The School Newspaper of West High School

West Signals
The School Newspaper of West High School

West Signals
The School Newspaper of West High School

West Signals
News
Filipino Culture Club practices Tinikling, a traditional dance, to prepare for a highly anticipated performance at Multicultural Day. Every year, cultural clubs present traditional dances, clothing, and songs to showcase the diverse community that makes up West High. These performances require an abundance of preparation time, dedication, and effort, all to present a perfected show for students and staff.
Multicultural Day Preparations
Bella Levinson, Staff Writer & Photographer • January 18, 2023

   Every day, we are surrounded by thousands of different cultures that contain traditions and services that have been passed down from generation to...

For hours on end at the latest points of the night, students reinforced their learning with intense study methods and lots of coffee during finals week. A time that could be incredibly isolating could also be a time of great growth— it is a demonstration of the hard work and persistence students performed over the semester.
Calm Through the Studying Storm – West High Finals Season is Here!
Natalie Ou, Staff Writer • January 17, 2023
Set a few goals and start 2023 off strong. You get this opportunity once a year – make it count!
New Year, New You
Triton Prichard, Staff Writer • January 12, 2023
Boasting a wide variety of high end stores and tempting restaurant options, the Westfield Century City mall provides a qualitative shopping experience. Spanning 1.3 million square feet, the mid-century aesthetic is prevalent in the design of architecture and can be admired throughout the shopping district. Shoppers can experience the glamorous lifestyle of Southern California while visiting countless stores to their desire: “The architecture was really cool. The mall had a lot of different shops that we don’t have locally in Torrance,” revealed Bennett Valdez (11), a recent visitor.
Hidden Gems in Los Angeles: Westfield Century City Mall
Darren Kawazoe, Staff Photographer • January 2, 2023
Houses along Torrance’s Candy Cane Lane are decked out in festive lights and decorations for all to enjoy. The attraction is available until the end of December. Photo courtesy of Catherine Jonaris (12).
Candy Cane Lane Brings Out the Season!
Anthony Parker, Staff Writer • December 27, 2022
Though the continuous downpour had rendered students unable to use telescopes, Carissa Melendez (10) was still able to touch and hold lunar samples from thousands of miles away — things that were quite literally unlike any other on Earth.
To the Moon, the Stars, and Torrance — West High’s Astronomy Night
Natalie Ou, Staff Writer • December 15, 2022
Sports
Harry Kane, forward for England’s national soccer team, sports the “OneLove” armband that protests “discrimination of any kind” at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. FIFA warned that team captains who sport the unauthorized armband would be sanctioned, further enshrouding the World Cup and its governing body in controversy. Commenting on this decision, Jonathan Valot (11) conveyed his belief that during players’ “free time, they [can be] activists for whatever they believe in or want to show, but on the field, it should be kept more towards the game.” While Valot stated that “there are always the ties of political and social factors,” he understood that some spectators “may want to try and watch the game and enjoy it as it is, without . . . the political constructs.” Photo courtesy of the Associated Press.
The World Cup Controversies Are Nothing New in the Realm of Sports
Philip Lam, Staff Writer • December 5, 2022

   It was the spring of 1971. Representatives from the United States National Table Tennis Team accepted the invitation to square off in a series of matches against China, an eight-day spectacle that...

Aaron Cohen (12) is always striving to improve and hone his running skills. When discussing running against the competition, he said, “I’ve always wanted to win. That’s just been my thing.”
From P.E. Student to Cross Country Star: Aaron Cohen
Anthony Parker, Staff Writer • December 2, 2022
The seniors of West High’s Girls Tennis team smile after a spectacular victory against North High — with a 14-4 win against the Saxons, the players ended senior night on the highest note possible. The colorful balloons and handcrafted posters served as a reminder of their teammates’ faith and support for them as they continued to open a new chapter in their high school careers. Pictured from left to right: Aki Sugita (12), Alexssa Takeda (12), Jasmin Cuaresma (12), Khushi Sharma (12), Arushi Bagchi (12), Sarah Han (12), Samantha Takeda (12). Photo courtesy of Taeyi Ko (11).
Nostalgic Nights for Girls’ Tennis
Natalie Ou, Staff Writer • December 2, 2022
West High’s Girls’ Volleyball seniors huddle up for a group picture on senior night against North High on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022. Congratulations to (top row from left to right) Amani Flakes (12), Samantha Jiao (12), Mikayla Long (12), Maddy Hancock (12), Kate Amano (12), Rylee White (12), Aaliyah Martinez (12), Maddie Verette (12),(bottom row from left to right) Abigail Witzansky (12), Sheridan Hagedorn (12), Maddie Gloria (12), Mia Koliander (12), and Paityn Yamasaki (12) for representing the Girls’ Volleyball program.
One Last Spike
Bella Levinson, Staff Writer & Photographer • December 1, 2022
West High’s Varsity Football battles with Torrance on Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, trying to clinch a playoff spot. After a hard fought game, the Warriors came home with a victory, solidifying their spot in this years playoffs. “Clinching a playoff spot means so much to me as a Senior. I get to keep riding the wave and playing the game I love,” stated Varsity linebacker Tyler Schlappatha (12).
Warriors Win Football Playoff Spot
Christopher Huston, Staff Photographer • November 2, 2022
For the last time under the Friday night lights, the West High Varsity Football seniors line up for the last home game against El Segundo on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022. It was a bittersweet moment for the seniors as they beat El Segundo, 42 to 31 in the last home match. Cornerback and wide receiver Ernesto Hernandez (12) recalled how, “playing in my last home game felt surreal, the atmosphere felt like a dream.”
Football Senior Night
Christopher Huston and Roger Ayad • October 25, 2022
Spotlight
Aaron Cohen (12) is always striving to improve and hone his running skills. When discussing running against the competition, he said, “I’ve always wanted to win. That’s just been my thing.”
From P.E. Student to Cross Country Star: Aaron Cohen
Anthony Parker, Staff Writer • December 2, 2022

   A general consensus among West’s Cross Country community is that Aaron Cohen (12) brings out...

During a Thursday lunch break, members of the Sports Medicine Club participate in the first club meeting of the school year on Oct. 6, 2022. The Sports Medicine club had a huge success with their first meeting, making it a fun and competitive environment for members with a creative relay game. Club member Thijs Erhahon (10) described the meeting: “I really enjoyed how well they were able to allow everyone to interact, unlike the boring sit-down meetings other clubs have.”
Sports Medicine Club
Jacob Usary, Staff Writer • December 1, 2022
Amongst the influx of first year clubs at West High this year, the Dead Poets Society opens a space for all enthusiastic writers, readers, and those passionate about sharing and exploring the world of poetry. Consider stopping by for lunch meetings in room 4203 every second Friday of the month!
Bringing Poetry to Life With Dead Poets Society Club
Ilma Patel, Staff Writer • November 22, 2022
During Club Rush, Ukrainian Russian Club representatives hope to assist and provide information for both potential members and casual passersby alike. Remarking on one of the most pressing reasons for founding the URC, President Leah Ho (12) explained the growing imperative “to engage the local community to assist Ukrainian refugees coming to the U.S. every day.” From left to right: Skye Nuesca (10), ICC Representative Sophie Gelinas (10), Julia Huffstutter (10), board member Morgan Tan (10), President Leah Ho (10), Kai Nakajima (10), and Ivy Choi (10). Photo courtesy of Sophie Gelinas (10).
Culture Knows No Boundaries: Meet the Ukrainian Russian Club
Philip Lam, Staff Writer • November 22, 2022
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Opinion
Though Thanksgiving is normally seen as a time of joy and celebration, AP World History Teacher Ms. Hignight believes that it should be a solemn time of reflection due to the problematic history behind it. Despite this, she believes that it doesn’t make Thanksgiving any less of a time to be grateful.
Myth-Busting the Origins of Thanksgiving— and the Problematic History Behind It
Natalie Ou, Staff Writer • November 30, 2022

   When students imagine Thanksgiving, the thoughts of turkey, squash, and a week-long break inevitably...

West students celebrate the school’s annual Homecoming dance, an event tied to the decades-old tradition of Homecoming King and Queen. Photo courtesy of Marina Soen (12).
Homecoming Court and LGBTQ Inclusivity
Eli Fauni, Opinion Editor • November 16, 2022
In order to prepare for the SAT and ACT, many students purchase prep guides and workbooks, dedicating precious time to studying in hopes of scoring well on these standardized tests. Test prep was once a universal part of the high school experience: The SAT and ACT were previously regarded as absolutely necessary for anyone going to college. It would take six years and a global pandemic to change the test’s mandatory status.
Me, Personally, I Wouldn’t Take That (the SAT and ACT)
Sean Toomey, Staff Writer • November 16, 2022
The Little Mermaid is a Disney classic, a household name with a special place in popular culture. Its live action remake, starring Halle Bailey as Ariel, is being criticized heavily for using a Black woman to portray Ariel. However, there are also many that say that her skin color does not detract from the value of the source material.
Disney’s Casting Controversy Over “The Little Mermaid” Live Action Remake- and the Racism Rooted Behind It
Natalie Ou, Staff Writer • November 7, 2022
Keep up with the latest
Entertainment
Filipino Culture Club practices Tinikling, a traditional dance, to prepare for a highly anticipated performance at Multicultural Day. Every year, cultural clubs present traditional dances, clothing, and songs to showcase the diverse community that makes up West High. These performances require an abundance of preparation time, dedication, and effort, all to present a perfected show for students and staff.
Multicultural Day Preparations
Bella Levinson, Staff Writer & Photographer • January 18, 2023
Houses along Torrance’s Candy Cane Lane are decked out in festive lights and decorations for all to enjoy. The attraction is available until the end of December. Photo courtesy of Catherine Jonaris (12).
Candy Cane Lane Brings Out the Season!
Anthony Parker, Staff Writer • December 27, 2022
Whether it be after leaving the ice rink, a stand at Candy Cane Lane, or as a hand warmer after a day on the slopes, a cup of coffee or hot chocolate is the perfect supplement to any winter activity! As a staple tradition for the American Christmas, warm drinks are the perfect accompaniment to the holiday season.
Three Activities to Make the Most out of Winter Break
Bella Levinson, Staff Writer & Photographer • December 27, 2022
The Cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee concludes their show with a reuniting finale.
The Putnam Spelling Bee Play Comes to West!
Anthony Parker, Staff Writer • December 13, 2022
Visual
West High’s Varsity Football battles with Torrance on Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, trying to clinch a playoff spot. After a hard fought game, the Warriors came home with a victory, solidifying their spot in this years playoffs. “Clinching a playoff spot means so much to me as a Senior. I get to keep riding the wave and playing the game I love,” stated Varsity linebacker Tyler Schlappatha (12).
Early in the morning on Tuesday, Oct. 25, seniors dress in their comfy sweaters and pants with a cup of warm coffee in their hands, and reminisce over their years at West. Gathered together at the football field for Senior Sunrise, the class of 2023 enjoyed the last taste of their highschool careers as they head towards their own paths in the future.
For the last time under the Friday night lights, the West High Varsity Football seniors line up for the last home game against El Segundo on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022. It was a bittersweet moment for the seniors as they beat El Segundo, 42 to 31 in the last home match. Cornerback and wide receiver Ernesto Hernandez (12) recalled how, “playing in my last home game felt surreal, the atmosphere felt like a dream.”
On Tuesday, Oct. 4 and Thursday, Oct. 6, West High Boys’ Water Polo played the Torrance Tartars and the North Saxons in regular season games. West’s spirits remained strong throughout both games and led to a dominating win against the Tartars and Saxons. (Art/Photo by Sidney Hinks)
Students dance the night away with friends in the transformed courtyard of building five at Homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022. A photo booth, selfie stand, and snack table were just some of the options open for dance attendees. It was an absolute blast of a Homecoming done by West High’s Associated Student Body (ASB) team. ASB brainstormed the theme of “Saturday Night Fever,” inspired by the disco parties in the 1970’s. An ASB representative, Gracie Ito (11), expressed how she “enjoyed Hoco this year,” and how the “dance floor was fun and the photo opportunities were also great.” (Art/Photo by Roger Ayad)
Fall Fits: A Timeless Craft
Opposite hitter Abby Witzansky (12) goes in for a hopeful point, but is stopped by Torrance High’s defense. Unfortunately, West High’s Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team fell short once again to Torrance High, after a long, hard-fought battle on Sept. 20, 2022. Despite the difficult loss, West kept their heads up, going on to beat the North High Saxons on Sept. 22, and two days later, held a 3-0 sweep against The Webbs School.
Under the Friday night lights on Friday Sept. 30, 2022, the West High Warrior team takes on the South High Spartans in the first league match of the football season. After a stellar performance from the Warriors, the team came away with a 48-20 win over the Spartans. “It feels good to have won our first league game against a good South team, and it really boosts our confidence going forward,” expressed starting Varsity linebacker Tyler Black (10). The Warriors hope to continue their success in the next league game against Lawndale on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022.
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20401 Victor St.
Torrance, CA
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