Knight Staff Page 2
REPORTER
ADVISOR
Mina Kim
Elisia Harkins
COPY EDITOR
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Jessica “Jo” Aquino
REPORTER
Grace McKagan
Anna Hovanesyan
ADS MANAGER
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Ebone’ Chatman
REPORTER Sophia Page
Tayce Taylor
REPORTER Cameron De’Matteis
BLOG & PUBLICATIONS EDITOR
REPORTER Ben Sloan
Vaughn Himber
REPORTER
Devon Gearhart
LAYOUT EDITOR
REPORTER
Sidney Stephens
Tina Nagai
REPORTER Nick Halaby
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
page 4 Sense and Sensibility page 5 Teachers’ Lives Outside of School page 6-7 Democrat Club v. Republican Club page 8 United We Stand? page 9 Student Funds Drying Up page 10-11 Football’s Biggest Headache page 12 Boys Soccer Ready page 13 Girls Soccer Kicks It Hard page 14-15 Knights Staying Fit page 16 Knights’ Source of Food page 17 Public School v. Private School page 18 Youtube Take Over page 19 Teens v. Parents page 20 Senior Bucket Lists page 21 What Shoe Matches You? page 22 Pitch Perfect
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The Knight Magazine
November 2012
Sense & Sensibility By Anna Hovanesyan
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Only the second week of school and already auditions were being held for the two fall plays. Students had an option of either auditioning for Sense and Sensibility or Alice in Wonderland and had to perform a monologue. One step lead to the next and already students were being casted and rehearsals were being scheduled. “Putting everything together is exciting but is quite stressful,” said Judy Welden, Director of Sense and Sensibility. Before this long process of rehearsals can begin, Welden first has to choose a play. “Last year, I decided to do Frankenstein because it was a way to observe the violence amongst mankind, and the search for power and control, in a somewhat ‘masculine’ way. I thought that this year, I needed to explore the other, more feminine, aspect of mankind, which is rather loving. Most plays consist of portraying how we get in trouble, and a great play has to challenge us,” Welden explained. Early this September, the cast practiced four to five days a week, but as opening night approached, they increased their practices to five to six days for the past month and a half. Producing a play is not simply composed of rehearsals. After a play is chosen, research has to be done, costumes and props need to be bought, and stage direction needs to be arranged. “I think one of the biggest
challenges was having to deal with a different time period, and doing a lot of research. Bringing life to a play that could easily just be about manners,” said Caleigh Gumbiner, Senior, in the role of Lady Middleton. Henry Reed, Stage Manager, had the difficult role of trying to put everything together with Welden. Reed collaborates with Welden and tries to be as helpful as possible. Reed has to call light and sound cues and is in charge of the whole stage crew. “Honestly, I just like bossing people around. Even though I have to be at all the rehearsals and help make sure it runs smoothly, I enjoy doing it, and that’s what gets me going,” Reed said. A few months of hectic planning and rehearsal all lead to a successful opening night. Not only did everything look fabulous, but the student actors were spectacular. Each actor and actress played their role perfectly, and the crew worked hard to set the mood and the stage. The audience was enraptured and the actors transported everyone to another time and place. The play followed the story of a family of young sisters, and deals with the messiness that comes along with trying to deal with relationships and romance. The production is a classic and will only be showing for two weeks. I hope you all enjoy spending an evening with the Dashwoods and all their colorful neighbors. We wish much luck to the theatre department in their
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
The Secret Life Teachers Outside of School
By Ebone’ Chatman
Can you believe many of the teachers you see everyday have lives outside of school? They have to juggle work, other activities, \ families, just like students with their own busy schedules. Ms. Castillo, Coach Kramer, and Mr. Thomas are involved in a wide range of activities that are both adventurous and cultural. Rob Thomas has been teaching at Notre Dame for twenty years as a previously biology and English teacher and is now the Vice President of student affairs. He is not only a well-rounded teacher but is also a well-rounded athlete. Thomas participates in triathlons, which consist of swimming, biking, and running. Though this race may seem tiring, Mr. Thomas says that he enjoys it because it not only keeps him in shape but he also loves the competition aspect of the race. In his 20’s a friend introduced him into the sport and ever since then has loved it. There are three different types of big races that he participates in each year: the iron man, which is a 2.4 mile swim in an ocean or lake, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 miles run; a half iron man which is a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride, and 13.1 mile run, this best time being five hours and twenty minutes; and the Olympic, which consists of a 1.9 mile swim, 24.8 mile bike ride, and 6.2 mile run, (his best time is two hours and nine minutes). These races are not easy tasks and it takes a lot of dedication and hard work. Thomas works out in the morning before school starts at 4:30 a.m, and trains a total of 12 to 16 hours a week. All his hard work has paid off because he has qualified for worlds next year in London. Coach Kramer, our athletic trainer and Sports Med director, also participates in triathlons. She said, “I got tired of running and was looking for something else to do.” Coach Kramer does all distances, which includes sprints, the half iron man, the Olympic, and the iron man and does about 4 to 6 races a year. Unlike Thomas, Kramer was not a
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strong swimmer in the beginning, and had to work on her skills a bit more to compete on the level that she wanted. The thing she enjoys most about a triathlon is the feeling of accomplishment. During the race, the main thought going through her head is a reminder to keep a constant speed and to strive to pass the person in front of her and even getting her next fastest time. When it begins to get closer the time of the race, Kramer will begin to have longer practices about 3-9 hours a day. She will be participating in an upcoming race on June 23rd, a half iron man, and her goal this time around is 6 hours and 15 minutes. Rosalina Castillo, one of the new Spanish teachers, at ND, has been flamenco dancing for eight years on and off. Her involvement started when she studied abroad in Spain for a year and started perfecting her skill. She then moved to Mexico for other dancing jobs. Moreover, this past summer she went to Spain to study dance for four months and would dance 4 to 5 hours a day. Although it was a lot of work, it was worth it in the end. Castillo loves flamenco dancing because of where it comes from. She compares flamenco dancing to rap music because it okay from a lower class society, so it is filled with rich culture and soul. The movement and steps of the dance is very powerful. The woman dancing makes a statement on stage and proves herself to be strong and independent. Castillo says the hardest thing about flamenco dancing are communication with the other musicians on the stage because there are no rehearsals just one live show. Even though we only experience them in the classroom, teachers have full and busy lives outside of school.
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
n o i t c e El idates dential cand si re p e th n e ve battle betwe w months ha The arduous These last fe . een d n tw e e n b a s w to me ged blo n a h xc e f has finally co o ttle y. , nonstop ba r Mitt Romne been a long nd Governo a a tcome u m o a b e O th rack ion and ct le e is th President Ba r ck been torn ove ates have to offer? Bara America has id d n out of at did both ca get America to s in fixing the a w of it. So, wh sk a better job ortant ta o p d im to st d o e m w ’s vo Obama itt Romney ion, while M ts took the depress ame Ssuden D e tr o N ll, a H Clubs Republican economy. in the Lecture , d 2 n 1 a 0 2 tic a th cr 5 o r e m On Novemb ndly but com ions. The De arty. In a frie ice their opin p vo e ch to a th e e n f g o o a s s st ion to the candidate of their opin policies and ultiple views m ve a g debated the s ie te, both part , “I am petitive deba w. , Senior, said o n sh re d a d a ite M u q g as from a stron tic Club, Zach election. It w rowth stems the Democra g f ver o ic o t n m ty e o ri d n o si ri co p re e P ve that uld take o lie e sh b I cy a se u cr o beca dem vest my a democrat eedom, and y I want to in fr d o y, b rt e ly n lib o t e a , th rnment is th middle class ony. The gove rm a h d n a ty g the debate securi cussed durin is d is conic p to t .” n in trust regarding th fs st importa lie o e m b d g n n a ro st mise. eir st The very fir ange and pro . des voiced th ch si f o th y o rt B a p y. e m no is th ddren was the eco ck,” said Ma ocratic Party a m tr e n D o e h ck a “T b . y ic They argued the econom troversial top takes to get n economics. a it t si a e h flation, yn w e w K o f o We kn ics caused in in favor m d o n te a co b e e d n a ts a esi needed The Democr of FDR, Keyn at the nation cy th n d e e d rg si u re y p e e to presg. Th that under th e, relating it ly a bad thin ri tim a f o ss d ce o e ri n e t ct o tp lly proven fa which was n nomy at tha is a statistica -start the eco it ir , ck e b ki u th cl f to o n tic a ss tio infla Democr y use le e e th th , d to re g e in w rd o middle are lo ent day. Acc come as the ople’s taxes e in p le t b n e sa u o ffl p a is e d that when th end as much ch do not sp ri e h , Snior, T . e m inco onnie Papille R y b d le b eprean Clu class. ms and entr he Republic o T d , e d e n fr a l h a r ci e n fina On the oth nerate more utonomous re able to ge y fostering a a b t s a n e th tiz d e ci u untry in the g it, arg d of restrictin ill aide our co a w e h st ic in h to show w ip h t, n rs neu an example overnme s g l a n ra e tio d a fe tr e is money for th e economics, eagan admin as supply-sid y used the R e n h w T o . kn rm e ts -t g cu lon e continued tax rnment and argued for th y ve e o h g T nessll . a w o sm n t tha wealthy busi t to work e h th g f u o o d ity n iv a , ct ch du worked then . When the ri ent to the pro they argued , nd commitm n a sw o o n p d is tio p d va to re lti cu om the funneling mo re created fr and invest it, it d man. Jobs a n easing the e sp y e neously decr oney, th lta m u re m o si m d n ve a ha omy into the econ able income nt rate. unemployme age
By Sophia P
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The Knight Magazine
Infection The next top ic of debate wa s job creation. Th e Democrats argued that lower taxes do not aide the eco nomy; they ju st make the rich richer. T he Democra ts argued ag Romney’s jo ainst Mitt b creation p lan by insist Romney rea ing that if lly supported the middle cl would talk a ass, he bout real mid d le class jobs, as those of p second term such olice men an , Obama will d teachers. raise taxes a industries. T In his nd put that m he Democra oney into big ts urged the the governm ger rich to pay h ent to get a igher taxes a better grip o expenses ch nd for n big busine eaper helps sses. Makin people to ke economy. g living ep their mon ey, stimulatin Next came th g the e Republica Anna Blake, ns’ argumen t for job crea said, “Ameri ca needs job tion. Republic jobs goes ba s.” Romney’ an, ck to his eco s plan for cr nomic plan. by 20% for a eating His plan to re ll Americans duce income would have spending to taxes eventually ra increase the is ed consume demand for and services r goods. The would have demand for increased th is proven tha goods e number of t tax cuts are job positions. ab economy tha It n raising taxe etter method for creating s, argued th a stronger taxes would e Republica take more m n Club. Rais oney from a When the go ing n American vernment co ci tizen’s paych ntinuously ta eck. ke s more money ers, people from taxpayfrom the low e r and middle cl spending wh ass cut their ich hurts the economy dra by hindering stically job developm ent. The Declara tion of Indep endence’s prea mble states that all men are created equal and th at they are endowe d by their Creator with certain inalienable ri ghts. Among these are life, liberty, a nd the pursuit of ha ppiness. With the re-e lection of President O bama, one can only hop e th at he will continue to fo ster a peace and united w ful orld power th at will serve model of fre as the edom and in dependence .
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The
United By Contradictions By Tayce Taylor
As a high school senior, it is mandatory for us to take government classes for a year for credit. After being consumed by information for 3 months, I have never been able to open my eyes to the world of politics like I have during this year’s presidential election. And while looking through a new lens of understanding, I have come to the astonishment of how contradictory our nation is. Every amendment, every bill, every ballot and every choice divides us, Americans, into groups. It is no wonder why this 2012 election was so close because people wanted change and they wanted it now. But, whatever happened to united we stand? After the turn out of the elections being marginally close, it seems like this nation has become completely divided. However, the one thing that Americans are united by is the contradictions of personal beliefs. Democrats and liberals want equality among all and try to put everyone on the same playing field but look to conservatives as outsiders. Meanwhile, Republicans and conservatives underline the gap between ideology and practice. The one quality that remains consistent is being contradictory. Once Americans can choose their beliefs and stick by them without any inconsistency, AmeriPage 8
cans can remember how amazing it is that we are able to choose and practice what we believe, no matter what the belief. The weakness that comes from these contradictions is what unites us. Being allowed to have beliefs, whether hypocritical or not, is a blessing we have in this country and should unite us all more than our inconsistencies. People want change for the better, now. However, people are so consumed by their hypocritical beliefs that it does not make sense. Americans need to help themselves by believing in something and acting upon it. That’s why we are Americans, because we can create change. Instead of complaining about it and sitting in a pool of contradictions, we need to stand up for what we believe, stay consistent, and love that we have the opportunity to debate and discuss politics so freely. We are equal; that is what the document that binds us together states. We need to stay consistent with ourselves and not rely on a president to make this country exactly how we want it to be. Our Founding Fathers have created a system that was meant to be lead by the people. We are the people, and we shall stand. So in the end, after I take my test on Chapter 14 about the presidency, I know that change essentially has to start with me.
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
Educational Downfall By Mina Kim
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High school students only have one thing on their mind: college. With the SAT, the ACT, GPA and other acronyms, high school students have a lot on their shoulders. They fret over which colleges to apply to, which state they want to live in, what they want to major in, and if they can even get in to the college of their choice. But the question they should be most concerned with is if they can even afford it. Budget cuts over the past years have increased in deficits for the public education department, lowering the availability of classes in public high schools and universities. So what does that mean? Fewer classes means fewer students will take the classes, which in the end, means less students are accepted into colleges. Although private schools are privately funded, they are much more expensive than public universities, estimating about over $40,000 a year. This leads to significant consequences. Fewer students will go straight to a four-year college or university from high school; and therefore, fewer students will be able to graduate on time. These students will be under a greater student loan debt and plan on majoring in something that will help them get a high salary in the future. They are going to need the money if they plan on paying off all their college loans in this economy. This adds an even greater competition for classes and acceptances into colleges as well as for high paying majors. On the other hand, students are taking time off to save money. Katy Palermo from Hamilton High School plans said “she plans on taking a year off before college and working for a year for school tuition.” Junior, Andrea Avila, said, “I want any high paying job to become rich.” Senior, Yungune Shin, from Fairfax High School does not even “plan on going to college.” She works as a marketing manager at a club and said, “I don’t need a college degree. I can get promotions and connections and I work up.” When asked if she enjoys the job, she responded, “I do it for the money.” Even our counselors see a change in college admissions. Ms. Canzone, the Senior counselor, is constantly giving advice to upperclassmen starting in the college process. “Go cheaper for undergrad… Go as cheap as you can.” Ms. Canzone and Mrs. Greenwald both have seen that recent seniors are more pressured to find jobs than previous ones because of the demanding economy and they choose “preprofessional” majors that help secure their careers in high paying jobs. Mrs. Greenwald says that she sees “more and more majors like pre-law, pre-med, and pre-pharmacy. You don’t see much of English or other liberal majors anymore.” It is clear that our generation has lost something. The pursuit of happiness that the American dream entails has become an ethereal, mythical concept now, since we are confined within the shackles of the economy. Teenagers no longer follow their dreams, but the economy. We could starve for the sake of art, but this possibility has become more and more literal, and could very well leave us homeless and hopeless. Needing money is a necessity in our society; it is neither a vice nor an evil; but it does corrupt our culture and rot the human spirit into a terminal corpse.
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
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The Knight Magazine
November 2012
Football’s Headache By Nick Halaby
Football is a part of the American culture and is something that brings people from all backgrounds together. With the huge popularity from the NFL, college football and high school football, the sport is given a large spotlight by the American Media. Though it gets all this attention, football has a growing problem that might ultimately become its very downfall. Concussions are becoming more common and many former players still feel the effects of these injuries long after their playing years. With something as serious as this, could the best solution be taking away the very helmets meant to protect a players head? This past spring, the sports world was hit with a tragedy. Former USC Trojan and San Diego Charger, Junior Seau, was found dead in his San Diego home. He had committed suicide in which he had shot himself in the chest. Seau was suffering from unbearable head pains, a side effect from his numerous head injuries that he suffered while playing football. He shot himself in the chest so that his brain would be left for scientific research, so that maybe his suffering could help make the game he loved safer for those. In 2011 alone there were 171 concussions in the NFL regular season. Head injuries have become so numerous that the NFL is constantly making precautions to help limit the amount of concussions in the league. Before the 2011 season, the league made the point of kickoff closer to the opposite goal line, limiting the amount of kick returns, which are the most dangerous plays in football. They made helmet to helmet hitting illegal, penalizing any player who uses his head as weapon on an offensive player. Though these precautions are helping, there are still a lot of concussions in the NFL and the sport as a whole. Though there are some who say there is only so much you can do to protect the players, others have come up with an idea that could possibly change the sport of football as we know it. Most ideas suggested include adding more padding to the helmets. The fact of the matter is that during a hit, the helmet protects your scull while your brain is still moving about inside of your head, which causes Page 11
the concussions. Another solution basically states that if you take away the helmets, players will tackle much more safely and reduce the risk of concussions. The head of the Notre Dame sports medicine department, Coach Cindy Kramer, agrees with the theory. She says that there have already been ten concussions in the Knight Football program this season. “If you take away the helmets the players would lead with their shoulder and not their head.” Kramer said that as helmets become more comfortable the players use less of the proper tackling technique, which leads to the concussions we see in the sport. Doctor Andrew Blecher, the specialist in head injuries that the football team uses, disagrees with Coach Kramer’s point of view. “Football is a collision sport,” he says. “It was played without helmets a hundred years ago and there were many deaths due to skull fractures and head trauma. We do not need to go back to those days.” Doctor Blecher went on to say that they play football in Australia without the use of Helmets and they suffer many concussions. He says that preventing concussions in football is impossible and the only way to guarantee your safety is to not play at all. In order for the risk to be minimized, he believes that four changes must occur. “The culture needs to change through education and awareness, the rules need to change, equipment needs to change, and tackling technique needs to change.” Though he does not side with taking them away, Dr. Blecher does agree that helmets are part of the problem. “Helmets will never go away, but hopefully they will change. Right now the helmet is a huge part of the problem because it is being used as a weapon. Hopefully they will change, along with the facemasks, to reduce the usage of it as a weapon.” Though both sides don’t see eye to eye on what to do with the headgear, the one thing they can both agree on is that there definitely is a problem. Everybody loves football. Its passion, competiveness and violence are all a part of the appeal. The problem is, with the growing problems of concussions with current and former players, the sport might be losing support and participants. Something must be done to save the players and the very sport that they love so
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
WILL THE KNIGHTS COMPETE?
By Nick Halaby
Fall is an exciting time for many sports here on campus, including Cross Country, Football, Cheerleading, Volleyball and Water Polo. Soccer also starts its tryouts in the fall, and though all athletes aren’t participating because of their commitment to other fall sports, the team’s direction and form starts to develop in these first crucial couple of weeks. According to Coach Patrick Thompsen, the soccer team should be very strong this year. “For varsity we lost five seniors, one of whom was a starter. We had a very strong JV team last year so we had an idea of who we wanted to bring up.” With the returning strength of the Varsity team, the coach says that the upcoming season should be an exciting one. When asked about his expectations for his team this year, he said that, “My expectations are to make playoffs as always and with the strength of this team, we’d really like to take the league title.” Though they look good on paper, Notre Dame has a lot to compete with. According to player Jake Eissele, Sophomore, there is a lot of good competition in their league. Loyola is known to have an extremely talented team; and then of course, there’s Crespi. “The team is working hard on getting ready to play these tough teams,” said Eissele. “We’re working on a lot of the fundamentals like passing and possession.” With a lot of hard work and talent, the team has a really great chance at reaching league. Can the team live up to their hype, though? If the Knights perform the way they are expected to, the results will be great and this season will be remembered for its success. The Notre Dame Soccer team will have a lot of returning players this year, which is a good thing to have on your side going into a difficult season. Hopefully, this season will prove to be memorable for a soccer program having a lot of pride and talent. They will undoubtedly overcome the task and emerge at the top as a powerhouse team.
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Clockwise from left: Coach Thompsen discusses strategy with the Boys’ Soccer team; the team stretches; a soccer ball ready tpo be kicked to victory.
“My expectations are to make playoffs as always and with the strength of this team, we’d really like to take the league title.” -Coach Patrick Thompsen
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
By Cameron de Matteis and Grace McKagan
Kickstart to Soccer Season
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Girls Soccer has a reputation of having one of the most intense and difficult tryouts. The tryouts are extremely selective and physically demanding, yet the players are always dedicated and passionate enough to come out for the team. Potential players participate in six weeks of extreme conditioning. The seventh week entails three days of anticipated and nerve racking tryouts. About sixty girls will try out, but only an estimated twenty girls will make each team. The insanity of tryouts might intimidate many, but these players are extremely dedicated to the team. Not only do most of the players for Notre Dame play here, but a majority play on a club soccer team. Olivia Jackiewicz, Sophomore and former Notre Dame JV player, has
been playing soccer for nine years and plays for the California Central Blues club team. “I get myself mentally prepared by knowing what I’m trying to accomplish and how I’ll get there.” Olivia claims she is not nervous about the upcoming tryouts because she has been through it all before. However, Sophomore, Jessie Manos, said, “I’m a little nervous but excited for the season.” Throughout all the mile runs and grueling drills these girls express an unbelievable amount of passion for this sport. Tryouts are only the beginning for these girls, who work hard all season and dedicate numerous afternoons to practices and games. These girls are out there to win and Notre Dame will continue to cheer them on.
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
HEALTHY VS. By Devon Gearhart
When confronted with the decision of what to eat for lunch, many are overcome with the difficult choice between healthy or unhealthy? Diets, sports, and general well-being inspire us to choose the more healthy options. Putting good food into your system helps improve your skin, hair, helps keep off pounds, and gives you the energy to get through your busy day. To have a healthy diet one must eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A healthy diet can prevent one from getting life threatening diseases. If we continue eating in an unhealthy fashion, according to healthfinder.gov, a third of all American adults will have diabetes. So does the food we eat really affect us that much? Well,
to start, the food we consume is the fuel for our bodies. If we put poor quality fuel in our bodies it will give us equally poor results. But let’s be honest, who has not fallen into the temptation of the warm cookies in the cafeteria, candy at the movie theater, or the satisfaction of eating a bag of skittles during second period when we are at our most vulnerable? We all crave the foods that hurt us the most, but it is important to keep tabs on what we put into our bodies. We each only get one body so we neet to take better care of it!
“I maintain a very healthy lifestyle by only eating foods that benefit me. My body is a temple.” -Jack Apablasa
“I eat healthy by eating fruit and not putting dressing on my salad.” - Armand de la Torre
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The Knight Magazine
November 2012
UNHEALTHY “I’m not the best eater, I eat way too much fast food and candy.” -Peter Baca
“I’m an unhealthy eater because I only eat the junk food in the cafeteria.” -Angelo Aparicio
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The Knight Magazine
November 2012
What’s For Lunch?
A behind-the-scenes look at the cafeteria By Vaughn Himber
This Thanksgiving season, we all have a grand assortment of things to be grateful for, such as our families, friends, and health. But what about those unappreciated aspects of our lives that we often tend to take for granted? This month, The Knight takes a behind-the-scenes look at that honorable institution which serves the delicious food that sustain us throughout our packed days and busy schedules: the Notre Dame cafeteria. Brenda Hanna, cafeteria manager for the last seven years, oversees daily operations, organizes the meal menu schedule, and keeps track of stock. “We start working at 6:00 a.m. and we start on breakfast at 7:00 a.m.,” said Hanna. “Everything is made fresh everyday.” What does it take to feed an entire school burritos, sandwiches, and other daily specials? “Lots of planning and supplies,” according to Hanna, plus plenty of moving to and fro within the kitchen so as to get food from the back area to the two front serving stations; preparing to stock the lunch carts, opening the heavy metal door to the storage area, tearing apart food boxes and packaging to access their tasty contents; making several long trays of chocolate-chip cookies to bake, wrapping up recently-made hot food, making a limited amount of unique meals, besides the hundreds of foods already in the works, for students with special dietary needs and interests; washing fruit, mixing batter in bowls— a concerted series of tasks all culminating in the organized madness of the lunch rush, or the extensive food preparations made during the second class period in order to prepare for the flood of hungry students about to arrive in the cafeteria from all over the campus. Oh, and this increasingly complex cycle, with a killer deadline, takes place EVERY SINGLE DAY, all because of the dedicated, hard work that the cafeteria staff put into making Notre Dame’s meals. And despite the daily rigor of their tasks, the cafeteria crew, with their hairnets, gloves, and aprons, have developed an efficient, comprehensive system that complements their constantly upbeat, can-do attitude and spirit. The weekly cafeteria menu rotates about every three weeks, but specials such as orange and teriyaki chicken are popular and served every week, regardless of the month. Other kinds of food, such as Mexican cuisine, require much more advance preparation or are available depending on the weather. Page 16
In the midst of the daily lunch rush.
In order to accommodate this variety of choices for the students, “We have deliveries every day because we do not have enough storage space,” said Hanna. The cafeteria’s fingerprint payment system was actually suggested by one of Hanna’s friends in another state. “We wanted to do something to make the lines go faster. With this method, no one could steal a PIN number or anyone’s card; no one would ever lose anything, forget anything, or have to dig something out of anyone’s backpack. The more people that use it, the faster the lines can go,” said Hanna. Although the lines in the cafeteria have a crowded, bustled appearance, and “may look scary”, as Hanna put it, the cashiers are able to get through the majority of them within 10 minutes. Despite her demanding schedule and occupation, a rewarding aspect of Hanna’s job is experiencing “one of the days when everything is sold and we nail it, or we introduce something new and kids like it. I really enjoy working with kids.”
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
Public vs PrIvate By Jessica “Jo” P. Aquino
In two seemingly foreign worlds of journalism, where every nook and cranny appears to be completely different, the public school and private school journalistic worlds are actually quite similar. The general first impression among people is that a public high school newspaper and a private high school magazine would have nothing in common. In a public school setting, it is assumed that students have “more freedom” with what they want to write. However, when Ben Sloan and I went to John Burroughs High School, we saw that in general, the two did not differ so greatly. Upon entering the classroom, the students were relaxed, chatting and just sitting around, and not really working on their next issue. In the corner of the room, they had stacks and stacks of untouched and unread, black-andwhite school newspapers, old issues lining the walls, and computers up and running. Their stories covered general school news and their various sports teams. They also wish their readership among the students were better, something that most journalists are normally worried about. We found a few distinct differences, however. The newspaper has nearly forty students enrolled, while our staff Page 17
has only fourteen. This high number comes mostly from the fact that the class is considered a “Practical Art,” which is a one-year requirement aside from the Visual and Performing Arts requirements; even though our journalism class is UC credited, it is only an elective class, which usually means the student has to like writing in order to take it. Because of their big staff, the Burroughs staff also distributes many positions, including news editor, who handles the front page news; opinions editor, who handles the opinions stories; sports editor, who handles sports stories; photo editor, who handles the photos used; copy editor, who handles the technical and grammatical errors; and editor-in-chief, who approves it and puts it all together into one paper. Some of the problems they face as a public school publication are the need for better readership and more school funding they only get twothousand dollars a year in the budget, which is roughly the cost of printing our own Knight magazine each month. On such a tight budget, they rarely ever get any new computers. The teacher Kyle Fitzgerald said, “Our newest models come from two years ago.” Because of their tight budget, they do not even own a real camera. According to Opinions Editor Sara
Rolat, their situation is so bad that one of their photographers just uses her iPhone to take pictures. They do have a bonafide cartoonist who does a cartoon for every edition, a positive take on every sport, and family-like environment. But the most astonishing notion is that our Notre Dame Knight Magazine covers more controversial issues. While we have touched upon more controversial topics, the most scandalous story they have covered in the past five years or so is whether slutty costumes for Halloween are good or bad. “We would never in a million years go beyond that,” said Sports Editor Britta Raci. “We don’t want to get into any trouble.” Fitzgerald added, “I allow my students to take the reins, but I do review it to make sure everything is appropriate.” Differences aside, we essentially are quite the same. We’re all trying to not only convey information, but also entertain readers. In the end, we all love writing and want to simply inform the public.
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
TEENS AND YOU TUBE: SUICIDAL TENDENCIES By Alex Stephenson
When teens express their emotions publicly, such as on YouTube, they automatically invite others to comment and express their feelings towards their situation. Page 18
YouTube is a popular website used by teens. Many teens seem to find YouTube a convenient way of communicating their feelings— ranging from problems with school to even relationships. But this may not always be the most productive outlet. Most teens that have used YouTube to communicate their emotions, rather than seeking help from an adult or professional have been known to commit suicide. When teens express their emotions publicly, such as on YouTube, they automatically invite others to comment and express their feelings towards their situation. This may be positive or negative feedback, with negative feedback causing the most harm and impact. Sabrina Agbabian, Sophomore, believes, “When people post negative and hurtful comments on a video about that person, it probably makes [them] feel like the whole world hates them.” Agbabian added, “This might give a person justification to commit suicide.” Amanda Todd, 15, committed suicide on October 10, 2012 because of cyberbullying through Facebook, after inappropriate pictures of her had gone viral on media sites, including YouTube. In another instance in 2008, Abraham Biggs, 19, was encouraged to commit suicide while others tried to help. Ultimately, Biggs died of drug overdosage. YouTube is a common site where a variety of subjects may be viewed, inter-
preted, and even criticized. This criticism has become too much to handle for some and so many people on YouTube have become suicide victims because of this. The comments one posts on YouTube videos can be strong enough to inflict hate and eventually lead to death. However, YouTube can also be an outlet where victims of bullying can relate to and help each other. Social media sites like YouTube will always be used, but we can still avoid posting our deepest feelings and secrets on these sites. Suicide is a topic many are not comfortable with, but it is still an issue that must be addressed. There are alternative outlets to expressing emotions such as depression, hopelessness, and other similar ones. Those with suicidal tendencies can see counselors, other professionals, or responsible adults for help. “In most cases, people should talk to professionals about any extreme problems. People such as therapists have been trained to deal with and fix such problems and can give really good solutions,” says Jackie Hynes, Sophomore. We are the generation growing up with the easiest media access. As good as technology is, we must not let it destroy our culture and society. We have to stop fueling and creating hate, and must stand up to the cyberbullying existent in our world.
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
By Grace McKagan and Duff McKagan
I Was a...
It is obvious that a vast majority of teenagers don’t agree with the way their parents restrict their lives. Whether it is through clothing, music, or friends, teenagers feel like they are forbidden to completely express themselves and who they ultimately want to be. According to studies, the adolescent years are dedicated to development and growth of own opinions on politics, relationships, and social affairs. Parents usually have a difficult time adapting to the sudden change in their child’s lifestyle and so their first instinct is to stop this growth. I decided to take matters into my own hands. I looked at the main arguments within my family and asked my dad to provide his opinion and why he “restricts me” the way that he does. Though I may not agree with his rules, I have to abide by them.
Teenager Once Too!
. vs
Teens
Parents Grace: “I frequently go to concerts but my parents have to always be there with me. It’s not even like they are seated in a different section, but are rather sitting right next to my friends and me the whole time. Whenever my friends ask me to go to a concert with them, my parents have to go out of their way to make sure a parent will be with us AT ALL TIMES. I understand why parents would want this if I was 12 or 13 years old, but in less than a year, I will legally be allowed to drive myself to the concerts alone. If I am with a group of friends and we all have our cell phones out, nothing really major can happen. Again, I find this VERY hypocritical because when my dad was 15, he played at venues that were 18+, obviously without a guardian or cell phone. It’s cliche to say that all of my friend’s parents let them go without guardian, but it’s actually so true. Even if my parents were down the street eating dinner or something while I’m at the concert, I’d be fine with that, I just do not literally want them hanging out with me at the same venue.” Grace: “Whenever I am driving in the car with my parents, I plug in my iPhone to the car and listen to music. I have no control over what lyrics come on during the song, sometimes there is swearing but usually just a slip or two. My parents always get so mad and they over react. I find it quite hypocritical for my parents to be criticizing the music I like-when my dad who is an artist, writes and plays songs that contain explicit content. Not only does my dad sing swear words, but also he uses them on the daily when he talks to his friends over the phone and I hear it all the time. I am 15 and its not like I have never heard a swear word in my life.” Page 19
Concerts
Duff: “HEY, HEY! This is your year! You are now all cool but going to concerts with your friends without parents. You have got to admit, 12 or 13 years of age is a bit young, eh? Baby steps here people….baby steps.”
Music
Duff: “As a parent, and even a guy like me who has maybe been famously attached to some eh, ‘direct’ songs lyrics and such- I probably will instantly give the most leeway to my own growing kids when the tables sort of turn, and suddenly I am in a parental situation with f-bombs and such flowing freely. As opposed to just being some non-attentive parent though, I do at least want to have a conversation with my kids about what they are listening to, and what it means to them. But I would never dream of censoring!”
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
Senior Bucket Lists
By Sidney Stephens
Bucket lists are people’s dreams, goals and desires. It is a compilation of what someone wishes to do, to see, and to even become before one dies. For many, it is what drives them through their mundane lives, someday wishing to complete their bucket list. The Knight will be following these 3 seniors and will get a chance to see whether they will complete these lists by next month.
• • • • • •
Scare Mrs. Faber Finish all my college apps Get Christmas shopping out of the way Get Jordan Elevens on Black Friday Clean my closet Get stuff on Cyber Monday
Niki Russo
Desiree Cancereas
Jeffrey Estrada
• • • • • • • •
Page 20
Finish all my college apps Organize my locker Go hiking at Griffith park/Hollywood sign Go on a shopping spree Go to Disneyland Go see a school play (I’ve never been!) Have a tea party with my friends Write a Christmas list to Santa Claus
• • • • • • • •
Finish college apps Do my marriage project Go to Italy Go shopping in Paris Jump in a pile of colorful leaves Die my hair Get into LMU Serve the homeless on Thanksgiving morning
The Knight Magazine
November 2012
d Tina Nagai
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If you answered mostly A’s, you are a:
You like to look cute and fashionable, but at the same time, you value comfort when going about your daily activities. Your boots give you an edgy vibe but keep you comfortable as well.
Bo o t
If you answered mostly B’s, you are a:
You like to add an edgy vibe to your outfits by sticking to the boot-heel hybrid. But that doesn’t mean you’re going to give up your comfort!
Page 21
Wedg e
If you answered mostly C’s, you are a:
You like to feel confident and fierce every day. If your legs look like they go on for miles, what’s not to feel comfortable about?
The Knight Magazine
Heel
November 2012
H C t T I c P Perfe
By Devon Gearhart
Pitch Perfect hit all the right notes. Director Jason Moore, known for his Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill fame, delivers an excellent story of humor, love, and finding your voice. Fun and upbeat, Pitch Perfect is about an alternative girl named “Beca” who has a passion for music. All she really wants to do is go to L.A. and pursue a career in dj-ing, but her father is constantly standing in her way. Forced to stay at least one semester in school, she decides to join an all girl a cappella club. While at first the club is a rag-tag group doing tired old songs, once she joins, Beca is able to revamp the club and turn the group around. Most of the actors did a superb job in balancing both singing and acting; however, the two characters that really stood out the most were “Fat Amy”, played by Rebel Wilson of Bridesmaids, and “Lilly”, played by Hana Mae Lee of Workaholics. Fat Amy was guaranteed to bring laughs every time she came onto the screen. Her sarcasm, wit, and surly personality brought life to each and every scene she was in. While she was not the best singer in the cast, her infectious charm made her the center of attention. Lilly was rather a a character that you slowly began to appreciate. Her quirk was that she never spoke above a whisper and would typically be muttering ways she was planning on murdering all of those around her. Her innocent look and her extremely violent mutterings clashed in all of the right ways. Overall I highly recommend this movie, with a 87% satisfaction rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this is a must see. On it’s opening weekend it raked in $5,149,433 dollars, not bad for a $17 million dollar budget, and so far has grossed roughly $55.6 million. Viewers will love the sarcastic wit, the fabulous musical numbers, and the raunchy humor.
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The Knight Magazine
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The Knight Magazine
November 2012
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