The Crusader October 2023

Campus News, Pages 4 - 7

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VOLUME 74 ISSUE 1

A&E, Pages 12 - 13

Science, Page 16

ARCHBISHOP RIORDAN HIGH SCHOOL

Sports, Pages 21 - 23

October 2023

The Crusader mourns loss of first EIC

SERVING ARCHBISHOP RIORDAN HIGH SCHOOL SINCE 1949

By Naomi Lin ’24

Bernard Thomas Cotter ’50, the first Editor-in-Chief of The Crusader newspaper, died on Dec. 8, 2022.

Born on May 20, 1932, “He [Cotter] was a very energetic person; he was a good scholar; he was always inquisitive. He wasn’t athletic, but more of an intellectual type,” said Cotter’s classmate, Bob Rose ’50.

According to his widow, Anne Girot Marr, Cotter’s love of writing and journalism prompted him to take on the role as the first editor-in-chief when Riordan opened in September of 1949.

She said, “He was also a perfectionist; he had to get it right, and that being grammar, too. And when he was editor and received columns of writing from the other journalists, he often rewrote them. But really, he was happy doing that.”

Current newspaper adviser Susan Sutton said, “The fact that in the first year of the school’s existence, the school leadership decided it was important to establish a school newspaper speaks volumes about how integral journalism is.”

She also commended the

THE NEWSPAPER OF CRUSADER COUNTRY

up the block. He met his future wife, Anne, at this activity.

“In fact, because of that activity, that’s where he met his future wife, Anne. And that’s where they became high school sweethearts and married and stayed married all this time until he passed away,” revealed Rose.

After graduating high school, Cotter attended Santa Clara University for college and earned a law degree at the University of San Francisco.

Throughout his practice as an attorney at law, “his writing really flourished. He did a lot of writing because he prepared trials,” said Marr.

“And then he also became an editor of San Mateo County’s lawyers magazine, called The Photo by Jill Micheli Docket. He did that for at least 20 Bernard Cotter ’50, the first editor-in-chief of Archbishop Riordan’s newspaper, holds a copy of The Crusader at the Golden Grad Luncheon on Aug. 31, 2022. years,” she added.

“He was always very newspaper’s student leaders at look back and know that here he is gracious in his encouragement that time for taking the initiative, starting at a new school and as a and compliments for our students. stating, “I think I can say that senior, and he wanted to leave his And while he was definitely one if it wasn’t successful that first mark on the school,” she added. of our biggest fans, I can say that year; and if Mr. Cotter and other Beyond writing and I was one of his biggest fans,” student leaders didn’t step up, we journalism, he frequently reminisced Sutton. might not have had a newspaper participated in the plays put Marr concluded: “Being for the past seven decades.” on by Immaculate Conception remembered would mean a lot to “It’s just so awe-inspiring to Academy–an all girls’ school just him.”

Library opens new chapter in R history

By Ashley Villing ’25

During this past summer, major developments were made to Archbishop Riordan High School–one of the more noticeable transformations being the renovation of the library.

Simon Chiu, Vice Principal of Advancement, commented, “The library was a big space that was underutilized.”

What initially drove this center of change was the upcoming need for new classrooms. The student body has grown from approximately 600 to 1,100 in the past four years. This increase has led to a proposed space that allows flexibility for academic purposes. The total costs of this renovation was $3.5 million.

Director of Facilities, Brandon Ramsey, stated, “The hope was that not only can the space be used in all types of situations, but to provide an

Photo by Nick Nye ’25 Students gather in the remodeled library to relax and work on assignments.

inviting and beautiful space that the students would enjoy daily.”

What remains of the library is a study lounge at the center and a large seating terrace to the right of the entrance. Directly across from that is an overhead projector that allows students to watch

presentations or educational films restfully.

Eric Dean ’25, a National Honor Society member who tutors in the library, commented, “It can be hard to find comfortable seating while also being in a configuration that teaching can

occur effectively, but it is possible.”

Brian Kosewic ’16, English teacher, stated he encourages his class to speak with Librarian Danny Appel to get the full extent of the resources the library has.

Kosewic said, “For most colleges, libraries are the centerpiece of the campus and the heart of academic life. We want Riordan to perform that same function and for students.”

Additional changes meant the tech office and storage room would be relocated to downstairs.

Also, a new green screen room and A/V classroom were moved upstairs.

Architect Tony Pantaleoni ’70 said, “As an alumnus, I’m happy that the school is moving forward with modernization and technology, and I’m grateful to be a part of it, and to give back to my alma mater.”

2

Opinion

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

Minga misses mark in managing student passes

The Crusader Staff Editorial The push to integrate technology within our society has seeped across all areas of human life, from the workplace to the household. However, the adoption of technology has not always resulted in significant improvements across society, and often can pose its own new problems – as is the case with Minga.

Minga is an app designed to replace physical classroom administrative tasks, such as assigning hall passes, student IDs, and detention slips. While it has been praised as a revolutionary tool to solve the great problems of education, the reality is much more complicated.

Indeed, Minga has been touted as a way to streamline the administrative process of letting students leave classrooms and giving out detentions by creating a hub through which teachers and administration can keep track of business. However, students and teachers alike have grappled with the use of Minga in their daily lives on campus.

Many teachers continue to struggle with utilizing Minga, causing disruptions in class when they assign detentions or assign hall passes, ultimately taking away from valuable time where they could be lecturing or answering student questions.

In addition, Minga requires cellular data in order to load hall passes and detentions, which tends to be spotty on campus, leaving students unable to access it to leave their classes.

Likewise, there is no student pass for counseling, which adversely impacts students who may be undergoing mental health crises in class and need to seek support by preventing them from leaving class unless the teacher or counselor initiates the pass request.

But the biggest issue with Minga has nothing to do with the confusion that it causes – it has to do with the way it perceives students.

Timing students’ out of class excursions does nothing to impart maturity on them; rather, it restricts students’ agency and

Photo by Sophie Bucker ’24 The Minga app replaced paper passes and detention slips this school year.

rely on a timer rather than their own critical thinking skills to govern what they do with their out of class time.

As a school, we have a responsibility to not merely teach students academic subjects, but also to guide them in their journey towards emotional growth and maturity.

Treating students like

adults in the workplace with full responsibility would help them gain this maturity and prepare them for less structured environments, especially college.

While Minga may be useful from an administrative point of view, we must find a way to wield it in a more effective way – a way that is in line with our mission to prepare students for their future.

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.

Sports Features Editor Ishaan Gupta ’26 Arts & Entertainment Editor Katelyn Leong ’25 Environment Editor Caitlin Dowd ’25 Religion Editor Daniella Lainez ’26

175 Frida Kahlo Way Health Editor San Francisco, CA 94112 Sarah Cai ’24 RCrusaderNews.com RCrusaderNews@riordanhs.org Science Editor Griffin Doeff ’25 Editor-in-Chief Naomi Lin ’24 Technology Editor Nicolo Ricci ’24 Managing Editor Talia Bumanglag ’24 Features Editor Aliana Urdaneta-Rodas ’25 Opinion Editor Sophie Bucker ’24 Food Review Editor Campus News Editors Julien Untalan ’24 Normay Arriola ’24 Mario Perez de Leon ’24 Photo Editors Nick Nye ’25 Local & State News Editor Sean Reyes ’25 Jake Beeman ’24 Julia Yamsuan ’25 National & World News Editor Copy Editors Angela Jia ’25 Rhys Appleby ’24 Melissa Chiao ’25 Boys Sports Editor Hazel Nagata-Rampata ’26 Aiden Pavon ’25 Girls Sports Editor Hoorain Farroq ’25

Graphic Artists Vee Chen ’25 and Kai Murguz ’25

Reporters and Photographers Joshua Aguilar ’24 Rose Baik ’26 Daniel Barrett ’24 Eva Bennett ’25 Jackie Bhaskar ’24 Laila Briceno ’25 Anthony Chan ’24 Michelle Chavero ’24 Charles Chu ’24 Angelo Coletti ’24 Chris Dilag ’25 Vincent Douglas ’25 Sasha Feliciana-Chan ’26 Hailey Ferrer ’26 Talisha Flores ’24 Isaac Garcia-Zuro ’24 Gregory Gonzalez ’25 Catherine Hansen ’25 Annabelle Hazard ’27 Isabelle Huang ’25 Vincy Huang ’27 Addison Hwang ’24 Exchange Editors Alexander Datoc Jr. ’27 Constance Huynh ’27

Reporters and Photographers Finnbarr Harrington ’24 Miranda Hernandez ’24 Ana Hernandez ’25 Maxim Ivanov ’26 Malcolm Jones-Smith ’25 Polina Kozlenko ’24 Diane Lai ’24 Nora Lee ’27 Lincoln Maloney ’25 Noel Marquez ’26 Karlo Maglona ’24 Matteo Matteucci ’24 Thomas McGovern ’25 Jordan McKenzie ’24 Brayden Mulqueen ’25 Angelia Richardson ’24 Emma Rocha ’25 Brandon Saavedra ’24 Julian Serrano ’24 Zidane Sue ’24 Ashley Villing ’25 Bo Wyatt ’24 Myles Yan ’25 Andres Zamora ’26 Adviser Susan Sutton, MJE

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the editors will be accepted with the same deadlines as ads. These letters may come from students, staff, parents, board members, or other members of the community. The Crusader reserves the right to edit the letter for grammatical and spelling errors, as well as length, but not content unless it includes foul language, plagiarized material, or libelous content. If the claims or assertions are incorrect, The Crusader reserves the right to refuse publication of the letter.

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Opinion

3

Age diversity in D.C. will create stronger democracy

By Hazel Nagata-Rampata ’26 Recently, a debate about age limits in politics ignited throughout America, from the media to conversations at the dinner table. From Dianne Feinstein to Mitch McConnell, this debate has people wondering: is it time to rethink age limits on politicians in the United States?

On July 26, Senator Mitchell McConnell, 81, froze for about 30 seconds during an interview. According to NBC News, a spokesman for McConnell said that he “felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference.”

Likewise, according to CBS News, Senator Dianne Feinstein had been hospitalized for shingles, which led to her developing encephalitis, a swelling of the brain.

Feinstein died earlier this month at the age of 90.

Due to these health issues, she had to step away from Congress for three months. There were also concerns from her staffers regarding her short-term memory loss, which could have impacted her ability to debate in the Senate and vote on key issues in her Senate Committees.

Photos by senate.gov and whitehouse.gov From left to right: Senator Mitch McConnell, 81, and President Joe Biden, 80.

These incidents have raised the question of instituting age limits to run for political office. While some consider this biased against elderly politicians, it is really a concern for the politician’s well being and status.

The longer someone works in politics, the more wisdom and experience they have to offer to their voters and the American people.

But the longer a politician spends in office as they grow older,

more issues like health conditions arise, impeding on their ability to propose legislation and take effective action on current affairs.

As America grows, we need fresh, new ideas for our country – which ultimately affects the rest of the world. Those who are in the position of needing to make important decisions for the country must be physically and mentally capable of doing so without a concern that one’s health can delay or jeopardize

that decision.

A solution is to promote age diversity when it comes to politics instead of enforcing strict age limits, on both young and old.

This will allow for individuals from different age groups to help with political processes.

Being able to have different points of views from those who have lived through different points of time could provide a backbone for not just America, but the world’s politics.

‘Barbie’ challenges patriarchy while celebrating girlhood

By Talia Bumanglag ’24 The Barbie movie was the talk of the town this summer, not only because of the dual release with Oppenheimer, but for its touching themes of feminism and girlhood.

As this movie was released more than two months ago, this opinion piece will contain spoilers.

Barbie—directed by Greta Gerwig—follows the life of Margot Robbie’s Stereotypical Barbie as she goes on a journey of selfdiscovery while her seemingly perfect life begins to burst at the seams.

On her path to rediscovery, she is joined by Ken—played by Ryan Gosling—who is charming and charismatic, and yearning for Barbie’s attention.

Though the film had beautiful and bright imagery, the most intriguing and thought provoking aspect of the film was its overarching message.

It isn’t just a film to show the wondrous life of a Barbie– it’s about girlhood. It is about being born into a life filled with roadblocks, and what being excluded from the narrative feels like.

Barbie highlights the diminishing setbacks, contradictions, and societal standards women have to fight

Image by Talia Bumanglag ’24 Anyone can use the Barbie selfie generator to create an image with the logo.

“To see the struggles of a woman represented by the very item that is our so-called standard is very ironic, but also so extremely meaningful.” against to this day, in a way that most visibly shows the double standard that is often ignored.

Similar to the historical

treatment of women all over the world, the Kens of Barbieland are seen as an accessory to Barbies and do not have real value

to them. This is one of the more brilliant ways Gerwig is able to turn the tables on society and point out how arbitrary the system is. Women are constantly pitted against one another—most of the time for circumstances out of their control—and forced to compete until one is on top.

This competition and overall living for validation is something the Kens experience in this world, and is their ultimate demise as the patriarchy they create crumbles.

Barbie is a clear and accurate representation of every feeling every woman has felt at some point in their lives.

Insecurity, imperfection, sadness, anger, relief, are felt by Barbie, an item—besides single use water bottles—most identified with being plastic or fake.

To see the struggles of a woman represented by the very item that is our so-called standard is very ironic, but also so extremely meaningful.

It is clear that Barbie is more than its title, and that Barbie is more than just a plastic doll. She is a representation of the experience of a girl; the struggle, angst, confusion, and complex emotions all bundled into one.

She is human.

4 Campus News

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

New safety team locks in for duty

By Angelo Coletti ’24

As Archbishop Riordan High School kicked off the new school year, there have been many changes, including new classrooms, desks, and even new jerseys for the football team.

However, the most important and noticeable change was the addition of the new safety team. Last year Riordan only had security guards at special events, but this year the school added a new team.

According to students, the new additions make Riordan feel so much safer and protected.

The staff play an important role in the school by making sure students get home safely, don’t get into altercations, and stay on top of their work.

They play a major factor in the Riordan community with not only the students, but also with family members.

Jasir Rencher ’25 said, “They have been nothing less than amazing. Their supportive presence makes me feel so much safer.”

Coach Alfonso Miranda ’17, a returning staff member, said, “Being an alumnus, coming back to Riordan was definitely a change. But the community felt larger and more together than ever with the addition of the young ladies,” Coach Mike Mikovich ’16, a new steam member, said, “As a student at Riordan, I’ve felt like the addition of women was a huge step in the right direction for us.

The security team has welcomed everyone with open arms and treated them like family,” He added, “Our job duties entail just being there for the kids. At the end of the day, we are here for you guys, the students.”

Another new member of

Photo by Nick Nye ’25 New this year, the Safety Team includes: Alfonso Miranda ’17, Mike Mikovich ’16, Emily Ino, Major Corpuz, and Scott Chiesa.

team, Emily Ino, said, “One message I would like to send out is to make smart decisions inside

and outside of school because at the end of the day, you guys are representatives of Riordan.”

Alumnus adds math book to portfolio

By Rose Baik ’26

Connor Thomas Ahlbach ’09 shared with Riordan the news of his new math book, Euclidean Linear Algebra, which was published on March 28 and consists of 322 pages.

The book uses theoretical examples and a variety of problems to help students get a deeper understanding of linear algebra.

After giving an introduction about vectors and linear systems, it focuses on linear maps and their different methods, like operations on linear maps, diagonalizing linear maps, dimensions, subspaces, and their relations to linear maps, etc.

The book also includes a page with definition references, answer keys to problems, and object charts.

Mathematics teacher Mary Ann Datoc said, “I like math because it is a behind-the-scenes subject. You cannot do science or engineering without math.

Your business will not be successful unless you look at the data in your reports.”

During his days at Riordan, Ahlbach always showed interest in math and got placed in Algebra II/Trigonometry in his freshman year, according to his freshman math teacher, Ottilie Valverde.

His passion for math thrived even more under the influence of Valverde. He competed in the mathematics league in 2009 and got 35 out of 36 questions correct.

“Connor Ahlbach was an excellent student,” said Valverde.

Ahlbach gave a copy of his math book to Valverde with a handwritten note expressing his gratitude to his favorite math teacher.

After graduating high school, he went to Harvey Mudd College, then studied at the University of Washington for six years where he earned a Ph.D. He then graduated in 2019. He is now a mathematics lecturer at Texas State University

Photo provided by Connor Thomas Ahlbach ’09 Connor Thomas Ahlbach ’09 created his own math book, Euclidean Linear Algebra, and credits Riordan math teacher Ottilie Valverde with inspiring him to not only love math, but to pursue a career teaching it.

and his main teaching interests are discrete math, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and combinatorics.

Ahlbach said, “There is nobody so intelligent that math won’t challenge them and make them feel dumb sometimes.”

Construction crew creates captivating courtyard

By Mario Perez de Leon ’24

The new school year brings lots of change to the Riordan campus. One of the most notable among them is the newly renovated courtyard.

The courtyard’s renovation is a staggering one. One of the most obvious changes is the steps added around the inner perimeter of the space. These steps allow new spaces for students to sit, relax, talk, and eat.

Riordan’s Facilities Assistant, Jeff Ramirez stated, “We got rid of some extra plant

life we didn’t need, re-cemented it, and redid the stairs” Ramirez further remarked that the reason behind the renovation was to provide the students with upgrades.

“We’re trying to have more people come out there,” he said.

This spaces ensure that students have more options during lunch, contributing to a Photos by Sean Reyes ’25 and Nick Nye ’25 better overall student experience.

The left side of this photo composite depicts the courtyard undergoing Ramirez pointed out that construction this summer, and the right side is the finished product. it leads to a school-wide positive students won’t act accordingly.” look good, sometimes the inside attitude. “School looks good then Ramirez concluded, “You feels good. Look good, feel good, it acts good. If it looks bad, maybe know, when you make the outside play good.”

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Campus News

5

Fresh faces bring fresh ideas to campus

By Normay Arriola ’24

Riordan proudly welcomed 11 new teachers for the 20232024 school year, ranging from the Resource Specialist Program department to core subjects.

All of the new teachers, who come from diverse backgrounds and teaching experiences, have been enjoying their experience so far, stating that Riordan gave them a welcoming environment full of opportunities.

Michael Kilgariff, a Riordan alumnus from the class of 2017, enjoyed his time at Riordan and felt it would be great to come back and work in the RSP department, which he was a part of when he was a student here.

He stated, “My experience so far here at Riordan has been awesome. Coming to work every day at the school I graduated from is truly a blessing.”

He added, “Working in the RSP program has been great as I get to work with kids with learning disabilities and how they can overcome their challenges.”

Maxwell Smart, a substitute teacher in the East Bay for a year, is now also an RSP teacher at Riordan. He stated, “I was getting tired of bouncing from school to school, having to reintroduce myself to a new group of students and prove myself and gain their trust, all those very important things that go into a teacher-student relationship.”

He added, “Riordan gave me an opportunity to work at one place with the same group every day. That way I also get a chance to track students’ progress better

and watch them grow.”

While teaching at Riordan has been a positive experience for all of the teachers, some challenges arose.

Jade Nguyen, a new dance teacher at the school, stated that although her experience has been overwhelming with a new environment she has never experienced before, she overcame the challenges by learning and understanding the culture of how things are run here. She’s had a great experience with the students, staff, and intertwined community.

She stated, “It is one of the most unique educational spaces I have been in, and it is definitely like no other!”

Brian Morgan, a math teacher, joined Riordan looking for a new challenge and being drawn to Riordan’s rich history, especially the co-ed transition.

He said the students have been pretty good and comfortable enough to trust and open up about themselves or what they need.

The most challenging yet exciting aspect of working here for him is the dynamic nature of being with adolescents.

“It’s been great,” Morgan said. “Everybody’s been really friendly, and the kids have been good in my class.”

Robert Weatherly, a math teacher, has had a positive experience and a great start at Riordan so far, with helpful staff and great students.

He said, “I think right now the biggest thing for me as a

Photo by Sean Reyes ’25 New members of the faculty gather after a Marianist Moments presentation.

teacher is the pacing, doing the 4×4. While I like going fast, it can be difficult to teach the material in a way that students can absorb it as well and quickly.”

Shannon Moran, also a new RSP teacher, has been enjoying teaching during her start at Riordan and admires the close community and family.

“It’s great to see how many alumni returned to coach and teach here!” She stated, “The fall rally was a highlight of the year so far. I loved seeing how many students and teachers dressed up and participated in the rally. A highlight was watching the cross country team beat the strength coaches in a tug of war!”

Alyssa Xavier, a new Religion Studies teacher, has had a welcoming and supportive start at Riordan, appreciating the family-like atmosphere on campus.

She stated, “I realized

there was really something special here, and I even told them at my interview that Riordan had quickly become my first choice.”

She added, “I was excited about the new Introduction to Catholicism class for freshmen, which I’m so happy to be teaching, and I could see that the administration really cared about the students, teachers, and community here, and were constantly working on policies and practices to best support everyone and respond to their needs.”

These new faces at Riordan are set to teach students how to thrive and bring their talents to our school, fostering an environment where students can feel comfortable while learning.

Their dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to support their students are certain to make a positive impact on the Riordan community in the upcoming years.

New workspace sets stage for upcoming productions

By Jordan McKenzie ’24 The drama production is set for a new year.

The amount of people who have been involved in the drama and theatre productions has increased throughout the years, with 60 students signing up for stage crew and 40 students who auditioned for the play.

Archbishop Riordan has garnered a lot of attention for the growth of its programs and student body over the past four years.

The school is known for its focus on improving the life of students on campus, and with this in mind, the theatre department can now boast of a new work space to build sets in the back of the theatre.

Riordan continues to push for improvement for students in every program. They’ve built and improved the library, the cafeteria, new classrooms, and also new rest rooms. Now there’s a brand new set construction workspace for the

students involved in drama.

“We are so lucky to have one of the biggest theatres in San Francisco, but that means our sets need to be very large in order to fit the space and look substantial,” said Greg Callaghan, theater director and drama teacher.

Callaghan has been a mentor to the students, giving them the confidence to express themselves and their individual voices. That has made students love being a part of the drama department.

Students have been wanting to contribute and help construct sets. For this school year, they will work with Dave Lam, a set builder, to create sets for the upcoming productions of Clue in the fall and The Sound of Music in the spring.

“Having the ability to build, and or modify set pieces, gives us the flexibility to do more of a variety of sets, and gives us more options when planning our season,” said Lam.

Photo by Nick Nye ’25 Constructing sets takes considerable time and precision, but the new set production area behind the stage will benefit drama students for years.

“I think the new sets are outstanding and really bring you into the atmosphere of the show,” said Paolo Caracciolo ’24.

“And are definitely going to be fun to build.”

“Now that we have a dedicated work space backstage, it will make it much easier for students to help build the sets,” Callaghan said.

“The lighting is nice and bright,

and we installed a dust collection system so the saw dust doesn’t fly all over.”

The investment in building new sets is expensive, but will benefit future Crusaders who will be able to use the same sets decades into the future.

Callaghan said, “If we do our jobs correctly, no one will notice they’re recycled.”

6 Campus News

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

Color guard dances, twirls its way to success

By Sean Reyes ’25

Under the guidance of Audrey Lai, the Riordan Color Guard coach, members are honing their skills to perfection.

The members practice tirelessly, both indoors and on the field, dedicating countless hours to refining their routines.

Audrey Lai is looking forward to “developing a new routine and seeing the growth that each member will have throughout the season.”

The Color Guard is a team of performers who perform dances and routines with various equipment to enhance the music of the marching band.

One of Lai’s primary focuses is ensuring that the Color Guard possesses a strong technical foundation in both dance and equipment handling.

With this foundation firmly in place, the team can create a show that’s awe-inspiring.

Diane Lai ’24, a seasoned senior in the Color Guard and a

Photo by Sean Reyes ’25 Katelyn Leong ’25 performs with the Riordan Color Guard and marching band at the St. Cecelia School Festival earlier this month.

captain, revealed one of the most significant differences this year compared to the previous season.

Diane stated, “Even though the color guard is smaller

compared to other schools we keep our ground, getting nothing under second place and ending the marching season with the 4th place parade color guard in

northern California.”

This statement reflects the tight-knit community within the Color Guard. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the close bonds and the support that the members offer each other.

Alexander Datoc ’27, also known as A.J., expressed his openness to trying something new when he joined the Color Guard.

“I chose Color Guard because the flow of energy and support is divine, unlike any other program at Riordan.” He added, “As a freshman joining Color Guard, I was very excited due to the thought of performing in Rome.”

As the team continues to refine their skill and their routines, they are also cultivating a profound sense of unity and teamwork. The support they share with one another is the foundation upon which they build a season filled with breathtaking performances and accomplishments.

New water stations quench students’ thirst

Photo by Nick Nye ’25 A student fills up a water bottle at one of the new water stations on campus.

By Gregory Gonzales ’25

New water stations at Riordan High School mean more students have access to fresh water throughout the school day.

Facilities Assistant Jeff Ramirez said, “The importance of having new water lines at school helps everyone in the Riordan community have access to water throughout the day, creating a well hydrated mind and body.”

He added, “It took about six hours of labor to tie into the main water line to install all new areas.”

It cost about $1,500 each to install the water lines.

In addition, “New water lines are important because it shows the Riordan community that we care about the little details in keeping this community safe and well hydrated. Safe water equals a healthy community,’’ Ramirez said.

There are stations located

in front of and next to new classrooms and more in the gym and weight room.

The summer reading book, What the Eyes Don’t See, is mainly about lead laced water in the pipes of Flint, Michigan.

With the installment of these new water lines, students don’t have to worry about unsafe water.

Ramirez is also a baseball coach, and understands the importance of staying hydrated because athletes need to stay healthy.

Ryan Mates ’25 said, “Being a soccer player who runs around all the time, staying hydrated is the most important thing when on the pitch.”

Boban Penn ’25 said in regards to how much water he consumes, “I often finish a couple bottles of water a day so I am pretty much filling them up a lot during the day.”

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Campus News 7

Refurbished classrooms renew learning spaces

By Lincoln Maloney ’25

As the new school year began, the many Riordan classrooms glowed with new chairs and fresh paint for the first time since 2001.

“I love it. The last time my classroom got a renovation was 2001,” said English teacher Michael Vezzali-Pascual ’88.

The renovations lasted the entire summer of 2023, redoing classrooms and even building new classrooms 301 and 302 that were previously a part of the library.

During the summer, crews also renovated the library, making it more inviting for students to hang out and study in by adding more places to sit, as well as a fireplace.

“I think the old Library was very outdated, uncomfortable as well as useless,” Alton Thoroughgood ’25 said.

Paint, carpets, student desks, teacher desks and furnishings, whiteboards, and window coverings were all

replaced in the new classrooms.

Additionally, both doors on each classroom were repainted using a thicker slack.

Minor holes in the walls were also patched, and molding was put all across the space at desk height to avoid further wall scratches.

Riordan High School approved a budget for new classrooms to accommodate the additional 200 students enrolled in school. This increase in classrooms provides more comfort for the increased student population. In addition, the improvements will help with recruiting new students for the years to come.

Photo by Nick Nye ’25 Many of the classrooms were completely upgraded with Joshua Keeney’s classroom was one of many refurbished over the summer. new furniture including chairs, tables, TVs, whiteboards, and sheetrock. The rooms are similar Digital Arts room and its former to be creative and more places to to a collegiate setting. room, 114, was transformed into hang out.

“I think we needed another classroom.

Opeña said, “I like the new renovations for a long time,” said Students are pleased with library because it is way more Lucian Opeña ’24. the new classrooms and library comfortable and I like doing my Room 301 is now the because it gives them more space projects there.”

Minga app replaces paper passes

A student prepares to request a hall pass using the new Minga app on her phone.

Photo by Nick Nye ’25

By Vincent Douglas ’25 As Crusaders returned for the new year, they were surprised to learn that they would be using a new app called Minga to access student IDs and hall passes.

This change is meant to be more convenient for students. Now, they do not need to carry lanyards or sign out when going to the restroom, nor do they need to carry a plastic ID with them. Everything is now on their phone, tablet,

or any other device. There is also a plan in the works to implement house points and personal points into the app, which would be exchanged for Riordan gear.

The addition of longer passing periods was tested last semester with the extension of the period prior to Block 6.

This year, all passing periods are 10 minutes long, with the exception of the period after morning break.

Still, some students have their doubts about the app. Many feel that Minga does not make student life any more convenient than past years.

Others have said that it will not keep students out of the hall during class.

Eamon McCarthy ’25 said, “I think other than the fact that your IDs are on it, it doesn’t matter too much.”

Operations Manager Cara Garcia responded, “We’re

seeing a decline in how many students are in the hallways during the class period and I don’t know if it’s because of Minga, or if it’s because of the 10-minute passing periods.”

With this rise in technology use, some teachers are also raising concerns over students needing to have their phones on them.

Mathematics teacher Anthony Dunn mentioned, “We had [asked] for years, ‘Should students be able to keep their cell phones or should we put them in a bin?’ and now everybody needs their cell phones. It’s kind of like an acceptance that the cell phone is now just part of people’s lives.”

Again, Garcia responded by saying, “What we told teachers is that, ‘If you found yourself using Minga a lot, we weren’t using it right.”

Riordan implemented Minga to help students and keep up as the world becomes more digital. However, other schools are not up to the same standard yet.

Garcia explained that a student was recently not allowed into a football game at Saint Ignatius because they were using a digital ID, but the problem has been taken care of. Administrators encourage students to reach out with other concerns or questions.

8

National & World News

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

War erupts in Israel, Palestine

By Julian Serrano ’24 and Angela Jia ’25

In a barrage of rockets, Hamas staged a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7 by storming from the blockaded Gaza Strip, gunning down soldiers and civilians and taking around 150– 200 hostages.

As of press time, the Israeli death toll has risen to 1,400, with more than a 1,000 of them civilians. In a notable civilian attack, Hamas killed 260 people at an Israeli trance-music festival.

“It was an utterly deplorable attack against the Jewish people,” said a Riordan student who wishes to remain anonymous.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, has declared a state of war.

Israel has cut off food, water, fuel and electricity from Gaza in a retaliatory collective punishment. Gaza is a densely populated area of land with a population that is more than 50 percent children.

Israel has dropped 6,000 bombs into Gaza in the span of six days.

While the Gaza Strip is already known as an “open air prison,” Israel has since escalated Gaza’s blockade in an attempt to starve out the nation. So far, the UN estimates that around 200,000 Palestinians have fled since the start of the war.

As of press time, the Health Ministry in Gaza said 5,087

Palestinians have been killed and more than 13,200 wounded.

In the single deadliest incident for civilians since this war started, a Palestinian hospital hit by an Israeli airstrike killed 471 and wounded over 300.

Helena, a Palestinian American high school student not from Riordan, said, “We are witnessing a genocide...of Palestinians.”

Helena requested that The Crusader omit her last name for privacy concerns.

Hamas took Israeli hostages in an attempt to secure freedom for the 5,200 Palestinian prisoners that are held in Israeli prisons, threatening their execution if the Israeli military strikes civilian homes without warning.

Israel is imposing a siege on Gaza with the goal of eradicating Hamas forces.

Israel has warned a million Palestinians in northern Gaza to evacuate south ahead of the invasion, but Israel is bombing southern Gaza too.

The United Nations human rights office said such a mass evacuation in only 24 hours is essentially impossible and breaches international law.

Helena said, “Gaza citizens are being told to evacuate but have nowhere to go.”

On the morning of the initial attacks, Joe Biden declared

that America offered “unwavering U.S. support for Israel.”

Israel has one of the most powerful militaries in the world, which is further bolstered by billions in American support.

Palestine has no military at all. All their armed backing comes from militant groups such as Hamas, Fatah, and Hezbollah.

President Biden has requested from Congress $14 billion in humanitarian and military aid to Israel.

Biden visited Israel amidst growing criticism from proPalestine Arab nations regarding the U.S.’s response to the war, and addressed the United States on the conflict on Oct. 18.

Biden requested $9 billion in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Gaza.

However, truckloads of aid to Gaza have stalled as crucial food and supplies are prevented

Image by Angela Jia ’25

from crossing the border.

The Rafah crossing, a potential way for supplies to get into Gaza, is not officially closed but functionally closed off due to Israeli airstrikes.

Since meeting with Israel, Biden said he secured a commitment from Israel’s government to allow food, water, and medicine to be delivered to Gaza from Egypt.

A Riordan student, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “One of the many common misconceptions is that Israelis hate Palestinians, and this is not true. Israelis want peace with their Palestinian neighbors. Most Palestinians also want peace with Israel.”

Another Riordan student who also wishes to remain anonymous said, “It’s horrible seeing all the violence, and I hope there’s a speedy resolution.”

Republicans oust McCarthy as Speaker

By Annabelle Hazard ’27

For the first time in United States history, the Speaker of the House of Representatives was voted out of office on Oct. 3.

Kevin McCarthy had only been in this role since January of this year, finally winning the Speaker gavel after a historic 15 rounds of voting.

Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz, along with other hardliner Republicans, refused to vote for McCarthy unless he agreed to a provision that allowed only one member to propose a resolution to remove the Speaker.

Two hundred sixty nine days later, that concession would end his Speakership.

McCarthy collaborated with Democrats to pass a stopgap spending bill in a last minute ditch to prevent an impending government shutdown, only hours before the midnight deadline.

This was after weeks of projection that McCarthy would stick with the hardliners and allow the government to shut down in order to keep his job.

A government shutdown would have been disastrous, leading to federal employees not getting paid and the halting of

News.

Photos by Matt Johnson and Gage Skidmore via Flickr Kevin McCarthy is the first House Speaker to be ousted after Matt Gaetz introduced a resolution to vote him out, and was backed by conservatives.

crucial federal services.

During the chaos leading up to the stopgap vote, Gaetz and a group of eight other hardliner Republicans threatened to oust McCarthy if he collaborated with Democrats to pass a spending bill in order to keep the government open.

McCarthy did just that, leading Gaetz to petition for the vote to remove McCarthy from office. Along with the entire Democratic Party, McCarthy

became the first Speaker ousted from office by 216–210 votes.

Congress is working to find a replacement for McCarthy, who has stated his refusal to re-run for the position.

McCarthy claims, “At the end of the day, if you throw a Speaker out that has 99 percent of their conference, that kept the government open and paid the troops, I think we’re in a really bad place for how we’re gonna run Congress”, according to NBC

As of press time, Rep. Patrick McHenry currently holds temporary office and is liable to hold it until the election of a new speaker.

Republican Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio and Republican Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana threw their hats into the ring in the aftermath of McCarthy’s ousting.

Scalise was nominated by Republicans to replace McCarthy as Speaker, but Scalise dropped his Speaker bid 36 hours after his nomination after struggling to gain support from hardliner Republicans.

Republican Rep. Austin Scott of Georgia entered the race for House Speaker after Scalise dropped out, but lost the GOP’s nomination to Jordan.

However, Jordan is also struggling to gain the support he needs to become Speaker of the House.

As of press time, Jordan lost the Speaker vote three times as Republicans remain divided.

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Local & State News

9

High Speed Rail zips through construction after 15-year wait

By Julian Serrano ’24

It’s been 15 years since California looked outward toward the whizzing rails of Europe and East Asia and decided to set upon the task of building a high-speed rail network of its own.

The ultimate plan revolves around connecting the San Francisco Bay Area and the Los Angeles Basin, going through much of the Central Valley to do so. It is expected to be capable of travel in around two hours and 40 minutes.

Even so, with all 15 years passed some people are questioning whether it’s still worth the price.

On the other hand, those like Gianluca Carboni ’24 still believe that it’s worth the cost, saying, “Why are people such idiots that they won’t support it?”

The project is expected to cost at max around $128 billion, which is quite the sum, especially when the bill that created this project only said it would be $33 billion.

Some, such as Carboni, argue, “It should have more funding to reduce overall costs.”

Most of the time spent so far was not on building the rail, but

getting all the rough edges ironed out and delays in funding.

The high speed rail project would connect the country’s second and fifth largest metro areas by high speed rail, still cheaper than building more highways and airports.

Isaac Phillips ’24 said, “Fewer cars on the road, that’s kinda all I care about.”

America’s number one carbon emitter is transportation, and many believe that the reason is because that’s how it was designed. The HSR Authority estimates that the rail will provide two million metric tons of CO2e reduction per year.

No matter what side of the debate, they have begun working on it and have worked with local communities to further the plan, currently focusing on the Central Valley sections around 119 miles of the total 500.

Despite all the delays they still expect to start testing the completed line by 2028, and possibly allow for it to be available to the public by the end of the decade.

Photo by California High Speed Rail Authority A high speed rail train bolts into the station, marking a critical artery of future transportation for those traveling the length of the Golden State.

“That sounds risky, but I’m down for it.”

-Isaac Phillips ’24

City Lights Bookstore turns page on 70 years

Photo by The Crusader A poster in the window of City Lights Bookstore celebrates its 70th year.

By Chris Dilag ’25

City Lights Bookstore celebrates its 70th anniversary of serving as a destination for literary enrichment and diversity for book lovers in San Francisco and the United States.

Founded in 1953 in the North Beach district by Peter D. Martin and Lewis Ferlinghetti, City Lights transformed the stories of authors and poets into movements that impacted people across the country.

“It is a San Francisco cultural institution that we can not live without,” said Michael Vezzali-Pascual ’88, an English instructor and House of Bolts provincial at Archbishop Riordan.

For its 70th anniversary, the bookstore held poetry readings over the summer. During the fall and winter, they will host historical talks live in Kerouac Alley, located right next to City Lights later this year.

City Lights holds a history

of publishing authors who wanted to revolutionize literature in the United States.

Among these authors was Allen Ginsberg who wrote the poem Howl. Since its publishing in 1956, Howl has sold more than 1.2 million copies across the United States.

Howl was one of the earliest publishings of City Lights and Lewis Ferlinghetti, garnering controversy for claims that it contained obscene subjects.

Ferlinghetti and the store manager at the time, Shigeyoshi Murao, were both convicted of publishing and selling the work.

The municipal court held a trial for these charges and Ferlinghetti and Murao were both dismissed but above all, Howl was declared not obscene by the backing of the First Amendment.

This paved the way for the future of literature across the United States and a new exposure to unfiltered and raw pieces of work being published.

“I am grateful for works like these that pushed the boundaries and set a precedent for people who wanted to read and write about previously unheard-of topics,” said Archbishop Riordan student Emilio Rocha ’25.

Vezzali-Pascual first found out about City Lights just after he

discovered a newfound interest in poetry during his senior year at Archbishop Riordan.

“It was my senior English teacher at Riordan, Mr. Swanson, who introduced me to poetry.

From there I learned about the Beat Poets published by City Lights,” he said.

As 2023 celebrates the 70-year anniversary of City Lights, it remains a staple for San Franciscan book lovers and provides a spotlight for evolving generations of writers.

“When I joined City Lights in 1971 and started working with Lawrence (Ferlinghetti), it was clear that it had been very much a center of protest, for people with revolutionary ideas and people who wanted to change society.”

-Nancy Peters, former City Lights Employee

10

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Technology

11

Autonomous autos drive up safety debate

By Catherine Hansen ’25 and Brayden Mulqueen ’25

Just a few years ago, the average person would be shocked by the sight of a driverless car rolling down the street. Today, in San Francisco, self-driving cars are scattered on almost every street.

Many of these new ultramodern advancements raise the question: Are people willing to put their lives in the hands of an autonomous driver?

Autonomous driving technology works through a computer located inside the car, utilizing sensors, radars and numerous cameras to navigate.

These cars use active data, extensive 3D visuals, and a precise custom map of the city to anticipate its surroundings and properly respond to other motorists.

Caitlin Dowd ’25, supporter of Waymo and consistent user of alternative company Cruise, explained that “buses can be unreliable and I am not allowed to Uber because my parents are worried about strangers driving me.”

Driverless cars can be efficient and safe for students

like Dowd, and they can also assist the elderly and disabled.

Self-driving cars give people who do not have the luxury of driving increased mobility and the independence to travel alone.

The cars are also powered by 100 percent renewable energy.

Despite these advantages, self-driving cars are unpopular in San Francisco. The technology behind Waymo can be susceptible to malfunctions, detractors claim.

According to news reports, on May 21 a Waymo auto hit and killed a dog.

On Aug. 14, Cruise was blamed for a death when an ambulance was unable to reach a hospital in time because two of their driverless cars reportedly Photo by Nick Nye ’25 blocked traffic.

On Oct. 2, a woman A Waymo vehicle travels on Ocean Avenue near SF City College. was struck by a human driver, projecting her into the path of a Cruise and trapping her under the car.

Brandon Ramsey, who teaches auto mechanics and moderates the Riordan Auto Club, said there With these controversies in of preempting many human errors can be benefits, but “I still find mind, people are asking whether that wreak havoc on roads. it hard to trust a machine with the positives of this technology As the Waymo website puts it, something I can do well myself. outweigh the negatives. As people “autonomous driving technology Plus I love driving, still to me one of the most free and fun things have been harmed by these robo- . . . never gets drunk, tired, or cars, driverless systems are capable distracted.” you can do.”

Banking apps prove both innovative, problematic

By Arman Mander ’25

In a world that is an increasingly digital age, where convenience and ease of access remains supreme, PayPal, Vemmo, and even more thirdparty banking apps have become an integral part of people’s everyday lives worldwide, especially students who do not have credit cards yet.

JahKeenan WilliamsChoa ’24 called the apps “very useful, (and a) way to get money very easily. Some are very vulnerable but it’s just the risk you take.”

These platforms have revolutionized the way people manage finances, transactions, and sending and receiving money in just a few taps on a screen.

However, as these finance giant platforms expand their influence and reach, that leaves one question: who is responsible for regulating this? And should customers trust digital finance with control over their lives?

Math teacher Brian Davis, MBA Graduate and former Hedge Fund Manager, noted that Online Banking and Investing without a doubt revolutionizes the world in many ways, allowing access to it in different ways.

Davis said, “Back then the only way to interact with economics was to be on Wall Street.”

In regards to privacy, he noted that privacy everywhere has changed and people shouldn’t blindly download the apps, but instead be smart as scams aren’t new.

Photo by Naomi Lin ’24

Cash apps like PayPal and Venmo are convenient for students, but they can be risky if users are not cautious and vigilant.

“They provide money volatility, they provide groundbreaking opportunities to connect people around the world. This goes further as in the future security will be better but so will the hackers.”

-Brian Davis, Math teacher and former Hedge Fund Manager

The rise of Paypal, Venmo, and other banking apps have without a doubt transformed the way people manage money, simplifying transactions all over the world. However, as the world of digital commerce and banking continues to ascend to greater heights, the problems grow in parallel.

From privacy breaches to security vulnerabilities, regulatory challenges and federal reserve banking policies, these platforms have to navigate challenges. Users are advised to remain vigilant and informed about the many risks of these tools.

The story of Paypal, Venmo, and other third party banking apps is far from over as they tackle problems head on, being a pivotal role in shaping the future of how customers interact with money.

“They provide money volatility, they provide groundbreaking opportunities to connect people around the world.

This goes further as in the future security will be better but so will the hackers,” Davis said.

He added, “We have to be safe and be smart – police yourself, change your password, frequently.” As users, it’s essential to remain vigilant and informed about the many risks of these tools as it is crucial to balance the future of finance and ensure financial well-being.

12 Arts & Entertainment

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

Foo Fighters declare ‘But Here We Are’ with new album

By Kai Murguz ’25

In their first studio album since the death of their drummer, Taylor Hawkins, the Foo Fighters have released a new album called But Here We Are. They are not the only band that had to go on without a member. AC/DC, Alice in Chains, and Sublime all had to find a musician to fill the spot after losing a bandmate.

This is their 11th studio album and a follow-up to Medicine at Midnight, their 10th studio album.

Shortly after its release, Josh Freesh was announced as the new drummer of the band and has been touring with them since.

Freesh is a former Guns n’ Roses member and used to perform live with bands such as Weezer, Nine Inch Nails, and Sublime With Rome.

But Here We Are has been in the works since 2021 but came to a halt after Hawkins’

death in 2022. It was released on June 2. On the inner sleeve of the album, it states that this album is dedicated to Hawkins and the frontman’s late mother.

In “Show Me How,” a song on the album specifically attributed to Dave Ghrol’s late mother, Violet Grohl, Ghrol’s daughter, sings a duet with him.

The frontman said at Outside Lands in San Francisco on Aug. 12, “On our new record, there is a song when she and I duet together. And we wrote it for my mother, her grandmother. So this is something very special for the two of us.”

On their overall production, Rain Doherty-Albright ’25 stated, “They’re not afraid to make music different from the typical rock sound. They dip a little into each rock subcategory.”

According to Spotify’s statistics, the top three songs from the new album are “Rescued,” ranking 55th most popular out of

Art by Kai Murguz ’25 The Foo Fighters released a new album, But Here We Are, earlier this year.

all of Foo Fighters songs; “Under You,” which is 71st; and “Show Me How,” ranked 102nd.

Ashley Villing ’25 commented, “My favorite song on the new album would probably be ‘Under You’ since the instruments

blend so well together.”

She added, “Foo Fighters always do a good job of captivating their audience and I’m glad that they’re still putting out creative work despite the loss of their drummer, Taylor Hawkins.”

Joy Luck Club sequel revisits groundbreaking film

By Isabelle Huang ’27

The Joy Luck Club is in the works to have a sequel 30 years after the film’s release.

Written by Amy Tan, this novel, published in 1989, followed by the film three years later, captured the hearts of many - highlighting the lives, relationships, and struggles of four pairs of Chinese immigrant mothers and their Americanraised daughters.

Amy Tan’s revolutionary work was a rare and accurate cultural representation of Chinese Americans at the time, also serving as a window for others to understand Asian Americans.

Despite the novel mainly focusing on the Chinese

Photo by Wikimedia Commons

immigration experience, it still weaved in various universal themes for people from different cultural backgrounds to relate

many can to.

Meghan Williams, Riordan English teacher, stated the novel explores parent and child themes,

Hip Hop history hits 50

“especially the difference between generations and trying to achieve the American dream, which is something we all try to do every day.”

According to Deadline’s exclusive report, the original cast is in negotiation to play their roles, but now as the grandmothers and mothers in their family.

This introduces rising issues between each pair and the generational differences that come with the new generations.

As fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of the sequel to The Joy Luck Club, it is evident that Amy Tan’s groundbreaking narrative has left an impactful mark on society and generational culture for years to come.

By Aliana Urdaneta-Rodas ’25 The world phenomenon of Hip Hop celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

Filling up some of the biggest stages in history, it has influenced business, politics, culture, and fashion. But like most stories, Hip Hop had its humble beginnings.

Before artists like Biggie or the Beastie Boys, the Bronx welcomed a Jamaican immigrant, Clive Campbell, better known as DJ Kool Herc, who discovered a unique sound that would change music history forever.

Rap also influenced female rappers like MC Sha Rock, Roxanne Shante, MC Lyte, and Queen Latifah who spoke freely in their music. These women created a space for women to speak

on issues that affected them.

Society’s beauty standards and expectations for women didn’t stop outspoken women like Missy Elliot, Lil Kim, and Da Brat from embracing their bodies and womanhood in a creative sense.

Rapper Ice-T introduced a concept known as “Gangster Rap” in California. Ice-T spoke on the “hustle” side of Hip Hop with songs like “6 in the Morning,” which introduced a way of speaking of harsh topics in a laid back tone.

This is when groups like N.W.A took over America with their controversial image.

Freshman counselor and music artist David Canales said, “The Bay has always been this all inclusive place. We’re not perfect, but as far as subcultures that aren’t comfortable or safe in other

Photo by Noel Marquez ’25 Albums like J. Cole’s Off-Season and Tyler, the Creator’s Call Me if You Get Lost represent a new era of hip hop, which celebrates its 50th year.

places, come to the Bay Area and feel safer and more comfortable.”

With songs like “The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground, Bay Area rappers would create a character that would entertain people.

This allowed for literary

poet Tupac Shakur to impact Hip Hop history.

Canales added, “Pac came and he touched everything, and it’s hard for me to talk about a better artist, which doesn’t always mean better rapper, but Pac was an artist.”

October 2023

Arts & Entertainment 13

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Disney celebrates century of magic

By Katelyn Leong ’25

Oh boy! The Walt Disney Company is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. To commemorate the biggest event in Disney history, the “Walt Disney 100 Years of Wonder” celebration is bringing all sorts of new magic to fans.

On Oct. 19, 1923, brothers Walt and Roy Disney established “The Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio.” For years now, the Disney Company has told countless classic stories and created timeless, magical memories.

“For most people, Disney Photo by Sean Reyes ’25 just has this magic that brings The platinum Mickey Mouse statue stands in the center of Main Street with people together. It’s not really the inscription quoting Walt Disney himself: “...it was all started by a mouse.” something that you can explain, but something that you feel,” said Marina Viray ’24. She added, “It songs. A special lighting design celebration decor. Disney100 has impacted my life so much for Spaceship Earth with a new photo backdrops, banners, and because it’s something I can rendition of “When You Wish more decorate the entrances of all always have fun with and look Upon a Star” is also showing. four parks plus Disney Springs. forward to.”

The new attraction The D100 sign and As part of the D100 Moana’s Journey of Water will platinum Mickey Mouse sculpture celebration, a new nighttime be coming to EPCOT. Florida’s are located in the middle of the spectacular, “Luminous The Soarin’ Around the World park, and the actual Mickey and Symphony of Us”, will debut attraction has been transformed Minnie are also sporting their at EPCOT on Dec. 5, featuring into Soarin’ Over California, as of celebratory platinum outfits. fireworks, fountains, lasers, Sept. 22, for a limited time only.

Disney100 celebratory lighting, and an original song in The parks are completely foods and drinks include the addition to some classic Disney decked out in their D100 Disney100 Petite Cake — layered

vanilla chiffon, berry mousse and berry compote, topped with a Disney 100 Medallion macaron — which was briefly offered at Amorette’s Patisserie located in Disney Springs. EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival also offers four new marketplaces in honor of the 100th anniversary.

There is also new Disney100 merchandise available throughout Walt Disney World Resort. The Emporium at Magic Kingdom and World of Disney at Disney Springs offers the largest selection. New Disney100 refillable cups can also be found at the resort hotels, as well as both the Disney100 Cinderella and purple Mickey Balloon premium popcorn buckets at all four theme parks and Disney Springs.

The new entertainment, attractions, decor, food, and merchandise are only the beginning of the big 100th anniversary celebration. Disney’s got more magic in store for fans!

Looking back on these 100 years of wonder, remember that Walt Disney once said, “I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.”

Swifties swiftly score spots for Eras Tour film

By AJ Datoc ’27 and Katelyn Leong ’25

Taylor Swift’s recordbreaking Eras Tour hit theaters on Oct. 13 in North America.

The 33-year-old artist made the announcement on her social media, posting a trailer for the concert film.

According to Variety Magazine, Swift posted, “The Eras Tour has been the most meaningful, electric experience of my life so far and I’m overjoyed to tell you that it’ll be coming to the big screen soon,” alongside the trailer.

She added, “Starting Oct. 13th you’ll be able to experience the concert film in theaters in North America! [..] Eras attire, friendship bracelets, singing and dancing encouraged… 1, 2, 3 LGB!!!! (iykyk).”

AMC Theatres said that the film will play at every one of its U.S. locations at least four times a day on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; it will also play on Cinemark and Regal screens in the U.S. The film’s running time is listed on the AMC ticketing site as 2 hours and 45 minutes, slightly shorter than the estimated 3 hours and 15 minutes set length in her live concerts.

Although not all fans were

able to attend the Eras concert, this concert film will allow all Swifties to experience the Eras Tour in a new, exciting way.

“I feel it’s going to be a great experience even on screen because of the fans. The fact that they make bracelets, how generous and sweet and caring they are. We genuinely just want to be there to sing the songs together. It’s really cool,” said wellness counselor and longtime Swiftie Pia Crosby.

She added, “So, to bring it onto the screen in the movie theater where people can enjoy the same thing, and it’s accessible to everyone, and still dress up and exchange bracelets, I think it’s going to be a wonderful experience.”

After Swift introduced her surprise Eras Tour Concert Film on Aug. 31, countless tickets were snatched by Swifties by the first week, surpassing major Marvel and DC titles.

Sidney Hansen ’27 remarked, “I went to the Eras Tour in Los Angeles, California on Aug. 8. It was a very life-changing experience and I really loved going to the concert.” Hansen added, “She has a unique sense of genres for songs.”

The Eras Tour begins with two openers, takes fans through 10 eras in 44 songs from a few

Photo by Katelyn Leong ’25 Breaking records and packing theaters, Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour Film came to the big screen on Oct. 13, and will be showing for 13 weeks.

different albums, and includes her show two additional surprise songs from different albums, and includes two additional surprise songs each night she performs.

Walking 2 miles and performing for over 3 hours, her show was so creative and innovative that Variety Magazine called it “a once in a lifetime phenomenon.”

Swift gave $500,000 to each of her dancers, truck merchandise vendors, supervisors, backup singers, band, and maintenance

crew for being a part of the tour.

Fiona Mulderig ’25 explained, “Taylor Swift really has a song for every genre and every situation. [...] The lyricism and care in her albums is really tangible, but a lot of people have only ever heard her radio hits.”

Although this tour will only be on the big screen for a month, it is still undoubtedly one of the most monumental events in modern entertainment history and will forever alter Swifites’ lives.

14

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Religion

15

SF Archdiocese files for bankruptcy

By Angela Jia ’25

On Aug. 21, the San Francisco Archdiocese filed for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to the more than 500 lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse against church officials, many of which date back decades.

A Chapter 11 bankruptcy prevents any further lawsuits from survivors, but it allows the Archdiocese to develop a settlement plan with current plaintiffs to provide compensation for the sexual abuse.

In a press release by the San Francisco Archdiocese, Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone said, “It is the best way to bring much-needed resolution to survivors while allowing the Archdiocese to continue its sacred mission to the faithful and those in need.”

The avalanche of lawsuits was made possible by The California Child Victims Act, passed in 2019, which allowed victims who were abused even decades ago to file lawsuits as long as they were filed before Dec. 31, 2022.

In 2003, California passed a similar law that also extended the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse. The San Francisco Archdiocese has since paid more than $70 million in settlements to child sexual abuse survivors.

Haley Hang ’25, who takes Life Issues with religious

victims 40 or more years to come forward about their abuse.

Furthermore, children typically don’t have the means or ability to take legal action against their abusers.

Thus, the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests warn against claiming that Catholic child sexual abuse is “in the past,” because of how long it takes for survivors to come forward.

San Francisco parishes, schools, cemeteries, and other organizations related to the SF Archdiocese are not implicated in the filing.

Instructor David Lorentz, who teaches Life Issues at Riordan, said, “[They] are individual businesses that are still in good shape, financially.”

Therefore, the jobs of faculty at Riordan and the other

Photo by The Crusader archdiocesan schools will not be The Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption is the “mother church of the impacted.

Archdiocese of San Francisco,” according to the SF Archdiocese website.

The San Francisco studies teacher Joe Frias, said, address allegations of past or Archdiocese is the third California “This is crazy, but I’m glad that current sexual abuse by clergy, archdiocese to file for bankruptcy this is a way for people to get religious or other people who work due to child sexual abuse lawsuits, justice.” or volunteer for the Archdiocese.” joining the Diocese of Oakland The San Francisco Most of the claims filed and Santa Rosa. The Diocese of Archdiocese has not publicly were from cases stemming from 30 San Diego is expected to follow released a list of accused abusers, years ago involving priests. This suit later this year. despite requests from survivors. decades-long “lag” in reporting Lorentz said, “The However, according to is to be expected, according to lawsuits continue to be a sad the SF Archdiocese website, psychologists. blemish on our church and on our “The Office of Child and Youth According to a fact sheet society…. Let’s continue to pray Protection at the Archdiocese of on delayed disclosure released by for those who are suffering from San Francisco was established to Child USA in 2020, it can take this abuse.”

Marianist Choir harmonizes with USF musicians

Photo by Alex Datoc ’87 The Marianist Choir performed at the USF Mass of the Holy Spirit this year.

By Naomi Lin ’24

On Aug. 29, Riordan’s Campus Ministry Groups– LIFE Team, CORE Team, and Marianist Choir–were invited to be a part of the University of San Francisco’s Mass of the Holy

Spirit, where the Marianist Choir joined the USF Liturgical Singers and musicians.

According to the USF Director of University Ministry, Dr. Angélica Quiñónez, this opportunity arose because, “We

have hosted a Riordan retreat in our space and we wanted to further strengthen our collaboration and partnership here in the city.”

She added, “We are blessed to have Mrs. Flaviani [Riordan Choir Director and USF Campus Minister for Liturgy and Music] on our staff at University Ministry at USF and I personally know of her great work at Riordan with the choir.”

Flaviani played a key role in this collaboration, conducting rehearsals with both the USF singers, whom she allowed to select some of the music, and the Marianist Choir.

She praised the Marianist Choir for their swift mastery of the music and their hard work, despite the challenge of achieving full attendance, and believes that opportunities such as this give choir members an avenue to express themselves personally and emotionally.

Marina Viray ’24 affirmed,

“This experience has allowed me to grow as a singer because of my love for singing and performing.”

She added, “I’m always glad to try new things, and performing in front of college students for a mass for the first time felt really special.”

Quiñónez said, “I was impressed by their discipline and their joy in joining us at one of our main celebrations of the year.”

The presence of the Marianist Choir at the Mass, as Quiñónez observed, “helped set a really nice tone during the moment of reflection for Maui and Nicaragua.”

“Music enhances the Mass by giving another way for the congregation to express their faith. Music helps bring out another way of praising God,” said Flaviani.

She concluded: “There is a beautiful statement attributed to St. Augustine that says: ‘The one who sings prays twice’.”

16

Science

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

New age of dinosaurs roars into Cal Academy of Sciences

By Griffin Doeff ’25 The giant dinosaurs are some of the most charismatic prehistoric creatures, and currently, visitors can behold life-size recreations of these aweinspiring creatures right here in San Francisco.

Earlier this year, San Francisco’s California Academy of Sciences opened its newest exhibit, “The World’s Largest Dinosaurs” – presenting scientifically rigorous interactive exhibitions, accompanied by supporting information and data.

The exhibit is specifically about sauropods – the giant long-necked dinosaurs like Brontosaurus and Brachiosaurus.

The centerpiece of the exhibit is a 60-foot reconstruction of the sauropod dinosaur Mamenchisaurus hochuanensis, which lived in what is now China over 145 million years ago in the Jurassic period.

While massive in its own right, this dinosaur didn’t even approach the size of the largest titans.

The largest dinosaur known to date, Argentinosaurus, debuts as only a head and partial neck – likely because the behemoth simply wouldn’t fit

Review inside the exhibit.

The Argentinosaurus, unsurprisingly hailing from modern Argentina, grew to an estimated length of 110 feet, and weighed over 80 tons – over twice the mass of the full-body Mamenchisaurus on display Besides gorgeous models, the exhibition also provides plenty of informative reading on the biomechanics of these animals – how they attained and maintained such massive sizes.

Even casts of the bones themselves are on full display.

One can feel and hold the deceptive lightness of their neck vertebrae, which are filled with air sacs as to allow them to lift their colossal necks.

Also featured, and just as interesting, includes displays pertaining to Sauropod eggs, growth, vasculolory structures, and global distribution – not to forget the obligatory gift shop as well.

Indeed, not everything here is huge – of particular note is a sculpture of a sauropod nest based on a real site in Patagonia.

Said site preserved an expansive Sauropod hatchery,

Photo by Mario Perez de Leon ’24 The head and neck of the 80-ton dinosaur Argentinosaurus huinculensis is displayed mounted at the Academy of Science’s newest dinosaur exhibition.

including countless nests of giant Titanosaurs. This is complemented by a rather endearing baby sauropod– sometimes called a sauropodlet.

Overall, the new exhibit offers a robust array of information

about the size, physiology, growth, and history of the largest animals ever to walk the Earth, all presented in an engaging, digestible format – something certainly worth visiting if you have the chance.

Scientists flutter with moth wing technology for soundproofing

By Nora Lee ’27 As of July 2023, a new way to keep noisy neighbors quiet is being developed.

At the University of Bristol, Professor Marc Holderoid is leading the way in researching how a moth’s wings absorb sound – and how the same concept can be applied to creating soundproof wallpaper.

According to Professor Holderoid in DJ Mag’s article, “A Sound-Absorbing Wallpaper Inspired by a Moth’s Wings is Coming,” the wallpaper is based on a the wings of moths.

Moth wings are covered with varied scales that absorb sound 10 times more quickly than any other sound-absorbing material.

These scales come in multiple shapes and sizes, and each type of scale processes a different frequency of sound. As Art by Vee Chen ’25 sound waves come in contact with the moth, these scales absorb them and vibrate at all The composition and scaling of moth wings work to create a remarkably different types of frequencies, soundproof structure, one scientists have begun attempting to replicate. guaranteeing that no sound will be heard.

Furthermore, the wings themselves are an acoustic metamaterial – a material that to successfully create and launch yelling at students, and maybe doesn’t have normally “natural” this new soundproof wallpaper, rowdy next door neighbors won’t qualities – meaning the wings the impact would have riveting be a problem anymore. as a whole perform even better implications for interior peace Digital arts and Telecast than the scales. and quiet. teacher Viggen Rassam ’87 said Assuming researchers at Maybe students won’t hear it seems “interesting” and likely the University of Bristol are able teachers in the next classroom “has some broad applications.”

Furthermore, Riordan DJ Club member Vincent Douglas ’25 believes that better soundproofing would be beneficial, saying, “We would not be disturbed by noises outside, and we would not disturb others.”

Douglas notes that soundproofing too effectively at obscuring noise could actually be detrimental, as it could prevent potentially important words or announcements from being heard from even relatively close locations.

However, he is confident that “there are easy ways to circumvent that.”

Additionally, this technology can be the key to maintaining a peaceful environment at a cheaper cost.

Currently, most materials needed for the production of soundproof walls are expensive, stuffy, and oversized.

In contrast, the mothinspired wallpaper would be much lighter and cheaper, which would presumably allow for the technology to become more widespread and easily accessible.

With continued research and development, this sound absorbing wallpaper – which represents a remarkable leap in acoustics engineering – has the potential to foster peaceful, quiet environments not just in the classroom, but all over the world.

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Environment 17

Revitalized Environmental Club blooms into action

By Daniel Barrett ’24 and Polina Kozlenko ’24 After years of pollution, global warming, and many other environmental effects, the environmental club has finally come back to Riordan to bring real change again.

“Unlike an academic class, clubs can go off site and create impacts that a class on campus would not particularly do,” said Michael O’Brien.

The AP Environmental Science teacher also explained the importance of not only reducing the resources that can negatively affect our environment but also bringing awareness to these changes in the environment that are soon to be worse if no action is taken.

The club plans on making an impact specifically by doing beach cleanups. It will focus on the sustainability of Archbishop Riordan High School’s campus and beyond, setting a good example for others.

Nagata-Rampata ’26, the club leader, believes things like plastic waste, especially during lunch, is something worth changing.

“I want to do it for the future generations so they don’t have to deal with issues like this,” she said.

She added, “Members should also help out not just to get something out of it, but also to show they care about the environment.’

The president also elaborated on collaborating with other clubs, especially the community service club.

Participating in activities for the environment that count towards Photo by Nick Nye ’25 community service can make a Members of the Environmental Club, moderator Joe Frias, Hoorain Farooq good incentive for people to join ’25, Hazel Nagata-Rampata ’26, Polina Kozlenko ’24 and Amisha Shankar ’26 the Environmental Club.

The club has intentions invite Crusaders to join and spread awareness about the environment. to spread the message of helping One of the club’s missions She believes beach out the community not just at is to “bring education to those cleanups are important as she Riordan, but also other schools. who don’t know and make an feels a strong connection with the Fundraisers and bake sales are impact around others,” mentioned ocean, “being able to reduce waste also events to look forward to Amisha Shankar ’26, who is in makes me really happy.” for the club, as well as a social charge of the club’s social media Reducing waste is also an media page to promote it through posts. important goal of the club. Hazel Riordan and the community.

Global warming stunts child development

By Caitlin Dowd ’25

The oceans are rising, summer weather lasts longer, and the air is turning into a murky haze.

The Earth is heating up and so much change is happening.

But how is climate change affecting child development?

Out of every demographic, children are thought to be the most affected by these changes.

They are developing physically and breathing at a faster rate, meaning they have increased chances of inhaling dangerous pollutants.

Along with that, statistically, children spend more time outside. Taking all these factors into account, children, the next generation, and the future leaders of this world, are at the most risk for the effects of climate change.

Each aspect of climate change brings its own risk factors.

Increased levels of dust in the air due to droughts and smoke from wildfires increase a child’s chance of developing asthma.

The warming climate leads to a higher and longer allergy season, and almost year round, allergies for those prone to reacting to allergens such as pollen, increases.

Heat related illnesses have been on the rise as well.

Prolonged time in and moving in a warmer climate leads to quicker exhaustion, dehydration, and in extreme cases, death.

In recent years, there has been a drastic increase in heat related ER admissions. Infants

and children in homes without air conditioning are at the most risk for developing heat stroke and other heat related illnesses.

Increased flooding has introduced more disease-carrying organisms into drinking water and bodies of water where people swim or recreate in.

Children have a higher chance of developing gastrointestinal and more serious illnesses because their immune

Graphic by Naomi Lin ’24

systems are still developing.

Overall, the awareness of external consequences of climate change are well known but theories and research on how this affects children are still developing.

AP Environmental Science teacher Michael O’Brien said, “Climate change causes a shift in living conditions that may not be conducive to traditional child

rearing in a given region; it also causes psychological and physiological stress.”

Psychology teacher Jackie Grealish echoed this, saying, “Changes in climate mean changes in lifestyles.”

Grealish added, “If temperatures increase or water availability decreases, it can force people to move to new places and become environmental refugees.”

18 Features

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

45 years later, SF remembers Moscone, Milk

Photo by Nick Nye’ 25 Double Play by Mike Weiss recounts the events before, during, and after the assassinations of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk.

By Nicolo Ricci ’24

Nov. 27 marks the 45th anniversary of the historic assassinations of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk. These momentous murders were perpetrated by Dan White, a fellow Supervisor. The deaths of the mayor and supervisor sparked the “White Night Riots” in San Francisco.

White was expelled from ARHS in his junior year for violence, as reported in the book Double Play: The Hidden Passions Behind the Double

Assassination of George Moscone and Harvey Milk. He moved to Woodrow Wilson High School (now known as Phillip and Sala Burton High school) where he graduated as valedictorian.

From here, White served in the Vietnam War, became a police officer, then a firefighter, until he was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977 through his SFFD connections.

He represented district 8, which at the time, was a more conservative portion of southeast SF. Diana Assereto, ARHS Dean

of Academics, participated in a White campaign volunteer opportunity in the fifth grade.

She recalled, “I think there was a camp of firefighters, police officers and working class people that identified with him and his family.”

She added, “They were working class and came from immigrant families.”

White’s time on the board saw controversy and decisiveness. He was often in opposing beliefs with both Moscone and Milk, who had passed a gay rights ordinance in San Francisco along with prohibiting the city from antigay discrimination. In the case of the San Francisco gay rights ordinance, White was notably against the issue.

White’s new salary in office wasn’t nearly as much as he earned in his days on the force, so financial costs caused him to resign shortly after; however, he received loans to be able to remain in power.

It was nonetheless too late for him to return, as board members on the liberal leaning side, including Milk, had lobbied Moscone to finalize his resignation.

Reportedly angered at his inability to regain his seat on the Board of Supervisors, White shot and killed Moscone and Milk in their offices, and turned himself in to the police precinct where he used to work.

Board of Supervisors President Dianne Feinstein was tasked with the grim job of announcing the news to the city, and notably said, “As president of the Board of Supervisors, it’s my duty to make this announcement: Both Mayor Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk have been shot and killed.”

In the video, reporters and others who had gathered around can be heard gasping in horror.

She then added, “The suspect is Supervisor Dan White.”

White was convicted of manslaughter. After serving five years of a seven-year sentence, White returned to San Francisco and later took his life.

“I was shocked, I mean I knew the guy as a cop and the supervisor of my district; he only lived four blocks from me,” said Spanish teacher Armando Castillo in regards to Dan White.

He added, “He was the last guy I would’ve expected to do something like that.”

Vet shortages cause pet parents to pause

By Miranda Hernandez ’24

The effects of COVID are like a chronic wound; while the wound may heal, it tends to recur. After COVID hit, there was an increase in pet owners, a shortage of veterinarians in California, and animals in need of care.

The lack of veterinarians means that many animals are going without adequate care and treatment for viral infections.

In San Francisco, there are only 13 hospitals. Animal hospitals are so backed up that appointments are booked out from a week to even a month.

Ramon Hernandez, a veterinarian technician at Blue Cross Pet Hospital, stated, “As a pet owner, it is scary to think about the lack of veterinarians. The reason why it’s scary is because if there are fewer veterinarians it’ll be harder to find appointments that are sooner and faculties closer to me.”

He added, “Also, it makes me question what will happen if there’s not enough emergency facilities.”

According to The Atlantic, “Owners are being referred hundreds of miles away for an elusive open spot, and dogs with broken bones, a true emergency, waiting hours and hours to be

seen.”

This issue has not only affected the community, but also the veterinarian staff themselves.

Gabrielle Alonzo, a doctor at Blue Cross Pet Hospital, stated, “It can be really sad. We deal with a lot of sick animals, emotional people, and death. And then on top of that, we have to discuss the finances.”

Assembly Bill 1237 was introduced by the state’s two largest animal welfare organizations. This bill offers up to $150,000 in student debt relief to licensed California veterinarians that are willing to work for animal communities for at least five years.

Andrea Aguilar ’24 stated, “I think it is a fabulous idea and a great incentive to recruit upcoming veterinarians. With the crisis that we are currently experiencing with the shortage of vets, our pets are suffering the consequences.”

Many individuals believe this will occur but as for Dr. Alonzo, she sees it in a different light.

Dr. Alonzo stated, “I think it would be amazing for the government to pardon our debt to promote the veterinary field.

But, I don’t see that happening.

Yes, veterinarians end up with a

Photo by Aliana Urdaneta-Rodas ’25 The shortage of veterinarians–and increase in pet owners since the onslaught of COVID–has many pet parents and veterinarians voicing concerns.

lot of debt, but they also end up extremely financially stable.”

She added, “The government has already put into place debt repayment options to help ease the debt burden.”

“But I do think student debt contributes to the mental

health issues a lot of veterinarians face.”

Although this is a hard pill to swallow, veterinarians like Dr. Betsy Colarusso continue to say, “It’s a labor of love. When you love it, you love it, and it never goes away.”

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Features

19

MVP reminisces on life as a Crusader, 35 years later

By Normay Arriola ’24

This past May marked Michael Vezzali-Pascual’s 35th anniversary since graduating from Riordan, where he now works as a dedicated teacher.

Reflecting on the start of his career, he talked about the very memories at Riordan that helped spark his career and create lifelong memories during his time at Riordan.

“I have so many wonderful memories of my time at Riordan; probably the biggest one is the Kairos retreat; a lot of guys from my class would say that. That was a really powerful experience for a lot of us,” said Vezzali-Pascual ’88.

Kairos is a retreat in which many Riordan alumni make lifelong memories, bringing the community of students together while gaining a sense of selfdiscovery.

Vezzali-Pascual reminisced on his senior year English teacher, Mr. Swanson, who had awakened his love for story and literature, changing the course of his life.

Unfortunately, a year after he graduated, Mr. Swanson died after a long illness.

His legacy still lives on through the impact he had on his students, one of whom was Vezzali-Pascual.

“He was a really wonderful human being,” he said.

“He was my Kairos moderator, LIFE retreat moderator, and my senior English teacher. I can’t talk about Riordan without talking about Mr. Swanson. My classmates would agree that all of us who have had him as a teacher agree that we

Photo by Lance yearbook 1988 Michael Vezzali-Pascual ’88 in a Kairos picture from 35 years ago, second row, fourth from the left.

really loved him.”

He added, “I try to carry his spirit with me every day and be the best teacher I can be for you guys. So in that way, Riordan was absolutely fundamental for me and absolutely important for my career trajectory.”

Since his return to Riordan as a teacher, he’s been teaching English, and recently became House of Bolts Provincial.

Additionally, he’s proud of the literary magazine award the school received and the privilege of guiding students throughout the years.

“I can’t believe it’s been 35

years. When I think about that number, I think, ‘Man I feel like I was just there yesterday, hanging out in the cafe as a student,’ and even once in a while I get a smell in the cafeteria that reminds me what it was like 35 years ago.”

To celebrate the 35th anniversary of his graduation, Vezzali-Pascual gathered with his fellow classmates at the school’s alumni tailgate during the football game against St. Ignatius, reminiscing on their years as students at Riordan.

Since the start of VezzaliPascual’s career at Riordan, he has embodied the school values

and spirit through teaching and his willingness to help students learn and persevere through their senior year.

He concluded, “I’m proud and honored to be a part of your young lives. I think the greatest accomplishment I feel has been being here in the classroom with the students interacting every day; it’s a long, oftentimes tedious, frustrating process for students.”

He concluded, “It’s a struggle sometimes, but I feel accomplished at graduation when I see you guys proudly walk across the stage, knowing that you finished the struggle, you did what you stuck through.”

Pumpkin Spice infuses fall flavors for 20th year

By Vincy Huang ’27

Starbucks’ well-known Pumpkin Spice Latte (nicknamed PSL by social media) made its annual comeback in October, with this particular return being its 20th year anniversary.

In 2003, this seasonal drink was established as a test to see what beverages Starbucks would include in their autumn drink lineup.

Held in a survey with other popular drink flavors, such as chocolate and caramel, customers noted that pumpkin spice was different from the other flavors in that it was unique and not at all what one would expect during fall at the time.

The team behind the PSL

tested the drink in 100 stores in Washington, D.C. and Vancouver, Canada, with all stores receiving positive reviews on the drink.

The following fall, the Pumpkin Spice Latte eventually made its way to the US market, selling over 200 million units from 2003 to 2015.

The drink is still loved by many today, like Robert Weatherly, math teacher at Riordan, who remarked that, “The pumpkin spice latte tastes like Bolts’ victory, because it’s orange.”

The Starbucks pumpkin spice latte has made the pumpkin a staple in autumn festivities, featuring in soaps, candles, candy, and even meat!

Photo by Laila Briceno ’25

20 Health

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

Pregnancy mortality rates rise

By Sarah Cai ’24

Holding the position of having the highest maternal mortality rate compared to other countries, the United States is steadily increasing these national trends due to inadequate healthcare, studies show.

During the last 10 years, the birth rate in the U.S. decreased by 20 percent. In addition, the rate of maternal mortality is growing, resulting in a decline in the number of births and a rise in women losing their lives.

Biology teacher Colleen O’Rourke shared her reaction.

“I find it so overwhelmingly infuriating. Not one but two of my friends had life-threatening pregnancies, and the only reason they survived is because of access to high-quality medical care throughout their pregnancies and births.”

Although the U.S. has one of the most sophisticated healthcare systems in the world, the concern is that expectant mothers are not receiving an adequate standard of medical care. This results in babies facing the risk of premature birth and serious disability.

Each year, as many as 70,000 individuals encounter serious postpartum complications, potentially causing subsequent

fatalities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed a report from 2021 of the mortality rate of “32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared with a rate of 23.8 in 2020 and 20.1 in 2019.”

Sophia Louie ’24 stated, “We need to take action and advocate for change, or else more people will lose their lives and maternal mortality rates will worsen.”

The Department of Health and Human Services initiated a call aimed at enhancing the health outcomes for both parents and newborns. Improvements include prioritizing accessibility to healthcare professionals, investing in programs for maternal health, and educating patients on prenatal and postpartum care.

Biology teacher Jack Reardon asserted, “It all comes back to the heavily controlled studies, and the good science of professionals.

By doing repeated medical trials with new tools, methods, and medications, healthcare providers can be more and more certain of what helps patient outcomes and what hurts them.”

“Approximately 80 percent

Graphic by Talisha Flores ’24

of maternal mortality cases can be avoided through preventive measures,” according to 20172019 data from Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs), which are representatives of diverse clinical and non-clinical backgrounds

who review the circumstances around pregnancy-related deaths.

This strongly suggests a critical need for significant changes within the healthcare system, provoking urgent action to prevent further loss of life for newborns and mothers.

Aspartame controversy creates more questions

By Rhys Appleby ’24

Gum, diet sodas, sugar substitutes, cereal, sweet teas, syrup, jello, and most likely your favorite candy. What do they all have in common? They contain aspartame, a sugar substitute that is nearly 200 times sweeter than sugar.

Every year, more than 6,000 products in the U.S. from a variety of companies are distributed containing aspartame. The reason why it is so widely used and advertised as low or zero calories is that “it isn’t able to be broken down by the body, which means we don’t derive any caloric energy from it,” said Biology teacher Colleen O’Rourke.

Due to this widespread use of aspartame, both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) launched investigations into aspartame and its health effects.

The WHO launched two separate investigations into the effects of aspartame on the body and the safety of its consumption. The first group was the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), which concluded with limited evidence that aspartame was safe to the amount of 40 mg per 2.2 lb of

Photo by Nick Nye ’25

Investigations launched on the impact of aspartame on the human body and the safety of consuming it have mixed results.

“It isn’t able to be broken down by the body, which means we don’t derive any caloric energy from it.”

- Colleen O’Rourke, Biology teacher

body weight daily, while the FDA recommends a level of 50 mg per 2.2 lb of body weight daily.

The second study from the WHO by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) concluded that aspartame was a class 2b carcinogen (possibly cancer-causing), the third highest class of carcinogen. For reference, a class 1 carcinogen (cancer-causing) would be tobacco smoke and a class 2a carcinogen (probably cancer-causing) would be steroids or red meat. After the IARC released this report, American Beverage, the industry trade group, responded noting that the IARC, “is not a food safety agency.”

Surprisingly, the IARC received backlash for releasing this report.

According to NBC, another agency, the Calorie Control Council, referred to anything in opposition to the JECFA as “fear mongering” and “misleading” for those who use aspartame and other sweeteners due to diabetes or other health conditions.

Even for those who don’t have a health condition, it is “definitely something to think about,” said Luis Gomez ’24. “I’ll probably pay more attention the next time I’m buying food.”

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Sports Features

21

Quest for trophies fuels City rivalries

By Normay Arriola ’24 San Francisco’s Catholic rivalry high schools have ongoing traditions that occur every year where the football teams compete to win a trophy. Trophies are given to the schools that win these certain games such as the Bruce Mahoney Trophy, the Stanfel Cup, and the Gil Haskell Trophy.

The Bruce Mahoney Game is a yearly tradition where Sacred Heart Cathedral and St. Ignatius compete in rivalry games for five different sports.

The Bruce Mahoney trophy is awarded to whichever school wins the most sports in boys’ basketball, football, and baseball, and in a 2021 addition, girls’ volleyball and basketball.

This trophy is known for being a symbol of the SHC vs. SI rivalry.

Adeline McGoldrick ’24, who attended the Bruce Mahoney game in 2022, said, “I got to talk with many people who I haven’t seen in a while and was able to see the schools come together for a very exciting event.”

The trophy got its name from two students who graduated from each school, SI graduate Bill Bruce ’35 and Sacred Heart graduate Jerry Mahoney ’44.

Bill Bruce was a football player and student body president for SI. He was killed in an airplane crash after joining the Navy in World War II. Jerry Mahoney was a football and basketball player for SH. He joined the U.S. Naval

Reserve after he graduated and was on a merchant ship sunk by a German submarine, resulting in his death. Both lost their lives fighting for the country during the war and are honored for their service.

The Bruce Mahoney has been ongoing since 1949 and will continue for many more years, so generations of students from both schools will enjoy the tradition as their grandparents and parents did.

Another high school rivalry football game is between SHC and Archbishop Riordan where they compete for the Stanfel Cup. It also happens every year in the fall, where the winner takes home the Stanfel Cup. The Stanfel Cup got its name in honor of Nick Stanfel, who attended Riordan and played for the football team.

He coached football at Riordan and SHC before losing his life to brain cancer at the age of 27 in 1992.

His mother and sisters usually attend the annual game.

Francesca Viray ’26, a SHC student said, “I’m amazed by my school’s spirit during these games because they show a lot of support.”

Lastly, SI and Archbishop Riordan compete for the Gil Haskell Trophy. The Haskell Trophy was introduced

Photo by Andres Zamora ’26 Crusaders celebrate winning the Haskell trophy from the Wildcats.

to honor Gil Haskell, who graduated from SI in 1961. He coached at both Riordan and SI and is also known for being an NFL coach. Gil Haskell is seen as a role model for students at both SI and Riordan.

The trophies awarded to the schools that win honor the spirit and good sportsmanship of the schools, which have been going on for generations.

Riordan’s football Varsity coach Adhir Ravipati said, “These games are very important as they honor people who have represented both schools, but also are part of celebrating rivalry games with schools we have mutual respect and connections with. As a team, we aim to win these games every year and

represent the game and the people we honor in the right way.”

He added, “These men the games are named after represent an opportunity for us to honor our past, people who have connections to both schools and bind us together through the game of football. It’s important to recognize those individuals and their contributions to both schools and the game we play, but also the connection between the schools.”

As of press time, the Crusaders have the Haskell Trophy, the Wildcats lead the Irish in the quest for the Bruce Mahoney, 55–20, and SHC has the Stanfel Cup in their hands..

Riordan plays SHC on Nov. 3.

Teachers embrace Irish culture with Gaelic football

By Matteo Matteucci ’24 Originating in Ireland, Gaelic football combines elements of soccer, rugby, and basketball, creating a fast-paced and physically demanding game. At Riordan, two teachers tackle this sport head on.

Seamus Lucey, RSP teacher, has played Gaelic football since he was in middle school.

He talked about his experiences, saying, “It was electric, very intense, aggressive–and you will hear it from the fan when you mess up.”

The game is played on a rectangular field with H-shaped goals at each end. The objective of the sport is to score by kicking or punching the ball into the other team’s goal, which is 3 points, or between two upright posts above the goal and over a crossbar 2.5 meters above the ground for 1 point.

Karen McDermott, Biology teacher, is from Ireland and grew up immersed in Gaelic football her whole life. She

“It doesn’t happen all in one day–it takes time, and you should be open to advice and new changes.”

- Seamus Lucey, RSP teacher

Photo by Nick Nye ’25 Teachers Karen McDermott and Seamus Lucey both play Gaelic football.

recently moved from Ireland to California and brought her talents to the United States.

She passed on some of her insights on the game, her experiences in Gaelic football and how it is a very different sport, stating, “Because of the closeness of the community, it’s a very family based sport that I am able

to bond with my sisters.”

Lucey has taken away a lot from his experiences from Gaelic football and added, “It doesn’t happen all in one day– it takes time and you should be open to advice and new changes.”

McDermott said, “Winning is the best thing because we work hard all year

around. It has very similar skills like kicking, catching, throwing and the competitiveness is also similar, but it is different because it is a much faster sport and has unique skills that other sports don’t, like soloing the ball.”

It also embraces “the Irish culture,” McDermott said.

Although from different corners of the globe, Lucey and McDermott have had similar, unique experiences in the world of Gaelic football. Their lives have changed because of the sport and look forward to sharing it with others.

22 Sports

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

Volleyball team serves up first WCAL season

By Eva Bennett ’25

This season, for the first time, the Riordan volleyball team is playing in the WCAL, with all the new challenges and opportunities that this offers.

The 2023 fall season for Archbishop Riordan’s girl’s volleyball has brought a major change for the growing sport.

The volleyball team’s entrance into the West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) has brought new competition and teams. The volleyball players are excited to play in a more competitive setting.

During the 2022 season, Photo by Sean Reyes ’25 the girl’s volleyball team played Analee Rose ’24 digs for the ball in a game against Presentation High School. in a freelance league where they set up games with whoever was available. the development of the program history of winning who’ve created “We didn’t have a league with Coach Curtin taking cultures at their school,” Coach last year. We always just created charge in 2022, both the WCAL Curtin commented. “And so now an independent schedule,” and Riordan believed that the the biggest challenge we face is Jennifer Curtin, head volleyball volleyball team was in a position just the discipline and the depth coach commented. “We saw some to enter, and the team was added that we see from WCAL teams.” good competition but we were to the league this year.

The 2023 WCAL season playing whoever we could get.”

“Now that we’re in the consists of seven teams: Followed by the creation of WCAL, though, the biggest Archbishop Mitty High School, the girl’s volleyball program (after difference I would say is that we’re Saint Francis, Saint Ignatius, Riordan went co-ed) and the also dealing with teams that have a Sacred Heart Cathedral,

Archbishop Riordan, Valley Christian, and Presentation.

As of press time, Riordan’s current standing in the WCAL is 6th place. The volleyball team needs a rank of 500 or better in non-league matches to qualify for the playoffs, which they are currently on track for, and WCAL league wins also help with this opportunity to get to the playoffs.

With a team of 14 players, nine of which are juniors, the volleyball team has grown over the past seasons and the friendships within the team continue to help them play their best.

Elizabeth Saavedra ’24, captain of the varsity volleyball team, said, “Our main goal is to play our best and show that we’re not intimidated by all these other teams, and show that even if we’re new, we can start to compete against all these bigger teams.”

Riordan’s volleyball team continues to build on the foundation from past years, and hopes to continue to improve the quality and community of the team into the future.

Girls tennis team sets sights on future

By Hoorain Farooq ’25 Varsity team competed in their

As the 2023 Riordan Girls Tennis season comes to an end, the girls finish strong with great achievements and high aspirations for the future of the Tennis Program. Since the Riordan Girls Tennis program is still relatively new, there’s lots of developments still underway, such as qualifying for the WCAL. Co-Captain Haley Hang ’25 shared, “A long term goal for this program, not just the team, is to qualify for the WCAL. Currently, we are considered an independent school and do not belong to any particular league. I hope for us to soon compete in the same tournaments as SI, SHC, Mitty, Saint Francis, and Valley Christian.”

On Sept. 16, the Girls

first ever tournament: the Freedom tournament, where they played against Emerald High School, Pioneer High School, and Granada High School. The girls pushed through and finished strong with a 4-3 victory, placing 1st in the tournament.

Taylor Tran ’25 expressed, “It was super fun, as well as super stressful. Placing first made us feel so confident and it’s amazing to see how far the team has come.”

Over the four years of the Photo by Sean Reyes ’25 Girls Tennis program, there has Haley Hang ’25 scores against Convent of the Sacred Heart in a match. been an increasing amount of interest each year. This year, over formed an amazing bond and and ready to take on the next 30 girls tried out for the tennis have come a long way since the challenge. team, compared to the first year start of the program. Although The Riordan Girls Tennis players where only four girls tried out. there were many difficult losses, have not only set firm foundations, Despite facing adversity the girls continued to persevere but also paved a fundamental in past seasons, the girls have and advance forward, prepared pathway to a bright future.

Golfers tee off with renewed confidence, vigor

By Aliana Urdaneta-Rodas ’25

The Girls Golf team is one of the many new sports programs at Riordan High School and currently has 20 young girls on the team. The team practices at Harding Park for training, as well as on the course of Harding Fleming.

The team is a no cut sport, meaning that even players with little to no experience could learn alongside more experienced players. The season begins in early fall and ends early November.

Head girls golf coach Christie Every stated, “We are growing essentially two whole teams! We are teaching our JV ‘Birdie Girls’ team made up of

experienced ‘Ace Team’ players in beginners alongside our more hopes of ‘growing’ two golf teams: a future ARHS Girls JV Golf Team and Varsity Golf Team.”

The Ace Team has already competed in 6 out of 10 scheduled WCAL JV girls golf tournaments.

“We are extremely proud of our #1 JV Player Abby Barosso.

She has scored the lowest overall Tournament score both for our Team AND amongst the other Teams for over four matches now.

And she is just a sophomore,” said Every.

Aymberley Hamilton West ’26 expressed, “The assistant coaches have been really helpful, if you have questions you can

Photo provided by Christie Every The golf team poses after practice at Harding Park in San Francisco.

always go and ask them. Our program is really good at the moment, I think it could always improve.”

She continued by then

describing their practices, saying, “Our practices are really chill. If we ever have to step it up, we will but we all always have a good time at practice.”

October 2023

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

Sports 23

Purple Reign: The state of Riordan football

By Angelia Richardson ’24

The Riordan varsity football team started the season fiercely. At the moment, the varsity team has a 6-2 record, currently ranked in second in The West Catholic Athletic League.

Not only is the Varsity team having a great season, but they’ve also brought back a the iconic saying from the 80s: “Purple Reign.”

Adhir Ravipati, head coach of the varsity football team, is back again, and is a force to be reckoned with. He joined the Riordan community last year, bringing a whole new culture to the team, and he’s sticking to it this year.

Varsity quarterback Michael Mitchel Jr. ’26 said this season is different from last season.

“The culture has changed a lot. We’ve done a lot of work to change that culture. I feel like we can handle adversity better.”

Sophomores Cynai Thomas and Skylar Tiatia expressed their goals for the season and why it’s different.

Their goal is to win state.

Thomas said, “Win it all, win state and put up a banner at Riordan.”

Tiatia explained why he thinks this year is different.

“A new team, different players, underclassmen who came in, seniors who left. I think we built a lot of chemistry throughout the off season.”

In addition, Chris Lawson ’25 discussed his mentality and how he overcomes losses.

“I think my mentality for this season is to get better week by week and take it slow with my team. We come back from a loss, we watch film as a team, Coach points out our mistakes, then we take it to practice and improve on it.”

Early on, the Crusaders have made good on their word, breaking two records and tying one.

Mitchell broke the WCAL record for touchdowns (6), which was previously held by two Crusader quarterbacks. Mitchell also broke the record for most

Photo by Julia Yamsuan ’25 Chris Lawson ’25 makes a spectacular deflection against the S.I. Wildcats at Mayer Family Field. The Crusaders won 41-34 to regain the Haskell Trophy.

completions thrown in one game (28).

Isitolo Tuuganysy ’27 tied the WCAL record for points scored in a game (30) and total

touchdowns (5) in one game.

This season, the football team will continue to glisten with purple rain as they strive to become state champions.

Cross Country takes charge of competition

By Vincent Douglas ’25

On Oct. 7, Riordan’s Cross Country Team competed at the Serra Crystal Springs Invitational. The team came in seventh place out of 20 teams, earning this place by their continuous efforts and training over the summer.

The team’s practices and meets have been recorded and uploaded by Coach Benny Willers ’08 onto Instagram under the title “Fast Times at Riordan High.”

These videos depict the team as they grow and work together.

Colton Wang ’25 explained that these videos show how the team really works and they tell the truth in their narrations.

“The hardest thing about running is when I wake up and I’m like, ‘Why do I even run?’” Wang said in the first episode. “It’s been my single minded passion for a few years.”

The team is known around campus for being one of the Photos by Armando Castillo hardest-working groups in the school.

Gianluca Carboni ’24, Colm Grieb ’24, Brendan Grogan ’26, and Nico Navarro They were introduced as ’24 hold pace at the Ram Invitational at Westmoor High School in Daly City. such at the Homecoming Rally in August, in which they won a game of tug-of-war against players on “We want to try and qualify for the state meet, the football team.

The team continued their which we’ve done several years now, and if we place practice over the summer, working in the top ten in State, that would be most days of the week. Varsity another goal for our team.” runner William Parker ’24 said, “Over the summer we had practice six days a week and even a - Brian Kosewic ’16

four-day mountain retreat in August.

“Our team put in tremendous effort, with some of us totaling well over 500 cumulative miles, even near 800 for our varsity team.”

Some players have other roadblocks that they have to navigate through, like Dominic Thompson ’26 who is currently recovering from an injury.

“My goal for the season is to compete and do well, which at the moment is hard because I’m recovering from injury.”

Coach Brian Kosewic ’16 has high hopes for the this year’s season.

“What I’m really excited about this year is that I think that all of the athletes that we have on our Varsity team are really thinking about competing and succeeding together as a team,” he explained.

He hopes for the team of seven to move up from the West Catholic Athletic League, which is an organization of nine Catholic schools in the Bay Area, and win the Central Coast Section, which includes “most of the public and private schools from San Francisco down to San José,” as Kosewic explained.

The team is going to aim for the top and qualify for the state meet, which they’ve done for many years.

24 Food Reviews

The Crusader Archbishop Riordan High School

October 2023

IKEA furnishes delectable dishes Review and Photo by Julien Untalan ’24

IKEA’s Swedish Meatballs in a cup, adorned with a flag of Sweden.

Review and Photo by Jake Beeman ’24 and Nicolo Ricci ’24

The newly opened IKEA in downtown San Francisco on Market Street has made quite the popular impression. From all over the city, people make a pilgrimage to gawk at the novelty of the store, purchase furniture, or simply to buy food from the store’s world famous cafeteria.

Nearly as fast as we had ordered it, our food was ready: a plate of meatballs, garlic bread, and a small bowl of “plant balls” (an imitation of meatballs using a meat substitute).

The plantballs were, visually, a very convincing imitation, nearly indiscernible from meatballs without close inspection.

This positive resemblance, however, extended only so far as the eye could

Although IKEA is mainly known for its affordable, “easyto-assemble” furniture, and its gargantuan shop floors, the world’s largest furniture retailer boasts an impressive selection of food at every one of its stores.

Although there’s other foods, like salmon fillets, Caesar salads, or chocolate cake, one dish stands out above the rest in terms of renown and reputation: IKEA’s Swedish Meatballs.

Accompanied by a sea of green peas and a mountain of mashed potatoes flowing with lingonberry sauce and gravy as well, the meatball meal gives an impressive amount of “bang” for your “buck.”

As I bit into the flagship meatball, staked by a miniature Swedish flag as if it were the pride of Sweden itself, I was pulled into a world gone past.

A wave of nostalgia rushed me as I tasted the familiar taste of a formerly frozen medley of spices, beef, and pork, just like the Kids Cuisine and Hungry-Man frozen dinners I’ve

Swedish Meatballs

devoured before. In other words, these meatballs tasted like home.

Aside from tasting sweet nostalgia, my taste buds were enveloped in flavors of mellow savoriness and rich meatiness, thanks to the beautiful duo of gravy and meatball.

It was as if I was eating the personification of the word “meat.” However, that’s not to say that it was disappointing.

The meal tasted as it was portrayed, a mish-mash of food matter poured into a cardboard box. It was merely a homely hodgepodge of filling food, unremarkable in taste or presentation, yet, I was satisfied with it.

IKEA’s Swedish Meatballs didn’t live up to its celebrity status, but it evoked a tasteful image of childhood paired with a savory sense of sentimentality.

If you ever find yourself hungry and/or homesick, I encourage you to visit your local IKEA and devour some meatballs, a true hidden gem masked in a labyrinth of affordable furniture.

Plantballs perceive. Upon taking a bite one is greeted with a texture of mildly unpleasant mush, and without the cohesiveness of meat.

Beyond this is the taste– not in itself unpleasant–being for the most part that of gravy, it lacks any intrinsic flavor.

The resemblance in taste of the plantballs to home goods aside, our meal was quite enjoyable.

The mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce made for a pleasant addition, and garlic toast was easily worth the investment of eighty cents.

A trip to downtown’s new Ikea is highly recommendable, even if for food alone, though we do highly recommend avoiding the choice of “plant balls” to the best of one’s ability.

A “plantball” being doused in gravy before its consumption.

Review and Photo by Julian Serrano ’24

Chicken Tenders and French fries flanked by BBQ sauce and ketchup.

IKEA, known for its furniture, also boasts Swedish culinary delicacies for those willing to make the trek. I made that journey and ate the chicken tenders.

Since I had the option, I chose to sit with my immense meal in front of a big glass window that stared out at the world and the night beyond.

After dabbing my food in ketchup and barbecue sauce, I ate with care; after only a few bites my hands and jaw moved without intention, resolute on eating the meal and wholly addicted to the

Chicken Tenders flavors. It was plain, that is true, but although lacking variety it stayed true to the monotone colors it held.

It was a hard meal to get mad at, for it was simple, and it worked. To say that because it was bland that it was, therefore, boring, would be a blunder.

It was an exciting meal, one that filled me up quickly and left me clawing for more, still craving the insatiable sensation after it was over. So simple is chicken and fries, yet after the day is settled what’s better than a good ordinary meal done well?