FREE
VOLUME LXV ISSUE v
March 2016
ARCHBISHOP RIORDAN HIGH SCHOOL
SERVING RIORDAN SINCE 1949
THE NEWSPAPER OF CRUSADER COUNTRY
Crusaders claim coveted CCS crown By Abdallah Shami ’16
The team singing the alma mater after the CCS championship. Eddie hits a deep three against SHC during league. Photos courtesy CrusaderNation
After years of successful basketball seasons and numerous
goal of league champs. Riordan’s next game against Valley
trips to CCS, the Crusaders were hoping to once again win a
Christian showed that they were not messing around as they
with 3 wins and 11 losses. Entering the CCS III playoffs, the
league championship.
beat Valley Christian 94-68.
Crusaders were ranked fourth. Making easy work of Gunderson,
The Archbishop Riordan Crusaders are led by head coach
The team kept moving forward and played against
the Crusaders took on Burlingame High School in the semi-
Rick Buckner, who has had the position for nine years, and
Junípero Serra High School. Even with starting players Jake
finals. After a shaky first half the Crusaders did just enough to
assistant coach Danny Arias.
Rassam and Daniel Norman out with injuries, the Riordan
pull out the victory. WIth the victory the Crusaders would meet
Crusaders still managed to fight; however, fell short and lost
Sacred Heart Cathedral for a third time. Splitting the first two
“Finishing with a winning record, winning CCS, and coming
by three points (57-60).
meetings, the Crusaders were primed to stop the Irish. With a
together as a team.”
The Crusaders next played their homecoming game on
great shooting effort by James Chun ’18 and key plays on both
These goals are what Jake and his fellow teammates
Friday, Jan. 15, against the Saint Ignatius Wildcats. The Saint
sides of the ball by Daniel Norman, the Crusaders claimed the
wanted to accomplish this year. Winning CCS was one goal
Ignatius Wildcats were coming off of a good game after
schools’ 14th CCS crown.
that became reality because Riordan qualified for CCS.
defeating Sacred Heart for the Bruce Mahoney 61-60.
This year, the Riordan Crusaders have qualified for CCS as
Riordan’s two starting players Rassam and Norman
Northern Califonira playoff. The Crusaders beat Placer High
they ended their preseason record with 5 wins and 4 losses.
returned to the court. Even with the addition, the Riordan
School in their first game and fell just short to the ultimate
This accomplishment allowed the Riordan Crusaders to play
Crusaders were short of a win and lost to Saint Ignatius 41-42.
Nor-Cal Champion, Manteca Buffaloes.
for a CCS title in Division III.
The Crusaders started their regular season against Saint
4 record. Rassam believed he had the key to solving this
the season disappeared, for a few weeks and made the 2015-2016
Francis High School. They were close, but fell short, losing 54-
situation, “Get the ball moving, attack the basket more often,”
Crusader basketball team earn a spot in Riordan lore, by being
49. This loss was a wake up call for the team as they knew that
he said. “We have a great defense and a lot of heart we just
part of the school’s storied championship basketball program.
they would have to try harder if they expected to fulfill their
need to put that together.”
Senior basketball starter Jacob Rassam said their goals are:
The Riordan Crusaders hoped to improve their 1 and
The Riordan Crusaders finished their regular season record
The win helped Riordan earn the three seed in the CIF
All and all the struggles and heartbreaks of the beginning of
Archbishop celebrates Chaminade Day mass By Jeancarlos Santos ’17
Lous Segale ’61 proudly displays his award. Photo courtesy Prestige
Annually, Archbishop Riordan celebrates a
His
dear
friend,
Ronald
Isola,
who
mass in honor of one individual’s contributions
graduated with Segale in 1961, said, “He has
to Riordan High School. The Chaminade Award
made ARHS a better place through his efforts.
is a prestigious honor that has been bestowed
He had always given to Riordan and never
by the school and given to alumni, faculty and
sought credit. Always willing to help.”
staff, parents and benefactors since 1975.
In 2016, Archbishop Cordileone humbly
he and his brothers started a family scholarship
presented the mass to honor this year’s winner,
after his father passed away in 1999 as a way to
Lou Segale ’61. Even after graduating from
honor his parents.
Archbishop Riordan High School in 1961,
Segale has been involved in extra-curricular
of a leader. On Jan. 22, the Chaminade Mass
activities in many ways.
honored this leader.
After high school, Segale taught at Horace
Isola nominated Segale for this award. Also,
To many, Segale embodies the qualities
Isola said, “As a former recipient of the
Mann for 14 years; afterwards, he taught at
Chaminade Award I have always felt that the
Wallenberg High School in 1981. After retiring
mass and the entire day is a very special day. It
in 2003 from teaching, Segale began to help
helps to emphasize what it means to be a true
at Riordan athletic events. When Ron Isola
Riordan Crusader.”
coached basketball and then became athletic
Segale enjoyed the mass saying, “The
director, Segale was an essential part of
Chaminade Mass was very nice, especially the
establishing athletic dinners, football games,
music and singing. My family and friends all
basketball games, and other events.
said it was beautiful. The students and faculty always make me feel welcome.”
2 OPINION
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Super Bowl 50 losers: Homeless and taxpayers By Darren Bucko ’16 City,” a free fan experience.
but Mayor Ed Lee had a solution. His
$300-500 million change in our local
Well, first off, they closed several
statement to the homeless of our city
economy. Do notice I said change,
blocks of Market and elsewhere, one
was as follows: “We are always going
not addition or loss, as we have no
of the most traffic heavy areas in
to be supportive, but you are going
idea how this will turn out yet.
the city, and traffic wasn’t any easier
to have to leave the street. Not just
While the City of Santa Clara
during that period. As many as over
because it’s illegal, but because it is
has made deals with the NFL, San
a million people visited the City to
dangerous.”
Francisco has not, so it will be tax
see the game, and logistically it was
Yeah, that’s it. And while later, the
payer money going towards building
strained.
mayor did clarify that he’s planning
such things and other expenses.
In anticipation of the events,
on more than just moving and hiding
Making the city foot the bill is a not
theology teacher Ken Swan said, “It’s
the homeless somewhere else, due
a new thing for the Super Bowl, but
going to be really bad, take Bart.”
to the vagueness of it all, I doubt it
recently it has become even more
down on their couches, turned on the
However, that only scratched the
includes them having mimosas with
extreme.
television, and watched Super Bowl
surface of the issues.
the rest of us in Super Bowl City.
50, “The Golden Super Bowl,” the grand
There are about 3,000 homeless
While not that interesting, this
reminder, but more of a lesson. As the
finale of 2015’s football season, and it
people in San Francisco, and many of
whole extravaganza is expensive, and
NFL pushes the Super Bowl bigger
took place right here in the Bay Area.
them live in that area, which begs the
every year, the NFL shoves more onto
and bigger, more consumerism, less
They even shut down several
question, where did they go? These
the city. San Francisco is expected
actual football, know that all this has
blocks of Market and nearby blocks
kinds of events are notorious for being
to spend more than $50 million for
to be is a football game, and that
to build what was called “Super Bowl
hostile to homeless populations,
this, and it will lead to a predicted
excess isn’t necessary.
On Feb. 7 this year, America sat
Do not see this all as a depressing
Seniors pawns in college waiting game By John Bermudez ’16
Rejections, acceptances, waitlists, and a handful of questions now swirl around the minds of the Class of 2016. After long months of anticipation and stress, the seniors now play the waiting game to see how their future will pan out. After months of completing applications, taking standardized tests, and having their families badger them on what they plan to do, it is almost over. It is safe to say that college is consuming the minds of the anxious students. Where will you be going? Did you get in? What score did you get on the test? We all get tired of talking about college, but it is almost impossible to avoid in a conversation. In the beginning of the year, students spent countless hours researching to find the perfect college. Many focused on dream
schools and aspired to attend those prestigious institutions. With high expectations came pressure. Students found themselves worried about their grades, test scores, and extracurriculars. Senior John Christian Canicosa said, “The hardest part about the process is making sure I did enough to stand out from all the other applicants.” Now that the time for sending in applications is over, has the stress really subsided? It appears as if students are stressed out more than ever waiting for the results. I think it certainly has intensified the school environment for quite some time, and it continues to do so. I am willing to place a bet saying the stress will not fully go away until May 1st during National College Decision Day when students must commit to a college. Even then, knowing how anxious students get nowadays, I would not be surprised to see them stressing out about the thought of college life. I have committed to a university, and I am still anxious about everything. The topic of college seems like it will never fade away. It has gone from talking about where you are applying to where you are getting in. In a few months, the conversation will just switch to which college you are choosing. Luckily, for some of the
seniors, they have been accepted by many fine colleges and universities. Senior Tycho Meimban said, “I have gotten into Fordham, Santa Clara, and Michigan, but I am still waiting for some other schools to see where I want to go.” The Class of 2016 has received acceptances from Stanford, Michigan, Colgate, Santa Clara, and Boston College to name a few. With all of this success, the pressure is greater than ever to perform just as well as their peers. Students constantly ask where their classmates got in. While everyone is happy for all of their friends, it is a common instinct to want to be as successful as the people around you. After all, envy and the desire to be the best is a powerful tool that has the potential to motivate anyone to go above and beyond. As expected, the seniors are all greatly worried about their futures. No one knows if they are making the right choices, and only time will tell how successful everyone will be. If there is one thing that they all know, they are just grateful to be graduating in a couple of months. Though the stress is escalating for the majority, everyone agrees that it will be worth it when they are stepping on the stage and receiving that diploma.
Editor: Ben Martin ’16 Contributing Reporters: John Bermudez ’16 Darren Bucko ’16 Eric Craviotto ’17 Christian Hammerich ’16 Chang Liu ’18 Nicholas Lobre ’16 Clayton Miranda ’17 Alec Moysov ’16 Louis Novicki ’16 Sean Palaad ’17 Roman Peregrino ’18 Rudy Ragan ’16 Moises Sandoval ’17 Jeancarlos Santos ’17 Abdallah Shami ’16 Jacob Taylor ’17 Newspaper Advisers: Ms. Mary Dalton Ms. Susan Sutton, CJE
1949
March 2016
CAMPUS NEWS
3
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Alumni support school in classrooms, History Bowl Club: Past meets present on courts, on fields, and far beyond By Jeancarlos Santos ’17 By Sean Palaad ’17
It is far too easy to see how deep the roots of Archbishop Riordan’s brotherhood goes, the 36 coaches, counselors, and teachers who have returned to their alma mater as evidence. Archbishop Riordan High School continues to create bonds that transcend high school and inspire alumni who do not simply return to their former high school, but cultivate the brotherhood that has molded them into men. The numerous amount of alumni who return foster the Marianist tradition and brotherhood unique to Riordan. “It was very important for me to come back to Riordan. I saw the importance of an all-boys school and its effect on young men… Riordan is close to my heart and allowed me that opportunity,” said Daniel Curtin ‘07. Curtin followed up on his word, committing to not only being present on the field as a coach on the varsity football team, but also in the classroom as a teacher. “Hearing stories about Riordan from alumni like Mr. Perrotta or Mr. Datoc is really cool because I can relate to them. They also help me understand how to maximize my time at Riordan and carry what I learn throughout the rest of my life,” Nicolas Lobre ‘16 said. A grassroots vibe emits from alumni like Principal Vittorio Anastasio as they
reminisce about the numerous good times they had as students themselves and how they plan to keep the tradition alive that was passed down to them from alumni and teachers like themselves and then originally from the original Marianist brothers who founded Riordan High School and educated students The return of alumni like basketball coaches Will Watkins, Joey Curtin, and Rich Buckner and football coaches Daniel Curtin, Ryan Jones, and Darius Bell has given current students a fresh breath of Riordan’s past glories. These alumni coaches have experienced athletic success in their tenures as athletes at Riordan and personally know the commitment and heart it takes to win. However, winning is not everything and Riordan’s coaching staffs understand that, teaching how take losses in stride and keep on trudging through hardships as life is filled with them. Many alumni return to their “old stomping grounds” at least once in their life to reminisce about the“good‘ol days”, but for the 36 coaches, counselors, and teachers who have returned for a more permanent residence at Riordan, it is a furthering of their commitment that started the first day of their freshman year. It is a commitment of giving back to a Brotherhood that has created the men they are today.
Photo courtesy Ben Martin ’16 The History Bowl Club has joined the array of distinct and interesting clubs that Archbishop Riordan has to offer. Moderated by social sciences teacher and Riordan alumnus Jeff Isola, the History Bowl Club is an exciting competitive club for competitors that include an intricate array of historical questions as well as other topics such as the arts, sports, music, and sciences. The club competes through the History Bowl and Bee: High School division, which also sponsors other history competitions throughout the United States. At its first competition at Saratoga High School, the club struggled at first since they were not accustomed to the new format, but they adapted and beat two teams at the tournament.
Also, the goal of the competitions as expressed by the website of The History Bowl and Bee is to promote history education throughout the United States, and around the world.” Isola encourages students to join the club “if they have a passion for history or even if they like trivial quiz games such as Jeopardy.” Overall, the club is beginning to emerge and is looking for other students to participate and represent Riordan at these competitions and have a nice time competing with colleagues. The club meets every Tuesday at lunch in room 218. Finally, the club intends to recruit more people so that they can enter a competition in San Diego, and possibly qualify for nationals, which would be held in Washington, D.C.
Fr. Faller offers baptism, confirmation classes By Jean Carlos Santos ’17 The
themselves in the Catholic
work in their lives. One of the
community is influenced by
faith.
Although the classes
primary ways this salvific work
the courageous work of Father
have not yet been conducted
is accepted and received is
William Joseph Chaminade,
due low interest, it is Fr. Faller’s
through the sacraments.”
who was the founder of the
goal to spread the work of
Also, Jimmy Velasco ‘17
Society of Mary. Chaminade
Christ into the lives of the
said, “I think it’s great what
was a devout Catholic, and
students.
Father Faller is doing. It may
at Riordan, students have
He
goal
influence some students to
been taught in the Marianist
would be for students to have
see that Catholic faith isn’t
tradition to help foster the
an opportunity once a week
just about mass. It’s much
Catholic faith.
at lunch to learn about the
more than that, it’s love and
Faller,
Catholic faith and prepare to
joy in Jesus.”
the chaplain at Archbishop
receive the sacraments. The
Anyone
Riordan High School, has
number one goal of my work
obtaining
been offering Baptism and
at Riordan is for students to
of Baptism or Confirmation
Confirmation
to
encounter the person of Jesus
should see Fr. Faller. The offer
those interested to involve
Christ and to accept his salvific
still stands.
Father
Riordan
Cameron
classes
said, “My
Photos courtesy
interested the
in
sacrament
4 CAMPUS NEWS
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Te a m s s e e k m o r e f a n s u p p o r t
New science teachers spark cBy Chang r eLiua’18 t i v e e l e m e n t
By John Bermudez ’16
Enrollment at Archbishop Riordan
show up to support sports teams that
has increased to a recent high of 700,
are struggling.”
but the students are not showing up
to the games. The most popular sports
Joseph Gordnt, Science Teacher
Colleen O’ Rourke, Science Teacher
and Asst. Wrestling Coach
sports at Riordan are even less popular.
Gordnt grew up in the Bay Area
O’Rourke grew up in Pleasanton
often struggle to bring in 100 students,
Basketball generates high attendance;
and attended Bellarmine College
and attended Foothill High School.
while the least popular sports are lucky
however, virtually all of the other sports
Prep where he mainly wrestled. After
After
to even get 10 students.
fail to get serious attention. Players are
The enrollment at Archbishop
always motivated to do their best and
graduating, he went to University
Pomona College where she earned a
Riordan has gone from approximately
get the win for the school, but the lack
of California, Davis and then to
Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.
500 students in 2012 to almost 700 in
of attendance in most of their sporting
Marquette College, earning his law
She earned her Master’s in Biology
2016. After years of increasing the size
events certainly does not help.
degree. He then worked in Salinas as
at Long Beach State. After receiving
of the student body, there seems to be
Senior
a Quality Assurance Supervisor. After
her education, she went into field
little improvement in attendance in the
Hammerich
games and overall school spirit. Both
attendance kind of stinks because our
his life in the Bay Area, he moved out
studies around California and even
teachers and students wonder why,
team could always use more support to
to Milwaukee where he practiced as
in Australia. She also designed online
and see it is a current problem that is in
help the atmosphere and morale of the
a criminal defense lawyer. He chose
digital science learning platforms
the process of being fixed.
team.”
to come to Riordan because of the
for the classroom, so her goal here
In the beginning of the school
Many athletes are not affected by
Catholic, all boys education, and
is to learn how digital learning and
year, Riordan’s football team had its
the lack of school spirit at their games,
because he really wanted to teach
education functions in the classroom
most successful season in recent years.
but all agree that it certainly helps to
Having a great record in the highly
have hundreds of Crusader brothers
science. He looks forward to sports
setting. She loves that Riordan is a
competitive West Catholic Athletic
cheering. Tennis coach Ed Stephens
such as football and the blood drive.
place with a great community of
League, attendance at some games,
said, “Attendance isn’t that important
After donating blood during the fall
connections and support for the
particularly the Riordan vs Serra game,
of a factor in some sports, but it helps
blood drive, he really enjoyed the
students and faculty, which makes it a
have been extraordinarily high. In that
when the spirit and enthusiasm is there
experience and was satisfied to see
great place for a healthy educational
game alone, more than 1,000 students,
to help support the students.”
parents, and friends attended.
Players in all sports do a better job
how well organized the drive was.
environment. She is excited to be back
On the other side, some games
when they have people cheering for
His goal here at Riordan is to help out
in a high school community, but also
against
especially
them. It seems that the bulk of the
the school community. His favorite
to see how iPads are integrated into
non league schools, garner less than
student body’s spirit is concentrated
element is Helium because it is fun to
the education. She compares herself
100 people. The inconsistencies in
on one or two sports. Even then,
see things float.
to a red-tail hawk, which she accepts
attendance have confused many of the
the attendance at those sports is
students.
inconsistent and average at best.
Senior Rudy Ragan said, “I’m not
Though ignored by many, the majority
too sure why the games have an
of the sports teams at Riordan, are not
inconsistent number of people in the
very well attended.
other
schools,
audience, but it feels like people don’t
As a contrast, the winter and spring
baseball said,
player “The
Christian lack
of
graduating,
she
went
to
as her spirit animal, because of its qualities of strength and adaptability to change.
March 2016
LOCAL & WORLD NEWS
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
5
Meteor strike in Russia puts astronomers on sky alert By Eric Craviotto ’17 Photo courtesy newyorker.com On Feb. 15, 2013, a large meteor entered the Earth’s atmosphere and exploded over Russia’s Chelyabinsk region. This exploding fireball, or also known as a “superbolide,” caused mass devastation, which injured about 1,491 people and damaged more than 7,200 buildings. The Chelyabinsk meteor is thought to be the biggest natural space object to enter Earth’s atmosphere since the 1908 Tunguska event. Unlike that historic event, this strike was recorded by many people using modern
technology. Researchers are able to study different angles, furthering their data. Astronomers were unable to see the meteor coming because of its “small size” and because it was moving toward our planet from a sun-facing direction, which blinded the telescopes. Entering the atmosphere, the 20-meter-wide meteor exploded with the energy of around 500 kilotons of TNT and created a large shock wave that was felt by locals three minutes later. This shockwave was powerful enough to knock people off
their feet if they were directly below it. At its peak, the mysterious fireball glowed 30 times brighter than the sun, which left people with skin and retinal burns. Windows shattered, buildings were damaged, and many people were injured due to this mysterious rock from outer space. In the aftermath of the air burst, a large number of small meteorites fell on Chelyabinsk. Local residents witnessed extremely bright, brighter than the sun, burning objects over the neighboring regions in Kazakhstan. Public videos showed fireballs streak across the sky followed by a loud boom. The air smelled like “gunpowder, sulfur, and even burning odors,” which lasted all day. Dmitry Medvedev, the Prime Minister of Russia, said it proves the “entire planet is vulnerable to meteors and a spaceguard system is needed to protect the planet from similar objects in the future.” The Science study led by Olga Popova of the Russian Academy of Science in Moscow said, “The rest of the rubble could still be part of the nearEarth object population of asteroids.” This could mean that more pieces of space rock may be headed toward Earth. Diego Cabrera ‘17, said, “When I first
heard about the meteor event, I seemed to be very interested in it. The wonders of space are limitless, a tiny meteor can give us a lot of information about what it was made of. I believe another meteor will hit Earth and I think it would hit around the Pacific Ocean because most of the Earth’s surface is covered by water.” Riordan teacher Tony Dunn said, “The meteor attack definitely showed us what could potentially happen to us in the future and we need to discover a lot more about this event. The attack reminds us that we need to be on alert for more attacks to come.” Located just minutes from Interstate 40 in Northern Arizona near Winslow, Meteor Crater is the breath-taking result of a collision between an asteroid traveling 26,000 miles per hour and planet Earth approximately 50,000 years ago. Officials estimated the overall damage at more than $33 million. It is unknown when another “hundred year event” will occur again and people will not be prepared for the next one. Years later, the impact of the surprise Russian meteor explosion is still being felt all over the world.
G l o b a l w a r m i n g w or r i e s c ont i nu e t o h e at up By Eric Craviotto ’17
Photo courtesy teamechorealestate.com Global warming today does not seem like a big issue in the community, but when people really delve deep into the research, they will see that the Earth is quietly heating up. As everyday life goes, most citizens aren’t usually concerned, or don’t even know what the melting ice caps and droughts truly mean. According to scientists, global warming may have started around the 1950s, but there is no observable evidence of anthropogenic CO2 emission based global warming. Given it researchers have acquired, the data is clear that temperatures began to rise. Although the increase of near-surface
atmospheric temperature is the measure of global warming, most of the energy in the climate system since 1970 has gone into ocean warming. From melting ice to the warming of continents, many of the observed changes since the 1950s are unprecedented ever since the Earth first started supporting life. Since the Industrial Revolution, the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to increased radiative from CO2, methane, CFCs and nitrous oxide, have increased. Scientific understanding of global warming is increasing every day with
the new inventions of modern day technology. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reported, “In 2014, scientists were more than 95 percent certain that global warming is mostly being caused by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases and other human/ anthropogenic activities.” John Ahlbach, Riordan theology teacher and recycling proponent, said, “I’m against global warming. We’ve known about the problems for about 50 years. People did what was easy. Jimmy Carter tried to get people to understand but people knew helping the environment would hurt businesses. Now we know that we can help the economy by putting in solar panels. If we help environment, we save health because we have a state in the US with children drinking water tainted with lead. The big money has gone into denying the problem is even there.” Lawrence Huynh, Riordan student said, “Human responsibility for global warming is undeniable, yet rather than fixing the crisis, we as a species continue to drive ourselves toward extinction. Here at Riordan, the progression of our composting and recycling programs could significantly affect our San Francisco community.” The Earth contains a naturally
occurring amount of greenhouse gases because without the Earth’s atmosphere, the Earth’s average temperature will be well below zero. Climate model projections summarized in the report indicated that “during the 21st century the global surface temperature is likely to rise a further 0.5 to 3.1 degrees F for their lowest emissions scenario using stringent mitigation and 4.7 to 8.6 degrees F for their highest.” The warming that is shown in the instrumental temperature record is consistent with a wide range of observations documented by many independent scientific groups. Future climate changes and other impacts will be different from region to region around the world. The anticipated effects include the rise in the Earth’s temperature, the rise in sea levels, the changing of precipitation, and the expansion of deserts within the subtropics. The Arctic will continue to lose glaciers, permafrost, and especially sea ice. Some future weather changes may include hotter heat waves, droughts, and ocean acidification. This will have a heavy impact on the Earth’s organisms because most organisms will no longer be able to live in an area and will go extinct due to these tragic events.
6 LOCAL & WORLD NEWS
El Nino storms threaten to wash away drought dilemma By Nicholas Lobre ’16
Obscure candidate hopes v o t e r s t a k e n o t i c e By Darren Bucko ’16
Photo courtesy breitbart.com It is said to be virtually impossible for El Niño to end the drought. The near catastrophic damage is going to take a long time of steady rain and not just El Nino, which is only here for a short time. El Nino is so inconsistent that it makes it extremely difficult to depend on it for very long. California actually depends more on storms from the Gulf of Alaska and Pineapple Express. “We are about 40 inches below where we should be in terms of water level,” said Ted Johnson, a hydro-geologist with the Water Replenishment District of Southern California on sfgate.com Yet, more than 92 percent of the state was experiencing severe to exceptional drought conditions in early April of last year. Water became such a hot commodity in the state that people were stealing it out of deltas and canals. Community members took it upon themselves to ensure their neighbors were not wasting water in a trend known as “drought shaming.” Using social media and specialized websites, Californians tattled on each other for using too much water. Riordan has taken it upon themselves to help the drought by turning our plants and green grass to a nice brown shade. This is a small effort, but any work can lead to a huge change. The drought hasn’t done much to Riordan, but is still something to be conscious of. Students Joshua Wells and Justin Lee both feel as if Riordan is making a difference. Josh said, “The field looks pretty beat up, which clearly means that the water is being saved.” Justin noted the “Save Water” signs around the school. “One week of rain doesn’t make up for four years of historic drought. We are in a very deep hole,” said Mike Anderson, California’s state
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Photo courtesy wikipedia.org Presidential
climatologist in the Los Angeles Times. But there are some brighter reports that have came out as well. The recent weather has actually done California a dramatic favor by adding to the water reservoirs. The reservoirs currently stand at 53 percent, which is dramatically better than the 29 percent that it was at on Dec. 8, 2015. One of the most powerful El Niños on record has been gathering strength and looks very likely to bring heavy rains to key Northern California areas, which in turn will provide water for the rest of the state. This has come at the perfect time for the very dry California. The reports say that El Niño has actually got stronger than anyone had anticipated. Matthew Rosencrans, head of operations for the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center told the San Francisco Chronicle, “From the latest observation, it’s still on an upward trend, not even topping out right now.” As for how many stormy weeks California needs, Anderson said that’s hard to answer because the combination of precipitation, water runoff and snow pack needed to halt the drought vary considerably across the state. In order to mitigate the drought impacts, California needs to see a well-behaved wet pattern continue through the winter and spring. Simply put: The drought could end this year. But for that to happen, as California enters the fifth year of the worst drought in the state’s history, rains will have to continue arriving in pounding, relentless waves through April to fill depleted reservoirs and dry rivers and push the Sierra snow pack to at least 150 percent of normal. This is still very possible and with some consistent storms California will be okay and the future certainly looks wet.
hopeful
Vermin
After learning that he is a real
Supreme is gaining steady support
candidate,
after filing as a Democratic candidate
platform, Fern replied, “I am in favor
in the New Hampshire primaries.
of mandatory toothbrushing laws,
Running
time,
as long as there is no punishment
supporters are hopeful that the 2016
for disobedience.” (Vermin Supreme
will be the year that the grassroots
has expressed support for secret
candidate will be put in the White
dental police in an effort to combat
House.
gingivitis).
Fern was then asked the following:
for
the
fourth
Vermin Supreme may not have the
and
“Despite
Clinton or Donald Trump do, but by
do you believe that a grassroots,
May, his name is sure to be on every
independent, underdog candidate
outlet’s headlines. A Massachusetts-
like Vermin Supreme has a chance
ian running in New Hampshire,
at the White House?” Fern thought
Vermin
immediately
for a second and replied, “He has the
recognized by his multitude of
chance to visit the White House, but
neckties, series of extravagant coats,
no election.”
black rain boot situated on his head,
Though many of Riordan High
and often an oversized toothbrush.
School’s students are not of voting
Vermin
his
age, or are not registered to vote, the
political campaign in 2004, on a
next generation has an opinion on the
platform that is unique to say the
election. Darren Bucko ’16 said he is
least. Supreme proposes the funding
aware of Vermin Supreme’s campaign
of time travel research, in an effort to
and platforms, and that “he (Vermin
go back in time and kill Hitler. He also
Supreme) seems like he cares about
promotes mandatory tooth brushing
the American people.” Bucko added,
laws, enforced by funding for secret
in regards to his electability, “If Trump
dental police to enforce the law.
is, he is.”
Supreme’s
defense
Many voters do not believe that
budget allots money for a zombie
an underdog candidate like Vermin
awareness program, which he hopes
Supreme can garner the support
will promote zombie-based energy,
necessary to come to the forefront,
which would lessen our national
but there is evidence to the contrary.
dependence on foreign oil. But most
“The fact that Deez Nuts (presidential
popular amongst his supporters,
candidate from earlier this year)
Supreme offers a federally subsidized
took 19 percent of the polls that he
program which would supply every
was included in, tends to bolster my
American a pony, free of charge.
argument,” Supreme told ABC news
In
in an interview in New Hampshire.
is
Supreme
Iowa’s
began
proposed
2012
Democratic
lack
of
his
household recognition that Hillary
Supreme
the
detailing
attention,
caucuses, Vermin Supreme received
It should also be noted that
1.4 percent of the vote. Social
Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders
Sciences teacher Christopher Fern
came
said, “I am aware of Donald Trump, if
obscurity. Supporters believe Vermin
that’s who you are referencing, but I
Supreme should not be ruled out for
wouldn’t call him such names.”
his initial lack of popularity.
into
the
headlines
from
March 2016
POLITICAL NEWS
7
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Commentar y : Is Trump secretly a Democrat?
Race for Oval Office intensifies By John Bermudez ’16
By Louis Novicki ‘16
Photo courtesy donaldjtrump.com
Political debates, publicity events,
registered Republican Jeff Isola said,
and a whole lot of bashing on social
“The election will be very interesting. I
media all point to the upcoming election
believe that there is a high possibility
in November. On Nov. 8, the general
of having four candidates at the end. If
election will be held between the
I had to pick on which side to vote, I’d
Republican and Democratic nominees.
probably vote libertarian.”
The presidential debates started as
Despite what should be a battle
early as August for the Republicans and
between
as late as October for the Democrats.
Democrats, the candidates seem to be
With each party initially having a clear
attacking members of their own party
front runner, there was not much
in hopes of getting the nomination.
controversy on who would get the
Sanders is constantly degrading Clinton
the
Republicans
and
Since his campaign began in
conservative views on some issues,
June of 2015, Donald Trump has
they do not identify with the GOP.
been the center of attention in
Before 2012, this described Donald
the GOP, appearing to be the most
Trump. What caused the sudden
conservative candidate in the race.
change in Trump’s political views,
nomination for either side.
for receiving a fair majority of her
He has gained a large following
and what caused a businessman
Many expected Democrat and former
donations from Wall Street, while she is
from the radical right wing, but is
to
his radical platform really devised to
outside of the President’s wallet? To
Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, to
accusing Sanders of having unrealistic
put Trump in the White House?
understand this, we should take a
face off against Republican and former
policies.
Most
look at the 2000 presidential race.
Florida governor, Jeb Bush. Months into
On
the campaigning, it is not as black and
Republicans are scolding Trump for
white as people would think.
being unqualified, immature, and only
Senior Maopeli Ali said, “I’m surprised
doing it as a publicity stunt. Meanwhile,
all
Americans
politically
are
well
literate
aware
of
involve
himself
in
politics
In the year 2000, George W Bush
the
other
side,
multiple
Donald Trump’s campaign, which
was elected, even though Democrat
is infamous in most circles for
Al Gore won the popular vote. But
purposeful political incorrectness,
despite this, Green Party candidate
harsh attacks at other candidates,
Ralph Nader is accused of splitting
to see all of these different people
Trump is attacking everyone, telling
and often inflammatory racist and
the left vote, thereby aiding the
running. Bernie Sanders’ popularity
Bush he is low energy, and attacking the
sexist remarks.
Republican Party.
shocked me, and I was shocked to see
appearances of Kentucky Senator Rand
His platform is increased efforts
Many see this same kind of
towards immigration control, with
dynamic during this election. Donald
so many Republicans trying to get the
Paul, and former Chief Executive Officer
a temporary ban on all Muslim
Trump has on multiple occasions
nomination.”
of Hewlett Packard Carly Fiorina. English
immigrants. When the blatant shock
stated that he has no allegiance to
Clinton
faces
value of his platform is overlooked,
the Republican Party, and that if he
formidable
opponent
we see that Donald Trump, besides
were not given the nomination, he
on the issues described above, does
would run independently. Trump
not hold serious political views.
has a die-hard fan base, and many
Earlier in the race, when asked
a
surprisingly Vermont
Loder said, “I believe the Democratic
Senator Bernie Sanders. Sanders, who
Party has shown that they are a
has gained popularity among the
stronger side with more knowledge and
conservatives would vote for him
nation’s young adults for his extremely
capabilities. I am worried about Donald
about concrete political issues, such
regardless of party affiliation.
left beliefs and policies, is almost dead
Trump on the other side because I do
as gun control, abortion, or taxes,
Come
his responses elicited no passion the
conservative rift will likely produce
even with Clinton in the early states,
not think he has enough experience.”
way that his immigration rants did.
a nominated moderate Republican
specifically New Hampshire and Iowa.
In regards to Trump and his policies, Louis
His views on most debated issues
candidate (Jeb Bush, Marco Rubio,
Jeb Bush, the Republican party’s prime
Novicki ‘16, a libertarian communist and
seemed to be that of a moderate
Ted Cruz), but with the crucial
candidate, was pushed out of the
registered Independent stated, “I’m not
Republican.
circles of radical Republicans giving
Donald Trump is anything but a
their votes to Trump. This would
spotlight after a shocking reveal from
surprised because that is his character.
moderate Republican. Many would
obviously aid the Democrats. Some
reality television star, businessman, and
He does not have a political platform,
classify him as a radical Republican,
would say that this is just a naturally
billionaire, Donald Trump, announcing
but he garners more attention as a
or a neo-fascist. But to see more
occurring series of events within
his candidacy.
celebrity rather than a politician.”
background on Trump’s real policy
the conservative race, but what if
Senior Rudy Ragan said, “I thought
views (outside of immigration) we
Donald Trump has ulterior motives?
need to observe him as what he is:
What if his aim is not to go to the
it was a joke at first. It’s kind of scary
nomination that there are splits within
a rich New York Democrat.
White House, but to assist others in
seeing what will happen because he has
the two parties. The candidates often
doing so?
many extreme beliefs.”
say what needs to be said to disparage
with the Democrats often hold
What if Donald Trump is a
After the big announcement, Trump
their competition. All the Democrats
positive views on abortion and gay
political saboteur on the payroll
marriage, have fear of firearms, and
of the Democratic Party? It makes
has held a considerable lead in almost
can agree on is that they will overtake
beyond social issues of the sort, do
perfect sense. As we have seen
all the polls. Only retired neurosurgeon,
the nation’s elite and powerful. The
not want taxes or other restrictions
in most every election since the
Ben Carson, and Texas senator, Ted Cruz,
Republicans, on the other hand, bond
that would affect their economic
Reagan years, successful liberals will
have come close in the voting. Even
over their common hatred of Barack
interests (labor unions, EPA, etc).
do anything to appear moderate.
Though
They take every action necessary
then, their success in gaining popularity
Obama.
Rich business tycoons that align
they
hold
relatively
November,
Continued on page 11
the
in
teacher and registered Democrat Kim
was short lived. History teacher and
There is so much pressure to win the
8 LOCAL & WORLD NEWS Student barber creates buzz
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Hoverboard craze linked to setting houses ablaze By Clayton Miranda ’17
By Rudy Ragan ’16
Photo courtesy Rudy Ragan ’16 Fashion and hairstyles are important to high schoolers. Javier Garay, a junior at Riordan, has been cutting students’ hair for almost two years now. Javi does on average eight haircuts a week and to this day has 50 people whom he gives haircuts to regularly. He cuts hair at his house during the summer and breaks. During the school week, he cuts hair in the Riordan gym, in the bottom of the bleachers where the trophies are located. He charges only $10, as compared to some barber shops that charge upwards of $30. He first became interested in cutting hair because he wanted to cut his own hair. His brother’s friend, John, was the person who inspired him because he made him look good and Javi wanted to do the same for others. He first started cutting his brother’s hair and used YouTube as a reference to learn how to cut fades, tapers, etc. The first Riordan students he cut were Nick Silva ‘15 and Jaron Balisi ‘16. Jaron said, “I was nervous the first time because I didn’t know if he was good or not with cutting other people’s hair. He actually did a really good job and I liked my haircut.” “Javi Cuts” spread around Riordan through Instagram shoutouts and Snapchat. After people saw how good he was at giving haircuts, more and more people started asking about “Javi Cuts.” Even some teachers such as Social Sciences teacher and head football coach Kevin Fordon and Spanish teacher Armando Castillo are clients. The great part about Javi is that he is doing it because he genuinely enjoys making people look better. Students see it as refreshing seeing someone working hard because they love what they do, not just doing it for the money. Javi said, “I love doing it because I control my own schedule and it is stress free. It can get overwhelming when I am cutting multiple people, but it is part of the business.” Despite his success, he is not interested in becoming a barber, but cutting hair has taught him many skills such as marketing and finance. He has even designed his own logo. Javi Cuts is becoming well known around Riordan High School and now everyone wants a “Javi” cut.
Photo courtesy mashable.com not buy generic hoverboards.
not to leave it unattended while
2015 ended with a bang and
The chances of a hoverboard
charging. I do enjoy riding it around
so
hoverboards.
getting destroyed are higher if
my block when I have the time and
Consumers’ hoverboards have been
consumers were to buy a poorly
outside conditions are suitable.”
reported blowing up, catching on
made board. Another way that will
Christian added,
fire, and in some cases resulting in
help preventing destruction of the
my only issue with it is that the
people’s houses being burnt down.
hoverboard is to not overcharge the
hoverboard occasionally makes a
board, and to only use the charger
thumping sound on one side for
batteries inside of hoverboards heat
that came with the hoverboard.
each wheel rotation, but that was
up and cause the highly flammable
This situation has occurred not
because I ran over something like
liquids inside to catch on fire. This
only in the United States, but in
a pebble and it must have gotten
is dangerous because it can result
United Kingdom and Hong Kong
caught between the wheel and
in people being burned from the
as well. Not only has the U.K.
frame. As of now, no complaints.”
fire, burning the user’s rooms, and
outlawed hoverboards, but they
Because of the many incidents,
in some cases, the whole house.
have destroyed almost 23,000 of
airlines have found that it isn’t
There is no specific brand of
them. It has even happened in the
safe to allow them on passenger
hoverboards that are defective,
Bay Area.
planes. Airlines such as American,
which means anyone who has a
In Petaluma, a family was left
Alaska, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue,
hoverboard could be at risk.
homeless because of a fire caused
Southwest, and United Airlines
It is unknown why the batteries
by a charging hoverboard. Jean
have all banned hoverboards,
inside of the hoverboards explode.
Heller, the neighbor of the victims,
and the US postal Service has also
In many cases, the hoverboards
said, “Stop selling hoverboards.
prohibited mailing hoverboards via
caught fire when charging, being
They got a hoverboard for their
their planes.
ridden, or sitting in a kiosk. It is
grandkid and look, now they’re
The threat of the hoverboards
theorized that the cause of the
homeless. It breaks my heart.” The
catching on fire has resulted in
fires could be because of users
family had bought the hoverboard
Overstock.com to stop selling
overcharging
only 12 days prior to the incident.
hoverboards completely.
damaging the battery.
In the last issue of The Crusader,
Not only are hoverboards a
Dominic Chartrand ‘17 said, “I
Christian Pascual-Fernandez ‘16
dangerous fire hazard, some claim
think that hoverboards are safe but
wrote about the cool factor of this
they have caused dozens of injuries
I’m not sure if I would trust having a
new technology and how he really
from falling off of the board that
hoverboard in my house.”
wanted one. Well, he bought one.
have resulted in people to go to the
Some ways to prevent having
He said, “So far I have had no
emergency room.
a hoverboard catch fire is to first
problems with it, making sure
did
people’s
These incidents occur when the
the
boards
and
“I guess
March 2016
9
LOCAL & WORLD NEWS
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Sway leads way in hip-hop today
By Sean Palaad ’17
From starting the rapping career of an NBA player to interviewing the president about Jay Z, Los Angeles’ Sirius XM Channel 45 radio show, fans believe “Sway in the Morning” provides the most variety and insight in any radio show in America.
who were there for him when no one else was. “I figure when I go on tour I can take some of my homies off the streets… do something good for them lowkey, y’know? It’s not ‘cause I want ‘thugs’ or ‘gang bangers’ to toughen me up
Akon shines light on solar energy for Africa By Jeancarlos Santos ’17 R&B singer Akon plans to give energy to up to 600 million
childhood
is Aliaume Damala Badara Akon
Akon, Thione, and Samba to start
Thiam, is a Senegalese-American
this program so that everyone
record producer and singer.
could benefit. Not only is the
Akon was
born on April 16,
or anything… it’s just not like that,” said YG. In an interview with Sway, Calvin Broadus Jr., better known as Snoop Dogg, openly explained his relationship with Dr. Dre in the days where he had just left NWA and needed lyrics for his beats. “I knew this COULD be something special.. but when I was performing for Dr. Dre … they were starting to pay a little more attention to me and it was throwing me off because I was the background … like I was there to support Dre. It was special,” said Snoop Dogg about his humble beginnings. Die hard fans are sure to find different aspects of their favorite public personalities that Sway brings to light. “Snoop Dogg is one of my favorite rappers and I’ve kept up with him for awhile now, but hearing how he talks about Dr. Dre and East Coast rappers like Big Pun on Sway in the Morning, I would have never thought,” said Nick Lobre. Talking to people as a career requires a specific ambiance and likability that allows a comfortable environment where the interviewee can divulge information he would either never give out or only to ones close to him. “He (Sway) doesn’t ask popcorn questions. He’s been doing it for so long people just trust him and his interviews are always something special,” said Broadcast teacher Mauricio Wright. Sway, over two decades, has created that special ambiance and, through his experience, also created an engaging dialogue that makes sure to give anyone a unique listen every day.
that
encouraged
energy campaign for students
1973 in St. Louis, Missouri and
and
attended Clark Atlanta University.
help hospitals, improve roads,
After studying music at Clark
facilitate communications, and
Atlanta, Akon dropped out after
lower the annual 3.5 million
one semester. Afterwards, Akon
African
rose to stardom and produced
pollutants or fires in the home
record hits with other popular
produced by toxics. Since early
artists such as Snoop Dogg and
2014, the program has covered
Eminem.
more than 15 countries and plans his
success,
Akon
has received major scrutiny for
Sway Calloway, the centerpiece of “Sway in the Morning,” has been the principal provider for music news for more than a decade giving Tupac, Notorious B.I.G. and Eminem their very first voices on radio on his local show in the mid 90s. After stints with the pivotal Wake Up Show, which hosted well known hip-hop artists as well as up and coming ones on KMEL-FM in the Bay Area, Sway’s instinct for great sounds and promising talent landed him as host for his own self produced radio show similar to The Wake Up Show hosted by Eminem’s uncut, uncensored radio channel Shade 45 Sirius XM. “Sway in the Morning” airs every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. and every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. “It’s exciting to hear the newest songs from artists I have never heard of in my life and artists like Kanye West,” said Alec Moysov ‘16. Sway co-hosts “Sway in the Morning” with Heather B, who along with Sway, is an influential and respected character in the ever growing culture of hip hop. These attributes, along with great voices, allow guests on their radio show to open up or say things that otherwise would not be said in any other interview. In an interview with Keenon Daequan Ray Jackson, better known as his rap and stage name “YG,” Keenon opened up to Sway on the reasons why he invited his friends from “the streets” whom the public and media viewed as “gang bangers,” “thugs,” and “delinquents.” YG said he just wanted to give back to people
It was their experiences during
Africans. Akon, whose real name
Despite
Photo courtesy okayplayer.com
conditions.”
business,
deaths
it
intends
from
to
harmful
to add 10 countries this year. Overall,
the
has
throwing a fan off the stage in a
covered
concert in New York and investing
installed more than 100,000 solar
in an African gold mine. Recently,
street lamps,1,200 solar micro-
Akon, along with other sponsors
grids, 102,000 solar domestic kits
and colleagues, established a
and has indirectly created 5,500
campaign to provide energy for
jobs for the people in Africa.
more than 600 million Africans.
Life
480
program
Issues
communities,
instructor
John
The program was established
Ahlbach said, “What is there not
by Akon, Samba Bathily, and
to like about this? Imagine the
Thione Niang with the goal to
power of a computer in the hands
harness clean solar energy on
of these kids. Solar energy makes
a continent that has up to 320
that possible.
days of sunshine, and has also
stoves so trees need not be cut
received more than $1 billion
down for fuel.”
from international banks.
AP
It can also heat
Environmental
Science
Prior to the program, a majority
instructor Michael O’Brien said,
of Africans in rural areas did not
“It gives them a life not possible
have constant access to energy,
before. I hope that we eventually
which was detrimental to the
move to this model.”
local rural populations in Africa
Junior Jonah Rivera said, “As
because it resulted in a much
a fan of Akon, I think it’s a great
higher crime rate, forced students
cause.”
to stop studying, and affected
Also,
it
has
received
businesses because they could
extraordinary
support
from
not sell products at night.
people around the world. Thione
In fact, co-founder Thione Niang
Niang said in a news release, “You
said, “When I was young, we had
just know you’ve done the right
to study by candle light with only
thing when you see grown men
one candle for the entire family. I
and women crying in wonder
want to make sure that children
because it’s the first time they’ve
no longer have to work in those
ever seen artificial light.”
10 ENTERTAINMENT
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Luke, are you my father? Star Wars: The force is strong with this one By Louis Novicki ’16
By Eric Craviotto ’17 Photo courtesy starwars.wikia.com By this point, everybody who is interested enough to read this article should have seen The Force Awakens. If you have not, that is your own poor scheduling. I have watched and analyzed every minute of that film, and have heard quite a few theories. However, one of the most popular theories out there is that Rey is Luke Skywalker’s daughter. If the now non-canon post-Galactic Civil War events are to be followed, this theory assumes that Rey’s mother is former Imperial assassin turned rebel fighter Mara Jade. Though this theory is unlikely, there is some evidence for it. Foremost, the passing down of Anakin Skywalker’s light saber, which was taken from Anakin by Obi-Wan Kenobi after their duel on Mustafar in Revenge Of The Sith. Luke Skywalker was given this saber by Obi Wan during A New Hope, and Luke used this saber in his duel against Darth Vader in Cloud City during The Empire Strikes Back. It was then supposedly picked up by scavengers in the lower levels of Cloud City, and made it to Maz Kanata. Rey found the light saber in the basement of Maz Kanata’s castle during The Force Awakens. The theorists claim that handling that light saber is proof of a familial relationship between Rey and Luke. While entertaining, this theory creates many inconsistencies, and is just plain uncreative. On the most superficial level, Rey does not act or resemble a Skywalker. Also, she speaks with an English accent, which nobody of the known Skywalker family does. Both Daisey Ridley (Rey) and John Boyega (Finn) speak naturally with British accents, as do many Star Wars cast members, previous and current. However, many use a fake accent for their characters, with Obi Wan Kenobi being one of the only exceptions. Why would the writers try to convince us
that the daughter of a Skywalker sounds nothing like her father, grandfather, or grandmother? As for the theory that it is a learned accent, where would it be learned from? Rey spends most of her days scavenging alone and bartering her finds, she is not in a London pub. The only way this theory could be supported would be the non-canonical assumption that Mara Jade Skywalker speaks with a British accent. In addition, Rey’s abilities are worth examining. Rey, an inexperienced force user (unless we are to believe theories that she had been present during the massacre at the hands of the Knights Of Ren), successfully uses a jedi mind trick on a First Order Stormtrooper, hands free. Jedi mind tricks are often associated with the most trained, wise jedi, like Ben Kenobi. Plus, no member of the Skywalker family has ever successfully used a mind trick. Luke attempted one on Jabba in Return Of The Jedi and was laughed at. Rey had no training and was able to get a stormtrooper to release her. Even if not for all the evidence to the contrary, the idea that Rey is Luke’s daughter is also uncreative. The Galaxy has existed for billions of years, with stories that cover all of those periods. Only in about 30 years BBY (Before Battle Of Yavin) or the events of A New Hope, was there any significance or even any mention of anyone within the Skywalker lineage. Why suddenly after billions of years, would there be a young boy whose offspring would forever screw up the galaxy every few decades? It is nothing more than poor writing.
In 2005, the Star Wars saga seemed
Star Wars since the beginning, or even
like it was over when Lucasfilm and
newcomers who have never seen the
Twentieth Century Fox released “Star
previous films.
Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.”
Social
This would complete the prequels
teacher Andres DeRosales said, “I was
trilogy and tie the story back to the
very excited. It has been a long time
original trilogy first released back in
coming from ‘Return of the Jedi’ and
1977.
especially the opening scene with Star
This all changed in October 2012
Wars. It felt like watching the originals
when Disney bought Lucasfilm and
when I was 5. Just through the movie,
announced that they would begin the
it was exciting and thrilling, but there
process of making a new trilogy to add
was little disappointment. Overall, I
on to the already magnificent Star Wars
was definitely pleased with what they
films.
put out. I understood why they set up
Co-produced and co-written by
the bridge between the original trilogy
J.J. Abrams, the production of “Star
and this one.”
Wars: The Force Awakens” took almost
Some fans were shocked and
six years to complete. Some of the
froze in their seats. Jackson Liao said,
location shooting was done in the Abu
“Although the new Star Wars movie
Dhabi desert and the Irish island Skellig
reminded me of Episode IV a little too
Michael, but most of filming was done
much for my liking, it still was a fun
at Pinewood Studios in England.
movie to watch. The new characters
are really enjoyable and replace the old
The movie takes place 30 years after
Science
and
Theology
the Battle of Endor and the destruction
cast well.”
of the Death Star in Return of the Jedi.
The main characters of “The Force
Wars film made up for past franchise
Awakens” include John Boyega as Finn,
mistakes. In a sense, what Star Wars
Daisy Ridley as Rey, Adam Driver as
does is offer viewers a meta-drama
Kylo Ren, and many more.
whose actual topic is fantastical
This iconic movie sought to bring
narrative itself.
not only the love of Star Wars back into
Many believe that the “magic” is
the now, but families closer together
back. For the most part, J.J. Abrams has
with the use of the force. According to
done a fantastic job at capturing the
The Hollywood Reporter, “The Force
original Star Wars feeling as shown in
Awakens has set records with $100
the characters. Other reactions seem
million in advance ticket sales, with 50-
to agree that “The Force Awakens” is
60 percent of that number expected to
equally as good, if not better, as “Return
go towards the film’s opening weekend
of the Jedi” in 1983 and that it is overall
alone.”
better than Episodes I, II, and III.
The film shows no signs of slowing
Others indicated that this new Star
With the movie earning this much in
down either. Even up until now, industry
such a short span of time, it shows how
insiders estimated that $120 million
much love there still is for Star Wars,
in pre-sales was already a distinct
and no doubt many hardcore fans will
possibility. This wasn’t unexpected at
see The Force Awakens multiple times
all as the opening night of ticket sales
in theaters.
caused such an online surge that sites
“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is
Eager fans have two years or so until
like Fandango crashed. Only Star Wars
now being screened in theaters across
the release of Episode VIII, the second film
could put up summer blockbuster
the U.S., and if you’ve already seen it,
in the new trilogy. With many questions
sales in the midst of winter.
make sure you bring your friends and
left, the release is suspected to be even
After viewing the film, consumers
family, who have or have not seen the
had
movie, to watch this fantastic film.
bigger than Force Awakens. Stay tuned for more fan discussion.
emotional
and
memorable
reactions, from those who’ve seen
March 2016
ENTERTAINMENT
11
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
L i t t l e k n o w n D r. S e u s s Is Trump secretly a Democrat? movie not for children Continued from page 7
By Darren Bucko ’16
Photo courtesy lassothemovies.com
to avoid offending people, even
worth examining.
their political rivals. They do not
Celebrities do outlandish things
want to be called environmentalists,
when they begin to fall out of the
feminists, socialists, communists, or
spotlight. So imagine when Donald
any other “-ist” that implies political
Trump gets approached by Bill
controversy. Those are bad words to
Clinton or Joe Biden or whatever
them.
other sleezy liberal aristocrat and
They strive for the impossible
says, “We have a new show to pitch
goal of getting everybody to vote
to you, you’re the star, there’s big
for them. For example, presidential
bucks, and you’ll have a huge viewer
candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton
base.” All it takes is a few episodes
has had videos of her going around
of The Apprentice to show enough
where she switches her accent
about Trump to see he why he would
depending where she is. She’s a
go for this.
Dixie girl at rallies in South Carolina,
If this is not enough evidence,
she’s a street kid when she speaks in
consider the timing of Trump’s
Brooklyn, she is Bill Clinton when she
controversial
is at some expensive gala, and she is
actions in reference to Democratic
Rosie The Riveter when she is at a
Party drama. In June, when Hillary
statements
and
Siamese twins connected by their
academy for 500 young boys who all
beards, a man without a face, a mile long
play on one massive piano. Most of the
progressive college in the northwest.
Clinton was under fire for her email
piano played by 500 enslaved children.
plot revolves around Bart attempting to
scandal,
These all sound like surrealist nonsense
free his mother from the trance she is
has recently come under fire from
his
dreamed up by Dr. Seuss, does it not?
put in, and escaping with her.
his original voters for 8 years of
immigrants bringing “drugs, crime,
Indeed they are. These come from the
Where this movie really shines is
very little change, and is accused of
rapists.” The next time Hillary’s email
being a centralist. What way can a
controversy made headlines, it only
1953 film “The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T,”
in its diverse musical numbers, from
Democratic candidate gain attention
took 36 hours for Donald Trump to
which was written by Theodor Geisel,
the highly ponderous chorus piano,
and support without proposing
say that he wanted to invade Mexico.
better known as Dr. Seuss, though he
to the blues music coming from the
real political change? How does a
Are these outbursts attempts to
hated the film so much he refused to
imprisoned musicians, and all of it is
democrat gain moral high ground
draw attention away from the
without saying anything radical? By
negative press that the democrats
recognize it.
written by Dr. Seuss. Although many
making the opposition seem scarier.
are receiving?
I decided to watch this movie,
verses were cut, the music is still ahead
That is where Donald Trump comes
History teacher Jeff Isola has
desiring to write a movie review, came
of its time, and would be considered too
into play.
thoughts on the Trump campaign
upon this film and was immediately
macabre or shocking for 50s audiences.
Trump’s speeches feel like a
and its effects on the Republican
satirical script for Saturday Night
race. When asked who he believed
intrigued. President Harding was killed
The movie also succeeds greatly
Live, or South Park. They are radical
created the Trump campaign, he
by a Norwegian vampire? While being
in costume design, and easily the
enough to be divisive, and simple
had “no idea”. In regards to the effect
a flop at the box office in its day, it has
most recognizable aspect in the film,
enough to garner support from
that Trump’s campaign had on the
since become a cult classic due to its
other than the piano of course, is the
rural
others
republican race, he sighed and said,
who previously seemed politically
“It’s hard to say, it’s polarizing. The
utter bizarreness and great soundtrack,
hand hats all the children pianists are
illiterate. What if Trump’s campaign
party otherwise would be more
a reputation I wholeheartedly agree
forced to wear. Dr. Terwilliker wears
is in fact a big script for the comedic
unified, but he (Trump) *sigh* causes
with.
increasingly
television program that is American
a lot of
The movie is based around young
outfits throughout the movie, which
politics?
What does the popularity of
Bart Collins, who lives with his single
greatly reflects his descent into power
The Democratic Party has a lot
Trump say about the American
to gain from planting a bomb like
voter? Isola thought, ran his hand
mother. Bart dreads his daily lessons
madness.
Trump.
The democrats now can
through his hair, sighing, and
with harsh piano teacher Dr. Terwilliker,
This movie is not for everyone,
point their finger proclaiming “look
said, “(the popularity) shows the
and complains about it to August
especially its target market, children. It is
how racist and backwards these
discontent of voters with American
Zabladowski, the plumber, whom he
very surreal and not for the faint of heart.
GOP folks are, guess you either vote
politics, similar to Carter’s campaign
for Hillary or you vote for this racist
in the 70s, which was a reaction to
wishes his mother had a romantic
The acting for Bart is wooden, though
nut.” It’s bipartisan politics at work.
Nixon.”
interest in instead of Dr. Terwilliker.
the tyrannical Dr. Terwilliker makes up
Slandering the reputation of the
At this point and time, we can
During one practice session, Bart falls
for all other acting shortcomings. It’s
GOP (as if they needed help with
not know for sure Donald Trump’s
asleep and dreams of the Terwilliker
not a classic, by any sense, but I found
that), causing havoc on the debate
intentions any more than we would
floor, and the estimated split of the
know another politician’s intentions.
Institute, a prison for all non-piano
definite enjoyment in watching it, and
conservative vote together make
But with this evidence provided, it
playing musicians and also a 24/7 piano
that’s really all that matters.
a Democratic victory a dreadful
seems hard to deny that he is not
potential reality. Trump’s personality
what he appears to be.
fantastical
dictatorial
President Barack Hussein Obama
communities,
and
and personal connections are also
Donald
Trump
made
controversial
remark
about
12 SPORTS
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Celebrities hit the court for charity By Roman Peregrino ’18
morning off to volunteer. They provided much of the manpower and completed the setup. Next door, in Chaminade Hall, another event was underway in conjunction
with
the
Celebrity
Basketball game.
Volunteers and more football players
came in and made 500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to feed the local homeless. While not the most visible part of the day, it was an important opportunity to give back and a feel-
Seniors Peter Kolokotrones and Eric Galindo with former 49er wide receiver standout Terrell Owens before the game. Photo courtesy Peter Kolokotrones
The Super Bowl. The biggest sporting
event in America came to the Bay Area in February. The day of the game was one of great football, many sacks, puppy monkey babies, and a Broncos win; however, Feb. 7 was actually the culmination of a blockbuster week of far reaching events in the Bay Area. One even came to Riordan! The Bay Area Gridiron Celebrity hoops XVIII took place the day before the Super Bowl, Feb. 6. While this was not the most publicized Super Bowl event, like the events at Super Bowl City, it just may be the most important. The Gridiron event was put on by Juli Jordan, CEO of Juli’s Kids Motivated to Succeed LLC in order raise awareness and money for this great organization.
Juli’s Kids is a “nonprofit organization
whose mission is to enrich the quality of life of today’s abused, abandoned, neglected, and homeless youths who have been placed in the foster care system,” as described on the event website. The website goes on to say, “This year Juli’s Kids will work with a number of Santa Clara/San Francisco foster care group homes and charity organizations whose focus is on these phenomenal, talented youth who need our support, encouragement, inspiration and care.”
good experience for all those involved. “It was a good cause,” said Jordon Fox ‘18. “The peanut and butter sandwich
Everyone who took part in this event
event was cool to be a part of.”
felt that it was for a great cause. Don
At around 2 p.m, the celebrities
Benjamin, celebrity and model, said
started arriving and the festivities were
“[I] am here supporting a good cause. Gridiron Celebrity Challenge is a great one.” Steve Lan, local recording artist explained, “I am from the Bay Area so I’m giving back. Anytime I can give back
ready to begin. There was a palpable excitement in the air from the fans and the big name players were happy to be there. Cleveland Browns wide receiver
to a positive cause, I am all for it.”
Andrew Hawkins, another celebrity in
Lastly, R&B singer Tank gave his
the house, said, “It is a cool experience.
reasons, stating that “Juli is a personal
The people seemed excited. This is a
friend and she has been an advocate
great opportunity to give back; the cool
for the kids as long as I can remember.
side of being a pro.”
I have been doing her events for 10 years. For me the kids have a special place in my heart, so I give my time my money, my resources [to them].” In addition to the aforementioned Don Benjamin, Tank and Steve Lan,
Finally, the game began. This was a charity game and many of the athletes did not go full speed. There was little defense, which led to dunks and highlight reel plays. The opposing
many sports celebrities took part in
teams represented the AFC led by
the festivities. Football star Terrell
Tammy Brawner and BdotAdot, and
Owens, Tammy Brawner, 10th female
NFC led by Tank and Terrell Owens.
on the Harlem Globetrotters, slam dunk
The game may have featured less
champion Guy Dupuy, and basketball
defense than the NFL Pro Bowl the week
impersonator BdotAdot headlined the event. Work started in Crusader Forum the night before, with gym setup, and continued through the morning of the event. Many of the varsity football players showed up on their Saturday
before; however, everyone still had a good time and left content. Darrien Gunn ‘17 said, “It was cool how kids get to see stars play. I had a good time.” Fox concurred. “I had fun, meeting the celebrities was really cool.”
B a s e b a l l team ready to round bases
By Rudy Ragan ’16 After a subpar season, ending with a record of 11-14 and 2-12 in league play, the Riordan baseball team looks to improve under third year Coach Brandon Ramsey. Although last year in league was tough, they are looking a lot more promising. They are led by the veteran leadership of Kobi Allen, Jackson Chase, and Christian Hammerich all of whom have been on Varsity since Sophomore year. In addition, other returning Varsity players include Nick Hanhan, Alex Hanhan, Nick Gonzalez, Daniel Cortes, Christian Ralleta, and Brain Ceinar. All of the Varsity players have been working hard in the weight room since the start of the school year. The season started Feb. 1 and the first league home game is March 15 against cross town rival Saint Ignatius. It’s been a successful offseason because the baseball team is getting an all new infield, new dugouts, and a new batting cage. The new dugouts and batting cage were built by the Varsity team and the coaches. The dugouts and batting cages have not been renovated in a very long time, so it was much needed, players said. Coach Ramsey said, “We are looking strong this year and the boys have been working really hard.” Senior Christian Hammerich said, “We play in one of the hardest leagues in California, but we have competed hard the past couple years and look to have a good season.” The WCAL is one of, if not the, toughest leagues in California for baseball, especially. As a league, they get roughly 20 Division I scholarship in baseball alone. Over the years, they have produced many major leaguers and a large number of draft picks such as Pat Burrell, Barry Bonds, and more recently, Jordan Paroubeck and Matt Krook. Despite this tough competition, Riordan looks to have one of their best years in recent memory.
March 2016
SPORTS
13
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Riordan rugby maximizes momentum S o c c e r t e a m
heads forward
By Alec Moysov ’16
By Abdallah Shami ’16
Photo courtesy Riordan yearbook staff.
Riordan Rugby is something to see,
tiered man team.
As new players
However, Riordan Rugby was placed
as they enter the hardest division in
began to join the team the coaches
in a very tough league with one team
California and possibly the nation.
always stressed that they wanted the
in particular, Jesuit High School, who
The Riordan rugby team was first
rugby team to be a brotherhood.
had won a national title last season.
created in 2013 with just enough
Senior
Ilalio
Consequently, Riordan Rugby had a
members to build one team. The 20
commented on how the team helps
tough season last year and ended the
man roster, with just a few of them
build a stronger brotherhood at
season with 4 wins and 6 losses.
knowing how to play the game, were
Riordan, saying, “It already has.
It
With the majority of the starting
able to finish the season with an
established the true meaning of
team from last season coming back,
astonishing 6 wins and 4 losses.
brotherhood the moment rugby
fans hope for the best. This league
This record not only proved that
became a part of Riordan.”
will be extremely tough, and the
Riordan Rugby had the potential
The influx of new players allowed
team is aware of how much effort
to become a great program, it also
the team to create two additional
they will have to put in to experience
showed that great coaches can create
15 man teams. These three teams
a satisfying season. Every man will
a winning team with players having
dominated the league, shutting out
have to do their best and give their
little to no experience.
every team in the league. Riordan
all so that this season will be one to
As the 2013 season came to an end,
Rugby finished their regular season
remember.
the 2014 season was just beginning.
with 12 wins and 0 losses, only losing
Senior Starter Sam Tofi said their
Students of all grade levels began to
in their playoff game.
team’s goal for the year is to “win one
join the team as they had heard about
2014
impressive
game at a time, and execute plays
last year’s successful season. As more
season for the team, and they knew
well.” He added, “If we do this right we
students began to join, the original
they would have to work hard to be
can have a shot at Nationals.”
20 man roster had jumped to a three-
a good team for the 2015 season.
Captain
was
a
Payton
very
Riordan soccer looks to go far and beyond in WCAL for the first time in many years. The soccer team has been a struggling program in the past years and has been trying to find its identity in WCAL. As Riordan soccer got its first league win in more than 15 years last year, the team in 2016 looks to come back and is hungry to contend with the other WCAL teams. The Junior Varsity team and freshman team both look to develop for the up and coming years ahead of them. Junior Varsity head coach Kevin Esquivel looks to have his JV team improve significantly. Esquivel said, “I think we have a lot of good individual talent and it will be a process. We have about five or six good individuals that can help shape the team.” Many of the varsity soccer team athletes believe this is the year to make a change in the program at Riordan. For the first time in many years, the mention of CCS and playoffs is in the picture. Senior defender Coleman McGrath said, “I believe with a stronger team and many players returning from last year we can break this Riordan soccer dry spell over the past years.” Head coach Mike Cisneros, and assistant coach David Esser look to build on last year’s team and improve the team’s weaknesses. The team, chemistry wise, looks solid with many of last year’s varsity players returning to play their last year. The current roster as of 2016 consists of a majority of many seniors. Senior forward Luke Malek-Zadeh and team leading scorer last year, Cesar Pulido, are up front and look to continue their offense and give the team an edge in scoring. Malek-Zadeh said, “I think I can help influence the younger players on this team and can help continue scoring for this team.” The Riordan midfield consists of solid seniors Esser and Brandon Geraldi, junior Patrick Rodil, up and coming sophomore Mark Malek-Zadeh and freshman Nico Hillison, who all look to distribute the ball and control the game. Riordan’s senior back line consists of the same four from last year and look to be the anchor for the team, consisting of right back speed demon Alec Moysov, center backs Coleman McGrath and Christopher Umanzor, and left back Cameron Anderson. The team has started the season with three wins already in pre-season and looks to continue those results into league. Riordan soccer finished the preseason with a record of 3 wins 2 losses, and 1 tie. The team seems poised for a promising 2016 season and these hungry seniors want a strong season and a playoff run. The Riordan soccer team finished with a disappointing overall record of 4-14-2. The Crusaders hope to improve next year.
14 SPORTS
March 2016
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
N i n e r s p i c k u p p i e c e s Giants hope to get even in 2016 By Christian Hammerich ’17 after dreadful season By Alec Moysov ’16
Photo courtesy sportsblog.com The San Francisco 49ers look to start from scratch in the offseason and rebuild. Rebuild mode would’ve never been thought of for a rich 49ers organization, but after last year’s offseason consisting of many of the team’s key players leaving and head coach Jim Harbaugh not connecting with the front office, many knew the up and coming 2014-15 season would not be pretty. The signing of Jim Tomsula as head coach was questionable to many of the fans and now that he’s gone, the team is rebuilding . . .again. The 49ers were off to a good start in the season with a win against the new and improved Vikings. Many fans were left optimistic until they faced the high scoring Steelers. The Niners were dominated 48-13 and this game set a precedent for the rest of the season. Struggling their way through, they finished last in the NFC West and with an overall record of 5-11. The Niners were ready for rebuild mode. Many fans blame the CEO of the Niners, Jed York, for this catastrophic season. With a bad relationship between Jim Harbaugh and the head office, many of the players could feel the team was not in good shape and either retired or left to join other teams. Rudy Ragan, a Niner fan, accuses Jed York of his poor management. Ragan said, “He is a power hungry man. He should be sitting back and letting the coaches and general managers with more football experience handle the situations.” Right after the last game of the season against the Rams, the Niners started their offseason by firing head coach Jim Tomsula. The search for a new head coach was on. With many coaches around the league being
fired after struggling years, the Niners looked to take advantage. The Niners eyed coach Chip Kelly of the Eagles and Mike Shanahan. Chip Kelly, an offensive minded coach, was fired from the Eagles due to a season that did not meet their expectations. Shanahan is a Super Bowl champion caliber coach who was back in the coaching business, and the Niners fans hoped to land him. The Niners, after a week of interviews, landed a coach, officially hired coach Chip Kelly to a 4 year/$24 million dollar contract. There have been many conversations of drafting Cal quarterback Jared Goff and trading quarterback Colin Kaepernick. With the signing of Chip Kelly, the question now is who will be the starting quarterback? Kaepernick, many say, would fit into Coach Kelly’s playbook very nicely and would break out of his slump. But having a poor season this year and being replaced by backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert for half the season, the question is still unresolved. Kaepernick fanatic Luke Malek-Zadeh said, “I really do think the hiring of Coach Chip Kelly would secure his starting spot and would allow him (Kaepernick) to thrive significantly.” Kelly may resolve the Niners’ offensive problem with his fast paced offense. Torrey Smith tweeted, “Guess I might have to start running right now to get in shape” (@TorreySmithWR). But the defensive end may be a little shaky. Fans will have to wait and see how this can be resolved and look closely to who the Niners draft. The Niners offseason is going to be key on how the team plays over the next couple of years.
Photo courtesy sfgate.com clause after the second year.
The San Francisco Giants went into the
Evans and Sabean were able to fill both of
offseason this year looking to improve in
their needs by signing both the pitchers
very specific parts of their team that they
and Denard Span (31) of a 3 year $31
had lacked, which hurt them in the 2015
million contract. The Span signing seem
season.
to be a tricky situation considering he
The front office of Larry Baer, Brian
only played 61 games for the Washington
Sabean, and Bobby Evans all had two
Nationals last year because of hip surgery,
main goals in mind: To improve the
but if he is healthy it could be one of the
team’s starting rotation and to find an
biggest bargains of the offseason.
outfielder who could preferably play Left
Now that they have spent $251
Field and Center if needed.
million
Luckily this year’s free agent class
additions seems out of the question
was abundant with outfielders and
except for cheap relievers or minor
starting pitchers. With starting pitchers,
league contracts. Lincecum is still a free
there is a first tier and second tier, based
agent with multiple teams reportedly
upon their value, age, performance, and
interested. The only room the Giants
projectability.
have for pitching opportunities is in the
this
offseason,
any
other
The ace level selections included, with
bullpen. So the only way he will return to
their ages noted, David Price (30), Zach
the giants is in the bullpen preferably in a
Greinke (32), Jordan Zimmerman (29),
long relief role.
and Johnny Cueto (29). The second
Rudy Ragan said, “I think the Span
tier options are much more affordable
signing is good because he’s a good
because their value is not as high or they
defensive center fielder and we won’t be
are too old to receive a lengthy contract
forced to put Pagan in Center anymore.
of a lot of money. Those options included
I think this offseason has gone really
Mike Leake (28), John Lackey (37), Scott
well because it is the first time in along
Kazmir (31), Jeff Samardzija (30), Wei-Yen-
time that they have gone out and spent
Chen (30), and Doug Fister (32).
money on quality free agents and they
The SF Giants this offseason have
filled a lot of needs”
picked up right handed pitchers Jeff
Samardzija on a five-year $90 million
“I feel they did very well by putting them
contract and Johnny Cueto on a six-year
in a place to succeed for another World
$130 million contract with an opt-out
Series title.”
Baseball Coach Jimmy McCarthy said,
March 2016
SPORTS
15
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Doping scandal tests Olympic Games’ mettle
MMA marvel loses to dos Anjos
By Alec Moysov ’16
By Abdallah Shami ’16
The Olympic organization was left with a wake up call as Russia’s track and field team is accused of widespread doping. After years of accusations of doping and cheating in the sport of track and field, Russia’s team has finally been caught, according to the IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations). Russia has been temporarily suspended from the sport of track and field due to substance abuse and the Drug Agency continues to search for more evidence to have Russia’s track and field team banned from competing.
Russia has been caught a number of times.
In fact, they had more drug violations than any other country in 2013. With 225 total violations accounting for 12 percent of the world’s drug violations, one fifth of that 12 percent has been cases from the sport of track and field. Russia’s temporary ban has been an
Photo courtesy independent.com
epiphany to track and field athletes around
This man has many names,
signing was only the beginning of
cross that made contact with Aldo,
but is known to most as UFC
McGregor’s climb to fame.
knocking him out in the first 13
disgusted in the World Anti-Doping Agency
Featherweight Champion and The
McGregor was scheduled a
seconds of the first round. This
throughout the years.
Notorious. Will Conor McGregor
preliminary fight the next month
victory gave McGregor the title UFC
add another name to his list? UFC
against Marcus Brimage. He won
Featherweight Champion.
Lightweight
the fight with a technical knockout
Senior Alec Moysov said, “He
good.
in the first round.
This was his
is changing the sport of UFC
Conor McGregor learned to
first win while signed for UFC.
and making it more entertaining
fight in 2006. He was 17 at the
McGregor continued to climb the
for younger viewers who have
time.
He was taught by future
ladder in the featherweight bracket
never experienced the sport. He
UFC champion Tom Egan in a town
as he eventually was faced with
represents national pride for his
known as Lucan in West Dublin,
the interim UFC featherweight
country Ireland.”
Ireland. This is where McGregor’s
champion Chad Mendes, which he
McGregor
passion for fighting emerged.
won in a technical knockout in the
more titles as rumors report he is
second round.
gaining weight to climb to the UFC
Champion
sounds
A year after he trained with Tom
became
in how they have let so much cheating go on World renown 1,500 meter runner Jenny Simpson said in a interview with The New York Times, “At the highest level they’ve failed me personally and they’ve failed every athlete in the sport, and I’m glad to hear they feel that way because I feel at least admitting it is the first step to cleaning it up.” Varsity track and field athlete Charles Levine said he believes Russia shouldn’t be suspended from the 2016 Olympics. “It isn’t fair for those individuals who have been working hard and haven’t violated any drug policies,” he said. “Also, taking away a huge country
still
thirsts
for
and competitor would affect the atmosphere greatly.” Not only are there allegations against the team for doping, but ARD, (Arbeitsgemeinschaft der öffentlich-rechtlichen Rundfunkanstalten
Egan, he made his MMA debut in
As
the
Lightweight bracket and challenge
der Bundesrepublik Deutschland) the world’s
an amateur fight against Ciaran
new interim UFC Featherweight
UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael
second largest public broadcaster, did their
Campbell for the Irish Ring of Truth
champion, he only faced one more
dos Anjos. McGregor fought dos
some suspicious activity in the way the Russian
promotion in Dublin.
opponent to claim the title of UFC
Anjos for the title.
government acted about the case.
won that night with a technical
Featherweight
José
Senior Nic Lobre said, “He will
helped curate the doping of their athletes
knockout in the first round.
Aldo.
On Dec. 12, 2015, Conor
destroy Rafael dos Anjos before the
After that night, he became
McGregor fought José Aldo for the
second round.”
professional and was signed by the
UFC Featherweight champion.
However, McGregor lost the
Irish Cage of Truth promotion. Six
match and did not claim the title.
years later, McGregor signed with
as both fighters landed punches.
UFC in a multi-fight contract. This
However, McGregor landed a left
McGregor
McGregor
the world. Many athletes and organizations are
champion,
The fight started off with a bang
own private investigation and sniffed out
Many believe that the Russian government
and helped cover up some drug tests. There have been many allegations but no specific evidence has been found. The IAAF gave Russia a chance before the 2016 Rio Olympics to clean up their act and stay drug free. Many people have questioned if Russia even deserves a second chance after the they have been cheating throughout the years.
16 SPORTS
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Warriors stay golden, return to playoffs By Nicholas Lobre ’16
The Warriors began the 2015–16
season by winning their first 24 games,
eclipsing the previous best start in NBA
history, set by the 1993–94 Houston
Rockets and the 1948–49 Washington
Capitals at 15–0. The Warriors also are
looking to surpass the 95-96 Bulls’
44 home game win streak with their
current total at 39.
Passing the Bulls would be huge
considering the Head Coach Steve Kerr
was on the 95-96 team and was out with
injury most of the year. The Warriors
Photo courtesy sbnation.com
Kobe to hang up jersey By Moises Sandoval ’17
Retirement? Another star is leaving? Yes, another superstar has decided to retire at the end of the 2015-2016 season: the first ballot Hall Of Famer, Kobe Bryant, who has had a tremendous career accomplishing many records, and setting new ones.
Michael Jordan, the legend, to help him out. “Michael Jordan is actually one of the first people that I told over summer,” Bryant said, via ESPN Los Angeles. Michael Jordan told him to “just enjoy it, no matter what happens.”
have had interim coach Luke Walton as
their coach and are still successful.
After winning the 2015 NBA Finals,
the Golden State Warriors didn’t sit
the second best winning percentage
back and celebrate, instead they are
in NBA history at 72-12 over the 2015
focused on returning to the NBA Finals
calendar year. In terms of individual
once again and breaking records on
records, Green is on track to set some
their way.
triple-double records and Curry will
almost certainly break his own three
The Warriors are currently 61-6 and
March 2016
The Warriors are now the holders of
their success on the court has come
pointers made in a season record.
down to great team chemistry, never
After playing against the Lakers,
ending hard work during the offseason,
Kobe, who is going through his farewell
and the talented players who each play
season has tweeted, “When the shots
a role to help the team. The Warriors are
u take r the shots the defense wants u
the number one team in the NBA and
to take but r the shots ur comfortable
are not comparable to any other.
taking #curryriddle”
With all eyes on Steph Curry, the
Senior Eddie Stansberry, a member
Warriors have certainly relied on their
of the Varsity basketball team, said, “The
2015 MVP, but not just him alone.
closest competition to the Warriors are
Golden State’s success may come from
the San Antonio Spurs who’ve had
Draymond Green whom many consider
success in both their team play and
to be the change and the key in the
amazing coaching throughout the
ignition for the Warriors. Green is the
years.”
kind of player that any fan loves to have
on their team, but when he isn’t on your
have had a fantastic home win streak
team, you simply hate him.
very similar to the Warriors.
This is the kind of reception that a lot
Stansberry went on to say that he sees
of great players have faced throughout
“the Warriors back in the finals and
their careers. The Warriors could be off
possibly winning again.”
to this impressive start because they
The Warriors still have a long way
have the best second unit in the NBA.
to go, but with the events unfolding as
With arguably the best center tandem
they have, many look to the Warriors as
in the NBA and a huge cast of stars, the
the most entertaining and best team in
Warriors find themselves full of talent
the NBA. It’s a great time to be a Warriors
and in a league of their own.
fan.
The Spurs currently sit at 57-10 and
Photo courtesy hdxwallpaperz.com Kobe Bryant started his career as a 17 year old kid, coming out of high school, winning the slam dunk contest as a rookie. During his career, he managed to be a 5-time NBA Champion, 2-time NBA Finals MVP, won the NBA Most Valuable Player in 2008, 17-time NBA All-Star, 11time NBA All First Team, 9-time NBA All Defensive First Team, 2-time NBA Scoring Champion. Kobe Bryant announced on Nov. 29, 2015 that he will hang up the jersey and retire. He’s played 19 seasons and entering his 20th and final season. Kobe didn’t decide on his own about retirement, he asked
Kobe Bryant supported his statement and agreed with it. On the day that he announced his retirement he also said, “My heart can take the pounding. My mind can handle the grind. But my body knows it’s time to say goodbye.” Janio Baltodano ‘17 said, “I think it’s reasonable for him to make the decision on his retirement. He will be remembered as one the greatest players to ever touch a basketball.” Coach Danny Arias said, “As a Celtics fan, I really didn’t like Kobe, but he was a heck of a ball player. He kept the competitiveness in the league.”
Student athletes face challenges in two arenas By Christian Hammerich ’16
Being a student athlete is a very hard and taxing thing to do while in high school or college. Even though high school and college athletics are very different in the time they take up in a student’s life, the process is still the same. Rudy Ragan Varsity golf team, and former baseball player said, “Getting home late after games, matches and practice it is hard to buckle down and get work done.”This is a thought among many student athletes at Archbishop Riordan High School, including Varsity baseball player Jackson Chase, “Being on the baseball team takes up a lot of time. We end practice around 6 every night.” It is very important for athletes to get good grades to be able to move on to the next level in college. Being a high school student is hard enough with everything that goes on, but
when you add a sport it is a whole different story. Athletes learn a lot while being on a team or in an individual sport, about character and perseverance. These help tremendously in everyday life outside of school and sports. Athletes learn to focus and manage their time effectively which is pivotal in being able to get good grades in school. To even play sports at the high school level a player must have a 2.0 GPA or higher and to play in playoffs it is a 2.5 GPA or better. This can be a challenge for some and easier for others. Many coaches have gone through the different levels and struggles of being a student athlete, which helps because they bring wisdom and knowledge of the right ways to do things and to succeed in school and sports.
March 2016
FOOD & SPORTS
Bacon adds sizzle to meals Chipotle By Nicholas Lobre ’16 struggles to recover from E.coli outbreak By Clayton Miranda ’17 Chipotle, a popular Mexican food restaurant, has lost many customers due to recent outbreaks of E.coli. Because of the outbreaks, many of Chipotle’s customers fled and were afraid to eat there. More than 500 people have reported to have gotten sick from eating at Chipotle in the last half of 2015. The company does not know why or how the outbreak happened, but assures the public that they are taking precautions to stop the spread of the virus. Chipotle’s business has taken big hit because of these outbreaks, with sales dropping 14.6 percent. On Feb. 8, Chipotle closed all of their restaurants to hold food safety meetings with all of its employees. An official statement from Chipotle read: “To ensure that the ingredients we buy are safe—meaning they are not contaminated with germs that could make people sick—we have established strict guidelines and procedures that our suppliers must follow.” In the meantime, damage control is in effect. The restaurant’s identity is being ruined by these outbreaks because Chipotle has always been proud of serving local and fresh ingredients and these outbreaks have caused people to question their credibility. In terms of legal avenues, Chipotle could face criminal charges for poisoning hundreds of people. Claims include that victims of this virus were infected because of employees who were sick and working when they weren’t supposed to. So customers wonder: Is it safe to eat at Chipotle? Ever Esquivel said, “I like Chipotle but I wouldn’t eat there anymore after this incident.” The last time an outbreak like this happened was in 1993, when an E. coli outbreak at the Jack in the Box chain affected more than 700 people. The outbreak left 178 victims permanently impaired and killed four children.
17
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Bacon is making something of a huge impact on today’s culture. The bacon craze may not be the newest food trend, but it is certainly a mainstream icon. There is no timeline as to when bacon just blew up. Bacon has been an internet fad and is still a mystery to many as to why it’s so popular. Is it the taste? The texture? The look? The smell? What could it be? Regarding the general bacon craze, Anne Smith, owner and director of the L.A.-based New School of Cooking, said in the LA Times that the pork explosion may be an offshoot of the trend toward more localized eating. The “slow food” movement, as it’s called, lends itself to pig meat because the animals can be raised just about anywhere. The Internet has seen the claims of YouTube channel Epic Meal Time and clips like “Bacon is good for me.” It has become pretty apparent that bacon is huge and will not be going away any time soon, even with the scare of shortages that came back when the pork surge began last year when a virus swept through U.S. farms in about 30 states and killed millions of pigs. Bacon prices have shot up around 10 percent this year alone and reached an all-time high of $6.11 per pound, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A half-pound slab
of bacon now costs about $3.99, as opposed to last month when it was about a dollar cheaper. To show how much one loves bacon, there is now a coffin that someone can be buried in, filled with bacon. More than any other food, bacon has been lifted by the comfort food trend because of that instant recognition. Picture a piece of bacon. Now, just try to convince yourself that the signature smoky aroma and fatty saltiness has not already trapped every flavor receptor in your mouth and nose. Bacon has so much fat that many view it as an unhealthy substance. So when foodies see bacon on a menu, they know exactly what they’re getting, just like the familiar reassurance of a slice of pizza or French fries. Plus, bacon’s just never fancy, so no one feels intimidated ordering it. All of a sudden, you’ve got yourself a trend. Bacon has always been in every supermarket and everyone knows how to cook it. And everywhere they look, chefs and restaurants are telling them it’s the must-use ingredient. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Yet due to the ingredients alone, bacon has always been there for us, and will always be there, but it’s high time we all stepped beyond the comfort zones of familiar trends and showcase something different.
CYO keeps hoop dreams alive By Rudy Ragan ’16
Basketball fans who want to see some of the most fun, competitive high school basketball should check out the San Francisco Catholic Charities CYO High School League at Serramonte and St. Emydius. Three years ago, Catholic Charities CYO Athletics created a basketball league for high school students. This league is exciting to watch and play in for high school students who are not ready for their basketball careers to be over. Roland Tianco, Athletics Assistant Manager for Catholic Charities CYO, said “Traditionally, CYO sport seasons end after 8th grade. About 70 percent of our former CYO participants do not make their high school teams, which leaves the majority without a place to play. With all that in mind, our High School League was born in 2012 to provide an opportunity for any high school aged boys and girls with a chance to play organized sports.” High schoolers can create teams with friends and former teammates. Many of the participants are from local high schools such as Riordan, Sacred Heart, and Saint Ignatius. However, the
majority of the league consists of Saint Ignatius students. There is an entry fee of $85, but it pays for a reversible jersey, gym time, and referees. The teams are divided into two or three divisions and each team plays five to seven divisional games in a season. After the regular season, the top four teams in each division plays in a single elimination bracket. Many participants have said that it is way more fun than playing for a school team. Paul Newland ‘16 said, “I like playing CYO High School basketball because it is extremely competitive and I love the trash talking between teams prior to the games because I know most of the players on other teams.” Catholic Charities CYO Athletics has been successful in introducing basketball for high schoolers. This year, there were so many teams trying to sign up that there was a waiting list for the first time. There has only been positive feedback from athletes who have participated, and current Riordan players hope next year more Crusaders will fill the ranks.
Brand names mitigating factor in glove choice
By Christian Hammerich ’16
Photo courtesy evaluatingbaseballsmanagers.com Baseball players take great pride in the glove that they use and have a very specific taste when it comes to buying a new one. There are many different brands that make gloves with different leathers and patterns, including Nokona, Wilson, Rawlings, and Mizuno. Those are seen as the more popular brands amongst the players, with Rawlings and Wilson seeming to be in control of the market. Certain types of gloves can be very expensive from its quality of leather to its quantity supplied. The more expensive gloves are the “Pro Preferred” and “Primo” models by Rawlings, which is their top of the line. Nokona and Rawlings both have gloves made in the United States, with Wilson being made in Japan. Popular players in the MLB who use Rawlings are Paul Goldschmidt, 1st basemen for the Arizona Diamondbacks, and Bryce Harper, Outfielder for the Washington Nationals. Wilson is the other big name company and pros who use them are Clayton Kershaw, pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Brandon Phillips, 2nd basemen for the Cincinnati Reds. Amongst the pros, the most popular gloves are Rawlings, Wilson, Nike, depending on a player’s position; the top three spots stayed relatively the same with Mizuno coming in fourth. Riordan baseball players have their own preferences, and here they are: Daniel Cortes (Rawlings), Jackson Chase (Rawlings and Wilson), Kobi Allen (Rawlings), Christian Ralleta (Nokona), Alex Hanhan (Wilson), Nick Hanhan (Rawlings), Nick Gonzalez, Jake Pashby (All Star), Coach Jimmy (Mizuno), and Coach Gallegos (Rawlings). That’s five for Rawlings, two for Wilson, and one each for Nokona, All Star, and Mizuno. Each player has their own preference based on fit style and the leather. The benefits of a certain glove are mainly based on its leather because better made gloves will last longer and not fall apart. Jackson Chase said simply, “Rawlings is the best.” Jake Pashby said, “All Star makes the best gloves for catchers because of the leather and fit.” Some players choose gloves also based on nostalgia. Kobi Allen said he likes Rawlings because “my dad used Rawlings when he played.”
18 TECHNOLOGY
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
myParish app connects c h u r c h t o p e o p l e
By Jacob Taylor ’17
Photo courtesy stgeorgeparish.com
Created June 30, 2014 by Diocesan
Publications, the myParish - Catholic
around church, for not only many lay people, but ordained officials as well.
Life Every Day app has been a growing,
One major reason for this possibly
outstanding representation of the new
is the massive age gap for church
modern church.
attendees. Statistics done by ABC
The app offers many services and can
News and Tony Morgan Live tell
be seen as “partner” app for the avid
that 65 percent of people age 65
church goer. The most significant part
and older report participating in
of app revolves around the connection
religious services, while the younger
with one’s parish. The app allows for
demographics show around a 20
any parish to adapt its software into its
percent attendance.
community by request.
Knowing that the younger
Doing so, one can use a messenger
demographic seems to be a more tech
program allowing to read parish news
savvy demographic today, people
bulletins and reply back as well. The
would think it’d be a great app for
app allows for many more uses, such
them. The sad part is young people go
as updating a mass calendar, readings
to church less often.
and homilies from mass, available
The app has great potential though.
confession times, and multiple shared
I could see it used as a tool for the
prayers.
elderly if it could just be introduced
Using the application I found that
to them. Now that the community
it runs very smoothly and is quite well
has decided to modernize, the church
built. The only issue I could really find
much modernize as well and figure a
using the app is the lack of current use.
way to keep a new age audience and
It still seems to be a rather new idea of
spread Christ’s good word.
March 2016
New phones receive ringing endorsements
By Moises Sandoval ’17
Deciding on what phone to get next? Which of the best phones of 2015 should you buy? Well you can wait a little bit longer because one of the biggest debates we have today is which phone is better: iPhone 6 or Samsung Galaxy S6? In 2014-2015, both Apple and Samsung produced one of their best phones yet, the iPhone 6 and the Galaxy S6. Apple had their iPhone 6 released in September 2014 and later Samsung released their Galaxy S6 in October 2015. Both of these phones show resemblance in size and how they look, but the Galaxy S6 has a bigger and wider screen, which means more room for enjoying your videos and browsing the web. Also, the Galaxy S6 has more phone storage because they vary from 32GB phones to 128GB phones. Probably one of the biggest questions people ask themselves is: Android or IOS? With the latest version of IOS, Apple has added some big features, some which have been present in Android for some time. You now have more actionable notifications. The latest IOS 8.4 update also delivered Apple Music, the company’s first music streaming service. Samsung has had criticism for its heavy-handed additions, and unnecessary apps. Samsung has definitely made significant improvements with its software approach but Apple has the better software between these two phones. Between the two phones, the Galaxy S6 has the better sound
using electronic applications revolving
Photo courtesy youtube.com
quality. Both of these phones have great cameras. Apple makes the very best of its setup and you can still get great, natural photos with many of the same qualities you’d associate with the S6. The S6 is known for low-light shooting, sadly because it lacks optical image stabilization. They are both amazing cameras but the iPhone is the one to go for. The battery in the two phones are both lasting, but the Galaxy S6 stamina levels beat the iPhone 6. When charging the iPhone 6, it takes at least 3 hours to charge whereas, the Galaxy S6 takes about an hour. The source of Trusted Reviews had many arguments on what each phone had that was similar to each other and, at the end of those arguments they had an answer. Many people left comments saying their opinions of which phone is better, with half of the people saying Apple wins and the other half said Samsung wins. “When you count up the little wins, the S6 comes out on top,” said Max Parker, who wrote the article on the argument between the two phones. “It may look like the Galaxy S6 is beating the iPhone 6 by a mile, but remember that Samsung is six months ahead of Apple,” said Sarah Mitroff on cnet.com The debate ends here. If you’re into design and what phone looks better, then the iPhone is for you. But if you’re into which one is the better piece of technology, you should go for the Galaxy S6.
March 2016
CAMPUS NEWS
19
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
Alumni lunch caps successful ARHS year By Roman Peregrino ’18
doing so well.
to Murphy’s own journey to becoming
“I am so happy with the progress of
the sports broadcasting personality he
[Riordan sports teams],” Best said. “It’s
is today. The format was quite successful,
great.”
and Murphy got many laughs from the
There to connect with the alumni
Guest speaker, Brian Murphy from KNBR with President Joe Conti and John Feely ’77. Photo courtesy Development Office “We had a great year. The whole school is going in the right direction!” That is the answer given by William E. Best, a member of the Board of Trustees, when he was asked about why support from the alumni of Archbishop Riordan has reached new levels. Indeed, 2015 was a good year for Riordan. Attendance has been moving steadily upwards and the football and cross-country teams had amazing seasons. The school is even getting a much-needed paint job. This upswing is reflected by the increase in alumni involvement. It was first reflected in historic levels at the golf tournament, then again when it shattered records at the Downtown Luncheon. Headlined by Brian Murphy, of the Murph and Mac show on KNBR, the downtown luncheon took place on Dec. 4 at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel. The attendance was record setting, as 225
“John Feely, Stephen Etter, and Brian
several current students from all grades:
Murphy were fantastic. I am really
Mario Giusto ‘16, Dylan Ennis ‘16, Aidan
grateful for what they did. They were
Verba-Hamilton ‘16, Raymone Sanders
tremendous. Murphy especially. He
‘16, Phillip Kaulave ‘17, Daniel Etter
really connected with our group.
‘17, and Eric Santos ‘19. They spent the
Fantastic job,” said Rovetti.
answering questions.
for lunch. Marc Rovetti ‘87, alumni director, said, “The turnout was great! It was the best crowd we have ever had. The atmosphere was absolutely buzzing. With the format that was set up, it was absolutely phenomenal.”
and represent today’s Riordan were
day conversing with the alumni and
assorted alumni and parents gathered
Not only was there a great turnout,
but an amazing ambiance as well. “It was a fantastic atmosphere-very festive,” said Bob and Katie Hanson, parents of Matt ‘19. “It felt as though we had been here before even though this is our first time. Lots of enthusiasm and passion.” The energy and enthusiasm were evident from the get-go – everyone was talking and celebrating their alma mater. The toast of the luncheon was the CCS Championship Bound Riordan football team, and state qualifying Cross Country team. All the alumni were very proud of the sporting teams, and were excited to seeing their alma mater
crowd.
After the program, Murphy said, “First of all, I was quite impressed by
“The luncheon was great,” said Santos.
the support. This is a great school with
“It was packed and I got to meet many
a great program. I was given a warm
die-hard alums. It was fun because I
reception; there is obviously a great
got hear a lot of cool stories [from those
bond within the alumni with everyone
who went before me].”
very proud of [their ties to Riordan]. It is
After checking in and time for
exciting times for the football program.
conversation, the guests went down
I am excited by the support, it’s nice to
from the top floor of the hotel to the
see. This is my first Riordan event... I
second, where tables were arranged
would definitely come back. I know I
around a podium and a riser, where
will always be welcome.”
Brian Murphy would later talk. After
Overall, this was a great day. Rovetti
eating a delicious meal of chicken,
said of the response, “I got the sense
broccoli, mashed potatoes, and gravy,
that people had a good time. It spilled
the program began.
over to the Marines a Memorial Club
The opening speaker was John
afterwards. I got e-mails, nice calls, and
Feely ‘77, VP of sales and syndication
all around compliments to a job well
at Comcast Sportsnet, who did a quick
done. I would like to thank John Ring
introduction of the headliner, KNBR’s
for all the work he put in. Also thanks
Brian Murphy. The format of the day
again to the speakers, Etter, Feely, and
was similar to an actor’s workshop
Murphy, and all the volunteers and staff
set-up, with Stephen Etter, father of
that made the day successful.”
Daniel, asking Murphy pre-determined
After such a strong and successful
questions and some from the audience.
showing, how can this year’s luncheon
The topics ranged from high school
be followed up? “Wait until next year,”
sports, to Bay Area major sports teams
Rovetti said with a grin.
Peregrino dominates speech competition By Crusader Staff
Sophomore Roman Peregrino won
competition on March 1, with the
First Place in the Lions Club District
possibility of going to the next level of
Excelsior speech competition tonight on
representing San Francisco’s Lions Club
Feb. 17.
in the state competition.
According to moderator Joey Klobas,
Roman’s speech was based on the
“He delivered an amazing speech. After
title: Liberty and Justice for all. What
weeks of working and coaching, he
does that mean to you? After winning
came out on top, winning first place!”
in Zone 1, he is moving on to regionals,
Corvi, Student Speaker Chairman for the Lions Club, after winning the
He
which will take place later this month.
competition.
represented the district in their next
Joey Klobas next to Roman, his mother Elizabeth Peregrino, and Paul
was
awarded
$100
and
20
The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School
March 2016
APRIL 8-17, 2016
Design Team: Valerie O’Riordan, Michael L. Uimari, Greg Stephens, Jessica Angeles, Nolan Miranda and David Mantle The Cast: Alex Perez, Andrea Sanchez, Bianca Gonzalez, Chris Hurliman, Darren Bucko, Dominic Collantes, Dylan Kay, Estefan Granucci, Gracie DeBattista, Henry Novicki, Humberto Martinez, Jalen Viray, J.P. Detweiler, J.P. Jacinto, Keven Munoz, Lalo Virgen, Luis Martinez, Maopeli Ali, Michael Kay, Paris Galarza, Sam Martins, Sarah Wallis, Sean Sheng, Tiffany Villigran, Vince Francisco
TICKETS
$4-10: Available @ the Prep Shop, @ the door, and online.
415.587.5866
WWW.RIORDANHS.ORG