Verde Volume 13 Issue 1

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verde

palo alto high school volume 13 edition 1

Halloween: All Grown Up? What Oct. 31 really means to teens

INSIDE

OCCUPY EL CAMINO 7 t 4/&",*/( 065 16 t 3&.&.#&3*/( 45&7& 43

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INDEX 70-6.& t &%*5*0/ t 1"-0 "-50 )*() 4$)00-

NEWS Briefing 7 Compiled by Melissa Wen and Sharon

Ex-cited

40

Softening the stigma

5)& -"6/$) Short features 10 Compiled by Caroline Ebinger

Remembering Steve

42 43

Tseng

Smashed pumpkins? by Spencer Carlson

$07&3 12

Why so sexy? by Elisa Rerolle

Sneaking out by Evelyn Wang

14 16

130'*-&4 Life is a juggling act 20 by Melissa Wen and Emily Hain Words to live by 23 by Sharon Tseng My name is Malcolm 26 White by Hanako Gallagher and Jessica Jin

Can Paly field another sport?

28

by Lisie Sabbag

'&"563&4 Secrets of the tower 30 by Katy Abbott Making the change 32 by Lisie Sabbag America’s Army 34 by Ana Carano Assisting or abusing? 36 by Jessica Jin

by Jaqueline Woo by Camille Couchon

by Katy Abbott and others

1&341&$5*7&4 Trying to understand 47 by Christina Chen Let the truth be in control

48

The ugliest word

50

by Haley Farmer

by Savannah Cordova

Is Linux the fix? by Benjamin May

$6-563& 54

Pottermore for the potterless

56

Much ado about a do

64

Eating on the edge

66

Let yellow submarines be eight days a eek

69

Six silly fillies horsing around

70

by Savannah Cordova by Charu Srivastava

by Jaqueline Woo

by Benjamin May

by Allen Wu

5)& 8"5$) The terrific, the horrific 58 and the just plain awful by Ana Carano

'30. 501 50 #0550. Life is a juggling act (pg. 20), 3FNFNCFSJOH 4UFWF QH $BO Paly field another sport? (pg. 28)

Halt, it’s Halloween

60

Terrifyingly tasty treats

62

by Haley Farmer by Emily Hain

october 2011

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Follow Verde on Twitter at twitter.com/verdemagazine Our tweets can’t be beat!

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“One student changed scores for his friends in their favor on the computer. On the other hand, students who GPVOE PVU XIP UIFJS 5" XBT IBSSBTTFE him or her.�

Page 36

Math teacher Susan Antink “Assisting or Abusing?�

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Page 30

English teacher Esther Wojcicki “Secrets of the Tower�

from the editors

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ith Halloween quickly approaching, we felt it would be appropriate to re-examine several misconseptions surrounding the night of Oct. 31. Do teens really party extra-hardy on Halloween night? Is underwear an appropriate costume if it’s accompanied by animal ears? How does one sneak out of the house without getting caught? In our cover package, we address the myth of Halloween as a party night, costumes that more closely resemble lingerie than creature, and the quintessentially teenage experience of sneaking out. In Smashed pumpkins? (pg. 12), Spencer Carlson explores the truth behind high school Halloween parties and why we can expect more of them in exactly four years. In Why so sexy? (pg. 14), Elisa Rerolle questions the revealing costumes that have come to pervade Halloween night. Lastly, Evelyn Wang addresses the experience of sneaking out and its unacknowledged pitfalls in Sneaking out (pg. 16). There’s a new juggler on campus this year — Japanese 1 teacher and Associated Student Body Adviser Matthew Hall. In Life is a juggling act (pg. 20), Melissa Wen and Emily Hain delve into the diverse and surprising experiences of Hall’s past. If you’ve ever wondered why Paly has a bell tower, but seemingly no bell, then check out Katy Abbot’s story Secrets of the tower (pg. 30).We pay tribute to Steve Jobs (pg. 43), the man who both changed the world of technology as we know it, and opened his house to trickor-treaters every Halloween. — Emily, Scott, & Maytal

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This year the Paly administration has taken several steps toward balancing grading by modifying the teacher assistant system and enforcing regulations more stringently. Verde commends these actions, but another grading exploit has yet to be addressed — peer grading. Distributing the burden and responsibility of grading amongst the entire class gives students an extra chance to grapple with the curriculum, while also greatly expediting the process. Students are generally able to get their work back much sooner, instead of stressing over their grades for weeks. Despite its conveniences, Verde does not support excessive peer grading. Allowing students to score their daily homework or small quizzes is acceptable, but we believe that allowing student influence over the grades of tests and larger assignments is unwise. The activity’s risk of unfairness outweighs its benefits. Students are almost always relieved when teachers announce peer grading, and not simply because they will know their scores sooner. The issue is that many students are inclined to grade more generously than their teachers might. In more extreme cases, students give their friends points that they do not deserve. Teachers often mention that they will be the final arbiters of grades, and that students should talk to them if they disagree with their peers’ grading. It is unlikely that this disclaimer significantly impacts students as they grade each others’ work, because if teachers meticulously inspected each test the initial peer review would be meaningless. For this reason, Verde believes that teachers should not include their students in the grading process, at least for large assignments. If they need help with grading, they should employ third party graders who would not be burdened by potential biases. Teachers could also guard against bias by keeping the tests anonymous; for example, the AP Psychology test papers are identified only by student ID numbers, so students do not know whose tests they are grading. Paly’s administration has made impressive progress in ensuring fairness in the grading system with its recent changes to the teacher assistant system, but Verde proposes limiting peer grading to create an even fairer and more equitable learning environment at our school.

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cover art by diana connolly 1BMP "MUP 6OJĂśFE 4DIPPM %JTUSJDU 25 Churchill Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94306-1099 1VCMJDBUJPO 1PMJDZ Verde, a feature magazine published by the students in Palo Alto High 4DIPPM T .BHB[JOF +PVSOBMJTN DMBTT JT BO PQFO GPSVN GPS TUVEFOU FYpression and the discussion of issues of concern to its readership. Verde is distributed to its readers and the student body at no cost. -FUUFST UP UIF &EJUPST 5IF TUBò XFMDPNFT MFUUFST UP UIF FEJUPS CVU SFTFSWFT UIF SJHIU UP FEJU BMM submissions for length, grammar, potential libel, invasion of privacy and PCTDFOJUZ 4FOE BMM MFUUFST UP WFSEFET !HPPHMFHSPVQT DPN PS UP &NCBSDBEFSP 3PBE 1BMP "MUP $" "MM Verde stories are posted online — and available for commenting — at http://palyvoice.com/verde. "EWFSUJTJOH 5IF TUBò QVCMJTIFT BEWFSUJTFNFOUT XJUI TJHOFE DPOUSBDUT QSPWJEJOH UIFZ BSF OPU EFFNFE CZ UIF TUBò JOBQQSPQSJBUF GPS UIF NBHB[JOF T BVEJFODF For more information about advertising with Verde, please contact the Verde CVTJOFTT NBOBHFST &MJ[BCFUI 4JMWB BOE $BNJMMF $PVDIPO CZ F NBJM BU WFSEF CJ[ QBMZ!HNBJM DPN PS DBMM GPS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO 1SJOUJOH %JTUSJCVUJPO 4FSWJDFT Verde JT QSJOUFE ĂśWF UJNFT B ZFBS JO 0DUPCFS %FDFNCFS 'FCSVBSZ "QSJM BOE +VOF CZ 'SJDLF 1BSLT 1SFTT JO 'SFNPOU $BMJGPSOJB 5IF 1BMZ 154" NBJMT Verde to every student’s home. All Verde work is archived — and available for commenting at http://palyvoice.com/verde.

october 2011

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Briefing

NEWS 5)& -"5&45 "/% (3&"5&45

PAUSD cuts energy waste

Plan to save energy alters classroom temperatures $600,000 off of last year’s utility costs by targeting water, gas, and electricity across the district. Aiming to start a greenminded community, Navarro hopes for a seamless transition, made possible only by staff and student cooperation. Newly implemented changes include the restrictions on the use of the heating and air conditioning system at Paly from 30 minutes before and after school and limiting heating to 69 degrees Fahrenheit and cooling to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. Navarro poses with a lightbulb, in honor Navarro said teachers and of energy saving. students are both encouraged to close doors and windows when not in in coming weeks, months, and years. As use, shutting off computers overnight, with any big change, a willingness to get unplugging chargers, replacing old equip- used to the new standard can pose a chalment, and covering the pool nightly, lenge,” Navarro said. “Communication activities discussed in a staff meeting. is at the heart of the program’s success.” “We will continue to refine our efforts text by tin nguyen

melissa wen

Winter is fast approaching, but students may no longer need to bundle up in the classroom. The Palo Alto Unified School District plans to undergo major changes in heating and air conditioning systems in the weeks to come in order to combat energy waste. “The AP Psych classroom is always really cold,” said senior Molly Chen. “Ms. Mattes [the AP psych teacher] always complains about how the electrotechnic people don’t know how to fix the system.” Fortunately for Ms. Mattes, the soon to be implemented changes should keep the temperatures from becoming too extreme. “The City of Palo Alto is pioneering in terms of green lifestyles,” PAUSD Energy Specialist Rebecca Navarro said. “We will become a ‘greener’ district while redirecting utility funds to education.” By limiting the time heating and air conditioning can be on, alongside limits on temperature settings, Navarro’s energy conservation program shaves

Possible new school addition to district The Palo Alto Unified School District plans to buy property on San Antonio Road this November. The property, measuring 2.6 acres — the size of an elementary and high school combined, has potential for a variety of purposes. The Palo Alto School Board will plan further after taking into account the estimated long term enrollment growth of Palo Alto schools. “There are many possibilities for it because it is such a large property,” school board member Dana Tom said. Current ideas include opening an elementary school, a kindergarten through eighth grade school, a middle school,

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a small specialized high school or a combination of the above. Another advantage of the property on 525 San Antonio Road is its proximity to the PAUSD-owned Greendell and Cubberley sites. PAUSD owns all but eight acres of Cubberley and runs a preschool program, including the YoungFives program, and adult education courses at Greendell. “We are not sure exactly what we would use it for,” Tom said. “That site is complicated because it includes this new property, Greendell, and Cubberley.” text by sharon tseng

photography  by  spencer  carlson

dfdfdfdf 1BMP "MUP SFTJEFOUT BOE OPO SFTJEFOUT BMJLF BJS UIFJS HSJFWBODFT XJUI WFIFNFOU TMPHBOT .FOMP 1BSL SFTJEFOU .BSZ +BOF TBJE “It’s good for the soul to be out here because you realized you do have so much in common with so many people from the whole spectrum of our society�

“Occupy� protests hit Palo Alto The Occupy Wall Street protests reached Palo Alto on Oct. 12, when dozens of protesters gathered in front of the Bank of America. Their dissent punctuated by honking car horns, the protesters aggregated peacefully and held up signs displaying slogans such as “Main street before Wall street� and “Tax the rich�. “I think that it’s a war of the rich against the rest of the people in the United States,� said Bambi Moise, a San Jose resident and affiliate of the organization CODEPINK: Women for Peace. “I think it’s disgusting that the rich are paying less taxes than they have paid in many, many, many years and our country is falling apart.� Organized by the Peninsula Peace and Justice Center, the demonstration is part of the nationwide Occupy Wall Street movement against cor-

porate greed, government bailouts and social and economic inequality. Mary Jane, a Menlo Park resident comments on the motivations of the group. “They’re here because there’s a certain solidarity in the fact that everybody’s suffering and that the American dream as we knew it and why our country was founded — on democracy — is withering,â€? she said. The demonstrations began four weeks ago in New York, but have since spread to cities spanning the country, including San Jose and Los Angeles. Moise considers Palo Alto simply a starting point of the movement. “It’s just like in the war in Vietnam in the 60s; it started with lots of small demonstrations and it grew and it grew and it grew,â€? she said.â€?It’s going to spread like wildfire, I think. Everywhere.â€? text  by  melissa  wen

A protester champions the non-wealthy in an appeal to passing by cars; drivers respond enthusiastically. october 2011

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katy abbott

5IF &M $BNJOP ĂśFMET TUBZ GFODFE Pò BXBJUJOH DPOTUSVDUJPO After construction of a new underground reservoir, the El Camino Park will open in the summer of 2013 after closing on Sept. 26. The underground reservoir will provide water to Palo Alto residents in case of an emergency or if the Hetch-Hetchy aqueduct system closes, as per the approval of Palo Alto voters in 2007. Palo Alto will also renovate the park after the construction of the reservoir. After consideration, the City Council determined that El Camino Park was the best location for an underground reservoir in 2009. The ground-breaking ceremony takes place Oct. 17. The park, located across from the street from Stanford Shopping Center, was used primarily for soccer and softball, hosting club practices and weekend games. The Emergency Water Supply and Storage Project, conceived in 1999, constructs sites for emergency wells that can be used if the Hetch-Hetchy system shuts down, in compliance with the California Department of Public Health’s recommended standards. The ground-breaking ceremony on the project takes place Oct. 17.

text  by  katy  abbott

By  the

NUMBERS

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The Palo Alto High School theater program’s fall production “Noises Off � will run in November at the Haymarket Theatre for five performances and two preview performances. “Noises Off �, by British playwright Michael Frayn, is a play-within-aplay in which a dysfunctional motley crew of British actors try to put on a sex farce called “Nothing On�. The play deals with the actors’ interactions both on-stage and off, both in and out of character, and involves physical comedy and slapstick antics. “This year we decided to do lighthearted material,� director and Paly Theater teacher Kathleen Woods said.“The theme of the year is ‘laugh with us’. It’s one of the funniest plays I’ve ever directed.� Final performances’ preparations are already underway, with instruction from a British dialect coach and a stage combat specialist. The crew is

evelyn wang

Spotlight on, “Noises off�

Park closes, resevoir opens

4FOJPST ;BDIBSZ 'SFJFS )BSSJTPO BOE "OOJF 3PTFOCFSH QPTF GPS B QIPUP close to completing the production’s completely revolving two-story set. The show performs at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and 18, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 15, 7:00 p.m. Nov. 17, and 2:00 p.m. Nov. 20. A preview featuring the full understudy cast will be at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 8 and a preview with the full cast will be at 7:00 p.m. Nov. 9. text  by  evelyn  wang

November City Ballot Proposals Sure, you can’t legalize marijuana until next year but if you’re 18, you do have the opportunity to decide how we should save the planet, or maybe just our labor unions. Read more about November’s ballot proposals below.

Measure D

text  by  ana  carano

Measure E

The Palo Alto Green EnerThis proposal moves to VOTE gy and Compost Initiative advorepeal the Palo Alto policy of cates the allotment of 10 acres of appointing a three-person comlandfill land promised to Byxbee Park mittee with the sole power to manage to serve as a waste-to-energy plant. contract disputes between the city and The plant would convert yard labor unions. Those against the repeal, trimmings, food sludge, and sewincluding the firefighter’s union argue age scraps into electricity for Palo that this would disadvantage unions in Alto. Some praise it for reusing locollective bargaining and symbolically cal waste and creating clean enassume blame on the unions themergy; others note the noise, trucks, selves. Those for Measure D argue that and other disruptive elements. current policies impede budget duties.

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Words for a female “slut� in the English dictionary p. 50-51

10

Years Malcolm White took to write his play about a Holocaust survivor

p. 26-27

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6-27

From books to beats The building housing the Varsity Theatre, better known as Borders Bookstore, in downtown Palo Alto may return to its former glory as Palo Alto’s hot nighttime music venue. The future of the theater will be debated at the Nov. 4 City Council meeting and through the Facebook page: “Bring Back the New Varsity in Palo Alto”. The upper floors were once used for office space and the courtyard in the front was used for public performances. Resident Tasha Brooks is leading the movement get this space back. “This is the second movement to

‘Save the Varsity,’” Brooks said. “The first and more public movement ended in the 90s when the building was leased by Borders and the theater was remodeled to suit their needs.” In recognition of its role as a historical landmark, the Palo Alto Theater Corporation for Historic Resources Board wants to return the theater to its previous glory and restoring its historical integrity. According to the Oct. 5 City Council meeting minutes, the Varsity will undergo construction, getting rid of the grand central staircase and adding a glass cover over the second floor.

Annual Race Against PH at Stanford

The Vera Moulton Wall Center is hosting the 11th Annual Race Against Pulmonary Hypertension on Nov. 6. The Race Against PH is a five kilometer run and walk that winds around Stanford University, starting south of the Football Stadium and ending in the Pacific 10 Plaza. According to the Vera Moulton Wall Center’s official website, a pulmonary hypertension patient and her family wanted to show awareness about PH. The funds created from the Race Against text by lisie sabbag PH will support research to ultimately find a cure for pulmonary hypertension. PH is a serious condition that causes high blood pressure in the lungs, creating pain to the heart and the lungs. The course for walkers and runThe USC tournament will take place from November 4 to 6, and the ners uses chip timing, an accurate way Apple Valley High School tourna- to time runners, and there is no time ment will be from November 4 and 5. limit for any competitor. A competiThe coaches expect successful re- tor can also request for an early start, if sults from these tournaments, relying needed. The course is approved by the on varsity members to finish strongly. USA Track and Field organization. Awards will be given for the They will be debating the following resolution: individuals have a mor- top three males and females overal obligation to assist people in need. all and in each age category.

Debate team prepares for upcoming November travel tournaments Palo Alto High School’s LincolnDouglass and Policy debate teams will be attending their first travel tournaments of the season in November at the University of Southern California and Apple Valley High School, Minnesota. “Four of our other top debaters are going to go to Minneapolis to compete in Apple Valley, and that’s a super prestigious tournament,” head debate coach Jennie Savage said.

text by elisa rerolle

text by benjamin may

The section of El Camino formerly occupied by the Palo Alto Bowl will soon be home to a 138-room hotel and about two dozen housing units. Construction is scheduled to begin by the end of this year. The Palo Alto City Council passed plans to demolish the alley and nearby small retail strip, includ-

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Percent of Paly students who plan on trick-or-treating p. 12-13

ing Motel 6, in December 2009 but budget problems had delayed their plans. Both the hotel and the houses will be constructed by Barry Swenson Builder, a company based in San Jose that specializes in creative architectural developments and efficient building tactics. text by savannah cordova

93

Years since the Paly Bell Tower was constructed p. 30-31

savannah cordova

New housing strikes out Palo Alto Bowl

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Percent increase in youth voters in 2008 p. 32-33 october 2011

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Fireside Spirit chat Week 5 places to buy

“

I’m especially excited for Homecoming. We’ve been working really hard towards changing Paly dances, and think Homecoming is the perfect exposition of our work. It’s free, so bring your friends to get spirit week points for your class!”

Uma Veerappan, Paly ASB President

Supplies 1. American Apparel

170 University Avenue, Palo Alto

2. Diddam’s

1952 El Camino Real, Mountain View

3. CVS

855 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

4. Spirit

355 University Avenue, Palo Alto

5. Goodwill

4085 El Camino Way, Palo Alto

CHIT-

CHAT

<<< Alex Lu, freshman “I’m looking forward to the creative floats and the orange.”

Max Eberhart, sophomore “The games that go on during lunch.” >>> <<< Beth Yan, junior “Andrew Solway dressing up as Dolores Umbridge.”

What part of spirit week are you most looking forward to and why?

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E

Verde asked students to illustrate the theme of their grade, and these were their representations.

From left to right: Golden Snitches by junior Alex Francis, Jail Break by freshman Alex Bismuth, Emergency 911 by sophomore Brittany Rowe and 2012 End of the World by senior Madeline Kau

CONSTRUCTION-O-METER 0 months: start 26 months: athletic stadium improvementsmedia arts center two story social science and math building 42 months: performing arts center To be Completed in... June 2011 August 2013

January 2015

Like Verde on Facebook at...

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e one of the first five Paly students to find the hidden Verde V-Man somewhere in this issue and come to room 213 to claim your prize — a Verde tote bag!

Zachary FreierHarrison, senior “I’m going to be a decked out little lady and have those rolling things and maybe a honking thing.” >>>

Justin Robinson, senior “I really want to dress up in overalls for ’90s day.” >>> Compiled by EMILY HAIN and JACQUELINE WOO

october 2011

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[ COVER ]

COVER

SMASHED PUMKINS? 12 WHY SO SEXY? 14 SNEAKING OUT 16 CAN PALY FIELD ANOTHER SPORT?

Smashed pumpkins?

What it means to be a teen on Halloween Text by SPENCER CARLSON Art by CHARU SRIVASTAVA and DIANA CONNOLLY

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ed plastic cups. Loud music. Scandalous costumes. Hollywood has provided us with a certain image of teenage Halloween parties that may not be true, at least for Palo Alto High School students in the recent and coming years. I set out to take a closer look into the lives of Paly students on Halloween, with the impression that I would be able to find a significant number of people who attend parties and drink alcohol. Through inter-

views and survey results, I came to realize that very few Paly students party on Halloween, even if they do at other times. To be sure, Halloween has a certain allure for teenagers — it allows for socializing in a fantasy atmosphere. Tina, a junior whose name has been changed to protect her identity, says that she and her friends would drink alcohol on Halloween for the same reason that they drink at other times: It is a holiday. “It’s a holiday,” she says. “It’s an excuse to do so [to drink alcohol].”

When did Paly students stop trick-or-treating?

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“I felt too ridiculous in the past.” — junior LEAH BLEICH For other students, the benefits of Halloween parties include party magnitude. “The pros of partying on Halloween are implicit in the nature of Halloween,” Morgan, a senior boy whose name has been changed, says. “Partying is only more fun on Halloween because there is generally a larger effort to throw a good party. The atmosphere is conducive to a good time.” While these reasons may make Halloween seem like an attractive and exciting time to hold parties, the reality is that practicality trumps allure for most students, killing the teen Halloween party. Teens have opportunities to drink alcohol and socialize so often that the pros of partying on Halloween are retrospectively outweighed by the cons. According to Morgan, parties where alcohol is a factor are held on a regular basis, but less of them are large scale. Therefore, few students feel Halloween offers anything that a normal weekend wouldn’t, especially when Halloween falls on a week night.

“Trick-ortreating is the best, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop.” — sophomore ANGELA POMEROY A PERENNIAL DECISION Students choose between alcohol and candy on Halloween. One of the problems students have with parties and alcohol on Halloween is timing. Last year, Halloween was on a Sunday night. This year, it will be on a Monday night. It will be two more years until Halloween falls on a weekend night, so the scarcity of Halloween parties can be projected to continue at least until then. Without the ability to consume alcohol at parties, many teens must make a decision. They can trick-or-treat, or stay at home studying or passing out candy. Some students have been less than reluctant to part with the tradition of trick-or-treating; some even feel that it is inappropriate to continue at this age. “[It is] socially unacceptable at this point,” junior Nira Krasnow says. “I feel like I’m stealing candy from babies.” Some feel that they have matured beyond the childhood ritual, and others just don’t see the point any more. “I felt too ridiculous in the past,” junior Leah Bleich says. This stigma attached to trick or treating had a negative effect on Bleich. “I’m not going trick-or-treating this year,” she says. Junior Amelia Saliba Long agrees. “[I stopped in] eighth grade,” she

says. “I don’t feel the need to ask people for candy … it’s not that fun any more.” For other Paly students, the decision to trick-or-treat on Halloween comes partially out of a love for the childhood practice, and partially from a lack of desire to consume alcohol or attend parties. “Getting drunk is stupid, and I don’t think there is anything about it that sounds fun,” sophomore Angela Pomeroy says. “I don’t use alcohol on Halloween or any other holiday for no reason other than that drinking doesn’t interest me and I know the consequences.” Sophomore boy Jack, whose name has been changed, takes a more moderate stance on alcohol. “I haven’t used alcohol on a Halloween yet,” Jack says. “[But that is] mostly because I have soccer the next day, or [I have] school, or I haven’t had access to it [alcohol].” In any case, alcohol isn’t a big deal for Jack. “I don’t really drink,” he says. “I don’t care for it.” A recent survey of 16 Paly English classes revealed that while 56 percent of Paly students have consumed alcohol in a non-religious capacity, only 28 percent of

students drink at parties. Pomeroy deals with the age stigma surrounding trick-or-treating by collaborating with younger children to beat the system. “Recently, I’ve had to start to go with [younger] kids because it’s hard to get candy as a high school student,” she says. Pomeroy expresses a timeless love of trick-or-treating, and she is not alone. The survey results show that a surprising 45 percent of Paly students will trick-ortreat this year, while only 34 percent plan on attending a party. “I can have a good time either way [whether trick-or-treating or at parties],” Jack says. “Trick-or-treating is the best, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop,” Pomeroy says. “It’s free candy. I mean, who wouldn’t want free candy?” No matter what the social implications of trick-or-treating as a teenager are, one thing is for sure. Nobody who is willing to sacrifice a little bit of dignity will be found bored at home on Oct. 31. v

of Paly students don’t drink at parties

of Paly students have consumed alcohol

of Paly students 42% attend parties with alcohol

72%

56%

Note: Allen Wu contributed to this story.

october 2011

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[ COVER ]

Why so Sexy ?

Less isn’t always more — when Halloween sidewalks turn into lingerie catwalks Text by ELISA REROLLE Art by DIANA CONNOLLY and ELISA REROLLE

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plunk down in front of my computer and open my browser, because, let’s face it, what’s better than a little quality Facebook time? I’m just browsing the newsfeed, catching up on random acquaintances’ fascinating lives. Oh yeah, that’s cool, I didn’t know that she’d gone to her sister’s dorm for Halloween. Scroll. Five pounds of candy? How many houses did that person raid? Scroll. Scr- Oh dear, put some clothes on. What are you supposed to be, an underwear model? Please, ladies, let’s try to keep those outfits on the Victoria’s Secret runway. Or under some clothing.

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Seriously, where have the fluffy sheep suits and wholesome fairy costumes gone? Remember a time when cat costumes actually had fur on them? On any other day of the year, the amount of skin that outfit bared would have been highly inappropriate. Yet for one night, every year, there are no rules — and slutty becomes the norm. I don’t believe that girls deserve all the blame for this trend of under-dressing on Oct. 31. Sure, they pick out their own outfits and walk out the door choosing to wear them, but it seems that adolescence combined with strong social and media influences push girls to dress provocatively. High school is a time during which friends gain importance in teenagers’ lives, but balancing the group opinion’s influence while remaining true to one’s self can be a struggle. “Sometimes there’s peer group pressure to just look like, think like everybody else, and there are other times where you are expected to have your own opinions, your own preferences, your own style,” Palo Alto clinical psychologist Jill Mellick says. “It’s the fitting in and the individuating: defining yourself, finding out who you are as distinct from where you’re just a part of peer group. ” Palo Alto counseling psychologist Ellen Fox agrees. “Girls are much

more susceptible to what their peers are doing in the realm of dress, hair, speech,” Fox says. Most of the high school female population has passed the awkward stages of puberty and gotten used to the changes of their bodies. Though outwardly resembling mature women, they feel they must prove they have the attitude to match. To do so, they have to keep up with the rest of the girls their age. This pressure sometimes pushes girls to do things they wouldn’t have even considered under normal circumstances. They assume that everyone dresses provocatively, but Mellick disproves that belief. “Well, everybody doesn’t,” Mellick says. “It’s just that I’ve identified with my peer group. I don’t even know I’m doing it. It’s not a choice. It’s the ‘everybody’s doing it, what’s your problem mother?’ kind of thing versus, I choose to join it.” Girls also turn to the examples broadcasted on popular media: Mariah Carey in her sexed-up firefighter costume, or Paris Hilton in her politically incorrect, but oh-so-cute Native American costume? If a 40-year-old woman can strut around in a bejeweled bra and red garters, and an heiress can call a few square inches of faux deer leather strung together with feathers a costume, why should the rules be any different for kids? “The normalization of celebrity behavior leads to the acceptance of sexualized behavior and dress,” Fox says. If anything, the selection of available costumes further pushes girls to sexy

costumes. Hit 13 and outgrow the cutesy Disney princess costume and all of a sudden it’s all about “Blessed Babe Nun” outfits and “Frisk Me Light Up Police” costumes. Trying to find something that will cover more skin than a bathing suit becomes a quest of epic proportions. A quick traipse down to the Spirit Shop on University Avenue may do wonders for the laugh lines (Can you top this costume name: officer Tara U Clothes Off ?) but not so much for the body image. At the same time, Halloween is a night that allows girls to explore, to step out of their comfort zones and the safe images they project on a daily basis. “This one night is the night when one of those unexplored sides, or sides that do not receive cultural or familial approbation and approval, get to be explored without consequence,” Mellick says. “You get to find out whether or not this feels like part of you … without fear of reprisal. There aren’t too many places where you can do that. It’s a safe outlet.” Because the choice of clothing is a costume, it allows so much more freedom, for ‘costume’ implies make-believe.

What a person wears on Halloween night doesn’t have to fit the image that he or she projects on a daily basis. On Halloween, bystanders won’t immediately judge others based on what they’ve chosen to wear. “Clothes are a visual representation of roles,” Mellick says. “It’s communicating my conscious stance in the world. Costume means I’m taking on a role.” On Halloween, a more conservative girl can let loose and wear a short skirt and fishnets, and a tomboy can try out a dress and not be mocked or fawned over. The person each of us becomes that one night is not reality. Halloween night is a free pass, where societal norms are put on hold and judging is forgotten. But keep the pictures on memory cards and off of Facebook walls because when the sun comes up, it’s back to reality, and you don’t want your Aunt Becky or the college admissions board to share the wonderful experience of your latex kitty outfit. v

Remember when cat costumes actually had fur on them?

Girls, you know you’re too sexy for Oct. 31 if… … your five inch heels slip on guys’ … drool.

… picking up objects becomes a whole gymnastics routine. … your mom asks if you’re dressed for a pool party. … you count lace as a proper cover up. … people are complementing you on how pretty your bra is.

How to find a costume

both your grandma and your boyfriend want to see you in: 1. Scope the terrain. Ignore men’s costumes, place prop locations in the back of your head for later reference. Don’t even think about going to the tween section — you’re bigger than that. 2. Scan the racks. Get a basic idea of the options available. Think it might work? Grab it. 3. Try them on. Don’t assume it will look like it does on the model (unless you’re like Ryan Gosling’s abs). Cheap synthetic material clings to all the wrong curves. Keep belly button rings hidden and the hems at mid-thigh.

4. Aiming for classy? Stay away

from blatantly racist or ‘politically incorrect’ costumes. The ‘ethnic look’ will never be acceptable. If Disney’s Pocahontas couldn’t make it work, you most certainly won’t. 5. Don’t take it too seriously. Chances are, if you’re human, most of these costumes won’t look good on you. Take a deep breath and move on. october 2011

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a r k by slick ninja types

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Usually done in the Text and Art by EVELYN WANG

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he fake me is made of a Styrofoam mannequin head and two rolled up coats. I tuck it underneath the blanket, praying to nobody and nothing that my mother won’t peek her head in and notice the slight discrepancies in girth and height between my makeshift doppelganger and myself. And by slight, I mean glaringly obvious. In the unthinkable event that she does, I’ve left a note assuring her that I’m not sprawled dead and decapitated in a ditch somewhere, don’t you worry, and that to call the police would be most inconvenient and quite unnecessary. A perfectly useless note, but it’s the thought that counts. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is rule No. 4 of sneaking out: always leave a note. The process of sneaking out is quite simple; simple enough, in fact, to be understood and even mastered by the minds of American teenagers. For those of you accustomed to being force-fed explanations, “sneaking” as defined by the ever-trustworthy, 100 percent accurate Urban Dictionary (urbandictionary.com) is “moving around quietly and sneakily. Usually done in the dark by slick ninja-types.” And “out” is “not being in.”

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Thank you, Urban Dictionary. Astute and from made this horrible loud sound and eloquent as always. cracked all the way down the center.” The materials are few, the planning The risks can continue even after the straightforward, the skills easily acquired, sneaker in question has successfully snuck the rules arbitrary and adaptable and the out of the house. reward plentiful. It’s the quintessential “The person I was meeting with was American rite of passage besides prom supposed to be waiting in a black car,” and losing one’s virTiffany, a Paly graduginity. ate who requested a But even with name change, says. such glorious benefits, “I saw one across the sneaking out can still street and went to it, prove to be quite the but as I got closer, I unpredictable sport. saw that there was an Mishaps and closeold lady inside starcalls amid these miding at me. I didn’t night shenanigans are know what to do so I a dime-a-dozen. just pretended to be “Last year I deall casually taking a cided to sneak out just walk at one o’clock in to hang with some — anonymous junior BECKY the morning down the friends at around 1:30 middle of the street a.m. after my parents had fallen asleep,” and it was really awkward.” says Maisey, a junior, whose name has And even the intended destination been changed to protect her as-yet- can contain nasty surprises. unsullied reputation. “So I popped my “So this one night I’m planning on [window] screen out just like I had done going to this bonfire by the lake,” junior earlier … when I had snuck out. Only Becky, yet another anonymous student, this time, the window next to the window says. “My dad gets a text from my mom where I had left from and come back in saying she’s staying over at her friend’s

“At the head of the pit, sitting on some college guy’s lap, is my mother.”

house for some reason, and he goes to bed. So I wait for a bit then leave, meet my friends, who drive us to the lake. There’s maybe 50 people there, but at the head of the pit telling some stupid story, sitting on some college guy’s lap, is my mother.� Awkward family reunions aside, sneaking out can be, for the most part, perfectly satisfactory. It’s just a necessary means taken by teenagers to bypass curfew — which, according to the Palo Alto Curfew Ordinance, is 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays except Fridays, and 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekends--on the way to a fun, run-of-the-mill party. No hidden meaning; no mass hysteria; no angst; no deep, psychological, Shyamalan-esque twist. Case closed. And according to some, everyone’s doing it. “Almost every teenager I know has snuck out,� Becky says, “but it tends to be more the partying crowd, because they have something to sneak off to.� But of course, as with teenagers everywhere, having fun is shoddy shorthand for bragging rights and status. “They [people who sneak out] just do it to look cool and tell their friends,� junior Claire Marchon says. “Sneaking out almost gives you ‘street cred’. People view

Disclaimer:  Due  to  some  people’s  tendency  to  interpret  things  at  face  value,  I  am  forced  to  lessen  some  of  this  article’s  satirical  value  by  stating  upfront  that  it  is,  indeed,  satire.  I  am  in  no  way  condoning,  advocating,  encouraging,  or  inten-­ tionally  glamorizing  such  behavior.  Nor  have  I  provided,  in  any  way,  a  comprehensive  set  of  rules  meant  to  be  followed.  By  signing  here,  ________________________,  you  are  agreeing  to  waive  all  my  respon-­ sibility  for  you  or  your  offspring  herein,  should  you  or  they  choose  to  ignore  my  harmlessly,  charm-­ ingly,  and  playfully  mocking  intent  and  take  this  literally.  By  not  doing  anything  and  reading  on,  you  are  agreeing  to  do  the  exact  same  thing.

knows whom, but at least you did it with manners.

5. Make plans beforehand. Nothing is more irritating than walking five miles in the hail and sleet to find that the Winter Suburban Beach Party isn’t taking place after all. Remember that one chick from that one creepy English folktale who snuck out at midnight to marry Mr. Fox, only to be hacked to pieces by him below the oak tree? That fate could have been avoided if she’d just talked to him beforehand and came to the understanding that “baby, you look so tasty I just wanna cut off your hands and stew your innards� wasn’t just bizarre pillow talk.

6. Plan an exit route. A practical one. Doing le parkour through the air ducts and then backflipping up the chimney may sound epic in theory but c’mon, you’re hardly 007. 7. Wait. 8. Wait. 9. Wait.

1. Memorize the layout of your house from top to bottom. Take note of all the creaky spots. You’ve got nothing better to do anyway.

10. Eat dinner.

livanting who knows where with God

Now all you have to do is sneak back in.

11. Wait some more. 12. Wait.

13. When everyone has gone to bed, embark on your oh-so-exciting and not-at-all-clichÊd outing. Create a rea3. Create a decoy—something that, sonable diversion (i.e. flushing the toishould your parents peek in the door to let) if need be. check up on you, will assuage all of their 14. Stumble over the cat. Get scratched suspicions. If you can’t afford a life-size, by the cat. Bleed. detailed wax statue of yourself or find moral offense at the notion of lugging 15. Calm yourself. Miraculously escape. home a butt-naked, anatomically in- 16. Get out and have fun. Party your correct mannequin, use stuffed animals little heart out. Engage in shenanigans. and a pile of clothing. Roll these up so Party. Partake in this classic American they look, more or less, like your inno- past-time and give a play-by-play on Twitter (#doucheytweets). Have the cently snoozing form. 4. Write a note telling your parents that best night of your life. Avoid admitting you’re safe and not to worry. They will, to yourself that this really will be the undoubtedly, worry, and you will prob- best night of your life ever. Party. Try to ably be very not safe. But it’s the polite emulate Effy from Skins. Fail miserably. thing to do. Hey, you may be off gal- Party some more. 2. Invest in some dark clothing. It’s not that hard. Try Hot Topic or a nunnery.

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“Teenagers with low self-esteem seem to have more of a tolerance for risky behaviors.” — JENNIFER JONES, site director of Paly’s Adolescent Counseling Services

you as cooler than you probably are, because most of the time kids sneak out it’s to go to Happy Donuts or 7-Eleven or something.” In this case, peer pressure, that longsuffering scapegoat of many a Public Service Announcement, is an actual cause. “I don’t believe sneaking out is a personal happiness thing, unless you’re going to a super weird religious cult thing not even your best friend knows,” Marchon says. “People do it because other people do it.” That being said, it’s possible that sneaking out isn’t nearly as horribly, irredeemably prevalent as everyone thinks. “I don’t believe most teenagers sneak out,” psychiatrist Adam J. Jarczewski says. “Those who choose to sneak out often believe that they have no other options.” Jarczewski, the practicing psychiatrist at Beyondstable Psychiatry and Integrative Care in Redwood City, reasons that sneaking out is tied very closely to the way a child is raised. “I personally think that it is an example of poor parent-child relationship,” he says. “In my mind it usually reflects the ability of the parents to teach their kids how to communicate. The need to sneak out often starts with kids who never learned how to openly negotiate with their parents. They [parents] need to know that a kid’s job is to gain independence from their parents.” According to Jarczewski, overprotective parents are the main culprits. “You can lock your child up, but you will create a hostile child who will lie,” Jarczewski says. On the other hand, he

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says, neglectful parents are just as guilty. “Do you think a kid who’s bombarded with wonderful stimulation since she was two would want more freedom?” he says. Jennifer Jones, site director of Paly’s Adolescent Counseling Services, agrees. “From a psychological perspective, a teen’s self-esteem impacts their behavior,” Jones says. “Teenagers with low selfesteem seem to have more of a tolerance for risky behaviors. Kids with high self esteem, lots of family support, and healthy coping skills will be less likely to engage in risky or rebellious behavior.” Such behavior, Jones asserts, is tied very closely to teens’ brain chemistry. “It has been discovered that the part of the brain that regulates emotions and the ability to delay gratification doesn’t fully develop until age 25 or so,” she says. “I have also read that there is increased blood flow in those parts of the brain, as opposed to the areas that control judgement and reason. Both biological reasons why teens may engage in more risk-taking behavior than adults.” Of course, everything always circles back to our unwavering lust for setting our special, unique snowflake selves apart from the masses. “One of the main developmental tasks for adolescence is individuation, or separating from parents and increasing independence,” Jones says. “So some of the developmental reasons to sneak out are to test parental limits, to assert independence, and to express freedom. They may sneak out to do things they couldn’t do during the day or to act like a grownup.”

Rest assured though, parents, we aren’t really the edgy pioneers of civil disobedience that we appear to be. “It [sneaking out] is a normal part of growing up for a portion of the teenage population,” Jones says. “Teens have been sneaking out for decades and the same is true today.” Our naughty behavior, sadly, might not even turn us into gritty, hardboiled criminals as we’d hoped. In fact, it may have just the opposite effect. “I don’t think that sneaking out determines positively or negatively the future of the child,” Jarczewski says. “Conflict is necessary. You learn from your mistakes. You will eventually get caught by the police. There is no doubt. Otherwise, you’re going to be 50 years old, and still doing this.” Imagine that. Fifty years old and still able to vault out of the window and shimmy down the drainage pipe. I, for one, wouldn’t mind too terribly. But until then, I leave the note beneath my decoy, tiptoe out into the hall, and flush the toilet loudly (and wash my hands for good measure). With this distraction underway, I rush down the stairs. I am moving quietly and sneakily. I am in the dark. I am a slick ninja type. And then, quietly, sneakily, and slickly ninja-typical, I push open a window that’s all the width and height of a catflap, and escape out into the dark. Freedom at last. v

PROFILES

LIFE IS A JUGGLING ACT WORDS TO LIVE BY MY NAME IS MALCOLM WHITE CAN PALY FIELD ANOTHER SPORT?

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Life is a juggling act Matthew Hall juggles his career and an unusually wide variety of hobbies Text by MELISSA WEN and EMILY HAIN Photos by ANA CARANO and SAVANNAH CORDOVA

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att Hall makes juggling six balls look like juggling air. He watches them keenly, moving his arms with concentration, but the balls go up and down carelessly, bouncing jubilantly off his hands as if his palms were tiny trampolines. Right now he is only performing in an empty classroom, not at the International Juggling World Championships. But Hall has performed there too, where he was the 2003 silver medalist, so he can assure you that six balls is not the limit to his juggling abilities. Nor is juggling his only talent. At Paly, Hall holds the posiitions of Japanese 1 teacher and Student Activities Director. Hall only started working at Paly this year, but he has been teaching high school students since 2000, and teaching for more than 11 years. The current man in the current setting — Japanese posters papering the wall, black t-shirt that reads “Flying Karamazov Brothers,” bad knees from 27 years of break-dancing — is exceptional for the wide variety of hobbies he juggles.

GRADE “A” PERFORMANCE Hall displays his juggling talents in the middle of the SAO, which is, of course, well stocked with juggling pins

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The Encyclopedia of Ball Juggling Hall taught himself how to juggle when he was 11 years old. He was first inspired by the Flying Karamazov Brothers, a comedic juggling troupe that has performed since 1973 and whose repertoire includes such feats as juggling scythes and performing intricate cigar-box tricks. However, Hall initially lost interest. “Like any 11-year-old boy I asked my mom ‘What’s for dinner?’ and forgot [about juggling], you know?” he says. He picked up juggling again at age 26, when he came across The Encyclopedia of Ball Juggling by Charlie Dancey and decided to teach himself every trick in the book. He went to the International

Jugglers’ Association Championships three times, first in 2000 in Montreal, then in 2001 in Madison, Wy., neither of which where he made it past the preliminaries. Finally, in 2003 in Reno, he placed second against professional jugglers with his performance titled “Old Skool.” He competed in the Stage Championships, the IJA’s formal competition in which competitors perform a juggling routine on stage in front of a large audience. In 2005 Hall also participated in the individual prop competition; that year he won overall in the prop competition as well as people’s choice award. “My whole goal was to prove that a normal guy could get into the finals,” Hall says. “When I got the silver medal, that was gravy. Juggling has taken him across the U.S. and to Canada, Mexico, Britain, Israel, Taiwan, the Netherlands, and Germany. He does suffer from stage fright, but considers it inevitable. “If you care about it, you’re going to be nervous,” he says. “The only thing that protects you from that is mastery.” Hall first began working as a teacher in 2000, when he trained Chinese jugglers. Currently he is on contract with the Cirque du Soleil show “Quidam” as an instructor, and is also on the board of the International Jugglers’ Association. He says teaching is a skill separate from performing itself—one can excel in juggling without having the ability to teach well. Hall, fortunately, can do both. “[Teaching] is a matter of connecting the learning to what the learner wants to do,” he says. “I could teach you guys [to juggle] right now.” The answer is always yes In addition to teaching Japanese, Hall teaches Focus on Success and works with the Associated Student Body. “Focus on Success is a class that identifies students that want to do well and prepare for college but maybe need a little extra support,” Hall says. Hall’s wife, Lisa Hall, works as an English teacher and activities director at Gunn High School, so he has looked to

DIABLO DEVIL Diablo tricks are part of in Hall’s repertoire of circus feats and made up one component of his silver medal juggling performance. Here in his classroom, Hall demonstrates his dexterity. her as both an example and source of ad- students’ ideas. vice. “I’m there to provide an extra head to “We do talk about work a lot! It is think things over,” Hall says. nice to have He is open someone to colto any and all laborate with suggestions and and bounce points to a poster ideas off of at the back of when planning the classroom , a lesson or acwhich reads “The tivity, and our answer is always — teacher MATTHEW HALL yes.” The poster different experiences help us symbolizes that give each other the ASB students perspective have the opporwhen challenges arise,” Lisa Hall tunity to take on any challenge of activity writes in an email. they chose, according to Hall. On his role in ASB, Hall “Yes to new ideas, yes to new chalsays, “Spirit of service and lenges,” Hall says, providing that they are leadership, that’s something I’ve not illegal, hurtful, or dangerous. a l - ways been interested in.” As the In his philosophy, the word yes also Student Activities Director, Hall believes contains a second meaning. his main role is not to act as the leader, “They [ASB] also said yes to things but rather to provide a sounding board for like ‘Hey, we can help at Back to School

“When I got the silver medal, that was gravy .”

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[ PROFILE ] Night,’” Hall says. “It doesn’t matter whether that job is particular popular or exciting or sexy, you know … Somebody’s gotta do the dirty job, right? … And I want ASB to kind of be the ones to say, ‘yeah we can do that.’ The answer is always yes.” Flashdance Over his lifetime, Hall has also accumulated an assortment of other hobbies. He first became interested in Japanese culture when he read the book Shogun by James Clavell at age 14. “I was like ‘Wow, man, I’d really like to become a samurai, or something,’” he says. “Hey, I want to do martial arts, I want to do Japanese.” Hall now has a black belt in aikido, which he learned in Japan. Around the same time that he read Shogun, the movie Flashdance inspired Hall to learn breakdancing. “27 years, oh my god,” he says, as he looks back on the time since he first learned the sport. Hall’s other hobbies include surfing, which he picked up growing up near the beach in Southern California, and BMX biking. For the most part Hall’s success in juggling has pushed these other hobbies aside, but his variety of talents reveal major aspects of his personality. “If I see something and I think it’s cool, I’ll give it a try,” Hall says. Shogun As his Japanese students know, Hall doesn’t only teach juggling. He also teaches one period of Japanese 1. “Only in America,” Hall comments, smiling, on the concept of a “white guy” teaching Japanese to students of various ethnicities. The same book that prompted him to learn martial arts also prompted him to delve into Japanese language and culture. However, his high school only offered French, so Hall began studying Japanese his first year at the University of Notre Dame. (“Go Irish!” he says.) From there, Hall went on to spend three years on a Japanese exchange and teaching ( JET) program. “That was my first real taste of being an educator,” Hall says.

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SENSEI HALL Despite the early hour, Hall and his students crack some smiles during 2nd period Japanese 1 Hall also worked as the Japanese consulate in Chicago from 1997 to 1999. “A lot of things I had to do were with introducing Japanese culture or introducing the Japanese government’s stance on any issue to the American public … speech writing, translating, school visits … are all things I did on a reguar basis,” Hall says. The advent of his current profession, teaching Japanese to high school students, came when he met his mentor Rushton Hardy in Tokyo. Hardy convinced Hall to leave Tokyo in 1999, earn his master’s degree at Stanford, and join him at Silver Creek High School in San Jose to work in the Japanese program there. Then, in a situation that Hall considers analogous to Willy Wonka recruiting Charlie Bucket and giving him the chocolate factory, Hardy quit and left Hall to run the Japanese program. “I was at the top of my game,” Hall says, of his state immediately before he came to Paly. In fact, he says, it is unlikely that he would have left Silver Creek at that point

for anything. Silver Creek has a highly prestigious Japanese program, and Hall, aside from tenure, had two Japanese Bowl Competition national titles under his belt: he led his students to victory once in 2007, and again in 2011. Hall credits Paly’s determination as the force that managed to draw him from Silver Creek. “The level of competency here from the lowliest freshman up to the principal...” he whistles. “Huge, very high, very high.” Spanish teacher and instructional supervisor Kevin Duffy sees Hall as an advantageous addition to the Paly community. “I’m just amazed by his energy and his positive spirit,” Duffy says. “He brings a lot of energy to everything that he does. That is a huge asset.” Hall considers teaching Japanese 1 students no less fulfilling than teaching national champions. “I’m loving it. I love getting the newbs,” he says, and later adds, “When you do something you love, it’s never work.” v

Words to live by: a writer’s legacy Author continues to inspire generations of students through memorial scholarship Text by SHARON TSENG Photography courtesty of NEILL BROWNSTEIN

LOVING MOTHER AND WIF Karen an E (Left) d Neill at Stanford (Right) Ka S ta ren hugs dium (19 80), her son T odd (197 7).

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he soundtrack of Adam Brownstein’s childhood was marked by the distinctive, sharp click and clack of a typewriter as his mother, Karen Osney Brownstein, wrote stories in her home office. “What I remember, coming home from school, was hearing fingers tapping away on originally an old school typewriter and eventually a computer, and her coming in and out of her office taking breaks,” he says. Karen was unlike most authors. She took time to teach writing workshops and loved to help other writers. During her lifetime, Karen inspired many people she met, and continues to inspire through the Palo Alto High School Karen Osney Brownstein Memorial Scholarship for creative writers set up in her honor. From a young age, Karen knew she wanted to be a writer. Growing up as a teenager in Chicago, some of her short stories were published in local newspapers like the Chicago Tribune. It was around that time, when she was just 14 years old, that she met her husband, Neill Brownstein. He describes it as a classic high school sweethearts’ tale. “We first met when we were walking home from school together,” Neill says. “I thought she was very cute and very bright. We went together on and off in high school, we went to college together, and we got married right after college.” Karen majored in writing and

Spanish literature at Barnard College in the 1960s while Neil attended the nearby Columbia University. After their wedding in 1966, she and Neill also attended graduate school to-

“I thought she was very cute and very bright.” — husband NEILL BROWNSTEIN gether at Northwestern University where Karen received a Masters of Arts in teaching in 1968. Although she worked brief stints in teaching, advertising, and public relations, Karen’s major career was that of an author. Besides the many short stories published in her lifetime, Karen also published

three books: “Brainstorm: A Personal Story” (1980), “Memorial Day” (1983), and “In a Certain Light” (1985). When the Brownsteins moved to Riverdale, N.Y., Karen also began teaching writing workshops at Barnard, beginning her lifelong passion of inspiring other writers through her various workshops. Her workshops formed a community where writers could share and critique each other’s work. Her two sons, Adam and Todd, were born in 1970 and 1973, respectively. Although starting a family did slightly affect her writing, Karen was able to deal with it because she was still in the short story phase of her career. “She was a mother first and foremost,” Neill says. “She was a great cheerleader at their soccer games and baseball. She was a pretty good athlete [and] loved to play tennis with the kids.” Karen’s first book, “Brainstorm: A Personal Story”, is a memoir about her october 2011

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personal experience battling with a brain tumor in 1976. Neill describes his own experience while Karen had the brain tumor with great emotion. “[It was] a question of hope,” he says. “When you’re going through a very difficult, very close traumatic medical problem with somebody you love so much, you put a lot of faith in medical institutions, but you also put a lot of effort in hope.” That same year, the Brownsteins decided to to move across the country. “My business was primarily focused in California and we thought it would be great to move.” Neill says. Karen’s second book, “Memorial Day”, tells the story of a couple trying to deal with adultery, and the plot of her third book, “In a Certain Light”, follows a television celebrity who fears that her abusive ex-husband will try to reclaim their child. “Her character developments were pretty extraordinary,” Neill says. Karen’s writing also indirectly molded her son Adam’s thinking as he grew up. Adam says he loved having such a creative individual as his mother. As he grew older, he would read his mother’s work and give feedback. “It really makes the creative process tangible and real instead of this mysterious thing that people do in a black box,” he says. “In different phases of life, it certainly helped me pick a path maybe less tread upon.” Adam attributes his choices of studying abroad in college, conducting business in China and Latin America for six years,

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and then starting his own company to the creative influences of his mother. “I think when you are close to the creative process, it kind of rubs off on you in a cool, osmosis-like way and it never really leaves you,” Adam says. In addition to Karen’s own original

“You can get a lot of nasty curveballs thrown at you... but it doesn’t stop life.” — son ADAM BROWNSTEIN touches to her stories, much of her work, even her novels and fictitious short stories, were based on real events or people. “She would be inspired by something that happened in the real world and she would be wondering about those characters, what those characters were going through, and then she’d write a story about those characters and that kind of event,” Neill says. Karen wrote in her home for three or four hours, four days a week on the IBM Selectric Typewriter. “It was the fanciest typewriter,” Neill

says. After settling in California, Karen began teaching writing workshop courses at Paly and Stanford University, where English teachers would invite her in to teach a few classes. Neill says Karen enjoyed telling others about her writing inspirations as well as learning what inspired other writers. For two decades, Karen had also held a writing workshop, called Our Stories, Our Selves, in her home for small groups of published or aspiring writers. “She loved to encourage other people to be writers,” Neill says. When Adam started kindergarten in Palo Alto, Karen obtained the list of kindergarten parents and decided to befriend one of them, Debbie Seamen. “She picked me out because of where I lived and the sound of my name and she thought that maybe that would be a good person to meet,” Seamen says. “So she called me up and we made a date and introduced our kindergartners to each other and got to know each other.” The two went on to become very close friends, and their two boys, Adam and Sanford Spector, became best friends and are still friends today. One regular ritual the two developed was going together to Karen’s doctor appointments. After Karen’s 1976 surgery and radiation therapy to remove her brain tumor, she occasionally had headaches and needed to visit the physician about once a year. “She explained to me, as we became friends, about her brain tumor,” Seamen

says. “[She said] she was fine but that she had to be very, very careful.” Karen was doing well until a doctor’s visit in 1987 where, although she wasn’t feeling well, doctors could not figure out what was wrong. Less than a month later in November, Karen had a stroke caused indirectly by the medical procedure of her brain tumor. She was partially paralyzed, losing strength on her left side. Karen entered rehab to regain her mobility, but that same month, she was also diagnosed with a complicated lung disease. She stayed in patient rehab for six weeks until she was released in January of 1988. Despite the difficulties Karen had to overcome, she always tried to put up an optimistic front. “She was never a negative person,” Seamen says, adding: “I think she was scared because she was always so worried. She was worried it was going to get worse. She tried not to show that worry to the rest of the world. She kept it under wraps.” Adam, then 19 years old, had graduated high school the past year. He spent that summer as

Karen’s helper, most notably assisting her around town to keep up her busy social life. “I think it was a good experience for me, at a fairly young age, to realize that you can get a lot of nasty curve balls thrown at you, things like being dependent upon a wheelchair and dependent upon oxygen for living, but it doesn’t stop life,” Adam says. “I think you can be courageous and embrace the things that matter like family and friends and experiences that are important.” In late October of 1989, Karen again checked into Stanford Hospital. On Dec. 3, 1989, Karen Osney Brownstein passed away at the age of 45. “Karen had a lot of people who really admired her and people just felt so sad when she died because she was in her 40s, which is very, very young,” Seamen says. “We were trying to think, well what could we do to perpetuate her memory?” Seamen and her son Sanford Spector came up with the idea of starting a creative writing scholarship in her memory so she would always be remembered at Paly. “We knew she loved Paly, so that’s why we wanted to do it there,” Seamen says. The Karen Osney Brownstein scholarship is managed by the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, which according to their website, invests and administers permanent charitable funds by local individuals and businesses. Friends and family of Karen do-

nated directly to the foundation. The scholarship money given every year comes from interest from the principal, with the principal left untouched, ensuring that the scholarship lives on forever. “Before we knew it, we had enough money in there to get the first scholarship,” Seamen says. Every year, starting from the first scholarship in 1990, a student, nominated by an English teacher at Paly, is honored for his/her excellence in creative writing with the Karen Osney Brownstein Writing Scholarship. A member of the Brownsteins always tries to attend Senior Awards Night to speak. “When Karen walked into the room, you knew she was there,” Seamen says. “She was a great storyteller... She had a lot of personality and she was very witty, very funny. She was just super smart.” It’s been twenty-one years and the lives of many students continue to be altered, not just by the Karen Osney Brownstein Memorial Scholarship, but also by her wisdom, wit, and everlasting words. v SNAPSHOTS INTO KAREN’S LIFE (From top left to right): Neill, Karen, Todd, and Adam (1973), Karen and Adam in Central Park (1973), Karen in Sausalito (1982), Karen and Adam in Chicago (1970), Karen and Neill in Hawaii (1978), Karen on the backcover of “Brainstorm: A Personal Memoir” (1980), Karen and her aunt in New York (1974), Karen, Adam , and Todd in New York (1974); (Bottom) Karen, Adam, and Todd in Palo Alto (1978). october 2011

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My name is Malcolm White Octogenarian actor looks forward to performing his one-man play in April Text by HANAKO GALLAGHER and JESSICA JIN Photography by HANAKO GALLAGHER and courtesy of MALCOLM WHITE

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urreal blue floods the screen as lights dim on the cyclorama of Holocaust images at the rear of the stage. The sound of children laughing and playing fills the air. Suddenly, their voices cease and the screen goes black. When the lights shine again, they illuminate the right side of the stage, a brightly-lit, well-furnished Australian home. This contrasts sharply with the bare, crudely constructed cabinet on the left. Eighty-five year old Palo Alto actor Malcolm White steps forward. “My name is Richard Rozen,” White says, facing the audience. This is the opening White envisions for the one-man play he has written, titled “My Name is Richard Rozen.” The play is scheduled to show at the Oshman Family Jewish Community Center April 19, 20, and 22 of next year. White suffers from end-stage renal disease, or kidney failure. To survive, he must undergo three nightly sessions of dialysis per week, each eight hours long. Nonetheless, he remains committed to starring in his play, based on the true story of a Holocaust survivor. “I want to get back on stage one more time before I leave the scene for good, and I want to do something on stage which has some meaning. And the play ends up being a plea for tolerance,” White says. Interest piqued White has deep blue eyes and a tendency to scrunch up his prominent eyebrows when making a compelling point. Despite his age, he talks animatedly, changing volume for emphasis and look-

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ing up periodically to break into an easy laugh. White began writing the play in 2001, after viewing a television episode. “My interest was piqued by a television program I saw called ‘Hidden Children’ about children who had hidden during the Second World War. I was very moved by it,” White says. He then researched “Hidden Children” in the library and found Richard Rozen’s story in a book of the same title. “Of all the stories in the book, Richard’s was the most compelling, the most dramatic,” White says, scrunching up his thick eyebrows and leaning back in his chair. “And, being an actor, I thought of it in terms of a stage production; I thought it would make a very powerful evening of theater.” White has personal connections to the Holocaust: his late wife was Jewish, and his friend Adele Lepka is a survivor. “All that combined, I suppose, inspired the play,” White says. White spent his childhood moving among different towns in Massachusetts as his father, a minister, switched churches. His father often put on plays to raise money for the church, and White grew to love acting. Young Rozen led quite a different lifestyle. At the age of six, Richard Rozen lived with his parents in a 6’ by 3’ by 3’ cabinet for 13 months. A farmer and his wife hid the family in exchange for gold coins. “[Eventually] Rozen and his parents ran out of gold coins...and the farmer kicked them out. And that’s when they

got captured and sent to the ghetto, and from there they went on a train that shipped them to the death camp in Treblinka,” White says. Rozen’s experiences taught him at an early age the importance of money. After surviving the Holocaust, Rozen was determined to never run out of gold coins. “He started two businesses, one after the other. He worked seven days a week, 80-100 hours a week, and he made money. And he invested the money, and

PRESENT White in front of Paly’s Haymarket Theater. He found his passion in acting at a young age and hasn’t stopped since.

it allowed him to retire at age 50. And been happiest in my career when I was they still are living on the income from he on stage. And it’s very important for you money he made before he was 50,” White to find something that you absolutely love for your work. That is so important in life. says. White admires Rozen deeply. Dur- Pursue your passion.” Ruth Sherer, a friend of White’s, exing his first encounter with the Australian, his emotions prevented him from presses great respect for him. “He has tremendous courage and expressing himself. creativity and de“I could hardly termination to speak,” White says. produce this play “When I actually got in spite of his on my phone I choked health problems, up and I couldn’t talk.” which are numerHowever, the two have ous,” Sherer says. since become good Sherer is also friends. one of White’s “I’m very indebted main sources of to him, and at this stage funding for the of my life, I’m so thankplay. ful for something that “I think the has captured my imagi— actor and playwright issues that he’s adnation. I’m so thankful MALCOLM WHITE dressing are curto have found, at age 85, rent, as well as an obsession that energizes me, motivates me to be creative. historical, issues of tolerance, and justice Getting creative again can give one a new and I admire the way he does things and would like to see him succeed in produclease on life,” White says. ing this play,” Sherer says, explaining her commitment to White’s project. Impressions of White Throughout his life, White has noted the importance of persistently pursuing A Glimpse Into the Play In one of the final scenes of the play, one’s dreams. To Palo Alto youth, White says, “I’ve White, as Rozen, describes himself as

“I want to get back on stage one more time before I leave the scene for good. ”

HEADSHOT Malcolm White poses for a publicity shot in 1948. an incomplete person. Though extremely diligent and hardworking, he has trouble loving people and despises himself for having grown up in squalor. “I thought of myself as ‘damaged goods,’” White says, reading from his play. Slowly, White continues: “Until our human race finally learns to stop despising people who are different, I don’t see how any of us will be truly safe.” v

COLLEAGUES White, far right, stands with his fellow American actors in “Retour a la vie,” a 1949 French film starring Francois Perier. White was the only American to have a speaking role in the movie. “I...got to dance with the leading lady, who was Patricia Roc, a British beauty,” Malcolm says. october 2011

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*HU 7HS` ÄLSK HUV[OLY ZWVY[& Field hockey struggles to explode on the West Coast Text by LISIE SABBAG Art by DIANA CONNOLLY Photography by CHARU SRIVASTAVA

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anting, sophomore Emily Semba pushes a ball down the field using only one side of her stick, then whacks it hard enough to make it travel accross the field and hit the goal. She laughs it off, as if it were no big deal. But I know from experience, it is. At a field hockey demo Semba organized last year, I learned that leaning over to hit the ball with the short field hockey stick to make it roll accross the field is incredibly tough, let alone getting it to go in the right direction. Semba, though, began playing the sport in 7th grade and has mastered that. Semba is one of the few Palo Altans to catch the East Coast craze of field hockey, and she’s determined to share the fun with other Paly students. “There’s a lot of teams over here [in California],” Semba says. “There’s just not that many in our part of the Bay Area.” Semba plays for Stanford Lighting, a girls club team coached mainly by Stanford students. The team has girls from all over the Bay Area, including many Paly girls. Junior Rose Fitzgerald has been playing with Semba for two years now. “Emily is so fun to play with,” Fitzgerald says. “She’s always constructive in her criticism during games and she’s an all around great team player.” Semba’s team player attitude has gotten her far. Using her connections with the Stanford club team and her mom, who works at Paly, she’s been fighting to

GOAL! Sophomore Emily Semba practices her field hockey moves during get a team started since she first arrived at Paly last year. Through Facebook pages and events, Semba has drummed up the interest of more than 100 girls, but the school board and Sports Boosters still are saying there’s no room for another sports team at Paly. “I think it will be hard to bring such an unknown sport to a school with such high standards for sports,” Semba says. “But I definitely thinks it’s possible.” Semba says they’ll have to see the light eventually. “Every other district has some sort of field hockey team going on…except for ours,”

light eventually. “Every other district has some sort of field hockey team going on…except for ours,” Semba says. Earl Hansen, athletic director for Palo Alto High school, is skeptical. “If the girls all support it, I’ll support it,” Hansen says. The success of the girls and boys lacrosse teams are great examples of the succesful introduction of new sports to Paly. Only two years since the start of the program the girls lacrosse team won SCVAL championships, so why can’t our field hockey program do the same? “They need to get approved by the board to join the league, they need to prove that there’ll be lasting interest, not just one season,” Hansen says. He has worked with Semba to organize school-sponsored field hockey learning events, but he’s still skeptical. “I haven’t seen the reality of it yet,” he says. But Semba stays positive. By advertising and getting school sanctioned demos hosted at Paly, Semba has been connecting the club team to the school. After Club Day and the introduction of a school-sanctioned club team, Semba got many new serious recruits for the sport. The team will be practicing every Wednesday on the lacrosse field right after school with their new coach. “I’m really excited for this season,” Semba says. “I think it will be very successful.” v

Field Hockey 101

Measuring between 34-36 inches, the ½IPH LSGOI] WXMGO has a hooked end.You can only hit the 8LI FEPP is the size of an FEPP [MXL XLI ¾EX WMHI apple, but hard and not bouncy. Only your stick can touch the ball during the game.

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Besides the goalkeeper, there are 10 people on the ½IPH 8S WGSVI ]SY QYWX be inside the ³EXXEGOMRK GMVGPI´ that’s around the goal.

FEATURES

SECRETS OF THE TOWER MAKING THE CHANGE AMERICA’S ARMY ADVISING OR ABUSING? EX-CITED SOFTENING THE STIGMA REMEMBERING STEVE

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Secrets of the tower

The bell has been silent for more than a decade but still has a story to tell Text by KATY ABBOTT Photography by CHARU SRIVASTAVA

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tudents assembled en masse on the corner of Channing and Webster, preparing to march down the streets of Palo Alto. Carrying an American flag, five seniors led the way, accompanied by five members of the Board of Education. They were about to make history. It was Dec. 24, 1918, and Palo Alto High School had shut down for six weeks due to the Spanish influenza epidemic. In the meantime, construction had been completed at the new high school campus, built to compensate for the overcrowded conditions in the two-story school on Channing. Finally, on Christmas Eve in 1918, Palo Alto High School opened the doors of its new campus for the first time. And students paraded down the streets from the Channing school to the new campus, helping to celebrate the grand opening in style. “Most of the boys volunteered [to come],” Edgar McDowell, a student marcher, told unofficial Palo Alto historian Bob French. David Starr Jordan, the president of Stanford University, spoke at the ribboncutting ceremony. Students posed for photographs. And there, in the background, one could clearly make out the definitive structure of the Paly bell tower, and the bell nestled inside it, that students for many generations would come to know and remember. From that point on, the bell tower has been both an institution and an icon, helping to give Paly’s first news publication, The Campanile, its new name, and appearing in photographs and drawings

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of the school. In recent years, the bell tower has been shrouded by a layer of mystery and confusion. Most people on campus know little about its history. Some Paly students are unaware that there is even a bell in the tower. Such confusion can be attributed to the fact that the bell itself hasn’t been rung since 1997, when the 100th year reunion of Paly graduates occurred, but the bell’s silence does not help to remind the younger generation of its history — or even its existence. The bell still remains in the tower, although it is positioned so low that it cannot be seen from the outside. While it is still operable, accessing the bell is difficult. “You would need a ladder just to get up there,” Assistant Principal Jerry Berkson says. “There would be safety issues and it is a danger for students.” Once upon a time, this wasn’t a problem. According to Berkson, there used to be a permanent ladder in place to reach the bell. However, renovations that the Tower Building has gone through since 1918 have done away with that ladder and along with it, the ability to get into the tower. This is one reason why the tradition of ringing the bell has fallen out of fashion, obscuring much of its history. The second floor of the Tower Building originally housed the staff of the student newspaper, The Campanile, which was created by student commissioner Dorothy Nichols in 1918, one month before the opening of the school. “[We were] glad to change to the... cool and inspiring new room in the tower of the new building”, Elizabeth Wallace,

a staff writer for The Campanile, wrote in Madrono, a Paly publication in 1918. According to Esther Wojcicki, an English teacher and the adviser to The Campanile, in 1984 the newspaper was still located in the Tower Building. Many of the staff members tended to be rowdy. “[Students] would play ball in the hall of the Tower Building,” Wojcicki says. “They also used to get into the tower itself and ring the bell.” The tower and the building supporting it now have more mundane tasks, like housing American Sign Language and Living Skills classes, along with the whole administration. Every so often, in the late afternoon, students will congregate outside the door to the tower, saving peers from imaginary concussions and choking fits during CPR classes, but no more journalists can be found, preparing to send another edition of their publication to the presses. It is quieter now, marked by the absence of the bell’s toll. When the school stopped ringing the bell is unclear. According to French, a retired Palo Alto Unified School District teacher and principal and well-known among many Palo Altans, it must have happened after 1957, when the administration replaced the bell and dedicated the new one to Paly teachers Sophia Cramer and Lina Guerrero, both fixtures at the school, honoring them with an appropriate tribute. The school

inscribed the dedication on a plaque that can still be seen outside the tower today. Cramer taught French and German for 38 years, while Guerrero taught Spanish for 41 years. Guerrero, a student of Cramer’s when she was at Paly, was inspired to follow down the same road, eventually ending up at Paly, according to French. Both were well-loved and remem-

The significance of the dedication resonates with French, who emphasized both teachers’ contributions to the school. French is also one of many who believes that we ought to honor Paly’s history and the dedicatees by remembering the bell. French encourages reviving the tradition of ringing the bell, perhaps once on the first day of school and again on graduation day. “It signals that the kids are moving on and helps to send them —English teacher ESTHER WOJCICKI off,” French bered for their lasting impact on Paly, says. “It would help remember their imaccording to French, the Palo Alto histo- pacts at Paly.” rian. Cramer started the California ScholThat historic Christmas Eve march arship Federation at Paly, an organization in 1918 helped to inaugurate the new that still exists to this day. Her students Palo Alto High School. It was the bewere so affected by her death in 1947 that ginning of a long life for the bell tower, they dedicated a scholarship fund for stu- one that was marked by both student dents that year to her. programs like The Campanile, and natural “The memory of Miss Cramer will disasters such as the Loma Prieta earthlive eternally in the hearts of the many quake of 1989. The bell has been rung at graduations and reunions. It has seen era after era, from the prosperity of Roaring Twenties to the Great Recession of the — former teacher and principal BOB FRENCH 21st century. The bell tower itself has experienced almost 100 Palo Alto men and women who were years of history. members of CSF at Paly,” the Daily Palo As French says, the only way to preAlto Times wrote in an obituary in 1947. serve this history is to use it — to rememGuerrero was responsible for intro- ber the bell and to ring it. ducing Spanish to Paly. Even though she “There aren’t many traditions at Paly, had doubts about teaching at a school that and this would bring a new one,” French she herself had attended, Guerrero never said. “This could show what Paly history regretted joining the staff at Paly. has to offer.” v

“They [the students] would play ball in the hall of the tower building.”

“It could show what Paly history has to offer.”

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Making the change

Local teens step into the political arena Textand photos by LISIE SABBAG Art byDIANA CONNOLLY Photos courtesy of MOLLY KAWAHATA

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“Campaigns make the change.”

olly Kawahata likes Indian food, Bob Dylan and Modern Family. She grew up with Rick’s Rather Rich Ice Cream and playing in Mitchell Park. Kawahata is your typical Palo Altan. Except for one thing. At the age of 17, Kawahata became the California state high school director, in charge of organizing all student movements for the Obama campaign in all of California. Five short months later, she was promoted to the national high school director, which broadened her domain to the rest of the United States. She had spent her junior year at Gunn High School working for Students for Obama, the official youth group working on the Obama for America campaign. Through out her junior year, Kawa-

“I wanted to be part of that change ” — senior MEGHAN BYRD

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— campaigner MOLLY KAWAHATA

PARTY AT THE WHITE HOUSE Molly Kawahata in front of the White House during her internship there. hata traveled to other states to train other youth directors, planned rallies and organized phone banking. She rearranged

her class schedule so that she could get to Obama’s El Camino campaign office during her prep. “It [the campaign] took over all of our lives — never involuntarily, though,” Kawahata says. Many Paly students worked on the 2008 Obama campaign, spending time phone banking and attending rallies. Some did it because their parents wanted them to; others for the experience; some did it just for fun. Senior Megan Byrd joined the cause and discovered a calling. “I was sick and tired of hearing terrible statistics on the news every night about American people,” Byrd says. “I wanted to be part of that change.” Kawahata and Byrd share the same thought that the youth need to take an active role in their future through politics. “A lot of people think that just because you can’t vote, you can’t partake in the political system, and I challenge that,” Byrd says. “Even though I won’t be able

3 Ways to Get Involved in the 2012 Presidential Campaign Sign up Online

No matter who you’re backing, every candidate has a website that has everything you could wish to know about his of her campaign, from their policies, to fundraising and volunteer opportunities.

Attend an Event

Especially around such a politcally active town as Palo Alto, kick-off events and rallies will be held where you can learn more about campaigning and get pumped to help out. Check out rallies for multiple different candidates before settling on one.

Volunteer

:JH[[LYLK HYV\UK [OL )H` (YLH ^PSS IL JHTWHPNU VMÄJLZ ;OL WLVple running them always love seeing new faces, especially teens. They’ll put you to work doing fun things like phone banking, and eventually you could be doing Molly Kawahata’s job!

to vote until next fall, I still try to stay ac- different because of the use of social metively engaged in politics, at a local, state dia networks to include youth in the acand national level.” tion. The youth population as a whole “Youth need to be reached out to,” seems to side with Kawahata says. Byrd. The 2008 elec“And Facebook is tion saw a 52 to 53 where [youth] are.” percent increase in The upcomyouth voters over the ing presdidential last election, accordprimary marks the ing to the Center for beginning of anInformation and Reother monumental search on Civic Learnpresidential election ing and Engagement. cycle, one that reKawahata said the quires the youth to 2008 election was so — campaigner MOLLY KAWAHATA actively participate.

“I can only hope youth have realized how much a stake they have in government.”

YES WE CAN! Molly Kawahata poses with Obama backstage before a San Francisco rally.

“I can only hope that the youth have realized how much a stake they have in government,” Kawahata says, bringing up the recent health care bill that lets children stay on their parents health plan even after college. She says things like these, that effect youth now, will awaken them to bigger causes that will affect them and others in the future. She says she’s going to be pressing for the same amount, or more, of student involvement in this campaign, especially youth, no matter if they can vote or not. “Anyone can make a change,” Kawahata says. v

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America’s Army +PZPU[LYLZ[ PU TPSP[HY` ZWVUZVYLK ]PKLV NHTL YLÅLJ[Z mixed feelings about army recruitment in Palo Alto Text and Photography by ANA CARANO

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ere I am, shooting at a tower, donning Army fatigues, crouching in between two hills. All I can see in front of me is my gun, the target, and a bit of the gun of my comrade next to me. Also, there are smudges on my Macbook. I am definitely not fighting in a real war; instead, I’m playing “America’s Army”, a recruitment game sponsored by the United States Army itself. America’s Army, now in its third version, has existed since 2002, and for six years was ranked as one of the game website GameSpy’s (www.gamespy.com) most popular first person shooters. The website for the game claims that it allows you to “virtually experience Soldiering in the most realistic way possible” by stressing team effort and core military values such as loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. The site contains two comic strips depicting the trials and tribulations of soldiers both fictional and real. More information about the army is also included, although one can download the game without it. This game is one of many new recruitment tools that the Army has created; the military has sponsored a movie

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(having offered those visiting its website ied,“ says Slipper. Some say that joining sneak peaks to X Men: First Class) and the army seems natural for me. Others are created a Twitter account. taken aback and ask, bewildered, why I Palo Alto, a hub of social media decided to join when I “had it made’ as a headquarters, should be extremely recep- businessman.” tive to such efforts. However, Palo Alto Even he understands this confusion. still has few teenagers who choose to “Many people think of the Army is join the army. Accorda last resort,” Slipper ing to Captain Sumner, says. a recruitment officer Some, like juin Palo Alto, ou about nior Clio Jamason, 20 students in the area refuse to join the are recruited. Palo Alto armed forces beHigh School junior Alcause of political len Zheng attributes reasons. Jamason this to the ambition of takes issue with the area. how the military “I think there is a has been deployed, kind of built-in feelespecially in relation ing against military to Congress’ role. recruitment since so “I really, remany kids have such ally doubt [that U.S. high expectations of miliitary advertising their futures that they — senior MATTHEW SLIPPER could change my don’t want marred by... opinion],” Zheng military service,” says says. “Propaganda ... Zheng. is the only thing that in my mind would Matthew Slipper, a Paly senior who change people’s minds, especially since is an enlisted soldier in the Army Reserve, the wars that America is engaging in in has experienced the effects of this wide- general are pretty stupid.” spread assumption. However, Slipper feels that even if “Reactions to my enlistment are var- the military is considered an unconven-

“When I was very young I would always talk about becoming an ‘army man.’ ”

tional career choice, he feels it is not a widely shunned one. “Even though Palo Altans and Paly students are generally left of center when it comes their views on war, I believe they still respect the military and those who serve in it,” Slipper says. “I haven’t noticed any bias against the army in Palo Alto or Paly. Few understand completely why I joined, however nobody’s reaction to my enlistment has been derogatory in any way. Surprise, but not contempt, is the norm.” Additionally, the topic of which recruitment techniques work may very well be irrelevant, as many like Slipper who join the army see it as an essential part of their character. “I have always wanted to be a soldier. Even when I was very young I would always talk about becoming an ‘army man.’, Slipper says. “It may sound like a cliche or a recruiting brochure, but there are no other words that describe it better ...Army training provides a backbone of discipline, responsibility, accountability, self-reliance, and a sense of duty that you simply cannot get anywhere else. I want these traits.

In essence, I want the Army experience.” Such an experience demonstrates that recruitment may encourage potential soldiers but it does not create them; those who plan on joining the army may be assisted by recruiters, but advertising simply mirrors personal feelings. The same, of course, works in reverse. “Yes, the people are brave and all that stuff,” Jamason says. “Not much can change my opinion of it.” Thus, tecnhiques such as “America’s Army” do not seem to be very appealing to Palo Altans. Sumner reports that no one ever came to the recruitment center and cited the game as an influence. He never played it himself; neither has Slipper. However, some object to the game’s use of a video game analogy to parallel real war, affronted by the fact that, unlike every other violent first person shooter, this is created by the military itself. In an extreme instance, when the U.S. Army opened up an Army Experience Cen-

ter in Philadelphia in 2008, Pennsylvania’s Franklin Mills Mall, which offered video games as well as more information on joining the army, parents and other adults took to the streets of Philadelphia, bearing slogans like “War is not a game!” Similarly, others like junior Chase Callahan claim the game tries to offer an idealistic version of war. “It takes 30 bullets for you to be wounded, then you fall over for 2 minutes until somebody revives you, so the game is basically an advertisement, showing all the good and hiding all the bad,” he says. He still views the game as necessary and acceptable. “The Army is just doing what it can to get more help, and a game is a fine way to do that.” Although I may not be convinced by tapping at my keyboard and pretending it’s a war, some may be intrigued by the experience. Others will the armed forces no matter what, game or no game. v

THIS IS NOT A GAME Senior Matthew Slipper shows off his army training.

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Assisting or abusing? Despite changes in teacher assistant system, some students maintain doubts Text by JESSICA JIN Art by DIANA CONNOLLY

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he rumors of abuse are legendary. In one case, a student disseminated information about student ID numbers, prompting a mother to sue the district. In another, a student with a borderline grade coerced his teacher assistant into helping him get the better grade. Several sources have confirmed accounts of TAs threatening to lower people’s grades. Verde found it difficult to verify most of these claims, but the rumors are so widespread that the staff felt the need to investigate, especially after the Palo Alto High School administration established new regulations this year for the school’s teacher assistants. These range from requiring students to grade during their prep periods to denying them access to teachers’ computers. Where there’s smoke, we reasoned, there’s often fire. Though neither teachers nor administrators would discuss specifics with us, snippets of some stories have already reached the public’s attention. Of these, we found a story shared by math teacher Suzanne Antink particularly egregious. Towards the end of senior year, Greg, whose name, like those of some other students in this article, has been changed to protect his identity, acessed the teacher’s gradebook and raised his friends’ grades. “When I found out, I thought, ‘Well

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that was stupid,’” Antink says. “I was outraged. When I talked to the student later, the student was sorry and dismayed that he had done such a thing and was disappointed in himself.” Administrators learned of the incident involving Greg. This event, among others, led the administration to question Paly’s well-established TA system, in which more advanced students help teachers grade homework, at the end of the past school year and lay out a new set of expectations for the school’s teacher assistants. Antink says Greg was ultimately able to move forward and grow from his mistakes. “He learned a lot in the process,” Antink says. But the questions remain: are the

changes enough? Will they prevent corruption in the future and/or help students feel safe? History of the TA system For the 17 years Radu Toma has taught math at Paly, teacher assistants have helped teachers grade students’ homework. Toma, the current instructional supervisor of the Math Department, can personally testify to the necessity of the system. When he first arrived at Paly, he did not know the system existed. “After two months I was ready to quit,” Toma says. “I literally was. I was finishing my work every day after 9:30 in the evening. And I realized I could not go on like that.” He acknowledges the inherent flaws

“One student changed scores for his friends in their favor. On the other hand, students who found out who the grader was harrassed him or her.” — math teacher SUZANNE ANTINK

in having students grade fellow students’ work, but believes it is the best possible solution; much preferable to the alternative, in which teachers would spend five hours everyday correcting homework. “That’s physically impossible,” Toma says. “The feasible option is this less-than perfect scenario in which we have competent students help us out doing this. It’s not perfect feedback, but it’s much better than no feedback a all.” Years ago, when Antink was the instructional supervisor, she changed the system to no longer require TA’s to sit with their teachers while they graded in order to help Analysis and BC Calculus students earn extra credit more easily. Antink says that problems began to occur after this change. “There were students who did inappropriate things on both ends,” Antink says. “One student changed scores for his friends in their favor on the computer. On the other hand, students who found out who the grader was harassed him or her.” Most of the problems in the TA system seem to involve the math department. This may simply be because of all the departments, math relies most heavily upon TA’s.

“We have a responsibility to keep students safe, we put them in an environment that doesn’t compromise their integrity or the teachers’, and it was just another measure to do that.” — principal PHIL WINSTON one such club member threatened to not give me full credit on my homework if I did not vote for him.” When approached, one TA refused to comment, and another denied any wrongdoing. Students also say that teacher assistants often give higher scores to their friends. “Junior year, I got 10s on my assignments in math even when they weren’t exactly 10s,” Will, now a Freshman in college, says. “My TA was a friend.” According to Will, his expe-

rience is not unique. “I know that this kind of corruption is pretty rampant,” he says. The administration’s response Principal Phil Winston, after learning about a few of the incidents of alleged abuse, gathered the administration to begin making some changes. “We took a look at it at the end of the year, and there was some consensus around how to keep students and staff working together, and that’s how it came about,” Winston says. According to Winston, the guide-

Untold tales Students indicate that the TA system has been abused in other ways as well. Tensions, largely caused by threats from TA’s, ran high two years ago, during one campus club’s election season. “It was incredibly intense,” says Julie, a former club member. “A lot of drama went on that ultimately led less people to vote and come to events.” A handful of students say that certain candidates, who are no longer associated with the board, threatened to lower club members’ grades if they did not vote for them. “Teacher assistants were using their power to obtain votes from underclassmen,” Michelle, a former club member, says. “I had a personal encounter where october 2011

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“Eventually, everyone will find out who their TAs are, so the system will end up corrupt.” —senior JEAN YANG protect TA’s. “We have a responsibility to keep students safe, we put them in an environment that doesn’t compromise their integrity or the teachers’, and it was just another measure to do that,” Winston says. Students’ views Senior Benson Chen, who has served as a TA for the past two years, acknowledges the disadvantages of the new system, but believes it is ultimately beneficial. “The new system is inconvenient in some respects,” he says. “For instance, you must have a prep, and you might be too busy. I guess it’s fair though.” Chen’s view aligns well with those espoused by teachers and the administration. “I think the changes are more than sufficient,” Antink says. “We’re also getting to know our TAs again. I respect them [the TAs] more now because I understand how they’re working through it.” Still, some students are expressing doubts that the changes will have any effect. Sophomore Charlotte Munger says that students looking for a loophole will be able to find one. “The changes will make a difference, but if people really wanted to change people’s grades, they’d probably be able to,” Munger says. Senior Jean Yang espouses an equally cynical view: despite all efforts of prevention, the system will end up being abused.

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“Eventually, everyone will find out who their TAs are, so the system will end up corrupt,” Yang says. “Mainly the system is corrupt because the students who are grading know the other students. Because of that, they give them higher scores.” The TAs’ role in the Paly community Antink emphasizes the important role TA’s play at Paly and the appreciation they deserve. “Being a TA is both an honor and a responsibility,” she says. “It’s a lot of work, but it adds to the feedback people get on their work. It’s so important to be done right and well. When it is, it’s so appreciated by teachers and students.” Both Antink and Toma say they are selective about their TA’s and try to ensure that they meet a long list of expectations. “We chose TAs who have the mathematical competency, ideally students who had a relationship with the teacher that they were going to TA for,” Toma says. “We elected students whose prep periods matched the prep periods of the teachers.” Teachers also tried to choose ethical students to serve as TA’s. “Students who are doing it not just for the extra credit, but because they care, who were recommended as being reliable by someone in the department, if we did not know them personally,” Toma continues. “Again, it’s an imperfect selection process, but it’s sort of the best that we have.” The past has been far from perfect. However, Antink believes that the school and the individuals involved should try to move forward. “People make poor decisions in their lives, and we must help them work through them,” Antink says. “Making mistakes doesn’t kill people, so they must grow from the experience.” v

Guidelines for Student TA’s: A Summary R5 TA’s must work within the time frame of their TA period, at the teacher’s work area. R5 TA’s should not have access to any list in which student names are paired with ID #s or any other identifying information. R5 TA’s cannot access teachers’ computers or gade books. R5 TA’s should not discuss coursework, homework, or assignments with students in the class that they TA. --from Guidelines for Student TA’s handout released by the Paly administration

Lunch Dinner at our new location 140 Homer Ave

Brunch Private Functions at The Annex 806 Emerson St

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Ex-cited

The mystery behind dropped citations Text and Photo Ilustrations by JACQUELINE WOO

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Photo Illustration

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t was 3 a.m. when Steven, whose name has been changed to protect his identity, was on his way back from a pool party with friends at Stanford after being kicked out. Steven then relocated to Duveneck, where school security officers discovered him and alerted authorities. Arriving minutes later, the police arrested Steven, and read him his Miranda Rights. “They also wrote out a citation and said that I would receive a letter from the department for my court appearance which would be in the upcoming month,” Steven says. Expecting the worst, Steven was surprised when the citation mysteriously disappeared. “We never got a letter from the court, or anything like that. At one point, we eventually got a letter that said my citation had been dropped,” Steven says, recalling that there was no explanation in the letter as to why. Steven isn’t the only Palo Alto High School student to receive a police citation that later disappeared. Other students have also experienced the shock of receiving citations, as well as later being relieved at opening a letter stating their court date had been dropped. Around the same time as Steven’s police encounter, Timothy, whose name has also been changed, was late to a friend’s birthday party at Club Illusions. Although usually careful about his alcohol intake, Timothy was unaware that the amount he usually drank would affect him different in a shorter time period. In the end, Timothy became intoxicated and >>>

>>> reckless. “I was kicked out of Illusions for basically not being in control of myself and then the police showed up and I was given a citation,” Timothy says. Timothy was turned over to the police because he refused to give his phone number to the Club Illusions authorities —looking back, he realized that if he had, he might not have encountered the police. Either way, Timothy’s parents picked him up, and he received a citation. “I was told I would have a court date and from there what would happen next would be determined,” Timothy says. True to the policeman’s word, about a month later, Timothy received a letter from the court. However, instead of giving a date, the letter notified him that his court date was dropped. Right after the incident, Timothy’s mother, who was shocked by what had happened, called a probation officer to find out what would happen and what she and Timothy should do. The officer told her that because the offense was minor, the court date would probably be dropped. And it was. “Santa Clara County has a lot of people getting in trouble and there are bigger fish they have to go after so they can’t oppress every problem that happened,” Timothy says. “My citation was a minor infraction, which they [the County] often choose to let go, kind of like a warning.” According to a sergeant from the Palo Alto Police Department, the moment a citation is written, the county court takes over. “I don’t know about citations being dropped, but it becomes the court’s decision whether it’s going to be a diversion, whether its going to be counseling or whether its community service,” the sergeant says. “The moment we write the citation, it’s the court system that comes into play. The court may or may not drop a case, or its not a drop per se, but it’s an agreement that they get counseling and have to do community service hour as part of their rehabilitation. In Timothy’s case, the citation was

kept on his record, but he was notified that it would be cleared once he turned 18 with no more problems with the law. Carl Schulhof, the public information officer at the Superior Court of California in Santa Clara County, hopes to clear off some misconceptions about citations. “First of all, if you receive a citation, and the citation itself is a notice to appear [in court], and when you sign the citation, you are promising to appear in court in a certain amount in time.” Schulhof also says how the case load is not a likely cause of a case being dropped. “Cases do not get dropped just because we have a heavy case load,” Schulhof says. “We are committed to handle the case load we have. What typically happens is when we get in the situation where we are backlogged, what happens is certain types of cases get pushed back, in other words, delayed.” Steven and Timothy are lucky to have been part of the rare cases in which court dates have not been dropped. Many other students at Timothy’s same party received citations as well —and while some citations were dropped and the students had the same consequence as Timothy, others were not. These individuals had to follow the normal citation process of appearing in court. When faced with the question of whether they would do their committed crime (or any crime) again, they both had a solid no for an answer. Neither of them would ever want to experience the citation game of chance again. v

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“At one point, we eventually got a letter that said my citation had been dropped.” — anonymous student STEVEN

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Softening the stigma Break Through the Static provides a comfortable, safe environment for the ones left behind Text by CAMILLE COUCHON

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he marshmallows are melting on their sticks and the entertainment has yet to begin. Over 150 students from Paly and Gunn alike are spread about the center, all enjoying smores with a smoky edge. People are sitting on the steps anticipating the promised games and some students are leaning against a Duct Taped brick wall transformed into a makeshift photo booth. Students, all from different backgrounds but who share similar stories, are spread about the center. The Lucie Stern Community Center’s Boy Scout fire pit is hosting a change from its usual scout affairs and, on this warm September night, conveys a supportive message for the ones left behind in the aftermath of suicide. Jade Chamness, the group’s chief spokesperson, takes the stage, gazes out with a smile for a few seconds, and shares her experience. “I was on a youth trip when I was told I had to make a phone call home.“ Chamness says. “It was my grandfather on the line who kept on saying that he loved me,” Chamness says. It was at that moment that she found out her father had taken his own life. Chamness’s experiences were the inspiration for Break Through the Static, a non-profit organization striving to bring support to students dealing with suicide. The mind behind the mission Chamness started the organization with her own life experiences in mind, they became a positive force driving her

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towards success in helping others who have faced similar situations. “I created Break Through the Static to create a global community of teens, mental health professionals, and adults to provide unwavering support to aid young suicide survivors,” Chamness says. “It hit me like a ton of bricks: I was going to create a space for teenagers to talk about what they were going through.” After her father’s death, Chamness felt completely lost. She searched for other high schoolers with similar stories with whom she might be able to share her experiences. “It wasn’t something easy to bring up,” Chamness says. “I didn’t know of other high schoolers affected by suicide.” She turned to grief groups for help, but their aid turned out to be rather unsuccessful in her case. Yet Chamness considers herself lucky in the sense that she had the aid of her friends and family to get her through her dark days. The organization “Many teenagers do not have that opportunity to make themselves heard,” Chamness says. If the needy are heard, it might not be by the ears of a professionally trained helper. Break Through the Static works to create a global community of teens, mental health professionals and adults who would provide support for suicide survivors. Through events and a teen team of advisors Break Through the Static envisions bringing top-notch support to the

students in the Bay Area affected by the death of a peer. The activities After the warmth of the bonfire comes the chill of the upcoming snow trip. Break Through the Static has held many events during the last three years and plans to continue to do so. Many events are for people already involved with the organization but there will also be an art workshop with the theme “what empowers me.” The workshops aim to give students opportunities to do what they love, the art created during the workshops would then later be put up throughout Palo Alto in local restaurants. Break Through the Static highly encourages more people to take part in the organization. This fall season, the organization will be hosting poetry and song workshops which shall be open to all Peninsula high schoolers. In the springtime a ski and snowboard trip is planned for the teens involved with the organization. “Static camp is an overnight camp in a kick-ass location,” Chamness says. The trip, although only open to those already involved with the organization, is for those wishing to join next year. There will be opportunities for all PAUSD students to participate in more retreats in the near future. More information is available on their website, http://breakthroughthestatic.org/ for any students who would be interested in participating. v

Remembering Steve :[\KLU[Z HUK Z[HMM YLÅLJ[ VU [OL SVZZ of Palo Alto’s tech icon Text by KATY ABBOTT and Paly community members Photography by EMILY KELLISON-LINN Layout by EMILY KELLISON-LINN and MAYTAL MARK

MEMORIAL

Children and adults alike stop to reflect at the impromptu memorial that has sprung up outside Jobs’ house

iTrickOrTreated by Katy Abbott

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his year on Oct. 31, the house at 2101 Waverly Street will have a more solemn atmosphere than usual. In years past, all sorts of people waited outside, standing in a line that snaked out of the iron-gated back yard and spilled out into the sidewalk. They dressed in costumes, ready to acquire a stockpile of treats to last them for days.

This house had a reputation for having more than just a doorbell to ring and a basket of assorted candies to choose from. It just so happened that the owner was Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc. and a Silicon Valley celebrity. There isn’t a single Palo Alto High School student who has never used an Apple product at least once. Jobs’ innovations in the technology world had a global impact, and they will continue to

be remembered for their influence. But he was also known in Palo Alto for a certain Octber tradition. With his passing, there will be no more of the excitement of lining up outside and trying to catch a glimpse of the man himself. While Halloween may still happen at the Jobs’ house, it won’t be quite the same as when Jobs was there. Every year he and his wife hired local high school students, some of whom october 2011

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attended Paly, to create a haunted yard replete with cauldrons, gravestones, and slowly oozing fog. Trick or treating at Steve Jobs’ house was an exciting experience for many Paly students. The whole neighborhood is a popular destination, and many of the neighbors received as many visitors as Jobs. However, there was always something to be said for the particularly enticing idea of visiting Jobs’ house,something that turned it into a cherished Palo Alto tradition. The thrill helped people remember that Palo Altans live, in some cases, blocks away from the site where the first Apple computer was unveiled in 1976, and that Silicon Valley is still the place where dreams turn into cutting edge technology. Besides, Jobs didn’t skimp on the decorations. He never passed out candy himself. After all, while the Bay Area boast a leading number of technology celebrities per square, they still like to maintain their privacy. But trick-or-treating at Jobs’ house was never about the candy. It was the experience that made it attractive to visitors. Although the line was notoriously long, stretching out onto the sidewalk, trick-or-treaters still waited. “It just kept going,” senior Amaan Abidi says. But that didn’t stop him, or others, from coming. When junior Mia Polansky visited

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Now someone else will have to fill those Odwalla-bar shoes.

his house two years ago, she was impressed with the way Jobs and his wife tried to appeal to trick-or-treaters. “It was cool how his front yard was transformed into a spooky Halloween world,” Polansky says. She was less impressed by the quality of the candy, and many Paly students shared her lukewarm opinion. Although Jobs gave out lots of treats, he was not known for choosing classic Halloween candies. “There was a lot of healthy stuff,” junior Daniel Fischer said. Students remember reaching in to look at their candy, expecting to find Hersheys and Snickers, and instead coming up with what some saw as the more expensive but considerably less exciting Odwalla bars. Now someone else will have to fill those Odwalla-bar shoes. Apple Inc. will be a different company after Jobs’ death. But it’s not the only thing that will change as a result. People will still probably trick-or-treat at his house this year. But it will be a more somber experience, marked by the knowledge that the world has lost an influential man. Now that he is gone, all that is left are the memories of those exciting Halloween nights, of coming through the gate and wondering what he might give out. Jobs had a big impact on Palo Alto. He will be missed this year, on Halloween at 2101 Waverly Street. v

9LÅLJ[PVUZ shared by Paly community members

Over the past 27 years, I’ve probably spent more Out for a walk time with Mac than with my husband. Tom still has two years on Mac (we were marone morning last year, my mom came ried in 1982) but he’s never accompanied me to work. I first met Mac in the fall of 1984 just prior to the blockbuster Super Bowl commercial that introduced him to the world. A friend from high school is a sales executive with Apple and brought Mac over for a clandestine meet and greet. At first I wasn’t impressed. Mac’s boxy body and dull pallor belied his agile nature, so when he emerged from his protective cloak I joked, “Does he at least have a good personality?” “Just wait,” my friend said and poked him in the back. Mac lit up, smiled, and so began the seduction. When I first heard about Steve Jobs’ death I tried to call my husband. He wasn’t available. I turned to Mac. We’ve been processing the news together ever since.

When I graduate

— librarian RACHEL KELLERMAN

It’s a sad day when the world loses an icon. Many people

feel the loss somewhere inside them. But it’s a sadder day when the world looses a good man. It’s been over a decade since I first met Steve Jobs. He was a man who kept to himself, but that’s to be expected in his position. What was most important in my eyes was that he kept his family closer than his work. He raised his kids right, and with pride. He treated anyone he met as his equal, and he will forever be a good man, before an icon, in my eyes. Rest in peace, Steve. — junior PAUL STEFANSKI

across a small pug wandering along Santa Rita Avenue. After enticing the dog to come closer, she called the number on the tag, but the person on the other end of the line wasn’t allowed to disclose the owner’s name or address. My mom vaguely remembered seeing the pug through the Jobs’ back gate before, so she asked if the owner was Steve Jobs. When they refused to answer, she gave them his wife’s name, which they subtly confirmed. Unable to contact the family, my mom simply led the dog back to the house, and put her safely inside the gate. A couple months later, we came across their dog a second time and led her back home. Although we never heard from the family, we figured that ours was just a small good deed in return for the many ways in which Steve Jobs has made our Palo Altan lives easier.

this spring, I will be headed into a world of recession where the politicians that are supposed to be my leaders cannot solve basic problems and cannot get along, and a world that is projected to have over 7 billion people on a planet which will be unable to support them. Albert Einstein once said, “No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it.” Steve Jobs gave me faith that at least one of the —senior MADELINE KAU adults who ran my world was attempting that higher level of consciousness. And on the sidewalk outside his house next to, “Palo Alto loves you,” and “Steve, you made our lives easier,” I wrote:

“Thank you. You have inspired me.” —senior SUZANNA ACKROYD october 2011

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photography by SAVANNAH CORDOVA

PERSPECTIVES TRYING TO UNDERSTAND LET THE TRUTH BE IN CONTROL THE UGLIEST WORD 46

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Trying to understand

Making sense of the American reaction to 9/11 Text by CHRISTINA CHEN Art and Layout by SPENCER CARLSON

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eptember 11, 2001 was a regular day for me, a six-year-old in Beijing, China. I do remember seeing towers collapsing on TV and thought it looked kind of cool, just like special effects in a movie. As a kid growing up in a world where disaster seemed to happen on news everyday and being separated from the events by an ocean, I really didn’t understand what the huge fuss was about. When I moved to the United States when I was 8, I was taken aback when on 9/11, everyone in my class remembered the date as something especially significant. It wasn’t until last year that I finally caught a glimpse into just how much this meant to the United States. The pure elation at Bin Laden’s death, the strong patriotic sentiments, the memorials over lost ones, and the amount of fear that gripped America for the past decade was terrifying, as well as awe-inspiring. When I spoke against cheering for Bin Laden’s death in class in our fairly liberal community, I was struck by the amount of dissent that I heard. For a country that takes advantage of its freedom of speech to criticize the government every chance it gets, I was thoroughly confused at the sudden patriotism and uniformity. It made me feel that perhaps there was something more to 9/11 than just the two towers collapsing, something more symbolic and emotional, something that struck at the hearts of millions of people. I wanted to sympathize, I really did. But I felt, not being an American citizen, I was left out of something, and could not understand. To me, it was just another disaster, just

another one that didn’t kill nearly as many people as the Iraq and Afghanistan wars did. Just another event that didn’t warrant the response it received: the lives lost in the war on terrorism, the discrimination against Muslims, and the increased security that took away so many civil liberties that I was taught, in an American school, that was sacred and unalienable. Yet last week in journalism class, I finally felt, even for a moment, that I understood. We were watching a video about photojournalism during 9/11, and one picture, with the flag flying over the rubbles, struck something within me and brought me almost to tears like the detached footage of the airplanes crashing into the building never did. It spoke on a symbolic level, of a hope in the midst of destruction. That’s when, for me, it all came together: that man who jumped out of the building, the smokes covering the faces of the victims, the firefighters and journalists charging into the dangerous area...They were all human, and someone must have loved them. This picture of hope was so beautiful, so universally emotional, that I, for a moment, understood why the nation came together afterwards as it did. But along with this sudden understanding came a million of other questions. Images of the broken homes of Afghanistan, the rows upon rows of coffins draped with American flags, and the pure despair of that little Iraqi girl crying as her parents were shot ac-

cidentally surfaced in my mind. Despite everything that happened that September day, I still cannot understand why we had to go to Iraq and Afghanistan to fight something as abstract as terror. The link between Iraq and the attacks was not clear to begin with, and is waging a losing war in Afghanistan really worth the lives lost in the process? As other nations die by diseases, by famine, by political struggles, we die by fear of an almost intangible war and suspicion of those around us. Why do we fear so much that we are willing to kill other people, to suspect our neighbors, and to send our own citizens to die just to reach for that ideal sense of security that can never truly be achieved? Haven’t the innocent lives lost in the Salem Witch Trials, the treatment of loyal citizens of Japanese descent in World War II, and the now laughable hysteria during the Red Scare taught us that, as Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself ”? And by letting ourselves to succumb to this fear, haven’t they won? I have received an American education. I have embraced the ideals of this country: freedom, equality, democracy. But there are some things that I still do not understand. I cannot help but feel that America is contradicting itself. I just don’t understand. I feel that even all the suffering from that day 10 years from today was not justification enough for our response. Am I right? Or is it because of the fact that I am not an American citizen that I feel this way? Please, America, tell me. v

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Let the truth be in control

Why students take birth control for all the wrong reasons

Text by HALEY FARMER Art by DIANA CONNOLLY

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magine just getting home from school, walking through the front door and being questioned about my motives for potentially taking birth control. My mother, as well as many other parents, had heard their children talking about the pill and had wrongly assumed there was only one reason to do so; sex. As my sophomore year quickly came to an end, no part of me was satisfied with my appearance. I, like many other students, had a hard time accepting the acne on my face, along with my body type. I had heard that in addition to preventing pregnancy, the pill could help clear up acne. After talking with my doctor, friends, and others I knew who were taking the pill, I came to the conclusion that there was no need to start taking any form of birth control. I wasn’t sexually active. According to Planned Parenthood, I’m not the only one who has thought about taking the birth control pill. Let’s say you are considering becoming sexually active. You should at least find one form of birth control that suits you. Before choosing a type of birth control, it is important to know all of the facts and possible side effects. Planned Parenthood researchers say that beyond birth control’s primary function, about seven million American women use birth control for improving their appearance or relieving cramps. There are many types of birth control including the patch, the pill, and two types of condoms, which can be used by either men or women. The more familiar of the two condoms is for men, but there is also a condom for women. The only real difference between the two condoms is the size and where they are placed. The birth control patch is placed somewhere on the body, once a week for

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three weeks. The birth control pill is taken once a day for a month, besides the original week of your cycle. Many doctors also prescribe this pill for reasons other than preventing pregnancy. Dr. George Penn agrees that the pill can have many affects other than regulating the menstrual cycle. “The pill has many potential side effects such as weight gain, skin nourishment, regulating the menstrual cycle and memory alteration,” says pediatrician George Penn of Monterey Peninsula. “If you are sexually active, birth control is something to consider [and you should be] especially aware of all [the] possibilities when taken,” junior Yana Gagloeva says. “The safer you are, the more likely you are [to prevent] yourself from having any downfalls. Sex is the same with or without a condom. There is no reason not to play on the safe side.” The thought of birth control has most likely crossed the majority of teen minds. There are definitely a few reasons why one should take a form of birth control even if not sexually active. However, if you don’t want to take the pill, there are other pills and vitamins that have the same positive Both Vitamin C and E are beneficial to give skin a

natural glow and exfoliation. For cramps, taking a strong dosage of ibuprofen or advil can get rid of any major pain. One of many who is familiar with the beneficial side effects points out, “Taking birth control limited my pain,” junior Samantha Breaux says. High school is when many begin to have sexual experience and birth control should play a lead role in the decision process. Now informed of the side effects, the answer is laid out for you. Unless you are sexually active, there is no reason to take the pill. Although the side affects may help nourish skin or get rid of pain, you shouldn’t be taking a drug for all the wrong reasons. v

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The ugliest word Why calling someone a slut is worse than you think Text and visuals by SAVANNAH CORDOVA

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n this day and age, political correctness is almost impossible to achieve. There’s such a range of potentially offensive subjects that it’s usually easiest to avoid bringing up controversies altogether. However, when an important issue is so rarely discussed that the general public has no idea it exists, it’s safe to say the time has come to shed some light on the matter. Slut-shaming is a prime example of this. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, slut-shaming is the act of verbally attacking or belittling someone for acting sexy. This can include dressing a specific way, engaging frequently in relationships with multiple people, or simply acknowledging sexual feelings.

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Let’s take a second to consider the aforementioned activities in the context of Palo Alto High School. When was the last time you saw a girl wearing short shorts or a top that exposed her stomach? Think back to that, and try to remember what went through your head. Did you admire her confidence or did you mentally scoff at her for looking like such a whore? Did you come to the conclusion that she was bold and beautiful or did you automatically condemn her as a stupid bimbo? Calling somebody a slut in a derogatory way is judgmental, hurtful, and trivializing to the ideals of feminism. Using a word like “slut” to describe a person implies that she’s inferior because of her

sexuality, similar to calling someone a slur for being part of the LGBT community (although that’s different in that it’s a case of identity and not behavior). This is because we already associate so many detrimental qualities with it. “Slut” brings to mind a woman who’s worthless in terms of her personality or mind, a woman who sleazes her way through life because she has no other options. Devoid of all connotations, however, the dictionary definition of the word slut is anyone with a number of sexual partners — which is why it’s so strange to me that it can be twisted and used to put down women so effectively. It’s long been recognized that there’s a double standard concerning the sexual

conduct of men and women, but for the most part people pass it off as an amusing fact of life. Did you know, though, that the Encyclopedia Britannica entry for “promiscuity” incorporates ten times more words for sexually active women than sexually active men? And that while the names for men range from “stud” to “Romeo,” almost every single one of the over 200 words for women is demeaning? Society raises us to believe that women who are comfortable with their sexuality are bad, wrong, or immoral in some way, and that kind of attitude just doesn’t belong in the twenty-first century. Some of you may be aware of the ongoing movement to reclaim the word slut. People have been participating since April of this year in a phenomenon called SlutWalk, during which protestors march and hold up picket signs with slogans like

“It’s my body, I’ll do what I want with it!” Sonya Barnett and Heather Jarvis organized the first SlutWalk in Toronto, Canada in retaliation to a remark made during a safety seminar at York University. The commentator in question was police officer Michael Sanguinetti, who said regarding occurrences of rape that “women should avoid dressing like sluts in order not to be victimized.” This, of course, is a clear instance of slut-shaming because such a proclamation suggests that women who wear a certain type of clothing do in fact deserve to be raped. It’s like saying people who use stoves deserve to burn themselves, or that people who walk around deserve to have their legs broken. In my opinion, slutshaming is the worst tendency you can indulge in due to the fact that if you call a girl a slut, 99 out of 100 people aren’t going to call you out on it. It may be a

little known fact, but it’s still a fact. And as long as it’s a negative term employed by the masses to look down upon women, the word “slut” will continue to frustrate me. I admit that slut-shaming, as one of the more unfortunate products of our culture, will most likely be around for awhile before it dissipates. But just because we’re high school students doesn’t mean we can’t be influential members of society. We can decide what we want to change about the way we conduct ourselves and how our actions are perceived. So the next time you see a girl in a revealing outfit, or who’s just broken up with her fourth boyfriend in a month, at least try to swallow your instincts. Give her a compliment instead of insulting her behind her back. Because, no matter the circumstances, nobody deserves to be called the ugliest word. v

*

* According to a Verde survey of 380 students, male seniors are the most likely group to wear provocative costumes on Halloween, with more than 50 percent voting yes. However, in every other grade females were more likely to dress provocatively. Clearly anonymity brings out the honesty in all of us.

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DRUM LESSONS

Roger Kidd 650.450.3469 rogkidd@gmail.com

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CULTURE

IS LINUX THE FIX? POTTERMORE FOR THE POTTERLESS THE WATCH MUCH ADO ABOUT A DO EATING ON THE EDGE LET YELLOW SUBMARINES BE EIGHT DAYS A WEEK SIX SILLY FILLIES HORSING AROUND

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0Z 3PU\_ [OL Ä_& The advantages of Linux and open-source programs Text by BENJAMIN MAY Art by DIANA CONNOLLY and BENJAMIN MAY

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or most of us, a computer is pretty simple: a button turns it on, and from there, we just use the computer. It’s like magic. But let’s say you want something different. Let’s say you don’t want “the blue screen of death,” a wellknown sign of a Windows system failure. Move over, Microsoft and Apple, it’s time for Tux the Penguin. Who is Tux the Penguin? He is the mascot for Linux, an operating system based on open-source software created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. Open-source software, unlike the closed-source software of Microsoft or Apple, allows the user to study, change, and distribute software for free. Examples of open-source software include web browsers Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, word processor OpenOffice, and image editor GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program). Linux comes in a wide selection of variations, called distributions. A distribution is based on the original Linux code, but has been changed to appeal to a specific demographic, such as a desktop user or a computer programmer. Linux is based on the same original operating system as the Macintosh operating system: Unix. Unix is a stable operating system, so Linux can run on many computer servers, and is used on the top 10 supercomputers of the world. According to IBM, one of the largest supercomputers in the world is Watson, a immense database of information that was also used in a Jeopardy! series. According to Novell, a prominent computer software company, Watson is running SUSE, a German acronym for Computer and Software Development, which is a distribution for Linux. Open-source software is abundant

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for Linux users. Almost every commonly used program on a Mac or PC has a Linux equivalent and almost all of the programs are free, such as email client Thunderbird, instant messaging system Kopete, and video-editing program Cinelerra. Although Linux is a strong and capable system, gamers will find little substance in Linux. Linux has a very limited selection of games, and most those games are low quality. The user interface may be confusing for some users as well, mostly because the user interface is very different from Windows or Mac OS. However, there are Linux systems with simpler user interfaces, such as Ubuntu.

If there is a program that Linux cannot replace, computer users have the option of using their current computer to dual-boot -- that is, running two operating systems at the same time, so gamers can keep their favorite games on their computer. Another option is using a “virtual computer,” like VirtualBox. A virtual computer creates an emulation of an operating system, while being in a different operating system. (Virtual computers run like a traditional program.) Either option allows the user to keep his or her favorite Mac or PC applications on a Linux computer. Linux also simplifies the process

FIREFOX Mozilla Corporation-created Firefox is available on all three major operating systems. Mozilla Firefox is an opensource program, like Linux. Firefox is the usual default internet browser on Linux systems. of downloading new programs, with a “package manager� that will download any existing software that users want, with one click. Windows users have to download the programs from the internet, exposing the computer to malicious viruses. One of the best parts about opensource software is that there is an active community of users behind it. On the Internet, actual users and developers are available to help other users with problems and questions. And, for those who like to talk to someone, some distributions offer telephone support, such as RedHat, a basic and reliable system where users can subscribe for customer support. According to studies by the National Security Agency, running Linux can dramatically reduce the risk of getting a computer virus, as it is an extremely secure system. (The NSA has also worked with Linux to create Security-Enhanced Linux, or SELinux.) In the active Linux community, many users continue tweak-

ing the code as their hobby. As a result, distributions stay very up-to-date and make sure that Linux users are protected. Linux is a good choice for college and high school students. Its stable operating system protects a computer from viruses better than a Windows computer, and it is a free upgrade rather than spending $30 on OS X Lion or at least $120 for Microsoft 7. Linux already has all the programs a student needs on his or her computer, just like Windows or Mac OS.

If you are interested in Linux, you can search around to find a distribution to fit your needs. I recommend Ubuntu, since it is the most popular distribution, completely free, and has its newest operating system, Oneiric Ocelot, coming out Oct. 13. If you are not sure if you want to run Linux, try using a Live CD as a trial, which does not permanently affect your computer. If it is free, what is there to lose? v

Only 5% of Paly students use Linux on their primary computer. Of this, about half are girls and about half are boys. Source: an October 2011 Verde survey of students of all grades from 16 English classes october 2011

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[ CULTURE ]

Pottermore for the Potterless What to expect when you log on Text by SAVANNAH CORDOVA Art by BENJAMIN MAY

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ven if you’re not a fan of the boy wizard himself, you’re bound to have heard about Pottermore, a “unique online Harry Potter experience” spearheaded by author J.K. Rowling. The site opened to the general public this month, and has been so fiercely anticipated that some people have indeed felt some degree of disappointment with it — but Pottermore’s spectacular graphics and interactive presentation make it worth at least a couple hours of your time. For those who haven’t gone through the process firsthand, Pottermore works like this: you receive a welcome email and head straight to the URL, all business. You’ll have been issued a username (two respectably Potter-related words, plus a number) and as soon as you log in, you’re greeted by an elaborate homepage complete with Flash animation. You have no possessions, no friends, no identity at all just yet; your slate’s completely blank. Pottermore is structured so that your first priority is making your way through the series as more and more of the books become available for exploration. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is currently the only installment released on the site, but it’s highly detailed and carefully laid out, with surprises everywhere. As soon as you enter the site you come upon the very first chapter of the very first book, entitled “The Boy Who Lived.” You see an overcast sky, a tabby cat, and a sign that indicates you’re looking down Privet Drive. What’s this? The sign is glowing? You click on it, curious as you are, and bada bing bada boom! You’ve unlocked exclusive material from J.K. Rowling! This is only the first of many bonus features built into the site, more of which you’ll discover along the way. Things don’t really start getting interesting until chapter five, when you have to

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find your list of school supplies and visit Gringotts to receive your magical money, then go shopping for everything from a cauldron to a pet. Naturally you’ll need a wand, and where else would you go but Ollivander’s shop? He gives you a brief quiz and then select the perfect combination of elements for you. This method of selection is similar to the Sorting Hat’s — and both consist of questionnaires writ-

PHOTO! FUN STUFF This photo shows this. It is an awesome picture, you should read the article to find out more about it

ten by J.K. Rowling herself, so don’t worry about your results being legitimate. You learn charms and Quidditch and how to take care of baby dragons. You discover Fluffy and the Mirror of Erised and come upon the penultimate chapter to encounter Voldemort. You wake up with Harry in the hospital wing and go to the end-of-year feast and finally your first year at Hogwarts will be finished. And without even intending to you’ve collected Chocolate Frog cards and potion ingredients and you’re all set to strike out on your own. The toolbar at the top of the page serves as yout guide to different parts of the site, from visiting the Great Hall to

checking on the house rankings to looking at your “Favourites” page, which encompasses information about all the characters, creatures, and settings you love. Return to your profile at any time by clicking on the crest in the middle of the screen, and from there you can view your wand, your friends, and your notifications, which will accumulate as you spend more time on the site. At this point you may find that after the exhilaration of encountering everything in the first book right alongside Harry, just sitting around waiting for the next one is a bit, well, boring. You can brew potions and participate in duels for house points, but for some people that can get repetitive. You can send gifts to the friends you make, but the only way to connect with them is through an external social network, since Pottermore provides no user-to-user messaging service. There’s also the matter of customizing your own profile, for which your options are limited at best. And some might just be irritated by the occasional lagging of the servers, or the fact that some of the shops in Diagon Alley stay locked even after you’ve gone through the entire first book for the umpteenth time. Yet for those who are optimistic and easygoing (sorry, Slytherins), the turn of events following the completion of book one is nothing to get upset about. You’ve had an experience that’s been literally magical, and so long as there’s more forthcoming, why worry? So you’ll keep checking back on the site —not every day or even week, just enough to stay updated. And you’ll wait contentedly for the next part of your Pottermore adventure, but by no means should you let it distract you from your day-to-day life. After all, as Albus Dumbledore said, it does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live. v

THE WATCH THE TERRIFIC, THE HORRIFIC AND THE JUST PLAIN AWFUL HALT, IT’S HALLOWEEN TERRIFYINGLY TASTY TREATS

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Compiled by CAROLINE EBINGER Art by DIANA CONNOLLY

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[ THE WATCH ]

;OL [LYYPÄJ [OL OVYYPÄJ and the just plain awful Scary movies that should be seen by all Text by ANA CARANO Art by DIANA CONNOLLY

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othing calls for a scary movie like Halloween does — it’s the perfect occasion for nightmares, and everyone needs costume inspiration. However, according to a Verde survey of 16 classes, many of Paly’s most popular horror films are conventional movies like “The Ring”. For those who are not in the mood to watch “Silence of the Lambs” for the fiftieth time or for those who already know the ending to “The Sixth Sense”, here is a list of scary movies you probably haven’t seen, but definitely should.

SHAUN OF THE DEAD

Anglophilia makes sense sometimes; the British create things that are effortlessly well done, from “Skins” to scones. “Shaun of the Dead” is another feather in the cap of our mother nation. Shaun (Simon Pegg) is an aimless slob turned hero who tries to protect his friends and ex-girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) from a zombie outbreak plaguing London. The film remains relentlessly clever in its use of situational humor, from the mundane scenes of Shaun’s job amongst snarky teenagers in a Best Buy-like company to his unconventional battle tactics, which range from chucking record albums at the zombies to hitting a zombie in sync with a random Queen love song playing on the jukebox. His attempts to show Liz that he can change give the film a strong emotional center. Another good bite of this film is its second layer — Wright finds ways to compare day-to-day humanity with zombies, from the opening sequence to the subtle way the population shifts. Evidently, we are more like zombies than we know. Such naunces, rare in any horror movie, add depth to Wright’s wit.

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PSYCHO

It’s old. There is no color. Only one scene involves blood. But that doesn’t mean “Psycho” isn’t terrifying. This is nothing unexpected from director Alfred Hitchcock, the king and creator of horror movies, and master of the psychological thriller; he is also known for “Rear Window” and “Vertigo.” Psycho is a simple story — a woman ( Janet Leigh) disappears in a motel, and it is impossible to tell who could have killed her. Some of the movie’s excellence lies in this mystery, since the only suspect doesn’t exist, making the killer’s identity inherently shocking. The mystery also makes the story more complex than the normal slasher film — the real culprit’s identity is anything but straightforward, and delves into interesting psychological territory. The best of the best, Psycho remains Hitchcock’s most praised work, and in 2007 the American Film Association ranked it as the 14th best film in the past 100 years. The movie, although over-dramatic, succeeds mostly because of Hitchcock’s bone-chilling filmmaking techniques. Even the first scene, which in most horror movies would be “the calm before the storm,” creates suspense with shadowy lighting and strangely stilted dialogue. And although there aren’t many action scenes, mundane scenes are as powerful as the violent ones due to Hitchcock’s masterful use of chilling instrumentals, one of the key aspects of any horror film . Intense enough to rival any movie made today, “Psycho” should be watched by all.

THE BLOB

The 1958 original version of “The Blob” is the perfect film for those excited by “Psycho”’s vintage feel but not its quality. This movie has a superlatively ludicrous plot: two high school students (Steve McQueen and Aneta Corsaut) discover that a blob from space has begun to absorb human victims. The clear non-scariness is made more entertaining by the ‘50s flair throughout the movie which begins from the misplaced theme song, a poppy hit that makes one think of the “Brady Bunch” more than the “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”. Also, because of the poorly done CGI, everyone is afraid of what resembles strawberry Jell-O (although the monster looks more alive than the dialogue sounds). Besides, who can resist a movie that, according to the trailer, stars a cast of “exciting young people” even if they’re flatly portrayed? Although the movie fails on a technical and emotional level, it offers a treat for those who just like being critical and is a classic in the “so-bad-it’s-good” genre. If the plot seems intriguing but the era is discouraging, a similarly campy 1988 version (with better special effects) exists.

LET ME IN

Even the pretentious celebrate Halloween, and this demographic has found cinematic nirvana in the vampire film “Let Me In.” It looks the part, with its use of muddy colors and shaky filming. It sounds the part, as no one enunciates. It even has ‘street cred’, since it originates from the critically acclaimed but esoteric German film “Let the Right One In”. The plot, diverging completely from the usual vampire film, focuses on Owen (Kodi Smit Mc-Phee), a bullied, elfin-looking boy who befriends a young girl named Abby (Chloe Moretz). Unfortunately, Abby is sinister beneath her wan smile and blonde hair: she’s a vampire, protected by her caretaker (Richard Jenkins) who kills others for her. The high-mindedness of the film makes it compelling; everything is either a dark blue or muddy brown, mirroring similarly dark concepts. The filmmaker also jars the viewer by focusing on the not-quite-important things, from the snow next to a Rubik’s Cube to the medical equipment surrounding a patient. Such atmosphere and the characterization make everything and everyone seem sinister. Also, it’s legitimately terrifying. People get killed, bloodily so, and its even worse when a bit of you roots for the person on the side of the murderer. The film is another example of the importance of psychological depths: the film is intentionally uneasy with the idea of good vs. evil, as the bullies are as brutal as Abby is. “Let Me In” is a movie equal parts cerebral and horrifying; obscure and complex enough to be an indie film, it is still worth a view from a more mainstream set. v

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/HS[ P[»Z /HSSV^LLU Make the best out of this years favorite spooky holiday Text and Photography by HALEY FARMER

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any are familiar with the holiday that spooks up around Autumn. The majority of the Paly population celebrates Halloween in multiple ways, including dressing up, decorating and even carving pumpkins. It’s about time to spice up the Halloween haunt with new ideas and exciting ways to spend it this year.

CELEBRATE

Getting together with friends and family during any holiday is always an option. Making a “boo-tiful” cake or an “I scream” sandwich is a clever way to get in the spooky mood.

LIVIN UP THE PARTY

Parties are a great way to celebrate the Holidays. Making unique food or mixing special drinks to start are great ways to keep the spirit alive. Stocking up on Halloween treats and decorations from the closest Costco or Safeway is a perfect way to attract guests.

TRICK-OR-TREAT

Roaming from place to place holding onto a bucket full of candy, trick-or-treating is not the only option. If you’re in the need for extra decorating tips or stylish ideas, try visiting the Hgtv website. But if creating treats or baking a creepy cake is for you, it’s a perfect way to spend the Holiday, instead.

GIMME SOMETHIN’ GOOD TO EAT

Although high school students are not usually found ringing doorbells dressed in costume on this night, in some cases it can be a sight to be seen. Old Palo Alto, located between Embarcadero Road and Oregon Expressway is known to put up plentiful decor and pass out a wide selection of candy.

DRESSIN’ UP

Many students find dressing is a fun way to get into the Halloween spirit. Luckily, there are a several stores around Palo Alto that sell clothing and costumes that are acceptable in the Halloween extravaganza.

ATTRACTIONS

Who doesn’t enjoy running through a home-made haunted house or admiring a Boo-ed up door? Halloween is one of those holidays where more is less when it comes to decorating. There is never too much. When in the midst of decorating, put up a fake Frankenstein or mummy from Diddams to attract neighbors. Create your own cobweb with extra cotton balls laying around the house and hairspray to place around the doorway along with a creepy spider. Haunted houses are also a big tradition when looking for nogood or something of the spirit to get into.

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SPIRIT

This convenient costume store is located on University Avenue in downtown Palo Alto. Spirit stocks up on the latest Halloween costumes, indoor and outdoor decor, candy, and even crafty projects. Although Spirit’s pricing is easier on the wallet, and has a wider selection than most costume stores. However, it lacks the selection of outdoor decorations that other stores may have.

PUMPKINS GALORE

Locally grown pumpkins give a feel for what Autumn brings us every year

MAKE-YOUR-OWN

If you enjoy piecing together your own costume rather than purchasing a packaged one, stores such as American Apparel or Target can help create your perfect look.

HOUSE OF HUMOR

Another Halloween costume and decoration store located on El Camino in Redwood City that has a more extensive selection.

HALLOWEEN TREATS

Passing out candy at the doorstep can be another way to satisfy Halloween cravings. Creating your own treats for the holidays are a great way to spread the spookiness with those around you. There are tons of new ways to make your own tasty bat-looking cupcakes or a blackcat-cake from either Pillsbury.com or the Betty Crocker website.

GETTING IN SPIRIT

Whether carving pumpkins is something to do individually, with friends or with family, it is known as the perfect decor for this widely celebrated holiday. Carving pumpkins and decorating one’s front lawn tends to be a largely celebrated tradition throughout the Paly community. If a stencil or carving tool is needed to carve the perfect pumpkin, Target and squidoo.com sells great carving tools.

HAUNTED HOUSE

Getting in the spirit by putting together your own haunted house is a great way to attract the neighborhood trick-or-treaters. Purchasing a fake coffin at Target or Costco and making a friend hide inside to scare people as they are walking along would is a great way to get create the perfect haunted house. Just add frightening music, available on iTunes by searching “Halloween music”, dark decor, and creepy textures to the mix to further enhance your haunted house.

THEME PARK

Towards the end of October, as Halloween grows close and all Autumn leaves have fallen, theme parks are known to decorate for the frightening Holiday. The closest decorative theme park to Paly would be Great America.

GREAT AMERICA

Every year around Halloween Great America is known to turn the entire park into one big haunted house, setting up and making everything Halloween themed, including the rides. Walking around to each ride, there are frightening zombies and scary objects. In place of the usual bumper cars or merry-go’roud. If Halloween themed adventures and spooky mummies seem interesting, attend this years halting Halloween themed park and enjoy a frightful night. v october 2011

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Terrifyingly tasty treats

Nearby shops offer delicious goodies this season Text and Photography by EMILY HAIN

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ressing up as witches and ghosts, cloaking houses in cobwebs and skeletons, and, most importantly, collecting candy, are great joys kids look forward to every Halloween. The overwhelming excitement that October brings, though, does not last for many years because the desire to go trick-or-treating often fades as kids get older. However, their addiction to sweet treats remains, and with Halloween approaching shortly, many shops are bringing out special holiday goodies that Palo Alto High School students can use to satisfy their sugar cravings. For those teens who choose not to participate fully in the Halloween spirit, but still desire a sprinkling of it, these tasty desserts are a delightful way to still enjoy the holiday. Below are some of the delectable treats appearing in local stores this Halloween season.

CUPCAKES SPRINKLES CUPCAKES

The October flavor of Sprinkles Cupcakes is a spiced apple cake topped with a buttery caramel cream cheese frosting. They are also showcasing an assortment of other cupcakes garnished with ghost and BOO sugar decorations. Purchase a cupcake at Sprinkles on Halloween, and they will also seal your box with a spooky BOO sticker.

KARA’S CUPCAKES

Town and Country Village’s Kara’s Cupcakes is serving a seasonal pumpkin spice cupcake with cream frosting and all their other usual flavors, but with seasonal fondant decorations, such as cats and ghosts.

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ICE CREAM

FROZEN YOGURT

BASKIN ROBBINS

YOGURTLAND

Those who are not a fan of pumpkin treats can head to Baskin Robbins and try the sweet flavor of the month known as Trick-Oreo-Treat. This dessert consists of vanilla ice cream loaded with bits of orange-cream-filled Oreo cookies, Baby Ruths and Nestle Butterfingers. Eat this sweet, creamy flavor and enjoy the taste of Halloween candy normally obtained by trick or treating in a unique way.

RICK’S RATHER RICH

Rick’s Rather Rich Ice Cream is serving pumpkin ice cream. The rich pumpkin is smooth, creamy and full of nutmeg flavor. In addition to cupcakes, Rick’s is also selling orange and black cupcakes.

COFFEE SHOPS STARBUCKS

Enjoy a pumpkin spice latte as well as a salted caramel mocha or hot chocolate at Starbucks. Other seasonal items include pumpkin bread, pumpkin cream cheese muffins, and pumpkin scones.

PEET’S COFFEE AND TEA

This fall, Peet’s is promoting their cinnamon gingerbread and rich pumpkin spice lattes. The pumpkin spice latte in particular has a smooth autumn and coffee flavor and is topped with a layer of light, delicate foam. The complex taste of the various spices remains in your mouth after each sip.

Yogurtland is offering a pumpkin pie flavor. It has a yogurty taste with a subtle hint of pumpkin flavor.

FRAICHE

Fraiche is serving pumpkin frozen yogurt on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in October. It has an authentic pumpkin essence, but is light on spices.

CULTURE

If you have a craving for pumpkin-flavored frozen yogurt that is light and fresh, Culture is the place to go. Their seasonal flavor has a subtle-yet-smooth taste with a pleasant array of spices that melts in your mouth.

CHOCOLATES SEE’S CANDIES

A variety of items, from pumpkin spice lollipops to orange and chocolates wafers to sour bat gummies, can be purchased at See’s Candies. If you need a special seasonal gift to send to a friend, See’s sells Halloween gift boxes packed with an array of seasonal goodies inside. The haunted house box in particular consists of a collection of chocolates, and lollipops.

TEUSCHER CHOCOLATES

Milk and dark chocolate bats and jack-o-lanterns can be acquired at Teuscher Chocolates, as well as decorative truffle boxes, containing ghost, pumpkin and witch truffles, which are

TEUSCHER CHOCOLATES A variety of truffle boxes are displayed at Teuscher Chocolates.

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[ PHOTO ESSAY ]

Much Ado

About a Do Look out for these fresh new hairstyles on campus

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Text and Photography by CHARU SRIVASTAVA

erde has spotted students sporting all kinds of trendy hairstyles. Last summer brought out everyone’s creative streak, with feathers and pink highlights taking center stage. While some prefer to keep their hair simple, others experiment with more expressive styles. Check out some of these stylish do’s and get inspired to start a new hair trend. v

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ABOVE: Freshman Alyssa Takahashi shows off her bleached tips. TOP RIGHT: Sophmores Emma Abed and Julianne Le wear colorful beanie hats. RIGHT: Senior Lucas Brooks rocks dreadlocks. BELOW: Senior Ben Briskin’s wild hair is an attention-grabber. BOTTOM LEFT: Senior Engels Palabrica experiments with a wacky orange hairstyle. FAR LEFT: Senior Bella Hernandez’s hairstyle consists of bright pink hair with a half-shaved head. TOP LEFT: English teacher Sima Thomas sports a feather in her hair. LEFT: Senior Camille Hakansson’s bright pink streaks highlight her brown hair.

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Eating on the edge Gourmet gathering breaks the food truck stereotype Text and Photography by JACQUELINE WOO

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mid the rumble of owners setting up their food trucks is the sound of joyful chatter and children running around. Families wave at one another. A young girl runs up to a truck labeled “Twisted Chill” with a dollar flapping in her hand. She holds it up to the vendor, who asks, “Would you like some yogurt?” “Yes,” she replies, “but I only have a dollar.” The vendor just laughs as the girl looks longingly at the frozen yogurt machine. “Well, today you’re my lucky customer, so you get a free cup of yogurt,” he says. >>>

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>>> This frozen yogurt vendor is part of what makes Edgewood Eats, a weekly food truck gathering in Palo Alto’s Edgewood Plaza, special. Food trucks are typically associated with common street food, like the hot

the trucks are required to donate at least five percent of their profits to a charitable organization. Palo Alto resident Susie Hwang first started Edgewood Eats on Sept. 13, 2010, according to an August 2010 Palo Alto

“There are a lot of interesting trucks like [one] that makes burritos with Korean food inside.” — senior BEN LIN dogs sold at the busy crosswalks of New York City and San Francisco. However, right here in Palo Alto, up to a dozen local vedors gather weekly in the Edgewood Plaza parking lot to break the food truck stereotype by serving a variety of gourmet options. The inviting ambiance and gourmet food lures families from all over the Bay Area. At around 4:45pm every Monday, numerous trucks circle around Edgewood Plaza and park in the middle of the Parking lot. “Being in Palo Alto, it’s hard to get access to food trucks,” says Brandon, a Palo Alto resident waiting in line for food. “The fact that they have a central location for it makes it easier. They have a pretty good selection.” The line-ups for each week are posted in advance on the fan page. Although the line-up of the food trucks varies every week, there are a few regulars, including Armadillo Willy’s, which serves barbecue and ribs, and Twisted Chill, which services frozen yogurt. According to the Edgewood Eats Facebook page, which already has nearly 4,000 likes, a few of the companies that participate include BBQ Kalbi, MoBowl, Butterscotch on the Go, House of Siam, and John’s Ice Cream. On the Facebook page’s wall, Edgewood attendees rave about Chairman Bao’s steamed pork buns and Cabana Dave’s jerk wraps. At the same time, the Facebook event page also reports that

Online article. After talking to the Sand Hill Property Realtors, Hwang made use of Sand Hill Property’s abandoned Edgewood Shopping Plaza Parking lot with a vision to create a new kind of community. The large turnout and enthusiasm has encouraged Hwang to continue organizing and supporting the Eats every week. In September, Edgewood Eats runs every Monday evening from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., though during the winter months, the event will run only once a month. According to Hwang, the Property Manager of Sand Hill Property continues to be thoroughly supportive of this idea, and is open to continue this weekly event. Diners are encouraged to bring personal beach umbrellas, tables, chairs, and their own music, so that each Monday, the parking lot is transformed into an impromptu open air diner. Kids run around while their parents and other attendees stand in line or sit on curbs. There are numerous Palo Alto High School students who are regular attendees of the event including, senior Ben Lin. “I like the atmosphere because there are a lot of people and food trucks and it’s an interesting place to be at,” Lin says. “It’s fun going at least once for the experience.”

Edgewood Eats is becoming more well-known among Paly students. Lin had previously heard about Edgewood Eats from another fellow senior, Allen Lee. “It was a great experience to go and see what Edgewood Eats is all about,” Lin says. “There are a lot of interesting trucks like the one that has KoreanMexican food that makes burritos with Korean food inside.” A major concern among residents in Palo Alto is the cleanliness of these trucks. However, in order for a truck to participate in Edgewood Eats, it must have a valid Santa Clara County health department permit. This permit sets a high standard and most visitors are astounded by the cleanliness, among them junior Anna Norimoto. “I used to think that food trucks were gross and nasty,” Norimoto says. “But after visiting Edgewood Eats, my view of the trucks changed. They’re definitely clean and provide great gourmet food. Since opening last September, Edgewood Eats has brought a new face to the food truck scene. “Great food, great people and it’s worth going,” says Paly senior Molly Chen. v

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Let yellow submarines be eight days a week Music review

A

Text and art by BENJAMIN MAY

s a compilation of all of their hit singles, the iTunes-created LP “1” commemorates one of the greatest and most influential bands of all time: The Beatles. Apple released the album, which includes 27 No. 1 hits, on Sept. 2 in digitally remastered form in order to appeal to younger generation According to The Beatles’ official website, the album was originally released by the band on Nov. 13, 2000. After making an agreement with The Beatles, the technology giant Apple released “1” again as an LP (longplay). The album starts off with “Love Me Do” from The Beatles’ first album: “Please Please Me” (1963). It has a great soul feel, and makes for a smooth open to the collection. The harmonica riffs are catchy, and the baseline is pronounced and strong. Midway through the album, “Yesterday” has soothing guitar riffs, followed by “Day Tripper” which builds back up an enthusiastic and upbeat feel. All of the notes are simple and crisp. Near the end of the album, “Come Together” displays The Beatles’ musical capabilities with perfect tonal balance of vocals and instrumentals and the build up before each chorus still amazes. The last song “The Long and Winding Road” is an orchestral symphony that finishes off the collection on a strong note. Throughout the album, the different genres of The Beatles are remarkable. The roller coaster of genres in “1” is shaky at times, but it is a good ride. The music is expertly remastered, removing any gritty or harsh sounds. The album easily rivals modern music in quality and timbre. The artwork, interactive timeline, and liner notes included in the LP are nice to peruse, but don’t add as much substance as I had hoped for. I enjoyed looking through the artwork and the album cov-

Song List 1. Love Me Do 2. From Me to You 3. She Loves You 4. I Want to Hold Your Hand 5. Can’t Buy Me Love 6. A Hard Day’s Night 7. I Feel Fine 8. Eight Days a Week 9. Ticket to Ride 10. Help! 11. Yesterday 12. Day Tripper 13.We Can Work It Out 14.Paperback Writer 15. Yellow Submarine 16.Eleanor Rigby 17.Penny Lane 18.All You Need Is Love 19.Hello, Goodbye 20. Lady Madonna 21. Hey Jude 22. Get Back 23. The Ballad of John and Yoko 24. Something 25. Come Together 26. Let It Be 27.The Long and Winding Road MUSIC TO REMEMBER The artistic “1” album cover shows the exact meaning of the album: Keeping “1” at No. 1. The album has reached No.1 on the Billboard charts twice.

ers while listening to the music. While “1” fails to represents the sound of each individual album, the album is enough for modern listeners to get a taste of The Beatles’ sound. v

Summary

Name: “1” Record label: EMI Records Ltd. Price: “1” is $12.99 in the iTunes Store. Pros: The album features many of The Beatles’ top hits, in chronological order, and is remastered professionally. Cons: The LP aspect of the album is not very substantial, and the album at times does not feel complete. Verdict: “1” is a great buy. Old and new listeners will enjoy The Beatles’ newest album. october 2011

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[ CULTURE ]

Six silly Fillies horsing around

“My Little Pony : Friendship is Magic” charms mature audiences with its adorable ponies and smooth humor Text by ALLEN WU Art by TIN NGUYEN

“F

riendship is a wondrous “Everypony everywhere has a and powerful thing” special magical connection with her — Twilight Sparkle, friends, maybe even before she’s met “Over a Barrel” them. If you’re feeling lonely and you’re still searching for your true “Even the worst of enemies can be- friends, just look up in the sky. Who come friends”, reports the lavender pony with huge shining eyes and a pinkish star knows, maybe you and your future emblem on her rump. “You need under- best friends are all looking at the standing and compromise. You’ve got to same rainbow.” — Twilight Sparkle, share. You’ve got to care.” “The Cutie Mark Chronicles” This revelation was noted by Twilight Sparkle, main character of the recent media sensation My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, after she and her friends resolved a bitter dispute between a town of wild Western “settler ponies” and the buffalo herd native to the area. After the conflict was essentially resolved by the miracle of apple pie, the ponies learned the heartwarming, if trite, lesson of different cultures working out their differences. Mixing silly, childish elements in with moral lessons hardly makes for an inventive cartoon recipe; this model seems to be the tried-and-true model for children’s shows. However, some factor in this My Little Pony show has allowed it to rise above other cartoons to achieve an unbelievable status — it is a girls’ cartoon that has garnered a following among not just boys and girls, but also teenagers and adults.

The My Little Pony franchise has had a fairly long history. In 1981, the toy manufacturer Hasbro introduced the My Pretty Pony series of toys, and the My Little Pony line followed two years later. This toy line lasted twelve years, up until 1995, expanding into several cartoons during that time. After a brief period of discontinuation, My Little Pony quickly started up again and was globally relaunched in 2003. Recently, Hasbro has sought to revamp its franchise to better appeal to the latest generation of girls. “Friendship is Magic” has its scripts written at Hasbro Studios, and its animation managed by Studio B Animations. The show first aired on The Hub. A total of 52 episodes have been produced, with 26 in each season; currently, only two episodes from Season Two have aired. A third season is being produced.

“Just because somepony is ladylike doesn’t make her weak. In fact, by using her wits, a seemingly defenseless pony can be the one who outsmarts and outshines them all. — Twilight Sparkle, “A Dog And Pony Show” Lauren Faust, the show’s initial executive director, set out to prove that girls’ cartoons could be successful if not focused on shallow, maudlin themes and worked to animate her characters with unique, diverse personalities. Each pony’s quirks add to the silly, fanciful nature of the show and help draw in older audiences, while the younger viewers may be more concerned with the bright colors and smooth lines of the animation itself. “The characters are actually very grounded, moody, and easy to sympathize with, and yet the viewer has that childlike security that everything will work out in the end because of friendship,” says Crystal Liu, a senior at Palo Alto High School. “Frankly, I find it quite easy to disregard the fact that the characters are, in fact, talking equines.” Episodes are serial, typically selfcontained plot lines with the exception of the season openers, which are split into two parts. Most of the episodes follow a format of the ponies — six “mane” char-

“There are morals in there that people should honestly live by, lessons 70

verde magazine

acters, as they’re called, and supporting characters — confronting some dilemma or challenge during their daily lives in Ponyville. And of course, there are rainbows, sparkles, and moral lessons galore all along the way. Generally, youthful interest in a franchise leads to animated chatter and interest in merchandise, but older fans are more capable of expressing their appreciation in more varied ways. Fans, commonly referred to as “bronies”, come together online to share and discuss their common interest — ponies. Hundreds of dedicated fans meet up at the BronyCon, scheduled in New York every three months. They watch episodes together, and participate in activities like raffles and games. The enthusiasm with which pony-lovers tackle projects is absolutely incredible when one considers the lengths that grown men go to for this kids’ show. The community has created, among other works, an image-sharing website solely devoted to artworks of the ponies and fictional slang that, for example, replaces the popular “Brofist” with “Brohoof ”. A small, but dedicated team is currently working on creating a fighting game based on the show, drawing the art and coding from the ground up.

It’s easy to understand why young children would enjoy Friendship is Magic, but its popularity with older “bronies” is stranger. One of the series’ strong points is the creativity invested in the characters’ design, which can be appreciated by audiences of all ages. Moreover, the exaggerated cuteness of the art catches people’s attention, who begin to look into the show jokingly before realizing they legitimately enjoy the episodes. Other adults follow the series for deeper, more heartwarming reasons. Jose Rivera, who lives in New York, is 29-years-old and married — and he is an avid fan of “Friendship is Magic”. “The animation is superb,” Rivera says. “There is a lot of humor as well. The characters are wonderfully made.” He was initially drawn in by the pleasant aesthetics and the ponies’ engaging personalities, but Twilight Sparkle and her friends also touched him on a deeper level. “More importantly, I deal with a lot of horrible crap on my job, dealing in a law enforcement field,” Rivera says. “My Little Pony is like a bright spot. There are morals there that people should honestly live by, lessons that are often ignored by children and adults alike.” Because adults generally are not interested in cartoons, the brightness and optimism oozing from “Friendship is Magic” pleasantly invokes memories of simpler, more innocent times. The show’s wide popularity shares with mature audiences a sense of heartwarming rarely found in media targeted toward them.

Applejack

“Sometimes, the thing you think will cause you to lose friends and feel left out can actually be the thing that helps you make your closest friends and realize how special you are...” — Twilight Sparkle, “Call of the Cutie”

“There are wonderful things in this world you just can’t explain, but that doesn’t necessarily make them any less true. It just means you have to choose to believe in them. And sometimes it takes a friend to show you the way.” — Twilight Sparkle, “Feeling Pinkie Keen”

Twilight Sparkle

Friendship is Magic is really a marvel within the entertainment industry. Twilight Sparkle and her band have achieved mainstream success both socially and commercially. What makes the feat truly incredible is the show’s cute and charming nature, which is typical distasteful to older audiences. Most mainstream cultural icons today are edgy or gritty, but the residents of Ponyville are here to show the world that cool can have fluffy wings and hooves. v

Fluttershy

that are often ignored by children and adults alike.” — JOSE RIVERA, 29. october 2011

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