Smoke Signals

Warriors Rally and Defeat Redondo

Grant — Mon, 07 May 2012 05:45:19 +0000

On Tuesday, April 17^th, the West High Boys Varsity Tennis team rallied against the Redondo Sea Hawks. The Warriors, who had faced off against the Sea Hawks once before, were worried. With the memory of their defeat just three weeks prior fresh in their minds, the Warriors trudged onto the pavement. However, this time, the Warriors had changed their strategy; they had prevailed, defeating their foe 10-8. This marked the first victory the Warriors had tasted in the Bay League.

The Bay League games had started off rocky for the Warriors. “Ever since we lost [the first game] with Redondo,” started Caleb Yoo (10), “we lost every other game in the Bay League.” Though it can be said that PV and Mira Costa were serious contenders to the Bay League throne, the Warriors were caught in the mud when it came to playing against Redondo and Peninsula. “It just did not work, “exclaimed Joseph Ahn (11).

Yet using a completely different strategy, the Warriors had the edge over the confident Sea Hawks. “Peter Zhang (12) and I won two out of the three games we had,” said Yoo. The collective efforts of the team led to the two point lead required to call a victory. “It’s been a while [since we won, but we did] it,” commented Yoo, proud of their victory.

However, the Sea Hawks were not done. They had a chance to recapture the lead, but Sean Chotikasetien (12) and his partner clinched the victory against Redondo by defeating them square on in doubles. “If [the Sea Hawks] had won in doubles,” said Ahn, “we would have [lost].” The victory in the doubles as well as matchup changes by the coach to take advantage of certain strengths saved the game.

With the Bay League coming to a conclusion, the victory against Redondo was invaluable as it raised the morale and confidence of the players, proving that hard work and dedication can always lead to victory.

Swimming Toward Victory

Grant — Mon, 07 May 2012 05:43:47 +0000

On Thursday April 19th, the West High Swim team engaged in a swim meet at Palos Verdes High School. The event allowed the participating swimmers to not only exercise various events, but to also analyze their respective areas of improvement. Because swim meets do not generally conclude with a ‘winning’ and ‘losing’ team up until the following day, swimmers are able to contest in the meet all while eradicating the nerve-racking mindset of defeat.

Every swimmer is required to race in all the events, as this allows them to compete in their strongest events as well as practice their weaker ones. Although swim meets are mostly comprised of races and competitions, many swimmers use the event to become acquainted with their fellow team members. Varsity swimmer Kaileen Taylor (12) stated, “I love meets because they allow everyone to work on various skills that they have. We also bond during swim meets and they give everyone on the team a chance to determine where and how to improve along with how to overall transform themselves into better swimmers.” Eric Nguyen (11), another Varsity swimmer added, “Battling Palos Verdes was not effortless; however, the meet has given us valuable perspective as to how to improve our capability to perform well. With good freshman additions this year, we are a much stronger team.”

As the Warriors and Sea Kings battled in the waves, the Warriors were able to maximize their skills. However, some of the swimmers admit that they do not know everyone on the team – an important factor when it comes to sports. Hana Otsuka (11) commented, “I wish as a team we have more bonding events over the course of the season. I feel that this allow us to get to know everyone on the team.” When asked what she enjoys most about swim meets she stated, “The meets really capitalizes on our sportsmanship as a whole. We often cheer on our team with group chants and it brings us closer to each other.” The Warriors know they have, through hard work and determination, become a stronger team.

How To Solve Trolling: West High’s Kyptonite

Grant — Mon, 07 May 2012 05:42:50 +0000

In today’s world, any individual regardless or age, race, or credibility, can take to the Internet to voice their opinions eternally hidden by the world-wide-web’s veil of anonymity. While the freedom of speech has been ever valued by society, a large number of teenagers are taking to social media to express hateful and discriminatory opinions. Recently, West High seems to have been hit by a rash of outbursts triggered by the recent ASB elections.

In particular, Secretary of Honors candidate, Christina Choi’s (11) campaign involving “troll faces” and “memes” unleashed many mixed opinions. In fact, one passionate individual felt that Choi’s use of the “troll face” was disgraceful as he or she decided to vandalize her campaign posters, leaving a typed note behind that condemned Choi’s campaign tactics saying, “We are not entirely sure that you know what trolling is. What you are doing is ridiculous, stupid and offensive.” For those who are not acclimated to the online term “trolling,” Wikipedia defines it as “someone who posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum, chat room, or blog, with the primary intent of provoking readers into an emotional response or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion” — a definition which the vandal felt had nothing to do with Choi’s ASB posters.

Not only did this anonymous individual seemingly troll the troll faces off Choi’s posters, but many others took to Facebook to voice their concerns. In fact, one user’s post condemning Choi’s tactics recovers 139 comments ranging from a similar negative view of the campaign, to those harshly criticizing the user.

Soon after, the post and the user’s entire Facebook account was deactivated, but it begs the question, how much is too much when it comes to voicing one’s opinion over the Internet? After all, it is easier to speak up when sitting in front of a computer monitor than when face to face with someone who disagrees with you.

Regardless, the Internet is not the place to distribute largely negative views towards any individual or group. Teenagers are often guided by their emotions in the heat of the moment, failing to think about the consequences of their actions, but they must always remember that whatever posted on the Internet can and likely will be there forever. Despite deleting a post, any controversial status can be screenshot, never truly disappearing.

The stupidity of online “trolling” not only damages the reputation of a poster, but it is also detrimental to a victim’s self-confidence. Despite many instances of discrimination during the past week, Choi happily states, “Although I was shocked to see my posters vandalized and to see hurtful comments on Facebook, I did not take anything personally.” To any other victims of cyber bullying, Choi’s actions are worth echoing. Rather than succumb to the pressure of the so-called trolls, others should take what is said online with a grain of salt because, as Choi put it, “haters gonna hate.”

Aristocracy Bought a Zoo, Too!

Grant — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 22:47:47 +0000

Singing from the heart takes persistence and integrity, which is what Aristocracy does every time they are seen on stage. With passionate singing and expressions, there’s no doubt that Aristocracy is known as the advanced choir on campus. On Friday, April 20^th, Aristocracy performed an animal-themed choral concert for friends and family to enjoy.

For the first half of the concert, several tributes were made, including one for football coach Fred Petersen’s passing. The choir sang “I’ll Make the Difference,” by Moses Hogan. Before the song, Choral director Mrs. Jensen made an emotional about how Coach Pete was always around for her even in the darkest of times. “His sparkling blue eyes brightened her day, and his thoughtfulness always went a long way.” In the audience was Coach Pete’s family, who began to cry as one of his former football players Phil Kang (12) began to sing the solo. Even at the start of the concert, tears ran deep for several members in the audience.

Continuing on, Amy Romano (12) and Phil Kang (12) sang a duet to the famous song “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” which made audience members sing and smile along to the music. As the first half of the concert was coming to a close, Aristocracy sang its traditional song, “The Wind Beneath My Wings” as a tribute to their parents. Throughout the song, students would bring roses to their parents, thanking them for all that they have done. Jane Jang (11) commented, “Even though I’m not a senior, I immediately begin to tear up as soon as I see everyone else. This song is truly an emotional piece, and I thank my parents for all that they have done and sacrificed for me.” With an emotional piece to signal the beginning of intermission, Aristocracy rushed to prepare for the animal-themed songs in the second half of the concert!

Walking out with various animals on everyone’s shirts, Aristocracy was ready to perform some interesting and recognizable songs. Tunes such as “Bare Necessities” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” gave a smile to people’s faces. As the concert continued, the Aristocracy girls sang “Everybody Wants to be a Cat”, which was filled with coordinated dance moves and cat calls which was a humorous touch to the famous Disney song.

As the concert came to an end with an interpretation of “Pop Goes the Weasel,” Aristocracy once again swept people off their feet with harmonious singing. The concert was definitely enjoyable to everyone in the audience. Be sure to make the Spring Concert on May 25^th which includes all choirs as well as the faculty choir singing along to your favorite songs.

New British Band Sweeps the Nation

Grant — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 22:43:36 +0000

One Direction is the world’s newest and hippest boy band. In 2010, Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Zayn Malik and Niall Horan applied as solo artists for the seventh season of The X Factor UK; however they failed to qualify for the “Boys” category. After much consideration, judge Simon Cowell thought that sending them home would be too much of a loss and that their talent would be better put to use together. The five were then offered the opportunity to be put together to form a band, thus qualifying for the “Groups” category. The boys knew this was a chance of a life-time and immediately took the offer. They took a few days to get to know each other and deemed themselves, One Direction. Their first performance was at the Judges’ House level in the competition where they sang “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia. As the competition continued on the boys gained more and more fans. Their adorable faces and angelic singing voices shot them to the Finale. After placing third, the boys were signed with Cowell’s record label Syco Records.

Once the show had ended the boys began making their first album titled Up All Night. They debuted in the UK their first single “What Makes You Beautiful” on September 11, 2011. The single broke pre-record sales for Sony Music. Their second single “Gotta Be You” was released on November 13, 2011 which hit the charts at number 3. The entire album was the released on November 21, 2011 debuting at number 2 on the UK Album Charts. The album was a hit and the band announced the dates for their headlining UK Tour. On February 21, 2012 “What Makes You Beautiful” won the boys a Brit Award for Best British Single.

Upon coming to the United States, the band signed with Columbia Records. They released their album on March 13, 2012. In the U.S. “What Makes You Beautiful” became the highest Billboard Hot 100 debut for a UK act since 1998. The boys have released dates for the North American leg of their Up All Night Tour which will from April to July 2012.

These boys sure are headed in “one direction,” and this up!

West High Track Triumphs

Grant — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 22:42:08 +0000

Tuesday marked a triumphant return to the season from Spring Break for West High’s track team. Girls Varsity was victorious at the meet against Palos Verdes and Leuzinger, and Boys Varsity just barely lost 65-67.
Despite the fact that Palos Verdes’ track team was especially skilled in distance running, the day was filled with success as many personal records were set. Nina Baker (9) won the high jump at 5’0’’ and varsity member Austin Nuchols (12) definitely did not disappoint by winning the 400-meter run.
Another setback the warrior runners encountered was the intense heat. The high temperature on Tuesday was around 80 degrees, which certainly “took a lot out of [the team],” explained varsity member Madalyn Fleming (12). Yet West’s track team powered on, not letting the sweltering temperatures overwhelm and overpower them in the slightest. Fleming commended her team’s performance by enthusiastically exclaiming, “Overall, we did a great job in the heat, especially just coming back from spring break!”
Clearly heat could not affect these avid runners’ drive and determination to prevail!

Del Amo’s Newest Store

Grant — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 22:40:37 +0000

Typo – no, this isn’t referring to those annoying little mistakes you make in an English essay every now and then. Typo is a recently opened stationary store that sells a plethora of handy, efficient room and office supplies including writing tools, interior design kits, photo fames and albums, satchels, book bags, laptop cases, mugs, folders, clocks, and journals.

Interestingly, Typo is headed by the clothing company Cotton On and is an Australian-based franchise, as all its products are imported straight from the country. First opened on January 16th in Del Amo Mall, the growing franchise became the first ever store located in the United States with other branches residing in both Australia and Hong Kong. A second Typo store, located in San Francisco, opened a few weeks after the Del Amo Typo store.

The store is vintage-themed with a slight modern twist and the store’s stationery is intricately designed to match. A variety of the store’s products are strategically displayed. Furthermore, the store is ideal for everyone: students, teachers, business owners, writers, and artists alike.

Store Manager Nilza Rocque stated, “I absolutely love this store. There is just so much to look at. Every item, article, product is designed in such a way whereby you simply want to stop, pick it up, and look at it. Contrary to popular belief, Typo is not simply a stationery store. There’s something for everyone – for people who uphold interests, hobbies, or careers in scrapbooking, artistry, reading, writing, and interior design – we have it all.” Despite being here in the United States for only a little over 3 months, Typo is rapidly accumulating fame. Its cool atmosphere and antique-themed design enchants customers. Along with having been a commercial success, Typo has also presented opportunities to win prizes, all while doing what interest the customer. The store is heavily focused on the individual, as there are products for anyone and anything. Typo recently announced its 28-day ‘Typo Capture’ challenge, in which the applicants submit photograph entries that define or capture their day in a nutshell. Each day presents a different theme, some of which include “Where You Write”, “The Contents of your Satchel”, “Best Way to Start your Day”, and “What Inspires You.” Each day, there are different prize winners based on the individual who best captured the day’s theme through his or her photography.

Overall, Typo is an amazing store and is quickly making its way to the top. If you are interested in checking the store, Typo is in close proximity to the food court and is directly across Lids. Additionally, do not hesitate to enter the ‘Typo-Capture’ challenge, which last up until May. Have fun shopping!

Kneepkens Bake Sale

Grant — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:44:39 +0000

Between two to four o’clock, on Thursday, March 28^th, a delectable assortment of baked goods was sold in front of the library. With prices ranging from around $1-3, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and other sweet treats were made available to passing Warriors. All of the proceeds went directly to the Kneepkens family, who recently suffered the loss of their mother, Dana Kneepkens. Her sons, Chris (12) and Michael (11) are two valued members of West’s student body. Despite the loss, the West High family rallied together to help these two young men. On behalf of the Smoke Signals staff, our condolences go out to the Kneepkens family in their time of mourning.

Laura Baumgartner: More Than Meets the Eye

Grant — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:43:27 +0000

For four years, Laura Baumgartner (12) has enjoyed the memories that high school has given her. As the valedictorian of her class, she busied herself with multiple Honors and AP courses, but always used the difficulty of these classes as a motivator to make sure that anything would be possible for her in the future.

Other than her challenging academic schedule, Baumgartner played volleyball for West High for three years and also played club volleyball. “Although I didn’t join every activity I could have, I enjoyed everything I did because of the people I met.” Other than studying and playing volleyball, Baumgartner also has a passion for writing and this interest has led to her hoping to achieve a career in journalism. Her passion for writing led to her joining the Yearbook Chieftain Staff this year. When asked about her plans for college, she stated, “College is just another stepping stone for me, especially with a new environment and new experiences waiting for me. I hope that everything I learned in high school can benefit me in college. The people were so great inTorrance; I can only hope that I can meet amazing people elsewhere.”

Baumgartner sees her four years as more than just being academically ranked one, because there’s more to high school than just studying. “I’ve met so many great people and created various memories that I look back at West with a smile. Although I don’t know where I’m going to college just yet, I’m thankful for the acceptances and have been glad it’s all paid off until this point.” Currently, Baumgartner has narrowed her list of college choices to either Boston College or Villanova “I don’t choose a college based on how highly ranked it is; I make my decision based on how well I think I’ll fit in. Obviously I won’t be staying inCalifornia, but hopefully I can easily get adjusted out of state.”

Baumgartner has big, but reachable dreams for her future, but no matter where she ends up, she will be successful. Good luck to Laura in all her future endeavors no matter wherever she ends up.

So Close, Yet So Far

Grant — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:41:03 +0000

During this Boys Varsity Baseball season, members have been rigorously practicing for a successful one. Coach Juan Cueva motivates his team to go out to the field and try their best under any circumstances. But on Wednesday March 28, West had a little bit of a downfall against the South High Spartans.

In the final inning, West was down 10-8 but after scoring a run, the score was 10-9. However, they were unable to complete the comeback against the Spartans, the final score 10-9. Starting Pitcher Teddy Kerwin (12) stated, “We definitely shouldn’t give up especially with this close score. I know we tried our hardest, but I guess luck wasn’t on our side this time.” As the team captain, Kerwin hopes that this loss will help motivate the team. No matter under what circumstances, the team vows to never give up. With upcoming games and multiple chances to make it into CIF, the team has nothing to be sad about. Outfielder Wesley Chipeco (12) states, “I’m really disappointed about this game, especially since we were so close. But all we can do at this point is hit harder, run faster, and do better by working together.” With such inspirational words, the team doesn’t look at the game as a loss but as a lesson to learn from. “Sometimes things don’t go your way, and you just have to accept it.”

The season is just starting, so be sure to catch a game while you can! The team continues to try their best until the end.