THE AZTEC
VOLUME LXXVII NUMBER III
ALHAMBRA, CA 91801
November 14, 2014
San Gabriel hosts the 32 annual Tri-City Band Field Show Tournament SARAH McCORMICK News Editor Keppel's band will be participating in the annual Tri-City Band Field Show on November 19 at San Gabriel High School at 7:00 pm. According to band director Dr. Bartlett, this performance is a tradition that began around 1982 when the three band directors from Keppel, Alhambra, and San Gabriel came together to create a "friendly tournament" in which the three school bands could participate to perform their field shows for each other. The show's location originally rotated between the three schools each year; however, it has been at San Gabriel the past five years. Although the show is not an official competition, the schools often try to show off their performance skills to the others. Dr. Bartlett said, "Keppel's band is smaller than the other schools. Outside we're not as loud as the other bands, but I
think in terms of rhythmic precision and musical expression and techinical ability, we're quite good. Our students are very good marchers." To prepare for this performance, Keppel had band camp beginning in August, and members learned their field show over a period of a few months. Each week, the band adds more sets, or positions, to their show making it about 50 sets total when they are done. Each set is about 16 beats, and the band will be performing three songs from James Bond movies, including the James Bond Theme, "For Your Eyes Only/ Goldfinger," and "Live and Let Die." San Gabriel and Alhambra also have themes for the songs they will be performing. During the performance, the bands begin with a parade pass by as each band plays their march. Before the field show, however, all bands will go onto the field to play the Star Spangled Banner. Two of the bands leave the stage after they are
Keppel, Alhambra, and San Gabriel's bands play together in last year's tri-city band performance at San Gabriel High School.
done with the anthem, and the last band to walk in the parade pass is left to be the first band to perform their field show. After each band has finished with their field show, the bands all join back together to perform three songs as a whole, all-city band. Also, the bands will be joined by eighth graders who will accompany the three bands in another song. Color Guard is also a part of Keppel's field show, and they will be performing a routine choreographed by Color Guard
seniors Shanni Chen and Leanne Deng. In preparation for the field show, Color Guard has been practicing for at least two hours each week day, and also have three to four hour practices on some weekends. Color Guard junior Melinda Av said, "Most of our time is dedicated to preparing for it [the field show] because we want to impress the other schools and show we are really good and worked really hard for this." One of Color Guard's captains, junior Keila Osugi said that
COURTESY OF MARK SHIMICOCHI
Color Guard's purpose is to add extra visual appeal to the band and give the field show more life. Osugi also added, "Keppel's guard is unique in the way that we don't have a coach, yet we have come so far. Color Guard is not easy to learn and it is evn harder to perfect. Despite this, the team works well together and we do our best to improve with each performance." The field show is a free performance for those who would like to attend.
ASB holds canned food drive in collaboration with Pasadena Food Bank Students prepare to send in college apps TAMMY LEE
ALEX DEA Staff Writer
The college application process for UC's and CSU's officially started on October 1st. The CSU application consists of personal information, grades and GPA, as well as SAT and/or ACT scores. UC applications are almost exactly the same, except they also include the mandatory personal statement. CSU apps can be submitted online at csumentor.edu, or sent in by mail. UC apps can also be submitted online at admission. universityofcalifornia.edu, or by mail. UC personal statements typically consist of two prompts, this year including: to describe the world you come from and to tell a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, or experience. Both CSU and UC applications are due on November 30. For private colleges, students
apply through the Common App. Deadlines for private college applications vary depending on the status of the application. Senior Tiara Daniels prefers the Common App and said, "The Common App is more condensed than the CSU app. Also, the CSU app is more time-consuming compared to the Common App." Some students apply to colleges with early action, meaning they send in applications earlier than regular decision, but recieve a non-committal acceptance letter by January or February. Early decision applicants send in one application to their first choice school by November, and receive results usually by December. An early decision application means a committment to attend the college if accepted. Due to the stress caused by the application process, students are excited to have the application process come to an end.
Mark
Your calendar 11/14 Choreo Show 7-9 pm in Auditorium 11/17-11/21 Canned Food Drive 11/18 English Learners Advisory Council (ELAC) Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm in Cafeteria 11/19 Collaboration Schedule 11/19 Informational Meeting Regarding Drought 7-8:15 pm in Auditorium 11/19 MKHS PTSA Meeting 7-9 pm in Cafeteria 11/24-11/28 Thanksgiving Holiday- No School
Staff Writer
ASB is hosting their annual food drive from November 2 to 19 at Mark Keppel to help out those who cannot afford food. The main goal for the food drive is to exceed the number of cans that were donated last year. ASB members senior Allyson Luong and junior Sydnee Law are in charge of this event and comment, “We hope to get as much participants to help people in need of food.” This year’s food drive will be directed towards the Pasadena Food Bank. The Pasadena Food Bank has continued its service by extending opportunities for the community to pitch in. Junior Emily Castelazo said, “The food drive is an excellent way for Mark Keppel Aztecs to reach out and help members of the community as well as gaining awareness for the underprivileged. Nowadays, people often forget about homeless people,
THE AZTEC/CORY MAK ASB members senior Allyson Luong and junior Sydnee Law show their support for the canned food drive.
so the best thing to do is to take each opportunity and contribute as much as possible.” Unlike previous years, ASB will not be giving a reward to the class who donates the most because of a new district rule that has banned rewards or prizes. Sophomore Celeste Mendez states, “It’s really cool that people are giving food especially during Christmas and Thanksgiving which are seasons of giving and generosity. It’s good that we’re giving [food] and it makes you think how lucky you are for
having food on the table.” Canned foods are encouraged, as well as any non-perishable foods, such as Cup of Noodles, which were the highlight of last year’s food drive. ASB announced the start of the collection on Wednesday, November 12 and will collect and count all of the food on Friday, November 14, and Wednesday, November 19 for the Food Bank. Classes are encouraged to collect as much food as they can. Students can go to their homeroom or the ASB classroom, A132, to drop off donations.
IN THIS ISSUE... News: College Apps • Tri-City Band Field Show • Canned Food Drive • Computer Gaming Class • Talent Show • IBA Field Trip • New Technician
Viewpoint: Realist vs. Pessimist • Double Standards • Making Time for Yourself • Instant Food Practicality
Focus: Stress Features: Twins • Mispronouncing Names • Fundraising • Health Trends Sports: Athlete's Profile: Danny Moreno • Cross Country • Girls' Tennis • Girls' Volleyball • Boys' Water Polo • Football
First Keppel talent show a success Keppel hires new SARAH McCORMICK News Editor Keppel’s first talent show, “Keppel’s Got Talent,” took place on Friday, November 7 in the auditorium. The show featured 32 Keppel acts of students and faculty, who performed talents ranging from singing and dancing to playing the Chinese zither, each performance being three minutes or under. The program consisted of two acts, with a 15 minute intermission in between each act. The show was judged by Youtubers David and Andrew Fung of the Fung Brothers, along with Richie Le. The winner of the talent show was freshman Nicole Ruiz whose talent was singing “Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri. Ruiz decided to audition for the talent show because she has enjoyed singing ever since she was little. She did not have that much preparation before the show, but did practice with an audience at karaoke in Little Tokyo, which her parents signed her up for a week before Keppel’s Got Talent. Ruiz said, “I’m still processing the moment when they
announced my name, over and over. It’s hard to believe I actually won. It’s such a great honor for me, being a freshman, and there were so many other great acts by people who were older. I’m just very happy.” Taking the second place trophy was the “Mark Keppel Stanley Lin Band” which included freshman Stanley Lin on the guitar, freshman Daniel Tang also on the guitar, sophomore Tiffany Joa on the violin, freshman Andy Lau on the viola, and freshman Henry Phannguyen singing. The song they performed was “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train. Joa arranged the parts of the song for the violin and viola, while the rest of the piece’s music was found online, but altered to fit the key of their performance. Practices before the show consisted of three to four group meetings before the actual show, along with individual practice. Lau said, “Being up stage felt great. From the practices we had together, confidence was born and that was the core thing that really set the excited emotions more than the nervous [emotions].”
Video Game Design and Production class added as A-G elective ERIC LAM Staff Writer Video Game Design and Production is one of the newest classes at Mark Keppel this year. The class is taught by Ms. Fillpot, who is also the Digital Media teacher. Although the class is new, it already has been A-G approved and even placed 3rd in the country-wide Got Game game design competition where students created their own game with original sprites, music, and concepts. The focus of the class itself is split in each of the two semesters. Ms. Fillpot said, “The first semester of the class focuses more on learning how to design a game and learning designing
concepts. The second semester is focused on the actual production of the game, as students will learn how to create their own sprites and music.” At the end of the second semester, the students will submit their original game to the Got Game competition as their final. Also during the year, the class plans to take a trip to the headquarters of the gaming company, Blizzard. A guest speaker from Blizzard has already come to speak for the class. For the future of the class, Ms. Fillpot hopes to get more field trips approved and ask college students who are currently majoring in game design and production to speak with Keppel students who are interested in majoring in the subject.
Third place for the competition went to freshmen Kyle Truong and Maurice Rooks, who performed a dance routine. Rooks decided to perform because of his past experience performing in talent shows at his middle school, as well as to show his love for dancing which is shared by his dance partner, Truong. Truong wanted participate in the talent show because of his experience with dancing on stage since he is part of a group called Junior Hit List. Truong said, “Being on stage is a unique feeling. For dancers, we don’t always have chances to dance, so having a chance to do it was great.” Truong and Rooks conflicting schedules did not allow them to practice as much as hoped, but they did prepare some simple choreography and freestyled most of the rest. Rooks stated, “The feeling [of being onstage] was exhilarating and the audience’s cheers pimped adrenaline.” Profits from the talent show went towards supporting the drama department’s trip to Scotland which will take place in August of 2015.
computer technician
THE AZTEC/CORY MAK Keppel’s new technician, Eric Chau, works on an assignment.
BRIAN YEO Sports Editor One of the newest members of Mark Keppel’s faculty is Eric Chau, the school’s resident computer technician. Chau, who was hired three weeks ago on October 20, is filling a position left open after the departure of his predecessor, Bryant Murillo. Citing a desire to work closer to home after recently moving east, Murillo
left Keppel at the end of the school year. Chau, a Gabrielino alumni, worked as a computer technician for his alma mater prior to his employment at Keppel. He can be found on campus from 7:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. every school day. As computer technician, Chau is responsible for providing technical assistance to all the staff and teachers. He has many duties, including instruction of faculty members in order to avoid downtime caused by technical issues and maintenance of computer labs and carts. Chau cites a need for having “a thorough knowledge of troubleshooting Windows/Mac computers” and being “wellrounded within multiple areas of information technology (IT)” in order to do his job. As part of his job, Chau interacts with teachers daily and can be seen working in many classrooms. However, Chau is also involved in student activities, especially helping out with Keppel’s Key Club.
IBA plans field trip to Gene Autry Museum
IBA poses for a picture at their field trip to the California Science Center in Downtown Los Angeles.
CARMEN MA Asst. A&E Editor Keppel’s International Business Academy students are scheduled to take a field trip to the Gene Autry Museum for the “Route 66: The Road and the Romance” exhibition on Tuesday, November 18. One of the many activities members of the International Business Academy partake in is going on field trips funded by the state of California. While
there were not as many field trips last year, IBA students will be able to take a predicted six field trips this year. Lead IBA teacher Ms. Fillpot said, “Field trips have to do with the class curriculum. The trips the students will be covering their readings.” The “Route 66: The Road and the Romance” exhibition at the Gene Autry Museum includes the facts and fiction surrounding America’s most famous highway and features over 250 historical
COURTESY OF MS. FILLPOT
artifacts. Some of the pieces the students will see at the exhibition include the oldest Route 66 shield and a Ford Model T engine. IBA English teacher Ms. Kowtsky, stated, “I think field trips extend learning by [allowing students] to go outside of the classroom. Trips like these show that history is real to the students. They have an experience to remember as opposed to seeing the material as just another thing they learned in class.”
The Aztec 2014-2015
Amber Batchelor Editor-in-Chief
Brian Yeo Sports Editor
Vivian To Co-Asst. Editor-inChief, Focus Editor
Aren Lim Business Manager
Darwin Tse Co-Asst. Editor-inChief, Viewpoint Editor Sarah McCormick News Editor Bonnie Grace Wong A&E/Features Editor
Cory Mak Photographer Brandon Chung Historian Karen Ip Co-Copy Editor, Asst. Focus Editor Lydia Xie Co-Copy Editor, Asst. News Edito
Brian Chen Asst. Viewpoint Editor, Web Editor
Bradley Dea Staff Writer
Christie Hui Staff Writer
Yang Lu Staff Writer
Alexander Beaumont Asst. Features Editor
Victoria Ramirez Staff Writer Asst. Photographer
Cristian Jimenez Staff Writer
Carmen Ma Staff Writer
Carmen Ma Asst. A&E Editor
Rodolfo Arias Staff Writer
Joann Kong Staff Writer
Maliah Pierribia Staff Writer
Emily Mu Asst. Sports Editor
Karli Cheng Staff Writer
Eric Lam Staff Writer
Shanae To Staff Writer
Sally Chen Asst. Business Manager
Kristin Chingburanakit Staff Writer
Ida Lam Staff Writer
Stephanie Tran Staff Writer
Tammy Lee Staff Writer
Edlyn Wong Staff Writer
Alex Dea Staff Writer
Yun Huang Staff Writer
Jonathan Lou Staff Writer
The aztec is published monthly by the journalism class of mark keppel high school and is printed at american foothill publishing co., inc. all newsprint used is 100% recycled. 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 a225 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.
Instant food creates instant gratification
KRISTIN CHINGBURANIKIT Staff Writer As homework and extracurriculars start to pile up, it is hard for a student to make time to cook a meal. Instant foods became popular during World War II when soldiers needed to “develop foods for storage, longevity, and ease of preparation in the battlefield,” according to FnBnews.com. Many people enjoy eating instant foods because it’s practical. Sophomore Kyle Chuang has football practice until 6 PM. Chuang “loves it because it’s fast and easy. If it isn’t enough, you can always heat up another one.” On the other hand, freshman Brian Ha disagrees and thinks instant food is only used because “you are being too lazy to cook a healthy meal and you instead go for preparing an unhealthy alternative.” There is a downside to instant food as well. However, with instant foods, you can’t control how much sugar, salt, and oil you eat. Companies can put “whatever and however much they want into the food,” reveals FnBnews.com. Instant foods have preservatives that have a lot of sodium in it to keep it non perishable for a long time. It also has a lot of calories and trans-fat. All in all, instant foods have pros and cons, but you cannot argue with the ease, convenience, and practicality of them.
Double standards yield gender inequality DARWIN TSE Viewpoint Editor While we live in a society where gender equality is encouraged, double standards do not allow for that to happen. A double standard is a rule or principle that is applied differently to different groups of people. How one finds the opposite sex attractive shows double standards. For example, the newest internet celebrity, 16-year-old Alex from Target, gained fame when a shopper took a picture of him and posted it on Twitter. The photo spread through social media and millions of girls’ ovaries exploded, obsessing over how attractive Alex is. However, if the genders of the situation were reversed and Alex were a girl instead, then the millions of guys fawning over Alex would be considered perverts. Unequal. Women, however, are also subjected to double standards. When a guy has ‘intimate relationships’ with multiple women, he is referred as a pimp. In contrast, if a girl has similar relationships with multiple men, she is labeled as a “promiscuous individual”. In a different matter, domestic abuse also displays double standards. According to a Centers for Disease Control study from 2010, about 40% of domestic violence victims are male, showing that domestic abuse is not only a problem
Yes, you should say no to helping others
Senior Emerald Tse sacrifices some of her time in order to help fellow senior Phone Tha.
LYDIA XIE Co-Copy Editor/Asst. News Editor Balancing priorities can be a struggle, but trying to help others while maintaining your priorities is an even bigger challenge. Classmates occasionally ask each other for help, but on the day before homework is due, almost every student seems to look for ways to benefit his or her own grades. The question remains: should students help others with homework and studying, or should they focus on their own needs first? In academic situations, there will always be students who bombard the “smart” students with questions, so taking the time to help others may result in benefitting others and disadvantaging yourself. Senior Aaron Ta said, “Think of your own well being first. You can help others now, but you won’t have the capabilities to help yourself in the future.” However, taking the time to help others with homework might be using your time
THE AZTEC/CORY MAK
wisely. Ta said, “It [helping others] puts a knot in my plans, but then the time I spent wouldn’t have been as productive if I didn’t help others.” A major factor in deciding whether or not to spend time helping others is time management. If students have the time to help each other, then they help each other. Although, there are students who consciously use other people to get help for their own benefit. However, helping others may also work in favor of the helper. Junior Katie Garibay said, “I think taking the time to help others help you understand the material.” It’s difficult to know which people use others for their own benefit or if they genuinely need help with homework and studying. Despite this, prioritizing yourself can be the most beneficial way to help others because having good time management can ultimately benefit you and your peers.
for females. This disproves the common misconception that men are usually not domestically abused. In addition, today’s societal standards ridicule and mock men who reach out for help in domestic abuse, leading to many unreported cases. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 70% of domestic violence cases go unreported. “In today’s society, men are expected to be more dominant,” said sophomore Tyler Flaker. Also, violence initiated by women is not taken as seriously as violence initiated by men. NFL player Ray Rice had his contract with the Baltimore Ravens and Nike sponsorship terminated when he was indicted for domestic violence against his wife. Interestingly, when female US soccer player, Hope Solo, was charged with domestic violence against her half sister and 17-year-old nephew, she continued to play soccer, and Nike did not say a word about Solo’s charges. Gender equality should be a part of our society. Unfortunately, the social stigma that these double standards have created prevents complete gender equality. They have been embedded into our society. Men will have to continue to put on a manly facade and women will have to be the damsel in distress. “In history, the male has always been
COURTESY OF IMGUR A Tinder conversation displaying the differences between how genders are expected to act.
the head of the household,” says senior Jonathan Lay. “That’s just how life works.”
dealing with academic
COLLEGE APPS
IDA LAM Staff Writer
With deadlines looming over their heads, the seniors at Mark Keppel are facing a major life event at this very moment: college applications submissions. The University of California application submission period is from November 1 to November 30. The Common Application, also known as the “Common App,” is a special application that private colleges can use to gauge a student’s academic records and writing skills. Students applying using the Common App can select multiple schools to apply to using one application. The schools that use Common App are usually private colleges, such as USC or Occidental College. This is the time when students have to decide which path they want to take when they graduate from high school. For many, this is the hardest life decision so far. English teacher Mrs. Flores stated, “There’s a lack of preparedness for a lot of seniors. They don’t know where they want to go, what they want to do, or how to pay for it.” When applying to colleges, students also have to take financial needs into consideration. Most schools charge an application fee of approximately $35 to $100 just to submit an application. This cost, combined with sending SAT or ACT score reports (which are $26-$52.50 for SATs and $12 each for ACTs) is one of the factors that makes the mere action of applying to a school an important financial decision. Students that do not qualify for need-based financial aid can seek help in paying for their college fees with the Middle Class Scholarship Program, which grants scholarship money to students whose families’ incomes are too high for low-income aid but not high enough to comfortably pay for college. More information about the Middle Class Scholarship Program can be found at www.
csac.ca.gov/mcs.asp. Many students are feeling the pressure of getting their applications submitted in a timely manner. Senior Akirah Limthaveemongkol expressed joy in the Veteran’s Day four-day weekend, because she needs the extra time to finish her applications. She said, “I’m writing my second draft for my personal statement, and I filled out the UC app already.” There are also some students that have already finished most of the difficult parts of applying to college. Senior Annette Cai stated, “I’m almost done with my UC apps; I’m editing my personal statement and adding more things to the activities sheet.” She is applying to seven UC schools and is not sure about private schools yet. Senior Marcus Rodriguez also stated, “I’m done with my UC apps. I finished a few weeks ago. It was pretty easy.” Students are not the only people feeling the stress of college applications. Teachers have also been bombarded with requests for letters of recommendation by seniors hoping to be accepted at private universities. Mrs. Flores alone received over 100 requests for recommendation letters this year and conducts editing consultations with countless students wanting to perfect their application essays. “The most difficult thing for me,” she stated, “is to guide students to find their true story. The other difficult part is to watch kids suffer because what they want to study is not what their parents want them to study.” Her advice to future seniors is, “Do your research by August and visit at least two schools.” To the current seniors, Mrs. Flores reassures, “Just know that it’s okay. You’ll find your path. It’ll really be okay one way or another.”
Keep Calm BY:
sleeping/eating healthy
KAREN IP Co-Copy Editor/Asst. Focus Editor
Getting the right amount of sleep and eating the right food are important to maintain health, but how about relieving stress? Studies have shown that teenagers need about 8-9 hours of sleep each night. They also state that eating breakfast every morning is good for the body to generate energy, but do these go beyond the extent of helping to relieve stress as well? Certain foods to keep in mind, according to senior Jason Chang, are “walnuts, flaxseed, avocado, and other foods,” which can help improve memory. He adds, “What these foods have in common is they contain certain oils, which is actually the most important part [for helping to nurture the brain].” According to Ms. Bradford, students, including those who are vegetarian, should be able to get the “right amount of sources to have protein.” For example, Chang, a vegetarian, says that he takes “a large heaping of dried powdered greens [that] perhaps also helps [him maintain a diet].” Eating breakfast everyday also plays an import-
ant role in helping students come to school energized. In a poll conducted by our newspaper staff of 220 students, 58% said that they eat breakfast everyday. When asked about how she feels about the amount of sleep a person gets in general, Ms. Bradford says she is “very conscious and if I eat the wrong things, I am aware of it.” In addition, senior Jason Chang says that “consuming foods with caffeine can also affect the number of hours you sleep.” Anything in the form of sugar or certain foods can decrease the amount of time one gets to sleep and can even cause, in Chang’s case, “[his] respiratory system to cease to function normally.” According to senior Yida Wang, while she had to go through the tedious process of college applications, she had “managed [her] schedule by [drinking] a lot of coffee” instead of getting the sufficient amount of sleep. Thus, it is not only important to get the right amount of sleep, but it is also important to eat the right foods to avoid sleeping problems and buildup of stress.
Chatting with Keppel Advocates for Students KARLI CHENG Staff Writer
Keppel’s Advocates for Students (K.A.S.) is a club created by a group teachers who are there for their students. It is a club that consists of teache who are there to support students who have concerns to talk about All teache are approachable, but the the teachers with green K.A.S. signs on their doors a specifically trained for helping and guiding students. There are 16 teachers wh are involved in this program. “[Especially] when you are stressed, you can’t thin correctly.” said Ms. Fillpot, who is one of the 16 teachers. When school and pe pressure overwhelm students, they tend to be unhappy. There is always a person who is willing to listen to you. Whether it is a frien family member or teacher, there will be at least one person who is willing help you. Especially in November, when college apps are due, the stress level seniors increases immediately. Even for juniors, on a level of one to ten, juni Mollie Pirkle says that her stress is at level seven. Stress from one test can car on throughout the day. Eventually, the struggle to keep up with demanding activ ties such as being a part of Keppel’s swim team causes Pirkle to worry even mor A little problem of tests or quizzes can easily change the day for them from ha py to depressed and stressed. Sometimes the stress may be distressing, and whe students feel like they’re alone facing their problems, they can always turn to K.A.S. teacher for reassurance. “You are not alone, you don’t have to be alone said Ms. Fillpot.
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Social Media: multitasking or time wasting? BONNIE WONG Features/A&E Editor Messenger, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat—the list goes on for potential time-wasters as students fall into the traps of social media that can reflect negatively on their studies. One of the reasons that social media can be distracting to people is that it is one form of procrastination. Procrastination can have an added effect on stress, as students struggle to complete their assignments and cram their studying sessions as a result of the lack of planning. It’s tempting to quickly check a site when you’re taking a break, but you eventually end up scrolling for hours as one link leads to another. Even though taking breaks to clear your head is positive, the negative effects of stopping your studying can outweigh the benefits. Junior Cerrin Toh stated, “Facebook can [distract me] because people message me, and I have to reply and I can’t study.” Among 211 students surveyed at Keppel, 35% have said that they use social media for two to three hours. 11.8% of the students are on social media for more than 10 hours. On the other hand, social media can also encourage studies, as there are many ways to communicate with other students for extra help and resources. Clubs announce service project opportunities, meeting dates, and other reminders through email and Facebook groups. Toh also says that, “It is helpful for science and math groups. When other students ask questions [on the sites] it also helps me.” Sometimes these methods are the only way that students are kept informed of upcoming events in an era where email is sometimes less checked than social media. Teachers use the Remind app to keep their students notified via text message of important reminders for the class. Social media can serve a useful purpose in informing or reminding others of school-related topics. However, social media can also have a negative side in that it distracts people from accomplishing their to-do lists.
4 hours 210 Students were polled.
Photo of Sophomore Fatima Hemdan/The Aztec
Stress from general classes ALEXANDER BEAUMONT Asst. Features Editor
School isn’t just stressful for students taking honors or AP classes. Students with general classes also struggle with keeping stress under control as well. They are also involved in clubs and participate in multiple sports while juggling a full class schedule. Senior Alma Hernandez said, “What stresses me out is the fact that life is moving too quick for me. It’s all very confusing, and I don’t really know what I want for myself. When I start thinking about all the various paths I can take and my future life choices, I freak myself out. When I get too stressed out, I go talk to Alejandra, my best friend, who no matter what lightens up my day. She’s always there to listen every minute of every day.” Counselor Mrs. Matsuo said that the two biggest reasons why students come to visit her are because “they are afraid that they are not prepared enough and not competitive enough to go to university.” Not all students taking general classes feel stressed about academics. Junior Helen Chan said, “I don’t really have stress with school work but it’s mainly with my friends. Sometimes, I feel that I’m not wanted by my friends. They would cut me out of when I want to talk to them, and it makes me stressed about our friendship. So, sometimes I would just keep it in until it’s really bad, but when I can’t handle the stress anymore I just walk with a really close friend that I knew for a couple years and talk to her about it and I would feel better.” It is always better to reach out to someone you are close to when you are feeling stressed.
Tutoring in community YANG LU Staff Writer
Balancing time with SELINA HUANG Staff Writer
AP/Honors classes
Many students at Keppel are highly competitive over grades; therefore, they take multiple AP and/or Honors classes despite their work load and stress. Out of 20 AP classes that Keppel offers, the classes that have the most students include, AP English Language, AP Psychology, AP Chemistry, and AP Calculus AB. Junior Joy Li is currently taking on five AP classes including AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP U.S. History, AP Physics, and AP Language 5/6. Out of the 5 classes, Li thinks that AP Calculus is the most challenging. She took the class for the challenge and also because it relates to what she wants to do in the future. Before taking the class, Li heard rumors about Ms. Ling being a hard teacher and found that Ms. Ling is a pretty hard teacher. However, Li says “I’m doing alright in that class, it’s not easy but it’s not time consuming. It’s extremely stressful to balance with my extracurricular activities but calculus is actually really fun and I don’t regret taking it.” Sophomore Jason Xian is currently taking Chemistry Honors, English Honors, AP World History, and Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus Honors. Xian says that honors and AP classes interest him and feels that he can learn a lot more in these classes. He now understands the truth behind the rumors of having WHAP and English Honors together being extra tough, but he still chose to take these classes. It is also very time consuming for Xian because he also has to balance school with extracurricular activities such as Chemistry Olympiad and Band. However, Xian said, “Balance is key.” Even if there is a lot on your plate, it is possible to do all with time management.
Most students commit, on average, at least an hour daily to each honors and college-level subject, so it is logical for stress and anxiety to arise. “The life of AP [and honors] is a difficult one...some will not make it alive,” said Junior Jourdyn Lao, when asked about his several Advanced Placement courses. As a University of Michigan study proves, multitasking is generally ineffective for the human brain, thus a variety of advanced courses would seem overwhelming at first consideration; however, an easy solution is reached when students receive the help of other qualified individuals to avoid being stuck in a cycle of unproductivity. Tutoring is a simple and straightforward way of obtaining relevant information. Keppel clubs such as United Sciences and Math Club offer regular tutoring on a daily basis, where peers could help each other in subjects of their own expertise. Ms. Hake, the advisor of United Sciences, said, “The more opportunities we give to kids for tutoring, the better off it is for that kid, whether they take advantage of all the opportunities is another story, but… they
should have as many opportunities as possible.” Students know the materials and pacing of class first-hand, an advantage that private tutors do not have. Regardless, there is effort required on both ends of a tutoring session in order for the program to be effective. Ms. Sinisi, Co-Advisor of the Math Club Tutoring Committee, said, “You get out of tutoring what you put into it, the tutors can’t force you to get help.” If tutoring at school has not shown significant results, there are several free homework help and tutoring options available outside of school from more advanced tutors. For example, the County of Los Angeles Public offers live homework help online on a variety of subjects everyday from 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM to all cardholders. More information is available on this service at www.colapublib. org/children/tutor. Harvey Mudd College also provides a free homework hotline for students in grades 4 through 12 math and science that requires no registration. This option is available from September to May, Sunday through Thursday, from 6 PM to 9 PM at 1(877)827-5462.
Seeing double
CHRISTIE HUI Staff Writer Ever wonder what it’s like being a twin? Keppel twins share their thoughts on having a sibling of the same age and appearance. “It’s like having a best friend who you can work together and play games with,” Junior Andrew Pham states about his relationship with twin brother Anthony Pham. The Pham brothers are fraternal twins. Having a twin may not be so different from having a normal brother or sister. The Pham twins help each other out with homework and share similar interests like other siblings do. When asked if there was anything about being twins that set them apart from others, they replied that there was “no secrecy between us and other people”. Though twins may look the same, they differ in many ways. Andrew Pham says that people often think twins have the same
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personality, when in reality they don’t. The Pham twins’ appearances differ as well. People can tell them apart by looking at Andrew’s glasses and Anthony’s ears. Another pair of junior twins, juniors Melody and Harmony Ogino, can be recognized from each other by their voice, height, and how they dress. Although the Oginos say that they know each other the most, they think a misconception peo-
Seniors Carmen and Cally Ma are fraternal
ple make is that they think twins know everything about each other. However the Ogino twins do share a close bond. Melody says that as twins they “help each other and talk about things that they can’t with other people.” She says that they understand each other the most. Twins are like best friends or siblings that fight and make up like everyone else. “It’s like having someone you can trust,” says Andrew Pham.
Tips for a Healthy Life
SHANAE TO Staff Writer Many teenagers are concerned about their physical appearance such as body shape and size, which can be influenced by the media. Many define beautiful as being tall and skinny. According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 56% of teenagers eat less food, fewer calories, or foods low in fat to lose weight. About 65% exercised to lose weight. Junior Mikala Enciso stated, “I mainly eat healthy because I want to look good in all my clothes.” On the other hand, some teenagers aren't as careful about what they consume and flood their bodies with a great deal of unhealthy snacks. Junior Kelly Ng said, “I eat a lot of snacks, like hot cheetos everyday because [they] are very addicting and delicious.” Some teenagers aren’t worried about their poor eating hab-
its because they may not understand the negative consequences that may result. Consuming a lot of fast foods or unhealthy snacks can lead to obesity. According to the National Institution of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney diseases, 68.8% of adults are overweight. Obesity can put people at risk for health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure. It’s never too late to start eating healthy and getting your diet on track. A healthy diet is balanced and contains nutritious foods. Juicing is an easy way to get fruits and vegetables in your diet. Junior and swimmer Jessica Ly stated, “I try to avoid processed foods and snacks… I try to eat mostly home cooked meals and not fast food.” Drinking plenty of water and getting enough exercise play important factors in maintaining good health. Students are required to take two years of physical education classes, which encourages
And your name is? JOANN KONG Staff Writer Almost every student has heard a substitute teacher say, “Sorry, if I mispronounce your name.” Of course, it’s not only substitute teachers that have problems with pronouncing names. This happens to teachers and students alike. A person’s name is an identifier and holds a special meaning. In some reports, it has shown that many people with names that are difficult to pronounce, are frustrated about trying to get their peers to say their name correctly or forced to deal with a nickname. However, some students at Keppel have learned to find the humor in their situations and to love how unique their name is. At Keppel, unique names such as English versions of Asian first names give teachers and sometimes other students a hard time as they try to sound out each syllables in hopes of saying the name correctly. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always work. Senior GokYan Eng has experienced the awkward situation of a teacher mispronouncing her name and
having to correct them. Eng says that when she was younger, she felt embarrassed when people mispronounced her name but now “appreciates the uniqueness of [her] name.” In addition, junior Amanda Xaypraseuth has a similar problem with her last name. Her last name causes others to hesitate. She has found humor in situations during roll call because she says that when her name comes along “[teachers and substitutes] don’t even try.” The situation is not limited to the Keppel students. Mr. Gualcherani, AP Statistics and Calculus BC teacher, has this problem with his students. While he has allowed his students to call him Mr. G, he says he prefers it when people call him by his full last name because he wants to be unique. Hearing their name mispronounced may cause some frustration and embarrassment for people at first. Over time, the mispronunciation of any name just proves its uniqueness. Although it may be embarrassing for others, Eng says, “thanks for trying.”
Spreading good cheer Senior Karen Salto makes healthy choices at lunch. THE AZTEC/CORY MAK
them to exercise daily. Being required to take the stairs to get to classes is also an example of incorporating excersise into one’s daily routine. It’s important to control your impulses to reach for unhealthy snacks. Another tip is to try to replace junk food with natural, protein-filled foods. Eating healthy foods and getting a good amount of exercise can both work to help achieve students’ goals of a healthier life style.
EDLYN WONG Staff Writer Whether it is your time or your money, donating can not only benefit the community, but also benefit you. According to a recent study by Harvard Business School, charitable behavior can lead to benefits for the giver. First and foremost, donating is a positive way in helping the community or those in need of help. It can be fulfilling knowing that at the end of the day you have contributed to serving others. Senior Brian Wong said, “If it is to a meaningful cause, I think many wealthy people, or anyone in general, should be philanthropists to support the well-being of others.” In a report by the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley, giving to charity expands our gratitude, which is integral to happiness, health, and social bonds. Aside from donating money, other charitable events such as donating clothes, volunteering, or donating blood can also be beneficial factors towards charity.
There are also many opportunities to participate in giving at Keppel such as through the blood drive. Junior Stephanie Ureña, a recent blood donor to the American Red Cross Blood Drive, stated, “It was a great experience knowing that I was able to help others in need.” Another way of becoming active in serving others is through the various service clubs. Many clubs offer community service hours that go towards active membership. In addition, donations toward charity are tax deductible. Not only do you get the satisfaction of giving to others, but you are also rewarded for your act of kindness. Freshman Caitlin Prachasaisoradej said, “I think that it’s good to donate to charities because you are doing a good deed in helping out those who don’t have as much.” A way of becoming involved in our community is through Keppel’s canned food drive. ASB is collecting canned and nonperishable food donations, which will be picked up on November 14 and 19.
Cross country drops in standing from last year BRANDON CHUNG Historian/ Asst. Business Manager This year, the Mark Keppel varsity boys’ cross country team placed fourth in the Almont League while the girls’ placed sixth. Compared to last year’s standings, many of the cross country members are not completely content with their ranking this season. Last year, the boys qualified for CIF and nine members went to represent the team. Although
the outcome of this season was not as great as the team would have liked, they are still satisfied with the results. After their final meet on Thursday, November 6th, freshman and varsity runner Alyssa Wong believed the meet was “bittersweet.” She said, “It was exciting but nerve racking since it was league finals.” However, she thinks that in the end everyone pushed themselves to try their hardest. Despite the loss, cross country coach Jerry Zuniga believes
the team was competitive and had fun in their last meet. He said, “The excitement shown by our team after the race really demonstrated how much pride our runners had.” With only two months to practice, the boys managed to cut down their team average time to 18:04 and come in fourth place, extremely close to making CIF. Members of the team credit various factors for their league standing. The varsity team consists of many experienced upperclassmen.
Many of the members looked up to the upperclassmen for guidance. Another factor that played an important role in league finals was the team’s motivation. “Motivation the day before and training the mind to be in the zone the day of the race helped a lot,” said Zuniga. “Running is almost all mental, as those of you who have run before realized, so this is an important role in running.” However, the team had to get used to having a new coach and starting practices later than
they expected. Wong said, “Our team had to adjust to a new coach that we received later than expected.” Despite this, Zuniga feels that the team did very well. “The team did achieve their full potential based on training for only 2 months,” he said. Overall, despite their place in league, the team is satisfied with their season. They believe that they have built a strong bond over the course of the season and they hope to stay connected even after the season ends.
SPORTS CALENDAR Varsity Girls’ Soccer
Varsity Girls’ Water Polo
Varsity Girls’ Basketball
-11/25 vs. Pasadena @ Keppel 3:30 p.m.
-12/01 vs. Whittier @ Whittier 3:15 p.m.
-11/24 Pallsades Tournament @ TBA
-12/02 vs. Edgewood @ Keppel 3:15 p.m.
-12/09 vs. South Pasadena @ South Pasadena 3:30 p.m.
-12/01 Redondo Tournament @ TBA
Varsity Boys’ Soccer
Varsity Wrestling
Varsity Boys’ Basketball
-11/24 vs. Walnut @ Keppel 3:15 p.m.
-12/12 Gabrielino Tournament @ Gabrielino 3:00 p.m.
-12/01 Sierra Vista Tournament @TBA
-12/01 vs. Cantwell Sacred Heart of Mary @ Keppel 3:15 p.m.
-12/13 Gabrielino Tournament @ Gabrielino 3:00 p.m.
-12/15 La Canada tournament @TBA
G i rl s’ tennis ti es f o r f i r st i n A lmo n t L e a g u e BRIAN YEO & EMILY MU Sports Editor & Asst. Sports Editor
COURTESY OF GRACE LEE Girls’ tennis team poses with league trophy. Top row (left to right): Neva Yeh, Arriana Acuff, Hanh Huynh, Kelly Chan, Michel Lee, Jennifer Ung, Vivian Duong, and Regina Li. Middle row (left to right): Lily Tang, Tiffany Lee, Julie Huynh, Amy Chang, Grace Lee, April Lin, and Maliah Pierribia. Bottom row (left to right): Kimberly Tang, Asama Rungseriruch, Nikki Wang, and Belinda Chen.
The Lady Aztecs tennis team advanced to the second round of CIF play before losing to Rowland High School by a score of 6-12 on November 7. Despite their loss, this season marks the first time the team has made it past the initial stage of CIF in eight years. The Aztecs concluded the regular season with a league record of 6-2, placing them in a three-
way tie for first in the Almont League along with Alhambra and San Gabriel. With the tie, the team was able to retain their title as Almont League champs for the 11th straight year. Building off their league performance, the Aztecs entered CIF and defeated their first round opponent, Lancaster, before their loss to Rowland. Senior and captain Nikki Wang said, “Our final goal was to make it to the finals of CIF, but just making it to second round is pretty good considering
Boys’ water polo narrowly misses CIF
Senior Ivan Arevalo (14) gears up for a shot while junior Mark Wang (5) fends off defender.
AMBER BATCHELOR Editor-in-Chief On November 5th, the boys’ water polo team played against Alhambra High school in order to qualify for CIF. The varsity team started the game with a determined and energetic attitude. With many Keppelites cheering
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on the sidelines at Barnes Park Pool, the Aztecs were further motivated to play to their best ability. Although the Aztecs played hard, Alhambra’s defense was very difficult to break through. Alhambra gained the lead in the beginning of the first quarter, but Keppel responded by picking
up their offense. Soon, senior Nathan Inocencio scored a goal and lessened Alhambra’s lead. Despite the goals made by junior Mark Wang, sophomore Justin Young, and senior Kevin Lee throughout the game, Keppel’s offense wasn’t at its highest potential. The coach believes that the team over-thought their plays too much, but their defense was very strong. Despite this, Alhambra’s skilled offense broke through Keppel’s defense and the fourth quarter ended with a score of 5-7 in favor of Alhambra. Coach Chan said that the team played to the best of their ability, however their over confidence acted as a weakness. He said, “Because we beat them twice, Alhambra came back with a
vengeance . [Alhambra’s] minds were set to win and they were more focused.” Coach Chan also believes that Alhambra’s coach taught the team well and helped Alhambra improve. Overall, the team thinks that they have grown throughout the season. Senior Chris Lam said, “We were a young team with little experience and we had to learn quickly and get things done.” Although the team was disappointed with the loss, they appreciate the time they had together. Coach Chan says he is very proud of the team this year and how they have grown. He said, “My goal [as a coach] is to build good people through the sport, not just professional players,” and he believes that he was successful.
Girls’ volleyball shifts focus to next season
Football season comes to a close
BRIAN CHEN & BRIAN YEO Website Editor/Asst. Viewpoint Editor & Sports Editor
CRISTIAN JIMENEZ & AMBER BATCHELOR Staff Writer & Editor-in-Chief
The girls’ volleyball team concluded their Almont League season with a 0-3 set loss to the Bell Gardens Lancers on November 4. Playing in front of a supportive crowd at Aztec Stadium, the entire team rallied behind the varsity seniors who were playing their last game. Despite the team’s collective effort, the Aztecs fell behind the Lancers in the first set. Through better communication, the Aztecs were able to win a few points before conceding the first set. The team ended up losing the following sets but the seniors were able to go out to chants of “Let’s go, Aztecs!” from the fans. The Aztecs finished the year with a 0-10 record in the Almont League, but Coach Francis Chu believes that the record does not tell the entire story. “The girls deserve credit,” he said. “The numbers don’t reflect the progress that
they made.” There was a large turnover from last year, which caused half of the team to be new varsity members and the team’s self-professed lack of height. In spite of this, the Aztecs were able to stay competitive in many of their games. The story behind the numbers is shown in what Coach Chu considers the season’s most memorable game, a 2-3 defeat to Schurr. In that game, the team battled back after a 0-2 deficit, pushing the game to five sets. “It would have been easy to give up at that point,” Chu said. The team is hoping to translate this attitude into wins for next season. However, seniors Desiree Ha, Shiva Taghdis, Joanna Wu, Emily Truong, Michelle Ojiri, Alexis Basa, Rebecca Flores, and Samantha Mendez are graduating this year. Chu believes that to alleviate the loss of experienced members, next year’s team will feature players more specialized in aspects of the game.
Mark Keppel’s varsity football team played their final game in league against Schurr at Schurr high school on Friday, November 7th, Keppel was able to start the first quarter well. The team’s defense was good at pushing Schurr back from advancing, allowing them to score only once in the first quarter. However, as soon as the second quarter started, the Aztecs lost focus and their defense weakened. Schurr scored within the first two minutes of the quarter and continued to score after that. As the second quarter came to an end, the Aztecs were beginning to lose hope. As half time was about to end, Coach Sepulveda gave the team a pep talk and they entered the third quarter feeling more motivated. However, the team’s efforts weren’t enough to lessen Schurr’s lead. Keppel’s offense was unable to break through
Schurr’s line of defense and the game ended with a final score of 0-35. When reflecting on the game, junor Ruben Arauz said, “In the first quarter, our defense was making stops and a lot of tackles, but by the second quarter mistakes took over. When one person makes a mistake, the whole team feeds on it and starts to fall apart.” Despite the defeat, a lot of players were moved by the coach’s decision to play everyone. Senior Georgina Abuede said, “It was very thoughtful because even though the coach wanted to win, he also wanted to give everyone a fair chance to play.” While the team did not do as well as they had hoped this season, they are happy they were able to bond. Abuede said, “We bonded a lot and we stayed united as a team. We made mistakes but we didn’t hold grudges.” She, and many other players on the team, are saddened that their season has come to an end.
we didn’t get past the first round last year.” Now that the season is over, the entire team, including seniors, is already looking forward to next season. Senior April Lin is optimistic on the outlook for next year’s team. “I'm really enthusiastic about next year's tennis team because we have a lot of new promising members,” she said. The team now has until next season to prepare to defend their title for a 12th year and possibly make a deeper CIF run.
Athlete’s Profile: Danny Moreno
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EMILY MU Asst. Sports Editor Senior Daniel Moreno has been on the varsity football team for three years. He has been playing football since he was five and has been on the Keppel team for all four years playing linebacker, quarterback, wide receiver, safety, and running back. This season he has scored 14 touchdowns and gained over 1300 yards. Moreno said, “Football runs in my blood. Football means a lot to me because I have spent my whole childhood playing this sport.” He says football makes him humble and inspires him to work hard. His biggest influences are his brothers, his parents, and Albert Mejia. In the future, Moreno plans to play college football if he can get a scholarship. If not, he will go to a junior college and then transfer to play at a Division 1 college. His dream is to play in the NFL one day. Moreno’s biggest accomplishment in football is getting 1st-team defense and MVP. He said, “My team means a lot to me because I go to war with them every Friday.” He would like to give shout-outs to his family, and his “squad” of seniors Albert Mejia, Arlene Anguiano, Avory Hernandez, Nick Don, Rebekah De La Pena, Raymond Morales, Brandon Lam, Jessica Holguin, and Jessie Medina.