3.22.16

Volume XXXVIII Issue 5 22 March 2016

theArrow 100 NORTH LAKEVIEW CANYON RD. WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362

www.westlakearrow.com

COURTESY PHOTO

Katherine Ho: a star in the making Helen Shi Feature Editor A tall, skinny girl clad in a red dress and black tights took her steps onto the stage. Raising the microphone, the girl opened up with the sweet melody of “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift.

One minute later, two judges slammed the buzzer and turned around. Katherine Ho ‘17 made it onto The Voice.

Ho started singing at the age of nine. Her musical career began after a professional gig as a session singer for the film Valentine’s Day. Although she mostly practices on her own, Ho worked with vocal instructor, Lis Lewis, in order to prepare for her Voice audition. She is also part of WHS Mixed Chorale.

This year, Ho auditioned for The Voice in Los Angeles. The Voice is a trending reality TV show where top vocalists come and compete against one another under the guidance of celebrity musical coaches. Pharrell Williams, Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton are this season’s coaches.

The Voice recently began its tenth season and airs on NBC on Mondays and Tuesdays at eight o’clock.

Ho chose to join Team Adam after wowing Levine and Shelton with her rendition of “Wildest Dreams.”

“Maroon 5 is one of the first bands that I ever listened to, so having Adam as my coach is truly amazing,” said Ho. “One of the most important things he taught me was the beauty of being an imperfect singer.”

Ho’s decision to perform “Wildest Dreams” for her audition came not only from a desire to challenge herself, but also from her enthusiasm for her idol, Taylor Swift. Ho is widely known as a die–hard Swift fan.

“I was scared as heck the whole time, and honestly, I think a lot of people would have advised me against auditioning, including myself,” said Ho. “I almost felt embarrassed to tell my friends that I was on The Voice because I thought they would think that I had no shot at success...but I am ultimately so glad

that I [auditioned]. I hope I can inspire even one or two people to take a risk and go for something they might be scared about!”

have to worry about looking on point or concealing my awkwardness from the general public.

Q: Why did you want to audition for The Voice?

Q: Who do you think will win?

A: I wanted to audition for The Voice because I knew that I wanted to pursue music in the future, but I felt so uninformed about how to go about pursuing my passion. I felt that getting to work with a world-class coach like Adam, Pharrell, Christina or Blake would be a super valuable learning opportunity to improve my craft that I wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else.

A: It’s really too early to tell! I think there are talented contestants on all teams and that each one of them has a shot at winning.

Q: What was your favorite aspect of participating in The Voice?

A: Definitely one of my favorite things about the whole process is the incredible people that I have met. My fellow contestants are not only the most talented people I have ever met, but they are also genuine, kind, warm and amazing people. I think there tends to be a negative stigma around reality shows being cutthroat, melodramatic and aggressive, but the environment at The Voice is literally the polar opposite.

Also, the night before Battles began, all the contestants gathered around a fireplace to wish each other good luck and reflect on the memories and friendships made on The Voice.

Q: What was your most memorable experience?

A: It would definitely be the studio recording sessions. For the Blind Audition and the Battle, we got to spend half an hour in Henson Studios recording our songs to put on iTunes for followers of the show.

Although I probably only got to spend about an hour total in the studio, every minute I was in there felt like musical paradise. Since The Voice is a reality show, a lot of our show-related activities were filmed to be used as footage for the show. However, the studio sessions were intimate, peaceful and off-camera—a really cool creative space where I could focus on music and not

Q: Who did you work with during the process?

A: I got to work with an incredible vocal coach named Trelawny, who had so many great tips that really brought out the best in all of our performances. There were also two great choreographers who helped us with movement and staging.

I also had the amazing experience of working with a topnotch professional band; they really elevated all the songs to a whole new level, and it was such an honor to work with them.

Working with Adam Levine was an insane experience that I will treasure forever. He taught me that a great singer isn’t always the singer who has flawless technique, but a singer who can truly connect with the audience and channel the emotion of whatever he/she is singing.

For the Battle Rounds, I got to work with Tori Kelly. She is literally my number one idol, tied with Taylor Swift and Pentatonix. I was just so breath taken by her beautiful presence that I kind of just froze up whenever she talked to me.

Q: Where do you hope this experience will take you?

A: I would be extremely naive to think that this experience alone will ensure me any future success in music. On the contrary, The Voice has humbled me and shown me the reality of how far away I am from achieving my goals.

I hope that The Voice will allow me to have more chances to perform, more occasions to share the joy of music and ultimately just more opportunities to do what I love.

2

News

theArrow

Zika virus goes viral Kay Lim News Editor

Letter from the editor Alex Shi Co-Editor in Chief

Alex Shi

COURTESY GRAPHIC

So far, a total of 153 cases in 29 states are associated with travel outside of the U.S..

Cases in the U.S. are linked to travelers from tropical regions. The virus is mainly transmitted through mosquitoes; however, it can spread through blood transfusion, sexual contact with those infected with the virus and in rare cases, pregnancy.

On average, 80% of people who contract Zika experience symptoms including fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes, muscle pain and head-

aches.

The length of time from exposure to the first appearance of symptoms is still unconfirmed; symptoms have been detected within a few days up to a week.

Even though it is rarely transmitted from mother to child, there is a possible link between the virus and microcephaly, a condition that causes babies to be born with irregularly small heads and also causes the brain to develop abnormally in the womb or after birth.

Recently, nine pregnant women, who are all U.S. residents, traveled to Zika-infected countries and tested positive for Zika upon their return.

Among the nine pregnant women, two miscarried, two elected to abort, two of the women plan to carry out their pregnancy full term while the remaining three have delivered infants, one of which has Microcephaly.

Health officials are undergoing research to investigate the connection between Zika and Microcephaly.

WHS to perform at Pearl Harbor Isra Din Opinion Editor Every four years, students in the WHS band take their talent and hard work on a grand trip over spring break.

This year, members in each of the band levels will debut their songs in two performances at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.

The first performance will take place on March 28 on board the U.S.S. John Paul Missile Destroyer. The second performance, on March 29 will be in conjunction with McKinley High School.

WHS registrar Kathy Solare’s

son-in-law is commander of the ship This year, 91 of the 215 students and was able to contact the directors enrolled in band are attending. in Hawaii.

“They are taking members of all The directors invited the stu- the bands who signed up to go to Hadents to join them on a tour of the waii, and they are performing as one ship. big band,” said feel like it’s such a close knit flutist Lily Guo “Our students group of people because we ‘17. will be perThis year’s spend so much time to- p e r for manc e forming on the retired gether, so it’ll be really nice to get to will be in reU.S.S. Mismembrance of know them better. souri,” said the impact the -Emily Demsetz soldiers have Band director Brian had in the U.S..

Peter. “We will visit the Arizona “We are honoring the five Memorial in the morning, and then branches of the armed forces by playtour the most sophisticated missile ing each of their service songs and destroyer in the world with the com- concluding with our National March, mander of the ship that evening.”

John Philip Sousa’s ‘Stars and Stripes

“I

Forever,’” said Peter.

The final song list has yet to be fully compiled. Apart from performing shows, the students will spend some of their time participating in clinics and rehearsals, but they will also have leisure time to enjoy Hawaii’s surf and sand.

Band students will also meet and interact with bands from other schools and participate in exchange programs.

“I’ve never been to Hawaii and I’m really excited to go, especially being in band,” said percussionist Emily Demsetz ‘16. “I feel like it’s such a close knit group of people because we spend so much time together, so it’ll be really nice to get to know them better.”

Tawil establishes Change for Dinner Clare Doyle Feature Editor Humanitarian causes can start from the simplest idea and WHS student Larissa Tawil ‘17 proves that.

Tawil independently leads a “teen-friendly” charity organization called Change For Dinner, which has been taking place since the summer of 2015.

“I want to get kids my age into charity, but I want to get them excited about it,” said Tawil.

The organization works to bring local teens together one to two times a month for a potluck dinner voluntarily hosted at one of the teen participant’s houses.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a money donation equivalent to what they would spend at a restaurant. The money is then donated to a local charity. The most recent dinner raised $105 for Heifer, an organization that fights worldwide hunger.

Change for Dinner was modeled

COURTESY PHOTO

Hey WHS, Almost three-fourths of the year has flown by and the newspaper staff has had a few changes. We slowly but steadily adapted to the new year, chose new "officer" positions, attended (somewhat edgy) board meetings and even lost a couple members of the staff (bye Jake and Dheekshi).

It’s hard to believe, but it’s already the second to last issue of the year. I guess for some of us the past four years of our lives really are coming to an end.

Anyway, it's probably too early for nostalgia. Hopefully the March issue turns out to be one of the best publications this year, especially with journalism award submissions coming up.

In case you weren’t aware, the Ventura County Star hosts a yearly journalism awards ceremony. A variety of awards is given for topics ranging from best overall design to best photography.

Newspapers are created to teach, entertain and inspire ideas.

It’s difficult to give a clear reason as to why someone should read our paper. But, if I were to give one, it would be to learn a little something new about our school and community.

Our center spread focuses on enjoying spring break in Los Angeles. It’s an informative, and fun read, highlighting some of the best restaraunts and sites the city has to offer.

Just like the Earth has its Seven Wonders of the World, WHS has its own share of “wonders” and traditions. Have you heard of the Feast of St. Jin? Probably not. It’s something you’ll definitely want to read about along with other WHS traditions.

The news section of this issue will address issues ranging from Aca Deca’s competition to the Zika virus.

The opinion writers are creative and witty (or so we like to think) and the articles will definitely be good reads (again, or so we like to think).

Finally, this issue’s sports section covers spring sports such as lacrosse, softball and the upcoming addition of Yoga P.E. Unfortunately, Humans of Westlake will not be returning this issue due to space constraints.

Hopefully it will return in our final double-length issue to be released on June 1.

A lot of dedication, time, editing and debating goes into each and every issue, so I hope you take a look through each page.

Trust me, the writers and editors will appreciate it, and you just might learn something new.

Zika virus outbreaks have been identified in several parts of North America, Europe and South America.

Commonly found in Africa, Zika is a disease transmitted by the Asian Tiger and, more commonly, the Yellow Fever Mosquito.

These mosquitoes are mainly active during the day, so preventative methods to avoid being bitten, such as mosquito nets, are not an effective method of combating the virus.

People have been more aware of the virus ever since the media first started highlighting a few outbreaks in the U.S. in Jan. 2016.

“A lot of people feel that it is [the U.S.’] responsibility to conduct research,” said Saralynn Chick ‘18. “It is gaining a lot of attention, similar to Ebola. Even though it [Ebola] did not affect a large group of people in the U.S, it received a lot of attention.”

The first human case of Zika was in Nigeria, Africa in 1954. Zika outbreaks spread throughout Africa to the Pacific Islands and South East Asia.

“It’s an issue because it’s [Zika Virus] not being regulated or contained properly,” said Brooke Chong ‘17. “If airports are still allowing people to come in and out of countries where the virus is active, that is a reason why the virus is still spreading.”

SERVING CHANGE:(left to right) Dax Blinn ‘17, Grace Smith’17, Marissa Sommerfield ‘17, Natalie Anders ‘17, Lauren Jones ‘17, Tawil, Sydnney Bennett ‘16, Jacob Adler (Agoura), Sophie Bartley ‘17, Brooke Wynalda ‘17 and Anika Heintz ‘16 meet for Change for Dinner.

after the global organization called Dining for Women, focused on raising money to donate towards social issues for women. It donates money to different organizations to fit the interests of teens.

Recent charities include St. Jude’s Hospital, Agoura Animal Shelter, Manna, Westminster Free Clinic

and Casa Pacifica.

“I would hope that we could impact more individuals in the community and that we could get other schools to start this as well,” said Dani Araya ‘17.

Change for Dinner is not affiliated with WHS, but the main objective is to promote it first in the Westlake

community.

“If it [the program] gets big in Westlake, then I’m hoping people from different schools can [host] their own,” said Tawil. The informal dinner is accompanied by music or board games during the meal, adding to the “teen-friendly” atmosphere.

“The more people who come, the more lively it is. I want people to keep coming because they feel comfortable and not pressured,” said Tawil.

Tawil initially spread her cause through friends, family and word of mouth.

Her most recent efforts have relied on her website (changefordinner. com), Instagram and Twitter pages (@changefordinner) to send out location reminders and general invites to those around Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks and other local communities.

“I feel like parties these days are exclusive,” said Tawil, “so Change for Dinner is not only a way for us to give back to charity, but we also have diverse groups from school coming together.”

22 March 2016 News Einstein continues to make waves

3 In brief Science Olympiad heads to state

Clare Doyle

The WHS Science Olympiad team placed second overall at the regional competition in Antelope Valley on Feb. 13. The team will compete at the state competition on April 2 at Cal Tech.

Feature Editor

Drama prepares to perform Taming of the Shrew

GRAPHIC BY CLARE DOYLE

A flicker of noise after the collision of two black holes in space—Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity is complete.

After almost 100 years, scientists at LIGO, the Laser Interferometer GravitationalWave Observatory, confirmed the existence of gravitational waves on Feb. 11, 2016 after officially discovering them on Sept. 14, 2015.

A pair of two and a half mile long L-shaped laser beam antennas, both in the states of Washington and Louisiana, detected the waves.

A camera was placed at the end of each antenna.

If gravitational waves existed after a collision of black holes, the lens would receive light waves.

“The interference [which is a light signal from the cosmic event] is picked up on a screen they have that starts buzzing,” said Jesse Craighead ‘16. “Then they translate the buzzes into sound waves [by using] computational mathematics.” After a series of chirps came through LIGO’s machines, scientists confirmed the discovery.

In Einstein’s final prediction concerning his General Theory of Relativity, gravitational waves prove that space and time (referred to as “space-time”) are interlaced in the universe.

According to Einstein, space-time, or the collection of matter and energy in space, could warp, stretch, grow, whirl, rip, tear, fold and produce the effect known as gravity.

What this discovery truly means for physicists everywhere is still uncertain, but in an effort to answer the big questions of cosmic science, the waves opened a new door to find answers.

“[This discovery] will allow us to create a new branch of astrophysics by using gravitational waves to look at black holes and other immense gravitational structures that we can’t see with light,” said Nakul Gupta ‘16. Gupta hopes to study engineering in college.

Both the Big Bang Theory and Stephen Hawking’s theory about black hole radiation (a.k.a Hawking Radiation) benefit from the discovery. Many scientists speculate that the waves could prove whether or not space-time is a singular entity. If this is true, then the universe must have also begun in a “big bang.”

Ideas like this have existed for decades in higher level physics, but until anything is proven, high school physics textbooks will

remain the same.

“It’s really a great new tool for scientists to investigate the universe, but what they find out and how we can use it at the classroom level is going to take a decade or more to impact us,” said WHS Physics teacher Scott Holloway.

Whether or not the waves will produce ground-breaking technology or further humankind’s true understanding of the universe is unsure. However, the discovery of the waves represents a definite triumph. Discoveries like this show how science fiction continues to breach reality.

“It’s like handing a woodcarver a chisel for the first time,” said Holloway, “and saying ‘hey now, try this and see what you can create.’”

The WHS drama program will perform William Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew April 13–18 in the Carpenter Family Theater.

The play follows two love stories: that of Katherine and Petruchio as well as Bianca and Lucentio. The play criticizes arranged marriage and its effects on both those within the marriage and those outside of it.

Eden Lederer ‘16 and Sarina Frieda ‘16 will play Katherine. Julia Steinman ‘19 and Gabby Narordeck ‘19 will play Bianca. The role of Petruchio will be played by Noah Sylvester ‘16, while the role of Lucentio will be played by Jake Stevens ‘16 and Nicholas Pettrichione ‘16.

Literary Chronicles accepting works Literary Chronicles, WHS’ creative writing magazine, is accepting student– created art, photography and literary works for consideration to be published until April 1. Submit all work to litchron@gmail.com.

Nikko Purden lives on in memory WHS alumnus Nikko Purden passed away on Feb. 2, 2016 due to complications involving diabetes. He touched the hearts of many at WHS and will live on in our memories of him.

Beat harder, filter better, run faster, live stronger Allison Mendoza News Editor

COURTESY PHOTOS

The technological revolution continues to increase humans’ abilities, knowledge and lifespan. The developments in health technology have gone from inventing penicillin antibiotics to taking life between tweezers. It completely reinvented what it means to live and die.

Bionic Suits: Bionic suits are currently being developed and tested to help assist stroke, brain and spinal cord injury victims as well as those who are paralyzed. Ekso Bionics from Berkeley, CA debuted its first bionic assistive device, the “ExoHiker,” in 2005. The product fits like an exoskeleton and allows the user to carry and run with up to 200 lbs. over multiple terrains.

In the same year, Ekso came out with “the ExoClimber,” which has the same weightcarrying capabilities as the ExoHiker but is also designed to “rapidly ascend stairs and steep slopes,” according to Ekso Bionics.

Another product by Ekso, ProStep Plus, uses sensors to detect shifts in weight, which then activate the sensors and begin a walking motion. In other companies’ products, joysticks, buttons and electrodes attached to stillcontracting muscles are used to mobilize the skeleton.

In 2014, Ekso became a public company and made its product available to public markets. In 2015, it launched the Exoskeleton Clinical Science Organization and created a prototype for a new line of technology. “What we are witnessing is truly the best of what science, engineering and medicine have to offer. Together we are helping people rethink current physical limitations and achieve the remarkable,” said Sunil Hedge, Medical Director of Huntington Memorial Hospital’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.

Heart-in-a-Box: According to organdonor.gov, there are currently over 120,000 patients in the U.S. on the wait-list for an organ transplant and only 14,257 organ donors. Moreover, the demand for organ donations is growing daily.

However, TransMedics developed revolutionary technology that can increase the percentage of viable hearts, one of the hardest organs to come

Top (Left and Middle): Dr. Fissell’s artificial kidney uses a microchip as a foundation for active kidney cells that help filter the blood.

Top (Right): Heart-in-a-Box flushes inactive hearts with oxygen rich blood to restart the heart.

Bottom: Ekso’s bionic suits are designed to imitate a “natural, full weight bearing” that gives users the most comfortable and effective use of the device.

The suits contain a tool to “enforce proper biomechanical alignments and symmetrical gait patterns.”

by for a transplant, by 15-30%.

TransMedics’ “Heart–In–A–Box” can bring dead hearts back to life. Typically, when a heart is transplanted, it comes from a braindead patient. The heart can be kept alive for a specific amount of time as long as the donor is on life support. Once it is removed, it is drained and cooled on ice to 37 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the heart from decomposing and becoming inviable.

With “Heart-In-A-Box,” the machine flushes the dead heart with oxygen-rich blood to replenish the muscle cells and restore normal temperature. The heart begins pumping and the machine continues to supply oxygen, blood and nutrients until the heart is transplanted.

“I think the lawful and religious consequences need to be considered,” said Anil Kundal ‘16. “I think if doctors use this treatment with all possible outcomes considered, this technology can truly be successful.”

The technology is still waiting to be approved by U.S. regulators but has already aided 15 successful heart transplants in the United Kingdom and Australia.

Gene Therapy: Multiple companies are currently experimenting and researching a treatment called gene therapy, which can be used to treat inherited disorders, various types of cancer and some viral infections.

The treatment involves three different strategies: scientists can replace a person’s mutated, defective or unhealthy gene with a healthy and normal copy, inactivate a mutated gene or introduce a new gene to fight off a disease, infection or sickness.

The treatment is still risky and undergoing further study. It is only being researched to treat diseases that currently have no other cure.

Artificial Kidney: Vanderbilt University (VU) News published an article on Feb. 12, 2016 about VU Medical Center nephrologist Dr. William H. Fissell IV’s artificial kidney device.

The device is the first of its kind and has the ability to free patients with kidney failure from dialysis treatments (external filtering of blood to fulfill kidney functions). The device can also act as a substitute for kidney transplants.

The heart of the device is a microchip. The live kidney cells are placed onto the microchip and eventually fill the filter. These cells will then mimic the actions of a normal kidney. The cells are easily grown in a petri dish.

Since the device is not an actual organ or bodily substance, it is unaffected by the body’s immune system and the body cannot reject the “organ.”

The device works with the body’s natural blood pressure and relies on the heart to pump and push the blood into the device, through the filter and back out.

Vanderbilt biomedical engineer Amanda Buck is also involved in the project and “is using fluid dynamics to see if there are certain regions in the device that might cause clotting.”

Human trials have not yet begun but Hissell hopes to begin by the end of 2017.

“My patients are absolutely my heroes,” said Fissell. “They come back again and again and they accept a crushing burden of illness because they want to live. And they’re willing to put all of that at risk for the sake of another patient.”

4

Opinion

theArrow

Selling out: the college dilemma Helen Shi Feature Editor

To run or not to run Amanda Yao Opinion Section Editor Colina Middle School was basically the Sparta of CVUSD junior high schools. The physical education program was, to put it simply, brutal. Weekly runs wrecked both my knees and my emotional vitality as the distance ominously grew from short quarter mile jogs to strenuous 5Ks over the course of the school year. I was either about to pass out from heatstroke during the warmer months or about to cry from frostbite in the winter.

Though the extensive physical activity was draining, I can’t deny that I was in the best shape of my life in middle school.

In spite of the groaning and moaning when the P.E. instructor announced the day of the run, the mandatory physical exertion served as decent cardiovascular exercise.

I thanked the P.E. gods the day of eighth grade promotion for granting me the long-awaited liberation from my three year prison sentence in middle school physical education. I absolved to never run again, if I could help it. I completed the required two years of high school physical education through ISPE (Independent Study Physical Education) for ballet and thankfully, ballet does not involve weekly mile-runs.

So I did a pretty good job of maintaining my resolution to never run again. That is, until I realized how junior year wrecks havoc on a student’s health in more ways than one.

People often talk about the sleep deprivation, stress and crankiness that comes with the junior year workload, but no one ever really talks about junior-year lethargy— a condition that leads to a sharp decline in physical fitness.

For the entirety of first semester, the horrific junior-year workload left me with little to no time to exercise. Although I can’t blame the lack of physical activity on homework alone, I know I’m definitely not the only person with poor time-management skills.

Then, one of my closest friends informed me that she was going on regular runs to stay in shape. I laughed at her. What person in her right mind would consciously choose to torture herself? I assumed that these “regular runs” were merely a personal fad and that she would come to her senses within two weeks.

Two weeks passed. She was still going for those regular runs. I was utterly bewildered. I wonder if craziness is contagious, because that would be a logical explanation for what happened next—I asked to come along on her next run. Crazy, right?

The run started out easy enough— a steep downhill. “This isn’t bad at all,” I thought. And then we reached the incline.

“Come back,” I wanted to call out to my friend. I felt like Rose in Titanic when Jack slips away from her, except sweaty, red-faced and...wheezing.

That run forced me to face a harsh reality—I was far from being in-shape. I now go for regular runs and actually enjoy the physical activity. I found that running is a way to relieve stress while exercising at the same time.

Who would have known that the middle-schooler who despised running would evolve to become a running enthusiast?

Anything is possible, after all.

During my freshman year I hated the idea of the college application process. I saw what it did to those around me. Students were shaping their lives to fit their dream school’s requirements.

I saw juniors walk around aimlessly with the thought of the next upcoming test consuming their minds and seniors scramble madly to submit their procrastinated college applications. I was adamant.

I would NOT alter my life for the sake of college.

Oh, what a hypocrite am I. Now I, too, am sitting upon a platter, trying to trim, embellish and bedeck myself with the adornments colleges desire. After all, the application process is all about appearance.

I do not know why I made the 180 degree turn or when it started to happen.

Maybe it was because I got swept up in the tide of junior year madness, coerced by parental pressure or maybe it was because I lacked a better goal in life. Maybe it was all of these factors combined. Regardless, I feel myself getting washed up by the monotonous waves of college preparation.

Scores are standards. Although we all know that getting straight As, 5s on the APs and the golden 2400 on the SAT or 36 on the ACT are more than just “hard,” they simply aren’t enough. Let’s face it. The world is filled with too many smart people.

Thus, in order to make sure that the buyer (colleges) will pick you (the product), you must

appeal to their interests. Varsity sports, four year long musical or theatrical commitments, arts or perhaps journalism are all ways to fill up your resume. Take your pick.

Adding some spices to the mix, pick up a few extra-curricular activities: contests, summer programs, TEDx, outside club sports, CVYO and of course, volunteering. Colleges cannot get enough of volunteering.

But here I am, desperately trying to add more events to my plate, leaving me wondering: where did I go wrong?

I am average to begin with; I have noth-

ing extremely impressive to share and no superior die-hard motivations. Why did I feel the need to better myself for the sake of getting into a prestigious school? Was it really worth it to be consumed by the constant sense of competition, fear and hunger in the air?

As I was wading in a questionably sanitary creek for another one of those beloved volunteer events, searching for invasive crayfish, I came to my answer. It is worth it.

Yes, I am selling myself to colleges.

And yes, I acknowledge that the notion brings my morality into question. However, I do it because it is the best path I can take. I am neither brave nor reckless enough to say, “don’t go to college.” Even if the college system has its quirks (especially the money sucking attribute), I think that it is best to ride the system and use it to achieve my goals.

I want to be able to get into a college to explore the world, live the exciting and free college life and essentially go on an adventure. If I have to “sell” myself to college admissions officers in order to do so, then I will go ahead and do just that.

Besides, it is not to say that nothing good comes out of the college application process.

I have been able to try out numerous activities that I never dreamed I would have to do (yes, crayfish removal is quite interesting). I might as well make use of and enjoy the community improving experiences that my resume building requires.

If you want to be the outlier and break out of the system, by all means do so. You are my hero. However, I choose to stay here. After all, I still have a lot of plumping and grooming to do before my buyers arrive.

Community college: theArrow the social stigma at WHS Editors-in-chief

Michelle Choi, Alex Shi

Steven Huang Opinion Editor The young man was tall and athletic, with a perfectly hefty list of personal achievements and accomplishments under his belt. He was wearing glasses and a new crisp-cut polo. Never had Lester Prynne appeared more successful than as he disclosed his potential college list.

Those who had known him before and had expected to see him rise to great success were astonished to hear of his startling decision. All the eyes turned to judge him, as that Scarlet Letter of community college, which was so wisely chosen yet so socially scorned, laid as his college choice. It seemed that his very identity and character were now judged by his decision to go to a community college.

At WHS, there is an epidemic of community college shaming. The choice that was once economically friendly, locationally pleasant and academically viable now is equated with educational failure and personal mistakes.

The success of individuals seems to lie on nothing else but the prestige of the colleges they get into. To judge an individual’s merit off of mere college reputation is clearly the mistake of the uninformed rather than the educated.

Community college saves a fortune in tuition. Compared to the overall cost of attending a four year university, which has been rising steadily for the past several years, the cost of community college is far lower. According to the College Board, the average tuition at a two year community college is roughly $3,347, whereas four-year public universities in and out of state are roughly $9,139 and $22,958 respectively and four-year private universities are roughly $31,231. Going to a community college can save anywhere between $6,000 to $28,000 a year, and that’s not counting the cost of housing and food.

The first two years of college, regardless of whether or not they are private, public or community, consist of general education courses that students must take before advancing into their majors. Thus, by going to a community

college, students aren’t falling behind in academic classes. Instead, they are fulfilling the same classes that students at Harvard are taking.

Going to a community college also means staying local, allowing one to remain in the comfort of his or her own home. This further reduces the cost of college and there are a host of at home benefits such as unlimited Netflixing, snacking without the judgement of fellow students and unrestricted dress code because when you’re at home, no one should tell you that your pink polka dot jammies are socially unacceptable.

With all these benefits, community college sounds like a great option for students. So, why is there such a negative social stigma on community college?

To answer this, we must first look at our school atmosphere. WHS has continually risen in the ranks of the nation’s list of top high schools, oftentimes placing in the top 100 high schools in the state. Thus, with such prestige comes inevitable academic competition.

Wonderfully high test scores matched with stellar athletics create a perfect environment for the Theory of Academic Darwinism.

This means that grades, marks and As are the keys to success and survival rather than cocoa butter and watering plants (sorry Khaled). With such competition, students are expected to reach the universities in the upper division of academia.

The taboo of community college is nothing but an academic popularity contest. To diminish the negative social stigma of financially and logically smart college choices, we must first turn the tide of our definition of success. We put too much value on an individual’s academic achievements. As much as society likes to define people as a number, 24601 (to all my Les Mis buds) or 2400, it doesn’t mean anything.

Numbers don’t define a person.

I’m not arguing for you to quit your dreams to achieve a full ride to Stanford and pick a community college instead. However, we do need to change the stigma that causes community colleges to be scorned. So the next time college admissions are brought up or the next time someone questions your future, don’t be afraid to stand tall with community college.

Managing Editor

Heidi Chiu

Web Editor Pranav Kaygee

News Editors Kay Lim, Allison Mendoza

Opinion Editors Isra Din, Steven Huang, Jaisen Lim, Amanda Yao

Feature Editors Dheekshi Arvind, Annanlee Chang, Clare Doyle, Rachel Finegold, Kallyn Hobmann, Helen Shi

Sports Editors Kylie Wexler, Andy Xia

Staff Writers Katie Tavasoli, Albert 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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Contact us at: westlakearrow@gmail.com Find us at: www.westlakearrow.com

22 March 2016

Opinion

5

The return of the Drumpf Pranav Kaygee Web Editor When business tycoon Donald Trump launched his presidential campaign last summer, America was flabbergasted.

The internet took this new sensation by storm. Writers all over American broadcasting, including CNN and FOX, blew off his campaign as another promotional act by the iconic businessman, calling his campaign a trivial “clown show” and “publicity stunt” with little impact on the GOP nomination. Trump’s campaign was the punch-line of internet jokes and memes.

His controversial comments on illegal immigration where he stated in part, “When Mexico sends its people… they’re bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists,” were criticized by the blunt portrayal of Mexican immigrants and the lack of professionalism in policy making.

Trump further landed criticism for his call on a nation-wide ban on Muslims and his advocacy for internet regulation and restriction.

Fast forward nine months and nothing has changed. The media continues to criticize, Trump still remains the goto topic for Internet meme success and former GOP candidate Mitt Romney, in all his professional manner and glory, eloquently pronounced Trump as a “phony.”

Yet, while Trump’s “Bing. Bing.

Bong” continues to dominate Internet jokes and his own party looks to turn against him, Donald (his golden comb over, orange face, small hands and all) has been comfortably enjoying his position as the Republican party’s frontrunner.

So the question arises: where did Trump’s popularity originate? In a recent poll conducted by CNN, many Trump supporters claim to admire three distinct traits that embody the candidate: his truthfulness, his power and authority and his success.

At first glance, these seem to be

valid points. During the periodic Republican debates, Trump oozes confidence, constantly bringing up his poll-ratings and his innate ability at “winning.”

Any candidate who has mustered some futile amount of ammunition directed towards Trump has been shot down, smothered and buried to be forgotten (rest in peace, dear Jeb).

A n d w h i l e Trump’s remarks on Mexican immi-

see that a good percentage of what the GOP candidate asserts is false.

For instance, when questioned on the morality behind David Duke’s endorsement on his campaign, Trump not only refused to condone the decision taken by the former KKK Grand Wizard, but also outright told the media that he had “not heard of David Duke,” and did n o t “know a n y -

grants, Muslims and women can be viewed as uncouth and vulgar, many conservatives are taken by his lack of restraint and cold-shoulder towards the infamous “political filter.”

Trump supporters, be warned!

Contrary to his flashy appearance in front of television cameras and his embodiment of success and wealth, Trump actually belies all three traits that supporters lovingly cling to.

First, let’s start with his truthfulness. There have been multiple occurrences in which Trump has contradicted himself, namely when he claimed Rosie O’Donnell was the only woman he ever called a “fat pig” and “dog.”

However, when further analyzing some of Trump’s claims, we can

thing about him.”

Strange. Head back to 2000, and Trump (who at that point in time, considered himself a liberal democrat) disavowed David Duke by citing him as a “racist” and a “bigot.”

Maybe Trump suffered a bout of amnesia or dissociative identity disorder. Or maybe, he was trying to erase from the public mind that he carries the vote for a large proportion of white supremacists.

Regardless, #DonaldDrumpf ’s inconsistency is frightening, especially as a man with the power to potentially wage wars and launch nuclear missiles.

Power. Every president needs to wield some sort of authority as commander-in-chief. But how powerful is

Trump?

He screams, yells and insults his way through many debates, providing the illusion that he is the “strongest” candidate out there.

Trump’s supposed success is also a fallacy. Sure, the “TRUMP” brand sports high-end shopping complexes, skyscrapers and office buildings.

However, the basis of lauding Trump as a success story has just as much credibility as a degree from Trump University.

For every business venture that Mr. Trump has successfully engaged in, there are many that have failed harder than his attempt to cover up his flopping policies.

Take, for instance, Trump Airlines, Trump Vodka, Trump: The Game, Trump Casinos, as just a few of the many botched business ventures handled under his name.

Donald Trump (despite outright denying it) has filed for bankruptcy over four times.

Four times too many for a supposed icon of success.

Tr u m p’s insecurities are shown in his lies—a weakness for someone who apparently values “power.”

Like an artist, Trump has painted a beautiful picture of himself as a strong, charismatic and successful businessman who is willing to defend his country through thick and thin in order to make it “great again.”

However, each and every picture simply showcases an illusion: a virtual world that the artist wants the public to see.

Remove the canvas from Trump’s small, grubby hands. Without it, he is an inconsistent, stumbling and weak persona, much less a promising presidential candidate.

Gaze past the mirage and make Donald Drumpf again.

Less for the price of more Jaisen Lim Opinion Editor Developing a milestone drug to treat or even cure cancer, AIDS or any other malicious diseases is an accomplishment to be honored.

Logically, the developing company should expand the drug’s accessibility for the greater welfare of the community, not restrict the availability of the drug.

Martin Shkreli is the CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals and a selfmade man who grew up in Brooklyn as a child of Albanian and Croatian immigrants.

Shkreli achieved the American dream by graduating from Baruch College, working as a stock analyst, establishing various companies and reaping a large amount of wealth from his company’s profits.

As of the end of 2015, he had a net worth of over 100 million dollars.

His achievements, despite his initial financial and social disadvantages, are extremely rare in the 21st century.

Early last year, Shkreli founded Turing Pharmaceuticals and acquired the rights to Daraprim, a drug that

Increase

GRAPHIC BY PRANAV KAYGEE

is used to treat malaria and parasitic infections that are contracted by HIV patients.

He significantly increased the cost of Daraprim from $13.50 per pill to $750 per pill overnight.

Shkreli, of all people, should understand the struggles of the lower and middle classes when it comes to affording treatments for diseases.

After all, he lived in a working class community as a child.

He has since caught the attention

of the public, the media and the health world over the price hike controversy.

The price inflation of Daraprim constricted its accessibility to patients who suffer from parasitic infections.

The masses not only dislike his actions, but they also scorn his self– conceit and lack of respect.

Despite widespread complaints, Shkreli claims he is a legitimate entrepreneur who is following the ideals of capitalism.

However, his claim was

contradicted with his arrest on Dec. 17, 2015, when the federal government charged Shkreli for securities fraud.

“Legitimate entrepreneur?” I don’t think so.

A decade ago, he convinced nine people to invest $3 million dollars in his hedge fund, and at one point he had $331 of the initial investment remaining as a result of excessive losses.

He can’t even maintain investments given to him. Shkreli sounds like the type of person who would benefit from the price hike of Daraprim.

Numerous doctors, medical practitioners and even presidential candidates, such as Hillary Clinton, tried to convince Shkreli to reconsider raising the price of drugs by this irrational amount. Their efforts, as of today, have been to no avail.

Shkreli should revert his decision of inflating the price of Daraprim by over 5000%. If he were to do so, then a large number of the protesters might overlook his previous decisions and take back their accusations of his selfconceit.

Instead of being viewed as money–hungry, he would be praised for overturning massive profit for the greater welfare of the public.

Skinny fat Michelle Choi Co-Editor in Chief I have never been classified as athletic, but rather “skinny fat.”

Skinny fat is this weird purgatory between healthy and unwholesome. I look fit(-ish) but I also can’t walk downstairs without running out of breath. I took my speedy metabolism as a blessing, rather than as a curse in my youth and proceeded to down an entire package of Oreos and take a nap.

But my lifestyle was only amusing to me.

My mother, in a futile attempt to shape me into an athlete, threw me into a slew of after school activities: soccer, tennis, golf, gymnastics and volleyball. It was like playing a game of blind darts, throwing one after the other aimlessly, hoping one would stick.

Much to my mother’s demise, I was a disappointment at every single one of them.

My inability to perform stemmed from a complete and total hostility towards the idea of physical exertion. Reading books and playing musical instruments were my preferred pastimes, not throwing balls in hoops accompanied by cardiovascular exercise. I found no pleasure being under the sun as it only burned my eyes with its glaring beams. So by staying indoors and out of the sun, I argued, I was only preventing skin cancer.

I was informed at a young age that physical education in high school was not a requirement.

Once I reached the universe of secondary education, the days of unsympathetic dictators forcing adolescents to run like slaves were finally over.

With excitement, I registered for a variety of classes for my freshman year. No longer would I have to endure the humiliation of being a slow runner. I could exercise how I wanted and when I wanted (aka never).

A higher force seemed to be looking down on me with a mixture of pity and happiness. God, too, no longer wanted to see the plight of a small girl with a questionable vestibular sense.

Then Adam and Eve decided to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. “Two years of P.E.,” said my counselor, “is a requirement for graduation.”

I slowly trudged through the five stages of grief until I found a medium of athletics that would serve my need: marching band.

WHS Regiment made the terrible mistake of letting me join their ensemble. I was not a percussionist. My inability to proficiently read music only hindered my ability to improve.

But my hindsight is 20/20. I should’ve probably done “independent synchronized swimming.”

I occasionally exercise now, even after doing my time fulfilling the physical education requirement.

Running to the kitchen to grab a snack so I won’t miss a part of the movie counts, right?

6

Feature

Spring brea

Los Angeles is the city of wonder, known for its embodiment of creativity, opportunity, history and culture. How people’s adventures unfold in the city depends on where th

from every country come to see their dreams come true. From being the world leader for entertainment production of movies, TV shows, music creation and video games, to h

shopping, unique dining, museum visits and sightseeing. With WHS students living only about an hour away from the colorful, thriving metropolis, students can visit streets su should take advantage of what the city has to offer by making a local trip to explore some of the places listed below.

Sharing positivity This 15 x 50 foot mural titled “It’s that wonderful old fashioned idea that others come first and you come second” was painted by street artist Free Humanity on the corner of the intersection at 425 South Los Angeles Street. It features the face of the famous actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn painted in black and white, surrounded by an array of colorful hearts.

The artwork’s title originates from a quote said by Hepburn and is painted over a section of the hearts next to Hepburn in black letters.

Free Humanity painted a similar piece on a wall of the Argentum Photo Lab located at 817 N. Hollywood Way. This painting includes the quote, “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other,” also said by Hepburn.

Free Humanity is a L.A.-based artist with the following mission statement: “Taking back the humanity stolen from our minds by social manipulation and planting seeds of positivity through art and consciousness.” He uses the streets of the city to spread positive ideas and information.

URBAN ART Looking to try a location that serves a healthier alternative to ice cream this spring break? Look no further than Go Greek Yogurt. A refreshing change from the typical frozen yogurt shop, Go Greek Yogurt offers fresh and nutritious Greek yogurt in a variety of flavors. There are also a variety of authentic toppings such as seeds, fruits, nuts and even gourmet Greek sauces. It is located at 452 N. Bedford Dr., Beverly Hills, CA. Check Greek Yogurt’s website for store hours.

City of Ang

In 2012, artist Colett launched her Global Ange Project in Los Angeles. pair of colorful wings a in Downtown L.A.’s Arts next to Art Share near Joe Square. Miller states that is to make the wings a sy peace because “there is greed, anger and bitter this planet. We be the angels this

Spreading Love

The “Heart of Los Angeles” was originally designed by artist Tiphanie Brooke and was inspired by Milton Glaser’s famous “I Heart New York” logo.

With partner Mike Polson, Brooke has made her design an urban icon that appears all over the city’s walls.

The first heart designed

by Brooke is found across the street from the Staples Center in downtown L.A. It is red with the words “Love Life” inside.

Brooke created this piece as response to her father being diagnosed with cancer.

Brooke and Polson put up a heart titled “Angelsdust” at Pico Boulevard and Flower Street in Downtown using multiple layers of gold glitter.

On the brick wall of the now closed Angel City Brewery in Downtown, a black and white heart titled “The Angel,” can be found on the corner of the brick wall. Once the original piece became worn down, it was replaced with a more shimmery version.

The prolific street artist Banksy left his mark across from the Ace hotel at 929 S. Broadway. Banksy is an internationally known graffiti artist, political activist and film director who maintains an unknown identity. He uses a distinct stenciling technique that makes his art recognizable wherever he leaves a piece of his satirical, dark humored work.

His 2010 piece “Parking” features a young girl in black and white swinging from the red letters of a “parking” wall graphic; the “-ing” is slightly washed out. The word was not originally on the wall, meaning Banksy himself painted on the word and the girl before purposefully fading out the “-ing.”

Placed along a downtown city street, “Parking” reflects on L.A.’s urban lifestyle.

Ricky’s Fish Tacos food truck serves gourmet Baja-style fish and shrimp tacos.

Named by the Food Network as one of America’s top five taco shops, Ricky’s Fish Tacos is definitely a must-visit.

The flavorful fish and light batter make for an exceptional gastronomical experience.

Ricky’s offers options to add sauces such as white sauce and salsa.

Find the truck at 1400 N. Virgil Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027. The truck is not open on Mondays and Tuesdays, but is a great place to grab lunch or an early dinner for an unbeatable price on the other days of the week.

earth.

W e to be the on this ea T h e wing made from wheat-past Miller painted at home be ting them in place. Her wi been expanded globally, ap in Washington D.C., West New York City, Africa, A Mexico, Hawaii and more.

In Los Angeles, there pairs of wings on the ro doors of the Regent Th 448 S. Main St. Another be found along the corn Orlando Ave and West 3 Westfield Century City a Santa Monica Blvd., there wings near the stores Ma L’occitane.

theArrow

7

ak in L.A.

hey begin. From L.A.’s sandy beaches to concrete freeways, every neighborhood sets a different scene with a unique tone. L.A. is one of the few places in the world where people

having the most residents with at least a Bachelor’s degree in the nation, L.A.’s bustling sidewalks and vibrant nightlife offer an array of experiences. These experiences include

uch as York Boulevard., which is lined with locally owned stores, and downtown L.A., which is filled with a variety of food trucks and street art. The city awaits and students

T

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te Miller el Wings The first appeared s District el Bloom her goal ymbol of enough rness on can on

need angels arth.” gs are tes that efore putings have appearing Virginia, Australia, . e are two oll-down Theater on pair can ner of S. 3rd St. In at 10250 are angel acy’s and

Compiled by Kallyn Hobmann, Rachel Finegold and Amanda Yao

California Donuts is Instagram famous and extremely well-known, and for good reason. The store’s donuts definitely are not the basic glazed donuts served at a sketchy corner side shop. Visit California Donuts to sample matcha green tea, maple bacon and even chocolate covered strawberry donuts—to name a few. This Koreatown donut store is open 24 hours a day and is located at 3540 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90020. The creative donuts are worth the long line and the shameless compulsory foodstagram.

Donut Friend does donuts differently. This colorful shop puts a unique twist on any dozen of donuts.

Some of its specialties include fruity donuts such as Banana Kill, a glazed donut with peanut butter and bananas in the middle, topped with powdered sugar.

Strawberrylab, a traditional glazed donut, is filled with whipped cream, fresh strawberries and topped with a chocolate glaze.

There are also sugary treats like the Fudgegazi, a creamy chocolate filled donut topped with a chocolate glaze and chocolate shavings.

Donuts can also be created based on the buyers preferences. This can be done in three steps: choose the type of donut, choose the filling and then select the toppings.

To try a store creation or a do it yourself donut, go to 5107 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90065 and check Donut Friend’s website for store hours.

Permanent Records, which is Chicago based, continues to buy and sell new albums.

It first opened in June of 2011 to show the public its record lined walls and overflowing bins. The store contains records ranging from David Bowie to Tame Impala. Located at 5116 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90042, Permanent Records is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Different employees pick their favorite records each week and recommend them to customers who desire another opinion or feel overwhelmed by the vast range of options. The store’s motto, “Life is short, buy more records,” is hung above the front desk, which depicts a grim reaper skeleton riding a motorcycle.

A soda lover’s dream shop, Galco’s Soda Pop Stop, has over 750 different types of sodas from all over the world. With so many choices, it’s easy to become caught up in the rows of colorful glass bottles.

For a carbonated good time, go to 5702 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90042, and check out Galco’s Soda Pop’s website for store hours. The sodas offered at Galco’s Soda Pop Stop have the refreshing taste of both common and unusual flavors. The store serves all types of sodas including root beer, colas, cream sodas, non-carbonated sodas, coffee sodas, chocolate sodas, high energy sodas and diet sodas.

Owner John Nese says a lot of his store’s business comes from people who want to rediscover their childhood favorites.

Doomies Home Cookin is a casual and laid back restaurant that offers many American-style dishes. It serves french fries, macaroni and cheese, hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts and more. However, these aren’t the classic options.

French fries are available in a variety of flavors including pesto, bacon and cheese. For a hamburger, there are also many different options like peanut and bacon, as well as Western style. Mac and cheese is offered in forms ranging from a Chili mac bowl to a Chicken Parmesan bowl.

The restaurant also features many vegetarian and vegan options for those with a restricted diet.

Doomies is open from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week, and is located at 418 S. San Pedro St., Los Angeles, CA 90013.

We would still be well off if the Last Bookstore really was the last bookstore in Downtown Los Angeles.

The store was first established in a loft apartment and is now currently housed in what used to be an old bank building. The store has since expanded to include additions such as a coffee bar, record shop and a “Labyrinth” mezzanine level which solely sells $1 books.

The Last Bookstore is the largest independent bookstore located in Southern California.

At the store, one can sell or trade in old books, buy new ones, pick up a record or a cup of coffee and attend countless events. These include book signings, writers’ groups, readings, open mic nights and concerts.

The address 453 S. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 marks a real community hang out spot because of the many literary interested people that meet to discuss, share and read novels.

The Last Bookstore brings together likeminded intellectuals who inspire, create and share at one location.

Shop back in time

Possession Vintage is a small shop located at 5119 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90042 and is open seven days a week from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The store was opened

by Dan Sandvick, who is known for selling hipster and vintage clothes at the Melrose Trading Post. His success at this local flea market inspired him to open up the store Possession Vintage. The store is known as one of the best curated vintage shops. It sells a lot of antique and unusual pieces that are in great condition for an agreeable price.

Ever wondered what would happen if sushi and burritos were mixed together? Catch the Jogasaki Truck, which serves a variety of sushi burritos, to find out. Jogasaki puts a new spin on traditional sushi, essentially transforming sushi rolls such as the California roll into soy-paper wrapped burritos. The truck also serves more interesting options such as the Spicy Tuna Nacho and the Salmon Ceviche Taco. Be sure to check the Jogasaki website for the truck’s schedule on any given day, as the truck constantly travels to several different locations throughout Los Angeles.

8

Feature

Health apps These apps are available on Apple, These apps are and available on Apple, Android Google Play.

Android, HEALTH

The Health app includes a dashboard of the user’s personal health and fitness data. It tracks heart rate, calories burned and keeps everything in one convenient place.

Emergency contacts and medical conditions can also be made accessible from the lock screen.

YOGA STUDIO

This app includes over 65 ready-made video yoga classes that range from ten minutes to an hour. There are beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, each improving strength, flexibility, relaxation, balance or a combination of all four. Users may also create their own class by stitching videos together.

SLEEP CYCLE ALARM CLOCK

This is an intelligent alarm clock that analyzes the user’s sleep patterns and wakes them at the most optimal part of their sleep cycle. This allows its users to wake up feeling relaxed and rested.

CURES A-Z

Cures A-Z includes Conditions A-Z, an index of health conditions and recommended treatments (both natural and prescription therapies). It also includes a nutrition guide, an index of vitamins, minerals and nutrients essential to the body.

Compiled by Annanlee Chang

theArrow

Football: sport or health risk?

Andy Xia Sports Editor Football has been America’s pastime for well over two decades. Ever since wrenching that title away from baseball, football has been lauded by American citizens as the sport of men, the game for glory and the ultimate occupation.

While professional athletes do enjoy economic stability and unparalleled fame in doing what they love, recent scientific studies have shed light on the health detriments of playing such a violent sport.

Numerous studies from PBS and Johns Hopkins Medicine confirm that football leads the nation in most injuries per sport, accounting for over 28% of all injuries from any sportsrelated incident. In the 2016 NFL season, 15% of all NFL players had already suffered an injury by the second week.

While most injuries are relatively minor with few long-term effects, football puts its players at an increased risk for serious brain damage as players take anywhere from 200-500 head blows in a single season.

Repeated trauma to the head makes football players highly vulnerable to concussions and long-term brain damage.

“The dangers of long–term head damage is a serious thing,” said WHS defensive-back Connor Matro ‘17. “We are always conscious of these dangers and take any steps we can to prevent them.”

In January 2016, 27 year-old former-New York Giants safety, Tyler Sash, was found dead due to an overdose of pain medication. Having retired just two years earlier, Sash was cut by the Giants after his fifth concussion. Further tests diagnosed Sash with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease directly correlated with repeated trauma to the head. The disease is only diagnosable after death.

“The major concern is when a player goes back too early and gets hit again,” said Dr. James P. Kelly, Director of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence and former Chicago Bears neurologist. “This can be very dangerous and

lead to massive swelling of the brain. Multiple concussions are the big concern in football, comparative to war-related head trauma, which usually involves one battlefield blast and the impact of the head against a wall, the ground or other hard surface.”

Professional football players often exhibit symptoms that cover a wide spectrum due to brain damage accumulated during their careers.

Relatively mild cases can result in occasional brain swelling and recurring headaches, while more serious cases can result in serious conditions like amnesia, Alzheimer’s, dementia, CTE and many others.

Back in the very first Super Bowl, featuring the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs, Hall of Famer Willie Wood intercepted Kansas City quarterback Len Dawson’s pass.

While the play has embedded itself into the history of memorable moments, Willie Wood himself has no recollection of even participating in the game. While Dawson recalls the memory with anguish and regret, dementia robbed Wood of his memory of the game.

“There was a time when tackling methods and the use of the head were much more prevalent,” said WHS football head coach Tony Henney. “We practice safer techniques in order to protect our players.”

Fearing the long term effects brain damage can have on themselves and their family,

some football players have opted for career alternatives in order to avoid serious brain damage. As more and more studies confirm the overall damage that playing football can have on not only the brain, but also on the entire body, some players opted to retire early. A few examples include Detroit Lions superstar Calvin Johnson and Seattle Seahawks running-back Marshawn Lynch.

While both players had just turned 30 and were still capable of high caliber seasons at the time of their retirement, they each indicated that injuries and health did play a role in their decision.

A variety of solutions exist to resolve this problem. However, with the inherently violent nature of football, head injuries will not cease to exist anytime soon.

On March 14, 2016, senior vice president of the NFL, Jeff Miller, acknowledged the link between long term brain damage and playing football for the first time in the history of professional football.

“Our players’ health is our number one priority,” said Henney. “We work to educate our kids, their parents and the community in order to protect our sport.”

As people become educated on the possibility of brain damage and society comes to recognize this as a serious issue, the future of football is becoming increasingly secure.

Too much work causes stress in high school and beyond Annanlee Chang Feature Editor School, extracurriculars, homework, sleep, repeat—a typical day in the life of a teenager.

This mad dash to finish everything within the 12 hours of a school day is often impossible, and high schoolers often stay up into the wee hours of the night in order to get everything done.

Senior research scientist at the New York University College of Nursing (NYUCN), Noelle Leonard, notes her concern that students will be worn out by the time they reach college.

Stress caused by athletic, academic or social situations is often said to be “good stress” that motivates students to do well and keeps their minds too busy for far more dangerous situations.

But according to Leonard, with this

awareness, the consequences of high levels of The choice to assess juniors was made chronic stress are concerning. based on the assumption that eleventh graders Instead of “good stress,” the massive to-do generally have a higher amount of stress due to list that high school students face compromises college applications and preparation. mental health and fosters risky behavior. This “Usually I go to sleep at one and then chronic stress also some days I get persists through college about two hours of and could potentially e are concerned sleep,” said Rebecca affect young adults.

‘17. “Then I that students in Jiang In a study done by start sleeping in my these selective, classes and have to NYUCN researchers led by Leonard, the high pressure high schools can get make up more stuff.” team assessed coping half of burned out even before they reach the About skills, substance abuse, 128 surveyed academic engagement, college. students reported family involvement and that they felt a “great expectations and mental -Noelle Leonard deal of stress on a health symptoms. daily basis” while The study was 31 percent reported conducted at two private high schools and feeling “somewhat stressed.” assessed only juniors. The tuition rates and There was also a 60 percent to 41 percent affluence of the students and their families ratio of levels of stress between females and provided a “unique set of pressures, expectations, males respectively. A substantial 26 percent norms and resources,” according to Leonard. of the participants also reported symptoms

“W

of depression at a clinically significant level.

Homework, grades and college preparation were the most common sources of stress for both genders.

Leonard noted that the themes students mentioned as dominant adaptive coping strategies generally included sports and exercise, preventive activities such as good planning skills and maintaining a balanced perspective on school and grades. Students often noted that parental demands, school work and extracurriculars caused them to feel that they were working as hard as adults, with little to no time left for relaxation or fun.

“A great education is not a tangible something; a diploma from Harvard, Princeton or Yale... that’s tangible,” said a teacher regarding parents and their expectations, in the NYUCN article.

This chronic stress can often lead to mental health problems such as depression or anxiety and should be alleviated whenever possible. It’s important that students find time to sit back and relax, despite the constant stress around them.

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22 March 2016

Feature

9

WHS history

It is argued that high school traditions and “rites of passage” not only add distinguishable character to schools, but also encourage more spirit within the student body year after year. With this in mind, The Arrow asks, “What makes Westlake...well, Westlake?”

Compiled by Clare Doyle and Allison Mendoza

Track and field rituals

Paper plate awards After the curtains close on a drama performance, there are still some thank yous and recognitions the audience doesn’t get to witness.

At the cast party for each show, every member of the production receives a paper plate award.

In the theater community across the nation, paper plate awards are a popular tradition and are the drama version of superlatives.

For WHS Drama, it is an unwavering tradition that has

Track and field spectators may watch runners brush off their hands, jumpers take a deep breath before they take off down the runway or pole vaulters do a small bounce before racing towards the bar.

What they don’t see, however, is the repetition of these mannerisms and how they’re not just nervous actions— they’re rituals.

Noelle Schiller ‘17 is one of WHS track’s top athletes and has been competing in track and field for many years.

Before meets, Schiller hugs her mom, eats a handful of candy and has

GRAPHICS BY CLARE DOYLE

The story of senior stars Right around the beginning of December, yellow paper stars decorated with both student and university names begin to cover the glass trophy case along the left wall of the front office.

The “senior stars” tradition started five years ago by now-retired counselor, Cassie Sandifer.

Instructional secretary Helene Franklin said Sandifer wanted

can verify when the tradition first started. Assistant principal Nicole Judd was the ASG advisor in 2000 and clarified it was a tradition when she came into the position.

Based on this, it’s likely that this tradition has been practiced for over 20 years, and will continue for many more.

The Anato-mascot Off to the right of the physiology door stands an oak bookcase, and atop the bookcase often sits a stuffed animal. This is the Advanced Anatomy mascot.

Each year, the Anatomy class purchases a class mascot at the Rainforest Cafe gift shop after its annual visit to Loma Linda University. The tradition began back in 2011.

“Once they made their cruise and fell in love with the stuffed animals, they came up to me and asked if they could have a class mascot,” said Anatomy teacher

Carrillo likes to spend some time with his six year old sister, Keira, before leaving to compete.

“I just try to forget about everything, said Carrillo. “She motivates me to do better.”

continued since teacher and director Dede Burke first came to WHS six years ago.

The awards are student-created and organized. “Sometimes we [create] them before the last show; other times we [create the plates] right before we present them,” said theater student Jordan Erickson ‘16.

Every cast member is recognized and receives an award, including the tech crew, costume coordinators and makeup artists.

ASG’s birthday celebrations

If you walk into ASG on an ASG member’s birthday, you may get to witness a very unique ritual.

The class begins by singing happy birthday, accompanied by flashing lights. Paper is also thrown at the birthday boy or girl. The tradition has been going on for so many years that there are no sources who

her dad help her stretch.

“My family values support so it’s not unusual to see them by my side constantly at meets,” said Schiller.

“My sister goes to UCLA and changed her second semester schedule so she could come watch my meets on Thursdays.”

Also family oriented, Kyle Carrillo ‘16 is WHS’ top discus thrower and took sixth place in discus at the state competition last spring.

Nancy Bowman.

The program has had a black panther, elephant, panda, white tiger and this years’ mascot Allie Gracilis (an anatomy pun), the alligator.

After the students graduate and go off to college, the mascot is shipped to each college and is rotated between the anatomy alumni.

The students keep the mascot for as long as they’d like and then send it off to the next alumnus.

Bowman said, “In four years time, it will be a well traveled and highly educated mascot.”

to recognize students for their accomplishments. The stars were originally displayed in the College and Career Center but were later moved to the office due to the higher volume of foot traffic.

Taping up a senior star has become a notable moment of senior year, featuring proud smiles and photos of the students and their families.

The Feast of Saint Jin and Freed’s justice A long, long time ago (actually, five years ago) in Building One, a tradition was born. English teacher Joe Nigro asked friend and G ov e r n m e nt / M i c r o e c o n o m i c s teacher Doug Freed to borrow one of his students, Tony Jin, to teach his AcaDeca class calculus.

Freed told Nigro that taking Tony Jin’s insightful commentary and intelligence from his class was an injustice. Therefore, Freed would only let Nigro borrow Jin if he provided baked goods or “justice” in return.

Freed’s class only expected a humble plate of cookies, but little did it know, Nigro’s class would bake enough to

last an entire fortnight.

The day before winter break began, Nigro’s troops covered every available surface in Freed’s classroom with baked sweets.

In the following years, Freed’ and Nigro’s classes tried to carry on the Feast of St. Jin by baking for two weeks straight in an effort to completely overwhelm the other class with food.

However, the tradition eventually died and was replaced with a simpler form: Freed’s Justice.

“A tardy represents a negative externality,” said Freed. “And to

correct the externality we need some sort of justice.”

Whenever a student is late or disruptive (both considered injustices), that student is required to bring treats for his or her class.

10

Sports

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Dance team leaps through nationals Kylie Wexler Sports Editor

PHOTO

BY RICK ZUNDEL COURTSEY PHOTO

In spring 2015, the WHS dance team ranked third overall at Nationals.

This year, on March 17-19, dance team returned to the Anaheim Convention Center to retain its third place title.

“We take five out of six of our competition dances and perform them at Nationals,” said Courtney Park ’18. “Two people get to perform solos. [The solos] really help us out as a team.”

The competition score is based off of showmanship, execution and choreography.

“If nationals is a reflection of how the season has been so far, then I think they hold a very strong chance of placing multiple dances into the big arena at finals,” said coach Kristen Marie Volk. “Do I think the girls are capable of taking home a title this year? 100 percent!”

The dance team is proud of the effort it put into Nationals, but the members know that they have the ability to score higher.

Before going to nationals, the girls practiced before and after school in order to get their routines down.

“They just need to stay focused the next two weeks and leave their hearts on the dance floor during na-

DOMINATING THE DANCE FLOOR (Left to Right): Sarah Finegold ‘18, Brooke Zundel ‘17, Mandell, Bateman, Cassidy Petroccione ‘18, Caitlin Mead ‘17, Kelly Fobes ‘16, Dani Saputo ‘18, Paige Higham ‘18, Audrey Cavanah ‘17, Brooke McClung ‘19, Park, Mia Mormino ‘17, Taylor Magon ‘18, Miranda Assalley ‘17

tionals,” said Volk.

As Nationals approached, the team’s work effort increased dramatically in order to prepare for the competition.

As with most teams, the main component to winning is having a strong bond between team members.

“The girls are one big dance team family! They love each other enough

to continue to hang out together outside of school, during countless hours of practice and during long weekend competitions,” said Volk. “Their love for each other is evident while they are performing, and I have received multiple compliments this year about the team’s unity and cohesiveness.

Some teams never click like ours, but I feel so lucky to help nurture their

growth as individuals and as a group of talented young artists.”

As WHS dance team continued its training, Cassandra Bateman ‘16 and Ava Mandell ‘17 were chosen to perform solos.

Each girl performed their hearts out. Bateman’s solo was placed in the top ten solo finals.

“When we went on that stage

we just gave it our all,” said Bateman.

“We knew that was our last opportunity to be able to perform in the finals and take home a high title.”

The group dances had one third place, two seventh places, one tenth place and one did not rank.

The team and the coaches are beyond proud of the performance they showed the audience.

Katie Tavasoli Staff Writer

Girls varsity softball is working to make CIF after the loss of three key seniors. With former players Meehra Nelson, Taylor Spence and Sarah Ho, the team made CIF four years in a row.

This year, the team will have to prepare new pitchers Sammie Schalk ’19 and Alexa Campbell ’19 to make up for the lost seniors.

“Our youth is our weakness,” said coach John Ashley. “When you’re young, sometimes the games speed up and start going too fast, and you don’t know how to slow the game down.”

In order to achieve its goal of making CIF, the softball team practices five days a week.

With a preseason record of 4-7, WHS varsity softball is focusing on flexibility in order to defeat its opponents.

“We’re learning to make adjustments at the plate as well as on our offense and defense on the field,” said first baseman Jamie Goodman ‘18.

In addition to strategy and skill, team chemistry is vital to success.

“I know I can count on my teammates,” said shortstop Summer Faille ’18. “They’re always the first people I go to if I want to hang out or if I have any questions.”

One contributing factor to the closeness of the team is the annual kidnapping ritual. The team members “kidnap” the freshmen on the varsity team early in the morning before putting crazy clothes and clown makeup on them.

The team then eats breakfast together before going to school.

Kidnapped freshmen are paraded into their second period classes and are expected to stay in costume for the remainder of the school day.

Schalk and Campbell, two freshmen, agreed that while they were embarrassed to be dressed so ridiculously in front of their peers, the activity helped them bond with their team.

WHS is working more cohesively to beat its rival Oaks Christian High School. It will play Oaks at home on April 26 at 3:30 p.m.

“We have some really good players, but we’re working on coming together,” said Faille. “When we do come together, we’re going to be really good.”

In addition to playing more cohesively, the team also needs to stay motivated in order to succeed on the field.

“As a captain, I try to make sure that everyone is energized and that they’re engaged in the game by cheering really loudly,” said Lauren Jones ’17.

WHS varsity softball recently defeated Moorpark High School 7-6, on March 19 at Pacifica High School. The team won without cocaptain and key player Sophia Casalenuovo ‘16, who sat out due to a broken nose.

“As a senior her presence and leadership would have helped us win the game more easily,” said cocaptain Morgan Melito ‘17.

WHS will play its first league match against Agoura High School at 3:30 p.m. on April 12, at Agoura.

“Overall the whole team has started playing cohesively,” said outfielder Merve Kocak ‘18. “So far it looks like we’re going to have a great season.”

PHOTOS BY RACHEL FINEGOLD

Softball sets its sights on CIF

CRADLING THE BALL (Top Left): Jordan Kuchta waits for one of her teammates to get open in front of the goal.

ON DEFENSE (Bottom Left): Amanda Jones ‘18 defends against an opponent to try and keep WHS on the offensive .

SHOOTING FOR THE GOAL (Above): Amanda Jones takes a shot at the goal in order to keep her team in the lead.

Girls lacrosse adapts to new coach Dheekshi Arvind Opinion Editor Girls lacrosse is one of the most popular and fastest growing high school sports in the U.S., and in its fourth season at WHS, the team continues to expand and grow. “[My goal] is for the girls to improve and make it one team,” said varsity coach Kennon Broadhurst.

The team first started under the instruction of coach Brenden Edgerton, who had many years experience training and coaching girls lacrosse.

This year the team aims for victory under a new coach, Kennon Broadhurst.

“I think they [the girls] are doing really well [adapting to my new style of coaching],” said Broadhurst.

“They keep battling, they don’t give up and they support one another.”

Although the team has under-

gone major changes such as the resig- Region team as well.

“Playing in the U.S. Lacrosse Los nation of coach Edgerton and the addition of coach Broadhurst, the team Angeles chapter gave me so much exbelieves it is stronger than ever. perience and improved me as a play“We have been training all year- er,” said Vespe. “I also learned many round for this season, and both the skills and built upon them while on off-season and in-season practices are the team.” more rigorous,” said co-captain EmAlthough the girls lost their first ily Garnica ‘16. game against Mira Costa High School Not only are the girls equipped 3-5, they quickly rebounded, winning for a successtheir next three games. ful season, but think they are doing really they also have T h e well. They keep battling, team lost by the opportunity to play they don’t give up and they one point to Agoura on for the U.S. support one another.

March 16.

Lacrosse All Region teams.

This caused Last year, -Coach Kennon Broadhurst the team to team captains evaluate its weaknesses, Mikaela Vespe ‘16 and Garnica were also part of motivating the girls to work harder. the U.S. Lacrosse Women’s Division Midfielder Jordan Kuchta ‘16 National tournament team. said, “Our main focus this season In the past year, team members should be communicating better such as Francesca Vespe ‘18 were se- when we are on the field and strengthlected to play in the U.S. Lacrosse All ening our plays.”

“I

22 March 2016

Sports

11

Track and field dashes into the spring season Jaisen Lim Opinion Editor

Namaste: WHS welcomes yoga to the P.E. program Albert Zhang Staff Writer After years of complaints, the WHS administration finally acknowledged students’ desire for alternative P.E. programs. As a result, WHS will offer yoga P.E. next year.

The course aims to use yoga and Pilates to improve physical fitness. By learning to control their bodies and minds, students will develop strength, flexibility, balance and more.

“We wanted to find a way to attract more kids to P.E.,” said Assistant Principal Nicole Judd. “It is important to learn good health and nutrition that are lifelong.”

The first 16 weeks will focus on yoga foundation, philosophy and poses. The next ten weeks will cover Pilates, a workout similar to yoga that aims to improve core strength and stamina.

“Yoga is becoming very popular,” said Krystle Sundberg, who will teach the class next year. “I’m excited. It is a good addition to P.E.” Currently, Sundberg is going through certification to instruct yoga.

In addition to exercises, students will learn to control breathing and learn more about anatomy and kinesiology, the study of movement.

They will also keep personal journals and develop fitness plans.

The main reason for yoga P.E. is to make P.E. more enjoyable for students. Many do not enjoy the typical activities and sports of regular P.E. classes.

“If students want to play sports, then they’ll go and join a team,” said Judd. “Hopefully with yoga, they can find a class they like.”

Dance P.E. is already very popular among students and with the addition of another course, kids will have a wider range to select from.

“I’m in dance P.E. and it is way better than regular P.E.,” said Michelle Zaichik ‘18. “If I needed more credits, I definitely would have tried it [yoga].”

Yoga P.E. also offers a non-competitive approach to exercise, which appeals to many.

“I’m not very athletic, and I don’t really enjoy participating in physical sports or running,” said Kaleb Dixon ‘19. “I’m more of a calm person, so I think yoga P.E. would be good for me.”

The course is primarily offered to freshmen and sophomores who need the P.E. credit. However, it will also be available to upperclassmen as an elective.

“Yoga will improve cardio and fitness,” said Sundberg. “The goal of P.E. is to give students tools to help them after high school.”

GRAPHIC BY MICHELLE CHOI AND PRANAV KAYGEE

PHOTO BY R. JOHNSON

The track team began the Marmonte season on March 17 in a meet against Agoura High School. Both the boys and girls JV teams performed exceedingly well, coming in first in over 60 percent of their events.

Junior varsity runner and high jumper Mayowa Oladokun ‘17, who has been in track since the fourth grade, placed first in all of her events.

“I think that the season started out a little rocky, but now it is finally starting to go well for me,” said Oladokun. “I placed first in all of my events because [of] the help of my coaches. I’m

PHOTO BY POLISINI

PHOTO BY POLISINI

PHOTO BY POLISINI

WHS’ track and field team recently began its 2016 season on March 3. A large number of last year’s varsity team graduated, opening new opportunities and spots on the team. However, the team also saw an influx of promising new members this season.

“So far we’ve just completed our pre-league meets. As a team, we have large shoes to fill with the big loss of our star senior team from last year,” said Thomas Catalano ‘17. “Going into league meets, we need to show hard work if we want to have the same successes as last year.”

WHS started strong in the new season with its first meet against Buena High School and Birmingham High School at WHS, on March 3.

The team placed first in over half of the events, with Jenna Mencarelli ‘17 taking first place for both the girls varsity 200 meter and 400 meter dash.

“I think that we have a very good girls varsity team this year,” said Mencarelli. “The girls varsity team hasn’t won Marmonte league in years, but I think we have a really good chance of being league champions.”

Shot putter and discus thrower Nolan Dellibovi ‘16 joined track as a freshman and has been part of the program ever since.

“I think this season will be good and interesting,” said Dellibovi. Dellibovi placed third in varsity shot put and second in discus throw.

WHS competed against El Camino Real High School on March 10. Although WHS put in great effort, the team came out just short of victory.

GROUP MENTALITY (Above): The WHS track team races against El Camino Real High School in the JV distance event.

CATCH HER IF YOU CAN (Far Left): Abigail Nash ‘18 competes in the JV 100 meter hurdles against Agoura High School.

UP UP AND AWAY (Top Left): Cynthia Hsu ‘16 begins to leap over the pole vault bar.

ROUNDING THE CURB (Left): Remy Mitchell ‘17 and Morgan Haines ‘16 lead WHS in a distance event.

currently setting personal records.”

As a whole, the team was unable to surpass Agoura’s runners. However, the results of the meet only increased its resilience and desire to improve.

The team is determined that through practice and perseverance it will be able to place in State Championships this year.

Last year, WHS qualified for State Championships, but was unable to place in the top three.

“It’s [track and field] very competitive and it’s very fun because you get to meet and make

new friends,” said Jason Centeno ‘16.

WHS’ track and field team practices four days a week and attends a meet every Thursday.

Members practice by honing their skills and increasing their endurance.

The team is preparing for the upcoming meet against Calabasas High School on March 24.

“Track and field is an interesting sport in that you win by improving,” said Catalano. “Sure the team is supportive, but it’s really how you practice and improve as a runner that will show in the meets.”

12

Feature

Professional artists in the making

WHS’ Art Department offers a variety of classes for students, including Computer Graphics, Advanced Graphics, Ceramics, Art Media, Life Drawing and AP Art Studio.

“The department’s original aim was to create a variety of programs and deviate from the traditional art classes,” said AP Drawing and Design teacher John Farmer.

Art Media is the basic introductory class

which serves as a base for students who wish to take AP Art Studio.

Art Media 3D focuses on sculpture and ceramics whereas Art Media 2D focuses on photography and graphics. Art Media Drawing is the basic illustration class.

Usually, the basic and intermediate art classes are set up so teachers can help students begin developing and strengthening their skills.

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Students in the advanced classes have the liberty to choose their own projects for their art portfolio. This allows the students to “build skills and have the freedom to work on the artwork,” said Visual Arts and Technology Department Chair, Roger Biersborn. “Typically we let AP students pick their own artwork because it shapes them for careers in art and it is a necessity to be self driven.”

“Olivia Hussey” Jihoon Kim ‘16

“Daisies” Soo Kim ‘16 “Daisies” by AP Art Studio student Soo Kim is an oil painting done on a bamboo board rather than traditional canvas. Kim’s painting depicts a girl in solitude surrounded by colorful spring flowers. “I have been painting ever since I can remember, and it has always been a passion of mine,” said Kim. This painting provided Kim with the opportunity to explore new techniques with

“New York City” Alex Arnaout ‘16

Arnaout is a second year ceramics student. He was inclined to take Ceramics because as a child he enjoyed building and creating with his hands using Legoes and other mediums.

He uses the AP Ceramics class as a way to express his creativity while having fun.

“I have never been to New York City, but the city’s buildings and the skyline inspired me to sculpt this piece,” said Arnaout.

It took Arnaout three weeks to sculpt this dome of the Manhattan skyline.

According to Arnaout, the most challenging part about this sculpture was crafting the model buildings so that they looked similar to the real ones that inspired him. “[“New York City”] illuminates human depravity in the world and I wanted to capture it,” said Arnaout, in regards to the coloring.

This sculpture is different than the usual ones because Arnaout draped the clay over a bowl to mimic the skyline.

“I set out to create a dome shaped skyline because I wanted to imitate the curvature of the earth so that the skyline would look natural,” said Arnaout.

His main inspiration behind the sculpture is the artist Bret Freund, who is best known for sculpting geometric shapes and architecture.

Farmer also gives each student a topic. Kim “likes how each student has different styles and ideas on the same topic.”

“One of my favorite works was making a collage because I have never done that before and it was fun,” said Kim. After graduation, Kim plans on attending either Art Center College of Design in Pasadena or School for Visual Arts in Los Angeles.

“Mr. Farmer made me realize that art is the thing that I can do for my life with continuous interests and focus,” said Kim. “I want to make art work that moves my viewers’ mind.”

“Industrial” Gillian Hei ‘16 “Industrial”, a dark, brooding work of art, is a water color painting by AP Art Studio student Gillian Hei. Prior to this school year, Hei resided in Shanghai for three years and studied art in China through the International Baccalaureate program.

While living in Shanghai, Hei was artistically inspired by the detriments of the deadly pollution and smog.

Her dystopian themed painting depicts the hazardous, dangerous atmosphere caused by human-induced pollution.

Hei is also interested in other art mediums such as computer graphics, as well as character and landscape design. To hone her talent, she plans on strengthening her proficiency in the basics.

“Art teaches you to be confident in your work, to stay determined and become skillful,” said Hei. Her goal is to be a character concept artist, inspired by her interest in drawing people.

Hei plans to attend the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Alex Arnaout’s “New York City,” created in AP Ceramics, is a three-dimensional dome that recreates the famous New York City skyline.

He depicts iconic locations in the city including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, 40 Pine Street, Wall Street, the Bank of America Tower and more.

painting skin textures. “The main purpose of this painting is to embrace a girl in solitude, surrounded by a colorful world,” said Kim. Kim has taken a variety of art courses at WHS, ranging from basic art to AP Art Studio.

“I did not consider art as a class until junior year,” said Kim. “I have both grown as an artist and person because I get to express myself through art.”

Her favorite part about art class is the ability to explore various types of media. Not only do the students have the opportunity to draw, but AP Drawing and Design teacher John

“Olivia Hussey” is a watercolor painting done on paper by AP Art Studio student Jihoon Kim. The portrait features Argentinian actress Oliva Hussey, who played the titular role in the 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet.

“I chose Olivia Hussey for my portrait themed project because of her proportional and beautiful face,” said Kim. The painting, despite being a success, created artistic challenges for Kim. “Though this was just a watercolor painting, it was a challenge because of the play of gradiation,” explained Kim. She also employed a special technique to mimic the acrylic style through watercolors.

Kim moved from South Korea two years ago and enrolled at WHS. Kim initially had trouble learning English and adapting to the new culture.

To remedy this struggle, she decided she wanted to take an art class because the field interested her and it would serve as a break between academic classes.

Since then, Kim has explored many mediums. According to AP Drawing and Design teacher John Farmer, Kim is a spectacular artist due to her great work ethic and perseverance, despite having only started a few years ago.

“Though Kim displayed interest in art, she did not particularly showcase any artistic skill. But, over the summer of 2014 she went from an ordinary high school artist to a spectacular one,” said Farmer. “In my opinion, Jihoon has exceeded my standards for a high school artist and I consider her a professional artist.”

Kim’s style is more methodical than expressive, according to Farmer. Her dedication to detail makes her artwork stand out.

Kim has learned over the years that “to be an artist is to have different perspectives on everything and to see and capture the details in artwork.”

Compiled by Dheekshi Arvind