High-Flying StuCo: Soaring Past Half a Year

Zach Tan

“We did it!” exclaimed President Wen Chi Chen (12), as Student Council members gathered at the Student Center after the annual Christmas Banquet. Hudson McManus (11) glimmered with joy as he laid back on a couch reflecting on the wonderful memories made that night. After months of planning and preparing, the student council’s Christmas Banquet finally came to a close. The Paradise Ballroom had burst to life with flash mob dancing, cake decorating, and lots of crazy activities for students to spend the night celebrating Christmas with each other.

Along with the glamorous Christmas Banquet, the Student Council plans many exciting events for the Dalat community. But what makes the Student Council different from any other organization? What drives their passion to continually work at bringing the community together? They uphold the vision to SOAR: Serve others, be Original, take Action, and Represent God (inspired by Isaiah 40:31: "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles"). 

“My favorite part about working in StuCo is that I get to work with a bunch of talented students and serve the student body at the same time,” says Amanda Goh (12), StuCo’s Administrative Assistant. Members of Student Council meet regularly to plan and discuss ideas for new events and ways to help the student body grow closer together. Each member plays an important role in the student council’s operations. Susan Oh (11) and Teddy Zimmer (10), besides being representatives for their grades, help Business Manager Zachary Tan (12) run the StuCo snack store, Zach’s Shack; Areeya Kunawaradisai (10) and Vice President Christina Kim (12) spend hours crafting new food ideas. Nicholas Khor (9) and Ashley Kim (9) regularly stock up drinks and candies for teachers to purchase in the staff lounge. “StuCo is an awesome team with fun, energetic, and effective individuals that get the job done; and being able to work with a group like that is great,” Nicholas expounds.

All in all, each individual plays a part in bringing joy to the council and to school. As the first semester closes, Student Council also loses one of its important class representatives, Hudson McManus. His hard work ethic and creative, artistic mind deeply impacted the group, along with the entire student body. “I thank God for all the fun experiences,” he writes in his farewell letter, “it has been such a blessing to work with every one of you!”

StuCo looks forward to what the second part of the school year has in store. Whether it is crazier events, fresh drinks and food in the store, new spirit days, or supporting a good cause, the student council strives to bring people together under the great joy of community. 

Home Alone? I Think Not!

Cheryl Yeap 

'Twas a peaceful night in Paradise Hotel. Dalat high school students gradually trickled into the ballroom, awkwardly greeting their dates and taking pictures. The girls felt beautiful as ever in their CB gowns, and the boys shone like stars.  

When everyone was asked to take a seat, sweet Santa (a.k.a. Mr. Allen), Mrs. Claus (Miss Grad), and two elves strolled down the aisle, bringing joy and excitement to the entire hall. Suddenly, the gentle Christmas music was switched to a menacing tune. The joyful atmosphere of the hall was completely uprooted. A group of Asian rebels, wearing creepy masks, invaded the merry ballroom. They ran around the hall like mad people and danced in the middle of the hall. They gathered on the stage and wrapped Santa and his friends in thick, inescapable ropes. As Santa and his companions shouted for help, Peter Lee, the mastermind behind the whole operation, escorted Santa and his friends away, and then rapped about his reason for this capture. 

After the scene, the guests were dismissed to get their delicious dinner from the buffet line. The guests enjoyed the food and the company of their friends. People continued to pose like celebrities and took countless photos. 

Then, Kevin, Santa's assistant, called for the guests' attention. He asked the guests to help him in his mission to rescue Santa and his friends. Because Santa and his elves were captured, the children of the world would not receive gifts. Therefore the first event was gift wrapping. When the timer started, a representative from each guest table dashed to the back of the hall in search of two specified gifts. Then, each table group worked together to wrap the gifts creatively and to create masterpieces. Then, the host of the night (Peter) picked the best gifts; a gift with a beautiful Christmas tree decoration was selected as the winner. 

The next event was to create a booby trap to defeat the Asian invasion rebels. Miss Seckler, a Physics genius, impressed everybody by creating a simple, yet complicated, contraption to trap any unlucky person. People gathered around her table with pure amazement in their eyes. Then, the weapon that Lexi Zimbulis’ (12) table made was chosen as the best booby trap. Here's how it works: as people become enticed by Calvin Thompson’s (12) handsome face, a distraction is created, allowing the burglar to “speared.” 

Then, the Asian rebels struck again. They gathered on stage with their leader, Peter. Kevin used Lexi's booby trap, with Calvin included, to kill Peter. As Santa and his friends were freed from being hostages, Peter lied dying on the ground and asked the kind guests for forgiveness; for only then did he understand the true meaning of Christmas, which are joy and happiness. ‘Twas a Christmas miracle.

As Isaac Chan said, "It was a fun-filled night of Asian humor, dancing, and acting.” Truly, it was an awesome and memorable Christmas Banquet. 

Asians Invade Christmas Banquet

Wen Chi Chen

As Christmas draws near, the students’ much-anticipated Christmas Banquet finally arrived and was held at Paradise on Friday, 11^th December 2015. And while we often hear about it from a student’s perspective, few people actually know what happens behind the curtains...

At the start of November, the Student Council members began to let their creative juices flow and the CB preparation started. The hotel was already booked since the start of the year, and it was time to somehow connect all the various ideas together and select a theme for this year’s CB. Hoping to bring something new and fun to this year’s banquet, we as a StuCo team, decided to try something radically different and upbeat. And so we thought: what’s more upbeat than a bit of flashmob and Korean-pop (K-pop) to start off the night?

With K-pop expert, Peter Lee (12), as this year’s Public Relations manager, StuCo had no trouble finding the perfect song to start off the night. And so, as the “Okey-Dokey” Korean song began to haunt every StuCo members in their sleep, we began practicing for the flashmob every Saturday during our CB workdays from 10am to noon. The flashmob moves came from a YouTube clip that Peter Lee and I saw online, and after a bit of modification we were able to teach it to the entire “mobster” crew.

Hoping to bring a bit of humour to the theme, Home Alone, we decided to have our own version of this movie and called it, “Home Alone: Asian Invasion.” And as the event drew nearer and nearer, so did the stress level. As the leader of a completely student-lead organization, staying on top of everything became an increasingly hard thing. With finals drawing near and final unit tests that teachers had crammed into the last week of regular school days, waking up at before the crack of dawn to organize and prepare for CB became a regular routine. Unlike studying for exams, there is no textbook to reference to when one needs help with organizing an event or leading a group of people. Instead, it required a lot of patience, tenacity, and will.

And as the event finally rolled around, it was one hectic day for everyone on the Student Council. Fortunately, as the event began at 6:30pm, the endless hours of preparation paid off, and the event went smoothly.

After the event, Peter Lee noted, “As the PR and host of CB 2015, I think StuCo made CB 2015 a night to remember. Our innovative attempt of using a flashmob was successful, and rumor has it that CB this year was the best one yet.”

And...we also broke the clean-up time from last year. In a bit over an hour, we cleaned up the ballroom, carried the items back to school, and presented the Home Alone poster to Hudson McManus (11), who shall be leaving StuCo next year (see below).

Of Arabs and Americans

Aaron Kelley

With one book published and another on the way, Jana Kelley writes a harrowing tale of a more dangerous side of Christianity that few have endured.

Having spent more than half of her life away from her passport country, Jana Kelley has written two devotionals and one novel about her experiences of living overseas. Prior to coming to Southeast Asia, Kelley lived in Sudan for eight years, along with her husband and three boys.

Her time in Sudan taught her about the dangers that Arab believers face. In strict Islamic countries like Sudan, Muslims who convert from Islam to Christianity disobey Islamic law and face potentially fatal persecution.

Kelley retells her personal experience with one such Arab Christian in her debut fiction novel, Side By Side.

Based on actual events, Side by Side tells the story of a Muslim woman named Halimah who becomes a Christian. Her Muslim family abuses her because of her faith, forcing her to escape and seek refuge in the home of an American family for nine months. Mia, the mother of the American family, forms a deep bond with Halimah while she hides away from her family and those who know her.

Kelley has a heart for telling stories that people would not otherwise hear. "So many stories about heroes of the faith are left untold," said Kelley, "Writing Halimah's story was one way that I could share what God is doing in a closed country like Sudan."

When asked what tips she would give to aspiring fiction novelists, she said, "Just keep writing. Keep a notebook of your ideas. Put yourself out there so that others can read your work."

This gripping novel, Side by Side, is available in the Dalat Library and on Amazon. If you would like to find out more about Jana Kelley and her books, check out her website at www.janakelley.com. 

The Season of Giving

Evan Chinn

“Let’s go to Gurney together! We still need to get CB presents!” exclaimed Peter Lee (12) to his group of friends loitering outside of the band room on a hot Friday afternoon. Across high school, students scrambled to acquire a suitable gift, amidst the stress of the approaching finals week. As the end of semester one approaches, family gifts, secret Sant’s, CB gifts, and Christmas charities filled the shopping lists during the season of giving that is December.

On the quest for CB gifts, students hitched a ride in friend’s or parent’s cars or traveled in buses to various destinations with the intent of finding perfect CB gifts. Students hopped from store to store looking for a gift with a combination of affordability, originality, and creativity. “I wanted my gift for CB to be creative and fitting for my partner's style, and I, of course, wanted it to have a touch of awesomeness!” said Bijay Rana (12).

In addition to CB gifts, staff and students prepared for Christmas break, and the family gifts that have become an expectation during the Shristmas season. While most prepared for Christmas by writing out their wish lists, others busied themselves by planning ahead and purchasing gifts almost three weeks ahead of Christmas. As a result of holiday vacation for local schools during December, popular malls where the majority of gifts are purchased heave with thousands of people, adding to the craziness of gift-buying. However, most students remained undeterred by the bustling atmosphere of malls, even excited by the opportunity to surprise their partner with a small, thoughtful gift.

After a long but successful CB shopping trip by Peter Lee and his group of friends, they exited Gurney with satisfaction written all over their faces and gifts in hand. Not even the stress of finals week or the busyness of Gurney could dim the happiness and satisfaction experienced by giver and receiver of gifts during the season of giving that is Christmas. 

The Art of Chilling

Bijay Rana

It’s the end of the day. It’s the end of worries and stress. It’s time to chill. Right after homework, the tension drops out of your shoulders, and your mind clears of worries about homework and school, as you prepare to chill for the rest of your day.

People have their own way of chilling; it depends on that person’s particular taste. The ability to reduce the amount of stress in your life, and have a minimalistic and clear mind when it comes to stress, is difficult, but there are ways to reduce stress and just relax.  Here are what some students have to say about what they do to chill during and after school, and their secrets to chilling.

"After school I enjoy going home, taking a nice cold shower, and relaxing on my computer before I work on my homework. If I had a ‘secret,’ I guess it would be taking time to wind down before starting my homework really helps me stay focused and retain my sanity later in the day," said Evan Chinn(12).

"I try and relax during school by hanging out with friends during study hall and lunch. My secret to chilling? There's no secret really, it just comes easier for some than others. Tips: remember to find time to relax, especially during finals week. It's a stressful time and having too much built-up stress won't help you on exams," said added Robert Kilgo (12).

"I feel most relaxed when I am off-campus enjoying quality time with my friends. Coffee shops and cafes provide ideal hang-out spots. There are lots of neat places around the island if you take the time to discover them. During school the Student Center is the best place to chill because the couches are comfortable. Furthermore, the air conditioning is a welcome escape from the Penang heat, and Zach's Shack has PopTarts," added further Mary-Claire McIntyre (12)

Sarah Tan (12) also commented in relation to the chilling, as follows: "I hang with my peeps and drink some smoothies. Woohoo."

As you can see, some students have their own methods of relaxation. As this semester ends, senioritis approaches for mostly all of the seniors, as they develop their art of chilling to the max level as life after school approaches them. This opportunity to chill helps students really value life and find their passions. Whether you are watching Netflix, playing on your Xbox, hanging out with friends, or doing something that is totally your personal thing, there is always time to just sit back, enjoy life, and just chill. 

Bboys Emerge in the Dalat Community

Kai Fraser

A number of students from Dalat International School have been promoting an unfamiliar and unusual practice: breakdancing!

What is breakdancing, and why do people do it? The term 'breakdancing' was a term coined by the mainstream media. It was an attempt to use a more 'professional' word to refer to an aspect of hip hop culture that most Bboys, or 'break-boys' refer to as Bboying. 'Breakdancing' referred to a publicized form of the art, and often many bboys viewed the terms 'breakdancing' or 'breakdancer' as an incorrect or derogatory term. The reason being that the media exploited 'breakdancing' for their own gains instead of preserving its original intent: to be an art that promoted self-expression.

Simon Jeong (10), and Chia Hoong Ewe (10) are two notable pursuers of the art. When asked why they sought to conquer 'Power Moves' (moves that primarily consist of spinning in circles) such as flares (originally a gymnastic move) or air tracks, Jeong replied “I want to do it because it's cool.”

That is a good reason as any to start practicing. Ewe, on the other hand, claimed, “It's fun to

be able to connect with friends.”

This is also a worthwhile claim, considering that the entire culture blossomed from the idea of bringing people together. The duo consistently meets up in the weight room multiple times a week to train for their strength to learn new moves, and on Fridays, go to the beach to put their learning into practice.

A few months ago, Mr. David Nguyen was asked to perform in a dance for opening of the RLT Christmas drama performance, Tales of Wonder, in collaboration with Dalat dancers Mandy Lim (9), Amanda Low (9), and Thizbe Balzer (12). Mr. Nguyen then later asked his former student, who happened to be the aforementioned Jeong, to help him out by partaking in the dance. Shortly thereafter, their training began and spanned a period just short of two months before the day of the performance arrived.

During the rehearsals for the show, Mr. Nguyen mentions to the other dancers the irony of

performing hip hop dance in a public setting, seeing as it is the very thing hip-hop seems to be against. The dancers begin to listen intently as he starts to delve deeper into its history and hip hop's "four elements."

Inevitably, the day of the performance arrived. Friday the 4th of December was the first night of the performance. The minutes before the start of the show were tense. The dancers, actors, and even the audience did not know what to expect. As the music began to play, the audience started to get engaged; and by the time the dance was complete, the audience was warmed up and the dance itself was well received. The dancers claimed they'd be happy to perform again for such an enthusiastic crowd.

The Road Less Traveled: Big Steps of Bravery

Joel Halbedl

Bursting through the curtains, Mr. Mark Sasse exclaims, “Doors are opening! 10 minutes left!” This statement sends actors and tech people alike into a frenzy, checking to make sure everything is ready.

Every year the RLT players manage to astound their audience with funny analogies, sad plotlines, and deep meanings. After the departure of many legendary RLT performers, this particular group struggled to fill the shoes left behind. With a large group of new players, there left only veterans Aaron Chand (11) and Lexi Zimbulis (12) to whip the new recruits into shape. As described earlier, the opening night of the RLT players was a nervous step of faith for many amateur actors. I speak for most of the other actors when I say that the tension was visible in the air that night. The only thing that held this group of ragtag performers together was courage—the courage to step out of the box, and do something incredible.

I myself struggled with controlling the shaking and twitching of my limbs that first night. The sheer knowledge that the audience is watching you, studying your every movement, is indescribably strange. For someone with many hours spent in drama, I had nearly no experience with on-stage performing. As a technical assistant, it was easy to sit in a chair comfortably and observe the show from above. But being on-stage brought a whole new dynamic to the experience.

During three out of the four performances that the RLT players had from December 3-5, a mistake was made. A mistake does not have to be large for it to become significant in drama. Forgetting to bring a prop onstage, or even missing a simple line, can lead to disastrous repercussions from the other actors, who rely on each other to perform their roles.  At the end of every performance, actors grouped together with Mr. Sasse to discuss the mistakes and how to improve the performance. This is why the last performance is commonly known to be the best one. The only question the RLT players had to ask themselves was, “was it worth it?”

Hours and hours of memorizing and practicing lines led up the performances those nights. To truly perform well, one must need to have a strong motivation to get on the stage and act. I asked a new RLT player, Lilian Li (11), what she got in return for all the hard work she put in for RLT. She said “The best thing I got out of RLT was getting out of my comfort zone. And through that, I really got to experience the joy of drama, get closer to fellow actors, and have people randomly come up to me and tell me how awesome I was in acting and how much they enjoyed it.”

I have to agree with Lilian on this one; the experience of being in drama was simply enough to motivate me to try my best and put on a good show.

The actors in RLT were elated at their success on-stage, and even though it lasted for only a few days, the performances that night will be something the actors will remember forever.

‘Twas the Week before Finals

Abby Bengs

(Inspired by Clement Mark Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas”)

‘Twas the week before finals, when all through the house
Not a creature was studying, not even a mouse.
The notes were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that the fire would make them soon disappear.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of holiday freedoms danced in their heads.
All of them exhausted with procrastination at a wrap,
Their brains had already settled for a long winter’s nap.

When coming from above there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my desk to see what was the matter.
Awakened from my daydream, I flew like a flash
For the bell had rung, so to my last final I dashed!

For the last hour plus half my mind scattered like snow,

Not a pencil mark was left on the paper below.
When, what to my wondering mind should appear,
But the curse of senioritis that produced many a tear.

Floating around me was a list of to-do’s,

English, Science, and don’t forget--math, too.

College apps, memories, and saying goodbye;

All of these were in mind with the end a’nigh.

But one last to-do, which is often forgot

Is to make an impression, for what little time you’ve got.

Treat others kindly and be fully aware

That people will remember you by the words that you bear.

Though the days are few and you will soon be gone,

The world you leave behind will still carry on.

So what will you do to make these years matter,

How will you love before your love is soon scattered?

Though you are busy—your schedule is packed,

And it feels as though life is a balancing act;

There is one more thing, and it is this:

Invest in others, and it will be you that they miss.

The RLT Players Spark the Christmas Spirit

Kaela Ruble

Audiences can always count on Mr. Sasse’s dramas to be entertaining, moving, and transcending different generations and cultures. This year’s “Tales of Wonder,” performed by the RLT players at Penang PAC from December 3-5^th, was no exception.

The night kicked off with Thizbe Balzer (12) leading the RLT dancers in a festive Christmas dance to an upbeat remix of “The First Noel.” After that, the series of impactful performances began. The wide array of themes ranged from capitalism to a redneck Santa Claus. The untraditional themes forced audience members to question the true meaning of Christmas from many different viewpoints. "I really enjoyed RLT this year because of the Christmas themed show. It was a wonderful way to combine the hilarious and poignant aspects of Christmas traditions and bring the audience to both chuckling laughter and meaningful tears," Hannah Graves (12) shared. 

It was refreshing to see some newcomers join the RLT players this year. Sara Stoltzfus (9) and Seth Kelley (9) had their RLT acting debut, joining Ysabel Loh (12) and Aaron Chand (11) in a clever skit depicting the rivalry in a boys vs. girls snowball fight. After a few more light-hearted plays to get people into the Christmas spirit, the mood changed in a moving drama entitled “Christmas in the Trenches, 1914.” The mini-drama was based off of the true story in WW1 when soldiers from opposing sides laid down their guns and celebrated Christmas together. The skit depicted three British soldiers deep in the trenches on Christmas Eve. Seth Kelley (9) seemed to be the youngest of the bunch and was reminiscing aloud about all his Christmas Eve memories. Joel Frohlich (11), an older, more realistic soldier snapped at him to be quiet as it wasn’t realistic or helpful to be thinking of such happy times when they were at war.  Aaron Chand (11) comes over in time to hear the other side propose a Christmas truce. Skeptical at first, the three soldiers lay down their guns and walk forward. A soccer ball is playfully kicked toward them, symbolizing that the war was on a standstill. Aaron Chand (11) reflected on his role in the skit by saying, "I think the most moving moment in RLT for me personally was putting myself in the shoes of those soldiers in WWI. It gives me an immense appreciation for what our soldiers do for us and how they sometimes aren't able to go home for Christmas holidays." 

Kimberly Horton (11) also gave a moving performance, acting as a lonely grandmother whose children and grandchildren decided not to visit her for Christmas. Her sad tears jolted the hearts of everyone in the room, reminding everybody to let their family how much they love and value them. 

The mood didn’t stay down for too long, though. Joel Halbeldl (12) brought the audience back to uncontrollable fits of laughter in the stand out skit entitled “Jolly Old St. Hick.” Joel sported a man bun and his long anticipated Santa beard as he played the role of a flamboyant redneck helping out two uptight city folks. The couple, Hannah Graves (12) and Aaron Chand (11), were quick to judge this unfamiliar hillbilly, but that didn’t stop him from showing them kindness and hospitality. As the story came to an end, it was revealed that the hospitable redneck was Santa Claus all along.

Another audience favorite was “The Spies & Mrs. Claus” where Lexi Zimbulis (12) and Aaron Chand (11) stole the show, acting as hysterical elves spying for Santa to find out what Mrs. Claus (Kimberly Horton) got him for Christmas. Audience members were trying to catch their breath while laughing hysterically at Lexi’s convincing and dedicated portrayal of one of Santa’s elves. 

The night was eventually brought to an end with the closing musical, “The Last Shepherd.” Joel Frohlich (11) played the role of the last Shepherd, while Ysabel Loh (12) acted as an outcast woman looking for mercy and hope. Ysabel’s portrayal of the outcast woman was both convincing and heart-rending. The story brought everyone back to the true meaning of Christmas and reminded them not to be so quick to judge and condemn. Jesus wasn’t about condemnation, rather he was about love—unconditional love. Christmas is a fun time filled with food, presents, and decorations; but more importantly, it is a time to remember and honor the birth of Jesus. It is a time to show family and friends how much they are loved and valued. The RLT performances taught viewers to treat strangers and people who are different from them with as much love and dignity as they would anyone else. Audience members left the theater that night impacted with a new and different perspective on Christmas.

Ready for the Holidays?

Alwyn Tan                                                                                                   

Just one more week! Students in Dalat International School have been waiting for this moment for way too long. Soon, it’s the time for joy, relaxation, and connection – the time of Christmas.

After a long semester, students can’t wait to enjoy a one-month break from school. For most seniors, they will finally be able to free themselves from the tiring SAT preparations and the university applications that have haunted them for the past months. For some juniors, however, Christmas break is a time of studying and preparation for the January SATs. Even so, most students prefer spending time off school – studying by themselves, playing with friends, hanging out – instead of focusing on the piles of homework assigned by teachers. With the break, students will then be able to gain back their long lost free time.

As we edge closer to the holidays, the anticipation grows. “I can't wait for Christmas break! I look forward to going on a short vacation with my family and eating a lot of food. And don't forget, quoting Will Ferrell from Elf: ‘The best way to spread Christmas cheer is to sing out loud for all to hear,’” says Peter Lee (12). Students look forward to spending time with their families, friends, and loved ones, free from school.

However, students have reported that teachers have been giving too much work for the past week as they try to inch in another chapter or two to end the year. As Sheng Ting (12) said, “My eyes are red, my ink is blue, we all love homework, but love freedom too.” The amount of tests, schoolwork, sport events, and so on have suddenly spiked in the past week. Sometimes, the workload that all teachers impound on students during the final week of class causes students to be overloaded with stress.

Nevertheless, students are pushing themselves to survive through these disastrous weeks, in anticipation of the reward of the break that comes after. The snowy period of joy, gifts, and happiness is soon to come!

Hoops on the Island

Calvin Thompson

The crowd went wild as Shawn Lim (12) scored yet another 3-pointer against ISKL (International School of Kuala Lumpur). The Island shootout in Penang was underway. Schools from Singapore and KL came to compete in the most competitive tournament of the year. Dalat’s varsity boys’ team competed against Youngsters club earlier in the morning but the competition was not tough.

 “We had played against the Youngsters and won, but the team we played this morning did not have their full squad because apparently they were sleeping or taking college exams,” commented Adrian Nonis (10).

The game against ISKL later that afternoon was tough and exciting because ISKL was still looking for revenge after losing against Dalat twice last season in their own home tournament. The gym was packed during that game, with the bleachers completely full. “Let’s go Eagles. Let’s go,” chanted the crowd.

“It was really awesome to finally have a really big home crowd, normally there is hardly anyone, so this was a real treat,” said Andy Ewe (12). Dalat beat ISKL 54-25 to improve their standings to 2-0 in the tournament.

The next day was another day filled with intense basketball. Dalat played two games, one being against AIS (Australian International School) and the other against ICS Singapore (International Christians School Singapore), and they won both games. Dalat boys lost, though, in the finals against Chung Ling Butterworth.

 They took 2^nd place in the tournament, while the Dalat girls were 3rd place overall. “The tournament was a good experience and team-bonding event. I really felt like the team finally found its identity, and I think this was a big step forward in the development of our team,” reflected Titus Hwang (12).

The Island Shootout brought many teams together to compete and bond yet it was the experience and lessons learned that were valued most. The players and coaches all left with smiles and grins on their tired faces, still looking forward to the rest of the season. They all shared the same common hope of victory etched in their hearts for the season to come. 

The Losing-Winners

Shawn Lim

            It was the 3rd of December and the Dalat boys faced their first challenge of the year, the Island Shootout Tournament. Teams from Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore came for a fierce battle on the hardwood floor.

            Dalat’s first battle was their long term rivals, the Youngsters. They had faced them twice already this season; the first time being defeated by 18 points. However, the next time they faced they took their revenge, defeating the Youngsters in a close margin of only 2 points.

             In their first game of the tournament, these two teams faced each other. The Dalat boys, however, started off their tournament well, defeating their rival 44-23.

            The second team the boys faced was ISKL. It was a match to be watched as the gym was packed with people. With Dalat’s tenacious defense, they were able to silence the Panthers and move on in the tournament.

            The next two teams they faced were teams from outside of Malaysia, being the AIS Sharks and the ICS Warriors from Singapore. With confidence alongside them, the Dalat boys were able to defeat both Singaporean teams with ease.

            The boys had gone undefeated throughout the whole tournament with a perfect record of 5-0. However, there was another team that was undefeated as well: Chung Ling Butterworth, lead by 6’7" post Andy Ooi.  These two perfect record teams faced each other in the final of the Island Shootout. Unfortunately, Chung Ling Butterworth came out on top. 

Last but Not Least; Finishing Strong

Joshua Moon

The sky was grey, and rain trickled down on a Wednesday morning. Nevertheless, the seniors were ecstatic to run, jump, and smile their way out of their last Track and Field day at Dalat.

            As the buses headed for the USM stadium, students began to worry about the dark clouds hovering over their heads. The disappointments of a few students lead others to feel depressed as if it was a virus. The team spirit that teachers emphasized had died off by the time students arrived, and the roaring of team chants was nowhere to be found. To make matters worse, the schedule that placed the high school 100m dash first, early in the morning, left many disgruntled and unmotivated. As for the seniors, the hope of experiencing the best and last Track and Field was fading.

Crack! The race started with the clashing of the clappers, and so did the senior’s final Track and Field. Legs were working hard to push bodies closer to the finish line, and every jerk or a tumble on the track was just another opportunity for the opponent. The event carried on its competitive nature and everyone started leaning towards the races to take a better look. The students began to wave their team flags and jump out of their seats to congratulate the victors and encourage the underdogs. But, just when the day seemed to enthuse the students, rain began to trickle down on the athletes.

The clouds turned pitch black. The rain started to pour. The grins of the students in the stands began to alter. However, the athletes on the track, sandpit, and even those above the beams, continued with their competition. Despite the weather’s crime, the competitors of all teams, ages, and gender never lost hope for a great day. While running through puddles of water and jumping towards damp mud, the athletes gave it their all. By noon, the clouds cleared out as if to say, “I cannot compete with your determination.” The day continued to maintain its spirit and joy throughout, especially during the highlight: the relay race.

“The relay race is my favorite event of track and field. I get a chance to run with my friends and develop teamwork,” exclaimed Sheng Ting.

 All students either ran (or skipped or danced if you were a senior girl) the relay or stood by the tracks to cheer on their friends. As the last runner of the last race sprinted his way across the finish line, the students, especially the seniors, seemed to be satisfied with the day’s results. Many students took away a significant part in the Dalat community that day: spirit. Whether it be rain, snow, hail, tornadoes, or earthquakes, the students and teachers of Dalat International School would compete and encourage one another to never give up. As for the seniors, they possibly took away the most memorable track and field of their lifetimes.

Rush to the Gold Medal

Jethro Lee

The middle and high school students did their best to accomplish great achievements and to contribute to their teams on Track and Field day.

On November 25^th, Dalat held Track and Field day at the USM campus. There were many events for students to participate in. Four different teams (Red, Blue, Yellow and Green) competed with each other to get higher scores. Some events, such as the javelin throw, discus, 3000m and 1500m, were held at Dalat before the actual Track and Field day. Other events were held on the  actual day from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm.

In the morning, the U16 and U16+ 100m races marked the beginning of the Track and Field day. Even though it was raining at the beginning, students kept running through it to win events. Fortunately, the sun came out again and runners had no problem with weather the rest of the day. Most running track events were more intense than the field events, because the competitive attitudes among the great runners was tremendous.

For the U16 and U16+ girls relay event, they danced and skipped to the song “Happy” together, instead of running for part of the race. The first to third “runners” enjoyed their time, but then the last runner actually sprinted to the goal.

Other students who did not join many events were cheering for their team. Every student was able to enjoy their time with friends. They had a nice lunch from Dalat, as well as snacks and beverages from the junior class store.

Most students seemed like they enjoyed all the events in Track and Field day. Sheng Ting Yang (12), a U16+ 100m runner, commented that "tracks are red, skies are blue... I love track and field; we all do too."

The Track and Field day was finished without any notable injuries, and most students went back home safely.

Will the next Track and Field day be much more exciting than that of this year? How will students perform next year?

Rainy Skies at Track and Field Day

Joseph Leech

On the morning of Wednesday, November 25, Dalat students bustled onto the outdoor basketball court, each student wearing clothes according to his or her team color. Red, blue, green, and yellow clothes and flags mixed together in the big pile of students. Many students radiated excitement as they waited for the buses that would take them away from classes and to fun and running.

As students arrived at the stadium, the sky began to show signs of the coming of a big storm. Within a half hour of arriving, the rain started to fall and it seemed it would almost be impossible to complete the events. Students and teachers crowded under the stadium roof in order to avoid the rain. Time passed and the rain continued to fall giving the impression that it would never stop. However, after an hour of downpour, the rain finally stopped and the skies cleared allowing Track and Field day to continue.

Throughout the rest of the day, students competed ferociously in order to win points for their teams. As students competed in events, many of their fellow teammates cheered them on and supported their colors. Mr. Roylance, even though he was supposed to be an unbiased announcer, cheered the Red team’s competitors and even carried the Dragon’s massive flag into the stadium. Students of every team screamed on their companions as the finished the last leg of the race or as they leaped through the air.

Throughout most of the day, Yellow was in the lead, while Green was in second. Towards the end, it seemed certain that yellow had the win in its back pocket. As the last races were being run, many of the Yellows were already confident that they had won. However, Green fought hard during the last events, not willing to give the win to yellow. After the last event, everyone was amazed to see that Yellow was no longer seated on the top, but Green had taken its spot.

At the end of the day, all the Dalat students, tired and sweaty, loaded back up into the buses. During the ride back, the Green students in particular were in a good mood, while many Yellows were still bitter about their loss. However, other than a few bitter Yellows, everyone was happy and ready to get showered and clean. Track and Field was still a fun day, no matter who won or lost.

Isaac Chan (12) summed up the day by saying, "Track and Field was still a great day even if my team lost. It was a blast just to hang out with friends and to compete."

The Season Starts with a Swish

Kassy Steinkamp

At 8 p.m. Friday night, 20 November, the girls’ varsity basketball team began to warm-up for their imminent game against the Ex-Nationals  team, music blasting, crowd gathering, and adrenaline pumping.

The first game of the season for the girls' team consisted of solid skills, intense running, and an unexpected CB asking. Three weeks into the season, the girls' varsity team played the Ex-Nationals, a team made up of former national players ranging from 20-40 years of age, who may have lacked some in speed but made up for it in experience. At the beginning of the game, the Ex-Nationals team posed a threat and challenged the girls to run faster, pass smarter, move quicker. But as soon as Sarah Tan (12) swished a 2-point shot, the girls were filled with a fiery desire to win the game. Within minutes, the girls pulled ahead and held the Ex-Nationals' score at a distance until the buzzer blared at the end of second quarter.

During halftime, both teams jogged to their allotted benches, grabbed their water bottles, and sat down, catching their breath, huffing and puffing. Suddenly, familiar bass notes began to play over the loud speakers. The song, "Funky Town" by Bruno Mars resonated throughout the gym as the weary players, and Coach Steinkamp, jumped up with renewed energy to dance to the middle of the court. Annabelle Teoh (9) approached Nicholas Khor (9) with the letters “CB” written on a sign. After a joyful cheer, Khor nodded his head and the two hugged. The team walked back to the bench to attempt to refocus on the task at hand: maintaining their lead in the game.

The gym shook with excitement as the girls continued to play hard, displaying various plays and new skills. During the second half, every player contributed to the game whether it was making 3-point (Tayah Lee, 12) or 2-point shots (Charlotte Combrink, 12), hustling the ball (Daniella Combrink, 10), or aggressively getting rebounds (Mersades Zimmer, 11). The girls’ basketball team even had a guest star, Elisabeth Brokaw (12), who ran up from the drama performance, Wedding Belles, grey hair and all, in order to play a few minutes in the game.

Despite this game being an exciting, different activity for the Dalat community to watch on a Friday night, it was also a learning experience. Playing another team that exploits their weakness and shows their strengths is quite beneficial for the girls' basketball team. Tayah Lee (12) summed it up. “The first game of the season went much better than all of us expected, and it was great to see our team quickly fall into the rhythm of our game. It showed us what our strengths were, but also what our weaknesses were--the main one being conditioning.”

The season started off with a swish, sparking an intensity and ferocity within the players to beat the Ex-Nationals. After beating the opposing team 61-36, the crowd and players packed up their things, deserting the gym to go home and rest. The players walked away with a smile on their tired faces and high hopes for the rest of the season.

Sarah Tan (12) remarked, “It was great that everyone on the team got to play and gain more experience, which was a wonderful start to the season. I am so excited to see what we can accomplish this year!”

I Moustache You a Question

Mary-Claire McIntyre

Salsa to CB with me? Whale you be my date? CB?

No matter how you say it, the question of all questions brings out the nerves in everyone.

A series of romantic gestures on Dalat campus...Could it be? No worries. You're not having a hallucination. It's just CB time.

The on-campus craziness began with an equally crazy video. Peter Lee released a comedic call to all sweethearts and singles to join StuCo on December 11th at Paradise Hotel for the Christmas Banquet.

Some took the classic route with their askings. Amanda Goh (12) had a group of friends hold up signs with the simple but effective question, "Will you go to CB with me?"

Some took a more adventurous approach to the age-old tradition. Annabelle Teoh (9) had "Uptown Funk" by Bruno Mars play as she danced her way across the gym with the girls’ basketball team to ask Nick Khor (9). Even Mr. Steinkamp got in on the asking, helping to hold up Annabelle's sign.

Not to be outdone, Mr. Brewster also helped with an asking. Mackenzie Jordan (12) employed the principal to help her invite Aaron Chand (11) as her date. She had Aaron called to the principal's office, where she surprised him with an invitation to the Christmas Banquet. (Pictured below)

The freshmen also set a new trend in the high school with more casual askings. This laid-back attitude has been a welcomed change with the upper classmen who remember the overwhelming nervousness of their freshman year asking. Sarah Tan (12) recalled it in this way, "CB askings were what we all looked forward to as soon as we started freshman year. I remember CB being a constant topic of conversation and excitement with my friends; we planned our askings and all knew who was going to ask who months in advance."

Some still enjoyed the excitement of a suspenseful asking. Karissa Steinkamp (12) had Brian Hiew (12) blindfolded and "kidnapped." After being walked about campus, he was taken to the Journ room where Kassy had chocolate and a very important question waiting for him. Kassy voiced her opinion on CB in this way, "I am really excited for CB this year! I think it is going to be really fun this year. I am anxious to see what STUCO has in store for us."

Overall, this year's asking season has seen some exciting stuff. From dancing directors to crazy kidnappings, the high schoolers have kept things lively. Of course, some have chosen to avoid the chaos of asking and selected a few good friends to go in a group with. Whether in a group or in a couple, CB is bound to be a blast!

Photo Credit: Gabi Mims 

Writing Winning Words

Karsten Ladner

Despite his friendly appearances at high school drama performances as the director, few realize the impact of Mr. Sasse’s passion to write.

Arriving in 2006 as the new high school social studies teacher, Mr. Mark Sasse quickly garnered a reputation among his students for his devastating pop quizzes in his geography class. Today, however, he is known for the words he has written in plays, skits, novels, and musicals.

It was only the second year of Mr. Sasse’s tenure at the school that he began writing--and directing. When the previous drama director left, Mr. Sasse rose to fill the vacancy, having absolutely no experience as either an actor or a director. Sasse, rising to the occasion, not only directed the production but also wrote the entire script with a motley band of eager students. Since beginning in 2007, this remarkable teacher has continued to write and direct the scripts, heavily investing in the lives of students under his tutelage.

In addition to his full-length productions, Mr. Sasse has written numerous short skits, even beginning a new acting band, the Road Less Traveled (RLT) Players. The RLT Players, modeled after the Footstool Players, a crew of actors and actresses who perform short three to five minute sketches centered around one theme, have quickly become a Dalat favorite among students since its inception three years ago. The themes have varied widely from exploring the interaction of generations to probing the extremes of life, yet the skits continually stagger the audience with their poignant messages.

Mr. Sasse’s passion to write has led him into the exciting path of novel writing. His career as a novelist began by transforming one of his plays into prose. Soon after, he wrote his first novel, Beauty Rising (2012); and in October of 2013, he completed his second novel, The Recluse Storyteller. Since then, he has published The Reach of the Banyan Tree (2014) and A Love Story for a Nation (2015). Sasse’s stories weave his experiences growing up in the United States, living in Vietnam, and teaching in Malaysia with the values that he has encountered in each culture.

These stories have been encountered by students throughout their education at Dalat. Many times, Mr. Sasse has lent his talent to write scripts for skits before Spiritual Emphasis Week. He has written short scripts for Penang’s annual Short and Sweet Competition, in which his plays have won several awards. His words have traveled to Kuala Lumpur for the Forensics duet-acting competition, again winning first place. Sasse’s incredible talent in translating a theme into a riveting performance has captivated and stunned audiences time and time again.

Mr. Sasse has invested heavily in his passion to write, and the success is evident; fear, however, had stayed his pen for many years. “I’m not gonna let the negative thoughts and fears stop me,” said Sasse, “because I did that for too long but now I realize how much I love writing, whether a million people read it or two people read it. It’s just something I love to do.”

 Sasse’s passion to write has taken him down paths of life he would never have even envisioned, at first, as the social studies teacher who volunteered to direct high school drama. Now, he has influenced and impacted the community in more ways than meets the eye when he stands at the front of the auditorium asking the audience to kindly silence their phones.

Deep in the Depths of Deepavali

Brian Hiew 

Hindu-practicing Malaysians filled the streetways of Little India to participate in Deepavali, also known as The Festival of Lights on November 11, 2015. As the month of November swept in, the streets of Penang, Malaysia began to congest and light up. People set up stations along the sidewalks and filled the roads with color. What was the sudden change? The season of Deepavali had officially began.

Deepavali is a Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the return of Lord Rama, a prominent Hindu God; in addition, it is said that Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, will enter buildings decorated with diyas to bless the homes and families. Such tradition has been practiced globally for hundreds of years in numerous Hindu communities.

As the evening slowly appeared around 5-6pm, a multitude of Indians gathered in Little India to witness the “brightest festival of the year.” Hundreds of houses, stalls, and especially temples are heavily lit with diyas (small oil lamps) and strings of miniscule, multi-colored lights. The lights symbolize victory over darkness and good over evil.

“Deepavali is like New Year’s Eve, it’s a brand new start for all of us,” said Neehar Kantimathi (11), whose family is a participant of the Festival of Lights.

In the Dalat community, many of the national staff, including students, took a day off to enjoy their holiday with family and friends. Sounds of joy and laughter echoed the streets of Little India as families spent time with one another feasting upon a wide selection of various traditional Indian dishes and sweets, and played with sparkle sticks. After eating, families exited their homes to enjoy a brilliant, vibrant, and magnificent display of fireworks. Why fireworks? “Not only to celebrate the return of Rama, but also to scare off evil demons and spirits,” said Kantimathi.

As the end of Deepavali approached, families returned to the comfort of their homes as they celebrated a new beginning.

A Time of Remembrance

Thizbe Balzer

On November 11, 2015, the Remembrance Day assembly allowed all members of the Dalat community to take a few steps back from their busy schedules, gain perspective, and stand together with hearts of gratitude.

Dalat goers fled into the gymnasium on that sunny Wednesday afternoon. Queued by the audible but barely noticeable tardy bell, the uproar of eager chatter and subsequent echoes, which saturated the hall with excitement, came to a slow yet serious halt as Mr. Hoffmeyer began to speak.  A badged vest clung to his shoulder, and his uniform mimicked the others on the elevated platform to which everyone’s attention had turned.  Those of importance sat tall, reveling in thoughtful and reflective expression; those who stood spoke with a certain kind of dignified vulnerability.  This was serious.  This was real.  People were out there fighting a war for us.  Their faces told the story.

While the “old folk” told the story, individuals of the younger generation, namely the boy and girl scouts groups, were the ones who made the formal event a success.  At the opening of the ceremony, four young men, among them 12^th grader Joel Halbedl and 11^th grader Noah Graves, made their way over to the flower-encased centerpiece with unparalled formality.  The beat of a snare drum, sounded by one of the Chinn twins, guided their footsteps.  Each young man took one corner of the decorated coffin and stood for the remainder of the ceremony looking outward with a dispassionate stare.  Meaningful poems, one being “In Flanders Fields,” were read aloud; and Mr. Roylance shared his back-story as an officer with inspiring and heart-wrenching emotion.  Flags from various countries were held up in recognition of all the soldiers who fought in WW1 and those who stand on the frontlines today. 

However, among the rituals and ceremony of the event were moments for everyone to personally reflect, times surrounded with musical voice, and times drowning in silence.  Christina Kim (12) sounded the trumpet beautifully to the traditional Remembrance Day call.  After that was a minute of silence. Lee (grade 12) remarked about the X-block event later that week, “It really made me thankful for the freedom I have today.” 

It’s true.  We are where we are today because of the sacrifices others are making to establish daily freedom.  Dalat School has these freedoms, and the Remembrance Day assembly is a necessary reminder to gratefully accept that someone out there is paying for it.