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OPINION PAGE 2 PALOS VERDES PENINSULA HIGH SCHOOL PVPHSNEWS.COM
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FLAG FOOTBALL FRENZY SPORTS PAGE 13
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Opinion
IN IT TO QUIT IT AARUSHI CHAUDHARI The drug overdose mortality rate in California is 10,901 deaths per year, which is the highest out of all 50 states (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). To combat this rate, California legislature decided to pave a new path toward widespread sobriety through contingency management. Addicts can earn small incentives or payments for every negative drug test over a certain period of time. People who complete the program without any positive tests earn a sum of money that is supplied into a gift card. In 2021, the federal government found success testing contingency management with military veterans who have had addictions to stimulants in places where there are no pharmaceutical treatments available. Gov. Gavin Newsom asked the federal government to use tax dollars to fund contingency management in California through Medicaid, which gives lowincome people access to health services. A bill to make this legal is currently circulating through the state legislature. Economics experts are not afraid of the cost to fund the programs as it costs $286,000 per 1,000 people, which is only a small dent in comparison to California’s operating budget of over $262 million. In the 24 weeklong program, the payments increase by small increments each week, so by the end of the program, they can earn up to $599 (Associated Press News). The idea of earning money attracts many addicts to contingency management because they believe that it will cure their habits. However, it is not worthwhile to put effort into a program that only focuses on external rewards, rather than internal motivation as the driving factor towards sobriety. “I feel conflicted about [contingency management] using tax dollars,” senior Christopher Yeh said. “On one hand, it could prevent [addicts] from becoming homeless, or from hurting their families if it works. On the other hand, we are only paying them because they did drugs [in the first place]. A lot of the time, addiction stems from underlying issues, such as trouble at home or stress, and unless those problems are solved, one might resume doing drugs.” While economics is still a deciding factor in this matter, the duration of the implemented program needs to be considered. Since contingency management is a short-term program, it will, in turn, warrant short-term results. Rehabilitation facilities and programs have been a concept since the 1930s, and have shown that dedication over a long time period can lead to long-term sobriety. Treatment that lasts less than 90 days offers some results, but longer stays ensure a lasting quality that contingency management lacks (Peaks Recovery Centers). Rehabilitation programs provide addicts with
resources they need for recovery and time to cleanse themselves of addictive substances. Along with this, rehabilitation programs use scientifically proven methods to obtain results, such as illnessspecific treatment and cognitive behavioral therapy (Peaks Recovery Center). In short-term programs, total abstinence from drugs leads to a greater likelihood of relapse. Rehabilitation centers also offer medication therapy, the use of medication in order to begin the process of detox. Certain medications, like methadone and buprenorphine, are administered and prescribed by medical professionals in controlled conditions, where they are safe for treating particular drug addictions. Having medical therapy before detox can be a very helpful tool, because it eases the transition of acclimating their bodies to withstand the lack of drugs entering their systems. This has been proven effective, since nearly 50% of those who receive medication-assisted treatment for detox successfully complete treatment and achieve abstinence (Meta Addiction Treatment). Overall, therapy programs provide a wide range of support through medicine and community that is not as accessible in contingency management. “There should be different programs explored before we definitively settle on contingency management,” Economics and Advanced Placement Economics teacher Allen Aronson said. “There are so many unknown parameters surrounding contingency management that it is hard to say what the best solution is. For now, we should find alternatives before the bill is passed.” A large part of how contingency management stays successful for a short period of time is because in order for them to want to recover, addicts need to perceive the foreseeable benefits that sobriety holds. Money is a physical object that they can see increase over time, however mental benefits, such as happiness and energy, are more difficult for them to understand as benefits of sobriety when preoccupied with an addiction. It is also very easy to get looped into the idea of getting paid for negative drug tests because they get the money after short increments of time, but rehabilitation programs require an immense amount of motivation just to begin the process of
recovery. This can be seen through 54-year-old J.W. ‘s experience with contingency management, and how it impacted him. J.W. was given multiple Safeway gift cards over the course of 12 weeks for showing up to appointments, negative drug tests or taking his medication. He expressed how much he valued these gift cards as they gave him the opportunity to buy himself treats that would otherwise not be as accessible to him. After 12 weeks passed, J.W. relapsed. Even though he was initially motivated by the idea of money, it was not enough for him to stay sober. J.W.’s story also shows that his sobriety was dependent on an external reward. For a longer-lasting effect, addicts need internal motivation that can only be offered through therapies in rehabilitation centers (Cal Matters). Cognitive behavioral therapy offers a way for patients to modify their attitude toward drug use by altering addicts’ attitude towards drugs which, in turn, affects their actions. “I can understand how people can get hooked on the idea of receiving money for something they think they can easily control,” senior Aazaan Chhabra said. “However, I think that the appeal of that fades away after they see the money will not make them feel any better or change their habits.”
JULIETTE LIN
EDITOR: ALENA RHOADES
Opinion
IT IS ABOUT BLOODY TIME MCKENNA MCCALLISTER & NOMUNDARI TSOGMAGNAI The dread wraps around her body and settles in her stomach. Is she just sweaty? Is it discharge? Or is it…her period? These are the anxieties and worries that plague menstruating students across the world and keep them from being mentally present in school. Perhaps they go to the bathroom to check and maybe, by some miracle, they find a crumpled pad in their backpack. Or maybe they do not, and their only option is to walk sheepishly through campus to the health office, bleeding all the way there. People who menstruate feel they must bear this burden alone because society condemns periods as a taboo topic and too personal to share with others. Billions of individuals are made to feel ashamed every month by such a natural process when instead they should be able to menstruate with dignity. The enactment of the recent Menstrual Equity for All Act called for the offering of free menstrual products in public schools and beyond, a great first step in fighting period stigma. It was not until the Period Project was created on campus in 2022 that this conversation finally began at Peninsula. It is imperative to understand that period products are not a luxury, but a medical necessity. Although dispensers were installed throughout campus in various bathrooms, functionality was minimal and they were not restocked throughout the year to account for usage. Peninsula students have visited schools like Redondo Union for years and each time they come back with the same question: why do their dispensers work and ours does not? There can be a myriad of factors, including lack of allocated funding, lack of resources or it could just be that they cannot be bothered. Either way, it is absurd that a club had to be formed in order for the school to be pressured into taking action and properly supplying the dispensers with products. Going beyond being able to focus in school, period poverty is apparent throughout the U.S. with around 25% of menstruating persons struggling to afford menstrual products (Meng House). Legislation promoting accessibility and affordability have only recently started popping up in 2021
On Sept. 6, Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) faced a lawsuit over their newly-implemented policy, which states that parents are required to be notified when their children identify as a different gender than the one listed on their official paperwork. The judge overseeing the case has temporarily halted this policy from taking effect while the lawsuit is ongoing. This ruling has sparked a major debate across the state among students and educators surrounding transgender rights and parental involvement in education. While there are benefits to parents being involved in their child’s life, there is no good that can come from outing someone’s gender identity before they are ready, as this can pose a threat to the child’s safety and violate their rights by disclosing private information. Attorney General Rob Bonta, who is behind the lawsuit, argues that the school board’s policy is essentially outing transgender students to their parents, opposing privacy rights and potentially endangering them. Children are likely to withhold their identity when they know their parents are not accepting of the LGBTQ+ community and by releasing this information without the child’s consent, increased victimization could result. Furthermore, this policy contradicts the fundamental idea that schools should be safe and welcoming for all students. “The parents asking [for] their kids be outed to them by their teachers are [likely] unaware of the high suicide attempt rates among the LGBTQ+ community,” Spanish 3 Honors, AVID 12 teacher and Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) club adviser Mariana Donahoe said. “If their children are not sharing with them their sexual orientation or gender identity, that is something they need to figure out as a family and not put it on teachers.” Despite the judge’s ruling, parents in CVUSD continue to defend the policy, stating they have a right to be involved with their children’s lives. They claim their drive to have this active role is due to genuine concern for their child’s well-being, especially with sensitive matters surrounding gender and sexual orientation. Many parents believe staying informed is in their child’s best interest as they are crucial in providing the support and guidance that is needed for development. Some CVUSD parents have expressed concerns about their child’s experiences, such as a mother to an 11-year-old daughter who underwent the process of social transitioning to a boy and later decided to re-identify as a girl (AP News). This mother and other parents think that there are external influences or societal pressures on their children, which leads them to question whether their
THE PEN PALOS VERDES PENINSULA HIGH SCHOOL
27118 Silver Spur Rd, despite centuries of struggle and discomfort. It is baffling that it has Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 taken so long to start to fight the uphill battles of period poverty and pink tax. EDITORS IN CHIEF Menstrual products are as essential as toilet paper and should be McKenna McCallister provided with the same abundance. Previous legislation has required Nomundari Tsogmagnai schools to show proof of having 40% of their student population experiencing poverty before providing funds for proper feminine MANAGING EDITOR hygiene products. This contingency mindset is what keeps menstruation Josie Kwak legislation from reaching its potential. Some may say having free and accessible menstrual products in all schools is too optimistic of a goal, HEADS OF DESIGN but to those who menstruate, it is an inalienable human right. Estimates Brian Wang from the National Organization of Women report that the typical Lynn Takahashi menstruator has to spend an average of $20 per menstrual cycle. That is $20 less to spend on food, rent and other necessary costs every month, HEAD OF BUSINESS which can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Menstruating people Kylie Baik should not suffer financially from a process in which they have no choice. Period poverty disproportionately affects people of color and their ADVISER standard of living. As the prices of period products balloon from Jaymee DeMeyer inflation, those living in economically disadvantaged areas are forced to turn to other alternatives. According to a survey conducted by the PUBLICITY organization Parents, 20% of Black people have to resort to utilizing Savanna Messner Rodriguez toilet paper and fabrics. Although the Menstrual Equity for All Act Ricardo Escalante provides traction, a rough trail has to be trekked in order to provide equitable opportunities for everyone. It is of utmost importance to OPINION educate the population on the facts of periods and their effect on the EDITOR: Alena Rhoades mental and physical well-being of a substantial portion of the public. WRITERS: Sura Kiasatpour Periods should not be whispered as a secret that travels from an ear, to Aarushi Chaudhari an open palm, to a trash can wrapped in toilet paper. The stigmatization of periods must end. Society needs to do its part to ensure the comfort of NEWS a process that should have been naturalized a long time ago. It is about EDITOR: Sivan Stoler bloody time. WRITERS: Gunnar Lee Tilli Wakefield-Carl
PRONOUNS ARE NOT POLITICS SURA KIASATPOUR
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FOCUS EDITOR: Juliette Lin WRITERS: Jihoon Kwon Caori DeGuzman
child’s decisions are genuine or if they are being influenced by their surroundings. However, in reality, experimenting with one’s gender and sexuality is not an unnatural thing. Gender identity can exist on STUDENT LIFE a spectrum and can change over time as one discovers more about EDITOR: Zahra Habib themselves. Kids feel safer experimenting in different environments Angelina Wang such as school, which is intended to be a secure place. However, this WRITERS: Melina Ajami safe space for self-expression is gradually diminishing. Just one month Jacelyn Chen before the parental notification rule was enacted, there was a ban on pride flags in classrooms, making an even broader group of children feel ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT unwelcomed (Daily Bulletin). SPORTS “I have a lot of friends who say to me if [they] come out as gay or EDITOR: Tessa Kang WRITERS: Ani Pascale trans, [they] will be kicked out of [their] family,” senior and president of Neha Sambangi the GSA club Max Conrad said. “[This policy,] opens a whole world of problems which could then lead to academic failure [and] homelessness.” GRAPHICS The policy serves little value and does more harm than good to trans Abby Lee students who may not be ready to come out to adults or family members. Angie Jo Matters of sexuality and gender identity are a touchy subject among Anthony Jang parents as the older generation tends to be less open to changing societal Ari Ortiz norms. Often, experimentation is done outside of home, giving kids Caori DeGuzman time to figure themselves out before getting an adult involved, which Chloe Dimick this policy prevents. It is also making its way around other California Jiselle Nguyen districts, namely several Christian middle schools in Escondido. The Juliette Lin teachers at the middle schools exemplify the damaging impact of this Kiara Lee policy, claiming that to hide children transitioning goes against their religious beliefs and freedom of speech. There has also been talk among ADS parents in the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District about Caide Jung having the school board implement a similar policy. Frederica Nishioka “I do not think [the policy will affect our students because] I have faith Kana Fujimoto-Taitano in our district,” junior Neekta Baghoolizadeh said. “If it comes [down to it], I know that myself, and many others would be very outspoken, and “The Pen” is the newspaper do our best to get our voices heard on such a clearly unjust policy. [I produced by the journalism students think it would be similar to] the SavePVSchools movement [in the of Palos Verdes Peninsula High sense that] it was vastly shut down where a group was upset that a School. Advertising inquiries may [fifth grade] class read a book with a transgender main character. be directed to Head of Business A group of GSA members and other people from the community Kylie Baik (424) 458-8395 that wanted to support went to the board meeting where this issue Copyright © 2023 was discussed and they massively outshone the original group. So, I am confident our school district will handle these topics with the COVER DESIGN BY kindness [people in the LGBTQ+ community] deserve.” BRIAN WANG & LYNN TAKAHASHI
News
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WRITERS RILED FOR RIGHTS GUNNAR LEE For the first time in 15 years, the Writers Guild of America (WGA), a union of 11,500 Hollywood writers, went on strike against the Alliance of Motion Pictures and Television Producers (AMPTP), representing major Hollywood companies. This was declared in May after the WGA and AMPTP’s triennial negotiations broke down. Furthermore, the Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, representing 160,000 actors, joined the strikes in July, marking the first time since 1960 that Hollywood actors and writers went on strike at the same time (New York Times). Many television shows have been forced to halt production as a result of the strikes. This pause has had the most impact on talk shows and little impact on streaming giants such as Netflix, who have a steady stream of unreleased completed content. Despite stating that they supported the strikes, multiple talk shows, such as the Drew Barrymore Show, resumed production, leading to backlash claiming that they were not standing with the writers and the show subsequently going back on pause (British Broadcasting Service). The WGA and AMPTP then scheduled a meeting to open negotiations and bring an end to the strikes in mid September and on Sept. 26 the WGA and the film studios reached a tentative agreement to end the strikes (The Hollywood
Reporter). The agreement addressed the WGA’s main concerns by giving them a streaming residual based on viewership and guaranteeing that material generated by artificial intelligence (AI) would not be given credit over writers (CNBC News). The strikes have had a massive economic impact on unemployment. The pause in production has put crew members such as set designers, prop houses and makeup artists out of work, with Disney and Warner Brothers laying off thousands of employees. Experts estimate that a prolonged strike could cost California’s economy at least $3 billion, a billion more than the successful 2007 WGA Strikes, which was also spurred by low residuals (Forbes). The WGA claims that about $30 million is lost daily due to the strikes (Washington Post). Concerned for the effects it may have on California’s economy, Gov. Gavin Newsom offered to mediate between the two sides, so that both their concerns are addressed and the Hollywood industry can resume (The Hill). Sophomore Keita Kimoto, has evaluated the earnings of the film industry and believes that the damage to California’s economy will not be as drastic as the experts claim. “Especially for big shows, they usually have a budget of $10 million per episode,” Kimoto said. “If they are not able to get to that budget for a long period of time, it will cause vast economic damage, especially for companies like Disney who distribute those shows to the public. So it is good that [the strikes] happened this year because it was a [successful] year for the film industry in terms of box office records. Good films [were released], like ‘Super Mario Brothers,’ ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer.’ The writers are setting a precedent: when the whole film industry does [well], the people involved get their fair share.” The actors’ and writers’ main
concerns lie in streaming residuals and AI. Streaming has become more popular, especially in the wake of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic when movie theaters closed. A major problem writers have with streaming industries is the payment they receive. In traditional television, writers would work on more than 20 episodes per season, and would receive residuals whenever a show was licensed, providing them with a steady salary (New York Times). In contrast, with the age of streaming, not only have seasons become shorter, but shows stay on the streaming platform throughout the year, resulting in writers being paid fixed residuals, with some checks being below $10 per season (CNBC News). A particular target for strikers is putting an end to mini rooms, writing rooms in which a small group of writers work more for lower residuals (New York Times). Freshman Summer Kniffin believes that mini-rooms only have a negative impact on writers. “If I were to be in a room with more people, I could get more ideas,” Kniffin said. “Being in a smaller room with less people trying to write something and getting paid less would not be productive and result in lower quality writing.” Another major factor in the strikes is the issue of AI and its implications for the screenwriting industry. Although both sides acknowledge that the implementation of AI in the industry is inevitable, the issue is how AI is applied (Associated Press). Writers and actors are concerned that AI will replicate their writing and recreate their likenesses without their consent or payment. The WGA stated that they would allow AI to be used to help writers shape their creative process as long as the AI does not get credit for the writer’s work. Junior Kynam Lenghiem, President of the Cinematic Design Club, believes that although writers should not be replaced by AI, it is becoming more and more likely that they will. “[AI] can try its hardest to be like a human but it can never fully emulate a writer who has experiences under [their] belt, [which they can] put into [their] writing,” Lenghiem said. “At the same time, there is something to be said about replacing since AI is getting good at emulating these people, even if [it]cannot fully replace what they are trying to do. That is where the problem gets dire: people are starting to be unable to tell the difference between writers and AI.”
ARI ORTIZ
News News News
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BRAWL AT THE MALL BRAWL AT THE MALL TILLIANA WAKEFIELD-CARL TILLIANA WAKEFIELD-CARL
This is not the only brawl that has occurred on belong and that they are missing out, they try to put National Cinema Day.brawl In many throughout their frustrations and anxiety into fitting in with This is not the only that malls has occurred on belong and that they are missing out, they try to put the U.S., the discounted movie theater tickets led to the crowd. They also follow the trends they find on On the afternoon of Aug. 27, a brawl broke out National Cinema Day. In many malls throughout their frustrations and anxiety into fitting in with large crowds that beganmovie to fight. One tickets such incident social media.” between teenagersof atAug. the Del Fashion U.S., the discounted theater led to the crowd. They also follow the trends they find on the On the afternoon 27, Amo a brawl brokeCenter. out occurred at the Crossgates Mall in Albany, New The fighting resulted in injuries and property The Torrance Police Department (TPD) received social media.” large crowds that began to fight. One such incident between teenagers at the Del Amo Fashion Center. York, around p.m on Mall the same day. Much damage, which local law and a call around 4 p.m., disclosing (TPD) that a received large group occurred at the7:34 Crossgates in Albany, New like The fighting resulted in enforcement injuries and property The Torrance Police Department the Del Amo brawl, several small fights broke out paramedics rushed to address. Though gunfire was of around juveniles werethat fighting among York, around 7:34 p.m on the same day. Much like damage, which local law enforcement and a call around1000 4 p.m., disclosing a large group throughout the mall despite starting at the movie reported by a witness, authorities have confirmed near the AMC 18 theater, paramedics rushed to address. Though gunfire was the Del Amo brawl, several small fights broke out of themselves around 1000 juveniles were fighting located among theater (News 10). Malls from around the movie Bay that no by onea was shot authorities (Los Angeles Times). on the second level of the mall. As Aug. 27 was reported witness, have confirmed throughout the mall despite starting at the themselves near the AMC 18 theater, located Area have reported similar conflicts around Throughout this event, businesses were not ordered Cinema discounted theater (News 10). Malls from around the Bay their that no one was shot (Los Angeles Times). onNational the second level Day, of thefeaturing mall. As $4 Aug. 27 was theaters. A brawl broke outconflicts in a mall in Emeryville, to close by law enforcement; however, some did tickets,Cinema witnesses described a large group rushing have reported similar around their Throughout this event, businesses were not ordered Area National Day, featuring $4 discounted California, involving hundreds of teens on Sunday decide to lock their doors in the heat of the moment. to get into the AMC movie theater. Neighboring to close by law enforcement; however, some did theaters. A brawl broke out in a mall in Emeryville, tickets, witnesses described a large group rushing afternoon.involving Teens were seen engaging and NBC to Los Angeles reported thatheat around 9 p.m., the California, departments were theater. called on site to assist in decide lock their doors in the of the moment. hundreds of teensin onfights Sunday to police get into the AMC movie Neighboring disturbances inside stores. In one fight, a teen was TPD officers had cleared the mall of the crowds response to the size of the crowd. According afternoon. Teens were seen engaging in fights and police departments were called on site to assisttointhe NBC Los Angeles reported that around 9 p.m., the stabbed and a gunshot was fired in the middle of the of people. Employees at the mall reported that Daily Breeze, reported that the brawl disturbances inside stores. In one fight, a teen was TPD officers had cleared the mall of the crowds response to the employees size of the crowd. According to the dispute. This sparked community discussions about this was the second incident at the Del Amo mall began at theemployees mall’s movie theaterthat before of people. Employees at the mall reported that stabbed and a gunshot was fired in the middle of the Daily Breeze, reported the spreading brawl within a month (Daily Breeze). Sophomore Claire dispute. youth safety. City council members are working to elsewhere in the shopping center. The group of This sparked community discussions about this was the second incident at the Del Amo mall began at the mall’s movie theater before spreading Marcus thinks that better communication between find ways for teenagers to safely gather in public. teenagers also seencenter. running past restaurants youth safety. City council members are working to within a month (Daily Breeze). Sophomore Claire elsewhere inwere the shopping The group of the mall’s administration and security would have find Tiffany a parent a Peninsula and stores, with some entering the businesses Marcus thinks that better communication between ways forLau, teenagers to of safely gather instudent, public. teenagers were also seen running past restaurants stopped the brawl. feels that a better environment needsstudent, to be created and becoming violent after employees asked them Tiffany Lau, a parent of a Peninsula the mall’s administration and security would have and stores, with some entering the businesses “Since mall knew a lot more people would for kids they can let out pent up energy and feel to becoming make room for customers (NBC Los Angeles). feels that asobetter environment needs to be created stopped thethe brawl. and violent after employees asked them be going to the theater and that similar fights had that they belong. When they do not feel a sense of Sophia concludes that Los the event not “Since the mall knew a lot more people would for kids so they can let out pent up energy and feel to Senior make room forLei customers (NBC Angeles). happened [across] the country, they should have belonging, they react and sometimes respond in only highlighted the concern about safetynot in the that they belong. When they do not feel a sense of the be going to the theater and that similar fights had Senior Sophia Lei concludes that the event let security know ahead of time,” Marcus said. “It aggressivethey wayreact seenand in the recent brawls. younger generation but alsoabout brought attention belonging, sometimes respond in the only highlighted the concern safety in the to the happened [across] the country, they should have was incredibly irresponsible of Del Amo to not “As a parent, [it is] heart-wrenching to see such pressures felt as a teenager. let security know ahead of time,” Marcus said. “It aggressive way seen in the recent brawls. younger generation but also brought attention to the have planned [proactively]. The mall management violence among young people,” Lau said. “We need “These kinds situations make me anxious,” “As a parent, [it is] heart-wrenching to see such was incredibly irresponsible of Del Amo to not pressures felt as a of teenager. certainly had the power to avoid the brawl all to understand why this happened and how we can Lei said.kinds “I feeloflike there is make a lot ofme peer pressure violence among young people,” Lau said. “We need have planned [proactively]. The mall management “These situations anxious,” together if they had only alerted the security or even prevent terrible events like it from occurring. Our fit in,“Iand leads to things getting certainly had the power to avoid the brawl all to understand why this happened and how we can Leitosaid. feelsometimes like there isthat a lot of peer pressure public law enforcement.” kids’ safety is paramount.” out of control. When people feel like they do not prevent terrible events like it from occurring. Our together if they had only alerted the security or even to fit in, and sometimes that leads to things getting public law enforcement.” kids’ safety is paramount.” out of control. When people feel like they do not
EDITOR: SIVAN STOLER EDITOR: SIVAN STOLER
CHLOE DIMICK Chloe Dimick CHLOE DIMICK Editor: Sivan Stoler
Ari Oritz
Sivan Stoler
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Meet The Leadership EDITOR-IN-CHIEF I am Nomundari Tsogmagnai but I usually go by Nomi! I am one of the co-EICs this year for the publication and this is my 4th year on staff. My favorite thing to do is sleep but there is a 95% chance you can catch me at Pho Hana or Boba Time. My go to boba time order is a lavender milk tea with easy boba, no ice and milk foam. I am also the Outreach lead for robotics, a senior captain for Academic Decathlon, a shift manager at Boba Time and a pre-trial lawyer for Mock Trial! Hoping to publish more than four issues this year! EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hi, I am McKenna McCallister and one of the EICs this year! My favorite things to do are to binge watch Netflix, cuddle with my dogs and go on walks along the cliffs. I am the proud founder and president of the Embodying Love club where we raise Eating Disorder awareness. Outside of school I work at Kumon Academy, volunteer as an operator at Community Helpline and act as the Public Relations Chairman for the San Pedro Chapter of the Assisteens Charity League. This is my third and last year on staff, but I am excited to leave my mark on the publication. MANAGING EDITOR Hi, my name is Josie Kwak! I am the managing editor, and this is my third year on staff. I have two cats named Jackie (pictured) and Billy, who are the loves of my life. In my free time, I love to listen to music and ASMR if I need to relax. I also love to go thrifting and spend an excessive amount of time and money on overpriced Etsy items! HEAD OF GRAPHICS Hi, I am Brian Wang, one of the Heads of Graphics working on The Pen. I enjoy the beach and going out for food, although I am mildly lactose intolerant. This year, I am a captain of the water polo team, a member of Peninsula’s ASB and a Head Photographer on yearbook. I am excited to see what we can do this year!
HEAD OF GRAPHICS I am Lynn Takahashi, and one of the graphics heads for the newspaper. This is my fourth year on staff! I love taking stupid pictures of my dog, and going on late night drives with my friends! I also play the Taiko, a Japanese traditional drum, and am a part of Assembly. I also love watching “One Piece” and playing FPS games!
HEAD OF ADS & PUBLICITY Hi! I am Kylie Baik and a senior at Pen! I am the head of ads and publicity for our wonderful school newspaper team and this is my second year on staff! I love dogs and meeting new people. I am also a huge napper, so I typically take two to three hour naps after school everyday. Another fun fact about me is that I transferred from a British international school in Korea during my sophomore year, but I unfortunately do not have a British accent.
Panther Corner
PANTHER PUFFS JOSIE KWAK Ever since Michelle Obama implemented the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act in 2010, students have been offered more whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables— but at a steep cost. Original Lays’ Chips have been replaced by their inferior, baked crisps, which can only be likened to potato-flavored drywall. Bubbly, sweet Coca Cola has been swapped with watered-down Switch juices, which are not as sparkling or refreshing as their advertisements make them out to be. Flavorless cereal bars and cold, stale Pop-Tarts perpetually remain in the vending machines, waiting to be eaten. Simply put, Peninsula’s snacking landscape is lacking.
LYNN TAKAHASHI
However, there is one shrivel of hope left for those of us who have functioning taste buds: Cheeto Puffs. Their curious arrival to the vending machines this year has led many starving teenagers to the cafeteria: with their $1.25 price, students can simply fish out five quarters and quickly chomp on this cheesy, airy, heaven-sent snack. Coins jangle, vending machines jostle and bags crinkle open, producing a beautiful, almost magical symphony. Of course, Cheetos are not the most nourishing food, with their scarily orangish powder and intriguing scent. However, nobody is going to the vending machines for anything healthy. At most, students seek a quick pickme-up, nothing less, nothing more.
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Focus
LAHAINA LEIS
MAUI FIRES SPARK BURNING QUESTIONS JIHOON KWON & ELLE YOUNG Starting on Aug. 8, a series of wildfires driven by Hurricane Dora smited the island of Maui, Hawaii. It has been estimated by the Maui police department that the wildfires took nearly 100 lives, with 30 more missing, making it the deadliest wildfire in the past 100 years. Additionally, at least 2,200 buildings have been destroyed, which is estimated to be $5.5 billion dollars in property damage (University of Hawaii). The damage of the fire is indisputable; however, the cause is currently up for debate. The Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), the largest provider of electricity for Hawaii residents, has been blamed for causing the wildfires due to its refusal to turn off power lines even when alerted of the fragility of the system under the hazardous weather conditions. Many witnessed fallen power lines sparking fires, and the poor quality of the company’s wooden electrical poles, exposed to the elements, did not help the issue (The Guardian). This led to multiple lawsuits being filed against HECO, including one from the County of Maui itself. Although there is a lack of clear evidence, scientists also suspect climate change to have contributed to the wildfires. They argue that parts of Maui have been facing severe drought due to the changes in temperature and precipitation levels, which made them susceptible to burning (Cable News Network). These invasive plants put the area under a risk of catching fire since they are highly flammable, fueling the spread of the fire. Although scientists requested funds to ensure safety measures, these requests were often sidelined (National Broadcasting Company). Advanced Placement Environmental Science, Biology Honors and Physiology and Anatomy teacher Ben Smith agrees that they lack enough data to pinpoint one single cause of the wildfires. “While data is still being gathered on the causes of the Maui fires, experts are placing a great deal of focus on the primary cause being active power lines,” Smith said. “[They were] blown over due to the high winds of the hurricane, causing vegetation that was relatively dry to ignite and quickly spread. Regarding the climate issues, it is currently noted by most experts that climate change of the warming variety is associated with an increase in hurricane wind intensity. [As for] human environmental interference, experts have noted several factors that magnified the fire outbreaks: active power lines were blown over and started the fire, and vegetation was not maintained.” In addition, the Maui government’s insufficient response to the wildfires during their early stages escalated the situation as the government claimed the issue had been contained completely, did not use the world’s largest sirens that it claims to have and did not send out any form of warning to the residents until flames had already singed Lahaina (British Broadcasting Corporation). Sophomore Bella Lizaso, who is of Pacific Islander descent and was visiting Maui with her family during the firestorm, believes that the government’s addressing of the situation was lacking and that it should have taken earlier actions to prevent further casualties.
“When we were there, [the government] did [not] fully issue a warning,” Lizaso said. “We got a broadcast [stating] that there was a small brush fire that was nothing critical and [were advised] to stay put and not evacuate. Once we tried to drive back to our hotel there was a huge line of cars and all the police were turning people around…We were able to rest [in our Airbnb] for two hours when at two in the morning smoke started coming into our room and we quickly evacuated. It was three a.m. and we saw huge clouds of smoke from the fire next to us. We had lost all our luggage; we only had our rental car and phones which all had died with no charger.” The fire caused irreversible damage to the town of Lahaina, Maui, as at least four museums and thousands of artifacts were burned; some of these cherished items included an original flag of the Hawaiian kingdom, Hawaiian feather work, furniture, photographs and objects made of kapa, a traditional type of fabric made with tree bark (Archeological Institution of America). This was partly due to the fact that the town itself contained several old wooden structures that proved easily flammable (Time). Maui’s economy has taken a nosedive as businesses in the area struggle with the cost of damage (Reuters). Additionally, the fires caused a great reduction in the number of tourists, which is worrisome due to the fact that the majority of the island’s profits come from tourism. Before the wildfire, the passenger count to Kahului Airport in Maui was 7,000 a day; following the wildfire, the count decreased to 2,000 a day with over 20,000 passengers canceling their flights to Hawaii (Department
EDITOR: JULIETTE LIN CAORI DEGUZMAN
of Business Economic Development and Tourism). However, senior Julian Lona, who is passionate about the environmental impacts of the fires, believes tourism in Maui will bounce back with the implementation of the right safety measures. “I definitely love Maui,” Lona said. “I very much want to go back and visit the place again. A fire like this [will not] stop the people from visiting [the area] and it will bring in more revenue, more tourism and more support. It is very important to have a better fire fighting force more readily available. Removal of certain dry materials around the city [is also important]; that way there would be a natural barrier that would prevent the fire from getting through, as well as more funding for the construction of more fire resistant buildings. [By introducing the] correct fire prevention, [nobody will] suffer as much as they did from this fire.”
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Focus
S SET ABLAZE
VACATION OR GENTRIFICATION?
CAORI DEGUZMAN For those who come from immigrant families to people who have grown up with summertime visits to the archipelago, Hawaii is widely regarded as a second home to many. Hawaii is most well-known as a popular tropical getaway to flock to over the summer, with $2 billion spent by visitors from all over the globe in June 2023, a 22.9% increase in spending from June 2019 (Maui Now). Due to recent developments, vacationing in Hawaii now holds more weight. As the new school year approached in August, so did the news of the Maui wildfires. For many native Hawaiians, what was reported at the beginning of August is the farthest from a freak accident. Throughout the month, news outlets relayed the cause and effect of the wildfires. The dubbed “Lahaina disaster” supposedly started when snapped power lines made contact with dry grass, damaging a significant amount of infrastructure and cultural
grounds in western Maui (Hawaii News Now). The history behind the sporadic and seemingly unnatural dryness of Maui can be traced back to the destructive actions of the U.S. military during World War II. According to Physiology and Anatomy teacher Kurt Barcenilla, who is of native Hawaiian descent, the former American military bombing site and uninhabited island, Kaho’olawe, is one of the places where the U.S. military had altered and ultimately damaged the natural ecosystem. “Kaho’olawe [then] was just like every other island,” Barcenilla said. “[It was] natural, tropical [and] had [many] trees, [enabling it] to hold on to humidity. [This water would] then be released, flow over to the west side of Maui and keep it wet; now, Kaho’olawe is just a dead island. Those who live on Western Maui lost all humidity and rain on that side [of the island].” The series of Lahaina wildfires cost dozens of lives, including those of Hawaiian descent, widely agreed to be the most disadvantaged demographic in their own occupied nation (Hawaii Public Radio). Anuhea, a native Hawaiian Instagram user running the account @anuheanihipalii, posted informative graphics meant to spread the word of the Maui fires and “colonization issue” behind the disaster. In their post shared on Aug. 10, Anuhea calls out two phenomena linked to the Maui fires: overtourism and the ongoing climate crisis harming native habitats. Hawaii’s struggle against the effects of drought and homelessness can be understood through the concept of climate gentrification, or when housing becomes difficult for locals to afford after a natural disaster (Associated Press). The most recent Maui housing crisis occurred after the spread of the fires, which left many newly displaced families vulnerable to land offers by outsiders seeking to own property on the island. Lahaina has already been subjected to unsolicited land offers that have been investigated by Gov. Josh Green and his administration – this state of instability leading to loss of property and a safe place to live is not new to native Hawaiians since their first interactions with Westerners in the nineteenth century (Public Broadcasting Service). As observed by senior Mischa Coogan, whose family has visited Lahaina for years, Lahaina residents and those on neighboring islands have been quick to rebuild and ensure the safety of their own community as well as non-locals. “Everyone helped by donating, and a lot of people around the U.S. flew over there just to help with cleanup,” Coogan said. “[This was to] make
sure everyone had their essentials that they needed to survive since they did not have a home. Good Samaritans and [U.S.] organizations all contributed [to ensure everyone’s safety].” Lahaina families have been subject to displacement and loss of income (University of Hawaii). This present issue reflects on the history of Hawaii’s tourism industry and its aftereffects. Some argue that overtourism has been a lasting issue in Hawaii because travel agencies have paid little attention to native Hawaiian welfare since the 1960s (Economic History Association). Overtourism can be defined as when too many people visit a place so often that it leaves a negative impact on the environment and communities grounded in it. In the past few years, water shortages in the natural environment and local neighborhoods have been caused by high water usage in hotel, restaurant and recreational services (Boston University International Relations Review). Mainland corporations have diverted essential sources of water that made up Maui’s tropical green landscape, fishponds and agriculture, to golf courses and resorts unregulated by native Maui residents, resulting in a staggering power imbalance. The issue of overcrowding, or when there are more residents in a given area than recommended, and an unaffordable housing market caused by state and county policies has also pushed lower-income native Hawaiians out of their homes (Honolulu Civil Beat). Repercussions of tourism and overcrowding on native Hawaiian residents are issues that senior Maile Mirikitani, who spent her early years in Hawaii and is a seasoned hula dancer of FilipinoJapanese descent, views as a recurring cycle. “Lahaina [residents did not] want people to come because it [came across as] treating it like a spectacle, or ignoring [the damage caused by the wildfires] with people casually swimming in the waters that people died in,” Mirikitani said. “However, [as a result], those living in other parts of Maui suffered due to the [heavy] reliance on tourism in the Hawaiian economy overall. It is a classic Hawaiian issue. Native Hawaiians [do not prefer] tourists and do not want them [vacationing in Hawaii]. At the same time, tourism is the main backing of the Hawaiian economy and when taken away would cause [residents] to suffer.” Lahaina, home to a proud coastal community, holder of sacred land and water as well as the ancient capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, will take years to rebuild infrastructure and clear out toxic waste produced by the wildfires. Despite challenges, the ready amount of community support and the push for justice from the wounds of colonial greed proves to be overflowing (The Nation). The steps taken to restore and cultivate spaces of healing and immediate care to the Lahaina community include relief programs and mutual aid facilitated by groups such as the Hawaii People’s Fund, Maui Food Bank and Hawaii Community Foundation. To keep up to date on further coverage and commentary on the Maui wildfires and the propagated unrest from native Hawaiians, it is best to source from reliable news outlets published and led by native Maui residents themselves.
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Student Life LITTLE RENEGADES, BIG IMPACT
students used analytical and reasoning skills to build a device that would prevent an egg The education students receive in their early from cracking when dropped from a certain years becomes the foundation for the rest of height, and The Friendship Book, a workshop in their academic careers. Getting students engaged which students wrote a small book about their when they are young is pivotal in ensuring a friendship experiences. By publishing the books future of exploration and learning. To achieve from students on Amazon, the Little Renegades this, junior Charlotte Fast started a nonprofit hoped to show that no one is too young to make a by the name of The Little Renegades. As the difference with their words. In order to make these executive director and the lead of writing workshops a success and convey this message, Tom workshops, Fast started hosting classes at takes into account multiple factors and tailors each Silver Spur Elementary School with the goals of workshop to the needs of the students, with an enhancing students’ STEM and writing skills, as emphasis on creating different learning techniques well as helping them pay attention and engage that cater to students’ individuality. The workshops more in class. need to be planned out very carefully because the “It is difficult to be motivated to do something Little Renegades have to work around the students’ that is challenging if we do not think it is busy schedules. meaningful in some way,” Fast said. “As a “Time [restraints] are a big [factor],” Tom said. student, it can be hard to see how what we “[We have to plan ahead] what we can realistically are learning matters in a context beyond the do in a specific [amount of] time and what classroom; this is why a lot of kids are not guidance we can give the kids without taking away interested in learning. But the truth is that what their creative freedom. This is important because kids learn in school does matter and can be used creative freedom allows the kids to experiment to do meaningful work. This is why we have the with what they can and can not do, so they can students in our workshops use what they have let their imaginations run wild and do amazing learned to write books and create videos. The things. The [debrief] meetings with the students idea that their book is published on Amazon that we have after lessons are also important since and anyone can see and learn from their videos they help the kids communicate to us what they creates the feeling of meaning and purpose. Once liked and did not like.” students connect learning with meaning, the Fast believes younger students are more open world is theirs to discover.” to new ideas and have incredible imaginations. Junior Natalie Tom is the lead of workshops However, since kids have a shorter attention and senior Brindha Srivatsav is the lead of span, it can be hard to find a way to keep them STEM-oriented workshops. Both executives engaged. Making the workshops suitable for assist Fast in creating and teaching classes younger students is one of the challenges The Little for the students. Tom took AP Psychology her Renegades executives have had to overcome. To sophomore year and came out with a mission address these difficulties effectively and ensure to focus on the well-being of children, believing the success of the workshops, the organization much of the science relates to how younger has had to rely on strong communication, not only students learn. Tom especially expressed interest among themselves, but with school staff as well. in creating each workshop differently so that The leaders of the organization can reach out to they are suited to each student’s personality. principals and other staff members within the So far, The Little Renegades have had school to schedule times to meet up or to advertise. two major workshops: The Egg Drop, where This way the process can be smooth and students MELINA AJAMI
EDITOR: ZAHRA HABIB ABIGAIL LEE
can have time to do workshops. They have also encountered obstacles such as managing schedules, finding extra time to meet up and dealing with having to reserve these free classes with the schools. “Going from an idea to something that is actually being done, especially when it involves other high schoolers, the administration of elementary schools and elementary schoolers means there are so many people involved,” Fast said. “Sometimes in [their] head [one] thinks that creating something is be a lot easier than it really is. [The Litte Renegades had to learn how] to sit down and know how to communicate with people and spread ideas.” While discussing plans for the future, The Little Renegades executives expressed a desire to reach out to different communities. They plan to extend beyond PVPUSD through a supply drive branch that provides underprivileged children with supplies for learning. Srivatsav believes their organization has the responsibility to reach out underprivileged communities and help students have an opportunity to access these resources. “Schools [in communities] with lower incomes have fewer [educational] opportunities,” Srivatsav said. “One of the things our nonprofit wants to work on in the future is providing more money for these areas and to also provide younger kids a chance to participate in hands-on activities, [such as the workshops].” The commitment of The Little Renegades to these children not only bridges the gap in certain educational skills but also instills hope and empowers them. The organization’s various mentors exemplify collective empathy of the community and the belief in the potential of every young mind. In the future, The Little Renegades hope to collaborate with other schools to enlist more volunteers and to create more workshops. Their work stands as a reminder that together, students can create a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Student Life
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GOALS AND GEMS JACELYN CHEN In Omnivorous is a new student-run jewelry business that emerged from a combination of entrepreneurship and a love for jewelry. Junior Veronica Chen has a strong desire for their business to be successful. Founded during the summer of last year, In Omnivorous took a significant step forward with the recent launch of their Instagram page. The name of the brand originated from omnivores, organisms that eat both plants and animals. Much like how omnivores eat various foods, In Omnivorous sells various types of jewelry. The word “In’’ was added to “Omnivorous” so the name resembles the phrase “in style”. During the business’ infant stages, Chen enlisted long time friend Rhema Tan, a junior from Shanghai High School International Division. They both share the same devotion to the business and to achieving financial selfsufficiency as they continue crafting unique jewelry pieces that would capture the attention of online customers. With motivations from family and friends, Chen had a desire to turn their passion for entrepreneurship into a lucrative business. Chen’s most significant inspiration stemmed from their mother, as she provided invaluable guidance that helped Chen fervently pursue their passions. Her mother has a business of her own, which Chen has
EDITOR: ANGELINA WANG
looked up to since they were young. “My mom was truly my biggest inspiration when [starting] this business,” Chen said. “She has taught me [many] valuable lessons that are not only [beneficial] but extremely supportive. She has motivated me to push myself further with this business venture.” Since launching In Omnivorous on Sept. 2 of this year, Tan has gained more knowledge about operating a small business. Not only did they need sincere interest to pursue this endeavor, but they also learned about the strategic planning necessary to be successful. They spent the past summer carefully mapping out the most efficient way to strengthen the business. Ultimately, they decided to separate the labor into different sections: filtering, transferring jewelry, recording, advertising and sales. This division of sections has helped them take business orders productively through Instagram, allowing them to showcase their artistic creations to a broader audience and take orders through direct messages. Their mutual support and commitment to the business continues to lift them to further success. With the devised workload, they have been able to efficiently send out packages and order materials like metal rings, clasps and jewels from wholesale sellers like Amazon. Additionally, it allows them to dedicate more attention to product design and display on
JAEWON JANG
social media. Tan is passionate about further expanding their knowledge regarding businesses and contributing to In Omnivorous’ success. “I have always wanted to be a part of an [entrepreneurial] business venture,” Tan said. “When I was offered the privilege of co-working with [Chen], I felt extreme pride knowing I could work [for] a possible successful business. I have excessive passion for this project and will continue to make the shop [affluent] by actively sharing it with others.” While they are still trying to figure out what kind of jewelry their consumers would purchase the most, they hope to continue making new and unique pieces. They plan on promoting the business on other online platforms in addition to Instagram, such as TikTok. The customers pay in person through cash or credit, as well as return or exchange jewelry in person. If the business continues to flourish, they plan on taking a portion of the profits and donating it to those who are in need such as homeless shelters, food drives and animal shelters. “The turn out of this business has been extremely well [thus] far.” Chen said. “We have been able to sell a decent amount of jewelry since starting the business and can not wait to continue on selling. We hope the [store] will stay relevant to our customers in the future.”
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Arts & Entertainment LUFFY’S LENGTHENING LEGACY Netflix adapts “One Piece” anime into a live action show
ANI PASCALE The internationally watched and critically acclaimed anime “One Piece” has recently been adapted into a live-action show, streaming on Netflix since Aug. 21. The story follows Luffy, a young and ambitious boy, and his dreams of being the pirate king. After unintentionally eating a magical fruit, he possesses incredible abilities known as Gum-Gum powers that allow his body to stretch and rebound like rubber. When he grows older, he sets off from his small village and begins assembling a pirate crew. He leads the crew on an exciting journey to find a famed treasure called the One Piece which would make Luffy the new King of the Pirates. The show held the title of #1 ranked TV series on Netflix for several consecutive weeks, and is loved by many despite having big shoes to fill as the adaptation of the famous manga. The original manga, or Japanese graphic novel, has a huge fanbase being the best-selling manga series in history (CBR). Therefore, it comes as no surprise that many people were worried about a live-action being released. Many fans had high expectations for the live action because of how loved the anime is. Even Netflix’s Co-CEO, Greg Peters, admitted that undertaking the project was challenging due to the increased scrutiny it was placed under. Many fans were worried about the show’s quality because of previous live-action anime adaptations which did not meet their expectations. For instance, Netflix released a live-action film of the anime “Death Note” in 2017, which brought feelings of disappointment to most fans who argued that it was starkly different from the original show. So, it was a shock for many when the live-action adaptation of “One Piece” received such good reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, the audience score was a whopping 95%, reflecting the overwhelmingly positive ratings of viewers. Like many other fans, Senior Paul Kerker was satisfied with what Netflix produced.
“Netflix did an awesome job with the casting. I had no issues at all and it was great that they got help from Oda,” Kerker said. “[I also think] the effects were great, [the scene in which] Mihawk slicing the boat in half looked really good [and] you could tell that the showrunner [Steven Maeda] was a real fan of the manga.” Netflix working with Eiichiro Oda, the creator of the manga, was a big deal for fans and eased many of their concerns. Netflix spent seven years working on the show to produce something as close to the source material as possible. The series needed to display appreciation for the manga while still incorporating more modern elements, which would balance the appeal from new and old fans. Another challenge that the show’s producers faced was adding color to the characters’ accessories without it looking too unrealistic. They overcame this by making sure all props had fine detail. For example, all wigs were colored in different shades to add dimension. Netflix decided to shoot most of the show in Cape Town, South Africa, where many pirate-themed projects are shot because of its beautiful scenery. Despite all of this determination and hard Despite all of this determination and hard work, many fans still complained about the live-action, saying that it did not meet their high standards after waiting years for its release. Viewers thought that the effects of the original manga were not represented well; more specifically, they claimed that Luffy’s Gum-Gum powers were inaccurate. For example, Luffy uses his powers to rapidly punch his opponent, creating the illusion of having multiple arms. However, the CGI in the live action adaptation did not capture the same magical quality that the anime possesses. In addition, many of the characters in the newer series did not have the same wardrobe. Although there was a long list of complaints, the live-action introduced many people to the world of anime. Senior Eddie Fermanian described how watching the live-action encouraged him to watch the original anime. “My friends had been begging me to watch [‘One Piece’] but it was too long; [the show spans] over 1,000 episodes,” Fermanian said. “That is too daunting for me. I watched the live-action first and I [thought it was] actually really good, [which motivated me to] watch the original show. The whole point of watching shows is not to [say] ‘that is not realistic,’ it is to [say] ‘it looks realistic enough’. Especially with “One Piece” [fans] can be very picky. I love how they casted the actors to have different ethnicities. And they are true to their personalities, especially the main character.”
EDITOR: TESSA KANG
KAREN NGAMARY
As Fermanian mentioned, the actors were very connected to the characters they played. Many fans, including Oda himself, thought Iñaki Godoy did a terrific job playing the role of the main character, Luffy. In an interview with ‘Collider’, Godoy described how he felt a connection with his character because they shared many of the same traits and even insecurities. Godoy revealed that like Luffy, he also doubted himself and wished he was stronger at times. Like casting, the Netflix team made special effects in the show a priority. Netflix tried to balance the use of CGI and real-life set pieces. Netflix wanted the effects to look as realistic as possible. Therefore, they used little CGI and focused on creating elaborate set pieces. They hoped this would make the show feel more immersive for fans. Senior Nathan Chang thought that the CGI not looking perfect is what made the show unique. “There is a character [in the show] who is a clown that can split himself up,” Chang said. “I think that the whole idea of it is bizarre, so having that element of it looking a little silly, I think perfectly fits into the adaptation of ‘One Piece.” The clown character, Buggy, was created using a 3-D virtual double of the actor, Jeff Ward. Although it did not turn out perfectly, a lot of work went into the production of creating Buggy. According to the popular opinion of fans, Netflix did the best they could when it came to special effects. Chang noted that because the actors portray their characters so well, the little flaws did not mean much to him. Overall, the live-action version is well-crafted and fans think Netflix did an excellent job with many aspects, including the casting, wardrobe, special effects and more. Fans are ecstatic for the confirmation of season two. Whether the show met fans expectations or inspired more people to try something new, it is clear that the new “One Piece’’ series is paving a new path for live-action adaptations of anime.
Sports
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FIRSTS FOR FLAG FOOTBALL NEHA SAMBANGI In Feb. 2023, California officially added flag football, a variation of American football, as a sanctioned high school sport. One of the standout aspects of flag football at the high school level is that girls are allowed to participate, as opposed to regular football, which has different rules. Each team consists of seven players: five players playing offense or defense, one quarterback and one center. Players wear flags around their waists, and the defensive team is tasked with removing their opponent’s flags, rather than tackling them to the ground. The game runs at a faster pace, with two 20-minute halves and a smaller playing field, only 50 yards long and 40 yards wide. With many schools in the Bay League already having a girls’ flag football team, Peninsula appointed head coach Patrick Daley and assistant coach Brian Helmich, and began recruiting players to form their own team. In May 2023, the sport was first introduced to the school and the first tryout for the girls’ flag football team was held, followed by a second tryout in August. Before trying out, potential players were familiarized with the basics of flag football and were then tested on their catching and throwing ability, speed, agility and overall knowledge of the game. After careful consideration, 19 players were selected to be a part of the first varsity girls’ flag football team at Peninsula. Senior Rylee
Izumo expresses how excited she is to be playing a new sport and what she is looking forward to in the season. “Growing up, I always used to watch ‘Bella and the Bulldogs’,” Izumo said. “The idea of a girl playing a sport [stereotypically for guys] drove me to try out for the team as this is a really great opportunity for girls to showcase their skills in football. We are the first team playing this sport at Peninsula, so there are no expectations on how we should perform. We are just looking to create a memorable experience.” The team has been practicing five times a week since the season started, Monday through Friday. Although the team practices consistently, the girls are still facing conflicts, as they are unable to compete against non-league teams to gain playing experience, due to budget limitations. As a newlyformed sport, the team is encouraging students to donate money to pay for buses, uniforms and new equipment to train with. Regardless of the ongoing budget issue, during practices, the team works on different areas within the game, such as offense and defense formations, minimizing penalties, lining up in the formation and understanding each position’s role. In addition, the team focuses on conditioning by running laps to improve their stamina in games. Players who are multi-sport athletes have proven to be an asset to the team, bringing in various athletic skills they have picked up in their other sports. Helmrich believes the players possess important
JISELLE NGUYEN
characteristics which will lead them to success. “The girls bring a lot of energy at every practice,” Helmrich said. “As coaches, we see their desire to learn and set high goals for themselves to perform well. They are willing to hear new suggestions from us and learn from their opponents, which is going to be a huge aid in constructing a successful season.” The girls’ flag football team competed in their first official scrimmage against Mira Costa High School, which was an important learning experience for the team, as they were able to cooperate and execute the plays they practiced. In addition, they were able to grasp the rule technicalities and how referees make calls throughout the game. For their first official preseason game on Sept. 14, the Peninsula girls’ flag football team defeated the Torrance High School girls’ flag football team 7-0. Many boys football players and students came out to show their support, subsequently raising the morale of the team. Eventually, the coaches hope to expand the sport by starting a junior varsity girls’ flag football team for more girls to compete in the sport. To senior Natalie Ponce, this win was incredibly meaningful, as it started the season on a high note. “I love the atmosphere on our team,” Ponce said. “We are all growing and learning the drills and plays together. Our team is like a family, which makes it so enjoyable to be a part of. Our goal is to make sure all of our hard work pays off by winning and dominating the league.”