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Loma Linda Academy

Volume 72 Number 1

September 2004

The Mirror Volume 72, Number 1

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

September

Good to Great Monika Bliss

Meet the Staff Nathaniel Savard

Dividing Line Monika Bliss

New Faces Michele Pai

Uniforms Warrie Layon

Taking Care of Business Anjuli Cruz

Briefs Compiled by Ally Cronk

The Mirror Staff Editors: Reporters

Sponser: Publisher: Email:

Monika Bliss Eric Whedbee Ally Cronk Anjuli Cruz Jon Ford Warrie Layon Michele Pai Nathaniel Savard Danelle Taylor Doug Herrmann Mirror@lla.org Loma Linda Academy 10656 Anderson St. Loma Linda, CA 92354

On the Cover:

Allysse & Cameron Buckley PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANJULI CRUZ All layout design by Eric Whedbee & Monika Bliss

2004

International Exchange Ally Cronk

Curriculum Review Eric Whedbee

School Blues John Macabuhay

Sound Check: Mike Isberto Jon Ford

Small Talk Compiled by Warrie Layon

Dedication to Harley Boehm

Volume 72, Number 1

Good to Great I was on a plane over Labor Day weekend and noticed that the person sitting next to me was in the Navy. Letʼs call him Josh. He was tall, his head buzzed, the stereotype of a man in the Navy. As I introduced myself, he commented on (well made fun of) my favorite baby-blue Converse shoes, and we started a conversation. I donʼt generally ask about life in the Navy, but for some reason, I felt that I could ask him. Quite curious, I asked how his life had changed since he was in the Navy, and I was surprised how easily he poured out his life to me. Apparently, he had grown up in Mexico and his mom had died of cancer when he was nine. At the age of twelve, he suffered his dadʼs death from alcohol abuse. I sat motionless in my seat in complete shock, and he seemed to struggle to tell me the rest. I couldnʼt relate to his story in the slightest. Sure, I donʼt live with either of my parents, but they are still alive and Iʼm very close to them. But his plot thickened. As he cleared his throat, he told me how he had no family left. He somehow moved to Texas, basically lived out on the streets, and made his way through high school. He literally slept under bridges or out on the cafeteria tables outside after school while he was just a teenager. After all this, he decided to make the best out of his situation, and he did. He joined the Navy, and heʼs not on the streets anymore. Josh turned his life around and has become successful when he could have just given up. This year Loma Linda Academy has chosen the theme “Good to Great.” Looking at Joshʼs story, I can see how he made that transition in his life. This year we have a new beginning. So many things are different—everything from uniforms to new people to new classes. We

have a chance to move from that good standpoint in our lives to a great standpoint. For myself, I have chosen to go from “Good to Great” by including God in my life more than I have in the past. Growing up in a Christian home, Iʼve been fortunate to have God play a role in all of my life. This has given me strength in many areas. For instance, when Iʼm stressing out over how much work I have to do, I just pray, and somehow or another I get it all done—without being so stressed. Or if I am having a horrible day, I just look to God for relief, and someone will come around and smile at me. This is just one way I see God on our campus all the time. But what Iʼve come to realize is that not everyone lets God into their lives. Perhaps people do not let God in out of fear, or how a personʼs “status” may change, or how he/she is just “too busy” to have God play a role in his/her life. Everyone has his/her own challenges in life. Josh has his share of challenges, I have my own, and so does everybody else. However, when God is there to help me through my challenges, I have more strength. In times of crisis, I then see that Iʼm not alone. When everyone else is too busy to listen, God is there to listen for as long as I need Him to. I believe God is there regardless if you want Him there or not, but you can experience Him so much more if you invite Him in. “You didnʼt have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I assure you, even if you had strength as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ʻMove from here to there,ʼ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” – Matthew 17:20, 21. After looking at Joshʼs life, then looking at mine, I see how we all can be better people. During our ﬁrst chapel this year, Pastor Tim encouraged us to all move from “Good to Great.” The perfect way to start that transition is to rely more on God because He is always there, in every situation.

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

Meet theStaﬀ

We gather information. We write stories. We meet deadlines. We create what you know as the Mirror. Why? Because it’s fun. When? Once a month. What? This small newspaper for the school and all those interested. Where? In the great Mac Lab. Who? that wonderful group of people, gathered from around the world mentioned below.

Ms. Danelle Taylor Teacher of Journalism, Photography, and College English. Lived in four countries and is always wanting to backpack.

Nathaniel Savard Plays computer games and snowboards almost religiously. Age: 16 1st-year Junior He says: “What doesn’t kill a relationship will only make it stronger.”

Allyson Cronk

Has no spare time and is obsessed with poodles. Age: 18 13-year Senior She says: “If at ﬁrst you don’t succeed, failure might just be your style.”

Warrie Layon

Scared to be home alone. Age: 16 6-year Junior

He says: “I WANNNA BE LIKE JON!”

Volume 72, Number 1

Anjuli Cruz

Lost her contact while leaning out car window trying to ﬂirt with a guy on the freeway. Age: 17 13-year Senior She says: “Carpe diem.”

Monika Bliss

Speaks Hungarian Age: 16 4-year Senior Favorite saying: “Dance as though no one is watching.”

Eric Whedbee

Can’t do a cartwheel. Age: 17 7-year Senior Favorite saying: “But my lips hurt real bad.”

Michele Pai Age: 15 8-year Junior She says: “Reach for the moon, if you fail then at least you’ll fall among the stars.”

Jonathan Ford

Extreme obsession with rally racing and other motor sports. Age: 17 9-year Senior He says: “I WANNA BE LIKE WARRIE!”

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

The Dividing Line

Siblings—they are the brother or sister who gets on the other oneʼs nerves, makes the other one late in the morning, and knows every embarrassing childhood secret. Some adore each other; others do not really know each other. Nevertheless, they are a permanent factor in many studentsʼ lives that makes the person who he/she is. Several Freshmen and Senior siblings currently attend Loma Linda Academy (LLA), and it affects their lives here at school and at home. Avery Elloway (9) said that having her sister Andi Elloway (12) around more has made her Freshman year easier thus far. “I know more Seniors, and I can say ʻhiʼ to them. I donʼt feel like the ʻnew kidʼ as much.” Jared Webster (9) agrees and said that his sister, Jill Webster (12), has made things easier because she lets him know “whatʼs going to happen

in certain classes.” Jessica Han (9) said that having her sister, Jennifer Han (12), around more has made things much easier, but there is a drawback. “When I do something stupid, then she knows what I did wrong, and if I get in trouble,

sheʼll get mad at me.” Other siblings said that even though they are going to the same school, they rarely see each other. “The only time I ever see Garret [Lui] (9) is at the end of the day.

His locker is RIGHT next to mine, so Iʼll see him there before we go home,” said Brianna Lui (12). Jill Webster agrees and said, “I almost never see Jared during the day anymore.” Attending school on the same campus has not had much of an impact on Doug Rodgers (12) and Scott Rodgers (9). “There are four of us, [so Iʼm used to seeing them at school],” said Scott, who is the youngest of his four brothers. Jennifer Han said, “I can go to Jessica whenever Iʼm feeling down, . . . but it can get annoying [to have her around all the time]! Yet, I donʼt know what Iʼd do without her.” Alysse Buckley (12) said her life has not changed at all because she “hardly sees [Cameron (9)],” but when she does sheʼll say “hi.” Avery Elloway said, “Itʼs nice to be around Andi more: we donʼt get

Volume 72, Number 1

in as many ﬁghts as before.” Not only does it help academically, but also “helps me in some ways socially,” said Garret Lui. “Also, I can ask Brianna for advice.” Sibling relationships at home may not be the same as the relationship at school. Brianna Lui says her brother Garret Lui is different at home than he is at school. “At school he kind of thinks heʼs ʻtoo coolʼ when he is with his friends.” Garret commented, “I donʼt think sheʼs any different.” Jenn Han said, “We [Jessica Han & I] both act a lot crazier at home – whether itʼs being hyper or getting into an argument.” “Andi [Elloway is a little more relaxed at home,” said Avery Elloway. Jared Webster laughed and said, “Ooh...thatʼs [a] dangerous [question to ask], but no, sheʼs just as nice at school as she is at home,” referring to his older sister Jill Webster. Sean Gil (12) said that his sister

Nadia Gil (9) “is just quiet,” wherever she is. Alysse Buckley said her brother Cameron Buckley is “always wild, with or without his friends.” Even though all these siblings may not get along all the time,

they do look up to and admire one another. Jill said, “Jared is one of the sweetest guys in the world. Whoever dates him next is going to

be a very lucky girl.” Kassy Skoretz (12) admires brother Daniel Skoretz (9), his perseverance and “the way he is willing to be himself.” Jessica Han loves that she has Jennifer to always be there for her. Avery Elloway said she admires that Andi “always seems to put on a conﬁdent face even if sheʼs having a bad day.” The Senior siblings have been around LLA a little longer, and often have some advice to the new students. Kassy Skortez suggested that the best advice an older sister/brother can give to a younger sibling is to “make sure you get everything out of the way for an easy Senior year.” Sean Gil agreed and said, “Do your homework on time.” Brianna Lui suggested that her brother “go to lots of events and be very involved.” Andi Elloway took the “lookout:” “Watch your back when walking back from lunch.” Lastly, “Balance work and having fun,” advised Jennifer Han. -Monika Bliss

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

New Faces K

ristin Merritt jumped at the opportunity to work at Loma Linda Academy (LLA) this year and was thrilled to get the chance. Last year, Merritt was a student teacher for Jennifer Yapshingʼs health and history classes. Now teaching freshmen literature, sophomore literature, and college prep, Merritt has a full teaching load. Merritt loves the school and everything about it. “I have never seen another school match Loma Linda for enthusiasm and student involvement. No matter what it is, talent shows, class games, chapel or even class assignments, everyone really put their hearts into it! It convinced me that Loma Linda Academy was where I wanted to be,” she said. Perhaps being a kid at heart, Merritt loves to do things in her spare time that LLA students can relate to: hanging out with her friends, going camping or to the beach, reading books. She loves all kinds of food; her favorites include Thai, Japanese, Italian, and Indian. Her role model, Anne Frank, inspires her to “stay positive and optimistic in even the most trying circumstances.” Now that she is a full time teacher at LLA, she says that she loves the school and students and really enjoys being here. Merritt grew up in Ukiah, California, two hours north of San Francisco. She attended Monterey Bay Academy and Southern Adventist University. Considering a variety of occupations, including detective, ambassador, spy, translator and even a truck driver, Merritt found

that her true passion lay in teaching. Before coming to LLA as a studentent teacher, Merritt spent two years teaching in Taiwan and enjoyed it. With the arrival of Kristin Merritt, many wonder about Nancy Harlan, the English teacher whose room Merritt is using. Harlan taught multiple English classes, including American literature and college prep, as well as electives for Juniors and Seniors. She was also very active in school life, sponsoring clubs such as Student Ink, the writing club and Shades, the multi-cultural club. After teaching at LLA for over twelve years, Harlan was diagnosed last fall with cancer. She took medical leave had both surgery and chemotherapy to ﬁght the disease. With many prayers and the help of her doctors, friends and family, Harlan began recovering. Believing that her remission is a miracle from God, Harlan greatly strengthened her faith in and love for Him. Her advice emphasizes her beliefs: “Donʼt wait until your older or sick to develop your relationship with God. Develop it right now. I believe that God provided a miracle for me even if it was through chemotherapy. Get close to Jesus, your friends, and your family now. And have a great school year.” Harlan expects to return to LLA and resume her teaching sometime in the future.

Volume 72, Number 1

ew to Loma Linda Academy (LLA) is Choral Director Calvin Knipschild, more commonly known as “Nippy.” Knipschild replaces former Choir Director James Wood who left for a new position in Hawaiian Mission Academy after teaching at LLA for seven years. When Douglas Herrmann, LLA highschool principal, asked Knipschild earlier this summer to come to LLA, Knipschild was at ﬁrst hesitant; after all, he had just recently retired. After teaching 15 years at Glendale Academy, then 17 more years at San Gabriel Academy, Knipschild had decided that it was time for him to retire from full time teaching. However, after visiting the LLA campus and meeting Herrmann face to face, Knipschild decided to come out of retirement and resume teaching. “This is where I feel God wanted me to go. He wasnʼt done with me teaching high school. Iʼm really glad to be here and think that itʼll be a lot of fun,” said Knipschild. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, Knipschild and his parents later moved to Hawaii for ﬁve and a half years where he developed his love for Asian food. They then moved to California where he has lived ever since. In high school, planning to become a professional athlete, Knipschild lettered in four sports (volleyball, football, baseball, and basketball) and was

active in track. However, after being a part of the choral program at Glendale Academy in high school, Knipschild found his passion for music, deciding his career. In college, he married his wife Linda and they had two children, Erich and DeAnne. His daughter sings with a praise group called With Praise while his son is a physical education teacher. Having children of his own, Nippy knows how to work with students. “Heʼs professional and knows what heʼs doing,” said Joy Hodges (11). Hola Hebbas (10) stated that “heʼs pretty good and his funny.” Under the direction of Knipschild, the choral department has undergone some changes. In the past, Promusica (a more selective choral group) and Canticles sang and preformed together. This year, the two choir groups have been separated. The groups will perform and tour separately. “I feel that Canticles would be better if they didnʼt have Promusica singing with them. I think they can be just as good alone,” explained Knipschild. He added that he wanted to place a “special emphasis on Christian ministry music because when kids witness and sound good, they can move mountains.” For this yearʼs choir tour, Knipschild plans on taking Promusica to Florida, and if Canticles members work diligently, they could possibly tour to Las Vegas, Phoenix, or San Francisco. Along with teaching choir, Knipschild is also the director of a professional menʼs choir called Christian Edition. Performing for twenty-four years, Christian Edition has toured around the world, appeared on radio and television broadcasts, and has sung for the President of the United States. Perhaps Calvin Knipschild arrived at LLA in just the “Nip” of time. -Michele Pai

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

Walking into the courtyard the morning of August 26, 2004, Loma Linda Academy (LLA) students were greeted by a sea of maroon, black, white, and plaid. That sea is here to stay. Earlier this year, the LLA School Boardʼs decision for a schoolwide, uniform dress code brought drastic changes that have established a new appearance for LLA students. On the high school campus, the student body seems to have accepted the wardrobe. Melissa Cartegena (11) said that it took her a couple days to get used to seeing everyone in similar clothes, but for the most part, they [the cloths] are “OK.” Merline Tuyishime (12), said that “it was odd to notice that 50 other people were wearing the exact same thing I was!” Working with True Grits has been easy for some students, but for others it has been a hassle. Cartagena said

that “everything was pretty much marked and things were pretty easy to ﬁnd.” Many students share her opinion, while others, like Katrina Niere (9), had a more difﬁcult time with the process; “When I was getting them [uniform pieces], I was confused because I didnʼt know what to get, and my sizes were unavailable,” she commented Some students, such as Marven Norman (12), were upset at the high prices students had to pay for the wardrobe “I hate the prices: why canʼt we use Dickies; they are half the price,” he said. The faculty and administration of LLA support the change in dress code. Alex Harter, LLA religion teacher said that the uniforms give the school a more academic look. “The uniforms make school more about learning instead of a fashion show.” In her opinion, there are no

Volume 72, Number 1 major problems with the wardrobe that were not expected in the ﬁrst place. She really appreciates that the students and parents have been supportive of the uniforms. “It makes my job as a teacher a lot easier when I can concentrate on teaching and not being on uniform control,” she said. LLA Band Director Phillip Binkley said that the uniforms present the student body as a very positive, serious, and good-looking group of young people. In his opinion, the uniforms have produced a change for the better in the attitude and actions of the student body. He also comments that the uniforms give off a good impression to visitors that come to visit our school. “Loma Linda is the crossroads of the SeventhDay Adventist Church and people that visit this campus will get a better impression about us and the church,” he said. At the moment, he does not see any problems with the uniforms and does not believe that there will be any in the near future. “I think it will take time for us to realize any problems with the uniforms,” he commented. With the new dress code, comes a new set of guidelines. Many students have been disciplined for uniform violations such as Andrea Schröer (12). “Every day I walked

into homeroom and Mrs. Phillips questioned what I was wearing because the guidelines werenʼt clear,” Schröer said. LLA High School Principal Douglas Herrmann said that the guidelines for the new dress code cannot be made hastily but rather will be developed over time and by the observations made by the faculty and staff. LLA High School Vice-Principal Dee Dee Schilt says that the uniforms make it easier for girls to dress in the morning. In her opinion, most of the parents are glad for the uniforms and the community has, for the most part, been supportive of the decision. She commented that the True Grits representatives were very easy to work with, but, at times, they needed better staff quality. If she had to start the process over she commented “I would have raised community awareness sooner. I also would have wanted more southern California colors instead of the more northwestern colors that the uniforms portray,” she said. So LLA students will probably have to get accustomed to this way of dressing each day. Norman comments that “this is not a uniform, this is a wardrobe.” Most students feel that the wardrobe is not that bad. -Warrie Layon

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

Taking Care of Business At three oʼ clock in the morning few people are thinking about waking up, or are even thinking at all. Not so for Henry Navarro who, during the school week, has already begun his maintenance workday that early at Loma Linda Academy. Navarro, who clears the entire campus of debris every morning by blowing it down, is one of the six members of the full-time maintenance crew. Students and staff may wonder what exactly maintenance does. It does more than anyone may imagine. Looking around, an observer can ﬁnd evidence of the maintenance crew nearby. Whether it is the carts they drive, the new windows in North Hall, or the manicured lawns, the maintenance has been there. Fact of the matter is, in more ways than anyone knows, the maintenance crew has affected everyone at LLA somehow. Their jobs are always changing, and with that, so must they. “You have to be really ﬂexible when you work in this department because so many different things are happening,” said Mark Brettnacher, who has been a member of the crew for 17 years. “Our job is, mainly

during the year, to keep things going smoothly.” The six full-time members include Mel Jones, the head of the department, Mark Brettnacher, Orlando Morales, Henry Navarro, Trach That Ton, and Reinhard Welley. Together, this crew takes care of everything from the from the upkeep of grounds to school transportation, from the classrooms to the set up for nearly all school events On the crew, even students can be seen taking care of the LLA campus. Brandon Allen (12) and Brett Escarza (12) join the team on a part-time basis during the school year, having worked full-time in the summer. The two have found the job to be enjoyable, yet they do ﬁnd that the work is no walk in the park. “While you were on summer break partying, we were at school working,” Escarza commented. Besides learning how to mow lawns more efﬁciently and the learning the tricks that come with the trade, Allen and Escarza also commented on the perks of being part of maintenance. “You have nice breaks, go to the donut shop, . . . and Mel is a really

Volume 72, Number 1 cool boss,” Allen stated. “They have a nice office, nice workers, and no one looks down on us kids,” Escarza continued. Both also shared how Brettnacher not only helped them with their United States history project, but with other tasks as well. “Mark can make anything,” said Escarza. Another perk is that the job is not dull. Allen and Escarza were filled with stories of getting rid of pests and dead animals. “We often find crows in the field that have died from West Nile and are infested with maggots. We also found a cat head once,” Allen said. There were also stories of nearly fatal accidents. An example of this is Reinhard Welleyʼs accident. While mowing the lawn, a branch became stuck in the blades. When he attempted to remove the branch, the mower pulled up the branch—along with Welleyʼs hand. Now almost fully recovered, he is back on the job. It is obvious that the maintenance day is never the same twice. Many have never stopped to realize how much a part of LLA the maintenance crew really is. “Everything that we do,” Brettnacher said, “is for the students. It has to be.” Without the students, maintenance would not have a purpose; and without maintenance, there wouldnʼt be a school. Phil Binkley, LLA Band Director, really appreciates the crew. “Our maintenance crew is absolutely the best. Theyʼve helped us anyway that weʼve asked.” Allen offered advice on how students and staff can make the maintenance staff feel appreciated. “Say ʻHiʼ to them. . . . Thank them for their hard work,” Allen said. Brettnacher expressed simply how he felt, “Itʼs the people. When it comes right down to it, itʼs not the buildings, itʼs not the trees; itʼs not the concrete; thatʼs nothing. Itʼs not about all that; itʼs about the people.” And when the maintenance day comes to an end, they leave knowing theyʼve done a good job. “Weʼre proud of our school,” says Brettnacher. “We always try to make it so that when we leave here at four oʼclock that weʼre pretty satisfied with what weʼve done.” -Anjuli Cruz

Briefs

Itʼs a Girl! Congratulations to Vice Principal Dee Dee Shilt on becoming a new grandmother! Reagan Grace was born to Shawn and Kimberly Couture on August 24, 2004 around 12:30 p.m. She weighed 6 lb. 9 oz. and was 19 inches long. Bonnie Pernulaʼs father Richard Volley Bobst, passed away on August 29, 2004. He was a devoted teacher for 38 years and celebrated his 67th wedding anniversary 1 week before his death. In Memory of “Amber,” Dr. Bensonʼs pet dog. Amber passed away on September 4 at the age of 13. She suffered from a doggie stroke, and about 9:00 am she passed away. Hannah Beall and her horse “Marmelade” placed in the top ten at the Arabian Horse Association 2004 Youth National Championships in New Mexico. Congratulations!

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

or the past few years Loma Linda Academy (LLA) has welcomed in students from abroad. Last year LLA had two students from abroad, but this year there are seven students. “I love it. The cultural exchange is fun and interesting. Having students from other countries really broadens our perspectives on different cultures,” said Vice Principal Dee Dee Schilt. A commonality between the students from abroad was the fact that they think that everyone in the United States (U.S.) is so friendly and social. Ploy Radesujalitkul (12), who is in the U.S. from Bangkok Thailand, explained that “here the school has a lot of social activities. We [students in Thailand] have something like the Handshake, but mostly it [school in Thailand] is focused on academics.” Unlike some of the other Victory Mailangkay Hanna Norrlid students, Radesujalitkul has been Ploy Radesujalitkukl an exchange student before. During her experience and to better learn the English sophomore year she attended school at language. York Town High School in Virginia. Then School in Sweden is also different she went back to Thailand for her Junior from LLA. Hallstroem and Norrlid both year, and now has returned to the U. S. to responded that not everyone in Sweden ﬁnish high school. Commenting on the has breaks at the same time. Instead of American school system, Radesujalitkul ﬁve minutes between classes, students said, “I like the school system because could have an hour break. “It is just how you get to pick what classes you want to our schedule works out. During that take. In Thailand, it all depends on what time, I usually talk to friends, play cards, program you are in.” According to her, if or go to a café on campus and get coffee,” a student is in the science program, his/her said Hallstroem. After this school year main focus is science, not other studies is over, both girls will be moving back to like language or geography. Sweden. Hanna Norrlid (11) and Johanna Ted Yang (9) who is in the U.S. Hallstroem (11) came together to the U.S. from Taipei, Taiwan said he likes LLA from Halmstad, Sweden. Hallstroemʼs because “the students and teachers are family moved to America because her friendly.” Sven Reichwald (11) who is “father is a dentist at Loma Linda Univerfrom Dattenfeld, Germany, agreed in part sity.” Norrlid, who lives with Hallstroem, saying that he likes LLA because of the left her family and friends for a new “relationship between pupils and teachers.

International Exchange

Volume 72, Number 1 after dinner we have a three hour long study hall. Last year LLA had only two students from abroad. One of them was Mareike Nehls from Germany. In an E-mail interview, Nehls said, “I miss my friends and my host family. They were so nice to me and made me feel welcome. I also miss typical American things such as the beach, Coldstone Ice Cream, and Surfer Joeʼs.” Comparing the U. S. to Germany, Nehls said, “Everything is way bigger in America, the roads, the cars, the houses, the fast food portions. Germany is small…really small.” This year, Nehls is attending school in Germany. During the summer, she spent a lot of time with her friends, vacationed to Italy, and caught up on some of her math studies. Rumi Ishikawa was another one of the students from abroad last year. She came to LLA from Ted Yang Johanna Hallstroem Sendai City, Japan. She commentSven Reichwald In Germany the teachers donʼt get to know ed about how school in the U. S. and Japan their pupils. They are not very personable,” are different. “In Japan, students donʼt Reichwald observed. Some may wonder have to leave and move to the other classes. what people from different countries do for Teachers move. So you have to stay in the fun. Reichwald explained “I like to go hiking, same class with the same friends all day.” play soccer, go biking, and sometimes I go on Ishikawa has to travel 16 kilometers both my computer.” ways on her bicycle everyday just to get to Victory Mailangkay (11) is another one school! After returning to Japan, Ishikawa of LLAʼs students from abroad. She is visiting exclaimed, “I lost weight!” the U.S. from Manado, Indonesia. MailangAll of the students from abroad miss kay explained that, “in Indonesia, there isnʼt their families and friends. But they are able a lot of diversity, there are mainly Indonesian to keep in contact with their family and people. But at LLA, there is a lot of diversity friends by using the telephone and E-mail. in races, and it is kind of fun to talk to other Reichwald said, “I write really long E-mails people about where they are from and their to my friends and sometimes talk to my different cultures.” parents on the phone. It is so expensive Leah Moon (11) is from Seoul, South to call Germany.” Norrlid agreed in part, Korea. According to her, the biggest difsaying, “Yes, I do miss them. But it was my ference between LLA and South Korea is, choice and I know they will always be there “in Korea, we [students] have eight or nine when I get back.” classes a day. We eat dinner at school and -Ally Cronk

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

Curriculum Review

As the faculty at Loma Linda Academy (LLA) evolves each year, new and traditional ideas are welded together to improve LLAʼs academic program. Curriculum is always evolving in order to address a wide spectrum of student learning styles. Classes are constantly being tweaked, and, in some cases, new classes are formed to accomplish these goals. With increased interest in improving the writing experience a student has between sophomore and senior years, the English Department decided to expand American Literature to a full year. In years past, the American Literature course was condensed into one semester, allowing little opportunity for writing exercises in the already-wide genre of American Literature. “None of us [English teachers] could really successfully accomplish the whole year of American literature in one semester…all the Realist [literary works] and everything beyond that werenʼt being covered,” commented Andy Sandiford, chairman of the English Department. To adjust for the expansion of this course some electives that were offered last year are not available this year. “I wish they would have let us known sooner about the electives; I was looking forward to taking elective classes like Shakespeare,” Alex Yeo (11) said. Understanding the compromise in the decision process, Sandiford remarks, “It wasnʼt an easy one-two-three decision: there were advantages and we [the English Department] have had arguments amongst ourselves against it, that it is shortchanging the elective system which is really good, it gives kids choices…But even so, with that drawback and the loss of electives, we still have classical biblical literature, we have science ﬁction, we still have three or four [literature] choices for seniors.” Along with the alteration of the American Literature and elective courses, a college

English class, taught by Danelle Taylor and a science fiction elective, taught by Pam Dietrich, are new to this yearʼs schedule. College English, which is linked to La Sierra University, allows qualifying students to earn college credit while still in high school at a fraction of the price it would cost from a university. Science fiction, which is a favorite of genre Dietrichʼs, explores a unique genre of literature. “Sci-fi is an important class in addressing moral issues” says Dietrich, “Itʼs not just emotional issues [like other genres of literature]…there are these right and wrong issues involved as well.” When asked if the English curriculum has reached a plateau, David Stone, LLA American Literature teacher, replied, “I donʼt think changes will stop; we are trying to make our English program better and better.” English is not the only curriculum being altered. Physical education [PE] has taken a new form with the return of a soccer PE class, taught by Sandiford. The class, first introduced 3 years ago, gives students an opportunity to practice soccer during the pre-season. Andrew Fakuda (12) explains as he exhaustedly bends over to drink some water, “Itʼs not like normal PE where you just jog around: itʼs an actual workout.” The class focuses on playing techniques and gaining a better knowledge of soccer as a sport, and allows prospective team players to practice with the soccer coach during the pre-season. Sandiford points out, “My main goal for the class is for the students to be prepared-physically prepared-for the rigorous season. Iʼm hoping all the students of the class will try out for and be among the four teams that we offer.” Whether it be English or physical education, the faculty of LLA works hard to amend teaching curriculum to better benefit the students in preparation for college and other life goals. -Eric Whedbee

Volume 72, Number 1

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

SoundCheck is “just relaxing happy music,” Isberto says. Waves, seagulls, and his acoustic guitar accompany his soft voice make a sooth, relaxing sound. “When all else fails, everything gets too crazy, everything gets too complicated—just add water,” Isberto says. Every one of his songs has a little story of its own that resulted from his personal Mike Isberto, a music artist, experiences and days at the beach. graduated from Loma Linda Acade- Isberto tries to go to the beach two or my (LLA) in 2001. His first attempt three times a week. He explains that, at a demo resulted in Everyday Sum- “It is just a lifestyle. [My friends and mer. According to Stacy Catalon I] head out to the beach a lot in our (12) his demo is “kickback music.” down time.” The super-slow lifestyle Katie Prior (10) finds it to allows him to “reflect on everything.” be “music to jam to in the car.” Isberto started singing at a Isberto is not only a friend young age when his parents tried to to those at LLA, but he is also a role get him and his brother Russy Isberto model and a source of inspiration. (2004) to sing. Singing has grown A family friend, Jordan De Guzfrom something that was forced upon man (10) remembers “looking up him to an avocation. He does not conto Mike” when they were kids. De sider preparation time to be practice Guzman was asked to play for Isanymore. “Itʼs just fun,” he says. berto in his demo. “Having someone At the moment Isberto is that Iʼve always looked up to say not thinking about music as a career, that I have talent is one of the best but he would like to start performfeelings that I could ever have,” De ing again. Uncertain of where his Guzman said. musical ability will take him, he will It is hard for Isberto to find start a new album only “if this one time to record while also attending goes well.” For now his current demo school in Riverside and working at Everyday Summer* has found its way Lollicup in Loma Linda. He said into the CD players of LLA students. most of his songs “were recorded at He hopes that his audience will grow two or three oʼclock in the mornbeyond his alma mater. In time, the ing” when he was “bored or couldnʼt Mirror may be reporting that his music sleep.” The sounds of his new demo is on the Billboard charts. have an easy-going beach sound that -Jon Ford

Volume 72, Number 1

Small Talk

Compiled by Warrie Layon

Music

I play a bunch of musical instruments. Guitar, Bass, Ukelele, French Horn, and Iʼm learning the mandolin.

Back Surgery

I had back surgery in March because I have scholosis. It went better than expected. And I have stainless-steel rods in my back.

Simpsons & Family Guy

These are the two greatest television shows ever created. Iʼve watched the simpsons since I was a little kid

Red Hot Chili Peppers

They are my all-time favorite band. Flea is the craziest bass player. He also does the voice for Donnie on The Wild Thornberries. Most people donʼt know that

Philippines

I was born and raised there, I came here in 2002 after living in Costa Rica for a year. I miss it there, especially the food.

Loma Linda Academy

“Itʼs very different than Redlands [Redlands High School], the people here are friendly, nice, and helpful.”

Summerland

Itʼs deﬁantly my favorite TV show. Itʼs fun to watch. Especially Jesse McCartney.

Maita and Emilyn

Theyʼre my best friends. I met them at another school.

Loma Linda Academy Mirror

This issue of the Mirror is dedicated to Harley Boehm. The Mirror staff feels a special connection to Harley Boehm because he edited and wrote the Mirror for many, many years. At certain points the paper would have ceased to be published if he had not provided the leadership to keep it going. He has continued to inspire us with his dedication to Loma Linda Academy, with his compassion, and with his amazing memory, recognizing every student he has known on the campus. Students and staff members have wondered why his office has been dark this fall. We are all used to seeing him on campus every day. He recently wrote us an open letter which the Mirror staff is pleased to publish. It answers some of the questions we have had about his absence. To the faculty, Staff, students and alumni of Loma Linda Academy After 41 years of delightful and profitable experience at Loma Linda Academy I sorely miss being there and associating with all of you. This all began with a routine visit to my dentistʼs office in June, 2003. He

noticed something suspicious with one of my teeth and proceeded with ordering a biopsy. When the results came back, it confirmed what he feared—cancer! The new step was with the oncology dept. at LLUMC. I was delighted to be assisted be two of my former students at LLA, now medical specialists in the own right—Alfred Simental and Charles Stewart. After more consultations, we were ready for the Oncology Board meeting at the VA Hospital where about 15 doctors met for this final decision which was to surgically remove the affected bone in the roof of my mouth. Surgery was scheduled for early July, and after five days in the Loma Linda University Hospital, I was released to come home and recuperate. Recuperation has been very, very slow because I cannot eat any solid food. Everything has to be liquid or pureed even though they have fashioned a mouth piece to close the big hole in the roof of my mouth so I can swallow and talk after a fashion. They say I have lost 30 pounds in the process, and I can believe it because all of my clothes are extremely loose and baggy. I have written this upon request, not because I am seeking sympathy. I know the Good Lord will see me though according to His will. I greatly appreciate the cards, notes, and flowers I have received. Your best wishes and prayers mean a lot to me. I donʼt know when I will be able to visit you at school, but you can be sure it will be just as soon as possible. I miss you all very much and wish you a very happy and delightful school year. Sincerely,

Harley Boehm