Tiger Newspaper April 2018 by Tiger Newspaper

SOUTH PASADENA HIGH SCHOOL 1401 FREMONT AVE, SOUTH PASADENA, CA 91030

VOLUME 104 ISSUE 7 APRIL 27, 2018

DENIM DAY

enim-clad SPHS students joined activists worldwide in solidarity for International Denim Day on Wednesday, April 25, marking the school’s fourth year of participation in this event. The main affair of the day took place on the Tiger Patio, where students were encouraged to sign a poster pledging their name to the movement and standing in solidarity with victims of sexual violence. Informational posters, too, were plastered across the school walls with statistics on rates of student sexual assault alongside resources to contact in the case of sexual violence. “Today our main goal was to raise awareness [of] sexual assault. When ASB members were handing out pins, we were also explaining what Denim Day was and why it still is a problem today,” senior Commissioner of Activities Lauren Sharkey said. “There is definitely not enough awareness –– obviously, there was a lot of coverage on these issues this year, but we still have a long way to go. It’s just the beginning, and we as representatives of the school want to bring those issues to light.” Denim Day traces its history back to a controversial 1992 Italian Supreme Court case, in which a rape allegation was overturned after the court ruled that “because the victim wore very, very tight jeans, she had to help him remove them … and by removing the jeans

PRO CON: TENURE

Staff Writers Ben Clark and David Seo measure the pros and cons on the issues of teacher tenure in SPUSD for this issue’s opinion. Page 6

IN THE NEWS

STORY DAVID SEO PHOTOS ALICIA ALDERETE & HELENA FU … it was no longer rape but consensual sex.” In protest, female lawmakers of the Italian Parliament came to work the following day wearing jeans and calling for the decision to be reversed. Inspired by the actions of the women, sexual assault prevention organization Peace Over Violence created an annual day of awareness and education in April 1999, continuing the neverending work to curb sexual violence. To supplement the posters displayed across school, ASB commissioners also toured the campus handing out various pins and pamphlets while explaining the meaning behind the name. “I think it’s incredibly important for us to participate, especially during this tumultuous time when the country is so divided,” junior Flannery Clark said. “Rape is such a serious issue that isn’t always taken seriously– something like this where people can show support for victims without doing a lot is vital. At school, it was really great to see so many people wearing denim and having people pass out buttons was a great way to raise awareness.”

ADDAMS FAMILY

VOLLEYBALL

Read Dashiel Bove’s take on the SPHS Drama, Music, and Dance Department’s eccentric Spring Musical, The Addams Family. Page 10

SPHS’ boys’ volleyball team defeated Gabrielino High School 25-18, 25-13, and 25-23 in their face-off Tuesday, April 24th. Page 15

The SPHS Mediators willl be hosting activities for their annual wellness week to destress before finals and AP ‘s.

The SPHS Dance teams will be holding their annual spring performance themed ‘Alice in Wonderland’ on May 4 at 7p.m.

TIGERNEWSPAPER.COM

Ms Moonesinghe’s Calculus BC students are hosting their bi-annual Calculus for a Cause fundraiser on Monday, April 30.

TIGER APRIL 27, 2018

NEWS

SkillsUSA advances to national competition STORY ISABELLA TSAI PHOTO OWEN GILES

South Pasadena’s SkillsUSA team was named a Gold Level Chapter of Excellence for the third consecutive year at California’s 51st Annual State Leadership and Skill Conference. This year, the teams –– under South Pasadena SkillsUSA club president senior Damian Ugalde –– took home numerous other medals including those for the chapter’s distinction. Over 30 SPHS students traveled to Ontario on April 19-22 to participate in the state competition after qualifying to move on at regionals. Twenty-nine South Pas teams entered in a variety of categories at state ranging from computer programming to entrepreneurship. SPHS returned with gold medals in four competitions: Action Skills, Community Service, Interactive Game Design, and Occupational Health and Safety. In addition to competitions, Ugalde and freshman Maureen Parker were elected by their peers to represent California as delegates at the National Conference. Two of South Pas’ graphic design students placed in the top three for Logo Design. Junior Ryan Chavez’s design won second place and will be featured on California’s official state shirt at the National Competition. Freshman Erin Soohoo came in second and had her work displayed on SkillsUSA brochures and electronic displays at the state conference. The Gold Level Chapter of Excellence and Distinction acknowledged the South Pasadena chapter’s success in preparing students to be “Champions at Work, Job-Ready Day One,” which is the SkillsUSA theme for the 2017-2018 school year. At last year’s state conference, SPHS senior Victoria Venardi was elected one of California’s five state officers. As the state’s SkillsUSA high school president, Venardi has represented the South Pas chapter, as well as the state on the national level. “I hope South Pasadena continues to lead in being a Gold Chapter of Excellence. We’re considered a relatively new club on campus with only a few years under [our] belt, so I can’t wait to see what happens next,” Venardi said. “I know myself and others have found something within SkillsUSA that have influenced our future and I hope that this lasting effect will pass down to new high school students.” The state gold medalists will travel to Louisville, KY in June to participate in the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference.

YOUNG PARTICIPANTS ambush a volunteer with colorful powders during the festivities.

SPEF involves community in annual Color Festival fundraiser STORY CHRISTINE MAO PHOTO ISAAC MARZIALI

ibrantly colored cornstarch powder lingered in the air above the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) parking lot as the South Pasadena Educational Foundation (SPEF) hosted its third annual Color Festival fundraiser last Saturday, April 21. The jubilant event invited people of all ages to celebrate the season of spring and bring the local community closer together, all while supporting the South Pasadena school district. The Color Festival is inspired by the traditional Indian Holi festival, also known as the “festival of colors,” which acknowledges the beginning of spring. The event was initially scheduled on the day of the March For Our Lives event, but was pushed back to Saturday, March 17 out of respect for students and families who wanted to participate in the protest. The event was later postponed a third time due to inclement forecasts. The festival showcased dancing and music as well as various family-friendly activities ranging from bean bag tosses to water games and giant slides. However, the main highlight of this festival proved to be the radiant color wars, where children and adults sprayed one another with pigmented cornstarch.

Additionally, the lively event featured performances from South Pasadena Middle School actors from their upcoming musical, Hairspray, as well as an Indian dance from Bollywood dancers. “Color Festival has become a family event that all ages can enjoy together,” SPEF Director of Operations and Administration of South Pasadena Stacey Peterson said. “I love watching [how] parents walk in apprehensive and they leave laughing with their kids just covered in colorful powder.” This event serves as an alternative to SPEF’s annual Fun Fair, which has been on pause for around five years. The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) faced difficulties gathering a sufficient amount of volunteers to run the fair, prompting them to host the Color Festival. “SPEF had been told [that the Fun Fair] was missed so when the Color Festival came we realized it would help fill that desire for a community-wide, family-friendly event,” Peterson said. All revenue gained from the Color Festival will go towards supporting the five local schools through teacher direct grants, major grants (such as the new soundboard at SPHS) and other funding projects including SPHS’ One Book/One School summer reading program.

Speech and Debate competes at state The program boasts student accomplishments despite being a new team STORY CHRISTINE MAO The South Pasadena Speech and Debate team sent sophomore Matthew Hamilton to the California High School Speech Association (CHSSA) state tournament after he successfully placed in the top seven of the State Qualifications Individual Event. Despite falling short of advancing to nationals, this marks the first state qualification that Speech and Debate has received, making strides in its two-year existence. “We were extremely excited to have a team member head to state, because despite only competing for the second year, we’ve managed to put a representative to a competition bigger than Southern California,” junior Speech and Debate president and co-chair Alexandra Chan said. “We appreciate the support we’ve received from SPUSD and only look to grow from here.”

FRESHMEN MICAH MEKHITARIAN AND MAX YEE hold their robot for the Urban Search and Rescue competition.

The CHSSA prelims consisted of three rounds, with each focusing on presenting a five minute impromptu speech on a chosen topic. Despite having only begun its competitive career the prior school year, the team maintains an exceptional track record of breaking (advancing to semifinals or finals) a minimum of one event in each competition they have participated in. The team has attended multiple tournaments, including

those in Arcadia, Garfield, and Gabrielino. Key contenders in these competitions included sophomores co-chair Kenneth Schultz and Nicholas Roberts-Mataric, juniors co-chair Alexandra Chan, Alaska Romero, Philip Lee, and senior Dawson Galluzzi. Galluzzi garnered numerous medals as well as a trophy for placing first in three speech events at the Package Deal 2017, a novice specific competition. Later in the Fall Novice 2017, Chan claimed second place in JV Impromptu (JV denoting the second year of competition), with Romero placing first in Novice Oratorical Interpretation (OI) and Galluzzi securing third in Novice Impromptu. In addition to engaging in speech competitions, the team branched out to debate and competed in the Spring Debate 2018. There, Schultz placed sixth out of 14 semifinalists in JV Congress. In Spring Varsity 2018, Romero broke into semifinals in OI as a novice, despite this being a varsity category. This year, in the Spring Novice 2018, Romero placed first in OI while Lee claimed third in Novice Discussion. Also in the same competition, Roberts-Mataric and Galluzzi placed second in the JV Impromptu and Novice Original Oratory events, respectively. Speech and Debate continues to practice diligently in preparation for the Bruschke Invitational this weekend and Novice Championships this coming May.

TIGER APRIL 27, 2018

NEWS

AcaDeca vanquishes national competitors in Frisco SPHS junior Steven Chin represents SPHS and CA AcaDeca in the 2018 U.S. Academic Decathlon Nationals STORY LUKE QUEZADA PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVER VALCORZA Junior Steven Chin received six individual medals at the US Academic Decathlon Nationals competition on Thursday, April 19. Chin traveled with faculty advisor Mr. Oliver Valcorza to Frisco, Texas to represent South Pasadena and the State of California in the individual competition. “Going to nationals for the first time was a real eye opener for me because it gave me the opportunity to see the best of the best, the cream of the crop of all of the different states that went to compete at the national level,” Chin remarked. “It was really interesting talking to different people and getting their perspectives [on the competition], and it was really fun overall. It was really the culmination of all of my hard work and I feel very grateful for the opportunity.” Chin claimed first place in the nation in art, literature, and math as well as second in speech and music and third in social science. SPHS competes in the highest division in the nation, facing teams from all around the country. This year’s competition was centered around the theme “Africa” with examinations testing decathletes on their knowledge of several topics based on the continent’s history and culture. Competitors from all fifty states faced off in individual competitions as well as the top team in each state. Overall, South Pas ends its season at third place in the state and defended its first place title in Los Angeles County, which the team has maintained for the past four years. Although the team did not beat out its rival El Camino Real, who later went on to claim first in the nation, the group is still satisfied with its overall performance. South Pas improved its

standings in state, advancing from last year’s 51,919.7 point total and fifth place spot to a total of 53,757 points this season. “I am extremely happy for the team because [it] put in a lot of work and its reward is the highest placing and score in school history. We had a lot of new people this year and they really stepped up and had amazing scores,” senior Dawson Galluzzi said. In the 2016-17 season, the theme “World War II” provided the team with ample study material. Last year, South Pas continued its dynasty as LA County winners. Since last season, SPHS has grown its Varsity program, adding new members like seniors Grace Goldman, Allison Ou and juniors Zane Atkinson and Danny Safaoui. Next year’s theme will be “The 1960s: A Transformational Decade.” The science section will be centered around the introduction of laser technology while the literature section’s long work will be the absurdist play Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard. The team hopes to build upon the advancements it has already made this year and move even further up the rankings in California.

Going to nationals for the first time was a real eye opener [because] it gave me the opportunity to see the best of the best, the cream of the crop of all of the different states. It was [a] culmination of all of my hard work and I feel very grateful for the opportunity.”

JUNIOR STEVEN CHIN SWEPT THREE CATEGORIES among numerous awards at the U.S. Academic Decathlon nationals.

TIGER April 27, 2018

NEWS

SPHS students on:

STORY LILIAN AZAT, SOFIE DRESKIN, RILEY SEGAL & RACHEL LU

sexual harassment

GRAPHICS FINLEY MULLEN

& assault around South Pas

Stories and results from South Pasadena High School students

PAGE DESIGN ELAINE YANG & KATE ROGERS Sexual Harassment on Campus

Since 2001, April has been nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness month to promote assault and harassment prevention. In recent years, the commonality of sexual harassment and assault on school campuses has been brought to the center of safety conversations. Even in safe communities like South Pasadena, students on and off campus have had multiple experiences with the issue. California law defines sexual assault/battery as “touching intimate parts against the victim’s will for the purpose of sexual gratification, sexual arousal, or sexual abuse” while sexual harassment is “unwanted sexual advances, or visual, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.” To bring more stories to light, Tiger interviewed four students and their encounters with sexual harassment/assault.

37% of students have experienced sexual harassment around South Pasadena

A SAFE SPACE SHATTERED The South Pasadena Public Library is a staple community hub for South Pasadena youth, whether it serves as a stomping ground for young children delving into their first books or a quiet workspace for teens. Lizzie* frequented the library almost every day to study, and usually felt at home in the musty space. “The library was was one of the first places in South Pas that made me feel a part of the city when I first moved here, like it was my own. But after the incident I found myself scared of going back to even the surrounding area.” When she was fourteen, Lizzie took a break to head to the bathroom, where she found two older men blocking the door. “I said, ‘Excuse me, I really need to use the restroom’ and they just looked me up and down before saying, ‘No,’” Lizzie said. She noticed that they kept looking towards her skirt before telling her, “Show us what’s under that skirt and we’ll let you through.” “I was horrified. My skirt was three or four inches above my knees — not that it matters — but they just kept looking down there,” Lizzie said. “At one point they started walking toward me, so I just ran away.” She was too afraid to report the incident at the time, but felt prompted to after seeing one of the men back at the library again the next day. “A place that felt like my first bit of [SP] just didn’t have the same atmosphere after that.”

A FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY Like most students, Mary* didn’t think that a well-known community fundraiser under the watchful eye of parent volunteers would be an unsafe environment. Though most patrons are friendly to student volunteers, the few standouts alter the perception of Tiger Bingo’s community ambience. Recently, Mary encountered one of the latter. While waiting outside to work clean-up, an older man showing signs of intoxication advanced towards her. “He was obviously around 30 years older than me, and he asked, ‘Do you have a boyfriend?’” Mary said. Mary responded to the stranger saying she wasn’t interested. After informing a bingo organizer, security was called and directed towards the man. However, because he was a patron, further actions weren’t taken, and he remained on the street. “He kept staring at me, and I was wary the whole time because I didn’t think he was done with me even though the security was supposed to be there for us,” she added. Once the doors to the gym opened, Mary rushed inside. “I booked it into the bingo room and he chased me. I didn’t know what to do, I didn’t know what he wanted.” Mary’s mother was working that evening and followed the man once she realized what was happening. Eventually, when the patron noticed her, he veered away. “I was really shaken. I’m glad that was my last one. I would definitely be more hesitant before doing bingo again.”

I booked it in the bingo room and he chased me. I didn’t know what to do...” *Students’ names have been changed to protect their anonymity.

26% of male students

60% of non-binary students

44% of female students

EN ROUTE ENCOUNTER Ivy* hadn’t previously encountered anything out of the ordinary when walking to school, and certainly not something that would have jeopardized her safety. During SPUSD’s summer school last year, though, she was taken aback. While walking down Diamond Avenue to her first class, less than a block away from campus, a man made eye contact with Ivy before crossing the street after her. She began walking faster, away from the man, when he grabbed her arm. “He was like, ‘Let’s f***, let’s f***’ and I couldn’t get my wrist free, but I finally did and I ran into school,” Ivy said. “I didn’t have any emotions. I was more shocked than anything. I couldn’t think.” Once Ivy eventually broke free and reached the school campus, she was unsure of what to do next. “At first, I didn’t even think I should report the incident,” Ivy said. “It was scary, but I didn’t see it as a big deal. My friends had to tell me, ‘No, you have to tell someone.’ I was hesitant to tell the school because I just didn’t grasp the whole situation at first.” Ivy did end up contacting administration and staff, who were reportedly receptive and took further actions to accommodate for her and her family’s needs. However, Ivy’s assault has forever stayed with her as a traumatic experience only steps away from a safe space she considers a routine part of daily life.

He was like, ‘Let’s f***, let’s f***’ and I couldn’t get my wrist free...”

POWER DYNAMICS Jane* has been involved in many sports at SPHS since her freshman year, including the school’s running teams. Unfortunately, her runs around the city have been ruined by instances of catcalling on a number of occasions, a nearly-common occurrence for girls on the team. However, most concerning to her was the questionable treatment from one of her coaches. “We were doing a stretch that involved keeping your hips down while your legs were perpendicular to the ground,” Jane said. Her coach, who was supervising, walked over to her to correct her form. “Instead of placing his hand on my hip to lower it he placed it on my butt to lower it in a completely inappropriate and uncalled for way.” Jane confronted another one of her coaches about the event, and that coach spoke to the offender individually and ensured Jane that they would not condone these actions on campus. This experience shifted Jane’s perspective of the athletic programs at SPHS. “It made me really uncomfortable. I felt like I was being watched in a sexual nature rather than one focused on improvement.” Jane cited an experience with her physical therapist as the correct way to approach a massage or athletic assistance. “My physical therapist always asks me if it is okay that he places his hand in specific places and he always ensures there is another adult present. I know there is a right way to approach improving an athlete and the way my coach approached it was inappropriate.”

36% of students have experienced sexual harassment on campus

TIGER APRIL 27, 2018

THE TIGER ESTABLISHED 1913

CSPA GOLD MEDALIST 2011 CSPA GOLD MEDALIST 2013 CSPA GOLD MEDALIST 2014 CSPA GOLD MEDALIST 2015 CSPA CROWN AWARD 2016 CSPA GOLD MEDALIST 2017 CSPA CROWN AWARD 2018

ST A F F ED IT OR IA L

OPINION

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF RILEY SEGAL MANAGING EDITORS COLE CAHILL, Print BRANDON YUNG, Online NEWS RACHEL LU, Editor ISABELLA TSAI, Associate OPINION OONA FOLEY, Editor PETER WANG, Associate FEATURE MAYA WILLIAMSON, Editor NOAH PARKER, Associate SPORTS MATT WAKUMOTO, Editor ALEX BETTS, Associate DESIGN ASHTON CARLESS, TRUMAN LESAK, Editors KATE ROGERS, ELAINE YANG, Associates PHOTOGRAPHY THOMAS FORMAN, Editor ALICIA ALDERETE, Associate

There’s more to life, and school, than AP classes

COPY AMELIA ANTHONY, ALINA MEHDI, Editors SENIOR STAFF WRITER SAMMY PARK STAFF WRITERS LILY AZAT, DASHIEL BOVE, BENJAMIN CLARK, SOFIE DRESKIN, CHRISTINE MAO, DOMINIC MARZIALI, LUKE QUEZADA, DAVID SEO, PRESTON SHARKEY PHOTOGRAPHERS HELENA FU, LUKE QUEZADA, RICHARD GOMEZ ILLUSTRATORS ISABELLA FRESCURA, GRAPHIC DESIGNER FINLEY MULLEN VIDEOGRAPHER ISAAC MARZIALI MANAGERS SAMANTHA ABELSON, Ads LAUREN TAN, Business WEBMASTER OLIVER CHANG FACULTY ADVISOR MIKE HOGAN VOL. 104 NO. 7 DISTRIBUTED ON APR 27, 2018. DISTRIBUTION: 1489 STUDENTS; 70 COMMUNITY. 1600 COPIES PRINTED. DISTRIBUTED BY TIGER STAFF FREE OF CHARGE.

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As new scheduling policies come to SPHS, students and parents fret that AP classes will be limited. But are APs all they’re made out to be?

ollegeBoard, Inc. has successfully sold the South Pasadena community on the wonders of AP classes. APs are lauded as the best way to maximize the high school experience: simultaneously completing college credits while working toward a high school diploma. A score of four or five on a test is hailed as a brilliant strategy to avoid those pesky general education classes in college, and even — wait for it — save money on undergraduate tuition. Students feel that the only way to get into a top university is to prove that they took advantage of the academic rigor offered in high school through AP classes. This blind worship of the AP curriculum has some unfortunate consequences on students. At South Pasadena High School, a schedule lined with AP and Honors courses is a status symbol that validates students’ intellect and creates competition. As students currently register for next year’s classes, they may not be able to load their schedules with high-level classes as they have in the past. Contrary to the angry emails overflowing counselors’ inboxes, this change might not be such a bad thing. Starting with the 2018-19 school year, SPHS will limit sophomores to six periods of classes plus a study hall or home study. In the past, sophomores could replace that study hall with an elective, or sometimes an additional academic class — now, only biomedical science, drumline, EDD computer science, and publication courses will suffice. The change is due to a lower student enrollment next year, which translates to fewer full-time faculty and fewer classes. It’s not surprising that students and parents are upset with the new policy, but while academic rigor should be encouraged, AP classes often cause more headache than help.

For a company claiming to provide college level instruction, AP classes face many of the problems associated with high school courses. They epitomize “teaching to the test,” relying on rigid, College Board-designed, one-size-fits-all curriculum designed to prepare students for the AP exam in May. Teachers are forced to compromise their educational preferences for the sake of abiding by College Board’s demands. Sure, AP classes are more in-depth and fast-paced than standard high school classes, but jam-packed curriculum often forces students to exert more effort on memorizing material than experiencing a collegiate classroom environment. Additionally, AP exams require students to pay high fees that, depending on their score, may or may not fulfill college credits. Even when credits are met, it’s common for college students to not apply their AP credits in order to build a true college-level foundation in a discipline; as difficult as APUSH is, it might not necessarily align with the skills demanded by collegiate departments. Limits on schedules are undeniably frustrating for students, and the administration has a responsibility to create a system that allows students to achieve academic rigor. But the concerns that new policies will hurt students in their college admissions is unfounded. The goal of AP classes — putting students ahead to succeed in college and in life — is still very manageable under the new policy, and can be further enhanced by SPHS launching more opportunities, like a dual enrollment relationship with PCC or collaboration with summer and extracurricular programs. AP classes are only one piece of a complex academic system, one that is held back by rigid curriculum and test-based teaching.

Boos & Bravos

Tiger ’s cheers and jeers for the month of April. BOOS

BRAVOS

Boo00 OO O ooo O 00o oo O oO oooOo00 0o00o to the death of the yodeling boy meme.

BRAVO to all the seniors who walked out on 4/20 for …. gun control?

BOO to excessive singing . It’s Festivus, not karaoke.

BRAVO to Festivus. So excited to bop DJ Weidi’s playlist on my new rose gold Echo Dot.

BOO to Mark Zuckerberg for selling all of our data. No one needs to know that we search the acceptance rate of every college that pops up on commitment announcements. BOO to Cosby allegation deniers! It’s a real he said, she said, she said, she said, she said, she said, she said, she said... situation.

BRAVO to Kanye. The mob can’t make me not love him. We are both dragon energy. He is my brother. BRAVO to the new mirrors in the boys’ vaping room. BRAVO to the all the 4.0 students settling for UC Berkeley. You’re braver than any US Marine.

TIGER APRIL 27, 2018

OPINION

PRO CON : Teacher tenure In an age of frequent teacher layoffs, students ponder whether teacher tenure helps experienced teachers improve their craft or simply hastens the firing of talented new educators

+ Tenure builds tenacity STORY BEN CLARK ILLUSTRATION KATE ROGERS

who can successfully educate in their own way make for more inspiring mentors.

Teachers from school districts across the United States are going on strike to raise their salaries and protest against American underfunding of schools. Despite the important role of education in society, the people who provide this education remain severely underpaid and underappreciated. Approximately 1,750 teachers were laid off last year in the State of California due to increasing budget cuts. Teacher tenure, a policy granting teachers permanent employment upon completion of a probationary period, is an invaluable tool for teachers to develop their professional voices and secure long-term positions.

As well as the freedom to experiment, tenure provides teachers the time that they need to improve. Even the most skilled of teachers need experience, and in many cases they are not given the opportunity to excel. Tenure gives teachers the chance to work with their course.

Tenure ensures job security in an occupation all too vulnerable to layoffs. Teachers are especially susceptible to these layoffs due to some students’ tendency to give overwhelmingly negative teacher evaluations. While tenure does not completely prevent layoffs, it helps teachers rely on a stable source of income. Tenure also allows teachers room to experiment with more personalized teaching methods. Teachers who are constantly threatened by layoffs may teach completely from a textbook, which prevents their classes from being interesting or interactive. While standards are useful in providing a solid education, teachers

To a teacher, teacher tenure also presents a way to challenge the school board on academic policies that they disagree with. Veteran APES teacher Mr. Don Wielenga regularly uses his tenure to speak freely. “Teachers can voice their concerns about the educational process without fear of retaliation from administrators,” says Wielenga. “I think it’s beneficial for the whole system to have that [honest] and candid approach.” Wielenga is a firm believer that tenure is a beneficial way to provide transparency between teachers and their administration and regularly uses it to speak to his superiors. Teacher tenure is more than just a way for teachers to avoid getting fired. It allows teachers the ability to speak their mind without fear of retribution, improve professionally, and perfect their individual style. Tenure is the solid foundation that builds a great teacher.

- Seniority over skill? STORY DAVID SEO ILLUSTRATION ISABELLA FRESCURA Teachers are an integral part of education — they shape our understandings on keystone ideas, build our intellectual reserve, and define whether a year of our schooling is a complete waste of time or a formative force in our life. Looking at our staff, a disproportionate amount of tenured teachers are less than ideal. This phenomena calls into question how tenure may affect a teacher’s level of commitment, whether it be staying rigid in antiquated methods or simply putting less effort into their job. Obviously, no stance against tenure can be absolute. The original intent of tenure is to provide teachers the job security that is scarce in their field. But when the highly-desired appointment is finally obtained, what else do teachers have to work toward? Tenure provides teachers a false sense of complacency; suddenly, teachers lose urgency and stray from their peak performance. Accusations about teachers who aren’t concerned with their students’ success, are apathetic, or even directly insult students’ political views are commonplace. Perhaps the most glaring issue surrounding tenure is how it is achieved and maintained. At SPHS, tenure can be awarded to any teacher who has taught full-time for at least two years. After that, there is not much structure in place

to monitor teachers with tenure; even further, decisions in rankings such as department heads among teachers appear to be solely based on seniority. Current AP Biology teacher Ms Elizabeth Pierson serves as an antithesis to such an inadequate evaluation of skill. She joined our staff last year, and though her stay was only supposed to last until the end of the year, her students had led a movement to keep her on staff and Pierson was promoted to a full-time position. Though Pierson is now well on her way to a tenured position, her juniority to the other teachers puts her at a disadvantage. By no means is tenure harmful for teachers, but seniority should not be a deciding factor for appointments. More measures must be taken to identify standout teachers and put them to the positions they deserve, while intermittent evaluations must be administered to all tenured teachers to curb the mediocre teaching their status can cause. Ultimately, student opinion is a vital resource to incorporate within these evaluations. After all, students are the ones spending the most time with each of these tenured teachers — both glowing and unfavorable feedback must be factored in. With the teachers who appear to have overwhelmingly bad student assessments, serious measures must be taken to fix problems brought to light — in extreme cases, perhaps there should be a system to terminate tenured teachers who have become too comfortable in their position.

ON BEING DRAMELIA | AMELIA ANTHONY

Resident Catholic reflects on personal guilt Unlike a lot of people in South Pasadena, I grew up with Catholicism: going to church on Christmas and Easter, saying grace before dinners, and attending Confirmation retreats at Holy Family. It’s a big part of my family, tracing back several generations of active participation within local parishes and the Vatican. When I receive communion, nervousness about the historical oppression perpetrated by the Church is always in the back of my head — from the Spanish Inquisition to the coverup of child rape. A big part of Catholicism is guilt, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve harbored a lot of it. Guilt about

small things, like making an insensitive comment, or big things, like my family’s contribution to the institution of the Church, follows me everywhere. This dwelling on mistakes, while natural, is unproductive if it doesn’t come with appropriate action. Although I’ve foregone almost every aspect of the religion, the idea of forgiveness is one worth keeping. As long as one recognizes and understands their mistakes, there’s no need to hold on to guilt. This is especially true for things out of one’s control. In my own life, I need to learn to forgive myself for such things: the way I was raised, someone else starting a

conflict with me, or the stresses of everyday life. Catholics absolve their sins by performing penance, which are actions to make up for wrongdoings. (These usually come in the form of fifty recitations of the “Hail Mary.”) Penance is a good practice for everyone regardless of religion. In a secular way, this can come from sincere apologies, self-education, or service. These actions can help relieve unproductive guilt,and make up for wrongdoings in a productive way. In my life, Catholicism exists as a family tradition, so I have reconciled my place by using its principles about forgiveness to improve myself.

TIGER APRIL 27, 2017

OPINION

“Feminism” & corporate exploitation STORY RACHEL LU & ISABELLA TSAI ILLUSTRATION FINLEY MULLEN GRAPHIC ASHTON CARLESS

pen any social media app, and sponsored content promoting female self-confidence is prominent, from Facebook video essays to obligatory 30 second ads with slogans like “We Will!” and “Girls Can Too!” The obsession with reassuring women of their worth has become a phenomenon itself, as Mindy Kaling explains in her book, Why Not Me? “A general assumption about confidence is that women, particularly young women, will have very little of it, and girls will have zero of it,” writes Mindy Kaling. “The good news is that, as a country, we are all about telling girls to be confident. It’s our new national pastime.” Major corporations have jumped on the bandwagon, coining the term “fempowerment” for this new wave of feminism and confidencefocused televised marketing. Each commercial displays a recurring issue for girls or women and ends with words of empowerment linked to its brand. Many of these advertisements have even gone viral, including “Inspire Her Mind,”#StrengthHasNoGender, and of course the viral “Like a Girl” campaign. However, these hashtags rarely reflect the companies’ actual values and instead serve as a means to an end in the pursuit of profit. Produced by Always menstrual products, the “Like a Girl” video asked people to demonstrate

what it means to throw, fight, and run “like a girl.” It concludes with a message that girls’ self-confidence plummets during puberty then encourages its audience to rethink what it means to do something “like a girl.” Dove, a company that produces skin and hair care products, produced a series of films centered around real-life women as part of their “Real Beauty” campaign. Other companies have followed Dove’s lead, prompting women and girls to buy from brands that really care. But despite progressive messages, these brands do not really care, and their slogans are nothing more than empty words. Dove’s other commercials and connections are contradictory to its “Real Beauty” campaign. Its parent brand Unilever is one of the biggest skin-lightening suppliers in South Asia, with its own campaign: “Fair & Lovely.” The company feeds American women a message of self-love, while giving Asian women an image of manufactured beauty standards. The same corporation that combats #BeautyBias and champions “Real Beauty” on social media turns around and sells their products dedicated to altering the organic beauty their customers are told they possess. Yes, companies’ high budget campaigns and viral hashtags can create positive change. But it’s important to remember that “activism,” when motivated by capitalist greed, is unauthentic. It’s up to consumers to look beyond the feelgood catchphrase when making purchases, and realize that commercializing confidence is ultimately just a sales tactic.

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aging

A Filipino

I’m not a terrorist, but your jokes don’t offend me Offensive jokes don’t require a zero tolerance policy, just basic consideration and respect STORY ALINA MEHDI ILLUSTRATION ELAINE YANG I have a necklace that says my name in Arabic. Every time I wear it I get asked what it says and every time I respond with “ISIS.” This joke plays on the countless terrorist jokes I’ve been subjected to — the shock value is a bonus. My time in public school has thickened my skin. A joke at my expense isn’t something I dwell on. In middle school, I wore the fact that I was Muslim on my forehead and was subsequently hit with an onslaught of terrorist jokes. I truly didn’t mind these jokes and eventually even began to play into them. But when I got older and discussed the issue with others who were subjected to a similar experience, it seemed like I was one of the only Muslims who wasn’t offended by, let alone encouraged, these jokes. I wondered whether I had an obligation to shut down humor that was subjectively offensive and if humor of that type was ever acceptable. As people have become more socially aware, or become more “politically correct” as some might say, there seems to be a zero tolerance policy on offensive humor. But the issue is more nuanced than that. In the arena of comedy, the fact that the words don’t harbor bad intentions creates some leeway. While there are several lines that shouldn’t be crossed, jokes shouldn’t have to be censored as long as the person telling the joke understands humor’s subjectivity. It’s important to know exactly who is

listening to your jokes and to be aware of what jokes might hit too close to home. Offensive jokes, if told, should be to a friend and never a stranger, as you can be sure that both parties understand that it’s just a joke. This “just a joke” mentality, however, only excuses so much. When it comes to comedy, looser boundaries don’t mean everything is acceptable. There are a few obvious areas which any decent human wouldn’t and shouldn’t venture into, such as rape, slavery, Holocaust jokes, etc. There is no rulebook that determines which jokes are acceptable, but like any matter where political correctness is involved, there is simply an expected level of decency. The subjectivity of humor means that some will be offended while others aren’t. Joke-tellers have to understand that one person laughing at their joke does not indicate approval on behalf of the entire targeted group. Individuals hold no obligation to defend the group that’s the butt of the joke, whether or not it’s their own group. I have no obligation to defend all Muslims if I myself am not offended. But my silence doesn’t mean that these jokes are acceptable to everyone — not everyone will be as lenient as I am. Silence also doesn’t indicate that the person isn’t offended, many times they may not be assertive enough to defend themselves, or they just don’t feel like starting a fight. Either way, edgier jokes should be executed on a situational basis and with thorough caution.

TIGER APRIL 27, 2018

DIVERSITY THROUGH DIFFERENT EYES

diversity through different eyes SURVEY RESPONDENTS

ASIAN AND/OR PACIFIC ISLANDER Asian students were more likely to report that SPHS was “very” or “somewhat diverse” than their Black and Hispanic/ Latinx counterparts.

WHITE White students were more likely to report that their teachers were “not very” or “not diverse” than Asian respondents.

HISPANIC / LATINX Hispanic/Latinx students had more widely distributed responses than other demographic groups.

BLACK *This graphic does not adhere to the key. STORY COLE CAHILL PAGE TRUMAN LESAK & ASHTON CARLESS GRAPHICS TRUMAN LESAK

outh Pasadena High School prides itself on its reputation of diversity. When presenting the school to the public, school leaders proudly tout the student body’s diversity; Chapter One of SPHS’ 2017 report for accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) reads that “there is a full range of economic and ethnic diversity within the community that is reflected at South Pasadena High School.” Racial and ethnic diversity at SPHS has become a buzzword in an age when racial homogeneity is rightfully avoided at all costs.

SPHS’ student body does cover more racial and ethnic groups than many public high schools, but the idea that all racial groups are fairly represented is less certain. Niche.com ranks SPHS at an underwhelming 485th most diverse high school in California, and while 71% of students are people of color, just 17% classify as economically disadvantaged. Furthermore, the school’s faculty is similarly not diverse, as it lacks many black and Latinx members. Tiger sought to discover how SPHS students perceived their school’s diversity. We asked students to rate the diversity of the student body, teachers, extracurricular organizations, and classrooms. Results from our survey are broken down by the ethnicity of respondents, to see if a student’s race had any bearing on how much diversity they truly see at their school.

Of the nine black students surveyed, zero reported that SPHS’ students, teachers, organizations, or classes were “very diverse.”

TIGER

10 APRIL 27, 2018

FEATURE

PARKS AND WRECKED SAMMY PARK

Lessons from my Netflix queue I think that the day my parents signed our family up for Netflix was one of the most influential moments in the Park family history. Sometimes, in the 15-second pause between the credits of my current episode and the next one, I am struck with the sentiment that if I was born a decade or so earlier, my television habit would’ve forced me into a Blockbuster instead of staying completely still on my couch for hours at a time.

GETTING INTO CHARACTER: Senior Mateo Diaz and sophomore Cole Fox stunned in their roles as the Beinekes. The Addams Family’s greatest asset is arguably its fantastic cast.

‘Addams Family’: a joyous

romp through the absur

First musical production for Nick Hoffa is a hilarious and energetic hit STORY DASHIEL BOVE PHOTO ALICIA ALDERETE

part, well performed, with the family bouncing off of each other with all the chemistry of a good Broadway musical.

This, of course, isn’t to say that performances outside of the titular family aren’t deserving of praise. Seniors Mateo Diez and Miles Mendoza, and sophomore Cole Fox rocked the boat as the Beinekes (Lucas, Mel, and Alice), a fish out of water Ohio family trio trying to make it through an evening with the Addams.

his year’s spring musical takes audiences into a forgotten mansion sitting hidden amongst the trees and bushes of Central Park, where a family of eccentrics living, dead, and undecided stay together in a production of the hit Broadway musical The Addams Family. The show ran from April 20 through April 23 with three outstanding showings full of energetic, funny, and charming performances, marking the first musical production helmed by new drama teacher Mr. Nick Hoffa. This fantastic adaptation of the classic New Yorker cartoon tells a new tale in the saga of the strange and morbid Addams Family (Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, and Lurch). The Addams Family follows the story of Wednesday, the daughter of the household, falling in love with a boy from the outside world named Lucas and the ensuing drama of secrets, moon love, flashy musical numbers, and full disclosure. The show is carried by the potent charisma of its leading cast, with standout performances from nearly every member. Of particular note were seniors Lucy Eller and Anders Keith as Grandma and Fester Addams. Both actors portrayed their character with all the heart, quirky weirdness, and charming insanity that both characters deserve. Another standout performance came from sophomore Jackson Monical as Lurch Addams, the family’s Frankenstein-esque butler, whose near wordless performance was a delight to see, being a highlight of many of the show’s comedic moments. The other Addams (Pugsley, Gomez, Morticia, and Wednesday) were, for the most

Out & About

Outside of the cast and performances were the fantastic sets, makeup, and costuming, each of which came together to bring the show to life. However, as with any production, The Addams Family falters in several places. Technical issues on the opening night ensured that many of the performers were unheard as their mics seemed to phase in and out of existence. Outside of the technical were issues that can be attributed to a mixture of a generically Broadway-style script that morphs the Family into just another bunch of Broadway-style romantic “conflicts.” One cannot help but point out Rose Boyce-McCullough’s performance as Wednesday Addams, which didn’t quite capture the monotone yet adorable cruelty that the character is famed for, instead portraying Wednesday more as another teen in love. The Addams Family was a fantastic production providing audiences with a charming and enjoyable piece of musical theater. One cannot help but think that perhaps this signals the start of a new and improved era for the SPHS musical theater.

To be honest, I don’t have many bad habits. I shower regularly, I’m frugal, and I floss. Binge-watching, it seems, isn’t that bad in the grand scheme of things I could be doing (drugs, loitering, etc.) My lifetime of binge-watching everything from The Office to Hawaii Five-O has taught me that just because it’s on Netflix doesn’t mean that it’s binge-watch-able. Part of my criteria for shows to binge-watch are the ones with plenty of seasons (no one likes a show that only has 18 episodes or ended on a cliffhanger only to be cancelled e.g. Freaks and Geeks or Alphas) with lovable characters. During my sophomore year, I found that Criminal Minds fit my criteria to a T. The show shares the story of the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU)’s endeavor to rid the world of serial killers, arsonists, and every criminal in-between. And with more than ten seasons and a cast with an endearing family-like chemistry, it was perfect. Despite the repetitive nature of the show — to be fair, it’s hard to come up with nearly 300 truly unique ways to commit a heinous crime — I was instantly hooked. With such a longstanding show like Criminal Minds, cast changes are a given, but since the show’s saving grace is its lovable ensemble, the departure of characters is as heartbreaking as the indie acoustic song that plays when the unit attends a victim’s funeral. In my 17 years, I haven’t experienced any sort of loss. No one close to me has died or moved. To be frank, if a production company were to make a film about my life so far, it definitely wouldn’t be a Lifetime Original Movie. After watching nearly 250 hours of a show that the Miami Herald called, “CBS’ crummiest imitation of CSI yet,” Criminal Minds has taught me that even when it feels like it shouldn’t, the show (life) goes on. When series-long protagonists leave, they are mourned for a couple of episodes, but the show still continues. If there’s a universal truth that this at times cringe-inducing primetime TV show communicates, it’s that this too shall pass.

Tiger’s take on local eats and acitivities. Take one of our suggestions for a weekend adventure.

STORY FINLEY MULLEN & LUKE QUEZADA

FOOD For a hot sandwich and a cool, old-timey feel, check out Cole’s Restaurant in Downtown LA. Cole’s opened in 1908 in the historic Pacific Electric building. The restaurant and speakeasy is decked out with original penny tile flooring and vintage light fixtures. Stop by for their signature Atomic Mustard and enjoy a meal fit for a 1920’s socialite.

FUN MOCA Teen Night is this Saturday, Apr. 28 from 7 to 10pm, an event “created by teens for teens” that will explore the work of Kerry James Marchalll. Teen Night includes free admission to Marshall’s exibit, ‘Mastry,’ art-making activities, live performances, refreshments, and a student art exhibition.

ART The annual Eclectic Music Festival returns to South Pasadena for its 10th year with Grammy-nominated Big Bad Voodoo Daddy headlining the event. Other notable music acts will include Maureen and The Mercury 5, Mexico68, Twanguero, Darlene Koldenhoven, and hometown favorite: The South Pasadena Transit Authority.

TIGER APRIL 27, 2018

FEATURE

PERSONALITY PROFILES KATYA BARANETS: AN ODE TO MOLD STORY & PHOTO LUKE QUEZADA Walking down the aisles of a Chinese fish market, wearing two different shades of eyeshadow, Katya Baranets cracks a joke about Russia. “It’s okay,” she says assertively. “My great grandparents died in a gulag, I can make gulag jokes.” One of Baranets’ most noticeable traits is her sense of humor, which she describes as “dry, dark, and unexpected. Much like mold.” If you pressed her on the subject, she would probably tell you about her favorite subreddits, or all the times she’s consumed mold. If you dig a little deeper, past the irony, sarcasm, and RuPaul references, you will find someone with a warm, caring personality and a knack for finding the positives amidst difficult situations. For instance, Baranets classifies her bodacious makeup choices as a form of self expression. While struggling with depression, Baranets turned to drawing for support. When doodles failed, she moved to makeup. “I don’t wear any of this to impress anyone,” she remarks about the two small sunsets that she has painted above her eyes. “I do this because I want to express myself and show the world who I am. I guess I’m just really into getting attention,” she adds with a chuckle.

HUMOR is one of Katya Baranets’ greatest assets. Baranets uses her skill for finding the positives in all aspects of life, from make up, to public service, to lingusitics, the junior can make anything beautiful.

To feed into her apparently immense ego, Baranets recently completed her Gold Award Project as a Girl Scout. Inspired by the stories of her father’s own experience adapting to life in America,

Baranets worked through the South Pasadena Senior Center to document the lives of immigrants. Earlier this year, she published a book about the stories of these seniors’ lives and contributed the interviews she conducted to oral history website storycorps.com. This all stems from Baranets’ interest in foreign languages and cultures. As the child of a Russian father and a Mexican-American mother (who is also fluent in Japanese), Baranets has been exposed to a multitude of languages in her life. Where most might seek assimilation, Baranets prides herself in her multicultural background. Although she is already fluent in Russian, she has been working with a tutor to refine her skills before she travels to her father’s hometown this summer to help teach children English in Russia. She cites her motivation to embark on this journey alone to her mother. “I remember when I was really young,” she says, “I asked my Mom to help me open a pack of gummy bears and she sat me down and made me open them myself. She taught me that I needed to be able to work for myself and make a difference in my own world.” Although the gummy bears seem like a stale illustration, Katya feels that this is the moment she began to see herself as an independent woman, the hero of her own story. With this lesson in mind Baranets has continued to find the small bits of humor in every aspect of life, no matter how bleak the situation might seem.

BRANDON VAUGHAN: PRIDE OF SPSP STORY LILIAN AZAT PHOTO THOMAS FORMAN Senior Brandon Vaughan is a familiar face at the South Pasadena Skatepark, with his board and camera following himself and friends around while they attempt to land countless amounts of tricks. However often you might spot Vaughan and his camera set up at the skate park, it is likely he spends double that time developing his skating footage for his YouTube channel and Instagram page, @sketchfool. Vaughan’s avid interest in skateboarding began as a tiny first grader at Arroyo Vista when one of his close friends got into the sport. He didn’t seriously start raking in hours until he reached eighth grade, and only started incorporating his passion for skating into his interest in filmmaking during his sophomore year at SPHS. When Vaughan creates a video he takes inspiration from some of his favorite directors like Wes Anderson and Hayao Miyazaki, who first ignited his interest in producing films. Vaughan’s cinematic style could be described as quick, colorful, and smooth. Most of his edits feature sweet-sounding music, with the beat perfectly timed to line up with the landing of tricks. Vaughan’s use of bright, moving, and popping patterns accentuate the climax of the tricks featured in his edits. His development process can take countless hours for one video depending on how long it takes to land a trick, the number of animations he wants to include, and the type of video he’s producing. “In a three hour skate session I might get five or six tricks, about 30-45 seconds of footage. Music videos take much longer [than short vlogs and edits] because I really take my time with the editing to make sure everything is exactly how I want it.” One of the reasons that Brandon spends hours developing videos that sometimes may only last a few seconds is that, for him, they serve as an outlet for self expression and a way to show his feelings through whatever edit he is working on at the time. Vaughan’s main motivation for creating films is his aspiration to become a music video director or editor. He has committed to Cal State University, Long Beach as a film/narrative production major. He feels the process of making short skating videos teaches him the vital tools and skills that will be extremely applicable further along in his career path for more professional editing opportunities. Vaughan will continue to master his skating skills and expand his array of tricks while improving his ability to create and produce videos.

@SKETCHFOOL, Brandon Vaughan’s Instagram account, is filled with videos edited and animated by the senior. Vaughan has been skating since middle school but more recently started creating edits of himself and friends at the skate park.

TIGER

12 APRIL 27, 2018

FEATURE

A new taste for the South Pasadena diet time getting the juicy food to its destination. Despite being somewhat of an afterthought on the design of the plate, the flavor of the rice also stood out for its mix of sweet and savory. Although there are cheaper places to find a bite to eat in town, Cafe X20, sitting around $10-15 a person, still remains worth the price. The kebab meal isn’t for the eater searching for an aesthetically pleasing meal, however. Even when eating in the restaurant, the food comes in a square, plastic container that would be expected for a takeout meal. Yet, if the slightly off-putting appearance can be looked past, the food will make up for any of the misgivings. Cafe X20 is also a good new find for vegetarians, as a good portion of the dishes are vegetarian friendly. With an additional mix of meat options, though, there is something right for everyone at X20. The restaurant also offers take out options, but a lengthy wait should be expected. Even in store, the food took 20 minutes to be prepared, a long wait considering the amount of people in the restaurant. However, the staff was genuinely friendly, and made sure to answer all pressing culinary questions to pass the time.

CASUAL EATING on Fair Oaks received a new addition with Café X2O, a Lebanese restaurant named for “two kisses and a hug.” STORY NOAH PARKER PHOTO ALICIA ALDERETE

snag of one of the two outside seating arrangements provides a lively view of South Pas.

Cafe X20 has a relatively small menu, but delivers in most facets of the food. The “meal” option features a choice of any plate, sandwich, or skewer, with the addition of rice and any appetizer. The Falafel sandwich delighted with its superb blend of falafels, tahini sauce, and other condiments, and closely resembled the authentic food of the Mediterranean with its lively and fresh ingredients. However, the sandwich could have used a bit more sauce, as it was plagued by dryness. The lamb kebab was cooked to a nice medium rare finish and nearly melts in the mouth, but the plastic fork and knife made for a hard

traying away from the recent trends of boba and pizza places, Cafe X20 offers a fresh type of cuisine to South Pasadena. The small restaurant can be added to the short list of quality, quick bites in South Pas, and with few Lebanese options in the area, it adds a new dimension to the food options in town. Located in a small storefront on Fair Oaks between Gus’ BBQ and Comerica Bank, X20 has few available tables inside the actual restaurant. However, the elevated tables make for an enjoyable, casual eating experience and a

The South Pasadena location is the fourth Cafe X20 to open up in the San Gabriel Valley. Other stores are located in Glendora, La Verne, and Monrovia. The restaurant offers catering services in the Monrovia and La Verne locations. Despite Cafe X20’s shortcomings in its plate layout, the Mediterranean restaurant delighted with its unique menu and flavors. With its blend of quality food and casual eating experience, Cafe X20 could soon find itself as one of the go-to places in South Pasadena.

818 FAIR OAKS AVE, SOUTH PASADENA (626) - 460 - 6400 MON - SAT: 11:00 A.M. - 8:30 P.M. SUN: 11:00 A.M. - 7:30 P.M. $$

2018’s fresh female artists While nothing can beat Beyoncé making history at Coachella, several other female superstars released new music this month. Tiger Staff highlights a few standouts and their fresh beats. STORY AMELIA ANTHONY, ALINA MEHDI, SAMMY PARK

ILLUSTRATIONS ELAINE YANG

Kali Uchis

Nicki Minaj

Kali Uchis’ debut album Isolation dropped April 6, solidifying her ability to make pop-fueled music cool for listeners disillusioned with the genre’s basic structures. Kali combines her retro jazz, R&B, and dreamy pop with fresh collabs with Steve Lacy, Jorja Smith, and Tyler, Creator. Each song on the album is unique in style and message, but all feature her sexy, powerful, undeniably feminine vocals and charm. Standout songs include “Flight 22” and “Miami,” which are perfect for springtime playlists.

Veteran rapper Nicki Minaj has ventured back into the music scene with a vengeance. In the four years since her last album, The Pinkprint, Nicki has been featured on other artists’ albums, but with the release of singles “Chun-Li” and “Barbie Tingz,” Minaj proves what longtime listeners have already known: she has no need for a Lil Wayne or Drake feature to boost the profile of her singles. The swaggering lyrical rhythm of “Chun-Li” is the perfect introduction for the new Minaj. She’s a lyricist on a mission to become the greatest.

Alina Baraz

Cardi B

The somewhat reclusive R&B singer Alina Baraz released her second album The Color of You in early April. The album brings soft, carefree vibes, similar to Baraz’s previous tracks like “Fantasy” and “Make You Feel” that have upwards of 40 million streams on Spotify. The Color of You features “Floating,” her second collaboration with R&B singer Khalid, after their first mainstream success with single “Electric.” Other than that, Baraz relies mainly on her beautiful R&B vocals combined with feelgood beats to keep listeners hooked.

Rapper Cardi B continues to climb the charts and charm her fans with her newly released album, Invasion of Privacy. From Latin trap songs like “I Like It” featuring J Balvin to fiery and empowering anthems like “Bickenhead,” this debut album manages to capture all of Cardi’s wild spirit. Her personality and versatile style shine clear in every song. Invasion of Privacy is further elevated by various features like “I Do” with SZA and “Drip” with Migos. The list of features is long but Cardi makes it clear that she can hold on her own in songs like “Money Bag” and “Be Careful.”

Hayley Kiyoko

King Princess

Singer-songwriter Hayley Kiyoko, dubbed the “Lesbian Jesus” by her fans, released her debut album Expectations in late March. Known for her catchy pop tracks, it comes as no surprise that her debut album features the kinds of hooks that makes a listener picture her music in every H&M (no shade, of course). “What I Need,” her track with Kehlani, shares the experiences of queer women. Kiyoko’s no-filter approach to songwriting allows her songs to resonate with listeners.

Rising star King Princess, whose face adorned the Spotify-made New Music playlist last week, just released her second single “Talia.” This song followed the wildly successful breakout single “1950,” which just hit 44 million streams on Spotify. Both songs are openly queer love ballads, providing the widely underrepresented LGBTQ+ community with a new face. Her spot-on songwriting and obvious musical talent earned a Twitter shoutout from Harry Styles and signing with producer Mark Ronson’s new label.

TIGER 13 APRIL 27, 2018

FEATURE

TAAGLAA: Marina del Rey TIGER’S AWESOME ADVENTURES IN THE GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA STORY & PHOTOS LUKE QUEZADA

ith summer on the horizon, Kate, Finley, Helena, and I decided to escape from the confines of South Pasadena and venture to Marina del Rey for a day of fun in the sun. After securing a small fleet of paddle boards and kayaks, we set off triumphantly. Though we used our own gear, watersport rentals are available around the marina, including at Paddle Method on Mother’s Beach. Within the first thirty seconds, Finley had fallen into the water. Clearly, the “run-and-hop” method was not the proper way to board a stand-up. After gathering himself, Finley was up once again and more determined than ever. We set out in search of the manmade cove, Mother’s Beach, with Helena and I on a kayak and Kate alongside Finley on another paddleboard.

As Kate and Finley glided across the water with ease, Helena and I tried to get it together and catch up with the other half of our fearless squad. Kayaking was clearly a far more arduous process than we had planned on. We soon realized that navigating the marina meant avoiding the dozens of yachts whizzing through the middle of the waterway at all times. We found the easiest way to avoid as many boats as possible was to cling to the docks and paddle like mad when the time came to cross a heavily trafficked channel. Half an hour and a lifetime of obscenities and panicked paddling later, we finally reached our destination: Mother’s Beach, a slice of paradise in an otherwise dreary existence. Complete with copious amounts of stingrays, a Cheesecake Factory within walking distance, and a spot on the top ten list for California’s most polluted beaches, Mother’s is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. The moment we stepped foot on the petroleum soaked

ON THE WATERFRONT, visitors can find various goods at the Farmers’ Market sand, we knew we were in for a treat. In all honesty, the beach is pretty enjoyable aside from the occasional beer bottle; the protected cove provides a perfect location for beginner paddle boarders with limited swell and wind. Although we neglected to bring any games with us, navigating the shoreline while attempting to avoid cigarette butts and stingray barbs provided a thrilling way to pass the time. After a while spent amongst the sand, we decided to explore the area for some food. We stopped by the Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market, located in the Mother’s public parking lot. Open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the market is a surprisingly cheap option for everything from vegan tacos to designer throw pillows. Organic produce, freshly baked pastries, and live music are all available amongst the vendors. We indulged in some pork tamales and bean and cheese pupusas before paddling back to the real world.

MOTHER’S BEACH in Marina del Rey, though not the most pristine spot for a day in the sun, is still a fun place to spend time with friends with many options for food and recreation.

As our trip came to its close, Kate, Finley, and I peacefully drifted with the tide as Helena violently slipped off of her board. We laughed before paddling off into the sunset, pupusas in hand.

TIGER

14 APRIL 27, 2018

STORY NOAH PARKER & PRESTON SHARKEY

SPORTS

SPHS SPRING CIF CONTENDERS

TRACK & FIELD

Track and field will compete in the Rio Hondo League Finals on Friday, May 4th, with the top three finishers in each event advancing to CIF Prelims. South Pas will once again hope to send 15-20 athletes to CIF preliminaries. The top relay teams from the RHL will also compete in CIF. The girls’ 4x400 and boys’ 4x100 teams are two teams likely to qualify for CIF prelims or further. After another undefeated league record, a successful season for many of the athletes will be defined on if they qualify for CIF and their performance in CIF competition. Like the baseball team, softball has yet to find a league win this season. With a record of 0-17, the team’s chance of reaching CIF is nonexistent. The Tigers have four games left in league, and the girls hope to pick up a win. Despite the losing streak, a freshman class that composes nearly half of the varsity team leaves South Pas optimistic for the future.

SOFTBALL

BASEBALL

Although keeping most of its contests close this year, the baseball team has struggled to finish them out, leaving it with af 4-11 record overall and 0-7 record in league. Barring a complete change in momentum, the Tigers’ season will likely end the year near the bottom of the league standings without CIF qualification. South Pas nearly picked up its first league win of the year on Tuesday the 24th against La Canada but ultimately fell short, losing 4-5 after having a 4-2 lead going into the final inning.

PAGE & ILLUSTRATION ASHTON CARLESS

VOLLEYBALL

Boys’ volleyball’s season has been characterized by streaky play, but the squad has solidified themselves in the top three in the Rio Hondo League. The team started the season with a 12-4 preseason record, highlighted by an eight game win streak with victories over St. Francis and Cathedral. However, the team was plagued by a five game losing streak in early April, bringing down its overall record to 18-12. The team’s 4-2 league record is good for second place in RHL, but La Cañada and Temple City are right behind. The Tigers will need a strong finish to qualify for CIF playoffs.

SWIMMING

The top swimmers from SPHS will aim to qualify for CIF at the two-day Rio Hondo League Finals meet next week. Juniors Jaden Mullin and Kyra Angkasa headline the Tiger swimmers hoping to make a splash in CIF this year. Angkasa competes in the 100 meter breaststroke while Mullin’s main event is the 100 meter backstroke. In a relatively slow year for the successful swimming program at SPHS, the 400 meter boys freestyle relay team is likely to qualify for CIF.

TENNIS

After a solid start to the season, boys’ tennis has struggled to perform in league play. The Tigers have a 1-5 league record; their sole win came in dominating fashion with a 18-0 victory over Monrovia. However, the team also owns a respectable 7-9 overall record, including victories over Flintridge Prep and Mark Keppel. With the Tigers eliminated from CIF contention, their last game of the year will come against Monrovia on Friday, April 27 on the road.

TIGER 15 APRIL 27, 2018

SPORTS

Desmond Chan: a rising tennis star STORY DOMINIC MARZIALI PHOTO THOMAS FORMAN

lthough South Pasadena often struggles in tennis, sophomore Desmond Chan has emerged as a standout player in Southern California. In his first year on the team he has proven himself as easily capable of dominating tough opponents while building up his state ranking in tournaments. Chan began his tennis career in fifth grade at a tennis club near Arcadia and has continued playing since. Around the time he discovered an interest in tennis, Chan was dabbling in new sports in an effort to discover a replacement for swimming, which he had become bored of. After settling on tennis, Chan trained and progressed through several different tennis clubs. With an influx of training a year after he dove into tennis, Chan found his passion for the sport and began composing the skills necessary to compete at the high school and state level. In his first year on the SPHS boys’ varsity tennis team, Chan has proved himself as the best player on the team, and a contender as one of the best players in the Rio Hondo League. Throughout the season, Chan has maintained a set record of 17-4, often providing much needed wins for the high school team when it encounter stiff competition. When the team faced rival San Marino on Tuesday, April 24, Chan was the only player to win any games, single-handedly earning South Pas two wins. Chan regularly competes in state tournaments organized by the United States Tennis Association (USTA), often engaging in a tournament every week. Partaking in tourneys has allowed Chan to build his competitive rank in California, which currently rests at 1,444 of registered players in the USTA. Although he does not consistently win in tournaments, Chan brings the experience gained there to tennis games at SPHS.

ONLY A SOPHOMORE, Chan has the most wins on the entire boys’ tennis team. During his games at the high school level, Chan expresses aspects of his game that he might not show during competitive games. Chan can often be seen casually returning the ball with a shot behind the back or through the legs, a style he molded from the professional tennis player Nick Kyrgios. Kyrgios, a charismatic player who entertains a cool and laid back game, makes tennis look easy. Elements Kyrgios uses in his own style can be seen in Chan’s play, including the use of slices and backspin as a method to momentarily slow the game by floating the ball over the net, as well as the clever and select

use of tricks. Apart from his introduction of nuanced features found in Kyrgios’ game, Chan prefers to play along the baseline and approaches the net for vollies less than Kyrgios. While Chan may not play exactly the same style as Kyrgios, he spends hours every day playing, practicing, watching, thinking, or learning about tennis. In order to develop his own game and discover new strategies to implement into his own style, Chan spends roughly five to six hours every day studying tennis.

Softball: rebounding from hardship STORY SAMMY PARK

How the softball team maintains its positive culture and morale in times of struggle An observer would not be able to tell that the varsity softball team is facing a season-long dry spell from the cheers that resonate throughout the field. Even when the Tigers are on the cusp of losing, the team’s cheers remain persistently loud and joyful.

LOWERING HIS BODY, sophomore Hanwul Choi receives a spike.

Volleyball beats Gabrielino STORY BEN CLARK PHOTO ALICIA ALDRETE The boys’ volleyball team reigned supreme over Gabrielino on Tuesday April 24, taking them down in a brilliant three-set sweep. This victory has allowed the Tigers to keep their second place spot behind San Marino going into the final stages of the season. The Tigers got off to a strong start in the first set, playing comfortably remaining in constant control. In no time, they left the Eagles in the dust. The team left no doubt as they outplayed the eagles in all aspects of the game. Instead they pressed even harder with strong spikes from players such as sophomore Kai Hekekia and senior Kyle Woo. South Pasadena easily won the set 25-18. The team was able to keep the momentum going into the second set when senior Reno Goudeau spiked the ball for an early lead. Gabrielino attempted to fight back, but an ace from junior Paul Pan knocked them back again. Senior Jared Gee followed this up with a kill off of a volley from senior Cole Schroeder. The Eagles were able to tie the game up once more, but were not able to maintain their lead. the Tigers

pulled far ahead through strong teamwork and defensive skills and continued to exert dominance with spikes and blocks from senior Maxton Lam as well as back to back aces from sophomore Hanwul Choi. South Pas took the set with a score of 25-13. The Gabrielino Eagles came into the third set angry, playing harder and taking the Tigers by surprise after their early wins. Goudeau helped the Tigers to recover from the early onslaught with multiple blocks, but the Eagles stayed uncomfortably close to the Tigers. Any time that the Tigers attempted to get ahead in the game, Gabrielino always evened the odds. South Pasadena had many excellent plays including a clever tip from sophomore Tyler Lieu and another ace from Choi, but Gabrielino matched this with strong blocks and spikes. Towards the end of the set, however, Gabrielino jumped ahead, leading by three points. It seemed like the set might have been lost for the Tigers, but the team continued fighting and pushed back past Gabrielino, to win the set 25-23. The Tigers’ next match is an away game against La Cañada on April 26. This game will serve as a tiebreaker between the two teams who are currently in second place.

In high school sports, team morale is one of the most influential factors in who wins and who doesn’t. Often, teams facing a losing streak shrink in the face of competition. But it is South Pas’ youth and vigor that allows the team to fight until the end. Even in the seventh inning when the girls are facing a multi-run deficit, batters hit their hardest and fielders run their fastest. This type of enthusiasm that the softball team displays is indicative of its youth: almost every defensive position being filled by a freshman. This adolescence adds an air of innocence to almost everything the players do. From their nicknames for each other (e.g. their nickname for junior Catherine Conolly “KatCon”) to the Little League-esque dugout chants, the team’s freshmen and sophomores are its saving grace. As softball’s season winds down, the young team doesn’t face the challenge (graduation) that most varsity teams face: they will only be losing two seniors. The Tigers are looking forward to next year with hope. Already, the margin by which the team loses has narrowed since last year. For example, last year the Tigers lost 11-1 to Polytechnic High School. This year they lost 4-1. After years of struggling, the program has started its journey to improving. And, the players seem eager to be apart of this slow journey to excellence. “Somehow I’ve stayed in softball for all four years. Although our team has problems with winning, I really don’t regret any of it. Sometimes, we lose by a lot, but there are also moments when we make the other teams nervous,“ senior Cathy Wang said. “I I love playing softball because of the teamwork and strategies involved in making every play. It’s been a pretty long season and I honestly wouldn’t have made it through without my team.”

TIGER

16 APRIL 27, 2018

SPORTS

Track completes perfect season against TC STORY PRESTON SHARKEY The track and field team completed its seventh consecutive undefeated league season this past Wednesday, beating Temple City 98-20 in the girls’ division and 105-12 in the boys’ division. In its final league meet of the year, South Pas was dominant in the sprint, distance, and field events on their home track. Right from the first starter pistol, the talent level of the two schools in sprints was apparent. Both South Pasadena 4x100 relay teams won easily from the inside lane, and were able to make up the distance from the staggered start in the first leg. The girls’ team won by six seconds with a time of 50.42 seconds and the boys’ had a three second separation on Temple City, winning with a time of 43.99. Freshman Ferrel Mansano, who anchored the 4x100 team, ran the first leg for the boys’ 4x400 team which beat Temple City with a 3:41.46 time.

MOVING LATERALLY, freshman Andrew Cheung watches his adversary receive a serve.

‘We have a badminton team?’ STORY ALEX BETTS PHOTO THOMAS FORMAN

tereotyped television sitcoms and movies have idolized high school football and basketball for decades. However, as the 21st Century progresses, dangerous injuries are to be avoided at all costs, and games of speed, accuracy, and technical skill are valued more than ever. Thus, the stage is perfectly set for badminton, a sport rising in popularity across the San Gabriel Valley, leading to the implementation of a team at SPHS in the 2016 spring season. Hindered by a lack of interest and experience, the squad struggled to emerge victorious in its debut season. The team showed flashes of potential with wins over Mayfield, but struggled versus the few other teams they opposed. Fortunately, badminton rebounded in 2017, maintaining an even 6-6 record and defeating previously-insurmountable competitors. However, the team still relied on core players to carry the team, leaving lit-

tle room for error. Of the instrumental group, the Wu brothers—Michael ‘17 and Steven ‘19 — have acted as key leaders and trailblazers for the Tigers. But with Micheal Wu having left for Berkeley, the 2018 season symbolized the turning of a new leaf for the young squad. Now in its third year, S. Wu and a handful of underclassmen have led the squad to a state of prominence in the Almont League. Sophomore sensations Charles Liu, Emily Choi, and Joan Choi have played significant roles in South Pas’ commanding victories over San Gabriel, Mark Keppel, Alhambra, and Mayfield. The Tigers’ momentum is only stalled by rival San Marino and the Arcadia Apaches, both of which boast large, skilled teams. But an 11-10 victory over the Titans bodes well for the squad, whose oldest member is S. Wu, a junior captain. With underclassmen prospects and win totals rising, badminton is undoubtedly primed for several triumphs in the coming years — and with any luck, an increase in student attendance.

Senior Cate Latting earned ten points for South Pas, placing first in the girls’ triple jump and pole vault with an eight foot vault. Seniors Josh Ng and Noah Uemura won the pole vault and high jump; Ng had a ten foot vault while Uemura’s jump cleared a 5’8’’ bar. Tianhao Wei continued his standout sophomore season winning, first place in the boys’ 100 meter dash, triple jump and long jump. Wei took a different approach to his main event, the triple jump, utilizing a six step run up to jump 41’1’’. Due to an effort to shorten the meet for open house, both 3200 meter races were cancelled. South Pas was unable to win the girls’ mile race, but a duo of sophomores Emily Newhall and Megan Yee came in first and second place in the 800, respectively. Junior Kai Dettman and senior Ben Clark switched roles, with the long distance runner, Clark, winning the boys’ 800. Normally a sprinter and middle distance runner, Dettman won the mile with an impressive 4:41.68 time. One of South Pasadena’s few losses was in the final race of the day. Four throwers from both schools competed in a 4x100 relay and Temple City came on top with a 51.02 time, beating SPHS’ 52.87 second run. After maintaining the league winning streak, the Tigers will take the first step towards qualifying for CIF at the Rio Hondo League Prelims meet on May 1.

Baseball falls to La Cañada STORY PETER WANG PHOTO THOMAS FORMAN Varsity baseball lost a league game at home against La Cañada on Tuesday, April 24 with a final score of 5-4. Despite maintaining a strong lead for most of the game, the Tigers fell to La Cañada’s sudden rally in the last inning in a heartbreaking defeat that set their league record to 0-7. Junior Noah Parker pitched the first six innings of the game, and hindered the Spartan advance from a potential onslaught to a mere trickle by giving up only two runs. Senior Jackson Totleben was swapped in for the seventh inning, giving up three runs. The Spartans scored the first run of the game off of a RBI double following a walk and steal in the top of the first inning. In the bottom of that inning, the Tigers used the same pattern of walk, steal, and double to tie the game. A single by junior Max Smith loaded the bases, but two consecutive strikeouts threatened the scoring opportunity. Fortunately, a double from senior Isaac Luevano knocked in two additional runs, bringing the score to 3-1. In the second inning, La Cañada was not able to score despite placing a runner on third. South Pasadena befell the same fate when senior Zach Howorth advanced to third with two steals, but was bogged down as his teammates were unable to bring him home. The third inning was similar, with both teams stifled by dominant pitching. The Tigers fortified their lead in the bottom of the fourth inning after a pitch struck. Howorth in the shoul-

der, an error that brought home batter Isaac Luevano for the team’s fourth run. This mistake caused the Spartans to meet at the mound to reassess their game plan, but no immediate improvement appeared. La Cañada loaded the bases in the fifth inning after two walks and a double. A catch by senior center fielder Sidney Luna-Long helped to still Spartan momentum, but a run was still scored. The score of 4-2 made a comeback more likely, but the Tigers were still hopeful in what was shaping up to be their first league win. South Pasadena shut out the Spartan’s offense in the top of the sixth inning through strong communication on defense. Despite a fielding error on the fence at center field and a catching error at home plate, the Tigers were able to prevent runs with strong throws around the diamond. Ultimately, La Cañada’s batting reigned supreme in the seventh inning after being energized by a RBI single that signified the beginning of a comeback. The tying run was scored off of a sacrifice bunt, a play frowned upon by South Pasadena for its high risk. The Spartans came out on top after another RBI single, the third uninterrupted run of the inning. South Pasadena attempted to tie the score and go into overtime in the bottom half of the seventh. Junior Savian Joseph hit a single and tried to follow up with a steal, but was caught stealing. The game ended when two more outs followed with no additional hits. The team will face off against La Cañada again at an away game on April 27.

ANTICIPATING THE PITCH, senior Alex Fonseca loads his swing.

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