NDB | The Catalyst | Volume 3, Issue 1 | September 2016

OPINION | Page 2 NDB’s new lunch program: Healthy food and long lines

www.TheCatalystNDB.com

Volume 3, Issue 1

the

ARTS & LIFE | Page 6 A tour of Southern California’s famous amusement parks

MISCELLANEOUS | Page 8 So, where did you go this summer? What did you do?

CATALYST

NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL’S FINEST NEWS SOURCE

@theCatalystNDB

Welcome back, Notre 1540 Ralston Avenue, Belmont, CA 94002

September 2016

Photo Credit: Robert Rojas

Representatives from the Gators, Titans, Mavericks, and Royals classes compete in a friendly game of “Hungry, Hungry Hippos” as the ASB officers referee during the “Notre-lympics,” the Olympic-themed first rally of the school year.

NEWS

Royals begin their Senior year with a big splash

The Class of 2017 participate in the Senior Panoramic and Splash, annual school traditions

SPORTS

Athletes try out for Fall sports season

NDB Athletics begins WBAL membership

by Camyrn McNab Health & Sports Editor

Photos Courtesy of Denise Uhl and the Royals

Scenes from the Splash show seniors gathering in the pool with their royal smiles.

by Sara Eckles and Sasha Arredondo De-Lipski Managing and Arts & Life Editors

Time. It is something that goes by faster than the speed of light. As senior year begins, it becomes very clear that time does, in fact, fly. The past three years at NDB have gone by so quickly -- It’s astonishing. And, this year will be, too.

Senior year not only puts everything into perspective. It forces seniors to consider where they want to go and what they want to do for the rest of their lives. Because many of them will be going their separate ways next fall, they are all experiencing their “first lasts” together as the Royals, Class of 2017.

One of these “first lasts” is a senior tradition at NDB for many years, the Senior Panoramic and Splash. This year’s 97

seniors gathered together on the school lawn to take their class portrait and then again in the school swimming pool, all wearing a t-shirt with their class color, purple.

The Senior Panoramic and Splash are fun events that show how close the class has grown. From Winter Formal to Prom and rallies to Aquacades during the past three years and one more chance to do it all again this year, it is a bittersweet thing for many of the Royals, but this is one of their last gatherings and one of their last pictures all together as a class.

The Senior class has made the most of its time here at NDB. Before they know it, they will be going to be off to different colleges and universities in different parts of the world. But, most of them can agree that they will always be a tight knit class. They are and will forever be, the Royals.

The school year is well on its way and, with a new year, comes the start of a new sports season. The NDB Cross Country, Golf, Tennis, Volleyball, and Water Polo teams are back. As a new member of the West Bay Athletic League (WBAL), these teams are ready to compete with the other schools in the league.

Before team rosters were announced, tryouts began early in the school year with a week of hard work for student athletes. Although exhausting, they are also a great way to meet new people.

Senior Dana Frankel says, “I came to Notre Dame not knowing a lot of people, and I met a lot of my classmates at volleyball tryouts who I am still great friends with!”

The Varsity Volleyball team, led by Seniors Maddie Baumann, Tammy Byrne, Mele Fakatene, Kristine Gese, Mavis Lui, Katie Smoot, and See Fall Sports | Page 7

#thecatalystndb | Opinion | September 2016

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Letter from So, what’s for lunch? Epicurean’s take on food the Editor Good food and long lines mark the start of the school’s new all-in lunch program Alex Dennis

Editor-in-Chief

@TheCatalystNDB

“You will never be able to influence the world if you always try to be like it.”

-- Sean Mccabe Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Though this quote may seem slightly mainstream and perhaps juvenile, I have found it not only to be a great idea for my senior quote, but fitting for the new role I have taken on this academic year.

Despite being standard and simple, I believe the title, “Editor-in-Chief” does not do my job justice. Not because it doesn’t embody the workload I have signed myself up for or that it sets me apart from the rest of “The Catalyst” staff, but because it doesn’t encompass the joy and excitement that I carry for being able to fill this position.

If you do not know me personally, you may not be aware that writing is one of my favorite things to do in my spare time. Writing essays for class, articles for “The Catalyst,” and even for my own personal enjoyment, the process of creating something for other people to read and enjoy is a concept that I genuinely cherish. Therefore, when I say that the title “Editor-in-Chief” does not illustrate my role within “The Catalyst,” it is because as of now, this is not a job to me: it is hobby. A hobby that may occupy a great deal of my time and require flexible and extensive hours of work, but a craft that it so important to me and so fulfilling, that I intend to give it my all.

“The Catalyst” is a newspaper that has seen its ups and downs, its good years and bad, but I hope that we, our dedicated staff and myself, are able to transform it into a news and entertainment source that NDB has not seen in years.

Watch out Notre, “The Catalyst” is back in business.

Michelle Leung Opinion Editor

@TheCatalystNDB

We’ve been back to school for less than a month, and NDB’s new lunch program has shown significant improvements since last year.

Students can still get food for breakfast and lunch and during breaks, but now lunch is included as a part of their tuition. Parents don’t have to make lunches for their daughters or give them money to buy food. Students now have better access to a variety of foods, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free offerings. So, there’s something for everybody. Students can get their food in the Servery like last year and now from several food stations located throughout the Dining Room.

If the long lunch lines mean anything, it’s that something right is happening with Notre’s food.

A lot of it is credited to the school’s partnership

with Epicurean Group. This Northern California-based food management company works with local farmers to provide students at various area schools, from Saint Francis High School to Dominican University of California, with wholesome meals made with fresh and organic ingredients.

Epicurean has helped to make some notable changes to the school lunch program.

Every Friday, the menu is posted online for the following week, so students, faculty, and staff can read what will be served for each day. The menu changes each day with hot meals, including salads and soups, with options for all dietary needs. The salad bar even gives the option of a premade daily special or a doit-yourself with dressing and toppings on the side.

The NDB community seems to be very satisfied with the new lunch system.

The Catalyst asked our fellow classmates about what they thought so far.

A common remark was the diversity of the menu.

They could not get enough of the naan and tikki masala and the Mexican street-style ta-

cos on the days that they were served.

Most enjoy the buffet-style self-service. It is convenient for those who want to customize their portion sizes or go back for seconds.

Some thought the best part was dessert every Wednesday. The churros during the first week were a major hit as students walked away with one in each hand. The brownies and lemon bars were good, too. There are some, however, who want dessert, especially cookies, everyday.

Teachers seem to be just as satisfied. “I like how everyone gets the same lunch.

It builds a nice little community,” says Math teacher Doug Vierra. He is pleased with the system in that they can go back for seconds if desired.

Teachers agree that Epicurean promotes a positive message on what we eat, the way we eat, and where we source our food. “Epicurean forces me to eat healthy, because once I leave campus, it’s a free-for-all with whatever’s on my way home,” explains English teacher Robert Rojas.

Math teacher Jennifer Walton agrees, too, especially

with the amount of dessert.

“It’s good that [Epicurean] limits dessert to once a week, because I have little self-control when it comes to sweets.”

The gourmet, but healthy selection is appreciated, she also mentions, as she initially thought that every day of the week, the food would be the same.

Students have been concerned about the long lines. Instead of having some students buy their lunches from the Servery while others sit down at tables like last year, everybody is standing up and getting their lunches at the same time -- The reason for the several food stations.

The school is experimenting with staggered lunch dismissal times for each of the four grades to solve that problem.

On behalf of NDB, we thank the Epicurean team for its food and service. Students, faculty, staff and all appreciate the environmentally-conscious and healthy effort of the company. The company is continually making improvements to better our dining experience, and we hope to see them throughout the school year.

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

So, what do you think? Email TheCatalystNDB@gmail.com or tweet @TheCatalystNDB

theCATALYST

ABOUT “THE CATALYST”

NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL’S FINEST NEWS SOURCE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alex Dennis adennis17@ndhsb.org

NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR Rachel Roberts rroberts17@ndhsb.org

SPORTS EDITOR Camryn McNab cmcnab17@ndhsb.org

MANAGING EDITOR (ONLINE) Sara Eckles seckles17@ndhsb.org

OPINION EDITOR Michelle Leung mleung17@ndhsb.org

PHOTO EDITOR Katie Brandi kbrandi17@ndhsb.org

MANAGING EDITOR (PRINT) Monet Mendenhall mmendenhall17@ndhsb.org

ARTS & LIFE EDITOR Sasha Arredondo-De Lipski sarredondodelipski17@ndhsb.org

FACULTY ADVISOR Robert Rojas rrojas@ndhsb.org

“The Catalyst” is a student-run newspaper that is published quarterly in print and online for Notre Dame High School Belmont community.

EDITORIAL POLICY “The Catalyst” accepts unsolicited letters from students, faculty, staff, and alumni as well as press releases from on and off-campus organizations, but cannot guarantee publication. “The Catalyst” reserves the right to edit or reject submissions it deems objectionable.

The views expressed in the Opinion section do not reflect the views of “The Catalyst,” Notre Dame High School Belmont, or the Archdiocese of San Francisco, but are solely the views of the writer. Unsigned editorials reflect the opinion of “The Catalyst.”

CONTACT US Notre Dame High School 1540 Ralston Avenue Belmont, California 94002 Phone: (650) 595-1913 Email: TheCatalystNDB@gmail.com Social Media: TheCatalystNDB

#thecatalystndb | News & Features | September 2016

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Meet the new 2016-2017 Associated Student Body officers After coordinating the “Notre-lympics” rally, what do these student-leaders have planned next? “The Catalyst” finds out.

by Rachel Roberts News & Feature Editor

As everyone saw at the first rally of the school year, the Associated Student Body officers briefly introduced themselves and pulled off a fun and spirited event.

Although everyone, except for the freshmen, had voted last year, this was the first time seeing their most valued student-leaders at work. The “Notre-lympics” went fantastically, and by now, everyone is somewhat familiar with hearing their voices during the morning announcements.

So, what exactly do they do?

This year’s ASB President is senior Gabrielle Penner. Her role is to lead student council, moderate meetings, and be the main contact with school administration.

On behalf of the whole ASB, Penner says this year’s mission is “to promote tradition, leadership, and sisterhood at Notre Dame.” Other goals are to ensure that all leadership boards feel their voice is heard and that ASB can work with them as equals.

Jillian Antunez, a junior, is the Vice-President.

Her job is to oversee all clubs and assist the President. Antunez describes herself as

Photo Courtesy of SeniorsByDesign.com

The 2016-2017 ASB Officers (from left to right): Jillian Antunez, Beth Vavurius, Marina Sylvestri, Tammy Byrne, Michelle Pineda, and Gabrielle Penner

“a student and friend to all.”

She hopes to inspire others and help them achieve their goals.

Senior Michelle Pineda is this year’s Communications Officer -- Formerly known as Secretary. She is in charge of taking notes at meetings, writing daily announcements, sending emails on behalf of ASB, and helping faculty and staff with messages for the school.

When asked about her goals for the year, Pineda told us she “hopes to communicate efficiently with everyone that I serve at Notre Dame. I am also looking forward to creat-

ing a fun and spirited atmosphere for the whole school!”

The ASB Finance Officer is Marina Sylvestri.

She is in charge of budgeting ASB events, coordinating fundraisers, and working with the Finance Department to monitor ASB’s spending. She hopes to work with the other ASB officers as a team and make this year “memorable and legendary.”

This year’s Activities Director on ASB is senior Beth Vavuris. Her job is to plan dances, rallies, and other similar events. Her duties are spirit-related, and she

How to improve your SAT and ACT scores Two Seniors’ recommendations on preparing for those exams

by Alex Dennis and Sara Eckles

describes her goal as being “to help each class be spirited to their best ability while also being supportive of each other and the school!”

Senior Tammy Byrne’s role is Athletics officer, whose job is to promote all sports teams on campus, report the scores after big games, and organize tailgates and other such events. She hopes to support and promote all sports at NDB and include all of the teams that may be overlooked.

Byrne says, “We are one school and ultimately one team, so that means we all need to support each other.

And, if I can make that happen by the end of the year, I will be so proud of all of us.”

A few of the activities that the ASB have already been involved in this year are the rallies, morning announcements, freshman events, such as the Frosh Mixer, and club application and registration periods.

These new ASB officers are excited to lead the student body school during this school year. This group is cohesive, enthusiastic, and confident that they can all work together to bring the best out of the NDB student body for the whole year.

Meet Dina Cunha NDB welcomes a new Career and College Counselor

Editor-in-Chief and Managing Editor

Junior year.

The workload intensifies dramatically as you worry about taking AP’s, honors classes, and the dreaded SAT’s and ACT’s.

Then there’s senior year. It’s the time in your life when you’re not sure whether you should be stressed or relieved, excited or scared, and most importantly, it’s the time when you start thinking about what you want to do for the rest of your life.

At both points in high school, college is the next big stage, and with universities demanding high standardized test scores and almost perfect GPAs, you could say that many upperclassmen feel a pressure to improve these scores. That’s why we created a list of the resources to help you improve your standardized test results. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, keep reading.

There are many different tutoring companies located in the Bay Area. Most, if not all, offer tutoring for the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and the ACT, and will provide you with feedback on the core areas you need to work

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

The SAT and ACT test prep guides work only if you read them.

on in order to improve your scores. Some of them provide group or individual sessions to help you prepare for standardized tests. If in-person lessons aren’t enough, companies often supply the option of buying packages and study books, so you get the ability to take free practice tests.

The number one study book that most students use to prepare for their tests is the College Board’s Official SAT Study Guide. This is the most reliable way to study for the SAT if you do not want to get tutoring. This book provides explanations, work-

sheets, and practice tests that will help you study for the test.

Additionally, the ACT has their own study book called the Official ACT Prep Guide.

This book offers everything that the SAT does, only narrowed down to fit ACT guidelines and testing procedures.

These books are available at many local and online bookstores, including Barnes and Noble Booksellers. They are perfect if you cannot commit to scheduled classes.

We hope that these suggestions are helpful and we wish you luck on all your future test dates.

Photo credit:Katie Brandi

Dina Cunha visits one of the senior English classes.

by Alex Dennis Editor-in-Chief

Dina Cunha is NDB’s new Career and College Counselor. A graduate of UC Davis and SFSU, she has over fifteen years of combined experience as a high school Social Studies teacher, college counselor, and college admissions officer in both public and private schools.

Cunha has already begun to meet with Seniors and visit their English classes to make a presentation on the Personal Statement and answer questions about the college application process. The Personal Statement is an essay required for many college applications and a source of anxiety for many seniors.

Her presentation seemed to alleviate at least one class.

She commented, “The essays are the last thing they see before they score your application.” She emphasizes a “Show me, don’t tell me” approach to writing an answer to the various essay prompts and “Know your audience” when telling one’s story in writing.

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#thecatalystndb | News & Features | September 2016

New faculty and staff ready to start new year “The Catalyst” asks them how things are going so far in their classrooms and offices.

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

(From left to right): Rachel Shanley, Admissions; Ynez Lizarraga, Spiritual Life; Stephane Barile, Social Science; AshleyWillits, Visual and Performing Arts; Angela Pollock, Ryan Dilag, Spiritual Life; Isabelle Haithcox, Science; and Dina Cunha, Director of College and Career Counseling.

Not pictured: Margaret Cucinell, English; Amanda Leonard, Admissions; Curtis Panasuk, Mathematics; and Judy Molland, World Languages.

by Monet Mendenhall and Sara Eckles

Managing Editors

As the new school year starts, seniors are thinking about graduation and college, juniors are preparing for an important year for grades and extracurricular activities, and sophomores are getting ready for another year now that they have survived the first year of high school. The classes are ready to welcome the freshmen to campus. Everyone is ready to welcome the “other freshmen”: the new faculty and staff.

“The Catalyst” asked the school’s newest adults members two questions: Why did you choose NDB? What have you enjoyed about it so far?

The English department welcomed Margaret Cucinell who teaches English I. She said, “I am thrilled to be here! My family moved here a year ago from Northern Virginia. I interviewed at NDB for a part-time English position, and I immediately knew NDB was the perfect fit.

I enjoy seeing everyone run

for dessert on Wednesdays!”

French teacher Judy Molland joined the World Languages department. She said, “I was thrilled that NDB asked me to stay on permanently when I subbed for Ms. Pasa last year. NDB girls are awesome! I’ve taught in several schools, and NDB beats them all!”

The Visual and Performing Arts Department now includes Ashley Willits. She said, “I want to grow the Music program from what is has been, and being in a Catholic atmosphere will help with that. I feel more at home here.

The rally has been one of my favorite things this year. The students here are very kind, warm, and inviting. I am excited for this year!”

New Chemistry teacher Isabelle Haithcox is part of the Science department.

She said, “I was teaching at [NDNU] for 19 ½ years, and I wanted a change, but still wanted to be somewhere with the hallmarks. I love the students.”

The Social Sciences department welcomed Stefane

Barile who is very excited to rejoin the NDB community.

She is an NDB alumna and was the Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper. She said, “I wanted to come back into this community, and it was largely based on the experience I had here. The students have been so engaged, studious, and enthusiastic. The teachers have also been very welcoming.”

Angela Pollock, Ryan Dilag, and Ynez Lizarraga are the newest members of the Spiritual Life department:

Pollock said, “I have known for awhile that I wanted to return to teaching and for an all-girls high school. It was a dream come true when NDB offered me the job. I am delighted to be working with these incredible young women and my amazing colleagues.”

Dilag said, “NDB will indeed be able to provide me with the setting to live out this personal mission in a dynamic and transformative manner.

These girls have a strong and burning desire to pay their blessings forward. The unconditional love and support that the entire community has

for each other is amazing! I’m overjoyed with the endless hospitality I receive everyday.”

Lizarraga said, “I came to NDB because I was really looking forward to working more directly with students. I chose NDB because of the wonderful welcoming community with its mission to empower young women and its hallmarks. I have enjoyed working with the staff and students, and the free lunches!”

The Admissions team is joined by Rachel Shanley and Amanda Leonard.

Shanley said, “I came to NDB because I wanted to work in an environment full of passionate and hard-working students and faculty, and in a position that gave me the opportunity use my communication, leadership, event planning and marketing experiences to enrich admissions at NDB. Over the last month, I have enjoyed how welcoming all of the faculty, staff, and students are at NDB!”

Leonard said, “I came to NDB to make a difference in young girls lives. So far I

have enjoyed getting to know staff, faculty members, and students. The free lunch and the fun environment make NDB a great place to work! I also enjoy coaching freshman volleyball with Ms. Gonzalez.”

Curtis Panasuk joined the Math department. He said, “I came to NDB because it is a first-rate high school that also happens to be eight minutes from our home in San Carlos. I have enjoyed the two assistant heads of school, Clifford and Bucky. My biggest surprise was when a student entered my classroom through a window (downstairs of course).”

The new College and Career counselor is Dina Cunha. She has worked in several Bay Area high schools and colleges, providing counseling services in career exploration and college admissions.

Like the Class of 2020, each one of these new faculty and staff members is ready to start their first year at NDB, getting to know their colleagues and students and becoming a part of the Notre family.

New changes made to classroom and office spaces Offices were relocated, while classrooms were equipped with new technology and some with new furniture

by Alex Dennis and Rachel Roberts Editor-in-Chief and News & Features Editor

During the summer, the NDB campus went through a lot of changes in preparation for the new school year, especially to improve access and services for students and teachers.

The Counseling and Student Activities Centers switched offices, giving counselors a quieter to place to meet with students and student leaders a more central place to work with each other. The Campus Ministry and Religious Studies departments have combined into the Spiritual Life department and moved into a space located

outside of the Library. The College Center will open upstairs in the former Religious Studies department office.

There is new technology in all of the classrooms.

Projectors, televisions, and Wi-Fi routers were upgraded with interactive projectors similar to a Smart Board, flatscreen TV’s, and better Internet connection.

There is also new “mobile school furniture” being tested in three classrooms.

The “Node school chairs” are designed to allow students and teachers to quickly “reset” the room, depending on the need for a whole class discussion, small group work, or other learning style.

One of the teachers using the new “beta rooms” is Social Sciences teacher Martin Herrmann. He says the new desks are “very helpful when it comes to moving in and out of group activities.”

Associate Principal Anne Schaefer told “The Catalyst” that the new furniture and technology create more efficient and standardized classrooms that benefit students and teachers.

Throughout the year, teachers will be observing the new beta rooms and discussing how to implement them in their own teaching as the school works toward adopting them in all classrooms in the future.

Photo credit:Katie Brandi

Social Sciences teacher Martin Herrmann and his students review a quiz and discuss their answers.

#thecatalystndb | News & Features | September 2016

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NDB welcomes the Gators, Class of 2020 In memory: Calvin Riley The freshmen class attends the Frosh Orientation, Splash, and Mixer

Serra HS graduate, C/O 2015 remembered

by Sasha Arredondo-De Lipski Arts & Life Editor

The Freshman Fiesta -- also known as the Frosh Mixer -- was the first of many nights to remember for the incoming Class of 2020. Planned by ASB Student Council, Link Crew, and other student groups, the event included dancing, music, and food. Students from NDB, Mercy, and Serra High School’s attended the event.

The DJ played high energy music to get everyone dancing and moving throughout the night. A taco truck was on-hand to feed hungry and thirsty dancers and give them churros.

Freshman Meghan Olson said, “I had a really great time at the dance. I met a lot of new people; it was great to meet students from Serra and Mercy.”

Other students, even some of the seniors, claimed this Frosh Mixer was better than their own.

This was the culmination of several events to welcome NDB’s freshmen class.

The first event was the Freshmen Orientation a few weeks ago, before the first day of school.

Greeted by the NDB faculty and staff, the class entered the Moore Pavilion for a full day of ice breakers, challenges, and other activities.

They got to know their sisters and bonded as a class.

They divided into small Link Crew groups that they will continue to meet with during the school year.

Each group had its own theme along with candy. Themes included army, cowgirls, fairies, and In-n-Out.

For lunch, the class sat together for pizza. Afterward, they got to go on a test

Photo credit: Alex Dennis

Freshman dance all night long at the first dance of the year.

by Brianna Callagy Contributing Writer

Photo credit: Alex Dennis

Several freshmen pose for a picture during the Frosh Splash.

Photo credit: AlexDennis

A dancer tries to impress a group of Gators with his moves. run of all their classes, going comfortable they were the first to their actual classrooms and day!”

As the first events of meeting their teachers just for the school year, the freshman a few minutes.

One Link Crew lead- definitely had an amazing er, Andrea Guevara, said, “All time. They have the rest of this our girls were having a great school year along with four time, and we could tell they years of high school to figure were excited to be together! things out, make friends, and We were constantly laughing grow as a class. They have and getting along while doing have a whole year of events the activities throughout the ready for them. Just wait until day. It was great to see how Aquacades.

On August 12th, people came from all over the country to attend the funeral of Calvin Riley. Students from the Notre Dame, Serra and Mercy community, along with teammates from San Joaquin Delta, and family and friends from Boston all gathered to appreciate the goodness he had brought into so many people’s lives. Though the act that took Calvin Riley away from his loved ones was a heinous crime, the funeral that celebrated the man he came to be, was filled with love. Friends and family recalled his love for baseball and the passion with which he played the game. To honor Calvin’s dedication to the sport he so lovingly played, the Serra baseball team has retired the jersey Calvin so proudly wore in all of his games as a Serra baseball player - jersey #9. Though competitors on the field, those who knew him best remember his kind and caring nature. He was someone who was there for his friends when they needed it most, and enjoyed spending time with his family. Rather than focusing on the evil that wrongfully claimed the life of Calvin Riley, those in attendance at his funeral chose to focus on the life he lived. He was known for his happiness, always walking around with a smile on his face. His approachability made it seem like he made friends almost effortlessly.

Although Calvin Riley’s life was cut short, he will always be remembered by family and friends for the huge impact he made in so many lives. Calvin Riley will live on forever in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

Rest in Peace.

Tips for the Gators, Class of 2020

Some words of wisdom from the more experienced members of Notre community...

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

“Try to do all your “Know how to do a lazy “Don’t stand in the mid- “Don’t procrastinate!” dle of the hallways.” homework the day you bun.” get it assigned.”

Emilia Dougherty Titans, Class of 2019

Brenna Barrett

Quinlyn Highsmith Mavericks, Class of 2018 Royals, Class of 2017

Mirna Yao Mama

Photo courtesy of Maryann Osmond

“Bark, bark.”

Clifford Resident Pup

page 6

#thecatalystndb | Arts & Life | September 2016

DC v Marvel

Tour SoCal’s magic kingdoms

Yes, comic book movies are dramatic, too.

Universal Studios and the Disneyland Resort theme parks are a must do

by Sasha Arredondo De-Lipski Arts & Life Editor

Photo credit: WarnerBros.com

What will audiences think of DC’s “Wonder Woman” when it’s released in theaters next year?

by Kelly Tobin Contributing Writer

Marvel and DC are the two biggest comic book movie companies in the industry. Marvel is owned by Walt Disney Studios, while DC is owned by Warner Brothers Studios. There has been a rivalry between the fans who argue about which universe is superior.

Recently, both Marvel and DC have come out with a plethora of movies with the reviews being more complimentary towards Marvel. For example, “Batman vs. Superman” and “Suicide Squad” -- both made by DC -- have received 27% and 26%, respectively, on Rotten Tomatoes, while the most recent Marvel movie, “Captain America: Civil War,” received 87% approval.

Marvel has nine movies coming out between 2016 and 2020. “Doctor Strange,” starring Benedict Cumberbatch, will be the first to come out followed by “Guardians of the Galaxy, Volume 2” in 2017. DC has four to seven confirmed movies coming out, including “Wonder Woman,” “Justice League, Part One,” “The Flash,” and “Aquaman.”

Recently, Warner Brothers has been facing criticism for “Suicide Squad,” in which one of the main leads, the Joker played by Jared Leto, only appears on screen for 20 minutes.

Fans were sorely disappointed, claiming that the hype surrounding Leto’s role in the movie was a joke.

During an interview with “The Independent” newspaper, filmmaker Anthony Russo, one of two directors for the “Captain America” sequels and two upcoming “Avengers” sequels, was asked why he thought “Suicide Squad” and “Batman v Superman” were not as successful as the Marvel movies. He said, “We [Joe and Anthony Russo] like movies that are going to have a great sense of fun and thrill to them, while at the same time remain very grounded in relatable human emotions and conflicts that the audiences can get behind and root for and empathize with.”

When confronted with the same question on the red carpet premiere of his film, “Suicide Squad” director David Ayer replied with [paraphrasing] “Screw Marvel.” Even though Ayer quickly apologized, it shows the animosity that some DC directors hold toward the Marvel franchise.

Over the summer, there are endless fun things to do, especially in the Southern California area. Next time you pay our southern neighbors a visit, be sure to stop by University City and Anaheim where you’ll find Universal Studios, Disneyland, and Disney’s California Adventure theme parks. There is a wide variety of attractions at all of these parks. While they all have different things to see and do for visitors, young and old, there are some you never get tired of.

On your way through Los Angeles, head over to Universal Studios. Each attraction has a theme based on a movie produced by the film company, including “Fast and Furious,” “Jurassic Park,” and “King Kong.”

They also have the new “Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” Catch some of the rides and cool off with a sip of their famous Butterbeer afterwards. One of the rides is “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.” Riders get to go inside of Hogwarts castle and discover new wizarding tricks.

From there, you embark on a journey with Harry and his friends and ride above the castle grounds playing a game of quidditch and come face to face with an array of mythical creatures.

About an hour south in Anaheim is Disney’s California Adventures. It holds its fair share of exhilarating roller coasters. The top rides people must catch are “California Screamin’” and “Radiator Springs Racers,” no matter how long the lines may be.

California Screamin’ opened in 2001 and has been

Photo credit: Sasha Arredondo De-Lipski

While you’re there, take a selfie at Sleeping Beauty’s castle. a hit ever since. Zipping at 55 a ride with Indiana Jones. miles an hour, this one sure Moving further into is a thriller! After a series of the park, you will come across twist and turns, riders flip up- Frontierland, where you travel side-down. So, if you prefer back in time to the Old West. staying right-side up, this may If you see a line forming, it is not be the ride for you. To- probably for its most popular wards the end of the ride, a ride, “Big Thunder Mountain camera snaps a picture of yo, Railroad.” so don’t forget to throw your Beside Frontierland is hands up and smile!

New Orleans Square, where

Your next stop should you can ride “The Pirates of be Cars Land. Of all the the Caribbean” or, if you dare, rides, the best by far is Radi- go inside of “The Haunted ator Springs Racers, a fami- Mansion.” ly-friendly adventure for any Finally, if you make age. You get into cars of six it to Fantasyland, sled down and cruise through Radiator one of the highest mountains Springs. Eventually, you race in Europe at “Matterhorn Bobagainst another car to see who sleds.” finishes first. Be ready for a Going down to Southlittle competition! ern California is perfect for the

Since you’ll just be summer or anytime of the year next door, stop by the classic for that matter. A six to sevDisneyland. The park is divid- en hour drive or an hour and ed into five different “lands”: a half plane ride will get you Tomorrowland, Adventure- there. Just make sure you plan land, Frontierland, New Orle- ahead to avoid the parks’ peak ans Square, and Fantasyland. times if possible. Sometimes

In Tomorrowland, you the lines can get quite long can travel to outer space. You and kill the excitement, but if can choose from a variety of you go when the park isn’t as rides such as “Space Moun- busy, you will be sure to get tain” and “Star Tours.” Adven- on your favorite rides a couple tureland takes you on an exotic of times! They are definitely safari where you can embark fun places for a mini-getaway on a jungle cruise or even take from school!

Horoscopes: The Catalyst makes predictions for the upcoming year Want to know what’s in store for you in the months ahead? Will your academics thrive as much as your wellness?

Aries - The Ram

Gemini - The Twins

Academics: Your academic values are very strong right now, as you are coming into the new school year with a fresh and open mind. As an Aries, you have a natural instinct to take control of projects around you. Therefore, make sure that your drive does not get in the way of your practicality.

Academics: Try to use your energy for the better of all people, and use it for the bigger projects that you were assigned. Work hard to finish your assigned tasks and it will all pay off in the end.

Wellness: The new moon will encourage you to take up a new project or sport. This month is yours!

Taurus - The Bull Academics: Nobody will question your intelligence this month, Taurus. Despite the amount of homework and tests approaching, you will be able to finish and get the grades you strive for.

Wellness: This is a month when your sense of inner value will be tested in many ways.

Wellness: The full moon on September 16th is here to give you clarity on all the things that are affecting you.

Cancer - The Crab Academics: Stay organized and well prepared for all the assignments that will come your way in the next month. Keep working hard.

Wellness: It is time to enjoy spending time with your friends and loved ones, because time is limited.

Leo - The Lion Academics: With these smaller obstacles, enjoy this time when you won’t be as stressed as you might be next month.

You can’t wait for the opportunity to be proactive and decisive once again.

Wellness: Enjoy your time when obstacles are small, it is a blessing.

Virgo - The Virgin Academics: Because you are hardworking and analytical, your academic skills will be strong this month. Keep studying and it will all pay off!

Wellness: Your mind is incredibly clear and it will get even clearer as the month goes on. Keep a good relationship with your friends.

Libra - The Scales Academics: Try to listen to calming music because it will help you through these upcoming stressful times.

Wellness: See people as unique and special. See them for who they really are, and try not to judge those around you.

Scorpio - The Scorpion Academics: Stay passionate and determined, as this will help you with all the homework, tests, and projects that are

coming your way. It is essential that you take some time for yourself to relax and calm your nerves.

Wellness: You will be strong and confident, and feeling optimistic about your future in the beginning of the month.

Sagittarius - Sagittarius Academics: Make sure to stay generous, enthusiastic, and idealistic throughout the month, as your analytic personality can sometimes overthink the small stuff.

The more you transform your thoughts into actions, the sooner your goals will be achieved.

Wellness: Remember the motives behind your actions and remind yourself of those who make you feel warm and comforted.

Capricorn - The Goat Academics: Use your responsibility and self-control for the better. You will be a great leader in a group project or event that is coming in the near future. However, do not push others out of the way who are also striving for the top.

Wellness: Think about your possibilities for a while and don’t be afraid to return to old tasks. Don’t be afraid to aim high just because you are afraid of disappointment.

Aquarius - The Water Bearer Academics: Your progressiveness and originality will get you through the month and all of your projects.

Wellness: You have all the control you need. Let others take the blame for what is their responsibility and don’t worry about the outcome of any situation, your creative mind will push you forward.

Pisces - The Fish Academics: Use your friendliness and selflessness for the better. If you are in any group projects or group events this month, use your skills for a great outcome.

Wellness: Have faith in wonderful outcomes and move forward with grace.

Make your days count.

#thecatalystndb | Health & Sports | September 2016

page 7

Athletes try out for Fall sports Do you even lift?

Smoot: “We get to start... building the team chemistry early.”

Notre athletes do.

Fall Sports | from Page 1

Gianna Susa, is ranked 91st in the country for the 2016 season.

Smoot says, “Tryouts are really intense, but fun because it’s right before school.

So, we get to start playing and meeting everyone and start building the team chemistry early.”

All student-athletes are required to have twenty workouts completed before their season to be eligible to play. If they do not, they have to do boot camp. Many coaches take workouts seriously because it shows a sense of awareness and responsibility.

Baumann says, “Having to get in the twenty workouts is definitely something you have to be devoted to and willing to work at. It is a privilege to have an amazing weight room to train in before the upcoming season.”

The Cross Country team tryouts are extremely difficult, but many Tigers find their love of running through these tryouts. Senior Elizabeth Burton says, “For cross-country tryouts, we start off with one to one and a half mile runs. Then as the season starts, we gradually move up to two and three mile runs.”

The Water Polo team has been working hard during the summer to prepared for the

Photo credit: Brian Garcia

Tigers take on the Scots in the Battle of Belmont.

Photo Credit: Katie Brandi

A student athlete completes a set in the weight room.

by Camyrn McNab and Katie Brandi

Health & Sports and Photo Editors

Photo credit: Robert Rojas

Senior Maddie Baumann deflects an attack from Burlingame.

new season.

Senior and Water Polo player Sarah Anvar says, “Tryouts are super exciting because I get to know my new teammates and get back in shape. I’m pumped up for the new season!”

This year’s Fall sports

are looking to be another huge success combined with some new experiences. But one thing that will not be new is the enthusiasm that NDB student-athletes possess on and off the court, whether it is a grass field, a hardwood floor, or a swimming pool.

NDB Top Gun is an elite weight training program that meets twice a week during the summer. Rising sophomore, junior, and senior student athletes of all sports are invited at the end of the school year to participate in the program. The goal of Top Gun is to help student athletes become stronger and less prone to injury.

Coach Kate Mahoney runs the Top Gun program.

When asked what qualifies a student athlete to be eligible and receive an invitation, she says, “Athletes need to show me throughout the year - not just during their sports season - that they work hard down there in the weight room.

They shouldn’t just be going

through the motions, but coming in during off-season and trying to get stronger. It’s all about me seeing you in the off-season and seeing your effort down in the weight room.”

During a typical Top Gun session, student athletes complete a weight program and then compete against each other in various games, such as flag football, frisbee, and even kickball. Some days, they are even challenged in the school swimming pool, doing workouts and playing games.

Each student athlete earns points throughout the duration of the program and, at the end, the number of points that she received determines where she is placed. Attending the sessions gives athletes points, but it is not the only See Top Gun | Page 8

Sports Medicine class re-equipped by NDB alumna Okubo: “I can’t wait to share my direct experiences from working in the field that can give them a greater insight...”

by Monet Mendenhall and Katie Brandi

Managing and Photo Editors

Although fairly new to NDB, the Sports Medicine class has gone through a huge change for this school year. In previous years, it was an online class with only one in-class meeting each week.

This year, the class meets on B days with NDB alumna (‘96) and Athletic Trainer Christina Okubo as their teacher.

When asked what she is most excited about the class and what she hopes students get out of it, Okubo says, “I’m most excited about being in the classroom. I can’t wait to share my direct experiences from working in the field that can give them [the students] a greater insight on what the field really has to offer.”

The class focuses on learning anatomy, physiology, and other aspects of sports medicine. They recently listened to a guest speaker, Tara Dade, another NDB alumna (‘01) and a Physician’s Assistant. She shared her educational background and job experience with students.

The class will also

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Okubo is excited to teach.

participate in enrichment activities, such as a field trip to Stanford University for a tour of its athletic and sports medicine facilities.

A student in the class, Senior Molly Kavanaugh, said, “I am looking forward to the field trip at Stanford and learning more about sports medicine. I enjoyed the guest speaker because she gave us real life sports medicine experience.”

Another student, Ju-

Okubo lectures about various joints in the human body.

nior Sophia Lamb said, “I like this class because it challenges me, learning about anatomy and bone structure. This class shows me what the career fields in sports medicine are, and they are very interesting.

Mrs. Okubo makes this class very interesting.”

During the spring semester, the class will learn medical treatment techniques, including athletic taping. It involves placing tape on a student-athlete’s ankle, wrist,

or body part that needs to be more stable while they play or workout.

The class also gives students the opportunity to learn about jobs related to Sports Medicine. It will start a job shadow program where students can shadow a professional in a related field.

Okubo says, “It’s my hope that the students learn more about the different professions related to Sports Medicine and that they can be

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

able to distinguish whether it’s a field they want to pursue in college and so forth.”

Follow @NDBAthletics

page 8

#thecatalystndb |Miscellaneous| September 2016

Top Gun

So, where did you go this summer?

NDB students share photos of their travels with family and friends, from down the street to around the world.

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Mahoney selects the Top Gun.

Top Gun | from Page 7 way to obtain them.

On the very last day of the Top Gun summer season, student athletes “max out” in a few exercises: hang cleans, bench press, and front squat.

During these max outs, they try to lift the most weight they can in the exercise.

Max Out Day is arguably the most strenuous and demanding day, taking all of each student athletes’ grit and mental toughness to complete the exercises. They give them points which are added to their totals and determine the final winner of the season.

The top three winners each receive a colored shirt corresponding with their place -- gold, silver, or bronze -- and their name on the back. The first place winner also gets her name engraved on a plaque located in the weight room.

This year’s participants were seniors Katie Brandi and Tammy Byrne, juniors Talia Bertana, Caroline Kearney, and Alexis Messersmith, and sophomores Alexandra Gatt, Daviana Hayman, Shay Levy, and Jasmine Masuda.

This year’s first place winner is Katie Brandi. In second place is sophomore and Varsity Basketball point guard Jasmine Masuda. And, in third place is senior and Varsity Volleyball player Tammy Byrne.

Along with colored and personalized t-shirts, the winners will have bragging rights and a sense of accomplishment going into the new 2016-2017 school year.

As this summer’s program ends and invitations are considered for next summer, Mahoney pays close attention on those who work hard in the weight room and who does not. Therefore, student-athletes who are interested in an opportunity to participate in the Top Gun program should make sure they give it their all because it is a rewarding experience to share with their fellow athletes and peers.

Follow @TheCatalystNDB

A day in the life of a Tiger The following photographs are just some of the many academic, social, and extracurricular events that have happened during the past several weeks in the Notre Dame community.

Photo courtesy of Brian Garcia

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

The Royals go on the Junior Service Retreat. Going in small groups during the first weeks of school, they spend a day volunteering for the homeless, the disabled, and the working poor at the St. Anthony Foundation in the Tenderloin in downtown San Francisco. Most said it was an experience they will never forget.

NDB cheered their hearts out in the first school rally. ASB did a fantastic job to excite the student body for a new year with the Olympics theme. Brave volunteers participated in some friendly class-to-class competition while judged by the Administration.

Freshman brought their Gator spirit strong and shocked us all!

Photo credit: Steve Videtta

Photo credit: Katie Brandi

Golf season has begun. The team lost their first two games, but look to come out stronger in future matches. Upcoming opponents include Harker, Notre Dame San Jose, and Mercy Burlingame.

Come and take a stroll through the Student Art Gallery in the Moore Auditorium Lobby. It currently features a diverse collection of collages, black and white drawings, pop art, and portraits made by NDB art students.