Volume XXXVIII Issue 6 26 May 2016
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Brazil to host 2016 Summer Olympics Amanda Yao Opinion Section Editor For the first time in Olympics’ history, a South American country is hosting the Games. The 2016 Summer Olympic Games will take place in August in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, beginning with an opening ceremony on Aug. 5 and concluding with a closing ceremony on Aug. 21. The mascot for Rio 2016 is “Vinicius,” a yellow and blue creature that represents Brazilian wildlife. Collectively, the 2016 Olympic games will take place at four locations. With less than a hundred days until the event, construction of the venue is still unfinished. Maracana Stadium will be the site of the opening and closing ceremonies and also has two large stadiums for sporting events. Barra Olympic Park is a group of nine sporting venues in the west part of the city and is home to Olympic Park, which includes multiple arenas: a tennis complex, a race track and a broadcast and press center. Copacabana’s world famous beach will host beach volleyball and Deodoro Stadium will host aquatics, equestrian and BMX events. Two hundred and six nations and over 10,000 athletes are expected to participate in the Olympics and in 306 events. This year’s games will include some former favorite sports. Golf will return to the Olympics after a 112 year hiatus. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) made the decision to reinstate golf as an official Olympic sport. The last time golf was part of the Olympics was in the 1904 Games. In addition to golf, rugby also returns to the Olympic Games after a 92 year absence. Despite the excitement and years of planning, the 2016 Summer Games is wrought with controversy. One of the most pressing issues is the historically high level
of water contamination and pollution in Rio. A huge concern, because aquatic athletes will need to use these waters for competition. An analysis of the water done by the Associated Press reveals dangerously high levels of contamination from human feces. Olympic water athletes run the risk of becoming infected by the viruses and bacteria, potentially ruining their chances of winning an Olympic medal. Rio officials previously promised to alleviate environmental concerns through investment in sanitation, but there have been no significant efforts or results. In Rio’s Olympic bid, the government promised a four billion dollar effort to alleviate water pollution and construct eight treatment water treatment facilities. Only one has been built. “Guanabara Bay is so polluted that we need all hands on deck to solve this sooner rather than later,” said Yvon Wolthuis, a sustainability expert and co-developer of the Clean Urban Delta Initiative. “Plus, there’s so much happening in an urban bay environment like Rio that you can’t just rely on one governance model or technology to fix it.” The main obstacle for fixing pressing problems is funding. Brazil is currently suffering from one of its worst economic recessions, and Rio’s state government, which is responsible for the clean-up, has been negatively impacted by the economic downturn and lack of funding. Therefore, it is virtually impossible to implement the expensive proposals addressing the environmental crisis. Another topic of controversy is the exclusion of Russia and possibly Kenya, Morocco, Ethiopia, Belarus and Ukraine from the 2016 Summer Olympics. This is due to the long history of the countries’ track and field athletes using drugs during previous Olympics. Sebastian Coe, president of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), warns that Russia needs “significant further work” in addressing the problem before being allowed to participate in Rio.
According to Grigory Rodchenkov, director of Russia’s antidoping laboratory during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, dozens of Russian athletes, including 15 medal winners, were part of a state-run doping program. Rodchenkov revealed that he had created a three-drug concoction mixed with liquor which he then provided to dozens of Russian athletes. The athletes’ urine samples were then replaced by untainted samples. This is considered one of the most successful and intricate doping ploys in Olympic history. The World Anti-Doping Agency revealed the actions of the Russians at Sochi. The Russian government forced Rodchenkov to resign and he now resides in Los Angeles. Russia’s track and field team has been suspended since Nov. 2015. The IAAF will make the decision of whether the Russian track and field team will officially be suspended from Rio 2016 on June 17. Russia will not likely be allowed to participate in the 2016 Summer Olympics. Doping continues to occur and athletes are being warned ahead of time of the dates of doping tests. Recently, the Zika virus, has also incited considerable worry and controversy as the Olympic Games approach. Brazil is one of the 58 countries and territories that still contains Zika-virus transmitting mosquitoes. The Zika virus is not directly connected to the high levels of water pollution and contamination in Rio. Athletes and visitors to the 2016 Olympic Games are encouraged to follow the travel tips provided by the World Health Organization to avoid areas with poor sanitation. Pregnant women are advised against visiting areas where the Zika virus is still actively being transmitted. World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization continue to monitor the Zika virus in Brazil and provide updates both before the Olympic Games in August and beyond. Despite the tension in the air, as the start of the Olympics draw closer, the world looks forward to the largest international sporting event of the summer.
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News theArrow Weekly CPT schedule not yet confirmed Kay Lim News Editor
PHOTO BY KARIE LYNCH
Acceptance of the proposed bell schedule for the 2016-2017 school year would allow for a weekly CPT period. But, the plan has been put on hold due to objections by the district office. The new schedule was proposed by WHS staff after considering a variety of alternatives. WHS staff members voted to pass the schedule in March with a 90% approval rate of 61 to 7. Site administration also supports the schedule change. After two years under the current schedule, teachers suggested a change due to problems with planning, collaborating with other teachers and making themselves available to students. “It [current CPT schedule] is hard on teachers because there is an inconsistency by having CPT every other week,” said Assistant Principal of Instruction Nicole Judd. The weekly CPT time will allow teachers to have regular department meetings and hold additional office hours. The newly proposed schedule would also allow students to have extra time to make up exams, get help
ADVOCATING FOR CHANGE (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT): Becky Alderson, Courtney Stockton, Lisa Ryder and Doug Freed greet CVUSD board member John Anderson outside of the district board room to show their support for the proposed bell schedule.
from teachers or on–campus tutoring centers and catch up on their sleep or homework. “CPT helps staff collaborate more and help students,” said Doug Freed, AP Government and Microeconomics teacher. “With the new
schedule implemented, it would not change much with our schedule since we are already used to making adjustments.” A survey conducted by The Arrow in early May revealed that 144 out of 150 students are in favor of
having CPT each week. “I would like to have CPT every week because I get to sleep in,” said Elyse Matsuura ‘18. “As students we do not get a lot of sleep, so having the extra time to catch up makes my sleep deprivation less severe.”
Although WHS voted to accept the proposed schedule, when the schedule was sent to the Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) for approval, it encountered an obstacle. Representatives of the school district did not approve of the new schedule. A survey of 594 WHS parents revealed that only 60% of parents were in favor of the schedule change. The Unified Association of Conejo Teachers (UACT) filed a grievance against the district based on the faculty vote. Following the grievance, Jim Garza, Director of Secondary Education of CVUSD, stated that there were no objections [to the proposed schedule] during this time. The bell schedule was added to the CVUSD board meeting agenda as an information item for the May 17 meeting. To show their approval and support for the proposed schedule, teachers dressed in WHS colors and gathered at the district board room prior to the meeting to welcome board members. Board members will officially vote on whether or not to accept the proposed schedule at the next district board meeting to be held on June 7. The results of this meeting will determine the bell schedule for the 2016-2017 school year.
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Editor-in-chief
Alex Shi
Managing Editor Heidi Chiu
Web Editor Pranav Kaygee
News Editor Kay Lim PHOTOS BY ISRA DIN
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Maygren has served the WHS family as a campus supervisor for five years. He will retire this June.
LEAVING A LEGACY: After coaching track and field and teaching physical education for 37 years, Snyder plans to retire at the end of the 2015-2016 school year.
WHS bids farewell to fellow staff Isra Din Sports Editor After providing commendable service to the WHS campus, supervisor Dwight Maygren and P.E. teacher and coach Joe Snyder will retire from the WHS family. Dwight Maygren has been a part of the WHS family for five years, helping to maintain order on campus. Even though Maygren has been at WHS for such a short time, he feels strong ties to the students and leaves feeling greatly satisfied with his time on campus. “I’ve really enjoyed the kids that are here. [The kids are] the best part of working here,” said Maygren. “There's no other reason why I would want this job.” Working with the students has been something Mygren looks forward to every day. He is grateful for his time spent at WHS. After retiring, Maygren hopes to travel around the world. His dream is to visit the Mediterranean. Maygren will continue to be remembered by faculty and students, especially the seniors, who are used to showing Maygren their off–
campus passes as they exit school. “Working in the student lot was the most memorable part,” said Maygren, “It was a good experience. I enjoyed that a lot.” Respected coach and physical education teacher Snyder will also be greatly missed by staff and students. After being part of the WHS community for 37 years, Snyder will retire alongside Maygren at the end of the 2015-2016 school year. In 2002, Snyder started his career as a teacher and eventually became co-coach of WHS Track and Field. Co-coach and WHS math teacher Chad Scott, a friend of Snyder of nine years, describes Snyder as knowledgeable as he is able to proficiently execute ideal workouts and training for different athletes. “He can effectively create workouts tailored to a variety of athletes and maximize athletes’ potential,” said Scott. Snyder’s absence from the WHS community will impact the student body, faculty and staff immensely as he continually brought the students and teachers together throughout his time here. “The kids have been great; it’s a lot of fun,” said Snyder. Snyder has been able to watch several students grow throughout high school and brought
his own two sons to be a part of the WHS family as well. “My own kids have gone through here,” said Snyder. “It was fun to see them here.” The Snyder name has greatly impacted the students and staff of WHS and will continue to long after Coach Snyder’s retirement. His sons work at Future Track, a store designed to fit the needs of an athlete and has become a legitimate resource to fulfill the needs of the athletes here at WHS. “I’ve enjoyed the entire physical education experience with all the students. It was enjoyable being here with everybody and I enjoyed coaching,” said Snyder. After retiring, Snyder hopes to have more leisure time to do things that he loves to do. “I’m looking forward to spending a lot of time with my family and just having free time and things of that nature” said Snyder. Snyder’s legacy will remain an important part of the WHS athletics program as student athletes and colleagues pass on his positive mentality. “He knows that while winning is important, giving and earning respect is more important,” said Scott. Both Maygren and Snyder will be remembered by the WHS family and remain a part of the WHS legacy.
Opinion Editors Kylie Wexler, Amanda Yao
Feature Editors Annanlee Chang, Michelle Choi, Clare Doyle, Kallyn Hobmann, Steven Huang, Allison Mendoza, Helen Shi, Andy Xia
Sports Editors Rachel Finegold, Isra Din, Jaisen Lim
Staff Writers Sonali Bhargava, Marc Choi, Caroline Dority, Elliot Kim, Caelyn Pender, Sydney Rosinski, Lauryn Yarnall, Matthew Zhang
Adviser Karie Lynch The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School. The opinions expressed in these 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. Please send submissions to westlakearrow@gmail. com or our website at www.westlakearrow.com
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26 May 2016
Opinion
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Freshman: finding my fit
seemed a lot larger and more intimidating than middle school, and I was trying to fit into the mold of someone who was not quite me. Like my shoes, the way I was acting fit a little snug on Staff Writer my personality. I eventually got tired of trying to fit into I still remember the first day of high school the ill-suited mold. It became too uncomfortas if it were yesterday. able, attempting to be someone I wasn’t and tryMy nerves were on high as I got dressed and ing to deal with everything I had learned so far in I did not want to escape back pulled on my new pair of high–top Converse, high school. into my old (middle which was considerably school) shoes, which less comfortable than the pair I wore in middle had lost their perfect fit school. I grabbed my bag over time, but I no longer wanted to put myself and walked out the front in situations that did not door, taking a last longshow who I really was. ing look at the freedoms of summer as I made my Something had to change— and fast. way to the car. That day was terrifying. I decided to pull out a different pair My new shoes were slightly snug in the heel A NEW PAIR OF SHOES: Caelyn Pender ‘19 of shoes: sandals and and toe, but I tried to discards her new Converse for a well fitted pair with them, the true me was revealed. No lontake each step with un- of sandals. usual amounts of configer having to resort to dence. I introduced myself to people that I would scrunching my feet to fit my high school shoes, never dream of talking to and pretended that I was or putting on my old worn out middle school comfortable with everything that came my way, shoes, I found that these new sandals fit comfortably. just like I had a week before during WOW. High school was a new adventure, one that It took a while to break them in, as they
Caelyn Pender
PHOTO BY KYLIE WEXLER
had to mold to fit my personality, but eventually they fit almost perfectly, not too old but not to new. They were just right. Both my shoes and my personality have been with me ever since. I do not regret any of the decisions that I made. Even some of those very interesting parties that I attended helped shape me into the person that I am now. Everything that has happened this year has helped me realize the kind of person that I want to be in life. Just because I like sandals does not mean that they are the right shoes for everyone. I have learned that everyone has their own unique mold. Even though I might be someone who would prefer to curl up under a blanket and read a book than be social, I want to embrace my personality for everything it has to offer. All people have a unique pair of shoes to fit their personality, even if they haven’t found it yet. Throughout the rest of high school, my shoes will probably change again and again. As I learn more and my personality evolves, I will have to find new pairs of shoes, and each time, the shoes will conform to my personality better than the last pair did. Through the constant journey of growing and changing that lies ahead of me, I will have to find the shoes that can adapt to my ever-changing personality best.
Sophomore: discovering my real self Kylie Wexler Opinion Editor
COURTESY PHOTO
The average person lives 78.7 years. In my 16 year experience, I can tell you that 78.7 years is too short to hide who you are and to not be who you want to be. Fortunately, high school is the perfect place to start this journey of self discovery. Since middle school, I felt like the real me could only come out during my summers at Gindling Hilltop Camp, a Jewish sleepaway camp. If you have ever attended any kind of camp whether it’s sleep-away or not, you identify with the feeling I have. At camp my closest friends, whom I see as the best people, come together for a month every summer in Malibu. One of the camp mottos is “Camp is life; the rest is just details.” Summer camp is intended for campers and staff to let loose, act insane and be themselves without being judged by others. At camp, when I’m myself, I am truly happy. When we are in our “camp world” we live off camp food, camp traditions and camp everything. The friendships that I have made are never ending and the memories are unforgettable. But every year when I return home from camp and prepare for school, I get stuck in an uncomfortable feeling because, sadly, high school isn’t a judgment–free environment, and I feel held back from being myself because of others’ opinions and how most of them do not
about me. know my story: I am a Jewish camp girl. I learned that saying the wrong answer It wasn’t until mid-November when I said to myself, “Okay Kylie, today you will go isn’t always bad. Speak up with your ideas and to school and feel like you are actually being disagree with whatever you don’t feel is right yourself and not being anyone you don’t want to in your heart (just make sure you have a good be.” I was sick of being someone who I was not comeback). Say what you feel. In the end, who and didn’t want to look back on my high school cares what others think when you are doing the right thing for yourself? career as being fake to myself. I learned if I have a problem with anyone , I can truly say this day was life changing. I no longer felt like I was hiding anything and I can avoid the conflict by talking to the person I felt free to finally be myself, the self that I straight up, making life less stressful because high school is know from camp. That already stressful self that wore what I enough wanted to wear, said Focus on what what I wanted to say you like to do and and posted what I don’t do anything wanted to post. My you don’t want to realization began when do. I first started thinking I realized about all my school if I love to do friends compared to my something, then camp friends. I should do it as I slowly started much as I can disconnecting with the FINDING HERSELF: Kylie Wexler ’18 studies because I never ones who made me feel the Torah at Gindling Hilltop Camp. like I was holding back and I started hanging know when I won’t be able to do it again (No out with the ones who know me and who love thanks to my ACL and meniscus surgery for me for who I am (like my camp friends do). I taking me out for a few, long, dreadful months started realizing that I was genuinely happy of no soccer or anything fun basically). I know the present is extremely important, hanging out with these genuine people because but so is the future. If you can’t be who you they understood me like camp people do. I no longer cared about how many parties I really are in the present, then the future only went to and how many friends I have. It’s about holds worse problems. Be who you want to be. having friends who respect me and encourage I, Kylie Wexler, am a Jewish camp girl and I’m me to be my best because they honestly care proud.
Junior: triumphing over challenges
PHOTO BY KYLIE WEXLER
low travelers, friends to teach, friends to guide and friends to protect against the tall senior giants. Steven Huang During the second year of my high school adventure, hordes of tests replaced fire-breathFeature Editor ing dragons, heaps of homework replaced unscalable mountains and pop quizzes replaced Adventure found me as I embarked on my surprise Orc attacks. It was natural to be disheartened by the own unexpected journey through the mysterious realms of high school as a confused and novice challenges that arose, but giving up was not an traveler. I was like most freshmen, lost but ide- option. Thus, whenever the temptations of defeat seemed imminent, I alistic. Armed with a picked up my pencil and group of friends and continued on. a vision of success, I As I approached the walked forward into dark and nebulous region the uncertainty of the of my adventure infafour years to come. mously known as junior I learned the year, I recounted the tales ropes as I progressed of stress and terror told by through this new enpassersby. Myths of sleepvironment, becoming less nights clouded my exposed to new experiences and people. I READY FOR BATTLE: Steven Huang ‘17 faces path as I began to ascend the third part of my adlearned the lesson of life’s challenges with a lightsaber in hand. venture. walking over great Many of the myths came to fruition, but distances with a backpack filled with the necmy previous two years of adventure were not in essary survival tools: textbooks and snacks. I also learned from the onset that an adven- vain, because I was prepared. From the beginturer should never venture without a group of fel- ning, I remembered to surround myself with the
company of friends, and luckily, I wasn’t navigating through uncharted waters alone. I also learned that it was okay to breakdown and feel stressed, but only for 23 seconds. I was not the same confused freshman at the beginning of this trek, and so I once again picked up my pencil and continued on. Soon days passed, then weeks, then months and I had vanquished hundreds of tests and climbed over even greater piles of homework. The journey was finally nearing an end. Thus, this story was not a tale of failure and insurmountable challenge, even though there certainly was a fair share of mistakes and adversity. It was a story of being able to never give in and overcome anything. To all my adventurers to come, your journey through high school will certainly be an exciting and unusual experience: an adventure. Each one of our paths will be unique, filled with exclusive experiences, people and trials, and everyone will encounter their own personal challenges along the way. There will be many menacing dragons and insurmountable mountains that will try to discourage you, but remember to pick up your pencil and continue on because we will conquer every obstacle and triumph over every challenge.
The beginning of the end Amanda Yao Opinion Section Editor We look at important events in life through three perspectives: before, during and after. In reflecting on my junior year experience, let me take y’all back to a Big Asian Party (BAP) one summer night in 2013. I have a love-hate relationship with BAPs. On one hand, watching previously dignified and stuffy Chinese parents belt out Chinese karaoke is somewhat amusing. On the other hand, BAPs are where Asian parents do what they do best—compare their offspring. “She’s planning on taking six AP classes,” one mother said about her daughter who would be a junior the coming fall. “Mine both had heavy course-loads in 11th grade. The high grades are worth it, though,” confirmed another. “And before you know it, she’ll be applying to college and leaving you,” laughed a third, whose children were off being successful at some Ivy League or another. I, then a soon-to-be freshman, thought of how cool it must be to be an upperclassman with all those AP classes, because it would all be “worth it.” It had to be, right? Fast forward two years: November 2015. Junior year had inevitably arrived and I thought I was ready to destroy six AP classes. How wrong I was. After only two months of school, I was literally and figuratively dying. Literally, I was clocking an average of five hours of sleep per night and constantly used class time as nap time. Figuratively, I felt as though I was losing my grip on sanity. Due to some form of stupidity, stubborness and arrogance, I waited until the last possible day to drop a class. In doing that, I felt as though I had somehow failed as a student. After all, the children of those two mothers at that dinner party so long ago had been able to handle the horrors of junior year. Why couldn’t I? I’m writing to you now as an exhausted, post-AP madness student nearing the end of her junior year. And the end of one thing always means the beginning of another, but I find that every ending calls for reflection before seizing that new beginning. My mom loves to repeat this Chinese proverb that roughly translates to “there is no medicine for regret.” As much as I regret signing myself up for those six AP classes at the beginning of the year, I learned something valuable from trying and then failing drastically. This failure forced me to recognize that not everyone can fit the perfect-student cookie-cutter mold. I definitely don’t have a perfect academic record and this year, I realized, hey, that’s okay. To all future juniors, staying sane is far more important than trying to squash your competition, which, by the way, is not a healthy mindset at all. As I approach my senior year, I can’t help but feel as though this is the beginning of the end. I suppose there really isn’t medicine for regret, try hard as we might to find it. The only thing we can do is look to the future, a big, bright, hopeful future. I’m excited for what senior year holds for the class of 2017— the final frontier.
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Feature
Rachel Finegold Sports Section Editor The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Hollywood was announced to the public on June 2, 2015 and the gates opened on April 7, 2016 after weeks of testing the new addition to Universal Studio’s theme park. Two days before the grand opening, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter invited stars from the movies to the red carpet event and celebration. The event included live performances and fireworks, drawing anticipation for the grand
opening. On April 7, thousands of Muggles who pre-bought tickets months in advance were already lined up outside the front gates before dawn to see the rides, attractions and shops of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s biggest attraction is the ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.” This ride flies Muggles through the corridors and over the grounds of Hogwarts to show them the real life of a wizard. The 3-D simulation gives the rider an unforgettable adventure as they spin and flip while escaping from spiders in the Forbidden Forest and trying to
catch the Snitch during a Quidditch match. Other rides include “The Dragon Challenge” and “Flight of the Hippogriff.” The Dragon Challenge includes two different tracks that reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour and heights up to 125 feet. Muggles get to choose to ride either the Hungarian Horntail or the Chinese Fireball dragons that twist, turn and loop around each other. “Flight of the Hippogriff ” is a family friendly rollercoaster about 30 mph slower than the Dragon Challenge. Be ready to approach a Hippogriff the correct way with instructions from Hagrid as you loop
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and dive through the pumpkin patch and past Hagrid’s hut. Don’t forget to shop around the streets of Hogsmeade in between rides to buy some wizard essentials. Ollivander’s will pair its incoming students with the wand that chooses them. Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment will have all the supplies a wizard could ever need. Also visit Gladrag’s Wizardwear to purchase wizard apparel and accessories, allowing any Muggle have a taste of the wizarding world. If one is craving to taste all of the candy mentioned in the books and more, visit Honeydukes to satisfy any wizard’s sweet tooth.
Kallyn Hobmann Feature Section Editor
Jaisen Lim Feature Editor The long anticipated film Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is set to be released on Nov. 18, 2016; however, the date is still subject to change. The film is directed by David Yates and features Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander and Ezra Miller as Credence. The movie is set 70 years before Harry Potter was born. The film features protagonist Newt Scamander, who is associated with the New York witch and wizard community. The film opens with Scamander attending the Magical Congress of the United States for an important meeting. There, numerous creatures escape from his magical briefcase and Scamander embarks on a journey through the dangerous city to recapture the beasts. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them centers around Scamander’s quest to undo the chaos caused by his escaping beasts and return New York to its usual state of existence.
The film is an adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s book of the same title. J.K. Rowling published the novel in 2001, and it gained popularity after she finished the Harry Potter series in 2007. The announcement of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them spurred newfound interest among Harry Potter fans. The novel has numerous references to the Harry Potter series, such as Ron Weasley’s notes and drawings. Filming began in Aug. 2015 at Warner Bros Studio, London and Liverpool, and was finished in Jan. 2016. The film is currently undergoing editing and further refinement. As a result, the film has not been rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). Warner Bros recently announced that the movie will be a trilogy. The fantasy-family adventure movie is a highly anticipated film and Harry Potter enthusiasts have high expectations due to the popularity and prestige of the Harry Potter movies. Viewers are excited to see what Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them will bring as an expansion to the wizarding world of Harry Potter.
Author J.K. Rowling introduced her beloved seven-book series starting with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone published in June 1997. Harry Potter entered the world of cinema in July 2001 with the release of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. The final film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 brought the movie collection to a close in July 2011. The wizarding world Rowling created 19 years ago is now once again re-entering the world of entertainment- this time, in the form of a play. The last time fans saw Harry Potter, he was sending his two oldest children, James Sirius and Albus Severus, off to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and “all was well.” Now he will return in the eighth Harry Potter story Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The play reveals how Harry Potter has been living his life since the end of the final book and movie, picking up from where the seventh book’s epilogue ended. Harry has always struggled with his identity, and it hasn’t gotten easier now that he is a husband, father and an employee of the Ministry of Magic. While he copes with a past that can’t seem to stay in its place, his younger son, Albus, struggles with the heavy weight of his family’s legacy. As past and present begin to inter-
To try out one of the Weasley’s practical jokes, wander into Zonko’s Joke Shop for novelty items and toys. “The best thing about Harry Potter World is that you can get wands and interact with all the different buildings just like a wizard,” said Ilan Morad ’16. If a wizard starts to feel homesick, head over to the Owl Post to send a friend a letter or pick up some letters to write later. To complete a Muggle’s visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, make sure to buy some Butterbeer. This sweet and savory drink is the favorite of all wizards, and soon Muggles, everywhere.
twine, both father and son learn that darkness can be found in the most unexpected places. The play is written by Jack Thorne in collaboration with Rowling and directed by John Tiffany. Although the rest of Harry Potter’s story has been told through Rowling’s novels, Rowling has full confidence in the eighth story being told on a stage. “I’m confident that when audiences see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child they will understand why we chose to tell this story in this way,” said Rowling on the play’s official website at www.harrypottertheplay. com. The cast consists of over 30 actors, with Jamie Parker playing the role of Harry Potter, Noma Dumezweni playing Hermione Granger and Paul Thornley as Ron Weasley. “I think even though Harry Potter fans are used to reading the books and seeing the movies, it will still be a really cool way to learn more about Harry’s story through a play,” said Margaret Dorhout ’16. According to Rowling on her website at www.pottermore.com, the play is shown in two parts due to the “epic nature of the story.” The two shows can be seen either on two consecutive nights or in one day with a matinee and evening show. The play officially opens at the Palace Theatre in London on July 30, but the preview performances start on June 7. Although the play will not be coming to the U.S. until at least 2017, it is sure to stir up excitement among Harry Potter fans all around the world.
26 May 2016
Feature
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GRAPHIC BY HELEN SHI
A stay-at-home summer: no cars allowed California’s landscape ranges from sandy beaches to high mountain chains. Long highways lead to beaches, amusement parks, concerts and restaurants. In order to explore the full potential of a California summer, one needs a car. But, this is something to which many high school students do not have access to. Fortunately, summer can still be saved. A four wheel vehicle is not needed to enjoy summer break. Many fun and creative local excursions and activities can keep you busy in the summer heat. When you are finding yourself bored and home-alone, try the following:
Friend and family get togethers
Get creative
Take up a new hobby
Picnic This is a nice way to relax and enjoy the California summer weather. Lay out a picnic blanket in your backyard or at a local park and enjoy the change of scenery while eating your lunch. Bring an array of foods, such as sandwiches, wraps, salads, watermelon and chips as well as entertainment such as board games, a deck of cards, a soccer ball or football to enjoy after the meal.
Write a novel If you love writing and have ideas circulating in your head but no time to get them on paper, tackle this project in the summer and create a personal masterpiece. Whether it is an online short story series or a full-fledged novel, writing your own story can bring a sense of pride and accomplishment. Submit your novel to an online competition and possibly win a prize.
Cooking Cooking is a creative way to test out your creativity, persistence and skill. The summer season provides a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that can be prepared in endless combinations to form a healthy meal. If eating healthy is not your thing, then try baking sweets or making icy desserts for a hot summer day.
Waterfight Despite the present drought condition, once in awhile it is refreshing to escape the heat and cool off with some water. Take out the water guns, water balloons and buckets. A water fight is a fun way to hang out with friends or family and vent any hiding frustrations.
Start a blog This is an effective and artsy method to get your opinions on daily life or controversial issues out to the public. User friendly web hosts such as Wordpress provide bloggers with a means to customize their web space and specialize in a genre such as cooking, art, short stories or editorial essays.
Exercise If you are not already an active athlete, the summer is the perfect time to start exercising. Running is one of the easiest and most effective ways to get in some cardio. There are also plenty of Youtube videos that provide information about muscle training. Set a goal before the summer and aim for success.
Barbeque A barbeque is a great gathering event where friends and family can bond outdoors over an open flame. There is a wide variety of foods that can be put on the grill for a delicious meal, ranging from classic ribs to watermelon or pineapple.
Create a photography journal Explore your neighborhood and take pictures of whatever piques your interest. By examining local beauty, you can come to better appreciate the world. Keep the pictures in an album and come back later to reminisce the summer of 2016.
Art
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Whether it is painting, doodling or sketching, art is one of the top activities to channel creativity. Try experimenting with different styles of art or improving your own skills. Keep all your work and make a portfolio to commemorate the work.
Compiled by Helen Shi
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Sports
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Volleyball wraps up impressive season PHOTO BY ISRA DIN
Sydney Rosinski Lauryn Yarnall Staff Writers
ON YOUR MARK: Seaton (lane 3) participates in the 100 meter hurdles at the Ventura County Championships. Seaton set a personal record of 14.5 seconds.
Girls track and field wins Marmonte League after 35 years Kay Lim News Editor
The girls varsity track and field team broke through and won the Marmonte League Finals. The team placed second at CIF Southern Section Finals Division Two. Its last win at Marmonte League was 35 years ago, leaving members very enthusiastic with their victory. “Winning was really exciting and we were all happy for the coaches, especially Coach Joe Snyder since it is his last year...I
think we really deserved it,” said Sam Seaton ‘17 Marmonte League Finals was on May 6 and CIF was on May 27, both held at Cerritos College. The win was both attributed to hard work as well as team collaboration. “It is really good being on the winning team, and this has been the strongest our team has ever been,” said Noelle Schiller ‘17. “We all worked together and we were able to make a team that was very diverse in skill, as well as a family aspect which made it more fun to win.” As the season draws to a close, members of the team continue to train with hopes of qualifying for the title next year.
Boys tennis hits Marmonte with force Marc Choi Staff Writer With a 12 wins and five losses overall, the boys varsity tennis team took home the Marmonte League title; however, they lost to Woodbridge High School 7-11 in the first round of the CIF playoffs. Andrew Whitehouse ‘17 and Cody Lin ‘17 won their respective matches, but it was not enough to overcome Woodbridge High School. Coach Connie Flanderka believed that both teams fought hard. “Everyone played well at times,” said Flanderka. “Woodbridge was a really tough team that had a lot of depth.” Varsity singles player Whitehouse believes that the team was in need of more growth, but the team had enough leaders to carry it to Marmonte League champions. “Even though we have no seniors, we still have a lot of leaders,” said Whitehouse. Among the many leaders on the team, most agree that Everbrook Zhou ‘17, team captain, is the most energetic of them all. Rudy Zhang ’19, Zhou’s doubles partner, believes he is a key part of the team’s success. “He is a very energetic, motivating person,” said Zhang. “He is the heart of the team.” His spirit is not only noticed by his peers, but also is noticed by his coach. “He encourages other players during matches, tries to help teammates stay upbeat...and has a ton of spirit in every match,” said Flanderka. In addition to Zhou’s leadership, Coach Flanderka supports the team with valuable instruction and a feeling of trust. “She is a good coach,” said Max Lorenz ‘17, German exchange student and doubles player. “[She] helps us improve, and [we] can talk to her about anything.” Leadership is an essential element for a standout team. Assistant
PHOTO BY TAYLOR CHEN
Boys varsity volleyball’s state championship run was cut short by San Clemente High School on May 12 with a 3-0 loss. The team, led by its seniors and captains, worked diligently to get to the second round of CIF, picking up the Marmonte League championship title along the way. After losing key seniors from a successful team last year, the current captains knew that WHS’ reputation laid on their shoulders. The team’s final overall record is 22-7-1 and 9-1 in league. The Warriors secured a #18 ranking in California and a #19 nationwide. “Our strength is our team balance,” said head coach Douglas Magorien. “We have strong players at all positions, and in some cases strong players on the bench backing them up.” The team is comprised of four seniors, eight juniors and five freshmen. The underclassmen have depended on the seniors to lead the way against tough competition. “The seniors have brought a sense of leadership and confidence to the team,” said libero Jake Simon ‘17, a twoyear varsity player. “They bring us together to help finish off teams in tough situations.” The Warriors’ only loss within its league meets was 3-2 against Newbury Park. However, when the rivals faced off for the second time in April, WHS took home the 3-0 win. Outside hitter Brent Rasmussen ‘17, a first-year varsity player, said that moving forward, they will have to be more disciplined against future competition. With their time on the high school court rapidly disappearing, the seniors focused on playing game by game and making sure that their teammates were all focused. “We needed to win every single game that we could,” said Everett Schuett ‘16, a three-year varsity player and team captain this season. “No opportunities were taken for granted. We just went out there and tried to win.” Schuett will attend the University of Hawaii to play volleyball starting next fall. Dale MacLean ’16, a four-year varsity player, will attend Yale following graduation, but won’t play collegiate volleyball because Yale doesn’t have a team. MacLean plays opposite on the court. “We’re a tighter-knit group of kids now,” said MacLean on the differences between this year and previous years. “A lot of people hang out outside of the sport.” John Buffalo ’16 and Tyler Robinson ’16 make up the rest of the senior class on the team. Robinson is a three-year varsity player who plays outside hitter, and Buffalo is a first-year varsity transfer student who plays libero. Buffalo will attend University of Washington, and Robinson will attend University of California Santa Barbara. “The seniors brought a lot of competitiveness and we were really able to perform well in league,” said Buffalo on the seniors’ behalf. WHS was expected to have a strong CIF run this season, but unfortunately lost to San Clemente in the second round after beating Irvine 3-0 in the first round. “We underestimated [San Clemente]; we didn’t put as much effort as we should have in the end,” said outside hitter Joshua Strick ’17. It was an emotional loss for the players, knowing that it was their last game as a team and that their successful season had come to an abrupt end. “It’s everything you put your time into for an entire season and it’s all gone in one game,” said Strick.
SERVING THE SEASON WITH A WIN: Ryan Lam ‘19 sets up his forehand in a match against Oaks Christian. The team won 16-2.
Coach Brad Rowe accompanies Coach Flanderka to assist players with the necessary components to win their fourth Marmonte league title in a row. The tennis team went 9-1 in league only losing to Newbury Park High School (NPHS) 2-16. However, they defeated NPHS in their second encounter, 10-8. “The first match was demoralizing,” said Zhou. “[the second match] showed how our team can come back from a big loss.” The final game of the Marmonte League was against Oaks Christian. WHS beat Oaks 16-2 to secure its fourth consecutive Marmonte League title. “It felt amazing to win,” said Zhang. “The entire team worked and trained super hard, and it feels especially incredible to be in this atmosphere as a freshman.” “[The] high school experience [teaches] commitment, team unity, good judgement,” said Flanderka. “Hopefully these experiences translate to job commitments as well as commitments to friends and family, self motivation, and life choices that make one a well rounded individual aware of others.”
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26 May 2016
Sports
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Swim repeats title as Marmonte League champs Sona Bhargava Caroline Dority Staff Writers
PHOTOS BY AMARI HUANG
Both boys and girls varsity swim teams dominated their seasons, coming out on top as Marmonte League champions. They continued their success in CIF. Boys placed ninth and girls placed tenth out of 100 schools at CIF. “We are undefeated,” said boys co-captain Silverio Luna ‘16. “We destroyed everyone by massive margins, and the team was really successful.” Coach Shannon Breese and the unified team were very happy with their overall performance this season. “[The season] went really well,” said boys co-captain Ethan Ng ‘16. “We swept the league as usual and we did what we needed to do.” The swim team consists of very strong swimmers, allowing the team to outperform its adversaries. “No other team was close to beating us, but Newbury Park was the most confident team,” said Jeremy Marcin ‘19. Swim has a variety of events swimmers can compete in. Swimmers on the team usually specialize in a couple of events, differing in both stroke (freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke) and distance (50 meters to 500 meters). Despite everyone possessing a personal strength, all swimmers participate in a well rounded practice routine. “We are a well-balanced team and are successful at every stroke,” said Melanie Zhang ‘19. “The other schools only have a few people who can do certain strokes which does not allow them to be successful as a
DIVING FOR SUCCESS (TOP LEFT): Giselle Lewis ‘19 strives to shave seconds off her time with a perfect entry into the water. SWIMMING THE FINAL STRETCH (ABOVE): Katherine Chang ‘18 propels herself towards the finish line in a meet against Oaks Christian. CRUISING THROUGH THE WATER (LEFT): Lewis and Matthew King ‘17 compete against each other during practice to prepare for their upcoming meet.
whole.” Swimmers undergo intense swim practices in order to improve. During season, varsity swimmers attend morning and afternoon practices. With endless support from captains Sarah Georgian ‘16, Ng, Luna and Coach Breese, the team grew as a family, allowing them to score even higher during meets. “[As captains] not only are we supposed to motivate the team and help freshman and newbies out, but also pro-
vide a fun environment for everyone,” said Georgian. With this strong mind-set, the team conquered its main goal for the season: Marmonte League Champions. “We are all strong swimmers and have not lost any dual meets[allowing us] to win league,” continued Georgian. With both the JV and varsity teams completing a strong season, they look forward to continuing their success next year.
Varsity baseball finishes a successful year
PHOTO BY SHARI KRISTCH
GET HIM OUT: Flores passes the ball to first base in an attempt to get the runner out.
Elliot Kim Matthew Zhang Staff Writers Despite having a new coach, the varsity baseball team finished its season successfully with 13 wins and 13 losses, even qualifying for CIF playoffs. Although the team was defeated in the playoffs, it placed third in Marmonte League. Varsity baseball finished the season with eight wins and seven losses in the league.
“I think the reason we were successful this season was our teamwork, and [especially] our offense,” said second baseman Tyler Flores ‘16. “Our hitting was definitely our biggest strength.” Although the team’s members are still getting to know the new coach, John Burtzloff, they believe his inspiration and strategies will lead the players on the path towards CIF next season. Under the direction of Burtzloff, the team has been able to work effectively and play on the field as a team cohesively. Center fielder Keefer Meehan
‘17 said that the team continued to get better as the season progressed. The players believe that their experience helped the team’s performance throughout the season and will help the team for future seasons to come. “We tried our best against Oaks Christian, but they were able to beat us,” said Meehan. “But I believe it was a spiritual victory for our team.” Despite the team’s performance this season, the players believe that they can improve their skill, endurance and technique. “Our team’s biggest weakness is getting runs across,” said third baseman Jackson Kristch ‘16. “We keep too many players on base, which is a missed opportunity.” Varsity baseball members practiced five days a week to maintain their technique and prowess once they qualified for CIF. The team recently defeated Agoura High School, a school that is considered one of the team’s biggest rivals, 5-4, in a home game on May 6. “My duties as a team player consist of making sure everyone does his part and becomes engaged in the game,” said shortstop Mason Harvey ‘16. WHS varsity baseball players believe that they have achieved success this season through teamwork rather than individual players. They have improved their synergy and been able to work together to become a better overall team. “It’s not about me; it’s about the team,” said Kristch. “We all have to do our best and support each other in order to advance to CIF.”
The swim team is looking forward to next year and swimmers are already focusing on their personal goals. “I am really excited for next season because I really want to beat my personal record and ensure that I qualify for CIF next year,” said Jillian Gallardo ‘19. The season recently came to a close, but the swimmers have to keep their momentum to maintain their times and physique. “To prepare for next season,
I am going to keep swimming and training,” said Gallardo. “Most of the kids on the team are going to swim with Class Aquatics over the summer to keep our momentum going.” Team members’ disciplined work ethic, strong leadership and a close knit connection allowing them to achieve success year after year. “They are all really supportive of each other and the camaraderie this year was really good among the team,” said Breese. “That definitely showed in CIF and league finals.”
Lacrosse sweeps season, wins Marmonte League Jaisen Lim Sports Editor WHS boys varsity lacrosse finished the season as Marmonte League champions and qualified for CIF. The team swept the league with eight wins and one loss. “It [Marmonte League] was fun,” said co-captain James Sullivan ‘16. “It was a big deal because the Marmonte League was so talented this year, top to bottom.” Sullivan will be attending Dartmouth University for lacrosse. The team played against Thousand Oaks High School on April 29 for the championship title, winning 11-6, allowing the team to keep its title of league champions for the second year in a row. “It was really big because our team bonded more than in years past and there’s more effort from everyone,” said midfielder Philip Bliss ‘17. “The extra work paid off.” “Winning the Maromoset [Marmonte] League is an accomplishment, and the league is characterized by intensity and parity in every match,” said boys varsity lacrosse coach Peter Swander. Six players were selected for and awarded All League Honors. Sullivan was given co-MVP of the Marmonte League and first team defense. Brett Reilly ‘16 and Keaton
Cohen ‘18 were awarded first team attack. Jacob Mannisto ‘16 and Kitt Stoddard ‘17 were awarded second team midfield. Matt Kilkeary ‘17 was awarded second team goalie. Boys varsity lacrosse went on to compete in CIFs against Palos Verdes High School on May 7. Unfortunately, the team was not able to overcome its opponent, as it had in previous games, and lost 2-11. “Palos Verdes played the part of key rival this season,” said coach Swander. “We beat them for the first time in WHS lacrosse history early in the season, and they repaid us by ending our season in the city semi-finals.” Despite losing in the CIF semi-finals, the boys varsity lacrosse team remains ecstatic about the season’s outcome. “I thought this year probably went the best that we had so far,” said co-captain Joe Brandolino ‘16. “We have a lot of amazing talent on our team. I was upset about the last game, but I was happy about Marmonte League. I thought that was a pretty big accomplishment.” The team plans to continue practicing its skills and improving its weaknesses to better prepare itself for the following season. “Skills emerge from mastery of the fundamentals,” said Swander. “There are no secrets. Work is what you do on your own. Practice is where you show your work.”
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Photos by Claire Doyle