The Arrow December 2020

the

Arrow 100 Lakeview Canyon Rd. Westlake Village, CA 91362 Volume XLV

I Issue 2 I December 16, 2020

The misgendering of holiday gifts page 16

2020 "wrapped"

Drive–thru experiences

CIF sports update

pages 6-7

page 12

page 19

In this issue

3 10 14 17

California implements COVID–19 vaccine Women's influence around the world The issues with Christmas consumerism Ski resorts during COVID–19

Our staff

editors–in–chief songhee lee, lauren pak & lindsey romano web editors–in–chief kyra berg & abigail thompson news section editors angela ling & allan tieu news page editors vivian stein & roman walker feature section editor soumya monga feature page editors juliana rendon & harrison weinberg A & E section editor abigail thompson A & E page editor sophia haines

opinion section editor sophie robson opinion page editor makenna norman sports section editor owen kobett sports page editor nadia grdodian

Letter to our readers Dear Warriors, March 13, 2020 — the day everything went south. We remember hearing the voicemail from Branham about a few days off of school and Mrs. Fischer talking about the likely trends to expect with the pandemic. We remember how rainy it was and how it was Friday the 13th — the perfect setting. We remember joking with our parents and friends about how nice getting to stay at home would be.

Yeah, that didn’t age well.

Well, it has surely been a year. We’re not even sure if anyone remembers it all at this point, but we hit it off with the devastating news of the fires ravaging Australia. With the tragic deaths of Kobe Bryant, Naya Rivera, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Chadwick Boseman, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and many others, the rumors of WWIII, the COVID–19 pandemic, the election, the rise of racial protesting and riots, the adjustment to online school, the election and apparently some murder hornets, this year has been one hit after another.

But as much as this year has felt like a never–ending game of Jumanji, it is important that we don’t label it a fruitless year, because we have grown in ways that we never expected, and we assume the same goes for you.

For starters, quarantine has provided us with the perfect opportunity to explore our identities. With so much time to ourselves, we are learning how to be less dependent on one another and finding fulfillment within ourselves. Maybe you picked up a new hobby, fitness goal or aesthetic that you have always wanted to familiarize yourself with, but were too scared to try before the pandemic.

Moving onto awareness, George Floyd’s murder reignited the Black Lives Matter movement, with nearly half a million people protesting against police brutality and systematic racism. As daunting and vast an issue racism is, beginning to tackle it in 2020 has shown our desire for change and our strength to advocate for those disenfranchised. BLM has made the world conscious and sensitive to issues beyond race, ultimately benefiting society.

No matter what aspect you focus on from 2020, whether it be the loss of loved ones to COVID–19, the death of many legends, the fight for Black lives and justice for those lives lost, the closing of businesses, the transition to online school and the many other disasters, we have overall seen a lot of loss. It’s understandable to be overwhelmed by it all. But if 2020 has done one thing for us, it has made us more grateful. We appreciate the extra time we get to spend with my family, our health, being further educated in the realm of social and political issues and more.

This year has been a learning experience for us all, and being able to adapt to this chaotic lifestyle is something we should all be proud of. We’re weeks away from 2021, a fresh start, and that will be the year to show that the losses we felt in 2020 meant something. 2021 will hopefully contain some happier days.

As always, we want our publication to represent the voices of the student body, so feel free to share your ideas or concerns with us at westlakearrow@gmail.com.

Signing off, Songhee Lee, Lauren Pak & Lindsey Romano The Editor Team 2020-21

graphics editor angela ling photo editor alyssa rice business manager margaret teegarden adviser karie lynch

The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1 CP classes at Westlake High School. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the Conejo Valley Unified School District, Westlake High School administration, faculty or student body. We welcome feedback.

Letters must be signed by the writer.

Cover photo by Lauren Pak

In brief

California enters lockdown as COVID–19 vaccine nears completion As 2020 comes to an end, Governor Newsom shut California down in an attempt to reduce the spread of COVID–19 while a vaccine finishes developing.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PUBLIC DOMAIN

FINISHING DEVELOPMENT: A COVID–19 vaccine is almost complete, and distribution to primary health care workers and patients with severe symptoms of COVID–19 will begin in late December. Distribution to the general public will be early to mid 2021.

by allan tieu co–news section editor Governor Newsom issued a new stay–at–home order across California, which went into effect on Dec. 6 for Southern California, similar to the one he issued in March, as COVID–19 cases skyrocket. As 2020 approaches its end, a COVID–19 vaccine nears completion and its first batch will be sent to Canada.

As of Dec. 16, ICU units approach full capacity in Southern California. California has a total of 1.65 million COVID–19 cases and 21,400 deaths according to the LA Times.

The stay–at–home order went into effect after a region’s available ICU capacity fell below 15%. The regions that follow this order are the Bay Area, the Greater Sacramento area, Northern California, the San Joaquin Valley and Southern California.

The order prohibits any social gatherings altogether and requires people to stay at home as much as possible to prevent the spread of the virus.

“I don’t think people will take this [lockdown] as seriously because COVID–19 was a much bigger deal in March, April and May,” said Kelton Garber ‘22. “They were literally shutting down everything, but now, more and more people are rebelling and going out, not caring about COVID–19 anymore. Also, it is the holiday season, so people are definitely going out more around this time.”

Many businesses and public services are affected as well.

Restaurants can no longer have outdoor dining and are limited to takeout only. Personal care services like barbershops and nail salons, entertainment services like movie theaters and many other public businesses must close.

However, medical offices, beaches, parks, hiking trails, professional sports without a live audience and schools that were approved to reopen in–class learning will remain open.

“I think [the shutdown] is necessary because people, especially teenagers, are not taking [COVID–19] seriously at all and [are] gathering in big groups,” said Maeve O’ Connor '21.“The only way to make [COVID–19] go away is to take

quarantine seriously. I think that if people are only going out and getting groceries, then everything should be fine."

As California goes into shutdown, the first batch of COVID–19 vaccines arrived in Canada on Monday, Dec. 14 due to an agreement that Pfizer, a pharmaceutical company, made with Canadian officials. They were administered to first responders and the elderly. “We are now contracted to receive up to 249,000 of our initial doses of Pfizer Bio– NTech COVID–19 vaccines in the month of December,” said Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, in a video on The New York Times website.

The first batch of COVID–19 vaccines within the United States will be available in mid-December due to Operation Warp Speed.

“Operation Warp Speed's goal is to produce and deliver 300 million doses of safe and effective vaccines ... as part of a broader strategy to accelerate the development, manufacturing and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics,” according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

California currently has a three phase distribution plan to effectively allocate COVID–19 vaccines.

Phase one will distribute vaccines to health care workers with high exposure to COVID–19 and older adults. Phase two allows health care workers who do not treat COVID–19 patients and vulnerable people, such as those with disabilities, to be vaccinated. Finally, phase three will distribute vaccines to the general public once manufacturers produce enough doses.

Helen Cordova, an ICU nurse at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, was the first person in California to receive a vaccine on Monday, Dec. 14.

As quarantine seems to be approaching its end for the near future, O’ Connor comments on life after COVID–19.

“I’m really excited to get back to a sense of normalcy, and I miss being able to hang out in large groups and going to public places,” said O’Connor. “This has also been the longest time I’ve ever been without seeing my granny, so I really want to see her again.”

Finals schedule Finals will take place the second week after winter break on Tuesday, Jan. 12, Wednesday, Jan. 13 and Thursday, Jan. 14.

Reinforcement time will be used from 8–9:30 a.m., and both Cohort A and B will meet from 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. for the final exam on all three days.

The period six final will be on Tuesday, period four will be on Wednesday and period five will be on Thursday.

Diversity, equity and inclusion The Conejo Valley Unified School District board members created the “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” page on the CVUSD website to promote their mission of creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, identity or religion.

This page displays the school board’s recent actions and accomplishments of achieving their mission. The website can be found at conejousd.org/Departments/StudentServices/Diversity-Equity-andInclusion.

Virtual activities The Thousand Oaks Library is hosting various activities via Zoom for kids, teenagers and adults, Monday–Friday. Some of these activities include ESL classes where non–native English speakers can learn English, Introduction to Guitar, Beat Making & Lyricism Workshop and many more.

In order to sign up, students must register through the Thousand Oaks Library website, where they will then get the Zoom link.

Compiled by Allan Tieu

NEWS 3

Choir takes on Good Deed December Despite the challenges the program has faced due to COVID–19, the WHS Choir Department takes on a special project to give back to the community. news page editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF WESTON GINOZA

READING FOR A CAUSE: Sofia Cheetham (top left) records herself reading a children's book called The Bunny Book for day four of Good Deed December. The video will be sent out for elementary school students to enjoy.

A KIND MESSAGE: Weston Ginoza delivers a handwritten note to fellow choir student Kylie Lorenzini '21 PLANNING IT OUT: The virtual Good Deed December calendar (top right) on day six of Good Deed (above) contains prompts for good deeds on every weekday in December, a holiday event that December, such as making a poster with a positive affirmation or prompts students to complete kind acts throughout December. leaving a kind note for a mail carrier.

PHOTO BY LAUREN PAK

This month, students and parent volunteers in the WHS Choir Department undertake a Good Deed December campaign in which they complete acts of kindness every day to give back to those around them.

“In the spirit of the holiday season, I am asking all of our Westlake Choir families to help me with a project I am working on,” said WHS choir director Amy Rolniak in an email to the choir students and parents. “I have created a Good Deed December calendar.”

This calendar contains a slideshow for every weekday in December, from Dec. 1–18. Each day, there is a prompt for students to complete a good deed. These kind acts include, but are not limited to, dropping off food at a local food bank, leaving a note on someone’s doorstep or making a poster with a positive affirmation.

“So far, I have helped my neighbor with some chores that she needed help with, I have sent a nice email to my counselor and [I] have sent a video of me [telling] a joke to a friend,” said Choir Department President Weston Ginoza ‘21.

These good deeds, as simple as they may be, have already reached a variety of people. Students have been encouraged to help out their neighbors and inspire others through messages — both digital and handwritten.

“I needed to come up with a way to give back to the community and also instill a sense of generosity in my students,” said Rolniak. “When you give, you get something out of it too.”

So, the winter–themed virtual calendar was born.

The calendar has bright colors, clipart from multiple seasonal holidays and prompts for each day. It is designed to provide structure for each daily activity while still leaving room for creative license.

“Every year in the choir room, I put up a calendar of kindness on the board,” said Rolniak. “[This year], it was really hard to come up with things that people could do remotely.”

COVID–19 has created a whirlwind of changes for every activity at WHS, but the Choir Department has particularly struggled with trying to sing all together and put on virtual performances. Instead of allowing students to lose the sense of family this department brings, Rolniak is determined to continue traditions, even if they are virtual.

"We can all work towards a tangible goal even 4 NEWS

PHOTO COURTESY OF SOFIA CHEETHAM

by vivian stein

though we’re so separated right now,” said Sofia Cheetham ‘24. “It makes you feel part of something bigger, and you can do more than just show up to a Zoom everyday.”

This department attempts to combat the lack of social connection through bonding activities like Good Deed December, as well as reaching out to and checking in on family and friends.

“Being locked up at home, sometimes people forget to spread [kindness], [so] this is a good way to get back into the groove of it,” said Ginoza.

"This [helps] kids keep connections and put smiles on their faces.”

All choir students, including the ones that had choir last quarter, have been invited to participate in this event. Parents in the department and members of the WHS community are also welcome to take part.

Participants receive a raffle ticket for participating, and at the end of the project, one ticket will be selected for a token of Rolniak's appreciation.

"You can do as many [good deeds] as you want, but I think it really makes other people feel good

and also makes yourself feel good,” said Cheetham. "With everything going on, I thought it was a really cool idea, and I wanted to do as much as I could.”

Best of all, these types of choir events are not limited to just the holiday season — they take place year round. Rolniak and Ginoza are working on a choir siblings program, in which students are assigned to other students as “siblings” to help guide each other through the school year. Both activities are designed to bring students together towards a common goal.

"The only thing I hope [the students] get is [that] it makes them smile a little bit,” said Rolniak. “Sometimes one little tiny thing can spark bigger and better things.”

Especially in these pressing times, members of the Choir Department are hard at work spreading holiday cheer and kindness to others through Good Deed December.

“My hope is that whoever participates, whether it’s 10 people or 100 people, I just want at least one smile or one joyful moment out of this,” said Rolniak. “If that’s what happens, then it was a success.”

WHS students have a lucrative lockdown As the holidays approach, new markets open for WHS entrepreneurs. by roman walker news page editor With the COVID–19 pandemic surging and making in–person shopping difficult, online shopping has been propelling a relatively new retail phenomenon: the art of online reselling.

Reselling is buying a product that is in high demand but short supply and then selling it for a profit. Shoppers are enticed to purchase these secondhand products because of their desirability and competition from fellow consumers. They pay a premium price to acquire these desired products which they struggled to secure. During a time where the majority of the holiday shoppers are online, business is booming.

“Reselling is buying a product at retail price and then reselling it again on a third–party platform,” said Simon Ng ‘21. "Picking a product to sell is all about demand.”

Ng has been reselling luxury items like expensive shoes and gaming consoles for the past four years, and he picks his products based on the level of demand.

“If you are looking at a product that is in high demand, then it is important to do research on the pricing, where it is dropping [and] when it is dropping,” said Ng. "You also have to evaluate whether there is a profit to be made with these products.”

Entrepreneurs like Ng and Iian Falevitch ‘23 have been profiting from their resold products ever since the stores shut down at the beginning of quarantine.

“There has been a pretty big increase in reselling because of the release of the next gen. consoles, like the PS5 and the Xbox [Series] X,” said Falevitch. “Because of COVID–19, the next gen. consoles are not being fully distributed due to the lack of manufacturing.”

This lack of availability raises the demand on these consoles and other products, allowing resellers to sell more of their products.

“After buying the product, I have to evaluate how much it is worth or how much I can resell this product as,” said Falevitch.

"Then I post [the] items on Instagram to promote the item.”

Through his Instagram account, Falevitch advertises whatever item he is reselling at that time and to look for potential buyers.

“Usually someone would say if they are interested in buying a product, and I [would] just send them my PayPal,” said Falevitch. "After they pay, I send whatever product that they buy to their address.”

WHS students like Richard Hoffman ‘23, use reselling as a way to recycle used products and collect money for charity.

“I resell anything from old electronics to collectables,” said Hoffman. "I have an old running watch that I am reselling right now because I do not need it anymore.”

Hoffman resells old possessions to collect money for the Education Equality Club who advocates education in third world countries.

“I think that promoting education in third world countries is important, and reselling is just a way of fundraising for this cause,” said Hoffman. "If my old equipment is not too broken, I think that somebody else could make better use out of it, then I resell the item for this cause.”

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A: "I mainly resell just to make money on the side because it is quite easy to do," said Falevitch.

"Although it is impossible to turn it into a full income."

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A: "I am doing this because the club [I am in] is supposed to help kids in need of a better education," said Hoffman. "The [children] need my help to make their lives better."

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Question: why do you choose to resell?

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A: "I mainly resell shoes to fuel my passion for them," said Ng. "I resell the shoes that I don't like to make money to buy shoes that I do like."

NEWS 5

2020 wrapped — the go

The year 2020 was packed with world altering events, fights for change and 2020 seems like a lifetime away, so here is a recap of all that has happened. by juliana rendon & alyssa rice feature page editor & photo editor This year is one that will go down in history books. Between devastating fires, political controversies and tragic deaths all on top of a never before seen virus creating lockdowns in countries across the world, it has been living history. So, this is 2020 wrapped, a rewind through the history made and the events that changed the world.

The year began with Australia on fire.

Deadly brush fires threatened homes and wildlife, creating record breaking heat waves and blanketing the continent in smoke. Help poured in from all around the world, with people rushing to provide donations and any other assistance they could.

Green Alliance, an environmental conservation club at WHS, held a seven hour bake sale and donated all the proceeds to the World Wildlife Fund to help the wildlife injured by the fires.

“It was wonderful to receive the support of our community and raise awareness about the ongoing fires and how the climate crisis is worsening the conditions of the fires,” said Green Alliance co–president Ruby Sirota–Foster ‘21.

As Australia continued to burn, other world conflicts threatened disaster. In early January, Iranian general Qassem Soleimana was killed by a U.S. drone strike which left the world in question if there was going to be a World War III. President Trump’s order of an airstrike heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, creating the possibility of direct military retaliation which could have resulted in a full blown war.

The beginning of 2020 continued a downpour of events, some leaving the nation shocked and saddened. On Jan. 26, Kobe

Sources nypost.com, cnn.com & cbsnews.com

6 FEATURE

GRAPHIC BY JULIANA RENDON & ALYSSA RICE

Source: bucketlistjourney.net

Bryant's private helicopter crashed in Calabasas, CA killing Kobe and eight others, among them his daughter, Gianna Bryant, who was only 13–years–old.

“It was very sad and emotional but [it] also helped bring people together to honor him,” said basketball fan Spencer Lavine ‘23. “I believe his message [was] to work harder than everyone to achieve your goals.”

Bryant was commonly known by his nickname “Black Mamba” throughout his 20–year career playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. A memorial was created in the days following the crash outside the training facility he owned in Newbury Park, Mamba Sports Academy.

It was very sad and emotional but also helped bring people together to honor him. I believe his message is to work harder than everyone to achieve your goals."- Spencer Lavine Bryant's death was not the end of 2020. On Jan. 21, the first COVID–19 case was reported in the United States according to ABC News, and on Jan. 30, the World Health Organization declared a global public health emergency.

By March, the Conejo Valley Unified School District cancelled school for one week out of precaution, which was extended until the end of the school year on April 1.

“You couldn’t go out anywhere; you couldn’t do anything,” said student–athlete

od, the bad and the ugly

deaths that rocked the nation to its core. With so much history made, January

Savannah Branham ‘24. “As it has gone voices will be heard,” said Waiters. “[That] through, we have gotten used to it and it has there is enough of a call to action that [BLM] become the new normal.” gets attention and results in the best it can.”

The United States and the world It allows people to continued to come together during the in Beirut, Lebanon’s capital city, open their eyes more. They explosion on Aug. 4, which resulted in 137 deaths and knew it was happening but over 5,000 people wounded, according to CNN. Countries from around the globe sent it wasn't at the forefront of money and supplies to Lebanon to help their their minds." - Joy Collins recovery efforts.

While 2020 may have passed the halfway As the number of cases continued to climb point, there was not time for recovery yet. in California, Governor Gavin Newsom On Aug. 28, Chadwick Boseman, known for enacted a stay–at–home order with all non– his role as King T’Challa in Black Panther, essential businesses mandated to close. The Infinity War, End Game and other Marvel world grinded to a sudden stop as schools movies, passed away after a four year battle transitioned to online learning and people with colon cancer. could no longer go out and see their friends.

"Chadwick was special, a true original," “[My friends and I] really rely on texting wrote actor Chris Evans, who starred as each other and Facetiming each other a lot Captain America in the films, on Twitter. more because we can’t really hang out “He was a deeply committed and [a] because of the social distancing and constantly curious artist. He had so much restrictions,” said Branham. amazing work still left to create.”

Even while California was stuck in lockdown in May, people still found ways to She really [was] a protest issues that they cared about. Joy trailblazer for equal pay Collins ‘21 saw that the Black Lives Matter movement had begun to spark change for between men and women." equality and had resulted in more action - Laura Novak being taken in racial issues.

“It allows people to open their eyes Fans slowly moved on from Boseman’s more,” said Collins. “They knew it was death, but they were soon hit with another happening but it wasn’t at the forefront of wave of mourning. Supreme Court Justice their minds. I think it had an effect to Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away on Sep. 18 implement change in America and at WHS.” after multiple battles with cancer.

As 2021 approaches, Collins hopes for “I think that she was a role model for so more inclusivity for people of color in many people, particularly women, textbooks and reading lists, and consider[ing] she’s only the second woman to Gwendalynn Waiters '22 hopes that the be appointed to the Supreme Court, [and] ongoing injustice can finally come to a close. the first Jewish person to be appointed,” said “My hope for 2021 is that everyone’s English teacher Laura Novak. “She really

[was] a trailblazer for equal pay between men and women."

Novak recalls Ginsburg’s constant fight for equality, especially for women, and her dedication for reaching equality for all people no matter their gender, race or sexual orientation.

“She wanted so badly not to be replaced until after the election,” said Novak. “Of course, her wish was not granted, but I really see her as a fighter and admire her fighting spirit.”

Ginsburg was replaced with Amy Coney Barrett on Oct. 26 cementing a 6–3 conservative majority.

Less than two months following Ginsburg’s death was the U.S. Presidential Election. With the circumstances at the time and recent movements for equality, this election may go down as one of the most memorable for all those involved.

“Since [the election] happened during COVID–19, I feel like that impacted the results, and a lot of the things that we’re focusing on now like climate change and the Black Lives Matter movement all contributed to people wanting change,” said AP Government & Politics student Hillary Hsu ‘21.

A new president always brings new changes, and this time is no different. Hsu hopes Biden will take more action against COVID–19 and climate change while also working towards greater equality.

“I think [America] will change for the better because if you look at [Biden’s] task force and his political groups that he’s organized, he’s included a lot of minority groups and women . . . so I think it will be a much broader perspective,” said Hsu. The final months of 2020 also brought the return to sports by professional teams. In October, the L.A. Lakers claimed the NBA title, defeating Miami, and the L.A. Dodgers won their first World Series title since 1988.

However, the sports world wasn’t all celebration. Professional soccer player and coach Diego Maradona passed away on Nov. 25 because of heart failure. In 1986, he led the Argentine national team to the World Cup title and won nine club trophies across three teams during his 21 year career, according to ESPN.

[In] regards to climate change, I think that we really need [action on] that right now and I’m really optimistic that Biden–Harris will put a new emphasis on focusing on [it]."

- Hillary Hsu As 2020 comes to a close, Green Alliance and Sirota–Foster have lots to look forward to as they continue their work to create a more sustainable world.

“In addition to controlling the pandemic and ending racism, I hope that the United States and world can start to cut down on emissions and invest in cleaner energy," said Sirota–Foster.

With the potential for the release of a COVID–19 vaccine and the slow re–opening of the world, there is a lot to look forward to in 2021. Hsu is optimistic for renewed action on important national and world issues with the election of a new president. “[In] regards to climate change, I think that we really need [action on] that right now," said Hsu, "and I’m really optimistic that Biden–Harris will put a new emphasis on focusing on [it].”

GRAPHIC BY ALYSSA RICE FEATURE 7

Steps Steps for for finding finding the the right right career career Step 1: Choose a passion

The Arrow guide to choosing a career With the COVID–19 pandemic still at large, now is as good a time as ever to start considering career options. by harrison weinberg feature page editor

– Consider hobbies and other activities done for enjoyment.

– Think about how those could become potential careers.

Step 2: Do research

– Research the hobbies previously considered and what careers they might lead to.

– See what those careers entail as well as what preparation, education and experience is required for them.

– Research people who have any of the considered careers and talk to them about their career path.

Step 3: Prepare for the career chosen

– Talk to a counselor about any classes, extracurricular activities or programs that could help in preparation for a chosen career.

– Visit the College and Career Center or email College and Career Center Coordinator Rebecca Mertel with any questions regarding choosing a possible career path.

Source: collegeboard.org 8 FEATURE

GRAPHIC BY HARRISON WEINBERG

For many students, choosing what career path they want to take can be very challenging. With so many options, it's nearly impossible for those who don’t even know where to start.

“Many high school students feel that they need to have their whole lives planned out before graduation,” according to collegeboard.org. “That’s a lot of pressure to take on, and it really isn’t practical because your goals and desires change over time. At this point, the best way to prepare for the process of career planning is to take some steps to get to know more about yourself.”

The first step students should take is to figure out what their passions are. They should ask themselves what their hobbies are, what they typically do in their free time, and if there’s anything they enjoy doing that they haven’t even realized they enjoy, as well as any other similar questions to figure out what they like to do that could potentially become a career.

“You want to choose something that you enjoy, that you're passionate about, that you love doing,” said College and Career teacher David Tyler. “Then it won't become a job.”

The second step is to do research.

The Internet is a good resource to use because of its vast library of information.

Students should look for what jobs and careers can stem from their previously considered passions, as well as important information about them, like what prerequisites are required.

Researching people who chose the same or similar careers along with looking at the steps they took to get there can also help. Another thing could be to look at what their day–to–day lives are like with their job in order to understand how the career impacts one's lifestyle. Students can use this information to narrow down their career choices.

"People want to get a head start in the world,” said Richard Hoffman, director of the Johnson O’Connor Research Foundation in Houston, an aptitude testing company for teens and adults, in an interview with NBC. “Helping them get a better understanding of their natural gifts can only help get them on the right track.”

The third and final step students should take is to figure out what they can do now to prepare for the careers they are considering. They should take classes and courses that might help give them the knowledge or preparation needed for those careers and look into extracurricular activities as well. Students should also look at different colleges and consider any subjects they could major in that could apply to their planned career.

“I’m already trying to streamline my entire curriculum around [my] goal,” said Max Bailey ‘22, who aspires to be an aerospace engineer. “I also plan on doing some extracurriculars [and finding] some internship opportunities that go along with that sector.”

Students can talk to a counselor about classes that may fit their interests or College and Career Center Coordinator Rebecca Mertel about any other questions they might have. Students can contact these sources through email or in–person at the College and Career Center.

Remember that picking a career isn’t a simple thing to do. Students shouldn’t expect to figure out their perfect career instantly, but they should be willing to make adjustments to their planned career as they grow and their interests change.

After all, one of the most important parts about picking a career is that they’re happy with what they choose.

"Have different ideas which you can do as alternatives, and don't get bummed out if it doesn't work the first time,” said Tyler. “[Keep] persevering. Keep battling at it and be flexible if you need to. [Since] you have to plan for the future, plan for a bright future.”

Mock Trial adjusts to online format

This year, the WHS Mock Trial team will be competing virtually, which brings both challenges and benefits. by angela ling news section & graphics editor You've been waiting for this moment for five months, working tirelessly for seven hours a week in preparation for this Mock Trial case. But it'll all be worth it today. The night before, you reviewed all of your material and made sure to sleep early. The morning of, you eat a hardy breakfast. After sitting through your classes at school, you put on your freshly–ironed suit, ready to compete. Finally, the competition starts on your screen: "Please wait, the meeting host will let you in soon to the Mock Trial competition."

Like many clubs and extracurriculars this year, WHS's Mock Trial team has had to practice and will compete online because of COVID–19 restrictions.

Each year, Mock Trial competes in a Ventura County student competition where teams study a hypothetical case for which they conduct research, receive guidance from volunteer attorneys and present their case before a volunteer judge, according to vcoe.org/mocktrial. This year, the first round of competition will be on Feb. 18., 2021 Usually, this competition is an intellectual experience in which students demonstrate their public speaking skills, ability to think quickly on their feet and professional demeanor. However, those aspects of Mock Trial have had to change now that competition is completely online.

I was able to focus more, take notes on things and just observe [the trial] more. I was really worried about it, but it wasn’t as negatively different as I had anticipated."

–Dylan Robinson "One of the things that we’re realizing is the character; the acting component of Mock Trial is much harder to portray through a camera rather than in–person," said Mock Trial adviser Kayla Maxedon. "In–person, it’s really easy to read body language and pick up on the pauses and when someone is going to say something. But over Zoom, half the time you’re talking over someone because of internet lag."

Another challenge the team is facing is how to adjust to the differences online competitions will

bring. Though it's still unclear how exactly the competition will proceed, the Ventura County Office of Education website has provided a slideshow with some tips on competing virtually.

"My co–captain [Matthew Schwartz '21] and I are just trying to draw on our experience from past years in the competition," said Mock Trial co–captain Dylan Robinson '22. "[We're] trying to get an idea from our coaches [and] communicating with the [Constitutional Rights Foundation], just to see what it’s going to be like.

Then [we’re] trying to instruct the students and the teammates based on what we know and what we think we can expect."

Despite some of the downfalls that come with doing Mock Trial online, the team has also noticed several positive aspects to competing remotely.

They recently had an online scrimmage against Santa Susana High School on Dec. 5.

"I think we did as well as we could have," said new Mock Trial student Jeremy Zide '22. "It went pretty well. I feel like everyone was prepared."

While students in past years would have had to constantly worry about how they present themselves with their posture and demeanor, students this only had to turn on their cameras while speaking during the scrimmage. This allowed them to concentrate more on the trial itself.

"I was able to focus more, take notes on things and just observe [the trial] more," said Robinson. "I was really worried about it, but it wasn’t as negatively different as I had anticipated."

Maxedon has also noticed improved focus during practices, although meeting on Zoom means she can't always be listening in on what students are discussing and giving them immediate feedback.

"I think there are certain aspects that make it more effective, and I think there’s something about being on a screen with people that [helps] you stay focused a little bit more, versus meeting in–person where you want to talk to your friends," said Maxedon.

Overall, the team has been adjusting well to an online format, though many aspects of Mock Trial will be different compared to past years.

"I think at the end of the day, it’s just different," said Maxedon. "The pros and the cons to it are different than what they were before, but there are still just as many pros and just as many cons."

Overview of the 2020–21 Mock Trial competition

Competition Dates Round 1: Feb. 18 Round 2: Feb. 19 Round 3: Feb. 22 Round 4: Feb. 23 Rounds 1–4 will be from 5–9 p.m.

Case Title: People v. Croddy In

People

v.

Croddy,

popular

YouTuber Lee Croddy has been charged with

aiding

commission

and

of

abetting

first–degree

in

the

burglary

as

well as accessory after the fact.

On the channel, Croddy discusses what

Croddy

believes

are

topics

the

government suppresses, a favorite being UFO cover–ups.

Remi Montoya, an enthusiastic fan of

Croddy,

computer

stole

files

California

a

from

official

briefcase

Drew

who

and

Marshak,

allegedly

a

had

information about UFOs. The prosecution alleges that Croddy aided

and

abetted

Montoya

and

harbored Montoya afterwards, knowing that a crime had been committed.

The defense argues that Croddy did not

knowingly

any crime, nor

aid

or

abet

Montoya

in

did Croddy know about

the crimes after they occurred.

Source: crf-usa.org

GRAPHIC BY ANGELA LING FEATURE 9

Women dominate 2020

Internationally, nationally and locally, women have faced gender stigmas, but they have persevered through the challenges of 2020 and made positive impacts on their environments.

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International Jacinda Ardern is the youngest female leader in the world and the youngest prime minister of New Zealand in 150 years at 40–years–old. In 2020, she has fiercely combatted COVID–19 and successfully decreased it in both waves in New Zealand.

"She is seen abroad as this inspiring figure because of her approach that's so different to what's happening in a lot of other places," said Tom O'Brien, a former official in the New Zealand Ministry of Health for NBC News.

Unlike other countries, in March, Ardern implemented a strict lockdown in New Zealand with her "Go hard, and go early" policy, allowing only essential locations to remain open.

In June, Ardern had eliminated the virus from New Zealand for 102 days. Although COVID–19 did return in August, Ardern placed the city of Auckland in a two–week lockdown. Currently, New Zealand has only six new cases, 54 active cases and no new deaths, according to The Worldometer, a website with real–time statistics provided by international researchers.

“It’s not just whether you have cases, it’s how you choose to deal with them as a nation, and I am personally very proud of how New Zealanders have taken to the battle with COVID–19,” said Ardern in an interview with The Guardian.

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REASON FOR HOPE: Jacinda Ardern is the youngest female leader in the world who led New Zealand out of the pandemic with minimal impact.

“You can carve your own path, [and] be your own kind of leader,” said Ardern, according to Bloomberg.

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A NEW ERA: Kamala Harris has made a significant gender and racial impact as the first woman vice–president of color. “My mother had a saying: ‘Kamala, you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you’re not the last,'” tweeted Harris.

An epitome of firsts, Kamala Harris, the vice president–elect of the United States, is the first woman and the first woman of color vice–president of the United States. She was also the first Indian–American in the U.S. Senate as well as the first African American and first woman to hold the office of the attorney general in California. Especially after the Black Lives Matter movement in June, Harris’s election has impacted racial injustice in the nation.

“There is no vaccine for racism,” said Harris during her acceptance speech, according to USA Today. “We've got to do the work for George Floyd, for Breonna Taylor and for the lives of too many others to name."

During her victory speech on Nov. 7, Harris remembered her mother who immigrated to California at the age of 19.

“Maybe she didn’t quite imagine this moment, but she believed so deeply in an America where a moment like this is possible,” said Harris.

In the Vice Presidential Debate, Harris did not allow Vice–President Mike Pence to cut off her responses.

This assertion caused her followers to create merchandise with the words “I’m speaking” in admiration.

“While I may be the first woman in this office," said Harris in her victory speech, "I will not be the last, because every little girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities."

10 FEATURE

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WHS Jennifer Liu ‘22 is the president of the Girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics club which was renewed after its break last year. She's been an officer in the club since her freshman year, but she felt that it didn’t create many opportunities for the members.

“I’m trying to make it as interactive as possible even though it might be even harder than before since [the club’s] online,” said Liu. Liu hopes to collaborate with FemSTEM, an organization that helps girls navigate their passions in STEM. Before distance learning, she hoped to design science experiments for little girls such as making slime and explaining the science behind it.

“I’m just hoping to inspire more girls to pursue a career in STEM because it's such a male–dominated field,” said Liu. “The whole message of the club ... is to bring more girls into the field and [to] have that gender gap be filled.”

Liu thinks society has come far since the 18th and 19th centuries when women did not have the right to vote, but she believes there is still more work to be done.

“I definitely think we've come a long way,” said Liu. “Before, women were just seen as the housewives, and I think society has definitely progressed away from that. Now, we see a lot more independent women.”

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LOCAL LEADER: Jennifer Liu hopes to help girls navigate predominantly male fields. “Just follow your interests ... [because you should] not be held back by anything people say,” said Liu.

Compiled by Soumya Monga

Female rappers struggle for recognition Female rappers must have the courage to face all the discrimination, misogyny and sexism in the industry.

Even after breaking through, they continue to face criticism and they must prove that they are as talented as any male rapper just to receive equal praise. by sophia haines a&e page editor

Malcolm X, a civil rights leader, said that “the most disrespected… [and] neglected person in America is the black woman.”

Women have fought for the recognition they The mistreatment that Malcolm X describes, hold in the rap industry today. Even with all the is prominent in the recording industry, strides they have made in the industry, women especially in rap, because the majority of artists rarely ever receive the same recognition as men. in the industry are black. They face neglect Instead, women in the rap industry commonly from record companies, other rap artists and face criticism for over sexualizing their music and even those who give out awards. And, for many their bodies, while men who rap vulgar lines are years in rap music, women were simply extras often unscathed by the same type of criticism. in music videos to attract the male gaze.

Artists like Lauryn Hill and Missy Elliot are The fight to get noticed for women is often a some of the first female rap artists to help define losing one, because they simply are not given the genre, but they were never quite as big as their the same opportunities, time, attention and male counterparts. In fact, no woman ever made it respect that is automatically afforded to many into the top 10 list for first week album sales until men in the rap industry.

2001, when Missy Elliot released Miss E... So Many assume that all music by female rappers Addictive and grossed No. 2 for first week sales. is similar and feel that they cannot relate to The employment gap within the industry reflects the stories being told through their music. the widespread discrimination that is prominent in “I wanted to make something to show that every area of rap. This discrimination influences we as black women aren’t monolith,” said which artist fans are exposed to and gives men the female rapper Rapsody in a 2019 radio upper hand in the industry. interview about her album: Eve with Angie “Women [made] up 21.7% of artists, 12.3% of Martinez. “We’re a spectrum ... and I wanted to songwriters and 2.1% of producers [in the music make a project that showed just that, what the industry],” according to a 2019 study, Inclusion in world looks like as black women.” the Recording Studio, led by Dr. Stacy L. Smith.

Furthermore, it has become increasingly difficult Since rap entered the mainstream, women have been for women to make it big in the rap industry due reduced to objects of sexual conquest in both songs and to this discrimination. There has been a regression music videos; however, as Nicki Minaj began to eclipse of inclusivity in the rap industry. some of her male colleagues in record sales and awards, “In the late 1980s and early 1990s, there were she opened the door for more female artists to rise into more than 40 women signed to major labels, prominence, like Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, City [and] in 2010 there were just three,” according Girls, Flo Mili and more. to National Public Radio.

These small steps have been immensely impactful Because of the discrimination that women face on women’s stations in the rap industry. MC Lyte, a on a daily basis, it is important that Hip-Hop female rap artist, was the first woman ever to fans support female rappers to foster inclusivity. release a studio album – Lyte as a Rock – in 1988.

“As a Black woman and being apart of Hip And 30 years later, in 2018, Cardi B became the first Hop, I always feel like I’m on the bottom of the solo female rapper to ever win a Grammy for the totem pole … in terms of proving yourself,” album of the year, Bodak Yellow. said Minaj in a 2013 interview on The Queen Furthermore, in 2018, Cardi B was the first Latifah Show. female rapper to be No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Moreover, women in rap are often compared since 1998 for her song Bodak Yellow. to each other as if there can only be one or two Female rappers also work to spread positivity successful women in the industry and one through socially conscious messages in their songs. correct way for a woman to rap, leading with “Female rappers reclaim the same music genre that her body or her message. seeks to degrade and objectify women [and] help me “I think it’s beautiful, the state of female Hip feel empowered as a woman,” said Cassy Macias ‘21.

Hop,” said Rapsody. “There’s room for us all."

GRAPHIC BY SOPHIA HAINES

A&E

11

COVID–19 safe drive–thrus take Southern California by storm New shelter–in–place orders have once again limited CA citizens, but Southern California has gotten creative with completely safe drive–thru experiences in an attempt to revive the holiday season and bring cheer to quarantined families. by abigail thompson a&e section and co–web editor–in–chief

A & E

Location: Skylight Row, DTLA Pricing: Starts at $59 (per car of two people) Website: strangerthingsdriveinto.com

WonderLAnd Location: Woodland Hills, CA Pricing: $70 per car (not per person) Website: socalwonderland.com GRAPHIC BY ABIGAIL THOMPSON

With larger than life sets, lights, costuming and actors, the drive–thru is promised to be an entertaining and completely safe way to make the best out of yet another shelter–in–place order.

As Governor Newsom continues to stress the importance of avoiding more COVID–19 cases, it is now harder than ever for people to summon holiday cheer.

However, WonderLAnd’s holiday drive–thru experience is extremely safe, with its website promising “Countless Lights, Candycanes & Cheer” to help Southern California residents survive the last trying month of 2020.

The event is located in Woodland Hills and costs $70 per car (not per person).

Along with millions of lights, impressive sets and holiday–themed music, audience members get to have a special encounter with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and elves from the North Pole.

The family–friendly event opened Nov. 30 and

PHOTO COURTESY OF PUBLIC DOMAIN

12

Stranger Things: The Drive–Into Experience

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADDISON STOLLE

With the number of COVID–19 cases rising once again in L.A. and Ventura counties, there’s not a lot of options for people to safely spend time with friends or enjoy the rapidly approaching holidays. However, massive drive–thrus are taking Southern California by storm this season.

The “Stranger Things: The Drive–Into Experience” based in L.A. allows audience members to travel back in time to 1985 and be a part of the extremely popular Netflix original series Stranger Things. “[The show is] one of my many obsessions, [so] this was an experience well worth its money,” said Riley Mays '22.

“By the end, I was sobbing.”

Stranger Things follows the story of a small town in Hawkins, IN, that, while charming and modest at first glance, is secretly the host of a variety of supernatural occurrences involving science experiments kept hidden from the public, terrifying monsters from another dimension known as The Upside Down and a young girl, named Eleven, with startling magic abilities.

When a boy from Hawkins is kidnapped and taken into The Upside Down, his friends and family, with the help of Eleven, must face a universe they never knew existed to get him back. The “Stranger Things: The Drive–Into Experience” takes fans on a journey that allows them to experience all of this in real life.

“To interact with everyone, [drive–thru cast members] would tell us to honk our horns or dance around in our car, so there was definitely a lot of energy from everyone there,” said Addison Stolle '23, who attended the event with her family.

The drive–thru opened on Oct. 20 at the Skylight Row in downtown L.A. The experience lasts around an hour, with ticket prices starting at $59 per car of two people (pricing may vary depending on the amount of people per car).

According to the event’s website, the show lasts a little over an hour and it encourages its audience to dress for the occasion.

“Since Stranger Things initially came out, a lot of people have told me that I look like Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven,” said Mays. “Although I don’t see it as much as others do, I went [to the “Stranger Things: The Drive– Into Experience”] as Eleven, using my Halloween costume from 2019.”

In a nutshell...

runs through Dec. 30, with Dec. 24 and 25 closed for Christmas Eve and Christmas.

“If you came to Hauntoween L.A., you haven’t seen anything yet,” said Experiential Supply Founder & Chief Experience Officer Jasen Smith, according to Monrovia Weekly. “We’ve learned a lot from our first run and are taking WonderLAnd to an unimaginable new level. It’s really going to knock people’s socks off!”

Especially with California’s newly announced shelter–in–place orders, these show–stopping drive–thrus are affordable, enjoyable and, most importantly, safe options for families and friends to overcome the quarantine blues and liven up the coming new year. “[Being at a drive–thru created] such an exciting and exhilarating atmosphere,” said Mays. “I was really happy to see that people are still trying to bring life back to us in an exciting yet safe way.”

Place your ad here Contact westlakearrow@gmail.net for advertising information

Alternative ways of holiday gift giving 1

2

3

BUY SECONDHAND

MAKE A RE–GIFT BOX

SHOP SMALL BUSINESSES

Buying and gifting used items is a great way to combat the consequences of consumerism.

Before hopping onto big–name websites like Amazon or Target, make sure to check out local thrift stores and online sites such as Depop. At these places, you can find anything your gift receiver could want: used books, clothes, accessories, room decor and technology, while clearing your conscience of guilt.

A sustainable method to avoid trashing unwanted gifts is to create a re–gifting basket. If you receive anything that just isn't quite your style, put it in your re–gift box and save it for the holiday season. When you start brainstorming gifts, bring out your box and see if any of its contents could work for people you know. This method will help keep unwanted gifts out of both U.S. and foreign landfills.

When you can't re–gift or buy secondhand, shopping at small businesses is the next best option. In doing so, you are personally supporting the local community, helping create more jobs and eliminating damage to the environment. This also gives you the opportunity to gift a truly meaningful and personal present, as many small businesses have unique, original products that can't be found elsewhere.

GRAPHIC BY SOPHIE ROBSON

Dumping holiday consumerism It’s that time of year. The season where stores are filled with bright decorations, eye–catching gifts and tasty– looking themed treats. However, with this comes the unforeseen costs of increased consumerism. commentary by sophie robson opinion section editor For those that celebrate winter holidays — such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s and many others — this time is usually filled with festivities, family gatherings and observances of different cultures. Another staple of these seasonal holidays is gift giving, which causes consumerism in the United States to intensify.

However, with this heightened consumerism comes many unseen and catastrophic consequences. Due to the elevated money spending, destructive environmental impact and (with this year in mind) risk of COVID–19, holiday consumer culture must be abandoned and more sustainable practices be implemented.

In 2019, U.S. households spent an average amount of $1,496 during the holidays, and 22% of Americans believe their spending will leave them in debt according to Fortunly, a site dedicated to sharing insights about money. The fact that around one in five Americans feel this way yet still continue to spend due to the societal norms and pressures of the holiday season epitomizes U.S. consumer culture.

Especially considering high school students who either don’t work or only make a minimal income, these standards of gift giving are entirely unattainable.

Moreover, picking out gifts for people is a pretty tricky thing, and there’s always a chance that they might not completely like it. Finder, a source that helps Americans make better financial decisions, estimates that $15.2 billion 14 OPINION

is spent on unwanted Christmas gifts. The monetary impact of this is monumental and even devastating at times.

However, the environmental effects cannot be ignored. Receiving unwanted gifts leads to more unused items sitting idle in households worldwide, ultimately being thrown away and seldom donated or recycled. This creates an unsustainable cycle, where gifts are given and thrown away, leading to a buildup in landfills that unfortunately often gets sent overseas to burden foreign countries.

This year, consumerism brings an added consequence: COVID–19. Going to stores to purchase holiday gifts brings the added risk of contracting COVID–19 and spreading it to those around you. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends shopping online for the winter holidays, using contactless services such as curbside pickup and shopping in open–air markets with masks and physical distancing.

For COVID–19, the best method is online shopping.

To combat consumerism, the best approach is limiting purchases of unwanted gifts. These two plans can go hand in hand by simply not giving into consumer culture because Americans are used to it, but instead resorting to alternative means. Some ways to help are to give experiences such as a day at the beach, a home–cooked meal or a small trip. Simply buy things you know the receiver will use or, when in doubt, buy a gift card for somewhere you love.

The dangers of visiting relatives over the holidays The winter season hosts a plethora of important holidays for families around the world. However, it is best to refrain from visiting families in–person this year due to the increasing concern over the COVID–19 pandemic. commentary by margaret teegarden

business manager

Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and other December holidays around the world have always been a big social event for families. In the past, aunts, uncles, grandparents and others gathered to strengthen their family bonds and celebrate their cultures and religions.

However, 2020 has been an unprecedented year, and with new challenges come new solutions.

Instead of going to visit relatives during this holiday season, choose to stay safe and find new ways to be festive because COVID–19 cases are only continuing to rise and even wearing masks or social distancing cannot completely protect one from getting the virus.

It’s true, quarantine has been going on for much longer than expected. When it was first announced back in March, many thought it was going to be a few weeks long at most. With the pandemic reaching its ninth month, it makes sense that many people are upset that their holidays have been “ruined” because they are discouraged from visiting relatives.

Decorating the tree, sharing presents and having a big meal together all seem impossible without being able to be with each other physically.

However, this is a reality for everyone, and it is important to remember that quarantine was implemented because it is necessary to keep people safe. Even if one is not personally at high risk of severe illness from COVID–19, there may be family members or friends that are.

COVID–19 cases have been rising constantly, and even with the reduced number of people that traveled for Thanksgiving, it was expected that cases would spike.

“The blip from Thanksgiving isn't even here yet," according to Dr. Anthony Fauci for the Milken Institute Future of Health Summit. Fauci is the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. “So we're getting those staggering numbers of new cases and hospitalizations before we even feel the full brunt of the Thanksgiving holiday."

Many consider the December holidays to be more important than Thanksgiving, so it is expected that COVID–19 will spike even more during December and January.

With this in mind, staying home should seem even more crucial than before. Especially for those who want quarantine to be over as soon as possible, visiting relatives and contributing to the spike in COVID–19 is only going to delay this quarantine’s end even more.

Even if someone is planning on wearing masks and trying to social distance, this would not completely erase the chance of contracting and spreading COVID–19. That would be considered risk reduction.

“Risk reduction (or harm reduction) refers to public health strategies that minimize the risks and related harms of certain behaviours, without expecting people to stop engaging in those behaviours,” according to The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization.

“Examples include … wearing a helmet while bike riding.”

But even if one wears a helmet, this does not mean they are completely safe from injury; it simply lowers the chance of said injury. The same goes with wearing masks and social distancing.

There is still a chance one could get COVID–19, but the chance is lowered when people comply with safety regulations.

For those that have always gone to visit relatives during the holidays, remember that there are plenty of other ways to spend time with them, even if it has to be virtually. It may not be exactly the same as in–person celebrations, but it is a sacrifice everyone should make in order to keep themselves and their family members safe.

Celebrating the holidays virtually

Even though it's discouraged to spend time with one another in–person, there are plenty of ways to retain the holiday spirit virtually!

Exchange Secret Santa gifts

Holiday song karaoke

Bake delicious cookies

Do you always exchange Secret Santa gifts when you visit your family? You can do it virtually too!

Use one of the many online applications to input everyone's names, and let it randomly decide who each person will give a gift to.

Mail the gifts to your recipient a week before the celebration.

Open the gifts over Zoom and each person can guess who their Secret Santa is!

A group sing along of favorite holiday songs with your friends or family is a tradition you don't have to miss out on despite not being able to get together in–person.

Using a watch–together application such as Google Play Airtime or Houseparty, you can easily play any holiday song and sing along!

It will seem almost like you are in the same room together!

Do you always bake and decorate cookies with your loved ones during the holidays?

Before meeting, pick an online recipe to share, get the ingredients from your local grocery store and have your baking supplies ready.

Bake your cookies and decorate them together virtually.

Afterwards, you can eat them on screen together or even leave some as a gift on a neighbor's porch.

GRAPHIC BY MARGARET TEEGARDEN

OPINON

15

Ending the gendering of holiday gifts During the holiday season, businesses market their products as gifts "for him" or "for her" without considering the many negative effects. commentary by makenna norman

opinion page editor It's the holiday season, and people are considering gifts to buy for friends and family members. This is the time for businesses to advertise their products as the perfect holiday gifts, and while everyone can appreciate advice on what to give to their picky friends or hard to please siblings, many companies often go about their holiday advertisements the wrong way.

Promoting gifts as “for him” or “for her” enforces outdated gender stereotypes, encourages a superficial and negative view on someone who strays from gender norms and encourages people to not buy gifts based on the recipient's actual interests.

Because holiday shopping can be challenging, especially when shopping for someone you are not close with, it is understandable why someone’s gender might affect what you get for them. But this is the 21st century, and gender doesn’t have to be associated with someone’s interests or personality.

There is more freedom for people to be whoever they want, even if it goes against what is seen as traditionally masculine or feminine.

The gender stereotypes that have been present for decades and enforced on most people from a young age are extremely harmful, and branding gifts as masculine or feminine only helps continue these toxic expectations. Enforcing harmful gender stereotypes on children is not necessarily dressing girls in pink and boys in blue, giving little girls toy ovens and kitchens and giving little boys plastic tool kits. There is nothing wrong with these toys, especially if children choose them on their own, but marketing them for a certain gender is essentially telling kids what they should be interested in based on old–fashioned gender roles where women were expected to cook and clean while men had jobs and did handy work around the house.

But beyond children, adults are just as susceptible to the negative effects of the marketing of gender–based gifts. Marketing gifts based on gender encourages the gendering of anything, even emotions.

Studies by the American Psychological Association have shown that about 30% of men have experienced depression in their lives. Crying is not a cure for any mental health problem, but it can be a healthy way to release emotions; however, men are frequently told and expected to suppress their sadness as it is labeled as a sign of weakness. Even talking about their feelings is oftentimes looked down upon, leaving men feeling like they have no safe space to express their emotions.

16 OPINION

Holiday shopping on a budget

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GRAPHIC BY MAKENNA NORMAN

Similarly, women are berated for expressing anger or strong authority. Women often struggle in leadership positions because they are not treated with the same respect as men, especially if they are very authoritative. If a woman has to reprimand an employee, she is more likely to receive backlash for doing so than a man would.

With gender stereotypes come gender norms — the subjective belief as to what is acceptable and appropriate for a man or woman to do. However, many Americans, mostly of younger generations, have reformed the social expectations of any gender so that all people can be free to express themselves however they want. Any masculine or feminine association to clothing, accessories, cosmetic products or interests is coming to an end, but progress is slowed by the continuation of gender–based marketing.

On Nov. 13, a huge step was taken in the path to end the gendering of clothing when Harry Styles appeared in Vogue magazine wearing a dress.

"When you take away ‘There’s clothes for men and there’s clothes for women,’ once you remove any barriers, obviously you open up the arena in which you can play,” said Styles in an interview with Vogue. “Anytime you’re putting barriers up in your own life, you’re just limiting yourself.”

Amongst all the people applauding Styles for how fearlessly he expressed himself, there were countless people criticizing him, saying he should dress masculine. But there is no exact definition for masculine and feminine, considering how in other cultures and in different parts of the world, men wear dress–like clothing, which in those countries

is considered masculine. All over the world, people who dress and act differently than they are “supposed to” based on their gender identity are receiving backlash, and even with all the progress that has been made in recent years, this problem continues.

Even if businesses weren’t advertising their gifts as “for him” and “for her”, simply shopping for a gift with only the recipient’s gender in mind can be problematic. Basing a gift on gender can result in a disappointed recipient and a regretful giver. If the only focus when picking a gift is whether the receiver is a man or a woman, and they are disappointed with what they were given, you can’t say “it’s the thought that counts” because you weren’t thinking about their hobbies, interests or personality.

All individuals are unique, with their own interests and aspirations, and people’s gender gives little information on what they want for the holidays. Therefore, basing a gift solely on someone’s gender proves how little thought and consideration you’ve put into it.

While a simple advertisement of gifts “for him” or “for her” seems harmless, it plays a part in a much bigger and more serious issue. The end of marketing gender–based holiday gifts is an important step to take on the long road to the discontinuation of gender labeling products.

Hopefully when we reach the end of that road, people will have the freedom to be who they are without any fear or hatred.

Ski resorts remain open during COVID–19 With the recent spike in COVID–19 cases, many places are being closed for the second time; however, the ski resorts in Southern California still remain open. People can go to these resorts as long as HITTING THE SLOPES: Moorea Ramessar they follow the required protocols.

Moorea Ramessar ‘21 looks out at the breathtaking view of the snowy mountains ahead of her. She’s getting ready to snowboard and can’t help but breathe in the fresh air that is so completely different from that of her home she’s been stuck inside.

“It’s so beautiful,” said Ramessar. “[It’s] a place where you can go and relieve [the] pressures of life.”

Currently, ski resorts like Big Bear, Mammoth, and Mountain High are open in California.

However, there are many rules and regulations that have to be followed.

Those looking to ski or snowboard like Ramessar have to follow new guidelines as a result of COVID–19. Prior to COVID–19, people that ski or snowboard would typically buy lift tickets the day of. However, now guests have to plan out their trip much further in advance.

"Make sure you plan ahead to secure your spot on the mountain,” according to Mammoth Mountain's website. “Tickets are limited and walk– up tickets are not available, so reserving your ski & ride days ahead of time is the only way to go.”

All three resorts require visitors to buy their tickets in advance as they have a limited capacity per day. Mammoth and Mountain High tickets can be purchased on their websites while Big Bear tickets are available through their app: Big Bear Mountain Resort.

“All guests must have a valid lift ticket, season pass or advance purchase confirmation to receive gated entry access to the Bear Mountain or Snow Summit base areas,” according to the Big Bear Mountain Resort website.

Furthermore, masks are required for each resort.

Visitors must be wearing their masks at all times, whether it be getting a lift from the gondolas, walking around the surrounding area or gliding down the mountain. Visitors should stay with their group, maintain social distancing and sanitize as necessary.

"Stick together to slow the spread,” according to the Mountain High website. “Ride lifts, wait in lines and generally move around the resort with those in your group.”

Ski lift tickets have to be purchased beforehand and are found on the resorts' websites. At Mammoth, all kids’ tickets for the ski lifts are free.

When it comes to riding the ski lifts, people can

enjoys snowboarding at Mammoth despite having to follow COVID–19 restrictions.

Hours and ticket prices for one day

Adult (23–64): $79 Young Adult (13–22): $65 Child (5–12): $32 Senior (65–79): $65 Hours: Mon–Sun: 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Adult (18–64): $99 Teen (13–17): $81 Child (5–12): $40 Senior (65–79): $81 Hours: Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Weekends: 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Adult (13–64): $69 Youth (8–12): $49 Child (7 & under): $29 Senior (65 +): $49 Hours: Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Weekends: 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sources: mammothmountain.com, bigbearmountainresort.com & mthigh.com GRAPHIC BY NADIA GRDODIAN SPORTS 17

PHOTO COURTESY OF MOOREA RAMESSAR

by nadia grdodian & lindsey romano sports page editor & editor–in– chief

only ride up with the party they came with, making this process longer.

"You have to wait longer to get to the top of the mountain, and you get less runs in,” said Ramessar.

All rentals must be reserved in advance due to limited availability. Mammoth will designate specific fitting windows in which they will fit you with your rentals, and all resorts will sanitize rental equipment between people.

As far as lessons, these must also be reserved in advance and are limited in size. Mountain High limits its group lessons to four to six people, and all resorts encourage private or shorter lessons.

For food and beverages, there are a few places people can go to in these resorts. Mountain High serves primarily takeout. Mammoth has two restaurants: Campo Mammoth open on Thursdays from 5–9 p.m. and Yama Ramen open daily from 4–5 p.m. All resorts primarily serve take out and grab–and–go meals with little to no in–person dining options.

“Due to new COVID–19 restrictions, all food and beverage locations will be offering to-go options only,” according to the Mammoth website.

“There will be no inside seating available, [so] please plan accordingly.”

Resorts are required to comply with California capacity guidelines. This means that grocery stores must be at a 35% capacity and retail must be at a 20% capacity. Salons and entertainment places such as bowling alleys and movie theaters are currently closed. It is important to note that Mountain High is currently not accepting cash at any open places, allowing only a credit or debit card.

The lodges will be unavailable before and after skiing, and snowboarding and will only be open for necessary purposes such as getting food and using the restroom.

“Guests should be prepared to enjoy an outdoor experience this winter at Mountain High — no matter the conditions,” according to the Mountain High website. “Lodges will be available for restrooms and retail purchases only.”

Overnight lodges are limited or unavailable as of now. Big Bear allows vacation rentals but recommends only one household unit per rental.

Both Big Bear and Mammoth are being flexible with their cancellation policies.

"Vacation rentals are a safe and approved solution for your family home away from home experience in the mountains,” according to the Big Bear website. “We have been working closely with our city and county to ensure you are protected and updated with the latest information.”

Kyra's workout challenge Try this workout three or four times a week. This will help increase your stamina and get you sweating.

45 minute walk

Spotify code

100 jumping jacks 50 high knees 20 burpees 2 minute plank Stretch and drink lots of water GRAPHIC BY KYRA BERG

WHS students stay active despite pandemic With all the chaos surrounding COVID–19, students have needed extra motivation to find workouts that can be accomplished at home. by kyra berg co–web editor–in–chief Some WHS students have adapted to these unprecedented times and figured out an exercise routine that can be done while following safety protocols. Students looking for workout inspiration or different ways to stay active might consider what these students are doing.

“Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and negative mood and by improving self–esteem and cognitive function.

Exercise has also been found to alleviate symptoms such as low self–esteem and social withdrawal,” according to The National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Football cornerback and lacrosse midfielder Finn O’Brien ‘22 has a gym at home. Since school practices are not consistent, he also trains independently.

“I have been able to practice lacrosse a lot more with my dad,” said O’Brien. “It helps to have someone to pass with.”

The switch to online school has allowed students more time to do other activities. Before the pandemic, prioritizing physical activity was harder than it is now. The only challenge is discovering what works at home.

“I used to not have much time to practice with school," said O'Brien. "But with online classes, I have more free time to practice."

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ASG President Amy Song ‘21 has tried many different at–home workouts during quarantine, ranging from jumping rope to guided YouTube workout videos. Some popular fitness YouTube influencers she and many other WHS students like to follow include Chloe Ting, Scott Herman, Cassey Ho and Caleb Marshall.

“I have recently fallen in love with YouTube kickboxing videos,” said Song. “I can get in my workout while in the safety of my own home.”

For some students, their workout routines have not been impacted. Braden Baum ‘21 says his workouts have not been drastically changed because of the pandemic. Baum utilized gyms when they opened back up, but now that they are closed again, he has gone back to his routine of outdoor workouts. “[During] quarantine, I committed to gym workouts and occasional neighborhood runs,” said Baum.

Other students stay motivated by doing workouts their family members create. On a typical workout day, Joy Collins ‘21 will go on a two–mile run warmup and then do a Chloe Ting workout video or one of her brother's workouts.

Her brother used to play football and knows how to target different muscles. “[My brother] makes upper body, lower body, full body and ab workouts,” said Collins. “They also involve weightlifting. [His workouts] take an hour and 30 minutes to finish.”

With safety guidelines changing frequently, students must go outside of their usual boundaries. Lacrosse attackman Antoine Moats ‘21 has been staying active by going on hikes, doing push–ups and practicing in his backyard.

“I mostly do the same [workouts], but now it is always on my own,” said Moats.

Students on teams are also reinforcing their training with other workouts. WHS Dance Team member Anya Alksnina ‘24 has team practices at school and with her dance studio. She does other workouts to keep her stamina at the same intensity it was at last year.

“I have been doing Chloe Ting workouts from YouTube and use a step tracker app when I go on runs and walks in my neighborhood,” said Alksnina.

Some WHS students are supplementing their team practices by playing with club teams. Lacrosse attackman Jayson Batie ‘21 “[has] been playing club [to] have the opportunity to play more.”

While waiting for school practices to become normal again, Batie and other lacrosse players have supported each other through quarantine.

“Lately, my friends and I have been doing gym workouts very consistently to ensure we stay in shape for when we go back to playing,” said Batie.

“More than ever, our group chat has been focused on people trying to get out there together and put in work on their own.”

CIF update shapes WHS sports’ future WHS sports have only recently begun to return with new restrictions and guidelines to prepare for a possible winter season. Now facing a new announcement, WHS sports are in jeopardy of losing part of their seasons. by owen kobett sports section editor It was announced that the CIF state meet and regional meets would be canceled for all sports, on Dec. 1. This announcement coincided with a ramp up in COVID–19 cases and routine practices for a number of fall sports.

“I can't say this came as a surprise; we were anticipating some news coming out,” said assistant principal of athletics Brad Katz. “We weren’t making progress as a county or as a state at that point to start playing, so we knew things were going to be canceled.”

Athletic coordinator, Kyle Kegley, goes further with his estimates concerning the effects that the current changes will have on fall sports and their regular seasons. As a coordinator, he had more information about exactly what CIF was intending.

“In my opinion, all they are giving you is however many weeks [CIF state takes place in]," said Kegley. "Whether it is two weeks, three weeks or four, [they’ll give] that sport the extra time to get a season in. There has been no official start date, but I know CIF has been very strong on the end dates, so the end dates will not change.”

A special CIF provision has allowed practices to continue how they have been due to the fact that they are part of school. As a result, most teams haven’t faced any immediate changes. However, for boys volleyball, the CIF update came with rumors of another long term change, the push of their sport back to spring.

“There are a lot of moving pieces, and we’re trying to accommodate everybody so all kids can have their seasons,” said boys volleyball coach Chris Harger. "However we need to make that work so that everybody can participate, I’m all for it.”

Unlike boys volleyball, boys and girls water polo has no large changes in store. Yet, the athletes have had time to learn new lessons from their circumstances.

“We’ve been really focusing on just building resiliency, so one thing that we focus on is developing muscles for adversity,” said water polo coach Jens Cole. “We talked about the idea of conflict creativity, so when things are going rough, you learn to work with what you are provided.”

CIF Southern Section releases key information CIF is awaiting new guidelines from the California Department of Public Health after the recnt increase in COVID–19 cases.

CIF State and Regional championships have been canceled, and CIF boys volleyball championships have moved to spring.

CIF calendar for league and postseason play remains unchanged.

Individual schools still have the responsibility of deciding activities that go along with local guidelines.

The cancellation of CIF state and the limits on coaching have impacted the CIF budget drastically with a loss of $275,000 as of Dec. 1.

Source: cifss.org

By honing these skills, for the water polo athletes, the practices have taken on a new aspect.

With uncertainties surrounding their season, they believe it is good for them to have something to focus on in the current moment. With their hard work they hope to be prepared for any future competition, no matter how small.

“I guess I’m just going to keep working hard at practice for however long we can and look for any local games we can compete in and focus on whatever’s ahead,” said water polo athlete Cameron Eickoff '21.

After hearing about CIF’s major change, Katz, Kegley and all of the coaches at WHS await the next CIF update on Jan. 19. Administrators hope there will be an updated schedule to act as a roadmap for the winter seasons. With this roadmap in place, they hope to be able to progress closer to in–person competition.

CIF Southern Section should be ready for a return to play.

GRAPHIC BY OWEN KOBETT

“We don’t know what it will exactly look like, but one thought is that they are going to push things back a little bit to give us more time,” said Katz. “One thing that we do know is season one sports will not be pushed into season two sports; there is just not enough facilities to do that.”

On Dec. 14, Katz announced that all winter sports currently practicing will return to Phase 1.

Phase 1 was the original phase that winter sports had to go through, and during it, only 10 athletes are allowed per coach to maximize social distancing. This will make sports like water polo and volleyball very hard to carry out in–person.

The recent setbacks came as a result of a rapidly increasing case count in Ventura County, L.A. county and surrounding counties. Statistics by the New York Times demonstrate an exponential increase in cases during the weeks of Nov. 29–Dec.5 and Dec. 6–Dec. 12.

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