BREAKING NEWS: Webb announces adjustments to COVID-19 protocols

George Cardenas, Kaylynn Chang, Dora Ding, Emily Li, Jenny Tran, Stratton Rebish, Leeann Shu, Wura Ogunnaike, Kylie Osborne, Jenny Wang, and Sunny Yu

September 30, 2021

Oma Sukul

Simon Kang (‘22), Josie Chow (‘22), and William Li (‘22) react to Dr. Smith’s email with surprise. Credit: Oma Sukul (’23)

On Thursday, September 30th, Theresa Smith, Associate Head of Schools, announced major adjustments to Webb’s COVID-19 protocols as a result of the school’s 95% vaccination rate as of October 1st.

The Webb Medical Advisory Board approved the following changes that will go into effect on October 1st:

Students no longer need to wear masks outdoors, except for large gatherings of over 100 or if in close proximity to each other.

Students may leave campus without direct adult supervision within a 10-mile radius of campus, and upperclassmen boarders can ride with day students within state laws.

Students may attend indoor sports events in limited quantities with masks.

With the assistance of the Health Center, students who previously did not have access to local vaccines were able to get vaccinated.

“I think what makes this [update] possible is our high vaccination rate in our community, which is especially remarkable because of the age groups here,” Stephanie Baron (‘96), Health Center Director, said.

“The other part is that with our testing, we are not seeing [any] cases. Even in [Los Angeles] County itself, everything is trending downwards from case rates, hospitalizations, and death rates, so that indicates that everything is working well, and we can back off some things.”

Testing schedules will remain the same, and student athletes will get tested regularly. If cases start to rise in the Webb community, the administration will take steps to change regulations to prioritize safety.

“Webb is progressing towards a safer environment while still giving students freedom,” Chance Rebish (‘23) said.

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About the Contributors

George Cardenas, Editor of News

An avid music listener, George Cardenas (‘23)’s perfect weekend involves a homework-free day at the beach with “Night Boat to Cairo” by Madness blasting in the background. In fact, George considers himself to be a very easy-going, optimistic person, who loves nothing more than relaxing with his friends or experimenting on the piano. Although he does enjoy tranquility, George also works with his fellow members of the WSC honor cabinet to uphold Webb’s Honor Code. George is passionate about staying up to date with current events and wants to continue keeping everyone informed during his time on the Webb Canyon Chronicle. A typical Capricorn, George is disciplined, strategic, and clever— similar to a wolf, his self-proclaimed spirit animal. George looks forward to working on the WCC this year as Co-Editor of News and hopes to write authentic, factually correct articles that enlighten the Webb community. Favorite song: "Tadow" by FKJ and Masego

Kaylynn Chang, Editor-In-Chief

An avid bookworm, journalist, and sushi lover, head day student prefect Kaylynn Chang (‘23) comes back to the Webb Canyon Chronicle for one last year as Editor- In- Chief! If you want someone to cook you a heartwarming meal, give you the best book recommendations, or help you with homework, Kaylynn is the right person for you. Equipped with a loud whistle, she manages to successfully get her voice heard through creative writing and independent journalism, as well as helping others achieve the same by leading affinity groups. She wants to continue using her talent and passion for justice for a career in law or politics after her Webb experience is over. When she’s not learning through everyone else’s life stories and memoirs, Kaylynn enjoys working out, cooking Korean food, and listening to her favorite songs by Cigarettes After Sex. From baking delicious snacks to giving you the most genuine advice, Kaylynn has the perfect recipe for looking after others and giving back to the community. As Editor-in- Chief, she hopes to make the WCC an accessible resource for all students and aspiring journalists to learn and share news about Webb. Favorite Song: “Sunsetz" by Cigarettes after Sex

Dora Ding, Staff Writer

Adventurous, analytical, and passionate, Dora Ding (‘24) looks forward to entering the newsroom as a first-year staff writer for the Webb Canyon Chronicle. In addition to improving her writing, Dora hopes to use her journalist role at the WCC to explore key issues in education and voice her opinions. Specifically, she is keen on improving education for children; over the summer, Dora participated in a program where she helped advise and inform students in Taiwan about the American education system and the college process. Besides writing articles for the WCC, you can catch Dora reading detective and mystery books, as she enjoys its thrills and suspense. In her spare time on the weekends, Dora likes going out to shopping malls and food courts with friends, as well as trying all the different flavors of ice cream: her current favorites are lemon sorbet and cookies & cream. She is excited to finally spend the year in-person at Webb and dive into her favorite class, AP Calculus AB. Dora also looks forward to participating in tennis and yearbook and hopes to remain involved with the Webb community in the years to come. Favorite song: "Things I Do For Love" by Lee Seung Hyun

Emily Li, Chief of Media

Emily Li ('24) is not your usual iPad kid. You might see her using her tablet, but trust me: she isn't playing Roblox. She is a passionate artist who loves to create artwork on her iPad. Emily's favorite thing to draw is the people around her, focusing on experimenting with colors. She also enjoys dancing to popular K-pop stars IU and Mamamoo. Just like her top-notch dancing skills, she has a crazy tolerance for spice – do not be surprised when you see her empty bottle of sriracha. However, Emily's dynamic personality is not confined to her personal endeavors. As head peer advisor, she steps into a leadership role that suits her naturally empathetic and social nature. She finds joy in building bridges, fostering connections, and offering a sympathetic ear to those around her. One of Emily’s main goals this year is to give as much love as she can to the world. At the Webb canyon chronicle is to improve the diversity of articles and further refine the website after designing it. In a world where each stroke of her digital pen, every dance step, and all her interactions paint a picture of her vibrant self, Emily Li stands not only as a multitalented artist, leader, athlete and beacon of positivity, illuminating everything she touches with her unique and colorful perspective.

Jenny Tran, Public Editor

Whether it is popping on a new vinyl or traveling across the world, Jenny Tran (‘24) likes to immerse herself in the moment and explore the culture around her. You can find her hanging out with friends in the South Hutch common room or listening to various music genres at any place and time. Her favorite artists include Suboi, Keshi, Tyler the Creator, and Blackpink. Whether across the Pacific Ocean in California or in her hometown of Hanoi, Vietnam, Jenny is probably watching the radiant moon listening to Super Rich Kids by Frank Ocean. At Webb, Jenny shines a light on women’s issues in different countries, Asian rights, and ESVI. As she moves into her third year on the Webb Canyon Chronicle, she hopes to continue advocating for her beliefs while exploring new mediums like poetry or photo galleries. As a Public Editor, Jenny also wants to bring more inventive and comedic ideas to the table. If you are ever in need of a good laugh, a music recommendation, or someone to go thrifting with, you should call Jenny Tran. Favorite song: DO4LOVE by 52Hz & Willistic

Stratton Rebish, Editor-in-Chief

Stratton Rebish (‘24) is a man of many titles. Holding positions as Head Peer Advisor, Editor-in-Chief of the Webb Canyon Chronicle, the founder and president of the Webb Thespian Group, Stratton is, “kind of a big deal around town,” according to him. But within these responsibilities, he has two main passions: football and theater. As a varsity defensive end and football captain, you might not immediately think of Stratton as a theater kid. A single conversation with Stratton will brighten your day with his bubbly and dramatic tones. His hysterical jokes come from his love of stand-up comedy and comics like Hasan Minhaj. As for sports, he is an avid New York sports fan; the New York Jets and Knicks will forever hold a special place in his heart, even when they disappoint him year after year. Aside from getting grilled for his poor sports team taste, he is a self-proclaimed “aspiring grill savant”. He aspires to be a grill dad and loves a Southeast Asian dish called Satay. And when you hear, “So guys, funny story, right,” be ready for Stratton’s theatrics, because he will always be in character, playin’ his role. Favorite song: "Life" by Sérgio Mendes

Leeann Shu, Chief Copy Editor

You might usually associate a Leo with being supercilious, selfish, and self-centered, but Leeann Shu (‘22) exemplifies the opposite of these traits. Leeann is supportive, trustworthy, humble, and sociable. In her free time, Leeann enjoys relaxing with friends, and this year, she hopes to re-bond with friends that she has not seen or talked to for a while. At school, Leeann actively interacts with the community by taking various leadership roles: a day student prefect, an admission fellow, chief editor of the yearbook, and Chief Copy Editor of the Webb Canyon Chronicle. As Editor of Technology last year and a head editor this year, she continues writing for the WCC because of her enthusiasm for the publication and writing. Her personality contributes to her success in the newsroom because journalism requires her to be a risk-taker while searching for interviewees, and an active listener to understand other’s thoughts. This year, her goal is to assist younger members of the WCC as they grow and shine in their writing. In addition to helping others, she wants to have more confidence in herself and seek more opportunities to utilize her writing skills for the betterment of the publication. Not being afraid of any type of failure is what she will keep in mind to help her progress toward her goals. Favorite song: "Laugh Now, Cry Later" by Drake

Wura Ogunnaike, Editor of Culture & Lifestyle & Social Media Manager

After spending her summer in a lab for a science research program, Wura Ogunnaike (23’) is ready to return to the Webb Canyon Chronicle as a Social Media Manager and the Editor of Culture & Lifestyle. Reflecting her earlier efforts, Wura enjoys writing for the publication because of the freedom and wide range of topics she can cover in the process. This year, aside from having fun with writing, Wura is also taking on the responsibility of a Social Media Manager by utilizing social media outreach to attract more readership and enhance the reputation of the Webb Canyon Chronicle. Outside of the newsroom, Wura is a Jameson dorm prefect, where she always demonstrates the perfect balance between enacting leadership when necessary and showing kindness to her fellow dorm residents. In her free time, Wura likes to read, hike, and listen to Taylor Swift songs. However, her favorite song is “This is What Makes Us Girls” by Lana Del Rey. In addition to developing new interests, her goal for herself is to branch out in multimedia and work on social media-related publications. Some examples include podcasts or a photo gallery, which she has already exposed herself to during her first year of journalism. Favorite Song: "This Is What Makes Us Girls" by Lana Del Rey

Kylie Osborne, Editor of Technology

Kylie Osborne (‘23) is a natural leader and gifted writer who cannot wait to bring her unique perspective as the Editor of Technology for the Webb Canyon Chronicle. If given a weekend all to herself, she would ride horses, spend time with her friends, and rewatch a Marvel movie or two. Along with her leadership role in the WCC, Kylie is also a prefect for South Hutch, an Admissions Fellow, stage manager for theatre tech, and president of the Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA). Kylie loves her job as a stage manager, she teared up upon entering the theater for the first time after the pandemic. Kylie considers her theater friends more as found family than colleagues. In her free time, Kylie is an avid reader. Her favorite book is The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern, which she describes as a story about stories. A talented and passionate writer, Kylie hopes to use her skills to create interesting and engaging articles for the WCC. As the Editor of the Technology section, she aspires to further expand the WCC’s outreach through different forms of media and introduce new readers to the publication. Favorite song: "Ever Since New York" by Harry Styles

Jenny Wang, Editor-in-Chief

Returning after a transformative summer at Northwestern University, Jenny Wang ('24) is rejoining the Webb Canyon Chronicle as Co-Editor-in-Chief, bursting with fresh journalism skills. Jenny is primarily humble when talking about her talents and interests, she occasionally forgets to flex that she is also a pianist, flutist, comedy enthusiast, and badminton pro. As a prominent figure at Webb, Jenny serves on the VWS honor cabinet, captain of the debate team, and chapel council. Finding comfort in shows like Grey's Anatomy and Gilmore Girls, she balances the demands of her busy life. Jenny's academic pursuits lean towards humanitarian issues; over the summer, she invested extra time into political risk research, specifically analyzing aspects of Israeli lifestyle. Beyond her academic commitments, Jenny's mission this year is to infuse WCC articles with potent and well-balanced viewpoints. Her intellect, vibrant personality, and unwavering laughter contribute to an environment full of energy and positivity. There is no doubt, Jenny Wang embodies a dynamic blend of talents, passions, and determination that enriches both the Webb community and the wider world. Through her versatile contributions and infectious laughter, Jenny's presence leaves an indelible mark, reminding us all of the power of embracing one's passions and sharing them with the world. Favorite Song: "Welcome to Wonderland" by Anson Seabra

Sunny Yu, Editor-in-Chief

Sunny Yu (‘22) is a prime example of the protagonist personality. As a natural leader, she is active, thoughtful, caring, and serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the WCC, a member of the Chapel Council, the captain of the varsity cross-country team, and a founding member of Webb’s Breakfast literary magazine. Sunny is also vocal and passionate about the enforcement of social justice and representation of marginalized groups: at the WCC, she utilizes journalism as a tool to shed light on many controversial issues, never shying away from the ability to make a lasting impact. During the weekends, you can often find her on a run to “The Spot,” a smoothie shop, playing soccer on Chandler, and occasionally annoying the library staff for borrowing too many books, such as her favorite, Waiting for the Barbarians, a wonderful allegory on human relationships. As a protagonist, she finds joy in guiding young journalists to grow into their best selves. This year, Sunny hopes that the WCC can continue covering important topics and spark conversations while bringing people laughter and keeping them informed. Favorite song: "Sunflower Feelings" by Kuzu Mellow

Oma Sukul, Editor of Photography

One hundred kilometers an hour. Blink, and you’ll miss it. Hesitate, and it’s too late. But for Oma Sukul (‘23), Editor of Photography, it’s just another day of volleyball. Her lightning-fast reflexes not only help her as a varsity player out on the court, but they also enable her to capture spontaneous moments that are featured on the front page. However, Oma also treasures the slower parts of life. If one were to visit her home in Rancho Cucamonga, she would likely be found indulging in romance stories alongside her cat Lucky or singing along to Niel Diamond with her dad. She cherishes her connections with her friends and family, and you can always count on her to be genuine, friendly, and delightful in conversation. Born in Toronto, Canada, her transcontinental family means that she has roots spanning the Pacific Ocean. Contributing to dozens of articles last year, this year Oma seeks to further explore her creative side. Rediscovering her passion for the WCC's quizzes, she continues her quest to make the publication engaging and entertaining for all. One thing’s certain: whatever life throws at her, whatever the speed, you can count on Oma Sukul to spike it back with a smile. Favorite song: “I am... I said” by Neil Diamond

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Stephen Li | Sep 30, 2021 at 6:48 PM

Absolutely wonderful. Cheers everybody. stay safe


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