The Aquilian - February 2014 | Vol 76, No 4

The Aquilian

February 2014 Volume 76, Number 4

Gonzaga College High School Men For Others Since 1821

19 Eye St, NW Washington, DC 20001

HOCKEY UNDEFEATED CHAMPIONS By: Billy Begala ‘14 Senior Contributor Gonzaga hockey ended a historic season by defeating Calvert Hall 3-1 in the MAPHL championship game. Friday night’s win capped an undefeated season in which the Eagles went 260-1.

This season was one of total domination for Gonzaga and Coach Nate Jackson.

Senior captain Bobby Hally earned MAPHL Player of the Year honors, and set MAPHL records for goals in a season and points in a season. Goalie Nick Platais, who won MVP of the championship game after tallying 41 saves, broke the single-season shutout record as well as the goals against average record.

The championship, Gonzaga’s second in a row, didn’t come easy. Calvert Hall, the team that left the only blemish on the Eagle’s otherwise perfect record, outshot Gonzaga 12-2 in the first period

and held the explosive Gonzaga offense at bay for most of the game. Gonzaga’s first goal came off the stick of senior alternate captain Barlow Sanders on a power play during the second period.

“It was awesome. Scoring a goal in that type of environment with all of those fans was really special,” Sanders said after the game.

Moments after Barlow’s goal, Gonzaga added another.

Junior Ridge Slater scored on a backhand shot after rebounding Dominic Pettey’s breakaway attempt. This put the Eagles up 2-0; however Calvert Hall was able to find an answer late in the second period. The Cardinals had a five-on-three power play, and after Joey Downey’s stick was knocked out of his hands, one of Calvert Hall’s young Russian players barely snuck a shot past Platais.

However the Eagles persevered, and sophomore Jack Sanborn put the game away with his third period goal.

Downey redeemed himself on the play, recording an assist, his second of the game, and showed what he could do with a stick in hand.

As talented as this team was throughout the season, Gonzaga was more than a collection of exceptional hockey players. “I think the main reason that we were so good is because we are all best friends. We were a really tight knit group off the ice and it showed itself on the ice,” explained Bobby Hally.

However, Gonzaga had one thing that nobody else in the MAPHL had. According to Barlow Sanders, “the main difference between our team and all of the others was Nick Platais. No other team had a goalie like him.” “You know you’re a great team when your worst attribute is Terence Schmutz’s hair,” said Downey.

Gonzaga’s talent extended beyond the ice and into the bench. With the win, Coach Nate Jackson has solidified

himself as one of the area’s best coaches. “He’s just done an incredible job as the head coach at Gonzaga. The numbers speak for themselves: 3 MAPHL championships, 2 Purple Puck Championships, 102 wins” said Hally. For the Eagles, Friday’s victory was the end of a great season, and for some, the end of a great career. “Everyone was expecting us to win the championship easily. Finally getting to the championship and winning it was a huge relief,” said Sanders. “This being my last year playing hockey, I couldn’t imagine a better way to end my career. It feels great that all of the hard work has paid off.”

“My years at Gonzaga have been the best four years of my life. Winning the champion-

Freedom of the Press, p. 3

New Jesuits, p.4

Fiddler on the Roof, p.6

National Gallery, p.7

ship with all my family and friends in the stands is the perfect end to my Gonzaga hockey career,” Downey said.

When asked what the team did to celebrate the win, Sanders and Hally had no comment. All Downey could say was, “I don’t remember.”

Either way, everyone on Eye Street couldn’t be more proud of our boys on the ice.

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By: Andrew Hohman ‘14 Editor in Chief Eighth period is the most coveted free period to have as a senior. Every day these lucky students end the day with 40 minutes of leisure.

Many of the privileged seniors bolt and drive home to beat the traffic. Others participate in what has become a pastime in recent years at Gonzaga, hanging out in K Street. This routine has recently been halted. About a month ago, students crossed the street to be met by a Gonzaga security officer who would tell them to either drive or head inside. Mr. McIntyre, Dean of Students, told The Aquilian the following: “If you end your classes after seventh period or after eighth period, you should not be waiting in areas other than the ones mentioned in the Student Handbook. Student safety is of the utmost importance…we want to be good neighbors and show the DC government that we can use the lot for the purpose for which it was built, a parking lot, not a social gathering space.”

I think it’s ridiculous.

You can quote me on that,” said Jeff Boggs ’14, “since

K Street Lockout we don’t have a senior lounge, that’s our senior lounge.” The lack of a senior lounge on Eye St. has been a prominent issue over the last few years, especially with the abundance of students with a free eighth period. Many with free eighth wait around for people to drive home out of common courtesy. This is tough to accomplish with limited space to occupy during the period. Yet another make-shift senior lounge has been taken away.

It is clear that the K Street parking lot holds an unwanted reputation that no one wants to have, but is posting a security officer the best solution? “It used to be comforting when I would come outside to find guys in the lot, hanging around, maybe playing football or something. But now I walk out to an empty lot. I feel lonely,” commented Jack Garvey, a senior with an 8th period class and a spot in K Street. Being forced to leave seems like a bit of a stretch. A patrol may improve the atmosphere, but an enforcer destroys it.

Those with spots in the tennis courts find themselves on the upper hand of an unfair situation. They have the

freedom to hang out, listen to music, and toss around the football. George Swirski, a spot holder in K Street, agrees with most students, “I think it’s a little ridiculous

that we pay $300 to have access to the parking lot and then aren’t allowed to hang out with friends by our cars.”

As the weather gets warmer in the coming weeks, seniors

would normally look forward to socializing in the parking lots, listening to music in cars, and ‘lounging’ like seniors should, but for now, they are stuck inside.

K Street Lot in the late afternoon. (Jordan Person ‘14)

The Impact of Wal-Mart By: Jarell Gibbs ‘17 Contributor There has been a lot of talk about the new Wal-Mart that hit Eye Street a couple of months ago. The chatter is understandable, due to WalMart’s low prices, variety of items and close proximity to Gonzaga. Many of the students are taking advantage of this, as they take casual trips there daily for sweets, fruit, or drinks. It is also great if you need to pick up an item of any sort after school. Although there are many positives about the new Wal-Mart there are also some nega-

tives. “I think it has too many employees, and there really isn’t enough space to have a Wal-Mart.” says Mr. Timothy Christmann. It is an interesting point that Mr. Christmann brings up because if you have been to the Wal-Mart, you notice there are quite a few employees there, and it could get overcrowded. This could also be viewed as a positive because if anyone needs help looking for an item, there’s always someone to help.

Others say that this a great place to put a Wal-Mart. “It is a convenient place to go after school for Gonzaga students,” remarked Alex

The Aquilian

Founded In 1940 Gonzaga College HIgh School 19 Eye Street NW Washington, DC 20001 aquilian@gonzaga.org Men For Others in the Jesuit Tradition Since 1821

Davidson, ‘15. In terms of placement, one could argue that this is the perfect place to put a Wal-Mart because it is near one of the busiest ar-

eas in the city. It also opens up more job opportunities, and not to mention the fact that many of the items in the Wal-Mart are affordable

enough such that one could walkin with a couple of dollars and get a good treat. “It is very cheap and the location is perfect,” commented Mark Lewis, ’17. The most important question in terms of food is: Is it good? Well, as I have heard from the students, the food there is pretty good. “There are a great variety of delicious fruits,” asserted Michael Davis and Brian Gorman, ’17. Based on the information given by the students I would definitely swing by Wal-Mart, and you might be surprised with what they have in store for you.

Wal-Mart on the corner of H and First. (Jordan Person ‘14)

Editors-in-Chief Andrew Hohman ‘14

Sports Editor Derrell Bouknight ‘15

Managing Editors Marcus Dennis ‘14 Christian Prince ‘14

Features Editor Alejandro Espinosa ‘14

Production Editors Christian Forte ‘14 Jordan Person ‘14

Copy Editor Konrad Woo ‘15 Staff Photographers John O’Neil ‘14 Nick Lazaroae ‘17

Moderator: Dr. Harry Rissetto

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Freedom of the PRESS By: Hunter Watson ‘14 Senior Contributor In 1789, the forefathers of the great United States of America wrote our Constitution. Writers of this brilliant document claimed their purpose was to “create a more perfect union,” which is beyond admirable. They recognized issues within their society, collected themselves in an orderly fashion, and drew up an effective resolution to the conflicts. As these legendary men generated ideas on the preservation of the United States, they also kept in mind the preservation of their individual rights.

If you ever walk through the cafeteria or lower commons during 4th, 5th, or 6th periods, you may notice the student body is not as lively or as energetic as it was during the first quarter of the school year. Is it because of the unpredictable weather, the lack of non-Gonzaga distributed hooded sweatshirts, or maybe even the dreaded and feared second semester blues? No, it is none of those. The truth is the student body is facing a great injustice, a loss of a right, some may even say cruel and unusual punishment, one of the exact issues the

forefathers came together as though we, educated to prevent. We students young men of Gonzaga, have lost our freedom of cannot be trusted around the (sandwich) press. a sandwich press without Ever since a couple of burning a hand or a Styrostudents burned their ex- foam plate. This claim may tremities while using the be true; however, with the beloved sandwich presses, reinstallation of the sandwe as a community of stu- wich press, we could learn dents and faculty members not only a great lesson in have had to suffer.

How a young man could be admitted to and enter Gonzaga without the knowledge or sense of how to use a sandwich press is beyond me; it is mindboggling. When a student neglects to pay attention or properly prepare for a class or an assessment, does The cause of our misery, the hope for our future. the remainder of the class suffer the con- responsibility but also an sequences along with the irreplaceable lesson in the negligent student? No, they skill of savory sandwich do not, so why must we feel pressing. the pain or mistakes made Nothing but good can by a few students? come out of the reinstalEveryone deserves a lation of these precious second chance, no mat- presses. We as a student ter how big or, in this case, body would gain an even how small the error was. greater respect for the Some naysayers may feel men and women of SAGE

who previously pressed our sandwiches. We could appreciate the art of sandwich crafting as well as truly value the footlongs we painstakingly wait in the excruciatingly long lines for. The potential positives outweigh the almost nonexistent negatives in this debate on pressing or not pressing. The reinstallation of the press would stimulate more students (and possibly teachers, too) to purchase sandwiches, thus increasing SAGE’s profits.

Students would, without a doubt, become happier, which would lead to better behavior inside and outside school (i.e. at sporting events, dances, and assemblies).

Furthermore, content students would perform better in class, on the field, and even on the stage, which, in turn would, lead to happier teachers, coaches, and audience members. The pleasure felt by those groups would lead to an even greater image of Gonzaga, which would

increase the number of applicants to the school and even to more financial support from alumni, parents, and outside parties. Gonzaga could then use that money to assist facilities, such as the McKenna Center and the Christopher T. Flannery Music Center, or to present those who are less fortunate with even more financial aid. In the end, reinstallation of the presses would build the legacy of Gonzaga to even greater heights.

What could be better than that?

Sure, some students could potentially still burn a finger or a plate, but with proper guidance and instruction from classmates (we are men for others) surely these small wrongs could be altered and prevented. Countless students would forego their privileges of self-pressing or self-serving just to see or smell the presses behind that layer of glass again in their rightful place, not only in the cafeteria, but also in our hearts. We have recognized the issues within our society, collected ourselves in an orderly fashion, and now we have drawn up an effective resolution to the conflict. To press, or not to press. That is the question.

Gonzaga students, and others whose academic institutions abide by MCPS, were infuriated by the typically delayed decision by the school system.

It is a well known issue that most high-school students do not get enough sleep due to a variety of reasons.

Interrupting one’s slumber at five a.m. to make sure there is no school seems pointless, especially when the conditions were often times clearly dangerous enough for cancellation.

Ryan McElveen, the AtLarge school board member for the nearby Fairfax County Public School system, frustrated Gonzaga students even more out of kindness.

McElveen has become a local twitter celebrity when he began connecting with the students through social me-

school board members from area students and parents.

When another storm hit a month later, MCPS kept its doors open, forcing students and parents to take to the road in unsafe conditions.

That night, news outlets were discussing the second batch of complaints against the

school board’s decisions.

With the actions taken by the MCPS resulting in criticism from all sides, is it time we go by the decision of a different county? That’s a whole other discussion. We are just lucky that we appear to be nearing the end of this long, harsh winter.

Montgomery County Schools Are...?

By:Andrew Hohman ‘17 Editor in Chief “We’re monitoring the weather and will announce any changes to school operations by 5 a.m ... If no announcement, school opens on time.” With said habitual tweet from Dand Tofig, Public Information Officer for Montgomery County Public Schools, I set my alarm for the given deadline. Seven hours later, I wake up to find that we do not in fact have school, along with all the other counties in the Washington Metropolitan area! If only MOCO had cancelled the night before like every other county.

This winter season has brought many school closings, and these closings have excited students all around the DMV. However, until the Valentine’s storm hit,

dia.

Tofig has experienced a different relationship with students. When waiting to cancel school after a big snowstorm in mid-December, and then waiting again the next day, the ‘twittersphere’ blew up with meanspirited jabs at him and other

Snow covers the sidewalks (Christian Forte ‘14)

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Spike in Wisdom: Gonzaga’s New Jesuit Arrivals By: Gabe Castro ‘15 Contributor Get to know the newest Jesuit additions to the Gonzaga Community!

to study for about ten years before ordination, unless he has chosen to become a Jesuit Brother (a Jesuit but not a priest). An important feature of Jesuit studies is that we study philosophy for two to three years. This sharpens our intellectual capacity to think and reason very clearly and to analyze situations and make wise judgments.

they are Catholic or not.

GC: Is there a saint with whom you share a strong relationship and often pray to?

Fr. Gap: Even though they Fr. Gasper “Gap” LoBiondo, are not canonized saints, I S.J., is Gonzaga’s newly apfeel very close to Father Horpointed Rector of the Jesuit ace McKenna, S.J., whose Community. Early in life, Fr. love for the homeless made Gap discerned God’s plan for him an extraordinary Jesuit. him and sought to fulfill this I also feel very close to Facalling through the Society ther Pedro Arrupe, S.J., who of Jesus. He was ordained in GC: What is a favor- courageously employed the 1968 and found a home in the ite memory from your teachings of the Second Vatiunderprivileged communities of Chile, where he embodied the true definition of a Man for Others.

Mr. G: My attraction to the Jesuits is perhaps quite unspectacular. Basically, I was attracted to the joyful community life, deep spirituality, and fulfilling ministry of many Jesuits. As a member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps upon graduation in 2007, I lived at Our Lady of Guadalupe, a Jesuit-run parish in San Antonio. Since we were neighbors, I got to know the Jesuits who lived and worked at the parish very well. Three

GC: When did you know you wanted to enter the Jesuit order?

Fr. G: I first got the idea when I was a sophomore in high school, but I finally made the decision to become a candidate for admission a few years into college.

GC: What really sets the Society of Jesuit apart from religious orders i.e. Franciscans, Benedictines, Dominicans, etc.?

Fr. Gap: A number of important factors set the Society of Jesus apart from other Catholic communities.

Firstly, Jesuit Spirituality, which we also call “Ignatian Spirituality,” was shaped by St. Ignatius Loyola and a group of companion-friends who decided to become a religious order in 1540. This spirituality is very distinctive in the Church–it reflects a worldview stressing openness to God’s omnipresent love and activeness in all aspects of every person’s life.

So, it is our job to “find God in all things” and celebrate the way He shows up, rather than thinking we are the ones who bring God to other people. Secondly, other religious orders are monastic–that is, those who join them become monks and follow rules requiring monastic community life. St. Ignatius, though he built on monastic traditions, wanted Jesuits to be open to going anywhere in the world where they are sent, and to do anything in the world that helps souls. So, we have Jesuit doctors, Jesuit lawyers, Jesuit clowns, Jesuit teachers, Jesuit pastors, etc. You name it and there’s a Jesuit who does it. Thirdly, Jesuit training sets us apart from the other orders. Every Jesuit has

Mr. Geraghty, nSJ, Mr. Konzman, SJ, and Fr. Gap LoBiondo, SJ in front of Dooley Chapel (Jordan Person ‘14)

travels with the Jesuits?

Fr. Gap: My favorite memory is teaching in our Jesuit high School in Southern Chile and spending five years as a newly ordained Jesuit priest in the poorest neighborhoods of Santiago, the country’s capital.

GC: What are three things most people don’t know about you?

Fr. Gap: I play the accordion pretty well! 2) I grew up on a farm in South Jersey. 3) All my grandparents were born in a little village called Belmonte Mezzagno in the outskirts of Palermo, Sicily.

GC: If you were to meet Pope Francis, what might you say to His Holiness between two Jesuits?

Fr. Gap: I’d love to thank Pope Francis for giving us the kind of personal example we need in today’s Church. I would encourage him to continue “breaking out of the old mold” and reaching out to all people, regardless of whether

can Council, which started bringing the Church into better dialogue with the modern world.

years later, as I expressed interest in discerning religious life, the Jesuits of Saint Joseph’s University welcomed me quite generously into GC: What are you look- their community life. ing forward to as Rector of the Gonzaga community? GC: What’s the difference Fr. Gap: As Rector of the between a Scholastic, a Gonzaga Jesuit Community brother, and a seminarian?

I am looking forward to par- Mr. G: All scholastics have ticipating in the Kairos where completed the full two years I can get to know more stu- of the novitiate program and dents. I also look forward to have committed to the vowed bringing the excitement of life. This stage of Jesuit forIgnatian Spirituality to the mation typically includes infaculty members. tensive study of philosophy and theology, in addition to Mr. Chris Geraghty, n.S.J. a period of full-time miniscompleted college at John try called regency (i.e. Mr. Carroll University and en- Nichols and Mr. Konzman). tered the Novitiate in August Brothers share the same reli2012. He is currently as- gious vows as Jesuit priests, signed to Gonzaga’s Cam- but offer gifts, unique and pus Ministry department. complementary, to those of Mr. Geraghty enjoys playing priests ordained to celebrate tennis, watching soccer, and the sacraments. The term bike riding. seminarian is typically used to describe a man studying to GC: Could you explain your become a diocesan priest, as conversion or the moment opposed to a priest within a you decided to pursue a reli- religious order. gious vocation?

GC: How long does it normally take for a brother to become a Jesuit?

B: For the Society of Jesus, ordination to the priesthood typically takes place at about the 12 year mark of formation. Men who are interested in the Society of Jesus work with the Vocation Director, who is a Jesuit, in the intentional process of discerning entry into the novitiate. Those accepted into the novitiate engage a two-year discernment of religious life as a Jesuit. During the two years, novices participate in a range of formative experiences, while immersed in the Jesuit way of life and prayer.

At the end of novitiate, certain men will be invited to take religious vows.

GC: How long have you been studying to become a priest/ fully initiated Jesuit?

Mr. G: I entered the Jesuit novitiate in Syracuse in August of 2012. During these 18 months, my novice classmates and I have studied the history of the Society of Jesus, engaged its spirituality, shared intentional community life, participated in local ministries, and been missioned on some short-term experiments.

GC: What is your Favorite song/genre?

Mr. G: Nashville Country is my favorite genre. As far as Christian hymns are concerned, I listen to Advent/ Christmas songs throughout the entire year.

GC: What is your Favorite TV Show?

Mr. G: Friday Night Lights, without a doubt.

GC: What do you believe is the perfect prayer?

Mr. G: In my humble opinion, the greatest prayer that Ignatius contributed to Catholic spirituality and the world at large is the Examen. This intentional exercise grounds our daily thoughts and actions in Christ and opens us to the guidance of His Spirit.

GC: What’s your best advice?

Mr. G: Be honest and trust your desires.

Continued on p. 5

Spike in Wisdom Continued from p.4 Mr. Brian Konzman, S.J., graduated from the University of Scranton and teaches Computer Science & Math.

In his free time, Mr. Konzman enjoys reading and playing video games. Although he thinks it is pretty boring, he admits he is an introvert at heart. So was Einstein.

sion, though, it was a long time before I began to pray again. When I finally did, I discovered a very strong, more-than-a-little terrifying certainty that I was supposed to be a Jesuit priest. I ran from that certainty for a long while, but it kept popping up at the most pivotal moments.

I finally gave in and started praying and discerning more GC: So what exactly is a seriously.

“Scholastic?”

Mr. K: A scholastic is some- GC: What are your favorite body who has taken first hobbies? vows, but not yet final vows. Mr. K: I like reading and It’s the stage in between the playing video games. Pretty novitiate and being a full Je- boring, I know, but I’m an insuit. Even once ordained, a trovert at heart. man is a scholastic until final vows–for example, Fr. Conti GC: What is your favorite is still a scholastic for the song/genre?

Mr. K: I love the song “Fa time being.

Fa,” by Guster, though my GC: How long have you been favorite genre is generally studying to become a priest? hip hop.

Mr. K: I’ve been a Jesuit for the past five and a half GC: What is your favorite years–I’m just about half- TV Show? way through the process to Mr. K: Battlestar Galactica priesthood. As to how long or The Walking Dead until I’m called to final vows (again, God willing, some GC: What do you believe is day), that’s up to Father Gen- the perfect prayer? eral. He’s the one who de- Mr. K: The perfect prayer cides if and when Jesuits take is the one that works for the person praying. That’s diffinal vows. ferent for different people at GC: Could you explain your different times in different conversion or the moment circumstances of their lives. you decided to pursue a reli- The important thing is that people pray, not what they gious vocation?

Mr. K: I didn’t believe much pray. in God while I was in high school. It was some teach- GC: What is your best aders and experiences I had that vice? converted me back to active Mr. K: Little inches and confaith. Even after that conver- sistency.

Indoor Track

By: Jake Miller ‘14 Senior Contributor

the field, as well as Marcus Dennis and Jordan “PDS” Franklin on the track. The track team looks to rebound this spring after DeMatha and McNamara split the outdoor WCAC title last year. Despite polar vortexes and severe conditions of snow and ice on the track, the team has trained hard this winter, with their eyes set on a victory in outdoor WCAC Championships this spring.

The Track and Field team has continued its tradition of success this winter in remarkable fashion. Led by Maurice Holmes, Chris Hoyle, and Kevin Pulliam, the team won its seventh straight Private Schools Championship and became back-to-back DC State Champions with a four point victory over Georgetown Day School at the Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex.

Later that week, the squad once again defeated their foes from Georgetown Day in the Hoxton Invitational at Episcopal. Coach Alvin Maddox refused to comment on the team’s success. The team looks very promising for a strong outdoor season with help from a veteran core of seniors with Ben Stallings, Turner Indoor Track Takes Title Echols, and Logan Wallace in

Wrestling Recap By: Tristan Seton ‘14 Senior Contributor On Monday, February 10, instead of sitting in their 8th period classes, many of Gonzaga’s students found themselves in the Carmody Center, cheering on the wrestling team as they faced Perry Street in the final dual-meet of the season. This was Gonzaga’s Midday Melee, a special event not seen at Gonzaga since 2010, when the current seniors were freshmen.

On this day, some teachers bring their 8th period classes to the gym to watch the Gonzaga Wrestling Team compete. Because wrestling is one of the sports that many students do not get the opportunity to watch often, not only did this highly anticipated day mark the return of a Gonzaga tradition, but also

proved to be a highly entertaining afternoon. The large student body that came to watch remained engaged in the match and cheered for each wrestler as he wrestled. Despite the fact that Perry Street brought some very talented athletes, Gonzaga won most of the matches and was able to successfully improve their dual-meet record to 10-4.

With the wrestlers pinning their opponents and the crowd roaring each takedown, head Coach Milton Yates summarized it best when he offhandedly remarked to himself, “This is so cool.”

The Midday Melee was a great end to a great season. It was recognition of the team’s hard work and dedication this season. Ending the season 10-4 in dual-meets is a significant improvement from last year’s record, and the team is predict-

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ed to keep on improving. Some credit this success to Coach Yates and the dedicated coaching staff, as well as the strong leadership from the captains Denis Whitcomb ‘15, Matt Kerns ‘15, Will MacDonald ‘16, and Jonny Biagini ‘16. Others believe the success is due to the sweet MyTeam gear. Whatever the cause, if Gonzaga Wrestling continues to work hard, it will have a strong presence in DC for the 2015 season. On February 17th, Gonzaga placed second at the DC championships, with MacDonald and Biagini dominating their respective brackets and qualifying for National Preps. With only two seniors leaving next season, the team hopes to claim 1st place in the DC championships, and place in the WCAC championships.

Daniel Bello ‘16 sizes up his opponent. (Nick Lazaroae ‘17)

Basketball Wrap-up By: Derrell Bouknight ‘14 Sports Editor Despite their first losing season in recent memory, Gonzaga is still one of the most prominent teams in not only the WCAC, but in the country. With dynamic players who possess multiple assets on both ends of the floor, the Eagles can prove to be a tough opponent in this year’s WCAC playoffs.

After a fifteen-point loss to arch rival DeMatha earlier in the year, Stags Head Coach Mike Jones praised Gonzaga. “This is the WCAC, and they’re a really good team,” Jones stated about Gonzaga, “and we know that we can possibly see them once again

in the playoffs.” Certainly, who ever the Eagles end up playing in the postseason won’t be faced with any easy task, despite their record.

With Coach Turner at the helm and many pieces incorporated into his system, don’t be surprised if the Eagles end up making a deep run. This year’s grueling schedule, which featured several outof-state matchups, has prepared the team mentally and physically for what has yet to come. Similar to Coach Brady’s mentality, exposing the team to a vast spectrum of talent throughout the country has proven to better the team, and Turner has taken the same approach. Although a few of those games resulted

in defeats, the experience and boost it provided going into the later portions of the season was unprecedented.

Currently, Gonzaga sits in fifth place in the WCAC with a 10-17 record. The WCAC playoffs will begin on Thursday, February 20. With a run in store and a title at stake, the Eagles will look to capture what every team wants. With unmatched energy and effort, the student section will, without a doubt, be a force to be reckoned with this year. As five seniors depart for college next year, the basketball team would certainly love to go out with a bang. Come out to support Gonzaga. Let’s show some school spirit. Let’s go win a championship.

Gonzaga’s 26 student-athletes on Signing Day. (Conrad Singh, Development Office)

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The March 4 Life

By: Charlie Workmaster ‘17 Contributor On Wednesday, January 22, 2014, thousands of protesters filled the chilly streets of Washington D.C., not far from Gonzaga. The snow covered the Mall, and the temperature was about 12 degrees, with the wind chill below zero. But none of that seemed to bother this coat-clad army. It was a good turnout as usual and heavily attended by teens and young adults, the generation most affected by abortion. Last year, approximately 650,000 protesters attended the March, but this year about 400,000 showed up. There probably would have been many more protesters if the weather had been better. Many of the protesters travelled for hours to get to the March to voice their opinion. Most of the Marchers were holding signs that were handed out at the March. Some would say “I am the pro-life generation” or “Defend Life” and my favorite, “#teamlife.” In addition to these popular slogans

there were many homemade posters most of which quoted the Bible, Pope Francis, or Dr. Seuss. In addition to the protesters at the Mall there were others gathered at the Armory, the Verizon Center, and for the first time, the Patriot Center. A total of 34,000 tickets were given to students to attend one of these rallies, but unfortunately the weather decreased the number of those who attended. However, the Pro-Life Movement isn’t just limited to the number of people who showed up at the Marches. There are millions, maybe billions more who are part of this movement to defend life.

Fiddler on Eye Street By: Peter Brown ‘17 Contributor Following Gonzaga’s smash hit, Noises Off, the Gonzaga Dramatic Association comes together again to present Fiddler on the Roof. The show is about a man named Tevye, played

by Chris McDonnell, and his struggles preserving the traditions made by his forefathers as the outside world attempts to change his way of life. “I am very eager to be a part of this show,” Chris said. He has been a part of all GDA shows since his freshman year. Despite his experience, Chris added that “[he] feels very nervous about [the show].” The last time Gonzaga did Fiddler on the Roof was the fall of 1976. Doctor Warman (Class of 1957) helped with that production almost forty years ago. “I am very excited for the show,” he stated. “We have a very talented group to work with.” Doc plays piano for the show. Fiddler is being directed by Mr. Allan L’Etoile, an English teacher at

Fiddler On the Roof begins rehersal. (Peter Brown ‘17)

Gonzaga. “I am very excited about what we are making here,” Mr. L’Etoile said. “It’s different than the shows we usually do, simply because it doesn’t have as much singing and dancing involved with it.” He has been directing shows at Gonzaga since

1997. When asked as what he plans to focus on, Mr. L’Etoile simply said: “We want to give the audience an evening of fun. We want to make sure that they have a good time.” Fiddler premiers in the Sheehy Theatre on Friday, March 7, 2014.

The GFR: Freshmen Retreat HUGE Success By: Gabe Castro ‘15 Contributor On January 17th, the freshmen class gathered for a weekend retreat, oblivious to what would unfold in the next couple of days.

ones I never got to know very a really good experience. It well before. It was a really definitely helped me grow as fun time.” a leader… I would do it again if I could.”

-Matthew Foreman -Liam Schulz, junior “It was eye-opening. My retreat leader Tom Sullivan “It reminded me of my was really cool. He’s in my when I was a freshman. Awedebate team, but I didn’t some time.” know him that well before.

-Chandler Hughes, junior He helped make the retreat unforgettable.”

“When I was a freshman,

On the first day of the retreat, the freshmen...THE FOLLOWING MATERIAL IS EXTREMELY SENSITIVE AND HAS BEEN -Ryan Caulfield, Holden CENSORED BY THE Caulfield’s second cousin, NATIONAL SECURITY twice removed AGENCY UNDER Exec.

This student probably Order No. 13,526, 75 Fed. enjoyed the experience more Reg. 707 (Jan. 5, 2010)… than anyone else: …Well, it seems the feds “Mr. McIntyre, can you have prohibited us at The Aquilian from disclosing the hold me back one more time “super-confidential” and sup- so I can go to the Freshman posedly “pro-Communist” Retreat again?” information connected to -Jack Buckley, a dethe inner workings of the GFR, so instead of reveal- ranged forty year-old man ing government confidences who’s been a student at Gonand risking deportation, I’ll zaga since the 70’s focus on the aftermath of the The freshmen weren’t the retreat. The freshmen gave only ones who had a blast. very enthusiastic responses The retreat leaders got a lot when asked about this year’s out of the retreat, too: GFR: “[The freshman] seemed “I learned a lot about my really into it. Some were classmates, especially the hesitant, but overall it was

I had an awesome experience. I tried my best to recreate that experience for the freshman this year.”

-Matthew Cabrera, junior

Based on the generally positive reviews, it is safe to say the retreat was an overall success. The GFR is just one of the many spiritual experiences Gonzaga has to offer, emphasizing the values of brotherhood, service, and virtue present in all Gonzagaeans. When asked if they would recommend partaking in the retreat to future Gonzaga students, freshmen responded with a definite “YES!” They then proceeded to combine their fists and scream “Justice League, UNITE!”

Gonzaga Freshmen Retreat 2014 (Christian Forte ‘14)

Gonzaga Goes National...Gallery Christian Prince ‘14 Managing Editor Dr. Schaffer’s AP Art History class ventured to the National Gallery of Art for its sole field trip. After months of experiencing works of art through the dead two-dimensionality of textbook images and power point slides, the class could now relish in the full forms of sculpture and the retinal nuances of paint.

The field trip focused on the Gallery’s exhibit Art of Byzantium from Greek Collections, which spans from October 6, 2013 to March 2,

2014.

Students were separated into groups led by tour guides and led through a timeline of Byzantium art.

For this exhibit, The National Gallery had unique access to over 170 rare and important works of Byzantium, many which had never been lent before to the United States.

The museum presented collections of busts, altarpieces, and portraits in five thematic sections, including Intellectual Life and The Pleasures of Life.

Students witnessed the

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evolution of Byzantium visual culture from its beginnings in the ancient pagan world of the late Roman Empire to the opulent and deeply spiritual world of the new Christian Byzantine Empire.

Works like

Vince Tramonte ‘15 and Patrick Miskovsky ‘15 at work (National Gallery Photographer)

Jordan Person ‘14 works on a sketch (National Gallery Photographer)

the Icon of the Archangel Michael epitomize the religiosity intrinsic to Byzantine artwork ever since Constantine’s conversion to Christianity (save for the

periods when iconography was banned).

After hours of viewing, students were tasked with sketching their own renderings of a Byzantine work.

Then, in the Gallery’s room for school groups, students colored their sketchess, trying to approximate the Byzantine style. Dr. Schaeffer states that this exercise was

purposed to allow art history dilettantes to embody the Byzantine artists they had studied and thereby notice and appreciate the nuances and idiosyncrasies of the work.

“A good day,” relates senior Aidan Kenney. “A very good day.”

The Return of the Boss Marcus Dennis ‘14 Managing Editor Longtime English teacher, GDA Director, and author of the iconic Gonzaga Writing Project, Mr. L’Étoile spent his first semester on a sabbatical away from Eye St..

Mr. L’Étoile’s absence was felt in almost every aspect of the school, but proved to be both an enjoyable and worthwhile experience for him, helping him sharpen his knowledge of dramatics and innovate creative new teaching methods. I was able to catch up with Mr. L’Étoile and ask him a few questions about his time away from the Eagles’ nest.

Me: How exactly did you spend your time away from Gonzaga?

Mr. L: I took four classes— directing, acting, auditioning, and voice --at George Mason University. My classes met Tuesdays and Thursdays (we college guys know how to make long weekends for our-

selves). I had lots of homework, wrote lots of papers, memorized six monologues, took part in several small scenes from plays for class, and hung out with the youth.

When I wasn’t at school, I was caring for sick animals (one of our cats and a dog died in the fall), painting my house, and hanging out with Mrs. L. I rested up. I had fun.

Me: How will it help you as a teacher and as a director?

Mr. L: Lots of what I learned about acting and directing I am using now as I direct Fiddler. I have new things to share with the kids in theater.

I hope, one day, Gonzaga will let me teach a class in theater, where I can use even more of what I learned to help kids who might want to do theater in college or who might just want to learn more about it.

In such a class, we could do shows such as A Soldier’s Play, Twelve Angry Men, or others that have smaller casts than we usually perform in

the GDA. It’d give kids the chance to expand their repertoire. But I also learned a lot about teaching by being a student. I learned (or relearned) how organized a student has to be in order to make sure he keeps up with all his class deadlines. I relearned the importance of taking notes in class. I watched kids around me in classes at the university: The ones who took notes did the best in the classes; the ones who didn’t struggled, flunked, or withdrew. I also was able to see how teachers respond to things that go on in class—to kids texting, to the student who isn’t paying attention, to kids asking questions or looking for clarification. I saw how four other teachers (all of them very good in different ways) handled things that I have to handle at Gonzaga every day.

It was nice to have a chance to see how others do what I’d been doing all along AND to see how they do it differently than I do. I’m never too old

to learn new things.

to school (zzzzzz). And the third has been the weather—I Me: What were some chal- haven’t met with my classes lenges that came with it? very often (or in long stretchMr. L: The biggest challenge es) yet this spring. was letting go of Gonzaga. I had to—and I did—trust that Me: Any final thoughts about Mr. Sampugnaro, Ms. Miller, your sabbatical or return to Mr. Welch, and Mr. Pierce school? would do a great job teaching Mr. L: All in all, the sabbatimy classes (and they did). I cal was relaxing, refreshing, had to trust that Mr. Curtain and fun. Everyone should would take care of my role take a sabbatical! It’s rein GDA, which he did. The ally nice that Gonzaga lets second biggest challenge was its teachers do so. (Thanks, learning to get up at 5:30 ev- Gonzaga.) It’s also nice beery morning when I returned ing back.

Mr. L’Etoile back on campus (Christian Forte ‘14)

THE GONZAGAEAN QUANDARY Alejandro Espinosa‘14 Features Editor Standard Aquilian Disclaimer: This article features a dangerously high degree of satire. It is not for beginners. If SNL regularly upsets you - please stop reading immediately and grab the nearest copy of The Economist.

If lingering disgust lasts for more than four hours, please seek immediate medical attention. Reader beware, you have been warned...really.

As many of you all know, Valentine’s Day recently passed. And, naturally, after hearing many stories from their more experienced friends, many Gonzaga students are confronting the ageold Gonzagaean Quandary.

The Quandary first appeared in a published text in 1832, where Gonzaga senior and future mayor of Washington, DC, Richard Wallach, mentioned it in an essay. An excerpt of this essay, provided by Mr. Rick Cannon, mentions this legendary dilemma.

‘Tis been too many years since we have known The quandary which has my brethren stunned

Us Gonzagaeans always stand alone Pray tell, what in the world is a wo-man?

After inquiring with Mr. Rick Cannon about the odd form of writing, he attested that immediately following the founding of Gonzaga College High School, all students were required to write in Shakespearean sonnet form and strictly adhere to the Roman numeral system.

Prose was unacceptable.

Well to this end, I have collected all available resources to answer this question. Today, on the 182nd anniversary of this memorable event, we shall finally put this quandary past us.

Young, inexperienced freshmen and sophomores wonder in utter confusion as older juniors and seniors strut coolly, telling tales of their magical Valentine’s Day dinner, where they finally held their long-term girlfriend’s hand for the first time. I remember when I myself was a rosy-faced 9th grader and the legendary Tomas Field told me of how he once held hands with his cousin’s friend, who was in college at the time.

Personally, I have never

spoken more than six words to a wo-man. Being a senior at an all-guys school, I even get extremely uncomfortable whenever a wo-man says my name (it’s happened twice).

But I still consider myself the most experienced wo-manologist at Gonzaga. Many people call me the Doctor, for I speak of the pompatus of love (others call me Maurice, but that’s beside the point).

So how do we approach the terrifying but beautiful creature that some call a woman? Even I, expert as I am, still have the butler lay out my brown pants whenever an occasion might call for the engagement of so-called “flirting.” According to my expert researchers, “flirting” is when one talks to a woman so well that the wo-man has no desire to slap them.

No one except Burt Reynolds and Konrad “Woo” has mastered this fleeting technique.

I, for one, avoid any unnecessary conversation altogether. Following my example can be difficult. It requires years of training.

But here are some basic (but professional) tips on avoiding wo-men, generously written by the crew team: 1. Join the crew team,

and give up your social life entirely.

2. Look at the floor while walking past wo-men.

3. While rowing a 2K, only play music that wo-men avoid (i.e. Linkin Park).

4. Sell your soul to the Cos. But if avoiding wo-men isn’t for you, our friends at the GDA sent us some tips on how to talk to wo-men: 1. Remember that they are your friends and nothing more.

2. Sing notes as high as you can.

3. Don’t let them be evicted from their hometown in Czarist Russia circa 1905.

4. Go to formals with them—but only as friends!

However, reknowned wo-man-ologist, Dr. Alejandro Espinosa, Ph.E=mcv, proposes a completely different solution. If a wo-man that you fancy walks through the cafeteria, it is an absolute requirement to take all the remaining food on your plate (hopefully an impressive amount) and place it at once within your gaping maw. As you begin to choke and gag from lack of oxygen to your giant brain the object of your affection, along with the rest

of the cafeteria, will notice you and only you, as you stand out from your peers.

At this point it is imperative (even if receiving the heimlich from a kindly ASC) to choke and gag even louder and with greater passion.

If all else fails, simply approach a wo-man and KISS her. Preferably, use “Rock and Roll All Nite,” although it is also acceptable to utilize “Detroit Rock City” or “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” Scientists (and reality TV viewers) have proven time and time again that wo-men absolutely love Gene Simmons.

I sincerely hope this article has helped you in your journey to understand (and maybe even talk to) wo-man.

However, we must never forget our heritage. As proud Gonzaga students, we must always shy away from women. If it was good enough for Richard Wallach, Class of MDCCCXXXII, it is definitely good enough for the rest of us.

And please always take the opportunity to make a fart joke. Always.

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O Kohlmann...jealousy doth not become thee