Volume XIII, Issue III: November 10, 2011

www.thehowleronlIne.org

4515 Portola Pkwy. IrvIne, Ca 92620

Amnestys LiNK screening sheds light on North Korea

By tIna Xu
Viewpoint Editor

From the comfort of Northwoods theater, a hundred students walked a mile in the shoes of North Korean refugees last Friday afternoon. Liberty in North Korea (LiNK), the only grassroots organization in North America that addreses the humanitarian crisis in North Korea, visited Northwood to screen their documentary Hiding, which sheds light on the underground railroad of North Korean refugees escaping to freedom through China. As part of LiNKs Fall Tour, they were hosted by Northwoods Amnesty International. I was shocked by the film. There were teenagers, people my age, who didnt have the same basic rights as I do, said Amnesty vice-president and senior Tarika Soni. I cannot even imagine having the strength to endure those struggles and risking almost ev-

erything to get freedom and dignity. Many teachers offered extra credit for the event because it offered a glimpse into the issue that could not be achieved by reading a textbook. The screening was a clear connection to how human rights are still being challenged and fought for today, said history teacher Mary DeLuca. LiNKs mission has inspired junior Hannah Kim to gather a group of Northwood students to work toward lasting change in North Korea. She is pioneering Northwoods own LiNK chapter, and gave a short speech after the film to build support. I was amazed at how many people came up to me afterward showing interests to join the LiNK movement! said Kim. I think the film and the LiNK members that came to the school to spread the word about the issue really inspired many to join us. At the end of the day, students left

tIna Xu Northwood Howler

CApTivATed AudieNCe: Northwood students were shocked by the horrors that North Korean refugees encounter and endure.
with a comprehensive understanding of both the North Korean crisis and LiNKs work on the ground. When these refugees make it out of North Korea, I think its wonderful that LiNK is there to help them relocate and start new lives, said senior Ashley Yonamine. I dont know concretely how to solve this specific issue or how long it will take to address these human rights violations, but I know Im going to continue to inform myself about the crisis. Northwood is such a wonderful, diverse and intelligent school, said Soni. We should be able to reach out and learn about the things that are happening. We need to fix this.

Northwood students share compassion and cans

By BrIttney kuo and ChrIstIna ko
Staff Writers

allen ChIu Northwood Howler

ThANKsgiviNg giviNg: Senior Megan Fujinami is one of many Northwood students that are donating food to Families Forward this week.

Northwoods ASB kicked off the Thanksgiving season Monday with the annual Families Forward Food Drive, headed by ASB community representatives Serena Chan and Jill Reasor. The food drive gives each advisement class the opportunity to provide one family with a Thanksgiving dinner this holiday season. We hope that by collecting donations we will be able to raise awareness of the needs of families right here in our community, and give those families an opportunity to enjoy a true Thanksgiving, said Reasor.

The list of suggested donations, which ranges from boxed stuffing to canned goods such as cranberry sauce, soup and other Thanksgiving foods, was distributed to each advisement on Monday. Classes also have the option of bringing in cash or gift certificates instead. Its really important for everyone to participate because the food is going to families in need, said Chan. People tend to forget that there are a lot of others out there who are less fortunate than ourselves who depend on the donations and generosity of people like us. As an incentive, a prize will [continued on Page 2]

inside this issue

Accent 3-4

Alumni speak

Centerspread 6-7

Nhs by the numbers Nhs CiF updates

Sports 9

Teacher look-alikes
Junk 10

November 10, 2011

their time and effort to benefit local families. Through the food drive, they extend an opportunity for Northwood students to contribute to the well-being of the whole community, especially during the holiday season. The most important thing is that we are thankful for what we have, realize others are not so lucky and give back during this holiday season, said Reasor.

[continued from Page 1] be given to each advisement that raises $100 or provides all of the listed goods. The food items and money will be collected after advisement on Monday, Nov. 14, and Families Forward will pick up the donations the following day. Chan and Reasor hope to shed light on the needs of the less fortunate and to motivate others to contribute

By Rini sampaTh
Viewpoint Editor

Boo in the black box

NEWS

The Northwood Howler

IPSF recognizes two NHS students

Members of the Northwood Drama Department donned frightening make-up and costumes on Monday, Oct. 31 to spook students in Northwoods first haunted house. We wanted to do something different for Halloween so we came up with this! said drama teacher Angela Hanigan. Students and faculty clutched each other for comfort while visiting the haunted house, which was held in the black box with free admission. Pale-faced and dressed in a floorlength, old-fashioned dress, senior Jen Sartanowicz greeted them at the entrance and explained the storyline behind the haunted house. As visitors were led inside, they squealed and screamed at what they saw. Drama students covered in fake blood acted as escaped insane asylum

audRey nguyen Northwood Howler

Boo in the Black Box: Senior Ariana Weiss scared students and staff who visited the NHS Drama Departnments haunted house.
patients and crawled across the floor of the transformed black box to surprise innocent students. I wasnt expecting it to be as elaborate as that, said freshman Mint Phowborom. Everyone looked really scary and it was overall a fun experience.

Wolfpack hosts halloween dance

KRis geoRge Northwood Howler

By simone dLuna
News Editor

Spirit of excellence: Seniors Serena Chan and Jamie Ullman were honored by IPSF for their achievements during high school.
By Tiffany Tsai
Staff Writer

Seniors Serena Chan and Jamie Ullman were selected for this years Irvine Public Schools Foundation (IPSF) student recognition and were invited to the 2nd Annual Spirit of Excellence Gala. The Annual Gala celebrated its Spirit of Excellence on Oct. 22 to raise money for schools in IUSD and acknowledge a few select students for their achievements throughout their high school years. The IPSF student recognition is given to a male and female of each high school in the Irvine school district for excelling in the areas of academics, arts, athletics, community and philanthropy involvement, and music. Serena and Jamie were selected because they are good representatives of Northwood High School through their leadership and citizenship, said principal Leslie Roach. They also represent different areas on campus from the arts to athletics. Both Chan and Ullmans excellence in academics and school

involvement has earned them the recognition of the Irvine community. Chans activities include ASB, school clubs and performing arts. She was formerly a member of Northwoods Dance Theatre Company and continues to play the piano. I feel really honored to be getting this award and getting recognized for everything Ive done at Northwood for the past four years, said Chan. Ullmans active involvement in school clubs and leadership roles are evident: He is the co-president of Habitat for Humanity and YAT as well as the ASB Student Forum President. Ullman partakes in multiple extracurricular activities and excels in both academics and sports. He is currently a member of Northwoods wrestling team. It was a huge honor to win this award, said Ullman. I was shocked because Northwood is filled with amazing students, but I was very excited to represent Northwood at the IPSF Gala.

current news headlines

By monsoon pabRai
Layout Editor

WolfPack held its Halloween Spooktacular dance on Friday, Oct. 21 in the NHS gym. Approximately 150 people attended the event, coming from Northwood, Irvine and University High Schools as well as Lakeside Middle School and the Irvine Adult Transition Program. WolfPack is a peer-buddy club between the students in the Developmental Disabilities (DD) program at Northwood and mainstream club members. We strive to promote inclusion and give our students with disabilities the opportunity to not only socialize with their typical peers but have the same high school experience as their typical peers too, said WolfPack adviser and special education teacher Elise Flocken. Everyone came to the dance in costumes that ranged from frightening to adorable. Outside, attendees ate Chick-fil-A sandwiches, drank bubbling Witches Brew with dry ice and stirred together their own Dirt n Worms pudding dessert. I liked the food because they had my candy corn and the Oreos, said DD student Alex Quinley. There was also a DJ playing popular dance music inside the gym. The dance was really cool, said DD student Alyssa Clark. My favorite part of the dance was dancing like crazy. Halloween posters and decorations were hung everywhere and at the end of the dance each DD student received an award for something they

KRis geoRge Northwood Howler

Spooktacular: WolfPack members and students from Irvine DD programs came together on Oct. 21 to celebrate Halloween.
had done that evening. The looks on the kids faces and seeing how excited they are to see old and new friends is utterly amazing, said WolfPack co-president and senior Steven Whisler . Then you see them dance and it nearly brings you to tears of happiness!

letter to the editor:

The May 2011 issue censured the ACLU lawsuit for accusing the state of California of having an educational system unaffordable to the poor. The article noted such indictment was contradictory, considering the plaintiffs affluence. Thus, the case was implied to be an attempt at wealth redistribution, an objective of socialism. While the ACLU is a social democratic organization, in this case, it has inadvertently conceded to lassiez-faire capitalism. Public education is not truly free; it is paid by taxes. Thus, school fees are tantamount to extra taxes, and eliminating these fees would be tax reduction a fiscally conservative measure.

an alternate interpretation of the ACLU lawsuit

The trickle-down effect, as espoused by fiscal conservatives, advocates tax reduction for the wealthy as incentives to use private donations to benefit society. While the article suggests that donations in an affluent society (e.g. Irvine) would be especially scarce, the opposite is true, since the wealthy, being well-educated, revere education. Furthermore, Irvines large Asian minority emphasizes education, especially the fine arts, while the White majority, having robust athletic tradition, would donate munificently to athletics. Capitalism capitalizes on donations, a role the ACLU has fulfilled. Haowen Wong

cbc.ca

dailymail.co.uk

The U.N. stated that the worlds population reached a milestone on Oct. 31: 7 billion people. The human population was 2 billion in 1927, but soared to 4 billion in 1974 and to 6 billion in 1999. It only took twelve years to add another billion to the population.

President Obama announced on Oct. 21 that he had just spoken with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and reaffirmed his campaign commitment to removing all U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of the year, marking an end to the nine-year Iraq War. Although Congress wants to remove all 39,000 U.S. troops currently stationed in Iraq, it still wants to keep 16,000 civilian contractors and diplomats in Iraq.

neftegaz.ru

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Turkey on Oct. 23, killing more than 600 people and injuring over 5,000 others. Though the major city of Van Province was affected, the small city of Ercis was hit the hardest, suffering the most deaths and injuries. Erciss population of 75,000 was devastated when more than 80 multiplestory buildings were destroyed by the earthquake.

The Northwood Howler

5 guys but not 5 stars

ACCENT 3 alejandro chaidez: king of swag

November 10, 2011

Fancy 5 guys: 5 Guys signature burger is a taste buds delight.

By KriStie Chang
Staff Writer

www.fiveguys.com

We all know that In-N-Out reigns supreme as the title holder of the best burger on the West Coast. But if you havent tried Five Guys yet, you really, really should ketchup on what youve been missing. Since its opening a year ago at the District, Five Guys has certainly competed with the In-N-Out across the street. But make no mistake, Five Guys is no In-N-Out. The red and white tiles look like familiar dcor upon first entering the restaurant. The quaint sign, proclaiming the origin of the days potatoes (Illinois) is a cute touch that illustrates the freshness that is the hallmark quality of Five Guys.The bags of roasted peanuts lining the walls serve as both decoration and opportunity for customers to munch on a snack while waiting in line for their order. Their burgers straddle the line between fast food and homecooked with its juicy, freshly made patty and plentiful toppings, served up within minutes. A little burger has one patty, while a regular has two.

Five Guys also offers special free toppings like grilled mushrooms, green peppers and even hot sauce, adding another dimension of flavor to their burgers. Theres even more variety on the menu as well, including hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches. But quantity over quality seems to be their perspective when it comes to the fries. While I do appreciate the seemingly endless amount of fries they cram into one cup more bang for your buck, as the signs on the wall proclaim the quality is inconsistent. The fries, too thick to be crispy, are cooked in peanut oil, a healthy cooking oil particularly respected for its low saturated fat content. However, too much of a good thing is never good, and the limp fries drowning in peanut oil are mediocre at best. If you have to round off your burger with some fries, however, go with the Cajun fries. The spices added to the fries serve to counterbalance some of the inevitable greasiness, and theres no doubt that its a specialty. Five Guys maybe doesnt deserve five stars, but it definitely deserves a chance.

KriS george Northwood Howler

amazIng alejandro: Alejandro Chaidez, also known as 3 Six T, and his group, We the Future, will work with the Black Eyed Peas to boost their music career.
By drew dunn-ranKin and Johnny zhang
Editor-in-Chief and Junk Editor

While most freshmen are busy adjusting to the rigors of Northwood, Alejandro Chaidez is busy taking over the hip-hop world. We recently sat down with Chaidez, also known as 3 Six T, to discuss his aspirations as an artist and his current project with the Black Eyed Peas. Drew Dunn-Rankin: How did you get started making music? Alejandro Chaidez: When I was about 6, I started. I wanted to be a music producer when I was really little. When I was ten, I started writing. Johnny Zhang: How did you start getting more connections in the music industry? AC: My grandpa is a famous Mexican singer and he does a lot of shows. My uncles promoted his shows and they met people along the way. Thats how I ended up working with the Black Eyed Peas right now. DDR: What are you doing with the Black Eyed Peas?

AC: Im working with their manager and the circle around them. Im currently in a group with two other kids ones a singer and ones a dancer. Were going to be brought out by the Black Eyed Peas soon and theyre helping us branch off into the music industry. JZ: You talked about your group, We The Future. What other future projects do you have with them? Can you tell us a little more about your group? AC: We call ourselves We the Future because we think our music is the future thats the genre. Its futuristic, its not todays music. It includes a dancer, a singer and me, the rapper and songwriter. DDR: Who inspires you as an artist? AC: Eminem of course, [and] 2Pac and Kanye West those are my top three. I like all music but my main type is hip-hop and rap. JZ: You said your grandpa was a famous Mexican singer howd you get into rap and hip-hop? AC: I just remember listening to a bunch of hip-hop when I was little and I guess it just stuck with me.

DDR: Where did you come up with your name, 3 Six T? AC: My dad passed away when I was nine. His name was Trigo and when he was in high school, [3 Six T] was his nickname. He wrote it 360, and I just flipped the writing. JZ: Do you ever get noticed around the school? AC: If I post a picture of myself and some celebrity, or a status that says in the studio, people think that Im some famous guy, but to my circle of friends, Im just me. JZ: What do you write about? What inspires you to write? AC: Anything. I write about my past with girls if a girl dumps me or something my dad, God, music, success or a good day ... anything. Mainly what Im feeling at the moment. DDR: Where do you see yourself in 10 years? AC: Honestly, I see myself being in the top 10, possibly number one. Im not trying to brag, but thats just where I see myself. Just being a hip-hop music artist.

Imagiscience: one giant leap for high school science! Teachers speak: fave fall food
By Sooyun Choi and ChriStina Ko
Staff Writers

white chocolate chip macadamia nut cookies and hot apple cider. -Saul Gleser Pumpkin bread. -Christina Banagas I really like chicken pot pie or beef stew or shepherds pie, something thats cold-weather food. And you can never go wrong with turkey and stuffing. -Ben Case Pumpkin pie. I make homemade pumpkin pie every fall from scratch using whole pumpkins. -Nancy Kirkpatrick Candy corn! I cant stop eating candy corn out of Mrs. Roachs office. -Christy ODwyer Im under the category of anything and everything; whatever Im in the mood for. -Simone Song I always like chili, and any soups are good. -Christine Gates My grandmas gravy; she has a recipe thats not written down. My whole family gathers around and makes it with her on Thanksgiving. She puts cream in it. -Erik Emery Butternut squash soup. -Andrea McGehee I enjoy pumpkin pancakes and pumpkin bread because I make them on the weekends when I have a chance to relax and enjoy breakfast with my family. Good times & good food! -Terry Trank

The light and fresh foods of summer may be lovely, but fall foods have a certain richness to them that is hard to resist. With chilly fall weather approaching, Northwood teachers share their favorite cold-weather foods. Im a vegetarian, so I eat tofurkey. Yam is good too; it makes me think of Things Fall Apart. -Vadim Rubin Pumpkin pie and any type of warm soup, specifically pumpkin soup and corn chowder. -Haydee Vicente
www.imagiscience.org

InTeresTIng ImagIscIence: Junior Homin Kwark wanted others to experience the fascination behind science by starting a non-profit organization called Imagiscience.
Staff Writer

Pumpkin pie its my fave. I love it all, A to Z, from turkey to stuffing. -Melanie Hanley I dont like the fall; I like the summer. If I had to pick one thing, Thanksgiving dinner is the best. -Whitney Tavlarides Apple crisp dessert. Its all about the dessert! -Jeannie Loso Of course candy, for when you go trick-or-treating! And we can never forget all-year-long Diet Coke. Its not food but it sure gets me through the day. -Laura Tijerino I like to make chillis and soups. Im a beef-based chili person, with a variety of heat. With soups, Ive been playing with Smith & Wollenskys split pea soup. -Bob Venable Holiday grapes come in about now,

By Brandon Choi

Many students have seen the name on their Facebook newsfeeds, but the question still lingers: What is Imagiscience? Imagiscience is a new studentrun non-profit organization that offers students not only knowledge of science but also opportunities to apply science to numerous activities. Founded by juniors Homin Kwark and Aaron Na, Imagiscience aims to offer new styles of learning to high school students around the world. This summer, I worked at a start-up health company and received a stipend to help increase physician engagement. Working for a company inspired me to challenge myself, take initiative and start something new, said founder

Homin Kwark. In addition to starting the organization, Kwark has integrated Imagiscience into everyday Northwood life by combining it with the Robotics Club to form the Imagiscience-Robotics Club. The club serves as the first out of many Imagiscience national chapters and, in addition to guest speakers, will feature creative, science-related challenges. Events like Halloween recycled art projects and scifi costume challenges are some examples, said Kwark. Since its official beginning on September 13, Imagiscience has been sparking interest in schools all around the county. Imagiscience has led to the creation of 10 chapters and clubs around Orange County and has influenced students abroad

to start such programs as well. Imagiscience is for everyone, said Kwark. Its for those students who love science, those who aim for professions that involve science and especially those who wonder whether the material learned in science classes is useful at all. Partnered with Science@ OC and OneOC and supported by organizations such as the Discovery Science Center or Powernoodle, Imagiscience is collaborating to create events that will challenge students creativity in competitions. Whether you are interested in science as a possible future career, wish to explore science more than just by memorizing for tests or want to learn about science application outside of school, Imagiscience may offer the elements needed to build your bridge to success.

November 10, 2011

ACCENT

The Northwood Howler

Staff Writers

By Brandon Choi and Jenny Lee

Seniors, the time of the year for college applications has arrived. Many of you may be overwhelmed by the countless number of colleges to choose from and the daunting task of filling out the applications. So, ease yourself of some worries and pick up some words of wisdom from Northwood alumni who have been in your shoes. Richard Leong- Columbia Brandon Choi: What made you want to apply and go to an Ivy League school rather than other privates or publics? Richard Leong: I wanted a true general education where I would learn stuff that I would never use in my professional career. I had this dream of studying basically everything and staying up late in coffee shops talking about life with my friends. I felt like being in a diverse environment like that would force me to question my own beliefs, and therefore develop more as a person. Thats one of the biggest reasons I also wanted to get

out of California if possible. I felt like I needed to experience the East Coast pace of life, or maybe specifically the New Yorker life, to mature. Jenny Lee: What do you think is the biggest challenge in college that you didnt have in high school? RL: I wanted a true general education where I would learn stuff that I would never use in my professional career. I had this dream of studying basically everything and staying up late in coffee shops talking about life with my friends. I felt like being in a diverse environment like that would force me to question my own beliefs, and therefore develop more as a person. Thats one of the biggest reasons I also wanted to get out of California if possible. I felt like I needed to experience the East Coast pace of life, or maybe specifically the New Yorker life, to mature. BC: What are some tips you would like to give to those seniors applying to colleges? RL: Everybody has a dream school that they feel like they would give anything to go to. Apply to where you think youll feel happy, even if USA News doesnt rank it at the top. Your

college has to be your home for the next four years, not just your school, so dont waste the best four years of your life applying to somewhere you wouldnt even enjoy. Definitely visit the schools during the school year if you can and talk to students there about how life is like for them. If you think youd like it there, then apply. Lastly, dont feed college admissions officers what you think they want to hear. Be personal, be truthful and be confident in your essays. The education you have received at Northwood is absolutely phenomenal and has prepared you well for college, so relax! Youll be just fine. Jessica Lin- Pomona College Brandon Choi: What made you want to go to a liberal arts college rather than other universities? Jessica Lin: I decided to go here in the end because it offered different disciplines and a different environment as well. In normal universities, because they are so big, learning is mostly based off of research. Here at Pomona and at different liberal arts schools, learning involves more collaboration and hands-on activities.

Also, classrooms are smaller so you get more attention! Jenny Lee: What are some big differences or problems in college that you didnt have in high school? JL: Because Pomona is so small, it gets a little frustrating at times. Its always the same people and the same place so at times, its hard to deal with. However, there are other colleges around here that make it a bit better. Overall, there are no big problems that I wasnt expecting. BC: Any tips for seniors currently writing applications to universities? JL: Be sure to visit any colleges that you can. Remember to start your essays early because they are super important in allowing colleges to see who you are. Maintain good relationships with your teachers both in high school and when you get to college. Best of luck to all seniors! Daniel Song- University of California in San Diego Jenny Lee: What made you want to go to a UC rather than a private? What are the pros and cons? DS: The biggest reason I chose to go to a University of California was the

money. Pros are that no matter which school you go to, youre ending up somewhere that will educate you well and also even if you and your friend go to two different UCs you will share some similar experiences. Cons are that the system is currently strapped for cash which leads to bigger classes sizes, less choices for classes and anything budget related. Even the crappy dining hall food got crappier, which I didnt know could happen. Brandon Choi: What are some problems that you didnt have in high school? DS: My first year I had too much free time, so I ended up hanging out all the time. Also, time between classes is killer because youll have two to three hours between classes, and you wont feel like doing anything, which turns into wasted time. JL: Tips for those writing college apps? DS: People try to craft their ideas before they start writing but with this process, its the other way around. The more you write, even if it turns out to be meaningless, the closer youll get to expressing what you actually believe.

The Northwood Howler

Does the college you Test overload A leading cause attend define you?
By Drew Dunn-rankin
Editor-in-Chief
and diverse kids, theres no need to sink into depression if you get a rejection letter once April comes around. Whats more, though, is that while many students tend to base their college choice, and their opinions of others choices, around that supposedly all-encompassing college rank, they miss the most important question in making a college decision: is this college even a good fit? Everyone here at Northwood has a place where they belong; a big school in the middle of a city, a small school in the middle of nowhere or even no school at all. Theres no shame in putting your own happiness over academic prestige. If you want to be an artist, find a place where you can make art. If you love science, find a place where you can experiment and discover something new. The point is that your identity is not based around the colleges you end up going to. Its based around what you do once you get there. As science teacher Louise Sanematsu said: Your college experience is what you make of it, not where you are. I think that here, unfortunately, we make too much of a big deal about the where, and not enough of a deal about all the great things you can do no matter where you end up. The truth is, we really can all do great things. We just have to stop worrying about where we do them and start thinking instead about what theyre going to be.

VIEWPOINT

November 10, 2011

of stress

By Jenny Lee anD Monsoon Pabrai

Staff Writer and Layout Editor
It is a documented fact that students hate tests. Although Northwood High School offers students a wide range of classes that can truly help create a memorable and well-spent school year, when students are expected to study for numerous tests in the same week or even for the same day, the detriment to a students health negates the value of taking challenging classes. Take a day in the life of junior Jay Gopal. In a single day, Gopal had a Calculus midterm first period, an AP Biology test third period and an AP Physics test fifth period. In preparation for these tests, I was extremely stressed because I had a hard time deciding which subjects to prioritize with the limited amount of study time I had. Overloading on tests isnt just stressful, it makes you upset with yourself when you know you could have done better but couldnt because you just had way too much stuff going on, said Gopal. Our school provides an environment of pressure that forces most students to take on a rigorous course load and push themselves to do their best. However, sometimes their best just isnt good enough. Even if you are totally efficient with your study time, the actual process of taking tests is mentally and physically taxing. Too many tests in a short time period is tiring out students and has become an unavoidable cycle in high school life. Every day, students proclaim to others how little they slept the previous night due to the overwhelming number of advanced classes they are taking. This competitive atmosphere places pressure on students to continue in this lifestyle without motivation to bring about change. Is this an inevitable byproduct of going to a highly-ranked school, or does a solution exist? The answer is yes, and it comes from a new student to our school. Christophe Carjuzaa, a senior, attended the American School of Paris (ASP) for his sophomore and junior year before he enrolled at Northwood. ASP uses a system where students are not allowed to have more than three tests per day. Teachers collaborated on test days to prevent stress levels from increasing unreasonably in students. During his two years at ASP, Carjuzaa never had more than two tests in one day. However, during the two months he has been at Northwood, he has already faced the excessive stress of taking an exorbitant amount of tests in a single day. However, the school that Carjuzaa attended only had about 1000 kids for grades K-12, which may be why the collaboration between teachers was possible and reasonable. At Northwood, our numbers are greater and curriculum more diverse, rendering this solution difficult for Northwood teachers to carry out. So instead of forcing teachers to work with one another to find a solution, why dont we as a student body speak up? Students and teachers need to collaborate on the issue of test overload. I think students should communicate with the teachers. Students need to tell the second or third teacher that a certain number of tests have already been scheduled for that day to see if the teacher can reschedule. As a teacher, we dont realize til the day of the test when the student walks into class complaining about having four tests that day. Interaction between the student and teacher is vital to solving this problem, said Angie Olivares, the Science Department Co-Chair. Its evident that test overload causes a build up of stress, unnecessary sleep deprivation and negative health effects. Students need to realize that it is okay to tell a teacher that a test has already been scheduled for that day. Likewise, teachers also need to be understanding of students situations and assist in creating a healthy learning environment. With effective collaboration, perhaps students will be able to finally go to bed on time, for once.

kris GeorGe The Northwood Howler

So its November, and college application season is finally upon us. If you walk around campus and find a couple seniors, the odds are that the words so where are you applying? will come up in their conversation. Here at Northwood, the overwhelming culture seems to be one of competition when it comes to colleges. We wonder if we can beat out our peers for those few spots at those top schools, as if all of high school was a desperate race for a Stanford acceptance letter.

The problem is, the majority of Northwood students who apply are going to be rejected from those top schools. Thats just the reality of the situation. But the college application game is really just that a game of chance. Stanford only accepted 7% of its applicants last year. Harvard even less, around 6%. And the vast majority of those that did get rejected were just as well-qualified as those that got in. Ivy League universities turn down hundreds of kids with perfect GPAs and SAT scores. Especially here at Northwood, a school full of talented

What being a girl scout is really about

Staff Writer

Courage, confidence and cookies:

By sooyun Choi
of self-identity and realize that they belong to and have commitments in the community. Depending on the personality of the troops, girls engage in different activities; some focus on adventurous trips and some on community service. The summers I spent in Camp Scherman, an overnight camp run by Girl Scouts of Orange County, bring back memories of meeting new friends and trying entirely new and unfamiliar things like swimming across a lake with an army of frogs and tripping over a toad on the way to the restroom. Personally, Girl Scouting over the years popped the shy bubble that kept me from being confident and instilled courage and determination in me. From jumping off a cliff (for fun, of course) to taking care of 15 boisterous fourth and fifth graders almost as tall as I am, Girl Scouting has shaped who I am today. Of course, the cookies are a famous tradition representing Girl Scouts that cannot be overlooked. But next time you buy those scrumptious cookies from the Girl Scouts next door, remember that you are not only buying a days worth of snack but ensuring a girls lifetime supply of confidence and character.

Being a Girl Scout, I sell cookies for one month out of the whole year, and many people often sarcastically ask me what I do for the remaining 11 months. It is a common misconception that selling cookies is the only thing Girl Scouts do. But trust me, we dont spend 335 days planning ways to aggressively persuade people to buy cookies. Generally, people do not recognize the life-changing impact and leadership training of Girl Scouting hidden behind the renowned cookies. As the slogan says, Girl Scouts is an organization where girls grow strong. The leaders and peer scouts work with a girl to bring out her unique talents and leadership and to help her grow into an independent woman who can make the world a

QuinCie Li The Northwood Howler

better place. The Gold Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout can achieve, is one of the many leadership experiences Girl Scouting provides. She is expected to research an issue and design a sustainable project that will impact the community. Through the project, the Girl Scout will develop leadership skills and gain practical experience. Any Girl Scout who has achieved the Gold Award immediately rises one rank in U.S. military branches; thats how rigorous the award is. Girl Scouts learn valuable life and business skills while selling cookies, but it doesnt end there. Through service projects and fun outdoor activities funded by the cookie sale, girls develop a sense

rini saMPath The Northwood Howler

November 10, 2011

NORTHWOOD NUMBERS
t

CENTERSPREAD

November 10, 2011

by the
t

We polled over 300 Northwood students across all four grade levels about their daily routines. Here are the results!

ON AVERAGE, WHAT TIME DO YOU GO TO SLEEP?

WHAT TYPE OF PHONE DO YOU USE?

HOW MANY AP CLASSES ARE YOU CURRENTLY TAKING?

51%

DO YOU TAKE NAPS REGULARLY?

MOST VISITED WEBSITE ON A SCHOOL NIGHT?

iPhone

19% 16%

37%

Android Blackberry

No. 62%
12% >0.1%

54%

12%

Other (Texting phones)

None

One to two

Three to four

Five to six

53%

What is your favorite AP class?

AP Biology because its the only hard class Ive ever taken. -Justin Jenkins (12) AP Environmental Science because you can do fun things outside of class. -Dylan Chiu (11) AP Computer Science because I feel accomplished after finishing a program. -Jake Moon (11)

Yes. 38% How long are your naps usually?

Three-hour naps everyday. -Charlton Huang (10) I set my alarm for a 20-minute nap, but I end up sleeping two hours. -Nicole Johnson (11) One hour. -Edward Han (10) I strategically plan my naps so that I go to sleep around 5 and wake up around 7 so that its dinner right away. I dont have that post-nap tiredness because Ill be eating. Once dinner is over, Im completely wide awake and ready to conquer homework. -Serena Chan (12)

11%

12%

10% 3%

10%

2% After 3a.m.
Before 9p.m. 3%

Face b

ook

Blac

kbo a Pare rd/ nt P orta

Tum b l

lr

You Tub e

Hulu

Ema

il

10% 1a.m.-3a.m.
9p.m.-11p.m. 37%

Best App?
Fruit Ninja. -Minkyung Nam (9) BBC News. -Pranav Singh (11)

AP U.S. History last year because of Mr. Keith and his lectures. -Pauly Kim (12) AP Computer Science makets sense to me. Javas very logical, even though its annoying memorizing all of the stuff. Its fun once you get it. -Elaine Lu (10)

I deactivated my account because I spent too much time on it. -Sarah Hui (10) I think Facebook will die out in a couple years. -Chris DiAntonio, math teacher Facebook is a big ball of distractions. -Reba Chawla (9)

48% 11p.m.-1a.m.

MAC OR PC?

WOULD YOU RATHER STAY UP LATE OR WAKE UP EARLY TO DO HOMEWORK?

BIGGEST REASON FOR PROCRASTINATING?

A Guide to Northwood Jargon~

1. DEUCES: when one holds up his or her middle and index fingers, as he or she is exiting an area Rini: Hey guys, Im going to get some boba. Deuces! 5. ~: a visual indicator of sarcasm or playfulness California Gurlz is the best song ever~ 6. SMH: shake my head; displays disapproval Catherine: What did you get on your AP Bio test? Brandon: B. Catherine: smh.

Mac. 39%

PC. 61% 69% 31%

2. NBD: no big deal; often used sarcastically I have a test in every period tomorrow. NBD. 3. SWAG:

Stay up late
I like Macs because theyre shiny. Except I have a PC because my mom thinks Macs are too expensive. -Michelle Lou (9) PC because its comfortable and easy to use. -Helen Ko (10)

Wake up early

IM/Social networking sites 38% TV 11% Texting/calling 14% Naps 19% Games 10% Other 8% 4. FERDAIIIZZZ: for days; for an extended period of time Kris George has swag ferdaiiizzz. 7. MEH: shows indifference or apathy Tiffany: Kim Kardashian just got a divorce! Jennifer: Meh. 8. QUALITY: good These are some quality definitions.

ROBINSON ROCKS THE STAGE

November 10, 2011

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Northwood Howler

November Noise
By Addy BhAsin, drew dunn-rAnkin And Johnny ZhAng
A&E Editor, Editor-in-Chief and Junk Editor

Get in the mood for sweaters, snuggling and stuffing with this playlist a musical representation of the month of November.

Photo Provided by Shaudee badie

MARILyN MANROCk: First place winner Garret Robinson takes the stage, wowing the audience and the judges with his elaborate costume and air guitar skills at Northwoods first ever Air Guitar Competition.
By rini sAmpAth
Viewpoint Editor

With pink hair, a zebra-striped bath robe and a glittery face, senior Garret Robinson showed off his rocker skills and took home the title of Northwoods first Air Guitar Champion on Thursday, Oct. 27. I didnt even expect to win! said Robinson when asked of his victory. As a prize, I was given a Chipotle gift card which I used to buy an awesome steak burrito the following day. The competition, which was

hosted by senior Akira Sekiguchi and put on by the Drama Department, featured a preliminary round and a final round for the top three contestants. Faculty judges Natalie Hamilton, Jeannie Loso, Tim Horrigan and Sandy Banks all donned elaborate costumes and ranked competitors on a scale of 4 to 6. When I was judging, I was looking for a person who had amazing stage presence, said Banks. During the final round, Robinson competed against Amanda Picard and Eric Yim. We were asked to perform a

song we hadnt even heard before, said Yim. I gave it my all. Spectators joined the air guitar band The Toxic Charlatans on stage for a true concert experience once Robinson was crowned as the victor. I surprisingly had a lot of fun that night. I hope they have another one of these because I will definitely be going, said senior Julie Kaplan. But will Robinson compete again? Yeah, definitely, said Robinson. But maybe I will let someone else win this time.

50/50 RECEIVES AN A+ FROM SIMONE DLUNA

CompiLed By QuinCie Li Northwood Howler

ITS NO ROTTEN TOMATO: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen and Anna Kendrick star in stellar comedy-drama 50/50, loosely based on the life of screenwriter Will Resier.
By simone dLunA
News Editor

Dont let the title fool you; there is much more than a 50% chance you would like 50/50. I went to the theater having watched a few trailers and heard some nice comments, but I certainly didnt expect the pleasant surprise that was in store for me. Based on the true story of its

screenwriter, Will Reiser, the film follows a young man named Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) as he is diagnosed with spinal cancer, undergoes treatments and copes with the emotional repercussions of knowing he has a 50% chance of surviving. Adam also has problems with his emotionally detached girlfriend and smothering mother, but he endures it all with the help of his best friend Kyle (Seth

Rogen) and his sincere but inexperienced therapist-in-training, Katherine (Anna Kendrick). Though the movie deals with a dark subject, it is not depressing; rather, it is peppered with comic relief and lovable characters. GordonLevitt portrays Adams emotions and vulnerability in a way that all viewers can understand, even if they have never dealt with anything comparable

to Adams experiences. Rogen holds his own and provides comic relief as Kyle, whose seemingly insensitive antics mask his unfaltering loyalty. Their friendship (sometimes bordering on bromance) is heart-warming and Rogen and Gordon-Levitts playful chemistry lightens the films serious undertone. 50/50 took me on an emotional roller coaster of tears, laughter, disNews Editor Simone DLuna Accent Editor Alice Lee

appointment and the warm-fuzzies. Its a movie that sticks with you for a long time; on multiple occasions after watching it I found my mind wandering back to its brightly-lit hospital rooms and Adams cozy apartment. This films depiction of humanity is raw and relatable. Its message about love, survival and beating the odds resonates and, better still, inspires.
Distribution Manager Quincie Li Adviser Tim Horrigan Staff Writers Christina Ko Brittney Kuo Jenny Lee Francesca Ricapito Brandon Choi Christine Yang Emaan Baqai Kristie Chang Sooyun Choi Tiffany Tsai Photographers Allen Chiu Kris George Tina Xu Quincie Li Audrey Nguyen

To advertise in the Howler: Please contact our Business Manager, Quincie Li, at nhshowlerads@ gmail.com or (949) 812-1166. Classifieds: Northwood High students and faculty members may place classified ads in the Howler by contacting the Business Manager at nhshowler@gmail.com or (949) 812-1166.

The Northwood Howler is published by Northwood High School as an open forum for the exchange of news and ideas. Views expressed in The Northwood Howler do not necessarily represent the opinions of the NHS administration or the Irvine Unified School District. Signed Letters to the Editor are welcomed and encouraged. They can be placed in Adviser Tim Horrigans mailbox or delivered to Room 1102. The Northwood Howler reserves the right to edit letters for length, grammar and clarity. Advertisements do not necessarily represent the opinion of the newspaper. Mission Statement: To serve as a medium for school news and the expression of student ideas while adhering to the highest standards of journalistic integrity.

Editor-in-Chief Drew Dunn-Rankin Managing Editor Catherine Dong The Howler Online Editor Catherine Dong Copy Editor Adelina Pak Layout Editor Monsoon Pabrai Photo Editor Kris George Graphics Editor Allen Chiu Front Page Editor Simone DLuna

Centerspread Editor Megan Nazareno Viewpoint Editors Rini Sampath Tina Xu A&E Editor Addy Bhasin Sports Editor Jennifer Yu Junk Editor Johnny Zhang Business Managers Quincie Li Megan Nazareno

The Howler can be contacted at

nhshowlerads@gmail.com

The Northwood Howler

Girls golf finds success in CIF

SPORTS

November 10, 2011

Kelsie Groot: volleyball star

have you put into volleyball? KG: I play volleyball year round. Right when high school volleyball ends, club starts up. And right when club ends, high school starts. Its a good 15 hours per week. AB: So you spend a lot of time with your team. What are some of the most memorable experiences youve had with them? KG: Some of the best moments with this team are when Katherine [Paszek] fell on her butt trying to block, when my shoe fell off when I was jumping and when I knocked Kiara [Ota] over when diving for a ball. AB: Lets talk about your future plans. How did the recruitment process work out? KG: My club coach called the University of Miami and told them to watch me play. They sent me an email, I replied, went on a visit and the rest is history. AB: What were some of the advantages of being recruited as a junior in high school? KG: I didnt have the stress of having to find a college. I only had to fill out one college application! AB: Was there anyone who inspired you to see volleyball as more than just an extracurricular? KG: My family encouraged me to pursue volleyball, but my dad really [wanted] me to go the extra mile and have private workout and training sessions. [He encouraged] me to try out for USA High Performance Volleyball. My club coach this year, Neil Mason, made me step out of my shell and become a more aggressive player. He is the one who ultimately helped me get my scholarship. AB: What advice would you give to a high school athlete who hopes to get recruited? KG: Dont be afraid to make a mistake because coaches like to see that. Coaches look for your potential, work ethic and attitude. Make sure you always give 110% and be a leader. And reach out to [college] coaches. There will be a coach out there that is interested in you. Enjoy what you are doing!

Photo provided by Joshua Nathan

FORe!: Junior Stephanie Luchetta takes a swing on the green at practice. The Northwood Girls Varsity Golf teams efforts have paid off with an incredible run on the CIF circuit.
By JeNNifer yu
Sports Editor

Audrey NguyeN Northwood Howler

GROOT haS SKIllS TO bOOT: Senior middle blocker Kelsie Groot gets ready for the kill at a league game against University. The volleyball standout is currently being scouted by University of Miami.
By Addy BhAsiN
A&E Editor

Northwoods Girls Varsity Golf made school history by winning its first CIF-SS regional title on Wednesday, Oct. 26. The team claimed the title with a score of 418, edging Dana Hills by two strokes. It felt amazing to win, said team captain Tracey Hanna Kim. The Timberwolves battled on Los Serranos Country Clubs North Course in Chino Hills, an 18-hole course with a 74-stroke par. Only two out of the 129 girls who competed were able to rise to this challenge. One of them was Northwoods own Kim, who went three under par with a score of 71, the lowest score of the day. Sophomore Euna Pak also led the team with an admirable score of

78 and was backed up by solid scores in the 80s from the rest of the team. Despite two losses to Beckman in an otherwise undefeated season, the team was able to walk away with Northwoods first CIF championship plaque. The best part was probably getting the plaque because weve never gotten a plaque for golf before we always came in 4th, said junior Allison Chen. With an impressive performance at Regionals under its belt, the Timberwolves traveled to Solvangs Alisal Golf Course on Nov. 3 to compete in CIF-SS Team Championships. Northwood came out 8th in the competition with a total score of 428, its best result at the championships, while battling gusty conditions and cold temperatures. These girls are very much a

veteran team, and that helps them through the tough spots, said Coach Zach Halop. Pak and Kim once again led the team and posted scores high enough to qualify for the WSCGA Finals, the individual Southern California championships. This CIF run wraps up another incredible season for the Girls Varsity Golf Team and continues its longstanding tradition of excellence. Other notable accomplishments in the teams history include several undefeated seasons and seven consecutive league titles. Despite these accomplishments, Halop remains most proud of the girls themselves. I cant tell you how proud I am of them. These wins dont mean much when you come across good students and good people. These girls are a class act, said Halop.

Shes being scouted by University of Miami volleyball, and if everything goes as planned, senior middle blocker Kelsie Groot will say goodbye to Northwood and hello to the number one school in Florida. Sounds simple enough, eh? Groot has put tremendous effort into both high school and club volleyball through brutal training sessions and long practices. The Howler sat down with the volleyball star, who served up the dish on embarrassing team moments, the recruitment process and her plans for the future. Addy Bhasin: How did you get started with volleyball? Kelsie Groot: I started playing volleyball because my sister played and I wanted to be like her. AB: What kind of time commitment

Stunt-men: male cheerleaders

By MoNsooN PABrAi
Layout Editor

Northwood teams advance to CIF playoffs

By BrittNey Kuo, tiffANy tsAi, JeNNifer yu
Staff Writers and Sports Editor

What do juniors Zach Bradley and George Velazquez have in common with Steve Martin and Samuel L. Jackson? They were all high school male cheerleaders! Northwood High Schools Pep Squad may be full of exciting cheers and thrilling songs, but the majority of the team is populated with females. Cheerleading has been defined as a competitive sport with tumbling, dancing, cheers and stunts. Since its creation, cheerleading has been predominantly female, leaving men sitting on the sidelines. Northwood High Schools Pep Squad team has had all females for the last few years, but Velazquez and Bradley are breaking the barrier. Cheerleading has given them an opportunity to do something they enjoy. I love the dances and cheers, but I just really love the attention when Im performing, said Bradley. After they made the team, Velazquez and Bradley were ecstatic because they could felt that they could be accepted as male cheerleaders. The school body is very open and accepting, and I felt that by my junior year I could try out and do what I wanted to do, said Bradley. The other cheerleaders on the Pep Squad team also appreciate the unique talents and presence Velasquez and Bradley bring. Its really great having two boys

Five of the seven Northwood fall sports teams will be heading to CIF playoffs this season, and for some of the teams, the road to CIF has been nothing short of exciting. Boys Varsity Water Polo had fought its way to book a spot in CIF. The teams regular season had ended with a dramatic loss to University, 11-

10, on Nov. 1. Unis Griffin Chappell fired the game-winning goal with 26 seconds left in the game, despite a goal from freshman Billy Monjay 36 seconds left in the shot clock to tie the score. This loss bumped Northwood down to third in league but still ensured a position in the CIF playoffs. This is the most balanced team weve had in the last couple years. I think we have a shot, said sophomore

Kris george Northwood Howler

on the squad! The guys definitely bring a positive energy, and I love how the crowd gets pumped when George tumbles at the games, said song leader junior Sabrina Alonso. Although Bradley joined cheerleading because of the dances and chants, Velazquez started out with martial arts and picked up tumbling a few years ago. He found that Pep Squad was the closest he could get in order to practice his tumbling skills. Bradley, however, like many other cheerleaders, loves Pep Squad because it entertains the school and brings spirit to football games. He and Velazquez highly encourage other males to join the pep squad team. For any other males out there, Id say that if you love tumbling or you have a lot of energy, try out for the Pep Squad team, said Velazquez.

Ready, SeT, aIm: Sophomore utility John Hartshorne tries to find an opening while facing pressure from the opponent. The Northwood Boys Varsity Water Polo team has qualified for CIF playoffs despite a dramatic loss to University to end the regular season.

Audrey NguyeN Northwood Howler

John Hartshorne. Girls Varsity Tennis has had a record-setting season with wins over former CIF semifinalist Corona del Mar and top-ranked Troy for the first time in school history. The team posted a 13-4 record and placed third in league. Sophomore Chloe Pham claimed the runner-up singles title in league and will be competing in CIFSS Individuals. We are really happy that were going to CIF. We have been doing surprisingly well, said junior Ashley Vu. Other fall teams going to CIF include Girls Varsity Cross Country, who hopes to repeat its trip to CIF State Championships in Fresno, and Girls Varsity Volleyball, who clinched its Division I-A CIF playoff berth with a win over crosstown rival Woodbridge on Oct. 27. I had a fortune cookie that said my sports team will do well this year and ever since then, I knew wed go to CIF, said junior middle blocker Natalie Kashanchi. One notable team that is not playing CIF this season is football. The Timberwolves were not able to repeat last years CIF semifinal run due to some tough and close losses against other teams in the Pacific Coast League, but the football team still remains optimistic for next year. Next year were going. Mark my words! said junior Matt Blackburn.

10 November 10, 2011

Top five teacher look-a-likes

B y A delinA P Ak , C Atherine d ong , And Q uinCie l i
Copy Editor, Howler Online Editor-in-Chief and Business Editor

JOHNNYS JUNK

The Northwood Howler

Look for female teacher look-a-likes next issue!

5. Mr. Rubin and Jimmy Fallon 4. Mr. Guy and David Deluise (Jerry Russo from Wizards of Waverly Place) 3. Mr. Horrigan and Carl Fredricksen (from Up) 2. Mr. Gates and Peter Jacobsen (Dr. Chris Taub from House) 1. Mr. Emery and Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. (Snoop Dogg)
Allen Chiu The Northwood Howler

Check out the solution on thehowleronline.org!

Allen Chiu The Northwood Howler

Catch you on the flip side!

By Johnny Zhang
Junk Editor

The Northwood Howler

JOHNNYS JUNK
No matter what you find, whether it be loose papers, old fruit or dead animals, you have passed the point of no return. After the backpack has been flipped, put everything back inside the freshly flipped backpack, zip it up and await your reward. Although just a minor inconvenience, flipping is quickly gaining popularity around the school. Next time you are sitting happily in math class and reach for a pencil, dont be surprised if you have been flipped. Quit tying peoples shoelaces together, give up on spitballs and just stop with the Kick Me signs. A new generation of pranks has arrived.
Viewpoint Editor

November 10, 2011

11

How to manage time efficiently

By Rini Sampath Unfortunately, Rini did not have enough time to write this article. Stay tuned until the next issue!

Youve heard of planking, owling, coning and photobombing. Now comes the new fad that is sweeping Northwood: flipping. Flipping essentially involves taking all the contents out of someones backpack, turning the backpack inside out, putting the contents back inside and zipping up the backpack again. Pulling off a good flip is no easy task. But fear not your amazing junk editor will walk you through the process. First, find your target. Ideally,

you want to have a distraction in order to divert attention away from the desired backpack. Otherwise, you will need to rely on your own skill and cunning to maneuver the backpack away from the target. Once you have borrowed the persons backpack, you are ready for the flip. The flip is an art form. This is where speed meets efficiency. To perform the flip, empty out everything in the backpack, grab the bottom of the backpack and flip it inside out. If the backpack you are flipping only has a few folders or a binder, this step should be easy. However, not all people have organized backpacks.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4
KRiS geoRge Northwood Howler Cartoon provided by Janice chun

F LS AL PORT S
P o o b K i G og a dAlnC i,ihigd s nb AlnC i h t s y r e re n l s e hu l t g n ei y l g e hu