The St ar k St r eet Jour nal CENTRA L CATHOL I C HI GH SCHOOL - PORTL A ND, OR NOVEMBER 2020
Vol. 2, Issue 2
Zoom W ith Peter andtheStarcatcher By W ill Francis '23 For the first time in the history of the Drama Program of Central Catholic High School, the fall production will be held digitally over Zoom. CCHS Drama is proud to present the virtual performance of Peter and the Starcatcher! In the trying times of the coronavirus pandemic, it was surprising to hear that Central would be putting on a performance, for many thought it would not be possible. So what is Peter and the Starcatcher?In 1904, Scottish author J.M Barrie released the all-time classic story of Peter Pan, the magical boy who never aged and lived on the island of Neverland. Peter and the Starcatcher is the origin story of that island and its inhabitants. Full of mystery and character development, the play explores vast concepts that enhance the world in which the story is set. The story shifts from many different perspectives and is not centered on one main character, more of the understanding of what makes every character valued in the story. The story is complex but an added challenge comes with how one acts and presents the character over zoom. Actors are forced to take on their characters in a new light because with Zoom, it is difficult to act and embody the full character. Many people feel that though the experience will be incredibly interesting to watch and participate in, the common technical malfunctions with zoom definitely make a few wary. and off pose quite serious risks to the flow of the play. However, some including the cast and crew have a different outlook. Assistant Director Eleanor Ramsey says, ?The cast and crew have been able to work and put together an incredible show though a zoom call. Being creative with props, setting, costumes, and lighting. It may be an unconventional way to put on a performance but we have been able to execute a beautiful play that I hope more people will be able to see because of its accessibility on the internet." On the whole, it should be an interesting challenge and an even more interesting play. If you want to see the production, make sure to purchase tickets and make an appearance on Zoom. Tickets can be found on the Central Catholic Website (https:/ / www.centralcatholichigh.org/ student-life/ theatre-department.html) ). There will be multiple performances over the span of two weeks. Opening night is Friday, November 13th. The performances continue on the 14th, 19th,20th, and 21st, all of which start at 7:30 pm. There will be a final performance of the matinee on the 22nd which will start at 2:00 pm. Single tickets cost $7 and Family tickets will be $14. Once the tickets have been purchased, attendees will receive the link to the Zoom Webinar via email. See you there for the show!
NOVEMBER 2020
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ST U D EN T S4ST U D EN T S A N D W H Y I T M A T T ER S By: Owen Hanson ?24 On October 13th, Central Catholic launched the yearly student fundraiser, Students4Students (S4S). All funds raised helps to directly fund the tuition assistance program. At the head of the operation is Alaina Hill, the Advancement Coordinator, is in charge of helping students with scholarships and grades. The fundraiser helps all students at Central Catholic, from tuition assistance and financial aid to extra curricular activities and fee waivers. Hill said ?This makes the fundraiser super important, because over 50%of students use the tuition assistance.? Forgot how to donate?Check out Givecampus.com (https:/ / www.givecampus.com/ aya5hb4) and donation is simple. All you have to do is go to the site above and fill out the donation form. Then if you input your card data into the site, you will be asked how much money you want to donate. The donation event is a limited time event and the last day you can donate is the 20th of November. The current end goal donation of each person is $150, with the Advancement office donors always willing to help. ?I know that $150 sounds like a lot and it is. But the thing is, if you ask several people to donate $10 or $25 that number will add up quickly.?said Alaina Hill And you alone do not have to donate. You can share the link to the site and ask donations from friends and family. W ith the same instructions, your friend or family member can help the school even more. If you scroll all the way down to the bottom of your account, you will see a leaderboard, with how many people have donated under your name. Don?t forget about Celebration Day! On the 10th of February, the whole school gets to celebrate the accomplishments of Students4Students. Last year, the students got to choose between Big Al?s and Canby Cinema. Students that chose Big Al's got unlimited bowling and arcade games, while those who chose Canby Cinema got to pick to watch two of the ten movies that were viewing at the theater. Time will tell about what students will do for Celebration Day in 2021. On top of the Celebration Day, students will receive points based off of how many donations they have collected for Central Catholic. These points will be awarded with prizes such as gift cards,, and even Iphones. So what are you waiting for?Central Catholic needs donations that only you can give. The pay off is great: you can help the community and in turn, you help yourself.
The Stark Street Journal is: Staff Writers and Editors: Jack Anctil, Joe Fricke, Max Matterazzo, Gus Krauel, Will Francis, Owen Hanson, and Sarah Rosenbaum Contributing Writers: Olivia Johnson and Ella Ferrero Advisor: Ms. Quigley Special Thanks to: Colleen Newell, Alaina Hill and Danyelle Ramsey If you have any questions or letters to the editor, please email starkstreetjournal@centralcatholichigh.org.
NOVEMBER 2020
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W hy Quar antine Is Not Sel f-Better ing For Some By Ella Ferrero '22 If you have been scrolling endlessly on social media for the past few months during quarantine, you might have seen some of the extravagant things that people all over the world are partaking in. Some are writing books, some are photographing award-winning pieces, and others are exercising like there is no tomorrow. W hile this is a celebratory feat, this cannot be expected among all people. Quarantine can be the perfect time to do something you?ve never had the time for; houses are being painted, rooms are being cleaned, etc. But for the majority, sitting at home can bring zero motivation whatsoever. This is completely normal. We are all experiencing something unworldly -- to the extent of traumatizing for some -- so it should not be expected that we come out of quarantine a better version of ourselves. W hy should we be pressuring ourselves to improve our quality of life at such a time? ?We?ve had more calls from younger people -- high schoolers, college students -- who are having a really hard time,? says Rachel O?Rourke, who works for The Behavioral Health Division of Multnomah County Health Department. ?Disruption in school is causing more stress. And with families that are mostly monolingual in a language besides English, education responsibilities land on older siblings.? O?Rourke?s job focuses on phone-based support for community members that are experiencing mental health crises. She provides short-term interventions for people in need. W hen asked if she had been receiving more calls over quarantine, she said: ?It?s hard to quantify that right now, in the Spring there are more calls to the crisis line, shown in a pattern of people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. There?s generally more anxiety, fear of Covid, loneliness, and feelings of isolation right now.? ?Be kind with yourselves, go each day with grace. This situation is already stressful, so you need to be kind to yourself. For high-achievers, it's probably a really hard time to not do as much as you usually do, but there are new things to be discovered,?she says, ?slowing down is a good thing.? Indeed, slowing down is a good thing. Right now is the time where families and friends are connecting deeper than before. Life may not be extremely eventful right now, but keeping social and keeping calm is the best way to ensure that quarantine goes smoothly for you. Leave time to think, rest, and de-stress. Rachel O?Rourke suggests mindfulness apps, like Headspace and My Life, to calm your worries if you are experiencing heightened anxiety from quarantine. If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please feel free to call any of the numbers below. Multnomah County Mental Health Hotline: 503-988-4888 Washington County Mental Health Hotline: 503-291-9111 Oregon Youth Line: 1-877-968-8491
Digital W or k Spaces: Centr al Cathol ic Styl e
Mr. Ford smiles after checking off his list of goals for the day.
Grace Pettey '24 has an organized, quiet space in her room
Trainer Scott works remotely from his cold, yet comfortable, garage
Mrs. Branscum's older computer still runs great in her cozy at home set-up
NOVEMBER 2020
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Fir st-Time Voter s in a Big-Time El ection By Jack Anctil '21 As the 2020 election comes to a close, the people of America look towards a new chapter in the story of our country. Regardless of who one?s vote is for and the circumstances surrounding the election, voting and having the right to vote is extremely important. For many Central Catholic seniors, this election was their first opportunity to take part in a core foundational aspect of our democracy. To get a better sense of the gravity of voting, I spoke to Central Catholic?s very own top political correspondent: Mr. Stuckart. He said that because ?elected officials [in order to keep their jobs] focus their time and energy on Seniors, Sam Duncan-Doroff '21 what's important to the people who actually show up and vote,?high voter (above) and Anna Lough '21 each turnout among young people is crucial to making progress. ?W hen young people consistently vote in large numbers,?he said, ?[the] government acts voted for the first time this year. on the issues young voters care about, whether it's climate change, college affordability, or something else.?Ultimately, ?consistently voting is the best way to make sure our democracy responds to what ?We the People?want.? Additionally, Mr. Stuckart stressed that no matter who a voter is voting for, it is crucial that they make an effort to learn about and investigate the other side, whatever that may be. By listening to all arguments and opinions, it allows a voter to think critically about the decision and be deliberate about their vote. For Central Catholic seniors, voting means something unique to each person. To Sam Duncan-Doroff ?21, ?voting is a surreal marker of one?s place and duty in society. I feel very fortunate to be of age to participate and have a platform for my voice.?Myles Broadous ?21 is feeling ?both excited and honored to have the opportunity to vote? something my ancestors fought so hard for me to be able to do." For Anna Lough '21, she "felt very privileg-ed to vote in this crucial election. It is extremely important to use your voice to stand up for what you believe in, and voting gives us all that opportunity.? Even now as the election is winding to a close, we as a nation must remember that our future is in our hands, and the way we choose that future is by voting. For young people especially, there is no easier and effective way to make one?s voice heard and one?s future brighter. Affinity Group Corner: Women's Coalition ar e Ready to Discuss and Empower the Community By Olivia Johnson '21 Central Catholic is home to a variety of diverse affinity groups that students can identify with and actively participate in, including W omen?s Coalition. W omen?s Coalition is an allied group of independent women who welcome students from all walks of life to engage in thoughtful discussions. Every meeting includes an engaging conversation that addresses intersectionality, misogyny, and patriarchy. The goal of every meeting is simple: to educate and empower. Every woman who attends a meeting has the opportunity to share their voice and experiences. During each gathering, the group?s student leadership team creates new and intriguing topics to drive each individual discussion. Recently, however, W omen?s Coalition have refocused their mission to include an actively anti-racist narrative of feminism and uplift BIPOC women?s voices. W ith this mission in mind, they are hosting a character conversation on Tuesday, December 15th, based on the history of feminism and its roots in white supremacy. The conversation is titled ?Ain?t I A W oman: the Flawed Foundations of Feminism?and is welcome to all members of the community, so be sure to tune in during your student life period!
NOVEMBER 2020
Khamzat Chimeav: The Anomaly
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The Tal e of Time Pr oves Nothing By: Max Matterazzo '21 If time has taught us anything about football, it is that time does not give QB?s a break. Yet, this year, father time has let up a bit. After two atrocious seasons by Ben Roethlisberger and Aaron Rodgers, they have surged both their teams into champion level play.
Khamzat Chimeav after his win on Fight Island Photo courtesy of MMA Viking
By Joe Fricke '21 The Khamzat Chimeav hype train has left the station. The prospect out of Stockholm, Sweden has proven to be an absolute anomaly. It all started back on July 15th when Chimeav first fought in the UFC on ?Fight Island?. He was seen as an unproven prospect until he out-landed John Philips 124-2 in strikes in his UFC debut. This bout happened at middleweight. Since he took such little damage, Dana W hite decided to book him again just 10 days later, where he dominated the next victim, Rhys McKee, this time at welterweight. He out-landed him 68-0 in total strikes, taking absolutely no damage this time. This win would make it two wins for Chimeav in less than 11 days, something unheard of. Here?s the real kicker: in his latest bout on September 19th, he knocked out Geral Meerschart in just 17 seconds, with it being back at middleweight. This win made Chimeav the first fighter to ever get three wins in just 66 days in modern UFC history. For reference, most fighters are offered three fights per year. This absolute display of dominance has left people asking W hite to book him with a top-five ranked opponent, as it is just not safe to put him in with people who are simply not at his level. Nick Ginter ?21, an avid follower of the UFC said ?Listen, Khamzat is unique for sure. He?s a straight dog. I would be willing to compare him to the greatest dog the sport has ever seen since Chuck Liddel. W hat?s next is a Continued on page 6
Then there is the 49ers. A team that guaranteed the rest of the NFL that they would win the Super Bowl this year, has plummeted into a hole that they won?t get out from. The front office paid an uncanny amount of money to a team that lost the Super Bowl. Ebissa Chako, Professional couch QB and Senior at Central Catholic says, ?Their QB can?t throw a five yard slant route and the throttling by Fitzmagic and the Dolphins was an embarrassment.? The NFC east is an embarrassment to the NFL. I apologize to anyone that has to witness Fox continue to show us a Cowboys team that is limping through another failed year with not a glimpse at the playoffs. In a very hot take, local math teacher at Central Catholic Peter Mullady made this prediction about the Cowboys, ?The NFC East is a disaster. W ith myself at QB, the CC Rams would beat the Dallas Cowboys 45-2 at this point. We'd probably hand the ball to Emar'rion W inston a few times late in the game. Give the big fella a couple of touches.? The two most hated teams in the United States are shown every Sunday on CBS and Fox to, at this point, fans who do not care what happens to their teams. On a bright note, the Seahawks look well on their way to another Super Bowl run with no one to stop them. We all look forward to seeing how this season ends up but do not keep your hopes up for the playoffs.
Ryan (Fitzmagic) Fitzpatrick in a press conference just being fitzmagic. After losing his starting job to Tua Tagovailoa this year, his job as bench warmer just got a whole lot easier.
NOVEMBER 2020
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NBA Off-season Pr eview By Joe Fricke '21 The most chaotic season in NBA history concluded on Sunday, October 11th, with the Los Angeles Lakers winning four games to two in the finals in a ?Bubble?in Orlando. LeBron James unsurprisingly took home the ?Finals MVP?award, meaning he was deemed the most outstanding player throughout the series. Now, we enter the NBA off-season with plenty to look forward to. Now, we enter the NBA off-season with plenty to look forward to. For starters, we have the NBA Draft happening on November 18th.
Photo courtesty of NBA_Offseason on Twitter
W ith no certain number one pick, there are plenty of questions to be asked. The top three pickers are the Minnesota Timberwolves at one, Golden State W arriors at two, and the Charlotte Hornets at three. The top three prospects of this year?s draft consist of Anthony Edwards out of the University of Georgia, LaMelo Ball, coming off an impressive season in the NBL in Australia, and James W iseman who was deemed ineligible to compete in the 2019-20 College Season. However, he was committed to the University of Memphis and was a highly touted prospect out of high school.
Everyone can agree the New York Knicks have had a rough go the past 20 years, and starting over with a new face of their franchise would be good for the organization. LaMelo Ball would be the perfect fit, considering how he had been in the spotlight since 16 years of age when he put up 92 points in a high school game, and because of his outspoken father, Lavar Ball. Not to mention the kid has had his own reality TV show. The only problem here is that the Knicks are stuck at the number 8 spot, with no real assets to work with to try and move up in the draft to have a shot at Ball.
W ill Koenig ?21, a big fan of the NBA said, ?I believe Anthony Edwards will go one to Minnesota.?Edwards has been seen as the favorite to land in the top spot due to his favorable size and athleticism at the shooting guard position. Koenig ?21 also said, ?I think the Knicks should try for LaMelo Ball?.
W ith an NBA offseason, blockbuster trades are also almost a certainty. Koenig ?21 also said, ?I think the biggest question mark when it comes to trades is Giannis Antetokounmpo. He mentioned staying with the Bucks, but does he really mean that?Is he going to go find another star to go team up with??. This has been a huge narrative heading into the NBA off-season. W ith the Milwaukee Bucks suffering yet another shortcoming this last season and failing to make the NBA Finals with the superstar that is Antetokounmpo, and failing to match him up with another superstar his caliber in a league filled with dynamic duos, many have suggested that it may be time for him to look elsewhere. Also, Giannis can leave after next season if he chooses to opt-out of his contract. So, if Giannis was planning on departing, it would be in the Bucks?best interest undoubtedly to trade him, and get a huge load of young players and picks to build their future around.
Khamzet Chimeav: The Anomaly Con't: great question. I really like him at middleweight and I think a good test would be Yoel Romero, hear me out. Romero is on his way out of the sport and is looking for those prime time fights that will get him the big bucks before he walks away. If Khamzat beats him, great and we can justify a top-three spot?. The next test for Chimeav will be in at least one of the two weight classes he competes in. At the Post-fight press conference for UFC 254 on October 24th, Dana W hite revealed that a bout agreement has been signed and sealed for Chimeav to face number-three ranked welterweight contender Leon Edwards. Chimeav?s rise is one of the most meteoric rises to stardom that we have seen since Conor McGregor, and it will sure be fun to watch.
The only certainty about heading into the NBA Off-season is that it will be extremely fun, or stressful, depending on who you are and root for.
NOVEMBER 2020
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The Cl ay Master Str ik es Again By Gus Krauel '22 The French Open in Paris, France finished up on October 11th and it was one for the record books. The clay master from Spain, Rafael Nadal, won his 13th French Open Grand Slam while not dropping one set in the process. He improved his record at the French Open to 100-2 all time. This record might be the most dominant and impressive record in sports history. He defeated the 37-1 Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 handing Djokovic only his second loss of the year. I asked my PNW tennis friend Lola Diaz who is from Spain like Nadal and goes to Catlin Gabel: ?W ith the performance you saw from Rafael Nadal this year in the French Open, how many more years of dominance do you think he has left in him at the age of 34 competing in the French Open??She replied stating ?I think he still has around 2 years. No other players seem to have the skills and the experience on the surface like Rafa does, and while there is some good competition. No one has shown to match Rafa?s level and competitiveness on the clay courts. The new generation has nothing on Rafa at least not yet. They don?t match his energy or work ethic.? On the women's side, Iga Swiatek a 19 year old from Poland shocked the world when winning the 2020 French Open. She defeated American Sofia Kenin 6-4 6-1, winning her first ever grand slam. The fact that she went from never winning a first round in a Grand Slam to going out and winning one is truly amazing. In response to Swiatek?s win, Diaz said: ?I think W TA players are super unpredictable. There?s no one player aside from Serena Osaka and maybe Kenin that seems to persistently do well in the tournaments. Even top seeds are beaten by players you barely know or heard of before. I think professional women?s tennis is a very different situation than the ATP players. Men pros have 3 consistent players that have been doing exceptionally well and stayed at the top for many years now while W TA players vary from year to year, it?s purely a mental game. We?ll just have to see how she does in the next few tournaments.? The next big tournament that is coming up soon is the Nitto ATP Finals. The Nitto ATP Finals takes the top 8 players in the world and has two groups of four players. Then those four players all play against each other and the best two records advance to the semis from each side and then one match decides the semis and finals. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Alexander Zverev have all clinched their spots in the Nitto Finals, so now it is time to eagerly wait and see who the two people will be who will join these six dominant players. The Happy faces of 19 year old Iga Swiatek and 34 year old Rafael Nadal holding on tightly to their 1st and 13th French Open trophy. Photo credit: Google Images