalism class of Mark Keppel High School and is printed by News publishers’ press.

Opinions expressed are those of the writers, not of the faculty or administration. Articles without bylines are staff editorials, and reflect the opinion of the staff.

Letters to the editor are welcome and are subject to editing. Letters can be given to Ms. Bradley in room A227 or sent to theaztecstaff@gmail. com. All letters must be signed, but on request, names will be withheld. We do not acknowledge unsigned letters.

All internet graphics on The Aztec newspaper are the properties of their respective owners.

Alhambra, CA 91801

Your voice. Your school. Your

Viewpoint.

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

How did your neighborhood vote?

Eric Tam Viewpoint Editor

It’s no secret that California is a liberal state. In fact, the Los Angeles County hasn’t voted for a Republican president since 1984. So how did voters living in the Mark Keppel High School residential area vote? I calculated the statistics shown based .

OFFICIAL PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION RESULTS WITHIN THE MKHS RESIDENTIAL ZONE

Hillary Clinton Democratic 73.55%

Donald J. Trump Republican 26.45%

PRECINCTS: 5400044A, 4500005A, 4500009A, 4500003A, 4500010A, 0150064A,4500019A, 4500016A, 4500032A, 4500034B, 4500047B, 4500007A, 0150063A

Hillary Rodham Clinton Donald John Trump

3931 1421

HILLARY CLINTON won all thirteen voting precincts that encompass the Mark Keppel High School residential zone.

However, the data on this page only considers Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump without third-party candidates.

ON THE ISSUES

What about the California Ballot Propositions?

RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA

PROPOSITION 64

A “yes” vote for Proposition 64 means supporting the legalization of recreational marijuana for ages 21 and over.

However, local governments and schools may implement reasonable restrictions on marijuana posssesion and use.

MKHS neighborhoods voted against Proposition 64.

However, Proposition 64 passed in California overall.

DEATH PENALTY

PROPOSITION 62

A “yes” vote for Proposition 62 means supporting the would instead be given life sentences without possiblity of parole.

MKHS neighborhoods voted against Proposition 62.

Proposition 62 did not pass in California overall.

How MKHS neighborhoods voted:

NO 54.22%

YES 45.78%

How MKHS neighborhoods voted:

NO 56.83%

YES 43.17%

Your voice. Your school. Your

Viewpoint. The opinion stories.

ETHICS

No, Mr. Trump.

It’s not just locker room talk.

The Aztec rebukes the misogynistic views of Donald Trump TIMOTHY CHUMAN Copy Editor

“When you’re a star, they let you do all keep with each other regardless of our it. You can do anything. Grab them by differences. The fact that [Trump] would the [female private parts],” said Donald speak in such a vile manner is indicative Trump as he was preparing for a seg- of how much lower the bar for civility in ment of Access Hollywood in 2005. politics has fallen,” said Kuramoto.

It is absolutely mind-blowing that Athletes all around the professional our next president is able to get away world have taken a stand against Trump with saying things like this. For example, by voicing their opinion on what lockif any teacher were er room talk really is. to say something Kansas City Chiefs of this magnitude, “Having a role model who wide receiver Chris they would im- spreads a culture of misogyny Conley gave his mediately be fired. is not what we need.” thoughts on Trump’s Yet, the new presi- -Sabrina Sy, sophomore inappropriate comdent-elect is able to ments by saying, “I pass it off as simply work in a locker room “locker room talk amongst guys” and not every day. That is not locker room talk receive fatal consequences for such lewd just so you know.” Conley also explained comments. how Trump’s warped view of women is Locker room talk is meant to be inno- not the way all men think of and regard cent, idle chatter or gossip. In his con- women. “Have I been in every locker versation with Billy Bush, Trump went room? No. But the guys I know and reas far as to brag about kissing, groping spect don’t talk like that.” and trying to have sex with women. Freshman Evan Osugi agreed with Somehow, Trump has the nerve to cat- Conley because although there are men egorize those vulgar comments as in- like Trump in the world, not all guys are nocent locker room talk. Sophomore defined by the same actions. “Trump’s Sabrina Sy and senior Kevin Kuramoto comments are not characteristic of how did not approve of the way that Trump guys talk,” Osugi said. “Though there are addressed women in his comments. men who talk like this, it is not some“If he thinks that it is okay to brag about thing that they should be proud of.” sexual assault and rape, that proves that Obviously, Trump’s comments were he has very little respect for them,” Sy at the expense of females, and they cansaid. “As a potential leader of our nation, not help but feel extremely offended. “It Trump may become a role model for makes me so frustrated to know that many young people, and having a role there are still people, in this modern model who spreads a culture of misog- day and age, who still are stuck in a naryny is not what we need.” row-minded, sexist mentality,” said Sy. Sy was adamant that bragging about Ultimately, the words that came out sexually assaulting someone, regardless of Trump’s mouth cannot be taken back. of their gender is an outrageous thing to However, we have the power to stand up do. Kuramoto was also convinced that against others who have the same mindTrump’s comments were atrocious and set as Trump to prevent sexist and lewd inappropriate, especially considering his comments from surfacing once again. status as the new President-elect.

“As mature citizens and fellow human beings, there should always be a basic level of respect, dignity and civility we

A NOTE FROM THE EDITORS

Dear readers,

The Aztec thanks you for making this newspaper a great success. We are so proud to be your newspaper. However, we also need your help. The Viewpoint pages thrive on the opinions of students and staff members like you. Feel free to share your stories with us anytime. Your story might appear on the next issue of The Aztec or on our website! Contact us at theaztecstaff@gmail.com.

Thank you.

Eric Tam Viewpoint Editor

COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES

SCHOOL POLICY

The dress code: A necessary evil?

The differing views of students on a controversial policy NICOLE HERNANDEZ Staff Writer At Keppel there are many limitations to what students can wear such as no ripped jeans, no spaghetti strap less than 2 inches wide, and no low cut pants. The dress code is often judged for being oppressive or too strict, but is it really necessary.

Senior Miranda Gomez says, “I think that it [the dress code] restricts people to express themselves fully, also the staff is really unfair when it comes to dress coding people.”

At Keppel, the faculty can pull aside any violators and send them to Student Services where they will either receive a warning or be forced to change into a PE uniform or other assigned Keppel gear. Ms. Perez, the Assistant Principal of Student and Employee Welfare, deals with dress code violations everyday. On average Ms. Perez says she encounters “50 to 60 [dress code violations] a day.”

Perez isn’t citing many violators now, but starting in November the office will really start to crack down on violators.

Perez says that dress code violations are getting to be too much. She believes that the dress code is absolutely necessary, “It helps to not distract kids in class. It [dress code violations] takes away from the educational purpose of

school...The way you dress is a statement about you...there is a place and time for where can dress. You’re coming to school. Place and time determines how you dress.”

Freshman Justin Quach has never been penalized for not following the dress code, but he still believes that the dress code is important, “It makes sense, people don’t want to see inappropriate clothing”. Sophomore Dunia Faraj also feels that the dress code is necessary, but she believes it gives students anxiety about being able to wear what they want.

Junior Nicole Chan has mixed emotions about the school dress code. Chan has been dress coded three times in one week for a slit in her pants, a tank top, and shorts. Even so, Chan believes that the dress code is necessary, because some people do wear extremely tight or too short clothes. Despite this, Chan doesn’t let being dress coded affect her, she says “I laughed...it was funny because a slip in the pants doesn’t even show anything.

How does that [slit] affect anything?”

In the end, rules are rules and although not everyone agrees with the dress code, it is still necessary that the dress code is followed.

Your voice. Your school. Your

Viewpoint.

SCHOOL POLICY

ENVIRONMENTAL

style sees a mixed response after mandate Students have their take on a popular writing format SHERRY LIANG Cartoonist Many students have begun to ctively use Jane Scha r format to express their ideas in essays.

mat looks simple for capable-writing students, who get full credit so often.

“Most of the time I [got full credit for Jane er writing].” says junior Megan Tsu. Jane Scha er format will stay with our writings for most of the year. Most weak-writing students accept this easy way to write an essay rather than not knowing how

taught for several years, this is the t year in which nearly all English teachers are focusing on it. school sees that there is a need for most students to improve their writing ability. has been much confusion s on why students in erent English levels are still writing the same thing.

“It’s not basic [for Ensentence,“glish Honors],” says Students are Mr. Hill, the coach of always capable speech and debate, “A of improving.” lot of times their writsays Tsu. THE AZTEC/LESLIE SOTO ing is not focused; it In another really, really gets them view, it is not to focus.” really giving opportunities for students Jane Scha writing format al - to expand their thoughts or arrange lows students to follow the “one con- their essays, “In my class, di ent essays crete detail to two commentaries” ratio would nt format,” says English in their essays, known as the “one-chunk paragraph,” this in turn helps many stu- very good for beginning writing instrucdents in English Language Develop- tion, but students need to go beyond.” ment programs organize their ideas into For students who are of advanced in pur - writing skill, Jane Sch coherent paragraphs seems to be pose behind Jane is to help their of little use to them. “It strictly limits students learn to structure their essays,” says freshman Kayton Truong, “making succeeding paragraphs,” says Truong, sure each topic has details.” All teachers “not allowing much room for adjustexpect students to turn in a well-orga- ments or critical points.” nized and concise essay rather than them Now we have better understanding rush for their writing before the day it of Jane Scha r, students can use this is due. writ format as a starting point.

Color-coding require students ing formula help students to be capato color the thesis statement into blue, ble in writing and beyond, if you ever concrete details into red and commen- don’t know how to start your essay, Jane taries into green. Although color-coding the sentences are sometimes stressful, teachers still urge students to color-code

ON THE APP STORE

Musical.ly

DEVELOPED BY Musical.ly Inc. A company based in Shanghai PLATFORM iOS, Android Created by Alex Zhu and Luyu Yang, “Musical.ly” has over 90 million registered users and average of 12 million videos uploaded daily.

Maggie Ou (12) THE AZTEC/ERIC TAM

slaughter

Appalling statistics on the killing of turkeys for the holiday season BRANDON LAM With over 300 million turkeys sold annually, they have become the iconic food no one considers what happens to the turkeys.

A stance on this issue is that people should be wary of what happens for them to have their holiday meal. key kills, on average, is 300 million each year.

Over 45 million of these 300 million come self. Other major times turkey is consumed, Christmas and Easter, more than 22 million and 19 million turkeys are killed, respectively. Carenna Woo, junior, predicts that “roughly 500 thousand turkeys are killed.”

Caleb Kang, senior, believes that “approximately 1 million turkeys are killed.”

When told of the true amount of turkey deaths, they were shocked.

Despite the enormous amount of turkeys killed, not all of them are consumed.

45 million, 22 million, and 19 million turkeys are consumed during the times of mas, and Easter, respectively. In a response to a question concerning a person’s stance on this issue, Caleb Kang replies with, “Yes, I do approve of this because [turkeys] are just animals and animals taste good.”

-

“Yes, I do approve of this because [turkeys]are just animals...”

Caleb Kang, senior

Many people and organizations, PETA for example, are against the slaughter of the millions of turkeys each year. On the other hand, individuals view turkey as a food source to us humans and nothing more. While turkeys are an esaware of what happens to what the turkeys go through.

ENTERTAINMENT

Musical.ly Lip syncing to fame?

A skeptical view on a popular app

TIFFANY GUAN

With nearly over a million downloads, the social media app, Musical. ly, has allowed people of all ages to gain fame through a 15 second recording of themselves lip syncing. makeup looks, song selection, camera angle, to the correct hand movements and poses, some Musical.ly users or “musers” have created content that has helped them gain a big following at a young age.

Famous musers who became popular through lip syncing such as Jacob Sartorius and Loren Beech are only 14. Most are just in their preteens.

Baby Ariel, the most well-known muser with over 13 million followers, has received modeling opportunities from her rising popularity. On September 22, she shot a cover shoot for Billboard magazine with Jacob Sartorius.

Although many musers are adored by their fans, they also captivate hate speech.

Some people criticize these kids for gaining fame over mere lip syncing and not for actual “talent.” Popular YouTuber RiceGum has made videos criticizing young musers for recording provocative poses that are inappropriate for their age.

According to junior Ryan Taing, peobecause they just want to follow a trend.

His little sister, Amy, does Musical.ly videos daily. Taing wants his sister to

her and it has lessened her communication with others.

Mrs. Flores, an English teacher, has two daughters of her own. After being shown have a talent for narcissism.” Although her children are already talented musicians who do not need to lip-sync, Mrs. Flores would allow them to use the app because it is relatively harmless. In response to why these kids have gained many followers, Mrs. Flores replied, “People are curious about other people.

Plus, these are good looking kids. Teens are all about belonging.”

“I would allow my child to use this app for entertainment, but would not allow them to share them on YouTube or social media,” said English teacher Mrs. Carmona when asked if she would permit her child to use the app. “I think people like music and everyone loves to sing along to their favorite songs; therefore, the app has become popular.

Especially, since it does not require any singing talent!”

Musical.ly has become a popular app widely used by teens and preteens. With and gain fans for doing creative lip-syncing. Even though lip-syncing is harmless and is done for entertainment purposes, musers’ video contents are criticized because they are gaining fame for no

6 FOCUS

The Trip to

THE A

LEADERSHIP And the President is...

BAILEY HUYNH & TRIXIE TAIRAS Asst. Business Manager & Staff Writer

Donald J. Trump was officially elected the 45th president of the United States on November 8th.

Trump’s plans to improve education targets how the government spends money and removing faulty programs. His approach to immigration also leaves many people unsettled. With his victory in election, questions regarding school plans and immigration laws arise.

Trump believes the core of the problems surrounding education stems from Common Core.

From his book, Crippled America, Trump said that Common Core allows Washington state to decide what students study; this is wrong to him because he believes all education should be local. On February 2016, Trump tweeted that he “[has] been consistent in [his] opposition to Common Core.” He will get rid of Common Core once he gets into office.

An anonymous source said that she was extremely shocked from the election’s outcome but is hopeful for the change. But, she was in favor of all education being local, “Being to decide what to study on your own would really benefit our school. Especially in our kind of community it would really help the students,” she said.

While President Obama had been working to create openings for undocumented immigrants to attain legal status and increase the number of refugees, Trump would sharply reduce the number of refugees allowed to America and deport around 11 million of undocumented immigrants. One of his plans is to build a 1,000-mile border fence along the U.S. - Mexico border with the fund of $5-10 billion from Mexico. Social science teacher Mr. Tran “totally disagrees with [Trump’s immigration plans]” because the United States was founded by immigrants.

Mr. Tran, although disappointed with the election result, believes that we have to give Trump a chance since he’s America’s president-to-be. “Maybe he’ll surprise us and do some good. One thing we learned [is that] he’s full of surprises,” said Mr. Tran.

Soon after the election, Secretary Hillary Clinton conceded showing her disappointment and pain of losing. Although disappointed, Clinton shares her wishes for America to support the new president.

“Last night I congratulated Donald Trump and offered to work with him on behalf of our country. I hope that he will be a successful president for all Americans,” Clinton said.

VOICES: If you could nominate Anyone for president, who would you nominate?

“I would [nominate] Mark Zuckerberg. He knows how to run a huge organization.”

Neil Ching, junior

“[I would choose] my mom because she has an open mind and she plans well.”

Allen Kate Akpawu, sophomore

“[I would choose] Joe Biden because he was the vice president, so I think he would do a good job continuing Obama’s policies.”

Hannah Wong, senior

“I would choose Hillary Clinton because she’s a strong candidate that can [bring change].”

Angel Silva, freshman Quotes and pictures collected by Angela Chen

COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES

Trump, officially elected to be the 45th President of the United States, reinvigorates supporters at a rally.

Stumped by Trump?

CHRIS DAO & TOMMY CHAO Staff Writers November 8th, 2016 will go down in history one of America’s most influential elections.

The clash of ideals provided by the candidates’ platforms and the candidates themselves has sparked plenty of opinions from Keppel students and teachers alike.

Junior Albert Aguilar is one such student who strongly supported Clinton. He believed that she was the most qualified due to her work in politics. Aguilar states how Trump has gotten involved with many questionable deeds, such as “denying climate change, wanting to defund health care policies, and discriminating against minorities.” Following Trump’s victory, Aguilar became deeply concerned for the future of America. “I am worried for the safety of all non-whites, non-Christians, LGBT people, and the middle and lower class.” He believes that, despite projections for Clinton as president, Trump was able to win due to his radical rhetoric appealing to many Americans, which was something that Clinton’s campaign lacked.

Economy teacher Mr. Chin was also in favor of Clinton, believing she would win the election due to her experience. “People choose the president based on, regardless of political affiliation, who would do the best job., said Mr. Chin. After the election, Chin was disappointed, but was not upset at the result. He knew that despite projections favoring Clinton, Trump’s projection at 30% was still decent. “I wouldn’t say [Trump’s victory] was a surprise, but this was not a complete shock,” said Chin.

Mr. Carr, a physics teacher, believed that

Clinton is skillful in compromise, but lacks knowledge on the inner workings of Washington. On the other hand, he believed that Trump is adept in surrounding himself with smart people, but is ignorant of the fact that he became wealthy due to inheritance rather than “brilliance”. Carr stated that Trump was able to win the election with “support that came from a segment of the population that previously did not vote.” This had never happened in previous elections, at least not in large numbers, but in this election, it secured Trump’s win. In addition, he believes that Trump’s celebrity status and wealth played a major role in his victory. Carr criticizes Trump’s slogan, “Make America Great Again,” believing that America has always been great. “Now, the question is whether or not Trump is able to ruin it,” said Carr.

Meanwhile, U.S. History teacher Mr. Wilcox was neutral. When Trump won, he believed that it was due to how Americans were skeptical of Clinton. In addition, after the election, he realized that “the pundits were wrong, people wanted change,” and that Trump was the gateway for change. “This is a democracy in action,” concluded Wilcox.

Mr. Howley, a science teacher, believes that it is unfortunate Clinton lost. Regarding Trump, Howley does not believe that he will change from when he was campaigning, and that the premise of his slogan, “Make America Great Again,” is false because America was not less than great in the first place. “In the end, we just have to do our best, volunteer, and be part of the community.” said Howley.

AZTEC

November 17, 2016 7

Student Leaders at

The need for lead MIRANDA KWOK Asst. Viewpoint Editor High school students value leadership positions because of one common answer: college applications. Thousands of students reach above the standards of excellent grades and test scores, but what sets many students apart is active involvement in clubs, sports, and the community.

However, there are other less obvious reasons for wanting to be a president of a club or captain of a sports team.

Being a leader opens up endless opportunities and experiences to strengthen one’s interpersonal skills or even to maintain a positive attitude.

American Red Cross President Kimberly Phung said, “From being president, my public speaking skills have grown. I became more approachable.”

Sometimes a leader has to take the responsibility of the issues that happen—both good and bad.

Taking responsibility for the issues that occur allows a leader to see what can be further improved.

MKHS

“If one establishes meaningful habits, then they can increase their skills to be a leader”, said Mr. Heredia, co-advisor of IBA. Leadership can be natural or developed over time. Being confident, supportive, and organized are some habits and traits that allow individuals to possess leadership.

It is often shown that a leader holds the utmost power, which can be used to promote personal gain or improve society as a whole. Either way, a leader is expected to do what is best for the organization or team. “You won’t be just a follower. You’re the one giving orders and you know exactly what to do”, said Edward Tsai, Captain of All Male.

Either for college apps or to improve on social skills, anyone is capable of becoming a leader.

Being a leader means investing in the future to make a positive impact on the world.

G DRAWINGS BY AURORA ZEN

What makes a good leader?

A great, common way to become a leader around school is to become a club president.

Senior Anne Tran, the president of the Graphic Design Club and Fishing Club, said, “I wouldn’t call myself a leader. What I do is stay calm and on task and help everyone who needs help.”

Perhaps the title most commonly categorized under leadership would be ASB president. The advisor, Mr. Yankowsky, defined a leader as “someone who is willing to do the same thing as anyone else that they work with, puts the needs of their team above their own, and one who is guided by principle.

Senior and ASB president Angel Haro said, “I used to think being a leader was just having people follow you, the basic definition, but there’s more to being a leader.” He explained that his definition of a leader is “someone who inspires, motivates, is able to bring out the best of people’s abilities, and can easily lead people.”

“A leader does not care about the title and a leader does not only lead.” Haro said. He added that the things that made him a leader are because he follows his definition of a leader; he sees those that follow him as his equals and he enjoys helping others.

In terms of what he would do with the leadership skills he had obtained, Haro said, “The things I learned from being in ASB, Link Crew, or being a team captain will not go to waste...if I see something that needs change, I will use my skills in order to change it to something better and more helpful for the community.”

Leaders are everywhere. And although everyone’s perspective on a leader is a bit different, anyone can become one, even in high school, because a leader does more than just lead.

SELINA MARTINEZ Staff Writer

Notes from the followers

Notes from the leader

JAMIE CHAU Historian

Anyone can be a leader. However, with all members looking up to you as their supervisor and motivator, being a good leader can be difficult. These group members expect only the best from their leaders and have certain ideas of what a good leader looks like.

“To be a good leader, you have to have the passion and drive to do what you do. Being the best leader you can be means taking initiative and being open to hearing new ideas from your peers,” said freshman Aisha Tall, a general member of FBLA and UNICEF. In addition to the passion and commitment, leaders oftentimes have certain qualities that make them good at what they do.

“When it comes to being a leader, you need to be responsible, dependable, honest, trustworthy, and kind,” said junior Londyn Lau, a general member of ALAS. It is important that even through chaos, leaders can calmly lead others to a solution.

Without a doubt, good leaders are needed for the success of a group. Junior Jason Nguyen said that “it’s really important for a leader to bring the team together” with a vision for the club, team, or group. “A leader means a good job well done while a bad leader means a bad job done [in terms of the satisfaction of the people].” An organization’s effectiveness depends on the strength of its leader.

It is important to remember that while the term “leader” comes with positive implications of power and triumph, and the term “follower” suggests that they’re weaker and cannot do the same as a leader can, this is not true. Without followers, leaders cannot lead, inspire, motivate, and get tasks done. The characteristics of a leader should not just pertain to those who have a title such as club president or team captain but should apply to everyone.

COURTESY OF SHANNON FONG

Student leaders in organizations like Key Club often have many responsibilities. Key Club’s division leaders, Lieutenant Governors, are pictured above on stage at Six Flags as the crowd cheers at the annual Fall Rally South on Saturday, November 12.

5 different directions

BY DANIEL LU Copy Editor

One Direction announced that they would be taking an 18-month hiatus beginning January 2016.

Because of Zayn Malik’s departure in 2015, One Direction now currently consists of only Louis Tomlinson, Liam Payne, Harry Styles, and Niall Horan. Malik left One Direction to focus on a solo career.

“I love One Direction,” Junior Miranda Tran said. “They’re great, and everyone should listen to them.”

“I originally heard of them from X-factor UK, and I remembered watching their video diaries.” said Tran.

Their debut album, “Up All Night,” was the UK’s fastest-selling album of 2011 and number one on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. By August 2012, One Direction had become a $50 million business and they continue extreme success.

“I predicted [the hiatus] coming anyways, but it still made me feel sad because One Direction has always been there for me,” Miranda Tran said. “I still

supported [them] though because I believe they deserved a break.”

The four remaining members still hangout but pursue individual projects.

In February, Styles left the group’s management and began a solo career path. He signed a solo recording contract in June.

Horan signed a solo deal with Capitol Records and released his debut solo single “This Town” on September 29, 2016.

Tomlinson is spending time with his son and continues songwriting with Payne. He mentors and manages a currently nameless girl group.

Payne, Tran’s favorite member, signed a recording contract with Capitol Records.

“Niall just released a single, One Direction poses at event before Zayn’s departure and hiatus.

COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES and it’s absolutely great,” Tran said.

One Direction is expected to come back timistic,” said Tran.

“Even if they do not “Harry recently filmed a movie, so I look in 2017. come back, I’ll still support whatever deciforward to watching that. Louis is taking “Being a fangirl, I have to remain opsions they make.” care of his son which I think is really sweet.”

A virtual reality

Bringing back Doctor Strange

BY ALEX KWOK & SCOTTY HONG Staff Writers

BY GINA JIAO Staff Writer

On October 13th, 2016, Sony inter- station is on the verge of making something active entertainment released the Play- truly innovative and it puts it ahead of the rest station VR, a head-mounted virtual of the competition” However, Matsukiyo said reality. Sony’s interest in head-mount- “The PSVR can fail miserably if the technoled technology dates back to the 1990s. ogy does not meet consumer’s expectations.”

The Playstation VR’s hand movements The Playstation VR is designed to be fully functional with the Playstation 4 work with the standard Playstation 4 conhome video game console. The Playstation troller or the Playstation Move controllers.

VR system can output a picture to both the The sound comes from a 3D audio through a headphone jack, VR headset and and has an availa television siable microphone multaneousl y, input. The headwith the televiset also has nine sion either mirpositional LEDs roring the picon its surface ture displayed for the Playstaon the headset, tion Camera to or displaying a track 360 degree separate image head movement. or competitive The Playstaor cooperation VR launched tive gameplay. along with a bunSenior Ethan COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES dle that includes Lee commented on the Playstation VR saying, “The Playstation two controllers, a camera, and a videogame VR is a very unique idea and puts a differ- for $500.00. The Playstation VR by itself is ent perspective on gaming.” He then added $300.00. Matsukiyo then stated that “The how realistic the VR is by saying, “The Play- PSVR can change the face of the gaming station VR is very realistic, to point where industry and shift the tides of the console when you are falling in the VR, you feel like wars in PlayStation’s favor.” New technoloyou’re falling in real life.” He predicts that gy may have to be created for the PSVR to other competitors will try to recreate the function to its furthest extent, but for now, PlayStation VR in their own namesakes. it is considered to be innovative and new.

Freshman Garrett Matsukiyo says, “Play-

Marvel Studio’s newest movie is a sci- see how Marvel will add new features and ence fiction film called Doctor Strange. This incorporate new technology into the movie.” movie is based on the Doctor Strange The initial castings angered many people comics first published in 1963 and will be because Marvel set Tilda Swinton as the brought to life in this action/thriller movie. Ancient One, instead of an Asian actor like In the movie, Benedict Cumberbatch in the comics. Then they casted Benedict portrays Dr. Strange who is a brilliant, Wong as Wong, who is Dr. Strange’s serbut egotistical surgeon. His life dramat- vant in the comics, but is a powerful master ically changes after a car accident that in the movie after removing him initially. causes him to lose the Despite some of these ability to use his hands. casting concerns, viewWhen traditional ers like Junior Christina medicine does not work Banh say, “It is good thing on him, he searches for that Asian Americans are a cure in a mysterious being cast in films instead enclave. There, he enof just one racial ethnic counters the Ancient group in the whole movie.

One who is the Sorcerer Doctor Strange beSupreme. He becomes gan playing in theatres the Ancient One’s stuon November 4th. Since dent and learns mysits release, reviews have tical and martial arts. shown to be mostly posThe enclave is loitive, ranging from the COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES 90/100 rating from oncated at the front line of a battle against line movie critics, Rotten dark forces. Before long, Dr. Strange is Tomatoes, to an 8/10 rating from IMBd. forced to choose between his life of forAs of November 13, the domestic tune and status or to defend the world as total of the film has hit $153,000,000, the most powerful sorcerer in existence. almost surpassing the $165,000,000 The new technology advances in Doctor budget spent on its production. Doctor Strange, such as revamping the 3D effects, Strange has met expectations and is esare catching the people’s attention and the timated to surpass the budget, and gain special effects give a thrilling sensation. further success, while being in box ofFreshmen Kunyu Liu said, “I’m excited to fice and played at a theatre near you.

Keppel’s animated escape

BY EVAN CHENG Staff Writer Young girls obtain magical powers in exchange for their souls. A ‘utopian’ nation executes its citizens just for thinking of crimes. King Arthur, Hercules, and Alexander the Great do battle in the modern world for the Holy Grail. A highschool girl joins the music club without knowing how to play an instrument.

Anime, or Japanese animation, exudes creativity. It’s whimsical in its humor, engaging in its action, and sometimes, provocative in its stark portrayal of life. It can also be massive in scale, with juggernauts like One Piece and Naruto surpassing 600 episodes in length.

It’s for these reasons that anime has garnered a passionate following, especially at Keppel. “I’m interested in situations

that can’t happen in real life” says sophomore Eric Ching, “It allows for escapism, I suppose, because anime isn’t restricted by human limitations and can do whatever it wants.” Senior Ali Mossawi agrees, “It takes you to different places!”

In addition to escapism, Ali also finds motivation. Earlier this year, fantasy drama RE:Zero captivated viewers with the tragically immortal Subaru, a boy doomed to relive his days as he struggles to ensure the survival of his friends against savage beasts, homicidal cults, and giant sky-whales. “I found it motivating, cause he kept dying and dying, but he always came back!”

Under such tremendous weight, Subaru eventually buckled and spent an entire episode in shock, useless, and mute. “He broke

down like an actual human being!” says Ali, appreciating the realism in Subaru’s character.

Anime is brimming with characters to resonate with. My Teenage Romantic Comedy SNAFU is senior Yao Huang’s favorite because it “provided a deep look into high school interactions using unusual but logical perspectives”, all delivered by its highly intelligent but socially reclusive protagonist, Hachiman. “I’m a cynical loner too, though not as severe.”

For Yao, Code Geass’ protagonist, Lelouch, was his introduction to the concept of ‘the greater good’. “He wished to make the world a better place. However, during his quest, he kills many people and later has to confront this fact.” English teacher Mr. Yankowsky found that Psycho

Pass’ anti-hero Kogami “made us consider our role in society and how it can change so quickly” with his fall-from-grace backstory.

Senior Mina Tran goes beyond verbal admiration. “I get inspired by the characters I love and that motivates me to put together their complex outfits and style their gravity-defying hair. Surprisingly, cosplaying has led me to meet many people that I never thought I would- people that I look up to and befriended.” Mina shares her work on her Facebook page, QuinQ Cosplay.

Anime fans love the medium for incredibly different reasons, but one thing that’s almost universally agreed upon is its amazing diversity. Mr. Yankowsky, who considered himself a fan in his youth, agrees, “There’s plenty of gold for you to sift through.”

Graduation rates going all the way up

BY IRIS CHUNG Staff Writer California’s graduation rates have gone up to 82.3% for the class of 2015 while the dropout rate fell to 10.7%. These percentages have improved for the sixth straight year.

Each year, students fail to earn the minimal amount of credits and are considered neither graduates or dropouts. But over time, students have found motivation to complete high school and move on to college.

“We are bringing back relevant and engaging classes in science, civics, arts, and Career Technical Education that were slashed during the Great Recession,” stated Superintendent Tom Tor-

lakson said in a statement. He has attributed progress made in graduation and dropout figures over the past few years.

Kevin Cheung, a Keppel alumni who graduated last year as a junior, states that what motivated him to graduate was kind of a result of him forcing himself to focus and the only way to do that was to “get out and get away from all the distraction in addition to knowing that college was my last chance in getting into a four year university.”

Senior Sarah Kim said, “Everyone has different paths they want to take in life, but my motivation to graduate is to pur-

Afters Ice Cream

Graduation cartoon.

THE AZTEC/ SHERRY TANG

Macaron VS Macaroon

BY MAPLE DUONG Staff Writer It’s 9:45 PM and you’re looking for a night snack. Lucky for you, Afters Ice Cream shop is the go-to place for special and unique desserts whenever.

“Afters Ice Cream offers handcrafted, original ice cream that has a few surprisingly good twists, like their milky buns,” said freshman Karis Yu. Their unique flavors, ranging from Strawberry Cookie Crunch, Mint Monster, Vietnamese Coffee, and much more leaves customers with plenty of choices to indulge.

And you definitely can’t go wrong with After’s specialty: milky buns. This $6 dessert consists of ice cream in a warm, doughnut with your choice of a topping. Freshman Nathan Klug said this hip joint, “seals milky buns with this secret machine that heats up the bread while keeping the ice cream cool.”

In all of the Afters venues, there is an iconic wall, where many can take a pictures with their ice cream desserts in front of a specially designed background. “It has a special feel to it that’s homey and original,” said Yu. Afters Ice Cream was created by two

sue my dreams of becoming a pediatrician.

And in order to do that, I have to aim to get higher education. I know I still have a long way to go, but graduating high school is the first step in accomplishing my goal.”

On Tuesday, the state released the number of students in the class of 2015 who graduated eligible to attend the University of California and California State University. About 43.4% of graduates completed all the necessary coursework to meet the minimum requirements for UC and CSU. This percentage has improved since 2010 when it was only 36.3%.

BY MALIAH PIERRIBIA Staff Writer

Afters on Main Street.

THE AZTEC/ SCOTTY HONG

best friends looking to change up their neighborhood. Scott Nghiem and Andy Nguyen are the co-founders of After’s who wanted to “fill a void in their hometown,” as stated in an online interview.

What was once a small shop in Chino Hills is now a full-blown trend in Southern California, with locations in Long Beach, Pasadena and new openings in, as well as a new opening in Alhambra.

Open 12 hours a day, seven days a week, pop music blaring, it can’t get better than this. Yu said, “It’s delicious and unique. Everybody should try it.”

Don’t confuse macarons with macaroons, because despite having close sounding names, the pair have very few distinguishable similarities. The sandwich-like macaron is almost the same as a cookie. Made with almond flour and egg whites, the macaron has a lighter texture than traditional macaroons.

Macaroons, primarily enjoyed in the South and the UK, is a lump of sweetness, made with shredded coconut and condensed milk.

Macarons originated in Italy, and were created during the Renaissance era by Catherine de Medici in 1533. Catherine created her dessert during the time of her marriage to the Duc d’Orleans, who later became the king of France in 1547 (Henry ll). Macarons have the same origin as “macaroni”, and both means “fine dough”.

Meanwhile historians traced macaroons to an Italian monastery of the 19th century.

Two Benedictine nuns sold the cookies to pay for their housing, and became known as the “Macaroon Sisters”. Italian Jews changed the classic recipe by leavening it with egg whites to be enjoyed during Passover. Later on in time, coconut was added to the cookies, to give it more substance

Infinite love for warfare?

BY ANITA HUANG & GORDON MENG Web Editor; Staff Writer The thirteenth installment of the Call of Duty (COD) series, Infinity Warfare, has been getting a lot of hate. The trailer for this new game received approximately 3 million dislikes and was ranked the most hated video on Youtube. Many people continue to give bad reviews and even threatened the developers with violence.

The game was released November 4 and has since received many reviews. Leading critics, Metacritics, gave it a 79%, Gamespot rated it 8/10, and IGN rated it 7.7/10. However, the reviews from the consumers are significantly different. The average player gives the game approximately an 8/10, while Battlefield players give the game 0/10.

The last entry of Call of Duty gained the rePromotional image for the game’s release. COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES spect of many people, but this year people were upset due to the fact that it had similar gameplay and settings. anymore because it’s the same thing over and over.

[Battlefield] looks much better than Infinite Warfare.”

For years the fans have praised the game’s realistic The issue rose on social media and led more people to graphics and well written storyline, like previous Call hate the game. Youtube viewers added to the discusof Duty games. However, they reused assets from the sion and wondered whether or not it might be the end previous Call of Duty and even tuned down graphics. of the Call of Duty series. Eventually, the developers, The company decided to release a remastered version Infinity Ward, spoke out about the issue and said, “The of the game with better graphics, titled, Call of Duty: consumers of the game are so passionate. How could a Modern Warfare. However, consumers cannot purchase game like this evoke so much emotion?” this game separately, and must have bought Call of Call of Duty has been one of the top first-person Duty: Infinity Warfare in order to receive a copy of the shooting games since 2003.

While it may not be certain remastered version, which has caused people to shift that the Call of Duty series will redeem themselves, towards Battlefield, another first-person shooter game it is guaranteed that the developers are working on a similar to that of Call of Duty. solution to satisfy its consumers.

Victor Luc, freshman, said, “Call of Duty is not fun

Cookie comparison.

COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES

French student Audrey Kato said, “I [generally] enjoy macarons more because I don’t get a lot of opportunities to eat macaroons. I like macarons more because they have a wide variety of flavors, and are more aesthetic.” Junior Sylvia Fernandez said, “I would rather have a macaroon, because I’ve never heard of it before [or eaten it]. It sounds a lot more interesting than macarons, which are too sweet for me.”

Despite their differences, macaroons and the macaron are thoroughly enjoyed by various cultures around the world.

Pocket-friendly PSVR

BY FAITH TORRES & AMBER MAK Staff Writers Within the last decade, there has been a great emphasis on the push for virtual reality (VR) in games. The wide popularity of the Oculus Rift, a VR headset released on March 28, has cause many tech companies aiming to create the next big VR device for the general public. However, the overall price for a decent VR experience has been near a $1000 until the release of the PSVR on October 13, a virtual reality headset produced by Playstation.

With the price starting at $399.99, the PSVR is now the most affordable VR product for the general public. When purchased with the other necessary equipments, the average price for a general consumer may rise up to around $600.

Online reviewers from websites such as TechRadar and New Atlas expressed how this may sway customers from buying the PSVR. Andres Murillo, a youtuber, expressed that due to these add-ons, he would “recommend dropping the price [to] about $100 or $150. The PSVR [should] come in a bundle, such as the ps4 comes with included games. To play a certain console, everything should be included.” Despite this, Yao Sheng, senior, commented that “as long as the add-ons are not too expensive, it shouldn’t matter. The more important things are public hype, qualities of games, and the willingness for investors to invest.”

As of now, there are over 50 games compatible with the PSVR. A SuperData VR reported that 2.6 million PSVRs are estimated to be sold by the end of 2016. Will PlayStation be able to meet this sales target or will their prices and health complications determine a lesser fate?

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November 17, 2016

Novmeber 17, 2016

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BEHIND THE SPEAR-IT

Sports 11

Coloring the Aztec performances WESLEY ZENG Sports Editor/ Business Manager Mark Keppel’s colorguard team is enlisted in many events, from performing in every school event such as football and basketball games as well as pep rallies; to community events, competing in multiple parades with the marching band. The team practices every weekday for an hour, adding on more practices times and days when there are upcoming performances.

Choreography is created by all team members, with routines for each certain song made by different groups of members.

Colorguard member Chloe Lee explains how “[Colorguard members] try to incorporate a variety of tosses and moves so that the set doesn’t look repetitive.”

Memorizing all the counts, movements, and tosses can not be done easily, so to help make sure everyone is synchronized, Nguyen, Ho, as well as a few other choreographers run every count with the perform-

ers.

“To help memorization and timing, we get into groups or pairs and compete against each other, or… while facing each other and then tell each other our mistakes afterwards,” said Nguyen.

Aside from colorguard performances, the team also has to make routines for events related with the marching band. To balance out all the responsibilities, the team has multiple leadership positions such as a treasurer and ASB liaison. Captain Nicole Nguyen and Co-captain Calvin Ho also have a system that allows for them to “communicate effectively and efficiently make decisions that will most benefit the team.”

In addition to getting all the routines to look their best, the team has goals to help motivate each other and make sure they are achieving constant progress towards performing at the highest caliber.

Despite all the spirit that is given from

Keppel’s cheerleading team performs various routines that include stunts, dance, and cheers. Being a dangerous sport, cheerleading include not only being able to perform the cheers safely, but they must have complete synchronization as well.

The Cheer team is taught new cheers daily and reviewed during practice. Routines are choreographed based on the theme of the pep rallies by Captain Arlette Renteria, Co-captains Babyruth Torres and Salvina Lim, and their new coach, Alexia Martinez. Each routine is taught and learned in three days, with the remaining time until the performance date to practice and perfect each movement. The team practices their routines approximately six hours per week in order to have them ready for football games, basketball games, and pep rallies.

Once everyone is in sync, the routine is ready to be performed in front of an audience.

With their new coach, all cheerleaders had to relearn their stunting techniques. Co-captain Salvina Lim said, “Our coach taught us a new way to stunt and it looks so much cleaner than how we used to do it. With practice, everything we do is not complicated at all, it’s just a matter of looking clean and getting our stunts up safely.”

As a team, working together is a key factor to making sure everyone is on the same page. In order to avoid any conflicts, the team holds cheer circles, in which members of the team communicate to have a better understanding of each other.

Sophomore cheerleader Joyce Yang said, “We help each other out when conflict arises so being in [the cheer team] is a really fun experience.”

Dance team: from soul to sole

Aim high, kick higher

KENNETH LIU Multimedia Editor/Photographer

KELLIE CHIN Staff Writer

Mark Keppel’s Dance Team never fails to put on a great show. Of course, this would not be possible without the leadership of senior captains, Sammi Luong, Angela Lopena, and Jenny Wang, and the hard work and dedication of each member.

The team had set goals this season to place at every competition while performing to the best of their ability and have fun at the same time. Dance Team hopes to achieve their goals by coming up with more creative routines and practicing.

Each week, Dance Team practices 10 - 13 hours to come up with new choreography and prepare for any upcoming performances. Dance Company Coach Mr. Arroyo said, “[Creating a whole performance] is like putting a jigsaw puzzle together, but you don’t know what the puzzle is supposed to look like.” The team has to constantly make adjustments and adaptations to improve their routines and fit the ability level of every dancer.

The first step in preparing for a performance, is coming up with a theme for the routine... Continue reading at www.theaztecnews.com

the team, members encounter hardships; from mistakes made during a performance or negative comments. To overcome these obstacles, the team motivates each other to work harder to correct errors tha=t were made in the routine.

THE AZTEC/ AURORA ZENG

“We never give up on our goals because we know that we always pull through in the end” said Lee.

The unbeatable feats of All Male

Ready, set, fly!

ANITA HUANG Web Editor

Lyan Ly (11) and Hilary Luong (11) perform at the Homecoming Pep Rally in the New Gym on Friday, October 28.

From high kicks to perfected splits, Mark Keppel’s Drill Team is one of Mark Keppel’s five performance teams. This school year, the drill team’s captain and co-captain is Jasmine Flores, and Kayla Hang.

Drill team members contribute $500 for their individual drill team gear. Because of the high price for their team gear, Flores said, “to fund for competitions and gear, our fundraisers range from selling Jamba Juice BOGO cards to hosting fundraisers at places such as Tea Brick.”

The Drill Team’s practice area takes place at Palm Court. Hang expects the team “to always try their hardest and to constantly practice the routines.” On a regular basis, the team practices on an average of an hour and a half to two hours every day from Monday through Thursday.

As performances get closer, Drill begins to practice for a longer period of time.

The entire team contributes to the whole routine. Flores and Hang handles the formations while the rest of the team contribute ideas for their routine. According to Hang, “[they] also need to fix angles when [they’re] running through the routine.”

VICTORIA RAMIREZ Editor-in-Chief/ Chief Photographer

A team that’s united in all aspects, is a team whose performances are nothing short of remarkable. As reigning U.S. National Champions, the All-Male team’s been working 16-plus hours a week in order to ensure their routine is not only clean but strong as well. Their main goal in every practice session is to make their moves more precise than before, dance as a unit, and finish strong.

When asked how the team continuously motivates one-another, senior and AllMale Captain Edward Tsai shared, “We like to think that we must work together to pursue a goal as a team, and that we must work to make sure that there are no weak links. Every member is pushing to pull their weight.”

The team work together in choreographing routines that are seen in all the school rallies and assemblies. Many intricate dynamics are worked into their routines, adding different textures to the changing tones and beats of the music. In order to be

considered performance ready, every member in All-Male needs to feel “[confident] putting that routine on stage.”

Tsai further stated that the dancers don’t only dance for themselves, but for each other. As they practice together, “each member is [working] just as strong as the person next to them.” Although there may be obstacles and disagreements, the team continues to push onward, focused on the importance of creating powerful performances.

Dance is not as simple as 3-minute routine; in fact, it’s more complicated than that. There’s many factors to keep in mind: tempo, strength, and endurance. All-Male have spent many hours creating the amazing routines many students have seen this year. They work together as a unit to bring the art of dance to life with their dynamic movements. Senior Thomas Chuong explained, “[Dance] is entertaining because [it] can be expressed and shown in so many different ways. Every time you see a dance performance, you wouldn’t expect to always see the same routine twice.”

Courtney Tat (10), Elizabeth Herijanto (11), Kaitlyn Thai (10), and Annie Ruan (11) practice their routines at Palm Court.

Flores also adds, “We practice a routine over and over again and when we finally see that everyone does the routine without messing up and they hit every move sharply and at the right angle, we know we’re ready.”

Drill team performs at Mark Keppel’s pep rallies, sometimes at basketball and football halftime games, and competes at the annual SHARP competition. Drill team performances are generally peppy and energetic during rallies. Competitions ideas are based off of tricks and moves.

THE AZTEC/ KENNETH LIU

According to Flores, “the two sharp competitions [Drill Team] plans on competing in are on February 4th and February 12th next year. [The team is] planning on competing in CADTD state, which is on March 25th next year.” With more pep rallies and competition season in mind, the team inevitably faces tough obstacles.

Hang says, “We don’t mind helping each other step by step, so if someone is struggling with a certain move, we’ll slow down for them until they get it.”

The aztec

12 Sports

#CIF Bound

November 17, 2016

THE AZTEC/ KENNETH LIU

The Girls’ Volleyball team poses for group photos before their game with Loma Linda.

COURTESY OF KEVIN LEE

The team gets ready.

COURTESY OF TERESA ZHONG

Girls Volleyball enters CIF af- Boys Water Polo finishes CIF; ter 15 years; loses second game loses against Charter Oak WESLEY ZENG Sports Editor & Business Manager After more than 15 years, the Girls Varsity Volleyball team entered the CIF league during the season. Winning their first game against San Dimas with the final score being 3-0, the lady aztecs advanced to their next match against Loma Linda Academy on November 3rd.

The whole experience was new to the team, having no member or coach experienced in the CIF league. Although they did not win, the girls made it further than any other year in over a decade.

The team had a difficult time against Loma Linda, having difficulty following their pace and finding a good rhythm for

both defense and offense.

Despite the 0-3 lost, senior Kathleen Lok felt that CIF exposed the volleyball team to a new higher level of gameplay, allowing them to play with teams outside of the Almont league.

Although the team did not advance forward in the CIF league, the team was overall very satisfied with being able to improve and have a memorable season. Senior Carmen Chen believes “[The team’s] hard work, sweat, and tears paid off. I’m glad I got to finish off my fourth and last year of... volleyball with a CIF game home.”

WESLEY ZENG & AURORA ZENG Sports Editor & Focus Editor Mark Keppel’s Boys Water Polo team entered CIF for another consecutive year, versuing Charter Oak. The agme was played last Tuesday, and ended with a lost 6-19.

Although the team was not able to advance forward in the CIF playoffs, senior Justin Young believed “it was great to be able to end my polo career on a good season and making CIF.” With a new team members, it seemed difficult at first for the players to coordinate and work well with each other.

Despite the rough start, as the

season progressed, the team had begun working better together with each other’s play styles.

One of their more important achievements came with their victory against Alhambra, winning with the score of 13-1.

During practices, the polo team did series of exercises and drills to improve upon their weaker skills, said senior Austin LoCurto. He also added, “[The team is] greater when we work together rather than [if ] we worked for ourselves.”

Girls Tennis loses in CIF quarterfinals DANIEL LU Copy Editor The girls tennis team lost the CIF quarterfinals against Elsinore 14-4, ending the season with the team ranking eighth in Division 4 as individual CIF matches continue.

In 2015, the girls tennis team came close to reaching the quarterfinals before losing to Wilson High School 14-4. Despite losing against Alhambra during the Almont League and ending with a score of 6-2, the players learned from their mistakes during league.

“During practices, we focused on areas that we thought we lacked in; for some it was cross-court rallying and for others it was poaching the ball,” said captain Vicky Chan. “We [also] prepared ourselves for the CIF matches by gauging the school’s

The girls varsity tennis team poses for a group picture.

skill level through reports… [making sure we had] knowledge about their team.”

Maliah Pierribia, the number two singles player in Almont League, qualifies for CIF to represent Keppel. She is going to Riverside for the CIF games on November 21.

“It’s quite a feat to qualify [because] CIF represents the best Junior tennis players of our generation in Southern California

[which also], per capita has the best Juniors of the world,” explained Coach Ten. “We played very well this year during CIF and it’s something that we’re proud of.

Even though we lost, it was a very memorable moment since this was the last time seniors played on the courts competitively,” said Michelle Lam. “We had our last cheer, and it was very emotional.”

Sports Calendar Boys Basketball

11/23 versus Alumni 11/28 versus TBA 11/29 versus Sierra Vista Tournament 11/30 versus Sierra Vista Tournament 12/1 versus Sierra Vista Tournament 12/2 versus Sierra Vista Tournament 12/3 versus Sierra Vista Tournament

COURTESY OF COACH TEN

Girls Basketball 11/29 versus San Marino 11/30 versus Sierra Vista Tournament 12/7 versus John Glenn/Norwalk Tourney

Athlete’s Profile: Kyle Chuang MICHELLE DANG Staff Writer

Senior Kyle Chuang is the captain of the football team, with the positions fullback and linebacker.

At first, football seemed scary to him. “It was a totally new sport with bigger and much more violent guys and the concussion stories always ran in the back of my mind,” Chuang said.

He played soccer since he was 8, but only started playing football after his friend recruited him to play the summer prior to his freshman year.

Football had impacted Chuang’s entire high school experience. His teammates were like a second family where he could just let loose and have fun.

His favorite memory was when he scored his first touchdown against Bell Gardens off a 60 yard pass during his sophomore year. “I’ll always remember that feeling of being in the endzone with my teammates excitingly rally to me and cheering me on,” recalled Chuang.

Aside from being the football team captain, Chuang is also the president of Skills USA. He has competed in drafting and made it to state level every year. He placed 6th in his freshman and sophomore year and 3rd in his junior year.

Chuang is currently planning to attend Cal Poly Luis Obispo and pursue a career in mechanical engineering.

Being the captain, Chuang had to manage the entire football team. Games can be won or lost. “The worst part of losing so much has to be coming back the next day, ready to do it all over again. I have so much respect for my teammates for coming out every week and playing their hearts out regardless of the outcome. This resiliency is not in everyone, however, if you play football for Keppel, you better have it.” said Chuang.

His last game at Keppel was likely the last time he would play football as he doesn’t plan to get involved in football during his post secondary education.

Although he is not considering playing football anymore, he still enjoys watching professional football during his free time.

From not knowing anything about football to becoming a varsity player. Chuang’s advice for current and incoming football players is, “Just keep at it. I know it can be tough at times but football has by far been the best part of high school.”