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Vol. XIII, Issue 2 Francis Parker School December 2010
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Front Cover photo by Adam Lohnes TOC Staff Page EDITORIALS Editor’s Note GBU Out is the New In Dress Code-ation of Independence Pushed to the Limit To Be Worthy of Honor A Better Proposition: Equality for All Gone Global FEATURES Rumor Has It... 20 Questions with Mr. Byrne “It’s a War” A Complete Education Being Well Find Me Somebody to Talk to To AP or not to AP? SPORTS Winter Sports: Season Preview Mountain Express What’s in a Number? Just for Fun? Under the Radar: Unappreciated Sports ENTERTAINMENT The Jackass Effect Mischief Managed Lost in Translation Parker Star: Patricia Fernandez From Sundance to San Diego ‘Tis The Season for Television ETCETERA Lending a Hand The Jew Point of View My New Year’s Resolution is... All I Want for Christmas is You Veggin’ Out Food for the Gods Wildlife Watch From Polyester to Parker Plaid Hot Not Trendy Quad Rants Back Cover Art by Kira Newton
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44
Editors-in-Chief Meagan Harris Maddie Thurman Managing Editor Kira Newton Editorials Editors Simone Leonard Sara Linssen Features Editors Liza Gurtin Carson Scott Entertainment Editors Sloan Christopher Haley Robinson Sports Editors Michael Schreiner Cameron Songer Etcetera Editors Kara Jones Grace Paluch Layout Editor Madeline Peeling
Scribe Staff 2010-11 Share with us any questions, concerns, or comments you have about the magazine. Your opinions matter. Email us at fpscribe@gmail.com Visit our website at https://sites.google.com/a/k12.francisparker.org/scribe/home. Join our facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/fpscribe to stay updated with everything Scribe.
Web Editor Claire Bryan Kaity Wilson Staff Writers Aly Barrett Marisa Canepa Raphie Cantor Evan Fitzner Stanley Gambucci R.B. Ganon Colin Grey Emily Heft Anna Hobbs Kasey Hutcheson Claire Kim Sam Melville Molly Morrison Walker Newton David Nussbaum Ben Peters Jake Siegler Katie Volker Advisor Michelle Adelman THE SCRIBE
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Editor’s Note
By Meagan Harris
I found my old Polaroid camera and without expecting anything to come of it, I took a shot. I wasn’t sure if there was film in the camera, or if the film would even still hold an image, but the camera made a familiar whirring noise and began to spit out a picture. Nothing was visible yet, just a square of gray, but after a while, an outline of a person started to appear. The film worked. It stopped just short of color and clarity, though, and I was left with a vague likeness of a person, a ghost image already in sepia. Holiday memories are sometimes like that, playing like a scratching record or a skipping video in your mind. Between the blurred lines of tradition, there are a lot of details that can be missed. So, take too many pictures, but look up from your camera lens, as well. Look forward to Christmas morning, but don’t go to sleep early to make it come faster. Watch the hannukiah lights grow one by one, night by night. Sometimes the anticipation can be the best part. Try something new as you cherish the old. Really and completely be in the moment. It’s easy to give in to nostalgia, rewatching the same holiday specials over and over again (for some of our favorites, turn to page 33). But maybe it’s equally tempting to abandon all tradition entirely. After all, it doesn’t even snow here. So here we are, delicately perched on the brink of a new year, trying to balance ourselves between VHS home videos and Skype on our cell phones, between childhood and college, between school and the beach. It’s been about a decade since the last millennium, about the same space of time since I last used my Polaroid. But maybe this balance is what the holidays are for, why they are timeless. The universe, as Douglas Adams likes to remind us, is really big. And time is exactly the same size. Sometimes Y2K seems like yesterday, sometimes I forget it ever happened. We have a tree, a hannukiah, a family dinner, to root us. We see the small details, the changes, and know that time is passing. But we also have our sepia film memories and our we-do-this-every-year family traditions, and know that some things will never change. During the holidays, we no longer teeter between things. We are simply here, now.
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barometer Bermuda Basketball: While you were all munching on that turkey dinner, the Boys’ Varsity Basketball team was spending their break in Bermuda, chilling on the beaches. And oh, yeah, bringing home a big, shiny first place trophy. Three Weeks: The amount of time between Thanksgiving and holiday breaks. The second trimester is off to a good start.
The Scribe Website: https://sites. google.com/a/k12.francisparker. org/scribe/home. The Scribe has blasted into cyberspace! Check out bonus articles, leave some comments, and stay up to date on Scribe news. Scaring the Birds: Owls guarding our pristine, new administration buildings from other birds— fine, I guess. Barnyard and jungle noises playing from a boombox on the roof—funny, but a little creepy. Maybe a lot creepy.
Senior Parking: Senior parking starts at the main school lot and ends at the entrance only sign. We know that the sophomores have begun sneaking in with their new vertical licenses, but, juniors, you can’t hide that ‘12 on your permit sticker.
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December is not just about the holiday season for seniors, the college application process goes to great lengths to harass us during our time off. Not only are most applications due by January 1st, but many college decisions are revealed this month. This means that not only will days be spent writing countless essays for supplements rather than roasting chestnuts on an open fire, but one’s college dreams may be crushed, which would put a damper on the holiday spirit. Even worse, it is just another reminder that we will all be leaving soon.
When it comes to Francis Parker, there is no question that our student population is on the smaller side, so word travels fast at our school, but rather than words of praise or uplifting anecdotes, our school is plagued with gossip that only leads to one thing: drama. With all the stress that comes with school, sports, friends, and extracurriculars, people don’t need other people adding to their personal crises. Unnecessary drama adds to the struggles of students and can really hurt people. So, treat others the way you would want to be treated, and the next time you hear your friends gossiping behind another’s back, take the high road and stop that conversation before it spirals into disaster.
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The holiday season is a time for family and friends, for celebrating old traditions, and for making new ones. This year, amidst the shopping rush, turkey dinners, and gift exchanges, take a moment to be grateful for the many good fortunes in our lives. For instance, the amazing school we are so fortunate to attend. I would bet money that no other school in the country had long tables set up in their quad with a feast and Harry Potter music playing, or a principal dressed head to toe in Dumbledore garb, or a theater specially rented out for the opening day of the new movie. We are so lucky to have the privilege of attending this school. So this year, when you’re counting your presents under the tree, count your blessings as well because we have a lot to be thankful for.
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is the new IN! T OU Being different has never been so popular
By Molly Morrison
This summer, the movie Ramona and Beezus was released; I not only loved it, but I realized it can be applied to countless aspects of our lives. On July 23rd, my mom and I sat down to watch a film about a girl who was in every way her own person. Ramona Quimby represented something that Francis Parker students embody: individuality. It’s easy to talk about the achievements of Parker individuals, the things alumni have done, or the talents our current students possess. But what about the other side of the story? When it comes to a school as prestigious as Parker, we are given endless opportunities every day. However, we are also constantly forced into stressful situations and held to the highest standards. While some thrive under this pressure, others don’t know how to handle it. But at Parker, no one ever talks about the middle, the average. People often look at life as a list of successes and failures. I have never heard anything about the students who are achieving only what is asked of them. There is, for a variety of reasons, an invisible pressure to stand out at our school. To achieve a certain number, get a specific letter on a report card, to be the best at something, or to have a strong and outspoken voice. And while many kids are unique and exceptional at what they do, it is undeniable that at one point, we all feel the pressure to be different from everyone else. We all feel that nagging doubt when
it comes to our ability and whether we possess the capability to achieve our goal. The sole reason for this pressure comes from one seven-letter word, a word that our seniors are all too familiar with: college. With what the acceptance requirements have become, the number of students applying, and the importance of where one goes, it seems like a race against time to figure out what
chance to set the foundation of my college experience, that once I got to college, I could decide what I wanted to do. But in reality, it feels as though high school is one endless grind of writing papers and doing community service just so I can go to an Ivy League school and get a fancy degree. It has been drilled into the minds of society that the sooner one starts to think about college, the better prepared one will be. At the college fair in October, I was shocked and almost disgusted to see the number of freshmen who attended. Although some are just trying to get a jump start on the process, most looked out of place. We need to remember to really open our eyes every once in a while and get away from daily stress to learn something about the world or about ourselves. High school represents the last years we have to spend time with the people we’ve come to love, but it shouldn’t follow one set pattern; there isn’t one right way to go about getting through it. Ramona Quimby’s older sister, Beezus, told Ramona to add a little sparkle to life. Ramona definitely did this, and maybe even went a little overboard at times, but take this message with you. Achieve what is asked of you, but add your own glitter in whatever way you see fit. Above all, never be afraid to color outside the lines. Ramona Quimby did, and it worked out pretty well for her.
There is, for a variety of reasons, an invisible pressure to stand out at our school.
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one is good at. But it isn’t enough to do something well; one has to be the best. Students get so caught up in what goes onto their college résumés that they overbook and over commit to things they aren’t truly passionate about. This creates a domino effect: because one person is doing this, someone else does twice as much to get ahead. Because of this, everyone else does three times as much to make sure their resumés are not only flawless, but exceeding every minimum and maximizing every detail. This neverending cycle leads to a portion of teenagers getting lost in trying to do their best. My question is: Why stress yourself out with activities you don’t even want to be doing? Instead of loading extacurricular and academic plates with sports, clubs, APs and honors classes, give yourself some free time to do something you really want to be doing, or better yet, spend an hour doing nothing. Before my freshman year, I was told high school was the
Dress Code-ation of Independence W
ode a justified bondage or are we justified in rebelling? c s s e r d Is
hen I was little, my mom used to dress me in the morning. Now my school does. While I am thankful for the practical reasons of waiving the right to dress myself both as a toddler and as a high school student, I cannot help but feel insulted by the correlation. I am led to wonder: Does our school have the same faith in our sense of style as it would a toddler’s? The dress code at Francis Parker has been effective for many years. It is also well justified for its many merits. As explained in the Upper School Student & Parent Handbook, “The purpose of prescribed dress is to free the faculty and students to address the serious business of teaching and learning.” Other reasons include preventing gangs, reducing chasms among students with different socio-economic backgrounds, creating a serious learning environment, and diminishing students’ fears about looking the part to “fit in.” If a prescribed dress is so beneficial and practical, the real concern should be why so many students neglect to adhere to the regulations. Henry David Thoreau wrote in Civil Disobedience, “Must the citizen ever for a moment, or in the least degree, resign his conscience to the legislator? Why has every man a conscience, then?” It is in this accordance with principles that many students continue to defy standards set by the Handbook. Being reprimanded for something as miniscule as a dress code violation seems belittling at times, and students become even more determined to push the code’s limits. Telling girls to get on their knees in order to measure skirt length is degrading and humiliating and will not result in girls politely following dress code. For instance, I have always disagreed with the rule citing that collared shirts must be worn at all times. When a legal sweatshirt is worn, whether a collared shirt is present or not is impalpable.
By Haley Robinson
When students and teachers are forced to waste time regulating this violation, is it not the regulation of the rule that is more distracting to the “serious business of teaching and learning” than the offense is itself? “Students found in violation of the Dress Code may suffer from a loss of academic time and zeros for any work missed.” This severely contradicts the statement that dress code is enacted in order to focus on learning, as the Handbook suggests. This being said, I have followed the suit of Thoreau. A punishment for the inoffensive lack of a collared shirt is well worth fulfilling my duty of civil disobedience. On the other hand, Thoreau has also said, “I am as desirous of being a good neighbor as I am of being a bad subject.” Students at Francis Parker hold high standards for themselves. Every day, we are pressured to be the perfect student, son or daughter, and humanitarian. Seemingly, these perfect children find that the perfect outlet for teenage rebellion lies in the illicit disregard of dress code. Whether it is the rush from slipping past the office without Ms. Southworth noticing, or the thrill of avoiding a certain route in order to escape Mr. Thiebach’s patrol, dress code is an easy way to be openly rebellious without actually harming other people. And if other people are not harmed, then the necessity of the legislation may not be as prominent as it is projected as. Then there is the remainder of the students who are not attempting to be rebellious in the least but sincerely consider their dress code violation an aid to their ensemble. Paasha Motamedi, alumnus of the class of 2008, once said, “It can’t be illegal if you look this good.” And I completely agree; students who appear put-together and professional may find it necessary to stray from the dress code in order to achieve their desired effect. We stand between two ideologies, suc-
cumbing to a state where everyone is expected to dress the same, or being given the responsibility to maintain our individuality while dressing professionally and appropriately. Some might argue that at Parker we are forced to conform to be a cookie-cutter student. We are encouraged to wear the same clothes, receive the same excellent grades, and be the same global, inspired, community-oriented student. Making students into Option Bwearing machines may seem Orwellian at times. Where is our diverse, college preparatory environment? Dressing in a uniform is exactly as it sounds: uniform. This does not allow room for diversity and is not a preparation for college. To come back to the question: Does our school have no more faith in us than toddlers in regards to dressing ourselves? After carefully considering the arguments, my answer was found in the endless skirtlength battle. Ms. Southworth frequently records skirts well over eight inches above the knee, exceeding the length limit by half. If the students at Francis Parker lack the judgment to know that while walking upstairs, they constantly display their underwear to all of Linda Vista, we are, in fact, no more responsible than toddlers. In an ideal world, dressing properly each day would not have to be enforced. The students would learn from experience that dressing inappropriately brings a negative connotation to their whole persona, as well as Parker’s. But we do not live in that world; our culture has convinced us that soaring hemlines and trashy clothes are acceptable in any environment. Not having the capacity to dress appropriately has forfeited our right to be individuals, and this is a consequence brought upon ourselves. Maybe everyone would be better off if our parents continued to dress us daily.
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Pushed to the Limit
The Scribe explores Parker students’ opinions on athletic schedules during school breaks It’s late in the afternoon in the end of August. Most Parker students are enjoying their last days before returning to school. Perhaps they’re on a trip or spending a day at the beach. The last place most would want to be is at school. Yet for the football team, this is a reality. Summer two-a-days are a high school football tradition, generally viewed as a necessity for a successful season. Flash-forward to February. Mid-winter break, affectionately known as “ski week,” has left the campus deserted again, save for a handful of athletes about to take the field or court with stands filled by their parents. Some Parker students use this week off to ski or snowboard, others take trips to South Africa or Vietnam, and others are traversing the country on college tours. But the basketball and soccer teams have a full week of practices and games because “ski week” falls during league play. “It’s kind of bad timing because soccer falls right in the middle of all the good vacations, so we miss some stuff like snowboarding and school trips,” says senior soccer player Grif f in Barra. Everyone knows there Artwork by is a great deal Katie Volker
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of sacrifice involved in playing sports in high school. Practice cuts into homework time and detracts from an athlete’s social life. But few realize that when you sign up for a sport, you’re also giving up rare and valued school vacations. Whether it prevents family trips or college tours, playing a sport during a school break is a sore spot for Parker athletes. Parker students complain about a variety of things, and some of those gripes are warranted. We have no reason, though, to complain about a sports game or practice interfering with our break. Instead, we should appreciate the opportunity to play. During Thanksgiving or Holiday Break, Parker coaches are willing to give up family time to be with their teams. In the case of games, the officials have made the same decision. When we use facilities at Parker, the maintenance staff must also sacrifice their time. What if Parker didn’t allow its teams to practice or play during school breaks? Our teams would be at a serious disadvantage when facing other teams that had been practicing and playing continuously throughout the season. In addition, our teams would miss many opportunities to play in tournaments that can only take place during school breaks. Furthermore, some coaches schedule “fun” activities during vacations to entice students to come to school during days without classes. “During winter break we have the alumni game where girls come back to play against our current high school varsity team and that is always fun,” says senior soccer player Allison Wright. During spring break last year, the girls’ lacrosse team practiced twice, including one practice at the beach. These fun ac-
By Cameron Songer tivities keep student-athletes excited about their sports. Some Parker sports run into more school breaks than others and have different expectations for athletes. All fall sports begin practice before the first day of school, and winter sports teams may practice or play during Thanksgiving, Holiday, or Mid-Winter Breaks. Spring sports may have only the one-week spring break to miss, but APs also fall during the spring season. There are Parker students who recognize the positive aspects of playing during breaks. “It’s good, because it helps us focus on soccer without having to go to school as well, so we tend to have really productive practices and games during winter break and ski week,” says Barra. Junior basketball player Glennon Waters agrees. “I really like spending time with my teammates over the break. Just because there is no school doesn’t mean there is no basketball. We are in the middle of our season and preparing for league games.” Still, one cannot ignore the opinion of students like senior Jared Blake. “I hate playing during school breaks,” says Blake. “Basketball kept me from going on an interim trip. I feel that playing during school vacation deprives students of other enjoyable opportunities.” Each student-athlete should communicate with his or her coach to fully understand expectations and consequences of participating in a sport. Parker coaches want to make a student’s experience as enjoyable as possible. At the end of the season, though, few players or coaches would say that it is enjoyable to be unprepared for a game.
To Be Worthy Of
HONOR Why success should not be weighted by an award
By Simone Leonard
Seven. The number of times I have walked into the Field House to attend an assembly where I sit, clap, and watch as we are given awards. As the noise of our forced cheers and polite smiles fill the room, we reflect upon the past academic year—some with a sense of success and some with disappointment. But my question is, what does this assembly really do for us? We all know that the students at Parker are strong, and this fact is only proven as we watch the majority of the students rise to receive their plaques. But what do the students who are left in their seats and leave the gym emptyhanded receive? A message that sneers: “You simply aren’t good enough.” And that is possibly the worst part of these assemblies. Not the time it takes to read all of the names, or how red the palm of your hands are at 11:30 from all of the clapping, but the shame that some feel simply because they didn’t get a piece of wood with their name on it. In my experience, it seems as though the Honors and Honors with Distinction Awards that are presented to the students come with an enormous amount of pressure. Especially since the guidelines for the Honor Roll have been altered, the students will feel the anxiety now more than ever. Solid A’s for Honors with distinction and nothing less than a B+ for Honors does not make those that don’t get an award less embarrassed; it simply adds stress and self-disappointment. I cannot tell you how many times I have worried over this grade or the other, or how many times I have seen my friends get upset or ashamed because they won’t get the
academic pin or the level of Honors they wanted. But often, we perceive the Honors Assembly as an event where we all get the chance to say, “Look at how great we are.” However, the pressure and pride is where the unity of opinion towards the Honors Assembly stops. Students who do get the awards genuinely feel good about themselves; they love the recognition. But at the same time, students getting the awards also feel badly for the students who don’t. This is not because they got the chance to stand up, but because they know the students sitting down feel poorly about the fact that they got more B’s than A’s. This makes me wonder: Why should a student feel upset because he/she got a B- in a class or two, and therefore was unable to get an award? Unfortunately, the fact of the matter is that students do become distressed, and receiving one of these plaques (whether we openly admit it or not) means a lot to us. We work extremely hard at this school; we feel pressure from teachers, parents, our peers, and ourselves, and we all want to be recognized. Although it is entirely acceptable for students to seek this recognition, the way we recognize students needs to be changed. I know that ASB has played a significant role in voicing how the students feel about the assembly and are working with the administration and faculty. The outcome of these efforts was not completely certain at the time of press; both a different structure of the assembly or different guidelines entirely, are being discussed. But regardless of the result, we shouldn’t be searching for recognition in
a plaque. We shouldn’t need an assembly to boost our confidence—one that also happens to bring some down. It’s no secret that there are those who are acknowledged as academically inclined, or those who feel overshadowed and overlooked, but I can confidently say that simply the amount of work we do as Parker students is worthy of recognition. I firmly believe that if the school wishes to recognize the accomplishments of students, then we need to create an assembly or function of some sort where we recognize the extremely diverse student population. It is important to acknowledge the person and what his/her character alone brings to this school, not only what his/ her GPA says. Because it’s not only the fact that our school has a rigorous curriculum meant to prepare us for college and that we all do well that is a success,;it’s the overall person we become while attending this school that’s important. Francis Parker prides itself on educating well-rounded students, but I often feel as though we let our stress on academics get in the way of accomplishing just that. As a school, as a community, and as a family, we need to be working on creating an environment where we go to school every day, wanting to thrive and learn simply because we are interested in opening our minds and taking advantage of every opportunity Parker has to offer. We should be focusing on expanding our knowledge, not stressing over whether or not our GPA will allow for a plaque. I know I don’t want my success to be something that just hangs on a wall.
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A Better Proposition: Equality For All
Why Proposition Eight and Don’t Ask Don’t Tell are unjust and unconstitutional By Kasey Hutcheson
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In the November 2008 election, the most controversial proposition for the state of California was Proposition Eight, which aimed to prohibit gay and lesbian couples’ right to marry. This proposition was voted in, and within a week three lawsuits were filed in both the State Supreme Court and the Federal District Court. After a very lengthy process, a verdict was reached. On August 4, 2010, Judge Vaughn R. Walker overturned Proposition Eight on the basis that it was unconstitutional, and rightly so: the right kb or tw
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On Wednesday, October 20, 2010, our campus was turned into a world of purple: purple clothes, purple fabric, and purple signs were everywhere. Students were asked to wear the color that represents spirit on the gay pride flag out of respect for those who had committed suicide in August and September due to bullying against the Lesbian/Gay/ Bisexual/Transgender (LGBT) community. Walking around on campus that day, the amazing spirit of the Parker student body was clear. Unfortunately, too many people in the world today don’t appear to share this same spirit. It is ridiculous that it took six highly publicized teen suicides to bring the issue of gay bullying to light. How could no one realize it was an issue until it was too late? People in this country can be incredibly ignorant of those around them, often not realizing the impact of their words and actions. Everyone has feelings, regardless of sexual orientation; being gay does not somehow make you invincible or unable to feel pain. Now some may argue that the suicides of homosexual teens are no more important than the suicides of straight ones, and I agree that no suicide is insignificant. However, according to suicide statistics, homosexual teens are three times as likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers. And that is most definitely an issue that needs to be dealt with. In the American Constitution, the 14th Amendment states that no American state is allowed to deny any citizen equal protection under the law, nor is it allowed to make or enforce any law which deprives a citizen of life, liberty, or property. Where in the American Constitution does it say that a homosexual person is not considered a citizen, and therefore not guaranteed the same rights as every other citizen in this country? Even beyond an increased suicide rate, gay rights and issues surrounding the LGBT community have been in the news frequently in the last few years.
to marry is a liberty that should be available to all citizens. Today, the ban on homosexual marriages in the state of California is still in effect as appeals are being expedited through the legal system. The irony of the situation is that Proposition Eight was initially put on the state election ballot in response to a California Supreme Court decision that allowed gay couples to marry; now, it is expected to reach the United States Supreme Court within the next few years. Another example of homosexual discrimination relates to the US Military policy known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” The amount of respect I have for each man and woman who risks his or her life by joining the military is unending. However, the amount of respect I had for the military as an institution im-
mediately declined when I heard of the policy most commonly known as DADT. “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” states that no openly homosexual person may serve in the United States Military. When the policy was passed in 1993, a judge made a decision that was not his to make. When attempting to explain the validity of DADT, the US Military Code cites a worry that unit cohesion or team morale would decline with the addition of openly gay soldiers. But according to a recently leaked survey conducted by the Pentagon, seventy percent of current troops and their families support openly gay soldiers. The fact that a majority of soldiers feel this way disputes most arguments in support of the DADT policy. If those who are most affected by homosexuals serving find no fault with it, why should anyone else? Congress has said that there is no constitutional right to serve in the armed forces. But how can it possibly be okay to turn away those who are willing to fight for us for simply being who they are? The US Constitution may say that serving in the Armed Forces is a privilege, not a right, but why shouldn’t it be? The ability to serve our country, like marriage, should be an opportunity available to all citizens. The lack of LGBT rights in our nation today is an issue that is being addressed in more than one way. Many of the most popular TV shows are now choosing to address the issues facing homosexual teens; for example, Kurt from Fox Network’s hit show “Glee,” has portrayed the pain and fear many members of the LGBT community face when dealing with bullying in the past months. Issues including bullying, the right to marry, or the right to serve your country while simply being who you are should not be issues at all. Homosexuals are citizens under the US Constitution and deserve to be treated as such.
Gone Global
A look into Parker’s obssesion with our global community
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e sit in a state-of-the-art campus in the center of a community that is the epitome of diversity, Linda Vista. We drive past Kit Carson Elementary, Mark Twain High School, and Kearney Mesa High School every day without more than a glance out the window. Here at Francis Parker, we are constantly reminded that our school is filled with opportunities to explore different cultures abroad. From clubs that raise funds to help educate children overseas (Free the Children Club), or clubs that help students in Africa gain access to clean water (H20 Africa Club), there are endless opportunities to lend a hand on this campus. However, you have to wonder, where we should be lending our hands most? As history teacher Mr. Eric Taylor says, “We know little about this fantastically diverse community that surrounds us.” And we have very few opportunties to interact with it. Now, I’m not saying we are not aware. I’m not asking for the school to be decked out in blue tomorrow, and I’m not asking for a motivational speaker to come lecture us on the fact that we are privileged young adults here. I would hope that at this point we know that. I’m just asking us to think about why we care about the things we do. Why do we sell Costco muffins every
day at break? Why do we spend thousands of dollars to go to South Africa for two weeks in February? Is it more than a once in a lifetime experience? We seem to put a lot of effort into helping the global world around us, instead of, first, caring for the community closest to us. I know that if most of us were told the sad reality of a teenager at Mark Twain High School we wouldn’t shrug it off as nothing. We would care. So why does it appear as if we don’t? Is it because we are blanketed by Parker’s firm passion of helping the global world around us? Or is it because we are too scared to uncover the reality of the people closet to us? “Being Global” is glorified in the Parker community in an almost celebrity-like manner. Yes, world cultures are inspiring, but cultures right next door should inspire us too. Building
World cultures are inspiring, but cultures right next door should inspire us too. houses in Colombia is an act that humbles us, but what about humbling us with the reality that we face every day? We never interact with students at Kearney High, but what would it be like to step into a radically different education system? To sit in a classroom with fifty other kids as a teacher lectures? Mr. Taylor takes the group of students that will be traveling to Vietnam on local trips to the Vietnamese market right down the street in order to introduce them to new culture and foods. It is actions like these that help expand our understanding of local diversity. We can be enriched by the cultures around us just
By Claire Bryan as much as the cultures millions of miles away. If anything, we might take more out of the experience, because it is more relatable. Now, why is being global such a key component of a Parker education? Why do we feel the need to romanticize the idea of saving starving children in Africa? It’s a complex question, but an important one. It all centers around the statement Mr. Taylor touches on perfectly: “Globalization is who we are.” America is made up of immigrants from all around the world, and living in such a diverse country, we should be devoted to the diversity we create. As the world is becoming more unified, we are impacted everyday. We use the Internet daily, and therefore, we are impacted by globalization. It is only natural that we want to reach to every corner of the world to help out. Perhaps the reason behind Parker’s passion for globalization is beacuse Parker feels the need to introduce the world to us, so we don’t face it on our own. Or maybe it is because our parents want to shelter us from the reality closer to us. Whatever the reason, what matters is that we, as students, have a voice and can take the good we now know we are able to accomplish, (thanks to Parker letting us explore) and share it with communities right across the street. Let’s turn some of Parker’s focus on global cultures to a focus on local cultures. Let’s take trips where we can be submerged into completely different environments, regardless of location. Let’s have conversations with some of the fantastic teachers who are immigrants, such as French teacher, Madam Irina Dorfman or Spanish teacher, Mr. Alexander Gomez, in order to learn about the world they came from, and the world they are now a part of. Let’s sell muffins to raise funds for someone suffering right here in Linda Vista. And let’s make globalization a local issue.
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HAS IT...
Rumors have been swirling around campus, and The Scribe went digging for the real story. Here’s the need to know. By Sara Linssen
Thanksgiving in Bermuda While we were debating between an extra serving of turkey or some more mashed potatoes, the Boys’ Varsity Basketball team was busy winning the Thanksgiving Classic at Berkeley Institute in Hamilton, Bermuda. Coach Jim Tomey was contacted last spring by the tournament organizers with an invitation for the Parker Lancers to play in the first Thanksgiving Classic. Coach Tomey said he chose the tournament because, “It fit well with the overall philosophy of our school, and the emphasis on global education.” The Lancers went 4-0 in the tournament, defeating Chapparal High of Las Vegas, in the championship 48-35. While in Bermuda, the team was treated to a tour of the island and enjoyed a Thanksgiving dinner with the other tournament participants. Junior Dalante Dunklin, who was named MVP of the tournament, said, “I’m glad we got the win, but we also got to meet new people we wouldn’t otherwise have met. Overall it was a good weekend.”
Detained It’s a brisk Wednesday morning and you’re rushing from the parking lot to class when you notice a group of students in the Middle School Gym. Starting this year, an average of 25 students, with either three tardies or two dress code violations, meet weekly on Wednesday from 7:25-7:55 AM and sit silently in the Middle School Gym. What do you need to know to make sure you spend Wednesday morning warm in bed? First, every tardy or dress code violation after the initial three or two respectively earns you a detention. Secondly, after three excused absences, every tardy (excused or not) is regarded as an unexcused tardy and a detention is given for each. The record for most detentions currently stands at eight, and at press date, 75 students have been sent to detention at least once. Overwhelmingly, the detentions are for tardies rather than dress code. Put simply, if you’d like to avoid awkwardly staring at other students, set your alarm clock extra early.
Photo Courtesy of The Royal Gazette
A Not So New Head of School...
On November 3, 2010 the Board of Trustees announced their unanimous decision to make Mr. Kevin Yaley the permanent Head of School for Francis Parker. Mr. Yaley says he is, “humbled, honored and excited” about the prospect of leading the school. However, the position is not new to Mr. Yaley; not only has he served as Associate Head of School for five years, but he has been operating as Interim Head of School since July 1, 2010. Additionally, Mr. Yaley has been a part of the Francis Parker family for over 10 years, with three daughters currently attending the school. Mr. Yaley says that his favorite memories regarding his time at Parker include coaching a winning CIF Boys Soccer team and teaching Philosophy. Mr. Yaley summarized his views on his new position by saying, “I’m the Head of School, but the school is about the students.” In an effort to embody this idea, he specifically schedules time in his agenda to walk around campus and interact with students. When asked about his favorite parts of the new job, Mr. Yaley says that he is excited about the opportunity to help the school continue to develop and grow. Mr. Yaley says his favorite perk of the job is the vegetarian lasagna and garden burgers from the cafeteria.
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20 Questions By Samantha Melville
with Mr. Byrne
Mr. Byrne sits in front of his computer, swiveling slowly in his office chair. He wears a blue striped shirt with a red photo crayon sticking out of his pocket. As Francis Parker’s photography teacher for 20 years, he has students coming in one after another during their lunch period to show him their work and develop their photographs. At first glance, he seems to be an ordinary photography teacher, and then, just when you think you have him figured out, he speaks... 1.
What was your childhood like? I was born in New Hampshire and raised in Vermont and Los Angeles. I grew up in a small New England town . Its main feature was a small military college.
2.
How long have you been into photography? Since I was in the Navy, I guess. I joined when I was 19. I taught periscope photography, like out of submarines.
3.
If you didn’t teach photography, what would you be? Ruler of the world.
4.
Describe yourself as a child. I was charming and delightful.
5.
What was the craziest thing you did in high school? When I was 17, I hitchhiked from Vermont to California. It took me less than four days, and I only spent 17 dollars. On the way back, it took me five days, and I spent 50 dollars.
6.
Do you have any quirky traits? I take change out of payphones.
7.
What did you really want to do today? Attend a spirit assembly.
8.
If you only had 24 hours to live, what would you do? Attend a spirit assembly.
9.
If you were stranded on a desert island with only one item, what would it be? Dental floss.
10. Would you be friends with yourself? Totally. 11. Coke or Pepsi? Coke. 12. Vanilla or Chocolate? Chocolate. 13. Did you love or hate high school? Hate. 14.
If money was not an object, what would you do? Rule the world.
15. What are you most afraid of? Adolescents. 16. What came first, the chicken or the egg? Egg. 17. Did you ever have an imaginary friend? Yes. The number ‘6’ was my imaginary friend. 18. What is your middle name? Love. 19. What is your biggest pet peeve? Unchecked capitalism. 20. Would you rather be strong or smart? Rich.
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“It’s A War”:
Mexico’s Narcotics Crisis By Carson Scott
G
one are the days of taking methods, including beheadings, have ernment has basically two options,” says weekend trips south of the also worsened views of the drug war. Jorge Chabat, Professor at Mexico’s Cenborder. Gone are the days of eating lobThis violent atmosphere has created a ter for the Investigation and Teaching of ster on Mexican beaches. In the last five nightmarish situation for many residents Economics. “One of them is to tolerate years, a power struggle revolving around of the worn-torn regions of Mexico. Re- the phenomenon, like in the past…with the illicit drug trade has turned a vaca- porters from National Public Radio trav- a lot of corruption. The other is combat tioner’s paradise into a battlefield. In late eled to Esperanza, a small, deserted town it frontally with…high levels of violence.” 2006, newly elected Mexican President in the Juarez valley of Chihuahua. When The Mexican government is currently Felipe Calderon issued a declaration of asked about the cartels, an old woman, employing the latter strategy, but to litwar against the powerful drug cartels one of the few remaining townspeople tle avail. As Calderon proceeds with his that are funded by America’s insatiable said, “Because of the people burning and war against drugs, casualties continue to appetite for drugs and have long been al- killing and threatening us, everyone has mount in the Mexican border regions. lowed to operate as result of corrupIn the political sphere, there has been tion in the Mexican government. a great deal of discussion as to the naSince Calderon famously deture of American involvement in this clared, “It’s a war,” in December conflict. “We have a very important 2006, Mexico’s political landscape responsibility in the drug war,” says has been irrevocably changed and David Shirk, professor and director more than 28,000 people have died of USD’s Trans-Border Institute. Acin the war against Mexican drug carcording to Shirk, several facts indict tels. The well-armed cartels are sucthe United States for its facilitation of cessfully resisting the government the drug war. “We’re the world’s largcrackdown. The Mexican states of est consumer of drugs and…90-95% Chihuahua and Sinaloa have been of weapons used by drug traffickers turned into virtual Narco-States in Mexico come from the United The Mexican Drug War has beStates,” he says. High rates of maricome a major issue in the United juana use in Southern California, Mexican Police pose with captured members of the La States of late, as Americans have beespecially among high school-age Familia Cartel. come casualties in a conflict with no students, are empowering the drug boundaries. More than 200 Americans left. They’ve gone to Juarez. But I can’t. cartels. Shirk contends that the United have been killed in Mexico since the start I’m sick. I can’t run. If they kill me, they’ll States has an obligation to mount a conof Calderon’s war. While some travelers be doing me a favor.” The Mexican Army certed effort against the cartels because of who make regular visits across the border has lost all control of the Ciudad-Juarez our role in causing the narcotics war. contend that Tijuana is safe, the U.S. State region and the local policemen are eiThere is a chance the Mexican govDepartment disagrees. On February 22, ther too few or too corrupt to protect ernment could crumble in the face of 2010, it issued an official travel warning the people from dangerous drug lords. the powerful cartels. With no viable for Mexico. Once a hotspot for tourists, In light of the levels of violence, many solution in sight and with little effort especially San Diegans, it has now been Mexicans are questioning Calderon’s de- from the US. government to rectify deemed unsafe. Wealthy Americans are cision to confront the powerful cartels. the problem of American demand for often the targets of kidnapping by gangs, In fact, some insist it would be better to narcotics, rampant violence and cordrug cartels, and criminal dissidents. passively endorse the cartels and allow ruption continue to plague Mexico. The drug cartels’ gruesome execution corruption to fester. “The Mexican gov-
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A Complete Education Based on the results of a recent survey, The Scribe evaluates the role Parker plays in the well-being of its students By Michael Schreiner and Meagan Harris Teenage drinking and drug use are Health and Fitness, a class that devotes “If you go out and go to a party where facts of high school. According to activist more than a trimester to drugand alcohol there’s going to be drinking, you should group SADD, three out of four American education. Furthermore, the entire Up- at least set up a place to sleep. Even if students have consumed alcohol by the per School holds at least three assemblies you don’t have a place, sleep in your car. time they graduate. At Parker, two out of regarding drinking or drugs every year, Do not drive. That’s the dumbest thing five students report having been drunk students are assigned advisors, and there someone could do after everything that’s at least once, and 38 percent of students is a confidential counselor on campus. happened in San Diego, with so many report using illegal drugs. The school also subscribes to the Safer- teenage deaths.” Ragen’s opinion reflects “I know that some that of the vast of them try things, majority of of course,” says math both students teacher Ms. Jessica and faculty at - 7 thought that fewer than 10% of Parker students have been drunk Lemoine, “but they Parker. - 4 thought 10-20% also have been taught P a r k e r ’s - 11 thought 20-30% and respect the idea of goal is to enUnder 10% making good decisions able students - 32 thought 30-40% 10-20% about not driving unto make deci- 28 thought 40-50% 20-30% der the influence or not sions on their 30-40% - 30 thought 50-60% getting themselves in own, realiz40-50% - 39 thought 60-70% bad situations. So even ing the con50-60% - 34 thought 70-80% 60-70% though, of course, our sequences of - 11 thought 80-90% 70-80% kids are not all perfect, their actions 80-90% - 5 thought 90-100% they are usually smart and then act90-100% about it.” ing responStudents tend to sibly. “Part agree. While 79 out of of what we’re 200 students who participated in a re- ides service, which strives to provide safe trying to teach here is thinking for yourcent survey reported having been drunk, rides for students stranded in potentially selves and educating yourselves, not just only 13 percent said that they drink on dangerous situations. forcing behavior,” says Dean of Students a regular basis, and 12 percent said that Parker’s campaign against drunk Mr. Marc Theibach. School sponsored they regularly use drugs. Most students driving has been met with considerable assemblies are a large part of this educaestimated the use of alcohol and drugs by success. Nine percent of American high- tional process. their peers to be higher than the actual school students said that they had driven But for some students, these attempts reported numbers. while under the influence in a Gallup to create a dialogue just look like an endYouth Survey, compared to only 4 per- less stream of assemblies. “The assemcent of Parker students in The Scribe’s blies about showing the consequences of — Creating a Dialogue — survey. In fact, Parker’s message against drinking or whatever seemed effective at Parker has a variety of programs in driving under the influence has been so first, but the shock value drops tremenplace to teach students about the danger persistently effective that many students dously after the tenth assembly. Find a of using drugs and alcohol, as well as re- are shocked that the percentage is as high new way to approach awareness,” said sources for students who need help. In as it is. “I think it’s absolutely idiotic,” says one student in The Scribe’s survey. ninth grade, students are required to take senior Helen Regan of drunk driving. Continued on page 16
Of the 200 students who took the survey:
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Q: Do you think that Parker is effective at dealing with these issues? 60
Very Effective (7%) Effective (15%)
50
Somewhat Effective (20%) 40
Number of Students
Nuetral (29%) Somewhat Ineffective (7%)
30
Ineffective (8%) 20
Very Ineffective (10%) Sometimes Effective (4%)
10
0 1
Some students feel that there is nothing the school can do, or should do. Other students want change, but are not sure how the school should go about it. “I feel like something could be done. However, I honestly don’t know what that would be,” admitted a different student on the survey. But some students do have an idea of exactly what they would like from Parker. Most ask for better communication. For some, this could take the form of an open environment. Other students want fewer consequences and more confidentiality. “Students should be able to have an anonymous place to seek help for whatever may be going on in their lives,” said another student.
— Resources — While no one can guarantee complete anonymity– it is against the law for teachers, administrators, or counselors to not report a student who is possibly abused, suicidal, or having thoughts of harming others– most at Parker strive to provide a comfortable environment for students seeking help. For many teachers, advisors, and administrators,
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this includes remaining confidential. For the school psychologist, Dr. Dorene McLaughlin, confidentiality is part of the job. However, while teachers and advisors talk with student every day or once a week, most students have never even met Dr. McLaughlin. (For more about Dr. McLaughlin, see page 19.) Mr. Theibach responds to students asking for a confidential consultant by reminding them that there is, in fact, one available through the psychologist’s office. But even the advisory system is in doubt, as both students and faculty question the effectiveness of a structure that involuntarily places faculty members in positions that they may not be trained for, while students wonder if the flaws of this system deprive them of what could be a valuable resource. Part of the problem is that students are
largely uninformed about the resources available through Parker. Mr. Theibach says that “we need to do a better job of educating our students about what is available by sharing what’s in place and what avenues they have to get help.” He realizes that some strategies, like the advisory program or the less successful assemblies, need to be revamped or even removed entirely, and recognizes that some assemblies are more effective than others, citing speakers who share personal stories with the student body and the Every Fifteen Minutes assembly as successes. When asked for the most effective assembly on the subject of drug and alcohol use during their time at Parker, the vast majority of seniors point to this program. The Every Fifteen Minutes assembly that took place three years ago reconstructed a fictional drunk driving car accident in the Parker parking lot. The program involved students watching a classmate’s mock arrest and trial, and other classmates’ funerals, including eulogies read by their parents. The assembly is built around the fact that
SafeRides: (619)-239-8061
in what we are doing outside of school.” Ms. Lemoine, h o w e v e r, Very Comfortable (13%) strongly Comfortable (17%) dis ag re es. “I absoluteNeutral (25%) ly believe that it is Slightly Uncomfortable (21%) the school’s responsibilVery Uncomfortable (24%) ity to have these conversations and talk to the kids about drugs, alcohol, divorce and socioeconomic stresses, and other things that are going to affect a child’s life. You
Q: Do you feel comfortable talking about these issues with a Parker faculty member?
every fifteen minutes someone dies as a result of drunk driving. Due to the considerable financial cost of the assembly, however, it can only be conducted every four years.
— A School’s Role —
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Most at Parker have the same underlying hopes: better communication, more effective assemblies and advisories, and an informed and safe student body. Many of these are already available, but are in need of better publicity. Most would also agree that the conversations about drug and alcohol use should grow and develop along with the school community. School administrators constantly alter the methods they use to try to keep the message relevant to the issues that current students are dealing with. “I think it is key that we be proactive rather than be reactive. I want to make sure that every student feels that they have someone here they can go to,” says Mr. Barsky. That conversation will not end soon, nor will there be an easy solution, if there is one at all. “While I believe that the school can influence the students to a degree, in the end it comes down to each student’s decisionmaking,” says senior Tim Barry. Barry’s opinion reflects the general consensus among students that the onus to make smart choices outside of school eventually falls upon each individual student, not the school. And while school administrators try to point students toward making safe decisions, they also realize the limits of their power. Mr. Theibach acknowledges that the measures Parker takes “are not going to turn away kids one hundred percent” from drugs and alcohol. “I am not sure there is anything that could accomplish that,” says Mr. Theibach. What the school does try to do is help students make informed decisions. In this respect, students and faculty are generally in agreement. As one anonymous student put it, “Kids are always going to smoke weed and drink. [The school] can’t stop it because it can’t make decisions for people. All it can do is emphasize the importance of decisions. Instead of telling us not to drink or party, tell us what to be careful of when we are partying.”
You teach the whole student, and everything that’s going on in their life is the whole student.
There is a portion of the student body who claim that Parker should not be addressing these issues at all, that it is not a school’s job to monitor what students do off campus and after school. Many students share senior Jared Blake’s opinion that “the school shouldn’t really be involved
- Jessica Lemoine
teach the whole student, and everything that’s going on in their life is the whole student,” says Ms. Lemoine. Many students feel that there is really nothing the school can do to foster communication on such delicate topics. “I don’t think there is anything that would make -- Quick Facts -us more comfortable with openly 86% of students haven’t used SafeRides discussing our 6% of students don’t know what SafeRides is 63% of students who said they used SafeRides personal lives with a teacher,” also said that it did not provide them a “safe ride” said one student. “It’s impossible,” another said, “no -- Survey Comments -matter what you do, I don’t think “They don’t answer...ever.” anyone would “We had to pay one time” be comfortable “The school needs to teach what it is.” discussing these “It took them forever to come!” matters at school, “They did not answer and I called over 30 even less with a times.” teacher or other faculty member.”
SafeRides
• • •
— No Easy Solution —
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being well Francis Parker’s Wellness Committee tackles the issue of student stress By Anna Hobbs
I
n this highly competitive world, students are under constant pressure to academically, athletically, and socially perform. Over the years, the scholastic bar has been raised, and it seems that the stakes for achieving success are higher than ever before. With an increase in the number of high school students whose ultimate goal is to attend college comes an overload of stress, brought on by the AP system, standardized testing, and the pressure to maintain a high GPA. Fortunately, the stress brought on by this overwhelming pressure to succeed has been met with a nationwide movement for student wellness. The student wellness movement has grown from a simple initiative to a fullblown campaign. High schools across the United States are taking measures to raise awareness about growing problems of stress in both academic and social arenas, and its detrimental impact on student wellness. The concept of wellness includes the recognition of academic stress, social pressures, and the necesity of determining new ways to find balance in the average adolescent’s day-to-day life. Alongside these national efforts, a wellness initiative is currently under way at Parker in the Upper School. The iniative is backed by Upper School Principal Mr. Paul Barsky, a committee of administrators including the ninth and tenth grade deans, the college counseling department, health and fitness coaches, and teachers. The administration first identified the need for this kind of innovative programming in 2007, under the
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broader scope of Parker’s Strategic Plan. The goal of this early initiative is to “develop in Parker students the skills for a healthy, balanced life.” It was published in a brochure outlining the strategic plan in 2007, and remains the school’s goal concerning student wellness. Earlier this year, Parker’s college counseling department brought its concern about student wellness to the new upper school administration. The immense strain of college applications, and of the work leading up to the college process were discussed, as well as options to address and improve current practices. Many administrators and teachers recognized this need for student support, and from here was born the Wellness Committee. This proposal to address student health was first introduced to the student body at an assembly in October. Each of the school’s wellness-related programs were discussed, and students were encouraged to participate in and to take advantage of said resources as needed. At the time that this article went to press, the Parker wellness committee was assembling a survey that would be sent to the student body to help students identify the pressures of Parker life. These issues included social, emotional and peer-related stressors, in addition to the already identified academic concerns, and also any other opportunities for growth that the students feel the school could and/or should address. After the results of the student survey are reviewed, the committee will begin work in response to feedback given by the
students. If, perhaps, there are a number of students who feel that the homework from their history classes is too heavy, then a member of the Wellness Committee, likely Mr. Barsky, will directly address the problem through the head of the history department. The survey will also address any problems or concerns that the students may have with other, non-academic requirements. In addition, the students will also be asked to give personal input on how they believe that the school could improve on its current method of dealing with social and physical wellness needs at Parker. This survey is only the first action that the committee is taking to create a greater awareness of the importance of wellness at the Upper School. English teacher, grade-level dean, and member of the wellness committee, Ms. Nancy Anderson says, “The goal is to do our best to serve the physical and mental needs of Parker students as best we can, based on feedback from the students via the student survey.” It is true that Parker’s student body, which is eager to achieve greatness, is under great pressure to succeed. It is often that the desire to successfully reach our goals causes great stress and anxiety, which can take a serious toll on our general mental, emotional and physical health. The action that the Francis Parker Wellness Committee has taken, and will continue to take in response to this issue is important to the health of our student body.
Find Me Somebody To Talk To
By Kara Jones
Family, friends, school, sports, college, drama, peer pressure, and many other aspects of life contribute to the daily problems of high school students. Granted, for each student the emotional stress is different, but what is universal is the fact that we all want someone to talk to. Many of us turn to our friends or siblings, and a few of us turn to our parents. Most of the time, however, our peers do not know how to respond to problems like a divorce, a death in the family, or other troubling situations. To cope with these problems, students can turn to Dr. Dorene McLaughlin, Parker’s on-site therapist who provides counseling for the current students, faculty, and sometimes, Parker graduates. Dr. McLaughlin came to Parker in 1991, and has since helped many students and faculty work out their personal and emotional problems. Dr. McLaughlin, who grew up in San Diego, received her BA in Psychology, her MA in marriage and family therapy, and her EDD in educational leadership from the University of San Diego. After college, McLaughlin gained experience as a therapist at San Diego hospice, the San Diego Police Department, and a program for children in special education. Stress is the topic most covered in McLaughlin’s office. Whether the stress comes from grades, sports, or family, students feel a need to address that pressure and find a solution. According to Dr. McLaughlin, “The problem needs to be identified, then solved,” when a student
“
comes to see her. Oftentimes when a student meets with Dr. McLaughlin, she realizes that “times are tough and kids are worried.” Another highly discussed issue is divorce and how students handle it. “It is my job to put a smile on their face,” says Dr. McLaughlin. After the problem is recognized, Dr. McLaughlin helps the student come up with a solution. The solution can be different for all students. For example, if a student is dealing with an emotional issue, Dr. McLaughlin believes that talking to someone about it can be a major part of the solution. In other cases involving
her. A referral is when a teacher, friend, peer, or parent is concerned about a student and refers him or her to Dr. McLaughlin. A student can also contact Dr. McLaughlin via email or phone to set up an appointment, or simply ask her advice through an exchange of emails. The number of students contacting Dr. McLaughlin varies from five to ten each week. Sessions with Dr. McLaughlin are, “shortterm, problem and solution focused.” If she believes that a student is in need of extra therapy sessions, she will refer that student to a therapist unaffiliated with Francis Parker. Also, each session is confidential, with the exception of issues concerning suicide and abuse. Every student has unique methods of coping with stress. However, when a student needs extra help that cannot be provided by his or her friends or parents, Dr. McLaughlin can help him or her solve problems. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” she says, “We all have times that are difficult. Sometimes it takes courage to ask but if you take that first step, we can make things better.”
Sometimes it takes courage to ask for help, but if you take that first step, we can make things better. -Dr. Dorene McLaughlin
”
academic stress, she says that getting extra help from teachers or the Learning Center is an adequate solution. As a therapist, Dr. McLaughlin says that it is important to listen with empathy, rather than sympathy because,“empathy is about understanding how someone feels, whereas with sympathy, you lose your boundaries. I can’t let my feelings get into you.” There are two ways for a student to meet with Dr. McLaughlin: One would be through a referral, and the other would be a student personally reaching out to
How to Contact Dr. McLaughlin Email: dmclaughlin@francisparker.org Phone: (858) 569-7900 x4137 THE SCRIBE
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ToAP r not to AP? o
An examination of the merits and drawbacks of AP classes A variety of high school students nationwide from both college preparatory and public schools are currently enrolled in Advanced Placement courses. Many do so in an effort to boost their grade point averages and secure positions in not only the most competitive private colleges, but also many state universities. Last year, students took a record 2.9 million exams through the AP program, an increase of 1.8 million tests since 1999 (164%). However, despite their apparent popularity, both educators and students are challenging the efficacy of Advanced Placement courses, and many well-respected institutions are either restricting admission to or eliminating Advanced Placement courses entirely. The AP program, which was originally designed to attract only elite high school scholars, has expanded to include a larger spectrum of the student population. In a December 2009 New York Times article, teachers expressed that one of the main issues lies in the fact that students feel pressure to present a strong transcript and a 4.0-plus grade point average, while still wanting to enjoy the process of learning and further explore the academic areas for which they have a passion. Parker senior Elizabeth Chen agrees, “Many students want to inflate their GPA instead of only taking the harder subjects they’re interested in,” she says. Some argue that AP courses tend to run counter to the philosophy of intellectual exploration and instead require rote memorization in order to obtain the coveted 5, or at minimum a 3 to pass the test. Unfortunately, the increase in exam takers has come with an added price: the failure rate has increased dramatically, rising to 41.5% (two in every five students) in 2009 from 36.5% in 1999. Educators are questioning whether so many high school students need to be taking college level classes, and if by placing them in these courses of high rigor, they
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are thwarting their creativity and depth of academic subject matter. Francis Parker students are not foreign to this drive to enroll in AP and honors classes. As each school year comes to an end, Parker students eagerly await teacher recommendations for a spot in accelerated classes, often petitioning when they are not initially approved for a class. The Advanced Placement program was developed in part by the Ford Foundation after World War II to allow capable and academically driven high school seniors the opportunity to study college level material with the prospect of receiving college credit for their work. An initial study was conducted in 1952 by a consortium which included Harvard, Princeton, and Yale Universities in conjunction with three distinguished prep schools: Lawrenceville, Phillips Academy, and Phillips Exeter Academy. The initial AP program covered 11 disciplines. In 1955, the College Board, a non-profit organization, took over the administration of the program, which now offers 37 different exams covering disciplines ranging from English and Calculus to new-wave Environmental Science and Human Geography. Today, each test carries a cost of $87. Although financial aid is available, the combination of the explosive growth and the high cost leaves College Board open to the criticism that the AP system is merely a moneymaking enterprise. The AP website suggests they funnel dollars to develop and maintain higher education guidelines and to lend support to AP teachers. However, the verbiage on the website is heavy on the marketing focus. For example, “In AP classes, you’ll be able to explore your interests and discover new passions;” and, “From the moment you enter the AP classroom you’ll notice the difference in the teacher’s approach... the focus is not on memorizing facts, but intense dis-
By Liza Gurtin cussions.” A consumer rights organization, Americans for Educational Testing Reform (AETR), questions the nonprofit status of College Board, asserting that it has a monopolistic position in the advanced testing market. This is evidenced by the fact that twelve of their executives make over $300,000 per year, an extremely high wage for someone working for a nonprofit organization. The AP program is currently marketed not only in the US, but in Canada and internationally as well. While offering as many as 37 AP courses was in vogue for decades, nearly 100 of the nation’s top private preparatory schools declined participation in the College Board’s advanced placement program in the past few years. Phillip Exeter Academy, one of the founders of the AP program in the 1950’s, released a statement saying that they had opted out of the program “recognizing limitations in the AP curriculum and believing that Exeter’s coursework frequently goes beyond the College Board’s mandated curriculum.” However, not all high schools share the pristine academic reputation as Exeter, and because of this, dropping APs
seems to pose a larger issue: the question of how to offer the most engaging and intellectually stimulating experience, while projecting the image of having rigorous academics to college admissions officers. “The burden of proof is on the school to prove to the university that there is incredible rigor in their courses,” said Trevor Parker, the vice president of the Advanced Placement program. Parker explains that the point of the program is not to focus on teaching to the test, but to engage and challenge the students. Many teachers, however, vehemently disagree with this assertion. Educators who are critical of the AP program argue that the test limits a teacher, as well as a student’s creativity. Teachers are required to cover specific material that students must know in order to perform well on the exam. However, students only have until May to cover all of the material, leaving little time to delve deeper into it. History teacher Phillip Trotter, who has taught both AP and regular courses says, “I feel as though I have more freedom to address issues that I feel are important without the pressure of the AP pacing and testing in non-AP classes.” Trotter explains that he enjoys teaching thematically, which he believes is a more effective style of learning for most students. “The scope and sequence of many social studies APs do not allow that flexibility. It is also natural for teachers and students to feel pressured to teach or focus on the test, and that might change the learning environment in the classroom.” There are many issues associated with this type of learning. First of all, because teachers are required to teach to a test, creativity in the classroom is often lost. Major emphasis is placed on the memorization of material and less on the development of intellectual curiosity. Results from a New York Times survey of over 1,000 American teachers illustrated that over half of the subjects surveyed were concerned with the value of the program. A major concern is that the rather loose guidelines to be admitted into such courses are having a negative effect on both
the credibility and effectiveness of these courses. History teacher Cherie Redelings, however, disagrees, saying the AP system is “fantastic because it forces teachers and students to interact with a high level of information rather then just an idiosyncratic level of history.” While it is easy for teachers and high schools to opt out of offering AP classes, it is not quite so simple for the student to opt out of taking AP classes. “Many, if not most, students take a more brutal schedule than they can handle, and the students have to suffer from it,” says Ms. Redelings. There is so much pressure on high school students to take a challenging course load, because without a stacked schedule, many believe college admissions officers may not deem them “worthy”. “I think students take AP classes mostly because it looks good on college applications, not because they’re interested.” Additionally, many students can reap dramatic savings for the college credit they receive if they indeed do well on the examinations. It is understandably difficult for a high school student to reject the lure of AP courses. A recent Texas study conducted by the College Board demonstrated that there was a high correlation between students who scored well on the AP and higher graduation rates and grades in college. However, Saul Geiser, a University of California researcher says further research in needed, as he thinks the study does not accurately capture student motivation and previous academic preparation. Since it is impractical for the student to reject the AP classes they are offered in their high school, the key challenge for the high school student will be to take a rigorous course load while maintaining a balance between his or her academics and other high school endeavors. Schools must decide whether the focus on AP courses is truly maximizing the educational experience of the students and preparing young men and women to face the challenges of a global society. The overall question for our nation: to AP or not to AP?
ARE YOU AN OVERACHIEVER?
Take this quiz to find out...
Answer the following questions. The point system is as follows: A - 1; B - 2; C - 3; D - 4; E-5
1. Freshmen year I took: A Algebra I Geometry B C Geometry Honors D Algebra II E Algebra II Honors
2. Hours of homework per night: Zero A One B Two C Three D E More than three
3. I spend lunch in the library:
A Never Rarely B C Sometimes D Often E Always 4. Number of AP or Honors courses: One A Two B Zero C Three D E More than three
5. I currently know how many points I have aquired in this quiz. A True B False If you answered A to question number 5, congratulations, you are an overachiever. For those of you who answered B, better luck next time... you should have been more diligent about staying on top of your grades.
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Winter Sports: Season Preview
By Cameron Songer and Jake Siegler
girls' Basketball The girls’ basketball team enters this season as a major underdog in a division dominated by La Jolla Country Day and Bishop’s. The Lancers have just one win in conference play over the last two years. The team graduated four seniors from last year’s team, including the two top scorers of last season. The star of this year’s team is senior captain Jessica Anderson, who has been a starter since her freshman year. Other key returning players include juniors Glennon Waters and Spencer Cheng and sophomore Maya Jackson. Freshman Shala Smith will get playing time early in the season.
Jessica Anderson shoots a free throw.
Boys' Basketball
One of the most successful teams on campus looks to defend its CIF title. Although the team lost two starters from last year’s squad, there are seven players returning. They will be led by senior Eric Norman and junior Dalante Dunklin, with key upperclassmen coming off the bench to provide extra scoring and strengthen the depth of the team. This year’s team also has plenty of height, with four players taller than 6’5”. The dynamic tandem of brothers Bryce and Evan Fitzner, a sophomore and freshman, respectively, will provide height and skill for years to come. Look for this team to go far this season.
girls' Soccer
Eric Norman drives to the basket.
The girls’ soccer team won the CIF Division IV Section title last year but graduated ten seniors from last year’s team. The team is now led by senior captains Allison Wright and Alex Bertz and will rely on a new generation of talent to fill the void left by the class of 2010. “We are going to have to make a lot of changes,” said Wright, “But I know for sure we will work our hardest.” The key to success for this year’s group lies in the strong group of juniors taking a leadership role. Alex Hulsey, Asha Walker, Rachel Abernethy, and Christina Noonan all have varsity experience and will look to step up in their third year of play. Photos courtesy of smugmug.com
Rachael Abernethy fights for control of the ball.
Boys' Soccer
After a strong but inconsistent season, the team looks to rebound with a solid performance this year. Led by seniors Willy Avery and Griffin Barra, junior Ryan Kretz, and sophomores Patrick Barba and Shane Mahvi, the team is hoping to improve upon last year’s trip to the CIF quarterfinals. After the departure of a couple key seniors last year, Coach Seth Tunick and the rest of the team are counting on some underclassmen to step in and make a big impact in games. Nevertheless, the team has high expectations. “We’re gonna win CIF this year,” said sophomore Patrick Barba, “We’re going all the way.” Count on hearing more from this team as they look to win a title.
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Willy Avery lines up a kick.
Mountain Express Snowboarding rises to the top
By Colin Grey Snowboarding wasn’t always the popular sport that it is today. The snowboarding era began in the eighties, when the sport was filled with baggy neon pants and boards that looked like your mom’s ironing board. Snowboarding then grew rapidly through constant attention by a variety of media, from publications like the New York Times and Time Magazine to billboards in the middle of metropolitan areas. The sport’s growth was fueled by relentless ad campaigns aimed at young people who felt rebellious against the mainstream skiing culture. But at the time, most ski hills banned snowboarders from the slopes. Despite this, advertisers saw snowboarding the way an oil tycoon sees an untouched oil reserve. Those trying to promote snowboarding started using the word extreme to increase interest. The desire to be “extreme” quickly became prevalent amongst America’s youth. But the image of a middle-aged businessman in a yellow one-piece ski suit didn’t seem that extreme. This was where the power of advertising came into effect. Ads portraying a teenage boy flying through the air in his ducttape boots on a Burton Snowboard, a contradiction to the stereotypical skier, prompted the huge rise in snowboarding in the mid- to late eighties. Surveys taken by ski resorts in the United States in 2008 show that 27 percent of people w h o b o u g ht lift
tickets were snowboarders. These numbers may be slightly surprising because most Parker students ski or snowboard in California, Colorado or Utah, where snowboarders often dominate the slopes. Other statistics show that 75 percent of snowboarders are male. This shows the effectiveness of the advertising depicting a need to be extreme. Advertising that depicts snowboarding as extreme is much more effective on males than females because men are more likely to be or want to be adrenaline junkies. Modern-day renditions of these ads show athletes like Shaun White doing his signature corkscrew flip out of the half pipe at the Winter Olympics. Maybe this is why kids start to snowboard: to follow in the footsteps of a true American icon. Although snowboarders are essentially a minority, the snowboarding subculture has impacted other mountain sports such as skiing. Not only has the snowboarding style been absorbed into skiing, but the extreme aspect of snowboarding has also been absorbed. Some examples of this are freestyle skiing and telemark skiing, which is where the heel is not attached to the ski. Unlike classic, alpine skiing, telemark skiing is similar to snowboarding in that it incorporates jumps and tricks. But the question remains: why do people choose snowboarding? When asked, most people don’t really know why. Some say it’s easier, but as any ski or snowboard instructor will tell you: skiing is easier to learn but harder to master, while snowboarding is the opposite. Some say snowboarding is just more fun, but there really isn’t anything you can do on a snowboard that you can’t also do on a good pair of
skis. In the end, it comes down to a subconscious craving of the “cool factor”. In the eyes of America’s youth, snowboarding is simply cooler than skiing.
Popular Powder Points for Parker Students Mammoth Mountain, California: An eight-hour drive from San Diego, Mammoth features 29 lifts with 150 runs on a single mountain. “Mammoth is great because it is a huge mountain and there are always a lot of Parker people up there,” says senior Colin Christopher. Park City, Utah: One of the premier snowboarding destinations in the country, Park City is an hour outside of Salt Lake City and helped host the 2002 Winter Olympics. “I love the quality of the snow up there,” says junior Melissa Shega, who has been snowboarding at Park City for years. Big Bear, California: Comprised of two separate mountains, Big Bear features 17 miles of rideable terrain and has a maximum elevation of 8,805 feet. Senior Henry Thieman says he likes Big Bear because “almost the entire mountain is a terrain park.”
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What’s in a Number? The Scribe looks into the stories behind athletes’ numbers
By Evan Fitzner
The number you see on the back of a jersey, the side of a car, or even on a saddlecloth is more than just a number. When an athlete is allowed to choose his or her number, the reason behind the decision is almost always a sentimental one. A number could tell a life story, like in the case of NFL superstar running back Chris Johnson, who wears number 28 because 28 NFL teams rejected him before he made the Tennessee Titans; or it could reflect your religious beliefs as in the case of NBA point guard Brandon Jennings: his number, three, symbolizes the Holy Trinity. Most student-athletes have a story... here are a few. Photo courtesy of nfl.com
Jose Vizcaino #10 Junior Jose Vizcaino wears the number ten because the first year he played baseball, he hit ten home runs. He has loved the number ever since.
Rafa Alvarez #9
Senior Rafa Alfarez wears the number nine on the volleyball court because it was the number he wore on his first soccer team when he was four years old, the Fire Balls.
Jordan Robbins #3
Photo courtesy of smugmug.com
Sophomore Jordan Robbins, who was named after Michael Jordan, wears the number three because when she first began to play volleyball, her best friend wore number two. Together, they were 23, Michael Jordan’s number.
Photo courtesy of smugmug.com
Dalante Dunklin #12 Junior Dalante Dunklin wears number 12 to represent his family. His brother was the first child born in the family (1), and Dalante was the second (2).
Andy Piacquadio #11
Freshman Andy Piacquadio wears number 11 because his favorite number is one, and he wanted to have two of them on his lacrosse jersey.
Bryce Fitzner #8 Photo courtesy of Islandstats.com
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Sophomore basketball player Bryce Fitzner was originally number 24, but he hates Kobe Bryant, so when Bryant switched to 24, Fitzner changed the number on his jersey to eight.
Photo courtesy of Islandstats.com
JUST FOR FUN? jv sports at parker play a disputed role By Carson Scott Some student-athletes take it seriously. Others do not. Playing a JV sport at Parker can be fun and rewarding, but it can also be frustrating. Because Parker has a no-cut policy, JV athletes often have little or no experience in their chosen sports. Students often sign up for a sport with no intent to play on the Varsity team in the future. All they want to do is play on JV and spend time with their friends. According to Athletic Director Dan Kuiper, the goal of the JV program is to give students a chance to participate in sports. He says that 75% of Parker students participate in a sport at some level. To that end, the JV program seems to be serving its purpose. This high rate of participation, however, is both a blessing and a curse. While some students use JV sports programs as a medium for goofing off, their lack of focus comes at the expense of athletes who are playing on JV in order to gain experience and eventually move up to varsity. The antics of unfocused athletes can be distracting to athletes making a serious attempt to improve. Coach Kuiper had harsh words for those who do not take JV sports seriously, saying, “If they’re out there goofing off, they can go clean out their lockers”. One of the major issues JV coaches experience is upperclassmen who are not quite proficient enough in the sport to make Varsity and are relegated to
“
the JV team again and again. Many students are capable of maintaining discipline and have no qualms about playing JV as a junior or senior. However, some upperclassmen tend to defy the coach’s authority and take the sport less seriously, perhaps as a method of retaliation for not being put on the Varsity team. Kuiper says, “If you’ve got a player still playing JV as a junior…you’ve got to take a look at the player and see if this is still something they want to do as a senior…maybe it’s not their sport.” Kuiper believes that uncommitted seniors can
it way too seriously. It’s pretty ridiculous how many hours you have to put in. I could understand if I was going to make a career out of it, but it’s JV!” This sentiment could explain the lack of seriousness described by Kuiper. Many students want to have fun playing their sport of choice, without the extra stress of overbearing coaches. It is these students, who are searching for nothing more than an enjoyable pastime, that are often tagged as troublemakers and goof offs. Despite the inconvenience it has become for fun-loving upperclassmen, the approach of the athletic department is logical. The athletic department is constantly working to avoid problematic JV rosters filled by an uncomfortable mix of committed freshmen and disillusioned seniors. After all, one of the goals of a JV program is to develop players into future contributors on the Varsity team. Thus it makes a lot more sense to spend the time developing a freshman or sophomore athlete with a few years left to play, than a senior who will be graduating in the spring. According to Kuiper, however, it all comes back to participation. “Ten or fifteen years down the road, you don’t remember your wins and losses…but you remember playing. That’s a big deal.”
If they’re out there goofing off, they can go clean out their lockers. – Coach Dan Kuiper pose a serious threat to the chemistry of a JV team, as well as the well-being of the other players. It is not difficult for an 18-year-old man (a senior) to accidentally injure a 14-year-old boy (a freshman) in a contact sport. The athletic department has recognized this, and the risk of injury is part of the reason why age plays a major factor in determining which players make what team. While the athletic department insists that their intention is to facilitate a rewarding experience for all athletes, some students claim that JV coaches have become too intense. An anonymous student-athlete said, “They took
”
Photos courtesy of SmugMug.com
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Under The Radar : Rowing Given the amount of time that Parker students spend thinking about college, rowing should be a fairly well-known sport. Rowing is one of the most popular scholarship sports for colleges and universities across the country. However, not many students are aware of the aspects involved on being a rowing team. “Although people can respect the fitness and grace of the sport, rowing is not recognized because it is not entertaining,” said junior Steven Goicoechea. “The most entertaining aspect of it is the sheer size of the competitors. I would encourage people to realize the complexity of the sport, although one must be a rower to understand that.” Often more than six hours per week are spent performing conditioning drills on the water and on land. Teams also participate in competitions throughout the year called regattas. “In the fall we have six regattas. In the spring there are seven regattas including the regional and national championships,” says Goicoechea.
Steven Goicoechea rows to victory.
Photo courtesy of Steven Goicoechea
Fencing Ask a random Parker student about the fencing team and the answer will more than likely be: “We have a fencing team?” Indeed, Parker has had a fencing team for four years now. The team practices on Mondays from 3:00 to 4:30 on the Sport Court. They compete in an independent league with other local high schools in San Diego. Junior Chris Liang has been the captain of the team for three years. As with rowing, fencing is a very popular sport for college scholarships, which draws many students to the activity. However, it is not well-known or appreciated here at Parker. “It’s a student created sport that has only been around for four years at Parker. But I’m sure over time it will become more popular,” said Liang. Morgan Gerace, Riley Manifold, Zach Frailey, and Chris Liang. Photo courtesy of francisparker.smugmug.com
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A look at some of the underrated athletes at Parker By Kaity Wilson
Cheer Every Friday night, the Parker football team plays amidst the cheers and chants of the Parker cheer squad. While the cheerleaders are present at every single football game, they go virtually unnoticed by both students and spectators. But the hard work and devotion that the cheer team puts into each routine requires long hours of practicing and choreographing. “We practice four days a week with a football game on Friday,” said senior Rachel Adler. “Practices can be anywhere from two to three hours, and games are generally three [hours]. We meet an hour and a half before a game to warm up and perfect the halftime routines.” The amount of time the cheerleaders put into their sport equals or exceeds the amount of time spent during other athletics practices. “Yes, I think that cheer is not recognized as a real sport. Not many people know that we are the only sport other than football that is required to take a concussion test. It is our job to support the other sports teams, and spirit is just a part of that,” says Adler. Sloan Christopher flies in a basket. Photo courtesy of francisparker.smugmug.com
Equestrian “That’s not a sport, the horse does all the work” is a common misperception that equestrians encounter. “[That assumption] is wrong, but understandable considering that the point of equitation is to make it seem effortless on the rider’s behalf,” says sophomore Lexie Smallwood. However, anyone who has ever ridden a horse in competition understands the physical and mental strength necessary to ride and care for the horses. Competing as an equestrian is a large time commitment that often exceeds that of other sports. “I spend about five days a week at the barn, generally riding two horses a day,” says Smallwood. Riders frequently practice every day of the week and often train several horses. The physical ability of the rider must be equal to that of the horse as well. So the next time someone says that they are an equestrian, appreciate the amount of time and effort that is put into the sport rather than ignorantly dismissing it as easy.
Lexie Smallwood soars over a jump. Photo courtesy of Lexie Smallwood
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THE JACKASS EFFECT WARNING:
The following article was written to explain why Jackass has become a part of American culture; for your safety and the safety of others, read this article By Raphie Cantor
“Hi, I’m Johnny Knoxville and welcome to Jackass!” What follows this line is absolute anarchy. The third installment of the Jackass series, Jackass 3D, hit the big screen this October. The original Jackass band of brothers including Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera, Steve-O, Wee-Man and others returned to kick themselves in the head, and other places, once again. While this extremely successful series is meant to be light-hearted and funny, it has raised some serious questions. Is it okay for people to hurt themselves on purpose? Furthermore, is it okay for them or others to make a profit off of it? The questions, simple as they may seem, address many complicated issues. At the box office, Jackass 3D earned an excess of $50 million during its first three days of release. This total exceeded expectations of critics and studios alike and brings the gross for the entire Jackass series to $150 million. The production cost of the three movies combined has been around $30 million, thus making an incredibly profitable movie series. So why do so many people enjoy these movies? Many say that in the beginning Jackass and other stunt shows were so new and revolutionary that audiences were simply drawn in, and the actors did a fantastic job of keeping them hooked for three movies. However, others make a case it comes from schadenfreude. This
“untranslatable” word, which comes from German, means, “to take pleasure in others’ pain or misfortune.” In an article by the New York Times, scientists studied the emotional theory of schadenfreude, and found that the brain sees another’s bad luck and raises one’s self esteem. Scientifically, Jackass is so successful because its pain and comedy makes their audience feel better about themselves. While the Jackass crew is making millions, many amateur daredevils are trying to gain fame with Youtube. In a different article by New York Times contributor Tara Parker-Pope, she found that doctors nationwide are seeing a sudden influx in teenagers with burns, broken bones, and other injuries associ-
of making it big on Youtube. Since the advent of the Internet, Jackass and other popular pain comedy clips have gained viral success. For some, the success has turned into a financial dream. The third most watched clip in Youtube’s history is “Charlie bit my finger – Again!” where a young British boy is repeatedly bitten by his baby brother. Today, the boys have their own blog and video series. While the Jackass series is relatively new, slapstick humor has been engrained into entertainment from the vaudeville era until now. Charlie Chaplin, the famed acting pioneer, often found himself with a mess of whip cream on his face. When studio executives saw the profit that films with the likes of Chaplin produced during the Golden Age of Hollywood, they began to produce them by the dozens. Jackass has taken that spirit into the twenty-first century, but on a whole different level. In Jackass 3D, instead of whip cream, Bam Margera ends up with a giant mechanical hand slapping him with flour. Between teenage emergency room trips and condemnation by critics, many blame the Jackass crew for starting a dangerous subculture among today’s youth, but their wit and nerves of steel have left an indelible mark on the American entertainment industry.
Unfortunately, his stunt resulted in burns covering about fourteen percent of his body.
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ated with daredevil stunts. In one such case, a New Jersey boy filled up a bathtub with fireworks, put on a protective suit, and tried his luck. Unfortunately, his stunt resulted in burns covering about fourteen percent of his body. Many teenagers have admitted that their motivation for attempting these stunts is the chance
Mischief Managed The series that defined a generation comes to an end
I
t was midnight on November 16, 2001. Thousands of people, young and old, were lined up outside of movie theaters across the country, anxiously awaiting the release of the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone movie. Similar excitement surrounded the series in 2002 with the release of the second film in the series, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. With each release of a Harry Potter film, the enthusiasm surrounding the series has grown exponentially. However, in addition to the usual excitement, there will be another emotion among Harry Potter fanatics; this November marked the release of part one of the finale of the book series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The series that has defined our generation will be coming to a bittersweet end. J.K. Rowling’s series has sparked countless fan movements worldwide including fan fiction, podcasts, online lexicons, and even a musical genre. Podcasts such as PotterCast and MuggleCast, which discuss the books, films, and other Potter news, are frequently ranked highly on iTunes. Entire websites are devoted to the stories, such as the Harry Potter Lexicon, which has compiled a wide spectrum of information from and about the books. Wizard rock, or ‘wrock,’ is made up of
bands such as Harry and the Potters and The Parselmouths. The bands write and perform songs based on the series; some song titles include “Save Ginny Weasley” and “What Kind of Name is Hermione?” Also, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which brings the Potter world to life, opened at Universal Studios-Orlando this past June. Reception to the Potter novels has not always been positive, however. Ursula Le Guin, an American science fiction writer, said, “When so many adult critics were carrying on about the ‘incredible originality’ of the first Harry Potter book, I read it to find out what the fuss was about, and remained somewhat puzzled…good fare for its age group, but stylistically ordinary, imaginatively derivative, and ethically rather mean-spirited.” Other critics have called the series “patronizing,” “pedestrian,” and “dispiritingly nostalgic.” The Potter books are often dismissed as simplistic children’s books. Die-hard fans, however, strongly disagree. “I think the great thing about Harry Potter is that J.K. Rowling has created a myth for our time…to keep reinventing the dynamic between good and evil in an accessible and dramatic way is fantastic,” said Ralph Fiennes, who plays Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter films. “There’s an energy and an inventiveness and an originality to what she’s done.” Children and adults around the world have found the books both meaningful and highly enjoyable. The classic battle of good versus evil is coupled with the typical adolescent troubles that people all over the world can relate to.
By Kaity Wilson “I think that kids can find any Harry Potter character and relate to them. Even though they are stuck in their rooms, they can still go on magical adventures with Harry, Ron, and Hermione,” said junior Glennon Waters, who is also the president of the Harry Potter club here at Parker. The immense support for the series led to the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, becoming the fastest selling book in history, with over 11 million copies sold in the first 24 hours of its release. “A lot of things drew me to Harry Potter. It was a story about a normal boy who became a wizard. Who doesn’t love that? Also, in the books Harry was new to the wizarding world, just like we were. We got to experience all these new things with him,” said Waters. July 15, 2011, the release of the final Harry Potter film, will be a sad day for anyone who has faithfully followed the Potter phenomenon. There will be no more escapades under the Invisibility Cloak and no more brewing Polyjuice potion in the girls’ lavatories. Death Eaters will no longer threaten lives, and Harry, Ron, and Hermione will move on just as the millions of fans must now do. Never again will we travel through Platform 9 3/4 and the wheels of the Hogwarts Express will grind to a halt for the last time. Millions of fans around the world will weep for the end of a decade-long journey. Although the end is near, the magic will never fade, and we will never forget the lessons that were learned and the friends we made along the way.
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Lost In Translation
By Maddie Thurman Novels are often portals to new worlds where imagination runs free and creates a fantasy in one’s mind. Movies based on books try to project, to the very best of their abilities, our imaginations onto a large screen for wide audiences, but the reproductions usually fall short. No amount of money or special effects can match the perfection of one’s imagination. There are many reasons for this. Books allow for readers to look into the minds of each character, to see what they see and to feel what they feel, while in movies, there is some detachment between the movie watchers and the characters. Here are some examples of great books whose cinematic portrayals fell short of hopes and expectations.
This novel follows the story of recently widowed Holly Kennedy and her struggles to move past her husband’s death. She does so, ultimately, through the support of letters her late husband had written to her in advance. In the novel, there are many interesting story lines and more characters to become attached to, but the movie is a horrible rendition of a great book. Even Gerard Butler could not make up for an awkward and disappointing performance by Hilary Swank as Holly. 2 out of 5
In the case of The Time Traveler’s Wife, the book and movie are very similar. No major aspects of the storyline are altered, but what made the movie fall short of expectations was the time constraint that caused certain memorable and intriguing scenes from the book to be left out. The main storyline about a girl who falls in love with a time traveler, fortunately, was not changed at all. Although actress Rachel McAdams as the wife, Clare Abshire, and actor Eric Bana as the time traveler, Henry DeTamble, played convincing roles, the missing key scenes made the movie a slight disappointment for the book fans. 3.5 out of 5
In this novel by Picoult, the protagonist, a young girl named Anna Fitzgerald deals with her family issues that revolve around her sister’s leukemia, and she ultimately sues her parents for the medical right to her own body. It is an emotional novel that incorporates all aspects of love, family, and hardship and ends with a dark twist that makes the story as powerful as it is. In the movie rendition, staring Abigail Breslin and Cameron Diaz, the ending is completely changed. What was a shocking, dramatic turn of events in the book was changed into a predictable and extremely disappointing ending. 1.5 out of 5
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Pu rker Stu r: By David Nussbaum Spotlights illuminated the stage on October 28th as I, along with many others, sat in Crivello Hall late on a Thursday night watching the performances. We were at Unplugged, an annual show featuring Francis Parker students and faculty, where classmates and teachers sing songs, read poems, and play music. As the night wore on, a freshman girl walked onstage. I didn’t really know who she was and was expecting something like a halfhearted attempt at a piano recital. However, after she sat down at the piano and performed “If I Ain’t Got You,” by Alicia Keys, I couldn’t help but give her a standing ovation. Afterwards, one audience member said he was,“ ...quite literally blown away, both by her talent on the piano and her beautiful voice.” That girl was Patricia Fernandez, a freshman who has attended Parker since the seventh grade. She has participated extensively in the Arts Department, most recently in the school musical, Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris. Ever since she could remember, Fernandez has been dedicated to music. “I have no idea what my life would be like without music. It’s essentially the story of my life,” she says. At the age of five, she began taking piano lessons, and in the sixth grade she began to seriously develop her singing. Outside of school, Fernandez does ballet and tap dance, and she is constantly practicing the piano at home. For
Patricia Fernandez
her, however, this practice isn’t a chore. “I sit at the piano and sing my heart out,” says Fernandez. “It’s not like my mom makes me do it or anything, but it just feels great...I’ve sat down at that piano for six hours straight before. It’s a relief of stress.” In retrospect, she felt that her chance
Photo Courtsey of Chuck Philyaw
to perform at Unplugged was worth the time spent practicing. “It felt so cool to be up there. Being at the piano on that stage in front of people was almost like a dream, a dream I had dreamed many times, actually. And I couldn’t believe how amazing it was...I felt empowered. By the time it was over, though, I almost ran off of the stage. I don’t know why I did that.”
A few weeks ago, fellow staff writer Claire Bryan and I sat in on one of Fernandez’s singing practices in preparation for her performance in The 50th Anniversary of KPBS in December. A group of students from different schools performed the song “One World One Dream,” which is to be aired in December. Patricia was part of that group and the only student from Francis Parker School. Fernandez plans on pursuing her musical talents in the future, hopefully in New York City. She says she fell in love with New York when she visited with her dad one weekend in the spring of her seventh grade. While there, she had the opportunity to visit Julliard, one of the most prestigious music schools in the country. She played the piano for her tour guide, but to her surprise, she didn’t feel the energy she had at Unplugged. “The room I was in was just so small. Playing music is about being free, and yet I felt almost claustrophobic,” she said. Fernandez also recently visited New York University of Music. She was enchanted by huge windows looking out over the city, and by the fact that it’s only two blocks away from Broadway. Fernandez hopes that she will be able to attend. However, for now, she says it’s all about the music. She wants to follow her dreams, and based on her performance at Unplugged, she’s likely to go far.
WHAT WAS THE YOUR GREATEST DREAM YOU EVER HAD?
“My greatest dream, as lame as this might sound, was almost exactly like Unplugged. It was my own concert. I was like 22 or so. I sat down at the piano and brushed my hair back, and like most artists these days, I asked the crowd, “How are we all feeling tonight?” There were many screaming little girls, and I just laughed and smiled to myself. I was wearing this really awesome dress that was kind of... different. It was kind of a half Lady Gaga half Carrie Underwood kind of thing, really pretty. Then I played one of my own songs that I had written in the eighth grade, a song that apparently every little screaming girl in my dream knew by heart. I finished the song with a long piano trill, stood up and said, “Thank you, New York!” I took a bow. The lights faded. My dream ended. I feel almost embarrassed to tell people these dreams because I feel like we all have them as little kids, but then fade out of them. I never faded out, and I think that’s the way it’s supposed to be. Don’t get me wrong, I’m proud of myself and how far I’ve come, but I’ve still got a long way to go, and with the small chances there are out there, I just hope that I make it. I hear it’s a lonely trail of tears for those who don’t.”
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From Sundance to San Diego: to go see:
While most Parker students are snacking on Wetzel’s Pretzels and watching vampire movies at Fashion Valley, a few miles away people are at Landmark Theaters in Hillcrest watching the latest independent films. This tiny, five-screen theater has been operating under the radar for almost 20 years, and it has multiple nationwide locations as well. Its biggest asset is its selection of unfamiliar movies—some are low-budget independent films, while others are foreign and aren’t commonly translated to English. Movies of all genres are shown, with an emphasis on documentaries. It’s easy to assume that the independent films shown will not go on to great success or fame because of the humble cinemas in which they debut. But, though defined as films that are produced outside of typical studios, such as Paramount or Fox, they won’t necessarily stay little-known films. Believe it or not, Napoleon Dynamite and Slumdog Millionaire were independent films, but they went on to be immensely popular. Though you may discover a gem of a film that later becomes well-known, it’s also nice to find an unknown movie that feels personal. In addition to the film selection, the friendly, yet tucked-away atmosphere makes the movie-going experience special. While you aren’t likely to run into other Parker students, you get a cultured feeling when surrounded by independent film aficionados. Stop by the food counter for imported European candy, pastries or the traditional buttered popcorn, and enjoy the two-dollar savings you earn when avoiding AMC’s $11.50 ticket. Another perk is its location; the neighborhood boasts exotic restaurants including Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion and Sushi Itto, and basics like Chocolat, Pizza Fusion, and Pinkberry. Next time you find yourself tired of Brad Pitt, CPK, or spending all of your money on movie tickets, consider branching out and immersing yourself in the diverse atmosphere of Hillcrest, and the culture and personality of an independent film theater.
2
City Island
The Rizzos are a dysfunctional New York family with more secrets than they can handle. Vince, the prisonguard father, finds his long-lost convict son while at work. As the family’s lies unravel, the movie gets more entertaining and unbelievable. Rent If You Like: Little Miss Sunshine
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3
1
Nowhere Boy
This sure-to-be-popular film tells the true story of the early life of John Lennon in Liverpool, England. The early life story, full of uncertainty and family drama, of such a legend, is sure to make you question how he became so successful and what inspired his music. Lennon is portrayed fabulously in this uncommon approach to the Beatle before the band. Watch If You Like: Walk The Line
2
Mao's Last Dancer
This is the true story of a young Chinese boy who became a respected dancer after rising from poverty. Li Cunxin, a naturally gifted ballerina, leaves his family to achieve his dreams and find love along the way. Stunning shots of his mountain community are added visual bonuses. Watch If You Like: Pursuit of Happyness
to go rent:
1
The September Issue
The Devil Wears Prada was based off of the offices of Vogue, and this documentary proves that Meryl Streep didn’t do justice to Anna Wintour, the notorious editor-in-chief. The months of harried work that go into making the 300-page September Issue are fascinating. Rent If You Like: The Devil Wears Prada
(500) Days of Summer
This humorous, feel-good movie stars crowd favorite Zooey Deschanel. It’s a classic boy-meets-girl movie, but it’s anything but predictable. Skipping between days of a relationship adds a sense of the chaos of intense love. Rent If You Like: The Break-Up Art By Katie Volker
ww
By Emily Heft
Branch out with independent films at
‘Tis the Season for Television The top 5 holiday episodes of all time to get you in the spirit
1
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Come on, everyone loves Charlie Brown, and this Christmas episode is a classic. After finding himself depressed as Christmas approaches, Charlie Brown attempts to find out what Christmas is all about by looking back on tradition. His quest to decommercialize Christmas leads him to his school’s Nativity play where he attempts to reveal his epiphany to the rest of his friends. This episode has something for everyone and reminds us all of what Christmas is truly about.
3
The One With the Holiday Armadillo
Friends: Season 7 - Episode 10
In this classic episode, Ross has his son Ben for the holidays and attempts to teach him about Hannukah. However, Ben is only interested in Christmas and Santa. So, Ross devises a plan to buy a Santa outfit and reach Ben that way. Unfortunately, the only costume left is the Christmas Armadillo. Ross goes home and tries to get Ben in the Hannukah spirit, while Phoebe is worried that Rachel won’t want to move back in with her. This episode is the perfect mix of Friends humor and holiday spirit.
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2
By R.B. Ganon
A Benihana Christmas
The Office: Season 3 - Episodes 10 & 11
For all who love The Office’s sarcastic humor and sometimes uncomfortable puns from the main character, Michael Scott, this episode is a must. When Michael is dumped by his girlfriend after offering her tickets to Jamaica, he is left with two tickets and no one to go with. He decides to take Jim and Andy (a.k.a. nard dog) to Benihana to help cheer him up. While the men are there, Pam and Karen decide to create a rival Christmas party against Angela. This episode is a classic that will keep you laughing from start to finish.
4
My Own Personal Jesus Scrubs: Season 1 - Episode 11
The First Do’h-El The Simpsons: Season 17 - Episode 9
This Simpsons episode is a really good mix of classic Simpsons humor and holiday spirit. In this episode, the Simpsons family reenacts the story of Jesus’ birth, making a traditional story more exciting. “The First Do’h El” is a classic that combines traditional story with modern comedy.
In a typical Scrubs fashion, this episode contains a bigger message complemented by light comedy and festive jokes. This episode begins when J.D. is about to tell a patient’s family that the man is not doing well when the patient wakes up. This leads Turk to believe that it is a Christmas miracle. However, his Christmas spirit doesn’t last long as his late night shift leads Turk to question his faith. This episode is a classic that will leave everyone in high spirits for the Christmas season.
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Lending A Hand... Serving Meals at Father Joe’s:
Agency: St. Vincent de Paul Village When: Saturday December 18th Where: Downtown Time: 10:15 am - 1:00 pm What: Preparing or serving food Who: Helping hundreds of homeless men, women, and children in San Diego
Cookies and Milk with Santa:
Agency: City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department When: Saturday December 18th Where: Del Cerro Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm What: Set up and clean up, running arts and crafts, serving milk and cookies Who: Helping children and their families
Canyon Crusaders:
Agency: City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department When: Saturday December 18th Where: Tecolote Canyon Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am What: Gardening and fighting invasive species
Kids on Courts:
Agency: Youth Tennis San Diego/Barnes Tennis Center When: Saturday December 18th Where: Point Loma Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm and 12:00 pm 3:00 pm What: Helping with tennis, team bonding, and sportsmanship Who: Helping kids over school breaks who don’t have support systems at home
Serving Seniors:
Agency: Senior Community Centers of San Diego When: Wednesday December 22nd; Tuesday December 28th Where: Downtown Time: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm What: Serving and preparing meals Who: Helping senior citizens
*Check www.VolunteerSanDiego. com for more information. 34
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this holiday season
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
By Kira Newton
Tutoring:
Agency: Bayview Baptist Church When: Saturday December 25th Where: National City Time: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm What: Tutoring students in reading, math, or any subject the student needs help in Who: Helping students across San Diego
Feeding America:
Agency: Feeding America San Diego When: Saturday December 18th; Tues Dec 21; Wed Dec 22; Tues Dec 28; Wed Dec 29 Where: Mira Mesa/Sorrento Valley Time: 18th: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm; 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm What: Sorting, organizing, cleaning, and packing food Who: Helping hungry San Diegans
Brown Bag Brigade:
Agency: Special Delivery San Diego When: Friday December 24th; Fri Dec 31st Where: To be determined Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm What: Filling bags with foods and handdelivering them Who: Helping men, women, and children living with AIDS
Homework Helpers:
Agency: San Diego Public Libraries When: Tuesday December 21st Where: Linda Vista Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm What: Helping students with their homework Who: Helping Linda Vista Elementary students
Toys for Tots Snow Day:
Agency: City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department When: Saturday December 18th Where: National City Time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm What: Set-up, preparing food, collecting and distributing toys, arts and crafts Who: Helping kids around San Diego
The
Jew Point of View
By Raphie Cantor and Jake Siegler
We hope you all have been enjoying the “holiday” issue of The Scribe. While most celebrate Christmas at home with their families around the Christmas tree, anxiously ripping open their presents, there are many Jews out there who have been stumped for ways to celebrate this day, since Hannukah has been over for a few weeks. Hanukah was celebrated from December 1-8 this year (25th of Kislev- 2nd of Tevet in the Jewish Calendar) Here are just a few things to do on the 25th.
Chinese food- the Mecca of all JewishChristmas traditions. Of the few fine establishments open for business on Christmas day, Chinese restaurants top the chart. The food is delicious, delectable, and most importantly, kosher.
Although they can be hard to find sometimes, Hannukah movies are the perfect way to celebrate Christmas. Some personal favorites are The Hebrew Hammer, Adam Sandler’s 8 Crazy Nights, and of course, A Rugrats Chanukah. Check out your nearest vintage video store or Netflix to find these awesome flicks.
While everyone else is at home with their families, get all your Jewish friends together and re-enact the story of Hannukah at your nearest jungle gym. Dress up as Judah Maccabee and fight for control of the giant red slide.
Jewish Terminology Jewish Calendar - A 356-day lunar calendar as opposed to the Gregorian 365-day solar calendar. Judah Maccabee - Leader of the Jewish Revolt against the Syrian-Greek King, Antiochus.
Christmas tree ornaments are going out of style. Our Christian brothers and sisters take pride in their towering trees adorned with beautiful faux glass ornaments. Why not place some shimmery shrubbery of your own next to your hannukkiah? A Hannukah bush is easy to assemble and personalize, and by the end of the decorating, it clearly distinguishes your house as the best on the block!
Theatres have the fine distinction of being open 365 days a year, so Christmas is a perfect time for a cinematic adventure. Bonus: P. F. Chang’s is accepting reservations on Christmas day. Might we suggest a combo of a P. F. Chang’s lunch and a movie at AMC Fashion Valley?
Kosher - The preparation and consumption of food according to Jewish Law described in the Torah. Hanukkiah - The nine-branched candelabrum, which is commonly confused with the sevenbranched menorah.
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My New Years Resolution is to...
Compiled by Claire Kim Collected from the students of Francis Parker
lay out my plans for taking over the world. see a Scribe page dedicated to Mr. Fickling and Ms. Hanscom.
learn how to fist pump like a champ.
steal all freshmen and beat the world record for putting the most freshmen in a hot air balloon. kick my addiction to caffeine. not get caught by Ms. Southworth for dress code. become best friends with Mr. Taylor’s or Mr. Cook’s sons. resolve to think of an interesting resolution for next year.
apply sunscreen before going outside.
get as ripped as Andy Piacquadio.
achieve perfection in the art of badminton.
learn to lick my elbow.
grow a beard.
find the fort in the canyon.
“...be the very best, like no one ever was”
not add anyone not in my grade on Facebook. I will not associate myself with the upperclassmen. I will not make eye-contact with the seniors.
make an effort to take up one parking space.
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eat 700 pounds of cookie dough.
All I Want For Christmas Is You By Sloan Christopher
The Scribe’s Holiday Dating Guide
It’s that time of year again! As the days grow shorter and the nights get colder, everyone wants that special someone to snuggle up to during the holiday season. This year, instead of being the only one on the ice rink or pathetically watching Elf alone for the millionth time, stop moping around and chase down your dream Snowbunny! The holiday season is, after all, the most wonderful time of the year. However, it could also be the loneliest time of the year unless you put in some effort. Don’t worry; with this guide you will find yourself under the mistletoe with that special someone in no time!
Objective:
(Insert Name Here)
p Ste e Before you can whisk your away in a oneOn horseSnowbunny open sleigh, it’s crucial
that you get his/ her attention. Nothing screams attention like a red jumpsuit and a snow white beard, so put on a Santa suit and surprise him/ her by his/ her locker. I promise it will be an encounter your Snowbunny won’t forget. Ladies: this advice works just as well for you, but remember to dress according to the classic look. No one wants to see Santa looking like a ho- ho- ho.
Step Two
With your image still fresh in his/ her mind, send your Snowbunny a candy gram so he/ she knows you’re thinking about him/ her. For best results, write something like: “Meet me at the library at lunch. I need to take a picture of you.” When your Snowbunny asks why, tell him/ her: “Because I want Santa to know exactly what I want for Christmas.”
Now that you’re talking in person, it’s time to ask your Snowbunny out. You can be blunt or go on a creative tangent, but be sure to use a pick-up line. Something like, “I’ve checked it twice, and I’m sure you’re on my ‘Naughty’ List” works every time!
Step Fou r
It’s game time. Make sure you tell your Snowbunny to dress for warm weather; shorts and a t-shirt would be best. It’s crucial that you make sure that the date is entirely outside, preferably on a cold and windy evening. Now sit back, relax, and remind your Snowbunny that nothing will keep him/ her warmer than body heat.
Step Three
At the end of the date, take your Snowbunny somewhere indoors, like a coffee shop or restaurant. Send him/ her to order something to drink and quickly sneak away to hang mistletoe over the closest exit and lock the door. When your Snowbunny returns, yell “FIRE!” and without a doubt, he/ she will run to the nearest exit. Bingo! You’ve got him/ her in the perfect Quickly apologize for the Step position. mistaken alarm and pucker up!
Five
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Veggin’ Out
Holiday Eating for Vegetarians
By Marisa Canepa
The turkey. The ham. The stuffing drowned in gravy. The holidays can seem like a vegetarian’s nightmare. This holiday season marks my fourteenth year being a vegetarian, and I can honestly say to all of you newly discovered vegetarians and vegetarian veterans: Don’t fear; there are plenty of options to keep us looking forward to holiday feasts. So as you sit down to your holiday dinner, try a meat substitute, a new restaurant, or go a step further and challenge yourself by making your own dinner. Embrace your vegetarianism, do not settle for meat-free side dishes, and have a green holiday season.
Eating In Vegetable Pot Pie
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 2 small heads fennel, finely chopped (about 3 cups) 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped (about 2/3 cup) 12 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced (about 5 cups) 1 small russet potato, peeled and diced small (about 2 1/2 cups) 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup low-sodium mushroom broth 1 cup whole milk 1 cup frozen baby green peas 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh chives 1/4 cup parsley 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 large egg yolk 7 ounces store-bought puff pastry or pie dough, defrosted if frozen Directions: Heat the oven to 400 degrees F and arrange a rack in the middle. Melt butter over medium heat in a 3- to 4-quart Dutch oven or heavy bottomed saucepan. When it foams, add fennel,
onions, and carrots, and cook until just soft and onions are translucent, about 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and potato, season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and stir to coat. Cook, stirring rarely, until mushrooms have let off water and are shrunken, about 6 minutes. Sprinkle flour over vegetables, stir to coat, and cook until raw flavor is gone, about 1 to 2 minutes. Carefully add broth and milk, stirring constantly until mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, add peas, herbs, and vinegar, and stir to coat. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Turn filling into an 8 by 8-inch baking dish. Whisk egg together with 2 teaspoons water and a pinch of salt until evenly mixed. Set aside. With kitchen shears, cut dough to fit over the baking dish. Place dough over filling and tuck into the edges of the dish. Brush dough with egg wash and cut slits in the top to vent. Place on a baking sheet and bake until crust is golden brown and mixture is bubbling, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let sit at least 5 minutes before serving. Recipe courtesy of The Food Network
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Dining Out Jyoti Bihanga 3351 Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA Jyoti-Bihanga serves a wonderful vegetarian and vegan meal in a calm, peaceful atmosphere.
Spread 2879 University Avenue, San Diego, CA Spread has an entirely vegetarian and vegan menu of gourmet items. They use only organic ingredients purchased from local farmers. Their menus are seasonal, depending on what fresh organic produce is available at that time, and no items on the menu are over $17.99
Pizza Fusion 3827 5th Avenue , San Diego, CA Pizza Fusion proudly offers a truly vegan soy cheese that accompanies the wide variety of organic veggie toppings, vegan sauce, and vegan dough. They also offer vegetarian wraps and sandwiches, salads, breadsticks, and delicious vegan brownies!
Lean and Green Cafe 7825 Fay Ave #180, San Diego, CA Lean and Green Organic Health Bar makes it easy and fun to eat well and help the environment. This innovative La Jolla health bar serves wholesome, natural, and organic gourmet food in a contemporary, earth-toned setting. Try the salads, wraps, and bowls for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Food For The By Ben Peters
Gods
Since the beginning of fast food in Ancient Rome, man has always yearned for an on-the-go meal option that is good, hearty, and cheap. But fast food has evolved into something more than just a type of cuisine. Fast food is a lifestyle. But with so many options, where does one turn? One can always go to a favorite place and get the same thing, but in a world where new fast food items pop up everywhere and secret menus are abundant, why conform to the basics? This page is simply meant to lead you fast food enthusiasts in the right direction.
The Taco Bell XXL Chalupa The Taco Bell has done it again. They know what we want—more meat! The chalupa is filled with double the meat, cheese, and all the fix-ins inside a fried piece of Chalupa bread shaped like a taco. However, you have to eat the Chalupa right when you get it, because the soft bread will turn soggy and eventually your chalupa will fall to pieces and things will get messy.
The KFC Double Down This is perhaps one of the most innovative products on the market. The double down is two pieces of fried chicken with two pieces of bacon and two pieces of cheese in the center. The idea may be exciting, but the actual product is quite mediocre. The chicken is too dry, and the bacon is low quality. I wouldn’t necessarily say I would be down to double down again.
Chipotle’s Nachos From The Secret Menu Personally, I am not a fan of Chipotle. But the nachos from their secret menu are one of the best fast food items that I have ever tasted. With tortilla chips, salsa, your choice of meat, beans, and a layer of cheese, these nachos are hard to beat.
What to look out for on the Secret menus of America: McDonald’s Chicken and Waffles
A McGriddle sandwich with chicken in the middle.
Pie McFlurry
If you buy a pie you can have it blended into your McFlurry.
Jamba Juice Pink Starburst Peanut Butter and Jelly Apple Pie White Gummy
In- n-Out Fries Well Done
These are fries cooked extra long, giving them a crispy outside.
Neapolitan Shake
This shake combines all the In-n-Out shake flavors into one.
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Wildlife Watch All right campers! We have a beautful campus in sunny San Diego where we can appreciate nice weather, picnics in the quad, and daydreaming out of our classroom windows, but our outdoor campus brings more to our day than just a cool breeze. We are surrounded by birds, bugs, and all kinds of critters.
By David Nussbaum and Robyn Bryan
Coopers Hawk Albino Hummingbird This uncommon hummingbird was seen by Mr. Harrington outside of his room. Albino hummingbirds are extremely rare because of their light pigmentation, which makes them easier prey for predators, such as cats, small hawks, owls, and praying mantises.
Sphinx Moth
Seen in the flower beds near the faculty bathrooms, sphinx moths are the fastest insects on earth, some reaching speeds of up to 30 mph. They are the size of hummingbirds and commonly feed on nectar.
After everyone has left, and usually late at night, this hawk flies down through the archway by the History and English departments to scare the other birds there. When frightened, the smaller birds shoot up into the air, making them easy prey for the Cooper’s Hawk, who generally eat middle-to small-sized birds.
Western Bluebird Seen mostly during the summer on the field, these birds are very reclusive. So whip out your binoculars during P.E. and get birdwatching!
Coyote A member of the dog family, coyotes are usually found in low deserts and valleys. For shelter, coyotes dig dens and caves. Late at night, these coyotes come up from the canyon to creep about the empty campus.
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Rattlesnake
Racoon
These nocturnal mammals are seen mostly in the early morning in the canyon near the quad. Raccoons are not cuddly and can carry rabies. Also, raccoons scavenge in packs, so if you see one, then there is sure to be a family of them lurking about somewhere.
A baby rattlesnake came out of the bushes in the quad during last year’s freshman class lunch, scaring a group of freshmen. Rattlesnakes are very common in San Diego because of the dry climate, but watch out for the baby rattlesnakes; they’re usually more deadly than their parents.
From Polyester to Parker Plaid How Parker uniforms have
By Katie Volker
changed over the years
Flashback to the ‘80s High shorts and long skirts were musts for the Francis Parker schoolgirls of the eighties. For the boys, short shorts and Ray-Ban sunglasses made the girls go crazy. Because there was no school uniform, Parker was full of unique styles.
Welcome to the ‘90s
Preppy plaids made their debut at Parker in the nineties; little did they know they would reappear in the new millennium. Short haircuts and t-shirts also gained popularity in this decade. However, everything changed when 1996 came around. The official Francis Parker uniform policy was made, forcing the students to trade in their neon shorts and baggy Ts for collared polos, khaki shorts, and pleated skirts.
The
2000s
The 2000s introduced shorter skirts and the UGG boot era. These styles have have been popular since the beginning of the new millennium. For the guys, hoodie sweatshirts and aviators gained popularity and continue to be worn on campus every day. In 2006, Parker made the big switch from Sue Mills to Option B, adding our very own Lancer logo.
Photos courtesy of past yearbooks
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GOLD Work that Midas touch, and you©ll be worth your weight in gold.
ot
SPARKLEs We still stick by our big "not" on rhinestones. And don©t get us started on glitter. But diamonds are a girl©s best friend for goodness© sake! We also can©t resist those black sequin mini skirts and sequin vintage shirts.... if you wanna look fine, be ready to shine!
ucci and Haley Robinson anley Gamb B y St
LOOKINg LIKE AN AmERIcAN FLAg I©m as patriotic as the next girl, but wearing red, white, and blue from head-to-toe is just plain tacky. We can leave dressing in stars and stripes to Uncle Sam, and to that I say, "God Bless America."
DREssINg YOUR DOg BETTER THAN YOU DREss YOURsELF Chances are, your dog is already much cuter than you are. Let©s try not to make it painfully obvious. I©m sure that when your puppy has an accident on its new Juicy jumpsuit you©ll rethink your ways.
re
EcO-FRIENDLY WATER BOTTLEs Arrowhead and Fiji are soooo last year. Hydrate the trendy way and stop wasting plastic. You©ll never drink water the same.
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BIKER JAcKETs These are bad to the bone, and so are you.
"BIEbER CUTs" ON FULL GROwN MEN Sure, it may be cute on JB, but I©m pretty sure he still hasn©t experienced puberty yet. Growing your hair like Justin Bieber is not a solution to a midlife crisis, and it never will be.
y d n
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SENsITIVE GUYs The three things that every girl wants: life, liberty, and the pursuit of a guy who likes chick flicks.
Not
SANTA©©s LITTLE HO HO HOs Many girls dress to give their mothers heart attacks on Halloween; it is practically an honored tradition. But this attire is no way to celebrate Jesus©s birth, or anything else for that matter.
CANDY-COLORED HEELs Eye-popping prints are fun and flirty. Make sure to tell Santa "I want candy!"
HOLIDAY SPIRIT Sing a carol or two, play some dreidle, bake a pie or fry some latkas. Most importantly, set aside some time to spend with your family because that©s what the holidays are really about.
CHUNKY-KNIT SwEATERs Fashionable, yet as comfy as sweats. Could it be so? Throw on your sweater and swipe on some lip stain, and you©re instantly ready to conquer the world, or conquer a day of errands, whichever works for you.
quad rants
Sophomore
Freshman
If you could I celebrate be anyone New Year’s for a day, who would by... you be?
Keenan Salvati
Briana Murray
Rachel Hall
crying myself to sleep.
sitting in a quiet room... praying.
Junior
you know...
Staff
Mr. Wineholt
If you could
All I want What are you make your What’s one thinking own holiday, thing no one for Christmas about right what would knows about now? you? is... it be? a shake weight.
Hug-a-Kitten Day
Hunter Asmann
Shamu Day Miley Cyrus, because she’s awesome.
Alan from The Hangover, so I could be in a wolfpack.
Justin Bieber!
My Spanish quiz
I’m not telling you!
Half my family is Mexican!
Rachel Hall-iday
YOU.
I have a freckle on my tongue.
Malea Redding Shakira Day
eating 12 grapes.
Senior
Ben Rangel
Old Greg from YouTube.
Compiled by Molly Morrison
Shakira.
I’m a great snuggler.
Quad Rants
Warren Brody. spending time with my family.
Nahum Mendoza because of his energy. He’s always smiling.
a vacation.
My class beginning in 30 seconds
Otto Von Bismarck’s birthday!
Separ ated a t
Matsuo Chino
I Britney Spears!
Birth
?
Manny Delgado of Modern Family THE SCRIBE
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P P P 0 H HE K 201
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