The Union - Milpitas High School - June 2012 by MHS The Union

UNION THE

JUNE 2012 Volume XXIV Issue VI

EDITORIAL

OPINIONS

F E AT U R E S

COLLEGES

IN FOCUS

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

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STUDENT VOICE OF MILPITAS HIGH SCHOOL

Security bid process opens; guards ‘not up to standards’ BY LORDESA FOK AND MARISA LOUIE

The district will be taking bids from security guard companies for next year’s contract at MHS, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. This comes as a result of chronic reports of the security guards not performing up to school standards, Schlaff said. “We’re opening up the bid process to look at a pool of other companies and make a choice between those companies and the company that we presently have,” Schlaff said. “[The current company] can bid again, should they want.” Since the beginning of the year, two different groups of security guards from Universal Protection Services have patrolled the campus, according to Schlaff. The first group was replaced six weeks into the school year because it could not interact with students and was “completely nonfunctional,” he continued. “The second group of guards have a functionality to them, but it’s still not up to standards,” Schlaff said. “The problems with the current guards hit a peak maybe 6 weeks ago. [Problems] didn’t suddenly pop up; it was a compilation of be-

haviors.” A report presented to the school board by Schlaff at the April 17 Board of Education meeting listed the reasons as to why the bid is being reopened next year. The report makes the following claims: Security guards have been “rude and abrupt” to staff and “nonresponsive” to orders, fail to patrol the campus sufficiently, and “do not engage students.” There has been little change in the behavior of the security guards even after communication with company management, according to the report. According to Senior Vicky Tu, the security team is too lenient. Security guards do not check passes, which makes it easy for students to sneak off campus, Tu said. “I don’t feel like they’re doing their job,” Tu said. “I would be walking and they would drive by and say ‘Hi,’ and they wouldn’t even check to see if I had a tardy pass or not. They wouldn’t even stop; they would just keep driving.” However, regarding their interactions with students, Junior Deshawna Woods believes that they are performing as they should be. The guards should have a bond with SEE SECURITY ON PAGE 24

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Mike Mendizabal is a co-chair of the Community United for Excellent Milpitas Schools. He explains walking precincts to volunteers on June 2.

Voters approve Measure E BY LAURA COSGROVE

Measure E saw success on election day with 64 percent of Milpitas voters approving, nine percentage points over the required 55 for passage, according to the Santa Clara County website as of June 6. The measure proposed a general obligation bond that will provide $95 million for school facility repairs and upgrades in Milpitas Unified School District (MUSD), paid for by a property tax on Milpitas residents. The passage came after weeks of canvassing by the Community United for Excellent Milpitas Schools committee, organized to promote Measure E to Milpitas residents, according to Committee Co-chair Nancy Mendizabal. Mendizabal emphasized the significance of Measure E for MUSD. “We’re really excited,” Mendizabal said. “We didn’t have a ‘Plan B,’ so we really needed this to pass.” Superintendent Cary Matsuoka expressed relief that Measure E was successful. Among the projects

that would have been put to a halt had the measure had not passed are district-wide Wi-fi and rebuilding the swimming pool at MHS – as it is, these projects, along with some others, will move forward as early as this summer, Matsuoka said. “I would’ve been so depressed,” Matsuoka said. “It really would have stopped so many initiatives. We can catch up on our facility renovation needs, prepare to build the new elementary school, and begin upgrading technology around the district.” Eight projects are either already in design or will be by this summer: putting in a new swimming pool at MHS, doing facility repair at Rancho Middle School, building a multipurpose room at Pomeroy, getting new portables at Russell Middle School, and modernizing Weller, Burnett, Pomeroy, and Spangler with updates of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, roof repairs, and replacement of flooring SEE MEASURE E ON PAGE 2

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Lieutenant Cody Huber recieves a $180,000 NJROTC scholarship from navy of�cers at Senior Awards Night on May 23. Nearly half of the senior class was honored for its academic achievements and service hours.

Awards Night honors students’ success BY LUIS DESCANZO

Approximately half of the graduating senior class was invited to the Senior Awards Night Ceremony on May 23. The event served to publicly acknowledge students’ academic success, Associate Principal Brian McGarry said. Honored guests were invited, including Mayor Jose Esteves, Fire Chief Brian Sturdivant, Police Chief Dennis Graham, and School District Superintendent Cary Matsuoka. Scholarship donors and distinguished members of the community presented cords, stoles, and scholarships, McGarry said. “Several of these awards are awarded based on the student’s ability to maintain a high Grade Point Average, such as the Gold Cord, National Honor Society stole, and the

California Scholarship Federation Stole,” McGarry said. “The Maroon Cord distinguishes students who have completed at least 150 hours of community service over the past four years,” he added. Community Service Director John Ribovich, who compiled the list of seniors receiving the Maroon Cord, said that 110 seniors completed the 150 hour requirement. Last year, 70 seniors received the Maroon Cord, while only 32 seniors received it the year before. “This year, more seniors have been checking how close they are to 150 hours,” Ribovich said. “My sense is that people like being recognized for completing community service hours and that there will be even more Maroon Cord recipients next year.” The Minnis Scholarship includes

two $5,000 awards, two $10,000 awards, and one $20,000 award for college-bound seniors, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. It is funded by local community member Rita Minnis, he added. “All the scholarships that were given in previous years are continued today,” Schlaff said. “It’s very important that students who excelled academically get support from organizations and their community.” However, the grand prize of the ceremony was awarded to two ROTC members, Lieutenant Cody Huber and Master Chief Stephen Vu. Huber and Vu each received a $180,000 scholarship from the U.S. Navy and were presented with a large presentation check and received a standing ovation from the audience.

Teachers in discussion over future of SSR BY BENJAMIN GARDNER

Teachers and administration are discussing possible changes to Sustained Silent Reading for the upcoming year at MHS in an attempt to give teachers more flexibility, Principal Kenneth Schlaff said. The block in the schedule may be changed to an Extended Learning Time that gives teachers several options, including having students read, tutor other students, or perform lab assignments, Schlaff said. SSR is problematic for some teachers who have trouble making their students read, according to Science Teacher Eric Hentschke. Making SSR an Extended Learning Time would not solve these problems, Hentschke explained. “In my case I have a lot of freshmen who are too squirrely or boisterous to settle down and read for 20 minutes,” Hentschke said. “When you have 35 students in a classroom, and they are all coming in from lunch, they have a natural tendency to socialize.” Eliminating SSR and adding the minutes back into the class periods would be the fairest solution, Hentschke said. The extra class time would provide teachers with more control, according to Hentschke.

“I think it should be abolished and all the minutes from SSR should be put back into the classrooms,” Hentschke said. “It is only three minutes per class per day. If you tell them to read, they are not necessarily going to read. If they are quiet, they might just be sleeping or doing their homework, and that is not the intended use of SSR.” Math Teacher Elena Sherbakov

“I have a lot of freshmen who are too squirrely or boisterous to settle down and read for 20 minutes.” �� said SSR helps her students calm down after lunch. Ideally teachers would have control over what to do during the time used for SSR, but it would need to be silent on campus, Sherbakov said. “SSR is already a learning time, and many teachers are already doing what they think is best for their students,” Sherbakov said. “With the population of this school, the class time of around 53 minutes is perfect, and more would be difficult for a certain part of the population of our kids.”

Administration needs to hold teachers accountable for creating an atmosphere where kids actually read, English Teacher Sanjit Roy said. Teachers may not be able to get everyone in the room to read, but the class needs to be silent so those that want to read can, according to Roy. “I think it is very important that they read silently, and I support SSR because I think a lot of kids do not read enough and struggle with their attention spans,” Roy said. “It is very important [to read], especially for preparing for college and expanding vocabulary.” Roy recognizes the difficulty that some teachers experience when trying to get some of their classes to read, he said. If teachers truly believe in SSR, then they should work hard to establish a good atmosphere, Roy said. “Teachers do complain, especially if they have a rowdy class, about having to monitor them, but I feel that if teachers set the expectations in the first week of school and explain that there will be consequences for not cooperating, then it is easy,” Roy said. “I do not have a problem because I stick to it that first week and for the rest of the semester, it is easier.”

THE UNION NEWS JUNE 2012

A.S.B. changes club chartering process BY RAMANDEEP TUMBER

A.S.B. has modified the chartering process for clubs and added a new point system, A.S.B. CLOG Commissioner Erin Yu said. The modified system is intended to help keep clubs structured and organized throughout the year, Yu added. Instead of being able to charter a club any month, club officers can only charter a club certain times of the year, Yu said. From now on clubs may only charter during the first two months of school, the first month of the second semester, or the last month of the school year, according to Yu. “Club officers must recharter a club to renew the club’s charter for the following year,” Yu continued. “This new process is very good; we have had no problems.” Congress meetings during lunch

SSR would often extend into fifth period since many students would try to recharter during each meeting, Student Board Representative Vicky Tu said. Limiting chartering to specific meetings minimizes this problem, according to Tu.

“The points system rewards clubs in a positive light.” �� “This new process was emphasized during the beginning of second semester,” Tu said. “A.S.B. is always looking for ways to improve the school, so far the process is very organized and efficient. We will see the effects of the rechartering system next year.” A new point system was also added this year, according to Viet-

namese Student Association (VSA) and Friends for Change (FFC) President Claudia Nguyen. This point system ensures that club officers are efficient. Clubs can earn positive points for attending meetings and recording minutes, Yu said. Clubs can also earn negative points and be put on probation. “The point system rewards clubs in a positive light,” Yu said. “This system also spotlights the clubs with the most points.” Nguyen has not encountered any problems with the modified rechartering process. She continued to say that recharteringis simple and manageable. “I think rechartering a club is very easy to do,” Nguyen said. “Everything is self-explanatory, especially since we are given examples to follow.”

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Senior En-Ling Fu hands a ballot to a voter. Fu was one of 43 MHS students who worked as election of�cers at the polls on June 5.

Speech and Debate competes in Baltimore Students volunteer at polls BY MARISA LOUIE

Four members of the Speech and Debate team traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to compete in the National Catholic Forensic League (NCFL) Grand National Tournament from May 26-27, according to Speech and Debate Advisor Charles Schletzbaum. The two teams of two members each participated in the Public Forum debates, Schletzbaum said. Sophomores Jonathan Ngo and Vikram Sastry composed one team, while Sophomores Miranda Le and Valerio Scherini made up the other. MHS was able to send two teams to the tournament because it was the next top school in its diocese – similar to a district – that was available to attend. “Each diocese is allowed so many

spots,” according to Schletzbaum. “There are schools that are higher ranked, but they’re traveling to other tournaments. We were the next highest ranked team in our diocese.” At the tournament, both of the MHS teams went 3-2, Le said. Le and Scherini were satisfied with their performance, while Ngo and Sastry had hoped to win one more round than they actually did. “We expected to go 4-1 and [make it to the next round],” Ngo said. “But then this was our school’s first time competing in this, and some other schools have had their debate programs for 38 years.” Debating in a national tournament was helpful in that it exposed them to different styles of debating from other regions, according to Scherini. Specifically, teams from

the East Coast rely less on solid evidence to win, Scherini said. “On the West Coast, content is much more valued. It’s more about arguing facts and having evidence for your case,” Scherini said. “On the East Coast, content is less valued. It’s less about what you say and more about how you say it.” Now that the two teams know what the strengths of other debaters are, they plan to work to improve their techniques by combining their current methods with those of their competitors, Sastry said. It would be ideal to have the opportunity to return next year with their newfound debating skills, Sastry added. “I want to go back so I can exhibit the qualities I learned in the past tournaments,” Sastry said. “I’ll use them to progress to a state where I’m in first place.”

MEASURE E: District begins design process FROM PAGE 1

and carpet, according to Matsuoka. However, there will be no construction this summer, Matsuoka said. “We’re moving along with the design process so that we can start construction in the summer of

2013,” Matsuoka said. “I’m really excited for the students of the district because their school environment will improve.” The next step required by the measure for MUSD is to set up an oversight committee, according to Mendizabal. Milpitas citizens will

keep track of how MUSD spends the $95 million provided by the general obligation bonds in the committee. “[MUSD] will be ready to set up a community oversight committee,” Mendizabal said. “They’re going to make sure the money allocated goes to what the district promised.”

Orchestra, Jazz Band host musical concert BY CARYN TRAN

The MHS Orchestra and Jazz Band hosted a concert on Thursday, May 31 in the MHS Theater at 7 p.m. The event was free with an optional donation of $3 or $5 to the MHS Music Boosters. The theater was a little over half full with mostly family in the audience . The show featured a special dance performance by the MHS Color Guard in one song and featured Sophomore Andrea Melara with a vocal performance in another number. Some of the songs played in the show included: “Mission Impossible,” “Pick up the Pieces,” and “Take Five.” According to MHS Music Director Chris Kaldy, the students had prepared for this concert since April to showcase all their work this year. The year has been a good year for growth in the music program, Kaldy said. “It’s been mostly a building year, you know?” Kaldy said. “We started kind of just building up this year since we’ve had a lot of new students in jazz band and orchestra. We were all just working hard.” According to Kaldy, 28 seniors are graduating from the entire music program. He said that he was excited

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Junior Michele Grillo (left) and Sophomore Alex Besler play during the concert on May 31. The students had prepared since April for the event.

for next year because a lot students will be returning next year. “I’m pretty proud of the orchestra as well [as all the other band groups],” Kaldy said. “It’s been the first year all the groups have earned superior ratings [at competitions].” Senior Karen Lin has been in band for four years with three years of experience in orchestra and

three years in marching band, Lin said. As a percussionist and french horn player, she said that this year has been a great closure to her four years of high school. “Mr. Kaldy is definitely one of the great things about band here. He’s a really awesome teacher,” Lin said. “We really are our own community here in band.”

BY PRISCILLA PARK

Forty-three MHS students signed up to work as election officers on June 5 for the presidential primary elections, according to Social Sciences Teacher Carol Weiss. Each student was assigned to a polling station and had the option to work either full or half day. Each student working at the elections was required to fill out an application form and attend a training session held on May 23. Requirements were to be 16 years or older, have U.S. citizenship, reside within the Santa Clara County, and have at least a 2.5 Grade Point Average (GPA), according to Weiss. Students were also required to fill out a field trip waiver form to excuse them from school, according to Senior En-Ling Fu. As a senior finished with Advanced Placement (AP) testing, Fu said she did not have much work to make up. “There wasn’t much to do at the polls since there weren’t many people that showed up to vote,” Fu said. “Most of the work I did was just setting up the polls and cleaning everything up at the end of the day.” Fu said she enjoyed helping at the election polls and thought it was an

easy way to earn money. She added that she would not mind working at the polls in the following years after this year’s experience. “I was stationed at the same election poll as my friend, which made time pass quickly,” Fu said. “My precinct inspector was also really nice.” Senior Tejas Suthar also worked at the polls for his first time, and he worked for a full day, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Suthar was stationed at the district office, allowing for convenient transportation, but was unable to work alongside his friends. “The environment was positive even though it was kind of boring,” Suthar said. “I’m getting paid because I don’t really need community service anymore and I could use the few extra dollars this summer.” Senior Nancy Nguyen signed up and was stationed at Weller Elementary as a half day paid worker. Nguyen signed up mainly because her friends were planning to work at the polls, she said. “I wasn’t stationed at the same place as my friends, but it was cool,” Nguyen said. “The job was super easy, you get paid, and you get to miss school.”

Project-based learning planned BY LAURA COSGROVE

An educational program optional for sophomores called projectbased learning may be introduced during the 2013-2014 school year, according to Principal Kenneth Schlaff. Chemistry Teacher Letta Meyer and History Teacher Toby Anderson are pioneering this program and will plan the curriculum during the 2012-2013 school year. Project-based learning would consist of a single, three-hour block of time, which an English II, Chemistry, and World History teacher use to teach 90 sophomore students a curriculum centered on projects that would involve topics from each of the classes. The project ideas may be proposed by the students, and in that way the curriculum will be driven by the students’ interest – ideally, this would increase engagement, Schlaff said. “Basically [the program] would deal with higher-order thinking skills: synthesis, application, what’s required to function in a complex work environment,” Schlaff said. “The teacher, in this respect, would be more of a facilitator.” With this program, teachers would aim to get students more interested in school by applying classroom learning to issues that are current and relevant, according to Meyer. It’s an ambitious endeavor, and one that requires a

certain amount of ingenuity by the teachers, Meyer acknowledged. “There’s going to be some interesting things going on. It may not even work sometimes,” Meyer said. “But the idea is great and it is something that should be pursued.” Though Schlaff designed the program without any schools that serve as clear models, a public charter school in San Diego called High Tech High School implements a similar program. Project-based learning has a positive prognosis based on the success of similar programs at High Tech High School, Schlaff said. “In junior year, kids don’t go to school for a month – they do an internship,” Schlaff said. “It ties in all the elements of what it’s like in a real-world setting.” Meyer pointed out the main contrast between MHS and schools like High Tech High: MHS is a traditional public school while High Tech High is a charter school, a distinction that may involve different student-teacher dynamics. “There’s going to be some unique things we come up against,” Meyer said. “We’re going to do a whole year of planning for it.” No English teacher is yet involved with the program though a request has not been made, according to Schlaff. The school has not queried yet, but it might soon, he continued.

THE UNION EDITORIAL JUNE 2012

EDITOR I A L : The Opinion of The Union

Vital security guard decision upcoming; students take priority over financial cost We, The Union, feel that the School Board should consider the well-being of the students as the most important factor in its decision to choose a new security team for MHS, instead of basing the decision largely on financial cost. The process for finding a new security team has become so important because of the failure to find an adequate set of guards for the past two years. Our admonition comes after suffering through two years of ineffective and annoying security work, which could have been avoided had the district not decided to change security guard teams from Parks Patrol and Investigations in the first place. Parks Patrol and Investigations, headed by Arlene and Scott Rancourt, provided effective security work to MHS for over 10 years, but were replaced after submitting a higher bid than another company. Many of the students and staff who remember them were satisfied with the service they provided for the school or at the very least did not have a negative experience with them as many have had with the current guards. The recent report Principal Kenneth Schlaff made to the school board included such transgressions as the security guards ignoring orders from staff, being rude, and staying in the security office instead of patrolling campus. Perhaps most shocking in the list is that female students have reported feeling uncomfortable and harassed by one of the male security guards. No amount of money saved should be at the expense of safety in school, and if security guards are necessary, these guards’ inef-

fectiveness clearly puts the school at risk. Since the decision to replace Parks Patrol and Investigations was made at the end of the 20092010 school year, MHS has had two different and inferior security companies in two years and plans to change companies again for next year. If the past has been any indicator of the future, the security team at MHS could be a constant problem if the district continues to choose a company largely based on financial reasons. As the district faces financial constraints, we acknowledge that it is difficult to find a security company that can provide effective service at a reasonable price. However, based on the past experience with security teams, we feel that an effective security team justifies the possible higher cost. When security guards do their jobs properly, they do not draw attention to themselves by harassing students or disrupting teachers. It seems as if there are very few students who are satisfied with the job the current security team is doing, and that group is comprised largely of those who enjoy ditching class or walking off campus. When the School Board makes its decision concerning which security guard firm to choose for next year, it should remember the ramifications from making a poor decision. The past has proven that considering the needs of the staff and students at MHS is more important than going with the company that submits the lowest bid. We feel confident that the school will make the decision that is in the interest of the school when the time does come.

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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 �nancial support to our newspaper for the 2011-2012 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.

Allied Waste Services of Santa Clara County Neal P. Swann, D.D.S. Custom Drywall inc. Denny and Marianne Weisgerber Commonwealth Central Credit Union David Schymeinsky O.D. (Milpitas Family Eyecare) José Esteves Mike & Nancy Mendizabal The Librande Family Mary Kay De Guzman Thriving Life Care of Milpitas Dixon Laundry Alan L. Grimm, D.D.S. Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza Jerry H. Glass, D.D.S. Over 30 years in Milpitas.

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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 re�ect those of the school, students, administration, or Milpitas Uni�ed School District.

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EDITOR I A L : The Opinion of The Union

District effectively promotes Measure E, but should allocate $95 million prudently We, The Union, congratulate the district and the community on the successful effort to promote the passage of Measure E. Without the $95 million bond, our school facilities would remain outdated and overcrowded until the substantial amount of money needed for updates became available another way – an unlikely prospect. Teachers, administrators, community members, and a very small number of students sacrificed five Saturday mornings to canvass Milpitas for hours, talking to residents about Measure E and gauging their support. Community United for Excellent Milpitas Schools, the committee in charge of garnering support for the measure, did the tiring job of getting unmotivated voters out to the polls well, or at least well enough for the measure to pass with nine percentage points of breathing room. Proponents of Measure E faced passionate opposition in their campaign. Critics of the measure claimed that the district was vague in explaining the purpose of the $95 million and that the $100 million raised from the last bond measure passed in 1986 was wasted, despite lists of the proposed projects for this bond and the accomplish projects for the 1986 bond. The critics fail to understand, it seems, just how important local funding is to public schools in a time when state funding has slowed to a trickle. Measure E’s opponents do bring up an important issue, however. The district should stay accountable for the projects funded by the bond, which is why the measure stipulates that a citizen’s oversight committee will be instituted to ensure the public’s money is being spent for the best possible purpose. The responsibility of the oversight committee is an essential one; now that Milpitas voters have pro-

vided the funds, the district should, of course, use the money for the most important causes. There exists quite the range of issues teachers and students would like to have rectified by the bond money, but despite how impressive $95 million sounds, it is an amount that will run out more quickly than it would seem. In these tight times, it is essential that the district prioritize. However, based on some of the initiatives the MHS administration has supported in the past, such as buying technology of questionable utility and hanging directional signs, making the right priorities for spending is not nearly as easy to do as it may seem. The project deserving highest priority is not outfitting the high school with iPads that are pointless without proper teacher training, not getting smart boards for every teacher in the district, and not even building a new swimming pool for the high school. First and foremost, the overcrowding problem needs to be solved by building a new elementary school, which is one of the proposed projects in the measure. What is not included in the outline of projects in the measure, however, is building a new high school, or repurposing an existing school as another high school. The district may be planning to appropriate other funds for this purpose, or it may be ignoring the problem for now and hoping it goes away. But before any attempted technological revolution of the district, before any upgrades are made that cannot be called necessities, funds should be set aside to rectify the fact that MHS is bursting at the seams even now, and will surely explode when the wave of more students from the new housing developments in Milpitas comes in. Passing Measure E was a victory for our school district. Let’s make it count by spending smart.

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D�� L�� • News Editor Y�� L�� • Asst. News Editor B�� G�� • Op-Ed Editor N�� N� • Asst. Op-Ed Editor P�� P�� • Features Editor M�� L�� • Asst. Features Editor Y-D�� B�� • Sports Editor C�� T�� • Asst. Sports Editor Z�� M�C�� • Entertainment Editor T�� T�� • Asst. Entertainment Editor K�� J�� • Lifestyle Editor B�� K�� • Spread Editor R�� T�� • Asst. Spread Editor T�� P�� • Copy Editor L�� F�� • Copy Editor R�� H�� • Asst. Copy Editor H�� T�� • Web Editor A�� V�� • Asst. Web Editor T�� L�� • Photo Editor G�� L� • Asst. Photo Editor L�� L�� • Business Manager A�� T�� • Asst. Business Manager L�� K�� • Ad Manager C�� F�� • Asst. Ad Manager T�� T�� • Reporter A�� T�� • Reporter L�� W�� • Reporter C�� W� • Reporter

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Journalism Adviser

L ETTER S TO TH E EDITOR

Finals not necessary for seniors Finals week has never been something to look forward to. As a senior this year, I find myself dreading these last finals even more. I would much rather spend my last week of high school connecting with friends than preparing for tests that have very little meaning. If I have a certain grade that demonstrates my understanding of a topic, I should not have to take a final for that class, especially as a senior. The grade that I have earned over the course of a semester for a particular class should be a good enough indicator of whether I understand the material or not. Those who do not demonstrate satisfactory understanding of material from a certain class or classes, or those who would like to attain a higher grade, should be the only ones having to take finals. Seniors that have grades demonstrating comprehension of material do not

even bother studying for finals because they know failing their finals will have very little effect on their grades. As seniors, we have worked hard over the past few years. I do view finals for first semester as somewhat necessary, to keep seniors focused, but if we do show understanding of the material we cover in class with our letter grades, we should not have to take finals at the end of the year. We have put a great amount of effort into school for four years and should be allowed to enjoy the last week as we say our final good byes. For many of us, the final week of high school is the last time we will see many of our peers. Being rewarding for our hard work and being allowed to have a stress free final week is definitely the best way to go about the situation.

�� , Senior

THE UNION OP-ED JUNE 2012

TOP TEN: THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU GRADUATE

10.

Take a picture with your favorite teacher.

Swim in the MHS swimming pool.

Use the L-Building elevator.

Tell your crush how you feel.

Play with teachers’ walkie-talkies.

Drive a golf cart around campus.

Burn your SAT review books.

Hug Mr. Schlaff.

Take a road trip with your friends.

Start a �ash mob.

Plastic bag ban for Milpitas aims to benefit environment You have probably walked into found around our lovely city. Even the Target on Landess and while if a ban on plastic bags would not looking for deals in the $1 section, help the environment significantly, noticed a sign posted nearby. The any improvement would be greatly sign informs shoppers that because welcomed. of a San Jose ordinance, Target can Others post that the ban might no longer offer shoppers plastic actually increase pollution activbags, unless they want to pay 10 ity because processing paper bags, cents for a paper bag. On Jan. 1, which are available to shoppers for 2012, a ban on single-use plastic a miniscule fee, is more wasteful carryout bags, including paper and and damaging to the environment plastic film bags, took effect in San than processing plastic bags. I’m Jose. Cities across the nation are no environmental expert but even enacting bans on disposable plastic if this were true, the obvious and bags in an effort to reduce pollution simple resolution should be to place and waste. greater emphasis on the For those not in tune use of reusable bags, not with the current happenpaper bags. ings of Milpitas, the city Still, others argue that council is looking into the ban will deter potenenacting a similar ban in tial customers from local Milpitas. As of right now, businesses. Although the city is waiting to hear entering a store that is back from the results of within the boundaries of a study currently being a ban without a reusable conducted on the possibag in tote is indeed quite ble effects if a plastic bag inconvenient, I would LEANNA ban were to be enacted in believe, or hope, that the LEUNG Milpitas. residents of Milpitas are I wholeheartedly supnot so concerned over port this environmenfrivolous extra work as tally conscious ban on disposable to drive out of their way to another plastic bags in Milpitas. So, it is city or county to patronize a difcompletely beyond my compre- ferent business not affected by the hension why an online poll held ban. Driving a greater distance to on Milpitas.Patch.com found that another city requires much more a majority of voters would not sup- effort than bringing a lightweight port a potential plastic bag ban. reusable bag around. Some posit that a ban on the use of To buy a $1 bag and keep it in your plastic bags would do little to reduce car to use when you shop is a very pollution of the environment. I have little thing to ask of consumers. I little faith in this piece of informa- find this argument completely rition because I see soiled plastic diculous and overly worrisome. bags stuffed into sewer drains and Yes, I also derive much enjoyment partially buried beneath leaves and from saving and storing plastic bags dirt on a daily basis. Plastic bags from grocery stores and using them are not recyclable and contribute as garbage bags, but I’m willing to to the mounds of trash abundantly make a sacrifice.

Selling MHS graduation tickets unethical, exploits students bringing large families How did time fly so quickly? It feels like only yesterday I was just a little freshman, entering the unknowns of high school. I had a bunch of misconceptions about high school life. What a naive little freshman I was. Now I’m a junior, and I will be entering senior year full of uncertainties about college and the future. I try to calm and remind myself that I still have a year left, and that I have plenty of time before anything drastic happens. But that’s when I remember graduating is an ongoing process, and that in just a few short weeks, some of the dearest people to me will be gone, and I’ll probably never see them again. I hope I don’t cry at graduation... Oh wait. What if I can’t even get a ticket? Well that’s just fantastic. Why does our school limit the number of people that can attend graduation? I don’t want to go up to my friends and ask for a ticket, primarily because I know that I may not be at the top of their priority list. I know a lot of my friends

have extensive family trees, but it close to us, and its football field’s just makes me sad to think that I bleachers are not any more expanmay not be able to see a lot of my sive than ours. No matter how hard senior friends at graduation, much I try, I really can’t think of why the less ever again. administration would limit attenIf I can’t get a ticket dance at graduation. from one of my friends, Graduation is supI suppose I could always posed to be a celebratry to buy one off of the tion for departure of the people who hoarded senior class, and I for one them and are now trying would like to be there to to sell them online. Come support and thank those on, really? It’s upsetting who have made my high to me how people will do school career worthanything for money these while. Because let me tell days. There are people you, it certainly wasn’t who desperately want to the loads of homework go (me) and don’t have or the sleepless nights LEANN tickets; out of the kindthat made me smile. I WOO ness of your heart, just hope that in the future give it to someone who the policy of graduation wants them if you have no use for tickets will be changed because I them. Of course, the great demand would like to invite many of my for the tickets is what makes people friends and family to witness my want to sell them in the first place. graduation. Class of 2012, I may not There are other schools that have be at graduation, but congratulaa come-and-enjoy-our-graduation tions and good luck with whatever type of policy, such as Piedmont you do! I’m sure you’ll all be very Hills High School. This school is so successful.

Teachers underappreciated, hardworking First of all, I’d like to take this time always correct, the one who comes to acknowledge all the teachers that early before school and stays long have taught me. You are all very after school to tutor students, and awesome. As we reach the end of the list goes on and on. the school year in the next few days, The point is, teachers are not just I encourage you as students to tell "boring" or "fun," "good" or "bad." your teachers "thank you" before Whoever he or she is, a teacher has you leave. great influence on his or her stuThis truthful yet slightly cheesy dents. Think about it, we typically article is pretty much spend five days a week, going to be about teachsix hours a day at school, ers and how we as stuinside a classroom with a dents do not appreciate teacher. That might even them enough. be longer than the time There are many difthat some of us spend with ferent types of teachers our parents. with different teaching Teachers may not have styles, attitudes, etc. the best salary in the There’s the one whose world, but they are the lesson plans are pretty ones who have the tough much in the same forjob. They’re the ones who CINDY mat every day, the one teach us how to do highWU who spends the entire leveled math and science, class period lecturing, the ones who lecture the really nice one who us on the history of the rewards students with candy on world, who read our illegible handthe holidays, the one who checks writings and grade essay after essay, your water bottle on your desk who teach us different languages, during a test to make sure you are art and music, dance and physical not cheating, the one who shares education. many life stories with the class, the Maybe you don’t like some of your one who jokes around like a friend teachers or you think your teachers with students, the who thinks he is don’t like you all that much, but

know this: every teacher you’ve ever had has made an impact on you; it may have been something as small as teaching you about the respiratory system in biology to something as life-changing as influencing your decision for a college major. Unfortunately, teachers today are too often underappreciated for everything they do. It might be because we’re teenagers and most of us fit right into the rebellious, rude, think-we-rule-the-world stereotype or it might just simply be because we’re in the twenty-first century when everyone is comparatively more liberal than the past, but a lot of students these days are quite rude to their teachers. My overall message to you is this: Let’s all take some time to learn to appreciate our teachers more. They deserve it! What does it mean to show appreciation for our teachers? We don’t need to shower them with gifts or flowery compliments. Let’s just start by paying attention in class and turning in homework like we’re supposed to. Respect our teachers, don’t cheat on tests and don’t sleep in class. I know it’s really hard, but do try.

College Board imposes outrageous prices Moans and groans amongst stuOther examples include a $25 dents regarding college expenses charge for changing the testing cenare no surprise nowadays. To un- ter or the test type and a $43 standderstand why let’s take a leisurely by fee if you register and pay for the stroll down the College Board SAT SAT the day of the test. Why are website and examine just how these services not free? A simple slip ridiculously priced the SAT tests of the hand while registering could actually are! potentially set you back a cool $25, Most high school students are almost half the cost of the actual familiar with the $49 SAT test itself! The $43 SAT test and the $22 base standby fee also seems charge plus $11 per test unreasonable, especially for SAT 2 subject tests. because College Board Although somewhat releases scores from the pricey, charges are quite previous month’s SAT fitting; College Board test after the late regismust create a novel astration date. Therefore, sessment test, print out if you wanted to take and distribute all of the two consecutive SAT tests, and then recollect tests, that is two months ANDREW and score the tests. in a row, you would be VAN However, comparable paying $48 with an adto the basic costs, the additional $91 for the next ditional fees that accommonth’s test plus the pany the SATs are ludicrous and standby fee. You could, however, illogical. Upon visiting the official register for both at once and then SAT College Board website, the first change the second test to another additional charge displayed is regis- one if you do well on the first SAT, tering by phone, an excess $15 for but this again will cost you $25 for what? Calling a representative with the changing-test-or-location fee. your phone and asking, “Hello, may Either way, you lose! I take the SATs at so and so?” Although I applaud College Board

for allowing students to send SAT scores to four colleges for free of charge, but let’s be realistic. Do students really only apply to four colleges altogether? Even the College Board site itself states that most counselors recommend students apply to five to eight colleges, with additional reports costing an extra $10.50 per report if no tax waiver is granted. There is also a $28 fee for retrieving scores from an archive where SAT scores of students who have already graduated high school for at least a year are stored. I’d rather just print out the score report from the official SAT website, send them to colleges, and save $10, minus the cost of the printer ink. College Board’s monopoly on assessment programs needs to be limited. Granted that there are fee waivers and exemptions available, we have to pay for the SATs, books to study for the SATs, fees for sending scores to different colleges, and a fee for just giving us the answers for the test. With these expenses compounded together, imagine the monopoly’s potential if it were to grow uninhibited: fees for not taking the SATs!

THE UNION OP-ED JUNE 2012

Graduation brings bittersweet reflection As this year comes to a close, we our diplomas, it is not just we who seniors, are beginning to reflect stand on that stage; our families, upon our journey through high who have watched us grow up from school and see how far we have pint-sized children to young adults, come. I remember being a wide- also share in the moment. We could eyed freshman entering high not have reached this point in our school, wondering what it would lives without the unwavering dedibe like four years later to be a se- cation of our family and friends, nior and finally graduate. Now, as who were there through all the ups a senior, it is a bittersweet and downs of adolescent moment as I find myself drama. During it all, we filled with anticipation will always be grateful and excitement for the to all the people who future, but, at the same helped, supported, and time, wistfully bidding guided us through the farewell to an influential yearsteachers, counand crucial chapter of selors, and coaches who my life. have inspired us to be All the hard work and greater and aim higher sleepless nights spent in order to reach our full working on homework potentials. KEWA and projects, the crushBut it is not senior year JIANG ing amount of stress if we do not have some about tests and grades fun! It has been amazing have accumulated into the one as we all celebrate the achievements moment we walk across the stage of the past and the potentials of the at graduation. But when we accept future. From Senior Ball to Grad

Nite, it has been an unforgettable year filled with memories, laughter, and excitement. As we move away to college or to a job, the friends we have made in high school will always stay with us in the stories we tell and the pictures we look back on. Now, standing at the end of our high school adventure, there will always be things we wish we did and things we wish never happened. While it is too late for us to go back and change it, it is not too late for everyone else. There are numerous tidbits of advice seniors want to tell underclassmen, but there will always be some things that are better experienced than explained. Thus, my advice for underclassmen is for them to be dedicated to whatever they are passionate about, whether it is science or art, and to be open-minded to all the new ideas in the world. Congratulations to all the seniors for reaching a milestone in life! Best of luck, wherever life takes you.

5 QUESTION OF THE MONTH: WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST REGRET FROM YOUR TIME IN HIGH SCHOOL?

MICHELLE NGHIEM, Senior

PHUC BUI, Senior

ANDIE TONNU, Senior

XAVIER GOOD, Senior

I regret not trying as hard as I could have academically.

My biggest regret in high school was being so good at everything because you can’t focus on just one thing and become godly at it.

My biggest regret would be not joining a sport, specifically volleyball. It would have helped with my college applications.

I regret being awkward for the first few years.

Community college affordable alternative Seniors: don’t read this. You have already decided where you are going to college, you have made your plans, and you are prepared to leave high school. Freshmen, sophomores, and especially juniors: read this. I don’t know how much of an impact this will have on your plans for college, but it may just offer up a side you haven’t considered. Many students at this school follow the traditional education track: four years of grueling high school, four years of grueling college, and a lifetime of grueling existence in the workforce. But this does doesn’t have to be the case. One less popular but equally viable option is to attend community college. A number of benefits, such as lower costs, transfer opportunities, and less stress are all available to students who choose this path. Lower costs is one of the strongest reasons to begin your higher education at a community college instead of at traditional four-year university. College costs have more than tripled in recent years, with families paying more and financial aid not covering the price hikes, but community colleges costs have remained manageable. Mission College, for example, charges only $46 per unit, while UC Berkeley’s

tuition has risen to $12,835. years, then transfer to the school Money can also be saved in of your dreams. Not only will you other ways at community colleges. save money, you’ll be more likely Though considered an unpopular to get in to a better school. What’s option, students can always choose not to love? to live at home if attending a nearby And that’s not to say that you will school. This will eliminate room be getting a subpar education at and board costs and save on minor community colleges. Courses can expenses, such as laundry and food, be just as rigorous, and the smaller that accumulate over time. But class sizes facilitate more interacthere’s even good news for those tion between students and teachwho can’t wait to fly the ers. If you go there, you nest: UC Berkeley has a will learn. And even if $14,990 room and board you don’t find commucost. Mission College nity college entirely to charges $204 per unit. your liking, you can take But I can hear you solace in the knowledge already, imaginary unthat you’re heading to a derclassman: “I don’t place that will suit you care about the costs! I better. only want to apply to One final thing: there the best schools! Misis much less stress at a sion College? More like community college than DYLAN ‘Missin’ out on a good at a four-year univerLIBRANDE education!” First of all, sity. At Berkeley you’ll you’re hilarious. And be fighting thousands secondly, your chances of getting of others in a cutthroat race to the into a higher-tier university are ac- top; at Mission, or any community tually better if you’re coming from college, you will be free to pursue a community college instead of the path you want in a much less straight out of high school. Univer- stressful environment. And really, sities value the experience that the imaginary, sarcastic reader, that’s older applicants have, making it a what you want. Not the cheapest completely viable strategy to attend place nor most well-known place, community college for one or two but where you’ll be the happiest.

School disciplinary system poorly designed Corporal punishment as a way to discipline students was outlawed quite a while ago. Of course, we are more familiar with other forms of retribution such as detention and referrals. Well, at least, most of us are familiar with them in the sense that we know what they are. However, punishments here at our school, especially for minor offenses anyway, have completely lost their meaning. One would assume that a student would get detention for disrupting a classroom while a teacher was in the middle of a lesson. Another detention-worthy “crime” would be something like pulling a prank. Take a moment to think it through. When was the last time that you heard about someone getting a detention? Probably in middle school? I may just be out of the loop, but I rarely hear of anyone getting sentenced to detention in our high school. What has happened? I know that there are still people who end up in detention. The announcement of where you have to go if you have detention is announced from time to time over the speaker system. Just to see what detention is like in our school, I went to visit a couple of sessions.

Nothing happens. Students sign in, One answer that I found absolutely take a seat, and then do absolutely brilliant was that a girl had parked in nothing. Well, some people actually the wrong parking space. And when do their homework or do something I say “absolutely brilliant,” I mean productive with all the time they that’s a ridiculous reason to earn have there, but most of the people a detention. Having your parking just stare at the clock and watch as rights suspended for a day maybe the minutes pass by. for such a mishap is much more I always assumed that detention, reasonable. But losing an hour of or any punishment for that matter, time for that? Next thing we know, was supposed to make students people are going to get into detenwant to stop breaking the tion for tripping over rules. Is boredom really something in class or acsomething that is effeccidently taking someone tive? I’ll be honest. If I else’s pencil. knew I could pull some To many students, minor offense and only detention does not mean get thrown into a classmuch. Getting detenroom for about an hour tion seems to be such a every time, I wouldn’t rare occurrence that it mind repeating it over has become legendary and over again. I’m not in a sense. This clearly saying we should reinmeans that it’s not even ARTHUR troduce corporal punishworth having anyway. At TRAN ment and see how effecthis point, writing lines tive it is in comparison. over and over seems to be However, any punishment in our more useful than sitting in a classschool should discourage students room for an hour. It’s a complete from further violations of the rules. waste of time for both the students, In addition, some of the ways who don’t learn to correct thempeople get into detention are sim- selves, and for the teacher, who has ply mind-blowing. I asked around to stay in their classroom for longer before detention started once to see than necessary. Detention as a form how people actually got detention. of punishment is not working.

CHRISTINA TRUONG, Senior

VICKY TU, Senior

CHRISTINE TRAN, Senior

I regret not trying hard enough in Honors Chemistry.

My biggest regret in high school is not doing Leadership in freshman year.

I regret that I did not join as many clubs as I wanted to.

Fad dieting only for idiots Fad diets are stupid, and people is this shallow, but no one cares; on such diets should feel stupid, everyone is either too self-concious too. Not only do they promote un- about their own image or simply too healthy eating, but also an unneces- indifferent to care. sary paranoia of body weight. Before I cause people to angrily Put away your skepticism, these assault me with pitch forks in a people actually exist, and they are mob-like manner, I am not putting out there attempting to blend in. down all forms of dieting; there is Identifying these fad dieters is ac- one kind that I approve of. The king tually the one purpose of all diets is a simple, of the fad diet itself; how healthy, eating plan. else would one be able This approach not only to easily identify these helps shed pounds, but people who are willing to also supports the human subject their body to the body in a positive way, torture of a trend which something no fad diet harms their body more can do. than helps it? And while I believe You can hear them excessive dieting is uncomplaining about how necessary, some people fat their malnourished should actually watch body is while bragging their weight. Morbidly ZOE about the latest eating obese people on fat scootMCCRACKEN trend they follow. And ers should perhaps conwhat about that all raw sider altering their eating vegetable cleansing program they pattern, but fad diets are never the are on? You should not only listen solution. to them talk about how difficult I will admit, though, I myself am and disgusting it is, but also how self-concious about my physical awesome they are for following it. appearance like most adolescent You should envy them for their wise women. However, it is this paranoia eating decisions, too. of my body weight that has taught How these poor fools believe it me that dieting is pointless. I will has been proven by bloggers with always be dissatisfied with my body, questionable backgrounds is fur- so why should I even try to lose ther testament to their gullibility. weight? These people need to do some acSo people, please do not put your tual research and apply real logic; body through anything ridiculous or shockingly, the internet does lie. harmful. You need all food groups; And are these people whining do not exclude one because a about how they are unfit? No, only Californian mom discovered a new sensible people would do that. All miracle diet. Be smart about eating, they care about is whether or not and remember: a healthy body is a they look good in a bikini. Not only beautiful diet.

THE UNION FEATURES JUNE 2012

TOP GRADE POINT AVERAGES

VALEDICTORIANS: 4.0 LAURA COSGROVE JULIA DINH BENJAMIN GARDNER KEWA JIANG BRIAN TSENG

SALUTATORIANS: 3.98 LUIS DESCANZO LORDESA FOK SHARON HO KAREN LIN NATHAN NG RYAN NGUYEN THAOCHAU PHAN CALVIN YAN

Seniors win scholarships; Vu, Pitts among recipients BY ANNA TRI

As their four years of high school come to an end, the next big stop for most seniors is college. However, whether their school is a community college or a private university, many know that it requires a certain amount of money. Because college tuition has substantially increased over the years, many students work hard and strive to win any scholarship they can apply for. Although it is true that not everyone wins, earning the money they want is truly a satisfying achievement. At MHS, there are a few lucky seniors who have won scholarships. Senior Stephen Vu is one of them. Vu earned a $180,000 scholarship from the U.S. Navy. He found out in November 2011, according to Vu. Vu said the scholarship came from a “national competition” in which he had to go through a few interviews and write “a couple of essays.” In order to keep his scholarship, he has to maintain his academic grades. Vu’s scholarship, combined with other financial factors such as the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) and university rewards, gives him a full-ride to college. The $180,000 covers all tuition and educational fees, Vu said. “It doesn’t cover housing,” Vu commented. “I just have to pay [for] the room, but that’s for financial aid.” Vu is heading to the University of California at San Diego next fall. He plans to major in Earth Sciences and wants to minor in International

Relations. Vu is excited for college. He was happy that he had won the scholarship, he said. “It felt pretty good,” Vu said. “I was more happy for my family.” Senior Samantha Pitts is another student who has also won a scholarship. Pitts was one of the many seniors who applied to the Minnis Scholarship Fund. The scholarship was awarded “based on the applicant’s community service, school involvement, and financial need,” according to the application. Pitts won the grand prize of $20,000 from the Minnis Scholarship. Pitts had to fill out an application and write an essay about her college and major plans. Pitts is going to the University of California at Irvine after graduation and plans to major in Criminology; Law & Society. Her educational goals include working with the FBI. “I want to be an FBI agent,” Pitts said. “Hopefully . . . [I can] work in the Behavorial Analysis Unit. That is my end goal.” The scholarship winners never get to actually see the money, according to Pitts. Although they earn it, the money goes to the school to keep. Principal Kenneth Schlaff and the Student Bank are in charge of it, Pitts commented. Pitts said she discovered she won the scholarship on May 21 during the last 10 minutes of her fourth period. She was called to the office and handed an envelope by Counseling Secretary Kathy Aguilar. “I started freaking out,” Pitts said. “Nothing could bring me down. I think it’s still hard to believe now.”

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Students line up to purchase tacos from the El Taco de Oro food truck during the Food Truck Fair held on the basketball courts. El Taco de Oro was one of the four food trucks that was on campus at the fair.

MHS holds first food truck fair for fundraiser BY LEANNA LEUNG

Four food truck vendors – Scoops, Mogo’s, Ricerockit, and El Taco de Oro – opened their windows for business during Milpitas High’s first Food Truck Fair event held on May 31. The event also featured a live band, DJ, raffle, rock climbing wall, and movie. The event lasted from 3:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Three tickets to the Warped Tour were raffled off, and the movie “Transformers 3” was played onscreen at the football field at night. According to Leadership Student Tiffany Kyu, the Food Truck Fair was intended for students to socialize as well as fundraise money to benefit Link Crew and the Leadership class so that they can hold other events next year.

Leadership plans to hold a Food Truck Fair at least once a year, so long as food trucks stay relevant, according to Student Activities Director Joanna Butcher. The next fair is planned to be held the first Friday of the next school year, said Butcher. “As long as people are having fun and socializing, then the event is a success,” Butcher said.

Gardener volunteers for over 800 hours BY NATHAN NG

Community service is often synonymous for extra work that students have to do to get into college. But for Senior Briana Gardener, community service serves as an outlet to demonstrate her devotion to the Baha’i Faith, one of the most widespread religions in the world. With over 800 community service hours, Gardener maintains the title of having the most service hours in MHS this year. Gardener was first motivated to

perform community service with her youth group during the summer of her junior year, the year she began performing 10 to 20 hours of community service each week, she said. Her inspiration is people of the Baha’i Faith who have changed the world for the better, which have served as her own role models, Gardener said. “The main goal in our efforts was to help the upcoming generation gain a positive foothold in their lives, because they are the ones that will be changing the world,”

Gardener said. “We’d knock on doors of neighbors and invite them to activities.” Among the many organizations she has volunteered for, Gardener spends most of her time working with the Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program, the Ruhi Institute, and Olinga Learning. All the organizations are affiliated with the Baha’i Faith, but Olinga Learning is a non-profit organization that she and her group created in San Mateo to fit the needs of a neighborhood, according to Gardener.

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Sophomore Jacky Lu takes a picture with his mother and Congressman Mike Honda after receiving the “An Artistic Discovery 2012” award. Lu began oil painting last year and started taking classes in an art studio.

Jacky Lu receives recognition for art piece BY HANNA TRAN

It feels great to have one’s work commended, but it is an exceptional honor for one’s work to be recognized by the nation. Freshman Jian “Jacky” Lu had that honor when he received congressional recognition for his entry into an art competition conducted by members of Congress, Lu said. The process of entering the piece and presenting it in the Santa Clara Library took place in late April and early May. The annual competition was called “An Artistic Discovery 2012.” Members of Congress encouraged high school students across the na-

tion to display their artistic talents, according to Congressman Mike Honda’s website. Lu explained that he entered his oil painting of an astronaut saluting at the Earth. Every participant received congressional recognition, Lu said. He took away inspiration from viewing other participants’ artwork and had the opportunity to meet Congressman Mike Honda, he said. “I got to meet Mike Honda and that was amazing,” Lu said. “I saw ideas to incorporate [into my own work.] ” Lu said he had always drawn as a hobby. However, Lu also became

interested in oil painting, so he took lessons at an art studio. His art instructor introduced him to the art competition, Lu said. “I started a year ago, getting into oil painting,” Lu said. “That’s how I got into the program. My teacher urged me to join.” The art competition was judged by a panel of experts in the arts, Lu said. He expressed his hopes of placing higher in next year’s art competition. “The panel of judges [includes] heads of art departments of soand-so university,” Lu explained. “I’m hoping for second [or] third next year.”

THE UNION FEATURES JUNE 2012

Indihar harvests, sells honey as beekeeper BY LORDESA FOK

The threat of a painful bee sting is enough to make most people run away screaming. However, Sophomore Kyle Indihar is not only unperturbed by bees, he also spends his time caring for whole hives of them. Indihar’s family has been raising bees ever since his grandfather started the business in his late 30s, according to Indihar. However, he took a long break, and Indihar’s family recently started beekeeping again in 2009. Indihar’s father has been slowly taking over the beekeeping duties from Indihar’s grandfather, and Indihar hopes to keep up the tradition. “I think [beekeeping] is very interesting,” Indihar said. “Having bees helps you learn about nature.

Bees are needed to pollinate the plants, which feed the animals, which feed humans. It’s all a circle.” Indihar’s family started with two hives, but now has 11, according to Indihar. Each hive produces 200 pounds of honey per year, although the Indihars harvest half of all honey produced (100 pounds) in a year. “We use a giant bucket and a giant spatula to gather honey once a year in October,” Indihar stated. “First, we take the frame out and scrape honey off of the frames in each hive. Then we put the honey in giant containers, with each container full of about 60 pounds of honey, for storing or selling.” Eating honey has its benefits, Indihar said. “Eating local honey produced within a three-mile radius for a year or two completely stops allergies,” Indihar commented.

“I’ve been eating honey daily, and I haven’t been sneezing for several months during the allergy season. Raw honey is also better for allergies than processed, or boiled, honey.” Jars are usually sold to Indihars’ neighbors or to people who have terrible allergies. Prices vary depending upon the amount of honey sold. Half of a pound of honey sells for $8 to $10, while a one pound jar can be bought for $16. The price of the honey is less expensive if you buy more, Indihar stated. Beekeeping is actually quite easy, according to Indihar. The only materials that you need are a loosefitting bee suit, a basic helmet with a cover, long socks, tall shoes that have been taped all around to your pants, gloves, and of course, containers for storing honey. Bees are also very self-sufficient.

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Senior Kelly Torbet uses a machete to clear non-native plants from the Galapagos Islands. Torbet traveled there on a mission trip last summer.

Students serve over summer; travel to Costa Rica, Galapagos BY MARISA LOUIE

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Ceramics Teacher Jeffery Albrecht poses with his paintings that are on display at a gallery. Albrecht has been creating different types of artwork and selling his paintings since he was a junior attending MHS.

Albrecht finds happiness in many forms of art BY LAURA COSGROVE

We've heard the stereotype: a starving artist takes a job that pays the bills – say, teaching – and suffers eight hours a day of creative deprivation to pursue his passion. It's a pervasive one, but to attribute it to Ceramics Teacher Jeffery Albrecht would be a mistake. Albrecht doesn't fit this stereotype. In fact, he nearly reverses it. Like creating art, teaching is his passion. The only difference is that he can't sell his lessons for $10,000, the price you'd find on some of his gallery paintings. “Teaching is something that I believe that I'm supposed to be doing right now," Albrecht said. "I enjoy being here. It balances things out really nicely for me." Albrecht is both commercially

successful and critically acclaimed for his work. Though he works in various media, he is known in the art world as an abstract painter – but he doesn’t like such a strict categorization. "I like to play around with color a lot,” Albrecht said. “But in general, I don’t like to feel locked down to one theme, subject, or medium. I do logo designs, illustrations, pottery, and custom realistic work for people, too.” Albrecht’s successful artistic career began in a familiar place: he went to MHS before attending San Jose State University, and began a freelance art business in his junior year. Irene Hentschke was one of his first art mentors. "I had friends here who wanted paintings for their girlfriends or boyfriends, or had parents who

wanted logos for their work, and I just starting filling requests,” Albrecht said. “One project leads to another project.” Not surprisingly, when asked what his advice would be to burgeoning artists or any young person with a dream, Albrecht encouraged following one’s passions. "The people I know that are most successful are in that profession because they enjoy it,” Albrecht said. “Anyone who’s following their passions, they’re going to do well naturally. Whatever you want to get into, be passionate.” Such a philosophy has certainly worked out well for Albrecht.

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Bogovich, Schwartz ‘outstanding teachers’ BY MARISA LOUIE

This year, English Teachers Kaila Schwartz and Lillian Bogovich were chosen as recipients of the Dorothy Wright Outstanding Teaching award. San Jose State University (SJSU) established this award in 1987 in honor of former English Professor Dorothy Wright, according to the Department of English and Comparative Literature at SJSU website. According to the website, the award makes “the acquaintance of many of the most inspiring members of the area’s educational community.” It also notes that SJSU credits its strong English program to the “dedication and idealism of the area’s English teachers.”

Schwartz and Bogovich received the award after being identified as being influential English teachers by former students who now attend SJSU. The students nominated them when filling out SJSU freshman-year surveys regarding whom in the students’ lives best prepared them for their college English courses, according to the website. “You never know if you’re really making an impact,” Schwartz said. “You just don’t know if you’ve made any lasting impression on them. This was an affirmation that I did.” Schwartz received this award for the first time after being nominated by MHS graduates Kevin Bui and Victoria Chappron. Bogovich has received this award twice before, and this year was nominated by

MHS graduates Randle Redic and Rowena Acio. “[Schwartz] helped develop my voice in writing that was critical to my success in English,” Bui wrote. “Her caring and compassion for other students help guide them to success.” Acio wrote of how Bogovich would spend time checking that each student in the class understood the material. Bogovich always made sure that her students had the chance to express their own thoughts on the books that they read, according to Acio. “[Bogovich] was not just a teacher, but more of a peer that helped us individually so that we would better ourselves in the writing process,” Acio wrote.

Summer classes at the local community college, the ever-so comfortable couch, the beach, or the workplace – high school students could be found in any one of these places. However, this past summer, and perhaps for the next summers to come, a handful of students chose to spend their time serving others in less fortunate countries. Junior Julie Nelson and Sophomore Andrew Russell spent 10 days in the Talamanca region of Costa Rica last July for a mission trip. Both went on the trip with their youth grup at Christ Community Church of Milpitas (CCCM). Nelson and Russell were part of a group of approximately 50 people who helped to prepare structure foundations and to build houses and bathrooms for the Bribri people – the local tribe that they worked with. Their team also taught bible lessons to the Bribri children. “It’s just one of the main ways I like to serve God,” Russell said. “I just love serving people in other places.” Nelson has been on two mission trips with CCCM, once to Arizona and once to Costa Rica. Despite the tiring work during the trips, it all pays off when she sees the effect that her efforts have on the people

her team are serving. “It was hard work, but while you’re there, you can see that what you’re doing will actually help someone out,” Nelson said. “You can actually see the reactions on their faces.” Senior Kelly Torbet spent last July in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Torbet traveled with teenagers from Adventures Cross Country, an organization that offers global service programs to students. “For once, I wanted to do something useful for others,” Torbet said. “It’s not really something that you can do a lot of after high school, since you’re busy with college.” Torbet spent part of her trip in Ecuador, building school classrooms, teaching children English and art, and zip lining through a cloud forest. The rest of her trip was spent in the Galapagos Islands and included constructing a safe pathway for the people of a small village in the Amazon and clearing areas of nonindigenous plant species. “It’s really amazing how you can connect with people when you don’t speak the same language,” Torbet said. “You still have a basic human connection even with cultural barriers.”

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Librande, Lien perform music, compose, play original pieces BY LORDESA FOK

Seniors Andy Lien and Dylan Librande may just be the next great musical artists of our time. Both seniors create their own music, with Lien specializing in covers of pre-existing songs and Librande producing new pieces and covers. Lien uses percussion and guitar to create acoustic pop covers and some original songs, while Librande uses the piano and electronic software to generate his own style of music. Both find inspiration from real life experiences, Librande for a musical melody and Lien for his lyrics. Lien then proceeds to record his song with the piano or guitar, adding vocals later. Librande has completed three albums, including the recent creation of a one-year anniversary album that marks the release of his website, Shibboleth Studios, he said. Over the six years that Lien has been performing, he has memorized and played many “popular songs,” Lien stated. Librande began composing his own pieces at age five or six, he said. “I made my own piano songs, and they were pretty simple; I’ve just grown since then,” Librande said. “I started adding electronic stuff two summers ago, but I really took off with it last year.” Librande has performed in a few talent shows, winning first place in

both the MHS talent show and the Milpitas’ Got Talent competition. Lien has been performing ever since his sophomore year, making his debut at the MHS VSA show. Since then, he has performed at various high schools for various club events. “I feel that I’ve gotten stronger in my guitar and my vocals,” Lien explained. “I’ve been more confident, more willing to accept change and more patient.” Librande agrees that music has done wonders for him. “At first, it was just a way to pass the time and was something I did because my parents made me, but as I began composing, it increasingly became a crucial creative outlet,” Librande affirmed. “Whenever the pressures of life start to wear me down, I’m always sure that I can find happiness in musical expression.” Librande hopes to take music production classes and music composition classes in college to improve his technique, he stated. “I’m excited to keep improving my skills,” Librande said. “My college offers a lot of music composition classes.” Lien, on the other hand, has chosen to focus less on the music industry. “My whole goal isn’t to make it anywhere near the music industry,” Lien said. “My goal is to see how far I can make it with my first set of music.”

THE UNION ADVERTISEMENT JUNE 2012

THE UNION COLLEGES JUNE 2012

Class of 2012 attends colleges in fall DISCLAIMER This list was compiled using student responses to a survey and consequently may not be fully accurate or complete.

Academy of Art Yiting Huang Game Design Bowdoin College Roy Tsao Biochemistry Brigham Young University Benjamin Gardner Electrical Engineering Butte College Jordan Vazquez Undeclared Marielle DeGuia Music & Entertainment Industries California Polytechnic State University Pomona Jeline Abutin Communications Marcos Mancilla Sociology California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo Jiahui Wu Civil Engineering Jordan Lin Computer Science Jose Luis Descanzo Civil Engineering Nikat Patel Computer Engineering / Computer Science California State University Chico Estevan Rodriguez Unlisted Natalie DeRosa Mathematics Education Renee Romano Nursing California State University East Bay Connie Tang Graphic Design Daryl Puriďż˝cacion Computer Science Edward Laya Construction Management Teresa Nguyen Pre-Nursing Thien Duong Undeclared Vanessa Sanchez Undeclared California State University

Fullerton Andrea La Roque Physiology Berenice Delgado Unlisted California State University Long Beach Kevin Nguyen Biochemistry California State University Los Angeles Joanna Tran Pre-Nursing California State University San Marcos Tara Flesner Pre-Health California State University Stanislaus Rachelle Balili Pre-Nursing Colorado State University Andrew Chandler Health & Exercise Science De Anza College Axanti Anthony Unlisted Brandon Phan Nursing Cassandra Cacao Business Management David Tran Mechanical Engineering Duc Pham Nursing Eric Quach Marketing Francisco Gonzalez Engineering Hung Hoang Medical Engineering Ida Julissa Rivera Pre-Medicine Jacqueline Lamb Unlisted Janelle Lopez Unlisted Jason Chou Electrical Engineering Jaycee Khauv Unlisted Joseph Ly Electrical Engineering Joshmael Nonoy Cultural Studies Juana Ebalo Psychology Judiel Anamos Unlisted Juliaa Nicolas Nursing Kevin Mai Nguyen Chemistry

Lea Ramos Architecture Lorraine Doan Communications Rick Gill Unlisted Ronalle Dangca Biology Thomas Schmitz Marketing Truc Truong Psychology Eckerd College Natalie Minor Chemistry Evergreen Valley College Christopher Madarazo Mechanics Joycelyn Pansoy Unlisted Sean Pingue Business Administration Tashi Danielle Sports Medicine Foothill College Alejandra Nunez Unlisted Biagio LaRocca Unlisted Kevin Vachhani Business Administration Howard University Alissa Appiah Unlisted La Sierra University Atorina Samuel Undeclared Mission College Alicia Quach Nursing Brandon Martinez Medical Assisting Carlo Cusi Unlisted Daniel Nguyen Biology Ed Adres Pre-Medicine Edson Galingana Mechanical Engineering Giselle Gagarin Unlisted Hosai Oman Psychology Idalia Campos Business Rhandell Jaize Bamberger Dentistry Jan Olidan Physical Therapy Jennifer Holcombe Communications Mark Dela Cruz Unlisted Martin Nguyen Unlisted May Thu Thu Khin

Biochemistry Namisha Kapil Undeclared Phoebe Tang Nursing Raj Dhillon Unlisted Timothy Acuna Radiology Vinh Do Dental Hygiene Mount Holyoke College Tiffany Law Politics Ohlone College Bao Le Undeclared Ellaine Manalang Vocational Nursing Gunilla Leuterio Biology Junryl Molina Performing Arts Kimberly Yumay Unlisted Marvin Basco Nursing Nica Gutierrez Physical Therapy Tammy Phan Business Administration Tandeep Sodhi Nursing Thang Tran Mechanics Vy Huynh Unlisted Otis College of Art and Design Tiffany Chang Graphic Design San Diego Miramar College Michelle Nghiem Unlisted San Diego State University Miranda Potmesil Unlisted San Francisco State University Aileen Perez Art Education Briana Bircher Nursing Erin Cruz Communicative Disorders Frankie Lucero English Education Jasmine Redmon Pre-Medicine Jun Ooi Software Engineering Karen Grace Granadosin Undeclared Melissa Abed Undeclared Shirley Nguyen Undeclared

San Jose City College Crystal Dietzman Criminal Justice / Forensic Science San Jose State University Amy Le Biology Amy Tran Biological Sciences Andrew Bautista Undeclared Anne Hoang International Business Annie Hsu Animation / Illustration Arthur Kim Undeclared Benjamin Klunpaitoon Computer Science Bryan Nguyen Business Cindy Ta Undeclared Crystal Hua Nursing Elizabeth Li Animation / Illustration Emily Holland Business Administration Eric Chang Unlisted Grace Lee Undeclared Helen Nguyen Nutrition Henry Tran Computer Science Hina Thiaray Chemistry Ismael Garcia Math Education Jasmine Balmonte Nursing Justin Almogela Graphic Design Jessica Topacio Animation Jhomel Dangca Business Financing Johnny Quach Computer Engineering Julia Regalado Nursing Jun-woo Hwang Photography Keven Gallegos Computer Engineering Kevin Geslani Unlisted Lisa Cheung Biology Lydia Valdez Animation / Illustration Mark Evangelista Occupational Therapy Mark Pereyra Communications Martin Le Computer Science Marvin Jay Madrid Kinesiology Mathew Phan Biochemistry

THE UNION COLLEGES JUNE 2012

Class of 2012 attends colleges in fall Michelle Cheah Nursing Michelle Duong Communications Nancy Tran Communications Nicholas Rodriguez Kinesiology Phuc Bui Animation / Illustration Rafael Fernandez Engineering Ravinder Kaur Psychology Raymond Lau Undeclared Reginald Imbat Software Engineering Reina Ladua Business Management Ryan Lee Kinesiology Shannon Chew Biology Stephen Cheung Electrical Engineering Steven Ly Computer Engineering Steven Ngo Civil Engineering Tejas Suthar Mechanical Engineering Tyler Do Mechanical Engineering Vanessa Martinez Pre-Medicine Vince Ly Computer Engineering Peter Hwang Pre-Nursing Santa Clara University Carlos Rivera Molecular Biology / Chemistry Sonoma State University Jasmine Alvarez Pre-Medicine Stanford University Elias Guting Pre-Medicine Unitek College Garey Correa Pre-Medicine University of California Berkeley Allan Tang Computer Science Amy Nguyen Business Brian Khau Chemical Engineering Brian Tseng Computer Science & Electrical Engineering Calvin Yan Chemical Engineering Christine Nguyen Psychology

Christine Tran Vu Biochemistry Karen Lin English Kewa Jiang Molecular / Cellular Biology Leanna Leung Business Piyush Kumar Biochemistry / Molecular Biology Terry Tsai Computer Science University of California Davis Andie Tonnu Design Anthony Dang Clinical Nutrition Anna Tri Communication Danning Wang Undeclared Eunice Magat Genetics Eva Tran Food Sciences Ginna Lo Microbiology Isabel Bagsik Design Jay Lin Animal Science June Fabillaran Political Science Lordesa Fok Biomedical Engineering Nancy Nguyen Chemistry Shilpa Vasuki Biomedical Engineering Victor Lee Undeclared Vinh-Quang Trinh Undeclared University of California Irvine Andrew Ooi Criminology / Law Society Desmond Dinapo Undeclared Eric Le Psychology Kevin Tu Pharmaceutical Sciences Minh Dang Biological Sciences Nathan Ng Biological Sciences Samantha Pitts Criminology / Law Society Tiffany Do Biological Sciences University of California Los Angeles Cody Huber Biology Emily Cheng

Computer Science Ginevra Scherini Psychology Michael Sheng Mechanical Engineering Nathan Chung Mechanical Engineering Rebecca Hubeny Computer Science Sharon Ho Human Biology & Society Thaochau Phan Undeclared Wesley Ho Neuroscience Y-Dan Bui Bioengineering University of California Merced Elyas Waziri Political Science University of California Riverside Andrew Threet Media Arts Amanda Berryhill Computer Science Kevin Do Computer Science Louis Tsai Sociology University of California San Diego Andrew Van Computer Science Charles Ngo Biochemistry / Chemistry Chen-Hao Liao Computer Science Christina Gee Biology Cindy Vu Computer Engineering Dorothy Van Political Science Hanna Tran Biology Hoai-An Nguyen Bioengineering Jason Kuo Computer Engineering Julia Dinh Microbiology Justin Vu Computer Science Katherine Vuong Biochemistry Kevin Lu Human Biology Patrick Huynh Molecular Biology Priscilla Park Pharmaceutical Chemistry Stephen Vu Earth Science Thanh Tran Biochemistry / Cellular Biology

Thu Nhi Ngo Pharmacology Science Timothy Macaulay Biology Zoe McCracken Biochemistry / Cellular Biology University of California Santa Barbara Amy Khuu Pre-Communications Benjamin Pham Unlisted Deanna Hartsook Computer Science Derek Phan Unlisted Heidi Tran Biology Kathy Kim Pham Biology Lawrence Chao Biology University of California Santa Cruz Andrew Lien Electrical Engineering Brendan Soper Unlisted Brian Lam Biology Cindy Ho Undeclared Evelyn Kim Physical Therapy Hay Mar Aung Business Helen Dang Unlisted John Ta Computer Science Joseph Ou Undeclared Kevin Tseng Computer Science Kevin Vuong Computer Science Michael Delegeane Computer Science Khoa Nguyen Biology Shivam Dave Computer Science University of the East Nuelle Fronda Pre-Nursing University of Minnesota Daven Lagman Linguistics University of Paciďż˝c Douglas Phan Business Administration En-ling Fu Pre-Pharmacy Kathryn Chow Pre-Pharmacy Tryshna Malonzo

Psychology Yung Fen Chen Biological Sciences University of Pangasinan Joel Francis Dacasin Registered Nursing University of Pennsylvania Laura Cosgrove Biochemistry University of the Redlands Aaron Cohen English University of San Francisco Julie Joseph Nursing Tim Lequang Sociology Yvonne Pham Biochemistry University of Washington Patrick Lee Mechanical Engineering West Valley College Ashley Cullen Photography / Studio Art Kristi Pontipiedra Psychology Willamette University Dylan Librande Undeclared Xavier University of Louisiana Sydnie Turner Biology Yale University Vicky Tu Mathematics United States Air Force Cheryl Deguzman Texas Korey Erevia Unlisted Paul Jacob Jose Texas United States Marine Corps Maritime Bobby Ngo Mechanical Engineering Nathan Haaland Unlisted Workforce Lee Ron Chan Acting Rosemary Barrass Saks Fifth Avenue

THE UNION SENIOR

Senior Mo

MOST LIKELY TO SLEEP THROUGH AN EARTHQUAKE Nathan Ng, Elizabeth Li

MOST LIKELY TO COUNT

Phuc Bui,

MOST LIKELY TO WIN THE HUNGER GAMES Jordan Lockett, Cassandra Cacao

MOST LIKELY TO LIVE OFF OF FREE SAMPLES Ryan Nguyen, Tiffany Do

MOST LIKELY TO BECOM

Lee Ron Chan, S

R MOSTS JUNE 2012

osts 2012

MOST LIKELY TO PHOTOBOMB ALL THE PHOTOS Calvin Yan, Zoe McCracken

TERFEIT THE MONA LISA

, Ginna Lo

ME A BROADWAY STAR

Samantha Pitts

MOST LIKELY TO CURE SENIORITIS Brian Khau, Laura Cosgrove

MOST LIKELY TO OWN EIGHTY CATS Aaron Cohen, Dorothy Van

THE UNION SENIOR WILLS JUNE 2012

‘How do I say goodbye to what we had?’ DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in the following messages are not the views and opinions held by The Union, unless otherwise stated.

I, Johnny Quach, do hereby leave my best wishes to MHS percussion section. See you in the future! I also leave you all my heart and love to Josephine Tran. I, Edward Laya, do hereby leave all my belongings in the D building. Sometimes G. Mr. Kaldy Iron Man. I, Rafael Fernandez, do hereby leave the hopes and dreams of the world. It is in the L-building toilet, please flush it for me. Follow your own dreams; work hard. I, Lee Ron Chan, do hereby leave some of my absurdity so that someone else can continue my standard of being crazy. I, Ismael Garcia, do hereby leave my locker that has my chickens... and its chicken poop. :) I, Lydia Valdez, do hereby leave nothing to NO ONE. I, Boolean Nguyen, do hereby leave my AD carry skills which got me 2200 ELO. Come check my stream twitch.tv/ wakawakawak 5pm~10pm daily! Special thanks to Ryan Nguyen. I, Adrian Bilducia, do hereby leave pow. Hoopla. I, Korey Erevia, do hereby leave jack shack to no one cause I don’t care ANYMORE! Curse the system, Throw it on the ground! Fare effing well. I, Edson Galingana, do hereby leave my presence, good memories and lessons I learned in my high school life. I, Marvin Basco, do hereby leave MHS with my smile and thoughtful memories. As well as my adolescence. I, Hanna Tran, do hereby leave NHS in capable hands, S&D to dedicated debaters, and Book Club to fresh faces. I wish my underclassmen further success and happily leave MHS without regrets. I, Julia Dinh, do hereby leave my sweaty socks and tennis racquet to Stick and Himani. Good luck next season, girls! Sarah Karlen stinks! I, Emily Holland ‘‘the Great’,’’ do hereby leave my number. So, call me maybe? 925-905-7144. I, Chen-Hao Liao, do hereby leave everything I learned behind in the M locker. I, Tracy Truong, do hereby leave my senioritis infection behind for future seniors and get ready for college! I, Steven Ngo, do hereby leave this will behind. I, Erin Cruz, do hereby leave my fartsies. I, Idalia Campos, do hereby leave my arguments with all the teachers, staff, and coaches that deserve it. I, Rudelle Mariano, do hereby leave my sister, Rochelle, with my fantastic elastic experiences. You have three SHINee years ahead of you. Have fun! I, Bryan Nguyen, do hereby leave this school. I, Daniel Nguyen, do hereby leave all the ladies my love and beauty ;D I, Hay Mar Aung, do hereby leave MHS officially on June 16, 2012. I, Nica Gutierrez, do hereby leave to Kahlyll my hello kitty shirt with my signature. I, Jacob Ycaro, do hereby leave nothing because I never brought anything to school, and I’m still bout to graduate. Follow me on twitter@Jacobdgamf and instagram@JacobUSA. I, Jansen Banlaygas, do hereby leave my presence, my coolness, and my memories of eternity. I, Ida Julissa Rivera, do hereby leave to all my friends my high school memories. I’ll miss it. I, Janette Lopez, do hereby leave my notebooks and homework to my sister so she can copy them. I, Joey Ly, do hereby leave nothing because I am too poor to have stuff to leave for people.

I, Duc Pham, do hereby leave my dirty and smelly PE shoes to Minh Nguyen. Hope you enjoy it while washing your socks and do not ever forget me. I, Joshmael Nonoy, do hereby leave all my troubles in this high school bubble, for we must find a worth in this world rather than what a student committed last week or whatever. 2012. I, Daryl Purificacion, do hereby leave my basketball jersey, #15! The sweat on the basketball gym due to the hardwork during games & practices. Also my friends, teachers, and my Filipino club. I, Daniel Peña, do hereby leave to Ismael Garcia my soccer ball. I, Raymond Lau, do hereby leave the bacon grill, endless amounts of ‘‘lost books’’, exploits, bacon strips, and the Bro Code to the carefree and adventurous minions that ventures for trouble. I, Jian Maniquiz, do hereby leave to Juliaa My old boxer I, Cassie Cacao, do hereby leave my senioritis to my favorites, Chelsea, Leslie, Tao, and Jalaena. Good luck with next season. Always love pigs. I, Patrick Lee, do hereby leave my collection of pictures and movies that will leave you shell shocked. Peace out. I, Tiffany Chang, do hereby leave my legendary pokemon, my lack of binder paper, my 3000 ELO children, my Maplestory gear, my LeBlanc skin and my unfunded Diablo characters to YOUR CARE. I, Andy Lien, do hereby leave my juniors, the C4 freshmen, and my freshmen ducklings memories of me. I hope I had some influence on you as you did for me. I, Bao Le, do hereby leave to my buddies Thuy Tran, and Hung Nguyen my old socks. Because they like to smell it. I, Piyush Kumar, do hereby leave behind many joys and laughs both on the field and in class. I’ll truly miss all of my close and great friends and wish everyone nothing but the best! =) I, Renee Romano, do hereby leave my love for Bieber and One Direction to my darling younger sister Rei Geena. :) PS: I know you don’t want me to leave for college, but we’ve got all summer to stay up late and watch movies! I, Cindy Ho, do hereby leave ASB Vice to Alex Pham, NHS to future rulers of the world, pieces of my High School legacy to be lived on by Dalena Ho, my sister, Brian Nguyen, Jonathan Ngo, Tri Hoang,Mazie Edusada, and CJ Velasco. I, Biagio LaRocca, do hereby leave all my missing assignments to my dog. I, Alexis Cruz, do hereby leave high school with a learning experience. I, Marvin Jay Madrid, do hereby leave the theatre to the juniors and sophomores of 6th period theatre. I also leave my locker to some poor unfortunate soul who can endure the smell of old tacos. I, Isabel Bagsik, do hereby leave the Interact club in the hands of the amazing Arthur Tran, LeAnn Woo, and future officers.

I, Deanna Hartsook, do hereby leave the joys of AP projects to future procrastinators.

I, Judiel Anamos, do hereby leave my ROTC legacy to Gian Paneda and Brendan Lin.

I, Kevin Vachhani, do hereby leave MHS. Peace out y’all, and make sure to not get seniorities juniors.

I, Kewa Jiang, do hereby leave Book Club in the loving hands of Jamie & Vivian, Team HBV to Giang, Susan, Jason, & Jacqueline, and Scioly to all the awesome underclassmen.

I, Jhomel Patrick Dangca, do hereby leave everyone to have the best time of their lives in high school and participate in every event. You only live one! Make the best of it!

I, Elyas Waziri, do hereby leave my belongings to the poor people of the world.

I, Brian Khau, do hereby leave my frequent non sequiturs, TI-84 prowess, and wacky faces to my chill bro Ray.

I, Nathan Ng, do hereby leave everything to my younger brothers, Elliot and Samuel.

I, Lorraine Doan, do hereby leave MHS in the hands of our future generation. High School was fun while it lasted. I <3 the c/o 2012! I, Gunilla Leuterio, do hereby leave my Gamma Club to my elected Club officers, my eccentricy to the school, and my loving memories of my favorite high school ever! :) I, Jan Olidan, do hereby leave to my buddies jr., gio, Justin aka Dragon, and my girlfriend Katrina Prado loves to kiss me. I, Alissa Appiah, do hereby leave this God awful school and these God awful people. I, Daven-Anthony Lagman, do hereby leave Balthazar to the Milpitas High School Marching Band Tuba Section. I, Yung Fen Chen, do hereby leave Milpitas High School in the hands of the class of 2013. I will also leave my beloved puppy in the care of Bella Chen.

I, Yiting Huang, do hereby leave give the notes and homework I used before to my friends.

I, Priscilla Park, do hereby leave Ruth Park with the yummiest tasting lunch consisting of a chicken sandwich with extra lettuce on wheat bread, carrot sticks, bell peppers, an apple, and a piece of 85 percent dark chocolate.

I, Juliaa Nicolas, do hereby leave my dog Chowy. I, Raj Dhillon, do hereby leave this school. Peace. I, Vicky Tu, do hereby leave the underclassmen with one piece of advice: join marching band!

I, Frankie ‘‘School boy’’ Lucero, do hereby leave with the right to say. I’m finally old enough for Stacey’s mom!! Booyah.

I, Nathan Chung, do hereby leave my grand estate, Locker F693 with its two cans of Coke and one ream of copy paper, in the care of my little cousins.

I, Annie Hsu, do hereby leave nothing to MHS. Everything is mine. All mine.

I, Eric Le, do hereby leave all my crushed hopes and dreams and false achievements and everything else I believed to be real in high school. Too bad nothing lasts.

I, Allan Tang, do hereby leave my marching band spirit to my fellow marching band members. Good luck next season! Caesar shall return!

I, Michelle Duong, do hereby leave the F-Group table to future Fgroupers of 2013.

I, Christine Nguyen, do hereby leave the contents of my uncleaned cubby, my bruises, my cuts, and most importantly my love to my beautiful guard babies.

I, Joni Tran, do hereby leave my love for the two tallest darkest juniors. I, Samantha Pitts, do hereby leave the secret password to the underground passage that leads from the L-building to Narnia.

I, Kevin Nguyen, do hereby leave my senioritis to the next senior class.

I, Ginevra Scherini, do hereby leave the titles of Fred and George to Michele Grillo. He can bestow the title upon whomever he chooses.

I, Brandon Martinez, do hereby leave with a smile remembering everything I have experienced in High school.

I, ‘‘Emperor’’ Jun-Woo Hwang, do hereby leave MHS as the coolest Korean person in the class of 2012 of Milpitas High. I, Vinh Do, do hereby leave my senioritis symptoms to the badminton team and all of the upcoming seniors. Enjoy your senior year!! :)

I, Carry Wu, do hereby leave the senioritis to my fellow upcoming juniors; and here is one more advice: GET OFF FACEBOOK! I, Crystal Dietzman, do hereby leave my brother with the strengths that he will someday get. Don’t get senioritis bro! <3 I, Danning Wang, do hereby leave my best memories, as I would always go back and relive them and smile. I, Jason Chou, do hereby leave nothing to Ben Klunpaitoon and my soul to Elmer Tabios :3 meow ~~ kawaii I, Jay Butta, do hereby leave my belongings to my best friends Thang, Hung, and Bro. My car, house and more that you can find in there. I, Martin Le, do hereby leave phalanxes everywhere.

I, Michael Sheng, do hereby leave the fate of orchestra to Cindy Wu.

I, Jacqueline Lamb, do hereby leave my love, klutziness, and weirdness to all of my volleyball girls. You guys better kill it next year! And I leave all of our craziness to my hurdle family! Ready, 1-2-3 step! Love you guys! WADA!

I, Cindy Thai, do hereby leave everything to my husband, John Ta. He always makes me flaccidify. His muscles are comparable to the Gods. Ah yus, trust. #YOLO

I, Nick Rodriguez, do hereby leave the MHS basketball team ‘‘Halla good luck!’’ Adain (Blunty) Simmons and Santa, just remember……… Eh! Got em’ Coach! HAHAlol.

I, Kathryn Chow, do hereby leave my extensive collection of class notes to my cousin. Use them well.

I, John Ta, do hereby leave everything to my wife, Cindy Thai <3, b/c she is very flaccid. I also leave my faith to cult leader Marple. She is very flaccid.

I, Louis Tsai, do hereby leave my candy Business to the incoming seniors who sell chips, candy, and drinks.

I, Ryan Nguyen, do herebly leave nothing to you guys, except Thanh can have Vince.

I, Julie Joseph, do hereby leave the varsity girl’s soccer team, Coach Mike’s attitude, Monday miles, the circuit and full field sprints. Good luck ladies!

I, Mark Deniel Dela Cruz, do hereby leave anything I have valuable to my family. I, Eric Quach, do hereby leave Milpitas High School with all the gum I’ve chewed in class & the desks with all my drool from my nap time. I, Paul Jacob Jose, do hereby leave nothing :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D : D :D

I, Andrew Ooi, do hereby leave expectations for Nicole, Andrew, and Steffy. Do well guys and don’t slack off.

I, Francis Dacasin, do hereby leave Jeffrey Dacasin and Cj Yanogacio to excel in sports and to graduate leaving a family legacy. Also enjoy senioritis while you can class of 2012.

I, Kimberly Yumang, do hereby leave all the bad memories/ experiences I had in this school.

I, Patrick Huynh, do hereby leave the four years of sleepless night for even more sleepless nights. College : 1, Sleep :0

I, Rayven Johnson, do hereby leave Milpitas High to my dawg Kenya Panting. I’m a miss you girl Arrrruhhh

I, Cindy Vu, do hereby leave all of the annoyance and suffering of MHS to the underclassmen.

I, Kevin Vuong, do hereby leave the swim team my hopes and dreams of them becoming league champions.

I, Shannon Chew, do hereby leave the Chew legacy behind.

I, Pooja Pal, do hereby leave my legacy for the new and remaining students attending MHS. I wish luck to the class of 2012 for the future, make yourself proud.

I, Roy Tsao, do hereby leave my innovative Toms Campus Club to whoever charters the club next year.

I, Ellaine Manaloy, do hereby leave to Kimberly, my dog and my nail polish. :)

I, Helen Nguyen, do hereby leave my wish for pigs to rule the world here at MHS until I come back from my adventure. :)

I, Namisha Kapil, do hereby leave MHS with memories good and bad. After making amazing friends, meeting great people. Remembering all the great times, reminiscing on the not so good. 2012! We did it. :)

I, Corri Takeda, do hereby leave my favorite Freshmen, Michelle, Kathleen, and Jenny all the love and laughter at MHS For the next 3 years.

I, Elias Guting, do hereby leave knowledge to my ‘‘crew’’ LOL and new friends. Love you guys! Will miss you lots!

I, Rosemary Barrass, do hereby leave everything to my cats. And I leave my cats to Mr. Escobar and Kendra Nelson.

I, Ravinder Kaur, do hereby leave MHS, and am freeing myself from all of the restrictions it has placed on me. I also leave trashy lunch food and longlines. I, Mehreen Khan, do hereby leave the basketball girls and red cross officers the best of luck! Have tons of fun, love you all :) I, Arthur Kim, do hereby leave nothing for anyone. I, Jasmine Balmonte, do hereby leave my influence and inspirations on others to guide them on a path towards great success. I, Jaize Bamberger, do hereby leave my cousin Rensley Bamberger and my friends: Darrel Gunabe, Thanh Nhin, Mark Bermundo, and Jeremy Rayford to keep our group together.

I, Douglas Phan, do hereby leave a new pool for our future CCS Champions and wingless wings to Sean.

I, Tejas Suthar, do hereby leave my fame, my status, my reputation, and my curry back for the students of MHS. I, Vanessa Sanchez, do hereby leave the constant waking up early for the 8 am bell, the teachers’ work they give us, and the constant struggle to make it through all 4 years. I, Karen Lin, do hereby leave my wee brother Wesley in the hands of the Band percussion section, the Track & Field team, and our fabulously eccentric teachers. Take care, everyone! I, Laura Cosgrove, do hereby leave the West Coast! I, Ginna Lo, do hereby leave my ziplock snacks to Ying Luo. I also leave my sad farewells to Justin Nool, and Sidney Le. And Stick, you can have whatever’s left. Good luck next season my tennis girls! I, Brian Lam, do hereby leave my long-term boyfriend of 18 years here at Milpitas High School. Procrastination, you will have more fun here than at college with me. I, Phuc Bui, do hereby leave nothing to give so leave me alone. I don’t care, this is stupid.

I, Eunice Magat, do hereby leave the Badminton team to Vanessa Yeh as well as to all the other pro players left on the team! ;D I, Dorothy Van, do hereby leave my little cousins Jackie, Alex, and Andrew. I love you all! Hehe <3 to my ASB babies. Germaine, Amy! I, Jordan Vazquez, do hereby leave everything with my sister and dad and will much loved. I, Hung Hoang, do hereby leave my old shoes to Thang, so he can add them to his shoe collection. I, Thang Tran, do hereby leave my shoes for my uncle because he works at a flea market, so he could sell them for money. I, Connie Tang, do hereby leave the GamMa club to Amanda and Gary Le as well as the other future officers. My best of hopes will go to everyone. I love you all. <3 I, Helen Dang, do hereby leave my high school sweatheart, Brian Nguyen to Amy Hoang. <3 I, Kevin Tu, do hereby leave all my possessions to Martin Yao. I, Elizabeth Li, do hereby leave my study guides and my infinite passion for history and the liberal arts to my brother, Jordan Li. You gotta go far kid, hit ‘em right between the eyes!

THE UNION SENIOR WILLS JUNE 2012

‘I keep, I keep thinking it’s not goodbye’ I, Julia Regalado, do hereby leave all high school memories behind that bring me down. And will instead focus on my future ahead of me. I, Reina Ladua, do hereby leave my tables in the cafeteria and on the green. I leave this school with great memories and knowledge that I will carry with me always. I, Jennifer Holcombe, do hereby leave my sister, Karen, cousins, Wendy and Andrew and my babies, Jalaena tdo, Chelsea, Marge, Wing, Leslie, Bree, Val, and Brenbreh! Carry on my legacy!

I, Brendon M. Soper, do hereby leave Essence. I, Aileen Perez, do hereby leave my fake Ray-Ban sunglasses, meow. X I, Gary Correa, do hereby leave my gratitude to all the amazing teachers of Milpitas High School. I, Christopher Madarazo, do hereby leave this high school, memories, and start a brand new life.

I, Vanessa Martinez, do hereby leave all my lazyness to Norma but also my smartness to her for her to graduate on time. I, Evelyn Kim, do hereby leave some amazing, influential teachers and their memorable teaching of the importance of life – character, love, and respect.

I, Ed Adros, do hereby leave to Carlos Cusi my old piggie bank full of penny.

I, Shirley Nguyen, do hereby leave my sister, Molly Nguyen, and cousins Vivian and Andy Au. Have fun with high school while you can, because reality will hit you hard once graduation comes near. Good luck…

I, Vince Ly, do hereby leave all of my memories in the back of my brain to the upcoming senior class of 2013. In hopes that they will make senior year even better than my own.

I, Junryl Molina, do hereby leave my legacy in our glee club to hopefully inspire other’s be true performers and be as motivated as I was.

I, Martin Nguyen, do hereby leave dis skool 2 my cuzins Shelley N’ Kevin and alls u other ppl lulz. Waz a gr8t 4 yearz, butt glad its over. Wooot!

I, Andy Ly, do hereby leave high school to the upcoming seniors. It was fun being with you all, not really, but hey, contact me if you know me. Good luck surviving high school.

I, Karen Grace Granadosin, do hereby leave all the cookies in the cookie jar. Peace, love and Trojans. <3

I, Lea ‘‘The Fourth Cat’’ Ramos, do hereby leave meow meow meow meow meow meow meow I love Snorlax. <3

I, Jaycee Khauv, do hereby leave with a diploma because I’m lazy and worked hard somewhat.

I, Teresa Nguyen, do hereby leave every thing I’ve learned with the two best Juniors Tiffany Pham and KimYen Descamps.

I, Kevin Do, do hereby leave my tricking legacy to the freshmen and sophomore C4 Martial Arts Team members to continue on.

I, Lorenzo Banzon, do hereby leave my love and support for my brothers Angelo and Paolo.

I, Joycelyn Pansoy, do hereby leave my 3 desks in Ms. Gorgers room in the first 3 rows to the up coming seniors.

I, Brandon Phan, do hereby leave C4 to the hands of my loyal students and stalkers. I leave my virginity to the tennis team. Special thanks to Escobar, Cummins, Roy (M), and Castro.

I, Anne Q. Hoang, do hereby leave Milpitas High School w/great knowledge and unforgettable memories. The class of 2012 is the bomb dot com! Good luck Amy Hoang next year. <3 I, Rebecca Hubeny, do hereby leave the position of Honorary Square Lady to be claimed by any Science Olympiad member. May your supply of balsa wood be bountiful. I, Carlo Cusi, do hereby leave to Ealine Manalong that I will leave my favorite dog and I hope she will take my will. I, Tashi Danielle, do hereby leave my pen so that someone will be able to do their homework. I, Kathy Kim Pham, do hereby leave my little sister, Susan, to fend for herself, my BB and my sophomore babies. Don’t forget to behave. Love y’all. I, Macros Mancilla, do hereby leave Milpitas High, keeping it trilla.

I, Axanti Anthony, do hereby leave temp tattoos to Korey, my job to Katelyn, my ‘‘toys’’ to Jared Pati ;) food for Cianne, shampoo for my stinky dog, food for the cat. I, Andrew Van, do hereby leave Chen-Hao Liao for all the other guys at UCSD. ;D I, Zoe ‘‘Bilbo’’ McCracken, do hereby leave my precious ring to my favorite nephew. May you find walking to Mordor simple. I, Tandeep Sodhi, do hereby leave a wonderful time and joyment in MHS. I, Vy Huynh, do hereby leave memories I had with my friends, through all the good and the bad. I, Tyler Do, do hereby leave my memories, in hope that the world will become a better place. I, Khoa Nguyen, do hereby leave my legacy of AWESOME for generations to come.

I, Shivam Dave, do hereby leave my super powers to the chosen one. I, Nikat Patel, do hereby leave nothing to MHS because... I, Celine Cacho, do hereby leave all the glitter, unicorn, Harajuku Lovers, and Tangled things to my faves, my Sissy, Lady Red, Baby Lupita, and my Big Boy.

I, Y-Dan Bui, do hereby leave my intangibles in every single orifice of every single person. Especially Benjamin Gardner’s and Nathan Ng’s. Multiple times. I will miss dominating you guys. I, Leanna Leung, do hereby leave all my black goth possessions and kawaii princess accessories to my Jumper family, love to my DECA babies (especially my mini-me Brenda), and nothing for Gretchen Weiners. I, Benjamin Gardner, do hereby leave MHS having successfully lived up to the legacy left by my brothers. I’m better than Y-Dan Bui.

I, Giselle Gagarin, do hereby leave the constant struggle to leave my bed every morning for 8 A.M. classes. Later high school!!! I, Kimberly Nguyen, do hereby leave my beloved baby cousin Nancy Pham with a deprivation of milkshakes. Boys, do NOT be coming into her yard. It’s bad. I, Anna Tri, do hereby leave MHS FOREVER. Goodbye to waking up early for school. Vilan Le, 143 I la la love you ^ _ ^ I, JB Almogela, do hereby leave $100 behind the L-building under a rock...

I, Thao Phan, do hereby leave my undying love for Ying, my unwavering hatred for Cindy, and a cup of milk tea for Sharon. P.S. Emy and Rebecca get nothing.

I, Lordesa Fok, do hereby leave my love, my best wishes for your future and your share of our memories together to my dear sister, Lordique. Plus, best of luck, upperclassmen buddies!!

I, Sydnie Turner, do hereby leave the band Kenny Kumar to the remaining members (Keep tipping on the TIGHTROPE) and the basketball team to my lovely ballers. Love you guys!

I, Benjamin Klunpaitoon, do hereby leave. Who the hell do you think I am?

I, Tryshna Malonzo, do hereby leave my Junior babies my love & support for your senior year. Ya’ll know who you are! Thank you for making my senior year memorable <3. I, Minh Dang, do hereby leave all my teachers. Have fun! I, Reginald Imbat, do hereby leave with high hopes, future nostalgia, and a hidden $20 around the G lockers. Good luck XD. I, Keven Gallegos, do hereby leave everything that I own to Emily Holland because I love her very much <3. I, Jordan Lockett, do hereby leave all my school football records for Trey Trey to try and break them.

I, Sonakshi Khadka, do hereby leave MHS with beautiful memories. This is where I learned my life lessons where my first step for future began.

I, Steven Ly, do hereby leave my hopes for Bryan Tran, Gary Le, Amanda Le, Allison Nichols, and all those I could not mention.

I, Tin Le, do hereby leave a $20 in a place of great secrecy. Of all the hiding places at MHS, I have determined that the most discreet place is.

I, Tiffany Law, do hereby leave The Union to the hands of the incoming Journalism class and the time consuming position of Photo Editor to LeAnn.

I, Wesley Ho, do hereby leave Obey crewnecks, cartoon themed backpacks, overpriced cameras, hats with the trashy sticker, and inevitable denial for the tools and phonies.

I, Jasmine Alvarez, do hereby leave the crazy football games with the obvious good times and stressful times of high school. Goodbye high school, hello college!!

I, Justin Vu, do hereby leave my negligence, pessimism, and overall incompetence to the high schoolers that come after me. Except my brother. Good luck and so long! I, Dylan Librande, do hereby leave my news page to Ying Luo, my pen marks to Brenda Su, and this pun to the world: ‘‘Grandpa, you can’t die yet. We haven’t senior will.’’ I, Kevin Lu, do hereby leave my hit list: Emma Stone. I, Luis Descanzo, do hereby leave CSF to Cindy and Alex and The Union to the new seniors. I, Terry Thunder ‘‘Jesus Man’’ Tsai, do hereby leave a copy of one million good times, hard lessons, and unforgettable moments at MHS in digital Blu-ray format. I, Thanh Tran (the sentimentalist), do hereby leave behind all my memories of MHS, to someday return, reunite, and reminisce. College is bittersweet; it’s a brand new start. We, The Seniors, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish juniors and ensure journalistic integrity, provide the copy edits, promote the Dropbox file share, and say bye to the baked goods of Librande, (the scones, muffins, and other pastries) do ordain and establish in the juniors this united state of fascination with Colburn.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE UNION CLASS OF 2012 !

Top row from left to right: Benjamin Gardner, Brian Khau, Nathan Ng, Y-Dan Bui, Luis Descanzo, Laura Cosgrove, Dylan Librande, Kewa Jiang, Thanh Tran, Terry Tsai, Andrew Van Bottom row from left to right: Zoe McCracken, Anna Tri, Leanna Leung, Ginna Lo, Tiffany Law, Priscilla Park, Hanna Tran, Rebecca Hubeny, Lordesa Fok

THE UNION IN FOCUS JUNE 2012

Many students cheat, few get caught STUDENT SURVEY 217 MHS students were interviewed in ten different history classes. This survey uses cluster sampling and may include some bias and error.

Have you ever cheated in school?

Have you ever been caught cheating?

How dif�cult is it to obtain test questions and/or answers?

Have your parents ever completed your homework?

Y: 87% N: 13%

Y: 24% N: 76%

EASY: 15% MODERATE: 52% DIFFICULT: 34%

Y: 12% N: 88%

What forms of cheating have you used?

Why did you cheat? DIDN’T SEEM LIKE A BIG DEAL

COPYING HOMEWORK

COMPETITION FOR GOOD GRADES CHEATING ON A QUIZ OR TEST NOT INTERESTED IN THE SUBJECT USING PUBLISHED OR ONLINE BOOK NOTES INSTEAD DIDN’T THINK I’D GET CAUGHT PLAGIARIZING ONLINE OR PUBLISHED WORK

TO GET INTO A GOOD COLLEGE

OTHER 0% PERCENTAGE OF RESPONDENTS

50%

PARENTS ENCOURAGED ME 100%

0% PERCENTAGE OF RESPONDENTS

Teachers discover various ways to cheat, advise putting ‘more energy in studying’ BY CINDY WU

Cheating is common in high schools across the nation, and MHS is no exception. Besides the simple looking-at-someone-else’s-paper cheating, MHS teachers shared other ways that they have caught students cheating in the past. One of the most common ways to cheat has been to take pictures of a test and send them to others, according to Chemistry Teachers Letta Meyer and Todd Seals. Another very popular cheating method is looking at notes during a test. English Teacher Kaila Schwartz recalled a cheating incident from 11 years ago. “It was the first time I’d ever seen the student wear shorts to school, and that person had written all the answers on her thighs,” Schwartz said. “That was always fun.” Special Education Teacher Tomina Morgan has caught a student

with notes “written all up and down his arm,” she said. “I was wondering why he kept looking at his arm.” Social Studies Teacher Frank Castro frequently catches students who sit right next to the bookshelf hiding notes there, he said. “They also put stuff on their arms, on caps — the rims. I enjoy barking their names when they’re caught.” Meyer and Schwartz both had also discovered websites that allowed for online cheating. “Years ago, Honors English had a website where students put essay prompts and other test information online,” Schwartz said. Other ways students have been caught cheating include writing answers on water bottle labels and leaving the bottles on the desk, mentioned by English Teacher Lindsay Mohundro; storing answers in calculators, according to Seals; and trying to “turn in papers of someone else and erase the

other person’s name and put theirs instead,” Math Teacher Michael Bautista said. At the end of each interview, all teachers voiced, in one way or another, their disapproval of cheating. “People think it’s less energy to cheat, but instead of putting that energy into cheating, might as well put it in studying,” Bautista said. “It’s much more rewarding.” Castro shared a specific story of when he caught a student cheating. “I remember one person who I caught. She told me ‘I was so tired’ for studying for another class. The way she said it, I knew she was tired. I can see why it happens as much as it does. I did give her a zero; I sympathize with her, but I don’t condone the cheating.” The general advice from teachers to students can be summed up in Castro’s message: “Just don’t cheat.”

Take-home tests valuable, but ‘have kinks’ BY ARTHUR TRAN

Tests are given out by teachers in order to test how much students have learned and to see how much they actually know about a specific subject. Students know test day means a dreaded period in class where a large part of their grades are determined. Usually, it is the time constraint and rushed atmosphere that define a test; you are not going to be given a whole day or even week to finish it. However, with take-home tests, students can get an extended amount of time in order to perfect their answers. Of course, that opens up the question of cheating. It is clear that cheating on a take-home test, where resources such as the internet or friends can be abused, is much easier than cheating on a test in class. Yet, this type of examination is still

used in schools, including our own, in order to test students. Chemistry Teacher Letta Meyer assigns four take-home tests total throughout the year to students in her Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry class. Tests are designed to be similar to those on the AP exam for Chemistry that is taken in early May. Although Meyer does give out tests in class as well, she assigns take-home tests to cover problems that cannot be all solved in one period. “It’s really one of those things where I want AP Chem [students] to get the experience and to be able to see what AP graders are looking for,” Meyer said. “There are just problems that take longer to solve.” Just because students are not in class to take the examination does not mean that the teacher cannot “see” students cheat; people have

been caught in the past before. Students have been found copying answers directly from an online source and copying answers from each other. According to Meyer though, this type of cheating has not been a major problem this year. “The take-home tests have kinks,” Meyer said. “If it was too big of a problem though, I wouldn’t do it this way.” If take-home tests are to be given, they should be more research oriented rather than be a list of problems, according to Math Teacher Michael Bautista. The final product turned in must be an original creation. “If you give a take-home test, it must be constructed so that there is no possible way to cheat,” Bautista said. “This is harder to capture with a subject like math.”

25%

50%

COMMON CHEATING METHODS AT MHS 1 Graphing calculator The program editor for graphing calculators allows text and numbers to be typed and saved. As a result, many students have resorted to putting their notes and formulas in their calculators to use during tests. 2 Smartphone Smartphones have Wi-Fi access to the Internet. Students often use smartphones to Google answers on a test. 3 Copying homework The classic example of cheating, students often refer to other students’ work when doing their own assignments. 4 Google Docs Google Docs are acceptable to use when working in a group; however, working on Google Docs with others on an individual assignment is along the same lines as copying homework. 5 SparkNotes and CliffNotes Instead of doing reading assignments for English, some students often resort to using SparkNotes or CliffNotes for easy summaries or for example essays. Such sources often contain shallow interpretations of literary works. 6 Knowing the test questions in advance Because many teachers use the same tests for every period, students from later periods often ask students about the test questions to know them in advance.

Pressure spawns cheating BY YING LUO

It is important to realize that although most young people believe cheating is ethically wrong, nearly every poll conducted reports that many have nonetheless cheated at least once in their high school careers. To find the reason behind this inconsistency is to understand why people cheat. While cheating is inevitable in every culture, David Callahan, author of The Cheating Culture, concluded that cheating has become more prevalent in recent years. He reasoned that one possible explanation for the rising numbers is America’s emphasis on wealth and success. “Societies [that place] the greatest emphasis on getting rich while having the fewest avenues to get rich in a legitimate fashion tend to be societies with the greatest amount of cheating,” Callahan observed. He continued to say that because

citizens are encouraged to think in Darwinian terms, they are in a desperate struggle against one another to reach the top. This mentality is similar to Darwin’s theory of survival of the fittest as they see failure as disastrous. Callahan’s theory is applicable to high school students: even the brightest students with the highest grades are prone to cheating due to pressures to consistently score well. Junior Trisha Te agreed with this sentiment. “I think society places pressure on [students] to do well, which causes students to resort to cheating,” Te stated. “The pressure could be parents comparing their kids to others, getting good grades to get into college, or finding a job with a high salary.” Te also added that pressure and low self-confidence could be related. Both can result in increasing instances of cheating.

THE UNION ENTERTAINMENT JUNE 2012

‘Huntsman’ aesthetics shine BY ANNA TRI

SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN DIRECTOR: Rupert Sanders STARS: Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Cla�in RELEASE DATE: June 1 RUNTIME: 127 min. MPAA RATING: PG-13 RATING (out of �ve stars):



Recommended

Growing up, most of us have heard of the famous tale of Snow White – a story of a beautiful girl who drops dead with a single bite of a poisoned apple. We all know that she comes back to life after a prince gives her a “true love’s kiss.” The recent movie “Snow White and the Huntsman” is based on this classic fairytale. However, there are certain twists in the plot—Snow White (Kristen Stewart) goes back to fight the Evil Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron), and the Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) is a more prominent character. While it is not the version many are used to, I still enjoyed the plot. There were many action-packed scenes that were quite entertaining to watch.

The movie has a dark mood to it, as there were many scenes that could be considered gruesome. “Snow White and the Huntsman” is definitely directed towards an older audience; the bloody and creepy images may scare younger children. Everyone was cast perfectly, except for Snow White herself. Stewart did not have many lines and, although exceptional, the actress for Snow White could have been better. The best acting came from Theron as Ravenna; she elicited the right emotions and her personality fit for an evil queen. The visual effects were amazing, and they largely contributed to the movie’s quality. Scenes such as Ravenna’s crow transformation and the fairies’ forest alone were greatly impressive. There were certain parts that could have been more detailed, but I like the plot and overall concept. However, the ending was fairly disappointing because it left some things up in the air for the audience to wonder about. The climax was also a bit rushed. Overall, the movie is engaging. However, if it weren’t for the visual effects, the film would not have been as impressive. If anyone is looking for an action-packed fantasy to watch, this would be a good choice.

C�� H�� B�� O�� (HBO)

Viserys Targaryen (Harry Lloyd) is punished by a Dothraki, a �ctional race of nomadic warriors, in season one of “A Game of Thrones.” This television series is an adaptation of the written series, “A Song of Ice and Fire.”

‘Thrones’ not just for fans of written series BY ZOE MCCRACKEN

What happens when you combine violence, political intrigue, sex, and fast-paced fantasy into one fantastic package? You do not get “The Hunger Games.” This combination is only possible in Home Box Office’s (HBO) TV-SERIES REVIEW “Game of Thrones,” an adaptation of “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin. HBO successfully brings Martin’s epic fantasy onto the television screen while creating a series that can stand on its own. Season two has recently been completed with season three scheduled to premier on June 3, 2012. This second season has proven that “Game of Thrones” is still going on strong and will please fans of all types. Religious fans of Martin would be disappointed with the show’s de-

C�� O��.��

Korra, the heroine of “The Legend of Korra”, manipulates �re and water. As the Avatar, she is the human embodiment of the spirit of the planet.

‘Korra’ fast-paced, engrossing BY TERRY TSAI

Earth, fire, water, and air. These four classic elements have begun to zip, swish, and fly again in Nickelodeon’s new animated series, “The Legend of Korra.” The show takes place 70 years after the events of the previous series, “Avatar: The Last Airbend- TV-SERIES REVIEW er.” Numerous people, called “benders,” have the ability to physically manipulate one of the four classical elements. The Avatar, however, can master all four elements; its soul reincarnates each generation. Benders control the elements with moves based on martial arts. Seventy years have passed since the original series. The industrial age has arrived, and the ancient art of bending has changed from a survival skill to a spectator sport in Republic City. The original cast of “Avatar” bows out to a new line of characters. These new stars are consistent and welldeveloped but not as lovable as the original. Korra, the latest Avatar, is headstrong and arrogant, compared to the more compassionate, spiritually-inclined previous Avatar, Aang. Tenzin, the Airbender in charge of mentoring Korra, is stern and level-headed. Mako, a Firebender and friend of Korra, acts stoically and aloof, but is capable of showing compassion, while his brother Bolin is high-spirited and optimistic. The show is set in an urban area, differentiating itself from the picturesque scenery of the original

series. The massive city is impressive at parts and grimy at other parts, from the unclean alleyways to the enemies who usually fight dirty. I can’t help but miss the idyllic scenery of the original series, but the new setting brings fresh new surprises to the viewers. One of the central themes in “Korra” is the issue of social equality. The show raises thought-provoking questions on social issues such as fairness between benders and non-benders. In Republic City, bending gangs run rampant, bullying and subjugating non-benders. This leads to the rise of an antibending extremist group called the “Equalists,” led by the elusive man in a mask, Amon. Amon promises to end the abuses of benders with his exclusive ability to take away one’s bending. “The Legend of Korra” doesn’t advocate one side of an issue over another, though. Problems arise from both the advocates and opponents of bending. One weakness in the show is the rather large screen time devoted to teen romance. After the first three episodes, each subsequent episode brings up the love rectangle that four of the main characters are in. Eight episodes have been released so far. The series may be too fastpaced at its current state, compared to the original series, but I feel that it better represents the complicated and fast-changing world we live in. Old fans will find many allusions to the previous series of Avatar, while new fans will enjoy the engrossing story, stylized action and detailed world the Avatar lives in.

viations from the written series, but then again, such followers would be frustrated with any adaptation. Given what the writers of the show had to work with, which was an 807page book, they did an excellent job. Of course, they added, omitted, and changed scenes; however, some alterations are necessary because books never translate perfectly onto television. I personally welcome the writing liberties that the show has taken. They manage to add an extra element the books did not have while not taking uncharacteristic leaps, which all too many remakes take. Some of the minor changes include the inclusion of certain characters. Though one may miss a third cousin from the Lannister family or be frustrated with the name change of a slightly important character, the writers made a good call. The book’s cast is too complex for a ten episode series; if every insignificant

character was kept for his 15 minutes of fame, new viewers would not be able to tell anyone apart. The alterations not only clarified but also contributed to the show. Though “A Song of Ice and Fire” did not lack explicit romance, “A Game of Thrones” definitely spiced things up. With season one, the show developed the relationship between King Renly and Ser Loras Tyrell. It also gave more insight into King Robb Stark’s love affair while rewriting his romantic interest. Instead of having him fall for a woman of class who is mentioned in passing, the show delves deeply into his developing feelings toward a medic named Talisa. “Game of Thrones” has remained loyal enough to appease most who have read the book while making the necessary changes to not confuse newer fans. So, regardless of whether or not you have read the book, watch the show.

Online comics vast source of amusement BY DYLAN LIBRANDE

With such a huge Internet, how is one dude supposed to find the coolest stuff? One new storytelling device that has grown in popularity in recent years is the webcomic: online comics updated a few times a week, telling either extended narratives or standalone gags. There are so many, though, that you will have to find your favorites by yourself. One of the most popular webcomics is “Homestuck”, a sweeping, over-7000 page-long epic that follows a group of teenagers playing a reality-altering game that ends up deciding the fate of the universe. It is incredibly long and incredibly dense, but those willing to brave the mountains of text and slow opening will be rewarded with a great story. With flash animations, interactive pages, and “Sweet Bro and Hello Jeff” (another webcomic created by one of Homestuck’s characters), readers will be entertained for quite a while. “XKCD” is another well-known webcomic, though it tends to appeal to the slightly nerdier crowd. The author describes it as “a webcomic of romance, sarcasm, math, and language,” with the tri-weekly joke strips dealing with topics such as quantum mechanics, classic literature, and cats. The art is probably the least interesting of any of the strips here, being just stick figures and word balloons, but for those

C�� MS��.��

John Egbert, from “Homestuck,” reenacts a scene from “Con Air.” He imagines himself as Nicholas Cage giving a toy bunny to his daughter.

who are into math and science this webcomic is one of the best. Those looking for pure thrills should turn to “The Adventures of Dr. McNinja,” a webcomic about a doctor who is also a ninja. This exciting and colorful webcomic tells the story of McNinja and his gorilla and raptor bandit sidekicks as he does battle against King Radical. The comic is fun to read and has stylish artwork, but its greatest strength is how it never takes itself too seriously. If you’re willing to

set aside a bit of time three days a week, you can fully enjoy this world of fantasy - a world that is, in one word, “awesome.” These three hardly cover the entire spectrum, however. Other popular comics include the “slice of life” comic “Questionable Content,” the video game humor comic “Penny Arcade,” the text-heavy but witty “Dinosaur Comics,” and the deeply scientific “Dresden Codak.” Explore around, and you will be sure to find something good for you.

THE UNION ENTERTAINMENT JUNE 2012

L�A�� W��//THE UNION

A cup of Tutti Frutti soy frozen yogurt with coconut jelly, brownie bits, and mochi is shown above. Tutti Frutti offers a wide variety of toppings.

Tutti Frutti opens in McCarthy BY CATHERINE FREY

TUTTI FRUTTI ADDRESS: 82 Ranch Drive Milpitas, CA 95035 PRICE: $0.35 per ounce of frozen yogurt OPEN: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sun-Thu; 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Fri-Sat RATING (out of �ve stars):

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Not Recommended

Tutti Frutti has a new shop in the McCarthy Ranch Shopping Center in Milpitas. This particular frozen yogurt shop also features an “O My Buns” bakery which offers coffee, tea, and Roti buns. Its official grand opening was held on March 27. The store celebrated its opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a raffle, and lowered frozen yogurt prices at thirty cents per ounce. Tutti Frutti’s current price for its self-serve frozen yogurt is thirtyfive cents per ounce and twenty-five cents per ounce during happy hour, which is from 2 to 6 p.m. Tutti Frutti offers 42 different soy-based flavors that are usually rotated each week, according to Tutti Frutti’s website. Tutti Frutti

chooses to sell soy-based yogurts primarily because of the health and environmental benefits soy provides. From my experience, the yogurt was not as solid as I would have preferred. The consistency was somewhat melted and gooey, but the yogurt itself had a good flavor. Tutti Frutti offers a variety of Roti buns. Coffee or Vanilla covered with chocolate chips and filled with cream cheese are all options. The buns at Tutti Frutti were not as light and fluffy or flavorful as the buns Honey Berry offers. The buns seemed slightly undercooked and chewy. The shop also offers coffee and milk tea. The milk tea is cheaply priced at two dollars for a 16 ounce cup, but the quality of the tea is questionable. The tea initially emitted an off-putting odor, something like nail polish remover and rubbing alcohol. After the smell faded, the milk tea itself tasted a bit watery and bland. If you’re looking to solve your frozen yogurt fix, Tutti Frutti would be a good candidate for cheap, decent yogurt, especially during happy hour. However, I suggest that you venture elsewhere for your milk tea or roti bun cravings.

YouTube celebrates anniversary with Korean pop music concert BY ARTHUR TRAN

On May 21, Youtube celebrated its seventh anniversary with a Korean pop concert at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, California. The concert was hosted by Google and the Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and was aptly titled “MBC Korean Music Wave in CONCERT REVIEW Google.” Many popular Korean singing groups were featured at this event, such as Girl’s Generation (SNSD), Sistar, B2ST, MBLAQ, Wondergirls, Super Junior, TVXQ, f(x), and KARA. The concert started out with a quick opening ceremony and a countdown before KARA opened with “Step.” From then, groups came on stage one by one to perform a total of three songs each, with a short message to fans after performing two songs. There was little delay between each performance, which was great since most of the people in the audience had been waiting in the huge lines at the entrance for hours. All performances were very well done; I have actually started listening to more of MBLAQ after what I thought was its brilliant choice of songs. There were no huge mess ups that were noticeable, and everyone was simply so enthusiastic. It was nice to see so many K-pop fans around the Bay Area screaming at the top of their lungs and obsessing over the same people. I have to note though, that some of the fangirls in

the crowd were somewhat scary; there was someone near my seat who seemed to have nearly fainted when Super Junior came on the stage. What I found interesting about the audience was that while the right side of the amphitheater stood up and danced to some of the songs, the left side remained seated for most of the concert. I don’t mean that half of the theater was not enthusiastic; to be honest I thought it was absolutely horrible that I took a seat on the right side. The girl in front of me stood up right when Girl’s Generation came out, which was simply aggravating. I had to stand up myself for the rest of the concert in order to see anything at all. The third song performed by each group was always one that the group is renowned for, making the final song in every line-up unbelievably predictable. For example, it was pretty clear to most fans that Super Junior’s last song would be “Sorry Sorry” and the Wondergirls would perform “Nobody.” Like other fans as well, I was pretty disappointed that some of the songs I wanted to be performed weren’t picked. However, the songs that were performed were good enough that I was satisfied. The concert was actually recorded as well as streamed live on Youtube’s channel, Youtube Presents. Anyone can still watch (or rewatch) all the performances on that channel’s page.

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Vocalists Hannah Hooper and Christian Zucconi of the band Grouplove perform at the BFD concert. The soldout concert, hosted by the Live 105 radio station, was held on June 2 at the Shoreline Amphitheater.

Over 40 acts showcased at BFD concert BY TIFFANY LAW

Over 20,000 concert goers attended the sold-out BFD, an annual one-day music festival hosted by the radio station Live 105. The event took place at Shoreline Amphitheater on June 2. The concert featured a large variety of music artists consisting of over 40 acts on four different stages. The line up ranged from more established and well-known bands on the main stage such as Jane’s Addiction and Cake, to more up and coming bands such as Fun. and Grouplove who were featured on the Festival stage. Another stage, the Subsonic tent, was devoted to the latest in Electronic Dance Music and featured artists such as Knife Party and Dragonette. The

local stage line up consisted of Bay Area artists. One of the early highlights included Of Monsters and Men, an indie folk band from Iceland best known for their hit “Little Talks.” They skillfully played a range of songs such as “Dirty Paws” from their debut album. Grouplove took the stage soon after and performed an energetic set consisting of their songs such as “Colours” and their hit “Tongue Tied.” Autograph signings went on throughout the day with many of bands such as Garbage, Silversun Pickups, The Naked and Famous, and Angels & Airwaves participating. Fans were able to meet their favorite musicians after seeing them perform live. Later, the groups Fun. and An-

gels & Airwaves performed on the Festival stage. Fun.’s set was largely enjoyable, however, they almost exclusively played newer songs such as “We Are Young” from their album “Some Nights.” Afterwards, bands on the main stage began to play. First off was The Naked and Famous, whose intense instrumentals and vocals were one of the highlights of the show. Soon after, the recently reunited band Garbage took the stage. Shirley Manson’s vocals kept the crowd entertained as she sang her older hits such as "Stupid Girl." However, Silversun Pickups’ performance was the highlight of the show. They kept a good balance playing both older songs such as “Lazy Eye” and the newer “Bloody Mary.”

THE UNION LIFESTYLE JUNE 2012

Students keep watchful eye on fading trend

FASHION SPOTLIGHT

Watches, though outdated, possess practical and sentimental value.

HENRY TRAN Senior 1. Sunglasses Ray Bans Gift

BY REBECCA HUBENY

Over the past few years, watches have become increasingly obsolete. There are few who can still tell time by looking at their wrists. However, some students still stand by the wristwatch in its dying days, even as cell phones take over watches’ domain. Sophomore Jake Pham is one of these few students who wears a watch. He received it as a gift from his father, he said. “It’s a very nice accessory, and it helps me tell time,” Pham said. “I don’t have to fidget with my cell phone in the class. I can just go, ‘Oh, look what time it is.’” Pham’s watch has a square face and is decorated with a perforated strap. Before he started wearing this watch, Pham had a metal watch that would rewind itself when shaken, he said. “I typically wear [my watch] unless I’m working out, and it’s really sunny,” Pham stated. “I don’t want to get a watch tan.” Senior Deanna Hartsook is another student who has been wearing watches for years. However, she is more concerned with the function than the fashion, she said.

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Junior Danny Phan shows off his silver watch, a family heirloom that had been passed down through two generations from father to son.

Hartsook’s concept of style regarding watches is digital versus analog as opposed to leather versus gold. “I’m just compulsive about knowing what time it is and what day it is,” Hartsook said. “I didn’t take it to science camp with me, and I almost went crazy. There were no clocks anywhere.” Hartsook also uses her watch’s alarm and timer, she said. She agrees with Pham regarding the ease of using a watch over using a cell phone. “It’s easier than taking out your phone because you have to get it out of your pocket and turn it on,”

5. Jeans $59

6. Shoes Goodwill $5

Hartsook stated. “A watch, you can just look at.” Junior Danny Phan’s watch was passed down to him by his father after his grandfather died in the Vietnam War, he said. Its current value is $400. “But I wouldn’t sell [my watch],” Phan said. “It was made in 1970, and it was passed down in 1974 when [my grandpa] was killed in action.” Phan has only been wearing his watch for a month, he said. He started wearing it during the Advanced Placement exams and has not stopped since.

One of the trendiest mobile device applications or “apps” on the market is not a game, but a photo sharing network. Instagram is available for download on the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, and, since this April, the Android, according to the Techcrunch website. Instagram reported having 50 million users in April and attracts about five million users every week, according to the ABC News website. Instagram is a free app that allows users to take a picture, apply a filter, and share it with social networking sites, according to Techcrunch. The sites include Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr. Images produced by Instagram are similar to images produced by traditional Kodak Instamatic and Polaroid cameras. The images are set into the shape of a square instead

of having the usual 4:3 aspect ratio used by most cameras. Instagram began as CEO Kevin Systrom’s experimental prototype, Burbn, according to the Quora website. Systrom never had a degree in computer science, but he left his original job after seeing that the prototype was making money. Systrom found Co-founder Mike Krieger, and together, they altered Burbn to launch Instagram on October 6, 2010. Since then, the company has grown to 13 employees and has one of the highest employee-touser ratios of one employee to 2.07 million users, according to the Wired website. Senior Michelle Nghiem uses Instagram on her Android device, Nghiem said in an online interview. She enjoys using Instagram because it works as a social network, she said. “It allows me to connect with my

family and friends all at once without having to send individual picture messages to each person,” Nghiem said. “I think Instagram would be better if more of my friends used it � there would be more pictures to look at.” Sophomore Nhi Tran said in an online interview that she does not use Instagram. She prefers using a traditional camera. “I don’t have a mobile device that uses Instagram,” Tran said. “I don’t wish that I had Instagram. I have my trusty old camera.” Doubling as both a photograph sharing and a social networking service, Instagram is growing in popularity due to its creative and user-friendly interface. The app links all of one’s social networking sites, making it easy to automatically upload photos to all of the chosen sites at once. Instagram’s popularity continues to surge.

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CORRI TAKEDA Senior

1. Vest Abercrombie & Fitch 2. Purse Urban Out�tters $45

3. Shirt Forever 21 $15

4. Leggings Cotton On $8

Le models stylish outfits on fashion website BY CARYN TRAN

Junior Vilan Le spends her free time modeling her outfits on Lookbook, showing off her everyday ensembles and the fun looks that she creates. Lookbook, an online community for fashion inspiration, enables Le to interact with other members by “hyping” or commenting on a “look,” Le stated. Lookbook is “a utility that allows members to document their evolving style and a collective gallery from which ‘lookbookers’ and non-members can draw daily fashion inspiration,” according to the website. Lookbook also claims to be “the world’s first, truly editorless fashion magazine” that “democratically recognize[s] the talents of real people around the world.” Lookbook seems to be useful to companies in need of advertising. Le said that she received free clothing from the company, SugarLips, to model on Lookbook. She received the articles of clothing under the condition that she posts a “look” wearing it, according to Le. “[I] received a free blazer!” Le said. “It was really surprising because I never would have thought

that would happen when I first started my Lookbook.” Le currently has 66 fans on Lookbook. The most popular members on Lookbook have around 10,000 or more fans, Le said. Le describes her style as being casual but still well-put together. Le’s favorite piece of clothing is her studded denim cutoffs which she studded herself. They are her go-to shorts because they’re comfortable as well as stylish, Le said. Le also recommended a few musthaves for the summer. Le said that girls should invest in a good highlow skirt. “You could get [the skirt] in either a jersey or a sheer fabric; either is perfect because they make your outfits look effortless yet not too formal,” Le said. “Another article of clothing that girls should have during the summer is brightly colored denim shorts. They add a really nice pop of color to outfits.” Though Le frequents H&M, Forever 21, and Urban Outfitters, she also enjoys customizing her own clothing. As a result, her clothes remain unique from what other students wear to school, Le said. Le also makes her own hair bows

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In her picture titled “Lost Traveler,” which received over 100 “hypes,” Le models a dark green parka, a pair of dark brown lace up shoes, a fedora hat, and a studded bag.

that she sells at school. This summer, she plans to bleach and dye denim.

Fashion Inspiration: “Homeless people. Cyber punkish/Steam punk.”

Instagram latest trend in social networking BY HANNA TRAN

2. Shirt Goodwill Gift

5. Boots Steve Madden Fashion Inspiration: “I get my inspiration from a lot of celebrities like Lauren Conrad or Selena Gomez. I also talk to Dorothy Van about a lot of fashion, and I really love the way she dresses.”

THE UNION LIFESTYLE JUNE 2012

Summer fashion showcases bright colors BY KEWA JIANG

Summer is here, and it’s time to switch out the dark winter clothes for something brighter and more colorful. This summer’s clothing is all about colors and patterns. One of the most commonly seen colors will be tangerine tango, the color of the year. Dresses and tops in this color add a bright dash to any wardrobe. Moreover, color-blocking and bold prints add flare to a monochromatic outfit. Color-blocked dresses or tops are sold in numerous stores, such as Forever 21 and H&M. Geometric patterns and tribal prints are also widely seen in stores. Some other popular summer articles of clothing are dresses and skirts. Many of the dresses this summer feature cut–outs, especially

in the back, and high-low dresses. High-low is a style of dress that is shorter in the front and longer in the back. In addition, maxi dresses are still very trendy this season, perfect for a day at the beach. There are also dresses that take a trip back in time with a more vintage style. Another type of dress that would be a great addition to a summer wardrobe is a white dress that helps to keep the heat at bay. There is a spectrum of white summer dresses, such as ones with lace or ones made of chiffon. Another way to beat the summer heat is with a tank top. Besides the basic camisole tank top, there are various tops that range from cropped to light and flowy. The colorful prints on these tank tops add a fun and eye-pleasing element.

Summer is the time to hit the pool, and this year’s swimwear has a large range to fit any body type, from the one-piece to the bikini. There are eye-catching, halter-top bikinis with swirling colors to shiny, metallic-colored one-pieces. The metallic color adds edginess to the plain black or gray swimsuits. Another new trend for this summer is the high-waist bikini bottoms, lending a retro feel to any swimwear. For those who are more daring, cut-outs are also a very trendy design. Besides swimsuits, cover-ups, for when you are just lounging by the pool, are very chic. Whatever your style is, this summer’s fashion is full of bright and lively patterns that will make you stand out from the crowd. Pick and choose to customize your outfits.

Sunscreen necessary for summer heat BY LEANNA LEUNG

As spring nears its final weeks, the sun is beginning to completely break forth from the clouds. Many students rejoice at the thought of no school and hot weather. While summer is a season of fun and excitement, those indulging in the sun’s rays unprotected will certainly not enjoy the peeling skin and painful red burn the following day. To escape from the sun’s unmerciful rays, make certain to follow these general guidelines to adequately protect your skin. On occasions in which you decide to venture out on a day that will be predominantly spent outside, apply a layer of sunscreen, and wear sunglasses and a hat.

Sunscreen may feel thick and uncomfortable on a hot day, but many manufacturers are now coming out with several different types of sunscreen that cater to consumers’ particular needs. Sunscreen comes in stick form, spray form, as well as the traditional lotion form. However, when given a choice to purchase sunscreen spray or another form of sunscreen, be wary of the spray. While the spray may be enjoyable to apply and offers other benefits such as a cooling sensation, it provides relatively light protection. Often, people do not spray enough for the sunscreen to properly shield your skin from the sun’s dangerous UVA and UVB rays. The formation of a white liquid on your skin indicates adequate sunscreen

spray application. When choosing a sunscreen, keep in mind that a SPF number of 45 provides about 98% protection, and an SPF of any higher is negligible in providing more protection, according to an article on WebMD.com. Also be sure to reapply every few hours, especially if you are swimming, as sunscreen wears away. If you are wary of sunscreen, many lotions and moisturizers now have SPF protection. Cosmetic brands are also increasingly incorporating SPF into their products. Sunglasses are not only fashion accessories, but also protect your eyes from sun exposure. Hats similarly shield your face from the sun. With these tools in hand, enjoy a sunburn-free summer!

Lei elegant graduation gift BY GINNA LO

Graduation is quickly approaching, and you don’t want to be caught empty-handed without a parting gift. Leis, a popular graduation token worn around the neck, are commonly presented when someone is arriving and leaving, so it’s no surprise that leis are given to graduates as they are leaving school and arriving to this new stage of life. Leis are typically made from fresh Dendrobium orchids with green leaves and vines. Although beautiful, these necklaces can be very pricey, especially when multiple leis are needed. Fortunately, leis can be made with other alternatives. Large beads, satin ribbon, origami, candy, and even money bills can also be used and are much more

affordable. With this particular ribbon lei, the materials are cheap, and the process is simple and hassle-free. This lei can be arranged with one solid-colored ribbon or a variety of colors. Another option is to let you lei hang freely around your neck instead of tying it into a necklace. It can be given plainly or with added embellishments. To further decorate your lei, tie in origami cranes and flowers all around. Add pictures to personalize the lei, or tie in letters of the recipient’s name, school, or class year. The ribbon lei is very versatile, so have fun with decorating your gift! Materials:  2 packs of curling ribbon  scissors

To begin, measure the desired length of your lei with the curling ribbon around your neck. Double the length of your ribbon, and cut the end. Fold your ribbon in half so that both sides are equal in length. Tie a knot at the top of the fold, leaving a small loop as the base.

Select two different colored curling ribbons and cut them into six inch long pieces. You’ll need a lot so be sure to cut as many as you can. Next, select one six-inch piece and tie it onto the right base string by double-knotting it into place. Using scissors, curl the ends. Repeat this process with the second color on the left base string.

Alternate the colors and repeat until you have reached the end of your base string. It will take some time, so be patient. Tie the right and left base strings together in a bow, or intertwine the ends into a braid. Finally, you’re �nished with your graduation ribbon lei!

THE UNION SPORTS JUNE 2012

Seniors to play college sports BY BENJAMIN GARDNER

Seniors Buddy Ames, Darrien Hamberry, and Eric Chang are just a few of those graduating who plan to play sports in college. These athletes distinguished themselves during their careers at MHS and plan to continue their athletic ambitions in college. Before they head off, they shared some of their plans and reflections on their time at MHS. Ames has been playing basketball for around ten years and plans to attend De Anza College. He is familiar with the campus and basketball team from his time playing at the college on the weekends, he said. Over the summer, he plans to continue to work out and get a job to help pay for college, Ames said. He is motivated to play basketball in college because it will help him receive a more affordable education, Ames explained. “I like to play basketball because I am a decent player and I enjoy the competition,” Ames said. “It is fun to play against other people that like to play basketball.”

Hamberry started playing football when he was a freshman at MHS and played for all four years of high school. He also plans to attend De Anza College in the fall, and after he graduates, he hopes to transfer to San Jose State University (SJSU), Hamberry said. College scouts talked with him and provided him with feedback on his playing abilities, Hamberry said. They advised him to continue working hard to improve his skills as well as to make sure he did well in school, Hamberry explained. “I will be training this summer, going to some football camps and working out,” Hamberry said. “I am motivated to play by the Lord, my family, and my love of the game. Football is more than a sport. It is your will and your heart.” Chang has been playing badminton since he was very young, he said. His favorite memory of high school is winning the SCVAL title in his freshman and sophomore years. He hopes that playing badminton in college at SJSU will make his college experience more enjoyable.

Osborne tests CrossFit in P.E. BY ANDREW VAN

Substitute Teacher Katie Osborne tested a new physical education (P.E.) program this semester, exclusive to first period called CrossFit. CrossFit employs a training method consisting of high-intensity, varied, functional movement, according to Osborne. Workouts include sets of different exercises with changing time limits, objectives, and intensities, Osborne added. Presently, the course has an enrollment of 35 and is only offered to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, Osborne said. The intensity and individualization of the class set it apart from the other courses available in P.E., Osborne said. “It’s more intense, the most amount of work, the most timeconsuming, and really hard. You’re responsible for your own placement in the class,” Osborne said. “There’s no quota, you work as hard as you can. No one didn’t try; everyone worked to the best of their abilities,” she added. She attended a seminar at Saratoga High School that had offered CrossFit. After, she decided to model a similar CrossFit program at

MHS as part of her Master’s thesis, according to Osborne. CrossFit could possibly be offered next year if there is sufficient demand and teachers willing to teach it, Osborne said. She said that she hopes it will become a regular unit in the curriculum and said that a smaller class size would make the program more student-oriented. “Physical fitness improves selfefficacy, confidence, and daily function. Fitness improves everything,” Osborne said. “I wanted them to learn how to exercise properly and efficiently and to learn how to eat and exercise well,” Osborne added, when asked about her goals for the program and her students. Senior Kolin Daniels said that he would be interested in taking CrossFit again because, unlike the other sports in P.E., it forces students to be active. He recommends the course to others, because CrossFit offers a very good workout. “Ms. Osborne makes you not want to quit; it’s not an option,” Daniels said. “I’m happy that Ms. Osborne offered the class. It’s really changed the way I look and my workout regimen and made me more fit and driven.”

Chen coaches volleyball teams at Mountain View High School BY REBECCA HUBENY

Many have seen at least one person break down under the stress of one job. Physical Education (P.E.) Teacher Anthony Chen has two jobs. In addition to being a P.E. teacher for the students at MHS, he coaches volleyball at Mountain View High School (MVHS). After Chen’s day of work at MHS, he travels to Mountain View where he becomes the MVHS Boys’ Varsity Volleyball Coach. He started coaching in Mountain View at the end of January, and in the fall, Chen will be coaching the Girls’ Volleyball Team at MVHS, he said. “I’m a teacher first and foremost, so my responsibility’s here,” Chen stated. “When I’m done with my responsibility here, then I’ll go over to Mountain View, and I’ll coach.” Currently, it is Chen’s third year teaching at MHS. For two years, he had assisted Coach Jeffrey Lamb with the girls’ volleyball team. However, he wanted the experience of being the head coach of a team. “I wanted to have an opportunity to lead a team also,” Chen said. “Ide-

ally, I’d like to coach where I teach,” he continued, but “Mr. Lamb is a legend here.” Chen said that he took the job at MVHS since he would be unable to coach volleyball at MHS. As a result of his decision, Chen realizes that there is a high possibility that the volleyball teams of MHS and MVHS will be in competition at some point in time, Chen said. Regarding the girls’ volleyball, Chen stated, “We’re right now in different leagues. We’re in the De Anza League, and Milpitas is in the El Camino League.” He continued, “But there might be some tournaments where we’ll be together. That’ll be kind of strange.” Chen spends much of his time traveling, he said. He leaves his home in West San Jose to work at MHS. Then, he travels to Mountain View after school before he finally goes back home. “On game nights, sometimes I don’t get home until 9:30/10:00, so it’s really long days,” Chen said. Smiling, Chen added, “My wife is okay with me being away from home.”

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Sophomore Alexa Cacao dives into the AAF Rose Bowl Aquatics Center pool located in Pasadena, California. Cacao, CCS diving champion for two consecutive years, has been practicing diving since she was 8 years old.

Cacao defends CCS diving champion title BY PRISCILLA PARK

Do you remember watching the Olympics when you were 8 years old? Even more, did watching the Olympics inspire you to pursue your dream at such a young age, and are you still striving to accomplish that dream? Not many can say that this is the case; however, Sophomore Alexa Cacao started diving at 8 years old after watching the Olympics and continues to master this sport with passion. Since starting her high school diving career, Cacao has been undefeated in all meets she has participated in. “My mom gave me the initial push,” Cacao said. “But I loved it, so I continued it.” Cacao is connected to the school’s swim team, but has a different coach, she said. Cacao participated

in eight dive meets to represent MHS this year. She placed first in all her meets including the De La Salle Invitational and CCS, defending last year’s title as CCS champion. “There was a lot of pressure for defending last year’s placing,” Cacao said. “I had to not think about placing and focus on each dive.” This season, Cacao set a goal that allowed her to focus on diving rather than focus on winning. Cacao knows what she is capable of performing and strives to dive to her full potential, she said. “My goals were to dive as well as I know I can, stay confident, and believe in myself,” Cacao said. “I usually don’t like to set goals for placing because it stresses me out, and so I don’t dive as well.” As a diver, Cacao enjoys travelling, receiving recognition, and forming tight bonds with her team-

mates; however, she also finds it hard to lead a “normal teenage life” because she spends so much time in the water, she said. “I don’t have a lot of time to relax and hang out with my school friends,” Cacao said. “ [Diving takes up] over half my time.” Cacao wants to pursue diving during college as well. She hopes to receive scholarships to dive for University of Hawaii, University of California, Los Angeles, or San Diego State University. “I never want to get rid of diving completely,” Cacao said. “It will always be part of my life.” During the spring season, Cacao practices and represents the school. However, once the season ends, her main focus shifts to diving for her club team, she said. Support from family, friends, and teammates motivates Cacao to continue the sport.

THE UNION SPORTS JUNE 2012

2012: Graduating Athletes to Remember

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Kevin Vuong Swimming

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Jordan Lockett Football and Track

Vinh Do

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Badminton

What was your position on the swim team? Varsity Boys’ Captain.

What was your position on the football team? Wide Receiver.

When did you start playing badminton? The summer before freshman year.

When did you start swimming? 4 years old.

When did you start football? When I was like 6.

What position do you play? Varsity one doubles.

Why do you like swimming? I love the water, the racing, the competing, and I get to make friends.

Why do you like football? I grew up around it. I like getting loose.

Are you going to play badminton in college? Yes, of course!

How many times have you made CCS? Four times. I only made it to the semi�nals [of CCS].

How many times have you made CCS? Three times. This year we made it to the second round of the playoffs.

What accomplishments have you won for swimming? I’ve won MVP three times since sophomore year.

Are you going to play football in college? I’m going to. I want to try to make it to the NFL, be rich.

What accomplishments have you won for badminton? I got 2nd place at League �nals for frosh/soph in freshman year, and I won 1st place in League for sophomore year. I made it to semi-�nals at League this year.

Do you swim outside of school? Yes, I swim for the Milpitas Tidal Waves and West Coast Aquatics.

Do you have any advice for other students? Just stay focused. Make sure you have all your grades right.

Are you going to swim in college? If I’m given the opportunity.

What was your favorite memory from football? Winning CCS sophomore year.

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Cassandra Cacao Track, Volleyball, Basketball

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Jacqueline Lamb Volleyball, Soccer, Track

Why do you like badminton? Because I enjoy the sport and want exercise. I want to be the very best. Do you have any advice for other badminton players? You should keep practicing if you want to be the very best.

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Madeline Gray

Soccer, Cross Country, Track

What events did you participate in on the track team? 100 meters, 200 meters, and the 4x1 relay.

How long have you been playing volleyball? My whole life.

What was your position on the soccer team? Sweeper.

How long have you been on the team? Three years; I injured my leg sophomore year.

What position did you play on the team? Setter and outside hitter.

When did you start playing soccer? When I was 5.

Why do you like track and field? I like it, because I get adrenaline from running.

Why do you like volleyball? It’s a competitive sport. I really like the team aspect of it.

What was your favorite memory from soccer? I remember when I was on the Cyber-Rays and I scored a rainbow goal halfway, over the goalie, and made it.

Do you play volleyball outside school? I play club.

Why do you like soccer? My dad used to coach me as a kid. My passion came from him. It’s fun pushing girls down.

How many times have you made it to CCS? Two times [to] CCS trials. Are you going to do track and field in college? Next year in college, I plan to attack the heptathlon. What was your favorite memory from track and �eld? All the bus rides home as well as the bonding with our 4x1 team. If you could only teach one sport to your future son or daugther, which one would it be? Track and Field.

What was your favorite memory from volleyball? Our tournament up in Sacramento. It was a bonding experience.

Are you going to play soccer in college? I’m going to play at Ohlone College.

Are you going to play sports in college? I’m going to play volleyball and track at DeAnza.

What accomplishments have you won? Freshman and Junior Female Athlete of the Year.

Do you have any advice for other students? Just have fun with it. Never give up.

Do you have any advice to other soccer players? Keep doing what you love to do.

THE UNION NEWS JUNE 2012

Mistakes affect AP testing BY LAURA COSGROVE

Wrong numbers of Advanced Placement (AP) tests were ordered for Calculus, Government and Politics, and U.S. History this year, which resulted in some students having to take the late administration AP test, according to Associate Principal Brian McGarry. Extra tests were ordered for Calculus, while some U.S. History students were mistakenly given Government tests, McGarry said. The error resulted from a couple of sources, according to McGarry: many students paid their AP fees right on or after the deadline, and there were new staff in the Student Bank who were not as experienced in the AP test process. Also, there were approximately 250 more AP exams ordered this year than in previous years, McGarry said. “There were some people in the Student Bank who hadn’t worked there before, but I don’t think it’s the fault of any one person,” McGarry said. “This year, there were more AP tests than ever -- we had been holding pretty stagnant at 700, and it jumped up to 950.” Junior Nathan Han said he did not mind having to take the late administration of the AP U.S. History exam. He paid for the test on the day of the deadline, and plans to pay the fee earlier next year, Han said. “They ordered Government tests

by mistake,” Han said. “I thought of it as an extra week to study.” To prevent this from reocurring, McGarry said he plans to crack down on the March 1 deadline for paying AP fees. This year, the deadline was extended for students who had missed it, which contributed to the confusion and mistakes, McGarry said. “Next year, if students are not signed up by the deadline, they will not take the test here,” McGarry said. “They can try to take it elsewhere, take it the following year, or just miss out.” In previous years, ordering for AP exams was simpler: the administration would order a test for every student in an AP class and send back the ones that were unused. However, in the interest of avoiding College Board fees and because there cannot be any required charge for classes in public schools, as recently reaffirmed by the American Civil Liberties Union suit of the state of California, the process changed. “Every test that doesn’t get taken, we get charged $13,” McGarry said. “And because of recent lawsuits and changes in the system, we can’t force kids to take the AP test.” McGarry characterized the mistake as not an indication of an error in organization. He stated that it was just a simple oversight in the confusion of doing a lot of students at the last second.

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Conductor Anne Vaaler leads the Magnolia Show Choir from the Magnolia Intermediate School on May 4 as it sings inside the MHS cafeteria. Music in the Parks is an annual event that was established 20 years ago.

Music in the Parks raises over $10,000 BY BRIAN KHAU

Music in the Parks is a band, orchestra, and choir competition hosted by MHS that spanned over six weekends from Apr. 13 to May 19, according to Music Teacher Chris Kaldy. The Music Department raised over $10,000 in the Music in the Parks fundraiser. This event has been held annually for the past 20 years, according to Kaldy. High schools come from all over the nation to participate in the competition, some even journeying from as far as New Jersey, Kaldy said. “Music in the Parks has competitions, which occur at MHS and amusement parks on the weekend,” Kaldy said. “We’re near Great

America, so Music in the Parks happens here. Whenever you see an amusement park, there’s always going to be Music in the Parks. Bands perform at MHS, then go to Great America on the weekends to see if they won any awards.” Local college professors also congregate to grade the bands on their performances, Kaldy said. According to Kaldy, there are about 200 individual performances at MHS alone. “Because Music in the Parks takes so much time, I require some of our students to help out, too,” Kaldy said. “The band kids should help out at least 15 hours, the parents eight hours, and the orchestra kids and freshmen eight to ten hours.” Freshman Justin Cheng described

the many jobs band members can have when helping out at Music in the Parks. For example, parking lot managers direct charter buses around the parking lots, and announcers inform the judges what songs are going to be performed next, according to Cheng. “It’s really nice to see the other bands’ styles, as it’s different than ours,” Cheng said. “I was really interested in the choir, as we don’t have a dedicated choir, and their voices sounded great.” Junior Steven Herzberg added that many schools come to MHS because it has a larger amount of space. It is also different from many other schools because of its usable theater, Herzberg said.

MHS joins national carpooling system BY HANNA TRAN

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Junior Jonathan Alkakos gives blood during the Stanford Blood Drive. The drive was held in the library on June 4 and collected over 120 pints.

Stanford Blood Drive hosted; over 100 donors participate BY BRIAN KHAU

The Stanford Blood Drive drew over 100 donors to the library on June 4, according to National Honor Society Co-President Cindy Ho. MHS donated over 120 pints of blood to the spring Blood Drive. Two clubs worked in conjunction to make the Stanford Blood Drive a reality: California Scholarship Federation (CSF) and National Honor Society (NHS). CSF and NHS volunteers helped each period, Ho said. The Stanford Blood Drive is held twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring, Ho said. Ho also added that the doctors at the Stanford Blood Drive were “extremely generous and kind. All of the doctors are very careful and considerate when it comes to the donor’s health, and they are very strict in making sure you receive the rest time you need before going back to class.” Ho tried to donate blood twice this year during the fall and spring of this school year but was deferred both times due to hemoglobin deficiency. Many other potential donors were deferred because they weighed

too little, traveled recently, or had other problems, according to Ho. “I was scared to donate, but when I found out I wasn’t even allowed, I became very sad,” Ho said. “I have been involved with the blood drive for three years, and knowing I was never once able to give blood makes me disappointed for not trying harder to increase my hemoglobin count.” Senior Yvonne Pham also expressed her disappointment when she tried to donate blood but was deferred. According to Pham, she was rejected because of weight. Donors who passed the screening were able to donate blood. Senior Jeremy Sousa said he had his blood donated in the Spring Blood Drive for the second time. “I thought [the Stanford Blood Drive] was really cool. [The doctors] made sure I was okay while I was giving blood,” Sousa said. “My favorite part of the Blood Drive was eating cookies and food.” Ho added that for those who were not allowed to donate, the Stanford Blood Drive will be held again next year. CSF and NHS will once again be working together next year.

MHS has been involved in a school carpooling program called School Pool since February, Principal Kenneth Schlaff said. The program has a website on which parents and families can register and sign up for carpooling, he said. Recently, the MHS administration had been working at reducing the amount of traffic on Escuela Parkway, Schlaff explained. However, due to budgetary issues, the city of Milpitas could not carry out the plans that the administration had suggested. “We were working on Escuela and the regulation of traffic,” Schlaff said. “[We] proposed a plan, and the city said, ‘This is good,’ but then the budgetary crisis hit. They had other

things to worry about.” This attention to the traffic on Escuela led Metropolitan Transportation Commission Consultant Matt Wood to propose the idea of School Pool to Schlaff, Wood said. The Escuela Parkway area with its three schools in close proximity has increased levels of atmospheric pollution, Wood explained. “MHS was identified as a school in an area that had three schools near each other,” Wood said. “The Bay Area Air Quality Management District and Breathe California had worked with these schools in the past on air quality issues associated with the high amount of automobile traffic generated by the schools.” Wood had contacted Schlaff in December to inform Schlaff of School Pool, Wood said. He explained that

School Pool is a ridematching data base where parents can find carpools for children. The main goal of School Pool is to positively influence families to change their transportation behaviors to promote more environmentally-friendly ways of transportation, Wood said. “The goal of the School Pool ridematching website is to provide a tool for parents to find other parents who are interested in carpooling or bicycling or walking to school in groups,” Wood explained. Becoming involved in this program did not cost the school any money, since all advertising materials and information were provided by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Wood explained. The level of participation in MHS is comparatively low.

SisterCities connects students across world BY LEANN WOO

SisterCities, an MHS club, has set up a program in which students can exchange letters with other teenagers throughout the world, according to Student Liaison Brenda Su. During the last few weeks, students have been receiving emails from their pen pals in Tsukuba, Japan. Through SisterCities, students have established connections with other students in different parts of the world, according to Su. Students at MHS have shown the most interest in Tsukuba, Japan. “[Tsukuba has] 17 students while we have a bit over 20, which I think is a good start,” Su said. “Milpitas carries relations with four cities: Dagupan, Philippines; Huizhou, China; Tsukuba, Japan; and Figline Valdarno, Italy. I hope the program expands next year.”

Joining the program is relatively easy, according to Su. All that is required is for an interested student to fill out a questionnaire, and SisterCities will pair up the student with another in a different city. “I also have a pen pal,” Su said. “Her name is Maho Munakata, an 11th grader. She enjoys making sweets and Japanese flower arrangements. It’s just fascinating learning about and meeting people of totally different backgrounds.” Junior Katie Luo heard about the program via Facebook and signed up. She was excited when she received her first email from her pen pal in Tsukuba. “Brenda Su had a wall post at one in the morning, and I commented on it,” Luo said. “The pen pal program interested me since I would be able to correspond with someone who lives so far away and

possibly make a new friend.” Most people who have signed up for the program have only received one email, according to Junior Quan (Katy) Luu. While the experience has yet to be enlightening, Luu said that there is potential to be found. “[My pen pal] lives in the same city that ‘Kamikaze Girls’ was filmed in,” Luu said. “That’s one of my favorite movies.” SisterCities is a program that ventures further than the school’s boundaries, Su explained. It is a nonprofit citizen diplomacy network created in 1956 that aims to strengthen partnerships between the United States and international communities. “Look out for more information if you and your family would like to host a foreign student,” Su said. Interested students should contact Su for more information.

THE UNION NEWS JUNE 2012

SAT requirements change after widespread cheating BY YING LUO

College Board and Educational Testing Service (ETS) announced in late March that students will be required to upload or mail recent, recognizable photos of themselves during SAT registration starting in the 2012-2013 school year. The organizations will enforce new regulations in order to discourage students from cheating. High schools will automatically receive the scores of the test takers, College Board stated. Schools will be able to either confirm that students’ test scores amount to their academic capabilities or report suspicions if their test scores and academic aptitude do not match. Such measures were taken after the arrests of 20 students from Long Island last year, according to Wall Street Journal Staff Member Will James. Prosecutors alleged that these high school students paid college undergraduates between $500 and $3600 per test to take the SAT or American College Testing (ACT) in their place between 2008 and 2011, James continued. College Board also stated that students must now register before the testing day. Students will also not be allowed to switch tests or locations on testing day anymore, College Board continued.

“We believe these new enhancements will effectively eliminate the issue of test-taker impersonation,” College Board Spokeswoman Kathleen Steinberg said. Students must sign an updated certification statement acknowledging that impersonation could result in criminal charges as well, Steinberg added. Sophomore Brenda Su raised concern as to whether colleges and their admission officers will have access to identification photos as they do SAT scores. She stressed that they could potentially use these photos to judge applicants during the undergraduate admission process. “Admission officers are humans, and humans tend to form opinions based on first impressions and appearances,” Su affirmed. “This could damage their integrity if they were biased.” Su pointed out other flaws in the new registration system. She added that although College Board has good intentions, its new measures may not be completely effective in weeding out cheaters. “I think overall it would help catch cheaters, but there are a few exceptions. For example, people who do badly in school might score really well on the SAT,” Su commented. “It would be unfair if they were invalidated.”

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(Left to right) Junior Maggie Santellano, Senior Pooja Pal, Freshman Louisa Garcia, Seniors Rafael Venegas and Katalena Chavira, and Junior Kenia Perez dance during the recital. The event was held on June 5 and 6.

Dance class students perform in recital BY LILLIAN KAO

The ninth annual MHS dance recital took place on June 5 and 6 in the MHS Theater. The dance recital, which had performances by the dance class students, exhibited many different types of dances learned over the past year, according to Dance Teacher Mandy Cottengim. Practice for the recital, which had pieces choreographed by students as well as pieces choreographed by Cottengim, began approximately three months before the recital, Cottengim said. The theme of the dance recital was “Do Your Thing,” according to Cottengim. “The best thing about the dance recital is seeing the kids enjoy

themselves and perform,” Cottengim said. “A lot of the time, it’s their first major chance to perform on the stage. It’s also just seeing how hard they’ve been working all year to have it finally pay off.” When she first performed, she was nervous, Senior Abigayle Rosario said. However, after hearing the screaming, the nerves go away, according to Rosario. “I liked the entire dance recital,” Rosario said. “It was fun meeting the other dancers and hanging out with them.” Junior Thavisack Dorlybounxou said he took approximately 4.5 days to choreograph his student piece. He showed his routine to the class, and those that were interested in dancing the routine were included

in the routine, according to Dorlybounxou. “The best thing about the dance recital was hearing everybody cheer,” Dorlybounxou recalled. “The audience was very awake and upbeat. I hope that they had a good time seeing all the different styles of dance in the performances.” Senior Helen Dang attended the dance recital to support her friend, Senior Steffany Lingad, according to Dang. Though there were numerous hip-hop pieces, they were all executed extremely well so the show was interesting to watch, Dang added. “It was really good,” Dang said. “The second to last group of dancers that performed were really into it, which made the crowd go wild.”

SECURITY: Schlaff requests supervisor role FROM PAGE ONE

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Teachers Jesus Zamudio (left) and Danilo Escobar (right) receive food from a parent at the Staff Appreciation Lunch that was held on June 5.

Staff Appreciation Lunch held; community, parents help out BY THAOCHAU PHAN

Milpitas High School teachers and staff members gathered for the annual Staff Appreciation Lunch on June 5 in the MHS Career Center. Hosted by the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), the lunch honored approximately 150 to 200 staff members and teachers, according to PTSA Secretary Suzanne Williams. The lunch included a variety of dishes for teachers and staff members to choose from such as beef and vegetable rice, Kahlua pork, fried rice, shrimp salad, green beans, and much more, according to Williams. However, with an available budget of only $550, the PTSA relied heavily on the donations and cooperation of the parents and community in order to hold the event, Williams said. The purpose of the event is “to make staff feel loved and appreciated for all they do,” Williams said. For this year’s lunch, the PTSA received $520 in parent donations as well as various food, supplies, and support from organizations such as Peet’s Coffee, Nob Hill, and

Twin Royal Restaurant, according to Williams. Special Education Teacher Suzanne Moffett stated that she was especially grateful for the amount of work and trouble that the parents underwent to prepare the entire lunch. There was an abundance of food and dishes this year, Moffett noted.

the students, according to Woods. “They’re nice,” Woods said. “None of them are weird and the kids get along with them. It’s good that the kids can have a common ground with them.” The administration has held numerous meetings with Universal Protection Services to discuss the behavior of its security guards, according to Schlaff. Despite requests for a supervisor from the company to be on campus to oversee the necessary changes, no such supervisor has been provided, Schlaff said. “I am not their supervisor and

neither are the administrators,” Schlaff said. “Their supervisor is part of the company and they were not monitoring the particular behaviors that were to change.” In order to improve the performance of the security guards, it will be mandated that the supervisor of the company’s security guards be at MHS on a regular basis, Schlaff said. The supervisor would allow the administration and the company to collaborate in creating trainings specific to MHS, Schlaff explained. “That will be built into the contract, that a supervisor will be here on a regular basis to observe what they’re doing, and for the first three

weeks, they’d be here everyday,” Schlaff stated. “That supervisor is here to help get them off the ground.” Currently, the number of security guards on campus is not adequate, Schlaff said. “Three is a small number that makes it difficult to handle the myriad of things that are happening on campus,” Schlaff said. “There are just too many operational things and too many nooks and crannies on campus.” The current MHS security guards declined to comment for the article.

EYE ON CAMPUS

“It was nice to feel that we are appreciated.” �� “The whole thing looks real good,” Moffett said. “The fact that parents take time to appreciate us and make us meals is really great.” Out of the entire lunch, however, Science Teacher Lisa Brizuela stated that her favorite meal was the salad. According to Brizuela, she enjoyed being able to sit together with other teachers and eat lunch since teachers often lack the time to do so. “A lot of the time we feel that our profession is underappreciated,” Brizuela said. “However, it was nice to feel that we are appreciated.”

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Sophomores Casey Kitazumi (left) and Jennifer Jacobs leap skillfully as part of the senior dance during the Senior Rally. All classes had individual dances and incorporated themes from previous rallies.