The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
Annie Qiao

Annie Qiao, Arts & Entertainment Editor

Annie Qiao is your 2019-20 Arts & Entertainment Editor for her fourth year at the Pilot! As a passionate admirer of the arts, she hopes to bring a refreshing take to this section and leave an impact on the program. Outside of journalism, you can probably find her playing tuba in the band room or digging in at the nearest Chipotle, so if you see her, be sure to strike up a conversation about Kurzgesagt, Bon Appétit, her adorable cat Riceball, or anything in general.

All content by Annie Qiao
Literary and language arts teacher Jeanne Jelnick, also lovingly known as "Momma J" by students and staff alike, has taught high school students for several decades at University High and Portola High. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her dedication to education, having made a home for students in her classroom.

Thank You, Momma J

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | May 29, 2020
Although the American government is based in individual freedom, people must give up some of their freedom in order to deal with crises such as COVID-19.

Leaving Home for Nonessential Reasons Will Lead to Preventable Danger

Farhad Taraporevala and Annie Qiao | May 12, 2020
With countless chains making online ordering and delivery an option, social distancing can be practiced even when shopping for groceries.

[Photo] Social Distancing Should Not Be Ignored

Farhad Taraporevala, Co-News Editor | April 15, 2020
“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” has prospered tremendously, selling about 2.6 million copies in Japan alone as of April 7, according to Famitsu sales data. The game and console are sold out almost everywhere and are getting increasingly hard to find. However, some online services such as Amazon have the console and game in stock, although the price is likely to be more expensive than retail price.

[Photo] ‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ Takes the World by Storm

Cara Chan, Contributing Writer | April 13, 2020
Former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders relied on grassroots efforts and sought the support of Americans through rallies, door-to-door campaigning and small donations averaging around $18, according to the New York Times. His voter base consisted of young progressives, Latinos and other people disillusioned with the wealth inequality in the nation.

Bernie Sanders Ends Campaign for 2020 Presidency

Annie Qiao | April 10, 2020
With a screen size of 8 inches, the Huawei Mate X is larger than an Apple iPad mini, but the flexible display technology it utilizes allows it to brand itself as a phone. While the ability to reduce its physical footprint is impressive, manufacturers are using new technology to bend the definition of a smartphone to unnecessary proportions.

[Photo] Manufacturers Must Avoid Mindless Expansion With Foldable Phones

Aaron Sha and Akshay Raj | April 9, 2020
With the current music rating system, songs like Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks,” which express the ambition to start a school shooting, are in the same category as childrens’ songs like “Baby Shark.” As a result of this lyrical neglect, thousands of songs with vastly different messages and levels of intensity are grouped together under the blanket terms of either “explicit” or “non-explicit.”

[Photo] Music Should be Rated by Lyrics, not Language

Akshay Raj and Manan Mendiratta | February 13, 2020
Social studies teacher Heidi Martasian, Natasha Schottland, Emily Sheridan Visual and Performing Arts Teacher Desmond Stevens, [and Martasian’s and Schottland’s spouses] backpacked together at Cucamonga Peak in March of 2017; the three couples are avid fans of the outdoors, and often spend time with each other traveling along with their families. In addition to traveling, the time spent together at work has forged lifelong bonds, as Martasian, math teacher Eric Graham and principal John Pehrson were some of the teachers invited to Stevens’ and Sheridan’s wedding in 2018.

Ace-ing Your Morning: Teacher Edition

Annie Qiao and Julia Kim | January 27, 2020
The Learning Commons staff takes measures to manage the space, such as encouraging all students to find a seat and asking students to refrain from being a distraction to other students.

[Photo] Silent Zones Are a Much-needed Space for Concentration and De-stressing

Ki Joon Lee, Co-Sports Editor | January 27, 2020
The components of an individual’s identity can be represented by a rainbow of colors, combining to create a brilliant canvas of interwoven shades and hues, each with their own unique hardships.

[Photo] Intersectionality Must Be Celebrated Sparingly

Nicholas Hung and Ajinkya Rane | January 22, 2020
Writing down and creating a plan for your resolutions makes it 42% more likely that you will accomplish them, according to Forbes Coaches Council.

[Photo] A New Year Needs New Resolutions, Not Recycled Ones

Manan Mendiratta, Sports Editor | January 8, 2020
While other individual teachers may be blocking access to students’ grades over the break, this is the first time the entire social studies department will be testing this new procedure.

Social Studies Department Blocks Out Grades Over Winter Break

Manan Mendiratta and Annie Qiao | December 20, 2019
Thanksgiving lands on the fourth Thursday of November, which means that depending on the year, the date of the holiday can differ by up to a week.

[Photo] A Definite Date Will Dismiss the Turmoil of Thanksgiving

Akshay Raj and Aaron Sha | December 11, 2019
Many colleges give prospective applicants the option to use either the Common Application or the Coalition Application to submit their application; students will be able to use both of these applications, ensuring that the 20-school limit on the application is not a large issue.

[Photo] Maxing Out on Common App is Not a Common Problem

Helena Hu, Co-Editor-in-Chief | December 3, 2019
Freshman Bella Chhiv competes in tournaments regularly, such as the United States Tennis Association (USTA) National Springteam Championship hosted in Mobile, Alabama; additionally, she is currently ranked 11th in California, according to the Babolat recruiting list on the Tennis Recruiting Network.

Freshman Sets the Pace for Girls’ Tennis Team

Annie Qiao, A&E Editor | November 20, 2019
Screen Shot 2019-11-19 at 4.10.55 PM

[Photo] Online Movement Nears Goal to Plant 20 Million Trees

Nicholas Hung, Business Team | November 19, 2019
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[Photo] AP Classroom Provides Wealth of AP Knowledge

Aaron Sha, Features Editor | November 20, 2019
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[Photo] Christmas Celebrations Should Wait Until December

Krisha Konchadi, Social Media and Marketing Team | November 19, 2019
Amari Trevino-Beverly reviews systems of equations with her sister Ailani Beverly before her upcoming math test. Trevino-Beverly tutors her siblings in various subjects and disciplines.

Sophomore Lends a Helping Hand to her Community

Annie Qiao and Ajinkya Rane | November 11, 2019
Richard Levensailor, pictured on the right, was diagnosed with a terminal neurological disease and passed away during Katie Levensailor’s first semester of her doctorate program. “I can remember sitting by his bedside at night, working on my 1st round of papers, thinking if he can fight this, I can do this doctorate,” Katie Levensailor said. “He told me specifically not to let his illness stop me from continuing. Many people who start doctorates don't finish because the writing process can be grueling. I knew I had to finish for my dad. I wanted to give him a doctor.”

Late Father Influences Science Teacher

Annie Qiao and Tiffany Wu | November 7, 2019
With California SB-328 coming close to pushing back the school start time 30 minutes, students and staff alike should carefully consider the implications that come with the push, such as the possibility of later end times and shortened breaks.

[Photo] Portola Cannot Sleep on Pushing Back School Start Time

Manan Mendiratta and Akshay Raj | November 8, 2019
Everyone, young and old, should be able to trick-or-treat and have a night filled with fun and candy, but have the responsibility to maintain the safety of all by acting appropriately.

[Photo] Trick-or-Treating Should be Associated with Fun, Not Age

Manan Mendiratta, Assistant Sports Editor | October 29, 2019
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[Photo] Students’ Bikes are Packed like Sardines in the Rack

Farhad Taraporevala, Co-News Editor | September 27, 2019
Junior and co-captain Faith DeNeve sets up a play for senior and middle blocker Arielle Hightower; the team has been focusing on setting up a kill through the middle during practices, but such plays require a nearly perfect pass and set, according to head coach Heidi Martasian.

Girls’ Volleyball Remains Hopeful Following Defeat against Beckman High

Annie Qiao and Charlotte Cao | September 18, 2019

Swing into Summer with Brass, Percussion or Strings

Annie Qiao and Jenny Won | June 4, 2019
After rapidly growing over the past few years, the amount of spending on prescription drugs has slightly slowed in 2017, and although the trend should remain consistent for future years, overall, spending on retail prescription drugs has exponentially increased since 1960.

Recent Lawsuit against Major Drug Manufacturers Reflects Growing Drug Crisis

Annie Qiao, Features Editor | June 3, 2019
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[Photo] Staff Editorial: Kicking Littering to the Curb, a Solution to the Trash Problem on Campus

May 31, 2019
‘Snowplow Parenting’ Leads to Avalanche of Negative Consequences

‘Snowplow Parenting’ Leads to Avalanche of Negative Consequences

Annie Qiao, Features Editor | May 2, 2019
Middle blocker and junior Saif Habibeh leaps up in position to spike a ball from setter and junior Shivank Gupta during the second set; this time, players like Habibeh were able to score points against Irvine High due to a renewed sense of vigor and determination that put the Bulldogs ahead by a few points at one time.

Boys’ Volleyball Comes up Short in Game of the Week

Naomi Luper and Annie Qiao | April 25, 2019
Freshmen Chloe Choi, Kevin Lu,AJ Moore and Ashley Pham have been able to forge friendships and bonds with their fellow teammates. However, a common obstacle has been going against opponents who often have had more experience at the high school level.

Four Freshmen Stand out in Spring Sports

Annie Qiao, Features Editor | April 10, 2019
Social Media Inflates Culture of ‘Victimhood Chic’

Social Media Inflates Culture of ‘Victimhood Chic’

Annie Qiao, Features Editor | March 12, 2019
Power forward and junior Mohsen Hashemi plays man-to-man defense and guards against Moorpark High’s forward at the second round of CIF on Feb. 12. Throughout the season, the team continued to improve on their defensive playing, although they faced difficulty against strong players from Moorpark High.

Boys’ Basketball Takes First Shot at CIF

Annie Qiao, Aneska Smith, and Tiffany Wu | March 1, 2019
Junior Yunseong Jung tests out the flute that he and partner junior Stephanie Zhang built to compete in the event Sounds of Music. In the event, team members play the twelve tone scale on the flute they constructed, with pitch frequency being tested for accuracy.

Science Olympiad Advances to State From Regionals

Annie Qiao and Tiffany Wu | February 25, 2019
Junior and point guard Robert Giraldy prepares to take a free throw in hopes of decreasing Moorpark High’s lead in the third quarter.

Boys’ Basketball Makes it to Second Round of CIF

Annie Qiao, Aneska Smith, and Tiffany Wu | February 19, 2019
The digital program features a gorgeous, full-colored image of Saint Basil’s Cathedral located in Moscow, a popular symbol of Russia, corresponding to the “Russian Winter” theme. Multiple images pertaining to the program’s content were placed throughout, such as photos of sponsors of the Portola High Music Boosters and the many instruments played at the concert.

Visual and Performing Arts Goes Green with Digital Programs

Annie Qiao and Tiffany Wu | February 15, 2019
Top 11 Teams in LA (Print)

[Photo] Ranking Los Angeles’ Best Teams this Year

Farhad Taraporevala | January 16, 2019
As the year progresses, the Studio Music class continues to interlock layers of complexity of the vast genre of pop music and build on improving their musicianship. Soon, the class will begin preparing for a performance for IUSD superintendent Terry Walker in January.

Shining a Spotlight on Studio Music’s Student-Led Bands

Annie Qiao and Tiffany Wu | January 9, 2019
Each of the famed pork xiǎolóngbāo are made by hand by expert chefs. The soup dumplings are weighed and folded 18 times with lightning speed and a delicacy that comes only from hours of practice.

Dumplings Worth Waiting For at a Din Tai Fung Restaurant

Annie Qiao and Priscilla Baek | December 3, 2018
Helena in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” played by junior Ashley Pagador, wowed audience members with her intense expressions and intonations. Pagador’s acting prowess gave life to her character, a young maiden who has accidentally caught the attentions of the handsome Demetrius (sophomore Mccoy Cariaso) and Lysander (sophomore Ian Aros).

All the World’s a Stage for the Annual Fall Play

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | November 20, 2018
Each poke shop has many toppings that customers can choose from in order to customize upon arrival. Despite the fact that many of the stores had similar toppings, all three of the poke bowls created an explosion of different flavors bursting in our mouths, contributing to a unique experience each time.

Fishing for the Best Poke in Irvine

Helena Hu, Annie Qiao, and Aneska Smith | November 20, 2018
With determination in her eyes, Pavani swings a powerful backhand to launch the ball back to her opponent. Known by her teammates to be friendly and playful off the court, during matches, she develops a more serious and focused tone that reveals her competitive nature.

Saachi Pavani, an Ace for Varsity Girls’ Tennis

Annie Qiao, Features Editor | November 19, 2018
Junior and captain Leo Pena palms the ball, keeping it up and ready to be passed to a fellow teammate as his legs powerfully eggbeat beneath him to keep afloat. Pena's eyes are narrowed and defenses raised, ready to respond with a sudden burst of power depending on the situation around him.

Leo Peña Splashes Into October’s Athlete of the Month

Annie Qiao and Tiffany Wu | October 29, 2018
Members of Rising Dynamics practice their rendition of “For the Longest Time” by Billy Joel. While the song was originally sung with all-male parts, the female voices add a much richer harmony overall, making this song more popular amongst a cappella groups.

No Instruments Required: Portola High’s First A Cappella Group

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | October 19, 2018

[Video] Testing Life Hacks

October 9, 2018
During the team’s serve-and-receive drill, sophomore Kamdyn Tenorio prepares to dig the serve from the other team. This recieve was part of a practice game in which all players worked on their receiving, serving and most importantly, aiming when going on the offensive attack.

ASB Digs Kamdyn Tenorio as September’s Athlete of the Month

Annie Qiao and Tiffany Wu | September 18, 2018
Vice president Lauren Hwang and house vice president Bret Sugita display the poster for Poseidon House, “Out of this World.” The themes, which began development last year, originally stemmed from the idea of “biomes,” according to Hwang.

Bulldogs are Back to the Bleachers for Pep Rally

Annie Qiao, Staff Writer | September 7, 2018

So long for Summer!

Annie Qiao, Co-Editor-in-Chief | June 8, 2018
A Word with New Hires

A Word with New Hires

Ali Elmalky and Annie Qiao | June 6, 2018
U.S. president Donald Trump expressed disappointment in a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un about North Korea’s actions after the two countries had begun peaceful talks. However, he raised the possibility of a rescheduled meeting on Twitter and remained hopeful for the future.

President Trump And North Korea Face a Major Upcoming Decision

Annie Qiao and Simrat Singh | June 6, 2018
Hung anticipates for his doubles partner, co-captain and sophomore Taira Asakura, to serve the ball over to their opponents so the two pairs can begin a volley.

Ethan Hung ‘Serves’ as an Example to Student Athletes

Annie Qiao, Co Editor-in-Chief | June 4, 2018
Drama 2 student and sophomore Giselle Villegas practices memorizing her lines from her monologue, which is her final project of the year.

Drama’s Growth and Talent is No Act

Annie Qiao, Co-Editor-in-Chief | May 29, 2018
Fashion Through the Decades

Fashion Through the Decades

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | May 16, 2018
Club members and sophomores Annika Lai, Miranda Wang and Lauren Hwang scoop out ice cream and churros in return for tickets for Create the Change Club. Hwang founded the club in order to help families in Peru, and plans on using the money earned from Club-a-Palooza to purchase lotions, vitamins and other materials to help the children in need.

A Twist on Fundraising: Students Participate in First Club-a-Palooza

Annie Qiao and Maryam Shama | May 14, 2018
As the publicity commissioner, sophomore and ASB member Allison Shi works on one of many posters advertising the spring carnival that will be displayed around campus.

ASB Plans First Spring Carnival

Annie Qiao, Editor-in-Chief | April 27, 2018
Sophomore Kameran Mody fist-bumps his team as he runs down the lineup at the start of the match in order to increase team spirit.

Spreading the “Love” of Tennis

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | March 29, 2018
The four-leaf clover is a rare charm that most people associate with St. Patrick’s Day, but underneath the popularity is a rich and complicated history.

Debunking the History and Mystery Behind the Four-Leaf Clover

Anthony Chan and Annie Qiao | March 24, 2018
Prior to freshman Grace Wen’s presentation and interview, co-president and freshman Jenny Won quizzes Wen with pre-written and carefully-crafted possible interview questions.

History Buffs Display Strengths at History Competition

Annie Qiao and John Xie | March 21, 2018
A small group of dancers consisting of sophomores Miranda Wang, Julia Kim, Frances Ning and Paris Zhuang and freshmen Eric Hao and Kate Dang and complete their routine inspired by the official music video for the hit K-pop song “Mic Drop” by BTS. As the theater fades to black, Dang ends the performance by dropping a microphone, imitating the iconic final move that gives the song its title.

Spring Dance Concert Breaks Ground for Dance Program

Annie Qiao, Co-Editor-in-Chief | March 20, 2018
In addition to the red tint of the moon caused by the lunar eclipse, the elliptical orbit of the supermoon allows it to appear 14 percent larger and up to 30 percent brighter.

Rare Super Blue Blood Moon Appears after 35 Years

Annie Qiao and Junhee Ryu | February 9, 2018
Freshman Jun Kim and sophomore Liz Moerman laugh as they relax during break; working together in both ASB and as co-anchors has strengthened their bond and friendship.

PNN Shifts Anchor for Second Semester

Annie Qiao and Simrat Singh | February 8, 2018
ASB members invite the student body to “A Night at Gatsby’s,” the official title for the 1920s-themed winter formal. In order to promote student attendance, there will also be a chance for students to win free tickets by sending a picture to the official winter formal account, @phs.askings.

ASB Announces Winter Formal Theme at Pep Rally

Annie Qiao, Co-Editor-In-Chief | January 29, 2018

What’s the Rush?

Annie Qiao, Co-Editor-in-Chief | January 15, 2018
Should Finals be Before or After Break?

Should Finals be Before or After Break?

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | January 15, 2018
Sophomore and shooting guard #4 Omar Habibeh attempts to work around a defensive Pakuranga player in order to pass the ball to a teammate.

Basketball Defends Undefeated Home Record against New Zealand

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | December 18, 2017
Freshmen Alina Medvedeva (left) and Nena Oshita (right) complete twin leg holds in the dance practice room.

Leaping into the First Dance Company

Annie Qiao, Co-Editor-in-Chief | December 11, 2017
In addition to a beef brisket, we ordered this wonderful beef belly at Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong.

Cooking Up the Best KBBQ in Irvine

Annie Qiao and Farhad Taraporevala | December 1, 2017
Qurios smiles with Levensailor after the awards ceremony with his plaque.

Cross Country Coach Awarded for Character

Annie Qiao and Jane Zou | November 21, 2017
Ethan Niu trains with a spear during his routine for wushu competitions.

A ‘Niu’ Perspective on Ethan Niu

Annie Qiao and Farhad Taraporevala | October 25, 2017
#12 quarterback and sophomore Brandon Yue makes a pass to one of his teammates while the Saddleback Warriors attempt to stop the Bulldogs.

Bulldogs Slam Saddleback Valley Christian High

Priscilla Baek and Annie Qiao | October 17, 2017
Hercules house president Anthony Lu checks the foam glow stick lights before the Forthcoming dance.

Behind the Scenes of Forthcoming Preparation

Priscilla Baek and Annie Qiao | October 13, 2017
Freshmen Vivian Lin and Mary Lu strike a smile for a photo during the dance.

A Step in the Right Direction at the Forthcoming Dance

Priscilla Baek and Annie Qiao | October 12, 2017
#18 freshman Jenna Chinn prepares to receive the ball.

[Photo] September Game of the Month: Girls’ Volleyball’s Unexpected Loss

Ki Joon Lee | October 10, 2017
Sophomore Patrick Connolly eagerly grabs the sponge from his Pegasus teammate.

Portola Prepares for a Spirited Tour Across America

Priscilla Baek and Annie Qiao | October 4, 2017
Liz Moerman speaks at the ASB election assembly.

[Photo] Students Elect 2017-18 ASB Leaders

Julia Kim, Business Manager | April 22, 2017
#8 freshman Andy Son jumps to spike a ball against Irvine High.

Boys Volleyball Serves up Win Against Irvine

Annie Qiao and Farhad Taraporevala | April 20, 2017
Anthony Lu, Liz Moerman and Nandini Goyal feature their 60s attire for the first dress-up day, inspired by 60s fashion.

False Start for Spirit Week

Maya Sabbaghian, Jennifer Chiang, and Annie Qiao | September 29, 2016
Freshman Kaylee Seo pins a boutonniere on her formal date, Bryan Choi.

Students Shoot for the Stars at Hollywood-Themed Winter Formal

Annie Qiao and Stephanie Zhang | March 9, 2017
Co-captain and freshman Taira Asakura prepares to serve.

Boys’ Tennis Defeated by Varsity

Annie Qiao, Photo Editor | March 3, 2017
Portola and Northwood High water polo teams line up after the game.

Girls Water Polo Scores Another Victory Against Northwood

Annie Qiao and Julia Kim | February 9, 2017
George Mares laughs with student Allison Shi during break.

Campus Control and Calligraphy-Capable: George Mares

Dylan Gates and Annie Qiao | February 7, 2017
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Annie Qiao