The Crusader October 2022

Teacher’s pet: Whipple & Winston win hearts

By Addison Hwang ’24

Among the new faculty members this year is a unique pair.

Besides seeing Van Whipple around as the new House of Russi provincial and social science teacher, students have also seen his 1-year-old goldendoodle, Winston.

A German native, Whipple is not completely new to the Riordan community, or to teaching. Previously, he taught presecondary school for about three years and continued as a professor at the University of Texas.

“I have always enjoyed and had an interest in teaching, so when I had the opportunity to switch careers entirely, after moving to the Bay Area, I decided to go full time into it,” said Whipple.

Additionally, after subbing at Riordan last year, he decided to take a full time position after noticing Riordan’s “really good vibe, along with great admins,” he remarked.

This year, Whipple is excited to get more involved in all the lesser

known activities and change the dynamic of Russi.

“I want to change the competition to be more holistic from academics to athletics and have more opportunities to earn points and compete against each other. As for the Russi vibe, the togetherness.”

As for his fun-loving smart puppy, Winston has already pawed his way into the hearts of the Riordan community.

Ethan Vargas ’23, an AP economics student in Whipple’s class, recalls, “Initially I thought it was cool to have Winston in the classroom. He is not distracting, and instead, makes class more fun.”

Nha Thi ’23, another AP economics student, similarly added, “He is not distracting at all. Everyone loves petting him, it’s like a routine; we pet him and then class starts.”

Please see “Whipple & Winston” on

House System hits five year anniversary mark

By Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Five years ago, a pioneering idea changed student life at Riordan.

At the start of the 2017-2018 year, the homeroom system was replaced with the House System to foster more camaraderie amongst Crusaders of all grade levels through competition, accumulating points through the year, and all leading up to the Chaminade Cup.

Four houses: the House of Bolts, the House of Cana, the House of Pilar, and the House of Russi were created under one roof to highlight aspects of Riordan and embrace the Marianist traditions of the school.

Van Whipple, the new provincial of the House of Russi, was nervous stepping into the shoes left by Valerie O’Riordan, but quickly adapted to the position with help of his fellow provincials.

He said, “My favorite part of the house system, other than Russi winning, is our ability to have robust competitions, but

still come together at the end. While you may see our drive for victory in public, what you don’t always get to see behind the scenes is how we celebrate each other’s victories and success. That’s a rare find and something that I think is awesome about this house team and system.”

For the provincial for the House of Cana, Christopher Fern, the House System means family spirit. “I love being a part of the Riordan Family, but I also love having a special connection with my fellow Cana Crusaders. It’s a great way to have something else in common and something else to be excited for. Whether it’s fun games, charity drives, or spirit dress, having something to be excited to show up for and be tested to be your best is what keeps me fired up!”

The House System has come a long way since Roman Peregrino ’18 led the school as the first student body president under the new system. Co-Student Body Presidents Areeshah Farooq ’23 and Mahkai Hunt ’23 are now

tasked with leading the school during this special year.

Farooq from Pilar highlighted that being president is not as easy as it might seem.

“As president there are many things I have to account for, which at first don’t seem important but really make an impact on [events]. The logistics of how each moving piece fits into the entirety of an event is crucial and something I’ve grown to enjoy.”

Hunt from Cana adds that the House System made his experience at Riordan all the more enjoyable.

“[It’s] a great way to make strong friendships, especially because of R-time. With R-time you are able to meet in smaller groups with people from your house and do activities that make

RIORDAN

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Social Science teacher Vance Whipple and his dog Winston have won over the hearts of all Crusaders, students and teachers alike.

Photo by Addison Hwang ’24

Provincials Melissa Nagar, Vance Whipple, Chris Fern, Leo Magnaye.

Students debate efficacy of new bell schedule

By Nicolo Ricci ’24

Archbishop Riordan, as of the Fall of 2020, runs under a unique system, the Block Schedule. It features two semesters, each with their own individual class line-ups.

This means that students start and finish up to four subjects in a semester, then start a new set of up to four the next semester.

This system, while unorthodox, has meant a world of change for Riordan students, many of which are great.

In my experience, only having four classes at a time has made for a major decrease in stress both at home and at school.

Only having to worry about a few subjects makes remembering due dates and homework way easier. The amount of missing assignments I have now versus at my last school couldn’t be further apart.

The Block Schedule has also done a lot for my focus. Being able to hone fully in on just four subjects rather than dividing my brain between eight has worked wonders for me.

By Hana Wadlow ’25

For the ’22-’23 school year, Riordan has created a new schedule that has caused some confusion. The biggest challenges in the schedule are Wednesdays and Fridays.

Nolina Eva Maltez expressed her disfavor towards the schedule, saying, “I would say a con about the bell schedule for this year specifically is that I don’t really like how unstructured Wednesdays and Fridays are, because we never really know until the day of whether Wednesday or Friday is going to be a half day or not.”

The new schedule change includes R-Time as a “homeroom” and on some Wednesdays, an Activities period.

“I don’t like the new schedule… because of the inconsistency of the schedules especially on Wednesdays and Fridays,” said Andres Zamora ’26.

The Activities schedule on Wednesdays is a 1:25 p.m. dismissal and a club period from 1:30-3:15. On Fridays, the

schedule is normal but without lunch periods, most of the time. Break is after the first period. This confuses many students because on a regular bell schedule, Break is after the R-Time period. The Friday period consists of a dismissal of 12:40.

Overall, the most feedback given about the new bell schedule is how inconvenient and difficult the schedule is to locate. Many claim to not know about the early dismissals prior to coming to school, which confuses them, despite the fact that it is on the calendar on the school website and on the R-Time slides.

Simply put, the schedule should be announced or communicated to the students the day before rather than the day of. This would help many students know and be prepared for the schedule before arriving at school.

Mission Statement for the Archbishop Riordan High School Newspaper

The mission of The Crusader is to inform, educate and entertain the readers—students, teachers, parents, members of the community—about issues that affect the students as well as citizens of San Francisco and the nation. We hope to instill a sense of understanding, responsibility, and curiosity in our readers that results in an eagerness to learn more about their peers and the world around them.

Reporters and Photographers

Skye

Yamsuan

Adviser

Susan Sutton,

Letters to the Editor

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Archbishop Riordan High School

Misinformation plagues social media channels

Riordan Roundtable

mental health of teenagers (which the CDC has reported is on a consistent decline).

Michael Vezzali-Pascual ’88, an English teacher, said, “The worry for young people is that, because your brains continue to develop well into your 20s, so much attention to screens during this time of brain development is actually changing the very architecture of your brain!...”

By Angela Jia ’25

With the rise of social media, we quite literally have the world’s information at our fingertips. A decade ago this would have been practically impossible. It’s undeniable that in this day and age, social media has made information of all sorts readily available.

But what’s also undeniable is how social media has led to the rise of misinformation becoming more readily available as well.

Teenagers are especially vulnerable to this effect, being the ones most hooked on social media apps. Researchers at NewGuard released a 2022 report that found that nearly one in five videos on TikTok regarding prominent news topics contained misinformation.

It’s further exacerbated by algorithms that tailor content to your beliefs, creating echo chambers of misinformation. Add current world affairs in the mix, and you get stuck in a stream of overwhelmingly negative news. This can become anxiety inducing, which worsens the

“If our brains develop so that we have very little capacity for sustained attention and focus, if we are more likely to watch a TikTok video than, say, read a newspaper article, then we are right back to the beginning of our conversation, which is that we are potentially much more susceptible to mis- and disinformation the more we source our news from social media.”

During our formative years, where beliefs begin to deeply take root, it’s especially crucial that we remain accurately informed.

How do we do this? VezzaliPascual and I recommend checking your source. He proposes two questions to ask yourself: “1. Who owns it? and 2. What are their interests?”

Next, expand your sources. Vezzali-Pascual recommends, “I would not make social media my primary source for news.”

He also sternly writes, “Turn off your phone, engage with one another, and read books!”

All in all, social media can be an incredible tool. It’s up to us to decide how we use it.

Spartan Spear

in the circulation of unverified posts through Retweets or Instagram Stories.

Additionally, this constant circulation of often disheartening and sometimes exaggerated content makes it difficult to see beyond today’s adversities, causing anxiety amongst already emotionally vulnerable teenagers.

By Keiko Casserly ’23

As teenagers of the 21st century, the internet has always had a prominent presence in our lives. Its convenience and overwhelming number of uses makes it rather easy to become all but completely absorbed within the content it provides. As if it is a parent guiding us through childhood— describing right from wrong—we naively trust the information we are given. And as the internet becomes further and further intertwined with our daily lives, it is apparent that, at times, the line between fact and fiction becomes indistinguishable. It is therefore unsurprising that misinformation regularly proliferates among online forums and social media platforms.

In the midst of the pandemic, war, and environmental issues, social media has been increasingly used as a means of spreading awareness through what is referred to as “online activism,” which everyone seems to be expected to partake in. While informing others of relevant issues is always important, this developing social pressure for one to have and share opinions results

It also is worth noting that the algorithms used by these platforms inherently prevent you from viewing multiple perspectives at once. By feeding you the same type of content you interact with repeatedly, they contribute to the development of one-sided perspectives.

To avoid falling victim to misinformation when attempting to understand and form an opinion on a sensitive world issue, it is imperative that teens use a holistic approach, taking into account multiple perspectives at once. Teenagers must verify what they are presented with, especially before passing it on to others. If sources or evidence are not provided, take the initiative and do your own research before solidifying your point of view based on a 60 second video.

Editor’s Note: Every issue, The Crusader collaborates with ICA Cristo Rey’s newspaper

The Spartan Press to address prominent social issues. For this issue, the question was: In what ways has the attraction to social media led to the spread of misinformation as well as anxiety among teens? What can teens do to ensure they do not fall prey to misinformation?

Riordan raves over renovated restrooms

By Julien Untalan ’24

In the past few years, we have seen many crucial changes take place in Archbishop Riordan High School: becoming co-ed, an explosion in enrollment, and the installment of the new Riordan WiFi network. However, these improvements pale in comparison to one of, if not the most important development of the school in all of its history.

After decades, the bathrooms have been finally renovated and the results are life-changing for the students and faculty of Riordan as a whole.

The infamy of the bathrooms of Riordan was not undeserved. Until this year, the bathrooms were virtually the same as they were in 1949, the first year of Riordan. The graphic details of the bathrooms shall not be mentioned for the sake of decency, but it will be mentioned that multiple generations of hundreds

of men used these bathrooms for seven decades. The results were what you can expect.

In our new, sleek, modern, and most importantly, sanitary bathrooms, true masterworks of contemporary architecture, we no longer find plenty of examples of “student-led art,” the eternal slight dampness of the tiled floors, or the everlasting buzz of outdated lighting.

Lest we forget the generous donors, many of them being alumni, who donated enough money to make this change happen. I’d say that many of them, having endured the horrors of the past, compassionately gave some of their wealth so that the current and future generation of Riordan students will never have to endure the pain and torment that they had to undergo.

Put precisely, “I know it seems ironic, bathrooms with toilets and what those maybe represent,

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23 Riordan opened brand-new restrooms on both the first and second floors this past August after months of work remodeling them.

but all the love and effort that went into that is absolutely incredible,” said English teacher Michael Vezzali-Pascual ’88.

He added, “I think all of us who have been here for a while would say it’s been a long time coming.”

Archbishop Riordan High School

New teachers, staff join Crusader ranks

By Bianca Dizon ’23 and Talisha Flores ’24

As Archbishop Riordan advances through the academic year 20222023, the school introduced 27 new additions to its roster, with 13 teachers and 14 staff.

Now, students can anticipate meeting fresh faces from the Resource Specialist Program Department and core subjects as they walk through the hallways.

Each of the individuals—all engendering distinct outlooks of the school’s future, fosters a brighter and more welcoming atmosphere.

David Canales, a Divisional Counselor for freshmen, said, “They’re new, so am I, so we are going to grow into this together. I get to watch them make mistakes, they get to watch me make mistakes, they get to look and see relatability.”

The new faculty members have also felt overwhelming support

from fellow teachers and their students. This sentiment was echoed by Maureen Vera Cruz, an Advancement Associate, when she stated, “I have not met one staff or faculty member that has not been willing to help me out or answer a question in a super friendly manner.”

Although the community of Archbishop Riordan will continue growing and adapting to constant change and additions, becoming integrated with the institution and learning the culture will take time.

Math teacher Ray Trounday said, “With any new environment, there is always a period of adjustment to understand students, staff and ARHS culture but it has been great so far.”

With all of the friendly support offered by the students, parents, and staff, these new members are sure to quickly feel at home at Archbishop Riordan.

At the annual faculty retreat before the school year began, the new teachers and staff members posed for a photo at the Randall Museum. Back row, from left to right: Ernest Li, Bob Harrington, Jack Schindler, Grace Ingersoll, Scott Chiesa, Jack Reardon, Ray Trounday, Alfonso Miranda, and Vance Whipple.

Front row: Jennifer Parker, Seamus Lucey, Chrissy McGoldrick, Greg Callaghan, Maureen Vera Cruz, Jill Micheli, and Winston.

Whipple & Winston win hearts

This was one aspect Whipple knew was going to be an issue, as people typically don’t pet service dogs because they have a job to do.

“Being in this environment, it’s almost impossible. So we modified it so he can engage with students and in this way it’s also a good way to provide people with understanding service animals,” he said.

On the other hand, this was not such a big issue for Winston, a hypoallergenic dog, considering he loves attention.

Winston is not a typical puppy. When he is not “very opinionated and in puppy mode, or vest off,” as Whipple put it, Winston plays a big role in assisting him as his service dog.

Serving in the U.S. military for six years, Whipple was left with epilepsy and traumatic brain injury (TBI), caused by an explosion while on duty. This resulted in Whipple being prone to seizures for 20 years now.

However, having Winston always around for just over a year has

been a life-changing experience.

“He has freed me up quite a bit,” Whipple said. “When I am out and having a seizure, that’s the biggest bit he has provided, that freedom I didn’t have beforehand.”

“He spends his life making sure I get to spend mine.”

Not only has Winston been lifechanging for Whipple, but by being in school, he has provided students and faculty with a better understanding of service animals.

“He acts like an ambassador, and I like him to play that role,” said Whipple.

Kevin Estrada ’00, English teacher, said it’s amazing to have Winston and Whipple as coworkers. He said, “Most mornings, Mr. Whipple and Winston greet us, and it sets the tone for the day. Seeing the two of them immediately brings a smile to my face.”

He contently added, “Winston’s presence makes the school better. With a dog, it’s hard not to feel like a family. He really just puts us all in a good mood.”

“Whipple & Winston” continued from page 1

“I have not met one staff or faculty member that has not been willing to help me out or answer a question in a super friendly manner.”

-Maureen Vera Cruz, Advancement Associate

Photo by The Crusader

Bolts electrifies Frosh Olympics with its first win

By Gianluca Carboni ’24

Despite their humiliating defeat in dodgeball during the House Games, Bolts pulled through, beating Russi’s winning streak, and won Riordan’s 2022 Frosh Olympics.

On Sept. 23, Riordan celebrated the first house competition of this school year. In the gym, the semifinal for dodgeball took place, where Bolts lost to Pilar in seconds.

House Director Benny Willers ’08 said, “That was the fastest round of dodgeball I have ever seen.”

Pilar continued to get first place in Table Roll and Hungry Hungry Crusader, where nonfreshmen competed. The assembly ended with the teachers beating the students in Hungry Hungry Crusader.

Later that day, students and parents came to eat free hot dogs and listen to DJ Club before the

games began. In the theater, Willers introduced the four houses and colors with music, and layed out the schedule.

For the next two hours, freshmen played video games in the theater. In the cafeteria, anyone who wanted, competed to get a point for their house in party games monitored by Parliament members. In the gym, freshmen competed in 3x3 basketball, limbo, and the dodgeball finals.

Finally, everyone gathered in the gym where freshmen played musical chairs and freshmen only Hungry Hungry Crusader.

During the closing ceremony, Willers announced, “It almost came down to a tie breaker, but luckily it didn’t. This year’s 2022 Frosh Olympic Champions, and NEW champions, the House of Bolts!”

Cana, Russi, and Pilar came in second, third, and fourth respectively.

Ben Parker ’26 said, “I feel good and proud; I feel really good for our revenge from dodgeball.”

Event Captain Julien Untalan ’24 said, “The Frosh Olympics is

Robotics Club places third at CalGames

By Edward Ramos ’23

From October 7-9 , Armor Robotics, Riordan’s Robotics Club, competed in the CalGames, an annual competition hosted by Western Region Robotics Forum (WRRF), a non-profit corporation within California that hopes to play their part in promoting STEM learning.

As many people believe, experience is the best way to learn, and for the CalGames, WRRF took the approach of teaming up with FIRST Robotics Competitions (FRC), because it is well known that they provide one of the best experiences for robotics.

Mike Schmit, President of Western Region Robotics Forum, said, “I have seen many students who were not interested in engineering turn to this field in their college studies as a result of their experience in FIRST.”

A few years ago, from 20122019, Armor Robotics and Mercy SF competed as a team. They competed in two regional competitions in 2018, but when the COVID-19 outbreak hit, it halted all progress.

It was inactive all of 2020 until Edward Macdonald ’23, former president of Robotics, brought the program back.

Macdonald recalled, “Because of COVID, FRC was canceled so we stopped the club for a year and a half.”

Eager to speak about the resurgence of robotics, Eric Dean ’25 , the new president, said “Last year we worked to bring it back, and I am proud to say we are able to compete in competitions again this year.”

To prepare for their first competition of the year

(CalGames), they visited Davis High School, which is home to, in Eric’s words “one of the best” robotics programs. Citrus Circuits FRC team 1678 won the FIRST world championship once before in 2015 and since then has continued to contend, placing second in the 2017 season, third in the 2018 and 2019 seasons, and placing fifth in the 2022 season.

Mason T, junior at Davis High, attributes their success to their productivity and teamwork.

“There’s always something to be done,” he said. Adding on, he explains the way they run things is “more student led than faculty led.” The robot borrowed by Armor Robotics team 9143, “Epsilon,” is a replica of their championship robot this year, “Margie.”

With only three weeks of practice, and despite being the only rookie team, the program made it to the semi-finals and finished third place out of the 36 teams that competed. Future events include the San Francisco regional competition (FRC) mid-

March, and then the Silicon Valley regional in early April. The first year team, with practically all new members after recovering from COVID-19, hopes to do well enough to get a bid to the World Championship.

Dean stated, “It’s a lot [competing from 7:15 a.m. until at least 6p.m.], but it was a great experience just to be able to be there, and get to know a little bit about what the competition is like for the competition season in the spring.”

Another member, Sid Thomas ’25, also reflected on the CalGames saying, “We scouted a lot, and now we have a good idea on the future of robotics… being there as a rookie team was amazing because we got a lot of exposure for that.”

Frank Torrano, supervisor of Armor Robotics, is confident of the bright future ahead for the Robotics Club.

He stated, “I am so excited because we are at the beginning of this program, we are at the precipice of something huge.”

an important tradition because it’s the first house competition of the school year, dedicated exclusively for the freshmen. It chiefly served to ignite the spark of life-long friendships and rivalries and most importantly, the hype for the Riordan High School experience.”

“House System anniversary,” continued from page 1

a tight bond between each other and the house teachers.”

Since its inception in 2017, the House System has seen its share of memorable moments. The House of Cana rose to the top in 2018, winning the first Chaminade Cup, and the House of Russi succeeded them in 2019.

During the slumber of the Covid lockdown, the House of Bolts surprised everyone with two Chaminade Cups back to back, in 2020 and 2021. Recently, Cana reclaimed the title at last year’s Crusader Games, with Pilar winning the Gauntlet.

As time passes by, the House System continues to evolve as it seeks to increase school spirit with daily homeroom R-Time meetings, monthly house games, as well as many other spirited events to further foster community.

Fern hopes for more annual events in the coming years.

“Currently, Frosh Olympics and Crusader Games are huge traditions for our community, and last year’s holiday carnivals have the potential to be as well if we build on what we did last year.”

“The House System is an integral part of the school’s camaraderie and spirit. You can feel the school pride vibe and energy on house competition days,” Whipple recapped.

“My hope is that the House System continues to grow. It’s one of the only aspects of school that bridges all of the divides and lets anyone, from frosh to seniors, come together as a team. It’s something that is unique to Riordan and makes this school a special place.”

The

Archbishop Riordan High School

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

The House of Bolts won its first Frosh Olympics title last month.

Thang Do ’24, Nicolo Ricci ’24, Joshua Greenbaum ’25, and Jan David Ella ’24 display their “Highest Seeded Rookie” plaque at CalGames.

Archbishop Riordan High School

Alumni pen book recounting Riordan’s early years

By Jameson Datoc ’23

“Young San Franciscan Sandboxes” is a book I didn’t know I needed. Created by alumni Terence Quinlan, Richard Canas, and Barry Sullivan, it shows their childhood all in 494 pages.

The beginning of “Sandboxes” throws readers in the author’s shoes saying goodbye to being a “little kid” and entering the life of a student. It follows the lives of the authors through grade school and the high school years, and goes through their daily experiences back in the 1940s-50s.

One aspect I loved about the book was that “Sandboxes” drew heavy attention to the experiences the authors had when studying and growing up. At the time, there were no such things as digital books on technological devices, and instead they carried pounds of heavy books for school everywhere they went.

It was the time when Catholic middle and high schools were more hands on than they are today, where meals were under 50 cents, and where every day the city of San Francisco was their literal sandbox, ripe for the picking for adventure and exploration.

However, not everything was

sunshine and butterflies and the authors made sure that they left nothing out. The loss of cultural identities, rapid amounts of bullying, racial problems, adult prejudices, the loneliness of being gay, and the ruination of alcohol are some of the many experiences these authors witnessed or experienced, and are mentioned in the book. It shows the cold truth of their childhood and it showed me the mental growth and the strength these men had during their younger years.

It’s a moving book for all, and it can be summed up in three books: “The Things They Carried,” “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” and “The Great Gatsby.”

It shows the hardships these men endured during their youthful lives just like “The Things They Carried”; it shows the inspirational growth these men had during those hard times, just like a singing caged bird; and it shows the adventures of the 40s and 50s in San Francisco just like the adventures Gatsby experienced in his own era.

All in all, this is a great down to earth book for everyone, exploring the experiences of three men in the 1940s to 1950s.

The Shield magazine to debut

By Joseph Zuloaga ’23

to provide more variety of stories than the ones presented in the newspaper.

Ning stated, “The Shield is a magazine, it’s also more of a creative multimedia thing rather than just news stories. We have more freedom of layout and production, it will only come out twice a year, our stories are longer and different with more photos and videos.”

It looks to attract a wider audience that have a love for more features, arts and entertainment and multimedia content.

Summer reading project celebrates culture

By Catie McGoldrick ’26

Over the summer, every student at Archbishop Riordan High School was required to read the short novella “Binti” by Nnedi Okorafor.

The book follows a teenage Himba girl named Binti on her way to her dream school, Oomza University. However, most Himba never leave their home planet, Earth. Not to mention, Binti’s darker skin, coarse hair, and unique customs made her different from other students. As Binti makes her way to Oomza University, she experiences acts of racism and stereotyping.

Some students didn’t like the book much. Brock Garcia ’26 said,

“It had some really good points, but most of the book seemed rushed.”

Diana Assereto, an English teacher at Riordan, said, “I liked ‘Binti’ because the larger messages are universal and provided an excellent basis for discussion and analysis in class; however, some of the characters and plot lacked depth and development even for a short novella.”

The students were also assigned a project in which they had to create a piece of wearable art that represents their cultural background. This project gave Riordan students an opportunity to express who they are outside of their everyday uniforms.

Gellert Family Foundation grants $2.25 million

By Arman Mander ’25

Breaking News. The Crusader announces the creation of a new multimedia magazine called The Shield.

After 70 years of covering breaking news stories, spanning from the hallways of Riordan to many corners of the world, The Crusader is expanding its coverage with the addition of The Shield.

The first Editor-in-Chief of The Shield Angelina Ning came up with the idea last year.

“I pitched it to Ms. Susan Sutton, after seeing some magazines from other schools, saying we could also do that, and the administration approved.”

“The Shield is another venue for students to display their talents in the form of writing and art,” stated Sutton.

The Shield will be different from The Crusader as it will seek

Art will also be an important part of the look of The Shield.

Graphic artist Vee Chen ’25, who designed the winning logo, didn’t expect the creation of The Shield, but is excited for this new creative medium.

They stated, “I am very glad [The Crusader] is making an artist-centered space for our school to showcase our students’ talents.”

Chen hopes people will “feel inspired by what is in The Shield to create their own art.”

“I’m excited about people’s reactions and the payoff of everyone’s hard work,” remarked Ning.

“With this opportunity, I hope more students will recognize their artistic side and share it with our Riordan community,” added Sutton.

The inaugural issue of The Shield will be released in November.

The library, which students use to study, read, and listen to college and research presentations, is on the list to be renovated next.

Since 1991, Archbishop Riordan High School has made many investments into student learning. From small adjustments to major changes, Riordan has renovated classrooms, refurbished the gym, built a new athletic field, and purchased new technology.

The Gellert Family Foundation has been supporting Riordan for 27 years, and during that time, they have donated $2.3 million in support, providing funds for renovating the locker rooms, creating the field, and

fixing the restrooms.

This year, the Gellert Family Foundation gifted Riordan $2.25 million.

Simon Chiu, Vice President of Advancement, stated that the school is looking into renovating the library, fixing the boiler, as well as adding aesthetic enhancements to the courtyard.

Aidan Alday ’26 said, “I’m loving the first year at my new school and can’t wait to see what Riordan has planned for the future.”

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Photo by Jameson Datoc ’23

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Jameson Datoc ’23 reads “Young San Franciscan Sandboxes.”

Artist Vee Chen ’25 and Editor-inChief Angelina Ning ’23 display Chen’s logo design for The Shield.

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Archbishop Riordan High School

CA law: Can’t do time for making rhymes

California Senate limits the use of rap lyrics as evidence

By Normay Arriola ’24

Recently, the California Senate passed a bill that limited the use of rap lyrics as evidence in court, the first time a bill like this has ever been created in the country.

The bill would require a judge to see if rap lyrics could be used as evidence and whether it could be connected to a crime.

The legislation plans to “ensure that the accused person’s creative expression will not be used to introduce stereotypes or activate bias against the defendant, nor as character or propensity evidence,” according to ABC News.

Rap started in the early 1970s. It has become one of the most popular genres in the US since 2017, topping Billboard charts, widely known as “one of the most distinctive features of hip hop.”

Rappers often use rhythm, vocal tone, and most importantly, their lyrics to express themselves in their music.

Fatima Shaikh ’24 said, “I like rap because it’s a different and unique way to deliver a message to an audience. To me personally, it can change your mood, and for me, it changes positively most of the time.”

Since the ’90s, several rappers have had their song lyrics used as evidence against them in court, as prosecutors have used rap lyrics

Photos by Wikimedia Commons

against artists to build their cases. The rappers say that their songs have nothing to do with their case, are not true to real life, and do not represent what they really think. Nevertheless, their lyrics are used to form a negative image of them to the jury.

Additional data found that when juries believe lyrics are from rap songs, they tend to assume they are a confession, versus lyrics

from other genres that are believed to be art. The indictments of Grammy-winning rappers Gunna and Young Thug are what helped start this bill.

They were both arrested for allegedly participating in street gang activity and violating RICO laws, based on evidence found in their lyrics. Both entered not guilty pleas.

Gunna’s lawyers stated that

his music is not part of a criminal conspiracy, as the indictment wrongly portrays.

One line heavily cited in the indictment is from the rapper Young Thug who raps about violence in one of the verses.

Both rappers were denied release and will stay in Fulton County Jail until their January 2023 trials.

Prosecutors want to continue using rappers’ songs in court, claiming that the use of rapper’s lyrics are “preserving, protecting, and enhancing the reputation, power, and territory of the enterprise.”

More than 40,000 people have signed a Change.org petition urging prosecutors not to punish rap lyrics and to defend Black art.

U.S. History teacher Bob Harrington said, “As a creative writer and an artist, I have to say this: if an artist creates a fictionalized character for the sake of a story or a song, that creative fiction should not be used as evidence in a court of law against the artist.”

He continued, “If such a legal precedent were to be set, it would threaten the creative and innovative spirit that made America so special in the history of humanity.”

Speier retires after 18 years of service

By Nathan Loeffler Malatesta ’23

A women’s rights activist. A leader. A hard worker. A person of her word.

All of these have been labels for Congresswoman Jackie Speier, a woman of character who has served the San Francisco Bay Area for 18 years, and who has now announced her retirement at the age of 72.

Speier’s early career was quite unusual. She began as an aide under Congressman Leo Ryan, whom she accompanied in 1978 to Port Kaituma, Guyana, site of the Jonestown massacre.

While on the visit, Speier was left barely clinging onto life on the town’s airport tarmac, having been shot five times with an assault rifle in an attack by cult members that killed Ryan.

However, she persevered through her pain and vowed to continue her work as a public servant.

In 2008, she replaced the late Congressman Tom Lantos, who represented California’s 12th Congressional District.

Since winning her seat in the United States House of Representatives, she has not slowed down.

Throughout her career, she has fought for women’s rights, her most noticeable achievement bringing the #MeToo Bill to Congress, an act that eventually led to mandatory anti-harassment training.

Photo by Speier.house.gov

Her work has impacted women nationwide.

Iris Jaboneta ’23 stated, “As a woman I really feel like Jackie Speier has done so much for women during her career. Seeing her make real progress in gender equality and other areas is inspiring.”

She added, “It’s amazing that even after going through the

Jonestown massacre, she still dedicated her life to the public and making sure women feel safer in whatever environment they are in.”

Even with the passage of the #MeToo Bill, Speier has continued to advocate for reforms to end the countless cases of sexual assaults in the military and on college campuses.

She has also raised millions of dollars for Alzheimer’s research, breast cancer research, and gun violence prevention.

Her legendary career is coming to a close, as she has finally deemed her service enough, and would like to spend the rest of her life attending to the relationships in her life.

Yet until her last day, she is going to make each day left in Congress count.

When asked by NPR about the time she has left, she stated, “I have lots more work I want to do to support our military families, to deal with sexual assault on college campuses and in the military. I want to make sure that our people have a future.”

Representative Jackie Speier at the United States Capitol.

Rappers Young Thug and Gunna’s lyrics were used as evidence in court.

Hay una nueva alguacil en la ciudad Bay Area counties elect state’s first Latina sheriffs

By Iris Jaboneta ’23

History was made this summer in Alameda and San Mateo County. After over 150 years, these two counties elected their first Latina sheriffs, Yesenia Sanchez of Alameda County and Christina Corpus of San Mateo County.

“I hear these calls loud and clear. As the next sheriff of Alameda County, I know that I’ve been entrusted with an enormous duty, and I will make our county proud,” said Yesenia Sanchez of Alameda County to Fox KTVU News.

“Latinas have been deeply underrepresented at every level of elected office. And Latina leadership is transformational,” Sanchez continued.

In Millbrae, Chief of Police Christina Corpus was elected the first Latina sheriff in California.

“It’s difficult for women, especially feminine looking women [in the police force] to be taken seriously. I had to work harder than anyone to be treated the same way,” Corpus, who spent her childhood in San Francisco and Pacifica, said about her experience working in law enforcement, a male dominated field.

“I had to use my words because the people I encountered were much bigger,” Corpus said in an interview via Zoom.

Corpus said that she used to see police officers as people who “took people to jail and punished people.” But a life changing

experience changed her perspective of the police for the better.

While waiting in the parking lot at Tanforan to pick up a friend, a man came up to her window and assaulted a teenage Corpus, taking her car and leaving her stranded and scared.

“This changed the trajectory of my life and I saw cops in a new light,” said Corpus about her experience with the police department, and the support she received after the incident and during the trial.

This experience led Corpus to pursue a degree from University of Cincinnati, Ohio and University of San Diego, and to later join the Police Academy in the Bay Area.

Corpus’ cousin, Rolando Delgadillo ’88, said, “We are so proud of Christina, not only for her 21 years of service, but for her heroic achievement in being

“Latinas have been deeply underrepresented at every level of elected office. And Latina leadership is transformational.”

-Yesenia Sanchez, Alameda County Sheriff-Elect

one of the first Latinas to be elected sheriff in California.”

He added, “Her story is an example to all of us who may not have had all the breaks, but who in spite of the odds, persevere and ultimately shatter the odds against them.”

When asked about the recent allegations of police brutality and the controversy of immigration and ICE, Sheriff-elect Corpus said, “Anyone can pass a test, but if they don’t have the heart and

the understanding of other people there will continue to be an uphill battle.”

To address these issues, Sheriffelect Corpus plans on instilling programs with professors to teach officers about diversity and understanding cultures.

She said, “In order to serve a community, we need to be a part of it. That means hiring people who reflect our community.”

In January, Corpus and Sanchez will be sworn in.

Great America buckles up for final ride

By Sasha Pereza ’25

As seasons come and go, so do the places we hold dear.

On June 28, Great America announced that it was closing in two to 11 years. The land that Great America is located on has been bought up by Prologis, a real estate company based in San Francisco, for $310 million.

The excitement of driving to San Jose with friends, ready for the thrill of the ride, followed by a hot dog and the sweet taste of funnel cakes will all just be memories soon.

Fiona Mulderrig ’25 lamented, “It’s taking away from so many people’s experiences for just another corporate company to have more land. That place is so special for a lot of people. It’s where families go for summer… it’s just... special.”

Teachers, not just students, have also been dismayed by the loss of a legendary institution.

Jack Reardon, a biology teacher, reflected, “I think the more uniform everything becomes, it becomes a little more sterile and not as special. Maybe that difference is arbitrary. I’m a little bit sketched by it, but maybe it’s fine.”

When things are all the same in an environment, they lose what makes them different, just as places such as Great America being bought up by large companies contribute to making everything “sterile.”

The closing of Great America is a sentimental topic for many people as it holds a lot of memories and is surely nostalgic knowing it won’t be around soon.

Photo by David Law, Wild Horse Productions Yesenia Sanchez, Alameda County Sheriff-Elect

Photo provided by Christina Corpus Christina Corpus, San Mateo County Sheriff-Elect

Photo by Hoorain Farooq ’25 Great America, which opened in 1976, will close in two to 11 years.

Riordan High School

Unusual political climate center of 2022 midterms

By Joseph Zuloaga ’23

‘‘Tis the season…election season. The midterm elections in November are approaching, with both parties seeking control of Congress for the remainder of President Joe Biden’s term.

On Nov. 8, voters will cast their votes to elect all 435 members of the House and 35 of the 100 senators. It’s been an extremely contentious election cycle, with both Democrats and Republicans clashing with each other with partisan rhetoric for every single vote.

Biden and the Democrats are fighting to keep their slim majority in both the House and the Senate, with abortion and right wing extremism being their banner issue as they head into Election Day.

The GOP, on the other hand, is looking to make this election a referendum on the Biden administration, citing inflation, crime, and illegal immigration as reasoning as to why the balance of power needs to favor them. The war in Ukraine and the threat of nuclear armageddon between Putin and Biden has also made headlines. Therefore, many analysts have labeled this “the most consequential election in history.”

However, AP Government and

Politics instructor Jeff Isola ’98 dislikes this constant label placed on elections. He commented, “2020 didn’t give Democrats a sustainable majority, plus midterm elections are more important than presidential since voters have a chance to vote on individuals that make laws.”

Isola highlights, “We lose sight as to where the policy starts–it’s in Congress, not the White House.”

For AP Government student Pebble Ekhaus ’23, the midterms will be crucial for both parties.

“[Midterms] have to do with lawmakers, and we need to vote for people who will make the laws we want.”

The months leading up to Election Day have also been heavily influenced by the “Trump factor”: former president Donald Trump’s influence on a majority of the Republican electorate.

Trump is under a barrage of investigations for issues like his business dealings and the events of Jan. 6, with a select committee holding nine hearings describing in vivid detail the horrors of that day, and issuing a subpoena for his role in inciting the insurrection.

Additionally, his Mar-a-Lago estate was raided by the FBI in August, where many sets of classified documents were found.

He continues to push baseless claims to his supporters that the 2020 election was rigged and the 2022 election will be as well.

AP Government student Jadon Leung ’23 is disappointed at Trump’s grip on the GOP, and cites Liz Cheney breaking ranks as the moment “the GOP became the Trump party.”

“Trump brought out more people to vote, like traditionally disaffected demographics, but since they have been disaffected for so long, they are unaware of how the system works, so they are less trusting of it,” remarked Isola.

Polarization has increased, with both parties distancing themselves from moderate platforms and bipartisanship seen in previous years.

Leung stated, “I believe that polarization will just get more extreme… due to the echo chambers the two sides have created through social media.”

Isola hopes for compromise and for traditional Republicans to return to the spotlight. He frames the election as a crossroads because “both parties are fractured.”

Voters will get to decide the future of this nation this November.

Ukraine turns tide in war, goes on offensive

By Nathan Loeffler Malatesta ’23

In April 2021, Russia sent approximately 100,000 troops to Ukraine’s borders, with the Kremlin stating that it was purely a military exercise. In the next few months, U.S. Intelligence officials monitored the situation.

In December, the U.S. officially warned Russia against invasion. In January, the U.S. withdrew from the Ukrainian Embassy.

Then on the 24th of February 2022, the Kremlin ordered a devastating assault on Ukrainian territory — the largest military operation in Europe since the end of World War II.

Russia’s war, called by the Kremlin a special military operation, aimed to conquer and annex Ukraine in a few weeks, using the same blitzkrieg strategy used by Nazi Germany.

Yet that strategy was quite unsuccessful; Ukrainian forces, backed by U.S. military equipment and training, successfully resisted.

However, the last few months have brought few emotions other than pain and suffering. For nine months, Ukrainians have fought for their families, lands, and freedom, and there have been staggering civilian casualties on

Image by Wikimedia Commons

Despite all the odds, Ukraine appears to be turning the tide.

the Ukrainian side, approximately 6,000, with 390 being children.

The country will need support even with the $16.9. billion the U.S. has already given Ukraine.

Yet, as new support bills worth billions of dollars make their way through Congress, the American people are starting to wonder where we draw the line, supporting a country with which

there is no official alliance. It is a relationship that is affecting all people in the U.S.

As a veteran, economist and a teacher, Van Whipple has a unique perspective and gave his thoughts on this topic: “I’m not a big fan of wars in general; they’re deadly, they’re bloody, but also at times, it’s necessary, and Ukraine doesn’t have an option because if

“I’m not a big fan of wars in general; they’re deadly, they’re bloody, but also at times, it’s necessary, and Ukraine doesn’t have an option because if they stop fighting, there is no more Ukraine.”

- Vance Whipple, veteran and AP Economics teacher

they stop fighting, there is no more Ukraine.

“I think we have to support because as we learned from WW2, appeasement doesn’t work.”

“But as an economist, we are in the middle of inflation, and the billions of dollars we send does nothing to build the economy and only raises prices.”

The war as it stands today is at a rough standstill.

Ukrainian troops have launched counter-offensives, thus destroying crucial infrastructure on the way, making it extremely difficult for any further advances by both sides.

As the war draws on, the humanitarian crisis will only worsen, and the money spent and lives taken will continue to grow with time.

Photo illustration by Joseph Zuloaga ’23 Democrats and Republicans will face off in the upcoming midterms.

SCOTUS overturns Roe v. Wade

By Angela Jia ’25

In an unprecedented decision, on June 24, the Supreme Court voted 5-4 to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade.

Roe v. Wade, established in 1973, asserted that restrictive state regulation of abortion was unconstitutional.

The decision was based on the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment, which guarantees a fundamental “right to privacy”in this case, the privacy to make medical decisions.

The ruling has protected women’s right to an abortion for 49 years. However, the ruling has faced repeated challenges from pro-life groups and conservative legislators, which narrowed the scope of Roe v. Wade without fully overturning it.

That is, until May 2021. The Supreme Court agreed to hear a case regarding a Mississippi state law that banned abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy.

Mississippi lawmakers passed the law in the hopes that legal challenges would eventually bring the law to the Supreme Courtcontrolled by a 6-3 conservative majority. This case would be known as Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

In May 2022, a draft of a majority opinion intending to overturn Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, written by Justice

The Supreme Court building is where the nine justices make decisions regarding the Constitution. They rule on about 80 cases a year.

Samuel Alito, was leaked by Politico.

The impending decision had significantly bolstered the confidence and efforts of pro-life groups working to restrict or ban abortion in states.

As expected, a month later Roe v. Wade was overturned in a 5-4 decision. Mississippi’s abortion ban was upheld in a 6-3 decision.

In regards to how the decision might impact the upcoming midterms, India Bowles ’23, an AP US Government student, said “. . .Tensions between conservative states and liberal states will continue to rise . . . candidates

platform of pro or anti Roe…. This topic has the potential to become voters’ main priority in choosing their candidate and will have a massive impact on the elected politicians for the upcoming midterms.”

Grace Ingersoll, a history teacher, observed that “... in general, a lot of attention is given to the legislative branch [Congress] of our federal government…

“But I think this ruling in particular is shifting attention to the [Court] and highlighting the power that it holds.”

In the majority opinion, Justice Samuel Alito writes that “The

“Constitution makes no express reference to a right to obtain an abortion… The Court finds that the right to abortion is not deeply rooted in the Nation’s history and tradition… Roe was egregiously wrong from the start.”

Alito adheres to a legal philosophy known as “original intent,” which involves interpreting the Constitution with the same intent the original writers had in mind during the era in which it was written.

In the dissenting opinion, it’s written that “...the Court struck a balance [in regards to Roe v. Wade], as it often does when values and goals compete… in thus safeguarding each woman’s reproductive freedom, the Constitution also protected “[t]he ability of women to participate equally in [this Nation’s] economic and social life… But no longer.”

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First female Blue Angel pilot awarded wings

By Talia Bumanglag ’24

The Blue Angels have been soaring through the sky for many years, yet only recently has the first female Blue Angel demonstration pilot finally exceeded the sky’s limits.

On July 18, Lt. Amanda Lee was announced as the first woman demonstration pilot for the Navy’s Blue Angels.

Though there have been many women who have served the Blue Angels as pilots and the Navy overall, Lee is specifically the first to be a demonstration pilot.

Unlike the Thunderbirds of the Air Force and other branches of the military, female inclusivity in the Blue Angels has been scarce.

“I think their selection process is a little bit more stringent, and I think they just have a [smaller] pool of people to choose from,” said Abe Go ’12.

Go is an active captain in the Air Force currently stationed in Alaska, and a Riordan alumnus.

He went through undergrad flight training, then trained flying the F-15 in Oregon, and was most

recently stationed in England.

He added, “We live in an age where opportunities are more available… it’s definitely not an easy process, and takes extensive physical and mental education.”

Lt. Lee will be joining 24 other extraordinary women serving the Blue Angels and is currently assigned to the Gladiators, a naval air station in Virginia.

“I think times are catching up,” stated Stuart Kaler, former captain of the U.S. Air Force and science teacher at Riordan.

“I don’t know why this is now the first time they have assigned a female for this…women have been flying fighter jets for 40 something years.”

Sophia Trapsi ’24 said, “I think this story is inspiring to those who are kind of on the fence about it, but I think hearing this story will convince them fully to join.”

Though the Blue Angels have been flying for far more than 70 years, Lee is the first and definitely not the last woman to epitomize the saying, “the sky is not the limit.”

The

Riordan High School

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Photo by Chief Petty Officer Paul Archer/navy.mil Lt. Amanda Lee is the first female Blue Angel pilot, becoming a source of inspiration for many aspiring girls across the country.

McCurdy memoir reveals abusive childhood

By Sarah Cai ’24

In August, former child actress Jennette Michelle Faye McCurdy revealed in her book the dark truth of her late mother, the person behind her stardom.

McCurdy grew up on the TV screen at a young age. She was especially known to her millions of fans as Sam Puckett on Nickelodeon’s hit show “iCarly.”

Alyssa Ng ’24 said, “I grew up with ‘iCarly’ and Jennette McCurdy’s character was my favorite. Finding out what happened to her was super shocking.”

Her bubbly on-screen persona was nothing like her real life. It was never McCurdy’s dream to be an actor. Her mother, Debra, forced her into show business, so that she could be the sole

breadwinner for her family, as they were struggling financially.

McCurdy, writes in the book, “Her happiness came at the cost

of mine. I feel robbed and exploited.”

Debra was diagnosed with cancer and her behavior was

violent, erratic, and controlling, according to the book. McCurdy alleges she violated her privacy and taught her calorie counting restrictions, which turned to years of eating disorders and addiction.

Wellness Counselor Melissa Hansell stated, “It is brave of her to speak out on such a tough topic, especially to help those who are going through a similar situation.”

Deciding to quit acting was the beginning stage of creating a new life without her mother.

Years passed before McCurdy started receiving the right care and treatment to address her trauma.

Samantha Fong ’24 shared, “Her life is her life. She can do whatever she wants and feel whatever she wants.”

‘The Rings of Power’ forges new connection to LOTR fan base

By Alexander Robinson ’23

Middle Earth rises once again with the airing of “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.”

The Amazon Prime exclusive is a prequel to the original Lord of the Rings trilogy, and has been growing significantly in popularity. Episodes aired until Oct. 14, concluding the eight episode season.

The original films take place during a time called The Third Age, while The Rings of Power takes place in the Second Age. Sauron later comes in to manipulate the elves into making the Rings of Power.

The hope is that fans get to have insight into the buildup of Sauron rising to power from a follower of Morgoth to the biggest and baddest evil Middle-Earth

has seen.

The show has seen positive feedback overall so far, scoring an 84 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

At Riordan, faculty and students have also taken the time to watch the show.

Colleen O’Rourke, STEM program director and science teacher was initially skeptical of the show and its outcome, but said, “So far I have been very impressed with the show, it has definitely exceeded my expectations.”

“The characters are very well written and acted, the visuals are jaw-dropping, and it has just the right balance of grounded humor, quick action, and high mystery to keep me engaged,” she added.

Mario Giron ’23, also watched the show and commented, “The show is a pretty good watch, and

while I had low expectations coming in, I’m pretty surprised with everything it has to offer and more.”

“The Rings of Power” has been quite the success thus far, with

the second season having been confirmed. Regardless of initial input from viewers, it is still very early to determine the success or failure of director J.A Bayona and the return of Middle Earth.

Fans all shook up over ‘Elvis’ biopic

By Iris Jaboneta ’23

On a weekend in June I entered a somewhat crowded movie auditorium with relatively low expectations for the newest biopic to release, “Elvis.”

I did not enjoy Baz Lurhman’s “The Great Gatsby” nor his adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet.” I wasn’t much of an Elvis fan either.

The thing that drove me to see this movie was probably Tom Hanks and how well edited the trailer was. As soon as Elvis–played by Austin Butler–did the infamous wiggle I instantaneously felt the excitement of the girls on the screen. Their screams and grins were contagious.

At first, I was taken aback by the modern music playing over a montage of 1950s Beale Street. However, as the film progressed the music became seemingly more fitting and overall gave the film a touch of modernity that made

the story easier to follow and understand.

“Elvis” is a theatrical show that uses bright colors and loud music at the start of scenes.

The costuming was spectacular and you can tell the stylists worked meticulously to match the real life people in the footage of Elvis they showcased.

The run time is two hours and 39 minutes. Despite this, it did not feel long or stretched out and the finale warmly summed up the story of Elvis’ stardom and legacy.

The film was a beautiful and musically vibrant biopic of the King of Rock. Butler succeeded in passing on the impact of Elvis Presley from mid 20th century teen girls to a new generation of Gen Z who are swooning over Butler in a similar way as Elvis.

Overall, I recommend this movie to anyone who loves fashion and music and it will remain on my favorites list.

Photo by Talia Bumanglag ’24

Image by elvis.warnerbros.com

Image by Amazon Original

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Audiences go Wilde for ‘Don’t Worry Darling’

By Deanie Cooper ’24 and Talia Bumanglag ’24

One of the most highly anticipated movies of this year, “Don’t Worry Darling,” was released in theaters on Sept. 23.

The story is centered around Jack and Alice, a couple who are living what they think is their dream life in The Victory Project. Yet, as more dark secrets begin to unravel, Alice starts to question her reality and the true meaning of Victory and its intentions.

“Don’t Worry Darling” has been a long awaited movie for many people. This film had the audience on the edge of their seats with overwhelming suspense.

Fans everywhere can agree the unexpected turn of events seen in the end was a betrayal like no other.

Grammy-award winning artist

Harry Styles and academyaward nominated Florence Pugh embodied the roles of Jack and Alice and brought an illusive sensual mood to the film.

Styles’ astounding performance shocked critics as this is only his second major film. Both actors and the rest of the stellar cast put on an unforgettable and thrilling performance.

The styles, music and the designs flawlessly captured the 1950s. The soundtrack consisted of classic 50s music, and set the tone for each mood of every scene. The music drew attention to major plot points by using upbeat music that contrasted with repeated humming sounds that added tension to the scene.

It was amazing how well put together everything was from the picturesque setting to the hair

styling. Each detail was researched and deliberately chosen to fit the characters and their “perfect” personas.

Olivia Wilde’s directing and intricate camera work are memorable, and added to the subtle secrets weaved into the film. Many shots were recycled, but used in different ways that were hidden throughout the scene.

Fans and critics have given lots of praise to the story’s plot and characters, however some reviews do not reflect the same reaction. Some wrote that the plot was overused and predictable, while others praised its uniqueness and suspenseful story-telling.

Though thoughts and opinions may differ, this movie is a mustsee. Filled with suspense, passion, and deception, you’re bound to fall in love with Victory.

Third jewel added to ‘Thomas Crown Affair’ movies

By Katelyn Leong ’25

Among 20 films announced by the California film commission, four big-budget films, including an untitled Netflix project, “Joker: Folie à Deux,” Zack Snyder’s “Rebel Moon Part 2,” and in particular, the third adaption of “The Thomas Crown Affair,” will be filmed in San Francisco.

This verified blockbuster will shoot 30 of its 54 production days in San Francisco, and one representative from the San Francisco Film Commission stated that the film will employ approximately 400 crew members and thousands of extras.

“Any movie filmed in San Francisco is really great. There is nothing I love more than watching a movie and seeing the streets,

landmarks, and buildings that I know,” said Cory Nelson, moderator of the Movie Madness club at Riordan.

Prior to this remake is the original 1968 film starring Steve McQueen and the 1999 remake

starring Pierce Brosnan, both portraying titular character Thomas Crown.

This new rendition will feature Michael B. Jordan as Crown, who will also work as producer alongside Joe and Anthony Russo,

both of whom are famed for their notable work on projects like Captain America and the Avengers franchise.

“I really enjoy the Pierce Brosnan version of the Thomas Crown Affair because the art thievery is really fun to watch,” Nelson said.

“I really like how the movie is filmed in multiple locations because it keeps my wanderlust alive and makes me want to travel.”

The plot centers around a bored billionaire whose a taste for theft leads him to cross paths with investigator Catherine Banning, sparking an unexpected romance and exciting adventure.

Filming dates have yet to be released, but San Franciscans await anxiously.

‘House of the Dragon’ soars GOT franchise to new heights

By Naomi Lin ’24

The highly anticipated prequel of HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” titled “House of the Dragon,” premiered on August 21 and has become the most-watched premiere in HBO history, surpassing its predecessor.

Both “Game of Thrones” and “House of the Dragon” are based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” novel series, and is set 200 years before “Game of Thrones.”

The plot is primarily centered around House Targaryen, its reign over the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, and a civil war between two siblings–Aegon II Targaryen and Rhaenyra Targaryen–known as the Dance of the Dragons.

English Instructor Kevin Estrada ’00 shared his general opinions on “House of the Dragon” and the nostalgia it gave him., “Although House of the Dragon is

as complex as its predecessor, it’s nice to be welcomed back into that world. As soon as I heard the theme song, I realized how much I missed it.”

The show also brought back the beloved “Game of Thrones” theme composed by Ramin Djawadi and prominent locations such as King’s Landing and Dragonstone.

Fellow English Instructor Richard Sylvester ’01, also voiced how much he missed the show.

“I miss seeing into the world that George R. R. Martin created, and I’ve invested so much time into the original TV series, books (and even comic book adaptations) that I can’t miss out on this,” he said.

Overall, it is clear that this show undoubtedly serves as a pathway for former “Game of Thrones” fans to rediscover their love for the series and its community.

Photo by Talia Bumanglag ’24

Photos by Wikimedia Commons

Image by HBO Original

Three Crowns: Michael B. Jordan, Pierce Brosnan, Steve McQueen.

Archbishop Riordan High School

State Senate halts Social Media Platform Duty to Children Act

By Julian Serrano ’24

On Feb. 17, AB-2408 was first introduced to the legislative branch of the state of California.

In August, the State Senate killed the bill.

This bill came about due to increasing information about the dangers of social media on the younger generation and the consequences that addiction might entail.

Michael Vezzali-Pascual ’88, a Riordan English teacher, said, “They were designed to connect us, but now isolate us.”

AB-2408 (Social Media Platform Duty to Children Act) would have prohibited a tech company from doing anything in their measurable power to cause addiction.

Said addiction would be the result of abusing the data they have about the user to target personal advertisements towards those who are between the ages of 13 and 16.

The reasoning given is the dramatic increase in social media usage amongst tweens and teens over the past few years.

The bill itself stated, “A recent survey found almost 40 percent of tweens stated that they used social media and estimates from 2018 put the number of teens on the sites at over 70 percent.”

The bill would have allowed for the Attorney General or a public prosecutor to sue for up to $25,000 per violation or an additional $250,000 for a knowing and willful violation.

Some people disagree with this bill or see the nuance in it. There were possible downsides to this bill and how it would be treated by the courts.

Mario Ramirez ’23 said, “I feel that people might just abuse this bill just to get money, you know.”

Some teachers, such as VezzaliPascual, have proposed that it may not be the best solution to the problem, saying, “Some of me thinks it’s overreaching. More so, I believe it is a result of tech companies failing to regulate themselves. In that sense, they need to be regulated.”

This bill was a big step in regards to tech companies and their role in society, but whether

Assembly Bill 2408 would have allowed parents to sue companies for their child’s addiction to social media platforms, but the bill was held in committee, effectively killing the bill in its current form.

it was a step in the right direction is yet to be known.

Ramirez stated, “It’s both good

and bad because I can learn things, and bad because it’ll lead to procrastination.”

Smart phones contribute to memory loss

By Julian Johnson ’25

With the Covid-19 pandemic still lingering, the habits of increased technology use seem like they are here to stay.

Andrew Beltran ’25, a Riordan student, said, “Covid-19 caused me to use my computer more to play video games and it limited my accessibility to physical activity.”

Millions of people have continued to work and learn remotely, placing themselves in front of a screen for hours on end.

People eagerly scan their devices for any new update on news, sports, entertainment, and social media.

In addition, the rise of social media apps like TikTok and Instagram, which are specifically designed to capture and hold attention, make it ever so easy to lose track of time and stay staring at the phone for several hours.

Jonathan Vi ’25, a student at Riordan said, “Social media causes me to be frequently distracted.”

“Covid-19 caused me to use my computer more to play video games and it limited my accessibility to physical activity.”

-Andrew Beltran ’25, Riordan student

Art by Kai Murguz ’25

A new study suggests that an increased use of smart phones have led to a decrease in short term memory.

Recently, the controversy on whether the use of smartphones is damaging the ability to remember small details has captured headlines.

A survey by Catherine Loveday, principal lecturer on the BSc Cognitive Neuroscience and MSc Cognitive Rehabilitation programmes at the University of Westminster, in 2021, found that 80 percent felt their memory had gotten worse due to the pandemic.

However, neuroscientists are divided as the use of external

devices such as notepads have been used to free up time to

concentrate on the many obstacles we encounter throughout the day.

Smart phones have been engineered to distract humans, causing the use of the brain to decrease. While this may not seem threatening at first, the lack of use can deteriorate the brain and increase the chances of developing dementia later in life.

Smart phones are even known to physically change the brain and thin the cortex, which is mainly seen as a result of old age; however, it may become more common in younger people.

Overall, the increased use of technology is showing side effects, with human memory having the possibility to decrease in effectiveness from the use of external devices to record information and through easy distractions that humans surround themselves with, like smart phones, which are now essential aspects of our lives.

Photo illustration by Edward Ramos ’23

Riordan

Journalists look to St. Titus as co-patron saint

By Jameson Datoc ’23

This year, Pope Francis announced that Blessed Titus Brandsma was canonized on May 15, and shortly after, supporters asked that he be named as a patron saint of journalists alongside St. Francis de Sales, who has been the patron of journalists and writers since 1923.

“It’s a good step forward for the church and writers alike,” exclaimed Alex Robinson ’23. “It brings a sense of community no matter what religion you believe in.”

Anno Sjoerd Brandsma was born on Feb. 23, 1881 in the village of Oegeklooster in Friesland, Netherlands. His family was devoted Catholics, in a predominant Calvinist region.

On Sept. 17, he entered as a novitiate of the Carmelite friars in Boxmeer and took the religious name Titus in honor of his father. He said his vows in October 1899.

In 1909, he earned a doctorate in philosophy in Rome and worked in Oss as a writer and a teacher.

He became a founder of the Catholic University of Nijmegen (Radboud University), worked as a journalist, and was the ecclesiastical adviser to Catholic

journalists by 1935, while he stayed at the friary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Kinsale, Ireland.

After the Invasion of the Netherlands by the Third Reich, Brandsma strongly opposed the spread of the Nazi ideology and pushed for educational and press freedom.

In January 1942 he hand delivered a letter from the Conference of Dutch Bishops to the editors of Catholic newspapers

in which the bishops ordered all Catholic newspapers to not print Nazi documents even though it was required under the new law by the German occupiers. This made him a target of the Nazis.

“His actions reminded me of Blessed Father Chaminade, just how he had the courage to give communion in secret in Sagota, Spain in spite of being the government’s hindrance to the practice of Christanity,” committed Deacon Chris Mariano.

“In the same retrospect, St. Titus had the courage to hinder the rule against the German occupiers for the greater of the Catholic community.”

“St. Titus is a prime example of what journalists are tasked with in regards to shining a light on truth, and in this case, a grave evil.” -Susan Sutton, Journalism teacher

Brandsma visited 14 of his editors before being arrested on Jan. 19, 1942. He was held prisoner in several locations until he was transferred to Dachau concentration camp. Upon arrival, his health deteriorated, and eventually he was transferred

into the camp hospital.

There, he died on July 26 due to lethal injection administered by a nurse as a part of the Nazi program of medical experimentation on the prisoners.

A street in Dachau, Germany bears Titus Brandsma’s name in his honor.

“St. Titus is a prime example of what journalists are tasked with in regards to shining a light on truth, and in this case, a grave evil,” said journalism teacher Susan Sutton.

“In addition, he exemplifies what Catholics are called to do–speak out for those in need, for those in peril, and to constantly strive for peace.”

She added, “I fully support naming him as a patron saint of journalists in addition to St. Francis de Sales as he is a symbol for truth and peace, and a reminder that we should all value life and defend against injustices everywhere.”

Pope apologizes to Canadian Aboriginal people on behalf of Catholic Church

By Alexander Robinson ’23

Up until 1969, the Catholic church ran children’s schools across Canada. There, indigenous children were forced to assimilate to Catholic practices. Current data from Global News has unveiled the acts of the Church’s time in Canada.

Not only were children’s lives taken, but the culture of the Aboriginal people as well. The cultural and physical damage also damaged the Church’s reputation. In April, Global News aired an apology from Pope Francis for the Catholic Church’s actions towards indigenous children in Canada.

Joshua Keeney, religious teacher, said, “Events like these from our past cause us, the Church, to look internally and reflect on how we can do better and live more Christ centered lives. This should cause the Church globally to reflect on evils done in their own local area and find ways to restore broken relationships caused by our actions.”

Edward Ramos ’23 said, “But I wonder what actions he will follow up with… I believe he did not want the situation to be blown out of proportion therefore he toned

it down by… apologizing instead of recounting the actions… which hurt indigenous people.”

The Pope expressed his deepest apologies, asking for forgiveness from the indigenous community. As quoted, the Pope wishes to “work together, so that the sufferings of the past can lead to a future of justice, healing and reconciliation.” The Pope even donned a headdress given to him

by leaders of the community.

Despite the Pope’s gesture, not all of the community was satisfied with his condolences. Some members of the community critiqued his sincerity.

In response, Joe Frias, religious teacher, said, “Being explicit in recalling the abuses can be triggering…When I was a chaplain in a hospital making patient visits to victims of abuse I

was told never to ask them about their past… to avoid surfacing their trauma then.”

While some critique the Pope in recent events, many also look to the future to see what he will do for indigenous peoples and other communities the Catholic church may have discriminated against in times past, and see this as a step in the right direction, a direction of healing.

Photo by Wikimedia Commons

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Photo by Wikimedia Commons

Pope Francis declared Titus Brandsma a saint on May 15, 2022.

Vatican City: Earlier this year, Pope Francis officially apologized on behalf of the Catholic Church for its treatment of Aboriginal people in Canada at residential schools they operated in the country for over a 150 year period.

Archbishop Riordan High School

Lake Merced cleanup effort hopes to restore water quality

By Edward Ramos ’23 Lake Merced, the popular landmark amongst San Francisco locals, has displayed diminishing qualities over the past few years.

The quality of water, lack of landscaping, and diminishing wildlife are just a few of the contributing factors to the decline of the lake and the surrounding area.

San Francisco native and Lake Merced local, Dwayne Erickson, warned that he believed the “water is poisonous” and “very toxic” despite the lake being fresh water. Proving the significance of his comment, the lake provides a caution to “not eat the fish or the birds” in six different languages.

Sara Matsuh ’23, former Saint Ignatius crew athlete (who practiced at Lake Merced), similarly said, “It’s a nice body of water, but it’s kind of dirty… I’m pretty sure some people even get rashes if they go into the water fully.”

With lead going into the water from the SFPD pistol range, and with the lake being given a tier 2 warning based off of recent monitoring according to “San Francisco Water Power and Sewer,” Matsuh’s comments ring true.

Taking into account the given

information, the fact that wildlife stays in the Lake Merced area is commendable considering the urban environment.

Erickson remarked, “Out here I pick nasturtium flowers, blackberries, and huckleberries— absolutely delicious.”

Like Erickson, Armando Castillo, moderator of the discontinued Fishing Club, also cherished the lake. “Lake Merced is a natural lake… and the fish were good, when the rainbow trout were dropped off. It was a different place.”

William Wolcott ’23 also recalls people catching fish in the lake, but because of the prior information from Erickson regarding the toxicity of the lake, and because of multiple warning signs, the quality of fish is questionable.

Erickson also touched on a fact that leads to the motive for the restoration of Lake Merced, which is the fact that “there’s so much history here.”

Susan Sutton, who teaches San Francisco Stories, said, “Lake Merced is one of three natural, freshwater lakes in city limits. I used to fish there with my grandpa when I was a child.”

Because of the history of the lake, the recent deterioration is noticeable, which has prompted the community to take action.

Photo by Edward Ramos ’23 Lake Merced, one of three natural, freshwater lakes in San Francisco, could see a brighter future with the help of non-profit organizations who hope to restore the lake to its previous condition for people, flora, and fauna.

Together SF, a nonprofit organization with a mission to “increase civic engagement and education within San Francisco,” set the example by leading a community clean up on Sept. 19.

Kanishka Cheng, founder of Together SF, hopes “it connects the dots for folks” that “you can actually make a real difference.” She insists that “this [cleaning your community] is just one way to do it.”

Another non-profit organization

that hopes to restore Lake Merced is West Side Water Resources. They state that “water is life” and their mission is to “maintain water quality and abundance for the natural environment, for human consumption, and for enjoyment.”

While Lake Merced is struggling, the body of water is given hope because with the help of the community and the city, it has the potential to have a bright future.

Zombie Ice drags through Arctic Circle

By Joshua Aguilar ’24

Rising temperatures are affecting glaciers around the globe, specifically Greenland, where snow has decreased, leaving parts of glaciers unreplenished.

Scientists call those unreplenished areas Zombie Ice.

Zombie Ice sounds like something straight out of a horror movie, and it really is something to fear.

According to the Associated Press, it is ice that is no longer getting replenished by parent glaciers now receiving less snow. The ice is doomed to melt into the sea.

AP Environmental Science student Dinh Ngoc Thy Khanh ’23 said, “There’s really nothing that we can do… The ice is going to melt anyway... It’s already way past the point of no return.”

Sources from the Washington Post said that the ice is starving. This is probably the reason for the name “Zombie Ice.”

The effects of the melting ice will be felt around the world. Sea levels will rise from around 10 inches to as much as 30 inches.

When sea levels rise, it

“It’s already dead, you can’t do anything about the zombie. You can’t bring it back.”

intensifies events such as storms and high tides. These effects will be detrimental especially to coastal areas.

AP Environmental Science teacher Michael O’Brien added, “We have to get into defense mode, we can’t be on the offense anymore.”

The root cause for the melting ice is climate change, both natural and anthropogenic. Releases of greenhouse gases such as carbondioxide and methane cause the climate to rise.

The ice is not going to stop melting even if humans did something to combat climate change now.

AP Environmental Science student Luke Zuromski ’23 stated, “It shows how humans haven’t taken care of the planet how we really should be.”

Zombie Ice is set to infect the world, and the only thing to do is wait and see.

O’Brien said, “It’s already dead, you can’t do anything about the zombie. You can’t bring it back.”

Photo by Joshua Aguilar ’24

Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska currently has a negative glacier mass balance and will continue to retreat in the foreseeable future, according to the New York Times. Mass balance is the difference between accumulation and ablation (sublimation and melting), and is crucial to the glacier’s survival.

-Michael O’Brien, AP Environmental Science teacher

Riordan

Climate change targets Karl the Fog

By Sophie Bucker

Each summer, tourists around the globe flock to San Francisco, eagerly anticipating a respite from the sweltering heat waves that sweep across their homelands.

However, according to a study by scientists at UC Berkeley, summertime fog has declined by 33 percent over the past 60 years. The study also found that on average, the number of hours of fog along the coastline during the summer has dropped from 56 to 42 percent, translating to a loss of three hours of fog each day.

This decline has been linked to climate change–namely, a decline in the conditions that make the California coastline so favorable to fog. Coastal fog is formed when it is hot inland and cooler offshore, causing winds to flow onshore due to the temperature gradient.

As the warm winds blow over the cooler ocean, the air condenses, forming the water particles that make up coastal fog.

This process is influenced by a number of factors, such as the contrast between coastal and inland temperatures, the presence of a temperature inversion between the coast and mountains, strong coastal

currents in the ocean, and wind shifts, all of which are readily found near the coast of California.

However, in recent years, some of these factors, such as the coastalinland temperature contrast, have drastically changed. For instance, the average contrast between Ukiah and Berkeley dropped to 11 degrees from its original level of 17 degrees during the 20th century.

Meanwhile, the temperature inversion has also weakened, which allows fog to dissipate faster by allowing the ocean air and clouds to move upward and inland, leading to a warmer, drier coastline and cooler interior.

While sunnier days may come as a treat for many, they would come with some unintended immediate ramifications, such as the disruption of redwood ecosystems, which depend on fog as their main source of water, as well as a decline in agriculture along the coast.

But according to Colleen O’Rourke, AP Biology teacher at Riordan, the disappearance of fog could cause a more gradual, yet equally forceful change upon the way of life in the Bay Area.

“Fog has been a part of the natural beauty of our landscape for as long as humans have lived

Streets shrouded in fog, like Frida Kahlo Way, remind people of one of the City’s most notable characteristics. Scientists report climate change has caused fog to decline 33 percent over the past 60 years

“Fog has been a part of the natural beauty of our landscape for as long as humans have lived here.”

-Colleen O’Rourke, AP Biology teacher against the fog’s ebb and flow.”

here. Starting with our Ohlone ancestors and continuing to this day, hundreds of generations of Bay Area residents have matched the rhythm of our own lives

She added, “If that dance was lost, a huge chunk of what it means to be human here would be lost as well.”

Rise of climate change could deflate sourdough

By Charles Chu ’24

When you think of San Francisco, a few things come to mind: the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Salesforce, the fog, and sourdough bread.

Sourdough bread is one of San Francisco’s most well known features, with its flavor widely speculated to derive from our famous fog itself. This

is similar to New York’s famous pizza, the flavor of which is said to come from the water. This iconic bread however, may be at risk due to climate change.

The Bay Area’s microclimates are a well-known phenomenon, going 10 miles in one direction can lead one into completely different weather. Climate change poses

a danger to these microclimates, and others.

AP Environmental Science teacher Michael O’Brien stated, “All the microclimates along the coast will be affected by climate change.”

In the short term, scientists believe that sourdough bread will not be affected by climate change, however long term consequences may be an issue.

Yeasts are known to thrive in moist environments, which are at risk with long term climate change.

O’Brien added, “We are likely to see longer periods of drought, as well as lower humidity.”

Sourdough bread isn’t the only consequence of climate change the Bay Area is faced with. Residents are already experiencing some of

the side effects of climate change on the local level.

O’Brien remarked, “These long periods of drought and higher temperatures, as well as some of the wildfires we’ve seen, are effects of climate change.”

Droughts and wildfires pose a serious danger to all of California. Wildfires have resulted in the relocation of many families, as well as several injuries and deaths. Droughts have a significant impact on the state’s wildlife and agriculture as well.

Though it may seem as though this matter is out of our control, everyone can all contribute towards fighting this disaster.

O’Brien concluded, “We should all do our individual best to work towards solving climate change.”

At Boudin Bakery, loaves of sourdough bread in creative shapes and sizes are displayed on racks, ready for locals and tourists alike to purchase and enjoy.

Photo by Jameson Datoc ’23

A baker at Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf rolls out dough to create San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread, which may be affected by climate change over the next several decades.

Photo by Jameson Datoc ’23

Photo by Jameson Datoc ’23

Hurricane Ian wreaks havoc on Florida’s coast

By Hazel Nagata-Rampata ’26

In 2018, Florida was devastated by a Category 5 hurricane, Hurricane Michael.

Now in 2022, Florida was struck by Hurricane Ian after it hit Cuba and devastated millions.

Formed over the central Caribbean sea on Friday, Sept. 23, this hurricane dodged the Cayman Islands.

It hit Cuba early in the morning on Sept. 27 as a Category 3 storm. On Sept. 28, Ian struck the southwestern coast of Florida with winds sustaining over 150 mph.

This hurricane is now the sixth major hurricane to hit the U.S. Gulf Coast in the last six years.

The results and numbers of Hurricane Ian are shocking: 21.16 inches of rain, 940 millibars of landfall pressure, and over 12

feet of storm surges.

Hurricane Ian had been declared a Category 4 hurricane with over 150 mph winds alongside over 180 mph gusts, making it a major hurricane according to the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).

At least 40,600 people have been displaced and an estimated 106 people have died. In Lee County alone, at least 55 people have died.

Hurricane Ian finally dissipated, but its effects have not. People throughout Cuba, Florida, and parts of South Carolina are left without homes and safe places to sleep.

Those who would like to donate to help the affected communities may consider organizations like the Red Cross and Save the Children.

More than $1.27 billion in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments has been provided to the state of Florida and households to help survivors jumpstart their recovery after Hurricane Ian.

-FEMA.gov

This map shows the path of Hurricane Ian, which hit Cuba, then moved north through Florida last month, devastating communities.

Webb Telescope captures mesmerizing shots of universe

By Addison Hwang ’24

Launched on July 25, 2021, the $10 billion NASA James Webb Telescope began making extraordinary space discoveries after just three months of research.

On July 12, 2022, NASA released the first official data of high resolution pictures taken from the James Webb Telescope (JWST), showing off its impressive abilities. JWST has done so well that it completely outperforms and replaces the Hubble Telescope, being 100 times more powerful and the largest telescope to be launched.

“JWST has only been delivering images for a couple of months, but the fact that it can directly image exo-planets is most intriguing,” said teacher Tony Dunn, former Riordan science teacher.

JWST has already allowed astronomers to see and understand space on a bigger scale, thanks to features such as the high infrared resolution

The Webb Telescope, which replaced the Hubble Telescope, was launched last year, and has already made extraordinary discoveries

“JWST has only been delivering images for a couple of months, but the fact that it can directly image exo-planets is most intriguing.”

-Tony Dunn, science teacher

and sensitivity, gravitational/ magnifying lenses, and nearinfrared cameras.

The telescope can see further back in time, how stars were made, extraterrestrial life, and reveals great detail in the vivid images it took of nebulae, galaxies, stars, as well.

Lastly, one dawning discovery of Jupiter showcased its auras, altitude levels, and cloud covers.

Jupiter’s blue and gray bands stretch around the planet, with swirls of red and yellow, and of course, its big red spot, which appears white due to the vast amount of light.

UC Berkeley professor Imke de Pater affirmed, “We hadn’t really expected it to be this good, to be honest.”

Nonetheless, as Dunn put it, “JWST has been used to see deeper into that past than ever before. It is even imaging some of the first galaxies formed in the universe.”

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Photo by NASA via flickr.com

Photo provided by Naomi Lin ’24

Hurricane Ian slammed Florida’s coast last month, leaving more than 100 people dead and some 40,000 displaced.

Photo by USGS.gov

Riordan

National Suicide Prevention Hotline rolls out new number: 988

By Kai Murguz ’25 and Vee Chen

On July 16, the House launched a short three-digit number–988–to access mental health services conveniently.

In 2020, suicide took the lives of over 45,979 people in America, almost double the amount of homicides that year, raising concern for the accessibility of resources.

Additionally, suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the US today among all age groups, and 3rd among 15-24 year-olds. In August of 2019, these numbers compelled government officials to create 988, launching it in 2022.

988, modeled similarly to 911, instantly connects the caller to a trained counselor who provides free, confidential support. This new number was designed to be easy to remember and contact, rather than dialing 1-800-2738255, the previously used number of the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.

The number is accessible for all in need of urgent mental support; or as Xavier Becerra, Secretary of the Federal Department of Health and Human Services phrased it, “If you are willing to turn to someone in your moment of crisis, 988 will be there. 988 won’t be a busy signal, and 988 won’t put you on hold. You will get help.”

In reflecting on the past, another reason for this change was that police have reported that over 20 percent of their staff time has been spent assisting people through mental health crises. Responders for 911 are not trained to handle mental health emergencies, so patients usually do not receive the help they require.

In 2021, around two million people with serious mental illness were booked in jail due to this, pushing people to advocate for a change in the system.

Too many Americans struggle with mental health problems without the support they need, but 988 is a nationwide phone number funded through the American Rescue Plan that can provide them with said assistance.

The changing of this number is already making an impact in our

community, as voiced by Bennett McKee ’25.

“It’s a lot better for those suffering with mental health issues to have an easy access way to get help, and having a shorter number to dial or text makes it much easier to remember.”

Newsom vetoes SF, Oakland safe injection sites

By Shridavi Raghavan

On August 22, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed Senate Bill 57.

This law would have legalized drug use in supervised hygienic centers where users could get drug injections using sterile supplies. It pertained to the cities of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland.

In a veto letter, Newsom wrote, “It is possible that these sites would help improve the safety and health of our urban areas, but if done without a strong plan, they could work against this purpose.”

As drug overdose deaths continued to increase throughout the pandemic, the support of this bill grew. A record total of 1,351 overdose deaths were recorded from 2020-2021 in San Francisco alone. Additionally, the city is predicted to exceed the previous year’s total this year. Several government leaders acknowledged the need for a solution to this momentous epidemic.

Many are speculating that his decision was influenced by his potential presidential candidacy, despite his insistence on not participating in the future election.

In light of the extensive research and factual evidence presented, notable state and city administrators expressed their disappointment in Governor Newsom’s decision, whereas others expressed their gratitude for Newsom’s recent actions.

James Gallagher, Republican official of Yuba City, stated, “Providing state subsidized drug consumption is a sign that

Capitol Democrats have given up on governing.” He continues by adding his opposition to the bill, and concludes: “I am very grateful to the Governor for being the sense of reason in this case.”

However, Mayor London Breed firmly disagrees with Newsom’s veto. She is driven by the unfortunate tragedy of her sister’s death due to an overdose–determined to prevent any future fatalities. The SF Safe Injection Services (SIS) Board of Supervisors President

demonstrated her support for the injection site initiative by writing, “…we need to provide a robust continuum of care and a welcoming environment for those struggling with drug abuse.”

Similarly, sophomore Eva Le stated, “Certainly it’s better for individuals to not inject drugs at all, but there’s always going to be some sort of back alley illegal operations.” She added, “We might as well have facilities where it can be consumed safely and responsibly.” She continued

A record total of 1,351 overdose deaths were recorded from 20202021 in San Francisco alone.

by voicing her hope for a decrease in overdose rates in San Francisco.

In contrast, from a law enforcement perspective, the bill’s potential effect was described as “…creating misery and chaos for the residents and businesses forced to be next to these sites,” by president of the San Francisco Police Officers Association, Tracy McCray.

To delineate, SIS sites consist of several stations with sanitized equipment–needles, disposing containers, hygienic wipes, etc.–and a supervisor (as shown). Jose Collado, a user in New York, insinuated that the atmosphere of his local SIS site as caring and attentive through his descriptions.

Despite Gov. Newsom’s concerns, the implementation of sites in Vancouver have contributed to lower overdose deaths per year, “67 percent fewer ambulance calls for treating overdoses, and a decrease in HIV infections,” according to research by the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

Preceding his veto announcement, he shared hopes for further thoughtfulness from local officials in the planning of these SIS sites to ensure the safe and effective use of them. This planning could potentially reopen the reenactment of Senate Bill 57 in the future.

Regardless of Newsom’s recent efforts, drug overdoses continue to be a grave problem–taking two lives per day in San Francisco–that many believe requires legislative action.

Illustration by Kai Murguz ’25

Photo by Claude Truong-Ngoc / Wikimedia Commons Safe Injection Sites exist in New York and in several Canadian cities.

The Suicide Prevention Hotline moved to a three digit number: 988.

Riordan

Documentary shines light on 90-year-old murder case

By Sophie Bucker ’24

Nov. 20, 2022 is for many an unassuming day. But for descendants of Celine Navarro, it marks a painful occasion that sent ripples of shock throughout the nation.

On that day 90 years ago, in 1932, Celine Navarro, a Filipina American immigrant, was buried alive by members of a Filipino fraternal organization.

For decades, many had assumed her death had merely been a welldeserved consequence for committing adultery and turning her back on her family. But the truth is often not as it appears, and in the case of Celine Navarro, that rings true.

Historical documents and oral stories reveal that Navarro gave testimony against two men (members of a fraternal organization) who attacked a man providing shelter for a woman hiding from abuse.

According to Celine Parreñas Shimizu, filmmaker and creator of the documentary “The Celine Archive,” Navarro’s story was distorted as part of a community-wide decision which “deemed her unimportant, and that the reputation of the community at large needed to be protected above all else, even at the cost of an innocent woman.”

Did they make it?

Rather than the disloyal adulteress she was portrayed as in newspapers from the time, Navarro was a devoted mother, one “whose intimate bond with her children is still remembered to this day.”

About a year later, a man confessed to hearing of a confidential trial where members of his fraternal organization decided that a woman was to be buried alive. After some searching, the police found two men involved in the burial, who then confessed to the crime. News of the crime quickly spread, and the Filipino American community faced widespread ostracism as many newspapers characterized the Filipino people as barbaric and tribalistic.

In spite of the coverage, the culprits were later acquitted, and the story largely faded away into the folk tale that many know it by today.

Ultimately, Shimuzu hopes that Navarro’s story inspires a next generation to dig deeper into the stories of those who have paved the way for others.

“Navarro’s story is an invitation to find your history and claim it, even if it’s ugly,” she said. “Navarro should be lauded as a heroine. She did it for us, for every Filipina.”

After 60 years, Alcatraz escape mystery endures

By Areeshah Farooq ’23

Some may know it as the legendary grounds of the most infamous criminals, while others see it as a tight-knit security prison. Either way, Alcatraz has a reputation that precedes it.

Having held captives since the Civil War, this prison on an island located in the middle of San Francisco Bay came to be a wellguarded, secure prison from 1934 to 1963.

Even with high security in place, prisoners made a total of 14 separate escape attempts. A majority of the 36 escapees were caught and faced penalties.

Scarlett Borges, a junior who visited Alcatraz, said, “They had mugshots of the escapees on the wall and you could see how the prisoners lived.”

Although Alcatraz had the standing of a maximum security guard, three prisoners’ whereabouts are still unknown to this day. These three escapees, Frank Morris, John Anglin, and his brother, Clarence Anglin miraculously escaped off the island. Having been acquainted in previous prisons, these three teamed up with each other as the brains of the operation. For their

getaway, they were also aided by their accomplice, Allen West, who failed to get out of his cell in time to board the raft they created for their escape. The reinforced steel and concrete buildings with the strong currents of the Pacific Ocean surrounding the island didn’t stop these three men from “successfully” making their getaway.

On June 12, 1962, when guards were doing their rounds of morning checks, Frank Morris, John Anglin, and Clarence Anglin were nowhere to be found. In their beds lay a detailed and carefully designed dummy head. With a head made of plaster, painted to look realistic, and real human hair, these convicts succeeded in fooling the night guards in the dark.

As soon as news of their breakout came out, the prison went into lockdown and the prison took measures to ensure they were caught. Reaching out to the FBI, they accessed records in their Office in San Francisco, interviewed relatives and former accomplices, and asked boat operators in the Bay to be on the lookout for debris. Two days later, a pack of letters and paddle-like

A display at Alcatraz, now a tourist destination, shows the three men who left the island prison on June 12, 1962 and were never found.

pieces of wood and rubber were discovered. Allen West, having failed to escape, filled in the authorities with some gaps in their escape plans still known. It still remains unknown to this day whether or not these escapees were able to make it safely to either Angel Island or the shores.

“I’d like to believe that they got

away and lived different lives,” said Dylan Mattias ’24.

According to FBI.gov, “The FBI officially closed its case on Dec. 31, 1979, and turned over responsibility to the U.S. Marshals Service, which continues to investigate in the unlikely event the trio is still alive.”

Photo by The Celine Archives

Photo by Mahkai Hunt ’23

The murder of Celine Navarro 90 years ago is the subject of a documentary titled “The Celine Archive.”

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

SF to make Giant moves in offseason

By Aiden Pavon ’25

The San Francisco Giants have had a season nothing short of disappointing. After coming off a record-breaking 107-win season, the Giants seemed to have lost their magic.

With many key players regressing, and three-time world champion and 7-time allstar Buster Posey retiring, the Giants were stuck with a very underwhelming roster.

The Giants’ front office is very disappointed in this season and had some words to say about it. Greg Johnson, the chairman of the board of directors said, “Obviously, we’re all disappointed in this season and the regression from the progress we’ve been making.”

He continued, “The reality is we had everything go right last year. Even when we had injuries, it seemed like whenever we brought someone up, it was the perfect time, and that person hit the ground running. It’s been a little tougher this year and it’s

hard to explain. As we know, bullpens have great years and then they have poor years. For relief pitchers, it’s very difficult to have that consistency, and we just haven’t had that consistency.”

Due to the disappointing season, the president of baseball operations for Giants Farhan Zaidi said it would be a big offseason for the organization. Zaidi stated the following to reporters after a Wilmer Flores contract extension: “We always felt last offseason and this offseason would be big for us in terms of shaping the future of the club and what the roster looks like, and that continues to be the case.”

He proceeded, “It’s going to be a big offseason for us. We do have payroll room because we are a big market and we have contracts that are ending. There will be a lot of good options for us. We are not going to zero in on any one, whether it’s free agency or trade.”

In regards to which free agent

the Giants should sign, Andres Roca ’25 stated, “Of course, Aaron Judge is going to be the biggest free agent that all 30 teams would

love to have, and especially with his Bay Area roots, I would love to see him sign here during the offseason.”

Williams, Federer say deuces to pro tennis career

By Addison Hwang ’24

During this fall season, Serena Williams, a 47 time Grand Slam champion in both singles and doubles, and Roger Federer, a 20 time singles Grand Slam champion, both said deuces to the tennis world as they announced their retirement.

On August 9, 40-year-old Serena Williams announced her retirement shortly after competing in the third round of the 2022 U.S Open. Playing a close match against Alja Tomlijanovic, in her entire shiny diamond encrusted outfit, Serena left with a losing score of 7-5, 6-7 (4), 6-1.

Though it was difficult to leave the sport and game she grew up so closely with, Williams remarked, “If I have to choose between building my tennis resume and building my family, I choose the latter.”

On the other hand, Serena’s 5 year-old daughter, Olympia, cheered with joy when she was informed that her mother’s tennis career would be over.

This reaction put Serena into perspective of how much her tennis career affected motherhood, especially with her family’s hopes to become bigger.

Furthermore, on Sept. 15, 41-year-old Swiss tennis player, Roger Federer announced his 24-

year old tennis career would be over through an Instagram post.

“These past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries.

I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form but I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear,” explained Federer.

After competing in the Laver Cup from Sept. 23-Sept. 25, Federer left with an emotional goodbye, surrounded by his teammates and loved ones.

Boy’s tennis player Zachary Yip ’24 shared a similar reaction to Federer’s retirement. “He’s a very

humble player who has so much respect and love for the game. In more ways than another, Roger Federer was the face of the sport who encouraged us to get better.”

Williams mentioned in an Instagram post, “I have always looked up to you and admired you. Our paths were always so similar, so much the same. You inspired countless millions and millions of people - including me - and we will never forget.”

Nonetheless, these two ace players could certainly be labeled as the “GOATS” of tennis. For instance, both of careers consist of numerous awards and

achievements, including turning pro in their young teenage years of just 14 and 17. Together they hold a tremendous total of 43 Grand Slam titles and six Olympic medals.

Admiring Williams for all her achievements, Riordan tennis player Niyah Spivey ’23 said, “I always like how when someone asked who her favorite tennis player was, she showed her confidence and only wanted to play like herself.”

She added, “Serena just has so much passion, so I try to take a little bit of that with me on the court.”

Photo by Beth Wilson/Flickr

Serena Williams marks a new chapter with retirement from the world of tennis.

Photo by Joseph Zuloaga ’23

The Giants this season finished with a record of 81-81.

Tennis serves up winning season

By Hoorain Farooq ’25

With a bigger team and more support than last year, Archbishop Riordan’s girls tennis team is excited for a constructive season.

Last year the team faced some challenges, but with practice during the off season and more time to internalize a better foundation, the girls have more motivation for this year’s team.

New to tennis, Niyah Spivey ’23, is playing in her first season as a member of Riordan’s girls Varsity tennis team.

With the team still being fairly new, she said, “Even though many of us are new players and playing schools a little more established, we are putting our best foot forward and giving it our all every time we play.”

Although the team struggles with spirit, Spivey shared a memorable moment when her teammates encouragement and

motivation helped her through a match. “I was in the last match of the day, everyone was watching,

and my team was cheering me on. I was able to end up tying with my opponent after taking her into a

third set.”

Moreover, Varsity head Coach Raymond Wong, who started his coaching career as a JV coach in 1992 for Sacred Heart Cathedral, shared a few hopeful thoughts for the future.

“My goal is to prepare the tennis program to be accepted into a league, more than likely the WCAL. Preparing the tennis program to be accepted into the league is a monumental task with a lot of challenges and rewards. This season made it one step closer to our goal. Only time will tell.”

Nonetheless, with recent wins against Nueva, Lincoln and Mills High School, the team is proud of their progress and improvement. Hopeful for more support, improvement, and a better foundation, the team looks forward to an even more promising season.

Volleyball team digs fresh, new start

By Nathan Loeffler Malatesta ’23

Riordan has gone through many changes throughout the years, one of which has been the addition of new sports teams, including one of the more exciting programs to the Riordan community, volleyball.

The new year served up new challenges and changes for the Crusader Volleyball program, the first and foremost being the bringing in of a new instructor, Jennifer Curtin. A volleyball coach for 16 years, she is a veteran at developing and pushing teams to their greatest potential.

She shared why she has dedicated so much time as a coach, remarking, “Volleyball is a fun sport; it’s exciting, physically demanding, and is the ultimate team sport as you have to trust everyone on the team. I love that it brings out selflessness in players, helps them learn more about life, teaches them not to dwell on failure, and I get to see students

be a part of something that they love.”

On top of that, when asked about running a young program, she stated, “It’s a small, tight-knit team, pretty much the smallest a volleyball team can be, and we only have one senior, so our team is incredibly young, but I am proud we still compete with everyone.”

That one senior, Nataly Neves, expressed what it is like being the oldest on the team, giving voice to her role, “I have to be responsible and mature, and all together be someone the rest of the team can look up to.”

In addition she stated her appreciation for the new coach, “Ms. Curtin pushes you to be the best version of yourself, and always makes sure you’re giving it your all.”

This team, early in its career, has shown great potential. With their team captains, Analee

Ronas ’24 and Carol Manu ’25 both having years left at Riordan, their leadership is bound to set the team up for even greater success. There is little doubt that

they will continue to develop the team’s volleyball IQ while they start to compete against the toughest WCAL competition, starting next season.

Girls golf prepares for next season

By Jackeline Gamez ’26 and Nicole Diaz ’26

Due to the short amount of players that have golfing experience, the girls golf team did not compete this year.

Kurt Osmer, the coach of the girls golf team, explained, “This year, all of our experienced golfers left to play tennis.”

Because they no longer have experienced players, he instead views their team more as a club.

By using the season time to practice, instead of competing, the girls learned how to play and get a better understanding of the game.

Currently, there are approximately a dozen girls on the team.

Osmer stated that the girls are extremely enthusiastic and optimistic about playing and they are always trying their best to improve on their skills.

On the other hand, though the girls are learning and developing these skills, they say it’s hard to stay motivated since there is no competition.

Nonetheless, this is not stopping these girls from meeting at Harding Park for practice every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for an hour to an hour and a half.

Coach Osmer said that his background of the Aikido martial art really helped him improve on playing golf.

The Aikido martial art is often translated as “the way of unifying (with) life energy.”

By combining the mental aspect of Aikido with golf, Coach Osmer can balance out both elements to teach the girls a more unique and rare style of golf.

Although the golf team did not compete this year, players see it as an amazing opportunity to learn something new while having fun.

The

Archbishop Riordan High School

Photo by Addison Hwang ’24

Angelina Ning ’23 and Niyah Spivey ’23, players on the Varsity tennis team, play in their second to last match, defeating Washington H.S 4-2.

Photo by Hana Wadlow ’25 Players on the Junior Varsity Volleyball team block Balboa’s hit.

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

New football coach invigorates community culture

By Angelia Richardson ’24

The Riordan varsity football team began the season strong. At the moment, the varsity team has a 3-4 record, currently ranked seventh in The West Coast League.

Adhir Ravipati is the new head coach of the varsity football team this year.

Coach Adhir led MenloAtherton High School for four years, winning two CCS titles and one CIF 3-AA state title.

He also served as the quarterback coach and was the offensive analyst for the College of San Mateo this past season.

Varsity football player Zachary Jones ’23 said his goals for this season are to “win league, continue to build a stronger relationship with his teammates on and off the field, and have fun.”

The team’s main objective is to advance to the state championship.

“Winning state would be so sick, especially for the seniors. I think they’ve been working hard and I think that would be

something great to do for them,” said Michael Mitchel Jr. ’26, who is also the starting quarterback.

In addition, Mitchel discussed his other coaches, Coach JP and Coach Willie.

“Coach JP does a really good job, similar to Coach Adhir. He’s really intelligent, and I’ve learned a lot from him in just these three months.

Coach Willie, my quarterback coach, he’s also helped me develop a lot and I’m really grateful for that.”

This season, the football team will continue to shine as they strive to become state champions.

Cross country veteran hopes to continue ‘winning culture’

By Don Tsang ’23

This year, the cross-country team started off a bit unstable as the team struggled at the first couple of meets.

But, things have all changed since the team won the Ram Invite, which is a huge motivation for them.

“Winning the Ram Invite is a big turning point for us,” said Benny Willers ’08, head coach of the cross-country team.

“We struggled at the first couple of meets and are starting to hit our stride. We meet some really good teams, so I’m pretty excited about the direction we are heading in!”

All the members of the varsity team so far have shown great effort in the races, especially Mason McKee ’23 and Luke Grogan ’23, having placed 6th place and 8th in the Ram Invite, and leading the team to secure first place in the race.

McKee said, “The team is ecstatic. We barely lost at the

Ram invitational my freshman year, and now I’m a senior and we’ve finally won at a race that has been a painful memory for years.”

Grogan added, “I’m feeling pretty good right now looking at our varsity team this year. This is our first win of the season and it was definitely a confidence booster.”

During the Ram Invite on Sept. 24, the frosh team also secured second place in the race. Although the junior varsity didn’t get high rankings, everyone strived to do their best and gave their all.

The girls’ frosh and sophomore team also achieved fourth place in the Ram Invite, which will definitely be a booster to obtain a better result in the future.

Along with the new goals, a new coach is also added to support the team.

Nick Pellegrino, the assistant coach of the team, said, “I’m very impressed with the dedicaton and

the great work ethic in the team. They work hard all week and show their hard work in the race.”

Looking to the future, McKee added, “I believe the team is capable of making state again this year and I hope to instill a

winning culture in our team for years to come.”

As the main objectives of the season, the team strives for finishing top three in the WCAL league, win CCS Championship, and place in the top 10 in the state meet.

Veteran Mason McKee ’23 runs towards victory in the Rams Invite.

Photo by Benny Willers ’08

Photo by Sean Reyes ’25

Photo by Jameson Datoc ’23

Coach Adhir Ravipati’s focus on community has won him many fans.

Running back Charlie Johnson ’24 stretches out an extra yard.

Local pizza places pile up positive reviews Brothers Pizza

Located on Taraval Street, just two blocks from Ocean Beach, is Brothers Pizza. They have been dishing out delicious pizza since the 80s.

But they are not your stereotypical pizza place; they also serve classic Indian dishes and sub sandwiches.

The interior of their cozy restaurant has a few tables and chairs. However, you can choose to take your meals outside onto their street parklet.

I ordered a slice of their Potato Pizza, topped with potatoes, minced garlic, and pesto sauce. While waiting for my food, I admired the restaurant’s interior. The walls were lined with black and white photos of San Francisco, while the kitchen was filled with a colossal oven always in use.

When I picked up my food, it

was evident that the slice had come straight from the heart of the oven. The slice was covered with golden brown potatoes, dotted with minced garlic, and layered with cheese over the top of pesto sauce and golden crust.

This particular slice was $8.99, with their cheapest slice coming in at $7.99 and their largest pie coming to $35.99.

I immediately dug into the slice. The crust was perfectly crispy, while the potatoes crisp outside were complemented perfectly by the contrasted soft inside. The pesto was super flavorful, and everything came together for a perfect bite.

Surprisingly, the pizza was so loaded, and every bite was incredible. Overall, Brothers Pizza did not disappoint. I would give them all 5 out of 5 stars.

A hidden gem in South San Francisco, Zorba’s Pizza has served mouth watering pizzas for more than 35 years. When receiving the menu I was impressed by how many dishes they had to offer. From pasta to gyros and hamburgers to pizzas it almost felt as if we weren’t in a pizzeria!

After some thought, I decided to have their specialty, their Award Winning Pizza. I had to see what made this pizza so award winning.

Zorba’s Pizza

early morning of spring.

I hesitated pulling away the first slice, and the cheese stretched out as if I was watching a pizza commercial.

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana is located in North Beach, a traditionally Italian neighborhood of San Francisco near Downtown and the Financial District.

It is a classic restaurant in North Beach that is recognized internationally by many publications like the Thrillist, in which Tony’s was listed in the top 10 worldwide. They have various pizza styles like deep-dish or New York, which all have a wide range of available toppings.

As I work on the edge of North Beach and Chinatown, I often go to Tony’s after work for dinner, and frequently there is a line. Once I finally get in, I always sit in a spot with a direct view of the pizza oven where I can see the process and the speed at which they make the pizzas. You can pick your pizza’s thickness, and

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana

can also customize it to your liking.

I ordered the Jersey Trenton Tomato pie with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. I thought the pizza was delicious. It was simple, perfectly crispy, and very thin, a style I enjoy. The use of high-quality ingredients brought this pizza to the next level. The cheese was creamy and had that perfect stretch, complemented perfectly by the tangy tomato sauce all held up by the light, crispy crust.

The fantastic service, the custom options available, the amazing location, and the overall food quality at Tony’s make eating here a wonderful experience. I highly recommend Tony’s; it receives 5 out of 5 stars.

As the waiter brought the pizza to my table, my eyes fixed on the glistening pie. This was not food, it was art! The canvas was the dough, the background was the marinara sauce, the sparkling cheese radiant colors of the sun, and the mushrooms and the cut pepperoni added patterns to the mix. But the showstopper was the dollops of ricotta that looked like baby daisies blooming in the

As I took the first bite, the dough was a smooth texture while the flavors were ballistic and creamy at the same time. All of the bold flavors announced their presence on my tongue as they are charged into my taste buds at full force, making it scrumptious. But when adding the coolness of the mellow, creamy, silky flavors to wash away the boldness, it depicts the angelic presence after the aftermath of a battle.

Overall, the taste of the pizza was amazing and I would definitely recommend Zorba’s Award Winning Pizza to any pizza lover because the pizza, along with the service and experience, was definitely award winning. Zorba’s Pizza gets a total of 5 out of 5 stars.

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Brothers Pizza in the Sunset has an interesting take on the American classic, with their one of a kind, Potato Pizza.

Review and photo by Cash Bolos ’23

Review and photo by Jameson Datoc ’23

Zorba’s Pizza’s cheesy, creamy and bold “Award Winning Pizza.”

Review and photo by Rhys Appleby ’24

The Jersey Trenton Tomato pizza from the world famous North Beach hot spot, Tony’s Pizza Napoletana’s.