10/10/08

Volume 41 October 10, 2008Number 9 WWW.PAWPRINTSWEEKLY.COM

Glen A. Wilson High School Hacienda Heights, California 91745

the INSIDE story

College visits inform students about admissions

KEY TO YOUR FUTURE - Students listen on as a speaker from the University of California Santa Barbara talks about the requirements for admission and explains the UC application. PHOTO/MICHELLE GOR

Conferences offer parents insight into student progress

EDITORIAL | Politicians contradict ideals of democracy and discourage election awareness by insisting on a voter dress code.

Witness sophomore Victoria Lin is sworn into oath by baliff junior Jonathan Liang during mock trial practice, afterschool Tuesday. PHOTO/PAULLA VANGCHAROEN

By YUHUA WANGSTAFF WRITER

Usually kids want to go to college, but now colleges are coming to us.

“College presentations are basically when college presenters visit us to talk to students about what colleges have to offer,” said college career center guidance specialist Babette Cervantes.

The purpose of this event is to provide students with information regarding college applications and the admission process. Speakers will also be talking about campus life and SAT and ACT scores necessary for admission. Afterwards, the audience will be given the opportunity to ask questions regarding the college.

Schools that are represented include the University of California system, several Cal state colleges and private schools. Vocational and technical schools, along with junior colleges will not be sending speakers until spring.

“For students interested in the UC or Cal state systems, I encourage them to listen to all the presenters

from the UC or Cal state systems,” said Cervantes. “Each one talks with a little different perspective; some more clearly defined in certain areas, some more clearly in other areas.”

Presentations are generally held in the media center or career center, depending on the number interested.

While all students are invited to attend, Cervantes especially encourages

juniors and seniors to participate to gain insight into the process.

Some students have responded positively towards the college presentations.

“I really anticipate the college presentations because it gives me an idea of campus life and the colleges that would better suit me,” said senior Elizabeth Choong.

Other students appear to be less enthusiastic.

“I’m not attending the presentations. I’ve already visited the college campuses,” said senior Kyle Kitagawa. “I know what college I want to go to.

The enrollment in college presentations is generally high.

“We’ve had some good responses and a lot of students have signed up to see the presenters,” said Cervantes.

College presentations began during the last week of September and will last until the middle of November. Interested students are able to sign up in the career center. Deadlines for each course are generally set for the morning of the event.

By ALEX CHAOSTAFF WRITER

No more hiding those bad grades! Wilson will once again be hosting parent conferences on Oct. 23 in the gym.

The sessions will allow parents to meet their child’s teachers and find out how he or she is doing in class. Teachers will give feedback on the child’s grades as well as a description of the child’s behavior in class. Each meeting with a teacher is intended to last five minutes maximum.

“These parent conferences give parents and teachers an opportunity to talk with each other about how the student is doing and how he or she can improve,” said Ben Webster.

Student volunteers will be preparing the gyms for the conferences and help out during the meetings by serving as translators, refreshment stand workers, student schedule distributors, timers and greeters.

Those who do volunteer will meet in the gym at 8:00 a.m. to about 9:30 a.m. and can then choose whether to go home or go back to class. The helpers will then reconvene for the meetings afterward.

Administrators say they hope for a good turnout of parents with these sessions. “The main goal of the conferences is to have high attendance and to work with parents to provide

students with the best education possible” said Webster. Some students say they are looking forward to the conferences. “I am for parent conferences because I’d rather have my parents know how I’m doing in the class

then have them simply know my grades,” said sophomore Jesus Reyes. Other students say they would rather not have the meetings at all.“I don’t like parent conferences because I’m afraid about what they teachers will say to my parents,”

said senior Vivienne Lee. Students wishing to work at the conferences can sign up with any school club president. Sign-up

sheets are due to ASB by Oct. 14. The first session begins at 2:30-4:30 p.m. and the second at 6:00-8:00 p.m. pg 3

October 10, 20082 News

RWMA looks forward to first meet of the year

Murder mystery dinner

LOOK INTO THE FUTURE - Senior Desire Venture holds out a crystal ball to guests at the murder mystery dinner, Thursday. PHOTO/IRENE CHOU

Annual KIWIN’S fundraiser stymied by delaysBy VICTORIA SUNSTAFF WRITER

Treat or treat! Give me something good to eat! But I’d rather have your money, please.

Traditionally, KIWIN’S has raised money for medicine, education and water for needy countries through the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) by asking for donations. This year, KIWIN’S annual fundraiser for UNICEF has been delayed.

“We’re scared because we haven’t gotten the boxes yet. The program officially started on October 1 and they are supposed to be automatically sent to us by UNICEF. It’s already October and they still aren’t here,” said co-president senior Arial Chen. “But we’re hoping for the best. Once they arrive, we want to earn at least $500.”

KIWIN’S is supporting a UNICEF program called “Kicking AIDS out of Kenya,” which helps create girls’ soccer

By LAURIE ALLREDSTAFF WRITER

Drumroll, please!This Saturday, the Royal Wilson Marching Alliance (RWMA) will be competing at the Valencia Field

Show Tournament.The group will be performing four songs at the field show, titled Riverdance Opener, Bluebird, Song of

Oisin and Incantations.In preparation, the RWMA practiced an average of thirteen hours a week, which includes two evening

rehearsals. During these run throughs, the group did marching drills and polished their music.“The main reason we’re going to this competition is to get feedback from the judges. This will help us

establish what we should improve on. We’re always working on getting better; we’re not perfect,” said band director Jonathan Chang.

The band will be judged in three categories: music performance, general effect and visual performance.“Our music is definitely our strongest point. Even though the group is smaller than past years, I think

it mostly comes down to the individual to win competitions,” said tenor brass section leader senior Cesar Polanco.

Because of their large size, the RWMA will be entered into the Class 4A category and will face Anaheim HS and University HS.

This year is the RWMA’s first time in half a decade going to Valencia. As a result, some members say they have mixed feelings.

“It’s scary. I’m really nervous but also excited because the upperclassmen say competition is the most fun thing,” said freshman Kelly Lin.

Others say they are full of anticipation. “The best part of band competitions has got to be the suspense of waiting for our placing and then

hearing our name as a high place. Plus, if we win, most of the members go out to eat and Chang is pleased,” said drum major junior David Moon.

The field show tournament is set for Saturday Oct. 11 at Valencia HS. The RWMA will be performing at 6:30 p.m.

LINE UP NOW, CHILDREN - Clarinet and flute players stand in a line as they practice marching, Tuesday. PHOTO/PAULLA VANGCHAROEN

Wilson to inform about online bullyingBy MELODY WANGSTAFF WRITER

The Internet has become an invaluable tool for homework, but with new technology comes new troubles.

Wilson and other schools in the district will be hosting a meeting to inform parents of the negative effects of cyberbullying, as a part of Wilson’s Parent Education Sessions.

Cyberbullying is commonly defined as using the Internet as a form of intimidation. Common cases of cyberbullying occur on popular websites such as Myspace and Facebook when users post derogatory messages for others to see.

Wilson decided to cover cyberbullying after discussing the topic with other schools which have hosted similar sessions before. Parent education sessions have been hosted for three years now, teaching subjects such as emergency preparedness and college seminars.

“These are issues that parents face with teenagers and young kids. They should get support to face at home. Cyberbullying is an issue that has gone onto communities that parents ask about,” said assistant principal Chris Sweet.

During the first hour, local law enforcement will show a presentation on law and how it pertains to cyberbullying. The last half hour will be for questions and answers.

A few students say they are familiar with cyberbullying.

“Cyberbullying is basically making fun of people while they are not in front of you. Not only is it mean, but you’re kind of being a jerk and you’re just making yourself look worse. The reason why people cyberbully is because someone online is weaker than they are or whose work is superior to [theirs],” said junior Alan Yip.

Everyone is welcome to attend.“The session is really for parents but they might

bring some students along,” said Sweet. The meeting is set to take place in the media

center from 7:00 to 8:30 pm on Tuesday Oct. 21.

teams in several districts throughout Kenya. The non-profit group hopes that through sports, women will learn to become more confident and self-sufficient in order to make more carefully considered decisions related to sex. This program will also be used to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS during the games.

The club will be participating in “Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF” to raise funds. Members will “trick-or-treat” by carrying around orange boxes and asking for money donations that will go toward the cause.

Meanwhile, KIWIN’S will be using other methods to collect money until the boxes arrive.

“We have to improvise, so cans for donating will be placed in classrooms around campus by next week,” said co-president senior Garfield Kwan.

Some students say they think what the club is doing is a good idea.

“Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF is a good way to raise charity because some

people compete to see who can collect more money,” says senior Jonathan Wu, who has done the program before. “In

the end the total amount collected is greater than the goal.”

The fundraiser will end late November.

Editorial 3October 10, 2008

Dress code insults political awareness

NEWSCarey Leung

Brandie Wong

EDITORIALStephanie Chang

FEATUREPERSPECTIVES

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS VISUALS

Renee TangSabrina Dea

Allison Ko Howard Li

Charles TsueiChris Chiang

Jennifer ChowMichelle GorSonia Tellis

EDITORS

Alyssa RobertsAdviser

Double EaglePrinting

Glen A. Wilson High School16455 E. Wedgeworth DriveHacienda Heights, CA 91745

www.pawprintsweekly.com

An open forum, Paw Prints encourages the written opinion of its readers in the form of signed letters to the editor or longer commentaries on topical subjects.

While we recognize the individuality of all forms of expression we reserve the right to edit and / or censor that which we feel necessary in accordance with California Education Code 48907 and standards of good taste.

All communications must be signed. It should also be understood that the views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinion of individual Paw Prints staff members or the policy of Glen A. Wilson.

Number 9©Volume 41

Billy LinCharles Tsuei Editors-in-Chief

While presidential candidates debate over the critical issues of our nation’s future, politicians are engaged in another, perhaps more trivial dispute.

Republicans and Democrats in Pennsylvania are currently deliberating over a “voter dress code.” In last spring’s primary, voters wearing Obama shirts were turned away from polls and banned from casting their ballots until they covered up the lettering on their T-shirts. The incident prompted discussion about limiting the expression of political views via campaign T-shirts and pins. Republicans insisted that politically-expressive attire present a “domineering” front that could potentially dissuade other voters from voting according to their true beliefs. Democrats disagree, fearing that a dress code would not only intimidate new voters, but limit the right to expression.

While the broadcasting of partisan affiliations and political beliefs through campaign attire may be a minor annoyance to voters who prefer an atmosphere of neutrality, a T-shirt certainly isn’t enough to scare a truly-motivated citizen to change his or her vote. People vote because they believe their opinion is valid enough to play a part in our country’s political process—not because someone’s T-shirt said it was a good idea.

The beauty of the democratic process lies in the right to express our opinions and beliefs. The practice of voting is itself a celebration of our individual voice, an acceptance of responsibility in our country’s future. This freedom of expression should be available to all citizens—in and out of the voting booth.

In fact, these forms of political expression, from bumper stickers to buttons to T-shirts, celebrate and encourage citizen participation in the election process, something central to any democracy. Though most aren’t even eligible to vote, teenagers enjoy voicing their beliefs by wearing slogans such as “Barack the Vote” and “Peace. Love. McCain.” Even the hot pink “Paris Hilton for President” shirts have an endearing presence on high school campuses.

Far from threatening, as some Pennsylvanians might have argued, such campaign commodities may actually encourage political awareness among teens. As a casual means of communicating political beliefs, they foster intelligent discussion and debate. They embody the excitement of the political process, as well as an individualistic longing to be heard. Graphic tee’s bearing the words “Rock the Vote” and “Make Them Listen to Us” not only appeal to teens, but also allow political activism to enter mainstream youth culture. Once notorious for their stereotypical ignorance and apathy, teens are becoming increasingly involved in the political process. According to state reports, the percentage of teenage votes has doubled in recent years.

Politicians have constantly emphasized the importance of voting and election awareness among the entire population. But when politics seems to have found its way into something as casual as fashion, politicians attempt to suppress one of the most promising signs of increasing awareness among teens. Creating a voter dress code is contradictory to the ideals that underlie the democratic process, and to the very foundations of our country’s political philosophy. We all have the right to express ourselves—whether it’s through the votes we cast or the clothes we wear. Ultimately, the freedom to openly express your beliefs is the true spirit of democracy.

By PETER SUH

&SUCHsuch

“I would go to homecoming with you, but I have to...”

Cat Tracks

A college application workshop will be held next Wednesday, Oct. 15, in the media center from 7-9 p.m.

Also, the 58th District College Fair is set to take place at Golden Eagle Conference Center in Los Angeles from 10 a.m.-1p.m.

ART/ SONIA TELLIS

Perspectives4 October 10, 2008

Writer questions common desire for fear

Critics abuse privileges of 'Freedom of Speech'ART/ ALLISON KO

By JON JON LEWSTAFF WRITER

Ominous music followed by a piercing scream.Instead of running away in fear, millions of eyes

stay glued onto the movie screen.The idea of paying good money just to get scared

has always perplexed me, so I decided to experience the thrill of fear for myself.

At three in the morning, just past witching hour, my friends and I wandered through a supposedly haunted forest in Pasadena. With ears alert and hearts thumping, we slowly traversed the dark woods. Suddenly we heard a branch snap, and quickly whirled around only to stare back at nothing but a gaping black wilderness.

Throughout the hike, I was constantly asking myself, “What am I doing here?”

In the end, there were obviously no monsters lurking in the trees, and the most terrifying part of the whole ordeal was seeing my 50 dollar jeans completely ruined by dirt.

But what if we really had encountered a supernatural entity? Honestly, what could a person do against such paranormal forces?

The more important question however is, “What truly drives us to seek such spooky situations?” For some strange innate reason, people like being scared.

While some people are just born thrill seekers, there may be another explanation for this phenomenon. Research shows that a specific biological reaction occurs when one feels

threatened. Commonly known as an adrenaline rush, hormones enable those who experience fear with heightened strength, power, and energy.

Horror films, reality t e l e v i s i o n s h o w s ( F E A R Factor in

part icular) , and various “haunted”

sites including Gallister Park, Turnbull Canyon, and the Pomona

Graveyard are all popular outlets for those who enjoy experiencing fear. They provide the pulse-pounding excitement that cannot be found anywhere else.

This emotion is so powerful that people have been literally “scared to death.”

According to the studies conducted at the University of California, San Diego and published in the British Medical Journal, perfectly healthy people h a v e died from “fright brought on by

everything from earthquakes to amusement park rides.”

Thus, I found myself asking, “Is the thrilling sensation

associated with fear really worth dying for?”

However, being scared is more than mere excitement; it simply has a unique sensation.

Alongside joy, sadness and anger, it is a key component of innate

human emotions, and is essential to our survival.Maybe, there is more to it than just a

little excitement. Challenging our fears and exposing ourselves to such terrifying experiences may be a way

to test our humanity. Accepting the fact that we are afraid of things makes us more human.

In addition some of us may see our phobias as a personal test, while others are just curious to

see if there really are things that go bump in the night.

But despite all these valid reasons to enjoy a little fright now and again, I’d rather have

peace of mind than let ghouls and ghosts have a piece of me.

By ELINA OLIFEROVSKIYSTAFF WRITER

The phrase, “it’s a free country” has become a pathetic excuse for disrespecting people, especially of authority.

When the Bill of Rights was passed in 1971, Congressmen believed that people would appreciate the fact that they now had the freedom of speech, and could now speak out, without censorship or limitation. And they were mostly right, until people began misusing their privileges.

We now believe that we can say anything without any consequences. Now, we live in an era where a cursing toddler is funny, public property is tagged with graffiti and humiliating and digitally altered pictures of politicians are spread around the internet.

Where does it stop? It seems as if there will be no end to this because there are no boundaries that prevent people from abusing this freedom.

Back when men wore poodle-like wigs and white stockings, the Sedition Act (1918) strictly forbade Americans from using "disloyal, profane, scurrilous, or abusive language" about the United States government, flag, or armed forces.

It was put into action during the war, in fear of anti-war dissent, and was repealed two years later.

Under the Sedition Act, everyone from common-folk to Congressmen was arrested for slandering government.

One man was convicted for saying that he wished the wadding of a cannon fired in a salute to the President Adams would hit in the “seat of his pants.”

A congressman was imprisoned because he called President Adams a man who had a “continual grasp for power.”

People were constantly in fear of saying the wrong thing. Any mention of dissatisfaction with the war or president could result in an expensive fine or a few years in jail. The law was cruel and allowed no exceptions. But the law worked to prevent frivolous, irresponsible expression.

Although the law discouraged individual thinking and opinion at times, it embedded the important idea of respect for authority into the minds of people.

Those in power need to be supported, even if they are not completely successful. Because of the Sedition Act, people eased up on the constant disrespect of others.

Even feigning respect had the same result. This insincere respect and decreased criticism can encourage

Presidents and Congressmen to perform confidently and effectively.

But today, Congressmen feel a terrible lack of encouragement, and the President is criticized for every small detail of his life. Critics exaggerate, humiliate and fabricate information about the President until he is conceived as the worst leader. The Congress is rendered powerless and the Supreme Court useless.

People, with our big mouths and opinionated judgments, beat and batter our government until it cannot function. We destroy our country with our tongues and leave our nation internally defeated. Other countries no longer respect our nation as the strong

ART/ VANESSA HO

leader it once was. At the same time, our cynicism destroys any possible feelings of hope.

Another Sedition Act is too extreme, but something must be done to foster responsible expression.

Let us treat our country with the respect it deserves. Let us strengthen our country with our words and actions, and not weaken it.

Next time you use the phrase “It’s a free country” as your excuse for being rude, ask yourself: Who keeps it a free country anyway? Think a little, and realize that it is those same people of authority who maintain this freedom. Don’t criticize those who gave you the freedom to criticize.

Feature 5October 10, 2008

Students appreciate true value of money

GRAPHIC/ JENNIFER CHOW

Paw Prints asks:How do you spend your

money wisely?

wordon the

STREETCOMPILED BY IRENE CHOW, FION LING and

ELINA OLIFEROVSKIY TOBY ZHANG (12) - I invest money in stocks in foreign countries because our economy is down.

HEIDI TSENG (12) - I look for bargains and buy clothes on sale towards the end of the season.

AMY PHAM (11) - I don’t spend it wisely! I waste it on concerts, clothes, you name it!

C Y N T H I A PEREZ (12) - My mom manages my account and I don’t really get any money.”

CHRIS ROBERTS - I try to limit my enter tainment budget and to use coupons from the newspaper.

By STEPHANIE CHANG and CAROL CIRIACOEDITORIAL EDITOR and STAFF WRITER

Nowadays, mothers and housewives aren’t the only ones obsessed about clipping coupons.

Students are motivated to save money and to fill up their piggy banks either through conventional or creative means.

Discount cards, sales and coupons provide students with an accessible means of saving a few extra dollars.

Such conveniences enable some to economize while shopping.

“I use coupons when I go to the market with my family,” said sophomore Drake Delgado.

Even without extra discounts, students can still seek out ways of spending less during shopping sessions.

Some find that taking the time to consider alternative brands of the same products is a sacrifice of time and energy that is worth the increase in funds.

“At the grocery store, there are different versions of necessities, like napkins. I’d rather buy the cheaper version,” said junior Stephanie Macias. “After all, they’re the same thing; there’s no difference.”

Taking a similar approach to such students as Macias, others spend time discovering alternative places for shopping.

Some have discovered that the internet is one of the most convenient sources to find great deals.

With familiar websites such as eBay, Amazon and Overstock, the Internet is home to several sources for discount shopping.

“Items, like games, are sold at prices that are much lower than the listed price on eBay,” said junior John Elliott.

Besides sites that sell items at much more affordable prices, popular stores also have their own websites that showcase their inventory, as well as notifications of sales and exclusive online discounts.

“I can check and see what clothes are on sale online so that I don’t pay too much for it,” said senior Gina Lee.

Instead of spending less, some students get in the habit of not using money at all in certain places.

Popular hangouts could be considered dangerous for money-savers as these places present multiple opportunities for students to purchase items or s p e n d money.

“It’s really hard to save money. I can’t help m y s e l f

because there’s just so much t e m p t a t i o n out there. I just spend it,” said junior Shantelle Gomez.

Because of this inability to control their spending habits, some students have to resort to more extreme tactics.

Whether it be through hiding money in remote niches or relying on others for food and necessities, these strategies are meant to prevent wasteful spending. Sometimes, though, certain approaches backfire.

“I hide my money to prevent myself from saving it, but sometimes, I end up forgetting where I put it and

then I have no money at all,” said senior Roxanne Aguirre.

Although some students put much effort into saving

money, there are those who remain

unconcerned a b o u t

spending cash wisely.

“I don’t care about saving money,” said f r e s h m a n

Brandon Tan. “When I get money, I’ll spend it on whatever I want.

For example, recently my grandma gave me some

money, so I bought a guitar with it.”

As America goes through a financial crisis, students seem to

continue spending their money

rather than saving it.Junior Estelle Defranchi says she

has her own reasons for not saving up. “It takes too much time to try

to save money,” she explained. “It also takes a great deal of effort.”

While there are many who continue to splurge on trinkets, others are working hard to save money for a certain goal. A plan for the future

seems to be the most important incentive for students to set aside money during high school.

“I try not to go out very much these days,” said freshman Matthew Chang. “I’ll use the money I save for college.”

However, Chang is not the only one with a specific reason for putting money aside.

“I save my money in secret places such as my closet so that no one can find it,” said sophomore Rebecca Bueno. “When I’m 18, I’ll have a lot of money saved up to use as a start-up for my own place to live and for my job. I’ll finally be able to escape from home!”

In a world where money seems to mean everything, it’s safe to assume that saving up for what’s to come is becoming popular among teens.

Although some still spend money like it grows on trees, many students are beginning to learn the true value of the dollar.

“The economy [is terrible] lately. No one has money to spare, so it’s important to save money however you can,” said junior Vivian Chu.

With the economy in such a state, it seems as if most students are scheming ways to save up. Whether it’s by hiding money away or by waiting for sales, saving money seems to be the latest trend.

Need help saving up? Here are some simple tips!

1. Take the bus to eliminate the need to buy gas2. Recycle - save the Earth and your money!3. Plan a “Board Game Night” with your friends instead of going out. 4. Make your friends’ gifts; it’s a creative and thoughtful way to celebrate any special day.5. See a matinee. Daytime tickets are usually cheaper than nighttime ones at most theaters.

5 Ways toSAVE MONEY

By MICHAEL ZUBIASTAFF WRITER

Big square or circle sunglasses, a graphic t-shirt with an “old, back-in-the-day” feel, and a pair of Vans slip-ons: these tacky items are finding their way into wardrobes across the nation.

The vintage style now seems to be the current style of the 21st century, quickly but quietly overtaking the popular “urban” fashion.

But what exactly is the “vintage” style?

Vintage is the general term for clothing of past styles. Each piece of clothing, though out-dated, remains elegant, as well as original.

This style is well-received and well-respected by the generation today because it is inspired by the greatest fashion icons of the past, back when vintage was first born.

The vintage fashion has had so prominent a presence in our generations fashion scene that mainstream fashion industries are now scrambling to provide merchandise for the growing demand. Clearly, this unique fashion

EntertainmentOctober 10, 20086

Vintage fashion reenters pop culture

GRAPHIC/JENNIFER CHOW

has become not only popular, but also profitable.

Clothing companies such as Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, and even the anti-mainstream Hot Topic have all updated their lines to feature vintage-era clothing.

Through the commanding influence of the media on our generation, vintage found its way back to life. It’s because of the media that styles change so quickly.

Major media trend-setters include the ever-so-popular MySpace and modern pop culture icons.

Back in 2003, M y S p a c e first began its spell over pop culture. Its wide spread use and social networking capabilities have made it a mass-culture

machine, reaching into popular teenage trends

and mainstream markets.

MySpace is responsible for our hair styles, picture

poses and even our musical preferences. Its influence on current vintage

fashion is no different.When “MySpace

celebrities” are seen wearing a new eye- catching article of clothing, it becomes a must-have piece. Through this process, vintage clothing returned

to popularity.But MySpace

only began the vintage revival. It’s celebrities who

advance vintage fashion from a quirky interest to

the latest culture craze.Celebrities such as heiress

Paris Hilton are caught in tabloids

Writer defends passion for Japanese cartoons

with big square sunglasses, inspiring the average teen to wear the same.

Rihanna’s music video “Disturbia” has a distinctly-vintage appeal. It featured the rustic, retro-yet-contemporary feel that is central to vintage fashion.

MTV’s hosting of the VMA’s showed how the popular cable channel was adjusting to the vintage rampage. During their 25th annual VMA airing, a display that went along with the announcement of nominees carried a noticeably vintage visual style. The graphics to represent the nominees featured noticeably vintage retro TV’s or big sunglasses.

The resurgence of vintage fashion demonstrates the effect of technology and mass media on pop culture.

All it takes is one celebrity or attractive profile picture to start a new teen trend. These crazes quickly catch on, spreading like wild fire to engulf an entire generation.

While teens are always ready to adopt new trends and create their own fashion identities, it is important to always appreciate the inspiration and evolution behind the styles of today.

By MELODY WANGSTAFF WRITER

Nowhere can the populace find flying castles or big-eyed teenagers with super powers but through anime, a subject I’m all too familiar with.

Anime, a term used to describe Japanese animation, has many genres aimed at different interests.

In Asia, it’s broadcasted and watched just as often as any drama or television show—a legitimate form of entertainment.

So why am I constantly teased by my family, classmates and even teachers?

Is it wrong for me to spazz about the latest episode of Hitman Reborn while other girls gush about Gossip Girl?

With so many different types of animes, one is sure to find an anime that fits his or her interests. “Shonen” animes like Dragon Ball Z attract a male audience and are usually action-packed. “Shoujo” animes such as Sailor Moon, aimed at females, usually deals with romance and the quirks of everyday life.

Anime has found a special place in the annals of my childhood. When I was younger, I watched Pokémon, Dragon Ball Z, Digimon and more. Even now, at the age of fifteen, I tear up everytime I hear the theme song for Sailor Moon.

KONICHIWA! - Anime often features eccentric characters and a unique visual style. IMAGE/MADMAN.COM

Extending beyond native Asia, popular shows such as Naruto and Death Note have already crossed overseas to reach American audiences. U.S. media companies such as FUNimation distribute dubbed animes for viewers.

T h e p o p u l a r i t y of anime is i n c r e a s i n g and anime series are now regularly aired on p r o g r a m s such as C a r t o o n Network.

N o n -profit groups on the web add subtitles to animes and translate manga into d i f f e r e n t languages for oversea fans to enjoy.

T h e w e e k l y routine of translating and sharing episodes creates a tight-knit community of fans.

From California to Florida, there are dozens of conventions and expos dedicated to anime, manga and Japanese culture.

According to the Anime Expo (AX) website, AX is the largest anime convention in the nation, attracting over

43,000 attendees this past year alone.

Anime is quickly integrating itself into American media. Even Wilson High School’s media center stocks several volumes of Digimon and D.N.Angel.

But the anime community is often looked down upon by those who do not understand its appeal. Many fans get mocked by their peers with jeering names like “Anime Freak,” or “Otaku,” a Japanese term for a person who spends too much time on one thing.

Starting from my seventh grade year, I proudly and

openly expressed my love for watching anime.

Classmates teased and picked on me and I eventually began to hide by interest. I erased all my fangirlish graffiti off my binders and sat in recluse, wishing for classmates

with similar interests.

But liking an anime is no different f r o m enjoying a favorite TV show.

W h i c h do you hear more often: “You like Gossip Girl?! You weirdo!” or “Anime freak!?”

S o m e fans have accepted the n i cknames and made their own jokes based on the taunts

they receive. They adopt the title of “otaku,” while others go out of their ways to prove themselves as anime nerds.

Anime Expo 2008 featured an event called “Manga as High Art: Self-Defense for the Otaku,” intended to “give all otaku the tools to defend the value of their chosen hobby to unenlightened critics.”

Not everyone will blatantly insult anime. There are a few non-supporters who have enough decency to include reason to back up their argument.

As they may point out, characters in animes do indeed act extreme and out of ordinary. People new to anime and manga may not be used to the level of energy that the characters display on screen or the artistic style in which the characters are drawn.

However, that is simply how anime is, and will forever be.

People might argue that anime fans are too excited when they discuss anime, or that anime is all they think about.

But even if anime is all I talk about, is it wrong that I’m talking about my hobby, my passion, my obsession?

We’ve always been taught to express ourselves, so what difference does it make if some fans talk just a bit louder, or longer? Does freedom of expression only lead to mockery?

Today, I no longer hide my love for anime and manga. Here and now, I am announcing it for everyone to know.

All you haters out there, put your prejudices aside.

Respect. That’s all I ask for.But while the anime-

intolerant work on adjusting their mindset, there’s a new episode of Hitman Reborn with my name all over it.

October 10, 2008 7Sports

By CHRIS CHIANGSPORTS EDITOR

Dominating against Charter Oak, the girls tennis team was one win shy of a perfect game yesterday, 17-1.

“We played exceptionally well and everyone had a great game,” said Elaine Wang (12).

Singles crushed their opponents (8-1) losing only one match. The doubles had an even more impressive win, beating the Chargers 9-0.

In spite of playing a great game, some players say that they still have some issues to work on.

“I feel that we did really well, but we could have ended the game earlier if we played more consistently,” said Audrey Auyang (12).

While the Cats cruised past Charter Oak, they had a much more challenging time against Rowland Tuesday, losing 14-4.

“It was disappointing,” said head coach Jerelyn Lopez. “I think that we could’ve stolen two or three more games from them, but we just couldn’t pull it off.”

Singles were defeated 5-4, while doubles were swept, losing all their matches.

“I think we were really intimidated,” said Wang. “Rowland has a reputation for being very good and they have a really great player, Lorraine.”

Cats smash Chargers in league match up

PHOTO/MICHELLE GOR

FLOATER - Meagen Zamilpa (9) backhands the ball in mid-air during Tuesday’s home match against the Rowland Raiders.

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The Raiders’ two state ranked players, Lorraine Guillermo (10) and Vivian Chau (9), gave the team a particularly difficult time.

Guillermo, who was placed in the SGV’s All-Area Tennis Team first team for singles last year, and Chau both defeated the Cats’ number one and two singles, Renee Tang (11) and Meagan Zamilpa (9).

Even though the girls lost, they say that the game has helped motivate them to improve.

“This definitely encouraged them to see what we can do and see what kinds of talents are outside of our league,” said Lopez.

Speaking of which, the Cats are in a higher division than Rowland.

“It’s kind of weird that Rowland is only in the fourth division, while we’re in the third,” said Lopez.

The girls played better Monday against Glendora, though, defeating the Tartans, 11-7.

Singles won 6-3 while doubles finished with a similar score, 5-4.

Tang led the singles (3-0) while Zamilpa finished 2-1.

The doubles won as well, though they had a slightly tougher time.

“Glendora gave us a little trouble because they kept on lobbying the ball and we don’t like that,” said Auyang.

Despite the win, the team says that they were not satisfied with the way they played.

“I don’t think we played as well as we could have,” said Auyang. “We were missing a lot of our shots or hitting them out.”

Lopez on the other hand disagrees with her players saying that she thinks the team “played well,” citing partners Jessica Chin and Auyang as an example.

“Jessica and Audrey were down three points in the beginning of their first match, but they rallied and won the game,” said Lopez.

The girls will play away against Bonita next Tuesday.

“If we have the right mentality, I think we can do very well against them,” said Wang.

October 10, 20088 Sports

PHOTO/IRENE CHOU

Lack of confidence stifles athletes

Inconsistency contributes to close matchesBy ALICE WENSTAFF WRITER

Having lost to Ayala last week by a mere three strokes, the girls golf team was victorious in yesterday’s game, beating the same team by an

GIVE ME THE BALL - Moses Vega (11) hands off the ball to John Dai (12) during practice Wednesday night. The team suffered a 42-14 loss to Montebello last Friday. Without starting quarterback Eric Gonzales (12) the team racked up 27 passing yards.

By HARRISON TOYSTAFF WRITER

Let’s face it.Wilson doesn’t exactly excel in many

of its athletic programs, and many of our opposition and supporters are aware of that.

Should that really stop us?Teams in our league underestimate

Wilson, and at times we let it get to us.

When its game time, and our opponent has an undefeated record, and we hear about their ten billion CIF championships, the thought of them looking down upon us is quite discouraging.

We are underdogs, and it doesn’t help to know it.

But athletic director Dave Merrill doesn’t thinks we are underestimated at all.

“A study has mathematically shown that for every thousand players in the population of a school there are three good athletes,” said Merrill.

With the number of students at our school Merrill feels we overachieve, but because of our population, this deems us less able to compete with larger schools in our league

In my experience on the boys’ water polo team, there have been many times that we faced Bonita knowing that we were going to get thrashed.

We move up divisions because Bonita wins too many CIF championships.

I won’t point fingers because I’m guilty myself. But at times-well maybe all the time-our team’s seems to give up because we are being trounced in the water.

Every team experiences this.“Some people don’t have confidence

in our team when we face a tough opponent,” said football player Alex Ramirez (12). “They might think we

even closer margin of two strokes.

With a score of 215-217, the girls’ record is now 10-6.

The players say they are confident for the remainder of the season.

“It was a very close match, but we will continue to beat them. It was the first time we have won against Ayala this year,” said Grace Lee (11).

Co-captain Gina Lee (12) says she agrees with her teammates.

“We did really well. We didn’t show them what we are able to do at home last Tuesday,” explained Gina Lee.

Earlier this week, the team suffered a defeat from Troy at the Royal Vista Golf Club,

losing by three strokes with a score of 221-224.

Hana Lee (10) shot 36 strokes, co-captain Heidi Tseng (12) shot 42 and Grace Lee had 46.

Coach Mike Manassero explains he is satisfied with the players’ performance but disappointed in the results.

“Troy is ranked ninth in Orange County and we should have beaten them,” said Manassero.

H. Lee says that they all tried their best, but “sometimes the score just totals that way.”

Co-captain Elizabeth Choong (12) expected to play much better than she did.

“[It would have helped] if I made my putts and didn’t chip horribly,” said Choong.

As shown by this week’s results, inconsistency is a key factor in the Cats’ mixed record.

“Sometimes, half the team plays well, while the other half doesn’t. We should practice more in order to keep in sync,” stated H. Lee.

The nature of the sport is another source for the team’s unpredictable scores.

“Golf is both an individual and team sport and sometimes we forget that. Every shot makes a difference so we need everyone to play well,” said Manassero.

Next week, the Cats will face Troy again on Tuesday and West Covina on Thursday. Both games are away.

JV girls golf lost to Troy on Wednesday with a score of 245-293.

Running the play

‘Though some players may have confidence in the team, people who

lack it bring the group down, and may cause

more conflict.

Commentary If they do this, they will bring up the intensity that the people without confidence lack.

Whether teams are expected to win or not, everyone should give

aren’t too strong but we can still hit them hard.”

Though some players may have confidence in the team, people who lack it bring the group down, and may unitentionally cause more conflict.

I remember after a hard loss, our coach made us swim, but before we swam we talked about facing a tough team in league.

Though one player tried to encourage everyone, there was still doubt among some of my peers. This led to a bit of an argument that never seems to be resolved.

“We can win!” says one player. “We won’t win!” says another.If athletes have a hard time when

they are considered a lesser team to opponents, what happens if they believe it themselves?

Whether teams think they’ll be able to win or not, I have one thing to say to all athletes: “Give your best, and stay confident.”

their best effort and support our teams in whatever way they possibly can.

A little confidence can go a long way.