Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Issue 3 March 2016
Pilot Press
Featured in this edition A Teacher’s Dream Spring Break...3
The Renaissance Fair By Marian Isbell ‘19
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Coffee with Blank Itenerary...4
The Impact of Dystopian Literature...6
When the Unimagineable Comes Alive...5
Trending Pilots...8
decorations. The tension in the room was evident with a majority of freshmen rechecking that everything was set for the hundredth time.
Running Rock Stars By Celia Martinez ‘17
Then, the moment arrived when all the juniors entered the Event Center. It wasn’t really arriving so much as swarming. The juniors descended, within moments surrounding tables looking for information, and food. After a few tense, horrifyingly stiff minutes, the freshmen began to relax. The nervous, antsy energy was replaced by confidence and sugar rushes. Many freshmen felt elated when they realized that they actually knew something a junior did not. Julia Isbell ‘17 | View more photos from the fair at www.olppilotpress.org The satisfaction from the moments of seeing surprise As the freshmen were about to present cross their faces was almost too hilarious to bear. history to smarter, older students, their initial Then, the big moment arrived. The judges reactions were something along the lines of...”What’s the fastest way out of the school?” swept over to each table, clipboard in hand. Juniors swerved away from the tables, seeing the predators Once they calmed down though, they advance towards their prey. Then each group had realized that as long as their group was perfectly to explain its topic, entertain the judges, and bribe perfect, spotless on every spotless spot, and absolutely them with delicious food. Afterwards, it was like a awe-inspiring, nothing would go wrong. Sounds pretty weight being lifted off the class’s collective shoulders. straightforward; just don’t mess up. There was no more fear of failure, or the stress The entire time the groups worked on their of being unsatisfactory...the worst part was over. project, they were nervously checking and rechecking The juniors re-approached the tables, and everything. As the date grew closer, the class began were provided with more information until the end. borderline panicking, obsessively reiterating Looking back onto the day, most freshman stated that information to groupmates to the point they were sick “it was surprisingly enjoyable.” Once the initial fear of hearing each other’s voices, and frantically trying was over, it went from stressful to fun, from terrifying to re-write everything for the millionth time. Not to to elating, from petrifying to moving. It might not have mention the junk food they used to bribe--sorry, been the real Elizabethan Era, but standing there and feed--the judges, or the rehearsed spiel to everyone being a part of it, made the freshman class feel like they who stopped by their table. Needless to say, the could survive any plague, find the Philosopher’s Stone, freshman class was panicking. wear any corseted dress, eat any kind of historical
The JV team after winning the Vaqueros tournament | Courtesy Celia Martinez
The chilling breeze outside means that the cold weather has arrived, signifying the start of the Academy’s soccer season. Despite some troubles from El Niño which flooded Hickman Field, causing some impromptu practices in the gym and in the senior parking lot, the fields quickly dried up and welcomed the girls back again. At OLP there are three teams: Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity. Varsity is composed of twentyone hard working, naturally talented girls and two dedicated, fitness-orientated coaches, Coach Soares and Coach Paluso. Junior Varsity is also composed of twenty-one remarkably talented players and one fun loving coach, Ashlee Withington. There are 12 girls on the freshmen team and their amazing coach is Sam Witczak.
Soccer is a strenuous sport the OLP Athletic Department offers; it requires dedication and persistence. The girls are at work five days a week. Practices for Varsity and Junior Varsity are Monday, The day arrived, the different groups set up, food, recreate any architectural building, paint any Wednesday, and Friday and games are Tuesdays and got into costume, put out the food, and finished the Victorian picture, and meet the Queen of England. Thursdays. Each game consists of two forty minutes halves.
Service Dogs are Saving Lives By Isabela Mutuc ‘18
Feminism: The “BeYoutiful” Edition By Crystal Coriano ‘17
Varsity started off the season wonderfully winning the Baron’s Tournament. Ashlin Healy ‘18 was recognized as MVP of the tournament, scoring four picture perfect goals. As the players continued into season they continued to strut their stuff. They are nearing the close of the season with 11 wins, 2 losses, and 6 ties leaving them in 2nd place, a great position for CIF. The Captains Barbara Mera ‘16, Jessica Carreon ‘16, Briana Tangredi ‘16, and Kathleen Boyle ‘16 are doing a great job leading their team to victory.
Vivian Mateos ‘18 | View more photos from the event at olppilotpress.org
For most people, pets are luxuries; they add comfort and happiness to their owners’ lives, as well as an excuse for “disappearing” homework. But for some military members in the United States, they simply cannot get through their days without the help of a service dog by their sides, making these furry creatures more of a necessity than a luxury. Freedom Dogs has worked with the Wounded Warrior Battalion in Camp Pendleton that has been in service since 2006. Every day the workers strive to make the lives of the military better by providing them with service dogs. These service dogs undergo five levels of intense training in order to help those with disabilities be able to function on a day-to-day basis. So far, these service dogs have helped over twenty veterans learn how to control their emotions, enabling the veterans to hold steady jobs and improve their lives. In 1990, Congress announced that there were approximately forty-three million disabled Americans. With such a high number of Americans facing both mental and physical challenges, service dogs may be just what they need to help get their lives back on track. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Feminism has been a controversy for years, often linked to “man-shaming,” where some try to achieve equality for women while simultaneously lowering the status of men. But that is not what feminism is truly about. OLP’s own BeYoutiful club is a feminist club whose goal is to empower Pre-game huddle | Courtesy Celia Martinez Junior Varsity if also off to a great start young girls to rise above society’s standards of winning all games in the Vaqueros Tournament and beauty to gain confidence and become leaders. taking home the trophy. Tye-dying shirts for practice The leaders of BeYoutiful, Danielle Magat got us off to a great start as well. Captains Faith Beyer ‘18, Ashley Northrup ‘18, Sophie Parra ‘18, and ‘17, Ashley Northrop ‘18, and Madeline Clem ‘18 are Erin Prevo ‘18, each gave their own unique doing a great job being diligent team leaders. Ashley definitions of feminism and expressed their views Northrop ’18 is known for her pre-game prayers. As on how feminism is needed in the 21st century. she finishes leading the team in prayer she says to God, Danielle Magat ’18 said, “Feminism is “If we win we praise you, if we lose we praise you.” about leveling the playing field [and erasing] the The team is undefeated with only two games left to go. gap between the equality of men and the equality of women. We have this club because there is an obvious gap. Our club is about girls bringing each other up because what is so wrong about girls receiving the empowerment they deserve? This club is about self empowerment, meaning wearing what you want and doing things for you[rself]. For example, there is difference between putting on make-up for you, and putting on make-up for others, and we want girls to make inner and CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
The freshman team started off the season with a bang, making it to the qualifying rounds of the Barons Tournament which included battling against upper division Junior Varsity teams. The team finished the season with 6 wins and only 7 losses which is remarkable given that they often have to play with fewer than eleven players on the field given that they are only a team of twelve. Overall, the OLP soccer program is on the rise, with qualified coaches, talented girls, and the statistics to prove it.
Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Issue 3 March 2016
Basketball Briefing
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To say the OLP Pilots have had an interesting basketball season would be an understatement. Presented with a new coach, illnesses, injuries, and still having to actually play the game, these girls are giving it their all. Starting off the season with a new coach took some adjusting to for the varsity team, but they are adapting well. Sickness struck the players hard as they all seemed to pass the flu around multiple times. Then came the injuries. The concussions seemed to come from every direction. Maria Balistreri ‘16 sustained a concussion that took her out for the rest of the season due to a horrible case of post-concussion syndrome. Sarah McHenry ‘17 suffered from a concussion as well. Faith Gilb ‘17 tore her ACL, taking her out for the rest of the season. One of the varsity players, Gabriella Orcino ‘17, stated, “Even though Maria, Sarah, and Faith are injured, they still come to support us at our games to cheer us on! We very much appreciate it and enjoy their positive mindsets through the whole thing.” Illnesses and injuries also played a role in bringing the team closer together as they took care of one another and looked out for each other. Despite all of these setbacks, the girls have not lost their fighting spirit and continue to play hard. JV is flying high with a record of 11 wins and only 5 losses. Varsity is struggling with a record of 11 wins and 12 losses. However, the Pilots managed to beat Cathedral on both encounters, winning the first game, January 15, with a final score of 52-37 and the second game, February 5, with an ending score of 68-60. Don’t miss out! Make sure to go watch the OLP Pilots in action!
Paris on Upper Plaza Caroline Munoz ’18
At OLP, there have been various changes throughout the last semester, but a recent change has taken the cake. Or, should it be the coffee? New to the campus is The French Gourmet at the Pilot Café, where you can enjoy spectacular food, and Common Grounds on Upper Plaza where the drinks are so popular that the lines are precariously long. Parisian food (and drink) have come to OLP and are here to stay. While Common Grounds is all the rage during break, the Pilot Café, in St. Catherine’s, has turned into a spiffy French café that is quite favored by students during lunch. With a white tablecloth salad bar, quiche on a heated counter, and French delicacies in a refrigerator, it is hard to resist not buying everything.
Nevertheless, to understand where all this great food and coffee comes from, one must go to the source. Christian Malécot, the creator of Common Grounds, and the son of Michel and Lesa Malécot of The French Gourmet, is one of those down-to-earth, inspiring people who you wish the world made more of. In college, he majored in business, which has come in handy with the various entrepreneurial roles Malécot has played in his life. He had a restaurant, Café Solange, and the Common Grounds coffee cart in La Jolla before joining the OLP community. When Common Grounds was in its early stages, the landlord raised his lease to an unthinkable amount. Thus, he had no choice but to walk away and look for a new location. Malécot loves having the opportunity to be on campus at OLP and is grateful for the unique experience of serving at a high
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OLP Alumnae
A lot can change in ten years, even more can change in 20 years, and even more than that can change in 68 years. Alumni from the Academy of Our Lady of Peace shared their own stories of their times at the Academy, and through these accounts one can see the changes that took place, and how despite that, many core values, such as a Christianity education, stayed the same.
Margaret Wiedower
What year did you attend or graduate from OLP? I graduated with the class of 1968. What did OLP look like when you were here? The buildings of Aquinas, Carondelet, the chapel, St. Catherine’s, St. Joseph’s, Qualiato (then named St. Margaret’s), and the Chapel basically looked the same on the outside as they do today. Having said that, the inside of several buildings were VERY different. Aquinas classrooms were all classrooms, but the front office area was shut off from the front hallway by a wall that would be immediately behind Mrs. Prantil’s desk. The place of the three murals were the doors into the auditorium, which didn’t have a banked floor, nor did it have permanent seating. The library was located on the first floor of St. Joseph’s where 108, 110, 112 and 114 are currently located. The room of the library was a large study hall room, with about 80 desks, with the teacher’s desk located on [a] raised “stage area.” Qualiato was the dorm building for the borders. The current dance studio was a dinner/lunch room/laundry area for the boarders. Carondelet was a convent building for the Sisters. What is currently the Pilot Café was the boarders official dining room. The elementary school was still in place with the last of the classes, and they had their classrooms upstairs in St. Catherine’s. The Event Center didn’t exist, only the pool. What did an average school day look like for you? We started the day at around 8 am and went until 3 pm. We had section and then began classes. We had 7 classes, one of which could be a study hall, or an additional art [class.] We had sports teams but only played the other Catholic Girls High Schools: Cathedral, Rosary, and Sacred Heart. What was your favorite part of attending OLP? It was the school that all three of my older sisters had attended and was one that seemed to be the best in the neighborhood. As students we all had to work hard, but there were friends that helped each other whenever we needed it. I loved being in choral class and participating in the musicals. Do you still have friendships that you made in high school? I have friends that I still see on occasion, some that were in my Big Sister’s class and some in my Little Sister’s class. What did you do after leaving OLP? I entered the Sisters of Holy Cross community and was part of their community for about six years. When I left, I finished my education at USD and then began teaching, first at Rosary High School, and then Sr. Edward Mary offered me the job at the Academy and the rest is history. Visit www.olppilotpress.org for more interviews with other alumnae
Madagascar Portraits
school. Since OLP is a high school, there are specific times of service when the café knows when the crowds are coming, instead of being a regular restaurant where people come at different times of the day. The biggest challenge, Malécot states, “is serving the ladies in a short window of opportunity, and successfully getting the drinks out quickly and efficiently within the timeframe of breaks or lunch.” Although Common Grounds is already a big hit, Malécot has many more of his “awesome plans.” In the near future, Malécot might just set up an Acai Bowl Bar at Common Grounds, since he can make the acai right before break or lunch and then have the mixture fresh for the flock of students. Because this high school has two definite breaks he remarks that, “It allows us to do things we wouldn’t necessarily be able to do in a normal business setting, one of those things being an Acai Bowl Bar.” Be on the lookout Pilots, bowls of blended Brazilian fruits may be in your future. In addition, there could be a Common Grounds app to order a drink on the way to school and have it ready at the counter upon the student’s arrival at the cart, allowing one to avoid the never ending lines. The French Gourmet at the Pilot Café and Common Grounds are truly a family commitment. OLP is quite blessed to have Chef Michel (the father of Malécot) in the kitchen, Grammy (Malécot’s grandmother), Lesa (Malécot’s mom), Christian (Malécot’s son), Aunt Tracy, and Kathy Virissimo (an OLP mom) dedicated to providing the Pilots with the best possible food service. Nathalie-Rose (Malécot’s daughter) is a senior and thrilled to have her family on campus. Malécot says that having the opportunity to be in partnership with OLP is an amazing experience, and credits his dad as his inspiration. He looks up to him the most, saying that “my father works harder than I will ever know how” and states that he embodies the “Joie de Vivre,” or the “Joy of Living.” Common Grounds truly adds some “Joie de Vivre” to the OLP community with their food, drinks, and sense of community.
Miss OLP: A Time-Honored Tradition By Makena Huey ‘17
Every student at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace has heard of the Miss OLP Ball, but what not all realize is that this annual semi-formal dance is about more than just finding the right date or picking out the perfect (and appropriate) dress. The Miss OLP Ball has been a time-honored tradition since it first started in 1947, when Patricia Arnold ‘47 became the very first Miss OLP, who would later be succeeded by 68 Miss OLP’s up until the present day. No one knows for sure how the dance actually started, but Ms. Handelsman thinks it was created as a way to “counterbalance…homecoming as a way to honor our girls.” This semi-formal dance gives the students of OLP the opportunity to honor an exceptional OLP senior who “embodies the charisms of heart, faith, and courage.” Ms. Handelsman eloquently stated that the part that makes the event so special to our OLP community is the fact that it “honors girls for qualities that aren’t generally recognized in a co-ed atmosphere.” The title of “Miss OLP” is not just given to the prettiest or most popular girl, but rather based upon “inner qualities that go along with the CSJ charisms” of girls in “not-so-visible leadership positions.” Miss OLP is defined as a young woman who may work behind the scenes, yet still represent the spirit of what a true Pilot looks like.
Issue 3 March 2016
By Lorena Ramirez ‘18 and Anitza Velázquez ‘18
By Elizabeth Ortiz ‘17
The French Gourmet not only serves delicious and healthy food, but also brings positive energy and a sense of community. In addition, the food is much healthier and fresher, thus making the smiles of students brighter. The quiches are certainly on point, along with the amazing pesto flatbreads. And, Common Grounds offers those outstanding chocolate chip cookies. Who could forget those marvelous and addictive cookies? However, besides the food, the drinks have been a big hit. OLP pilots seem to have taken a liking to the new frappuccinos, lattes, and smoothies.
Academy of Our Lady of Peace
The crowning of Patricia Arnold and the 1947 “Heart Hop”Miss OLP Ball
The tradition kicks off when individuals nominate classmates whose joyful personalities, intelligent minds, and compassionate natures have positively impacted their communities. All students are involved in the voting process, where they chose one senior will be commemorated as Miss OLP, and one senior, one junior, and one sophomore are chosen as their classes’ honoree. This year, the three Miss OLP candidates were Charlotte Adema ‘16, Emily Stowe ‘16, and Carley Reichert ‘16. The class honoree candidates were Jessica Carreon ‘16, Sarah Sanchez ‘16, Janelle Seguin ‘16, and Colleen Brady ‘16 for the senior class; Hannah Littlefield ‘17, Jennifer Nguyen ‘17, and Antoinette Piraino ‘17 for the junior class; and Luam Mesghena ‘18, Marsha Meyers ‘18, and Lauren Doan ‘18 for the sophomore class. The three class honorees and Miss OLP were announced at the very special Miss OLP all-school assembly on February 4th during co-curricular, with Luam for the sophomore honoree, Jennifer for the junior honoree, Colleen for the senior honoree, and Charlotte for Miss OLP. Congratulations to all the candidates and winners; they are all exemplary young women. And while girls and boys danced and laughed at Miss OLP under the James Bond decorations, they not only bonded with their friends and dates, but with the thousands of OLP girls who have participated in the time-honored tradition that is the Miss OLP Ball.
By Shannon Doran ‘16
By Alejandra Garcia ‘17 | View more portraits online at http://olppilotpress.org/?p=1703
In January, the National Art Honors Society completed portraits for orphans in Madagascar for the annual Memory Project. Every year, Mr. Stringer requests orphanages, from a variety of third world countries, to send pictures of their children of different ages for the art club to hand draw. Each student uses numerous mediums to create her drawing of the orphan she chose; such as acrylic, watercolor, colored pencils, and even pastels. This year the orphanage also included the child’s favorite color as well as their name which guided some of the artists to incorporate these colors within the background or even in the clothes of the piece. All four classes participated in this project, and as an art community these OLP students came together to present these orphans with the gift of color and optimism. Some of the girls involved for this first round of portraits were Monica Sanchez ‘16, Lily Hoang ‘19, Adia Magill ‘17, Madeline Becker ‘18, Alejandra Garcia ‘17, Shola Armando ‘16, Alexandria Brooker ‘16, Analia Rabago ‘16, and Shannon Doran ‘16. Currently NAHS is in the progress of creating portraits for another handful of young Ethiopian orphans.
A Teacher’s Dream Spring Break
If you could do anything over spring break, what would it be? Everyone dreams and fantasizes about their perfect spring break, whether it include meeting their favorite celebrities and having the time of their lives or relaxing on a tropical beach for hours. Have you ever wondered what your teachers would be doing if their dreams became a reality? Their answers might surprise you!
By Vivian Mateos ‘18 and Mariajose Gonzalez ‘18
I see that it’s named Mystic Falls – my dread turns to fear: they’re hunting Damon and Stefan Salvatore! While trying to prevent a fight from breaking out, Stefan ends up dying, and Damon is arrested. My sister and I argue to get him a fair trial and succeed. Luckily we know exactly who to call. Annalise Keating. Of course this is a trial of a lifetime, so she heads over to Mystic Falls immediately, and Damon definitely gets Mrs. Rodriguez’s adventurous side was away with murder through the strategic employment exposed when she said “I would love to go camping of doubt amongst the jury by way of logic and reason, with my daughter!” Mrs. Flannery acknowledged all the while rocking powerhouse dresses and blazers. her pregnancy as she said “I am pregnant, so that “After giving Annalise and her crew fist creates a lot of barriers. I would love to go lay on the bumps – and Dean my number – my sister and I beach, alone.” Dr. J was clearly thinking of home finally get the chance to go to Greece. Even though because his dream spring break would include visiting we’ve missed our cruise, we end up at a small hotel his parents, and Madame Meillich would enjoy a right by the beach – this is good enough for us! relaxing spring break spent gardening and reading We spend a few days lounging on the beach and French novels. Mrs. Danaher’s dream getaway would getting really awesome tans and no sunburns. include “swimming with dolphins and sea turtles “One day, out of nowhere, a dragon appears in off the coast of the Hawaiian Islands.” However, Ms. the sky and heads right towards us. Of course my sister Rodriguez is really in need of an amazing Spring Break. wants to get the heck out of there, and while that would When asked what her wildest spring break would be wise, I also really want to see the dragon, because include she wrote the following story for all to enjoy. they’re the best, so I’m kind of lagging behind. Anyway, while we’re fighting about what to do, the dragon lands Miss Rodriguez’s and waits for us to finish. We stop arguing immediately, No Holds Barred Dream Spring Break “The last bell rings at school, and I am able to because we notice someone hop off the dragon - it’s Jon drive home without getting stuck in any traffic. I grab Snow in his black Night’s Watch garb, complete with cape my packed bags and head to the airport with my sister. and Longclaw (his sword). He starts running towards We have a flight to New York and then to Greece, where us; raven black hair flowing freely in the wind, looking we will be going on a relaxing cruise. As we get to the concerned. Once he’s gotten to us, he says, ‘Westeros is check-in counter, giant sirens start going off, and we’re being invaded by White walkers, and you’re the only told that we are the 1,000,000,000,000 customers to fly ones who can save us. Come with me if you want to live!’ on the airline; our flights are comped and upgraded to “Obviously we say yes, hop on the dragon, and first class! As we’re up in the air, and I’m finally settling head to the Wall in Westeros. In our strategy meetings, down for a nap in my luxurious chair, someone taps we decide that the kingdom needs all the help it can my shoulder. Annoyed, I look over to see what kind get if it’s going to survive the invasion, and we bring of person would interrupt my slumber, and it’s Sam in all the greats: the elves from Rivendell and King and Dean Winchester! They’re hunting vampires in Aragorn and his men, the professors at Hogwarts, Virginia and want to see if my sister and I can help Azlan, a school of young Jedis led by Samuel L. them out. Well obviously we say yes, because they’re Jackson, Captain America (American Identity), all legendary and vampires are cool social outcasts. So crew members from the Starship Enterprise, Dexter, once our flight lands, we head over to Virginia. The Nicholas Cage, all the ghosts from the Hotel Cortez, scenery starts looking familiar, and I worry that I might the cast of Pretty Little Liars, and Quentin Tarantino. know who it is they are hunting. As we enter the town,
“The night before battle, my sister and I lead the Pretty Little Liars cast behind enemy lines to begin spreading confusion and fear between the White Walkers and to stealthily chop off their manbuns. Because they were up all night trying to put an end to all the confusion about where their long, gross hair went, they are completely unprepared for the Millennium Falcon and hippogriff air raid Azlan orchestrated with Spock, Captain Kirk, and Han Solo. From the West, Jon and Samuel L. lead their men into battle, and we’re winning for a moment. However, the White Walkers refuse to give up, and they begin to take back more territory. Just as we are about to lose, a bright light shines from the East. Everyone looks over to see Gandalf with the entire Legion of Boom! This scares the heck out of the White Walkers, who immediately retreat and ask for peace. “We agree to terms and have a ceremony to sign the new peace treaty. As we step up onto the stage with the leaders of the White Walkers, John Legend suddenly appears with a piano and begins singing ‘Let it Be.’ The documents get signed pretty quickly, because we all want to watch the performance. As we head over to the piano, Adele emerges from the shadows and begins singing with John! In awe we listen until the song is over. However, they’re not done yet! Band equipment is set up, and out walk the Beatles. They start playing, and it leads to a giant, all night dance party of celebration! My sister teaches the elves how to Dougie, and I impress everyone with my knowledge of the Quan (thanks students for teaching me!). As Chris Brown is about to dominate in a dance battle between himself and Lady Gaga, my sister comes up to me and begins to shake my arm, saying, ‘Hey! Wake up! Have you been here this whole time?!’ “Reluctantly, I open my eyes and take in my surroundings. I notice that I’m on my couch and Netflix is asking me if I’m still watching. This is when it hits me that I’ve spent the last few weeks not participating in the battle of a lifetime, but at home on the couch. Watching Netflix. Doing nothing. And school starts tomorrow.”
Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Issue 3 March 2016
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Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Coffee with Blank Itinerary
@blankitenerary
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David Bowie: A Man to Remember By Isabela Mutuc ‘18
By Isabella Dominguez ‘18, Anitza Velázquez ‘18, Lorena Ramirez ‘18
Isabella Dominguez ‘18
Issue 3 March 2016
David Bowie, famously known as the musical chameleon, influenced all who listened to his music. Even after his death on January 10, 2016, Bowie’s legacy lives on. From the day he was born on January 8, 1947, he touched the hearts of those around him and lived a life of adventure.
Isabella Dominguez ‘18
Paola Alberdi is the founder of Blank Itinerary (@blankitinerary), a popular fashion blog which has over 205k followers on Instagram. And three of your fellow OLP students had the immense pleasure to enjoy coffee with her at Café Chloe. Alberdi was born and raised in San Diego, California and, like many OLP Pilots, has lived the Tijuana/San Diego commuter lifestyle. She decided to create what is now Blank Itinerary in May 2014, and began on instagram with a little more than 800 followers. She started gathering an audience, which led to a huge increase in popularity. In no time brands wanted Alberdi to advertise their campaigns because of her style and elegance. She has collaborated with famous brands such as CoverGirl and TRESemmé, and has been invited to many prestigious shows. Alberdi has attended New York Fashion Week, which in the fashion world is a immense accomplishment. She has been featured in Vogue and is a contributor for Vogue Mexico. What started as a hobby has now taken over her itinerary, and with the help of her husband, her photographer (@henrysyoung), and her loved ones, Alberdi has grown stronger in the fashion industry, and is turning into a media sensation. Following are some highlights of the interview. Why did you choose the name “Blank Itinerary?” “I chose the name “Blank Itinerary” because I consider myself a very free spirited person. We are all masters of what we want to be, what our destiny will be like and how we live our life. We all wake up with… a blank itinerary.” Who were you before “Blank Itinerary?” “If I go way way back, believe it or not, I was a tomboy in elementary with only guy friends. I played sports all through high school including: tennis, basketball and soccer. Other than that, I was a normal girl living the San Diego/ Tijuana lifestyle.”
When David Bowie, then David Jones, turned thirteen, he learned to play the saxophone and his music career kicked off soon after. Now he is best known for 1969 first hit, “Space Oddity,” “Fame,” co-written with Carlos Alomar and John Lennon in 1975, and his role in the 1976 movie The Man Who Fell to Earth. Bowie was added to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. After finishing high school, Bowie became the lead in a band named Davy Jones and the Lower Third. However, there was already another Davy Jones of The Monkees, so David Jones changed his name to David Bowie. After some years, Bowie dropped out of music to live in a Buddhist monastery in Scotland in 1967. Three years later, in March 20, 1970, David Bowie married young American Angela Barnett. In 1971, the two had a son named Duncan “Zowie” O’Regan, Denis. “David Bowie and Mick Jagger, London, 1987” Jones. The couple divorced ten years later in 1980. After Bowie’s big hit song “Space Oddity,” his popularity increased. Bowie craved the attention and wanted more. He introduced the character Ziggy Stardust, who became part of the group The Spiders from Mars. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars was an album released in 1972. Ziggy Stardust’s style created a new type of rock music that ended the 1960s and started a new era of rock music. The Spiders from Mars ended in 1973, as well as Ziggy Stardust’s reign. Around the same time, David Bowie joined Mick Jagger and Keith Richards on the album Aladdin Sane. David Bowie changed his look again, this time leaving behind his extravagant costumes and exaggerated outfits. With his new style in 1975, David Bowie produced David Live and Young Americans. After his move to New York in 1980, Bowie created Let’s Dance. While many know Bowie for his songs, he was also known for his acting. Bowie starred in both The Elephant Man and Labyrinth. Bowie married the supermodel, Iman, and his wedding gift to her was a new album, Black Tie White Noise, which was released in 1993. David Bowie passed away in January, ending his eighteen month battle with cancer. His final album, Blackstar, was released just days earlier. Although his death saddened everyone, his music legacy will live on. http://www.biography.com/people/david-bowie-9222045#recent-years | “David Bowie.” Bio.com. A&E Networks Television, n.d. Web. 29 Jan. 2016.
Coachella 2016 By Sofia Mayer ‘17
Despite Coachella outwardly appearing as a simple music festival taking place under the scorching desert sun, the two week festival is much more than that. From its humble beginning in 1999, Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival has become one of the largest and most famous festivals in The United States. Not only is Coachella a pop culture worldwide phenomenon, but it is also a fashion movement whose flower crowns, effervescent colors, and retro-hippie styles further enhance the Coachella vibe.
Where did you go to high school? Did you know what you wanted to study back then? “I was the last generation to graduate from Marian Catholic High School, which is now Mater Dei. I had no idea what I wanted to be, but communications, psychology, and international business were always in my radar.” What did you do after high school? “I studied international business at SDSU with a year abroad at Barcelona. After graduating, I worked for a company as an executive assistant. Later on, I worked at a marketing company and that experience helped a lot with my blog.” Did you originally have another life plan? “I wanted to be in Corporate America, join a great company, and then grow from there.” How has your background influenced the person you have become? “Being bilingual and having the best of both worlds (living in San Diego and going to Tijuana) has really helped me understand how much we have and made me realize that we have everything to succeed in life.”
Outfits from Coachella 2015 | TheGirlyGirl Wordpress Blog
Did blogging start of as a hobby? Or did you intend for it to become a business since the beginning? “A little bit of both, but the goal was for it to become a business. So I treated it as a brand from the beginning.”
The two week, three-day festival takes place from April 15th to 17th, and April 22nd to 24th in Indio, California. This year’s lineup varies in style, showcasing different subgenres of dance and is jammed-packed with two big reunions in the form of headliners Guns N’ Roses, reuniting for the first time in two decades, and LCD Soundsystem. Friday covers progressive house, and although Friday is not particularly strong in its EDM (electronic dance music) front, Jack Ü’s set is enough to hold fans off for the rest of the night. Saturday is packed with the best of EDM, respectively introducing Disclosure, Zedd, and even RL Grime. Lastly, what Sunday brings to us is the beauty of house music: Flume, Calvin Harris, Miike Snow, and Major Lazer which will have everyone out of their wits.
Who do you consider your biggest inspiration? “Stylewise, Olivia Palermo (@oliviapalermo) as she really does know how to style things without always wearing expensive brands.”
From a self-effacing festival to a worldwide sensation, Coachella has made a long lasting impact on modern youth, and will continue to do so this spring.
From Paola Alberdi’s Pinterest When did you start blogging? “I started blogging in May 2014. I remember this date fresh in my mind as it was shortly after I married my husband.”
Who do you admire? “I admire my mom because she taught me how to dress and introduced me to fashion. I remember her telling me, ‘Today you’re going to skip school and we’re going shopping!’” What do you consider your biggest accomplishment to date? “Definitely partnering with Covergirl, TRESemmé, and attending the Harper’s Bazaar Icons party at New York’s Fashion Week.” What have been some obstacles you encountered on your path to becoming a blogger? “Impatience. In the beginning I worked too much and never saw any quick results which brought me down to frustration.” Why do you love traveling? “I love to travel...I almost feel as comfortable in an airplane than [I do] in my own bed! My favorite part is meeting new people from different cultures, and of course seeing all the different styles from all around the world.” What has been your most memorable trip? “Apart from my honeymoon, my most memorable trip was [to] the Amalfi Coast in Europe, which I traveled [to] this past summer. What I liked the most about this trip was that I got to spend time with my husband and incorporate work at the same time.” Do you have plans in the near future to launch your own line? “Yes I do… stay tuned!” New trends for 2016? “2016 is ALL about colors. We’re still going to be seeing a lot of pastels but mostly rainbow and vibrant colors.” What are three tips you would give to a young girl who is discovering her true passion? “#1: Always be realistic. #2: Be passionate. #3: Never take ‘no’ for an answer.” Want to learn more about Paola Alberdi? Don’t miss the event she will be hosting March 5, 2016 at Nordstrom in Fashion Valley. Make sure to follow her on instagram: @blankitinerary, snapchat: blankitinerary, and take a look at her blog: www.blankitinerary.com for more fashion inspiration.
By Gemma Carretta ‘17 and Julia Isbell ‘17
“I competed in Spring Sing with my class and WON! However, there is a little problem…I can’t get the super heavy makeup off! I have tried soap and water, 3 different brands of makeup remover, coconut oils, bleach...you name it! But I just cannot get it off. Now I look like a clown and I can see everyone staring at my face with a look that questions whether or not the MAC store threw up on my face. How do I fix this mess?” - Cosmetological Classmate First off, congratulations on not only surviving Spring Sing, but winning! For the makeup, I have a few suggestions in order to get your “game face” off. First, try soaking cotton balls in a mix of all the makeup removers, and then rub the makeup off. If that doesn’t work, apply petroleum jelly to get stubborn eye makeup off. If that doesn’t work, you have no other choice then to hide your stage makeup by wearing skin-tone foundation over it whenever you go out in public. Or, instead of trying to rip off the fake eyelashes and removing the 10 pounds of foundation and powder, you could use all that time to make up homework assignments that you did not have time for during the last two months due to long Spring Sing practices. “My class just started the college application process, and I am really worried: when we did our college resumes, mine was only half a page long, and most of that was filled by my name, but all my friends’ resumes were two pages! As a Junior, I only have a few months until I need to send in my application, and I want to appear to be a smart, involved student. What do you think I should do?” - Alarmed Applicant Calm down! As an OLP student, you are already way ahead of other college applicants. But, if you insist upon expanding your resume, you have a few options (some of which are more acceptable than others). Option One: Transfer into 8 AP classes, run for positions on six different councils, play every sport, join all the clubs, and die of exhaustion, but at least you won’t have to worry about college anymore. Option Two: This Spring, run for a leadership position for the next year. Join another club or two, and maybe even try out for a sport, and go to bed by ten every night. Option Three: “Join” a bunch of activities by showing up to only one meeting. Put these activities on your resume, show up for the yearbook photo, and relax while watching Netflix until your application gets rejected for dishonesty.
Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Issue 3 March 2016
Human Trafficking
Imagine you are offered a wonderful opportunity to model for a magazine. But as soon as you cross the border into a new country, the magazine company does not exist. Instead, a cage is waiting for you. You are sucked into a new life where you have no control and you become the property of someone else. Depending on who owns you, your tasks are different. A common task is sex. You are distributed to unknown “renters” and are given money for your services. Thankfully, that is not your life, but for some, it is their entire world. Human trafficking is increasing each day, everywhere in the world, and is considered the second biggest issue after drug trafficking. From 2010 to 2013, human trafficking cases have increased 30%. In Southern California since 2008, human trafficking increased up to 600%. These statistics include the sex trafficking of children. One of the men who is responsible for the continuation of sex trafficking is Carlos Alberto Garcia, who trafficked underage girls and pimped them out as prostitutes. Fortunately, he was sentenced on March 4, 2013 and will not be released until 2025. Even after his release, he will be supervised for another ten years. Before his sentence, he was in custody for a year and finally plead guilty in August of 2012. A young female of seventeen years old was under the “care” of Garcia and she describes him as a cruel and uncivilized man. On a night that this young girl was working, she hid $300 she had earned from Garcia. When he found out about the hidden money, he began to beat her and strip her of her clothes. Afterwards, he placed her in the shower and let the cold water run on her. When she got out of the shower, he continued to abuse her by pouring ice on her and making her stand in front of the air conditioner. When he was finished with the abuse, he used her money to buy himself over $600 worth of shoes.
By Isabela Mutuc ‘18
A victim of sex trafficking | US Department of Justice Website
Another perpetrator of human trafficking, Maurice Jerome Smith was sentenced in December of 2011 for the sex trafficking of children. He has been sentenced for thirty-three years and will not be released until 2044. One of Smith’s victims was forced into her truck and was driven to an isolated location where she was beaten and raped. Even after that, he drove his victim to a local motel where he made $600 selling her body to other men.
Page 6 Department). Once the girls are promised a life full of luxury, their “owners” turn their lives around. Those girls who refuse to be trafficked are abused and publicly humiliated. Those who do not are soon considered property and are traded from pimp to pimp. Many victims are picked up off the streets. If you are approached by a potential human trafficker, the worst thing that you can do is to get into a car with them; if you do, the odds of you surviving are very slim. Even if the kidnapper threatens you or another person, the best thing you can do is to run and find an adult whom you trust. In some cases, a victim may be grabbed from behind. The San Diego Police Department advise that if this happens to you, become “boneless” and drop from their grip. An OLP mother says, “First, poke them in the eyes. Then, with a lot of force, use the bottom of your palm and uppercut their nose. After that, take your shoe and run it down the perpetrator’s shin. Finally, kick or knee them in the crotch area. If it happens that are wearing heels, step with your might onto their foot.” The goal is to get your attacker off of you. After you accomplish this, run; do not stay to try to hurt them further. If you are captured, always try to leave a trail. Use hair bands, earrings, your necklace, anything that may help lead law enforcement to you.
Another criminal, Jonathan Jamar was sentenced in May of 2012. He will not be released until 2031. He plead guilty to sex trafficking children. In southern California, he started a relationship with a fifteen year old girl. Once their relationship became sexual, he forced her to sell her body for There are many ways you can help those who money. When she refused, Jamar threatened her. have been victims of trafficking. The best way to help Each time, she believed him capable of violence is to become aware of human trafficking. Educate because she once saw him beat a girl without mercy. yourself on the signs of a human trafficking victim. If In the past few years, trends in the system of you see a potential victim, call the local police force, human trafficking have become clearer. According FBI, or a professional who knows what to do. By making to the San Diego Police, victims of human and sex that phone call, you could become that victim’s hero. trafficking are becoming younger and are in the higher Once you have informed yourself, inform those classes. Predators are targeting victims of twelve to around you. More people who know about trafficking fourteen years of age and often find their victims on leads to more people who can fight it. social media. Gang members have also become more involved in the business and “vulnerable underage girls are one of their main focuses” (San Diego Police
cas13-0304-GarciaSent.pdf | Duffy, Laura E., and Alessandra P. Serrano, comps. “NEWS RELEASES.” MELA Notes No. 35 (2013): 19-20. Justice. Government, 4 Mar. 2013. Web. 29 Jan. 2016. | http://www.state.gov/j/ tip/id/help/ | “20 Ways You Can Help Fight Human Trafficking.” U.S. Department of State. U.S. Department of State, n.d. Web. 29 Jan. 2016.
The Impact of Dystopian Literature By Stefi Cerqueira ‘17
No one can deny that in recent years there has been an explosion in popularity of dystopian novels. Since the debut of George Orwell’s 1984 and Anthony Burgess’ A Clockwork Orange, there has been a growing interest in a futuristic/post-apocalyptic society, whose aspects mimic the contemporary one, that portrays a sense of realism all while staying within the boundaries of a fictitious world. Those books revolved around adult characters; now, the protagonists of these stories are getting younger and younger, and more and more books are being published under the young adult genre. Adolescent readers are able to relate to the characters and their struggles, as it is similar to the ones being experienced now; high school, college, drama, loss, friends, family, responsibilities, and identity. These stories are not just entertaining, but they are making teens aware of the flaws in their own society. Weheartit.com As of now, the most popular books are The Hunger Games, Divergent, and The Maze Runner. These three sagas include a key element that has gained the attention of readers worldwide — a young teen who is thrown into a situation that puts their life at risk and rebels against their corrupt system. It may sound a bit cliché, but there is something that makes these books stand out from the rest; the “hero” is not the chosen one — at least, not in the way that is commonly portrayed. Katniss Everdeen volunteers in her sister’s place, goes on to win the Hunger Games, then is selected as the symbol of rebellion. Tris Prior goes against what others have said and chooses Dauntless at the last minute, defies the government, joins the rebellion, and eventually leads it. Thomas is put into the Maze with no memory, and despite what the others tell him about the Grievers, he goes into the Maze and leads everyone to the exit. Their role isn't forced upon them by some prophecy — like Harry Potter — but they are just people who are aware of the faults in the system and are brave enough to step up and lead a revolution. There is one detail that ultimately motivates them to make a difference, something that confirms their beliefs — a martyr. When Rue dies, instead of letting them take away her body like luggage, Katniss positions the young girl and puts flowers in her hair as a farewell, stimulating the riots in Rue’s district, which inevitably becomes the prime reason for Katniss’ role as the Mockingjay. Tris’ parents both die fighting against the rebellion, which only makes Tris want to revolt even more. Thomas watches as the youngest in their group, Chuck, is killed by one of their own. Through death, these three protagonists truly recognize the corrupt power that reigns over them and that it needs to be stopped, whatever the cost. These stories have all been adapted into movies, The Hunger Games being the most successful out of the three. What is so riveting about this story is that it is strikingly similar to our own, which has been revealed through the cinematic screen thanks to the directors, Gary Ross and Francis Lawrence. A parallel that is apparent is the resistance of the people against the Peacekeepers in Panem to the police brutality that has gained attention across the United States. The psychological damage of the victors from the Games is equivalent to the returning soldiers from war who are later diagnosed with PTSD. From the Mockingjay: Part 1 soundtrack, the memorable song, “The Hanging Tree,” was played on the radio countless times. Because of its spike in popularity, a remixed version was released, so listeners wouldn’t pay much attention to the disturbing lyrics, such as “they strung up a man/ they say who murdered three” and “where I told you to run/ so we’d both be free.” Sounds like something the Capitol from the fictional story would do in response to such a song, doesn’t it? It is clear that these books incorporate elements and events that have — or are — currently taking place in today’s world. Any high school student can put one and one together and see the connections between this fictional world and the one they live in. Now, it’s even easier given that the protagonist and the reader are around the same age, and through the characters’ eyes, they can understand their perspective. Dystopian literature that caters to the younger audience captivates the world by framing a universe in ink that can be interpreted as parallel of our own. Or, at least, the world Americans know as citizens of a first world country. There are third world countries currently living like the people of District 12 and 13 or in their own Hunger Games, without all the cameras and glamor; places like Gaza, Syria, and North Korea. The stories of Park Yeonmi, a North Korean refugee, and Suki Kim, a Korean-American who went undercover as an English teacher in North Korea, sound like a blend of Fahrenheit 451, 1984, and The Giver — unreal and fictional. But they are happening now, and these authors who are turning western countries into dystopias are opening the eyes of the younger generations to see their world reinvented and become aware of the world around them. These books may not seem as important as historical fiction or classics, but they are relevant today and may be the most profound works of literature of this era.
Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Issue 3 March 2016
Disney Sexism
Page 7
By Marian Isbell ‘19
Disney. Creator of the classic movies every child grows up watching--and crying over --again and again. Looking at Disney films, however, one can literally mark how American culture changed over the course of nearly 80 years. Snow White. The first Disney “Princess” movie to come out, on February 4, 1938. An adorable movie about an innocent girl who befriends wild animals and dwarves, is hated for her good looks by the Queen, and ultimately saved by a man she barely knows. Well, to be exact, the prince, broke into her backyard, sang to her, and listened to her sing to him. Wait… what? That’s right; between Snow White staying home and cleaning the house instead of going with the men to mine, to the entire plotline being based on a beauty contest, to a prince who doesn’t even have a name, Disney would never be able to get this movie produced now, let alone make it a success. Disney followed Snow White with Sleeping Beauty, which has pretty much the exact same plotline, except the protagonist has blonde hair and fairies instead of dwarves. Then, it’s Cinderella, whose entire life is changed, not by herself, but because she manages to make a guy fall for her over the course of a single dance. Next up is a favorite of many: The Little Mermaid. With Ariel’s bubbly personality, and general love for life, it’s not hard to see how so many fell in love with this classic. However, the entire story revolves around Ariel’s rescue of a drowning Prince Eric, singing to him, then exchanging her entire life for the chance at getting him to kiss her. Although their relationship succeeds, it comes down to the prince stabbing Ursula with his boat, whilst Ariel, seemingly unable to do anything, watches the two male figures in her life -- her father and her boyfriend -- try to save her. Then, it’s Beauty and the Beast. Another classic, and let’s not forget that adorable heroic bookworm! While Belle is certainly not a shallow stereotype, she is treated poorly the entire movie. Between Gaston’s sexist comments about how she shouldn’t read, but instead focus on being a good housewife, he showed that he would rather die than lose Belle--not in a romantic way, like Beast, who fought off the wolves (a symbol towards the town)--but because he didn’t want to lose his ultimate trophy; the town’s prettiest girl would be his, simply because he can’t lose. Ever. Sounds like he needs therapy… from the bottom of that well-placed canyon… Aladdin is considered a princess movie, even though the protagonist is, in fact, a man (in case the title wasn’t blatantly obvious enough). Anyway, Aladdin sees a girl he likes, tries to trick her throughout the entire movie, ending happily ever after with her marrying the “diamond in the rough.” However, the fact that she had to marry to rule, and could not be a Queen by herself, rubs many feminists the wrong way. That fact, and how every male character manipulates her the entire time: her father is forcing her to marry against her will; Jafar… well, he’s an all-around creep, so it’s better to just grimace and move on; then, there’s Aladdin; the swash-buckling hero who is Agrabah’s version of Robin Hood, who gives up his (albeit stolen) bread to feed two orphans… then lies to Jasmine throughout the entire movie, and it takes Jafar *grimace* for Jasmine to finally realize the truth. Instead of being disgusted or just all-around mad, she just loves him anyway (even though she doesn’t know him at all) and marries him. Next up, Mulan. This is definitely a progressive story, with the main character happening to find love instead of actively seeking it out. Of course, she has to dress as a boy to be considered important, but in the end, she defeated the bad guy (yippee!) in her normal female form and outfit. Plus, she did it with the help of three men who disguised themselves as concubines (have to admire that determination), and her love interest is someone who she risks fighting for. So is he a man worth fighting for? Mulan seems to think so. Then came The Princess and the Frog. The main character, Tiana, is a determined woman of color, who won’t let her gender or race stop her from achieving her and her father’s dream. However, outside of the main character and her mother, every female in the entire movie seemingly existed for the sole purpose of goggling at the fake prince and eating Tiana’s cakes. Although this movie has a strong female protagonist, the female side characters’ personalities remain underdeveloped. Of course, who could forget Tangled? This female heroine doesn’t like to go down without a fight, but blindly trusts a stranger to show her around town. That, and every side character is a man. Her friend, Pascal, is a male chameleon; the horse is Maximus, the men from the Snuggly Duckling are… well, men… and the king is generally seen dominating the shots with the mourning parents. But wow, who could forget that frying pan?! Now it’s time to roll out the red carpet: Brave. Brave stars the hot-headed, red-haired, arrow-shooting, horse-riding, stereotype-breaking heroine who still manages to squeeze in some sexism between the lines. Compare the father to the mother; the man is far taller, bulkier, and all-around bigger than the woman. His hand is several times as large as hers, furthering the idea that men are big and powerful, and women are small and delicate. Aside from this little piece of the puzzle though, this movie is regarded as one of the more empowering Disney movies. Now, the most recent--and one of the most popular--Disney movies: Frozen. Although this breaks just about all the stereotypes and has a female protagonist and a female hero, it, like every other Disney work, is not perfect. Elsa decides to prove her freedom by making a sparkly dress and home-decorating, while Anna’s first thoughts of being in the outside world aren’t about exploring (like Rapunzel) but are about finding love, dresses, and dances.
Disney has improved its gender roles over time, but it will take a lot more effort (and movies!) before they create the world’s happily ever after. Actually, this phenomenon is a bionic hand, offering him a solution that would enable him to have a the basis of all medical and scientific research done new version of fingers, that would provide him an easier for the past year for the Harvard seminar to be set in life. The cost would be thousands of dollars. Fundraisers By Rocio Flores-Villa ‘17 2016. From its center sprout four perfectly structured were held, family and friends came together, and before stems, its center so detailed that every cable, sensor, and he knew it, Aramburo was faced with a new opportunity. receptors lie in a carefully structured pattern. It is a work Almost four years later, Moises Aramburo is of art created by man that has brought the future to the living a better life. He asserts that Touch Bionics has present. gained him the confidence he had lost after the accident. What is even more intriguing is the event that Not only that, but Aramburo has become a faithful led to Aramburo’s ownership of this technological ambassador for the Touch Bionics company. Now a wonder. In 2012, life as Aramburo knew it changed in professional, he looks back to those years in which his life an instant. He was out with friends when he decided he took a turn. News media, magazines, and photographers would ride a boogie board around the streets of Cabo have reached out to Aramburo because of his story; San Lucas, Mexico. To perform this, he attached a piece he has become an example of not only what it means of rope to the back of a car, and held the other end with to have a complete life changing experience, but also of his right hand. When the car turned, the force created the power science has to create--the power to take in all L: Moises taking a photograph; R: Close up of the bionic hand from it trapped Aramburo’s four fingers by the rope and human abilities and give birth to a new generation of Moises Aramburo, 23, is your typical guy. He the sewer. In an instant, four of his fingers were torn innovations. carries an aura of young knowledge, of dreams and from his right hand. Hours after the accident, Aramburo As the interview comes to a close, a young boy aspirations. One could conclude he is an average San found himself at the UCSD Hospital, with the hope of of ten had witnessed it all, his eyes widening with awe as Diegan, just out of college, and setting out in a world being able to surgically reconnect his fingers. Doctors the fingers moved. His eyes burn with surprise and his of work, social media, and new life events. He has believed the operation was successful, however, young imagination explodes with curiosity. Eventually a mature air about him as he confidently enters the Aramburo found himself unable to feel his fingers. The signaled to come near, he approaches the table and room, glasses and red cap on. He looks around. He heaviness of reality came upon him like a bad dream: learns the story of Moises Aramburo. Aramburo’s has just entered the Better Buzz Cafe in Point Loma. the surgery had been unsuccessful. A dark veil settled accident may have been a tragedy when it happened, He is looking for the person who will interview him. upon him with the realization that life would not be the but with time he has become a local celebrity and an Folder open, questions in hand, the same. Aramburo claims that one of the biggest factors of inspiration to many. Meeting over, glasses back on, interviewer waits. Moises is signaled and walks over. strength was the support of his family who never left his backpack in hand, Aramburo walks out of the cafe, back Casual hellos exchanged, and he sits. Finally, there side. But Aramburo would not have to live without the into everyday life. The thing is, that little boy standing it is, the mystery that was so eagerly awaited. Before rest of his hand for long. in the corner, never ceasing to look away--thoughts run
When the Unimaginable Comes Alive
the interviewer is what many people before this time only believed could be found in sci-fi movies, what young school children would read about in their twenty five cent comic books back in the 70’s. Awe is the interviewer’s first reaction, followed by a look of disbelief. To say it is a masterpiece made by science and man would only be the beginning.
One day he was introduced by a close friend to the world of Touch Bionics, a world leader in prosthetic technologies. When Aramburo heard this, he had a sense of relief, knowing that something could be done to fix his injured hand. However, the journey was not as easy as it sounded. He began to research, and found himself with prosthesis professionals, and the company
through his brain. For the next two hours he speaks excitedly about this “cool” guy, who is “way cooler than a Storm Trooper.” After some of his fervor has ceded, he is asked what he thinks, and what he says next proves that man’s ability to create is unstoppable. He thinks for a while and finally says, “You see, this is an example of when the unimaginable comes alive.”
Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Issue 3 March 2016
Pilot Press
Trending Pilots
Isabella Dominguez ‘18 and Marianna Del Rio ‘18
A makeup tutorial by Bella Scherer ‘19 from her Instagram
The students at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace are known for their wide range of talents. OLP is composed of scholars, strong athletes, powerful leaders, and the setters of the latest trends. From makeup tutorials to Zodiac Guides, many an OLP girl is taking the lead in their passions. MAKE UP: Bella Scherer ‘19 | Instagram: @bellamariemakeup Need contouring tips? Trying to get that perfect winged eyeliner? Fret no more. This fab Freshie has all that and more for you. Bella Scherer ‘19 is conquering the makeup world one winged eye at a time. Success is her only option because she likes expensive makeup. So, if you were looking for that perfect reason to buy a new eyeshadow palette, Bella will give you a thousand reasons to do just that. PHOTOGRAPHY: Ana Paola Diaz ‘16 | Instagram: @viisense Web: http://www.7thsensephotography.com Description of Blog: When it comes to talented young girls, Ana Paola is at her peak. Her creative mind and amazing photographs have resulted in many OLP students booking a photoshoot with Ana Paola. So hurry up before she becomes the next Mario Testino! Sara Anfuso ‘17 | Instagram: @saraanfusophotography Web: http://saraanfusophotography.yolasite.com Sara Anfuso ‘17 is living her life through the looking lens. Her photographic eye is what will lead her to success. Having travelled the world, Sara knows exactly what she’s doing. FOOD: Marina Ramirez ‘16 | Instagram: @amorculinario Get one look of her blog and you’ll be hooked with gourmet pictures from all around the world. Marina Ramirez ‘16 shares this blog along with her friend, Cristina, from Monterrey, México. Marina’s instagram, “Culinary Love,” is filled with delectable dishes that will leave mouths watering. JEWELRY: Kelli Johnson ‘17 and Alisa Massery ‘17 Instagram: @rockcandyjewelry Young entrepreneurs and not to mention “bff ’s” Kelli and Alisa ‘17 are the creators of @rockcandyjewelry. They sell beautiful necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Head to this account at your own risk, as you will likely want to buy each and every piece of crystal jewelry they have to offer. OTHER: Angela Balistrieri ‘18 | Facebook: Got Science? Blog Facebook: www.facebook.com/gotscienceblog/ Angela Balistrieri ‘18 makes “science-simplified.” Needless to say, Angela is on her way to beginning her career as a scientist. Want to learn the science behind all your favorite topics? Head on over to the Got Science blog on Facebook and learn all about it. Melyna Blanco ‘17 | Instagram: @zodiacguide Melyna Blanco ‘17 has signs for you: Zodiac Signs. Melyna’s Instagram account, “zodiacguide,” with over 6K followers, is your guide to the future. On her instagram you will learn when you will meet the love of your life, to the type of selfie taker you are. If you’re into all those witty Tumblr posts, definitely check it out! If you felt inspired by these blogs remember that it is never too late to start your own. All it takes is: - 1 cup of talent - 2 teaspoons of confidence - 3 tablespoons of initiative Mix em’ all together and voilà, you have your own blog!
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SERVICE DOGS... Freedom Dogs’ Labrador Retrievers are service dogs protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These dogs are very special to their trainers and the the people they help because each dog is trained for a specific person who is in a specific situation. There are many different kinds of service dogs, such as seeing-eye dogs, hearing dogs, mobility dogs, and alert dogs. Seeing-eye dogs assist those who have problems seeing their environment, which can jeopardize their safety. Hearing dogs assist those who are deaf. Even though the dog’s master cannot hear it, the dog often uses motions with its paws, eyes, head, and other parts of the body in order to convey a certain message. Mobility dogs assist those who have a hard time moving around due to amputations or the use of wheelchairs. The alert dogs are just as their name implies: they alert their owners of upcoming dangers. When their disabled master looks as if he or she will have a seizure, the dog can alert the master ahead of time, as well as alert others of the upcoming seizure. All of these dogs can be seen wearing vests in public, marking them as dogs who are protected by the ADA. The dogs who are trained and work in Freedom Dogs are chosen from a specific set of breeders who work together in order to make the puppy into a service dog. Each puppy is looked at for specific qualities such as health, intelligence, and temperament. The puppy must be both physically and mentally sturdy in order to be ready to guide someone back to the right path in life. Another quality is intelligence. Freedom Dogs teaches their dogs to “think on their feet.” The dogs are not taught many cues to prevent confusion, since some participants suffer from memory loss. A puppy’s temperament is also taken into account in order to prevent aggressive dogs from working with high-risk patients who are facing PTSD or thoughts of suicide. Finally, at eight weeks, the trainers make a final assessment and take the puppies to their new home. After ten years of service, the dogs are rewarded with a much earned retirement as a thank you for their years dedicated to helping veterans with physical and mental disabilities. Freedom Dogs are dedicated to helping those in need, as well as dedicated to giving furry puppies a sense of purpose in their lives. For some veterans, service dogs are not needed. However, for those who do require a service dog’s assistance, the dog becomes a part of their family. Dogs can do more than play fetch and wag their tail when their bellies are rubbed; they also have the capability to save and better lives that were once considered lost or damaged. Sources: Meribeth Russell, Nan Arthur | Pictures: Isabela Mutuc ‘18
BEYOUTIFUL... outer beauty decisions for themselves and no one else. [Women] in this 21st century...need this element of empowerment, and feminism just comes along with it.” Ashley Northrup ’18 said, “Feminism is about equality of all peoples, but people think that it’s about women being greater than men, but it’s not. In being part of this club, I felt the need to get the message out that empowering women to be who they are is a good thing. For men and women to be equals in social environments and work environments is a good thing. In strongly holding this belief, I helped facilitate the BeYoutiful event that we just had recently where we invited middle schools girls to come to OLP to have empowering activities and workshops about what it means to have inner beauty and not be so concerned with outer beauty. We know that self image is important, especially in middle school. And the thing is, is that if your self-image is important why question it and let people tell you to be anything [other than] who you are? Which is what often...happens in middle school. Media influences these middle school girls the most, and that is why we target that audience the most. Girls being empowered is a good thing.” Sophie Parra ’18 shared much of Northrup’s views on the middle school girl event in saying, “Middle school is weakest point of self-confidence a girl will have, and that is why we had this conference. BeYoutiful is seen as ‘the feminist club’ [and] all we want to do is empower young girls to do great things. What is so wrong with empowering a young girl? In particular, middle school girls are going to be the next generation of young women and they are the most impressionable, and we wanted to give them a positive message. We held a ‘Just Dance’ portion of the conference where girls [danced, sang,] and just were being themselves...All we want is to see these girls have fun with who they are.” When Erin Prevo ’18 was asked what her definition of feminism is, she discussed feminism in a global sense in saying, “Feminism is being empowered. Feminism is Malala fighting for her education. People in developing countries and specifically communities where terrorism is an obvious factor, are scared of women having
empowerment and an education that will allow them to rise above terrorism and unjust treatment. Here at OLP, in our all girls environment, it is important to be educated and empowered young women. It only makes sense because in many countries outside of the U.S., [girls] cannot even receive an education. Those that are educated need to use their education to help other girls.” The leaders of the club have a motto that is “Can we just spread love?” The reason they want to “just spread love” is because it is obvious that feminism is a tough subject; extreme feminists give feminism a bad rap and equality of men and women in all environments may anger some people due to long lasting traditions of women’s roles in place since the beginning of time. However, the BeYoutiful club seeks to tap into the side of feminism that means women deserve to be equally important, equally empowered, equally respected, and equally seen for their worth and not their bodies. This club is about diminishing the objectification of women, and about helping young women from OLP and middle schools overpower the objectification prevalent in media, movies, celebrities, television shows, advertisements, etc. There are both negatives and positives to feminism (the negatives come from extremists who participate in man-shaming), just like there are negatives and positives to any “isms.” However, the BeYoutiful club focuses on the positives of teaching girls that they are all BeYoutiful. For more imformation about the BeYoutiful Club, watch their promotional video (https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=LQnWvu7c6sk), and visit their instagram (thebeyoutiful_project) and twitter pages (https://twitter.com/beyoutiful_sd). 8tracks.com/kimberleejones/female-empowerment View more articles and photos online at
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