The Official Student Newspaper of Oakland Technical High Issue 4: January 2016 www.oaklandtechscribe.com OAL to Charge Threat of Closed Campus for Soccer Games By Clara McGilly and Ayla Frost Provokes Uproar This year, Oakland Tech sion of OUSD. The money has started charging for at- made is intended to im- tendance at soccer and vol- prove athletic facilities and leyball games for the first equipment for public mid- time. After a drawn out dle and high schools across debate over pricing, it now Oakland. For instance, costs $2 for students with drawing from earlier ticket IDs and $4 for those with- funds, the Skyline field was out. Tech already charges redone last year, and the for other sports such as Tech field might be redone football and basketball. this summer. However, not every sport Previously, the football will draw enough of an fees were the only source audience to generate mon- of money supplying OAL’s ey, so it’s unclear where to maintenance of fields and draw the line. This issue equipment. Since other has sparked great contro- teams, such as soccer, use versy among both players the field just as often, some and spectators. say it makes sense that they The change in ticket too should contribute. Antonia Starc/Scribe pricing was implemented On the other hand, not The Tech Administration is talking about preventing students from patronizing buisnesses across the street by OAL (Oakland Athletic all the money made ends By Kendall Prime community. Although Ms. Morrison League), the sports divi- up benefitting the team The closed campus news orig- brought the idea up, some staff It all started at one of the inated from a campaign by the members heard the news of a (Charging Games continues on Page 8) monthly student government Leadership class to prevent in- potential closed campus from meetings. The Leadership class appropriate off-campus behavior the student body. According to was reviewing details for the during lunch hours. Ms. Morri- Mr. Price, no other administra- Winter Ball and listening to son, encouraging a student-run tors have talked to the staff about complaints about the restrooms. movement, selected Leadership a potential closed campus. He As things began to wrap up, one to spread news of a threat of “heard about closed campus... student announced the possi- closed campus lunch. Through only from the students.” He add- bility of a closed campus lunch, Leadership’s efforts, word has ed that he sees “the notices and and concerned murmurs quickly spread about the possibility of see what [we] post online. [He] began to spread through the the Tech campus being closed thinks it’s good that [the stu- room and throughout the Tech during lunch, indefinitely. dents are] discussing it and...it

Antigone Michaels/Scribe (Closed Campus continues on Page 8)

By Nick Pingitore Tech No Longer Technical Nadia Wohlfarth/Scribe Peek INSIDE Say the name Oakland to Clarence Harris, a Tech and people immedi- Tech math teacher who Tech Companies Could offer Oportunities and ately jump to conclusions. is also a graduate of Club Spotlight: SPOCN “Do you build cars? Are you Tech, we are. “Not ev- Pg.2 a technical school? How ery kid wanted to go to many machine shops do a college, they wanted Crime in Parks and Google you have?’ For the majority to work, develop skills, Impact of Oakland Tech’s history, and get a decent job... Pg. 3 that was indeed our school. people still need to fix College Mail and Student Founded over 100 years cars, do plumbing and Rights ago, Oakland Tech, for electricity.” Pg. 4 the majority of its history, As America transi- Best Music of 2015 and Star churned out students well tioned from an in- Wars Review versed in technical skills. Yet dustrial nation to the pg. 5 as American industry has beginnings of a postin- “It gives the impression the girls gym is now stand- evolved, and in recent years dustrial society during the ‘Hateful 8’ Review and Finals that when you don’t have ing, we had machine shops Pg.6 diminished, our technical late 70s, trades started to that four year degree those below, auto shops, metal programs have faded into lose their glamour. Today, other jobs are unworthy, shops, computer shops, cab- Spotlight Review, New Year’s our yearbooks. according to school curric- that it doesn’t have enough inet making. But when those Resolutions and Recipe But are students today ulum across the nation, a social status,” added Mr teachers retired, they started Pg. 7 actually missing anything four year college seems to be Harris. “That’s just crazy.” to close up shop. They need with our lack of technical the only way a student can The Technical program was to bring that stuff back. job training? According achieve a “successful” future. no laughing matter: “Where Those jobs need to be filled.” (Not Technical continues on Page 8) PAGE 2 January 2016

News Dates to Rise of Tech Companies Could Offer Remember Opportunities For Tech Students Jan 25 - Auditions for OT Spring Drama Production nesses; as is typical of the Bay to learn about computers,” computer science. By Molly Hetherwick Classroom A3 3:30-5:30pm With the arrival of over Area, most of these are in or Tech senior Alvin Gao asserts. “Girls Who Code has heavily utilize the tech and “Oakland Tech is preparing launched a #hireme initia- thirty new tech companies in Jan 28 - Mini/Maxi Grants Due the East Bay in the past five computer science fields. students for these opportu- tive helping their alums find The East Bay, now home nities, but to be completely jobs and internships,” Tech years, the future of the com- Jan 29 - Professional Develop- to big name companies like honest, it is not enough. The senior and club founder Aura puter science and technology ment Day Uber, Pandora, Gensler, Computer Academy definitely Barrera explains. “Through field could be revolutionized and Pixar, is presented with has the resources to con- that effort and my person- by the sheer diversity of the Feb 10 - Minimum Day the unique opportunity of a nect to internships, but the al experience, I think Girls area - which means big things Time Management and relatively blank slate and the coursework learned in class Who Code’s impact on youth for Oakland Tech. Organization In the past several years, tools to change possibly an is not advanced enough to be around the country directly translates to the tech industry. the East Bay has seen a mas- Feb 17 - Minimum Day “The cool, smart people are already here.” Even the attention Girls Who sive commercial boom and Just add tech jobs, and you’ve got yourself a Code pulled to the issue of the population shift. Most of Feb 24 - Minimum Day the employees of the Silicon revolution. lack of women in tech has an impact.” Valley corporations -like For more events and dates, visit entire industry. The computer u s e f u l .” Mayor Libby Schaaf has Google, Facebook, Apple- are oaklandtech.com/staff/calendar not from the South Bay: they industry, despite being quite There is a bevy of organi- spoken to every single tech make the the mind-numbing new, is already practically zations that have sprang up to company that has moved Sports commute twice daily from homogenous and greatly male get a head start on this issue. to Oakland in the past year, the Peninsula and North Bay, dominated. Alameda County, Some that Tech students may demonstrating the nature of Calendar caught in heavy traffic both as one of the top five most have encountered include: the city and imploring them ways. Thus, eager San Francis- diverse counties in the entire Hack the Hood, Brothers to take advantage of Oakland’s cans are scrambling in droves United States, is the polar op- Who Code, and Oakland diversity during hiring season. Jan 25 - Boys JV Soccer @ to Oakland’s open floor office posite - hence, with the arrival Tech’s very own Girls Who As she said during her inau- Castlemont 5 pm-7pm spaces, concrete jungle with of tech companies poised and Code club. These organiza- gural speech this month, “The its deciduous rainforest back- ready to expand, the East Bay tions work very closely with cool, smart people are already Jan 27 - Boys Varsity yard, and shorter commute may be able to pioneer a more underrepresented demo- here.” Just add tech jobs, and Baskeball @ time. With these enterprising diverse future. graphics in the tech industry you’ve got yourself a revolu- Castlemont 5 pm- 7 pm young folks come their busi- “It’s a good thing because and encourage interest in the tion. it means more opportunities growing and affluent field of Jan 28 - Boys Varsity Soccer @ Oakland Tech 5 pm-7pm

Jan 30 - Girls Varsity Basket- Club Spotlight: Supporting People ball @ Napa 5:30 pm

of Color Now Feb 2 - Boys Varsity Soccer By Margarita Ku experience the same special- student population, most of in Tech’s advanced classes and @ Fremont 5 pm-7pm Every year, Tech’s academ- ized academic rigor for their the academies and programs programs. ics attract new students from own benefit. continue to be predominantly “We want to create a safe *more events listed on online all corners of Oakland. From The issue does not persist white. There is no easy solu- space for students of color calendar* the Engineering Academy to for lack of trying. Tech itself tion, but Tech’s latest student to voice their opinions and the Paideia program to a full has made an effort to reach club, SPOCN (Supporting address issues of equity at our For more information variety of AP and HP course out to all of its freshman People of Color Now, pro- school,” says junior Lucile visit oaklandtech.com/staff/ offerings, Tech students from classes about its advanced nounced ‘spoken’), hopes to Henderson. “We believe athletics-calendar 10th grade onward have this problem exists the opportunity to seek because students of out the subjects they’re color are not actively FROM THE WEB passionate about, master encouraged to join a wide range of skills, these classes and are Last month, we asked and prepare themselves discouraged by their readers in an online poll: for college and future reputation. And once careers. However, this in them, students can Do you support the new affir- vast diversity of academic feel isolated, want to mative consent laws? opportunities comes with drop out, or not try.” a larger question: why While SPOCN 25% said: Yes, this is exactly what aren’t the student demo- shares many similar- we need right now graphics enrolled in these ities with the BSU, programs and classes just QSA, and other social 25% said: No as diverse? justice-oriented stu- From the classroom dent clubs, the club’s 50% said: Too Early to Tell Jay Yamada/Scribe to the school board level, Founding members of SPOCN main goal is to reach Tech’s administration has long programs. An academy/pro- work towards one. out to this specific group, Visit struggled to address this ques- gram fair is held during the Founded by a core group of students of color in advanced oaklandtechscribe.com tion. Even Superintendent second semester to introduce juniors including Lucile Hen- programs at Tech, and create now to vote in our latest poll Antwan Wilson’s controversial students to each program. derson, Patti Chan, Dionisia a community where they can “Pathway to Excellence Plan” Before freshmen apply for the Ruiz, Lewam Gebre, Caramia find solidarity with others in is partly an attempt at a solu- program, California Stud- Fernandez-Melone, Ajani Tor- the same position. Should Tech soccer games be tion. By placing all students ies teachers hold lunchtime res-Cedillo, and Ayo Lewis, (SPOCN continues on Page 3) free? in academies, Wilson hopes Q&A sessions with current SPOCN is the first organized to level the playing field and Paideia students. Still, instead student club formed in re- Disclaimer: These results are not allow all Oakland students to of reflecting Tech’s diverse sponse to the lack of diversity representaive of the school or the larger Tech Community. January 2016 PAGE 3 News Crime in Parks Threatens Park Goers Trevor Harrison/Scribe By Molly Hetherwick claiming that, “It’s totally out season, the Public Safety For park visitors this win- of place. You would expect Division is staffed by approx- ter, the call of the wild may that to happen in a more imately 500 personnel, which become the call of the park urban place. That type of bad includes 148 full-time equiv- rangers as petty crime in the stuff should not belong in alent employees, 65 of whom East Bay Regional Parks has such a beautiful place.” Eng are sworn police officers. In risen in tandem with the series represents the view of many addition, the district employs of car break-ins around the park-goers, that the break-ins 195 seasonal lifeguards, 200 rest of Oakland. are hard to take considering members in its Volunteer Trail Oakland is home to hun- the beauty of nature. Safety Patrols, and 40 industri- dreds of acres of park space, “The main concern is al firefighters. which features all the perks of property crime,” states EBRPD “The park rangers do a camping or backpacking with official Carolyn Jones. “Car good job keeping the parks the comforts of urban life only break-ins, stolen picnics, rob- clean.” says Tech senior So- a few miles away. The East beries–these kinds of crimes phia Alvarez. “I believe having Bay Regional Parks District is are up significantly all over more park rangers will help the largest land-owning park the Bay Area. It just goes in keep the parks safe.” district in the United States, waves.” Another anonymous Tech and offers everything from Despite this spike in misde- senior agrees: “I feel like they orienteering to merry-go- meanors, EBRPD is keeping a probably do the best they can, round rides. The parks have handle on it. The district has but they’re probably under- upwards of 50,000 visitors per its own police department, a staffed and underpaid.” day. However, not all of these full service California Police The district invites visitors attendees are there to enjoy Officer Standards and Training to enjoy the parks, but advises nature and fresh air. (POST)-recognized law en- them to be careful with their Oakland Tech Senior, Da- forcement agency, that collab- belongings. “What we sug- vid Eng, spends his free time orates with the Oakland Police gest to people is to not leave adds, “The message too is to laptop. You don’t need your exploring East Bay Parks. He Department to nip problems anything at all in your car. remember that you’re going wallet. Those things are safest is hurt by the rash of crime, in the bud. At peak summer Not even the trunk.” Jones to a park–you don’t need your at your house.” Google Impact Challenge Could Inspire Tech Students By Josef Cutler Joseph Harmon/Scribe “Don’t be evil” was Goo- advice accessible to low-in- gle’s motto until last year and come Americans; The Hidden now it may be trying to prove Genius Project, which pro- it. Employees are encouraged vides young black males with to volunteer year-round, and technology, entrepreneurship there is even a dedicated vol- opportunities, and leadership unteer week in June. Last year, training; Kiva, which provides Google employees volunteered 0% interest loans to help out for 80,000 hours. However, small businesses; and City Google does not just force Year, which provides after its employees to volunteer, it school tutoring in East San grants money to local nonprof- Jose. its as well. While communities When asked, Tech students all over the world benefit from were unaware of the Impact Google’s generosity, the Bay Challenge. But, one of the Area receives special attention organizations awarded with because it is the home of many funding, the Hidden Genius Google employees. Since 2010, Project, provides opportuni- Google has given over $100 ties for young people. Afri- million to Bay Area nonprofits. can-American male students This year, they gave an addi- in grades 9-11 can take part tional $5.5 million in the form in their immersion program, of the Google Impact Chal- The Berkeley Food and Housing Project above is one of the recipients of Google’s initiative to help non-profits a fifteen month course where lenge. a community will know best tions received $500,000, the to reform the prison system; pupils work with industry pro- The Google Impact Chal- how to improve it. Nonprofits next 4 received $250,000, and 826 Valencia, which provides fessionals to learn computer lenge is unique in that it di- apply for a grant, and commu- the last 15 received $100,000. a creative writing center for programming, entrepreneur- rectly involves the community nity members vote on which The six “people’s choice” kids in the Tenderloin; Bay- ship, and leadership skills. in the giving process; under- organizations should receive nonprofits this year were The view/Hunters Point Commu- standing that the members of funding. The top 6 organiza- Reset Foundation, which aims nity Legal, which makes legal

(SPOCN continued from be created by students of color school.” presentations and peer men- Page 3) for students of color with Beyond discussing the toring sessions “so [under- SPOCN meets on Monday “We have a particular focus whom we can relate our expe- issues, the club plans to take classmen] can see students lunches in Ms. Woo’s room, P5. on attracting people of color,” riences.” However, Ruiz adds, action as they gather more excelling who look like them,” confirms junior and cofound- “Our club is open to anyone members. SPOCN hopes to says Henderson. “So they can er Dionisia Ruiz. “We believe who wants to understand and personally reach out to the have role models and friends that an organization needs to learn about these issues at our freshman class, organizing in these courses.” PAGE 4 January 2016 News Students Inundated with College Mail As a result,the acceptance rate 100 spots higher in U.S. News when viewing college mail. emails can cause quite an By Emma Kantor for the school can be lowered, and World Report lists than The colleges sending infor- annoyance and can quickly Many juniors and seniors and the college appear more in 2002. Although sending mation are not personalised, fill up email inboxes, espe- have started to receive mail selective and prestigious. out brochures and emails did since all they know about you cially if the schools do not from colleges, whether it Northeastern University, a contribute to its higher rank- is the limited information you necessarily fit a student’s ideal be a glossy brochure from private University in Boston, ing, the lowered acceptance bubbled in during a standard- interests. One Tech student an Ivy League school or an sends out 200,000 personal- rate was not the only cause of ized test. Just because they commented, “I delete about email from a UC. This sudden ized letters to High School the university’s high ranking. put your name on a letter 90% of the college emails I influx of college information students each year, as well as Other factors such as its small does not mean the college is receive.” College emails can can cause mixed emotions for pose an inconvenience to students of excitement, stress, students and make them less and annoyance. enthusiastic about the college Many students might won- search process. Junior Julia der: How did these universi- Hughes complained, “They’re ties get my contact informa- mostly from colleges I’m not tion? Why are they sending interested in.” me information? Does the Even if promotional college really want me? What college mail can be an an- value will these emails serve noyance, there is still value in in the college search and ap- reading it. College mail can plication process? be beneficial for many stu- First of all, many colleges dents who are beginning to purchase your contact in- search for potential colleges formation from the College to apply to, and advertising Board, who have access to can be useful in informing your information from many students about their different standardized tests such as options. Brochures and emails the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. can help inform students When you take the tests, they about great schools that they require you to fill out your might have been previously current GPA, home address, unaware of, and they can email address, religion, and lead to more individualized academic subject interests. college research. College mail All of these factors are used serves as a great free and by colleges to send you mail accessible resource available about their schools. Nadia Wohlfarth/Scribe for high school students, and Often times colleges’ pam- Colleges often send promotional brochures to high school studentsas pictured above. it helps to provide a larger phlets, letters, and brochures selection of colleges for con- are merely promotional mate- follow up email messages. In class sizes and high gradua- personally interested in you. sideration. Students should rials for the university rather 2014, the University received tion rates contributed to its A Tech Junior bombarded take advantage of the abun- than a personal recruitment. 50,000 applicants, its highest evaluated success. with emails from colleges dance of college mail at their Their goal is to recruit as number ever, competing for While sending informa- expressed discouragement doorsteps or in their inboxes, many students as possible to 2,800 spots in the class. It tion is definitely beneficial to saying, “It feels like they don’t for it might make the ensuing apply, because with limited appears that the money put colleges, it is not always help- care about me as an individ- application process easier. spots available in an incom- into marketing has payed off. ful for students. It is import- u a l .” ing class, more applicants Northeastern now ranks over ant for students to be critical In addition, all the college only means more rejections. Student Rights Op-ed: What the State of California Says About Your Body By Trevor Harrison there is no age requirement Cases of unlawful sex between and receive a misdemeanor year in prison. Sex. Well now that I got for marriage in California two minors vary in penalties charge. Proponents of these laws your attention, here’s some except that minors must but they are rarely reported If the age difference is be- say that they help prevent information. According to teen pregnancy but Califor- the state of California, most “According to section 261.5 an adult who has sex with a minor less nia is one of only four states, of you reading this can’t have including Arizona, Oregon, it. Specifically the law says than two years younger (a Senior and a Junior or two Seniors) may be and Wisconsin, where the age in penal code 261.5 (a) that fined up to $2,000 and receive a misdemeanor charge.” of consent is as high as 18 and “unlawful sexual intercourse there are no significant age- is an act of sexual intercourse receive approval from their and rarely prosecuted. tween two and three years (a related exceptions. According accomplished with a person parents and a court. The court What is taken more seri- Senior and a Sophomore, for to data from the U.S. Depart- who is not the spouse of the may also order the marriage ously by prosecutors is sexual example) the penalty rises to ment of Health and Human perpetrator, if the person is a candidates to receive and pay intercourse between a minor $5,000 and if the age differ- Services, California’s teen minor.” for “premarital counseling.” In and a major, otherwise known ence is over three years, as it pregnancy rate is somewhere What this means is that if other words the only way Cal- as statutory rape. According would be for most Seniors and near the middle compared to you are 18 it is a criminal act ifornia will let you have sex to section 261.5 an adult who Freshman, the fine can reach the rest of the country. But to have sex with anyone you is if you marry your chosen has sex with a minor less than to a maximum of $10,000, hey, if you think our laws are aren’t married to because you partner first. And I bet you two years younger (a Senior the misdemeanor charge can weird and or horrendous stay don’t have the legal agency to thought Puritan values were and a Junior or two Seniors) become a felony and the 18 out of Idaho. give consent. Interestingly, no longer enshrined in law. may be fined up to $2,000 year-old can be sentenced to a January 2016 PAGE 5 Features Best Music of 2015 By Fiona Osborn and easily one of the best of 2015, hit single “New Americana,” says one Tech student “The Hills”- The Weeknd Mia Martin selling over 2 million copies in she is able to connect with “Hello”- Adele The Weeknd uses his effort- 2015: The year the Weeknd the UK. The album showcases younger generations using This striking and lovelorn less falsetto, brutally honest and Kehlani emerged as R&B her powerful vocals, accom- lyrics that people can relate song showcases Adele’s incred- and dark lyrics, and incredibly powerhouses. The year that panied mainly by piano and to, like “raised on Biggie and ible range and talent. The song graphic imagery in this song Zayn Malik left One Direc- making for a breathtaking mix Nirvana”. Overall, the gloomy begins slowly, and then builds to captivate his listeners. “The tion. The year that marked the of blues, gospel, and balladry. lyrics juxtaposed with the into a ballad of regret and Hills” is a hypnotizing, slow, end to a 4-year long wait for As she tells her story of mak- lighthearted electropop beats apology. Adele hits the perfect and silky contemporary R&B the release of Adele’s newest ing peace with adulthood, make this album an original. balance between pushing her hit. album. The year we discovered Adele leaves us struggling to Blurryface- Twenty One Pilots listeners emotionally, but not “FourFiveSeconds”- Rihanna, Drake couldn’t dance through understand our own lives. Twenty One Pilots’ new- turning her music into melo- Kanye West, and Paul McCa- his “Hotline Bling” music You Should Be Here - Kehlani est album, Blurryface, was a dramatic mush. This song is rtney video. 2015 was a year full of Oakland’s own Kehlani lyrical masterpiece. To Emma no exception. The stripped-down format great music, so we created a released her debut commercial Ly, a Tech student and avid “Here”- Alessia Cara of this song give Rihanna a list of its highlights for Tech mixtape this year, and it’s full Twenty One Pilots fan, the Alessia Cara’s debut single chance to really show off her students to enjoy. of talent. This R&B album is album “talks about problems “Here” speaks about teenage vocal talent, as well as allow- Best Albums: intimate and emotional, and that lots of people might have misery in a relatable way. This ing both her and Kanye West To Pimp A Butterfly - Kend- comes straight from her heart, and makes the listener feel like song speaks to anyone who’s to talk about something a little rick Lamar as shown by songs like “You they can relate to not only the ever felt out of place, which more meaningful than usual. Kendrick’s third studio Should Be Here” and “Jealous”. artist, but other listeners.” The is someone we’ve all been at “Lean On”- Major Lazer album showed off powerful This is all especially impres- duo was successful in creating some point, through a smooth The exotic sounds and in- political opinions through sive considering that Kehlani an energetic, daring album, and silky beat and R&B vocals. tense beat of this song made it smooth jazz and self explora- is only 20 years old. “Kehlani making it one of the most “Hotline Bling”- Drake very memorable and a sum- tion. Lamar uses this album combines R&B and sometimes popular of last year. With a memorable music mer stand out. to explore not only himself, soul with modern styles of Best Songs: video and somewhat muted “Trap Queen”- Fetty Wap but to examine the racism and music which creates a really “Can’t Feel My Face”- The and intimate beat, “Hotline Fetty Wap’s exuberant mel- white supremacy remaining in unique sound, and I also love Weeknd Bling” was a huge hit. ody and raw, romantic lyrics American culture. To ground that she’s local,” says sopho- The Weeknd’s first hit pop “King Kunta”- Kendrick La- led to this triumphant debut. the album in the present day more Naomi Weld. single takes advantage of his mar “Uptown Funk”- Mark Ron- but still give the album a retro Badlands - Halsey powerful vocals in order to This song perfectly shows son ft. Bruno Mars feel, he also samples songs Halsey’s electro-pop album explore the harsh realities of the political aspect of To Pimp “Uptown Funk” was one of from older jazz artists. To is a standout. The 21-year-old fame and being successful in A Butterfly. Lamar uses the the catchiest songs of the year. Pimp A Butterfly is jampacked artist tackles some big issues, the music industry. To many name Kunta, which refers to The unique beat and retro with rage, confessions, self-cri- like wealth inequality and gen- Tech students, this was the Kunta Kinte, an African slave sound combined with the odd tique, and black power, easily der stereotypes. The album is best song of the year. “I love in the book Roots. Lamar’s lyrics made it almost impossi- placing it at #1 on this list. full of dark lyrics and depress- the beat. The song doesn’t powerful lyrics address the ble to not get it stuck in your 25 - Adele ing themes, but also has its even need the lyrics, it just issue of black oppression in head. Adele’s newest album was lighter moments. Through her adds even more dynamics,” America. The Force Awakens: A New Hope For Star Wars Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures By Xander Garretson (Daisy Ridley) lacks some of Star Wars: The Force Awakens that charisma, but her tough J.J. Abrams demeanor lets her act as a Runtime: 2 hr 5 min great foil to Finn and makes Star Wars is back, and, after her a good contrast to the being gracefully taken out of bumbling Luke from the orig- the hands of George Lucas inal trilogy. by “white slave-traders” as he The action scenes are stel- said in an interview regard- lar as well, and blow both the ing the film, is now under original and prequel trilogies the direction of J.J. Abrams. out of the water; memora- The Force Awakens is a direct ble set pieces include a ship sequel to the events of the effortlessly weaving through original trilogy, and follows a battlefield while Finn fights both new characters and old his way through below, The Force Awakens has stellar actions scenes that blow both the original and the prequel trilogy out of the water. as they attempt to defeat “The X-wings chasing the Millen- First Order”, essentially a con- of the film, Kylo Ren (Adam of anger, idol worship of movie builds the “Starkiller”, nium Falcon through sand tinuation of the Empire from Driver). Darth Vader, and reluctance which is essentially a bigger dunes and the ruins of fallen the original movies, and find If Ren too closely seems to to be evil. If Force Awakens is Death Star, making this the Imperial ships, in addition to a map to the missing Luke resemble Darth Vader, this is better than New Hope at one third time a Star Wars plot has a lightsaber fight in the snow Skywalker. not because of Abrams’ lack of thing, it’s the creation of this revolved around infiltrating that manages to synthesize the In its first minutes,Force confidence - it’s Ren’s. Ren is nuanced, complex villain, a and destroying a Death Star weighty drama of the original Awakens manages to confi- young, insecure, unstable, and welcome contrast to Darth - needless to say, it feels very movies with the fast pace and dently establish itself as its desperate to recreate the status Vader’s lack of personality. played out. choreography featured in the own movie, with an incred- of Darth Vader, wearing a I mention A New Hope be- A Force Awakens excels, prequels. All in all, this is a ibly well-done action scene mask solely to hide his baby- cause if Force Awakens has one however, in what it introduc- very well-done action movie, of stormtroopers raiding a face and make his voice sound major flaw, it’s how derivative es to the series. Finn (John and if you liked Star Wars and village where our first new deeper. Some of the strongest it is of New Hope - even to the Boyega), an ex-stormtroop- don’t mind a movie that leans hero, Poe Dameron (Oscar and most novel moments in point where certain beats of er-turned-traitor, brings a bit on its predecessors, you’ll Isaac), succeeds in retrieving the movie are when that insta- the plot can feel too predict- a huge amount of energy enjoy The Force Awakens. important information before bility comes through in Adam able or familiar, and thus less and humor to the film, and being stopped and interro- Driver’s performance, and resonant with viewers. For in- looks just excited to be there gated by the main antagonist Kylo Ren’s child-like bursts stance, the First Order in this throughout the film. Rey PAGE 6 January 2016 Features Tarantino Returns With a Gritty Western In “Spotlight” Journalists Unearth Catholic Church By Xander Garretson Russell), his prisoner, Daisy plays incredibly well to its personally to him from Abra- picture. Is Warren presenting The Hateful Eight Domergue (Jennifer Jason director’s greatest strengths - ham Lincoln. He presents it the truth about himself in the Quentin Tarantino Leigh), and ex-Confederate sharp, darkly funny, well-writ- to John Ruth, and the tough, letter? Does he see himself as Child Abuse Runtime: 70mm: 3 hr 7 min + sheriff Chris Mannix (Walton ten dialogue, mastery of pac- ruthless bounty hunter who the man the letter says he is? Overture and Intermission Goggins). They hole up in a ing and tension-building, and began the movie with two Or does he want to?) Digital: 2 hr 47 min cabin where John Ruth quick- a knack for creating characters guns trained at Warren’s head The Hateful 8 is a long If you’re unfamiliar with ly becomes suspicious that infinitely more complex than pulls out reading glasses that film, at over 3 hours in the Quentin Tarantino, here’s someone is out to kill him and make him look like a grandma roadshow version, but it what he does and has been set Daisy free, and from there, “Give Hateful 8 and has his distrust of Warren never once feels like it. The the movie turns into a locked- melt away reading the words dialogue throughout, as I’ve doing for some time - mak- a little patience and ing incredibly well-written, room mystery with a cast of of Honest Abe. Later in the said previously, is some of well-shot, well-directed, Old West archetypes. you’ll find a movie that film, when doubt and allega- Tarantino’s best, and as the politically-loaded and artisti- While The Hateful 8 is plays incredibly well to tions are thrown onto War- film progresses, it develops cally significant pulpy, violent Tarantino’s most theatrical its director’s greatest ren’s character, the importance a gradually building tension schlock. His latest film, The production yet, filmed in the strengths - sharp, darkly of the letter to him is revealed that keeps the audience on the Hateful 8, is a Western orig- rarely used luxury format of funny, well-written dia- - being a black man in (1870s) edge of their seat and demon- 70mm film and featuring an America, he’s seen almost uni- strates Tarantino’s unmatched inally penned as a sequel for logue, mastery of pacing Django Unchained, but Taran- orchestral score, an overture, versally as a threat. The Lin- ability as a director. I would tino removed Django from it and an intermission, it takes and tension-building, coln letter, he says, presents highly recommend it, even to when he realized that Django, place almost entirely in tightly and a knack for creat- an image of himself that white people who would otherwise as a moral core, felt entirely enclosed spaces. And with far ing characters infinitely people are comfortable with, shy away from Westerns or out of place amidst the rest of greater focus on character de- more complex than they and is the only thing that con- Tarantino movies, and believe the cast. velopment and dialogue than might first seem.” vinced Ruth to let him on his it to by far his best film. Plus, In his place is Major action, it can feel remarkably stagecoach in the first place. the Grand Lake Theatre is Marquis Warren (Samuel L. like a stage play, which some But buried under the question one of the few in the country Jackson), an ex-cavalry of- might feel is odd coming from they might first seem. of practicality is the question showing the 70mm roadshow ficer turned bounty hunter, a director who specializes in (Sam Jackson’s character is of honesty. As Chris Mannix version, which is absolutely who finds himself stranded pulpy gore-fests. However, a prime example of this. Early reveals certain details about the one you should see if you in a blizzard with John Ruth give Hateful 8 a little patience on in the film, he’s revealed Warren’s past, the viewer has can. a.k.a “The Hangman” (Kurt and you’ll find a movie that to be holding a letter written to ask if that image is the full How to Survive Finals

There are many methods of studying, like listening to music, studying in groups, or even dressing comfortably. By Eliana Thompson Finals week can seem remember things. Get some way to get an A, but it doesn’t pressure. We sacrifice much that enhance problem solving daunting and stressful, espe- friends together to have a necessarily mean you will get of the time we would usual- and memory. cially for ninth graders who study group. Make up rhymes, more done. Similar to this, ly spend sleeping and doing Dress well, test well. Many have never taken them before. mnemonic devices, or draw don’t leave all your studying physical activity to study for people see finals week as a Below are some tips to help out a diagrams. Write a song to one, large chunk of time. finals. The sleep deprivation time to dress in sweats and you not only survive, but to help you remember some- Chances are, if you plan to and stress frequently lead us to a hoodie, but it may be wise thrive. thing, or see if there already is spend an entire day studying, replace more nutritious food to save that for another time. Find somewhere you can one online. And don’t forget it won’t be very productive. options with those higher in Dressing in whatever makes focus. If you know you’ll get about all your old tests- if they Limiting the time you have to things like carbohydrates and you most confident (if that’s distracted at home or where haven’t been recycled yet, dig study will allow you to fo- sugar. But finals is the week sweats and a hoodie, go for it) you normally work, find a them out of the bottom of cus the entire time. Set aside that we should be treating our can make for more. successful place you might have more your backpack and take them smaller chunks of time that bodies the best, not the worst. test taking, while dressing to success. Maybe try a cafe or again. are more spread out and focus Fulfilling and balanced meals relax will tell your body that library, a classroom or park. Don’t try to study for too completely in that time. help us to learn and focus it’s time to sleep. Try different study tactics. long. You don’t have to can- Eat, sleep, and exercise. better. Sleep is not only re- Celebrate when it’s over. Don’t get stuck doing flash- cel all your plans to do well. During finals, our normal freshing, it allows us to pro- After all that hard work, cards for every test you take. Dedicating all your time to habits are often disrupted cess information and retain it. whether it paid off or not, it is Using different parts of your studying in the week leading because of the abrupt change Exercise sends blood to our nice to reward yourself. brain can help you learn and up to finals may seem like the in our routine and increased brain and releases chemicals January 2016 PAGE 7 Features Tarantino Returns With a Gritty Western In “Spotlight” Journalists Unearth Catholic Church

Child AbusePhoto Courtesy of Open Road Pictures By Skylar Thoma discovered that the Boston car- Tom McCarthy’s new film, dinal covered up the affairs of Spotlight, recounts the Bos- one priest, Michael (Ruffalo’s ton Globe’s investigation into character) wants to break that the Catholic Church, which story immediately. However, resulted in a groundbreaking Robby (Keaton’s character) discovery that undermined a orders him to wait until they worldwide institution. Over can get more evidence against the course of 2001, the news- the entire church. At this paper’s investigative team, point, Michael snaps, yelling at known as “Spotlight,” delved Robby and the other reporters into accusations of sexual that “It’s time! They knew, and abuse against several Catholic they let it happen!” This scene pastors in the city of Boston. is not only great because of Their investigation revealed Ruffalo’s performance, but also that top Catholic officials in because it expresses exactly the city had been covering up what the audience is feeling at these abuses for decades, and this point in the movie: shock, once the story was released, frustration, and an urge to take a flood of accusations began action. to surface from around the In Spotlight Boston Globe Journalists uncovered the Cathoic Church’s cover up of child abuse If you want to start the new world. year with a tremendous and from both Mark Ruffalo and discover the extent of the ists who invested their efforts What makes this movie visceral movie, look no farther Michael Keaton, who play Catholic Church’s cover-up -- in a story and came out with great is not only the potency of than Spotlight. This movie Michael Rezendes and Walter there is only astonishment and something earth-shattering. the story, but also the char- showcases investigative jour- “Robby” Robinson respec- anger. The movie doesn’t por- By far, the best scene is Ruf- acter portrayals. The acting nalism at its best, and I highly tively. Moreover, there’s no tray the members of Spotlight falo’s outburst near the end of is fantastic across the board, recommend it to everyone. celebratory scenes when they as heroes; they’re just journal- the movie. Once the team has with standout performances 2016: A Year of New Recipe: Scandinavian Possibilities Almond Cookies By Alice Gold By Andrea Witon-Paulo Ahh 2016. With a your mental health: We Instead of reaching for This is a great almond cookie recipe that my mom and I make every year for new year comes putting always hear about im- electronics, try drawing or our friends and family. the wrong date on papers, proving physical health reading. a reminder that finals are for the new year, but most Write down good Ingredients coming too soon, and people do not prioritize things that happen to 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour perhaps the even more improving mental health. you: When something 2 tsp baking powder dreaded New Year’s Reso- As school becomes stress- good happens to you, 1/4 tsp salt lutions. We all try to make ful we often forget neces- write it down on a slip of 1/2 cup butter them, but keeping them sary self-check ins. Maybe paper and put it in a jar. 1 cup sugar proves to be difficult, as decide to set aside five This way, at the end of the 1 egg our lives become in- minutes a day to check in year, you can remember 1/2 tsp almond extract creasingly busy and we’re with yourself and figure all of your good memo- 1/4 cup milk unable to sleep or exercise out what you need. ries. To keep this resolu- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, coarsely chopped as much as we wanted to. Climb one tree a day: tion up, try making a list Despite the ephemeral Climbing trees is a great of exciting memories in a Almond icing: nature of most New Year’s way to get fresh air and school notebook that you 1 cup sifted powdered sugar resolutions, everyone can momentarily escape stress can transfer over to slips 1/4 tsp almond extract benefit from self-improve- from school. Oakland is a of paper when you get 3-4 tsp milk ment, and there’s no time tree town, so get climbing! home. like now to start! Below Spend more time with Read more: This may Directions are some suggestions from your dog: This does not seem like a difficult reso- Thoroughly mix the flour, baking powder and salt. In a large mixer bowl Tech students on resolu- only apply to dogs, or pets lution to fulfill, especially beat butter until softened. Add the sugar and beat until fluffy. Add the egg tions you can make and at all for that matter. May- because many of us read and extract and beat well. Add the flour mixture and beat until well mixed. keep. be it’s a sibling or a friend so much for homework. Divide the dough into 4 logs, each 12 inches long and place them on an Drink more water: who needs attention. Try Maybe try reading differ- ungreased cookie sheet, two on each sheet. Flatten them so they are 3 inches This resolution is a classic to set aside some time ent types of things than wide. one for a reason. Water every week to touch base what you read for class. If Brush the flattened rolls with milk and sprinkle them with the almonds. helps keep our muscles with those you love. you read mostly novels for Bake in a preheated oven at 325 F for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are energized, skin clear, and Destress without school, try reading non- lightly browned. While still warm, cut the bars diagonally into 1 inch strips. digestive system regular. electronics: When we’re fiction newspaper articles Cool, then drizzle with the almond icing. To keep this resolution stressed it’s easy to jump or magazines. If you read all year, try to quantify it. to Netflix or Instagram mostly nonfiction, a good Almond icing: Maybe cut out soda, or set to relieve a bit of stress. science fiction novel may Mix all ingredients together. a goal to drink two water These sources for de- do the trick! bottles per day. stressing are addictive and This recipe is from the book Cookies for Christmas by Better Homes and Pay more attention to cause us to procrastinate. Gardens PAGE 8 January 2016

(Closed CampusContinued from Page 1) will help that [we] are policing a little bit. Josef Cutler/Scribe nesses around people’s property” among each other.” Mr. Price pointed It’s a decent also rely on other illegal and reprehensi- out that negative “situations in break and I the students ble offenses, she hopes that the community have occurred would feel re- to keep their closed campus lunch will not because of off campus lunch, stricted if we stores open.” become a reality. “The goal is like marijuana usage, and were here for Additionally, to change students’ behavior gambling… even a house gets seven hours the logistical and make them aware of what robbed.” He adds, “I know straight.” nightmare of is going on so that they can that’s a minority of students, This threat creating two influence each other so that but in the end… it’s a privilege of a drastic lunch peri- we can continue to be good and most people act like it’s a change for ods-as the ad- neighbors in the communi- right and they abuse it.” Tech students ministration ty. Off campus lunch is not Oakland Technical High has caused has said they realistic for this year... but if School remains the only an uproar may- would this continues it might happen OUSD school to allow off of shock split up friend next year.” campus lunch. For students and concern Food Trucks are also a common hotspot for students at lunch. groups, clubs, like Felicia Lewis, off-campus throughout of comments from students and many lunch is a necessary, midday the campus. Tech sophomore in all grade-levels. On her teacher-student relationships. break from being at school. Laurel Leeds has created an petition, Leeds points out that While Ms. Morrison is She says, “Off campus lunch is online petition against closing “Many students rely on being worried about students climb- probably the best part of my the campus, which has already able to walk to stores to get ing on the roofs of private day because school is really accumulated over one thou- food, or going out to their cars buildings and engaging in “in- stressful, and I get to leave for sand signatures and hundreds to grab something. The busi- appropriate behavior on other

(Charging Games Continued from Page 1) Antigone Michaels/Scribe itself. Most of it is used to pay Some athletes consider it the security guards and the an honor to have a paying au- people hired by OAL to sell dience. It can motivate them tickets. To make the problem to play harder to impress worse, passionate complaints their fans. At the same time, from the Tech community higher fees can discourage pressured the commission attendance even more. Boy’s into lowering the ticket prices soccer coach and P.E. teacher from $4 and $7 (the typical Mr. Bascom adds, “We have price of a Tech football game) a great bunch of guys and to $2 and $4. After the per- girls on our Tech teams. To sonnel are paid, leftover funds not have fans watching them pay for transportation for the play the game they love is a team, resulting in little to no shame.” profit for OAL. The fee could also prevent spectators. Student attendance at games is already somewhat low, and this new policy may further discourage some from Higher fees for OAL games seem to discourage people from attending games coming to games. Junior-Var- Zak-Lee dislikes the resulting menting, “I always feel better because I know my friends are sity soccer player Andrea decline in spectators, com- when there’s students coming supporting me.”

(Tech Not Technical Continued from Page 1) While some states, Indiana, added,“We still have trade consortium and go out graduates can save almost like California, have begun to trade schools, culinary arts, and do real work, and make $100,000 on tuition, enter the literally ‘close up shop,’ many construction EMT training... money.” workforce sooner and have a states have adapted these vital When kids graduate, they are And these aren’t low higher entry salary than the trade programs to 21st centu- registered EMTs, the culi- paying jobs, often paying average college graduate with ry industry. Ms. Thompson, nary students go onto major above the median household a Bachelor’s degree. who teaches AP Biology, but culinary schools or become income. Moreover, according previously was both an ad- sous chefs...students take their The National Center for Edu- ministrator and teacher in morning classes, then go to a cation Statistics, trade school THE SCRIBE A monthly publication run entirely by the students of Oakland Technical High School, with the support of club sponsor Ms. Haugen. Special thanks to the Oakland Tech PTSA and the Oakland Tech After-School Program for their continued generosity. Want a voice in Oakland Tech? Join the Scribe. Meetings are Mondays at lunch in room 106.2015-16 Editorial Board Staff Contributors to This Issue Editor-in-Chief: Trevor Harrison Alice Gold, Trevor Harrison, Managing Editor: Alice Gold and Joseph Harmon Martina Starc, Xander Garretson, News Editor: Nick Pingitore and Molly Hetherwick Andrea Witon-Paulo, Molly Hetherwick, Features Editors: Sophia Taylor, Laurel Hennen Vigil and Jessica Gagliardi Jessica Gagliardi, Skylar Thoma, Visuals Editors: Nadia Wohlfarth Josef Cutler, Mia Martin, Illustrations Editor: Isabel Burgos Emily Percy, Nadia Wohlfarth, Layout Editor: Amarit Ubhi Antigone Michales, Amarit Ubhi Joseph Harmon, Karl Keck *Front page header drawing by Fiona Gregg / The Scribe and Antonia Starc