The Union - Milpitas High School - February 2014 by MHS The Union

E D I TO R I A L 3

O PI N I O N S 4

F E AT U R E S 6

LIFEST YLE 9

D E D I C AT I O N S 12

S PR E A D 1 4

E N T E R TA I N M E N T 17

S P O R T S 19

T HE

FEBRUARY 2014 Volume XXV Issue IV

UN I O N

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STUDENT VOICE OF MILPITAS HIGH SCHOOL

Schlaff announces retirement, to end six years as principal BY BRENDA SU

Principal Kenneth Schlaff announced his plans to retire at the end of this school year during a staff meeting on Jan. 31, ending his sixth year as principal of MHS. A successor has not yet been selected, Schlaff said. Schlaff, who has been working as an administrator at MHS for 17 years, was previously an assistant principal and then an associate principal before becoming principal in 2008. As principal, he introduced new safety, discipline, and operation protocol; he also helped academically underperforming students and expanded opportunities for high-achieving students, he said. “I helped students that needed intervention, targeted populations, and brought scores up,” Schlaff said. “At the other end, I’ve organized a number of things for students that are upper level that weren’t available prior, like more [Advanced Placement] classes.” Schlaff worked with the late Speech and Debate Advisor Stephen Stewart to create the Speech and Debate program and helped fund the Science Olympiad team, both programs which have become successful, Schlaff said. Schlaff also expanded fine arts programs and turned the auto-shop studio into a dance studio around ten years ago, Schlaff said; he hopes that the school can continue to grow its educational programs and add new ones. “There is so much potential here,

so many things that the kids can do,” Schlaff said. “[I hope] that we keep creating curriculum and program s that match their talents and their particular needs for the next stages in their lives. For example, I’ve always wanted to see a biotech program.” “The vast majority of students have been great,” Schlaff said. “It’s been a pleasure interacting with them, absolutely.” The school district will post the availability of the position of principal. A number of committees will review the applicants and interview them before giving a recommendation to the superintendent, who makes the final decision, Schlaff said. “[To my successor], all I can say is you have to really, really, really enjoy the students, because that’s the bottom line, and have their best interests in heart,” Schlaff said. “And you do it not because it’s a job, but because you like doing it.” Before working at MHS, Schlaff had worked in administrative positions at other schools, as city manager, and as a middle school science teacher. He finalized his decision to retire during the last winter break. Secretary Jackie Roy, who has worked with Schlaff for about eight years, said she will be sad to see Schlaff leave. Schlaff has contributed enormously to MHS, she said. “We’re respected by the area, we get awards,” Roy said. There’s not a whole lot to improve upon, really. The next principal has big shoes to fill.”

Shelly Hsu | THE UNION

Sophomore Ada Lee (right) gives Junior Manasi Aranake (left) an Apollo Award for Highest STAR Scores in Summative Math and Life Science. 181 Apollo Awards were given out for students’ performances in classes, on standardized tests, and for having the highest cumulative grade point averages during a double third period on Friday, Feb 9.

Apollo Awards recognize achievements BY SHELLY HSU

The seventh Apollo Awards Ceremony, an annual celebration of academic excellence, was held on Friday, Feb. 6 in the large gym, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. This year, 181 awards were given out, Schlaff said.

Cultural Heritage Week Cultures were celebrated MHS from Jan. 27 through Jan. 30. Cultural Heritage Week celebrations included a CLOG food sale at lunch on Jan. 28, and a Quincinera show also held during lunch.

BY ZAHRA SURANI

February Break The first day of February Break is Feb. 15 and the last day of the break is Feb 23.

MHS Interschool Science Fair The MHS Interschool Science Fair will be held March 1 in the large gym from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.. Students may sign up online to participate and submit a project by Feb. 24. Battle of the Sexes Battle of the Sexes is a competition between female students and male students. This year, Battle of the Sexes rally will be held March 10 at lunch. Trojan Olympics Trojan Olympics will be held March 28 in the large gym. Trojan Olympics is a competition between the classes. Class teams compete in games, a dance, and a pyramiad. Coach Jeff Lamb honored Lamb was selected as the 2014 California State Athletic Directors Association (CSADA) California State Athletic Director of the Year

The number of students that receive Apollo Awards have increased from last year, according to Schlaff. Some students received more than one award, Schlaff said. “The purpose of the Apollo Awards is to reward people of academic excelSEE APOLLO ON PAGE 2

Renovations to improve campus

N EWS IN BR IEF

CAHSEE testing CAHSEE testing will be held on Tuesday, March 18 and Wednesday, March 19. The CAHSEE is the California high school exit examination for sophomores.

Awards were given to students teachers deemed by their teachers as the top student in their respective advanced placement (AP) classes and electives. Students were also rewarded for having the highest cumulative grade point average, and highest scores on the California Standardized Test (CST), Schlaff said.

Sidney Le | THE UNION

The Chinese Club officers perform a ribbon dance during the day show in the theater on Thursday, Jan. 23. The day show was held all six periods.

Chinese Club hosts Lunar Show BY PRANAY PATNI

The Lunar Show was hosted by the MHS Chinese Club on the weekend of Jan. 25, according to Chinese Club Co-President Stacey Tran. The purpose of the lunar show was to celebrate the New Year and to showcase the multiple cultures that celebrate it, Tran said. Many people auditioned to be a part of the show, but not everyone was selected, Tran said. “There were over 60 people that auditioned,” Tran said. “In the end, 17 acts were selected.” The Korean Dance Team, the Korean American Student Union, and the Hip Hop Club were among groups that participated in the show, according to Tran. There were also some performers in the show who weren’t from MHS, Tran said.

“I knew the outside acts from friends, so I asked them to perform,” Tran said. “The Korean American Student Association also had two people from Piedmont.” The biggest challenge that the club faced in organizing the event was being underprepared for possible problems, Tran said. “The key point is to do everything early,” Tran said. “It includes planning auditions, getting theater time, putting all the acts together and in order, making sure all the models have their costumes, and making sure that we receive the music from each act.” The audience seemed to love the show and it seemed to run smoothly and according to plan, Tran said. “It’s a long and stressful process, but once the show begins, it’s fun,” Tran said.

MHS will be undergoing many different renovation and construction projects, all of which are estimated to be finished by November 2015, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. These projects are designed to improve learning conditions, add classroom space, and maintain the campus, Schlaff said. The time length for all the projects is staggered across the two years allocated for renovation and construction work, Schlaff said. The different projects include the Learning Commons, buildings, portables, restrooms, as well as the old and new swimming pools, according to Schlaff. “[The Learning Commons] include conference rooms, mobile space for instruction, meeting areas with different configurations of furniture and different types of furniture, project storage areas linked up with the video production room,” Schlaff said. The purpose of the Learning Commons Center is to provide students a flexible learning space, according to Schlaff. The designated space includes the current library, career center, and cafeteria, all of which are planned to be remodeled to imitate a college setting, Schlaff said. The project is set to start in June 2014 and end in October 2014, Schlaff added. “We will turn space that has never been used into usable space, which is just wasted right now,” Schlaff said. From June 2014 to August 2014, Buildings E, F, G, J, and L will be renovated, and from June 2015 to August 2015, Buildings A, B, D, H, K, and portables will be renovated, according to Schlaff. All are getting new carpeting

and new Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system; in addition, the L-building will be repainted, Schlaff said. Three restrooms will be renovated at different times: October 2014 to December 2014, December 2014 to February 2015, and February 2015 to March 2015 “You have to do preventive maintenance,” Schlaff said, and the reconstruction work fits this theme. The purpose of changing the HVAC system is to improve basic climate and comfort in class and of changing the carpeting is to ensure cleanliness and health, according to Schlaff. To accommodate for the growing population on campus, new classroom space is being arranged, according to Schlaff. The old pool will be filled in, and a wet lab will be constructed over it, Schlaff said. The inside of the G-building contains a teacher work area that will be converted into a classroom, according to Schlaff. Across the street, the Evergreen college campus is also being built; there will be around eight to ten classrooms and will accommodate approximately 250 to 300 students, Schlaff said. “Yes, the population is growing, and yes, there is a need for classroom space, and the campus, in certain respects, needs to have a redesign with two stories,” Schlaff said. “Fill in particular areas that are open space with buildings.” Long-term solutions include building and filling open spaces. With the growing population, an auxiliary gym may have to be added and the theater may need to be enhanced, said Schlaff. Money for future renovations may be funded by more taxes, he said.

NEWS

T HE U NION

FEBRUARY 2014

MHS orchestra performs at city’s 60th anniversary BY MICHELLE HUANG

Elliot Ng | THE UNION

Senior Alfred Ly constructs a wooden car to compete in the Mira Loma Invitational Science Olympiad competition. Two other MHS Science Olympiad teams in addition to Ly’s will compete in another regional competition in March.

Two Science Olympiad teams compete BY ELLIOT NG

The MHS Science Olympiad team competed in the Mira Loma Invitational on Jan. 11. 24 teams from around the nation competed in this tournament. The tournament consisted of 23 different events, such as Rocks and Minerals, Circuit Lab, Designer Genes, and Compound Machines. Each event is related to the fields of biology, chemistry, and physics, MHS Science Olympiad Advisor Letta Meyer said. MHS sent two teams, Milpitas Blue and Milpitas Gold, to compete in the tournament. It was the first time MHS had two teams compet-

ing in one competition, Meyer said. Each team had 15 members, and two to three members competed in each event. Milpitas Blue placed fifth in the tournament, while Milpitas Gold placed eleventh. The MHS teams were most successful in the Circuit Lab, Compound Machines, and Maglev Vehicle events. The Mira Loma Invitational contained the highest level of competition, with Troy High School, the national champion, and Mira Loma High School, the state champion, both competing at the tournament, Science Olympiad Captain Forrest Tran said. Teams from Washington

and Southern California were also present in the tournament. MHS has never competed in such a high leveled tournament before, Tran said. “It was a great learning experience,” Tran said. “It was very exciting.” The Mira Loma Invitational was his favorite Science Olympiad Competition and he was very proud of the teams’ performance, according to Tran. The team intends to compete in other tournaments, such as the upcoming Bay Area Regional Science Olympiad (BARSO) tournament, Meyer said. This tournament is important because it determines whether or not MHS qualifies for state leveled competitions, Meyer said.

Admin cancels Paparazzi Wall fundraiser BY MICHELLE HUANG AND RISHIKA DUGAYALA

The Paparazzi Wall, an MHS fundraiser, was canceled Jan. 23, according to Assistant Principal Cheryl Rivera. The fundraiser was canceled because administration was uneasy with the fact that students might have a picture on the wall that would make them uncomfortable, Rivera said. The initial function of the Paparazzi Wall was to allow students to display embarrassing photos of their friends in good humor, ASB Member Lina Nguyen, one of the people in charge of the Paparazzi Wall, said. It would have cost one dollar to submit a photo and two dollars to remove one, and an opt out form would have been available for those who did not wish to participate in the fundraiser at all, Nguyen said.

Rivera said that many students would not consider signing an opt out form in the first place. “People will rarely sign a form preferencing, ‘No, I don’t want that,’ before it even happens. Who does that?” Rivera said. “[The form] was more work for the student whose picture was going up there. We were like: just ask the kid for the money. You know? Don’t even put the picture up there, that kind of thing.” Concerns were raised about people taking and abusing the photos posted up, Principal Kenneth Schlaff said. The idea behind the Papparrazi Wall was good, but the means to get to the end is not, Schlaff said. “I agree with what administration had to say with their concerns about bullying,” A.S.B. Secretary Natasha Gangal, the Chair of the Paparazzi Wall, said. “I understand their con-

cerns, but we were disappointed in the manner in which it was handled.” Gangal said administration acted unprofessionally because the event was cancelled just a few days before it was to begin. She also thought the fact that administration went to ASB Advisor Joanna Butcher regarding the Paparazzi Wall even after knowing who the students in charge of the event were, was unprofessional as well. “The Thursday that it was canceled, an email went out to staff and students describing the process of how the Paparazzi Wall was going to be handled,” Gangal explained. “[Ms. Rivera] misunderstood what the process was, which we kind of thought was a little ridiculous because we had been meeting with them so they should’ve known.”

The MHS Orchestra was invited to perform at the City of Milpitas’s 60th Anniversary Family Party on Jan. 26, according to Music Director Christopher Kaldy. It was the first time that the city has held a celebratory party marking the occasion, Kaldy said. As part of the city’s anniversary celebration, the Family Day event at the City Hall will include entertainment, with performances from the orchestra and community band, Kaldy said. It was a nice opportunity to feature the orchestra and represent MHS, because it is usually the marching band that is able to go out and perform, Kaldy added. “The orchestra does not perform in concerts outside of Milpitas that often, so it’s nice that they are able to perform for the community,” Kaldy said. “It also gives the community a chance to see what [the music department] can do besides marching band.” According to Senior Thien-Nhi

Nguyen, members of the orchestra were excited about performing at the event. All of the orchestra concerts are performed at school, so it was nice to go somewhere outside and perform, Nguyen said. “A lot of the music [the orchestra] worked on for the event was from the concert in December from first semester,” Kaldy said. “Four additional pieces were added since then to play for the anniversary celebration.” The pieces that were played at the event were simply chosen because they were appropriate for the celebratory event, Kaldy said. Selecting the music was particular because the orchestra would primarily be background music and not performing in front of a usual audience, Kaldy added. “The orchestra has an upcoming school concert on Feb. 28 and is performing at Delta College in Stockton in March,” Kaldy said. “The district-wide concert featuring all 10 schools is also coming up on April 10.”

Interact, Key Club hold auction; lunch dates sold for charities BY JONATHAN NGO

The INTERKEY Basket Boys and Girls Auction is an Interact and Key Club fundraiser that involves auctioning off volunteers for a lunch date on Valentines Day, according to Key Club Treasurer Jennifer Duong. Half of the proceeds will go to each club and their projects, Duong added. Key Club’s portion of the proceeds will go to its district project, the Pediatric Trauma Program, Duong said. Interact will donate to its international project, The Answer is the Sun, she added. “We asked people to volunteer and told them the proceeds were going to charity,” Duong said. “The people who are asked to participate only have to spend an afternoon or lunch on Valentine’s Day with the person who bid on them.” The money is going to a good cause, Senior Gordon Luu said. The Interact program, The Answer is the Sun, for example, provides solar-powered microwaves or ovens to women and children in Afghanistan, he explained. “It’s fun to make food for people and hang out with them,” Luu said. “It’s nice to know how much you’re worth to people.” Every year the amount fundraised

varies, Duong added. Last year, Key Club fundraised around 800 dollars. though this year including the Interact club may fundraise more, according to Duong. “We have more people this year because Key Club is working with Interact so we’ll be able to raise more money,” Duong said. “It’s a great way to fundraise because it’s not time-consuming or expensive.” This year a picture of each volunteer in the auction is uploaded to an album online with his or her biography, Duong explained. People bid on the person through commenting on the picture with increments of at least one dollar, she added. Junior Patrick Ly said he volunteered to be a part of the auction because it is for a good cause. There is also the opportunity to meet someone new, Lee continued. “I’m planning on treating the winner out,” Ly said. “I’ll take them wherever they want.” Pediatric trauma is the leading cause of death in children 14 and under, according to Duong. The money will go to programs to prevent deaths in the future by buying seatbelts and helmets so pediatric trauma will no longer be a leading cause of death.

APOLLO: students win awards

EYE ON CAMPUS

FROM THE FRONT

lence,” Schlaff said. “Only students with top performances have been selected to receive Apollo Awards.” Counseling Secretary Kathy Agu-

“It’s an assembly that supposedly celebrates those that are in line with the school’s values, but those who are celebrated don’t even get to appreciate their own assembly.” Jasmin Tsai

Sidney Le | THE UNION

Senior Mitchell Lien participates in the Watermelon-Eating Contest, which took place on Jan. 24 at lunch next to the theater. The fastest eater for each round was awarded with a $5 gift card to the place of their choice.

ilar organized the Apollo Awards this year, Activities Director Joanna Butcher said. The leadership class also set up and decorated the gym and made the powerpoint video for the winners as well, according to Butcher. “The acts for this year were jazz band, choir, and three dance classes,” Butcher said. “There was also an in-

spirational video.” Throughout the entire ceremony, jazz band performed during breaks. Choir and the three dance classes performed during each category transition. Four of a Kind, a singing group composed of students from MHS, also performed a piece. Senior Jasmin Tsai received the Apollo Award for Marching Band this year. However, the Apollo Awards Ceremony feels like an empty ceremony, Tsai said. “It’s an assembly that supposedly celebrates those who’ve shown great achievements that are in line with the school’s values, but those who are celebrated don’t even get to appreciate their own assembly,” Tsai said. “Although this year, they did manage to fit the Apollo Award winners into the first rally and I think that’s commendable.” Only one rehearsal was scheduled for this year’s ceremony, according to Schlaff. The rehearsal was in the small gym on Feb. 6, during second period, Schlaff said.

FEBRUARY 2014

EDITORIAL

EDITOR I A L : The Opinion of The Union

Student government overregulates CLOG system; decisions lack communication and transparency We, The Union, commend the Associated Student Body (A.S.B.), for its efforts to build school spirit and work towards student unification. A.S.B., despite many logistical and financial challenges, has used its talented group of leaders to plan and execute events that many students have enjoyed and appreciated. However, one area in which A.S.B. needs improvement is its management of clubs and organizations (CLOGs). The current CLOG system, managed by the appointed CLOG commissioner, has its merits. Ensuring that there is a system in place for CLOGs to communicate their activities to the student body has been beneficial to everyone. Additionally, having the support of A.S.B. during CLOG rush or food sales makes these events more organized. Despite these benefits, there are several inherent flaws in the way CLOGs are regulated at MHS. There is almost no democratic process when it comes to decision-making that affects the way individual CLOGs operate. The lack of transparency, and the regulations that are made without consulting CLOG leaders, restricts the ability of officers to lead their club. This ultimately leads to frustration and threatens the cooperation between the student government and CLOGs. Requirements to abide by re-chartering rules, create a budget, or turn in minutes are not in dispute; most governments follow such bureaucratic processes because they are necessary and effective to be organized. However, restrictions that have been imposed are not only arbitrary and unjustifiable, but also have no input from CLOG leaders. When

such decisions are made without prior consent from CLOGs that they affect, those tasked with managing the CLOG system have lost their credibility and the respect of student leaders. This divisiveness in the relationship between CLOGs and the student government is unacceptable. For instance, certain clubs were asked to reduce the number of officer positions. Specific CLOGs were targeted, including Chinese Club, Speech and Debate, and Art Club. The lack of communication prior to this decision and the absence of consent from the CLOG community made the decision unnecessary and improper, despite the possible legitimacy of imposing such a rule. CLOG officer applications are long and competitive. Those managing the clog system should not have the right to nullify the position of student-elected leaders. Communication between the CLOG commissioner and CLOG representatives is essential. Whether it is a congress or CLOG council meeting, the collaboration between all parties to reach a common goal requires clarity and genuine leadership. The lack of communication between CLOGs and the student government will only intensify division – the opposite of A.S.B.’s goal of uniting the student body. We, The Union, encourage A.S.B. and the CLOG commissioner to communicate with CLOG leaders prior to any decision that will affect a CLOG and its members. Clear communication and mutual agreements are beneficial. We believe this will only lead to a more unified student body and a more amicable relationship between those who lead MHS.

PAT RONS

he Union is a student-run publication that is partially funded by local businesses and private citizens. The patrons listed below have demonstrated their generosity by extending both moral and financial support to our newspaper for the 20132014 school year. The Union staff would like to thank them for their patronage and encourage others to contribute. If you are interested in becoming a patron ($25 donation), please contact our Business Manager.

Alan L. Grimm, D.D.S. Calaveras, Crescent, Main St. Montessori Schools Denny and Marianne Weisgerber Edgie’s Billiards Giorgio’s Italian Food & Pizzeria Jerry Glass, D.D.S. and Staff The Milpitas Public Library Pete McHugh

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The Union is published by the Journalism class of Milpitas High School. The views in The Union are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the school, students, administration, or Milpitas Unified School District.

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EDITOR I A L : The Opinion of The Union

Name reading meaningful graduation tradition; ceremony cherished by many seniors, teachers We, The Union, commend the school administration for having allowed seniors to choose the teacher they would like to announce their names at the graduation ceremony. Not every school is fortunate enough to have such a tradition, so for that reason, we are grateful to the MHS staff, and we look forward to the continuation of the policy. For many MHS students, high school graduation is one of the most memorable events in their lives. The ceremony is remembered fondly not only by seniors but also by the many people who have helped the students on their journey to adulthood, namely their parents and teachers. Therefore, to many students, the opportunity to choose who calls them up to receive their diploma is highly significant. The inspiration, motivation, and personal support that teachers give their students lasts beyond graduation; teachers shape their students into young men and women, and many students will remember their favorite teachers when they themselves have children. Teachers become mentors, heroes, and parental figures to us, and having the people who influenced us the most in high school read our names as we leave it is an honor to both students and teachers. Changing the current policy has been a topic of much controversy in past years. The issue arose from the common scenario of a few teachers reading a large amount of names while other teachers only read a few. Last year, a new policy was instituted that capped the amount of names a teacher could read at graduation. While this was controversial at the time and disappointed some students who did not have their

first choice in their name reader, we believe that this was a sensible change. Having almost 100 people crowded into a single teacher’s room is a manageable problem. And, after all, no student is influenced by only one teacher; there are others to turn to. To take this privilege away from seniors would strip graduation of its sentimental impact. For many of us, not to have our names read at graduation by our favorite teachers is as heart-rending as not having our fathers walk us down the aisle at our weddings. Both ceremonies mark the end of important phases of our lives and mark the beginning of new, exciting adventures. Although seniors may not actively vocalize how much they appreciate that this tradition continues, one can be assured, this is one of the most important facets of the graduation ceremony. Seniors do not receive their physical diplomas until long after they have already graduated. Many do not actually leave their childhood homes behind until the next school year; some do not leave until after they have finished college. However, the one thing students do receive at their graduation ceremony is closure. High school is one of the most difficult, transformative times of anyone’s life. It is filled with laughter and with tears, heartbreak and growth, and teachers are the ones who help students navigate the sometimes hopeless situations they find themselves in. The chance to have someone so important take an active part in one’s graduation, rather than simply knowing they are watching, is invaluable to students. It may be the last time teachers and students can be together, and the name reading is a perfect send off.

T HE U NION

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S TA F F Rachel Alvelais Sidney Le Editors-in-Chief

Brenda Su ƀɠNews Editor Jonathan Ngo ƀɠOp-Ed Editor Jennifer Duong ƀɠFeatures Editor Karen Chi ƀɠLifestyle Editor Moshe Yang ƀɠEntertainment Editor Akshat Das ƀɠSports Editor Jamie Lam ƀɠCopy Editor Rakshit Garg ƀɠWeb Editor Shelly Hsu ƀɠPhoto Editor Pranay Patni ƀɠBusiness Manager Rishika Dugyala ƀɠAd Manager

Naomi McCracken ƀɠAsst. News Editor Zahra Surani ƀɠAsst. Op-Ed Editor Amy Nguyen ƀɠAsst. Features Editor Vikram Sastry ƀɠ Asst. Lifestyle Editor Ruth Park ƀɠAsst. Entertainment Editor Neal Bansal ƀɠAsst. Sports Editor Shubhangi GulatiƀɠAsst. Copy Editor Sumukh Shekar ƀɠAsst. Web Editor Sarah Tang ƀɠAsst. Photo Editor Karen Shyu ƀɠAsst. Business Manager Amy Bui ƀɠAsst. Ad Manager

Jazmin Drop ƀɠReporter Stephen Hsu ƀɠReporter Michelle Huang ƀɠReporter Elliot NgƀɠReporter Bryan Tran ƀɠReporter Nhi Tran ƀɠReporter Michelle Wu ƀɠReporter

Jeff Colburn

Journalism Advisor

L E T T E R TO T H E E DI TOR Tardy sweeps continue to incorrectly punish students The tardy sweep policy, unfortunately, continues to unfairly penalize students who are late to class. It was implemented in hope of encouraging students to get to class on time for first period. However, if you are late to first period just one time on a certain day of the week, you are punished with a forty five minute detention. It is uncertain to which degree of success this policy has achieved. We, as students, have not been informed about how much of a decrease there has been in first period tardies. This policy is highly unpopular since no student wants a forty five minute detention. It also begs the question of why people are tardy to first period in the first place. Some students claim that a huge contributing factor to why they are late is the traffic that backs up Escuela Parkway and Arizona Avenue. The traffic is not just due to high school students trying to get to school, but also due to the combination of Russell students and Pomeroy students trying to make it to class on time as well.

Would giving a student detention for being in traffic necessarily help with the problem of not being punctual? Students cannot control traffic. The administration is essentially saying if you get detention for being late, you’re just an unlucky person that day. Maybe instead on giving students detention, attention should be given to why first period tardies occur and also different ways students can avoid sitting half an hour in traffic. Tardy sweeps are not effective and don’t solve the root cause of the problem. Lastly, if tardy policies happen earlier in the week, then students know that for the rest of that week, they can be tardy and take their time as they go to class. If tardy sweeps are effective at all, they should instead mitigate the problem consistently. Instead, students simply revert back to being late the next day. Miranda le Senior

T HE U NION

OPINIONS

FEBRUARY 2014

PRO

Common core sets standards, prepares students for careers The United States is simply falling expectations based on the highbehind in education. In compari- est standards available and within son to other countries, America has reach. scored poorly on multiple internaCommon core adequately prepares tional examinations for students. In students for the real world – college 2012, the Organization for and career readiness. There is an ever increasEconomic Co-Operation ing gap between college eland Development conigibility and college readiducted a test for students ness with nearly 60% of ages 15 to 16 in 34 counfirst-year college students tries. The United States taking remedial courses performed below average that do not count for colin math, ranking 26, and around average in readlege credit. Common core standards require more ing and science, ranking critical thinking and rea17 and 21 respectively. soning, which results in In light of such results, ZAHRA better problem solving changes are necessary in SURANI skills and real world apeducation, and common plications. Common core core appropriately matches with this need. The present curric- requires students to answer “How?” ulum does not fit with today’s swiftly and “Why?” questions as well; this deep understanding allows students changing knowledge society. Common core sets rigorous stan- to see purpose in learning, realize its dards for states to follow. Though it relevance to the real world, and comis voluntary, all but four states have pete successfully in society. Common core makes it easier for adopted it. These standards will help us advance our ranking because teachers to help students achieve they are based on international academic excellence. Because most standards. Because they are shared states use the same standards, in the United States, educators will teachers can collaborate with others find it easier to measure proficiency across the country to solve problems in different subjects among the states and share materials and teaching and even among other countries. Ed- techniques. The new standards also ucators will be able to know which allow teachers to focus on key stanstates are excelling and which need dards that establish a better foundaa push towards success. Without tion for later studies; because of the common core, one area may learn selective topics, teachers are able to more than another area, leading to a spend more time on areas that redisproportionate amount of success quire more instruction and are able in today’s society; for example even if to go deeper into each individual an individual got an A in State 1, the topic for a deeper understanding. same individual may get a C in State Teachers, even with these standards, 2. Common core imposes consistent can also employ their own teachings.

CON

Common Core impractical, overemphasizes standards The Common Core: coming soon the test date, every student taking to public schools near you. While the the test in MHS will need to have acprogram may have little impact on cess to a computer. Technology, textgraduating seniors, it will introduce a books, and other reading material will great deal of change starting with the need to be updated. 2014-2015 school year. Parental influence will be diminThe Common Core is based on a ished with the implementation of rigid set of performance expectations Common Core. Parents will no longer that is issued for each grade level from have a say in their child’s education; K-12. Teachers are bound to a specific previously they were able to move teaching timeline and the curriculum their children to a different school is controlled on a national level, with with more appropriate standards, but the goal of standardizing education now all schools are shaped into exact not only within the United States, but replicas of the “ideal education sysalso on a global scale. tem.” Those who disagree Although the idea may with the format of the sound good in theory, it Common Core will simply appears impractical when be forced to accept it. examined in detail. The The methodology beprogram was designed hind some of the Comso that all students could mon Core specifics is also learn at the same pace, flawed. For example, in ignoring the fact that evorder to develop reading eryone learns at different lists for each grade level, rates. As a result, more stuthe program adopted the dents will be left behind. Lexile point system which MICHELLE The Common Core fails calculates a novel’s comHUANG to include adapted tests plexity according to its for kids with special needs sentence length and voor for students who may have grown cabulary difficulty. What we end up used to a more rigorous learning envi- with is a list of books in which Sing a ronment. Many students will need to Song of Tuna Fish by Esmé Codell is compromise their own education for “more difficult” than To Kill a Mockthe sake of the “greater good.” ingbird by Harper Lee. The transition to Common Core Lastly, the mission statement for also requires a lot of time and mon- the Common Core stresses the imey. Not only must teachers change portance of having our communities what they teach and their methods “best positioned to compete successof teaching, but students will need to fully in the global economy.” The puradapt as well. The program’s empha- pose of the education system is not to sis on standardized testing will entail have our students prove their supemore benchmarks and nationwide rior intellect against those of other tests to ensure that everyone is on the nations; rather, it is to prepare them same scale. The Smarter Balanced for life outside of high school, whethAssessment System tests require the er they decide to get involved in the use of computers, meaning that on global economy or not.

Karen Shyu | THE UNION

Tardy policy lacks organization, inefficient The tardy policy at MHS makes a good effort to reduce students coming to class late, but overall it is extremely flawed. In other words, there is a lot of room for improvement in the Milpitas High School tardy policy. My biggest problem with the MHS late policy is that the school requires you to walk to the office to check in and get a pass if you come to school after the second bell. Personally, this has given me a lot of trouble, as my first period is in the L building. This means that if I get to school half a minute late, I miss about five to ten minutes of class instead of an insubstantial minute. Just think, how is it logical that a school make students miss an extra five minutes of class, which is almost one fifth of the class period. For students in some classes, this can be a significant problem. In a chemistry class, for example, a student can miss the explanation of a lab, as I have. In a math class, students could miss the beginnings of an important lesson. And in any other class, a late student could miss an important announcement from the teacher just because he or she ran into heavy traffic. The subject of tardies and the chaos that surrounds the campus before school is something to be discussed as well. The school should not punish students for coming just a little late or continue with the tardy sweep until it has at least tried to find a solution to the before-school traffic problems. In addition, the school needs to be more understanding of the traffic sit-

uation, especially in light of the fact and determine the school’s policy? that our school’s roads are shared How hard could it possibly be to by three schools. This means that change just one aspect of the system? there are students from more than The school shouldn’t let its system just MHS contributing to prevent improvements in traffic in the morning and policy. As far as arguments after school. The traffic go, the school’s claim that situation is getting worse the first-period late polirapidly, but what is our cy cannot change because school doing to fix policy “the system does not allow problems? I’ve seen no imteachers to mark students provements to the school’s late during first period” system to fix problems like is an incredibly weak dethis, which are only getting fense. Whatever system worse. the school is using should Also, punishing students not be an acceptable exNAOMI for being late to first pericuse for the school to not MCCRACKEN od discourages carpooling. improve a rule it obviously The biggest reason many knows is flawed. people don’t carpool is It is also extremely hypbecause they don’t want to be late to ocritical of MHS to discourage stuschool or be responsible for making dents from ditching or coming late to other people late. Basically, people class, yet also make them miss class are sometimes in too much of a time for such relatively trivial things as crunch before school to carpool. coming as few as 10 seconds late to Adding on the tardy sweep gives class. I do not understand the logic of students just another reason to not punishing students for missing a bit want to carpool with neighbors, since of class by making them miss more carpooling would increase their class. chances of getting detention. ObviIn addition, I don’t understand why ously, tardy sweeps during the school Principal Schlaff refuses to move the day, on the other hand, would not dis- tardy sweep to during school. As some courage carpooling. students have pointed out, some stuOne reason the everyone seems to dents decide to skip class, rather than tell me as to why students must go to be late and receive detention. If tardy the office to check in if they come af- sweeps were moved to the beginning ter eight am is that the school’s atten- of periods two through six, students dance system does not allow teachers may still get detention for reasons to mark students late to first period. that aren’t their fault, but less than Should the school’s systems and op- if tardy sweeps continue to unfairly erating programs control the school punish students before school.

Internet makes world smaller, more connected I clicked a link on Tumblr and was taken to a live-stream of Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine. Smoke billowed up from burning tires. It was night, and I couldn’t see much more than the fires, but I heard the shouting and drumming we immediately recognize from dystopian movies as a revolution. You might’ve seen the photos littering your newsfeeds on Facebook. Maybe you’ve seen articles on Yahoo! about the makeshift armor that protestors are using to protect themselves against clubs, bullets, and tear gas. It’s easy enough, if you wanted to, to find out what’s going on. Here’s what I’ve gathered: The Ukrainian president cut ties with the European Union (EU) in order to move the country closer to Russia. Many Ukrainians want a distinct Ukrainian identity; the nationalist movement seek a western, democratic government involved with the EU. The president’s sudden decision sparked peaceful protests in the north and west, where national pride is strongest. The parliament passed anti-protest laws curtailing citizens’ free speech, access to media, and right to assemble. Protests that aren’t government-approved can land you in prison for a decade. You can’t drive in groups of more than five cars. Internet media have to register with the government.

Riot police and other authorities I’ve said that growing up with techface controservy over unwarranted nology hasn’t driven me away from force and abuse against protestors. society and my peers, but instead Journalists have been beaten, sever- drew me closer to them. Our wiredal protestors killed, and many more in society’s made it easier to connect wounded by police. Barricades have with people across the world, as well risen throughout the city. as those in our own backyard. I don’t know what I think about Reading the blog of someone in my what’s going on in Ukraine. The fi- English class is the same as reading ery young adult in me is enraged at something typed out in Ukraine. the idea that somewhere, Our citizenry as a global a government is crushing community is truly all the the basic freedoms of its world. people. We’ve operated for so It shocks and amuses long on the basis that me that Russia’s Foreign we’re the protagonist of Minister said the proour story. We’ve this idea tests in Ukraine are being of our country and lives as stimulated by western, isolated forces against the anti-Russian forces; after world. But this is no longer what’s happening in Sothe reality. chi, my political ignorance The Internet has shown makes me wonder if Rusme the essential humanRACHEL sia’s still stuck in the Cold ity of those all around ALVELAIS War. the globe. The people in At the same time, I’m Ukraine are just like the happy. From my home, I watched people I see around me every day. what’s happening politically across When our societies and our govthe world, without bias, as though ernments finally realize this and all I’d opened my own window into that of its implications, when this undersquare. I’ve heard what Ukrainian standing is passed down through our bloggers have to say about their pres- schools and our families, I think that ident and hopes for the future. I’ve will be the first step towards the betlooked at photos and reports taken ter future everyone is always talking by those inside protests and across about. It’s my belief that in the end, Europe, weighing in on the protes- this small world mindset will be a tors’ methodology and the govern- great, great thing for our race as a ment’s responses. whole.

OPINIONS

FEBRUARY 2014

Mandatory art requirement unnecessary The year of visual or performing our school take a year of art classes, arts required to graduate high school of which only a handful are offered, in California is almost ridiculous in is egregious. More and more students how little it makes sense. Not only are choosing to attend community does it have to be two semesters of colleges and choosing alternative the same art, which already poses routes after high school, for which problems, but there is no way to get an art requirement does nothing but out of it. A student could waste time. be the modern day Matisse Not every student aims and he would still be subto go to a CSU or UC, and jected to the inanity of a it is presumptuous to ashigh school art class. sume so. It is more than There are plenty who presumptuous, even, bewill gain nothing from parcause it harms the quality ticipating in these classes; of education that every some might have no desire single student receives. or inclination towards any By forcing even more kids of the classes we offer and into classes that they don’t will end up doing nothreally need, those who do SIDNEY ing but taking up valuable wish to be in those classLE space and wasting their es are negatively affected. own time. For a school that Many of the classes also is already over-impacted and lacking have to be dumbed down in order to in resources, to require that every teach at a level that the lowest comsingle student who comes through mon denominator can understand.

Sure, there are some studio-level advanced classes that exist, but the prerequisite for entering those are, of course, taking the introductory course. One could argue that it is in everyone’s best interest to have well-rounded students, and this requirement exists in an effort to achieve that goal. If that is the case, then only requiring two semesters to be taken and further restricting it so that the art cannot be done off campus at, say, a music program or a college, works in the opposite direction. The goal here is admirable and idealistic; it would be nice to have a generation of kids who all have skills in art in one form or another, but this is not the way to go about it. The ultimate purpose of school is to not just educate people but to help them on their way to their version of success. Not everyone wants to be Picasso; hell, most people don’t even care.

PDA creates disturbing environment, distracting Merriam-Webster defines “school:” School: noun \skül\ 1: an organization that provides instruction: as an institution for the teaching of children. Notice that nowhere in that definition does it mention “grinding,” “kissing,” “making out,” or actions of that nature. Don’t get me wrong. I think its great you have a special someone(s), and when the 2:56 bell rings at the end of the day, you do what you want to. But between 8:00 AM and 2:56 PM, please don’t. No one goes to school to watch you and your significant other seduce each other. I go to school to learn. And although there is an important social aspect to school, I honestly don’t think that public displays of affection should be a part of that aspect. For one, it’s distracting. Public displays of affection naturally draw attention, especially when they happen in class. Imagine my dismay when I’m busy scrawling Greek letters and equations in a worksheet to beat the

that aren’t in intimate relationships clock and I realize that four feet from feel bad about themselves, instilling me, there are a couple of students an unhealthy feeling of inferiority. making out. It’s hard enough to conWith no dearth of social pressures centrate on work as it is, and unbriin high school, students don’t need more social demands shoved onto dled public displays of affection only their plates. exacerbate the situation. It also might annoy people who In addition, public displays of afmay not be as liberal as those engaged fection undermine a teacher’s conin the PDA. Some people trol of a classroom. Some, still find public displays of if not most, of the teachers affection as offensive, and at MHS are pretty easy many more find it as angoing, but that tolerance noying or irritating. for joking and having fun Is the “freedom” arguends when things in class need to get serious. At ment for public displays of affection really enough that points, teachers need to outweigh the sheer their students to stop what amount of people that it they’re doing and start paydisgruntles? I think not. ing attention. PDA’s are outside of a After all, waiting another RAKSHIT few hours and showing off teacher’s control, however. GARG your affection after school If a couple is in a classroom would seem to grant both together and PDA’s are ungroups the best of both restrained, theres nothing stopping them from treating the class worlds. period like a date. Like they say, get a room. Just not a classroom. In addition, it might make students

Apollo awards time-consuming, nonessential Occurring once every year, the spent doing homework, learning a Apollo Awards takes place in the new lesson, or attending other matMHS gymnasium where rewards ters that students find more importare handed out to students for either ant to them. their academic or athletic achieveSo how about those who have ments. The purpose of this ceremony earned the awards? The event is only is to not only acknowledge honor stu- a day, but two days for those who have dents, but to also attempt to encour- been chosen to step up on stage. This age the rest of the school to is because the honor stuimprove as well. However, dents are required to preare all students satisfied pare a day before the actuwith this ceremony? al ceremony, which takes Unfortunately, many over an hour. From what I view this event as a comcan see, this is a frustrating plete waste of time. Rematter for them as some warding students for their of them feel this is unnechard work is not at all a essary. Many have to go bad thing, but it takes up a through a hassle, talking large amount of time from with their teachers to other students and their make up for what they will SARAH education. To spend about be missing in class. This is TANG an hour or more to simply difficult as they also have sit, watch, and applaud for extracurricular activities honor students to walk up to the plat- and courses to attend to. form and obtain their trophies can Furthermore, the Apollo Awards be a little tiresome or even upsetting may ultimately lead teachers to reto some. The time could instead be schedule their plans, pushing back

lectures, lessons, or even exams to a further date, which can be quite hectic as they are already busy. This affects not just the teachers, but also the whole class since their lessons are being delayed. In addition, the purpose of this event can actually backfire as it may unintentionally hurt those who have done their best in school and still are not acknowledged. Having to watch the honor students receive their awards may cause them to lose their self-esteem. Imagine having to sit in a crowded and stuffy room for a long period of time just to watch a few students collect their awards when you can be doing something you find much more productive. To prevent this from happening this year, students should be given the option to watch or not watch the award ceremony. This way students, whether or not they receive an award, as well as teachers will not have to deal with any negative emotions.

T HE U NION TOP TEN REASONS TO BE SINGLE ON VALENTINE’S DAY

Sleep in

Don’t have to shower anymore

Spend the day with your two best friends, Ben and Jerry

Don’t buy sentimental gifts

Go to the bathroom with the door open

Don’t have to be ashamed when you cry yourself to sleep

Be a pig when you eat

Fart anytime, anywhere

Keep chocolate to yourself

You’re ready to mingle

Education system creates stress At last, the end of the school day bad students. Rather, I believe the has come. You are leaving your sixth education system we follow is orienperiod with a smile on your face, tated to make students become rothinking you will have time to relax bots. We go to school for about seven after sitting through hours of lechours a day, only to find that we have tures. Your smile suddenly fades as another seven more hours of homeyou remember the intense workload work and studying. We students run you have for the night. on four hours of sleep, if any at all. You start stressing out because you School has programmed students have an English essay due at midto want to get the perfect un-weightnight, a Biology test the next morned grade point average (GPA) of 4.0. ing, and a pile of Calculus homework With so much competition across the waiting for you at home. Not to mennation, getting into the best univertion your soccer game or the extra sity is hard. Students want to make studying for the SATs. their transcripts as pretWhen people think of ty as possible, sacrificing school, thoughts of stresstheir health, time, and soful all-nighters, prescial life. sure-filled expectations, In fact, high schools and endless piles of homeare ranked not on acawork pop up into their demic excellence, but on heads. High school stuthe number of students dents are more stressed are enrolled in Advanced out than any other age Placement (AP) classes. group and it is because of It does not matter if 90 one reason: school. percent of the students RUTH School is supposed to enrolled in AP classes are PARK be a place where students failing since the school’s come to learn, explore, ranking still goes up. and apply new ways of thinking into The education system today is their lives. Today, however, school is stressing students out. The pressure a place where students come to get to get into a top university and gradu“A’s” on their transcripts, and not ate with honors is immensely strong. necessarily to learn any material. It is interesting to see that people are I know some people who decide to proud to announce that they spent come to school, despite having a cold high school and college getting peror a fever because they are afraid to fect grades without having fun. get behind in their classes. It is not Learning should be fun and excitbecause they want to learn that they ing. For those students who fall into come to school. It is because they do the trap of going to school for a pretnot want to miss a day of notes that tier transcript and not for lessons of will potentially come up on the next how the world works, I propose that unit test. you guys relax and enjoy learning. Do I am not saying these people are not let school stress you out so much!

QUESTION OF THE MONTH: WHAT WAS YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION AND HAVE YOU KEPT UP WITH IT? “My new year’s resolution was to better manage my time. I think I have been keeping up with it.” Freshman Arvind Kumar

“My new year’s resolution was to save my money. You should ask the bank if I kept it. That means no.” Senior Carlos Trejo

“This year I have to study more and so far I am.” Junior Arlene Bongco

“I did not have a new years’ resolution because I like to live life day by day and constantly make new goals for myself.” Sophomore Denise Pham

“My new year’s resolution was to try to eat all kinds of food that aren’t coconuts or tofu. Yes, I’ve kept up with it.” Senior Kevin Nguyen

THE UNION

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FEBRUARY 2014

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кє ╔а , #0 ╔а ╔а & .. ,╔а #(╔а ." ╔а ' #&╔а - 3#(!╔а." .╔а ╔а1 -╔а ")- (┼╗кЄ╔а "/╔а- # ┼║╔а кє **&# .#)(╔а ),╔а." ╔а ┼║ ┼║╔а , -# (.# &╔а ")& ,-╔а ,)!, '╔а #-╔а 3╔а #(0#. .#)(╔а )(&3┼й╔а-./ (.-╔а (кЅ.╔а **&3╔а#( #0# / &&3╔а .)╔а." ╔а*,)!, '╔а),╔а ╔а()'#( . ┼║кЄ (╔а ." ╔а (#. ╔а . . -┼╗╔а ┼│┼╗┼░┼░┼░╔а "#!"╔а - "))&╔а- (#),-╔а1 , ╔а- & . ╔а.)╔а **&3╔а ),╔а." ╔а*,)!, '┼╗╔а1"# "╔а" -╔а.1)╔а )'кљ *)( (.-┼╝╔а ,.╔а ( ╔а '# -┼╗╔а "/╔а- # ┼║╔а " ╔а ,.╔а )'*)( (.╔а, +/#, -╔а-./ (.-╔а .)╔а ╔а ┼║ ┼║╔а #.#4 (-┼╗╔а"#!"╔а- "))&╔а!, /кљ . -╔а 3╔а /!┼║╔а ┼▓┼░┼▒┼┤┼╗╔а ')(-., .),-╔а ) ╔а '# ╔а "# 0 ' (.┼╗╔а ( ╔а * ,кљ .# #* (.-╔а #(╔а ." ╔а .#)( &╔а )/(! ,.╔а )/( .#)(кЅ-╔а )/(! ,.-╔а*,)!, '┼║ кє ╔а+/ &#┼д ╔а#(╔а." ╔а '# ╔а )'*)кљ ( (.┼╗╔а().╔а." ╔а ,.-╔а )'*)( (.┼╗кЄ╔а "/╔а - # ┼║╔акє ),╔а." ╔а '# ╔а )'*)( (.╔а) ╔а ." ╔а*,)!, '┼╗╔а-./ (.-╔а" 0 ╔а.)╔а ╔а ┼║ ┼║╔а #.#4 (-╔а ( ╔а"#!"╔а- "))&╔а!, / . -╔а 3╔а /!┼║╔а┼▓┼░┼▒┼┤┼║╔а ./ (.-╔а &-)╔а" 0 ╔а.)╔а- ), ╔а

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2 *.#)( &&3╔а1 &&╔а)(╔а #." ,╔а." ╔а ╔а ),╔а ." ╔а ╔а .1 (╔а *.┼║╔а ┼▓┼░┼▒┼▒╔а ( ╔а .┼║╔а┼▓┼░┼▒┼│┼║кЄ ╔а "/╔а+/ &#┼д -╔а ),╔а." ╔а*,)!, '┼╗╔а" ╔а 1#&&╔а ╔а( ' ╔а ╔а , -# (.# &╔а ")& ,┼║╔а " , ╔а #-╔а ()╔а - ")& ,-"#*╔а ')( 3╔а #(кљ 0)&0 ┼╗╔а -╔а." ╔а ┼║ ┼║╔а , -# (.# &╔а ")&кљ ,-╔а ,)!, '╔а #-╔а -)& &3╔а ╔а , )!(#.#)(╔а *,)!, '┼╗╔а "/╔а- # ┼║╔а кє кЅ'╔а)( ╔а) ╔а." ╔а┼│┼╗┼░┼░┼░╔а ")- (╔а.)╔а *кљ *&3╔а ),╔а."#-┼╗╔а ( ╔а)(&3╔а┼▒┼┤┼▒╔а) ╔а/-╔а1#&&╔а ╔а ")- (╔а кџ -╔а , -# (.# &╔а ")& ,-кЏ┼║╔а ╔а '╔а().╔а3 .╔а ")- (┼╗кЄ╔а "/╔а- # ┼║╔акє ╔а &╔а ")(), ╔а.)╔а ╔а ")- (╔а ),╔а-)' ."#(!╔а ." .╔а)(&3╔а- & .-╔а-)╔а 1╔а* )*& ╔а)/.╔а) ╔а ." ╔а1")& ╔а )/(.,3┼║кЄ #(!╔а- & . ╔а.)╔а **&3╔а ),╔а." ╔а ┼║ ┼║╔а , -# (.# &╔а ")& ,-╔а *,)!, '╔а -.#&&╔а , +/#, -╔а1),%╔а)(╔а "/кЅ-╔а ( ┼║╔а (╔а), ,╔а .)╔а )┼г # &&3╔а **&3╔а .)╔а ." ╔а *,)!, '┼╗╔а **&# (.-╔а'/-.╔а./,(╔а#(╔а-#2╔а -- 3-╔а 3╔а ┼║╔а┼▓┼и┼╗╔а "/╔а- # ┼║

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кѕ )/,╔а ) ╔а ╔а #( ┼╗кЅ╔а (╔а &&кљ ' & ╔а +/ ,. .┼╗╔а, (.&3╔а1)(╔а." ╔а 1 .╔а кљ &#( ╔а !#)(╔а ┼▒┼▓╔а #-#(!╔а . ,╔а )(. -.╔а .╔а )/ & ╔а , ╔а 3╔а #&.)(╔а ). &╔а #(╔а , ' (.)╔а)(╔а (┼║╔а┼▒┼И┼╗╔а ), #(!╔а.)╔а , -"' (╔а #0# (╔а /3("┼║╔а " ╔а!, ( ╔а *,#4 ╔а ),╔а." ╔а )'* .#.#)(╔а1 -╔акф┼┤┼░┼░┼╗╔а /3("╔а- # ┼║ ' ,-╔а ) ╔а )/,╔а ) ╔а ╔а #( ╔а , ╔а /3("┼╗╔а , -"' (╔а кљ )╔а /#┼╗╔а )*"кљ )'), ╔а && 3╔а , (┼╗╔а ( ╔а (#),╔а # # ╔а /)┼║╔а /3("╔а-#(!-╔а& ┼╗╔а /#╔а-#(!-╔а --┼╗╔а , (╔а -#(!-╔а ,#.)( ┼╗╔а ( ╔а /)╔а -#(!-╔а . (),┼║╔а .╔а #-#(!╔а . ,┼╗╔а." 3╔а- (!╔акѕ ))╔а )/(!кЅ╔а ( ╔акѕ кЅ'╔а." ╔а ( ╔а )/кЅ, ╔а ))%кљ #(!╔а ),┼╗кЅ╔а ), #(!╔а.)╔а /3("┼║ кє ╔а # ╔а*, ..3╔а1 &&╔а#(╔а." ╔а )'* кљ .#.#)(┼╗кЄ╔а /)╔а - # ┼║╔а кє ╔а - ), ╔а #(╔а ." ╔а "#!"кљ!)) ╔а.)╔а ╔а&)1кљ 2 && (.╔а, (! ┼║кЄ╔а (╔а "╔а-/ кљ . !),3┼╗╔а1"# "╔а1 -╔а)/.╔а ) ╔а┼Х┼░╔а*)--# & ╔а*)#(.-┼╗╔а )/,╔а) ╔а ╔а #( ╔а - ), ╔а┼х┼▒╔а*)#(.-╔а#(╔а /-# ┼╗╔а┼х┼▒╔а*)#(.-╔а#(╔а )/( ┼╗╔а┼х┼┤╔а#(╔а ")1' (-"#*┼╗╔а ( ╔а┼┤┼╣╔а#(╔а 2*, --#)(┼╗╔а ), #(!╔а.)╔а /)┼║╔а " (╔а "╔а-/ кљ . !),# &╔а- ), ╔а1 -╔а ╔а /*┼╗╔а." ╔а)0 , &&╔а- ), ╔а*& ╔а )/,╔а) ╔а ╔а #( ╔а#(╔а ╔а, (! ╔а .1 (╔а ╔акѕ"#!"кљ!)) ╔а .)╔а ╔а&)1кљ 2 && (.┼╗кЅ╔а /)╔а- # ┼║╔а ╔акф┼┤┼░┼░╔а !, ( ╔а -"╔а*,#4 ╔а1 -╔а &-)╔а, 1 , ╔а.)╔а )/,╔а) ╔а ╔а #( ┼╗╔а ), #(!╔а.)╔а /)┼║╔а кє " 3╔а )( . ╔а ╔а" & ╔а) ╔а." ╔а*,#4 ╔а.)╔а ." ╔а & ╔а &/ ╔а-)╔а." .╔а." ╔а & ╔а &/ ╔а

(╔а!)╔а.)╔а ╔а )'* .#.#)(╔а#(╔а 3┼╗кЄ╔а & ╔а &/ ╔а ) "╔а (╔а /#!!╔а- # ┼║╔акє " 3╔а , ╔а &-)╔а&))%#(!╔а ),1 , ╔а.)╔а." ╔а (. ,кљ ( .#)( &╔а )(0 (.#)( &╔а #!"╔а "))&╔а / ,. .╔а )(. -.╔а#(╔а." ╔а &&┼║кЄ " ╔а +/ ,. .╔а -")1-╔а ., ' ( )/-╔а *,)'#- ┼╗╔а /#!!╔а -. . ┼║╔а )/,╔а ) ╔а ╔а #( ╔а (╔а & ( ╔а ( ╔а " ,')(#4 ╔а , кљ &&3╔а1 &&┼╗╔а ( ╔а#-╔а0 ,3╔а (. ,. #(#(!╔а.)╔а 1 . "┼╗╔а ), #(!╔а.)╔а /#!!┼║ кє ╔а &-)╔а " ╔а ." ╔а )**),./(#.3╔а .)╔а ' .╔а & -.╔а 3 ,кЅ-╔а " '*#)(-"#*╔а 1#(кљ ( ,-┼╗╔а (╔а &&кљ ' & ╔а+/ ,. .╔а && ╔а." ╔а

)0 ╔а ). -┼╗кЄ╔а /#╔а- # ┼║╔акє " ╔а ,#.)( ╔а 0)# ╔а) ╔а." .╔а!,)/*┼╗╔а #.&#(╔а -. &#()┼╗╔а )┼ц , ╔а.)╔а ) "╔а/-╔а#(╔а." ╔а /./, ┼║кЄ

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)+/ ┼╗╔а !/3 (┼╗╔а /╔а/- ╔а. & (.-╔а .)╔а, #- ╔а')( 3┼╗╔а /( -╔а ),╔а )&& ! #: /&"- #"/4"-

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-* ( #(!╔а */,*)- -┼║╔а " ╔а ' ( ! -╔а ╔а кѕ.)*╔а , . ╔а - && ,╔а *&/-╔а -")*кЅ╔а )(╔а 3╔а ." .╔а )(-#-.-╔а ) ╔а Кђ' #(&3╔а &)." -╔а ),╔а , ( ╔а( ' ╔а#. '-┼╗кЄ╔а !/3 (╔а- # ┼║╔а " ╔а ' ( ! -╔а ╔а -")*╔а /- ╔а -" ╔а кє&#% -╔а .)╔а ' % ╔а ')( 3кЄ╔а ( ╔а 1#&&╔а кє*,) &3╔а )' ╔а ╔а /-#( --╔а' $),╔а#(╔а )&& ! ┼╗кЄ╔а !/3 (╔а )(.#(/ ┼║ !/3 (╔а ! (╔а- &&#(!╔а#. '-╔а)(╔а 3╔а #(╔а- 0 (."╔а!, ╔а . ,╔а-" ╔а' ╔акф┼х┼░╔а )┼ц╔а) ╔а (╔а)& ╔а-%#╔а-/#.╔а" ,╔а')." ,╔а -% ╔а " ,╔а .)╔а - &&┼╗╔а ), #(!╔а .)╔а !/3 (┼║╔а ",)/!"╔а ."#-╔а 2* ,# ( ┼╗╔а -" ╔а )/( ╔а ." .╔а - &&#(!╔а )." ,╔а #. '-╔а ,)/( ╔а " ,╔а ")/- ╔а1)/& ╔а ╔а (╔а -3╔а1 3╔а.)╔а ,(╔а +/# %╔а')( 3┼║╔а ( !#(!╔а ╔а-")*╔а#-╔а /(╔а ),╔а" ,╔а ( ╔а-" ╔а ( )/, ! -╔а)." ,-╔а.)╔а Кђ!)╔а ),╔а#.┼╗кЄ╔а !/3 (╔а- # ┼║

)+/ ╔а - &&-╔а " ( ╔а , . ╔а !)) -╔а )(╔акє .), (03кЄ╔а.)╔а ,(╔а')( 3┼║╔а /,#(!╔а " ,╔а , -"' (╔а 3 ,┼╗╔а )+/ ╔а 1 -╔а &))%#(!╔а ),╔а ╔а( 1╔а") 3╔а ( ╔аКђ )/( ╔а ." - ╔а ), & ╔а*&/-"# -╔а && ╔а '#!/кљ ,/'#┼╗Кђ╔а -" ╔а - # ┼║╔а . ,╔а - #(!╔а ." - ╔а *&/-"# -┼╗╔а )+/ ╔а ! (╔а .)╔а */,-/ ╔а ,) " .#(!┼║╔а " (╔а ' (3╔а * )*& ╔а 2*, -- ╔а #(. , -.╔а #(╔а */, " -#(!╔а " ,╔а 1),%╔а . ,╔а - #(!╔а " ,╔а *)-.-╔а )(╔а (-. !, '╔а ( ╔а /' &,┼╗╔а -" ╔а # ╔а .)╔а )* (╔а кє .), (03┼╗кЄ╔а )+/ ╔а - # ┼║╔а " ╔а ' #(&3╔а /- -╔а ." ╔а ')( 3╔а -" ╔а ' % -╔а .)╔а */, " - ╔а -/**&# -╔а ),╔а " ,╔а , .-┼╗╔а

)+/ ╔а ┼║

FEBRUARY 2014

T HE U NION

Foster World Peace Through lasting friendships One city, one person at a time

The Milpitas Sister Cities Commission invites Milpitas High School students, parents and teachers to get involved with an exciting program of cultural sharing and experiencesâ&#x20AC;Ś The City of Milpitas Sister Cities Program The opportunities are endless when you become a part of this program of innovative projects, cultural exchanges, hosting visiting students, exploring business and much more! Since 1996, the City of Milpitas has supported a long-standing and successful program of sister city relationships. The Sister Cities Commission actively encourages travel, supports â&#x20AC;&#x153;e-palsâ&#x20AC;? for students, prepares cultural exchanges of people and photos, and hosts special events supporting our sister city relationships with four international cities: â&#x20AC;˘ Tsukuba City, Japan â&#x20AC;˘ City of Dagupan, Philippines â&#x20AC;˘ Huizhou Municipality, Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Republic of China â&#x20AC;˘ Figline Valdarno, Italy You are welcome to participate! Communicate with another student a world a way Send your student to a Milpitas sister city, or go as a chaperone; host visiting students in October each year; attend and support special events Engage students in email â&#x20AC;&#x153;penâ&#x20AC;? pal relationships with focus on international events and cultural learning; chaperone student trips Profit from economic development partnerships As a member of Sister Cities International, our mission is to â&#x20AC;&#x153;promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one individual, one community at a time.â&#x20AC;? As a participant with Milpitas Sister Cities Commission, opportunities abound for travel, creative learning, and problem solving through reciprocal cultural, educational and business exchanges. Contact Information Milpitas Sister Cities Commission 455 E. Calaveras Blvd. Milpitas, CA 95035 (408) 586-3352 www.ci.Milpitas.ca.gov/government/commissions/sister/asp Contact the commissions staff liaison for more information about meetings, latest developments and referral to a sister cities commissioner. Sister City Websites www.tsukubainfo.jp www.dagupan.gov.ph www.huizhou.gov.cn www.comune.figline-valdarno.fi.it

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THE UNION

FEBRUARY 2014

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FEBRUARY 2014

T HE U NION

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T HE U NION

FEBRUARY 2014

Number of Students

Face-to-face interaction valuable, degraded by technology

0-5 hrs BY KAREN CHI

When was the last time you talked to the last person you messaged on Facebook in person? Is it even possible to see them in person as often as you want to? What about the last time you lied and said your mom wouldn’t let you go somewhere with your friends but really, you just wanted to stay in your room and

6-10 hrs 11-15 hrs Hours spent online

15-20 hrs

do nothing but scroll Tumblr and watch movies by yourself all day? Do you remember the last time you went to the bathroom without your phone? Or the last time you or your friend didn’t stop everyone at the table from eating a meal because someone wanted to take a picture of it and post it on Instagram, or send it to their friends on Snapchat? It’s hard to imagine life without

> 21 hrs

technology. There are so many new digital forms of communication, such as Snapchat and Facebook message, that face-to-face interaction just isn’t as common anymore. It’s more common to contact someone via text and even through their Tumblr than it is to say whatever it is you need to say in person. Of course, technology has

improved communication. It’s possible to see and talk to someone across the world with a click of a button because of Skype and Google Hangouts. But when we actually do see them in person, we spend more time looking at our phone and tablet screens than we do looking at their faces. I understand if you’re alone and you don’t want to look like you’re alone, or don’t want to be bored so you take out your phone or tablet and start playing games. But if you’re out and about with people you call your friends, you can’t possibly focus all your attention on them when you have your phone or tablet in your hands. The text you just got will be there later. You can beat your high score on Flappy Bird later. It’s not abnormal to see someone on their laptop, tablet, or phone in a public place. Even looking around in my classrooms during free time, multiple students will have their Chromebook, laptop, or phone out and be engrossed in it rather than talking to the people around them. Next time you go out to eat, enjoy your meal. You can Instagram and Snapchat a different meal another time. It’s not going to be the worst day ever if you leave your phone at home. Talk to your friends. Make them laugh. It’s okay to turn off your laptop and talk to your family, too. Your phone and laptop will always be right where you left them when you come back.

Online over-sharing not anonymous; Internet footprints permanent BY RACHEL ALVELAIS

Where does the line between private and public fall? This is a question vital to our generation’s presence on the Internet. We have grown up in a world that is at once physical and digital; we have never known a distinction between life online and life off of it. Our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram feeds are littered with the traces of those we see every day, and those friends we have made who do not live anywhere near us. We live online as much as we do off of it, vicariously through our friends’ photos and status updates as well as through our own private blogging. But our private thoughts are never as private as we think they are online. If you can find out what your cousin’s boyfriend’s best friend ate for lunch two hours ago, it serves to imagine that someone can find out what your private blog is. Many times our social networks, even those considered separate from our “real life” contacts, are extremely public; this can be a comforting thought. Many have explored their gender identities and sexual preferences online, sharing their worries and concerns with their Internet friends long before

MHS Students Respond “Would you meet someone you met online in person?”

Yes - 39%

Technology in sc BY SHUBHANGI GULATI

Mornings used to start with teenagers waking up to the screeching sound of their alarm clock, but today, the alarm clock has been replaced with a beeping phone. The constant presence of the phone and all social media travels with the student to school as well. Schools around the country are don’t trying to maximize the use of educational technology. Tec h nolog y has become necof MHS stude essary in every phones in aspect of education, furthering and augmenting the learning that takes place in a classroom. For example, the addition of Chromebooks at MHS has been a great asset many different classes. Some of the English teachers used Chromebooks to expedite quote explication quizzes. Other teachers have encouraged students to explore a variety of educational animations, textbooks, lectures, and other resources that can only be found online. These are all effective ways to in-

16%

No - 61%

76% 24% ever coming out to those they see every day. It is a documented belief that Internet users believe they are anonymous, and their actions reflect this attitude. It is easier to confess one’s feelings over a Facebook message or in a post to Twitter or Tumblr than it is to say it out loud to friends or family. As

THE MILLE TURN ON, P

of MHS students keep social networks private. of MHS students keep social networks public.

such, the boundary between sharing and over-sharing is easily blurred. Everything from one’s angry feelings about a teacher to evidence of one’s casual drug usage can be attached to one’s name with ease. Whether this information is found by a parent, potential employer, or a college admissions officer is inconsequential; what matters is

that this information can be found. The question then isn’t whether or not personal thoughts and concerns should be shared or not but rather whether or not one is prepared to face the consequences of sharing such information with the world. Chances are, very few of us are ready to do so.

FEBRUARY 2014

SPREAD

THE UNION

Politicians access constituents via technology BY VIKRAM SASTRY

One of the biggest tasks in politics is putting together a campaign. With a public policy to set up, reaching key demographics and convincing that demographic, politicians have their hands full. Social networks and technology have made the way politicians meet these goals faster and less expensive. With the advent of large social networks, people have media for pictures, videos, and text on whatever campaign they choose to research. Convenient info graphics and simple summary videos are just a click away for many, allowing politicians to get their message across much more quickly and nearly free of charge. The modernization of news media also allows for news broadcasters to frequently update users and viewers. Real time video sharing has become more and more prevalent,

Courtesy of Harland Quarrington/MOD

ENNIAL GENERATION: PLUG IN, AND DROP OUT

making politics more accessible. Using newer technologies is the most essential part of a politician’s campaign. For example, on Sept. 24 last year, the Washington Post posted a news article stating that Obama still uses a Blackberry phone, since he was confused with using the touchscreen of an oldergeneration iPhone. It began to go into how Obama is behind when it comes to technology. Being only a couple of years behind cost the president another connection he could have made with the youth of America, which is a central demographic of the Democrats. Instead, he was grouped with the other “oldie” politicians who can understand the words “touch” and “screen” but have no clue what they mean when put together. Politicians need to stay ahead of the curve and be a part of technology not only to reach prime

groups but also to connect with them. A politician can be smart, and strategic, but if he looks like he’s neither of the two he won’t ever gain political ground. The advent of technology is going to be more and more essential to the promotion of political openness and campaign creation. Politicians need to become more and more involved in the social networks that already exist, and need to create new ones. These networks can make or break a campaign. Both Facebook and Twitter allow politicians the ability to not only connect with these social networks, but also to present information to key demographics. Politicians are some of the most public figures in the world. Every action they take is analyzed and criticized. Technology is their most essential public tool.

77%

23%

of MHS students regularly update their privacy settings

of MHS students don’t regularly update their privacy settings Sample Data by Karen Chi, Graphics by Rakshit Garg

chool equips students for future

clude technology in the classroom. In many ways, the use of technology reduces paper waste from handouts, quizes, and reference material, and electronic submission of student work expedites a teacher’s grading process by compiling assignments in a singular folder on Google Drive or on Turnitin. It also adds a practical benefit: typing skills. As students grow up in a modernized, technology-filled educational system, they pick up valuable skills ranging from basic typing prowess to experience ents use their with graphic design n class and video editing software. Having students learn and become efficient at such endeavors equips them with skills that will be valuable to them in their future careers. The incorporation of Chromebooks and technology has also been seen in science classes, where their presence has been prominent. One teacher used the Chromebooks as a way for the class to grade group presentations, which increased focus on the presentations and gave the teacher a larger perspective when grading.

The library, which has already been very technologically advanced, has added in a website in which students can read books online for free This addition will be great for the library, because the librarian, Ms. McCready, will not have to worry about unreturned books and students will be given an opportunity to read wherever they want. Teachers also use Facebook to keep students informed about tests and assignments by creating class groups. This grants students an opportunity to ask teachers questions when not at school. Another way teachers can stay in contact with students is with the new program called Remind101. Teachers make an account for Remind101 and give students a number they can text. It is a safe and free way to increase contact between the teacher and the student. Teachers have been using this program to remind students about homework due dates, projects, tests, and other announcements after school hours. Gone are the days when technology had no place at school. Finally, the educational system has realized that there are plenty of ways teachers and students have used technology to enhance their learning experience and increase productivity.

TOP TEN: TECH SAFETY TIPS 10 Update your computer’s operating system. 9

Disconnect from the Internet when not in use.

Don’t go on misspelled websites.

Have an anti-virus program.

Don’t open links and attachments from suspicious emails.

Don’t give out credit card or social security information online.

Backup your information.

Have multiple passwords with special characters and varied combinations.

Don’t share personal information with people you meet online.

Stay up to date on the latest threats.

Courtesy of Zach Vega

VALENTINE’S DEDICATIONS

THE UNION

FEBRUARY 2014

‘When you say you love me, know I love you more’ DISCLAIMER

The views and opinions expressed in the following messages are not the views and opinions held by The Union, unless otherwise stated.

To: Michelle Nguyen

To: Jennifer Osugi

Your TA

To: Theresa Do

A To: My Lizard Puppy

To: PDSYJ

Anonymous

To: Annie Nguyen

To: Tommy To Elliot Ng

To: Everyone

Kevin Huynh To: N

Your Black-laced Beauty To: Anusha Bhardwaj

Anonymous M

To: Pranay Patni To: Ms. Schwartz President Robert Potmesil To: Tan Nguyen

To: Victoria Huynh

To: Nina Quach

To: Amyazing Nguyen

To: Kimberly Elgar

Sucrose To: KD & #3

To: Harrisenpai

Anon

To: Junior Tiffany Pham Stanley Cheah

Shubhie

Anonymous To: Sabrina Diec

Vanha Pham

To: THE KRILLS Anonymous

Adam Chavarria

To: Amy Zhao

James Lalu To: Westly lin

Neel <3

Voltran

Jonathan Ngo Idunno

To: Ruth Park

Anon To: Michelle Huang

To: Every girl at MHS Michael Le

To: Austin

To: My Foolish Rainbow Michael

To: Vivi Nguyen Anonymous To: Krystal Sanchez The Bae <3 To: Ei

<3 To: Trang Le Anon. To: Jo hi do

Max envy

Vi ba di

Anon

Tom H.

boyfriend

HoneyDips

To: Leela Ram

Your Lover

To: Ngo, Jessica, & Sharmain

Anon

To: Natasha Gangal

To: Team Trust Annie Tran

To: Liyahmae

To: Mr. Roy

To: Michael Nguyen Black Man

To: Future Prom Date Anonymous

To: Brandon

Thu

Your Special Puzzle Piece To: Taylor Phan

Lety

To: Ngoc Pham

To: Alicia Tung Thu Hoang

Anon

To: Michelle Wu

To: Rishika

To: Livya Truong Anon

To: HARRISON

To: Tommy Truong

^__^

krill #1 boss

To: Kaitlyn

Anon To: Mitchell Lien

Audrey

Brian Nguyen

Big Butt

To: Livya Truong

To: Tifany Hsu

To: Humanity

To: Lilly Perez

Sir Hamie

Potato Chip/Bean

Aninnymouse

Gordon

To: Tennis Guild

Voltron To: Princess

To: Swim team

Hennifer

To: Gordo and Hennifer

To: Mr. Roy

To: Tejal Patel

To: Stephanie Villapando

Shivani Prabala

To: Hamie and Gordo

Pimpdaddy Fang

F. Haque

To: Rishika Dugyala

To: Jennifer, Jamie, Howard, and Zoe

Anonymous To: April Son

To: Ruth Park Nihar Tamhankar

Brian Park

To: Everyone

kklein

You know who :) -

To: Neel and Sunny

To: Manasi & Zahra

To: Paul Truong

To: Sunny

Peter Dang

Anna

Anon

To: Alfred Ly

To: the tennis team

Ruth Park

Annie Phan Nguyen

Cathy Nguyen

Michael

To: Elsa

To: Alex Besler

Justin Cortez

Tanning Chatum

To: Mr. Harrison

Bosley

Baribro ;D

To: Vincent Nguyen

Eric Yu

Anon

McNugget

Anon To: Tawny Aviola

Damon Salvatore

To: Glucose

Cindy W

Gee

Person you might know To: Mary Le

Doge

Anonymous A

To: Lidia Kuo Cute guy at Harvard

Anon To: GPSYJ D

VALENTINE’S DEDICATIONS

FEBRUARY 2014

THE UNION

‘When you say you need me, know I need you more’ To: M Always do what you are afraid to do.

To: ST, JA, AV Thanks for the years of craBex

To: Jessica Cao & Jazmin Drop Seem like the whole city go against me Tawny Aviola

I hear

AE To: Maurene Aspiras

Jessica Cao

To: Tawny A. and Jessica C. YAWK Jazmin Drop To: Jessica C. and Jazmin D. YAWK Tawny A.

To: Natasha Gangal Who says perfection does

Likes to Be Cuddled

Rishika

To: Grace Nguyen Anon

have the greatest present for Willum

To: Tawny A. and Jazmin Drop

To: Amanda Le

To: BBC I LOVE YOU ALL! :* Himani Madnawat To: D.A.

your wisdom with us. Thank you for endless support. Love always and forever. Friends

To: Danni falls.

Master Baby

To: Jazmin Drop graduation. Missed you. Bosley To: Anonymous #specialconnection Anonymous

To: The Devenirios Nous sommes gai. Love Jonathan

To: Trisha Do I love you

Anon

To: All the girls

To: Noah Villaruz

Charlie, Paul, Victor

no longer hold in this love. Jimmy Nguyen To: Pauline Cao There are 7 planets left after I destroy Uranus. Ayylmao. Anon

One True Love

To: Jazmin Drop and Tawny A. YAWK... yawk Jessica Cao

To: Christina Nguyen, Ngoc Pham, Taylor Nguyen I love Calc thanks to you guys. Brian Park

To: Naomi We love each other. Burton Guster (Syd) To: Michelle Nguyen Secret Admirer To: Amy Zhao really lucky to have met you! You mean so much to me and I hope you like the chocolates! Anonymous

To: Alfred Ly -

To: Tiffany Kwan I really like the shade of white in your eyes. Secret Admirer

Be mine. Break up with CW. secret admirer To: MHS Policy team

To: Taylor Goldstein #1 Babe

Victory or death!

To: Tejal Patel

Marpz

light of my everyday :* Cuweirdo

To: Alyssa Almogela -

ing!

To: Shubhangi Gulati

Anonymous

To: Cindy Wang

To: Rutu Vyas

Alfred Ly

mounds of doo doo.

To: Saajan Bariana

To: Naomi Mckracken The most precious thing to

here for me since day one.

and intelligent Mckraken is her acknowledgement of serve it. if only I could. someone in your class

Anonymous To: Vivi Nguyen are.

To: TACOS TACOS is life. TACOS is forever. We are TACOS. TacoCat

V.V.

To: Jordan To

To: Amy

Ruth

To: Ngoc Pham Anon

To: Pranay Patni

To: James Lalu You give my melons a tingling sensation. I love you. Anonymous To: Mr. Colburn Your monotonous voice sparks passion in my heart. Anon To: Amy Pham I love you

Anon

To: Ivy Nguyen I love you sooooooooo much Jenny Ngo

courtesy of Levina Umali

To: Jazmin Ruth To: Luna You make my heart feel tom.

Rockie

To: Toni J.

To: Naomi Ruth

To: Vi Because you wanted one so Joey To: Shivani and a pain. I love you! Rishika

Praneed you.

To: Anonymous

To: Tracy Ngo I love you

and Zoe. Sorry for misspell.

To: Ariel

Anonymous

To: Justin Lau together again.

your girl <3 Your Pooja

To: Catherine Tran Anon

Jonathan Anon Ruth

Anon

To: Fellow Counselors Ketchup > Soy sauce Nakamoto To: Peter Rafe

To: Sunny Vansdadia

To: Pranay Patni Don

Shubhie

perature.

To: Tejal Patel sister. Love you.

Black

To: TwerkMaster Tin Charline Hoang To: Delia like I did Madison. Misty Day, The True Supreme

have noticed you.

Senpai

To: Sunny Vansdadia Your Pooja To: Philip Seymour Hoffman our lives.” - Magnolia Jonathan To To: Mr. Schlaff Thank you for having faith

The Union

LIFESTYLE

THE UNION

FEBRUARY 2014

Top tech companies vie for market dominance

TECHNOLOGY REVIEWS

BY VIKRAM SASTRY

Courtesy of Techspot

Courtesy of Amazon

courtesy of Engadget

Apple and Amazon’s newly released tablets are better and more improved than Microsoft’s Surface 2 tablet.

Surface cannot compare to iPad, Kindle tablets BY SHUBHANGI GULATI

iPad Air Aesthetics: The iPad Air is 9.4 inches, weighs up to 1.05 pounds, and comes with an aluminum build. Apple has polished the classic iPad design and has also included a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating. It features a 9.7 inch LED-backlit Multi-Touch display, one of the best in the market. Speed: The main addition to the iPad Air is the change in the processor. It comes with an A7 chip and an M7 motion coprocessor which runs much faster than the older Dual-core A5 chip. Despite the increased speed, the battery life remains the same as previous iPads averaging around 10 hours per charge. Price: The 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB Wifi models will cost you $499, $599, and $699 respectively.

Kindle Fire HDX Aesthetics: The Kindle Fire is 7 inches, weighs 13.2 ounces , and comes with a plastic build. It’s new Adreno 330 graphics processor is a great update from the previous Kindle Fire averaging four times the performance of the predecessor. The updated graphic chip leads to perfect color accuracy and high pixel density (323 PPI). Speed: Amazon has updated the Kindle Fire HDX with the additon of the 2.2 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor which provides up to three times the processing power of the previous Kindle. Speed has been increased greatly as well. The battery life for regular internet use averages about 11 hours, but if the tablet is used solely for reading purposes, it can last up to 17 hours Price: The 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB wifi models will cost you $199, $239, $279 respectively.

Microsoft Surface 2 Aesthetics: The Surface 2 is 10.81 inches, weighs 1.5 pounds, and comes with a Vapor Mg build. The graphics and design are simple, but is not as graphically appealing as the other two. Speed: It’s Quad-Core NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor is a step up compared to the Surface’s processor. It has increased it’s speed and has improved it’s battery life from 8 hours to 10 hours, still, however, being slower than the other tablets in the market. Price: The 32 GB, and 64 Gb wifi models will cost you $449 and $549 respectively. Overall The Surface needs improvement, considering its price. The iPad Air remains the most versatile tablet, but the Kindle Fire has expertly expanded from an eReader to a true tablet with many mainstream uses.

Recently four massive companies, Google, Microsoft, Apple and Amazon, are in a race to establish the biggest platform. In the last few decades this has ranged from Windows XP to the first iPod. Establishing a platform is critical for any company that dreams of monopolizing a market. When it comes to phones, Apple has impressed its consumer base well into society. It’s a guarantee that 10 years from now, Apple’s phones will still be around. Microsoft and Google have been making long strides in developing a mobile consumer base. The Windows 8 software on phones, which allows people to connect their phones to their laptops, has started to gain a lot of momentum. Google has similarly gained amazing success in the last decade. With softwares like Honeycomb and Ice Cream Sandwich, it has established a little niche as well. The android’s customization allows users with a lot more freedom than they could have with any other software. In tablets there is another competitor that has been drilling its way into the market. Amazon’s Kindle has been gaining huge success. The Apple iPad used to be dominant in the competition with other tablets straggling along, however, Amazon has changed the game with its Kindle. Amazon’s platform is also supplemented with its online market.

With hundreds of books, songs, and applications at its disposal already, Amazon made an amazing decision by offering tablets. The Kindle has continually upgraded, making Apple’s job harder and harder to isolate its marketplace. Lastly, is the fabled computer. This beautiful piece of machinery has completely revolutionized the way we examine the world, and has been remade thousands of times. Google with its Cloud database, Microsoft with Skydrive, and Apple with iCloud, have made the competition fierce. Microsoft and Apple are the most prominent when it comes to Operating Systems. Mac OS has made it hard for Windows to hold its ground, although the fact that Mac OS is almost completely exclusive to Macs is helpful. Google has been behind only able to scrape up the Chromebook. Despite this issue, Google will probably come up with something in the next few years, just like it did with Google Drive. In the last decade these 4 companies have been duking it out, hoping to capture the other’s consumer base. While Apple has stretched itself thin in 3 major markets, Amazon has been gaining momentum in the tablet market. And while all of this is going on, Apple, Google and Microsoft, are combating on the mobile phone and computer fronts hoping to produce the new trend. All we can hope is that they do all of this legally and don’t end up becoming a real world Skynet.

rachel alvelais | THE UNION

Hey Girl, a free browser extension available in the Chrome Web Store, replaces images on open webpages with Ryan Gosling’s gorgeous face. photo courtesy of samsung

Smart Televisions have improved the technological world. Accessing the Internet is one of its many functions.

Smart TV technology takes industry by storm BY SUMUKH SHEKAR

As technology is rapidly advancing, we can observe a trend in which technological products are becoming a “one stop shop”. We see this shift with the television industry. Smart TVs are a perfect example of this shift. Unlike traditional TVs which just focus on broadcasting media, smart TVs place an emphasis on Internet-based services and are more interactive. Furthermore, smart TVs have more powerful hardware, allowing them to run demanding applications. Smart TVs run a complete or mobile operating system capable of running different published applications. Smart TV platforms have different software developmental kits (SDK) or native developmental kits (NDK) for third-party publishers who want to develop an application for the smart TV. These smart

TVs have an application store system to allow for download and installation of these applications. All smart TVs come standard with Internet capability, whether it is through wireless connectivity or a direct Ethernet connection. These TVs are also Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 compatible, with the newer ones compatible with USB 3.0. Touch gestures and voice commands are also becoming popular with the product line. Alongside the additional input options, you can expect to find the same standard TV inputs in smart TVs like HDMI, VGA, DVI, and RCA. Most of the applications on smart TVs range from social networking applications like Facebook to video on demand applications like Youtube, Netflix, and Hulu. The range of applications available on smart TVs is open to whatever a developer wants to publish.

The most popular smart TVs are from Samsung and LG. While smart TVs are expensive compared to their traditional counterparts, one can opt for a digital media player like a Roku product, Google TV, or Apple TV. These media players usually connect to a TV using an HDMI connection and are capable of performing the same additional features you would find on a smart TV. However, all of these become obsolete with a HDMI, VGA, or DVI output capable computer or laptop. Someone who wants the capability of doing what a traditional TV cannot do, but does not want to pay extra can just simply connect their computer or laptop to their TV. The TV can just act as a larger external display for the computer, doing everything and more that a smart TV can do.

Extensions enhance experience BY RACHEL ALVELAIS

Google Chrome is one of the most customizable Internet browsers. You probably know you can select any number of skins to change the physical appearance of your open windows, and you can also download games for your hompages. If you link your browser to your Gmail account, you can even bring up your personalized browser on any computer. Chrome’s customizability extends to extensions—downloadable programs that run as you surf to improve your browser’s quality and functionality. There are thousands of different extensions available for free or purchased download in the Chrome Web Store. Their functions range from the mundane to the super-specialized. Here are three basic browser extensions, but I encourage you to explore the Web Store yourself to see what extensions there are to fulfill needs you never knew you had.

Goo.gl by mattiamaestrini & Bitly by bitly Everyone needs to use URL shorteners. Has a teacher ever printed out a very long hyperlink and told you to follow it? Maybe you’ve tweeted an article and the link is long and ugly. Bitly and Goo.gl both provide the same function of truncating long URLs into something perfect for sharing. The extensions come with Twitter and Facebook functionalities, allowing you to share the link from the drop down menu itself. Hey Girl by Katherine Champagne Just in time for Valentine’s Day! This extension replaces every single photo on your browser with high definition photos of Ryan Gosling, whether it be on your Facebook newsfeed or in a New York Times article on Mexican drug cartels. Photos of America’s sweetheart eating lunch, kissing that girl from “The Notebook,” winking seductively through your browser screen at you… Sorry, what was I saying?

FEBRUARY 2014

LIFESTYLE

Chocolate beneficial to bodily health BY JENNIFER DUONG

It is often considered a panacea to pain, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. It is a gift yearned for by many, especially on anniversaries, birthdays, and Valentine’s Day. It is chocolate. Chocolate is made from cacao seeds, which are in pods that grow on the trunk of the cacao tree, according to the California Academy of Sciences. After harvest, the pods are roasted at 400 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, the California Academy of Sciences’ website stated. Women often say chocolate is their best friend, especially during bouts of depression or times of

emotional distress. This is attributed to the endorphins contained in chocolate, according to Researcher Adam Drewnowski. “We eat chocolate so we release and experience pleasure and as a result, we crave chocolate,” Drewnowski said. “We want chocolate in times of stress, anxiety, pain and so on. Chocolate is a natural analgesic, or pain killer.” Aside from endorphins, chocolate also releases the chemical anandamide to the brain, Researcher Daniel Piomelli said. Anandamide is a chemical that causes the body to feel bliss or delight, Piomelli continued. In addition to promoting the release of feel good neurotrans-

mitters within our body, chocolate improves our health. The cocoa flavonols contained in chocolate boost blood flow to the brain and make people feel more awake and alert, according to a British study. “Chocolate has gotten a lot of media coverage in recent years because it’s believed that it may help protect your cardiovascular system,” Cleveland Clinic’s website stated. “The cocoa bean is rich in a class of plant nutrients called flavonoids.” Several benefiting antioxidants are also present in chocolate, according to Cleveland Clinic’s website. Antioxidants are believed to help the body’s cells resist damage caused by free radicals that are formed by normal bodily processes.

THE UNION

FASHION SPOTLIGHT

Be t t i n a S u p o Sophomore

1. Necklace from The Style Cult 2. Sweater gift 3. Skirt from Facebook shop 4. Br acelet gift 5. Shoes from Nordstrom

2 3

Opinion: Girls do not exist for men to see, enjoy BY KAREN CHI

While procrastinating on my homework, I stumbled upon an article published by the Huffington Post. It was called, “23 Trends Guys Hate (But Women Love).” Its blurb? “Men Hate These Trends, No Matter How Much You Love Them.” I clicked on the link and it was a list, with pictures, of 23 trends that most women currently follow but men apparently hate. The list included items I personally wear, such as high waisted skirts, bright lipstick, and beanies. We’re told to wear heels, but not too high. We should wear dresses and skirts, not high-low or high-waisted ones, though. No leggings because they’re boring. And we shouldn’t wear hair bows because we don’t want to look like little girls.

The article seemed to suggest that if women continue to follow those trends, men would find us unappealing. It’s as if we choose to wear what we wear for men’s approval. Because, of course, the sole reason for a woman’s existence is to please a man—which includes being visually appealing to not only herself but, more importantly, to him. Am I right? I mean, how dare a woman choose to wear pant suits! How dare she wear bright lipstick and heavy eye make up! How dare a woman choose to wear something because she feels good in it! Am I right? Chances are, women are insecure enough without the help of people telling them what they should and should not wear. The Internet, magazine and television commercials are littered with people telling us what women (and men) are

supposed to look like. But if you walk out into the streets today, you would find no one looks like that. The pictures and actors have been airbrushed and photoshopped to perfection--a fantasy that’s impossible to reach. Probably hoping to inform rather than anger, this article was written by an accredited woman, Ellie Krupnick. She compiled this list from conversations with men in her life, but generalizes men in the article’s headline. By doing so, she confirms the negative stereotype that men think women’s fashions exist for their enjoyment Do you like what you see when you look in a mirror? Because most times, I don’t. It’s a reason why I wear certain clothes and make up —to feel better about myself. And I can guarantee you, I’m not the only one who’s ever felt this way.

Her Fashion Inspir ation:

“My inspiration comes from stores like Therapy and Urban Outfitters. I also look up photos from websites like J.Crew.”

Ruth Park | THE UNION

Junior Kyle Nguyen (left) and Sophomore Bettina Supo (right) adjust to the warmer climate. They wear lighter layers as the season shifts toward Spring.

Kyle Nguyen Junior

1. Jacket from Urban Outfitters 2. Button Down from J.Crew

2 3 His Fashion Inspir ation: “I shop at places like Urban Outfitters and Nike. I also like to look at clothes from Karmaloop for inspiration.”

3. Watch from Swiss Army 4. Jeans from Nordstrom 5. Shoes from Nike

T HE U NION

FEBRUARY 2014

Play CommonWealth’s TrojansTrivia.

Win Cool Prizes. Learn About Credit Unions. Correctly answer this month’s trivia questions and you could win a $50 Visa® gift card!* Winning is simple–just visit the Milpitas High School website and click on the CommonWealth banner to see this month’s trivia questions. Then, find the answers on our website and submit the correct answers to be entered to win. Each month we’ll have new trivia questions and a new winner. Look for us in the paper, on the marque and on the website for more chances to win!

Come Visit Us!

537 E. Calaveras Boulevard In the Milpitas Town Center, next to Peet’s Coffee

*Answers must be correct to be eligible. Winners will be drawn on the 15th of every month. Contest ends June 15, 2014.

ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2014

MUSIC REVIEWS

THE UNION

‘Sherlock’ lacks substance RATING:

⋆⋆⋆⋆ BY MOSHE YANG

BEYONCÉ

MY OWN LANE

MIND OVER MATTER

by Beyoncé Electro-R&B RATING:

by Kid Ink Rap RATING:

by Young the Giant Indie Rock RATING:

BY AMY NGUYEN

BY KAREN CHI

BY RAKSHIT GARG

After almost two years of complaints from tired fans and criticism from the media, Beyoncé released her self-titled fifth— and arguably strongest— album with nothing more than a tweet to welcome it. The album brilliantly blends pop and R&B and is rich with sexuality and self-empowerments. “Pretty Hurts” kicks off the album as a plea for self-acceptance and the sickness behind it in its mellow R&B sounds. Beyoncé promotes that a woman’s best is within a strong relationship. She tackles “Drunk in Love” with her husband Jay-Z, documenting the strength of their love through its hazy synthesizers and trap beats. In “Jealous” and “Heaven,” Beyoncé becomes more personal with her fans, providing allusions to losing a loved one, perhaps referring to her miscarriages. “Blue” closes the album as a powerful, embracing song that includes the voice of Beyoncé’s two-year old daughter Blue Ivy. Beyoncé’s tone and pitch are beautifully featured in all 14 songs, once again proving her rightful place in the music industry.

After releasing an EP in May of last year, Kid Ink returns with, “My Own Lane.” As cliché as the title might seem, it’s a fitting description for where he’s at in his career. I expected “My Own Lane” to be more than just simple lyrics over too familiar club beats. It references his stylistic attitude in “Up & Away.” A major difference in this album is the interesting mix of artists featured on some tracks, such as Chris Brown, Pusha T, and Elle Varner. Ink’s selling point was never for his lyrics, but he displays their effectiveness in “No Option” and “No Miracles,” the album’s lyrical gems. Ink proves little lyrical-wise but combined with DJ Mustard’s production, this album can be worth while. “My Own Lane,” ultimately lacks any new creative direction from Ink. As a rapper, Ink doesn’t show what he’s capable of. From someone who actively sports a menacing demeanor complete with tattoos and gold chains, he plays it safe. Ink is cruising in his own lane, not daring to go past the speed limit or venture into the next lane.

Young the Giant’s infectious pop sounds and brilliant vocals set the Californian quintet apart from more prominent rock banks when they debuted in 2011. But despite their numerous fans, they were criticized for mundane lyrics and an excessive reliance on traditional sounds. They’ve, however, silenced the naysayers with “Mind Over Matter.” At the top of the album’s playlist, “Anagram” fuses Lead Singer Sameer Gadhia’s vocals with synth beats and gentle string strumming. The album then undergoes a vibrant crescendo that takes its meticulously layered sound to the enthrallingly powerful climax of the album, “Its About Time.” The problem is that “Its About Time” is only the third track, leaving the same gravity to be desired for the rest of the album. Gadhia’s vocals, while impeccable in some tracks, such as “Firelight” and “Crystallized,” fluctuate between muddled to strained as the album progresses. The varying sounds are all stitched together and form a coherent whole, but that’s all they do.

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BBC’s crime drama, “Sherlock” - a modern take on Conan Doyle’s classic novel - concluded its third season on Jan. 12. Much to many fan girls’ happiness, Benedict Cumberbatch reprises his role as Sherlock Holmes. The show begins two years after Holmes’ supposed suicide, teasing the audience with theories of how he faked his death. Hyped beyond measure, this third season falls flat. It misses the crime solving aspect of Sherlock Holmes and seems to be a massive five-hour fan service movie. As with the previous two seasons, the show’s season consist of three 90-minute episodes. This season delves into Watson’s marriage with Mary and a famous villain in the books, Charles Augustus Magnussen. And while this might seem amazing, the entire first episode is dedicated to a sissy fight between Holmes and Watson. Not only that, but the ‘crime’ of the episode is solved by just hitting an off switch. The second episode is about a murder attempt at Watson’s wedding. Sherlock is Watson’s best man and makes awkward jokes at the wedding. While the premise of the idea is to show Sherlock’s isolation and inability to socialize, the episode drags this theme out too long. I’ll admit the ending of the episode was very powerful, but it felt contrived. Why didn’t he get a dance with the bridesmaid and yet slept with her the next episode? What it does do well is tying in the unsolved cases that Sherlock glosses over in his best man speech. It adds depth to the series, giving peeks at crimes not shown in the show. In the third episode, the main villain is finally revealed. Charles Augustus Magnussen - CAM for short

- is the owner of a newspaper who knows the secrets of every important figure. After much foreshadowing, the viewers finally learn that Mary, Watson’s now wife, has a dark past. The only records left of her history are in Magnussen’s possession. Watson learns of his wife’s lies and forged identity. Eventually, they reconcile and face Charles together. However, Sherlock and gang ultimately fail because all Magnussen’s information is in his mind palace. This makes two out of the three episodes that have very poor crime solving. In the first episode, the way Sherlock solves the problem is just lame. In the third, Sherlock fails and just shoots Magnussen. Its disappointing because part of what is amazing about “Sherlock” is its genius. In the previous seasons, the ways that Sherlock solves his crimes are fascinating and unique. In this seaTV-SERIES son, he either gets lucky REVIEW or fails. The season has too much fan service. The viewers see Sherlock making obscene noises and sleeping with Jeanie, the bridesmaid. The scene where Sherlock pretends to propose was just over the top. It was just playing to the emotions of the fan girls. The first episode also had three scenes teasing how Sherlock dies, mocking the speculation fans have made over the last three years. While fan service alone is not a detriment, Season Three has too much and it detracts from the show. In the end, many fans will be pleased enough that the show has returned. However, this season lacks the unique and fascinating crime solving that separated it from other run-of-the-mill crime procedurals. It didn’t reach the genius of Season Two. Still, the season is worth watching if only just for pleasure.

THE UNION

ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2014

‘Walking Dead’ very intense RATING:

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Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

Theodore Twombly and his OS companion, Samantha, go on a Sunday adventure together and end up at the beach. Theodore interacts with Samantha through his earpiece and she perceives the world through her camera.

‘Her’ examines human condition, technology RATING:

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At this point, Spike Jonze is infallible; to have a directorial career where every single film is brilliant is unthinkable, and yet Jonze has done it. “Her,” his latest film, depicts the life of lonely writer Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) and the development of his relationships to his friends and to his new operating system, Samantha (Scarlett Johansson). To say “Her” is simple, however, would be a disservice to Jonze’s fantastic ability to weave complex narratives. A lesser director would take the premise — a man falls in love with his computer — and turn it into a standard comedy about a worthless

schmuck or into a preachy doomsday forecast about the human addiction to technology. Jonze approaches this film with the utmost sincerity. Theodore and his best friend Amy (Amy Adams) are real people searching for human connection in a world where human connection is strife with problems. Phoenix takes Theodore, who is really just a pity party waiting to happen, and turns him into a utter mess, just looking for some way to keep all of his grief, anger, and loneliness from crushing him. MOVIE The film addresses the REVIEW very heart of the modern individual — his fear of artificiality consuming his life and his desires for true emotional connection. A true connection with any-

thing is more important to him than even his life, and yet that fear of artifice underlies all. There is emotion brimming at the edges of every shot and every word spoken. Even the silences used in the flashback scenes are used to create a sense of isolation and disenfranchisement. “Her” is a wholly human film. Even those who fail to connect with “Her” on an emotional level can appreciate the masterful cinematography and world-creation. Who would have expected one of the best depictions of near-future technology would come from a film like this? The vision of our future involves a logical evolution of our current technology (as well as our cultural quirks); there is a scene involving a near-future video game that is worth seeing.

AMC’s “The Walking Dead” has been airing since 2012 and is now just coming back from its season four mid-season break on Feb. 9. It takes place during a zombie apocalypse in which Rick (Andrew Lincoln) wakes up and realizes what the world has become. Jam-packed with drama, gore, and thrill, it focuses on human morality and decency against a seemingly hopeless life, or at least that’s what it attempts. For those who love zombies and gore, “The Walking Dead” won’t fail to disappoint. This series would not be recommended for the weak-ofheart, as it comes with scenes of spilling intestines, crushed skulls, and humans being eaten alive. The special effects and makeup are very well done, clearly improving with each season, and are paired with realistic acting. The series is boring at times during emotional moments between Rick and the other characters, such as his son Carl (Chandler Riggs). There is even a time in which Rick turns insane after losing his wife Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies) during an attempted C-section. Although it was sad and gave a more realistic impression, it was one of those moments in which you want to slap the character and tell him to get a grip. However, “The Walking Dead” still maintains suspense and clearly isn’t afraid to kill off important characters. The series fol-

lows the protagonist Rick as he tries to survive, moving from place to place and finally settling in a prison. His adversary, The Governor (David Morrissey), seeks revenge on Rick and his people, later attempting to raid the prison. To add even more problems, a contagious flu-like infection is introduced, which spreads around the prison causing a deadly outbreak. “The Walking Dead” constantly introduces new characters and gets rid of them as quickly as they appear, some only showing up for a few episodes. Each character is unique, from the cross-bow wielding hunter and tracker, Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus) to Michonne (Danai Gurira) who uses a katana and (in her first appearance) shows up in the series with two zombies shackled to her. Another aspect which makes the series interesting is seeing each characTV-SERIES ter’s attitude and view REVIEW towards whether there is hope or a cure, although this aspect is usually shadowed by unnecessarily long monologues. The series gets its audience to develop some familiarity or intimacy with its characters and then kills them when they least expect it. Not only does it kill off main or popular characters, it happens in the most unexpected ways, which contributes to the suspense and thrill. Although “The Walking Dead” may leave you sitting there wondering where the action is, the drama is well-developed and the actors provide a realistic performance.

‘Community’ excellent, brings back creator RATING:

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“Community” returned with its fifth season on January 2. With the return of original show runner and creator, Dan Harmon, the show is funnier and has regained its spark after its disappoint- TV-SERIES REVIEW ing fourth season. With the departures of Chevy Chase and Donald Glover who play Pierce Hawthorne and Troy Barnes respectively, this season promises to bring change. In the first half of the one hour premiere, “Repilot,” it jumps forward

three years after the fourth season’s finale. Events from last season like Changnesia are quickly explained and dealt with which is smartly done to make way for the new season. The study group is brought back together by Jeff Winger (Joel McHale), who returns to Greendale to save it, and the show feels back on track with everyone together with the exception of Pierce Hawthorne. In the second half of the one hour premiere, “Introduction to Teaching,” Jeff returns as a teacher while the rest of the members of the study group re-enroll as students. This episode brought more laughs than the first half of the premiere and revamped the dynamic of the study

group with the Student/Teacher Alliance. A highlight of this episode is Abed (Danny Pudi) turning into Nicolas Cage and going crazy. The scene was hilarious and props to Pudi for completely going for it. The introduction of Professor Hickey is an interesting choice to fill a void left by Pierce. This episode is hilarious and feels like a return to the “Community” we all know and love. The fifth season is packed with hilarious jokes, and it has exceeded its high expectations. The cast is wonderful as always, and never disappoint. The writing is on point this season and hits all the right notes. The anticipation for each episode mounts every week.

‘Divergent’ novels not stereotypically dystopian RATING:

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In light of the recent increase in attention paid to Veronica Roth’s novel “Divergent” due to the upcoming movie in March, a review to help everyone know what they’re in for is only logical. The first thing people always ask when they hear of the book “Divergent” is, ‘Oh, isn’t that like the Hunger Games?’ The answer is a full, resounding NO. “Divergent” is an entity so unique in itself that it cannot and should not be compared to another book. The story of “Divergent” follows a sixteen year old girl, Beatrice Prior, later known as just Tris, who lives in a dystopian world divided into five factions: Abnegation for those who are selfless, Candor for the honest, Amity for the peaceful, Erudite for the intellectuals, and Dauntless for the brave. Tris and every other sixteen year old must take the Aptitude test, a test

that determines which faction they are best suited for. On Choosing Day, they are allowed to choose whether to stay in their original factions or transfer to another, where they will carry out the rest of their lives. But during Tris’s aptitude test, something goes wrong. She doesn’t test into just one faction, she tests into three: Abnegation, Erudite, and Dauntless. And so, it is revealed that Beatrice BOOK Prior is a Divergent, REVIEW someone who cannot fit into just one category or one characteristic. The rest of “Divergent” is about Tris’s decision to join the Dauntless in order to become someone different and how she perseveres through Dauntless initiation. At the center of it all is Tris’s evolution from a girl who never felt like she belonged in the strict society of Abnegation, to a woman who realizes her full potential. “Divergent” evokes emotions that

have you struggling not to cry, has adventure that keeps you at the edge of your seat, and has a little bit of love that has you smiling as you read. A famous quote that Tris’s mentor and love interest Four says is, “I want to be brave, and selfless, and smart, and kind, and honest.” This underlying message that we all have a little bit of Divergence and that none of us can be squeezed into a little labeled box is enhanced by Roth’s great plot development and ingenuity in presenting the obstacles Tris and her comrades must overcome. Roth’s greatest strength, however, lies in making you feel like you intimately know each and every one of her main characters, like you’re experiencing what they are. This enables the novel to suck you in and never let go. For those of you who wish to read not just the first book, but the entire series, you’re in for heartbreak, laughter, a heck of a lot of danger, and some of the greatest shocks of your lives. I do not suggest this series for the weak-hearted so be brave.

Courtesy of Infinity Game Publishing

“MechWarrior Online” gives players their own customizable mech, putting them in huge battles. The game updates the classic 1989 MechWarrior.

‘MechWarrior’ decent, fun

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BY VIKRAM SASTRY

“MechWarrior Online” (“MWO”) is one of those games that you get really nostalgic about and have to replay again when the remake comes out. “MechWarrior” is a vehicular game that takes the player through a series of missions as the mechwarrior Gideon Braver Vandenburg. Now, “MechWarrior” has taken to the internet allowing people to play online. “MechWarrior Online” does not have any melee combat somewhat disappointing to regular fans, but the graphics do not disappoint and provide vivid details in its revamp. The new game offers a wide variety of mech builds that one can choose from. The customizable design gives the players a feeling of personal ownership over the mech that they control. The game also includes new weapons, with upgraded video and sound. However, heat statistics and weapons details are not nearly inviting enough. The game does little to no work on helping rookie players become accustomed to which weapons are best . The graphics in the game are interesting to say the least. The amazing revamp of the 1989 MechWarrior starting point has upgraded to much better graphics that include vivid primary elements. However, the “MWO”

team hasn’t actually detailed its secondary elements. These just seem basic and undeveloped. The problem with “MechWarrior” isn’t just the fact that these secondary elements are basic, but also that the movement is not exactly fluid. As you move through the nine maps, your mech seems to be moving at a solid 20 frames per second, way too slow for modern gaming. However “MechWarrior” is still the connection between machine and man. The best aspect of this game is the amount of work you must put into your mech and how you can rework its parts if you’ve taken heavy damage. This allows you to somewhat create a substantive connection with your character, almost like you’ve put your life into the game. With customizable settings that are GAME somewhat like something REVIEW you might expect out of a game like the Elder Scrolls, you can easily find a connecting point with this game. “MWO” is not a perfect revamp of the older versions. The graphics are frankly pathetic in some circumstances. If you’re new to the “MechWarrior” series, this is going to be difficult to play. But if you stick with it like you did when your Charizard had reached level 50 and you couldn’t find the HM Fly in Pokemon Fire Red, “MWO” may be one of the most gratifying online games in a while.

FEBRUARY 2014

SPORTS

THE UNION

Wrestling strenuous on athletes BY NAOMI MCCRACKEN

Anyone who has been to wrestling practice at MHS would agree that wrestling is the most difficult, demanding, and challenging sport to be a part of. The 3 hour non-stop wrestling practice includes drilling and conditioning without breaks. The intensity of the exercise and technique necessary to compete in wrestling are astonishing. Wrestling also requires discipline to survive the practices and season, according to MHS Wrestling Coach Kent Mitchell. Even more, wrestlers have to be able to put all of their strength and all of their energy into each round that could last up to six minutes. “It’s only you that can win and rely on yourself to utilize what you know to go all six minutes wrestling someone who may or may not be stronger than you,” Varsity Wrestler Sydney Nguyen said. Aside from the physical capabilities necessary to wrestle, many wrestlers’

dedication goes one step further. For example, some wrestlers have to lose weight before matches and tournaments in order to make it into a certain weight class. “We cut weight to make a certain weight class that we want to go to,” Nguyen said. “Most wrestlers tend to cut down to a lower weight class, so they can wrestle lighter people,” Nguyen added. “There was one week where I had to cut nine pounds.” Wrestling is underappreciated by popular culture and society. Wrestling never gets the attention that another sport does, such as basketball or football. Wrestlers also have to put in effort to meet other requirements for wrestling matches besides a certain weight. Wrestlers are not allowed to wrestle if they are not at a certain level of hygiene, Mitchell said. Wrestlers cannot wrestle if there is a possibility that they could pass infections on to other wrestlers.

FEATURED ATHLETE

Courtesy of Butterfly online

Prachi Jha returns her opponent’s shot at the 2013 U.S. Table Tennis National Championships. At the tournament, Prachi was a Women’s Singles Runner-up and Junior Girls’ Champion. The tournament was held in Las Vegas, NV.

Prachi Jha takes gold at tournament in Morocco BY AMY BUI

There are many students involved in different sports around campus, but we do not see many competitive players committed outside of school. Junior Prachi Jha is one of those athletes who stands out, as she has been involved in competitive table tennis for eight years. According to Jha, she has been playing competitive table tennis since she was a child and has competed in tournaments ever since. Most recently, she competed in the World Junior Table Tennis Championships in Morocco, Africa and the U.S. Nationals in Las Vegas, Nevada. “I have played [table tennis] for around eight years, starting when I was eight years old,” Jha said. “I practice usually 5-6 days a week, taking one day off and one day for physical training.”’ The hardest part of being involved with table tennis is balancing it with

school, according to Jha. There are some instances that involve skipping days or even weeks of school to go compete in tournaments, Jha said. “I went to Morocco from Dec 1. to Dec. 8 for a World Junior Table Championship,” Jha said. “Competing internationally has allowed me to travel to many different countries, and this was my first time in Africa, which was very exciting.” Playing table tennis has given Jha the opportunity to visit new places and experience different cultures while making friends from around the world. International tournaments are different because they are a lot more professional with strict umpires and opening and closing ceremonies, Jha added. “At the end of December, I played nationals in Las Vegas, which was one of the largest competitions,” Jha said. “Every year there are trials to make the men and women’s national team

held in March which will ensure a position on the U.S. Table Tennis Team for the rest of the year.” The national tournament was a success, as she won first in the junior girls group under 18 for singles and earned silver in women’s singles, according to Jha. It was the first time she ever won gold for the event and is a large accomplishment for the national tournament. “Usually we try to play in as many events as we can, but I usually play singles [in tournaments],” Jha said. “It’s fun being able to compete against different people from different places.” The next tournament Jha plans to compete in is in March, which is when the trials for the national team takes place in Texas. Jha plans to continue playing competitively, though she knows it will get harder once she leaves for college; however she has high hopes for the 2016 Olympics.

people that do play travel and they travel across the U.S. What level do you guys play at? Local. On our team there are other players that do play travel, so like we have players on our team that play on the Junior Sharks, which is the local travel team, and they go all the way to New York, Chicago, and stuff like that. So we play at that level but we don’t travel, because we care a little more about school. How do you train for ice hockey? Workouts twice a week and there’s also flexibility exercises so our muscles don’t get stiff.

Courtesy of Nikhil Mehta

Nikhil Mehta Senior Ice Hockey

Do you play for a professional team? I play for the high school league. There’s two parts: junior varsity (JV) and varsity. First, you play JV and then in March you play varsity. Only the best players from junior varsity get to go to varsity. Do you guys play competitively? Competitions? There is travel but I don’t do that because of school. I know a lot of other

What is the most challenging part about ice hockey? There are so many skills involved because even if you can skate well, but you can’t stick handle, you’re not going to score goals. And if you’re really good at stick-handling, but you can’t skate or you can’t hit, then you’re not going to score goals either, so you have to be the complete package. Do you plan to do this in college? Yeah, probably but not at the NCAA, just for fun. Is there a specific diet you have to follow? You just stay fit on your own.

Courtesy of Harrison Cross

MHS Varsity Wrestler Harrison Cross holds up a bracket board that displays his triumph at the Cupertino Memorial Second Man Tournament. Cross went 5-0 through the course of the tournament, which was held on Jan. 3, 2014

Cross wins at Cupertino Memorial tournament BY ELLIOT NG

MHS Varsity Wrestler Harrison Cross won first place at the Cupertino Memorial Second Man Tournament hosted by Cupertino High School on Jan. 3. The tournament had a total of 40 teams competing, all at various weight classes. He was allowed to compete because he was selected as the second man, even though the tournament was at a junior varsity level, Cross said. In a wresting competition, second man refers to the second-best wrestler in a weight class for a team, according to Cross. For the tournament at Cupertino, Cross competed under the 170 pound weight class. Cross went 5-0 during the tournament, contributing the most points

to the MHS wrestling team. He was confident throughout the entire tournament and expected to do well, as it was a junior varsity tournament, Cross said. “I was a little disappointed when I was selected as the second man,” Cross said. “I took the tournament as an opportunity to practice new wrestling moves at a competitive level.” MHS Wrestling Coach Kent Mitchell said that Harrison did well in the tournament, and is proud of what Harrison has accomplished. “[Harrison] is reliable, loyal, consistent, and hardworking,” Mitchell said. Harrison has been with the wrestling team since his freshmen year, and has improved ever since, Mitchell added. Harrison dominated the tournament, said Varsity Wrestler Sydney

Nguyen. She also said that Harrison has been working very hard. “He took one for the team,” Nguyen said. A typical wrestling match consists of three rounds, with each round lasting two minutes, according to Varsity Wrestler Mabel Len. “You have three rounds to win against your opponent, and there are two minutes in each round,” Len said. “In matches, you would do one move, but then there’s a counter to that move, and then another counter. You need to have the brains, strength, and endurance while you wrestle within each round. There’s really no time to rest unless you win by pin, by technical fall, if someone is bleeding, or is injured.”

NEWS

T HE U NION

FEBRUARY 2014

Math I addresses new Common Core BY AMY NGUYEN

Michelle Huang | THE UNION

The Latino Student Union hosts a Quinceanera show in the theater. Other performances throughout Cultural Heritage Week included henna tattoos, Tahitian dancing, origami, martial arts, and Korean dance performances.

Students celebrate heritage BY MICHELLE HUANG

Cultural Heritage Week took place from Jan. 27 to 30 this year, Cultural Heritage Week Committee Head Ada Lee said. The event allows students to learn various things about different cultures, according to Lee. This year, Cultural Heritage Week was only four days long because the students had Friday off, according to Lee. Cultural Heritage Week, which has been a recurring tradition at MHS, is a time where different aspects of varying cultures are shared, Lee said. “For Monday I had people from Henna coming, so I hired a woman who runs a salon and she’s a professional at doing that. And we also had the Korean Dance Team (KDT) performing on the green,” Lee said. “On Tuesday there was the CLOG food sale and on Wednesday we had the Korean American Student Association (KASA) doing a performance.” Thursday was the Fashion Show performed by the Latino Student Union (LSU), according to Lee. LSU’s Fashion Show and KASA’s

performance took place in the theater during lunch, according to Lee. Students who were interested were able to just come in and watch, Lee said. The main theme of KASA’s dance performance was: “Past Big Hits,” according to KASA Co-President, Jason Lu. “Some of the dances you might have already seen before but we try to do a set list where it’s based on one main idea. It’s not just a few random acts; it’s more like one big act that works all together as one.” Lu said. The genres this year were a little different; there was one cultural dance so the whole performance did not consist of only mainstream songs, according to Lu. The performance was split into two time periods: 1996 to 2007 and 2007 to 2013, Lu said. The clubs involved in Cultural Heritage Week included KASA, KDT, LSU, as well as the various clubs and organizations (CLOGs) that sold at the food sale, according to Lee. Due to the various cultures and foods, during the CLOG food sale, clubs did not have to follow health restrictions and were able to sell whatever they liked, Lee said.

Math I is being piloted by the MHS Math Department in preparation for Common Core testing, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. All Algebra I students are now in Math I classes, while all other math classes have stayed the same, Schlaff said. The transition to Math I was made at the beginning of second semester, according to Math Department Head Annie Nguyen. Curriculum taught in Algebra I, as well as the way it is currently being taught, changed with the pilot program, Nguyen continued. “It’s not as much directed instruction anymore,” Nguyen said. “They are the independent thinkers; they are the ones who are discovering the stuff.” Students are put into groups and are asked to work together to figure out the learning material, Nguyen said. The teachers help the students by giving them hints and probing them with questions.

“This way, the students end up understanding the lesson,” Nguyen said. “I had trouble with [the transition] at first. It’s new. It’s different.” Most departments are now preparing for these tests, Schlaff said. Though classes are geared towards the new Common Core tests, no additional training is needed to teach them, Schlaff continued. “These programs go hand-in-hand with the Common Core,” Schlaff said. Math II will be launched at the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year, and Math III will be launched the following year since Geometry, Algebra I, Algebra II, and Trigonometry concepts will be integrated into all three math programs, Nguyen said. “Most likely, Math III won’t start next year,” Nguyen said. “But Common Core components will be added to classes because they have to get the students ready.” Math II Honors and Math III Honors will be available for students to enroll in if they wish to do so, Nguyen

said. It is unsure whether or not the honors classes will be weighted, she added. With the new program, students will be able to take the highest level of math offered at MHS, Nguyen continued. “With the program now, if you were in Algebra as a freshman, you would not be able to take AP,” Nguyen said. “Now you have a chance to take the highest math: Math I, Math II, Math III, and AP. You don’t have to take it if you don’t want to, but at least you have that opportunity.” Juniors will have to take a threehour practice Common Core test in the spring, Nguyen said. A small group of ninth and tenth graders may also have to take the test as well, she continued. California Standardized Testing (CST) has been removed from the school but is still available for juniors, Nguyen said. The CST is for 11th graders who want to do the EAP for college, Nguyen said.

eBooks now option for students, teachers BY RUTH PARK

Electronic Books (eBooks) are available for students and teachers at MHS due to plans of reconstructing the library, Librarian LeighAnn McCready said. The program started piloting on January 2014 and will continue until January 2015, McCready said. The eBooks are available on computers, tablets, smart phones, or other electronic reading devices, such as the Kindle, Nook, or iPad, McCready said. Access is available with internet log-ins and students can choose from a little over 100 books, according to McCready. “I select books and try to be very deliberate,” McCready said. “I wanted it to be stuff people are looking for so I also ordered some AP test prep books. This is a way to give access to a lot of study material.” The MHS Library is going to be remodeled during the summer of 2014 and will continue for at least the fall

semester of the 2014-2015 school year, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. During construction, the physical library books will go into storage, Schlaff continued. “The initial kick-off for the eBooks was because of the library situation,” Schlaff said. “The eBooks are not only temporary and will continue to be used even after the library is remodeled.” Senior Anne Marie Pardenilla has also used the eBooks, Pardenilla said. Though the eBooks are a great idea, they come with many flaws, according to Pardenilla. “It’s good because you don’t need to worry about returning your books because it is automatically turned in for you,” Pardenilla said. “The books are limited. I checked out an economics book and after the first chapter, there was nothing to read. It gives the beginning, but not the end.” Some students were disappointed with the eBooks, according to Senior Govanne Hernandez. He was inter-

ested in reading the eBooks, only to realize the little selection he had to choose from, Hernandez said. “Several flaws are present in the program,” McCready said. One includes the fact that one person is limited to borrowing only three books at one time, according to McCready. “It’s nice that the books are automatically returned, but you only get 14 days, including weekends, whereas I let students check out books for 15 school days,” McCready said. “There’s also one copy of each book available for everyone. If it’s checked out, you have to wait on the hold list.” “EBooks are also very expensive,” McCready said. “There’s not much of a difference between eBooks and physical books in terms of cost. But it if works well, we can start cutting back on physical books.” As of now, the eBooks do not include any textbooks, according to Schlaff. Textbooks will not be available on the program for a while, Schlaff said.

DECA attends conferences BY AKSHAT DAS

Members of Milpitas DECA attended the State District Career Development Conference (CDC) held in Anaheim Feb. 6 to Feb. 9, said Milpitas DECA President Amy Zhao. Members also attended the the regional Silicon Valley CDC over the weekend of Jan. 3, according to Zhao. At the state conference, Senior Jarnin Fang placed first overall in the Principals of Finance event and Junior Zahra Surani placed first overall in Hotel and Lodging Management. The two qualified for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) to be held in May at Atlanta, Georgia. Last year, three Milpitas members qualified for ICDC. Senior Charles Mai was an overall finalist in Principles of Marketing, and Zhao was a finalist in the Business Finance series. Senior Brenda Su placed third in the marketing exam; Senior Timothy Hsu was a roleplay finalist in the Accounting Applications series, and Sophomore Misbah Surani was an exam and role play finalist in the Business Services Marketing series. “An overall finalist is calculated by taking the cumulative scores in each component of the event,” Zhao stated. “The total amount of time the students invest in DECA each week? Maybe around five to six hours a week on average, including time for the Virtual Business Challenge going on right now as well,” Zhao continued. At the Silicon Valley conference, Su placed first overall in the Apparel and Accessories Marketing series,

Zhao placed overall in the Business Fiannce series, Misbah Surani placed first overall in the Business Services Marketing series, and Sophomore Wee Jin Koh placed 2nd overall in the Principles of Finance Event, Zhao stated. Senior Bryan Tran, Junior Zahra Surani, Sophomore Krupa Patel, Sophomore Ivan Huang, and Sophomore Amanda Nguyen were all overall finalists in their respective events, while Sophomore Tiffany Hsu was an exam and role play finalist and Freshman Kinbert Chou was an exam finalist, Zhao stated. “This year, I think states was harder than districts because California DECA has grown a lot in membership,” said Su, who had qualified for the international competition the past two years but did not qualify this year. “We’re really hoping that our members that did make it will do well.” Milpitas DECA does not only want for the students to succeed in the competitive events in their high school years, said Milpitas DECA Advisor William Mitchell. The organization also tries to provide to them the skills necessary to succeed in their postgraduate lives. “My role is to facilitate and teach students to be great leaders, communicators, and learners of business” Mitchell stated. “Growth and development are our main goals for next year,” Mitchell added. Mitchell added that the Milpitas DECA team has 20 more members than they did last year.

Jennifer Duong | THE UNION

Juniors Justin Cortez (left) and Tina Nguyen (middle) and Senior Catherine Hoang (right) cover the song ‘Radioactive’ by Imagine Dragons. Their performance received first place for the talent show held on Friday, Jan. 17.

Talent Show displays student talent, expression BY JENNIFER DUONG

This year’s Talent Show ‘Beach Jam’ was held on Jan. 16 at 5 p.m. and Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. in the Theater, Student Activities Director Joanna Butcher said. The talent show served to allow students to display their talents and to express themselves, she said. The Talent Show was hosted by the MHS Class of 2014, Butcher said. The senior class was chosen to primarily be in charge of the show because of their experience with advertisement, Butcher added.

“The 18 acts chosen [were] selected based on preparation, professionalism, enthusiasm, and overall quality of the act,” Butcher said. “Each category was worth 20 points.” Both nights of the Talent Show resulted in ties for third place, according to Talent Show Head Caitlin Caglia-Hilty. On Thursday, Junior Dustin Truong received first place, Junior Kyra Birks received second place, and Junior Lea Acuina and Junioe Shanel Adolfo tied for third place, Caglia-Hilty continued. On Friday, Juniors Justin Cortez and Tina Nguyen and Senior Cather-

ine Hoang received first place, Junior Dustin Truong received second place, and Junior Lea Acuna, Junior Shanel Adolfo, Junior Justin Cortez, and juniors Juliet Pham and Brian Loria all tied for third place, Senior Class Treasurer Jason Lu said. “Winners [got] certificates, as well as candy leis,” Caglia-Hilty said. “Everyone that participates gets a certificate of participation.” All profit made from the talent show goes to the Senior Class, according to Caglia-Hilty. Funds will go towards events such as Prom and Graduation Night, Caglia-Hilty added.