Verde Volume 22 Issue 2

V. return to uncertainty Another semester behind the screen looms

2 DECEMBER 2020

VERDE MAGAZINE December 2020 Volume 22 Issue 2

ON THE COVER Palo Alto High School history teacher Caitlin Evans takes down a sign that reads “Welcome Back Students!” from behind the glass window of her classroom. Photo Director Audrey Joachim posed and captured the image shortly after Santa Clara County moved into the state’s purple COVID-19 tier and the district’s reopening plan fell to pieces. The cancellation brought an end to the contentious debates surrounding a return to campus — but concerns regarding what comes next still hang heavy over the community.

COVID-19 Photo Precautions In all photo shoots, Photo Director Audrey Joachim wore a mask and adhered to social distancing guidelines. Photos were taken outdoors (with the exception of “Rejected reopening“).

Publication Policy Verde Magazine, a news and features magazine published by the students in Palo Alto High School’s Magazine Journalism class, is a designated open forum for student expression and discussion of issues of concern to its readership. Verde is distributed to its readers and the student body at no cost.

Letters to the Editors The staff welcomes letters to the editors but reserves the right to edit all submissions for length, grammar, potential libel, invasion of privacy and obscenity. Send all letters to verde.eics@gmail.com or 50 Embarcadero Rd Palo Alto, CA 94301.

Advertising The staff publishes advertisements with signed contracts providing they are not deemed by the staff inappropriate for the magazine’s audience. For more information about advertising with Verde, please contact business managers Olivia Milne and Anya Mondragon at verdebusiness5@gmail.com.

Printing & Distribution Verde is printed five times a year in October, December, February, April and May by Folger Graphics in Hayward, California. The Paly Parent Teacher Student Association mails Verde to every student’s home. All Verde work is available at verdemagazine.com

Editors-in-Chief Avery Hanna Laura Malagrino Antonia Mou (digital) Ishani Raha (digital) Myra Xu Managing Editors and Statisticians Allison Chang Katherine Cheng Features Editors Mia Baldonado Tim Hung Profiles Editor Andie Tetzlaff Culture Editor Tara Kothari Perspectives Editor Ryan Seto Editorials Editor Michelle Kim News Editors Paisley Annes Sadie Ibbotson-Brown Launch Editors Sofia Antebi Emily Yao Design Editor Kylie Mies

Copy Editors Naomi Boneh Andie Tetzlaff Multimedia Manager Naomi Boneh Business Managers Olivia Milne Anya Mondragon Social Media Manager Akhil Joondeph Art Director Samantha Ho Photo Director Audrey Joachim Webmaster Zander Leong Staff Writers Abimbola Bolarinwa Sebastian Bonnard Sasha Boudtchenko Jerry Fang Audrey Kernick Aanya Kumar Dominique Lashley Merwa Marof Sophie Matlof Adviser Paul Kandell

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 3

In this issue Foreword

6 Editorials 8 Launch 10 News

Features

13 16 18 20 24 26

Reopening PAUSD 2020 by the numbers Kamala Harris Election reactions Climate chronicles Family divisions

Profiles

ELECTION REACTIONS pg. 20

28 30 32 34 37 38 40

Wellness center Surfers and skiers Study abroad Underwater hockey Middle Ground Club Holidays in quarantine Killiney Kopitiam

ulture C 42 The Queen’s Gambit 44 Heartwarming “Hilda” 46 Concerts during COVID-19 47 K-pop review 48 LGBTQ+ singers

Perspectives

KILLINEY KOPITIAM pg. 40 4 DECEMBER 2020

49 50 52 53 54 55

Fall of pop music Pro-con reopening Amy Coney Barrett Day at the polls Dear Mr. President-elect Reflecting on 2020

A YEAR TO REMEMBER pg. 55

DEAR MR. PRESIDENT-ELECT pg. 54 REJECTED REOPENING pg. 13

A DAY AT THE POLLS pg. 53

SHREDDING THE GNAR pg. 30

FROM THE EDITORS

NEW YEAR, NEW PERSPECTIVE The ball still drops. Fireworks still light the sky. But this year is different. As we ring in the new year, most likely through boxes on a screen, we reminisce about the blissful celebrations of last year when we were full of hope for the start of a new decade.

But 2020 did not go according to expectations.

We experienced a global pandemic disrupting every aspect of our lives while racial violence ignited protests on our streets. We faced unprecedented challenges and were forced to adapt to a new, virtual way of life. Yet through it all, we stayed grounded among the chaos and pushed not to return to normal but to move forward. Launch Editor Emily Yao captures this theme in her perspective “A year to remember,” and urges readers to confront the reality of the current issues as we move into the new year.

Managing Editors Allison Chang and Katherine Cheng gathered statistics to create vibrant infographics that capture this year’s defining events, providing insightful data on topics from coronavirus to students’ political stances. “2020 by the numbers” sums up a year that many are eager to leave behind, while other stories look to what’s to come.

While uncertainty clouds the approaching year, we look forward to having a new administration, especially with the first female, first Black and first South Asian Vice President of the United States. In the feature story “Kamala Harris,” Social Media Manager Akhil Joondeph examines the significance of this moment for the South Asian community.

This new executive leadership brings hope for a brighter future.

Staff writer Sebastian Bonnard urges President-elect Joe Biden to pri-

oritize education throughout and beyond the pandemic in his perspective “Dear Mr. President-elect.” Bonnard calls on Biden to learn from France’s COVID-19 response in securing the education of millions of students.

The issue of education in a pandemic is at the forefront of our minds as the new year was also supposed to bring hybrid learning options to Palo Alto High School students. However, staff writers Aanya Kumar and Sebastian Bonnard now examine the return to uncertainty as the plan that incited so much dissension within the community was canceled due to Santa Clara County’s placement in the state’s purple COVID-19 tier. Meanwhile, Perspectives Editor Ryan Seto and News Editor Paisley Annes share their respective opinions on the plan in their pro-con perspective piece “Returning to school.”

No matter what 2021 brings, it is clear that the events that defined 2020 have left their mark. This year has taught us much about what needs to be done, and forced us to confront unexpected challenges and have important conversations about the inequities ingrained in our community and country. We learned to adapt and innovate in order to create a process that would function as efficiently online as it did in person.

And while 2020 was a difficult year for us all, we move into 2021 with new experiences, new skills and a new perspective.

—AVERY, MYRA, LAURA, ANTONIA, ISHANI

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 5

the verdicts

Letter to the school board FURTHERING STUDENT EQUITY AND SUCCESS

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OMING OUT OF A recent Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education election, we congratulate incumbents Todd Collins and Jennifer DiBrienza as well as new member Jesse Fletcher Ladomirak who joined the Board this fall.

We urge board members to give careful consideration to student and teacher input on future reopening plans, improve accommodations for student mental health and continue to work towards improving educational equity in the district.

Especially amidst the uncertainty brought by COVID-19, stronger communication and open dialogue between students, teachers and board members is imperative.

Hybrid learning model As Santa Clara County has returned to the COVID-19 purple tier, Palo Alto High School will continue distance learning for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year.

Prior to entering the purple tier, the Board unanimously approved a hybrid learning model with a return to campus scheduled in January, incorporating in-person and online learning for up to 30% of students who would return to campus in separate cohorts for their history and English classes. This plan was simply a disaster, as 95.5% of students were dissatisfied of 136 Paly students surveyed by Verde in

Art by Samantha Ho

6 DECEMBER 2020

November.

Although the hybrid plan will not be implemented this year, Verde believes that the Board disregarded concerns from students and staff about the safety of secondary schools reopening in its decision-making process.

Both student representatives on the Board cast preferential votes against the hybrid plan. Additionally, teachers in the Palo Alto Educators Association as well as over 300 parents voiced opposition to reopening in letters to the Board in September.

Because students and teachers are the ones put at the most risk if in-class instruction were to resume in January, consideration of their perspectives should have been a higher priority. Board members must act on input from PAUSD families, students and faculty in order to improve representation in board decisions that affect them.

Mental health The transition from the Paly campus’ energetic atmosphere to a fully at-home learning model over the past few months has been a difficult adjustment for many.

Reports of negative impacts on mental health, such as increased feelings of isolation as students and staff live out their day behind a screen, have been far from uncommon.

“I’ve felt a pretty drastic change in my mental health ever since we started online school,” junior Parker Bates said. “I feel disconnected and mentally drained; it’s al-

most like the days just repeat themselves.”

With limited participation in activities like sports and spending time with friends, distance learning has taken an especially strong toll on students.

Although Paly’s Wellness Center has taken commendable steps to support students, the Board must prioritize the expansion of mental health services among all PAUSD schools, address potential sources of stress and accommodate feedback from students to develop services which best tailor to their needs.

Educational equity Distance learning has further exacerbated the severe educational inequity throughout PAUSD. As the pandemic continues to disproportionately impact low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, it is clear that the district must implement changes with equity at the forefront of mind.

We commend the board for taking necessary action to support disadvantaged students during campus closures. These steps include distributing computers and Wi-Fi, continuing to provide meals for those who rely on school lunch and creating PAUSD+ — an in-person learning program for students who are more at risk for falling behind academically in the digital environment.

However, Verde urges the district to push further and think beyond distance learning. The Board must uphold its June resolution denouncing racism and supporting equity with real action, not empty promises.

The PAUSD Promise and the inauguration of a new school board provides an opportunity to bring radical change; the urgent development of an annual District Equity Scorecard, as well as mandatory diversity, equity and inclusion training for staff will help move the needle so that all students can reach their full potential. v

The Verdict editorial section expresses the collective opinion of the Verde Magazine staff.

C&CC: Stellar efforts benefit seniors

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“Because of the stresses and concerns IGH SCHOOL SENIORS their own homes. across the nation are navIn the survey, nearly 80% of respon- students were having about applying this year, we added more igating an unprecedented dents reported using senior advisories at college admissions land- resources from the The C&CC has risen the beginning of scape as COVID-19 persists into the College and Career the school year and winter application season.

Center during their above their call of added an advisory Many defining aspects of college ad- application process. duty to ensure that about gap years and missions — including standardized tests, With Common grade point averages and extracurricular App essay writing every senior’s hub for community colleges, we typically activities — have been affected or in- guides, standardized advice ... is just a few which haven’t had,” Cernohibited by the health crisis, making the testing updates, nobori said. already daunting process of applying to tifications of schol- clicks away.

Verde would college even more uncertain. arships and virtual With Palo Alto High School’s tran- college visits and technical “How To” ap- like to express our gratitude to Paly’s sition to distance learning, the College plication videos included in the C&CC hardworking and flexible college advisors and Career Center, Paly’s post-high Schoology course, the C&CC has risen and C&CC team, who have allowed seschool planning department, has admi- above their call of duty to ensure that niors to continue utilizing the C&CC’s rably adapted to the every valuable resources during this intimidatunfamiliar circumse- ing and significant time in their lives. v stances to continue nior’s giving students the hub for ad- Source: The data presented here comes college admissions vice and answers from an opt-in Verde Magazine survey of 136 guidance they need. is just a few clicks away.

Palo Alto High School students from all four “Technology has To better cater to the grades. Verde conducted the survey from 19 to Nov. 24 through a digital form pubim been the most chalneeds of senior students, the Nov. le K lished on school social media and Schoology hel c i M lenging,” said Sandra C&CC has also adjusted the pages. Responses were anonymous and by Art participation for all questions was optional.

Cernobori, one of the advisory system. two C&CC advisors.

The process of moving all senior meetings to Zoom has not been easy for Cernobori and Janet Cochrane, the other college advisor. However, the Calendly scheduling tool — which allows students to check real-time advisor availability, sign up for appointments and receive an automatic confirmation and Zoom link — was an innovative solution to help in facilitating connection for Paly students.

“I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to schedule an appointment [with the C&CC],” Paly senior Diego Mazzon said. “I was surprised at how easy it was to meet with my college advisor.”

COLLEGE AND CAREER RESOURCES — Prior to campus closures in March, the College and According to a survey conducted Career Center’s physical office was open for students to drop in to meet with advisors, use stantest preparation books and more. As distance learning continues throughout the rest

by Verde Magazine, many seniors like dardized of the school year, C&CC advisors have made their services available in a digital format. “I was Mazzon were able to utilize the C&CC’s surprised at how easy it was to meet with my college advisor,” senior Diego Mazzon said. Photo: resources this year from the comfort of Mia Baldonado

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 7

launch WHAT IS YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION?

ASB ANSWERS

“Finish my homework earlier and put time into hobbies like songwriting and practicing guitar more consistently.” ­— Jason Yang, sophomore

“I want to get to know my new and old friends better, even if we’re in this distanced learning mode.”

— Andy Ng, junior “[2021] is going to be chaotic, so my hope is that I am able to soak it all in and explore without being too worried about what is happening next.”

— Anna Roth, senior

SNOWMAN ABOMINATION We’ve hidden 10 mini snowmen on the Launch spread!

NEW YEAR’S SITCOM SPECIALS The Office Season 7, Episode 13

How I Met Your Mother Season 1, Episode 11

Friends Season 6, Episode 10 Can you find all of them?

Seinfeld Season 8, Episode 20 Gossip Girl Season 5, Episode 11 That ’70s Show Season 8, Episode 22 Modern Family Season 4, Episode 1

8 DECEMBER 2020

­Photo: Leslie Aboytes

WITH ASB PRESIDENT AVANTIKA SINGH What has been most challenging this year for ASB? Students are lacking connections between each other and lacking the social-emotional piece that school would have provided us with. We are trying to come up with as many events as we can to bring the “fun” part of school back, however, we are noticing that less and less students want to be on a screen for longer than needed.

Any events we can look forward to in the near future?

We are leaning towards a movie night right before finals for students to relax for a bit.

For second semester, we were planning more in-person events, but we put a hold on that for now to see what we’re working with.

How can students get involved?

ASB has been coming up with a ton of events for the student body, and I think we should take advantage of the opportunities.

I encourage everyone to follow their class accounts and the Paly ASB account on Instagram since everything is publicized there. If you don’t have social media, stay up to date on Schoology for ASB reminders!

Text by SOFIA ANTEBI and EMILY YAO

Art by XIAOHAN LI

LOCAL COCOA REVIEW PALO ALTO CAFE

7/10

­Photos: Sofia Antebi

MADEMOISELLE COLETTE

$3.65 While it’s not mindblowingly unique, Palo Alto Cafe’s hot chocolate is a comforting drink with hints of chocolate that are just enough to satisfy your cravings.

CAFÉ VENETIA

10/10

$4 Served in a petite cup, this creamy French hot chocolate pairs well with their pastries — the true highlight. Perhaps order something lighter next time.

BACKYARD BREW

$4.75 While this drink was more expensive than the others, it was worth the extra dollar.

Rich and decadent, this indulgent hot chocolate is a delightful winter treat.

Art by Samantha Ho

2020 WINTER BREAK VACATION DESTINATIONS

7/10

9/10

$4 This hot cocoa is light with a simple and classic chocolate component that balances the foamy top layer. With the cozy atmosphere, this drink brings back the holiday spirit.

Verde’s 2020 Recap Playlist Scan this code to access the full playlist on Spotify!

Break My Heart

...

Dua Lipa

Say So

Doja Cat ft. Nicki Minaj

Adore You

HEAR THE VOICES OF VERDE Check out our podcast, “Verde, Verbalized” on Spotify, where our very own staff writers share thoughts and experiences behind their own stories.

Harry Styles

my future Billie Eilish

Yo Perreo Sola Bad Bunny

... ... ... ...

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 9

news Science building to open in January

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he construction of the new science building at Palo Alto High School will be completed prior to the start of next semester, according to Assistant Principal Jerry Berkson.

The building, which started construction in July 2019, boasts spacious classrooms. With the expansion of PAUSD+ next semester, the Paly administration is expecting that the rooms will be used to come extent, according to Berkson.

Construction was originally scheduled to finish over the summer, but many obstacles unrelated to COVID-19 caused the date to be pushed back, Berkson said.

Classes that used to be held in the portables will move into the new building when school reopens. The portables will not be removed for many years due to other construction on campus. The Tower Building will be starting renovations in about a year, Berkson said.

by MERWA MAROF

CONSTANT CONSTRUCTION — The new science building is almost complete after over a year of construction.

“It’s always exciting when there is a new building on campus, and hopefully when we go back to school I will be able to check it out,” junior Chloe Racliffe said. Photo: Merwa Marof

10 DECEMBER 2020

AUSTIN ANNOUNCES — Superintendent Don Austin discusses plans for Class of 2021’s graduation in a Dec. 1 interview with Verde. Austin is prioritizing an in-person ceremony for seniors. “If we don’t have a graduation ceremony of some kind, not virtual, then it is because we were told it is prohibited by the county, and that it would be violating the law,” Austin said. Photo: Ishani Raha

Austin prioritizes in-person grad

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ALO ALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL District Superintendent Don Austin vows, if COVID circumstances allow, to do what he can to give the Class of 2021 an in-person graduation.

Due to the pandemic, Class of 2021 has been forced to complete their last year of high school online. As a result of distance learning, the seniors are not able to participate in many events such as Spirit Week and both proms.

“It just makes me sick to my stomach that you guys are missing, essentially half your junior year, an entire senior year,” Austin said. “If we can do anything for you, we are going to do it.”

According to Austin, the only reason the Class of 2021 would not be given some kind of graduation ceremony would be due to Santa Clara County health guidelines that prohibit any gatherings.

“Anything short of that [guidelines prohibiting gatherings], we will have a ceremony,” Austin said. “It is a top, top priority to me to give you guys an experience.”

Although the graduation may not resemble ceremonies held in the past, Austin hopes for the best.

“Our intention is to have something

for you that is nice and meaningful,” Austin said.

In April, former Palo Alto High School Principal Adam Paulson announced that graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2020 would be held in December, after students voiced opposition to a virtual June ceremony.

Currently, no public gatherings other than explicitly stated exceptions are allowed, meaning the postponed graduation will not be able to occur.

Austin is unsure if the Paly graduates are still interested in a graduation ceremony, and is waiting for the high school principals to report back.

“I knew in the moment, there was a strong desire to come back in December and have that ceremony,” Austin said. “But my gut told me that strong desire would fade in time.”

Marina Brogley (Class of `20) no longer feels the need to have a December graduation.

“At this point, I don’t care about having a graduation that much because it’s so late and won’t be special,” Brogley said.

by PAISLEY ANNES

Restaurants prepare for winter outdoor dining

A

S COVID-19 CASES rise, restaurants are preparing for colder temperatures this winter by focusing on improving outdoor dining options.

Terún is looking into installing a bigger tent and buying more heaters, according to Franco Campilongo, Terún’s Chief Financial Officer. The restaurant is located on California Avenue, which has opened its streets for restaurants, and their plans reflect a need to maintain socially-distanced, outdoor dining.

“It will be challenging, but ... we are luckier than other areas,” Campilongo said.

If Santa Clara County remains in the purple tier, indoor seating will not be permitted. However, indoor dining could potentially be avaliable if cases decline, and the county returns to the orange tier.

Even if indoor dining becomes an option again, junior Bia Rabello has her hesitations.

“I am not willing to eat inside during the pandemic because I still feel the danger

[of contracting COVID-19],” Rabello said.

Restaurants understand this reluctance in the community, and will be relying on their outdoor dining this winter.

“People are not comfortable yet to be indoor even in those conditions,” Campilongo said. “We are very lucky in Palo Alto as we have amazing weather all year around.

It will be very popular to dine outdoors, just like in Europe.”

by ANYA MONDRAGON

Fall sports season delayed

A

UNPRECEDENTED PERFORMANCE — Cast members of Palo Alto High School Theatre’s “Clue” appear shocked when there is a mysterious death of a character in the Nov. 6 performance. According to cast member Charlotte Kim, performing live over Zoom has its pros and cons. “It’s been fun to explore doing theater in the virtual space,” Kim said. “It’s sad that we don’t get to see and hear the audience react when we perform.” Photo: Katherine Cheng

Paly Theatre adapts to virtual plays

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HE PALO ALTO HIGH School Theatre Department is adapting to the virtual enviroment as it prepares for the virtual Play-in-a-Day series on Dec.19.

Play-in-a-Day is an annual Paly performance in which students write, direct and perform an entire show in one day.

After the successful virtual performances in November of the trilogy of plays “Mystery, Murder & Monsters” directed by Paly Theatre teacher Sarah Thermond, students are excited for the upcoming virtual play.

“It’s been fun to explore doing theatre

in the virtual space,” cast member of “Clue” Charlotte Kim said. “We get to experiment with camera depth and the arrangement of the Zoom boxes and virtual backgrounds.”

Performing over Zoom has called for drastic adaptations and flexibility from both the cast and crew of the shows, but the students were glad that they were able to make it work.

“It took some getting used to, but I think everyone in the cast and crew had a lot of fun and was proud of what we accomplished,” Kim said.

by KATHERINE CHENG

ll high school sports in Santa Clara County are canceled until Dec. 21, according to an order from the Santa Clara Health Officials.

Fall sports have been practicing since August in socially distanced cohorts on the Palo Alto High School campus. Now, as a result of the new health order, students are no longer allowed to participate in organized practices or games.

The new mandate is disheartening for many athletes, many of whom were practicing daily for their upcoming season. For junior and cross country runner JT Bard, training alone takes away some of the motivation to run.

“I was really hoping to have my first cross country season, so I was really disappointed to hear that it’s probably not going to happen,” Bard said. “Luckily we’re going to continue training as individuals, but I’m going to miss having the team atmosphere because it helps to have others to consult with and to work with.”

by SADIE IBBOTSON-BROWN

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 11

Foothills Park opens to non-residents COUNCIL OVERTURNS EXCLUSIONARY POLICY

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OOTHILS PARK, SOON TO BE Foothills Nature Preserve, will be open to all non-residents on Dec. 17 for the first time since its purchase in 1965.

Palo Alto City Council voted, 5–2, on Nov. 2 to overturn the residents-only policy following a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People of San Jose/Silicon Valley and 10 individual plaintiffs, including residents and non-residents.

The new policy includes opening the park to all non-residents, maintaining a 750-person limit for the first 90 days, providing preferential access to residents for park facilities — including camping grounds and picnic areas — and renaming Foothills Park to Foothills Nature Preserve.

“It is about the number of visitors, it is not about the type of visitors or their geography,” Mayor Adrian Fine said. “What we cannot do is discriminate based on residency.”

Councilmembers Greg Tanaka and Lydia Kou dissented on the motion, citing issues with potential conflicts of interest and an injunction, a legal process which would prevent any future council from placing restrictions on non-resident access

to Foothills Park.

In response to the Sept. 15 lawsuit, City Attorney Molly Stump and City Manager Ed Shikada recommended the Council open the park to all residents while maintaining the 1,000-person limit, rename the park Foothills Nature Preserve, and have preferential access to the Oak Grove Group Picnic Area and Towle Campgrounds.

“This lawsuit is a bully maneuver, and I feel that it’s unfortunate that the NAACP … is actually using their name to do this

kind of a lawsuit, which is rather frivolous to me,” Kou said. “And it is also discrediting themselves and jeopardizing their reputation.”

Despite Kou’s dissent, Foothills will open to the general public.

“I think we will end up being delighted that we have a park that we can share with our neighbors, wherever our neighbors come from,” Councilmember Liz Kniss said.

by LAURA MALAGRINO

MAKING HISTORY — At the Foothills Park entrance, park-goers are greeted with a sign that reads, “Palo Alto residents and accompanied guests only.” After years of contentious debates over the residents-only policy, Palo Alto City Council voted at a November meeting to overturn the policy and open the park to all visitors. “This is history in the making,” Councilmember Liz Kniss said at the meeting. Photo: Laura Malagrino

Finals schedule frustrates students and staff

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TUDENTS AND TEACHERS have mixed feelings about the Palo Alto High School final examination schedule this year, which incorporates exam periods into the distance learning bell schedule.

Palo Alto Unified School District determined over the summer that all middle and high schools’ schedules must be aligned, which restricted the ability to design a custom finals week schedule. According to the new schedule posted online, students will have some classes that are reserved solely for review on days where they also have finals.

“The good thing about the schedule is that students will only take up to two finals per day, and they are not back-to-

12 DECEMBER 2020

back,” Gabrielle Juan an Algebra 2/Trig A and Intro to Analysis and Calculus teacher said. “However, I wonder if it is equitable for some periods to have an extra asynchronous day of instruction or review than the other periods.”

Freshman Roxanna Reid said she is concerned about the integrity of finals in the online environment.

“Taking assessments online kind of sucks because you have to put such an effort in to be honest and not cheat with notes and the internet,” Reid said. “So that’s definitely a factor to consider and it might be worth it to just postpone [finals] or call off until the spring.”

While cheating is a concern, there isn’t

an easy solution.

“I know that teachers are going to do their best to be able to watch it [cheating] and hold kids accountable,” Principal Brent Kline said.

AP Environmental Science teacher Nicole Loomis is not in favor of the new finals schedule this year.

“It makes no sense that we can’t block the finals as we usually do,” Loomis stated in an email. “While the middle schools follow the same schedule, there is no reason they could not also do a finals block schedule in the last week of the semester.”

by SADIE IBBOTSON-BROWN and ANYA MONDRAGON

Text by SEBASTIAN BONNARD and AANYA KUMAR

Art by SAMANTHA HO and SELENA CAO

rejected reopening COMMUNITY CLASHES OVER HYBRID PLAN

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 13

“I

T JUST MAKES ME SICK to my stomach,” Superintendent Don Austin says from his 3-inch-wide rectangle on Zoom. He knows students have lost a lot.

No Prom. No Spirit Week. And not a single foot on the senior deck.

While students have tried to stay positive, hope for an end to our virtual confinement has slowly slipped away. Austin says he gets it, and he seems to have lost patience, too.

He is speaking to the Verde staff three weeks after the school board unanimously voted to pass a reopening plan that faced significant pushback from both teachers and students alike. Less than a week after the vote, Santa Clara County moved into the COVID-19 purple tier and the plan came crashing down, with students and staff left stranded looking out at yet another distanced semester.

Regardless of the now-defunct reopening plan, the process leading up to the board decision raised issues of transparency and emphasized the divide between the board and its constituents. When the time to reopen eventually arrives, can students and teachers rely on the board to get it right?

We spoke to the superintendent, board members, students and teachers to figure out what went wrong and what comes next.

Moving forward virtually With COVID-19 cases continually growing, Austin maintained that students will not be returning to campus second semester. Instead, district officials are focusing on other developing programs.

“We’re kicking around ideas to change what summer school could look like,” Austin said. “As long as we’re allowed for in-person, we’d like to open it up to some fun things. Also, we would like there to be core classes [offered] for [reducing] classroom size for the next year.”

Even though an official return is improbable this school year, board member Jennifer DiBrienza hopes that once the county transitions into the red tier, there will be more on-campus opportunities.

“If things start to get better I would

14 DECEMBER 2020

OVER BEFORE IT STARTED — Paly history teacher Caitlin Evans erases a welcome back message after the cancellation of the reopening plan. The county’s regression to the purple tier led to the decision to focus on summer and fall reopening instead. “Going into next year, … we need to ask for choices early on so we can be better prepared,” Superintendent Don Austin said. Photo: Audrey Joachim

like us to really push more on extracurricular activities and I would love to see teachers promote social-distanced educational stimulation,” DiBrienza said.

The school board is collecting feedback from staff and students to make distance learning more suitable for all, according to Austin. Additionally, changes to Monday’s bell schedule may be considered.

“I don’t expect a district solution for the Monday schedule,” Austin said. “I’ve asked each of our secondary principals to work with their staff and students and to come back with recommendations for the Monday schedule.”

Furthermore, Austin explained that the board will continue to improve an eventual hybrid plan by making it more interactive.

“We have about 400 students between the two high schools that requested hybrid,” Austin said. “When we go back, I don’t want class to be silent [and] staring at a Zoom screen.”

Frustrations with returning Even after the reopening plan’s cancellation, families continue to have reservations about transparency between the

district and its constituents.

Palo Alto High School Junior ASB President Matthew Signorello-Katz’s concerns lie with how the plan was developed without significant constituent input.

“We saw community member after community member expressing their genuine concern regarding the plan, yet the board failed to listen and approved the plan unanimously,” Signorello-Katz said. “The PAUSD board should spend a significant amount of time reflecting on whether or not they are truly representing their constituents.”

The Paly and Henry M. Gunn High School student board representatives –– both of whom have a preferential vote –– voted against the reopening plan.

After feeling unheard by the board, Paly students Kabir Bhatia, Jeffery Tu, Madison Abbassi, Matthew Cao, Erin Kim, Colleen Wang and Ajay Venkatraman voiced their disapproval through an open letter, which garnered over 690 signatures from PAUSD staff, students and parents. The letter addresses common concerns between students and faculty and explores other methods for helping students learn remotely, including the expansion of PAUSD+ and future on-

features

v

MISSED OPPORTUNITIES — Many of Paly’s facilities will sit unused for the entire 2020-21 school year, including the Performing Arts Center. Additionally, the cancellation of the hybrid learning plan means that seniors will not be able to return to campus for their last semester of high school. “It really sucks we won’t have Spirit Week this year,” senior Grace Lindstrom said. “My friends and I have all been looking forward to it since we were freshmen.”

Photo: Avery Hanna

site opportunities.

Furthermore, the Palo Alto Educators Association addressed the district, asking for a more developed and transparent reopening process, with safety being the principal concern for most teachers.

Working towards reopening The months of isolated and online learning have left many yearning for in-person instruction. Board Vice President Shounak Dharap recognizes the importance of getting students back on campus. “[There were] kids who didn’t have an ideal learning environment at home, because parents were working, because it was loud, because of any number of distractions,” Dharap said. “Kids also have different learning styles, and sometimes it’s really hard for some students to sit in front of a computer and really self regulate.”

Though senior Grace Lindstrom would rather remain in distance learning for now, she believes that the plan is not sustainable and worries about how it will affect students long term.

“Students are struggling with their mental health by staying at home for this long,” Lindstrom said. “I also know that it’s

really hard for people to learn new material still worries about the risk of COVID-19.

“I think my biggest concern is that the through distance learning, so it’s setting a little kids don’t have strong spatial awarelot of students up to struggle in class next ness, so they often can get too close to each year and the year after.” other,” Beck said. “They need a lot of rePAUSD elementary schools that reminders.” opened in November After conversations will remain open despite The PAUSD board with various members the canceled plans for should spend a sigof the PAUSD commusecondary schools. Lynn nity, it is clear that one Beck, a second-grade nificant amount of thing remains certain teacher at Addison Eletime reflecting on –– uncertainty. mentary, highlights the The failed plan has challenges of the transi- whether or not they elicited passionate retion. are truly represponses as students, staff “We have half of and parents pressure the our class in school, while senting their condistrict to propose an the other half is at home stituents.” improved plan and to working on online lesdo so through a process sons and activities,” — MATTHEW SIGNORELLO-KATZ, that better incorporates Beck said. “Teachers are Junior ASB president community input. Unresponsible for planning til then, students will and preparing for both hunker down for virtual learning without online and in-school learning activities. It an end date in sight. is an incredible amount of work.”

“So while that’s very sad to me, it does To remain safe, students and staff have give us now a long runway to prepare for to fill out a daily questionnaire when they the summer and for the fall to get students arrive. The doors stay open, classes are venback on campus where they belong,” Austin tilated and everyone is required to wear a said. v mask. While there are safety protocols, Beck

“

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 15

CORONAVIRUS

13.6 million

35,085

TOTAL COVID-19 CASES IN THE UNITED STATES

COVID-19 CASES IN SANTA CLARA COUNTY

TOTAL TESTS conducted in santa clara county

COVID-19 CASES IN PALO ALTO

1.38 million

445

202

Coronavirus data taken as of Dec. 1, 2020 from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Santa Clara County Public Health.

By KATHERINE CHENG and ALLISON CHANG Art by SAMANTHA HO

By the N

2020 US ELECTION How did Santa Clara County vote in the 2020 election?

73%

= Trump

25% 0

200,000

>850,000

= Biden

400,000

First confirmed death due to coronavirus in 09 Wuhan, China

JANUARY

16 DECEMBER 2020

20

VOTER TURNOUT IN SANTA CLARA COUNTY

600,000

First COVID-19 case reported in the United States

26

Retired NBA star Kobe Bryant dies 24

Harvey Weinstein sentenced to 23 years in prison for rape

FEBRUARY

09

Stock market crashes

MARCH

26 MAY

George Floyd dies, sparking protests against racial injustice

CALIFORNIA FIRES

1.24 million cases

1,200,000

9,177

900,000

2

600,000

3 4

1

300,000

fire incidents across california Notable fires in 2020

0

1. SCU Lightning Complex Fire

2. August Complex Fire

3. North Complex Fire 4. Creek Fire

4/1 5/1 6/1 7/1 8/1 9/1 10/1 11/1 12/1

COVID-19 CASES IN CALIFORNIA

20

CA fires data taken as of Dec. 1, 2020 from Cal Fire.

>4.2 million TOTAL ESTIMATED ACRES BURNED

Numbers 1

HANDLING the CORONAVIRUS

2

LOOKING TO 2021

What do Palo Alto High School students believe President-elect Joe Biden should prioritize?

3

CLIMATE CHANGE

SYSTEMIC RACISM IN THE UNITED STATES

Source: The data presented here comes from an opt-in Verde Magazine survey of 136 Palo Alto High School students from all four grades. Verde conducted the survey from Nov. 19 to Nov. 24 through a digital form published on school social media and Schoology pages. Responses were anonymous and participation for all questions was optional.

4

Beirut explosion kills over 200 people

AUGUST

4

Start of the Creek Fire, largest single fire in CA history

SEPTEMBER

18

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg dies

26

Amy Coney Barrett confirmed to Supreme Court

OCTOBER

3

U.S. presidential election

7

Associated Press declares Biden’s victory

NOVEMBER

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 17

Text by AKHIL JOONDEPH Art by SAMANTHA HO

KAMALA HARRIS A BROWN WOMAN IN A WHITE HOUSE

I

N A SMALL INDIAN TOWN, just hours before the first ballots are counted in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, a shirtless priest carries a plate filled with lighted candles to a temple altar. The video from NBC News shows the people of Thulasendrapuram, Tamil Nadu, India, gathered in a local shrine, surrounded by clamoring brass bells and fresh flowers, anxiously praying for the success of vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Over 8,000 miles from Washington D.C., the echoes of Harris’ historic nomination — and now victory — can be heard loud and clear.

As a daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants, Harris is a woman of many firsts. In 2011, she became both the first African American and the first South Asian American to hold the office of attorney general of California. In 2020, she became the first woman, the first woman of color and the first South Asian American to be nominated for and become vice president of the United States.

Harris’ historic career has struck a chord, particularly with the South Asian community, and her nomination and election as vice president have inspired Desis — those of South Asian descent — across America and around the world.

South Asians at the polls There are 5.4 million South Asians in the United States, and among them, over 4 million Indian Americans. Having an Indian American candidate on the ballot and in the White House has in-

18 DECEMBER 2020

spired many South Asian Americans to take ident, leading some to feel as though Harris to the polls and vote. overemphasizes her Black roots while for“It’s really exciting to people,” for- getting about her Indian ones. mer Palo Alto City Council candidate Ajit However, many younger South Asians, Varma said. “I know a lot of people in the including Palo Alto High School junior South Asian community that have been Rohini Bharat say that Harris’ mixed roots more involved in politics than I’ve ever seen boost her appeal. before.”

“It just adds on that she’s mixed-race According to the Los Angeles Times, because she has a different perspective than Indian Americans alone donated over $1.2 us,” Bharat said. “I think that is really immillion to the Biden campaign during the portant to celebrate.”

20 days after he announced Harris as his running mate. In contrast, Indian Ameri- An inspiration to many cans raised $3 million for all of the DemDespite objections to Harris in some ocratic candidates combined during the niches of the South Asian community, seeentirety of the primary races. ing the vice president-elect embrace and On the campaign trail, Harris empha- emphasize her background has excited and sized her Indian upbringing and how her inspired many young South Asian AmeriTamil mother played a profound role in cans. shaping her values and beliefs.

Varma mentioned how seeing an In“My mother instilled in my sister dian American at the forefront of politics, Maya and me the values a very white-domthat would chart the course inated field, is an of our lives,” Harris said as It’s really inspiring… important step toshe accepted the nomina- to see someone with a wards diversity. tion for vice president in “There are similar upbringing or very few South August.

In addition to her similar perspective Asians represented South Asian roots, Harris’ in politics … so I social policies align with in that position.” think that it [the many of the values held vice presidency] is — ROHINI BHARAT, junior

by South Asians, especialreally good,” Varly in the Bay Area, further ma said. boosting her popularity among the comBharat also noted her excitement at munity. seeing a vice president with similar values “I think a lot of her social policies align to herself. very well in terms of equality and represen“It’s really inspiring … to see someone tation,” Varma said. with a similar upbringing or similar perspective in that position,” Bharat said.

Not just South Asian Junior Anaya Bhatt described how seeWhile many South Asians have liberal ing a South Asian woman at the political views, a strong conservative Desi minority forefront has shown her that the possibility flourishes in America. of being a politician in the future is very The vice president-elect’s stances on real.

Indian politics have earned her harsh crit“I would be interested in one day icism within this community. Her objec- maybe running for office,” Bhatt said. “It tions to Indian anti-Muslim policies like was nice to see someone actually somethe 2019 Citizenship Amendment Act have what aligned with what I believe in. … I led some Hindu Americans to go as far as to think she definitely is very inspiring in that label her as “anti-India” and a supporter of sense.” an “anti-Hindu brigade.”

Palo Alto resident Sharmin Maharaj Conservative South Asians have also also felt the same, and discussed how she expressed issues with Harris’ emphasis of hopes future generations will have role her African American roots. models like Harris to follow.

The vice-president has highlighted her “There is always hope,” Maharaj said. identity as a Black woman throughout her “If she [Harris] can do it, our grandkids can campaigns for both president and vice-pres- do it too.” v

“

THEY SEE

BLUE

Founded in 2018 by four South Asian Bay Area residents, They See Blue is a grassroots organization aiming to mobilize South Asian voters for Democratic candidates. Since 2018, the organization has grown to over 4,000 members and led many successful campaigns and fundraisers.

In 2018, the organization directed its efforts toward three House seats in the Central Valley in an effort to flip them from Republican to Democrat.

Due in part to the mobilization of South Asian voters by They See Blue, two of the three Democratic campaigns were successful and the third, while unsuccessful in flipping the seat, saw the margin between candidates narrow by 30 percentage points.

In 2020, They See Blue focused on the re-election campaigns of both of the candidates they helped elect to the House in 2018, as well as supporting Joe Biden in the presidential race. The organization also spent time campaigning in Georgia in November to raise support for Democrats John Ossof and Raphael Warnock in the runoff election, in an attempt to flip the Senate.

24 18 CHAPTERS IN

DIFFERENT STATES

200,000 400,000

PHONE CALLS MADE

TEXT MESSAGES SENT

1.3 MILLION

CONTACTS TO SOUTH ASIAN VOTERS SOURCE: WWW.THEYSEEBLUE.COM

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 19

Text by AKHIL JOONDEPH and TIM HUNG

Photos by AVERY HANNA

WHEN THE NEWS BROKE

PALO ALTO TOTO THE 2020ELECTION ELECTION PALO ALTORESPONDS RESPONDS 2020 20 DECEMBER 2020

T

HE SOUND OF CAR horns and excited shouts fill the air as people of all ages wave homemade banners, newspapers and American flags in celebration of a new executive.

With a record-breaking number of votes cast and millions voting by mail amid the COVID-19 pandemic, this election was one like no other.

In Palo Alto, demonstrators took to the streets the day President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris were declared the winners of the race, rallying at the corner of El Camino Real and Embarcadero Road in celebration. Verde captured this historic moment in a collection of photos. v

features

v

BEHOLDING THE NEWS (LEFT) — Palo Alto High School junior Madison Abbassi holds up a copy of The Mercury News in celebration of former Vice President Joe Biden’s victory in the presidential race. “There’s so much wonderful energy here,” Abbassi said.

BAY AREA FOR BIDEN — A boy holds an American flag and leans out the roof of a car at the victory rally for President-elect Joe Biden.

“A lot of us are just exhaling for the first time in a long time,” school board member Jennifer DiBrienza said.

PINT-SIZED PATRIOT (BOTTOM) — A young girl waves two small American flags on the median in the center of El Camino Real as a part of the celebrations of President-elect Joe Biden’s victory. “I feel a lot of unity occurring over here,” Abbassi said.

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 21

GEORGIA ON MY MIND — A demonstrator raises a homemade sign to express her admiration for Joe Biden’s victory in the state of Georgia, a key battleground state that helped Biden win the election.

“The fact that it was such a close election reminds me that we have a lot of work to do, but this is an important first step,” DiBrienza said.

22 DECEMBER 2020

features

v

HOORAY FOR HEALTHCARE (BELOW) — A young demonstrator triumphantly raises a banner in support of Medicare for all Americans, a provision many Democrats hope President-elect Biden enacts. “I’m very hopeful for the new administration,” Abbassi said.

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 23

Text by MERWA MAROF and OLIVIA MILNE

CLIMATE CHRONICLES: THE LOCAL EXPERIENCE

CLIMATE CHANGE`S EFFECTS ON PALO ALTO

SMOKY SKIES — The sky turns bright orange on Sept. 9, 2020 by wildfires in Portola Valley. Due to climate change, the number of wildfires are increasing every year, negatively affecting many individuals. “It’s super scary to have such little control when it comes close to your house” junior Ella Jauregui said. Photo: Ella Jauregui

T

HE SMELL OF SMOKE filled her nostrils as she stepped outside onto her porch to see the afternoon sun covered by a thick layer of smog. Peering across the horizon, she watched faint traces of hot flames sear the top of the mountain only 10 miles away. Junior Ella Jauregui’s experience living in Portola Valley throughout this year’s fire season is becoming more common.

Fires are just one way climate change is increasingly impacting Palo Alto and affecting the community’s way of life. v

THE BAY ABLAZE: ELLA JAUREGUI

The apocalyptic orange skies and blood red sun in the Bay Area can only mean one thing: fire season. According to the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the amount of burned acres in California has grown almost 6,000 times this year compared to last year, forcing many residents around the Bay Area to evacuate their homes.

“We got really scared so we started packing up the house and getting everything ready,” Jauregui said. “It made me

CITY COUNCIL PLANS 24 DECEMBER 2020

feel so scared because this is our house and we would lose so much if it burned down.”

Not only do the flames of the yearly fires impact Palo Alto citizens, but the consequent smoke also poses problems for residents, forcing them to stay shut in their homes “We were already stuck in quarantine, but not being able to go outside for a run or sit and enjoy nature because of the smoke really took a big toll on our family,” Jauregui said.

Photo : Jaron Majors

Palo Alto is a leader in sustainability in Santa Clara County and the city council has plans to maintain that reputation. One of their main goals is to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions by 80% from the 1990 levels by 2030. In order to reach this goal, Palo Alto has implemented multiple limits on carbon emissions and approved plans for neutral gas policies. They also aim to redirect 95% of trash from landfills by 2030, and eventually achieve zero waste towards landfills. They have adapted a single-use plastic policy for many years to aid these efforts.

A YOUNG ACTIVIST: AILEEN WU As senior Aileen Wu grew up among increasing climate disasters, she knew something had to change. Now as co-president of Paly Eco Club, she’s working to make her vision for a greener future a reality.

Wu’s enthusiasm for the environment began when she joined the “The Green Team” at her elementary school where she learned about safe waste disposal and clean living through hands-on projects and initiatives around the school.

“At the beginning it was just an interest, until I started to learn more about it and I started to understand different factors of the problem,” Wu said.

In her sophomore year at Paly, Wu became co-president of an environmental

club called the Zero Waste Initiative that encourages members to reuse and recycle to create a more sustainable lifestyle.

“I think of the environment as something everyone benefits from but doesn’t recognize its value,” Wu said.

Wu’s goal is to teach people about how their actions affect the environment.

Through becoming a leader of her club initiatives, Wu has made a sizable impact on many local climate issues. One example of these endeavors is an initiative to protect and conserve the monarch butterflies in the Bay Area. Wu led her fellow club members in planting a pollinator garden full of native plants such as milkweed to assist the butterflies in the Paly TEAM garden on campus.

Photo : Amanda Lee

PROFESSOR`S POINT OF VIEW: NICOLE ARDOIN

Photo: Nicole Ardoin

95%

“Everyday we have these incredible blue skies, we have this beautiful weather,” said Nicole Ardoin, Stanford University Associate.

Ardoin describes Palo Alto as a city where its residents create community outdoors, whether it be walking around the Baylands Nature Preserve or lawn bowling at the Palo Alto Lawn Bowling Club. The increasing disasters resulting from climate change are making Palo Alto citizens realize the importance of keeping our planet healthy to continue creating these outdoor communities.

“It impacts how we feel about each other, it impacts how we feel from a mood perspective when you look outside and the sky is orange,” Ardoin said.

But despite the very real threats climate change poses, political leaders and others consistently fail to take the necessary

of all trash from local landfills will be reduced by 2030

actions to mitigate the damage, with some falsely calling it a hoax.

“If you wanted to craft a problem that is perfected crafted to make people not care about it and to promote apathy, it would be climate change because you can’t see it, you can’t taste it, you can’t hear it, you can’t smell it,” Ardoin said.

While there are enormous structural changes to be made, Ardoin stresses the importance of knitting together individual action with collective action to encourage environmental initiatives.

“People need to know that things they care about are threatened, like California blue skies or beautiful days,” Ardoin said.

“But then you also need to feel that there is a hopeful future and that there is something that you can do about it because you need to feel that efficacy to actually do something about it.”

80%

of greenhouse emmisions from 1900 levels will be reduced by 2030 VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 25

Text by DOMINIQUE LASHLEY and JERRY FANG

FA M I LY

Art by SAMANTHA HO and GRACE MUMA

DIVIsions STUDENTS COPE WITH POLITICAL BARRIERS AMONG LOVED ONES

A

“I think what leads to a lot of problems NXIOUSLY HUNCHED over her computer screen, junior Vi- and a lot of conflict, you know, friendships enna Liu watches the messages being torn to pieces, family relations being pile up, each one angrier than severed, is this feeling that people have that the last. Sparked by this year’s Black Lives ‘my way is the right way,’” said Geoff CoMatter protests and social media explosion, hen, a professor of psychology at Stanford her siblings and grandparents were involved University.

Junior Danielle Pilpoul stresses the in a heated email chain about racial injusimportance of maintaining healthy family tice. relationships and Liu is one of many respecting other Palo Alto High School It’s not just so much viewpoints, but students experiencing it can be chalpolitical divisions with- whether you disagree, lenging to stay in her extended fami- it’s how you make sense true to one’s own ly. Stories like this are opinions while common in this time of the disagreement.” preventing heated of extreme political po— GEOFF COHEN, Stanford larization across professor of psychology arguments.

“I have three the country and students report younger brothers who are still learning the tolls these divisions more about the world … which can often can take on their men- mean that they are uneducated or have tal health and relation- some very immature views,” Pilpoul said.

“What’s important for me is to find the balships. ance between explaining my beliefs clearly, while also trying to keep an open mind and Family tensions As the country trying to respect other people’s opinions.”

Many students in Palo Alto have relbecomes increasingly divided, the current atives whose regional and cultural backpolitical climate has grounds bring unique perspectives to famexacerbated the tension ily discussions. Geographical and cultural among families differences, as well as generational gaps, with different often play significant roles in creating political polarization. political views.

“

“There is a tendency for urban centers to be more liberal coastal areas, they tend to get more immigrants and there’s just more diversity,” Cohen said. “And then these more rural areas where there’s just more space between people and more, I suppose, more tradition. They tend to be more conservative.”

Psychological impacts Palo Alto’s overwhelming demographic of liberal voters contributes to a widespread circulation of democratic ideas and ideals across the Bay Area. However, when many community members share similar beliefs on a wide range of issues, people who disagree with popular views can often feel ostracized.

“It’s important for us to listen to all points of view and not to shut them down just because what we’re used to is a very liberal point of view,” senior Sasha Lehrer said. “A lot of people feel like they can’t speak up or say what they believe because it’s frowned upon to not have the same beliefs as the majority.”

Oftentimes, when students have views that contradict their families’, the ensuing division can negatively impact students’ mental health and well-being.

“When you’re not on the same page as people you care about, it’s just really hard,” Lehrer said. “Especially when you feel like there’s nothing you can do, it can feel iso-

lating and like you don’t have any control.”

Lehrer discusses the ongoing internal conflict between preserving strong relationships with loved ones and advocating for her own beliefs.

“There’s a really big dilemma, because [if ] you choose not to talk about it, it maintains your relationship in a stronger way,” Lehrer said. “But you’re missing out on a really big part of everyone’s life.”

Avoiding conflict Although some families have clearly experienced tension as a result of political divisions, heated arguments and damaged relationships are avoidable when discussing differing viewpoints.

“It’s not just so much whether you disagree, it’s how you make sense of the disagreement,” Cohen said. “And it’s also how you talk about it that really matters.”

Cohen emphasizes that disagreements do not cause heated conflict on their own. Rather, the way opinions are communicated and how they cause people to perceive others is the more significant factor.

“A lot hinges on the meaning

that we give to disagreement, and why do we think this other person feels this way,” Cohen said. “If we can steer our attribution for disagreement towards more charitable causes, like maybe this person has a point, or maybe this person just simply doesn’t see the situation as I see it, that can prevent a downward spiral.”

Even though political conflict over the upcoming holidays may seem unavoidable in these times of polarization, examining our own biases and engaging in more respectful communication can create healthier conversations and mold a world of better understanding. v

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 27

ONLINE OUTREACH

Text by MIA BALDONADO and EMILY YAO Art by SAMANTHA HO

WELLNESS CENTER DEPLOYS VIRTUAL FORMAT

G

LOWING FAIRY LIGHTS en the completely different circumstances. shine down upon a friendly “What I miss the most is just getting room. A kitten climbs on a cozy to check in with someone, see how their sofa, while art and meditation day is going and knowing that they have resources adorn the walls. Crisis hotlines a safe space,” Wellness Outreach Worker and ways to set up appointments with a Whitney Aquino said. counselor are within easy reach. This is Palo Another challenge the team faces is Alto High School’s virtual Wellness Center. the inability to directly reach students. BeAlthough the on-campus Wellness fore, a student could walk into the Wellness Center is unavailable, the Wellness Team is Center and have a spontaneous meeting. still actively providing Now, prior commuresources for everyone The Wellness Center nication is a must. during the pandemic.

“So a lot of it is a free, confidenWith plenty of online [the process of setoutreach, the team tial resource of really ting up meetings] is continues its pracstudent-driven,” wonderful people who very tice of checking in on Mental Health and students and being an are just here to listen Wellness Coordinaaccessible source for Elizabeth Spector without judgement.” tor well-being. said. “Once we reach For the Wellness out, students have to — WHITNEY AQUINO, Wellness Team, student outoutreach worker reciprocate and then reach remains just as we’ll send the link and important as before. Access to therapists, it takes more initiative.” counselors and psychologists for more tarDespite the obstacles of not having a geted support are made readily available physical Wellness Center, transitioning onthrough Google Forms and Zoom drop-in line has allowed for a new set of students hours. to reach out for help. Some students who These resources have been helpful to weren’t as comfortable asking for help in many students. According to a report given person have found the online format to be at a PAUSD School Board meeting on Oct. more approachable.

27, within the first nine weeks of school, “I felt like it’s more intimidating to the Wellness Center carried out 141 therapy sessions and 41 formal wellness referrals.

Although these numbers are slightly below last year’s numbers, they are significant giv-

“

28 DECEMBER 2020

actually go to the Tower Building and talk to the person there and set up a meeting,” junior Ashley Qiu said. “Whereas through the digital format — through just a signup form — you can get paired up with one of the coordinators and from there, you can talk it out and set up a meeting.”

Although many aspects are unfamiliar, the Wellness Center hopes to provide a safe space for students.

“No issue or anything is too small,” Aquino said. “They’re [students are] more than welcome to talk to someone and check in with someone. We’re here and available.

The Wellness Center is a free, confidential resource of really wonderful people who are just here to listen without judgment and support students in any way they can.” v Crisis help lines and text lines - Crisis text line: Text HELLO to 741741 - Youth and Teen Suicide and Crisis Hotline: 888-247-7717 - Santa Clara County Suicide and Crisis Hotline: 855-278-4204 - RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE - Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ+: 1-866-4887386 - Trevor: Text TREVOR to 1-202-3041200 M-F from noon-7 p.m. Pacific Time Find the Wellness Center at tinyurl.com/ palywellnesscenter. Drop-ins Mon-Thu 3-4 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m.-12:10 p.m.

711 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto, CA 94304 pacificcatch.com | (650) 384-6430

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 29

Text by ANDIE TETZLAFF and TARA KOTHARI

Shredding the gnar EMBRACING THE OUTDOORS

BEFORE THE BARREL — Sitting on his surfboard, senior Alex Washburn enjoys the brisk ocean water during a sunny afternoon in Santa Cruz. “When I have more time, I tend to go down to Santa Cruz because that’s just world-class surfing right there,” Washburn said. Photo: Zoë Wong-VanHaren

H

E SLAPS ON a wetsuit. She buckles up her ski boots. Two Palo Alto High School athletes prepare for an eventful morning of fun and adrenaline. While senior Alex Washburn enjoys riding the waves, senior Emma Jacobi spends her morning flying down the slopes. These Paly athletes represent a category of unique athletics that have proven to be invaluable during the pandemic. v

Surf’s up Hopping out of bed at 5 a.m. and preparing a cup of hot coffee, Washburn gets ready to go surfing before school. He arrives at the beach as the sun is rising and quickly dresses in his wetsuit and jumps on his board. After riding some waves under the ascending sun, he starts the long drive home to make it to his first period class.

Surfing has become an almost daily activity for Washburn since sophomore year, and under campus closures, he finds himself embarking on his early morning adventures more than ever.

With the rise of COVID-19, many people have been spending time learning new hobbies or practicing old ones. For Washburn, that passion is surfing. Despite Washburn’s time commitment to surfing in the past months, he has had to consider that although there is flexibility with online learning, senior year often comes with added stress, whether it be college applications or keeping grades up. Overall, Washburn still believes the distance learning format has made the work easier to manage.

“Before online school, I couldn’t surf before school because I didn’t have time,” Washburn said. “Now, I can surf in the morning and then free up my afternoon for homework and other stuff.”

As the first semester of the 2020-2021 academic year comes to an end, Washburn reflects on how surfing has been a positive outlet for him to release stress and anxiety.

“Whenever I’m surfing, I don’t think about anything but surfing,” Washburn said. “Every other thought just goes away, and I find that a very beautiful aspect of the sport.”

Back in August, Washburn collaborated with fellow senior Charles Mitz to form the Paly Surf Club. The club has nearly 40 active members and holds weekly Zoom meetings at lunch, often featuring guest

speakers. They also gather for in-person surfing sessions, with roughly a dozen students heading down to Half Moon Bay or Santa Cruz to enjoy the waves several times per month. With these in-person meetings, Washburn and Mitz protect the health of all members by requiring masks to be worn and social distancing.

“One of my favorite things to do is just go out with as many people that want to come because it’s so much fun, and that’s kind of why I started the surf club,” Washburn said.

He hopes to continue surfing in college and is applying to colleges based on their locations, ensuring that there are beaches nearby.

“I definitely oriented my college search around surfing,” Washburn said. “I don’t know what I would do without surfing for a number of months.”

SNOWY SMILES — Senior Emma Jacobi poses against the snowy backdrop, ready to take on a day of navigating the slopes. “If I had to pick one place [to ski] it’d be Squaw ... or Mammoth because they have great snow,” Jacobi said. Photo: Marianne Jacobi

Skis down

“Send it!” senior Emma Jacobi’s teammates cheer over the strong gusts of chilly wind on the mountain. Taking a deep breath and putting her earbuds in with rock music on full blast, Jacobi determinedly sets off from the top of the slope at full speed.

She has always loved the feeling of flying part if I just stay on top of it [homework], down the mountains. it will work out pretty well.”

Today, skiing is Jacobi’s main outlet to Even though Jacobi is not homesbe able to take a break from the stresses of chooled or based in Tahoe like a majority life. What started off as a hobby at the age of her teammates, she has always felt truly of three turned into a passion by the age at home with her skiing community. of 13, and as a member of the Squaw Val“The best part about being in the ski ley Ski Team, her love for the sport is only team is definitely the community that you growing. surround yourself with,” Jacobi said. “EsAs Jacobi does not live in Tahoe, she pecially when you’re at the top of the racecommutes from the course just kind of Bay Area, spending vibing and listen12-15 hours in the Whenever I’m surfing, I ing to trashy music car every weekend of don’t think about anywith everyone else, the ski season. you come together Despite the thing but surfing ... I as a team.” time commitment find that a very beautiful Jacobi comrequired of the sport, petes in three out Jacobi ensures that aspect of the sport.” of four different she sets aside time events: slalom, — ALEX WASHBURN, senior for academics and giant slalom and schoolwork in besuper giant slalom. tween commutes, practices and competi- Slalom is essentially a race to get through tions. a course that consists of poles or gates that “I do my homework right when I are spaced at a specific distance from one come home from skiing, and I just have to another, and the skier must adjust their manage my time wisely,” Jacobi said. “At turns and speed depending on the course. times I might fall behind, but for the most Jacobi trains for each of these events with

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her team by constantly pushing to improve and practicing regularly.

While Jacobi has made many of her fondest memories as a part of the ski team, she knows first hand that the sport comes with inherent dangers and has sustained many injuries, including three concussions, so far.

“One time my pole got caught under my ski and I fell headfirst, the other time was when I was going for a jump my knee hit my face and the third time I flew in the air for five seconds and when I landed my face went right into the snow,” Jacobi said.

Regardless of these risks, Jacobi’s passion and determination for the sport are continually on the rise, and while COVID-19 caused many of her competitions to be canceled, she is excited for the start of the season with the recent opening of the slopes.

Looking ahead, Jacobi plans to continue her skiing career and eagerly awaits the adventures to come.

“I was thinking of joining some kind of a team in college, and if that doesn’t work out then I’m just going to go skiing on the weekends anyway,” Jacobi said.

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P LY A B R STUDENTS EXPERIENCE ONLINE SCHOOL FROM AFAR Text by NAOMI BONEH and OLIVIA MILNE

here,” Saxon said.

Saxon said. “Also with away games, many In Germany, Saxon plays soccer with parents are less invested in their children’s boys his age from all around Germany and activities so here [in Germany] they take the United States you in a van all toFTER CLOSING THE Zoom while continuing all gether.” screen on his computer at the of his Paly classes — It’s definitely hard to foOne drawback end of 3rd period, Palo Alto in addition to a Gerto the study abroad cus when you have a test experience Saxon High School senior Jack Comp- man course through at 11 p.m., but I’m dealing has faced is being ton wanders out of his room into the humid the soccer program. air of the Costa Rican highland rainforest.

His average day physically away with it pretty well right Looking out at the impressive mass of trees consists of going from his friends shrouded in mist, he takes in the beauty of to German class in now.” in Palo Alto. Al— KIP SAXON, junior though it’s not the the scenery where he studies abroad. the morning, soccer Although online school presents many practice in the afsame as staying challenges to high school students, it intro- ternoon and then Paly classes from 8 p.m. local, Saxon has found technology to be a duces a new opportunity for those inter- to midnight because of the nine-hour time great method to connect with his friends ested in experiencing new places while still change. According to Saxon, the shifted back home. attending their classes over Zoom. schedule was challenging to get used to.

“We get on calls sometimes and play In the past, if a Paly student wanted “It’s definitely hard to focus when you video games together but it’s a little tough to study abroad they would have to trans- have a test at 11 p.m., but I’m dealing with because of the time difference,” Saxon said. fer to a school in their new physical loca- it pretty well right now,” Saxon said.

Saxon’s experience abroad has motition. Now that Paly, along with many other One of Saxon’s favorite parts of being vated him to consider attending college in schools across the nation, has transitioned in Germany is getting to play soccer with a Germany. to distance learning due to the COVID-19 new group of people.

“If I get proficient enough in German, pandemic, classes are accessible from any“Some of them know enough English I could potentially come here for college where in the world with a strong Internet to communicate, but it’s a unique experi- and not have to pay $40,000 to attend colconnection. v ence in the way that there may be a lan- lege in the U.S. because it is free in Germaguage barrier but your passion for the sport ny,” Saxon says. “I’m definitely looking into Dresden, Germany and the friendships that you built from that that as an option for my future.”

Looking past his computer screen, are not hindered by that barrier,” Saxon junior Kip Saxon glances out his window said.

Monteverde, Costa Rica at the starry night sky. While most of his Culturally, Saxon also sees many difLike Saxon, Compton has taken adclassmates are just waking up, Saxon at- ferences between playing soccer in the U.S. vantage of distance learning, relocating to tends his Paly compared to Ger- Monteverde, Costa Rica with the study Zoom classes at many, such as the abroad program CIS Abroad. night due to the I once did a rain cleanse by juxtaposition in While usually focused on college time difference atmospheres before students, the program expanded to high myself, where I sat out in of being halfway and after games. school students during the pandemic to across the world. the rain for a good half an For example, in provide an opportunity to experience new Saxon relothe U.S., club soc- countries. The program’s goal to provide an hour and just let the rain cated to Drescer players rarely engaging experience and change in perspecden, Germany, fall on to me.” use locker rooms tive motivated Compton to attend.

— JACK COMPTON, senior to change before for the whole Compton, who returned to Palo Alto school year to games — they sim- after two months, resided on a campus with take part in a soccer program he hopes will ply meet on the field in their soccer gear. four bungalows and a farm, and with 10 take his skills to the next level.

“Here [in Germany] we have locker other teens and seven staff members largely “Soccer isn’t as popular in the U.S. as it rooms that we come to 20 minutes before from the U.S. The area is located in Cloud is in Europe, so I get a lot more recognition practice to change and get ready together,” Forest Reserve, a protected forest with high

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32 DECEMBER 2020

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OA D

RAINFOREST TREKS — Senior Jack Compton stands on a bridge in Cloud Forest Reserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica, taking a photo via self-timer. When not in online school, he often takes hikes with other high school students at the campus where he lives. Photo: Jack Compton

biodiversity, heavy rainfall and a persistent sheet of clouds.

“There’s a lot of wildlife here, like different insects and beautiful hummingbirds that we get to see every day,” Compton said. “I once did a rain cleanse by myself, where I sat out in the rain for a good half an hour and just let the rain fall on to me, and that was pretty cool.”

As Costa Rica is only one hour ahead of California and the CIS campus has stable internet connection, Compton says it wasn’t difficult to adjust to attending school, and he was even able to sleep in another hour in the morning due to the time

difference. He didn’t need any accommodations in his classes, except for AP 3-D Art and Design.

“I’m doing independent work in my art class because I don’t have clay or different supplies that I would regularly have at home,” Compton said. “One of my plans [was] to paint the side of a building as one of my projects.”

A significant difficulty of studying abroad is missing family and friends back home; however, Compton did not find this to be an issue.

“I call my family every single day when I’m here, just to see how they’re doing and

connect with them,” Compton said.

Compton had intended to take a gap year since before the pandemic, and still holds out hope that he will be able to do that.

“I want to gain way more experiences before I really start studying,” Compton said. “I’m probably going to be traveling in Europe, but I’m also thinking of maybe coming back here to CIS Costa Rica and staying here — working on the farm and all that. They even just had a new baby cow, who we get to take care of. Everybody is super, super welcoming, and it’s a really great place here.”

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 33

Text by SASHA BOUDTCHENKO and BIM BOLARINWA

DIVING AFTER THE PUCK FRESHMAN PLAYS UNDERWATER HOCKEY

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HE VIDEO begins in silence as swimmers, equipped with snorkeling gear and fins, swarm around the puck at the bottom of the pool. With pusher sticks in hand, they hurry to gain control of the puck until one successful player escapes from the crowd and passes to their teammate.

Evan Mazurov, a Palo Alto High School freshman, is one of few students at Paly who play underwater hockey — the lesser-known cousin of field or ice hockey.

How it all started Mazurov was introduced to the sport by his friends and has been playing for a little less than a year now.

“They just called me about a poster they saw at Burgess Center inviting people to join … so we signed up,” Mazurov said.

Looking back on his first game, Mazurov recounts how perplexing underwater hockey

Art by LAUREN YAN

was at first.

“I felt very confused, I didn’t really do much and since I didn’t swim for a long time it was kind of difficult for me to keep up with everyone,” Mazurov said.

During his time playing, Mazurov has improved in swimming and competed against other teams. While underwater hockey may be difficult at times, Mazurov enjoys the collaborative team aspect of the sport.

Story behind the sport Underwater hockey — also known as octopush — is a water sport that originated in the early 1950s in Great Britain as a way for scuba divers to stay in shape and stay entertained indoors during the cold winters.

To play, two teams of six compete against each other to move a puck across the bottom of a swimming pool into the opposing team’s goal.

Players wear fins and a snorkel mask, and they carry a small 11-inch pusher stick

HISTORY OF UNDERWATER HOCKEY

with a thick glove to Prior to COVID-19, Mazurov pracpush the puck at 6 to ticed at the Menlo Swim and Sport Burgess 13 feet below the sur- location, one of few local teams that offer face of the water. underwater hockey training.

Each team starts at one end of the Mazurov regularly had underwater pool touching the wall with one hand, hockey practices, which usually consisted while the puck starts in the middle. Both of swimming and breathing exercises to enteams race to get the puck when the buzzer sure that players could remain underwater goes to start the game. for extended amounts of time.

Like many other sports, there are Now, without a pool to practice in, tournaments and championships that Mazurov has not been able to train for unteams can compete in. Mazurov has yet derwater hockey, though he keeps in mind to participate in a tourthe importance nament but hopes to in They just called me of regular exerthe future. cise.

“I want to go to about a poster they Although Maa tournament but [my saw at Burgess Center zurov is looking team and I] weren’t able forward to conto go because we didn’t inviting people to join tinuing playing get far enough,” Ma- ... so we signed up.” underwater hockey zurov said. once COVID-19 — EVAN MAZUROV, freshman restrictions are liftUnfortunately, Mazurov has not been able ed, he sees it as just to play any underwater a hobby. For now, hockey games since the start of the pan- he waits for the pool to open so he can play demic. again. v

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Source: British Octopush Association

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36 DECEMBER 2020

profiles Text by MICHELLE KIM and ANTONIA MOU

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Photo by EMMA WU

FINDING MIDDLE GROUND

BREAKING BOUNDARIES THROUGH DISCUSSION

“I

T WAS JUST REALLY SAD seeing how much people were dividing themselves and blocking people on social media,” senior Giulia Santos said. “I don’t think that’s how we convince people that they’re wrong — it’s not by fighting.”

Inspired by the “Middle Ground” video series hosted by YouTube channel Jubilee, Santos, along with seniors Leslie Aboytes and Olivia Ericsson, started the Palo Alto High School Middle Ground Club in fall 2019.

The series aims to bring individuals with vastly different opinions into a space for open discussion and tackles both long-standing and newly controversial topics; Black Lives Matter and law enforcement supporters try to see eye-to-eye, sex workers and pastors work to find shared beliefs, and veterans and peace activists seek to find common ground.

Replicating this model on a smaller scale, Middle Ground Club meets every Thursday in two-week cycles. The first week, club leaders select a topic and members split up to research arguments; the next week, club members organize their research onto slides and present them to the rest of the club.

Unlike many debate groups, the core values of Middle Ground Club are to listen, share, discuss and find similarities between conflicting opinions rather than to prove each other wrong.

While the Jubilee series served as inspiration for the club, Santos says that being able to politely disagree with someone has been difficult growing up. This struggle of confrontation and discussion stems from her father’s highly conservative views, which often conflict with her own moderate and left-leaning views.

“I think a lot of the girls [in the club] have had the same experience of having people at your house that you don’t agree with,” Santos said. “And it’s hard, at first, to have some conversations.”

However, after engaging in civil discourse, Santos says she has a better understanding of her father’s approach, and discourages others from cutting off people they initially clash with.

“I ended up finding way more middle ground between our conversations than I thought I would,” she said. “Opening myself up to other people was a great opportunity to learn that we might agree with people that we think we disagree with on some points.”

Senior and club member Stella Essenmacher has found that, unlike other Paly clubs who rely on in-person activities to function to their full extent, Middle Ground Club has actually become a more open and accepting community over Zoom.

“You feel like these are just people you want to learn from and you’re not as worried as [when] you’re actually with them all the time … having everybody there facing each other,” Essenmacher said. “It’s definitely encouraged me a lot to pipe up and talk about what I want to talk about.”

Though Essenmacher initially joined because her friends were active members, she says the research and debate sessions have made her more politically aware and motivated to participate.

“It has exposed me to a lot of debates that I didn’t necessarily think about before or really think to care about,” Essenmacher said.

“I remember last year, we were talking about women’s pay. Obviously, you learn ‘women’s rights are different,’ but actually having a debate where people were giving evidence and giving stories or anecdotes about different women’s pays ... I just didn’t know that it was that severe.”

In a year of particularly divisive disagreement nationwide, especially in conjunction with the contentious election, there has been increased awareness around having healthy discussions between people holding differing beliefs. Entering 2021, the Middle Ground Club hopes to increase diversity of viewpoint, race, gender identity and more in their membership.

“I think it would be fun to see people who do not live in the same skin talking about their experiences and how being who they are shaped their ideas and values,” Santos said. v

STAYING GROUNDED — Paly Middle Ground Club officers and members pose for their 2019 yearbook photo. The club works to engage students in healthy conversations on controversial topics.

“You don’t want to be far away from people [that you disagree with],” Club President Giulia Santos said. “You have to be really strategic by talking to them. Blocking them and cutting them off — it’s not the way.”

Text by SASHA BOUDTCHENKO and MERWA MAROF

PANDEMIC PROMPTS STUDENTS TO ADAPT HOLIDAY PLANS

‘Tis the season H

OUSES ADORNED WITH which means she will be studying more than vibrant lights, coffee shops per- celebrating on the last day. Her family still meated with peppermint scents, plans to light candles, say blessings and eat grocery stores filled with hol- traditional foods but will keep the bigger celiday music — these are the wintery scenes ebrations for the eighth day. familiar to many as the Junior Rohini year comes to a close.

Bharat celebrates The holiday season We try to see as much Diwali, and her celis traditionally a time family as we can ... beebration normally when families gathincludes spending er from all corners of cause celebrating with a time with family, the world to celebrate lot more people is a lot going to parties various festivities. This and lighting canyear, the usually hectic more fun.” dles and sparklers season filled with bustogether.

—ARIELLE BLUMENFELD, sophomore tling shopping centers, Instead of instuffy airplane rides and viting extended clingy cousins will be family and friends exchanged for sitting in front of a comput- over this year, Bharat celebrated by lighter, waiting for a turn to talk with grandma ing candles with her immediate family and through a little box on the screen. Despite celebrating with sparklers. Even with these these changes, there are unique circumstances, Bharat still felt the many ways that Palo Diwali spirit but still missed going to big Alto High School parties at her relatives homes. students are keeping “The main thing that’s super exciting is the holiday spirit alive really interacting with people … I think it within the limitations would be cool if we did that [waved at relof the pandemic. atives with sparklers at a distance],” Bharat said.

Adapting tradition Many other families will also be conChristmas, Hanuk- necting with relatives virtually through video kah and Diwali are just a call platforms such as Zoom or Facetime in few of the winter holidays lieu of seeing them in person. that will look different this year.

Holiday travel Sophomore Arielle BluWhile many students are staying home menfeld normally sees as much this holiday season, some are still planning to family as possible during Hanuk- escape somewhere a bit closer to home. kah. She is fond of the annual family According to an opt-in Verde survey gathering, eating delicious food, singing of 136 students conducted in November, songs and telling stories.

74.3% of students said they normally trav“We try to see as much family as we can el during the holidays. This year, however, … because celebrating with a lot of people is 78.7% plan on staying home. a lot more fun,” Blumenfled said.

Junior Cate Barrett normally visits her For Blumenfeld, her Hanukkah plans grandparents and cousins in Australia every are continually changing due to the holiday year for Christmas and New Years, where the being held during different days each year. holidays look a bit different.

This year Hanukkah falls during finals week “We always have the ‘Santa-in-shorts’

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in quarantine Christmas,” Barrett said. “In Australia, all the depictions of Santa and the reindeers … are all like Santa rides a surfboard.”

Instead of visiting Australia, Barrett and her immediate family will be renting an Airbnb in Lake Tahoe to keep the holiday spirit alive while staying safe and celebrate Christmas by going sledding. They are still taking many precautions against COVID-19 by wearing masks, maintaining their distance from non-family members and avoiding the crowded areas where transmission occurs.

Some students, such as junior Kylee Vi, had big plans for this holiday season prior to COVID-19. Her family had arranged a two-week trip to Thailand, but

unfortunately, that and their latest plans to celebrate in Santa Cruz were cancelled due to the pandemic.

Despite the unexpected changes in plans and a lost opportunity to see relatives, Vi maintains a positive attitude towards this holiday season. Her family almost always travels for Christmas, so she is excited to spend it at home. While holiday celebrations will look much different and smaller this year, students and families will do their best to maintain the spirit.

“I think mostly just the experience of being together with family … sitting around and just talking … that’s probably just what’s consistent every year,” Bharat said. “I don’t think that will change.” v

Art by LAUREN YAN

Text by AKHIL JOONDEPH and AANYA KUMAR

Photos by AKHIL JOONDEPH

KILLINEY KOPITIAM SINGAPORE’S ICONIC COFFEE SHOP ARRIVES IN PALO ALTO

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INED WITH BRIGHTLY painted Kopitiam has expanded to nine countries walls and vibrant murals of Singa- with over 80 locations worldwide. pore’s Marina Bay, Killiney KopiMotivated by the lack of authentic tiam is downtown Palo Alto’s latest Singaporean cuisine in the Bay Area and trending cafe. The punnostalgic memories gent aromas of fresh of Killiney from her coffee, dried shrimp From early in my childhood, franchise and savory sauces waft childhood, Killiney owner and Singafrom the kitchen, enticpore native Amanda was my favorite place Toh Steckler made ing hungry customers.

One of Singa- to go for comfort the decision to expore’s most well known pand the popular restaurant chains, Kill- food.” chain by opening — AMANDA TOH STECKLER, owner the Waverley Street iney Kopitiam opened its first United States location. location in Palo Alto in “From early in September. The business is over 100 years my childhood, Killiney was my favorite old, having established its first location on place to go for comfort food,” Steckler said.

Killiney Road in Singapore in 1919, acWhile the restaurant was expectcording to its website. Since then, Killiney ed to open its doors in the spring, the

40 DECEMBER 2020

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A TASTE OF SINGAPORE — Killiney Kopitiam, located on Waverley Street in downtown Palo Alto serves authentic Singaporean food and drinks.

COVID-19 pandemic forced Steckler to delay its launch. However, despite the challenges of opening during this unprecedented time, the restaurant has boasted long lines since its opening in part due to online networking.

“The power of social media is fantastic and the word quickly spread via Facebook and Instagram,” Steckler said.

Waiting in line for a chance to try the restaurant’s renowned offerings, we had high expectations. We were pleasantly met by their bold, spicy and comforting Singaporean flavors and comfortable outdoor seating, and would gladly return. v

culture Roti Prata ($5.99) This layered pan-fried flatbread was served with a fragrant yellow curry sauce.

The mild and buttery taste of the prata paired well with the bold flavors of chili and coconut in the dipping sauce, and the lightly crispy and extremely flaky texture of the bread left our mouths watering.

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the rest of the dishes.

Kaya Toast ($5.49) Featuring house-made kaya coconut jam with salted butter on white pullman toast, this snack was definitely one of our favorite items. The bread was toasted to perfection and the sweetness from the jam and saltiness from the generous spread of butter complemented each other exquisitely.

Mee Rebus ($12.99) Comprised of thick egg noodles in a lightly fishy sweet potato broth, this dish sung with subtle flavor. The broth had a light saltiness to it, while the noodles had an irresistible chewy texture. Tofu, sprouts, scallions, hot peppers and a boiled egg topped off the dish. The hot broth was served separately to prevent sogginess and we poured the delicious soup over the toppings ourselves.

Mee Siam ($10.99) One of Killiney’s house specials, this noodle dish contained a sweet and tangy tamarind gravy with thin rice vermicelli topped with lime, bean sprouts, fried tofu and sambal chili, creating an explosion of textures and flavors in our mouths. While a bit spicy, the dish was perfectly balanced with the acidity from the lime.

Kopi O ($3.99) If you like strong coffee, this is the drink for you. Lightly sweetened and without milk, Killiney’s Kopi O is saturated with a very strong and bitter flavor. The distinctive nuttiness of the coffee blend was unique, and while sharp, the drink was extremely refreshing.

Kopi C ($3.99) Paired with sweetened condensed milk, this iced coffee struck a lovely balance between bitter and sweet. The condensed milk muted the bitterness of the coffee just the right amount, and the sweet and cramy drink paired well with the salt and spice of

NIGHT MARKET NOODLES (TOP) — Killiney’s Mee Siam features vermicelli noodles in a spicy broth topped with egg, scallion, tofu and a fresh lime wedge.

A FLAKY FAVORITE (BOTTOM LEFT) — A layered pan-fried multi-layered bread, the Roti Prata was one of our favorite dishes that we sampled at Killiney Kopitiam. The prata was served with a bright and savory curry sauce.

BITTER BREW (BOTTOM RIGHT) — Kopi C, strong Singaporean coffee accented with sweetened condensed milk was a, rich and flavorful accompaniment to the salty and spicy food.

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 41

Text by ANTONIA MOU and ISHANI RAHA

Art by APRIL WU

Queen’s Gambit THE

SHOW CHECKMATES TRADITIONAL TELEVISION

42 DECEMBER 2020

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REEN TRANQUILIZER strategy game, pills tumble out of a ceram- this show proves ic toothbrush holder into the otherwise. Armed palm of a 9-year-old girl with with fast-paced screen roughly cut bangs. She swallows them dry, cuts and heart-thrumming and the dark shadows on the ceiling begin music, even a silent game of to morph into the pattern of a chessboard. chess is sure to get the audiA looming stone pillar — the queen — ma- ence’s adrenaline pumping. The terializes, hanging upside down from the camera is focused on the players and ceiling, quickly followed by the remaining the players’ faces for most of the time 31 chess pieces. Flashing in and out of exis- rather than the board, an artful camtence, the pieces dance across the board as era decision that adds life to the intense the girl plays out the Scholar’s Mate, also games. known as the 4-move checkmate. The maWhat makes the show truly stand out neuver repeats, faster and faster, as the girl is its refreshing take on female autonomy. gazes at the ceiling, captivated.

Beth’s character is written the way male This is a scene from “The Queen’s characters are traditionally constructed by Gambit,” a Netflix Original miniseries re- male creators; she is ambitious and sucleased on Oct. 23. Created by Scott Frank cess-driven, surrounded by men whose and Allan Scott and based on a Walter Te- primary purposes are to further her story, vis novel of the same name, “The Queen’s and is often likened to a Van Gogh-Esque Gambit” follows protagonist Elizabeth “tortured genius,” a role almost solely oc“Beth” Harmon’s (Anya Taylor-Joy) jour- cupied by male characters in television. ney from an orphanage to competing in Furthermore, Beth isn’t coninternational chess fined to tournaments. the nerdy Set in the Unit- “The Queen’s Gambit” is chess player ed States during the stereotype. an extraordinary story Cold War era, Beth She is unspends her younger of struggle, independence afraid to years in an orphanexpress her and redemption. age, discovering sexual chess in the musty desires basement with custodian Mr. Shaibel (Bill and unashamedly pursues relaCamp). However, Beth quickly outgrows tionships, all without taking her eyes off the Mr. Shaibel’s skill, and after she is adopt- chessboard. In television, women are often ed, she begins playing in state, national characterized by their sexual lives in a way and international chess tournaments. As that dominates any other trait they might she learns new openings and attacks on the have. Beth’s character defies this norm; her board with sharp intuition and instinct, romantic pursuits and ambition in chess are she spends her nights perfecting her skills distinct, defining her as a strong character by projecting her imagination onto the of her own right without the need for men ceiling. Yet as the young prodigy graces the to support her. covers of chess magazines and travels to Visually, the costume and set designers glamorous cities for tournaments, her sinis- of “The Queen’s Gambit” capture a stunter battle with substance abuse lurks below ning portrayal of the 1960s. With Beth’s the surface. house decked out in brightly patterned “The Queen’s Gambit” has exploded wallpaper and floral bed sheets, viewers are in popularity around the world with chess transported back to the age of flamboyant grandmasters and unfamiliar newbies alike. grandmillennial-style decor.

With consultants like Russian grandmaster A more subtle yet impactful design and world champion Garry Kasparov, the choice is Beth’s wardrobe; from check7-episode series maintains a realistic por- er-print pieces that resemble a chesstrayal of the chess world with games adapt- board, to expensive dresses straight from a ed from real-life matches. high-fashion magazine catalog, Beth’s fashWhile mainstream media has long ion choices solidify her position as a confideemed chess to be a slow and passive dent woman who is unafraid to express her

femininity in a male-dominated field.

“The Queen’s Gambit” is an extraordinary story of struggle, independence and redemption. A young orphaned girl, against all odds, harnesses her intelligence to rise to the top of the highly competitive world of chess. Even after she blunders, turning to excessive amounts of alcohol and drugs to cope with loss, she finds her way back to her chess pieces for the endgame.

To anyone looking to explore the world of chess through a cultured and intricately detailed show, or simply those searching for a satisfying story with complex characters, “The Queen’s Gambit” is for you. And once you finish, you’ll be feeling the urge to take to the chessboard and pick up a pawn yourself. v “The Queen’s Gambit” is available as a limited series, and can be viewed on Netflix.

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 43

Heartwarming 'Hilda'

SERIES HAS STORY AND STYLE

A

MID FOREST FOLIAGE and maroon hues, a young girl and her pet deer-fox scramble through grassy woods as a towering troll lumbers after them. Their ragged breaths tear through the darkening forest.

But the girl laughs, taking in the thrill as she dashes over outlined logs and animated waterfalls under a sunset painted in stripes of deep colors.

This is just one of the many stunning scenes from the award-winning Netflix Original “Hilda.” First created as a comic book series in 2010 by Luke Pearson, “Hilda” was later adapted by the streaming service in 2018 as an animated television series.

The show follows a young, adventurous girl named Hilda as she explores a

Text and art by ZANDER LEONG

Scandinavian folklore-inspired world and ous: pieces of each episode are masterfully works to help the people and creatures woven throughout the entire series. The around her. Along with her friends, she en- service organization Hilda joins is forecounters paperwork-loving elves, enchant- shadowed in her adventures with the bird, ed mice and sassy teenage spirits as she and both episodes establish later events. travels from the open mountainside to her Everything leads up to the final episode new home in a thriving subur–– an exciting finale that ties up the season ban city. With the second seanicely. son set to release on Dec. 14, While many children’s shows we’re looking back on push the moral of the beautiful colors and “Hilda” delivers heartthe story in a way heartwarming story in that can seem forced, the fantastical world of felt lessons in a form “Hilda” delivers “Hilda.” heartfelt lessons in that can appeal to all.

The show opens a form that can apwith a bright title sepeal to all. There quence featuring a fluid runare more to the themes than through of the series. Literally. Tothe usual “power of friendship.” In one gether with her friends and key characters, episode, viewers come to realize — along Hilda runs through scenes and locations with the characters — the message about that turn up throughout the season. The Hilda finding her real home. Suddenly, show’s unique colors and design imme- previous elements like conversations with diately shine through in the brief 30 sec- an old friend and Hilda’s general attitude onds. Set to a light, bubbly theme song by about moving to the city all click together. electropop musician Grimes, viewers get a These positive endings leave viewers feeling taste of the spirited, smooth and stylistic satisfied, a nice break from the dramatized aesthetic that “Hilda” totes. cliffhangers that keep you clicking “Next The show doesn’t have a single Episode.” running storyline, and instead fea“Hilda” is set in a world that is both tures individual episodic stories. One modern and fantastical, a combination that episode sees Hilda helping a talking isn’t often seen together. But the genres bird regain its memory, while the next cov- don’t clash: instead, they twist together in ers her adventures with community service an artful duet. In one scene, cruise ships and onion men. But the story is continu- lie in a harbor next to historical sailboats.

In another, police rush by in capes, feath-

culture

the show is between ered hats and flashing police cars. It brings Hilda and her motha sense of relevance to the folklore-based er, Johanna. Rather story and a bit of magic to the world we than being depicted as a stiff, know today. unrelatable figure or the face of opposition Traditional aspects are also refurbished as many parents are in television, Johanna through the show’s modern, minimalist art. is clear-headed and practical, bearing both It’s here that “Hilda” pushes the boundar- the responsibility and love that come with ies of television. Broad fields of color and parenting. No matter what Hilda gets into, clean, rounded lines sketch out iconic her mother is there for her and full of supscenes in a style that’s more often seen in port. She’s also a graphic designer, tying graphic design. The show’s comic book or- nicely with the show’s aesthetic and breakigins reveal themselves through these stun- ing the “boring parent job” convention. ning visuals. And while not overly bright Still, while emotionally dimensional, or saturated, the muted color scheme still the human population is a bit uniform. feels lively and wondrous. Rays of golden More ethnic diversity in the sunlight or beams from main and recurring glowing headlights ilwould elAnimation is certainly characters luminate every single evate the show. In a scene, further dazzling an art, and “Hilda” is series about acceptaudiences. Animation ing and understandone of the shows that is certainly an art, and ing others, whether “Hilda” is one of the reinforces that conhuman characters shows that reinforces or fantasy creatures, nection. that connection. representing more Fluid animation communities would adds further depth to scenes. only enhance the message.

While the art is not hyper-realistic, the Viewers looking for violent action show’s creators bring Hilda’s world to life: or edgy drama will not find it in “Hilda.” every movement is elegant, every word is What they will find is a heartfelt series pronounced and every blink is smooth. that captures the essence of being a child.

Animation extends into backgrounds, from But that doesn’t mean animation is only the smallest mote of dust to waves dancing for kids. The show reflects a larger on the shore. No corners were cut and the revival of animation; over the last result is a beautiful, mobile, living world. few years, streaming services like This investment is also reflected in the Netflix, Amazon Prime Video characters. Despite lacking live human ac- and Hulu have bumped up their tors, “Hilda” boasts well-developed person- investment in the genre. And with alities. One of the strongest relationships in the arrival of Disney+ in late

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2019, animation has taken hold of today’s entertainment industry. Perhaps the beautiful art has attracted the world’s eye. Perhaps it reflects a larger trend of desire for positivity. Either way, shows like “Hilda” uplift their audience, something we all need especially now.

Audiences should anticipate even more from the world of “Hilda”; the second season is set to explore deeper themes on a broader scope. Viewers will see Hilda settling into city life while facing an antagonist, aspects that weren’t present in the first episodes. Returning characters will also see new stories, such as an episode dedicated to Hilda’s pet deer-fox Twig. Expectations are high for the team behind “Hilda,” but based on their previous work, many predict they won’t disappoint.

Whether looking for the next animated series or just anything to watch, “Hilda” is an exciting, intricate show for audiences of all ages. A heartwarming story is at the core of its fluid animation and stunning design, reminding us of the wonder of living and growing in a magical world. And these days, we could use a little magic in our life. v

Text by ANYA MONDRAGON and ABIMBOLA BOLARINWA

Art by ZANDER LEONG

Concerts through screens

ARTISTS EXPLORE UNPRECEDENTED OPTIONS

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GIANT SPIDER WAVING the front row,” Muneyb said. “You can see its eerily long legs sets the stage everyone and everything that is going on.” for Billie Eilish’s performance In addition to the up-close experience, of “You Should See Me in a the stunning visuals of Eilish’s virtual conCrown” in her October concert. Jumping cert, including the giant spider, a virtual on the stage, she belts out the lyrics flaw- forest and a larger than life shark that swallessly. But when the song wraps up, the lows her whole, could never be replicated at expected thunderous applause is absent. an in-person event.

The attendees to this show, as with many The online format allows the artist to others in the era have creative control of COVID-19, are over the vision they watching through a I liked how it was like want to present, withscreen from the com- you were sitting in the out constraints of what fort of their homes. can come on tour or be In light of Cen- front row.” realistically constructters for Disease Con— SANA MUNEYB, junior ed. trol and Prevention “I thought it was recommendations, cool to see the editing many artists were forced to cancel their and the graphics they used,” Muneyb said. tours and move their concerts online.

“You don't get that in real concerts.”

While the environment is certainly not In addition, venues can make attendthe same, junior Sana Muneyb recoging concerts accessible. Whereas front row nizes some advantages. tickets might have cost “I liked how it was like into the hundreds of you were sitting in dollars for well-known

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46 DECEMBER 2020

artists, the audience experiences the closeup element for a fraction of the price in a virtual environment.

However, the online format is cheaper for a reason. The ambience of a virtual concert does not come anywhere near the kinetic, uninhibited atmosphere of standing in a packed venue surrounded by the energy of the crowd.

“I don't think I would choose it over an in-person concert,” Muneyb said. “I miss the experience in a stadium with live music.”

Unfortunately, there is no telling of when concerts in the traditional format will be widely available and safe to attend. Some artists, including Maroon 5, Harry Styles and The Weeknd, have postponed their plans for in-person concerts to 2021. However, if the coronavirus is not under control by then, they risk postponing even further.

“While COVID-19 continues I think I would go to another one [virtual concert],” Muneyb said. “It is a pretty good substitute.” v

dynamite culture

Text by TARA KOTHARI

v

Art by SAMANTHA HO

K-POP TRANSCENDS CULTURAL BOUNDARIES

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IBRANT PASTELS AND COTTON CANDY-LIKE Blackpink clouds fill the screen as the camera slowly zooms and The four-person girl group debuted in 2016, when their a soft melody starts up in the background. With over captivating music videos and fun beats first caught the atten100 million views in 24 hours, K-pop group BTS’s tion of many around the globe. Their 2018 hit single “DDUlatest hit, “Dynamite,” broke YouTube’s record for the most DU DDU-DU” raked in over 1.3 billion views, making it the views in 24 hours. Spending a total of three most viewed K-pop music video on Youweeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 The artists and the fans Tube. songs chart, “Dynamite” remained true to Blackpink’s first-ever full album, its name as its popularity was, quite liter- are more connected [in “The Album,” was released on Oct. 2 and ally, explosive.

K-pop] than they are in consists of eight songs, each with its own Today, BTS remains one of the most unique vibe. Tracks such as “Lovesick prominent K-pop groups in the world western music.”

Girls,” “How You Like That” and “Pretwith an astounding fanbase and worldwide ty Savage” quickly broke chart records.

— ELLEN FANG, senior Whether you are working out or relaxing recognition. On Oct. 15, BTS’s label, Big Hit Entertainment, went public on Korea's at home, their songs are perfect for any ocStock Exchange with a market valuation casion as their warm and bright melodies of $4.1 billion, making it South Korea's largest IPO in three make you want to hear more. years. On Nov. 24, BTS made history again as they were nominated for a Grammy, making them the first K-pop group to ever NCT receive a Grammy nomination.

Consisting of 23 members ranging from their late teens to Originating from South Korea, K-pop is a melting pot of mid twenties, the unusually large South Korean boy group is music styles from all around the world, of course including split into four subunits, all of which have come together for the their own traditional Korean roots. Each group brings its own second time in their newest album. “NCT RESONANCE Pt. style and personality, providing its followers with a personal 1,” was released on Oct. 12, with 13 memorable songs to make experience. their fans’ wishes come true.

According to senior Ellen Fang, the industry’s rapid growth One of their most captivating tracks from this new album, around the world is in part due to its unique method of using “Make A Wish (Birthday Song),” contains everything from social platforms such as Weverse, an app created by Big Hit hip-hop to R&B, making it highly addictive. The music video Entertainment that allows fans to communicate directly with transports its viewers into a world of wonder as it delivers the various K-pop idols. music in the most colorful and entrancing way possible. The “It [K-pop] definitely feels very family-like because the art- elaborate Bollywood-inspired choreography and beautiful viists and the fans are more connected than they are in western suals make watching the 4-minute, 9-second video worth every music,” Fang said. moment.

After hearing all of the positive remarks, I listened to toNCT’s innovation and creativity makes them a group to day's hottest K-pop groups’ new albums. v keep an eye on in the future.

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Text by KYLIE MIES and NAOMI BONEH

Art by MICHELLE KIM

voice of youth LGBTQ+ SINGERS AS ROLE MODELS FOR GEN Z

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O YOU LISTEN TO GIRL IN RED?” In the past ro illustrate the frustration that comes with knowing who you year, this question has become synonymous with ask- love, but being scared to pursue it. The song “We Fell in Love ing someone if they are lesbian or bisexual in a more in October’’ portrays girl in red’s deep infatuation with another discrete way. Girl in red, a 21-year-old Norweigan girl. “Heather” by Conan Gray depicts unrequited love with lyrics singer-songwriter who identifies as queer, complimented by the beautiful strumis best known for her love songs. ming of an acoustic guitar.

A big part of that change The phrase is commonly used on Tik“I personally connect with Conan Tok, a social media platform which has be- comes with tearing down Gray’s ‘Heather’ and ‘Maniac,’ because come a hot spot for lesser known singers to the current standards we I have gone through the same exact scereach a larger audience. The app has paved narios as he did,” sophomore Nathaniel an unconventional path for Gen Z’s artists are fed through media.”

Ibuyan said. to shine, especially young LGBTQ+ singThese artists, who are also part of — MARINA BUENDIA, senior the younger generation, have a strong ers who have a way with writing romantic lyrics and dreamy melodies that attract a bond with their audience and often inteenage demographic. These influential artists include girl in red, teract with them over social media. The more intimate relationship Clairo and Conan Gray. has created an online community where those who enjoy the artAccording to Psychology Today, LGBTQ+ representation in ists can find like-minded people who share similar life experiencthe media can generate a sense of affirmation in identity, which can es, enabling many Gen Z teens to feel more comfortable in their boost feelings of self-worth. identities through music.

“These artists all in particular speak out about the difficulties “I think that having a community online can be really helpful of exploring and defining your sexuality, which for a lot in someone’s journey,” Buendia said. “Where we live it’s a little of people is not something they have the luxury of bit easier to be friends with someone else who is in the LGBTQ+ talking about with their peers or their family,” secommunity and the stigma, while still there, is definitely not as nior Marina Buendia said. prominent than in other places.”

Not only do these artists act as an esTo Buendia, positive representation of LGBTQ+ cape for those who might not be able singers in pop culture is the first step to broadto express themselves fully in their ening the representation of all people in a own environment, they help community.

LGBTQ+ teenagers become “A big part of that change more connected to each comes with tearing down other through music the current stanand art. dards we are fed Young artists through melike Clairo, dia,” Buendia girl in red said. “Whethand Conan er it is race, Gray appeal gender, weight, to a different sexual identity audience than or religion, we most mainneed to live in a stream artists world where everybecause they cover one can see people emotional topics that similar to themselves resonate more with the in magazines, on billLGBTQ+ community. boards, in movies and TV The lyrics in “Sofia’’ by Claishows.” v

48 DECEMBER 2020

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perspectives Text by SOFIA ANTEBI

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Art by SAMANTHA HO

The end of an era I

HOW POP MUSIC IS EVOLVING WITH THE TIMES T’S 2013, “WANT U BACK” BY CHER LLOYD is playing on the radio. Life is good. These times are long past, and the world has changed a lot since then. This year especially, we have seen cultural shifts in almost every aspect of the world around us, from the way we interact with technology to the increase in sweatpants-wearing.

One of the more gradual changes has been pop music. While it is characterized by what is “popular” and has been evolving since the Jazz Age, to our generation, the epitome of pop might be Katy Perry, Meghan Trainor and Justin Bieber — with the hair swoop. But the 2010s “pop” sound has been transitioning away from the vibrant and upbeat style we know and love.

For me, pop music started losing its magic when I was in middle school. I was spending less time in the car so I wasn’t listening to the radio, and everything on the top charts started to sound the same — this was when I went through my anti-pop phase where I listened to a little too much emo music. It was the first time I ventured away from mainstream music and found my own songs.

The emergence of streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music reshaped the way I consumed music.

Not only did it affect my music taste, but the transition from downloading songs from YouTube and listening to the radio to having almost any song at my fingertips revolutionized the music industry as a whole. By drastically expanding the different songs, artists and genres available, these streaming services have exposed me to countless styles and also allowed me to discover smaller artists.

Another game-changer in the music industry has been social media. Along with streaming services, social media platforms have made it much easier for smaller artists to “blow up” without the help of a big record label. TikTok has become a major influence on the top charts, and artists like Lil Nas X, Doja Cat, and BENEE gained a lot of their early success through the platform. This new

wave of artists have brought fresh influences to the music industry.

So, what is the “new sound” we are transitioning towards?

I am looking forward to a more diversified music industry and I doubt that there is going to be another period where everything sounds the same — at least for me. Though I would never voluntarily listen to “Yummy” by Justin Bieber, I recently found myself circling back to pop music through the “indie-pop” genre.

“Indie” music just means that the songs are made by independent artists who aren’t signed to a label, which makes it super stylistically broad, but there is still a certain sound associated with it. What I think makes indie music as a genre is its creative and experimental essence, which challenges the 2010s’ formulaic success.

One of my first encounters with indie-pop was with Conan Gray; I fell in love with the whimsical layering from his vocals and remember how excited I was to see him grow, especially with his song “Maniac” now.

Artists now can have a lot more connection with their audiences since we can watch them grow their platforms from little YouTube videos or releasing music on SoundCloud to the Billboard Top 50.

Despite indie music priding itself for being niche and underground, it is undoubtedly making its way into the mainstream. It’s no longer a “little secret,” and we have seen many beloved pop artists embrace new styles.

One example is Taylor Swift — she seamlessly evolves with the times. From“You Belong With Me” to her most recent songs, including “illicit affairs,” she has held a special place in my heart since the first concert I attended, on her 1989 tour. Several other artists such as Harry Styles and Tyler, the Creator, have brought an experimental spirit to pop music and propelled this sense of creativity and individuality into more mainstream spaces.

Pop music, as we know it, is not necessarily dying, but changing and evolving. I’m not sure what the next few years are going to look like, but we can look back nostalgically on the bubbly dance music of the 2010s while still embracing the new era to come. v

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Text by PAISLEY ANNES

Returning BACK TO CAMPUS

I

N LATE OCTOBER before the hy- Prevention, the American Academy of Pebrid plan for January was announced, diatrics, and Santa Clara County Health 64% of Palo Alto High School parents Official Sara Cody are just some supportand students selected, in a survey ad- ers of prioritizing the safe reopening of ministered by the Palo Alto Unified School schools. Both the CDC and AAP cite studDistrict, that they would want to return ies that show that children are low risk, and to school in hybrid form. Clearly, there is that the transmission rates in educational a need within the PAUSD community for settings are low. in-person learning.

However, students are at heightHowever, once the hybrid schedule ened risk of isolation’s dangerous, even was announced and passed by the school life-threatening effects. According to a board, only 10% of Paly students selected study published in the Journal of the Amerthe hybrid option, according to an update ican Academy of Child and Adolescent Psyfrom Principal Brent Kline. This is because chiatry, enforced isolation increases adolesthe hybrid schedule is atrocious. The classes cents’ likelihood of anxiety and depression. offered students minimal in-person learn- Keeping students home may seem like the ing, and in-person classes — English and safer choice, but at what cost? social studies — were those that function Additionally, children are at an inbest virtually. Classes such as sciences and creased risk of abuse, neglect, exploitation arts, where the quality of the course can- and violence due to shelter-in-place ornot be maintained in distance learning, ders, according to UNICEF. With distance remained virtual. Additionally, the hybrid learning, it is easier for dangerous home plan could only support 30-40% of stu- environments to go undetected because dents, so even if more teachers, who are the students had chosen leading reporters of Enforced isolation the hybrid option, they suspected abuse, are may not have been ac- increases adolescents now only able to catch cepted. of students likelihood of anxiety aoverglimpse The small perZoom. centage of students and depression.

No one signed up that chose hybrid does to do their jobs during not mean that students do not want to re- a pandemic, but COVID-19 is now a part turn. It means that a better plan needs to of our lives, and we must learn to live with be made –– a plan that serves the needs of it. Essential employees, including both of the students. Expanding PAUSD+ is sim- my parents, have been working since the ply not enough. start of the pandemic because others rely At the school board meetings regard- on them. Thousands of students and famiing reopening, many PAUSD communi- lies depend on PAUSD for their education. ty members stated that benefits of hybrid PAUSD has a duty to provide students with learning were insignificant because the so- the best education they can, and this cancial distancing, the masks and the plastic not be done through online school. dividers would make it hard for students to In-person school is necessary for stusocialize and teachers to teach. Yet, I hang dents’ well-being and the upkeep of their out with friends every week, six feet apart education. With the dire importance of reand wearing masks, and it does not impede turning to school in person, Paly must reour ability to communicate or socialize. open as soon as it is safe to do so even if that The Center for Disease Control and means a transition mid-semester. v

50 DECEMBER 2020

perspectives

to school

Art by SELENA CAO

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Text by RYAN SETO

STAYING VIRTUAL

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HE PROCESS OF reopening of changing teachers halfway through the Palo Alto schools has been cha- year while the rest of us will be crammed otic, to say the least. There has into overcrowded Zoom classes. The meabeen overwhelming backlash ger benefits for the slim 10% who actually from students, parents and teachers because want to return are not worth the consethe Palo Alto Unified School District has quences that would fall on the rest of us. made it clear that campuses should open as Beyond students, teachers were hardly soon as county regulations permit it. counseled throughout this process. It’s not Creating a plan to go back to school fair to hold a teacher’s earnings hostage if while the pandemic rages is a logistical they aren’t comfortable with returning to nightmare. At the bare minimum, Palo school.

Alto High School — whether we return in Instead of pushing a hybrid learning January or August plan that leaves no — will have to one satisfied, the implement limited Instead of pushing a plan district should foclass sizes, plastic that leaves no one saticus on developing dividers and social a better model of distancing guide- sified, the district should distance learning lines, which will put its weight behind deand expanding make interacting PAUSD+, a prowith peers hard- veloping distance learning gram providing ader than virtual and expanding PAUSD+. ditional support to learning — largely students who are at defeating the purhigher risk for poor pose of going back to school. In any plan learning outcomes or face unique challengthat the district proposes, these precautions es in the virtual environment. will be necessary, so it simply doesn’t make The spread of the virus doesn’t just sense to return. stop at us; it can spread to our family and Throughout this process the school their coworkers. We’re essentially gambling district did not communicate or listen to with lives we don’t have to risk. teachers and students to the extent that It’s clear that the hybrid plan proposed they should have. The Paly and Henry M. and passed by the district falls short in Gunn High School student school board many ways, but it is also evident that these representatives laid out clear reasons as to problems cannot be fixed without further why they wanted to take more time cre- risking the health of our students and facating a new plan that addressed criticism ulty, as many of the issues in the plans are from students and faculty, but were ulti- necessary to address safety or financial conmately outvoted by a group of adults who cerns. don’t have to deal with the risks of going As coronavirus cases rise and Santa back to school.

Clara County has moved back to CaliforIf we were to return to school, the nia’s purple COVID-19 tier, we need to district would give the small percentage of continue to remind ourselves of the severity students who want to go back the option of this pandemic. We can’t reopen safely by to, but in doing so, they would disrupt pushing through a half-baked plan. This the schedules and education of the others is our education — and our families’ and who did not choose to. Juniors applying to teachers’ lives — at risk, and we need to college will have to face the consequences be involved in making our voices heard. v

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 51

Text by SOPHIE MATLOF

Art by SAMANTHA HO

TIPPING THE SCALES JUSTICE BARRETT ENDANGERS OUR RIGHTS

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URING A DANGEROUSLY POLARIZED and unstable time in our country’s history, we now face the consequences of the appointment of originalist Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. As a woman in America, my constitutional right to bodily autonomy and reproductive health is a defining characteristic of my freedom — and is now under threat.

On Oct. 27, Barrett was confirmed to serve as a Supreme Court Justice following the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

While Justice Ginsburg dedicated her life to further improving women’s rights, Barrett plans to move this country backwards — specifically by stripping people of their reproductive rights.

As I grew up, I looked at Ginsburg as a warrior for the rights of women across the country. The monumental Supreme Court ruling of Roe v. Wade in 1973 gave women the right to choose whether or not to have an abor-

52 DECEMBER 2020

tion before the third trimester. With Barrett as a seated justice, the court will have the votes to work towards unraveling the rights that came with the landmark decision. It is terrifying to know that the beliefs and decisions of one person could very likely contribute to the decision to take away my right to make choices about my own body. Barrett’s appointment to the Supreme Court means that the hard, admirable work of her predecessor is in great danger of being overturned.

Prior to her nomination, Barrett earned her law degree at Notre Dame Law School in 1997. She went on to be a clerk for Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia for a year and then worked for a private practice for another three years. From 2002 to 2017, she worked as a law professor at her alma mater. She has only been serving on the federal court for three years, with her term beginning in 2017 up until her confirmation to the Supreme Court. Her experience, in comparison with the other decorated justices sitting on the Supreme Court, has come into question, with concerned citizens wondering whether or not she is ready for this important role in our country.

Though a female sitting in any position of power seems like a win for the feminist moevment, simply being a woman does not exempt Barrett from sexist thinking and rulings. Barrett, a self-proclaimed originalist, believes that the Constitution should be interpreted in the exact way that it was written — in 1787. Times have changed, beliefs have changed and our knowledge of science has changed. These outdated ideals and laws should not shackle our government — restraining us from progressing and moving into the future — because some details simply don’t apply to our current society.

Supporters of Barrett’s nomination say they believe that the only responsibility of a sitting Supreme Court justice is to enforce the laws already in place. I couldn’t disagree with more.

The job of a Supreme Court justice is to decide what is just and what isn’t, to decide what is moral and what is amoral and the laws made in the country heavily rely on the rulings of the Supreme Court. Sitting on the highest court in the country means bearing the great responsibility of creating a strong moral standard and enacting change within the country. Barrett denies that this is something she is expected to do now that she is in the position and instead claims her only responsibility is enforcing laws of the land and maintaining the status quo.

The confirmation of Barrett to the Supreme Court came as a huge slap in the face as our reproductive rights are placed under threat. Because these positions are so influential and powerful, we absolutely must handle them with more diligence than we have this time around. We urge you to be outspoken about your beliefs on this imperative matter of equal rights whenever and however you can. v

Text by SADIE IBBOTSON-BROWN

A DAY AT THE POLLS

Art by Samantha Ho

VOLUNTEERING AT A PALO ALTO VOTING CENTER

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HE LARGE, EMPTY ROOM is filled with touchscreens and ballot stations, each accompanied by a secrecy divider emblazoned with the American flag. It’s quiet: the calm before the storm, filled with a sort of eerie silence that will soon be broken with a surge of early voters.

poll workers. These people had only been working with each other for a few days beforehand, but they already got along well and seemed genuinely happy to be there. One worker brought in his dog, Sushi, who added a sweet presence to the hectic day.

I worked at the end of the voting process, sanitizing each station after it was used by a voter: touchscreen, secrecy sleeve and Preparing for the polls table. I switched off between sanitization and manning the ballot I decided to work the polls in late September, when I realized scanners, where I would help voters cast their votes and make sure just how fed up I was with the current presidential administration. they were counted.

Since I’m not yet old enough to vote, working at the polls seemed At one point, I was approached by a voter who informed me like the best way I could contribute to the electhat she believed that not everyone should tion process. vote, but instead only those who really I remember going to the polls with my par- Voting is a key part knew and researched all of the propositions ents at a young age and watching them vote. The to being an American and candidates. This offhand comment ballots looked impossibly long and complicatcaught me off-guard and made me reflect ed, and the voting day normally ended with me citizen, and is a right on the voting process as a whole. stealing their “I Voted” sticker and plastering it that has been fought I believe that everyone should vote. on my forehead.

Voting is a key part to being an American Even waiting outside the training center, it for for centuries. citizen, and is a right that has been fought was evident that this year’s voting process was for for centuries. going to be different than years past. We waited There were more votes cast in this elecin long, winding lines just to enter the building, where all of our tion than ever before, as well as a surge in youth voting. With sevtemperatures were checked. COVID-19 had left its mark on the eral states ending up blue or red by a slim margin of votes, it’s clear voting center. that each and every vote counts. It’s important to vote and make sure that your voice is heard.

Working the Polls You should educate yourself on the propositions and candiI worked on Monday, Nov. 2, an early election day. At 8 a.m., dates, but don’t let an inability to access information prevent you the poll center was eerily quiet — not to mention freezing. from voting. The people at the voting centers are there to help, and I was immediately surprised by the camaraderie between the can provide voter guides and other resources to make sure you’re aware of what exactly and who exactly it is that you’re voting for.

This was incredibly clear at my vote center. My fellow workers were determined to make the process as streamlined and easy as possible for every voter, and were happy to listen to every request and concern. Each person who came through the doors was greeted with a smile, a willingness to answer any question and a “Thank you for voting.”

I was nervous to work at the polls, especially in an election as important as this one, but in the end, I’m incredibly grateful for the experience and the opportunity to be a small part of the voting process. The election of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice PresiCIVIC DUTY — Voting booths marked with the American flag line a Palo dent-elect Kamala Harris gives me a little more hope than I had Alto vote center at the Riconada Library. Despite the complications brought previously, and I’m excited to see what their administration will do by the COVID-19 pandemic, voter turnout was higher for this election than ever before. Photo: Emma Wu for the country. v

VERDEMAGAZINE.COM 53

Text by SEBASTIAN BONNARD

Art by EMMA WU

Dear Mr. President-elect AN OPEN LETTER TO OUR NEW PRESIDENT

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EAR PRESIDENT-ELECT JOE BIDEN, Online education simply does not foster the same learning I want to begin this letter by congratulating you environment that in-person learning does. My experiences of on a victory that I hope will serve as a moment of online learning consist of people apprehensive to turn on their unification and progress for our country. You and cameras or to speak when called upon, and utterly silent Zoom Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will make a formidable duo in breakout rooms. Few students, if any at all, are motivated to learn confronting one of the most challenging in this environment. periods in American history.

Regardless of the pandemic, the During the past four years, A country cannot call itself current education system is critically President Donald Trump fueled division the “greatest country in undersupported. And though Palo with incessant, hateful rhetoric.

Alto Unified School District students And while your predecessor the world” when it spends benefit from one of the best public certainly made his mark, you have the 10 times more money on school districts in the country, we must unique opportunity to rectify his actions continue to advocate for improvement in “defense” than education. as president. educational standards all around.

As a French-American, this Of the many ways this country has pandemic brought me many moments of regressed since Trump’s election is in the reflection about the differences between the two countries –– one Department of Education’s efforts to weaken public schools by being the perception of education in both countries. cutting funds and undermining protective federal education laws.

France endured a series of lockdowns –– like many The duty to promote the safe reopening of schools European countries –– in efforts to combat the and the (overdue) development of the American seemingly incessant surges in COVID-19 cases. education system now falls on you.

Despite France’s third wave, schools have Your promise to fiscally support schools remained open; a testament to France’s during the pandemic should extend well prioritization of schools over gyms and beyond the burdens of COVID-19. other non-essential businesses.

A country cannot call itself the “greatest Protective guidelines such as country in the world” when it spends 10 mask mandates, social distancing times more money on “defense” than and air ventilation in schools have education. proven to be adequate measures in You have the chance to remedy the keeping transmission rates down mistakes of your predecessor and I look once the COVID-19 caseload has forward to seeing you make this country declined to a lower risk level. a more perfect union.

While cases skyrocket, I urge you to close the non-essential businesses and Sincerely, prioritize the schooling of the tens of

millions of young Americans. Imposing Sebastian Bonnard nation-wide restrictions –– or even a

lockdown –– will undoubtedly be unpopular, but it is the right thing to do.

perspectives Text by EMILY YAO

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Art by SAMANTHA HO

A YEAR TO REMEMBER “H THE CHAOS OF 2020 AND WHAT COMES NEXT

APPY NEW YEAR! ” I cheered, with my friends and family as the clock struck midnight. Above us, fireworks filled the sky with celebration. “Here’s to a new decade.” That was just one year ago.

Only a few days into the new year, the Australian bushfires caught the world’s attention. The flames displaced and killed billions of animals, and the bushfires earned the unfortunate title of being one of the worst wildfire disasters in modern history.

Around the world, we experienced record high temperatures — triple digit degrees became all too familiar and sparked endless wildfires that recklessly destroyed homes and habitats. Our clear blue skies were replaced with apocalyptic orange haze and the smell of smoke became so common it was no longer alarming.

It became clear that neither I — nor the rest of the world — were prepared for what 2020 had in store.

The fires, partnered with COVID-19, made masks the accessory of the year. The pandemic knocked the world off its feet and left us scrambling to recover.

Every day, I’d wake up to blaring headlines: floods one day and fires the next, police on one side and activists on the other, masked nurses fighting maskless protestors — the list seemed to go on endlessly. Looking back, I have no doubt that future generations will read about this past year in a history textbook someday. But how do we know that 2021 won’t be in it too?

I’ve noticed in my community and on social media that many hold the mentality that this New Year’s, when the clock strikes midnight and the calendar year flips, so will the problems we faced in 2020. We’ve spent our time in quarantine dreaming up fantasies of the places we’ll go, the sights we’ll experience and the people we’ll

meet, but the harsh reality is that next year might not be any different.

Let’s face it, COVID-19 won’t disappear by the end of 2020. As we wrap up the year, America’s confirmed cases only rise further up the charts, breaking records each day. Similarly, climate change and social injustices will not magically resolve themselves in the blink of an eye.

Though these past months seem unprecedented, we can still learn from the past. While doing my reading for history class, I discovered a quote that stuck with me. In the book The American Political Tradition, historian Richard Hofstadter critiques American culture in a way that resonates with our current crisis. “[We hold] the belief that the past is an encumbrance that can painlessly be discarded in the restless search for a better future,” Hofstadter wrote.

The book was published in 1948, yet Hofstadter’s words are applicable to our current society, as if he was writing about this year.

Which is why we need to create change. How long will we sit and watch our world fall apart?

The events of the year have been dramatically impactful, for better and for worse. Through our sufferings, we’ve managed to bring urgent issues to light.

Seeing my community step up to respond to these events has been incredibly inspiring and moving. Within Palo Alto, numerous students have turned their passions into businesses to donate profits to charities, set up fundraisers, attended and organized protests, signed petitions and used social media platforms to spread awareness. With our combined efforts, we may be able to take the lessons of 2020 to create a better 2021, and more importantly, a brighter future for generations to come. Change is coming. This is just the start. v

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