Columns 2013 14 quarter 3

THE

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2014 Quarter 3

St. Agnes Academy

lumn

9000 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77036

Seeing Beyond Physical Disabilities

What’s Inside

The World Today

Abby Varona

Find out what’s happening around you in news.

See page 3.

Get Your Rodeo On See who is and playing this year at the rodeo.

See pages 4 and 5.

Are You Feeling Lucky?

Read about some of the St. Patty’s Day traditions and see what fun things are happening this St. Patty’s Day. See page 6.

New and Upcoming

Entertainment

Sports Layout Editor

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or one week, St. Agnes Academy is immersed in popular controversies along with heritage. Every year, the Diversity Club hosts “Diversity Week,” a week that is centered around on the awareness of certain topics. All week, students learn about the issues of today’s world and ways to get involved in order to stand up against these issues. The Diversity Club works hard, year round, in order to make sure that this week is a total success and so far, they have not disappointed. This year, the theme is “Seeing Beyond Physical Disabilities.” St. Agnes is lucky to have different speakers come and talk about these specific issues in order for the student body to understand the controversial topics in current events. In addition to a week full of learning and immersing themselves in the theme of Diversity Week, the students are rewarded with plates upon plates of food along with an Ancestral Dress Pageant and Talent Show at

See page 7.

Want to ask the seniors of St. Agnes some questions you have burning on your mind? Read what the seniors have to say!

See page 8.

To advertise with The Columns, contact the staff through our email address: journalism@st-agnes.org

Index Page 2...................Editorial Page 3........................News Page 4-5.......Center Spread Page 6-7................Features Page 8.................Tiger Tail

the end of the week.

Monday kicked off with a talk by Angela Wrigglesworth, a wheel-chair bound woman with muscular dystrophy. Her bright personality and lively attitude immediately made the student body feel warm and excited to hear her stories. During lunch on Wednesday, Katie, from Service Dogs Inc., shared her story on how a car accident changed her life. She also brought along her service dog, Cowboy, and explained how he assists her in her everyday life. On Thursday, students learned about the history of and how to interpret sign language through presenters from Accessible Signs. Friday kicked off with a panel of speakers that included St. Agnes’s very own, Fefe Malton, a junior who shared her story with the rest of the student body. Through these various speakers, the students of St. Agnes opened their eyes and saw beyond physical disabilities.

Second to Veritas Vacation Day, Solidarity Day is by far one of the most exciting days here at St. Agnes. The many different cultures that make up the student body

GUEST PHOTOGRAPHER\ NELLEN MISUELA Basking in the applause: Juniors (back) Nellen Misuela, Alex DeGuzman, (front) Tricia Interino, Mary Elise Chipongian, Jill Castillo, and Marianne Reyes end with a grand finale to their “Bangko” dance, a traditional Filipino dance with benches.

show their true colors on this eventful day. The participation from the students in bringing food always goes through the roof when it comes to the Food Festival. All morning long, the students starve themselves in order to scarf down plate after plate of pasta, tamales, fried rice and cake. After a more than fulfilling meal, everyone enjoys a fabulous show consisting of students dressed in cultural clothing, displaying the traditions of their heritage. Whether it was

jumping over sticks and benches, playing the accordion, or dancing teachers, St. Agnes students and faculty are full of talent!

Through Diversity Week, St. Agnes is able to step into the culture of the students that make up this diverse school. Students are able to learn about the issues of the world as well as the many cultures of their fellow classmates. The Diversity Club never disappoints in putting on this amazing week, and this year was no different.

Spring Breakers!

Find out what new movies and books are out this year.

Ask The Seniors!

Volume 63 Issue 3

want, with whomever they want, Around School Editor in all different types of weather! It is that first sweet taste of summer that we all yearn for as the semester comes to a close. There are a vat has finally arrived- the last riety of activities one can do over real break until the antici- the break, ranging from heading pated summertime- Spring to the beach with friends, to going Break! Although it is only a week on a ski trip with family, or just long, it just so happens to be one staying at home in bed watching of the most enjoyable vacations Netflix. The typical beach getaway for many people. While Thanks- seems to be extremely popular giving and Christmas Break tend among students at the Academy, to involve more traditional fam- whether it is travelling to a difily gatherings and cold weather, ferent state, country, or staying in Spring Break allows everyone Texas. Seniors Rachel Sanchez and the freedom to do what they Rachel Savage could not be more excited to spend their last high school Spring Break at the beach in Port Aransas, Texas whereas junior Reilly Knecht is patiently waiting to view her favorite “Seaside Sunset” whilst relaxing on the sand in Seaside, Florida. The beach is a great place to get the feel for summer, have a blast in the sun, and to make new friends.

For the students who enjoy cold weather and snow, Spring Break only means one thing – spring BALLSUMMITCOUNTY.COM skiing! “Spring skiing is a lot of fun because the weather is perfect Spring Skiing: Skiers enjoy the fresh powder in Breckenridge, Colorado.

– it is warm, sunny, and you don’t need to wear as many layers of

Catie Eichler

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BEACHES.UPTAKE.COM Patiently Waiting: The waves crash on the beach in Seaside Florida awaiting all of the spring breakers to have some fun in the sun.

clothes,” says senior and avid skier Nina DeAyala. Numerous students bring friends along with them to the popular skiing locations; such as Breckenridge, Aspen, Taos, and many more! You may not gain a swimsuit tan right away, but who says goggle tans aren’t stylish?

Even though school is out for a week, upperclassmen also still need to focus on the idea of college. Spring Break is a perfect time for those college visits that may have been difficult to fit in during the semester. If you are thinking of

planning one but you don’t want to spend an entire week with just your parents, bring some friends with similar interests along with you. Not only will it be educational, but you will still be able to kick back and relax with them wherever the locations may be. Whether it is spending countless days at the beach, shredding powder in the mountains, or road-tripping with family and friends, Spring Break is what you decide to make it; it is all about creating great high school memories to look back on!

Editorial

2014 Quarter 3

the columns

SAA Journalism staff ST. AGNES ACADEMY 9000 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, Texas 77036 713.219.5400

Advisor..........................................................................................Ms. Felicia Miller Editor-in-Chief.............................................................................Kathy Lester Editor-in-Chief.............................................................................Ellen Neiers The Columns: Editorial/News Editor..................................................................Amanda Pope Center Spread Editor....................................................................Reilly Knecht Features Editor..............................................................................Taylor Chukwu Reviews Columnist......................................................................Angela Ott Girl Code Columnist...................................................................Haley Rocha Tiger Tail Editor............................................................................Sara Donovan The SAA Buzz: Sports Editor/Wellness Columnist.............................................Abby Varona Students Out Editor/Entertainment Columnist.......................Bettina Darling Just for Girls Editor.......................................................................Isabel Scott Around the School Editor............................................................Catie Eichler

The Columns is the student newspaper of St. Agnes Academy. Its content, which is the responsibility of The Columns staff, is not subject to direct administrative approval. Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the newspaper, while Opinions columns represent the writer’s perspective. Advertisements do not represent the newspaper’s viewpoint. The Columns, an open forum, welcomes signed letters on pertinent issues from the SAA community.

The editors reserve the right to edit and decline to print letters. All writing may be submitted to Journalism@st-agnes.org.

ADVERTISING POLICY The Columns accepts advertising that does not promote illegal services or immoral products to its readers. The moderator reserves the right to accept or deny advertising with her discretion. Contact the Journalism Staff at Journalism@st-agnes.org for advertising rates and information. Upon approval of the advertisement, The Columns promises to follow through on all contracts. If advertisements are not approved, The Columns promises to refund the fee in full.

Vol 63 Issue 3

Prom or College?

Bettina Darling Students Out Editor/ Entertainment Columnismt

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his year, an unfortunate turn of events has struck the juniors and seniors of St. Agnes Academy. The ACT, better known as your golden ticket, among other things, into college, is the morning after the St. Agnes’s prom. The question that is playing on everyone’s mind: Is it worth it? Should I risk being fatigued during the ACT in order to experience a once in a lifetime dance or should I skip prom in order to be more alert on testing day? Although other testing dates were offered to juniors and seniors, the April 12th testing date is the most accessible, seeing as it is offered at Strake, and it falls one a date when the information is fresh in the one’s minds, ensuring a better grade than if it were

SEATTLELIMOFORHIRE.COM High school students pose for pictures just as they make their way to prom!

to be taken in the summer.

After asking seniors their thoughts many replied with the same answer: It’s their second semester and they’re “done” with the college process, so they may as well go to prom. “I didn’t have to stress about taking the ACT the next morning because I was out having fun,” commented Marielle Morgan, a senior. Whereas juniors, who are just beginning the long and grueling college process, come to a crossroads. “Even if I

wanted to go, my parents won’t let me,” Junior, Claire Dramberger, stated. “Going to college beats going to prom any day.” Along with the excuses: my parents won’t let me go, I’ll be out too late, I won’t get a good night’s sleep, I need a good grade on the ACT, comes the question: Why can’t the prom be pushed back one day?

Ultimately it is your decision but what it really comes down to is: Prom or college?

St. Agnes Academy Mission Statement Rooted in the Dominican tradition, St. Agnes Academy provides a Catholic college preparatory education that encourages young women to develop intellectual curiosity, to work for social justice and to act with integrity and compassion.

Ellen Neiers Editor-in-Cheif

Go in Style...

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here are just a number of months until I am finally finished with high school, and while I want nothing more for this never ending journey to end, I cannot help but fear for what is coming. Yes, college is supposed to be the dream, but who could still be thinking that after the college panel? All I heard was how horrible someone’s roommate was or how awful the workload is the first semester. And all I can think to myself is [with a hint of sarcasm] “Great! I have been looking forward to this?” Some of us have been waiting forever to reach this moment and now I’m kind of scared to leave everything behind and go to this strange unworld known as college. For all I know, I could be the horrible roommate that someone is destined to get. Sure I have lived in the same bedroom with my sister for fifteen years now, but how do I know if my new roommate will be the same as her. Plus, I have to go out and meet new people. I would rather just stay back with all my friends because to me, that is the dream.

On top of these fears of going to college, there are also the fears of being away from home. For start-

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HUFFINGTONPOST.COM Moving on: We all await the moment where we can throw our graduation caps into the air and take the next step of our lives

ers, there is the first time you get sick away from home. Sure when you are at home, there are people there to care for you and watch after you, but once you got off to college who knows who will be there when you find yourself with a 103 degree temperature and stuck in your bed. Let’s just hope your room mate is the motherly type. On top of that though, there is the basic homesickness that you are bound to get. Food, for one, is definitely going to be a change, or at least for me being that my mom loves to cook. This means no more home-cooked meals except for on the holidays when I come home. Now that is a sad thought. There is also being away from siblings for those of you who have them. I have three, so it will definitely be a change for me, but on the bright side, I have become accustomed to a room-

mate. And hey, this just means two hour long face time calls each night. But as I say goodbye to all these things, I also say hello to a whole bunch of new possibilities.

Sooner or later we must all come to reality that we are leaving and going off to college. It can’t be that bad though, after all my brother has survived it so far, so there is hope for me. There is no point really in freaking out about it, because I am going to college unless of course, I skip to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a travelling hobo. We just have to look on the bright side of things about college—more freedom, studying what we want, doing crazy things and getting away with them. Really I am just being paranoid about nothing because once we are done with high school we will move on to bigger and better things.

2014 Quarter 3

News

Vol 63 Issue 3

the columns

A Different Kind of Pope Amanda Pope Editorial/News Layout Editor

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ith Pope Francis almost a year into his papacy, the impact he has had on changing both the tone and the substance of the Vatican is evident. With this new Argentinian Pope, a New Era has begun for the church. Pope Francis has envisioned a more unified and less condemning church saying that “we must not reduce the bosom of the universal church to a nest protecting our mediocrity.”

Pope Francis has taken a nontraditional route with his candidness in interviews and deviation from his previous predecessors, Benedict XVI and John Paul II, tone. It is this lack of orthodoxy that has polarized his audience into those who see him as a rock star or a radical. There are many people who have made their dissent of this pope clear, even going as far to call him “a Marxist” due to his criticism of capitalism.

However, his popularity is undeniable. Within ten months of his induction, Francis drew 6.6 million visitors to the Vatican, nearly triple the number of visitors Bene-

AMERICA.ALJAZEERA.COM On the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica: Pope Francis gave his Christmas Day speech conveying his message of central peace and global social justice.

dict had. It is his forthrightness with the media that has drawn the spotlight and he has used it to his full advantage to support his message of social justice.

It was his famous statement “who am I to judge” when asked about his standing on gay marriage that brought on his outspoken promotion of tolerance. In his rhetoric, Pope Francis has encouraged his audience to keep in mind the bigger picture of worldwide social justice instead of judgment.

Just last month, Francis urged the global elite attending the World Economic Forum to aid the poor; drawing more attention to the spread of income inequality throughout the world.

And on Christmas day, from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Francis called for peace in South Sudan, encouraging everyone to become personal peacemakers. Speaking to the public when he said that: “current tensions have already caused numerous victims and are threatening peaceful coexistence in the young state.” This continuing his theme of social harmony and modesty.

With this theme in mind the pope has made a few changes in the church. In January Pope Francis named his first cardinals, selecting 19 men from all around the world, including developing nations such as Haiti and Burkina Faso. Appointing

these men with the strong belief that the church must look more towards the poor and that these cardinals will carry out the message. Pope Francis also took a firm hand when it came to suspending Bishop FranzPeter Tebartzvan Elst, labelled the “bling bish-

op,” for his opulent lifestyle that countered his message of modesty. Showing himself to stand for his message without the tolerance of corruption.

It is no question that Pope Francis is a transformative world leader in his attempts to blend societies towards tolerance and social justice, even in the United States it can be argued his has a political sway.

With the United States containing the fourth largest Catholic population in world, and Texas to contain the eighth largest Catholic population in the country what impact will the pope have on our nation?

The low down on the digital divide Isabel Scott “Just for Girls” Layout Editor

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t any given time technology with internet connection is within arm’s reach of almost every St. Agnes student or faculty member. Gadgets ranging from iPhones to laptops litter St. Agnes providing convenience and academic opportunities to the school. While internet connection may be spotty, seriously the cubbies in the library are a dead zone, and Fujitsu laptops leave some students fantasying about ridding themselves of the computers violently post-graduation; St. Agnes unquestionably sits on the choice side of the Digital Divide.

The difference in the oppor-

tunities and information available to those with problematic internet access and to those with ready access is dubbed the Digital Divide. Like clean water is key to

only economic growth but also improved economic equality.

Here in Texas, towns without access to technology are fighting not to be left in the dust. One

Internet and cell phone access are crucial to daily life in the modern world yet many who need access most have difficulty receiving it.

a healthy village studies find internet access is key to a healthy economy. Globally, areas with better connection experience not

can certainly function without internet access but lack of access makes it difficult to stay competitive in the modern world. For ex-

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ample, imagine completing the college process without personal internet connection. Students on the other side of the Digital Divide need to put in exponentially more effort in order to provide themselves with the opportunities students here at St. Agnes have at their fingertips. Furthermore, adults searching for jobs find similar issues. Job searches have also transitioned to the internet. Therefore, without regular internet connection even finding a job is a challenge.

As the world becomes more and more technology based, task will become more and more challenging for those without internet access.

Keeping up with the the Trends Ellen Neiers Editor-in-chief

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ith it being 20 degrees one day and then a breezy 70 degrees the next, it’s only natural for trends to be constantly changing in this great state that we call Texas. It’s so hard to keep up with everything, which is why I am here to tell you what’s trending, especially around St. Agnes.

For starters, there is the reemergence of the fleece vest. This popular article of clothing is perfect for the moody Texas weather because it is good to keep you warm when temperature drops, but it’s not too chunky for when that Texas heat returns. You can find many girls wearing them on free dress days and even some who wear it over their uniform. The most popular style is the Columbia fleece. In fact, there is whisper around that St. Agnes might be coming out with a fleece vest that would be legal to wear on school days.

Besides vests, there are also the leggings and oversized t-shirt trend. Now this trend has been around since the 1980’s but it’s one of my favorites (which is saying a lot because I’m normally not a trendy person). It is so comfortable, though, that it is hard not to wear. Plus, it is perfect for the Texas “winters” that we have all been experiencing. This has been my go to outfit and I hope it never goes out of style because I will still be wearing it even when it’s not.

Another huge trend, actually, is short, cropped, or pixie haircuts. I’m not quite sure if it’s in preparation for the summer or if people are just ready for something new. Now me personally, I could never go as short as a pixie but there are some people who rock it. I on the other hand opted for the slightly shorter than shoulder length style and frankly I love it is so much lighter and easier to wear.

Although I do, from time to time, miss the long locks, I’m growing to love short hair.

So from clothes to hair there is always a new trend going on. I’m sure though,

by April there will be some new trend that everyone will be raving about.

RODEO HOUSTON 2013 LINEUP March 4th

Brad Paisley

PEOPLE..COM

March 6th

March 5th

Reba McEntire

Eli Young Band

CMT..COM

March 7th

Usher

PEOPLE..COM

Writes songs girls want to be played at their wedding (“She’s Everything”)

“Even If It Breaks Your Heart” will always be a jam

“Queen of Country Music”

Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! OMG, U Got It Bad Usher

March 8th

March 9th

March 10th

March 11th

Chris Young

CMT..COM

REO Speedwagon

Selena Gomez

Jason Aldean

PEOPLE.COM

His song “Getting’ You Home” is otherwise known as “The Black Dress Song.” So if you see a lot of women wearing black dresses to his rodeo performance…

March 12th

Jake Owen

PEOPLE.COM

PEOPLE.COM

The only thing I want to know is if she is still dating the Biebs

Super cool classic rock band from the 70s and 80s

March 13th

March 14th

Maroon 5

Keith Urban

CMT.COM

Full Name is Jason Aldine Williams, that’s my kind of party.

March 15th

Hunter Hayes

PEOPLE.COM CMT.COM

Adam Levine was featured in the The 6’2, long-brown-haired 32 year first episode of American Horror old will make you want to have a Story Season 2, is a judge on the Barefoot Blue Jean Night Voice, and is really cute.

March 16th

Pesado, Banda

CMT.COM

March 17th

CMT.COM

Australian accent. Enough said.

(Also judges American Idol)

March 18th

Luke Bryan

Robin Thicke

CMT.COM PEOPLE.COM

PEOPLE.COM

He recorded his first album at age 9

March 19th Florida Georgia Line

CMT.COM

They won the 2009 Latin Grammy

His song, “Country Girl (Shake It For Me) was inspired by hiphop music, that makes sense.

Maybe Miley Cyrus will make an appearance

Hoping their single “Cruise” will not be remixed during the concert

March 20th

March 21st

March 22nd

March 23rd

Easton Corbin

The Band Perry

Zac Brown Band

Blake Shelton CMT.COM

He used to be a pageant kid (think Toddlers and Tiaras)

PEOPLE.COM

PEOPLE.COM

Did you know they are all siblings?

“Lovin you is fun”

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CMT.COM

Zac Brown owns a southernstyle cooking restaurant

Embarrassing Stories & Fun Memories of the rodeo One time I sat on nachos. That was embarrassing – Mary Grace Whitten

That one time I stalked Reilly Knecht when she went to Zac brown band was so much fun.

-anonymous

I dropped my turkey leg off of the ski lift.

-Julia Douglas My favorite memory so far is when Tim Mcgraw when out into the crowd and I got to touch his hand. Beautiful moment!

–Stephanie Garcia

I went to see Hilary Duff and I thought she was so cool because she was wearing this bedazzled black tank top that was just SO cool

I fell down the stairs.

-Elizabeth Galati

“THE RIDES - I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THEM ,also the FOOOD, aka life, also fried oreos “-Asha Jones

TODAYSMAMA.COM

Houston Livestock show and Rodeo Carnival at dusk

Muttin’ Bustin’

HOUSTONLIVESTOCKSHOW.COM

Classic Texas Longhorn

HOUSTONLIVESTOCKSHOW.COM

-cutest little cowboys and cowgirls around!-

Who do you want to see the most?

- The person selling deep-fried everything

- Blake Shelton!!!!!!!

- “Not interested”- Laura Bookout - “Maroon 5!!! Hello Adam” –Kelsey Ralph - Usha Usha - Luke Bryan {shake it for me guh} - Hunter Hayes 4

Features

2014 Quarter 3

the columns

Vol 63 Issue 3

The Luckiest Day of the Year

Reviews Column

Taylor Chukwu Features Editor

Angela Ott Review Columnist

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ou’re broke, me too.

You’re bored, me too.

You need something to do this weekend that won’t drain your wallet entirely, I get it. Well you’re in luck! My empty wallet has given me the opportunity to search and explore for the best bang for your buck activities in Houston, so start taking notes ladies.

Lucky for you athletic types, Houston offers great athletic opportunities. Sometimes you’ve just got to bounce; if so, consider hitting up Skyzone. This trampoline house typically offers thirty minutes of bouncing, which may seem short, but even five minutes will wear you out fast. If you’ve always been that kid climbing trees, or just want to conquer your fear of climbing, try visiting Texas Rock Gym. Their giant facilities and helpful staff always provide for a fun and exhausting experience. On your first visit, you will have to pay twenty dollars for safety lessons, but each visit after is only thirteen dollars per person for unlimited climbing. If you’re looking for a good workout and some fun, look up these hotspots.

Check out these websites to get started: - http://www.texasrockgym.com/ -http://www.skyzone.com/Houston Maybe you fit the more artistic type, no worries, Houston is lavishly rich in art and culture. On Thursdays, the Museum of Fine Arts offers free general admission. The surrounding Montrose area extends plenty of other entertaining opportunities and cheap finds in local thrift shops, so why not?

Want food? I like to consider myself an expert in this subject in particular. Thankfully, Houston is full of amazing cheap eats all around. Craving Cajun food?

Follow your grumbling stomach to Rajin’ Cajun or BB’s in Montrose (try the grioles). For Asian food, take a look around!

We Academy Women have the amazing privilege to basically be buried in Far East Culture.

Need a great burger? Hit up Bernie’s Burger Bus. Don’t be fooled by the school décor, this yellow school bus definitely serves up a magical burger, for a good price too! So, don’t let money problems stop you from trying new foods.

There are so many different adventures to be had, and you don’t have to sell your soul to enjoy them. So next time, don’t let your starving wallet keep you from getting off the couch.

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t’s almost that time of year again. The time of year when we like to put on our favorite and most fabulous green shoes, shirts and especially our beloved accessories.

I bet you guessed it. It’s when millions of people worldwide get together and celebrate, the holiday adored by all, St. Patrick’s Day! But how many of us actually know the real meaning, origin, history or even the purpose of this particularly green day?

Have you ever thought why it is so important that celebrant’s wear the color green? What is the true significance of leprechauns and what role do they play in the holiday? Well don’t worry, the answers to all of your burning St. Patrick’s Day questions are right here for your convenience.

Today, celebrations centered on St. Patrick have very little to do with the actual person, St. Patrick or the country of Ireland.

It seems as if Ireland has just become burdened with the asso-

ALLOVERALBANYCOM

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations: Extravagent parades are common celebrations of the holiday, especially in New York City and Boston. ciation of St. Patrick’s Day and the outlandish celebrations that accompany it. The real St. Patrick was actually born in Britain but lived in Ireland shortly.

For a period in his life he worked tirelessly trying desperately to convert the Irish community to the Christian faith. He often used shamrocks, the native and popular three leaved clover, to explain to the Irish people the holy trinity. I bet no one could have guessed that one. Who would have thought that the shamrock’s popularity actually comes from

something as simple as that?

So how did St. Patrick’s Day with all its glory arrive to the United States? Well St. Patrick’s Day was actually introduced

by Irish-American immigrants and has blossomed into the merry and very commercial holiday that we all know today.

The most common St. Patrick’s Day traditions include parades, crammed pubs, and green attire. The most famous and festive St. Patrick’s Day parades are held in New York City, Boston, and in the great country of Ireland. These parades pay ode to

Ireland with their traditional Irish attire, music, dance and food.

These three cities are known for going all out in their celebrating.

Ironically these American traditions were only recently introduced to the Irish, who have just started to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Now that you know a little more about this fun holiday, you can now go out and consciously celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Happy St. Patrick’s Day and remember to wear green!

Novels to Films Hayley Rocha Announcements Editor

be an especially popular idea in the entertainment industry. The Fault in Our Stars and Divergent are the most anticipated books to he year 2014 has barely become movies this year. Films even begun, yet there that are book-based are the are already so many ex- toughest to create because they citing things to look forward to! always have high expectations, Last year, many bestselling books yet they are the most anticipated. became movies which seems to Divergent is the first novel of a trilogy written by Veronica Roth. It has even been compared to another popular trilogy, The Hunger Games.

The story is based in a future Chicago where the city is divided into five parts. People are placed in a certain area based on their personalities.

The main character is Beatrice “Tris”, who is played

by Shailene Woodley. Tris discovers that she is Divergent, meaning she doesn’t fit IMDB.COM in any area and Divergents Divergent: Divergent is a much anticipated are not accepted by her soaction/adventure movie.

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2012 and the movie is to be directed by Josh Boone. The book is centered on the life of a sixteen year old cancer patient named Hazel, who again is played

by Shailene Woodley.

Hazel is forced to attend a support group by her parents where she meets, and falls in love with, a seventeen year old ex-basketball IMDB.COM player and amputee, Waters.

The Fault in Our Stars: The Fault in Our Stars is most Augustus definitely going to be a tearjerker.

Ansel Elgort plays the role of Augustus. ciety. Theo James is playing ToThis dramatic love story is one bias “Four”, who is Tris’s training that has many girls all over the instructor and romantic interest. world anxious to see and is sure This science fiction adventure to be a tear-jerker. The Fault in story with a side of romance is to Our Stars comes out on June 6, be released on March 21, 2014.

2014 and is not to be missed!

The Fault in Our Stars was written by John Greene in January

Features

2014 Quarter 3

Reily Knecht Centerspread Layout Editor

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eing enrolled in a school full of 800 (mostly) trendy girls, the renowned brand Lululemon is a common and beloved topic. From popular leggings to cute sports bras, Lululemon is strongly integrated in St. Agnes culture. Although the clothes are great, most people don’t know the amazing story behind the Lululemon Athletica brand or how REALLY cool their employees (or “educators”) are. I decided to figure out what the manifesto of the company is and what inspired its commencement.

Upon walking into Lululemon, the aroma of fitness and fashion overwhelms you. If being healthy had a fragarance, Lulu has found it. Or maybe it’s the hardwood floors? Anyway, a sales associate, themselves “educator,” greets you and asks you multiple questions, such as; “How is your day going? How do you work out? What type of yoga do you do?” etc. They make you feel welcomed and feel inspired to buy a lot of workout clothes to live healthy so I can radiate well-being like the employees do.

After looking around the store for a bit, I approached a friendly

Angela Ott

Vol 63 Issue 3

the columns

Spreading the Inspiration of a Healthy Lifestyle

face who works there, who is actually a St. Agnes Alum! Emma Morris was the class of 2012, not to mention the student body president. We reunited and I asked her if I could interview her about her job (or lifestyle). She excitedly asked her boss and after being given the “okay,” she grabbed another girl to be interviewed also. We introduced ourselves and sat on comfy pillows on the ground, literally in the middle of the store. My friend and I were surprised at how relaxed and chill they were. The other girl was around twenty years old and her name was Kelly. With their faces beaming, we began the interview: Q: What’s it like working at Lululemon Athletica? Is it a typical retail job or more than that?

A: Emma-It’s a constant party.

We actually have dance parties all the time, in the middle of the store!

Kelly- It’s amazing working here. I get to connect to the customers by talking to them about what I love. As for my remarkable co-workers, we are like a family here. I wake up every morning excited to come in.

Q: Wow I wish my job was more like that. I make snow cones all day. So would you say it is more than just a retail store?

A: E-It’s a culture. For

us, it is more about getting to know the people.

K- Of course. This company doesn’t just make clothes, we are a leadership company. We want to educate everyone who comes in about living healthy, yoga, and exercising. We don’t have to sell the product because it sells itself.

Q: I can see that! How did Lululemon even get started? You mentioned something earlier about Canada.

K- Yes! It was started in Vancouver by a surfer, snowboarder, and yoga enthusiast: Chip Wilson (basically my dream guy).

He decided to try out a yoga class to work on his balance for surfing and snowboarding. Chip was inspired to make a women’s clothing line for yoga when he noticed that the women in the class were wearing heavy, cotton clothing that weren’t breathable.

He sold the clothes out of a yoga studio, which eventually turned into an international company.

Q: Chip sounds like a pretty cool dude. How long have you been working for the company?

E- I’ve only been working for 3 months, but they don’t treat you like a newbie or anything. Everyone is a part of the family. They were so welcoming and wanted to share EVERYTHING they

know with me. The only thing that made me feel new on my first day was learning everyone’s names (which didn’t take long).

K- I’ve been working for Lululemon for around... (Kelly takes a pause to ponder) 11 months.

I started in Chicago and transferred here. I’ve never enjoyed a job as much as I enjoy this one. I’m actually started yoga training soon! We have classes here every Sunday at 11am.

Q: Well now I know what accent you have. *girls giggle* Is the in-store yoga popular?

E- Yes, very! We move all of the shelves to make space. The average size of a class is 3050 people. You should come!

We ended the interview by talking about the guys’ collection and the new, spin off girls collection they made called Ivivva.

Lululemon sells great clothes but their educators’ main goal is to discuss the physical aspects of healthy living from yoga and diet to running and cycling as well as the mental aspects of living a powerful life of possibilities.

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER\ REILLY KNECHT

Lululemon Athletica: The “educators” having fun at Lulu (Right: Emma Morris, 2012).

Bridging the Gap between high school and college

Review Columnist

E

at, sleep, go to school, repeat (maybe throw in some additional stress eating). The monotonous tone of our daily lives in high school can really make us feel a little loopy. After four years of this routine, you’ll repeat it, although slightly less tedious, in college. Seems like a drag, right? But! There is a solution to the madness, Gap years! You may have pushed this word far back into your mind, but a gap year can liberate you from the dullness of everyday life. For those of you who do not already know, a gap year basically entails taking a year off after high school graduation and before the beginning of college in order to travel, volunteer, etc. In fact, some of our

WHERETHEREBEDRAGONS.COM

Taking in the View: Students a part of the group “Where There Be Dragons” are pictured enjoying there time in a tiny village.

very own St. Agnes Academy women have completed, or will complete, a gap year.

Caroline Fenelon, class of 2013, is currently in the progress of completing her gap year. According to Caroline, “[she] decided to divide [her] gap year into two halves (like semesters) so that [she] would have the chance to come home for the holidays.

[She] spent [her] first semester in Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Guatemala with

a group called “Where There Be Dragons.” While in South America, she lived in several small villages either building for the community or taking Spanish classes, depending on her location. This year, she will be visiting Sri Lanka where she “will be interning at the International Analog Forestry Network, helping them develop Belipola, a 30-year old analog forest, into a peace education and training center.” While

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there, she will also have the opportunity to study Buddhism and meditation Thai Plum. After that, she will travel to Myanmar where she will choose her internship. If Caroline’s trip sounds amazing, then consider a gap year. As Caroline stated, “choosing to take a gap year was the best decision I have ever made.” Her learning experiences this past year are sure to be just as valuable, if not more, as a college classroom. Caroline will be attending Georgetown University in the fall.

A current senior at the Academy plans to take a gap year this coming year. Kate Barkley, class of 2014, chose to take a gap year around mid-October last year. For the next year, Kate has been accepted to attend high school classes in Belgium sponsored by Rotary Youth

Exchange. Currently, she is waiting for a response from another program which takes place in Morocco or Oman where she will take Arabic classes. When asked to give any advice regarding gap years, Kate stated “it can seem pretty scary, I have days when I definitely want to back out of it, but I feel like it’s the stuff that’s difficult like that that really leaves you mature and intelligent having gotten through it.” Kate will attend Rhodes College in 2015.

If the thought of (more) school after four years of high school sounds utterly unappealing, and broadening your knowledge of the world appears to be appetizing, then highly consider a gap year. There are so many places to explore and things to do, why not?

Tiger Tail

2014 Quarter 3

Vol 63 Issue 3

the columns

ASK THE SENIORS Sara Donovan Tiger Tails Editor

Underclassmen get the chance to ask seniors any burning questions they have on life here at the Academy

“How do you stay so on top of things when you’re doing a thousand and one things like me?”

“How do I become as cool as you?”

Just make a list of goals you want to reach, and work hard to achieve them! Also, make schedules to help stay organized.

“How do y’all pull off messy buns?! I mean honestly I try but it only looks good on seniors!”

“What are you fighting for?”

‘Merica

“How do you manage to go from looking like death everyday to looking cute in college for the males around you?”

Well, I’m not in college yet but I only plan on dressing “cute” for maybe the first week, then it’ll be sweats for the rest of the semester.

“When are you going to leave?”

Never.

“I’ve heard a lot about senior year being a blow off or easy year. Is this true?”

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

You can’t.

After many stressful nights while here at the Academy, throwing your hair into a messy bun in the morning becomes second nature.

“How do you get the boyz?”

Just march over to Strake and take one.

“How to not procrastinate??”

Don’t get a Netflix account, it takes over your entire life.

“Is it worth it going out to eat for lunch?”

If you can find a good place to eat that’s close, off campus is pretty awesome. Some good, close places to eat are Corner Bakery, La Madeleine, Don’s, Marini’s Empanadas, and of course Whataburger.

CONGRATULATIONS! “How do you fit all of your books in you backpack?”

Either get a bigger backpack or just master the art of shoving everything in there.

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Isabel Scott

Abby Varona

shout out to our 2014-2015 Editors in Chief