Reclaiming the Trophy: Volume 2, Issue 3

Reclaiming The Trophy

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 3

PHOTO BY: YUNQIANG CHEN

FRIDAY, NOV. 22, 2024

ARTICLE ON PAGE 16

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News

Festival of the Arts Preview by misa uchiyama

From sculpture electives to award-winning films, students work hard all year during and after school, and look for ways to share their success in art.. Luckily they have a place to do so in the form of the Festival of the Arts (FOTA), which is an annual event that takes place on an early Saturday evening in December.

Performances, presentations and the community light up the chilly atmosphere. This event often becomes the opportunity for community members to appreciate the arts students work on.

Every year, the art gallery will be filled with artworks from the elective art classes at CCA. They will be open all night long to be freely enjoyed. The gallery is coupled with artworks that can be directly bought - such as winter postcards or Christmas ornaments - to provide a glimpse of what artists are working on throughout the year.The Instrumental Conservatory will have corner performances by smaller ensembles in the music building next to the art display. Band and orchestra students will most likely play holiday themed music, such as the classic “Sleigh the Ride,” which will contribute to the wintery atmosphere.

The Humanities Conservatory will have multiple booths showcasing the many projects that they are involved in,

and they will have interactive elements that highlight some of the things they have learned. There will also be opportunities for community members to directly assist students with their research through surveys or questions.

Cinema Conservatory is busy traveling and working on projects throughout the year. Historically, they have showcased their Narrative Projects - shortcuts that will be presented as a montage. The conservatory’s past successes and the best moments in Canyon Crest’s school broadcast, CCA TV, will also be showcased alongside past films.

Theatre Conservatory around FOTA season has just finished their fall shows - “Midtown” and “Xanadu”. In the past years, Theatre has showcased “Gorilla Theater”, a type of performance that is assorted and entertaining for the audience and allows for freedom and spontaneity for the performers.

Vocal Conservatory will most likely be performing the long awaited “Ceremony of Carols,” by Benjamin Britten that is performed annually. Other smaller performances throughout the night will allow community members to interact with Vocal students numerous times.

Dance Conservatory and the dance program are busy with shows during the fall and winter season. This year,

photo credit: benjamin sartwell

Dance Conservatory is hard at work during the November month with the “Apocalypse” show. This is quickly followed by another CCA Dance show, “In Vision”. In the past, Dance has performed small pieces and extensions of their shows such as their Narrative Show.

This annual event welcoming community members, parents and students is coming up. Check out this event for an eventful night!

FOTA Facts: When: December 7th Where: Lower quad Who: All students and parents are welcome.

Mass Food Recalls Across the United States by bahar motarjemi

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The list of foods recalled in the US seems to grow day by day, as risks of serious sickness prompt customers to throw away products from their pantries and fridges. In 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, most commonly known as the FDA, recalled over 20 foods found in grocery stores in the United States for risk of contamination for foodborne illnesses. The recalled foods have been linked to several cases of salmonella, listeria, and other severe health effects.

Certain brands of eggs, frozen waffles, dairy products, meats and poultry, and more are being linked to these illnesses and are causing multiple people across the country to become sick.

One brand in particular, Boar’s Head, is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, after certain deli meats have impacted tens of people across 19 states. Popular fast food chain McDonald’s is under scrutiny as well, after the onions found in items such as the Quarter Pounder have led to more than 40 cases of E.coli, and the unfortunate death of one consumer.

The FDA commonly recognizes foods that pose health risks for the general population, however, there is still a wide deal of concern for foods that have failed to label certain ingredients, like allergens. For example, Aunt Millie’s Bakehouse products, which consist mostly of packaged bread, have been found to contain sesame. It has been noted by many researchers that over a million children

and adults in the US may have a current sesame allergy, making even the smallest traces of sesame potentially devastating. To name another, International Delight, best known for their wide variety of coffee creamers, has been another culprit of mislabeling, as their Home Alone International Delight Peppermint Mocha Zero Sugar has been found to contain a full amount of sugar.

Although it may seem like this recent wave of contaminated foods points to a larger culprit, many experts say that the timing is likely coincidental and instead demonstrates the heightened safety precautions of the food industry. The CDC has commented

on the recent recalls, stating that 2024 has not seen unusually high recall rates contrary to some public opinion. The amount of recalls this year are seen as a regular amount in comparison with previous years. What might have changed, however, is the fast response of companies and producers when aware of contamination, and the understanding of the gravity of the situation.

There is also a greater responsibility for manufacturers to notify consumers of said contamination. This is not to say, however, that these companies do not understand the devastating effects of these recalls nor dismiss their responsibility in this matter. Due to

photo credit: hispanolistic on getty images

photo credit: shepard on getty images

the finding of health violations, Boar’s Head has closed their food manufacturing plant in Virginia, as well as discontinuing certain products permanently.

The FDA is on constant alert for contamination in foods, with investigations consistently being run by their CORE Response Teams. There is a variance of difficulty for finding the source of outbreaks of food-caused contamination and illnesses, which explains why investigative cases have different degrees of completion. The moment that they are informed about suspected outbreaks, investigators look for similarities in what has been consumed by the affected people. As this may take a long or short amount of time to complete, it is logical that the FDA website lists some illnesses as Not Yet Identified. Amidst the numerous food recalls seen in the news, grocery shopping can feel like a precarious situation as it seems there are new findings every day. The best thing we can do to help with these recalls is to stay informed about food-related illnesses and the possible sources of these illnesses, through the use of online resources such as the USDA and FDA websites.

The Election: Results and the Aftermath

BY LILAH DANIELS

After weeks of debilitating stress and anticipation, the election has finally passed. For the weeks leading up to this historic day, many Americans have been obsessively checking polls, tuning into election news, and anxiously awaiting the results of possibly the most important election of our time. The race between former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris was extremely close throughout the campaigning season. People in both parties have come out in droves to support their candidate, causing this election to be one of the most divisive in modern American history. However, after slow, painful weeks of exhausting anxiety, the American people chose to elect Trump, who won both the Electoral College and the popular vote.

While Election Day is when the most excitement happens, it was reported that more than 78 million ballots were cast early. According to the Associative Press, two-thirds of voters voted before the actual day (Nov 5). Early and mailin ballots have become increasingly popular, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic devastated the country. The trend continued this year, indicating that diverse voting methods will continue to be prominent during future election seasons.Election Day itself started in a typical fashion, with many states in the South, like Florida, being called for former President Trump, and a few northern states, including Massachusetts and Vermont, giving theirelectoral votes to Vice President Harris.

Americans mainly had their eyes on the crucial swing states, the ones that truly decide the outcome. These states, which include Pennsylvania, Geor

“The following morning, it was announced that once again Trump would take the White House and become the 47th President of the United States.” gia, and North Carolina, are where the candidates aim the majority of their efforts. The first swing state to be called was North Carolina for Trump, and the rest of the swing states followed that trend throughout the night. By the end of the night, it was clear that Trump was going to prevail in the swing states (he won all of them). The presidential polls, which have varied in reliability over the years, were quite accurate this time around. The most recent polls showed that Trump had the lead in a majority of the most important swing states and predicted that one candidate was going to win all of them. However, there were still many of the polls that stated Harris would be the winner of the election, which did not come to pass.

One of the most interesting polls during the final days of the campaign was the Iowa poll conducted by respected pollsterJ. Ann Selzer. This poll showed Har

ris ahead by three points. This newfound development excited many Democrats, but it turned out to be false. Iowa went to Trump with 55.9 percent of the votes, which was 13.2 points ahead of Harris, who won only 42.7 percent of the vote. In the past, the polls have underestimated Trump’s appeal, so many have tried to remedy that this year. However, many polls still undervalued Trump’s support.

It is no secret that our country is extremely divided right now. There are going to be many who are thrilled about the results and feel like they are taking the country back. There are also going to be those who feel that democracy itself is at risk. If the election went your way, I sincerely hope that the country shapes up the way you want it to. I hope that things get better for you and that life gets less difficult. If you didn’t get your way in the election, this is not the end. Regardless of the outcome,

regardless if your party won or lost, every American needs to ensure that we continue to stand for democracy, liberty, and equality for everyone.

“This is our democracy in action. No matter who wins or loses, we need to keep it going.”

In a world that is forever changing, we need to stand as the United States of America and not focus on what divides us. While these issues may be polarizing, we are more alike than we are different.

We are all striving for a better future.

PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES

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Opinion

It Is Time For a Woman President

By Ava Daniels

It has been no secret that, for years, politics has been dominated by men. Every country has had at least one male leader in their history while, according to Britannica, only a third of them have had a female president. However, as election season in the US has concluded, it is time we are reminded that this is the age for a change. It is time for the world to elect female presidents.

Before focusing on the future, it is important to mention the women who have already shattered these seemingly unbreakable glass ceilings.

The first woman to ever become president was Isabel Perón of Argentina.

While she wasn’t democratically elected, the historic title is forever woven into the legacy she left behind. The role of the first female president that was ever democratically elected, however, goes to Vigdís Finnbogadóttir of Iceland, who served as the fourth president of her country. These two women paved the way for other females to ascend to the highest office in their lands. In fact, each continent has had at least one female president in their history. These women include Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia (Africa), Corazon Aquino of the Philippines (Asia), Finnbogadóttir (Europe), Hilda Heine of the Marshall Islands (Ocea-

nia), Perón (South America), and Ertha Pascal-Trouillot of Haiti (North America). Each of these women have made history in their nation and continent by breaking into the male dominated role of president. It is also important to mention that there are currently 16 female presidents in office and that number will only continue to grow.

Why is it the time for a wom an president? First of all, women are

PhoTo Credit: Getty Images

the table. After all, history repeats itself constantly, and it wouldn’t be surprising to learn that it occurs because of the gender gap in leadership. Could a woman leader finally turn the page on this seemingly endless chapter and write new patterns? It is very possible that we will find out as more women are elected. While the unknown can be scary, imagine what might be waiting for us on the other side? Third of all,

Art Credit: abby Chou

gaining rights and opportunities that they have never had before. These new freedoms are opening doors for them to exercise their right to run for office.

This right allows for them to finally have the chance to bridge the seemingly insurmountable gap between male and female heads of states. Secondly, it is time for a change. Men have had the chance to lead their countries since the dawn of organized government and their citizens have a very good idea of what they can bring to

it has been found in data that women make better world leaders than men do. US News conducted a survey of more than 17,000 people in 36 countries and it revealed that 70% of people believe that countries led by women tend to be managed better. There is also evidence and research done (specifically by the likes of Julie Ballington, a policy advisor for UN Women) that countries led by women are more likely to have better social and economic conditions. These are eye-open-

As sea levels rise, waves reach further inland and erode the seaward part of the beach before depositing the sediment higher up, moving the beach backwards naturally through a process called coastal retreat. For every one vertical foot of sea rise, on average, this

However, as it always does, money becomes an issue. The beachfront homeowners don’t want to sell their beloved multi-million dollar properties, and seawalls are much cheaper to build than trying to buy out all the homeowners. In Del Mar alone, it would

Seas and Seawalls

ing statistics that demonstrate the importance of giving women a chance when it comes to leading a country.

Not to mention the strides that women have been making in their elections this year. 2024 has seen many women elected into the powerful office of president. This year, six women have been elected to their nation’s highest office including Claudia Shienbaum of Mexico. Not to mention Kamala Harris, who didn’t win her election bid but came close to becoming America’s first female president. These momentous elections make it clear that the tide may be finally turning and we will begin to see more women in politics. Hopefully, the number of female leaders will continue to grow throughout the decade. It is the time for women to become president, now more than ever. In this time, as more women ascend to the presidency, it is important to remember that the present will never be able to make up for the heart-wrenching exclusions that women have had to face in the past.

At the same time, the trend hopefully marks a bright spot in humanity where finally there will be equal opportunities for women to make their voices heard in politics. While America has yet to elect a woman president, it is only a matter of time before we do.

By Finn taggart

Our sandy beaches are under attack from a shadowy threat maliciously charading as their protector: seawalls. Despite the common misconception that they guard beach environments, seawalls are actually built to protect the property behind them, and significantly contribute to beach erosion. In fact, seawalls are one of the reasons that Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Oceanside are currently spending tens of millions of dollars on temporary beach nourishment programs, in which sand is dredged up, transported and placed on the beach.

ization project, with an unfortunate price tag of just under 50 million dollars.

Beach nourishment projects aren’t sustainable. A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment by USC estimates that erosion rates will triple by 2050, consequently leading to triple the amount of sand needed. The cost of climate change isn’t linear, and will only get more and more expensive as time goes on. Right now, instead of adapting to climate change, we are just maintaining the status quo, and run the risk of eventually losing our beaches. To that I ask you this: what is a beach town with no beach? Just a town?

“Despite the common miscon“The cost of cliception that they mate change isn’t guard beach enlinear, and will vironments, sea- PhoTo Credit: Getty Images only get more and equates to 100 horizontal feet inland. cost hundreds of millions of dollars. walls are actually Seawalls expensive block high tides, slowing Instead, North County cities more the depositing process and dis- are relying on beach nourishment probuilt to protect the down rupting this balance, eventually leading grams. According to a recent Scripps as time goes on.” erosion of the beach. study, this is only a temporary solution, property behind to the complete According to the California and not fully understood. In 2001, 138 Commission and Surfrider Olympic-sized swimming pools worth them, and signifi- Coastal Foundation, the recommended solu- of sand were placed on Torrey Pines to maintain our sandy beaches is beach, only to be washed away in one cantly contribute tion to push for managed retreat: demol- storm. However, the 2012 Solana Beach ishing walls and properties, allowing Sand Nourishment Project fared better, to beach erosion.” the beach to move upwards naturally. only recently needing another revital4

Festive Favs or Fails: Starbucks Holiday Review

By Arthi Chandra with special guests Sophia Mullin and Theresa Booth

When people think about the holidays, certain things always come to mind. First, you have the warm, delicious smells of sugar and gingerbread cookies baking in the oven. Then, your nose picks up the scent of pine from the Christmas tree and the crackling of a fire, with hints of peppermint from candy canes wafting through the room.

Even outside, while walking through stores, that iconic Christmas candle scent fills the aisles of new holiday goodies. However, there’s one thing that truly defines the holiday season in America: the release of the Starbucks Holiday Menu. From classics like the Peppermint Mocha to new items like the Iced Cranmerry refresher, coffee lovers adore indulging in these delicious holiday staples. Does feeding into these stereotypes make us gluttonous? Let’s find out as we explore this year’s menu. Will the classics still reign supreme, or is it time for a new nostalgic drink to take the crown?

Here are some brutally honest ratings of the new Starbucks drink lineup (excluding the Gingerbread Chai which was unavailable during our review).

Number one on the chopping

spiced apple cider mixed with a cranberry juice cocktail. However, as a refresher connoisseur, I am slightly biased. Fortunately, Sophia and Theresa both agreed, saying it was “pretty good”. Overall, it was a delicious drink, but we all thought the cranberry seeds were a little unnecessary. 7.5/10 Second on the list was the classic Peppermint Mocha. Often thought of as the most nostalgic drink on the menu, we put it to the test. We unanimously agreed it was one of the best of the lineup this year, despite some prior comments about it tasting like toothpaste—which, frankly, seems like a bizarre take. If anyone thinks this candy cane-inspired delight resembles toothpaste, I suggest finding a new toothpaste brand. Moving on from that controversial take, we agreed that although it is a top-tier, true classic, it was lacking the coffee flavor. If you are someone who enjoys tasting coffee with their holiday drinks, this one might not be the one for you as it tastes almost the same as the non-caffeinated peppermint hot chocolate counterpart.

8.5/10 Third, we tried the Cranmerry Orange Refresher’s not so distant

PhoTo Credit: Arthi Chandra

block, was the Cranmerry Orange Refresher. Starting off, we were a little caught off guard by the release of an iced cold drink advertised as a holiday special. Although we’re lucky to live in a place with mild winter weather, it still gets chilly, and I truly believe that iced drinks don’t give off nostalgic holiday vibes. Luckily, this drink proved me wrong! It checked all the boxes for sweetness and taste, with a flavor profile reminiscent of a

cousin, the Cranmerry drink. At first glance, we were quite disgusted by the visuals. Despite the drink on Starbucks’ website looking very pale and smooth, we were appalled to see a curdled mess of the pink juice base and white coconut milk sitting in front of us. We held out hope, but the drink tasted just as bad as it looked, with an unpleasant milky aftertaste and a lack of cranberry flavor. I felt like it gave “tart cranberry yogurt gone

PhoTo Credit: Arthi Chandra

wrong energy.” However, Sophia did inform me that I was being “dramatic”. Overall, we agreed that it wasn’t worth the price, and it is better to buy the refresher or lemonade by itself.

However, if you enjoy other coconut milk refreshers, it might appeal to you, but for us, it was a hard pass. 5/10 Fourth up was the Caramel Brulée Latte. Despite the name not

on the Starbucks website, so this is our honest review on that. 3/10 Last but not least on our Starbucks holiday menu review, we had the Chestnut Praline Latte. When you hear the name of this latte, you picture yourself by the fire with all of your loved ones as you roast chest nuts together. The warm fire flickers as smiles beam throughout the room and

feeling very holiday-like, the drink was surprisingly solid. I felt like it gave “holiday candle, Christmas store vibes” with the smell and even the taste. Out of all of the items on the holiday menu, this one had the strongest coffee flavor . My friends disagreed about the candle vibe, but admitted it was a good drink overall, with the only 5 drawback being the sweetness. One sip felt like a sugar rush, though the coffee notes still came through. 7/10 Next, we tried the Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte. As someone who is chronically online, I have been seeing this drink all over my feed. One thing I have noticed is the amount of influencers OBSESSED with this coffee. It sure was something, and I don’t mean that in a good way. I beg of you please do not listen to any of those influencers and waste your money on this abomination.

The taste was awful with an overwhelming sweetness, strange crunch from the soggy sprinkles, and rancid chemical aftertaste. I’ve seen people say it reminds them of eating their mom’s sugar cookies, but if that’s the case, in the most respectful way possible, I’ll pass on their mom’s baking. Overall, I do think that this drink could potentially taste better hot, however iced is how it was advertised

you look at your family with joy and happiness . However, I got the opposite feeling when I tasted this drink.

There was no chestnut or praline nuttiness or coffee flavor—just a taste that could best be described as “milk.”

My friends did have to disagree with me, saying that it just tastes like a basic coffee, nothing special, nothing awful. So, to take their opinions into consideration, we considered this a pretty mediocre/average drink. 4.5/10

“One thing...truly defines the holiday season in America: the release of the Starbucks Holiday Menu.”

Whatever way you choose to get into your festive feels, whether it is by binging Christmas movies all through Thanksgiving break, or setting up decorations, we hope this review helps you save a few dollars before your Christmas shopping begins!

PhoTo Credit: Arthi Chandra

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Ask Away CCA

By Aria Khaitan and Hayden Chang

Dear Hayden and Aria, Help me. I’ve thought this girl was cute since sophomore year, but I thought I fumbled, so I decided the ship had sailed. I didn’t think about it for a while, but this year, we’ve reconnected, and I am in crisis! We’ve hung out a good amount and I definitely have a fat crush on her, but I have no idea how she feels. Fellas, is it gay to listen to Chappell Roan?

HELP ME! Sincerely, Tweaking Make a move. Nonchalant people don’t get into relationships, and you will never know how she really feels until you try. You can also pay attention to the little things to try and gauge how she feels. For example, if she makes an effort to stay close to you, if she asks you questions about your life, or laughs at your jokes a lot.

Spend more time with her and put in the effort to get closer. If you think your feelings for her are getting stronger, and you are ready to put yourself out there, tell her how you feel! You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take!

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There is this guy that I think I like that recently added me on snap. Him and I have been talking on Snap for the past two months, but I’ve never seen him in person and obviously never been on a date with him. I really want to hang out with him but im too scared to ask. What do I do?

I recently found out that my partner and I have different political views, and now I feel like it is putting a strain on our relationship and, while I still really like him, I do not know what to do because things feel different.

other. On the other hand, if the political differences bleed into differences in values, and you feel that you guys have different views on important topics (like human rights or deeply personal issues), you should probably break up. Even though it hurts, it might be best to consider ending it for the sake of your morals and personal beliefs.

Have a question for us ?

Fill out this QR Code PhoTo Credit: Canva

Get off Snapchat. Prioritize getting his number to make the relationship more than just a quick-add. Afterward, you can start thinking about asking him on a date. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy; getting lunch or going to the mall is perfectly fine. Especially because you’ve never seen him in person, it’s important to get to know him outside of Snap before considering an actual relationship with him.

Also, before you take things to the next level, how tall is he?

PhoTo Credit: Canva

We can definitely understand how much this sucks and, in this polarizing political climate, differences in political views can drive people away from each other in certain situations. However, it is important to understand on what level you deviate from one another. If you feel that your differences are baseline and not about issues that are very pertinent to your relationship, and you really like your partner, it might be best for the relationship to just agree to disagree. Some of these issues are superfluous, and if you really care about him, it is important to prioritize each

PhoTo Credit: Canva

Feature

November Club Spotlight

BY BEN DU

As one of CCA’s newest and fastest growing clubs, the Mediterranean Club is a space for all students to connect with the diverse culture of the region. President Zeynep Istanbulluoglu says, “The Mediterranean region has a rich cultural heritage, spanning countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Turkey and many others. [...] By creating a Mediterranean Club, we aim to celebrate and promote awareness of the diverse cultures and customs within Canyon Crest Academy.” Some of their events include do-it-yourself mask painting, card games, and collaborations with CCA’s Thinking Club.

Mediterranean Club welcomes everyone to join in on their Friday meetings in B105–and there just might be some Baklava or Turkish Delights involved.

photo Credit: Zeynep Istanbulluoglu

Sustainable Initiatives Club is a group of dedicated and environmentally conscious students working to make an impact both in and around

several USA Math Olympiad or USA Junior Olympiad award recipients.

Now, the team is preparing to host the CCA Math Bonanza, their annual math competition which will take place in the spring. If you’re interested in challenging yourself and delving past the math curriculum offered at CCA, you are welcome to attend one of their meetings during lunch at E101 on Tuesdays or contact the team at mathteam.cca@ gmail.com. Make sure to arrive early, however, as meetings are often packed

photo Credit: Daanish Ali Khan Zai

CCA. President Brian Guo describes the club as “a non-profit that identifies and addresses gaps in climate action within our community. Through targeted research and collaborative projects with organizations, individuals, businesses, and government, we aim for real change that is impactful, long-term, and beneficial for a healthier planet.” Some of the club’s achievements include educating 1000+ businesses about California’s food waste laws, as well as partnering with 100 of them to donate or compost their excess food. They have also partnered with a farm to install water-saving technology. In total, their efforts have prevented 47.1 million glasses of water and 264,094 lbs of food from being wasted.

Each week, tasks regarding outreach, new projects, and planning are delegated to club members; these tasks are then compiled together for the club’s numerous projects. Although highly organized and accomplished, the club is flexible and your time commitment can be as little as 10 minutes per week.

Feel free to drop into C205 on Tuesdays at lunch or visit their website at canyoncrestsustainableinitiatives.org!

CCA’s Math Team is one of our most popular clubs and boasts a prestigious history. Just last week, dozens of students competed in the American Mathematics Competition (AMC) 10 and 12. Their recent achievements include placing 9th at the Berkeley Math Tournament, as well as being home to

.

photo Credit: Ryan Bai

If you’re interested in seeing your club spotlighted, email ben.du@ccaasb.

Community Day Overview

BY Jadyn Hecht

Community Day, an event organized by the PALs class, is a reflection of CCA’s commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. This year’s event was no exception, offering all attendees a unique opportunity to learn and grow together.

The annual Freshman and Sophomore Day was on November 5th this year.

“By sharing personal experiences and perspectives, students and staff were able to develop a deeper understanding of inclusion and diversity.”

The PALs welcomed students into the dance room with excitement and positive energy. They proceeded to play games, do ice-breakers, and later, participants were split into smaller

groups. Sydney Applbaum, a first-year PAL, recalls that her “highlights were definitely getting to know my group and playing the mini-games.” With the preconceived notion that students will be less open-minded to participate in discussions and activities with their friends, the groups are randomized.

“Cross the Line definitely left me moved,” Applbaum reflects. Every year, the PALs organize an activity called Cross the Line: a social-emotional activity that helps people recognize similarities, embrace individuality, and celebrate differences. Participants stand in a line facing one another as a PAL reads out an experience, and the students are asked to “cross the line” if they have lived through it. The topics start out easy, but they gradually get more intense. It gives students the time to acknowledge any traumatic or emotion-evoking experiences in a safe space. By sharing personal experiences and perspectives, students and staff were able to develop a deeper understanding of inclusion and diversity.

If you couldn’t tell, Community Day is all about creating a non judgemental space. Through honest conversations, participants were able to learn about strategies for coping with stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. It’s important to break down the stigma surrounding mental health.

photo Credit: Alyssa Cesca

“Participants were able to learn about strategies for coping with stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.”

Community Day empowers students and staff to seek help and support when needed. The PALs are inte gral to what makes CCA such a wholesome and welcoming community.

If you’re a freshman or sophomore, unfortunately, the next Community Day for you isn’t until next year.

The Junior and Senior days, however, will take place in the spring! Follow the PALs Instagram (@ccapals) for updates about sign-ups as information comes out in the future. “Everyone should go to community day,” Applbaum enthused, “It’s a great way to meet new people and make friends!”

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Coffee Chats: Mr. Min Edition

BY ZOE TRUONG AND SAGE PARK

espresso with oat milk, three pumps of brown sugar, and no cinnamon.”

What is your MBTI? “I’m an ISFJ…My “F” is around 85%.

I’m a feeler. My “I” is around 55%.”

What is a song that you have been listening to recently? “‘APT’ by Rosé and Bruno Mars.”

art CREDIT: SAGE PARK

Sometimes perfection takes two attempts to achieve. Although our microphone failed us in our first interview and we were racing for time within the constraints of lunch break, we were still able to capture the candid nature of our conversation with Mr. Min. Here’s to our third edition of Coffee Chats!

This time around, there is a bit of a spin – a new perspective. It’s not just the coffee order that’s unique, it’s the more personal direction of the conversation.

Recently, at the beginning of the school year’s second quarter, Mr. Min returned from paternity leave. Congrats to him on the birth of his daughter and the beginning of parenthood! In our sit-down, we touched on fatherhood, family, new revelations about life, his taste in entertainment, and his role as a math teacher.

How do you drink your coffee?

“A grande brown sugar shaken

What have you been watching recently?

“So as an introvert…it’s all about how you spend your time to recover…

For me…K dramas are …something that [I] always watch…with my wife to just kind of like de-stress…Lately, [we’ve been watching] Queen of Tears…We are anticipating, though, actually, more upcoming K dramas…[like] Squid Game season 2.”

What is it like being a new father?

“My life just kind of changed…I [can]…pinpoint my life in just basically two parts…One part is everything before I had [my] beautiful daughter, and one part is everything after she happened…I have a different sense of purpose in my life, [a] little bit more of a responsibility. But at the end of the day, I think I just really love [seeing] my daughter daily. She’s smiling at me, finally. …I cannot describe [it] in a perfect way, but just being a father means [that I now] have some-

body who’s looking up to me and smiling at me every day…It really changes how you start the day. It really changes your perspective [on] life.”

Do you talk to your baby in Korean or English?

“We’re bilingual…We’ve researched about…how to teach our baby to be bilingual. So right now, we are kind of in a phase where we’re only talking to her in Korean, but then…we kind of talk in English. Here [and] there, [we speak in] Konglish...but to [the] baby, we’re only speaking to her in Korean right now to build her…language…

We’re thinking about [later on]...doing [a structure with the] two languages… where my wife [will speak] English to her, and I will [speak] to her in Korean.”

How do you like to unwind?

“We’re definitely kind of in a period of adjustment…but I sometimes need some time to take a deep breath and just rest…The problem is…when [I’m at] home, [the] baby [is] crying, [the] baby [needs] something, and [my] wife asking [me] to do stuff. I don’t really have [a] so-called “man cave” at home right now. So what I decided to do is make my toilet closet my man cave. So whenever I need to utilize [the] toilet, I kind of give myself [an] extra 10 to 15 more minutes going scrolling down the reels and looking at all [the] news.

Yeah, and my wife sometimes yells at

me for staying for too long, but that is my time to really unwind myself and give myself…[a] little bit of break.”

What made you decide to teach math in the first place?

“My undergrad majors are not math…I majored in history, political science, and education…But, I [when] got into…teaching fellowship…in the Bronx, New York, I was assigned to teach math to middle school students…I really found love with how with math. I think I can be very specific with standards, use those to kind of pull out data, and …adjust lessons more fluidly…I can pull small groups and do a bunch of different interventions, which is something I really love doing. [The experience] got me really…into loving math – teaching math.”

Check out the full podcast with Mr. Min by scanning the QR code below!

New CCA Teachers

By Isabella Posel

PHOTO CREDIT: Isabella posel

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PHOTO CREDIT: sean floyd

The Irony of Black Friday

BY Sierra Huang

The idea of Thanksgiving is pretty self-explanatory: it’s a holiday dedicated to appreciating the things and people around us. Ironically enough, Black Friday is the following day. Merely hours after sharing a slice of pecan pie with relatives we haven’t seen in months, we’re lined up outside our local retailers to fight for the best bargains on a new TV. In the past few years, our desire to purchase unnecessary items has skyrocketed. In 2023 alone, American shoppers spent $9.8 billion on Black Friday according to Adobe Analytics. This doesn’t even account for the whopping $12.4 billion spent during Cyber Monday–an extension of Black Friday to the e-commerce world.

“Our focus on satisfying ourselves amid a capitalist market has led us to a perpetual disatisfaction with what we own” Yet, who can blame us for falling victim to consumerist culture? Our hearts

are obviously going to beat that much faster at the sight of 50% off the game controller we’ve been eyeing or a buyone-get-one deal at our favorite athleisure store. Despite these reduced prices, many shoppers may find that their Black Friday cart totals are inexplicably higher during this time.

When goods are heavily discounted, customers are prone to a phenomenon known as the “perceived value effect.” Retailers often place discounted prices right next to the original price, portraying the illusion of a great deal and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This can lead us to buy more than we could ever want, a cycle that continues even after the holiday shopping season ends. On top of that, our FOMO (fear of missing out) compels us to act quickly on “limited-time offers” and make impulsive purchases. We feel good knowing that we’re buying things on sale, not that we wanted those things in the first place.

However, the costs of Black Friday are seen in more than just our bank accounts. Our planet is suffering too. The surge in online purchases means an increase in plastic packaging.

Much of this is improperly recycled, ending up in oceans or landfills. What’s more, the manufacturing of highly demanded products like tech gadgets leads to a greater carbon footprint. Increased shopping means more production, discarded waste, and fossil fuel emissions.

The root of each one of these

Art Credit: Tanner Copeland

must rebuild our connections with each other and the environment to conquer the system whose priority is profit.

For this Black Friday season, I’ve compiled several questions I’ll ask myself before every pur chase. You are encouraged to use this list, or even make your own: “What do I gain from buying this, and what gap is being filled in my life?”

How long will I use this item? “Do I already have a version of this item?”

“How long will this product keep me happy/satisfied?” “Is this purchase favorable for my bank account?”

Our behaviors are a response to a system which is pushing us away from genuine fulfillment. Retail corporations are changing not only our shopping patterns but also our existence. So, as you are adding items to your shopping cart this Thanksgiving season, I urge you to consider what’s driving those decisions. Perhaps, we can all think a little more about what we’re participating in.

issues is overconsumption. Americans no longer eat to live, rather they live to eat. While we can do as much as we can to curb the impacts by making supply chains green and shopping sustainable, the reality is that we all need to be purchasing much, much less.

To make a genuine difference in our spending habits, we must first identify the emotional reasoning behind our desires. If we recognize that we buy because of the subsequent “shopper’s high” we get, it may be easier to take a step away from consumerism. Our focus on satisfying ourselves amid a capitalist market has led us to a perpetual dissatisfaction with what we own. We

“We must first identify the emotional reasoning behind our desires.”

one piece of advice he got from his mom, who specifically advised him to go to a college and walk around the campus to get its feel. He advises cur rent CCA students to also follow this same advice and to truly “just sit [at a college] and picture yourself there.”

Students can follow this advice by sit ting on a bench or in the library of their prospective college, as the feeling of a school is often one of the most important aspects. Siegel wrote his Common App essay about a time when he showed dedication: going back to junior lifeguard camp after not be coming a counselor the first time. This grit ultimately earned him a lifeguard internship the following summer. He talked about how this experience led him to prioritize the importance of

doing the “grunt work” and how it im pacted his attitude in high school and college lacrosse. It also played a key role in his decision to attend Chapman University, as he felt that the lacrosse players there were putting the sport first, and were truly dedicated to it.

College application season has been a very different journey for our past CCA alumni than for the current class of 2025. However, a common trend from talking to all these incredible teachers is that while college applications are important, enjoying your senior year and living in the moment is just as important, if not more. Seniors, next time you’re struggling with college applications and feeling as if they are never-ending, remember that there is another side.

CCA Alumni and Teachers College Apps Advice

BY Sadie Fischer

College application (college app) season is kicking into high gear, now that the first early application deadlines are behind us and the UCs and CSUs are due by the end of the month. The last few College App seasons have been eventful: the FAFSA fiasco, a huge decrease in acceptances due to delayed admittance, virtual tours rather than in-person, and more.

These are just a few examples of how the recent seasons have gone, and they often lead us to wonder how past CCA students’ college applications from five or more years ago went. Fortunately, many CCA student alumni now work at the school and are able to answer all of our burning questions.

Ms. Summer is a student teacher and 2018 alumnus who went to George Washington University. She describes her college app experience as intense: applying to 22 colleges, taking multiple APs, stage managing CCA’s “Into the Woods” production, and holding a job. In total, she wrote 21 supplemental essays. Her Common App essay focused on her relationship with her dad, and throughout the editing process she relied on Hamilton College Counseling as an important resource.

Overall, her advice for current seniors is to “take a breath, do something fun” and “whatever happens, will end up happening.” She emphasized that there is nothing you can do once the applications are submitted, so it is better to enjoy life than to worry about something that is now out of your control.

Mrs. Melkonian is an alumnus of the first class of CCA seniors. She

described the experience as weird as she had no past seniors or older siblings to rely on. This led her to feel a bit overwhelmed at times. That being said, she described the experience as less stressful compared to today. She feels this was due to the changes in college applications over the past 16 years, and how in the beginning the general focus of CCA students was more on arts and less on academics. She applied to UCs and CSUs for undergraduate (meaning no letters of recommendation) but for her master’s, she got a letter from Mr. Stiven. Her experience at CCA also directly impacted her chosen major, as Stiven’s AP European History class led to her decision to study European History at UC Irvine. Melkonian said that while she did not go to UC Irvine with other CCA alum, there were three students in the surrounding area whom she kept in touch with; two were attending Ottis College (an arts school) and one was attending Cal State Fullerton. She ended up being a roommate with her Cal State Fullerton friend and is still in contact with her to this day.

Melkonian hopes that college applications become less stressful and that community college becomes less stigmatized. Her advice for students currently writing applications is “don’t procrastinate” and to “be yourself.”

Mr. Siegel is a class of 2012 alumnus. He remembers the college application process as a stressful time but less so than Junior year, due to the excitement of the applications leading to an “end goal” of college.

Picturing himself at the schools was

photo Credit: Sadie Fischer

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Ways To Show Gratitude BY: KATHERINE PFEIZER Teenagers often overlook gratitude, and I do not blame them. There is so much stress about school, grades, college, and extracurriculars, that it is easy to take everything for granted.

Yet, displaying gratitude allows you to be aware of the present time, whether it is by acknowledging parents, friends, or even teachers. So, as Thanksgiving approaches, even if you do not celebrate the holiday personally, this is the perfect time to reflect on the actions of the people around you, thank them, and send that message. Showing gratitude is extremely important because the brain is wired to focus on negative experiences, which can reduce mental well-being. Showing gratitude, on the other hand, allows you to approach life with a more positive mindset, and realize that there are important people who care about you! So in this article, I will go over different ways to show gratitude towards the people around you.

Often the first instinct of gratitude is gift-giving, and this extends from material items to just a simple note. For gifting anything material, it is important that you give something that the recipient wants and will enjoy.

For example, my mother enjoys taking care of plants, so I will occasionally go to Trader Joe’s to buy some flowers for her. I often do this because the method of gift-giving shows a token of appreciation for all the sacrifices she has made for me. Because of that, giving does not need to be expensive, like a plant or flower can cost only up to ten dollars, or simply just gift food such as a sweet treat for your friends!

Another common method for gift giving is sending notes! Sending notes is the easiest way to express your gratitude because all you have to do is go to Rite Aid or Trader Joe’s, buy a note, write something sweet, and give it to someone you love. Just be aware that you should provide a written note; for example, you shouldn’t buy something that says “Happy birthday” on the front when it is not even near the person’s birthday! All in all, showing gratitude is simple, and giving gifts is an instant, easy way to show that you are grateful for the reciprocant!

Another way to show appreciation is to make something yourself! Being able to DIY (do it yourself) something for someone is often more personalized, and budget-friendly, and shows that you took tremendous effort and consideration. You can gain so much from crafting a note, creating art, and listing your appreciation! People can think that showing gratitude is kinda “cringy” just because of how out of the blue it is, but they undermine how much it shows your love. There is nothing awkward about telling someone you are thankful for them, and sometimes people regret not showing enough gratitude after being at a distance from someone else. Simply using construction power, decorating a note,

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“It may feel strange to tell someone all this upfront, but a statement like that can make a person’s day and ART CREDIT: ANGELA WU even stick with and writing something heartfelt is more will have more time to spend with than enough to show appreciation, and your family and friends which is perthem for the rest the other person will value it so much. fect for showing others that you are Another example of creating thankful to have them in your life. It something is like making paper flow- may feel strange to tell someone all of their life. Or ers which brings away the hassle of a this upfront, but a statement like that you can flower dying or having the person have can make a person’s day and even stick even to water daily to bloom. Through this, with them for the rest of their life. Or the person will be able to have a beau- even you can just hangout with your just hangout with tiful bouquet of flowers that is not only friends or family and offer to buy lunch handmade but also permanent as it will or just a simple sweet treat like ice your friends or not wilt down like a regular flower! cream! Taking time to be with the ones There are many different tutorials on you appreciate will not only make you family and offer YouTube, TikTok, or even Instagram feel better but create everlasting memreels that show how to create flowers ories, you can set up a day of having a buy lunch...” with paper, cardstop, or parchment! picnic at a beautiful park or even doing to simple activities! One example that I with my friends was setting up a “Showing grati- did homework, studying, or even college picnic, assigning which snacks each applications, but just taking a day off us would bring, and then doing that tude, on the oth- ofpainting to help your parents speaks volumes! trend where you rotate a canAnother method of an act vas to the other person after ten minof service is taking a helping hand er hand, allows utes. Doing something like this shows for your friend, especially if they are a sense of togetherness and joy, and stressed.

You can studying sesyou to approach you do not need to directly say that you sions with a friendoffer or even help with are thankful because quality time often a schedule over the workload. life with a more makes up for it. Like being able to do creating As the Pacific Highlands Ranch Lisomething together is enough to show brary opened you can easily call in to you enjoy that person’s time and positive mindset, that create a reservation for a study room, love being with them! So, as fall break invite some friends, and create a study take the time to hang out and realize that approaches, day! This way, you can show your with the ones you love because there friends that you deeply care about them is no harm in spending a few days off there are import- to do so. Even though it will seem and spend valuable time to ease their stress, and even make studying enjoydifficult especially if you are a senior Acts of service do not have to be ant people who and the stress of college applications, able! a grand gesture, they can just be realI urge you to take a break! There is such as simply buying coffee care about you!” nothing better than being all togeth- lyforsmall, your friend to get an extra dose of And if you are not the most crafty person you can simply just paint on a canvas, and the painting does not even have to be perfect or entirely professional because people will still have a laugh and enjoy the painting even if there are imperfections, which often adds to the effort you are showing! So, through all of this, showing gratitude through creating something will often take more time than buying something, yet is just another way and even often more budget friendly!

An additional way to show gratitude is just quality time! Spending time with the ones you love most is a huge way to show you care. As fall break approaches, you

er with your family and friends and sticking on a specific date to hang out!

There are even more ways to show gratitude, which extends to acts of service!

Giving a helping hand to someone you love is such an influential way to show that you appreciate this person and that you want to ease their stresses or workload. Think about small actions such as helping with chores for your parents, which can include deep cleaning, vacuuming the house, or even cooking! With cooking something there is so much you can do such as create a delicious dinner and let your parents relax with a day off of cooking, or create a dessert such as brownies or cookies! The sacrifices a parent commits are often overlooked because high school students have so much to deal with, like school,

caffeine to focus on studying while making sure that your friend is taking care of their mental health alongside that. This method is especially appreciated because an act of service shows the receiver that you will take your own time to give them a helping hand, which will often make their entire day.

With all said, do not underestimate showing gratitude! As Thanksgiving approaches this is a perfect time to show your appreciation for other people; this article can assist you with the numerous ways you can do so. I hope you take this advice, and have a wonderful, relaxing break! So take advantage of this opportunity, reflect on life in its present moment, and take time to thank the ones who are a part of your life.

Global Gatherings of Gratitute BY: CARRIE KRUMMEN Thanksgiving in the United States is not the only holiday that highlights gratitude! Here are five other celebrations of thankfulness around the globe, occurring throughout the year, that demonstrate the importance of appreciating culture, crops, and community.

Erntedankfest - Germany, Austria, Switzerland

Erntedankfest is a festival that celebrates the autumn harvest in the Central European countries of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The date varies between countries: in Switzerland, Erntedankfest is typically celebrated in mid-September; in Austria, it is celebrated in late September or early October; and in Germany, it falls on the first Sunday of October. Communities gather to relax and rejoice after months of hard work. In observance of the holiday’s Catholic and Protestant roots, the “Fest” begins with a religious service in the morning. Later, a parade takes place, and a traditional “harvest crown” woven from grain is presented to a community-selected “harvest queen.” Folk music, baked goods, and displays of local skills and craftsmanship set the stage for a lively country fair. As evening falls, a procession of lanterns, torches, and fireworks illuminates the night sky.

One aspect of Erntedankfest may seem familiar to those who celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States: the turkey! After learning about the turkey tradition from North America, some regions in Central Europe incorporated it into their Erntedankfest menu. Although many locations prefer the customary goose, turkey has become a welcome addition to the celebration. In the spirit of giving, uneaten food is distributed to people in need.

when an Asogli hunter discovered a yam on a hunting trip. To preserve it, he buried the yam before continuing his excursion. When he returned, he found that the yam had germinated and grown larger. This discovery led to the vibrant yearly celebration, which includes traditional music, dance, storytelling, and a grand durbar, where local chiefs and community leaders gather in ceremonial attire to honor their heritage.

interactive element to the festivities!

Pongal - India

Pongal is a four-day celebration in India that extends gratitude to the sun, Mother Nature, and farm animals for a bountiful harvest.

It begins on Jan. 14 or 15, and each of the four days has distinct traditions and values. On the first day, Bhogi Pongal, homes are

ART CREDIT: ESTHER VILLEGAS

“Traditions include reuniting with family and Mid-Autumn Festival - China friends over dinThe Mid-Autumn Festival, “ C o m m u n i t i e s also known as the Harvest Moon Fes- ner, praying for tival, is a Chinese holiday celebrating annual harvest. The festival takes gather to relax the place on the 15th day of the eighth fortune and lonof the Chinese lunar calendar, and rejoice af- month which falls between mid-September gevity, and appreearly October, when the moon is at ter months of and its brightest and fullest. Traditions in- ciating the moon reuniting with family and friends hard work.” clude over dinner, praying for fortune and in all its longevity, and appreciating the moon Festival of the Yams - Ghana in all its elegance. Mooncakes — paselegance.”

The Festival of the Yams, tries filled with sweet bean, egg yolk, also known as Asogli Te Za or Asogli Yam Festival, is a harvest celebration among the people of the Asogli State in the Volta Region of Ghana, West Africa. The festival also extends beyond Asogli to the neighboring communities of Sokode, Abutia Klefe, and Akrofu.

Each September, the Asogli people celebrate their successful cultivation of yams, pray for health and prosperity in the coming year, and share Asogli customs with Ghanaians and visitors alike.

According to tradition, the Festival of the Yams began

The festival’s signature food is, of course, the yam, prepared in a variety of traditional dishes such as fufu (starchy yam dough), yam pottage (porridge), and boiled yams.

meat, or lotus seed paste — are an essential delicacy of the festival, symbolizing completeness and familial unity.

In Korea, a similar festival called Chuseok also honors the harvest, though it places less emphasis on the moon. During the three-day holidays in both nations, a plethora of lanterns (including bright handheld lanterns, towering lantern displays, and floating sky lanterns) serve as beacons of prosperity. Some lanterns even feature riddles for festival-goers to solve, adding a playful and

cleaned, and old belongings are dis carded to make way for new items, symbolizing a fresh beginning and the removal of negative energy. On the second day, Surya Pongal, the sun is honored for its role in the harvest, and people cook fresh pots of milk-based rice, known as Pongal, to express gratitude for the sun’s warmth and vitality.

On the third day, MattuPongal, cattle are thanked for their role in plowing fields and producing milk. Cows receive baths and become adorned with bells, flowers, and colorful beads.

On the fourth day, Kanum Pongal, the value of community is emphasized. Families gather to share meals, visit relatives, and celebrate with traditional Indian folk dances, such as Kolattam and Kummi, which celebrate the spirit of togetherness.

Sukkot - Israel

Sukkot is a seven-day holiday that recognizes the fall harvest and

commemorates the Jewish people’s freedom from persecution. The celebration begins five days after Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism, and typically falls around October. The name “Sukkot” comes from the Hebrew word for a booth or hut, which is fitting as families set up sukkahs — booths or huts roofed with vegetation. Sukkahs have open walls and doors to invite family, friends, and neighbors to communal meals.

Work is strictly forbidden on the first two days of the holiday. In the evening, candles are lit, and festive meals are served. Challah bread, often dipped in honey, is a standout favorite dish. During the intermediate days of the week, all meals must be consumed inside the sukkah, and people are encouraged to spend as much time as possible in the sukkah. This establishes a warm, welcoming environment for family and guests. The final two days constitute separate holidays, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, which mark the end of Sukkot and the beginning of the rainy season.

Though these five celebrations each reflect the unique customs and traditions of their regions, they all share a common purpose: expressing gratitude. Being grateful, it turns out, is not confined to Thanksgiving in the United States — or any holiday, for that matter. These celebrations remind us to show appreciation to those around us, no matter the date on the calendar.

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Cut Out and Color Thanksgiving Grams

By Isabella Posel

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Entertainment Thanksgiving Watchlist

By Isabella Posel

Dinner in America (2020) dir. Adam Rehmeier What is Thanksgiving if not the ultimate dinner in America? In this examination of America’s suburbs, an on-the-lam pyromaniac drug dealer takes refuge with an awkward young woman who reveals herself to be a massive fan of his punk-rock singer secret identity in a sweet, underdog story about two misfits finding each other against the odds. This film is punctuated by family meals fraught with aggression, tension, unease, and enough dysfunctional family dynamics to satisfy the most discerning fan of anti-holiday flicks. Dinner in America is a potent, laugh out loud coming-of-age story reminiscent of Welcome to the Dollhouse, Napoleon Dynamite, and Route 66 with knockout performances from leads Kyle Gallner and Emily Skegg (and fans will also appreciate a Mars Argo cameo) in addition to a talented ensemble. At times provocative, surreal, and even sweet, Rehmeier’s black comedy is an infectiously energetic and dark rom-com that makes a satisfying and hilarious watch.

The Ice Storm (1997) dir. Ang Lee This film masterfully explores themes of isolation and boredom with the American Dream as seen through the lens of a suburban Thanksgiving in 1973. Featuring an all-star cast including Christina Ricci, Sigourney Weaver, Tobey Maguire, and Kevin Kline, The Ice Storm presents a microcosm of unhappy citizens in a small Connecticut town wrestling with the dark underbelly of upper middle class dissatisfaction (while presenting a masterclass in the hands-off parenting style of the 70s).

This gripping film presents a view into the ennui and despondency lurking in the families’ homes, in a potent contrast to the beautiful New England scenery that surrounds them. There are many instances of humor and innocence, however, especially in Lee’s explora-

tion of the younger generation. Their idealism starkly departs from their parents’ jaded malcontent, although these privileged youngsters tragically imitate their elder’s experimentation with casual sex and substance use to try and find meaning and fulfillment. The Ice Storm stands out with its ending showing a dysfunctional family who is united instead of torn apart in the face of tragedy and grief. Ang Lee, director of Life of Pi and Brokeback Mountain, adapts Rick Moody’s 1994 novel with a finesse that results in a devastating drama and Thanksgiving classic.

bors. She is met with a mix of help, hindrance, and indifference but, in the process, finds human connection.

Pieces of April is a genuinely touching holiday classic that explores tradition and family with humor and thought.

Pieces of April (2003) dir. Peter Hedges This film follows a young woman, April, making Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family (played

by Katie Holmes, whose film debut was in The Ice Storm), while simultaneously showing her family’s fraught drive to her New York City apartment and various family members’ misgivings about the whole affair. Throughout the course of the film, April struggles against the clock to make a meal while, at the same time, her mother, who has what appears to be terminal cancer, tries to come to terms with her own race against the clock and the heavy expectations that hang over what is likely her last Thanksgiving with her family. April’s boyfriend further compounds this prevailing theme of racing against time as he frantically searches for a suit while, at their dilapidated apartment, April’s oven is broken and she solicits help from her neigh-

yard, Nathan Gardner (Nicolas Cage) and his family find themselves besieged by an infectious, mutant organism which turns their quiet home into a technicolor fever dream. In the face of extraterrestrial horror, the Gardner family is ripped apart, comes together, and is then ripped apart again, similar to many people’s own family experience when the turkey hasn’t been defrosted in time or the store runs out of the right kind of potatoes (or Aunt Sally’s gin). Parts of this film are genuinely grotesque with strong elements of body horror, but overall the SFX is impressive and ripe with eldritch monstrosities and cosmic terror. Lovecraft is notoriously hard to adapt, but Color Out of Space successfully balances horror and existential dread in a way reminiscent of a week with relatives.

Alien Abduction: Incident in Lake County (1998) dir. Dean Alioto A pseudo-documentary horror

film, Alien Abduction (originally titled The McPherson Tape) is a remake of the 1989 version, UFO Abduction, also made by Dean Alioto. While almost 30 years later, it appears unbelievable with low sound and visual effect quality, the film, presented as found footage, created confusion and controversy similar to Orson Welles’ radio broadcast War of the Worlds upon its release.

While the style would soon be popularized the next year with The Blair Witch Project, the supposed home video cut with commentary from UFO researchers and experts sparked debate and conspiracy. The “incident” around which the mockumentary centers is recorded on a home video camera by the McPherson’s teenage son. The footage shows the family abducted by aliens in Lake County, Montana during Thanksgiving dinner, making for a night of abject, otherworldly terror and hysteria.

However, your own November 28th feast goes, you can feel comforted that it will (probably) be less apocalyptic.

Looking to get out of the house over break? La Paloma theater in Encinitas is playing The Graduate from Friday 11/22 to Tuesday 11/26, Fantastic Mr. Fox from Wednesday 11/27 to Friday 11/29, and Twilight from Wednesday 11/27 to Saturday 11/30.

You can also catch The New World on Saturday 11/23 and Monday 11/25 and an 85th anniversary showing of The Wizard of Oz on the first weekend of break (Saturday 11/23 and Sunday 11/24), and Popcorn Reef’s special showing of Blood Rage on Saturday 11/23, at The Tenth Ave Arts Center.

Just remember this over break: in 50 years, when you are celebrating with your own children, grandchildren, or pets that you treat like children, you aren’t going to look back and wish that you had spent more time tossing the ball with Grandpa or learning how Grandma gets her mashed potatoes perfect. You’re going to wish you’d watched these movies.

discarded song from the Broadway musical. Only time can tell how audiences will respond to the split. Knowing who is working on this film, it is safe to assume the score is in good hands.

such great care of her.” Fans of Grande have shown their love and support for her as she took on the role of Glinda.

As fans anticipate the release of the Wicked film, anxieties brew with the hope that it lives up to its expectat

ions. From the controversies about how the score will be split to the cast, people will make critiques no matter what.

However, the film is in good hands and this film adaptation of the Broadway musical will far from disappoint.

Photo Credit: Getty images

Wicked: The Film

Color Out of Space (2019) dir. Richard Stanley From the director of cult classic films Hardware and Dust Devil comes this adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror story “The Colour Out of Space.” After a mysterious meteor lands in their rural farm’s front

By Julia Piekarski and Emma libman

The film adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked comes to theaters on Nov 22! Created as a prequel to the American classic The Wizard of Oz, the musical explores the relationship between two witches, Elphaba and Glinda, before Dorothy arrives in Oz. As arguably one of the best Broadway musicals, fans have high expectations for the upcoming movie.

Back in 2022 the director of the film, John M. Chu revealed Wicked would be filmed in two parts, Wicked and Wicked Part Two. The creative decision to split the musical into two films has caused fan speculation regarding how the score will be divided. Historically the musical has been split into two acts with set songs in each act. Stephen Schwartz, composer of the original soundtrack, revealed that the film will include the original soundtrack and four new songs, one of which is a

“Wicked comes to theaters on Nov 22!”

Not only is the new Wicked movie gathering many theater fans to come together, but Ariana Grande playing the role of Glinda has the new movie getting way more status. Grande has shared over the years her dream of wanting to star as Glinda. Back in May when she found out which role she got, she shared in tears how she would “take

Photo Credit: Getty Images

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It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Thanksgiving

By Naomi Li

As a wise person once said, “I don’t want a lot for Christmas. There is just one thing I need.” This song certainly isn’t about Thanksgiving, or Halloween, or International Nutella Day (although it could be). As you are reading this article, Mariah Carey is already defrosting, Costco has put up their Christmas trees, and people are frantically creating wishlists. A poll in 2023, conducted by CBS News, found that 45% of Americans name fall as their favorite season. Autumn

the season, the holiday of Thanksgiving and the month of November seems to get the short end of the stick as many people jump into a one-horse open sleigh the moment Halloween is over.

matter if it’s from the 1970s or 2010s, all typically feature an orchestra, sleigh bells, and recognizable words like “mistletoe”, “merry”, “festive”, and “presents”. Similarly, Halloween music is

“November seems to get the short end of the stick as many people jump into a one-horse PHOTO CREDIT: NAOMI LI Christmas music is an ex- also gaining in popularity, although it popular genre, and a large part doesn’t hold a candle to Christmas muopen sleigh the tremely of its appeal is owing to nostalgia and sic. The scary holiday is a precursor to feeling of familiarity. Nate Sloan, an the festive one, and allows artists with moment Hal- aassistant professor of music at USC, a darker style to shine. Likewise, Halexplains that, “The oldness of this mu- loween songs regularly feature words loween is over.” sic is part of its appeal. Because Christ- like “skeleton,” “spooky,” and “haunt-

does have a lot to love: cloudy days, pumpkin spice lattes, crunchy leaves, etc. However, despite the popularity of

mas, the holidays. This is a time when you crave familiarity and comfort.”

Additionally, all Christmas music, no

ed.” Additionally, Halloween songs typically consist of instruments such as the theremin and the ondes Mar-

ie pitches there are. Since there are at least thousands, if not millions, heard every year, it gets to be very likely. So, to even get on the path of production as an original concept is a long road.

Plots need to be mapped and thought out, edited to make the story as appealing to audiences as possible. Then, the dialogue has to be written and edited.

After you get past that hurdle and past casting, you have to do the actual filming, which can take a minimum of a few weeks to close to a year. After that, studios have to edit, add the sound and visual effects, show it to test audiences, market it, and then finally release it.

Sequels, however, are able to fast-track a lot of that process. The characters and setting of the story are already known, making plotting and marketing much easier, and the cast is usually set with the leads returning to reprise their roles. Plus, the movie being a sequel

alone snags an audience, guarantee ing some monetary return. For movie studios, it is an easier, more reliable source of cash that requires less effort to produce. So, as long as that sentiment rings true, sequels are to be made.

As a quick sidebar: This pro duction motivation is not sequel exclusive. Adaptations of popular books and theater, remakes of older movies, and movies that aren’t direct sequels but a part of larger franchises, slip into this fast lane as well. Sometimes it is even easier than making sequels because much of the dialogue and plot is already there, like the movie adaptations of The Wild Robot and Wicked.

Pushing aside the foray of adaptations, the popularity of movie sequels is declining, even faster than usual. It is a rare case when sequels are liked more than the original movie, and that sentiment is growing stronger.

Many audiences feel stuffed with old concepts and starved of new stories, and while this is a common problem with sequels, it isn’t exclusive to them.

In fact, sequels, somehow, are the best performing movies this year. For example, Inside Out 2 leads the box office at nearly $1.7 billion dollars, and it didn’t make that based on sequel status alone, since it actually defies the trend of sequels making less money. The story resonated with many theater goers, leaving an impact, and it hit the bullseye of target audiences with people of all ages flocking to see it. The main issue that causes the decline of audience satisfaction with sequels is that movie studios see sequels as reliable money, which, based on years of precedent, they are. However, it is when that profit is seen as a guarantee that audiences re-

Not Another Sequel?!

tenot, popularized by horror movies, along with the opening notes of Jaws.

Overall, Christmas music evokes images of gift giving and snow-covered landscapes, Halloween music evokes images of haunted houses and trickor-treating, and the few Thanksgiving songs that exist evoke an image of… the complicated history of colonialism in the United States? All of this serves to explain why Thanksgiving music has yet to break the charts: there just isn’t a cohesive cultural image around it.

Thanksgiving music just isn’t the revenue-raising superpower that companies want, but there are still a few good options to play at the dinner table. Some suggestions include “Be Thankful” by Natalie Cole, “Gratitude”

by Earth, Wind, and Fire, or any song from “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving!”

“the few Thanksgiving songs that exist evoke an image of… the complicated history of colonialism?”

By Alara Schroeder

Venom: The Last Dance, Terrifier 3, Smile 2, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Joker: Folie à Deux, Despicable Me 4, Kung Fu Panda 4, Inside Out 2, these are some of the many sequels released this year, and somehow, there are still more to come, including: Gladiator 2, Moana 2, and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

(They could of at least come up with something else for the title rather than just the original name with a number added). This year has been a roller coaster for movies with the massive successes of Inside Out 2 and Deadpool & Wolverine, and the very low flops, (looking at you, Joker: Folie à Deux).

As the year begins to wrap up, the sheer amount of sequels is becoming more noticeable, but why are there so many?

Original content is not easy to make— that is where most of this starts.

The probability that all movie pitches sound similar increases the more mov

Photo Credit: Alara Schroeder

14

ceive sloppy, rushed, or even just tired sequels. This is when the sequel plots feel tired and world worn, instead of enriching an already loved story. Nowadays, the nostalgia that is drawn upon to produce sequels is producing little hype. The movie industry moved to safer stories and options to recover, and now that recovery is overstaying its welcome. Audiences can certainly feel it, the box office is showing it, and movie studios are not catching up.

This is not to say that sequels never live up to the original and therefore shouldn’t be made. However, the

“For movie studios, it is an easier, more reliable source of cash that requires less effort to produce.”

general trend that follows the highs and lows of sequels shows that audiences are feeling fatigue. Besides, there are countless movies being released and made each and every year, so the best advice anyone can give is to just watch the movies you’ll enjoy. Maybe it’ll be a big-budget, big-studio sequel, or a small, original indie film, or someplace in between— it just has to be something that sweeps you into another world for a couple of hours and serves as a great distraction from everyday life.

What to do in San Diego this December?

By Diana Gomes

Winter is coming, and so is the holiday season—many people’s favorite time of the year. It is the season of cozy sweaters, steaming cups of hot cocoa, and cherished moments with loved ones. Despite San Diego’s lack of traditional winter weather, the city is still filled with festive spirit and unique winter activities. Here is a guide to experiencing the best of what San Diego offers this December:

brings Balboa Park alive with holiday magic. Visitors can enjoy live music, performances, food vendors offering global cuisine, tree lighting, photos with Santa, and free admission to many of the park’s museums. The festive lights and cultural showcases make it a must-see, and perfect for anyone wanting to soak in some holiday cheer.

iday parade in La Jolla offers a mix of marching bands, horses, vintage cars, and even Santa himself. The parade is followed by a festival featuring live entertainment and food, making it a delightful outing for all ages.

ing bands, and performers make their way along the scenic San Diego wa

Red-Nosed Reindeer, enjoy the Winter Wonderland on Ice show, complete the Snowflake Seeker’s Scavenger Hunt, and explore Christmas-themed exhibits across the park.

tions, seasonal music, and artisan shopping. The park, transformed with holiday lights, offers activities such as storytelling, dance performances, and hands-on crafts for all ages.

activities like ornament decorating. It is a wonderful place to find unique gifts and enjoy some holiday ambiance.

3. Balboa Park December Nights (Dec 6-7) This beloved annual tradition

5. La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival (Dec 8) This community-driven hol-

terfront. The energy and excitement truly makes it a unique experience.

In conclusion, despite the lack of snow, San Diego in December is always full of festive, unique events that create holiday memories . From cultural celebrations to dazzling light displays to skating, there is no shortage of holiday cheer!

“It is the season of cozy sweaters, 6. Del Mar Fairgrounds Coastal steaming cups of Christmas (Dec 13-15, 20-23, 26) hot cocoa, and cherished mo1. San Diego Botanic Garden’s Lightscape (Nov 15 - Jan 5) ments with loved This December, wander through the botanical garden’s beautifully illuminated paths, which come ones. Despite San alive with vibrant light displays .

This enchanting event features tunDiego’s lack of nels of light, artistic installations, and sparkling decorations throughtraditional winout the garden. Warm beverages and treats are also available for purchase, ter weather, the adding to the festive experience. city is still filled 2. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration (Nov 16 - Jan 5) with festive spirit Every winter, SeaWorld Photo Credit: James Wheeler transforms into a holiday wonder- 4. Old Town Holiday in the Park Head to the Del Mar Faigrounds land . With dazzling lights and spe- (Dec 8) for a festive winter market filled with and unique wincial holiday shows, this celebration is Step back in time with a vis- holiday-themed attractions, food, and fun for kids and adults alike. During it to Old Town. Here, you can enjoy markets. Some features include light ter activities.” this event you can meet Rudolph the traditional Mexican holiday celebra- displays, ice skating, a fun zone, and 7. Holiday Bowl Parade (December 27) Don’t miss out on the largest balloon parade in the U.S! Watch as giant balloons, colorful floats, march-

Best Thanksgiving TV Episodes

By Skylar Phelps

Thanksgiving is a holiday that always ends up being one of the most memorable days of the year. Friends and family express their gratitude towards each other while celebrating their love for football and turkey. It is also wonderful to have a nice break from your consistently busy lifestyle.

Along with watching football games, this is the perfect time for everyone to binge their favorite shows. Here are some of the best Thanksgiving episodes from TV shows over the years.

The TV show Friends has many Thanksgiving episodes to choose from, given that the show ran for nine years. The show features the rising popularity of “Friendsgiving”, which demonstrates to audiences that Thanksgiving can be celebrated with more than just your family. Thus, the Friends gang always comes together to have a chaotic, but hilarious Thanksgiving.

The following three Thanksgiving episodes are the best at showing this and are perfect for the fall holiday season.

1. “The One With All the Thanksgivings” S5E8 In any Friends episode with flashbacks to the 80s, you are bound to get a good laugh. It is simply too hard to stay serious when you see Chandler’s obnoxious but classic 80s hairdo. In this episode of Friends, the gang reminisces about their favorite Thanksgiving stories.

2. “The One with the Football” S3E9 In this iconic 1996 Thanksgiving episode of Friends, Monica and Ross relive their childhood rivalry in a game of football. The Gellers, as team captains, draft the rest of their friends to be on their team. Unfortunately for them, two of their friends, Chandler and Joey, are too distracted trying to win the heart of a Dutch girl nearby. The seemingly innocent game of football turns overly competitive, comedically hyperbolizing the fact that they’re ignoring the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

3. “The One With the Rumour” S8E9 This Thanksgiving episode of Friends ranks so high because of the amazing guest appearance from Brad Pitt (who was married to Jennifer Aniston, who plays Rachel on the show, at the time) and the absurdity of the rumor that Rachel was a hermaphrodite and had both male and female body parts.

The fun and lighthearted Thanksgiving dinner takes a turn for the worse when Ross’ high school buddy reveals his hatred for Rachel and admits to spreading a big rumor about her back in the day.

Next, we have the iconic Thanksgiving episodes from Gilmore Girls and Gossip Girl. Both of these shows have many Thanksgiving episodes to choose from that speak to fall lovers. While Gossip Girl and Gilmore Girls have more of a dramatic flair during their episodes than

Friends, it still implements the love and entertainment one gets on Thanksgiving. These next two episodes perfectly reflect the Thanksgiving spirit.

4. Gilmore Girls “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” S3E9 In this episode, Rory and Lorelei attempt to make it to FOUR Thanksgiving dinners. Not being able to take a nap after the first one already sounds tiring, but four! Impossible!

The girls start at the Kims’ house where they indulge in a traditional tofurkey.

They then go to eat with Sookie, a friend of Lorelei’s, and Sookie’s husband. Following that meal, the girls eat with Luke and his nephew Jess. Last but certainly not least, they go to the Gilmores’ grandparents. Lorelei and her mother, unsurprisingly, get into a tussle at the dinner table. As a show that radiates fall energy, it is a perfect

Thanksgiving episode to watch curled up with some friends and a big blanket!

5. Gossip Girl “The Treasure of Serena Madre” S3E11 Out of all the Thanksgiving episodes of Gossip Girl, this one happens to be the most dramatic. In this episode, everyone’s secrets slowly spill out. Dan’s girlfriend breaks up with him because of her suspicion that he still loves Vanessa, Serena’s affair with Nate’s cousin Tripp is exposed, Vanessa’s mother returns, and Rufus figures out that Lily has been lying to him. All of this turns the Thanksgiving dinner into a complete disaster, but what else can you expect when you put the whole gang at the table?

For anyone looking to get in a thankful mood, these television show episodes will be perfect for the holiday season!

Photo Credit: Getty Images

15

Sports

Dyeing to Race

By Brianna Morrison

out with my teammates while we dye everybody’s hair and how everyone races league finals together with red hair.” Whittle has been a part of this tradition since her freshman year and loves how it makes the team feel more connected. “It is very motivating to see all my teammates with red hair when we race. It makes me feel like I’m a part of something bigger than myself.”

“It is very motivating to see all my Photo Credit: Sonia Whittle with When you are walking around teammates CCA’s campus in late October/early November, you may notice streaks of red hair when we red pop up throughout the school. Your friend may show up to class with their race. It makes me hair dyed completely red. Or the tips of your classmate’s hair now resemble the feel like I’m a part color of a vibrant cherry. As everyone knows, school spirit is vital to a high of something bigschool environment and CCA’s cross country team exhibits this spirit through their annual red hair dyeing tradition. ger than myself.”

As the cross country team heads to their last races of the year, they intimidate their competitors by showing up with a coordinated appearance. This tradition marks the beginning of the end of the season and brings everyone on this 80-person team together. One of the senior captains, Sonia Whittle (12) states, “My favorite part of this tradition is hanging

This dyeing of hair has been done every year since the school opened in 2004 (with the exception of one year). The involvement of all members of the team is what propels them to do well in their end of season races. “When you are willing to do something like this with your team and be part of something

Reclaiming the Trophy

bigger, you can always accomplish more,” Coach Corman comments.

Being a part of a sports team is a source of pride for many individuals.

And this source of pride is displayed to the school through everyone’s red hair. Ashley Li (10) comments, “Something about everyone having red hair makes me feel more connected and more proud of being a part of the team.” The memories the team creates while participating in this tradition is what they look back on after the cross country season. The proces of hair coloring is “messy and silly” but many agree that the messiness is what makes for good memories. Although it is bittersweet, Li mentions that having the red dye stay on after the season feels like a souvenir from the memory-filled three months (plus the two months of summer training).

This season, the girls finished first in their league! Coach Corman has high hopes for the postseason and recounts that both the girls and boys teams have had tons of improvement this year. Regardless of the outcome of the season, he loves that the team comes together at the end to participate in this tradition. “It is so easy to get caught up as an individual in cross country, but these little things bring the team together and get everyone cheering for each other,” Coach Corman states.

Within all of the fun of tradition, there’s definitely competition to see who is the best hair dyer. Whit-

tle votes Carrie Krummen as the best hair dyer, stating that “even though she may take a long time, she wants to make it look as perfect as she can.” On the contrary, Li believes Joely Klaristenfeld should have the title as she is “super careful with the hair dye and really patient.” Even though bragging rights is the only prize for the informal title of “best hair dyer”, it is still a fun and fierce pseudo-competition.

Most team traditions just involve the students, however, if the cross country team wins CIF or an individual wins CIF and the team qualifies for the State Meet at the end of November, they get to dye Coach Corman’s hair red! Be on the lookout for all the red hair throughout campus and congratulate them on an amazing season!

Of course, we are all hoping for Corman’s hair to be red this year. Watch out for the colorful cross country crew!

up 5-1 after just the first round, stating that “everyone pulled through in their matches”. After about 6 hours of play, CCA took a decisive 13-5 win, reclaiming the title of CIF champions. For many of the girls this was the highlight of the season, as according to Kang they “absolutely dominated”.

With a win in the books from team CIFs, CCA’s top players are now ready to take on the individual CIFs, which are set to start on November 4 and go through November 9. For the singles bracket, CCA will be represented by Minerva Toda (9) and Alyssa Liu (10). For doubles, CCA teams Yule Kang (12) and Linsday Zhang (12),

Ahana Singh (11) and Nyesha Sinha (12), and Sunita Pappu (12) and Nicole Shaleev (12) will be participating.

As the season comes to an end, Kang emphasizes that, “The experience being on CCA tennis has been amazing”, specifically noting that she will miss spending time with her teammates and having people to rely on in such an individual sport. “We have created so many great memories and connections throughout the season”, says Kang. Overall, the girls have had an extremely successful season of hard work, lots of notable victories, and most importantly, redemption.

Photo Credit: Sonia Whittle

By Charlotte sills

For the last several years, one of the more recognized and celebrated among CCA’s sports programs has been the Girls Tennis team; having won San Diego CIFs in 2021 and 2022, the competitive team has built up quite a reputation. However, last year the team suffered an upset taking second to Torrey Pines in the CIF team finals in an extremely close match. Because of this, the girls were determined to reclaim the CIF trophy this season - and they did just that.

Previous to CIFs, the team had an exceptional regular season led by coach Kevin Brown and team captains Lindsay Zhang (12), Yule Kang (12), and Nyesha Sinha (12). They finished with a record of 14 wins and only 1 loss. This loss was to Del Norte, one of CCA’s toughest league opponents.

Kang adds that the team had a few injuries during this game, which likely contributed to Del Norte having the edge and winning by a close 8-10. As teams generally play each other twice per season, CCA defeated Del Norte in their other match with a score of 108. The two teams were both strong, and Del Norte ended up making it to the CIF team finals alongside CCA. Team CIFs began on October 29. The first match was against Mt. Carmel, and CCA emerged victori

16

ous with a comfortable 13-5 win. In round two the team went up against Cathedral Catholic, winning 10-8.

This triumph brought the girls to the CIF finals, where they would challenge Del Norte for the trophy.

“After about 6 hours of play, CCA took a decisive 13-5 win, reclaiming the title of CIF champions.”

The finals took place on November 2 at the Barnes Tennis Center.

The format was the same as regular season matches - 3 rounds of 6 sets (18 sets total), each set won by the first player (or doubles team) to 6 games.

Not far into the match, it was clear that CCA had the upper hand against Del Norte. Captain Yule Kang, who won her 3 singles matches, expressed that her proudest moment of the season was finding out that the team was

Photo Credit: Arielle Clyne

CCA Senior Nights

By Shea Salel

Photo Credit: Sabine Chung

As Fall sports come to an end at CCA, they all make sure to recognize the seniors that make a big difference to the programs. Most sports do this tribute in the form of a game and ceremony where all the seniors get special recognition. The class of 2025 has had some amazing athletes that helped all of CCA Athletics.

Boys Water Polo had their senior night against Oceanside. They celebrated their seniors, #10 Max Campangia, #13 Jake Feldman, #1 Aiden Salimi, and #7 Nikola Zecevic. This game ended with the Ravens on top, with a score of 11 to 6. The seniors made a big difference with goals by both #13 Campangia and #13 Feldman.

Their goalie, #1 Salimi also made many saves that kept the Ravens in the lead.

Notably, the CCA Field Hockey team came to cheer on the Water Polo team and made signs to hype up the pool.

Girls Tennis did not have a

traditional senior night game, but they still found a way to honor the class of 2025. The last league games of their season were against their rivals Del Norte. As they needed to gear up to play against their biggest competitor, they had a special senior practice rather than a senior game. During this practice they made posters for all of the seniors and gave speeches. The class of 2025 on CCA girls tennis includes Chaeyule Kang, Lindsay Zhang, Nyesha Sinha, Nicole Shalaev, Sunita Pappu, Elly Kim, Angela Kim, Arielle Clyne, Bianca Duhmel, Paige Veenstra, and Alissa Lai. Saying goodbye to these seniors was hard, but their season was very rewarding as evidenced by the fact that they won the CIF San Diego Open Division championship.

For Sinha and Kang, this is not their last time playing tennis; they will be continuing their athletic careers at the Air Force Academy (Kang) and Case

Midseason Predictions

By Carys Oyvetsky

The National Football League has reached the halfway point of the 2024-25 season, and there are many teams that are predicted to succeed in the upcoming playoffs. However, while many are excelling, there are a few teams that may have started off strong, but haven’t been consistent enough to even be a possible contender for the wildcard round.

Starting as a surprise at the top of the league, the Detroit Lions have bounced back from their devastating loss to the San Francisco 49ers in last year’s NFC Championship.

“The Detroit Lions have bounced back from their devastating loss to the San Francisco 49ers in last year’s NFC Championship.

Lead QB (quarterback) Jared Goff, talented receivers such as Amon-Ra St. Brown & Jameson Williams, and the rest of the team have given loyal fans a season they’ve been praying for for decades. At this point with only one loss

in the regular season, fans can get comfortable with the idea of the Lions being a prime contender for not only clinching the playoffs but getting another chance to take the field in February and earn a well deserved Super Bowl title.

Another shock this season comes from none other than the Washington Commanders. The amazing arm of rookie QB Jayden Daniels and strategic play calls of offensive coordinators & head coach Dan Quinn, have allowed the Commanders to prove time and time again that they’re not a team to be messed with. Coming out of last season no one, including their own fan base, was considering them to be a team that would be eligible for the playoffs.

However, everything changed after the 2024 draft when Daniels became the first rookie QB to bring home at least 500 yds a game for theCommanders in the first 3 weeks of the regular season.

Daniels has continued to impress both the fans and the polls, with the New York Times saying that from this point in the season, they have at least a 91% percent chance of being playoff eligible. Currently leading the top of their division, this team will continue to bring 110% every game and won’t stop any time soon.

Taking a disappointing turn, the Dallas Cowboys have been far from successful this season. QB Dak Prescott & Wide Receiver Ceedee Lamb have made some significant mistakes that have been hurting the team in the long run. With a record of 3-5,

Western Reserve University (Sinha).

On October 18th, CCA Field Hockey celebrated their class of 2025 by hosting senior night against Poway.

The game ended with a score of 4-1 and a celebration griddy by #5 Elle Mikuteit. Mikuteit, along with Ruthie Ervin, Kelly Gorton, Jadyn Hecht, Asha Forge, Kendall Yee, and Z Huynh are all of the seniors who shaped the field hockey program. During the game, Mikuteit and Gorton both contributed to the win by scoring one and two points respectively. Ervin also had an assist and contributed to the game, keeping Poway low in goals and putting the Ravens on top. Another highlight was the fact that Boys Water Polo returned the favor to the Field Hockey team by showing up and cheering on the ceremony.

CCA Flag Football is a new sport, so there was only one senior to celebrate: Sofia Becerra. Due to this, the team didn’t have a senior night.. Although she was not formally recognized for her contributions to the team, she had an amazing season and was a great example of how athletic the class of 2025 is.

CCA Girls Volleyball had 7 seniors that were very important to the team. Thus, on October 24th, the CCA vs. Fallbrook game was focused on hyping and celebrating them.. All of the underclassmen gave speeches to each of the seniors to acknowledge their contributions to the team. These seniors include: Etzia Masellis, Annie Cheng, Chloe Wang, Jenny Li, Ella Mock, Jenna Phaneuf, and Dina Sam. Many fans supported the team by holding up Taylor Swift cutouts and cheering for them despite their unfortunate loss.

The seniors on Cross Counthe Cowboys have been taking heavy losses from teams such as the Lions & the Saints. This team has proven that they are far from playoff eligible.

According to Athlon Sports, the Cowboys began their season with a 63% chance of at least being wild card eligible (teams who end up qualifying for the playoffs despite not winning their specific division), but at this point in the season their chances are close to 0.

try crossed the finish line of their last high school season. During meets known as League Cluster 2 and 3, the seniors received speeches and flowers for their contributions to the program. There are 8 seniors who ran hard throughout the season including: Benjamin Lee, Reid Tyson, Kiran Gonzales, Lorenzo Lesmes, Charlie Hong, Carrie Krummen, Katja Dunayevich, and Sonia Whittle. These seniors worked very hard throughout the season and ended these meets with results that showcased their athleticism.

Girls Golf did not have a senior night, but will honor these members through their end of the season banquet. Additionally, one tradition for the seniors is to do a “Happy Gilmore,” or a shot where they run into the swing (like in the movie Happy Gilmore). This took place at their last practice round of the season in order to celebrate the seniors. Brianna Morrison, Kailey Yoon, Ash Beach, Alexia Beach, and Nanami Yamashita are the 5 seniors that are finishing their high school golf career. For Kailey Yoon and Brianna Morrison, this is not their goodbye to the sport as they will be playing collegiate-level golf.

Senior Nights are very important to all fall sports, as it signals a goodbye to high school sports for all these athletes. For the athletes that do not play a winter or spring sport, these nights are bittersweet and a great way to reminisce on all the memories they made playing a high school sport. Some athletes will continue to play in college, while others may never play again. Either way, the memories made in high school sports will last a lifetime and the lessons learned will stick with them.

Photo Credit: Bleacher Report

“The Dallas Cow- can be easily fixed. At this point in the season, fans have been increasingly hope for this team, and it doesn’t boys have been losing seem to be getting better any time soon.

While there are many other far from success- teams that have a complicated path towards playoff eligibility, these are ful this season.” just a few of the teams that have stood The Cowboys have not only been heavily affected by injuries from high impact players, but as Athlon Sports explains, “Poor performances across the board by big-reputation players.” Injuries are one thing, but a continuously frustrating performance of increased turnovers and interceptions is not something that

out this season, whether for good reasons or bad. It’s only halfway through the season, so many current polls could change from this point. However, based on how these teams have been performing, many fans have been able to get a definite sense of who will and won’t make the playoffs.

Photo Credit: Dallas Morning News

17

El Clásico: The Rivalry Beyond the Rivalry

By Ava Baker

If any CCA student ever swipes out of Aeries, they’d know soccer is a big deal, especially in Europe. After a thrilling summer of the continental tournament known as the Euros, the players have returned to their clubs and are now in the grind of the domestic league. Whether it is the Premier League in England, Bundesliga in Germany, or the Serie A in Italy, each league has its own rivalries and stories. To any American bandwagon, soccer is just soccer or— for the few among you who think you’re too good for American terminology— football is just football. However, Spain’s century-old league, La Liga, would argue otherwise as they annually host one of Europe’s most anticipated and tension-filled games. El Clásico is the title given to any league or scrimmage face offs between Real Madrid and Barcelona. The two rivalry teams are the most notorious and continuously successful clubs since the league’s beginning in 1929 due to a mix of politics, history, and passion across Spain.

“If any CCA student ever swipes out of Aeries, they’d know soccer is a big deal, especially in Europe.”

For those who haven’t taken a World History class, Francisco Franco fought with a military coup during the Spanish Civil War and emerged as dictator in 1939. He was able to rise to power as a result of severe civil unrest in certain Spanish states, specifically Catalonia and the Basque Country,

whose citizens wanted autonomy from the rest of the country. Franco was able to oppress Catalan and Basque culture in Spain until 1975 through severe means such as propaganda, language limitation, violence, fear mongering, imprisonment, torture, and murder.

This repression didn’t change anything, however, and to this day Basques and Catalans speak their own languages and still believe themselves to be separate from the country of Spain. However, there are some states such as the Madrid Provincia in Central Spain that don’t recognize their demands for autonomy and see Spain as a united country.

What does this history lesson have to do with 11 vs 11 professional soccer you ask? Well, El Clásico has long been as much about the political rivalries between the Madrid and Catalan teams as the sports rivalries between Real Madrid and Barcelona. For example, many still refer to Real Madrid as “Franco’s team” due to a series of suspicious events that created a myth that Franco interfered in matches to benefit Real Madrid.

One of these events took place in the 1943 El Clásico match where Barcelona was winning 3-0 before halftime, only to end the game losing 11-1. They lost 2 goals, after Franco’s henchmen allegedly paid a visit to the Catalan team. Another suspicious circumstance was the signing of superstar Alfredo Di Stefano by Real Madrid in 1953, after he had originally committed to Barcelona. His Argentine club claimed Barcelona had breached a contract to transfer him to Real Madrid in order to please Franco. While genuine interference by Franco has never been proven, he regularly attended games to support Real Madrid throughout the 50s and 60s and promoted the team heavily as the pride and joy of his rule.

Since his death, Real Madrid has been trying to distance themselves from Franco while Barcelona has continued to call light to their decades old asso-

ciation as ways to continue the rivalry. ignorant, and the best way to get After the 2024 Summer Euros, rid of hatred and bias that brews many star players came to light in com- from ignorance is education. petition and have been used to stock up the teams of Barcelona and Madrid in preparation for La Liga. Both teams are historically rostered with internationally talented players, and this year is no different. Famous players such as Kylian Mbappé from France, Vini Jr from Brazil, and Jude Bellingham from England play for Real Madrid, while Lamine Yamal from Spain, Raphinha from Brazil, and Robert Lewandowski from Poland are working with Barcelona. These star players contributed to Barcelona’s shocking 4-0 win this October. However, Barcelona is no Gaining worldly perspective stranger to such big wins as they have to understand the struggles and histoonly lost once in La Liga and once in ries of others creates empathy, apprethe Champions league this season. If ciation, and connection that we desyou’re one for superstition, some might perately need. No matter where you argue their success is due to the switch are in the world there are always pooff between the clubs as Barcelona and litical tensions; in America, purposeful Madrid seemingly alternate years to understanding of others and the world win their annual matchup. Since Real around us is the only way to overMadrid won last year, this is Barca’s come the current divisiveness we face year. Finally, it is important to note El as a country. We are stronger together Clásico isn’t the only reason to watch than apart and the only way to regain La Liga; there are numerous important our strength as a nation is to underand diverse teams across Spain that stand that at the end of the day we all signify their own political and cultur- want security, justice, and liberty for al history through the sport of soccer. ourselves and our fellow Americans.

So why is this all important?

You’re fully able to enjoy an intense match without knowing all the background lore or even the current happenings. Plus you can argue that since we’re American, Spain’s politics don’t affect us anyways. Who cares if you’re a Culer (Barcelona fan) or Madrista (Madrid fan)? This reasoning lies behind how we neglect culture that isn’t our own. We tend to absorb other countries’ cultures without recognition for their true importance; through this adoption we lose deeper meaning and passion and replace it with surface level interest and faux devotion. The reason everyones believes Americans to be disrespectful is because we’re ART Credit: Sage Park

competitions in the country, she experienced playing against the best juniors nationwide. But beyond her accomplishments on the court, Kang is proudest of how tennis has helped her grow personally. “It’s an individual sport, so I’ve learned a lot about myself. I feel I’ve become a better person both on and off the court,” she shares.

Kang’s training routine is rigorous and structured, involving daily practice matches, twice-weekly private lessons, stretching and mobility exercises, and general strengthening workouts. To prepare for matches, she relies on a combination of mental and physical strategies. She visualizes her game plan, reviews notes to keep her mindset positive, and focuses on hydration, nutrition, and injury prevention through stretching and foam rolling.

Balancing her academic and athletic commitments has been challenging, but CCA’s online program allows her to travel for tournaments while staying on top of her studies.

Looking ahead, Kang’s goals include finishing her season strong at CIF regionals and continuing to compete at

even higher levels. As she heads to the Air Force Academy, Kang is excited to bring her passion for tennis to the collegiate level and keep growing as both an athlete and individual.

“We tend to absorb other countries’ cultures without recognition for their true importance.”

CCA’s Athletes of the Week

By Emiko Matsuda

Photo Credit: Yule Kang

Yule

Kang (12) Tennis Yule Kang has been committed to tennis since the age of seven and is now set to continue her athletic journey at the United States Air Force Academy. Her drive and dedication to the sport have been heavily influenced by her parents, who have supported her every step of the way. “I couldn’t have gotten here without them,” she says, reflecting on how their encouragement has impacted her growth.

One of Kang’s standout achievements came this past summer when she competed in the prestigious National Billie Jean King Tournament. As one of the top junior

Laura Nalasco (10) - Flag Football Laura Nalasco has quickly become a standout player on the school’s flag football team. Introduced to the sport in eighth-grade PE, she joined the team as a freshman and has been a key player ever since. Nalasco credits her teammates and her father, a former flag football player, as her biggest inspirations. “My teammates always motivate me to play better, and my dad has been a big influence,” she shares. Among her proudest moments was scoring a touchdown within the last few minutes of the game to bring the team out of a tie into a lead. With 28 touchdowns this season, Nalasco is proud of her growth as a player and her contributions to the team.

Nalasco’s training routine mainly consists of running routes, mastering plays, and physical drills.

Before games, she prepares by warm

ing up with her team and focusing on areas for improvement. Balancing academics and flag football has not been an easy task, but Nalasco stays on top of her schoolwork by using class time effectively. Now in the playoffs, she’s determined to hit her goal of 30 touchdowns before the season ends. Looking to the future, Nalasco hopes to continue playing in college, whether on a school or club team.

Photo Credit: Laura Nalasco

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Crossword Crest Academy

By Carrie Krummen

ACROSS: 1. Apple computer 4. Imperfection 8. Life simulation video game 12. Coke soda nickname 13. “Crazy” in Spanish 14. Loves warm hugs 15. An amusing person (two words) 16. Presidential office 17. Female voice range for deeper voices 18. Football players in charge of catching and running the ball 21. Agent 22. Pen fluid 23. Assuaged 25. Competitive card game 26. Jacket with severed sleeves 28. Ursula’s preferred pet species 30. Live-action Grinch actor 34. Fashion 36. Anagram of 20 DOWN (not a real word) 37. Magicians 39. Higher education location in the first U.S. colony 40. Red and white shirt-wearing individual who hides 42. Mary Poppins is to umbrella as

skydiver is to _________ 44. Cal Poly school with a Mustang mascot (abbreviation) 45. CCA’s Festival of the ____ 47. CD is to DVD as cassette is to ___ 48. ____r_pology = study of human societies 50. Lucky Japanese fish 51. Coming-of-age movie trilogy with Troy, Gabriella, and Sharpay (abbreviation) 54. Deep consideration of one’s beliefs and feelings 58. Received a tart to the face 60. Junior year AP English class (colloquially) 61. Cars 62. Lightbulb moment 63. Mode of the superhero industry 64. Bioluminescence 65. Mean Girls protagonist 66. Chappell of the music industry 67. Manual boat rower

DOWN: 1. Emotionally tempestuous 2. Sunburn ointment 3. Posada’s Día de los Muertos figure 4. Party of birds 5. Nat King Cole’s song involving spelling 6. Everbowl delicacy 7. Moon howlers 8. Glides 9. “___ ___ ___ on the other side.” Hamilton 10. Yoga towel 11. Bay Area airport (abbreviation) 12. Salsa dipper 15. Sounds of admiration 19. Synonym for “gigantic” (colloquially) 20. Good foods 24. Dutch city known for creating blue and white pottery 25. Higher education location in America’s Finest City 26. Find the Statue of Liberty and Eiffel Tower within walking distance of each other here 27. Observer 29. Most newsworthy part of a story 30. Shark movie

31. Sicilian muncipality 32. Cantaloupe or honeydew + the avoided item inside 33. Enthralled 35. Synonym for “close,” spelled backward 38. Relish 41. Most touristy Hawaiian island 43. The Windy City 46. Adrenaline-inducing coaster 49. The present 50. Justice Elena of the Supreme Court 51. Pass or fail? = ___ __ miss?

52. Improbable weather in San Diego 53. Miligrams (abbreviation) 55. Sixth largest island of Japan 56. Sicilian city 57. Hawaiian dance 58. Photo (abbreviation) 59. Investigative journalists Tarbell and Wells