The Mustang June 2017

06.12.17

Volume 21 Issue 7

T H E M U S T A N G

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FROM THE CONTROL BOOTH A message from your editor.

ROLL CALL

The Mustang Staff MANAGING EDITOR Julia Shapero

So I guess this is it.

This is the last issue of the year, my last issue of the Mustang ever, and it’s odd.

Leading up to this moment, I felt that I had so much to say about high school, about life, about moving on. I was going to talk about the good times and the bad times and everything in between. I wanted to impart wisdom to the freshman about how they need to enjoy all of high school, even the most mundane moments. I planned on talking about jumping forward into the frightening unknown of the real world.

And yet, as I come to the end, I find myself lost for words, speechless, unable to complete a thought worthy enough of describing my time here. I find that in the end there’s no way to capture what this school and what the Mustang meant to me in words.

What stands out to me instead is a collection of blurry memories, overlaid with a general feeling of happiness. A silly collection of memories of Patrick Hall walking around without shoes, of Mr. Roberts yelling “guys, guys, guys” at the beginning of class everyday before telling us how worried he is that the paper isn’t going to get done, of Hannah Elias turning the clock into a “Roberts” clock, of adding nonsensical quotes to the wall, of eating 10 pizzas at a time along with a hefty stack of cookies and brownies on Amy Gaare day when the newspaper comes out.

Of late production nights, of tight deadlines, of pun-ful headlines that Roberts disapproves of, of Linnea Leidy’s endless opinions, of Austin Dilley yelling anything and everything and just generally being loud, of Olivia Olander writing yet another piece on the school board, of laying all the pages out onto the table, of picking up the fresh papers and getting ink all over my hands.

Somehow these fuzzy memories mean more to me than any eloquent and profound words could. In the end, they seem, in a way that may not seem important to anyone else, the most important things I could write about in this last issue.

I think everyone has that collection of memories that could only mean something to them, maybe of your first time walking off campus your freshman year, or of eating ice cream made with dry ice in chemistry, or of building a bridge that can kind of stand in physics, or of making your first pizza in culinary arts that looks nothing like a real pizza, or of making your first wobbly bowl in sculpture, or of selling your own creation at Exhibition Day. In the end, It doesn’t matter what the memories are. All that matters is that they are yours to remember and to look back on.

And the lack of words. For me, it makes the moments all the more sweet to know that it could never be fully captured again in words because then they are all mine in memory.

-Julia Shapero, Managing Editor

NEWS EDITOR Olivia Olander OPINION EDITOR Linnea Leidy ASST OPINION EDITOR Mallika Seshadri FEATURES EDITOR Kieran Zimmer ASST FEATURES EDITOR Erin Maxwell ARTS/HUMOR EDITOR Mary Ford SPORTS EDITORS Natalie Haghani Vicky Van Der Wagt ONLINE EDITOR Kate Sequeira ASST ONLINE EDITOR Sophie Hughes PHOTO EDITOR Patrick Hall BUSINESS MANAGER Yariizette Sequeria DESIGN EDITORS Hannah Elias

MADISON “MO” NICHOLS Cover and Backpage Artist

For senior Madison Nichols, the meaning behind her artwork isn’t always obvious to her when she first begins. “I just make something and kind of add what feels right,” she said. “I don’t really know what it means for me until the end.”

For the painting on the cover of this issue, Nichols found that the meaning of her piece stemmed off of the upcoming changes in her life. “I was thinking about going to college and stuff and I had extreme anxiety about that,” she said. “I guess [it] symbolizes someone looking out to all that they can accom-

plish and still wanting to stay inside.”

After spending much time drawing, Nichols found a new interest in painting freshman year. “In studio art, I really got into painting after Mr. Glasgow complimented the first one I did,” she said. “That really got me excited about it.”

She plans on continuing her interest in art in college as a student at the Pratt Institute in New York.

STAFF WRITERS Rosy Alvarado Nadia Ballard Maddy Campbell Citlally Contreras Austin Dilley Alyssa Fisher Layla Gantus Anna Griffin Sarah LaVake Megan Levan Michael McQuarrie Lucas Oldham Sonia Rathee Jack Salz Joshua Santana Brittany Serbin Katherine Tarangelo Madison Vance Chloe Williams Sylvia Young ADVISOR Tim Roberts The Mustang is the student newspaper of San Dieguito Academy. Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the newspaper. The Mustang is an open forum which welcomes letters. Letters can be submitted to room 16, emailed to sdamustang@gmail.com or mailed to the address below.

San Dieguito Academy Room 16 800 Santa Fe Drive Encinitas, CA 92024

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The Future For Phone Searches New California legislation could allow schools to access phones without a search warrant. By Julia Shapero.

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earches of student phones could change within the next two years under a proposed state law that would allow schools to access students’ phones without a search warrant.

Under current laws, if students don’t give school officials permission to go through their phones, schools must obtain a warrant before searching a student’s phone, as do all government institutions. The new bill was proposed in January by assemblymember Jim Cooper (DElk Grove) to combat cyberbullying.

It would exempt schools from current laws, giving schools easier access to students’ phones.

According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Northern California, Cooper has currently “pulled [the bill, AB 165] from consideration;” however, the legislature still has two years to decide whether to move forward with it.

At SDA now, according to Assistant Principal Brieahna Weatherford, school officials ask students or parents for permission to search students’ phones, a practice Weatherford says will not change even if the law itself changes.

“We would never search a cell phone at school without the consent of a student and/or parents and that’s pretty much the policy with or without the changes in the law,” Weatherford said.

Phone searches at SDA can occur for a number of reasons, ranging from bullying to violation of school rules. “[We would search a phone] if we had any issues with a social media related concern, anything maybe related to bullying, or information that could pertain to students not making good decisions or choices on school campus,” Weatherford

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said.

A search warrant would only come into play for SDA students if law enforcement was involved, Weatherford said.

“We as a school would never [request a search warrant],” Weatherford said. “If we needed support from law enforcement on a given situation, all of the warrants and other information would go through...the Encinitas Sheriff ’s Department and if they pursued anything it would be strictly with them.”

Law enforcement is always involved in cases dealing with illegal substances. “Anytime we have the use of drugs or alcohol on campus, typically we involve law enforcement, with or without a phone being involved. So then they would help us through that investigation,” Weatherford said.

The use of consensual searches means that students have the ability to say yes or no. “[If a student said no], then that would be the end,” Weatherford said. “We would not pursue it. If it was something where there was still concerns, we would share with parents.”

According to Weatherford, students’ responses vary to having their phones searched; however, many choose to consent. “Sometimes [students say no],” Weatherford said. “I will say the majority of the time a student will say ‘Absolutely, I have nothing to hide’ or ‘I wasn’t involved.’”

If a student does not consent to having their phone searched, no further attempts will be made to search the phone unless law enforcement is involved. “[If a student said no], then that would be the end. We would not pursue it. If it was something where there was still concerns

Due to the use of consensual searches at SDA, students maintain the right to say yes or no when asked to have their phone searched. Photo illustration by Patrick Hall. we would share with parents and... if it was something where law enforcement was involved, then they would pursue their policies and procedures,” Weatherford said.

With or without the presence of the new bill, Weatherford feels strongly that students’ rights should be protected. “Students have the right to say yes or no depending on how they’re feeling with the situation and if they want to share that information or not. So I think it’s completely all right for their to be rights for student protections,” Weatherford said.

However, criminal defense lawyer Jennifer Gerstenzang, who has appeared as a guest speaker in social science teacher Oly Norris’s government classes, believes the new bill could allow more flexibility for schools to search phones without a search warrant in the future.

“The language is broad, so its application would be large,” Gerstenzang said. “It sounds as if it could open a can of worms and allow school and school authorities an enormous amount of access to student electronic devices.”

The ACLU of Northern California expressed similar concerns about how the bill would affect student privacy. They believe the bill would open up “millions of students and others in the school community to invasive digital searches and [make] it easier for law enforcement and federal agencies like Immigra-

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tion and Customs Enforcement to gather information about kids and families without their knowledge or consent.”

Despite concerns over how the bill might affect students, Norris believes that safety should always come first in a school setting. “Our number one job as educators and administrators is making sure our students are safe,” Norris said. “The content, standards, everything is secondary to safety.”

For Norris, who has long studied search and seizure rights with his government classes, the bill appears to simply be an extension of the common separation between rights in the school setting and rights beyond.

“In my opinion, I think that the 4th amendment is going to apply differently to a student on a school campus than that same student after school down at Moonlight Beach, and I’m okay with law enforcement...and administrators being able to search through a student’s phone if they have that reasonable suspicion that lawlessness is afoot.”

If the bill were passed, Norris does believe it would be met with resistance by students. “It could be initially pretty uncomfortable for students to have their cell phones searched by law enforcement or a school administrator because that is...your private self, and in that phone it’s much more than just text messages. It’s every photo you’ve

ever posted, deleted, liked, shared. If you’re using Google maps, it’s where you’ve been. It’s your financial records. It’s your travel plans,” Norris said.

While the bill remains in the works, current laws maintain the need for schools to obtain a search warrant before searching students’ phones without consent. Under these requirements, Gerstenzang emphasizes that students have the right to choose.

“This [decision] is up to each individual student,” Gerstenzang said. “The main rule is to always be respectful, mature, and calm if you are in this situation. A person can absolutely grant their consent to a search if and when requested by a person in authority. However, it is important to know that when someone asks if they can search something that belongs to you - whether it be your bag, your person, your car, your phone, or anything else - you are making a choice to say yes or no.”

Gerstenzang warned that sometimes there may not appear to be a choice and stressed that students must clarify the situation for themselves. “When a person in authority asks you for your consent it may not feel like you have a choice, so you have to rely on your knowledge, rather than your instinct or emotion, in those situations. If you are not sure if someone is asking for your consent or not, ask them!” Gerstenzang said.

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13 Reasons Why or Why Not

“13 Reasons Why” sparks discussion surrounding suicide awareness. By Mallika Seshadri.

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he Netflix series “13 Reasons Why” prompted the San Dieguito Union High School District to caution parents against letting their teens watch it, especially if they are emotionally vulnerable because critics said it glamorized suicide and rape.

The streaming series depicts the story of a teenage girl, Hannah, and her journey leading up to committing suicide, which is explained in 13 tapes she leaves behind as reasons for her fatal decision and subsequent actions.

Following the recent death of a Torrey Pines student who reportedly led police to shoot him, the need for for suicide awareness and prevention was amplified. Superintendent Eric Dill addressed “13 Reasons Why” in an email “because of the danger [the series poses] to some students,” according to SDA counselor Ann Nebolon.

In an email, Dill briefly informed parents of the district's concerns: “The National Association of School Psychologists strongly recommends that youth who are vulnerable, especially those who have experienced suicidal ideation, not watch [“13 Reasons Why”]. However, the series and the attention surrounding it does present an opportunity to have meaningful conversations with your child.”

SDA’s counseling office has taken the concerns surrounding the series as an opportunity to engage teachers and staff in discussions about caring for students who are going through emotional difficulties, according Nebolon.

She explained that while a myriad of topics have emerged in such conversations--including suicide, rape and bullying, all of which are addressed in “13 Reasons Why”-an emphasis has been placed on suicide awareness and prevention as “right now, we are thinking life and death.”

Why Watch?

AP Psychology teacher James Hrzina attributed the series’ compelling nature to a widespread misconception.

He said, over spring break, he asked a family friend's daughter what she was watching, and she told him she was watching a “teen dra-

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ma” titled “13 Reasons Why.” Unaware of the series’ content, Hrzina said he assumed “this is going to be geared toward teenagers; its going to be interesting, fun, cool...to watch.”

Hrzina believes many students may have also been drawn to watching the series because they, too, heard “13 Reasons Why” described as typical a “teen drama.”

Nebolon, on the other hand, believes students are attracted to the series because of its violent and graphic nature. “They hear things like ‘Oh my god! There’s this horrible suicide scene…’ [and] of course you wanna go look,” she said.

Both Nebolon and Hrzina agreed that students are also keen to watch “13 Reasons Why” because it portrays the livelihoods of adolescents and troubles they face in daily life. It demonstrates “what teen life is like” and then “it draws you in slowly,” said Hrzina. He explained that by the time the series becomes graphic, viewers are hooked.

Julia Honda and Cole Christian, juniors, said they watched it because their friends recommended it. “I watched it because all my friends were talking about how good...the show was, and [they] kept recommending it to me,” Honda said.

Concerns

Hrzina made it clear that “13 Reasons Why” is not for everyone: “For some people, it is eye opening, and it triggers up [a] conversation, which is good. For other people, it can be overly emotional, and [they] may not be prepared to process those emotions.”

Hrzina advised anyone who is considering watching “13 Reasons Why” to be educated about its content before sitting down to see it (or binge watch). To ensure this happens among his students, Hrzina explained he had several class discussions about the series to “lay the foundation for what’s to come.”

Watching “13 Reasons Why” “needs to be done with guidance. It needs to be done with forewarning about the content,” he said.

Nebolon strongly discourages all students, but especially those who are emotionally vulnerable, from watching it. “When especially vulnerable kids view something as graphic as that, it escalates their

The character Hannah from “13 Reasons Why,” which was criticized for sensationalizing suicide. Photo courtesy of Netflix. feelings around suicidal thoughts,” she said.

Hrzina had a similar opinion regarding students watching the series who are emotionally struggling, especially if they have been contemplating suicide. This is mainly because the series fails to provide resources to students that could help them as they navigate their challenges, he said.

Reactions

Many of the teenage viewers have watched the series without their parents’ knowledge, according to Nebolon: “That series worries me that…[kids] are binge watching it... with no support and...no responsible adults around.”

Christian and Honda, however, did watch it with their parents’ knowledge. Honda said her mom “was a little more concerned.”

Generally, though, the series has received much positive feedback from students. Honda said, “I did really like the show...I got really into it. I watched the whole series in...a week.”

But, after becoming aware of different perspectives on the series in her AP Psychology class, Honda said she became more understanding of the concerns “13 Reasons Why” has elicited; she is now more critical of the series. “I didn’t like

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how it portrayed it [like] there is no way to get help when someone is thinking about taking their life….

It could have been nice to put the suicide hotline number after the episodes,” she said.

Christian also enjoyed the series, especially because of its dramatic nature, but she did not like how the series “showed suicide as an option for teens.” She added that she would recommend “13 Reasons Why” to others, but not if they are going through emotional hardships.

Junior Claire Loudis, on the other hand, did not enjoy the series as she found it to be boring.

She also said “13 Reasons Why” was going against everything it claimed to stand for and only seemed to care about views: “While it was saying [they wanted to convey a message], what they were doing was against [that] message....It’s disgusting,” she said.

Nebolon said many students have come into her office, a good number of whom having been a part of support groups. “There were no positive responses from it,” she said.

Overall, Nebolon feels the series was irresponsibly done: “I think it was...inappropriate in a lot of ways because it kept showing things happening to kids and...nothing is being done about it and nobody

goes and tells a responsible, trusted adult.” She added that “all through the series, none of the adults do the right thing…[and] I think we are full of a world with adults doing the right thing, especially on a school campus.”

While watching the series, Nebolon counted four instances where the main character enters the counseling office, makes a suicidal statement, and nothing is done; she found this to be “sickening.” She said this is especially harmful as it makes seeking help seem like a hopeless endeavor when, according to Nebolon, it is something that should be encouraged.

Another issue Nebolon had with “13 Reasons Why” is that Hannah, the main character, leaves behind tapes blaming others for her taking her life, making her action one of revenge.

Nebolon explained that in most cases, suicide is linked with mental illness, most commonly depression.

And, to her, the series neglects issues of mental health.

She said it also fails to seriously address topics that are graphically portrayed throughout the series including suicide, copycat suicide, self harm, date rape, underage drinking, drunk driving, and bullying.

See more of 13 Reasons on Page 6.

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If voters approve the SoccerCity plan on the November ballot, a soccer academy for teenagers is set to open in 2020 along with a stadium. Photo illustration courtesy of Darren Pudgil.

City Scores Soccer Academy The SoccerCity proposal includes plans for a soccer academy for teens. By Kate Sequeira.

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proposal to use Qualcomm stadium to house a Major League Soccer team has a feature aimed at soccer playing teenagers.

SoccerCity, proposed by the private investment group FS Investors, includes plans to tear down Qualcomm and replace it with a soccer stadium and several parks as well as retail, office and residential space.

Teens may be especially interested in the youth soccer academy program that FS Investors is planning. The academy’s opening would coincide with the opening of the stadium in 2020 if approved on the November ballot.

Though plans for the academy will not be set until the SoccerCity proposal is secured, the academy will most likely encompass one girls team and one boys team for each age level U13 and above, said Shannon Mac Millan, a member of FS Investor’s advisory board and current executive director of the DMCV Sharks youth soccer club.

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Mac Millan, who is also a former player for the U.S. Women’s National Team, along with Landon Donovan, a former player for the U.S. Men’s National Team, is working on designing the academy.

“We are currently just in the process of brainstorming now to best create the ideal environment that we have visualized: a healthy environment for players that is focused on their development of players on the field as well as off the field,” Mac Millan said.

FS Investors is interested in taking advantage of the high level of interest in soccer evident in San Diego.

“We want to create the high caliber level of talent here in San Diego,” said Darren Pudgil, director of media relations for SoccerCity. “Soccer, of course, is the world’s most popular sport and it’s the fastest growing sport in America.”

The soccer academy is intended to connect San Diego’s youth with professional soccer players across the country.

“They’ll be from all over the country and perhaps all over the world,” Pudgil said. “San Diego is a hotbed for soccer and we’re going to bring the best and the brightest here to San Diego.”

Although much has yet to be determined, plans for the soccer academy will most likely include an invite process. Those working on the program are considering having scouts to watch local clubs as well as open communication between the program and club directors to allow coaches to recommend players, Mac Millan said.

“We want to create an academy that all local clubs are proud to be a part of knowing,” Mac Millan said.

“Getting a player into the academy can lead to them making it into the MLS system and potentially playing for their hometown.”

Mac Millan believes that the academy would benefit the San Diego youth with more than soccer skills.

“Building an academy system

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linked to a local MLS club has all kinds of benefits,” she said. “From players being able to have role models that they can consistently watch play…. [to] teaching the youth the love and passion for the game as well as many life lessons that will help them succeed down the road off the field such as teamwork, leadership [and] confidence.”

Teens will also be drawn to SoccerCity because of the MLS team, Pudgil said.

“Even though we don’t have a professional soccer team [at the moment], television ratings for professional soccer in San Diego are among the highest in the nation,” he said. “San Diego is really the perfect place to cultivate the sport of soccer and to facilitate new players.”

The plan to house an MLS team in San Diego was publicized in January shortly after the Chargers announced that they would be leaving to Los Angeles.

Currently, FS Investors is working on their campaign to get SoccerCity

approved on the November ballot.

“We will be launching a fullfledged campaign and we will have our supporters and volunteers throughout the community meeting with community groups and residents to talk about the project and what it means for San Diego,” Pudgil said.

In May, San Diego State University officially decided not to support the SoccerCity proposal. FS Investors has been working with the university, who had previously shared Qualcomm Stadium with the Chargers, to develop a plan for the stadium; however, SDSU was skeptical because the plan involved a 30,000-seat stadium, which SDSU considered too small.

Although SDSU’s support is preferable, FS Investors is continuing with the proposal despite lack of support, Pudgil said.

FS Investors, however, decided to increase the amount of land allotted to SDSU for classrooms and student housing to 35 acres.

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13 Reasons

[continued from page 4]

Generating a Discussion

Nebolon said the only plausible positive of the “13 Reasons Why” is that it incited a conversation about many of the serious issues depicted in the series. She said such issues, including those of self harm and date rape, are “out there.”

Hrzina said the discussions that have emerged as a result of the series have been beneficial, both inside and outside of the classroom. “Just because something is hard to talk about, it dosen’t mean we shouldn’t talk about it….If it brings up talking points, I think that’s valuable,” he said.

Moving forward

According to Nebolon, while date

rape is critical and has “happened to girls on this campus,” the school is focusing on suicide awareness and prevention, though they look to address it in the future. She added that more will be done next year as the end of this school year is near.

In the meanwhile, to ensure all students remain empowered, Nebolon urges students to “care more...

Don’t get caught up in all the drama of teenage life and be more sensitive to each other and kinder to each other. It certainly is not going to hurt. It really just might help.” She also emphasized the importance in seeking help if needed.

Hrzina reiterated the importance in speaking up.

“We have amazing resources available to us: PALS, counselors, teachers, trusted adults...If [you are] having difficult times emotionally processing anything, but let alone the issues we see in [“13 Reasons Why”], then it’s not only ok to ask for help, it’s a sign of strength to come forward and ask questions and want to talk and want to learn more….take what’s inside of you and express,” he said.

Pot Shops And Farms Nearby?

The school board takes a stand against commercial pot sales and farming in the district. By Anna Griffin and Olivia Olander

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he San Dieguito Union High School District school board has unanimously stated their opposition to pot shops and local marijuana cultivation in Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Carmel Valley.

The board passed a resolution expressing its opposition at a May 11 meeting, emphasizing the physical dangers Prop 64 would entail. It was guided by the San Dieguito Alliance for Drug Free Youth, said school board trustee Mo Muir. By limiting the growth and availability of marijuana, the underage usage will decrease as well, said Nancy PerrySheridan of the organization.

“The passage of Prop 64 [which legalized recreational marijuana in California last year] would increase teen marijuana use, and that the

normalization and commercialization of marijuana storefronts and cultivations would contribute to this,” said Sheridan.

She expressed concerns that marijuana storefronts could normalize use of the drug for students. She cited the California Healthy Kids Survey, which said more teens have used marijuana than tobacco, as evidence that it’s a prevalent issue.

“Our nation has a drug problem that is a major public health and safety threat. Commercializing marijuana would increase its availability and normalize its use, leading to increased negative health consequences, particularly among young people,” wrote Sheridan.

Although the SDUHSD Board publicly supports the ban of local marijuana shops and growth, the

resolution doesn’t change any laws.

The city of Encinitas is considering regulating marijuana cultivation.

“Heavily regulated marijuana cultivation will be a market that is expected to generate significant revenue and will also open up opportunities for research and development of medical products,” said Encinitas councilman Tony Kranz.

Kranz said he is heavily against teen marijuana usage, but added that strict policies in which it is not mass produced will be beneficial for the city while still keeping the local youth out of trouble.

“Encinitas still has over 100 acres of land zoned [for agriculture] and I am confident we can find a way to safely allow a small percentage of it to be used for growing marijuana,” said Kranz.

Welcome to the Grown-Up World

I graduated from San Dieguito a while ago, and my daughters currently attend San Dieguito Academy. Everyone today seems to be talking about becoming a senior or leaving for college.

We parents often forget that many seniors, and most students leaving high school, are adults. We especially forget that point when the student “is only leaving for college.” Our legal system, however, never forgets that point.

• If you go into a hospital, and are 18 years or older, your parents no longer have legal authority to make any decisions for you regarding medical treatment or life and death procedures.

• If you are locked up in jail, and are 18 years or older, your parents do not have legal authority to access your home, bank account, or even recover your car from impound.

Yes, college is a time for you to grow up, and make mistakes while doing so. However, without a power of attorney, parents can no

longer step up to help you with your mistakes.

A power of attorney is that document by which you give legal authority for your agent to step in and help you with legal or business or health matters. Your agent is often a parent or other trusted adult.

However, you decide who should be your agent. You decide how much authority your agent has, and you decide when your agent can exercise that authority. You also decide when to withdraw that authority from your agent.

Let’s face it: If you’re in jail, then most likely your car has been impounded. Impound fees can exceed $200 per day in some areas. If you are busted on Friday, the soonest you will be out is Monday. That’s $800 you have just wasted because you cannot personally take your car out of impound. If you have prepared a power of attorney, your agent can take that document and rescue your car. The money you save can then be used for your fine or bail.

When you turn 18, sit down with an attorney and establish a power of attorney for financial matters and for health care matters.

It’s The Grown-Up Thing To Do

A Public Service Message presented by Attorney Luis Michael Bustillos, 20555 Fortuna Del Sur, Elfin Forest, CA 92029 Michael@LMBustillos.Com

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the mustang

SDA— Forever Funky

Our quirky culture will continue to live in the midst of this changing campus. By Linnea Leidy.

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’ve been hearing students share concerns about SDA’s diminishing culture since my freshman year. I never really thought anything of it, though, because I didn’t have anything to compare the current SDA culture to. Being a senior now, though, I can safely say that the ambiance of this school is definitely changing. Is the old SDA past the point of salvaging, though? That, I’m not so convinced of.

Culture and charm aside, there has undoubtedly been an air of change at the school. We’ve watched as old buildings filled with memories have been torn down and replaced with large, looming structures. We’re witnessing legendary teachers and staff members like Blaze, Glasgow, and Dr. Jones, leave. We have a slew of new employees who are unfamiliar with SDA’s unique atmosphere. Our school population is rapidly growing in size as the previous lottery system is replaced with open admission. SDA’s small, quirky nature and its iconic staff are changing.

But is the old SDA culture gone forever? Is our school on an unstoppable path towards becoming just another stereotypical high school, like others in our district?

No. If you look closely enough, there are most definitely still remnants of the “SDA way.” I see it in the crowds of students who danced along to Shawlin Supreme And The Kick Back Boys’ performance of “Sweet Caroline” at prom. I see it in the kids who gathered outside the PAC to do tai chi and synchronized swimming without water for 30 minutes. I see it in the kids who

clustered around the front pocket of a student’s pink, velvet overalls to pet the baby chicks she was holding there during Exhibition Day, and I see it in the bright yellow Volkswagen van parked next to the bell tower, filled with student-designed clothing.

I see it in our principal, Bjorn Paige, because even though he’s leaving, he’s still proof that SDA’s culture hasn’t dissipated. Remember, he only arrived at this school last year, and in his short time here, we’ve seen him wear a Pikachu costume to school board meetings, perform a Blues Brothers number in front of the entire student body, and dance to Kendrick Lamar’s “Humble” while sitting in the passenger seat of Yoni Kruvi’s car.

As dramatic as all these changes might seem, the whispers of SDA’s culture are still very much alive.

Instead of wallowing in the death of the “old SDA,” students and staff need to focus needs to be on preserving this charm in spite of all the change, and a lot of us do recognize that need.

When students, parents, and faculty were asked to give input on what aspects of the school they wanted next year’s principal to safeguard, the overwhelming majority of responses emphasized the importance of maintaining SDA’s quirky culture.

They shared a desire to protect the spirit that makes our school unique.

As long as that desire remains, and as long as there are chick-bearing, Pikachu costumed, Volkswagendriving students to keep that spirit alive, SDA will always remain funky.

SDA students dance along to Shawlin Supreme And The Kick Back Boys’ performance at prom. Photo by George Stimson.

Students gather around a yellow Volkswagen van to pet baby chicks. Photo by Austin Dilley.

It’s Pronounced Church, Not Coachella

Contemporary rock music in church obstructs the traditional way of teaching the message. By Bram Downs.

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et’s be honest: remakes tend not to be as good as the original. When have you ever said, ‘Wow, that sequel was way better than the original!’ (Even shifts in something can be unsettling and even disorienting.)

Many concepts have been subjected to this generally bad idea of making major changes: the Bourne franchise, the Fast and Furious franchise, and even church.

Yes, church has undergone some

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renovations, most of which have been seen as a bad idea. There’s the new way of teaching, where rather than preach, pastors act out a lesson, and entirely alter the meaning of what is being taught.

Then, there’s the horrible attempt at modernization in a vain attempt to reach teen and youth groups. I have personally heard Jesus Christ referred to as a “homeboy.”

Perhaps, the most recognizable and controversial change that

churches have made is the taste in music.

When I attend church on Easter Sunday, I hear the harmonic voices of the choir flowing over the audience. But at my regular, informal church that I usually attend, I am greeted by a 30-minute yelling session.

An ear-piercing electric guitarist stands onstage, accompanied by an overpowering drummer, a singer, and a drowned-out keyboard.

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Admittedly, they do yell out the ‘hymns’, but their meanings are lost somewhere between the drummer’s incessant pounding and the guitarist’s bad haircut.

Where have we gone, that the style of teaching has transferred from a meaningful sermon, carrying grace and power, to a half-hour rock concert?

When did we lose our conventional method of teaching? Why do I now, rather than feeling fulfillment

after a service, just feel a slight ringing in my ears?

Maybe this is an example of the inevitable change that time brings.

But only when we convert back to our original roots, will we truly rediscover the meaning of being a Christian.

Only when we stop this useless way of ‘teaching’, and unveil our ability to eloquently convey a sermon, will we fully understand our faith.

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Reduce, Reuse, Re-PSYCH-le Find out where your recycling really ends up after you put it in the blue bins. By Megan Levan.

W

arning: prepare to forget everything you thought you knew.

You know those blue bins? The ones that say “Recycle?” Those places you put your bottles and cans and paper to be made into something new through the magical process called recycling?

They’re all a lie.

We have grown up believing that Encinitans are environment-loving hippies who hug trees in their free time and that SDA is a place that cares about the Earth and would do anything to stem the flow of junk to the never-ending landfills.

But no.

The blue bins you see around campus are nothing more than trash cans in disguise. According to school officials, all of their recyclable contents go straight to the trash dumpsters. It seems that only the pizza boxes from the Mosaic Cafe actually make it into the districtprovided EDCO recycling dumpster and over to the recycling plant.

Why is it that we can’t seem to transport our recyclable goods to our recycling dumpster behind the Mosaic Cafe?

It’s hard to pinpoint any one reason. The blame falls on us all. The janitors are busy enough as it is with

lists upon lists of things to do, recycling not included. It is easier for them to take one bag of trash to one location without having to worry about separating garbage from recyclable goods and making an extra trip to the recycling dumpster.

Math teacher Paul Brice’s recycling homeroom has done its best to collect recycling, but can only do so much when homerooms fail to bring their recycling out on Thursdays.

Having recycling bins is futile if their contents are not being recycled. The students and faculty of SDA need to work together to establish a new system in which the bins, in one way or another, actually make it to the recycling dumpster.

Whether that be having homeroom teachers assign mandatory recycling duties on a rotating schedule with a new student emptying the bins in the recycling dumpster once a week or building a fun recycling cart that can be biked around campus during weekly pick-up, something needs to change.

In the meantime, to ensure that your recyclable goods get disposed of properly, take them to the recycling dumpster yourself. Ask your teacher if you can do a recycling run. They’ll be more than happy to write you a pass to the dumpster.

SDA’s recycling dumpster is practically empty because the contents of the blue bins get dumped into the trash. Only the pizza boxes and cardboard from the Mosaic Cafe actually make it to the recycling bin. Photo by Megan Levan.

Negative Action

Affirmative Action is another widely accepted form of racial discrimination. By Michael McQuarrie

R

ead the next sentence slowly.

Colleges ought to admit students based on their race or gender. Now, upon reading that statement, I assume that you are immediately filled with that self-righteous liberal anger that you know so well. “How dare you, a white male, say something so horrible!”

Well, what if I told you that I, the white male, am the one being discriminated against. You see, racially

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discriminatory thinking has existed since the 1960’s; modern social justice warriors have simply reinvigorated and reintroduced the concept into today’s political atmosphere.

Affirmative action is inherently a racially discriminatory policy that targets whites and depletes their educational opportunities.

According to Walter Feinberg, in his novel “The Oxford Handbook of Practical Ethics,” affirmative action

policies are “intended to end and correct the effects of a specific form of discrimination.”

In practice, colleges and universities develop algorithms that pick students who will help meet their diversity quotas. In writing, it really doesn’t sound all that bad; it simply seems like schools are trying to increase their diversity.

However, when you put it into practice, it accomplishes this by ac-

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cepting and denying students based on their race, not on their qualifications.

This form of “positive racial discrimination” is frankly an insult to our society. It goes against everything our government has pushed for in the last 50 or so years.

Personally, I myself am not a fan of any form of affirmative action; I think colleges should admit students based on their academic and

personal qualifications. But if some form of Affirmative Action has to be implemented, it should be based on a student’s wealth class, not the color of their skin. This at least targets the issue at hand and works to end poverty discrimination.

In order to uphold our national beliefs against racism, it is a necessity that colleges end or modify their current policies of Affirmative Action.

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A Letter To My Freshman Self

Senior Staff reflects on their high school journies as their final year at San Dieguito comes to a close.

Mary Ford

Austin Dilley

Dear Freshman Mary, I must confess that I don’t remember all that much of you or the era in which you existed. Three or four years is enough time to erase most of the damage from my mind. Still, I look upon you with a bittersweet recollection. I apologize: the days have passed so quickly and I did not preserve them in my mind as I should have.

I promise you that you have accomplished so much. Seriously. However, at your stage in my life, you could never guess at these achievements. To just list them is enough to demonstrate their mild absurdity: they include field hockey team captain, musical theater play lead, Northwestern-bound, straight A student, president of at least four clubs, and friend to all. You will give up on four of these dreams, and fail the other two. I’ll let you arrange them in your head.

Don’t be discouraged and don’t forget, you’re exiting these four years not as the person you thought you’d be, and not necessarily as the person you should be. You are now me, and let’s pray to whatever we believe in, that’s a positive thing.

Now onto a brief message from our sponsor: reminiscence. I remember crisp fall mornings standing in front of Mr. Robert’s English Nine Honors class, waiting for the man with salt and pepper facial hair, a blue backpack that’s been on its last strap for at least four years, and a hot coffee thermos. That man saw something in you and told you he saw something in you. You took that for granted until you needed it and you caved, joining the school newspaper.

You were searching for some higher purpose, as all humans do. And look at you, right here, right now. Would you have recognized me beneath face value? I’m not sure. I’m not sure we’ve found purpose.

Sorry, but you get Bs in high school. Ooops. You’ve tried to be the kid that doesn’t care; arriving late to class or skipping, but you’ve tricked yourself into thinking that you’re missing out on so much. That’s what the teachers want you to think. You’ve been brainwashed, Mary. Brainwashed.

You make me cringe, but I still make me cringe. You’re still not very good at talking to people, reading them, reaching out to them. I know that makes you sound alien and here on the roster is where I’m scheduled to tell you that everyone experiences that.

Not everyone experiences that.

You don’t ‘get popular’ but you find the people who relate to you. You’ll have a hard time believing they could ever actually like you. Who knows. They might.

Surprisingly, shockingly, scandalously, you now like rap music. I’m not sure of the science behind it, but singing to music with the windows down, five friends piled into a car, with hair whipping in the breeze can cure teenager abjection. Seriously, it can.

If anything, I’d say you need to stop denying you’re a teenager. This fact won’t make you reckless or stupid. This fact will make you enjoy life, grow into yourself a little faster than I did.

I guess the overarching theme of this type of letter is you go through so much and you turn out okay. You’re stable, Mary. That’s hard to appreciate.

Hi, The present time is 11 p.m. It's a Thursday night, just a few very short weeks before I walk for my diploma and leave this incredible school behind. I’m writing to you…well, I’m not really sure why. It’s not to tell you to do anything different. I wouldn’t change anything you’ve done in these past four years.

It’s definitely not to tell you what to do. You obviously figure it out. See, that's the problem with time travel. I know you’re gonna be okay. I know for a fact that you will be fine because you become me, and I know that I am you because I remember being you, follow? No? That's ok.

Anyways, I guess the reason that I'm writing to you is solely for closure. I know you’re a freshman right now and you’re still reeling from the torments of middle school. You might be a little nervous about high school. You might be scared about doing all the right things at the right time for the right people. Don't be.

My job is to tell you that you’re going to do just fine, kid. Stop fretting about whether people will like you. If you’re too loud or if you talk too much. You are who you are, and you are someone truly incredible. Yes, you were weird, god knows you were a weird kid, but weird doesn’t mean bad.

At SDA you’re gonna be welcomed, you’ll be surrounded by weird, and you're gonna become a person you never could’ve imagined you’d become. You’re gonna meet the most incredible people.

You will experience the greatest moments of your life.

There will be these moments, these truly wonderful moments, where you’ll just blankly be staring off into the distance and your friends will ask you “Hey Austin, you okay man? You look out of it” and in your heart you’ll be thinking “You know, I’m doing absolutely wonderful” and those moments will be beautiful. Cherish them; you’ll only get a few.

Yet sometimes it's gonna suck. It’s gonna get hard, so very hard to want to move on. You’ll want to quit and walk away from everything you’ve worked to keep alive about yourself. You can’t quit.

You have to promise that you will never quit, that you will keep the you in you alive. You must never give in to what they think you should become. You must always stay true to yourself and what you believe in. Listen to your friends; they’re good people. Don’t fret if you’re making the right choice.

Just follow your gut. It leads you well.

And if you can do that, my friend, well, then your future's looking bright. So breathe it all in and when the time comes, breathe it all out. Look out into that bright blue yonder and dream a dream of a future yet to come and know it will be a good one.

Here’s looking at you, kid.

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-You in Four.

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the mustang Layla Gantus

Kate Sequeira

Dear freshman me, Ahhh, where do I start with you. You’re a real piece of work, aren’t you? I’m gonna tell it to you straight up: you’re doing a lot of things wrong. First and foremost, you need foundation. Yes, you do. Stop with the eyeliner – you don't need it anywhere as much as you need foundation, you idiot.

I know what you are thinking: “It doesn’t do anything anyway, I look the same.” And the answer is no, you don’t; use foundation.

Another thing: Brandy Melville clothes aren't worth it. Also the one size fits all thing isn’t true and sorta not super cool, so maybe don’t give them your business. Also – and this is really important because it will save you a lot of time – you don’t have to walk all the way around the school to get to the front from Chaker’s room, you really don’t. Just walk over the grass, it's not that hard.

On a more serious note, stop brooding and go outside. I know the outside world is scary and people are scary but you want to have friends and see people. It will benefit you in the long run and make you happier.

Love, You from the future (who in all honesty isn’t that much better).

Freshman Kate, You’ll be happy to know that you’ve grown a lot these past few years.

Despite the uncertainty you may feel toward change right now, I promise it’s a good thing. That being said, live a little. Don’t hate yourself for those B’s you’ll get and please don’t spend 20 minutes per page on that AP World textbook. Trust me; you’ll have to relearn it all in the spring anyways.

Be happy to know that you’re going to become a bit more open to things. Yes, you’ll still have to work on that quiet side of you, but you’ll get better. You’re going to try things you probably can’t imagine doing at this point. Spoiler alert: you can kind of run now and somewhat kick a ball around (who knew that you could like soccer again after all those dreaded years in elementary school).

High school has some pretty cool things in store for you. In fact, you’ll crash Stimson’s classroom dressed as Justinian and you’ll be a part of the legendary Club Ducheneguin, which, yes, is as strange as it sounds.

Follow your interests and see where they lead you.

Best of Luck, Senior Kate

Hana Chen

Megan Levan

Dear Freshman Hana, First of all, I should probably break it to you that, yes, One Direction is going to break up very soon. Let that sink in.

You may think growing up is still a hoax, but as much as I tried to believe that, here I am now.

These next four years will be a time of tremendous growth. Even though it didn’t turn out quite like “High School Musical,” you will have karaoke nights singing your heart out with best friends.

Be prepared to broaden your perspectives on life. Yes, you’ll finally get contact lenses sophomore year so you can finally stop struggling to see the board in class. But also, get involved, be passionate and compassionate and consider different points of view. Go about life with a smile.

Here’s a joke to get you started: What does a pepper say when he gets cold? “I’m a little chili.”

Learning to drive will symbolize a segue into maturity. Shout out to Bob the driving instructor!

Be warned: you will still suck at parking even after two years of driving. Cherish your mom van while you can and watch out for assholes in the student parking lot.

Don´t stress. I guarantee you will be losing a lot of sleep, but hey, it’s all part of the experience.

Enjoy those nights in with close friends, where you’ll watch cheesy rom-coms by the fire, bake and put on anti-aging face masks because it’s never too early for wrinkle prevention.

Time will go by faster than you can imagine. In a blur of volleyball dress-up days, Spanish class airbands, Jacuzzi sessions, school dances, and Zumba workouts, you’ll become me. Weird, huh?

Love, Senior Hana

Dear Meggy, First of all, good job choosing SDA. You made the right choice. You may not know this now, but you will have a pretty great time over these next four years.

I’m not going to advise you to get involved in as many clubs as you can, because I already know you are fully capable of overbooking yourself without any outside encouragement. You’ll probably be juggling at least four clubs by the time you read this. You might even be the president of one (or four).

My biggest advice to you is to lower your self-esteem. Yeah, you think you’re so hipster with your flowy pants and your one funky outfit that you bought with Aunt Julie over the summer. It’s okay to think you are a good fit for SDA, but you don’t need to walk around with an air of “hipster” emanating from your 5’3½“ self. Oh and also, you’ll be 5’3½“ for the rest of your high school career (and probably life) so whatever fun fashions you’re into now will still be buried in your drawers when it’s time to say goodbye to this place.

Also, start practicing speaking in Spanish now. You’ll appreciate it when you get to Nicaragua next summer and you can’t understand a word coming out of your host dad’s mouth.

Anyway, just be the awkward language nerd you are and you’ll rock this stage of life called high school.

Love ya girlie, Meghana (Get used to this because it will be your name for the next 10 months in India. Surprise! You’ll catch the travel bug and your life will get exciting.)

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A Trip Back in Time San Juan Capistrano captivates.

By Mary Ford.

With quiet courtyards and ample open space, Mission San Juan Capistrano lets you get away from it all. Photo by Mary Ford.

I’m not sure about you, but I love history. Sure, I’m a total nerd. Those little stories from around the globe that combine to constitute humanity’s past, another piece to the never ending puzzle, those are what I seek. So, I dragged my friend Kyra an hour up the coast to the beautiful little mission town of San Juan Capistrano for a glimpse into a quiet, sacred past.

You might know about San Juan Capistrano from fourth grade, when learning California’s history is a state standard. You might have visited one of the 21 California missions and dipped candles in wax, branded leather, or just ran around on hallowed ground.

On the other hand, you might have missed out on that field trip like me. Instead of experiencing history first hand, I built a mission replica out of Styrofoam and read from a textbook instead.

So, fulfilling my nine-year-old fantasy, I made the trip up to San Juan Capistrano. Turns out, $13 for general admission and a guided tour around the mission is a more educational experience than all of fourth grade history class. Sorry, Park Dale Lane.

The Arrival Arriving in the town at around 10:30 a.m., we glided into a street parking spot outside the mission (the first miracle, because I DO NOT parallel park). Taking a swig of water and sunscreening up, we began our morning with pastries at 3:16 Bakery Shop. Although this place had rave reviews online, turns out it’s not a pastry bakery as I thought, but

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a dessert bakery. Still, one of the few breakfast-themed items I managed to scout out, a bran muffin, was delicious. What was not delicious was the price, at around three dollars for a piece of sweetened bread.

To settle our stomachs, Kyra and I took a brief walk around a local garden center, Ito Nursery. Among the many varieties of flowers, we spotted a few cats that roamed the place like they owned it. Highlight: Finding flowers that smelled like chocolate.

The Tour After that brief time-killing adventure, we walked back over to the San Juan Capistrano mission. Our tour took off at 11:15 a.m., with about fifteen people in the group. It lasted roughly about an hour. Led by Rich the Tour Guide, we explored the history of Mission San Juan Capistrano through primary sources and replicas.

Tour history recap: The mission was founded in 1776. It took thirty years to complete. Its missionaries, such as the recently canonized San Junipero Serra, depended heavily on the Acjachemen. This Native American tribe was a peaceful, not-yet-agriculturalist people, who built and maintained the mission in exchange for protection and cultural assimilation.

Mission San Juan Capistrano was guarded by Spanish soldiers and inhabited mostly by Spanish monks. California at this time was still largely unhinhabited, so missions acted as rest stops for those moving for work. Travelers up El Camino Real would stay for a night or two at the mission before embarking again on the dangerous road.

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Trains track cross through the heart of San Juan Capistrano, separating the mission from the Los Rios district. Photo by Mary Ford.

The Scenery This time of year, earlier in spring if you can, is the time to go. Although we missed the annual event celebrating the locally famous swallows, all the plants in the meticulously maintained courtyard and gardens were in full bloom. Paired with the adobe, mud, and brick buildings and ruins, including a basilica felled in an 1812 earthquake, the scenery was a vibrant array of colors nothing but pleasing to the eye. The many fountains and flora rivaled our local Meditation Gardens in beauty.

We spent about two hours in the mission, including visiting the stunning gold chapel and cute gift shop. I could probably have lasted another two hours, if we had decided to do the audio tour.

Besides visiting the mission for the history and scenery, San Juan Capistrano would be a great place for writing and reflecting, or, as I remarked to Kyra just a couple months too late, senior photos. Although a select few parts of the mission are the original buildings, nothing lasts forever. California is due for a large earthquake. So visit soon!

The Town Beside visiting the mission, Kyra and I wandered about the surrounding town. We visited the library, stumbled into not one, but two weddings, and walked along the Los Rios district. The district, across the ivy train tracks from the mission, boasts a park and a butterfly sanctuary, a few upscale restaurants and a posh tea room. It has the feeling of old California couture. I thought I could stay there forever.

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Although the mission wasn’t always manicured, following the floral pathways leads to many historical displays. Photo by Mary Ford.

The Animals We then took a trip to the local petting zoo, ZooMars. Although you might be like me and become slightly depressed at the idea of big animals in small cages being loved to death, one squeeze at a time, by unknowing little children, it was very fun.

Tickets cost $8 if you’re still under 18 like me. We bought a feeding basket for $4, full of lettuce, carrots, and apples to feed some pigs, llamas, and a singular ostrich with the fiercest side eye of all time. ZooMars also Although Kyra and I might have felt a bit out of place with at least fifty families running about The Cuisine We made our final stop in the Los Rios district at the Hummingbird House Cafe after I took one look at the Ramos House Café prices, and wondered if that was indeed how the other half lived.

Hummingbird House has a Greek theme, which is a bit odd in a town which takes its name from a massive Roman Catholic symbol. Still, my $12 gyro was plentiful and the sweet, homemade lemonade quelled my dehydration headache.

The Verdict With bellies as full as the noggins we had stuffed with old California knowledge, we said goodbye to San Juan Capistrano and the surrounding beautiful, positive atmosphere. What a sweet springtime Saturday.

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Wheel-y Weird Instructors Behind the Wheel lessons help young drivers learn more than to be safe. By Madison Vance.

Driving is an awesome and liberating opportunity that is first offered to students during high school. One of the scariest parts of the process is using all the ‘knowledge’ you got from the online courses [which you definitely completed (wink wink)] in real life, for your Behind the Wheel lessons. For all the law-abiding folks, Behind the Wheel classes are the first time you, as a new driver, get to test the brakes and actually operate a motor vehicle.

Helping the students during the lessons are the instructors. In twohour sessions, they are tasked with the responsibility of teaching students how to be safe and courteous drivers. The terrifying and life threatening experience of driving with kids who’ve never driven before would drive me mad, so major props to these brave heroes, in all their quirky glory. Thanks to the eclectic nature of the instructors, students often walk away from the lessons with not only a practical knowledge of how to use a car but also with some good stories.

The Angry One Because learning how to operate a motor vehicle with the ability to crush a human isn’t stressful enough, some instructors resort to being very vocal. For sophomore Janie Overland, this was the case with her driving instructor.

“Throughout the entire lesson he kept yelling at me, so there wasn’t much conversation besides him barking directions at me,” she said.

“One time, he told me to do a U-turn and apparently I was going too slowly so he started yelling at me to speed up. Instead, I stepped on the brake and stopped the car in the middle of the intersection. He started yelling more to step on the gas and grabbed the wheel from me to help me correct my steering. I started crying. It was awful.”

The Guilty Pleasure Music One Everyone has their guilty pleasure music and junior Josie Ruggerio’s instructor was ready to share that part of him. “We were driving and he’d always have his little Bluetooth in that’d make all this noise,” she said. “I finally asked him and figured out that he was listening to Swedish Black Metal.”

“One day he decided he wanted to play some of his black metal for me so he put it on. I was driving and I got so scared because the music was so loud. He was screaming at me to make a right and I fully didn’t hear him so I missed the turn.”

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Freshman Julia Fumo practices checking her rearview mirror before leaving the curb, like a safe driver. Photo by Madison Vance.

The Spiritual One With a more transcendental approach to driving, junior Nadia Haghani’s instructor had her scared the first time she hit the roads.

“My driving instructor was a guy who played music in his car. It was the first time I had driven and he was playing this enchanting music,” she said. “He was like ‘feel the drive and you’ll be fine’. He told me to feel spiritual and I didn’t know what that meant. I got so scared. He told me to just relax and I was like ‘No, I’m driving!’”

The Savage One Mildly insulting but funny was sophomore Matthew Cheng’s experience. His friend, junior Michelle He recounted the story.

“They were coming up to a place where there was a big turn and [Cheng] over steered it so they went way farther than they should have gone,” she said. “His instructor asked him, ‘Do you have a girlfriend?’ [Cheng] was like, ‘No.’ Then the instructor responded with, ‘Yeah no wonder, because you’re not very smooth.’”

In the Big Scheme of Things..

Despite the quirky instructors, the behind the wheel classes play an important role in helping young drivers.

Since she didn’t learn with her parents, junior Kianoosh Jafari took 12 lessons to help her learn to drive. After her 24 hours of instruction time, she said that she “felt prepared [to drive safely and get her license]. I still felt nervous of course, because I had never driven by myself before, but overall it was a good experience.”

For those of us who don’t take 12 lessons, the experience can still be helpful. Ness Machin, junior, said, “I don’t think I could have ever learned to drive otherwise. My parents can be aggressive and they aren’t patient, and I mean with good reason, I mean it is a car, it’s not a toy. Learning is just difficult with people that are very vocal when you make a mistake.”

Behind the Wheel lessons are effective in bringing a sense of reality to young drivers and help students become more comfortable on the roads. The funny stories that come out of it are something to laugh about when you look back and something to look forward to if you have yet to get your permit.

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Planting is Enchanting A community garden planted and led by students. Why it’s here and what it can become.

By Nadia Ballard and Citlally Contreras

If you have a class in the 30s or science buildings you may have noticed the growing patch of land just below history teacher Bob Teisher’s class. What on the surface appears simply as a scraggly garden that you pass on your way to class is, in actuality, a symbol that students can work together for a common cause.

This community garden also promotes a sense of ecological independence, the ability of students and teachers to grow and take care of something themselves. Senior Evan Weisman, sophomore Eden Anbar, math teacher Martin Chaker, and other students want to create a utopian communal area that includes trees, walkways, herb gardens and native flora.

“There’s so much space on campus that’s not used for anything and looks bad,” Anbar said. “When you walk around campus, things look neglected, and construction contributes to that.” It’s easy to get lost and forget about what SDA’s culture really is.

The overall plan is to use the open grass area right above the Mosaic Cafe. “Right now that grass is just soaking up and wasting water,” said Anbar. That’s why the garden by the science building is vital in accomplishing this goal; Anbar and Weisman hope the community garden will act as a catalyst to create a utopian environment for students to enjoy. The garden is a temporary figure to expand on the idea of sustainability for our school.

“We have planned a whole canopy of trees and a path designed so that if you’re feeling stressed out, you can walk through a little orchard and go around the garden and come up on a vantage point where you can look out on the whole thing,” said Weisman. People meet in Chaker’s homeroom in room 34 on Fridays. Students plan and work on the garden during lunch, homeroom and any other free time they have.

Chaker is particularly impressed with the garden, and in the way that there’s no official club taking care of it. “It’s just people showing up and helping out,” Chaker said. “It’s completely communal. This is designed to be very human centric. It’s not just about ‘Oh let’s grow some vegetables’ it’s about how people are going to benefit from this-the purpose of it in terms of how people are going to move through it and how are people going to enjoy it.”

By just having students walk past this garden can influence them to participate in this project. “Taking care of the garden also creates a better atmosphere of sustainability. Gardening is the best way that we can advertise this idea,” Weisman said. “Having this garden and having people walk by it and wonder what it’s all about is how we do it. If you look at it and think ‘oh that looks nice’ the idea is planted in your mind and if you’re really interested you can join, this is all about student involvement.’”

Anbar and Weisman water the garden during homeroom and lunch.

The Japanese Honors Society has helped. So far, Anbar and Weisman have about 12 other students helping out and as a group are trying to make SDA a better place. “Another goal of ours is to be growing food for the culinary department that they can use,” Anbar said. “We’ve also incorporated principles of mindfulness so that when you’re walking through the garden space there is a more open and calm ambience.”

Sophomore Edan Anbar (left) senior Evan Weisman (middle) and math teacher Martin Chaker (right) sit among flourishing plants in the garden that they helped sow.

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“Gardening will not only benefit the school in continuing its culture, it will benefit a more stable mental atmosphere,”said Weisman. “I love gardening,” Chaker said. “It’s great for your mental health and that’s a big part of it. If you have time during the day, you can spend half an hour just gardening and being out in the soil getting your fingernails dirty. Being out in the sun is the best thing you can do for your wellbeing.”

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A Journey Through Autism Ethan Hirschberg opens up about his condition and writes a blog to share his story.

By Mallka Seshadri

Ethan Hirschberg, the author of the blog “The Journey Through Autism.” Photo by Mallika Seshadri.

When he was in preschool, freshman Ethan Hirschberg memorized every part of a fire truck including their hundreds of gauges and, his favorite, the deluge gun – which squirts hundreds of gallons of water at a time. He attributed his heightened ability to memorize to his autism. Autism is a condition defined by the Mayo Clinic as a “developmental disorder that impairs the ability to communicate and interact.” But through his new blog, Hirschberg has done exactly what his condition tells him he cannot do: interact, communicate and tell stories.

I met Hirschberg in the learning commons during homeroom, and eventually, a lock down drill was announced, which interrupted our conversation. The lights were turned out; we sat there and talked in the dark. Exuding optimism, he excitedly answered each of my questions, engaging me and enabling me to witness his logical and linear way of thinking. Hirschberg told me about his condition and its idiosyncrasies. And through his experiences with autism, Hirschberg said, “I realized that there are also a lot of positives [to having autism], and I can use [the] positives to help out the world and still work on the negative side.”

The positives Hirschberg has focused on, like his ability to focus on his interest in business and mentally perform advanced calculations, have ultimately empowered him in writing a blog titled “The Journey Through Autism.”

His idea of writing a blog emerged from his interest in business. The blog was initially intended to correspond with one of his previous business endeavors, including selling toys overseas through an online platform. Eventually, though, he decided to write about his experiences with autism – something he has first-hand expertise in – for fun.

He said before writing the blog, he saw autism as a source of inevitable embarrassment. Hirschberg therefore remained private about the struggles he endured, which included coping with a myriad of stereotypes associated with the condition.

He said before publishing his blog, students at school would pass crude remarks in casual conversations because they were not aware of his condition. In his blog, Hirschberg described a specific occurrence that he sat through in suppressed anger: “Not knowing that I had Autism, [someone] said that stimming [a coping mechanism involving repetition of movement] was ‘a weird thing that retards do.’”

Hirschberg said in the interview that when hearing such ignorant and

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insensitive comments, he has “the ability to keep cool.” “But in my mind, it’s a whole different story,” he said.

Hirschberg explained that with maturation, he overcame the common misconception that autism is solely a “mountain that...blocks you in the way.” He now sees it as something to take pride in and an opportunity to help others, which he said “keeps [him] going.”

Hirschberg strives to reach out to individuals in different walks of life and educate them about autism—on a personal level. He hopes to support “kids...on the spectrum” and aid parents, teachers, and doctors in their understanding of the condition, enabling them to “learn strategies to help [students with autism].”

On his blog, he makes requests of his growing readership. To his readers with autism, he reassured: “You are not alone. Don’t feel that you are the only one that feels these emotions because that is not true.

Other kids struggle like you do!” And, he encourages “‘typical’ kids” who do not suffer from autism to “welcome a special needs kid to eat lunch, have a conversation, or sit with you. Look for those kids who are walking around or sitting by themselves.” Finally, he urges teachers to “try to arrange friendships and conversations. The last time that a teacher helped me interact with someone was when I met my friend in sixth grade. Just keep in mind that this act can possibly create a friendship that will last a lifetime,” he wrote.

Hirschberg’s blog has boosted his confidence; since he published his first entry in April, he said he has been inundated with positive feedback from his thousands of readers globally.

Hirschberg described an instance where a mother of a toddler with autism was desperate to explain her son’s condition to his grandmother, who “did not approve [of] or understand” her grandson’s difficulties. Through sharing Hirschberg ‘s blog, the toddler’s grandmother “understood instantly, just like that.” The mom told Hirschberg: “I’m grateful for you forever.” Hearing that “was the best feeling in the world,” he said.

Hirschberg mentioned that the array of emotions his blog elicited among readers, ranging from laughter to tears, has been “crazy.” And when I admitted to be one of such readers who teared up, he instantly responded – without hesitation – saying “me too, and I wrote [it].”

Hirschberg plans on continuing writing the blog for as long as he can: “I can keep going; I can keep helping people, and that’s my goal.”

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This One Time...

Story telling is an art. Story and photos by Sonia Rathee and Nadia Ballard

Zach Kansler, senior, is given a suprise in culinary arts.

Colton Dils, senior, fights aggresive ladies and their kids.

Stories are versatile in that they allow people to live vicariously through a character in a book or be inspired by an individual’s personal struggle. Stories both influence and entertain. People seem to have such a hunger and fascination for stories (interesting stories at least) that entire YouTube careers like that of HeyParis and Tana Mongeau have been made.

Then our dads called us in for lunch one day and when we went back, there were these two older ladies and their two kids. One was like a little boy in a diaper and a girl who was maybe six, and the boy in the middle there was ruining our hole. Both of them actually were throwing sand in the hole and it was really upsetting to us. But being the civil little boys we were, we asked, “Hey can you guys please leave, we have been working on this hole for an entire day.”

Search “Storytime” in YouTube and you’ll be bombarded with video after video, 10 minute -sometimes even 30-minute- videos of nothing but a person talking. From getting kidnapped with friends to getting fired from Wal-Mart, these videos have millions of views and fan bases built upon the promise of one simple thing: an entertaining story.

While stories can affect our psyche in profound ways that touch who we are culturally, emotionally and mentally, they can also make for some really good laughs – as showcased by the following stories from some of SDA’s funniest and talented storytellers.

Zach Kansler: One day I come back from lunch with an Arizona drink in hand but I really want to bring it with me to class. So I come into Mr. Huntley’s third period with my Arizona and I ask Huntley if I can leave it in the fridge and come back for it in fourth. When I come back during fourth period, I’m like “Oh I want some Arizona” so I go to the fridge to get my Arizona and I take a big swig at it. Immediately I can taste something is wrong but it’s too late. I took a giant drink out of the can, it turned it be straight lemon juice. Mr. Huntley had taken my Arizona, emptied it out and replaced it with lemon juice. Did not taste good, very disgusting. Not a good time.

Colton Dils: So when I was young I was an Indian guide which is kinda like a better version of Boy Scouts. And we went to Camp Pendleton beach for the weekend. I think it was all dads and kids.

And so a bunch of us basically were on the beach and we all want to dig a really deep big hole because it’s a lot of fun digging holes at the beach.

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These women were kinda horrible. What happened was, they started saying “No it’s ours now blah blah blah,” and pushed one of us over.

I don’t know how it happened but it escalated to the point where the little boy in the middle started crying and these women started picking us up and throwing us- like these little seven-years-old kids and they would pick us up and throw.

But we were like fierce so one of us would get picked up and thrown like seven feet over, get back up, start running back and attacking them. So overall, we are like 10 seven-year-old kids versus these two older ladies. Then one of ladies takes off the diaper from her kid and throws it at us. That was just weird. At the time most of us were like, “We don’t want to keep escalating this” so we were like, “Justin don’t do it,” cause he was looking at the diaper.

He grabs it, fills it with sand and throws it back at the woman. This got to the point where eventually one of us got hurt cause they threw us on our heads or something. The women eventually went to our dad, trying to get them mad at us and trying to get us in trouble. But we didn’t do anything wrong, we started to be nice. It was the ladies who got all aggressive.

It’s Camp Pendleton and there are soldiers around and our dads got so angry that that they brought over soldiers working on the camp to solve the dispute. The women are like “They were attacking our kids!” but two older women and 10 little kids all beaten up and bruised doesn’t look too good. So the two ladies and their kids ended up getting kicked off the beach and are not allowed back on that beach for life. It was a wild ride and all just because my friends and I were digging a really sick hole.

features

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the mustang

Lofty Coffee’s Chai Latte, left, and Aztec Mocha, right. Photo by Hannah Elias.

The view from the coffee bar. Photo by Hannah Elias.

Two Gals Sippin’ Joe An inside look at why Lofty Coffee is a local Encinitas favorite.

By Hannah Elias and Brittany Serbin.

The History Lofty Coffee is a small cafe located in The Loft above Moonlight Beach on the 101 in Encinitas. Lofty Coffee, often referred to as “Lofty” has been open since 2011. The cafe was opened by local Eric Myers while he was living in The Loft. Myers and some pals thought that the complex needed a coffee shop, and after hours of research Myers dove head first into the coffee industry and Lofty Coffee was born.

The Place Lofty Coffee has a very modern and industrial interior, but still retains a relaxed California coast vibe that gives the cafe a laid back atmosphere. There is plenty of inside and patio seating, with each patio table including a succulent centerpiece. There is also a coffee bar where customers can sit and watch drinks being made.

The Grub Lofty Coffee provides a wide variety of food options perfect for not only meals but also a small snack to go with your coffee. All of the food and pastry items at Lofty are made either in-house or from their from-scratch bakeries, and each is made with local and organic ingredients. In addition, all of the available food items have glutenfree and vegan options in order to cater to the many healthy eating

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habits of Encinitans. Some of the popular food items include the eggs and toast, and a choice of a spread (butter, cream cheese, hummus, or jam), as well as the oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.

The Beans & Things The coffee beans are roasted in the Roasting Works building across the street, and brought over to Lofty Coffee to create the fresh and delicious coffee they are known for. Roasting Works, owned

by Lofty Coffee, also features their scratch bakery and provides a chance for customers to view the roasting process while sipping some of the homemade coffee. There are a variety of coffee options, from Kyoto-style slow drip to Aztec Mochas to Chai Teas, and each is guaranteed to be made fresh and in-house.

The Details Lofty Coffee is a cafe dedicated to serving quality coffee to quality people, and they do their job well. The environment is very friendly and provides a place for customers to relax and talk to people around the community while enjoying the 101. The cafe is also dog friendly, and offers complimentary dog treats. Overall, Lofty Coffee is an inclusive cafe that cares about its customers and its coffee, and with kind staff and local ingredients, Lofty Coffee achieves just that.

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Mapping Out the Future Seniors plan their futures, some moving in state, some out of state and some out of the country.

Academy of Art University Connor Dahl Devon Divine American Musical and Dramatic Academy Mollie Levy Biola University Ashley Phares Cal Poly Pomona William Ferrari Dane Gaby Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Scott Anderson Nikki Arm Zach Blalock Julia De La Fuente Angela Espinoza Noah Hauptman Spencer Klawans Michael Lothringer Maia Nelson Shay O’Laughlin Colin Scharff Brittany Serbin Natalie Shields Alyx Stewart Ava Stroup Cal State Channel Islands Kyle Bone Cal State Chico Jack Farrel Alicia Greek Camryn Hoffman Jacob Kimball Rosie Peltier Madison Rees Sophia Rodas Cal State Fullerton Celeste Ortega Cal State Long Beach Grayson Amthor Lucas Vilicich Cal State Los Angeles Edred Marsh Cal State Maritime Academy Austin Killeen Cal State San Marcos Ivan Aragon Raul Barrios Gomez Eden Bender Nicholas Blake Lauren Bunn Sarah Denny Erik Ensberg Riley Garcia Victor Gonzalez Mirta Gregorio Carrillo Lucas Hendricks Efren Hernandez Ruiz Isabella Hickmet Trevor Lam Janet Lopez Ramos Sarah Madera Preston Martin Zuleima Martinez Melissa Mejia Cantoran Sandra Ramales Rosa Tlatempa

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Juan Verdias Edmond Zaide Chapman University Claire Jantzen Morea West Cuesta College Laura Noon FIDM Jaydin Dean Laura Dunham Grossmont College Ricardo Chavez Humbolt State University Allison Brightfield Sean Farrell Loyola Maramount University Mary Angel Ayala Mesa Community College Kevin Burnett MiraCosta College Sofia Alarcon Robyn Almeida Max Anderson Charlie Arellanes Griffin Aubol Jordyn Barratt Delaney Bell Amber Berliner Taylor Bieber Jorge Nicols Bielman Alexander Boukili Kyndra Brooks-Macrorie Sean Brunetti Logan Buckner Habram Casillas Alijah Chaloux Angel Chavez Ariana Contreras Maldonado William Cubbison Gabby DiCarlo Gwenna Doughty Will Erwin Brooke Esposito Darien Farnham Hernan Flores Danny Fonden Ashley Fontes Ryan Fredericks Zachary Glover Monty Gracey Riley Hagen Oscar Hernandez Rivera Alex Hernandez William Hernandez Shane Horan Jacob Hoskinson Luke Humphery Eric Ibarra Alexander Joubert Justin King Peter Lally Garrett Langston Lenny Lee-Chicas Hannah Litzlbeck Michael Loedel Sky Manuel Delaney Martinez Christian Martinez Skyler McFarlane Jessica Mejia Cantoran

Jake Mendes Daniel Meshnik Ryan Meyer Matthew Milsap Brandon Morales Julia Morgan Jack Mouzas Ryan Nagdevand Brett Naudin Devon Owen Anahi Palacios Blake Parker Karla Pena Cabrera John Petras Stephanie Rivera Noah Rodgers Trevor Salmon Abigail Sanchez- Ratts Josh Santana Riley Schutz Justin Shelton Derek Sleet Maria Solis Hannah St John Alina Stangeland Corban Stewart Dominic Tesoro Preston Townend Aileen Uribe Cristopher Valdovinos Emilio Vasquez Kylee Vasquez Michael Vickery Molly Vonder Rebecca Watson Wiley Widhom Kazuaki Yamada Palomar College Michael Barry Jessica Casillas Walter Castillo Tara Caulfield Nicholas Engert Daisy Espinoza Colman Foster Manuel Gamboa-Guzman Cynthia Guzman Dylan Kaiser Magdalena Keefe Taylor king Joseph Landers Kelly Luong Patrick O’Mahony Chase Rock Fey Salgado Matthew Shearin Parker Swincicki Cary Vertongen Erin Zuniga Palomar Institute of Cosmetology Monique Goodman Paul Mitchell The School San Diego Dayanna Becerra Perez Point Loma Nazarene University Jillian Butler Pomona College Forest Hakanson Saddleback College Trevor Matteson San Diego Culinary Institute

features

Bejamin Flores San Diego Mesa College Joshua Aguirre San Diego State University Robert Becker Lauren Blem Chloe Canler Evan Czajkowski Colton Dils Maxwell Meyer Jack Romero Jenna Shapiro San Francisco State University Sofia Goldmann Ryan Martinez Melissa Sakul Andrea Sanchez San Jose State University Ishan Gupta Chet Gurevitch San Barbara City College Dylan Feuling Abigail Finch Noelle Haack Olivia Houston Kai Kilgore Aidan Sanz Peri Strait Santa Clara University Ross Urbina Sonoma State University Hannah Fawcett Sophia Myers Mateo Schmidt Ashni Varma UC Berkeley Daniel Chagnon Yasmine Durali Mary Ford Devin Gaan Ray Mosko Andrew Naimark Sophie Peeler Cameron Stearn Blake Stoner-Osborne Chole Williams Eric Wimsatt Katherine Wimsatt UC Davis Elizabeth Anderson Mark Andrews Justin Goad Oceana Haaland Kirstin Mueller UC Irvine Kate Clark Jaimie Cruz Sara De La Cruz Lucia Nino Moya Natalia PinPin Joseph Yu UC Los Angeles Kyra Benowitz Matthew Benowitz Ethan Boutelle Hana Chen Erin Fuller Kimberly Quach

Jaycie Roshala Julie Roshala Julia Shapero UC Riverside Aileen Castillo Natalie Haghani Alondra Zamora UC San Diego Cole Clisby Derek Downs Gabriella Gjata Taylor Mason Jonathan Sabouri UC Santa Barbara Trevor Anderberg Marcella Broadbooks Simone Calder Sarah Davis Nicholas Haghani Benjamin Jennings Daniel Magnuson Melody Sobhani Nathan Wesley Luis Diaz Vasquez UC Santa Cruz Brandon Adams Katelynn August Claire Brady Kristina Bullington Camlin Ciullo Margaret Clinton Johnathat Davis Jonathan Gordon Chloe Griffin Hope Hajek Audrey Hebert Peter Heidler Boone Mayer Kai Nakama Kanoa Nakama Gabriella Navarro Veronica Ness Nicholas Novak Quinn Sakihara Jacks Salz Vicky Van Der Wagt Drew Von Zweck University of La Verne Carly Garcia University of Redlands Maxime Abel Savannah Casey University of San Diego Layla Gantus Linnea Leidy Nolan Peters Luis Romero University of San Francisco Alexis Hogan Constantina Kominakis Grace McCrea Avigal Perez Sonia Rathee University of Southern California Corie Fletcher Kate Squeira Woodland Community College Ulyana Kucheruk

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the mustang

Humboldt State

Cal State Chico

California State Univeristy Maritime Academy Woodland Community College

Sonoma State University

UC Davis San Francisco State University University of San Francisco Academy of Art University

UC Berkeley Biola University

Santa Clara University

Chapman University San Jose State University

Cal State Fullerton

UC Santa Cruz

UC Riverside University of La Verne Pomona College Cal Poly Pomona University of Redlands

Santa Barbara City College UC Santa Barbara

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Cuesta College

Cal State Channel Islands Cal State Long Beach American Musical and Dramatic Academy Cal State Los Angeles Loyola Marymount University UC Los Angeles University of Southern California

UC Irvine Saddleback College

Palomar Institute of Cosmetology Palomar College

Mira Costa College

Point Loma Nazarene University San Diego State University UC San Diego University of San Diego Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising Paul Mitchell the School San Diego Culinary Institute San Diego Mesa College

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features

Cal State San Marcos

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the mustang Washington State University Cornish College of the Arts Seattle Central College Seattle University University of Puget Sound

Colorado State University Beloit College

University of Colorado Boulder

Boston University Emerson College

University of Vermont

Columbia College Chicago Trinity International Bard College University Chicago Univeristy of Rochester Eastman School of Music

Boise State University Montana State University

Lewis and Clark College Portland State University Pacific University

Dartmouth College Bowdoin College

Calvin College Cornell University

Oregon State University

Brown University

University of Michigan University of Oregon

Sarah Lawrence College New York University Columbia University Pratt Institute Stony Brook University

Brigham Young University Idaho

Seton Hall University Brigham Young University

Pennsylvania State University

Regis University Colorado School of Mines Northern Arizona University

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Kentucky Christian University Belmont University

University of Arizona

Columbia State Community College

University of Denver

Tulane University Trinity University

Bard College Austin Dilley Belmont University Kayla Dewitt Beloit College Charlotte Fulkerson Boise State University Brandon Bass Boston University Giuliana Carder Delaney Hulshof Bowdoin College Biance Allende Boyd Brigham Young University Emmelyn Hawkes Brigham Young University Idaho Lizzet Diaz Brown University Christopher Pace Calvin College Andrew Peterson Colorado School of Mines Ian Kellogg Colorado State University Owen Bayindirli Turner Drumm Stephanie McBain Jessica Perlman Jantzen Tetrault

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Reilly Williams Columbia College Chicago Evan Weismann

Max Phleger Weston Swincicki Matthew Zounes

Columbia State Community College Austin Blanchard

Oregon State University Michael Milsap Blair Stone

Columbia University Jennifer Kerr

Pacific University Brittany Krechter

Cornell University Elisha Chen

Pennsylvania State University Blake Dewitt

Cornish College of the Arts Hannah Elias

Portland State University Chase Heath Grant Rippey

Dartmouth College Delilah Forrest Emerson College Thea Farber Kentucky Christian University Kianha Holmen Lewis and Clark College Lila Pisello-Duga Montana State University Jed Jirak Tate Thompson

Pratt Institute Mo Nichols Regis University Gavin Susalski Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Noelle Hale Sarah Lawrence College Riva Cooper Seattle Central College Johnathan Rivera

New York University Jacob Goldstein

Seattle University Grant Weikel

Northern Arizona Univeristy Marcus Hartz Devon Maguire

Seton Hall University Madison Tucker

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Stony Brook University Kiani Kerstetter

University of Vermont Gaetano Irrera

Trinity International University Chicago Shayne Busick

Washington State University Gina Marcin

Trinity University Lucas Oldham Tulane University Zachary Kanzler University of Arizona Taylor Bradshaw Kathryn Cusick University of Colorardo Boulder Robbie Cherish University of Denver Noah Page University of Michigan Shea Galaudet University of Oregon Samuel Dumont Seth Frankel Niyanth Sarathy Benjamin Simmes-Dismukes University of Puget Sound Madeline Campbell University of Rochester Eastman School of Music Jac Ostrie

U.S. Army Austin Jarvis Other Plans Massimo Balestri Isabllea Baldwin Eric Espinoza Cameron Finley Noelle Franco Natalie House Yonathan Kruvi Megan Levan Ian Naegeli Emily O’Connell Camilla Rishmawi Connor Rowe Kai Sarquilla Salden Stone Katherine Tarangelo International: McGill University Chaitanya Hepbert The American University of Paris Ella Sparks Univeristy of British Columbia Austin Moroney Univeristy of Saint Andrews Josh Matuszeski

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Mind The Gap These four SDA seniors will be taking a gap year instead of going straight to college. By Layla Gantus.

While most students are taking the normal path and going straight to an either two-year or four-year college, some kids are taking a gap year.

Why a gap year?

A gap year (which is more popular overseas) gives kids the option to experience something else or just relax for a year before heading off to college. Four SDA students are doing the former.

“I think it would be nice to go do something different before you get back into the school mode,” said senior Megan Levan who is going to India for a year to learn Hindi.

A gap year allows students to explore things that they are passionate about before they sit down and study. Senior Claire Brady will be climbing mountains in different state parks for a year before she goes off to college. It also gives them time to decide what they want to do and maybe even explore different professional fields before committing to one. Through travels and internships senior Katherine Tarangelo wants to get a better grasp on what she wants to do with her life.

Senior Yoni Kruvi who will be in Thailand for a year said, “Being really on my own, by myself, in a place where I have no people that can help me-- like a college counselor or a mom that’s two hours away-that will help me.”

What are they doing?

All four students will be doing completely different things and having different experiences. Brady will be the only student staying in the country.

“In late fall I’m taking my car and driving out to Joshua Tree and I’m gonna be camping there and climbing as much as possible, meeting friends, climbing with them. Then in the spring time I’m going to the Valley in Yosemite and I will be climbing there and I’m trying to get a permanent campsite and I’ll be doing at most 32 hours of community service a week for the park to have a permanent work tent. In my free time I will be hiking and climbing and meeting people and just trying to do the best climbs possible. In the summertime it’ll be too hot in the valley and I’ll go to Tuolumne in Yosemite and climb there, and have work tent and community service,” said Brady.

Tarangelo on the other hand will spend fall semester here taking classes at MiraCosta before she heads off to South Africa and Australia. “[In] South Africa I’ll be working in a hospital for babies and then in Australia I will be working in the zoo, each for six weeks,” said Tarangelo.

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Also embarking on big adventures, Levan will be going to India.

“I’m going to be learning Hindi through this program called NISL-Y which is part of the State Department. I’m going to live with a host family the first five months I’m in Indore and during my time there I go to school six days a week and learn Hindi with the other people in the program, and go to school with other people at my school. And the second five months I live in the dorms at the Emerald Heights International School [also in Indore],” said Levan.

Instead of learning the local language, Kruvi will be teaching English next year in Thailandthrough a program called GeoVisions.

“I’m going to Thailand and I will be teaching English to, well, I don’t know yet. I’m there to help them learn conversational English… It’s either [living with] a host family or you have your own apartment. [I will be there] from the end of September to March,” said Kruvi about his time in Thailand.

Reactions.

All four students had generally positive reactions from their families.

Both Tarangelo and Kruvi had older siblings embark on gap years in the past so their parents are familiar with the process. Kruvi said that his parents are still a little nervous because he is going halfway across the world.

Levan’s parents are being supportive of her decisions, even though they said they will miss her while she is gone. Brady has support from her mom, who also went on a similar trip when she was younger, but saw more reluctance from her dad who she said “didn’t understand” why she would want to take a gap year.

All their friends have found it really cool and think it’s great that they are doing something different.

“Friends think it’s sick. The reaction I get from a lot of people is I wish I was doing something different, I wish I was doing something like a gap year,” said Kruvi.

Life after the year.

Both Levan and Brady are already committed to schools that they will attend starting fall 2018. Levan will be attending Wesleyan University in Connecticut and Brady will be going to University of Colorado, Boulder. Tarangelo is hoping to go to a four-year out of state as well when she gets back. She still isn’t sure which school she’s going to yet, however. Kruvi has no plans for life after college yet, either. Kruvi said, “You can always go to college.”

So even though it might be unconventional and a little more of a challenge, a gap year might just be worth it.

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the mustang

IN

TEN YEARS...

We asked seniors where they saw themselves in 10 years. Here’s what they had to say. Look for more at www.sdamustang.com.

Photos by Erin Maxwell, Layla Gantus, Sylvia Young, and Patrick Hall

Eric Wimsatt and Daniel Magnuson “Giving love to the world…for a price.”

Laura Noon “Making my apartment a ball pit.”

Kiahna Holmen “The proud mother of 28 children.”

Eden Bender, Erin Zuniga “Happily married with 50 dogs.”

Lizette Diaz, Andrea Sanchez,and Jessica Casillas “I’m going to be in school still.”

“I’m going to be studying to become a nurse.”

“Hopefully traveling”

Emmy Hawkes “I will be dancing…somewhere.”

Ross Urbina “I will be doing the Boston Marathon.”

Tina Bullington, Molly Vonder, Hope Hajek, Katherine Tarangelo, Monique Goodman, Devon Maguire “We are going to run a koala zoo.”

Fey Salgado and Austin Jarvis “Engaged.” page 24

Zachary Glover “I see myself stayin sexy.”

Katie Wimsatt “I’ll have as many cats as there are on my shirt.”

Matt Milsap “I hope I’ll be working at a national park or pursuing what I love.”

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Edmond Zaide and Devon Owen “Out of school and hopefully living in my own apartment.”

“Sappin’ some boba with my wife in Seattle.”

Natalie Shields “I won’t be married until I’m thirty so, future self, do not get married until you’re thirty.” page 25

the mustang

Our Fuzzy Friend Next Door

Each school has its share of minor celebrities among the students.

At SDA, like other schools, most are people: the musicians, the star athletes, the Comedy Sportz players, the kid who is involved in literally everything, the artists. Thrown in among SDA’s rather typical celebrity types is someone, or something, rather different. Fence Dog.

Many SDA students have seen Fence Dog before, or at least heard of her. She’s the golden retriever up on Melba Rd, across the street from Ocean Knoll Elementary, who sits behind the red fence and watches people walking past.

Just around the corner from campus is Fence Dog, the friendly golden retriever who’s gained mild celebrity status among SDA students. By Erin Maxwell

Some have even said hi to her. But almost no one knows anything about her -- for example, that she’s a girl. And her name is Kyann Peppa (if you’re awkward like me and don’t get the joke at first, think cayenne pepper).

The other day after school, I decided to find out the story behind this mysterious pup. I headed up to Bonita Drive, along the top part of SDA, and began to walk, hoping the dog’s presence would reveal the correct house. No such luck.

Luckily for me, two SDA students were able to point me to the right house after hearing my slightly stumbling description of “the dog that looks over the fence.”

So I headed over to the house, which was on a completely different street than I had pictured, and knocked on the door. A man opened it, accompanied by an adorable dog who immediately came up to me to say hi.

This dog was Kyann, the famous four-year-old canine. Her owners explained to me that when she was around 6-months-old, “...there was a half-pipe [in the backyard], so she used to stand on the top of that and look over. And then, when we took it down, she was really sad so we built a little platform and she just sits up there.”

Most SDA students see Kyann in the morning and afternoon as they’re passing to and from school. Senior Michael Vickery said that “sometimes I’ll get caught in traffic and I’ll get up there and [she] will just kinda be sitting there watching all the cars go by.”

Apparently people often can’t resist the urge to say hi; her owners said, “We hear a lot of people talking to her and petting her over the fence as they walk by in the afternoon. One time I think I saw a track team go by and about half of them gave her a high five along the way.”

On the other end of the spectrum are the pedestrians who get scared. Her owners have “never heard anyone actually yell at her.

[They’ve] heard people scream though, and seen people cross the street. Like come walking up and cross the street, then come back.”

Luckily, Kyann is very friendly. Her owners said, “She barks at other dogs when dogs walk by, and she barks at people sometimes too. I don't know why, but I know she would never hurt anybody.”

Since Kyann is a dog and therefore doesn’t speak English or sign language or know any useful form of communication, one can only guess why she spends so much time looking over the fence. Her owners guess that “she’s just looking at the people going by, making friends.”

Fence Dog, also known as Kyann Peppa, sits on her usual perch behind the red fence. Photo by Erin Maxwell

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Junior Amber Wilson had a similar hypothesis. She said, “I think [she] likes watching stuff. My dog, she likes to look out the gate, and watch all the cars go by. This dog likes watching the children go by. [She’s] a little guard dog.”

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news

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Local Label Caught On Tape Burger Records channels the nostalgic thrift store spirit of 70s glam, cassette tapes, and, most importantly, catchy tunes. You should be listening. By Kieran Zimmer.

S

ituated quietly next to a vape shop in a suburban Fullerton strip mall, the outward appearance of Burger Records gives no hints of the revered spot the label holds in the hearts of suburban bleached-haired skate-punks all over the world. One driving by on their way to work most likely would be completely oblivious to the fact that this little storefront is the home to a label whose presence has been praised by the likes of proto-punk legend Iggy Pop himself.

Walking through the doors of Burger is akin to walking through a strip-mall wardrobe to a Narniaesque suburban dreamland. Walls painted bright green overlook bins upon bins of vinyl and cassette tapes, and two cats roam around the space, not afraid to get social with customers. An employee informs a customer that she can move Dee Dee, the skinnier of the cats, off of a row of albums if she has to.

Our Label Could Be Your Life

The current and former home to such indie darlings as The Garden and Cherry Glazerr, Burger has made quite the splash in the DIY rock scene not only by putting out the vast majority of their releases on the love-it-or-hate-it plastic that is the cassette tape, but by also managing to either find or help expose many talented artists such as No Parents and FIDLAR, that may have otherwise been left in the purgatory of indie obscurity.

“They’re really cool, I really vibe with what they’ve got going on,” said junior Miles Jambeau. “Lots of good bands. They’ve been kind of like an intermediary for a lot of bigger bands. Once bands get onto Burger they get seen by bigger record labels.”

In the 10 years that Burger has existed, they have garnered an uncommon amount of press and attention for an indie label, and co-owner Sean Bohrman (formerly the art director of a fishing magazine) attributes it partly to their uncommon chosen medium of physical music, specifically tapes.

Cassettes Aren’t Dead

Now, the choice to put out music almost exclusively on cassette was not purely an aesthetic choice; it had practical value to Bohrman and

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co-founder Lee Rickard. “We have a tape player in our van, and we were in a band called Thee Makeup Party so we toured all the time and we wanted to listen to all these new records that were coming out, but no one was putting them out on cassette. I remember we were sitting in Kirby’s beer store in Kansas City when we were on tour, it was like 2 a.m., and we were waiting in the van to go back to whatever crazy place we were staying, and I was like ‘we should start putting out cassettes of all these other bands,.’” Bohrman said as he reclined in an office chair in front of his desk in the back room of the Burger Records Store in Fullerton, long blonde hair draping down onto a black band shirt, appearing somewhat worn out from the week-long sale that took place the previous six days. Around us are walls covered with posters of all sorts, some of Burger events and others of appreciated artists, barely letting the white wall underneath peek through. Shop cat Dee Dee makes her way in about halfway through the interview, first cuddling with the label co-founder and then balancing on the back of his chair.

“People were either stoked that we were putting out cassettes, or people were absolutely pissed off,” Bohrman said. “People felt a response, and that’s how we got attention and stuff. Even though people were like ‘I hate tapes, why are you bringing it back?’” However, despite adversity and opposition to the cassette tape format, Burger pushed on and continued to grow their label.

Upward Spiral

Regarding Burger’s continual involvement with bigger artists and the rise in popularity of tapes, Bohrman said that “It’s been really good, getting our foot in the door, working with a lot of other labels, bigger labels and bands. [Producing cassettes is] a grey area for sure because before when we started, labels weren’t interested in putting out tapes and they would just let us do it without contracts or anything. Now, there’s money to be made.”

Fortunately for Burger, even though there were certainly naysayers who didn’t see the value in cassette tapes, all sorts of indie and punk kids loved the idea. “Cassettes are tight because one, they’re cheap-

Burger Records co-founder/owner Sean Bohrman and cat Dee Dee in the back of his record store in Fullerton. Photo by Kieran Zimmer er than CD’s, vinyl, any other type of thing,” said Jambeau. “Two, they’re reliable. You can just toss them in your pocket, small size, that type of thing. They’re [also] a good entry level thing for musicians. Everyone has CDs, but if you want to [have] a little bit of appeal, you’re gonna want cassettes. Also, tapes are just kind of cool, and it’s always nice to see old people being happy that you have tapes.”

When one hears that an indie label has gotten attention, it is usually more along the lines of getting written about in a local magazine or having one of their artists on a show

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with a bigger band. However, for Burger, this means being covered in such publications as the New York Times, as well as putting together a yearly festival (Burger Boogaloo).

This year’s incarnation (July first and second at the Mosswood Park in Oakland) will feature Iggy Pop, as well as punk legends The Buzzcocks and X.

I Wanna Be Your Dog

“When I was in high school, Iggy Pop was my idol,” reminisced Bohrman. “When the Stooges got together for the first time in 2001 I took a bus ride from college (I was going to college up in Humboldt) 21

hours, by myself, to Coachella to see Iggy. And it sucked, up until I saw Iggy. Then it was awesome. Then it sucked again.”

“I think he read about us in the New York Times article, and then I remember him talking about it on his radio show on the BBC,” Bohrman continued. “He played our records, and talked about our bands, and talked about us, about us living in the record store. And it was like there was a glass wall between us; I could see him talking about us, but he couldn’t see us, like ‘Hey Iggy, talk to us!’ So one day I sent out a message on my Facebook that

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the mustang was like ‘Does anybody know how to get ahold of Iggy Pop?’ Then a guy I know gave me his email, and I emailed his manager, and said man, just trying to say hello. Iggy Pop likes us.’ We still haven’t met, but I got his number and I texted him Happy Birthday the last two years and he said thanks Sean.”

In essence, Bohrman and Rickard are living the indie label dream, despite living in the back of a Fullerton record store. Now, this is all well and good, but with a label such as Burger with all the glitz and glam of getting attention from Iggy Pop and putting on big loud festivals, what hope do indie artists actually have of getting signed to Burger? Fear not, my fellow surf-punks, because even if you can’t get signed to Burger, there is hope for you, and it goes by the name of Wiener. Wiener Records, that is.

Everyone’s a Wiener

The quirky interior of Burger resembles a suburban glam dreamland. Photo by Kieran Zimmer.

Burger has further revolutionized the SoCal DIY scene by forming a second label to which anyone can get signed. For a starting price of $250, any artist can pay to have cassettes made by Wiener, 90 percent of which go to the band to sell with the other 10 percent to be distributed by Burger. Not only does Wiener help print cassettes, but after the tapes are made Wiener artists are marketed and touted as a Burger band, posted on social media or picked to play shows with other Burger artists.

This eliminates the hassle of endlessly trying to promote one’s band with the end goal of being noticed by a label, and gives budding artists the chance to be heard.

“I think that’s such a crazy idea

The quirky interior of Burger resembles a suburban glam dreamland. Photo by Kieran Zimmer. that people’s stuff can get out there, and you don’t need all these big connections” said Jambeau.

Indie Labels Are Important

Labels like Burger help fuel the punk and indie scene in places like Southern California, and make no mistake, they are doing important work. “I think people like them are what make the music scene grow and flourish,” said Jambeau. “At least, they keep track of it. There are so many great bands that have been lost to the sands of time because their music hasn’t been recorded, and that type of thing. Like The Screamers, they only played live shows and they never recorded

anything, and they’re this legendary hardcore punk rock band. I think indie labels, for one, help people get their music out there, and help [artists] to grow as musicians, but also to log it in history, music as a whole.”

No one knows exactly what the future holds, especially given that Bohrman and Vickard’s work with Burger is their first in regards to a label. HowRest assured that Bohrman’s work will continue to take Burger onward and upward.

“I get here at eleven a.m., and I don’t stop working ‘til four or five a.m. I’ve been doing that for four years now...if you do anything [for that long], you’re gonna get good at it.”

For the latest articles from The Mustang, visit sdamustang.com

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Senior Austin Dilley creates the clay mold. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Wright.

Seniors Marcus Hartz and Kelly Luong sculpt. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Wright.

Bronze Sculpture Looking Golden

Artists reflect on a year-long journey to create a bronze sculpture - by students, for students. By Olivia Olander.

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he art department’s newest public piece started small - literally, with concepts on “little sticky notes” passed around a table, according to art teacher Jeremy Wright.

“We had a little brainstorming game where we wrote down a word and we would pass it down to another person in the group - there were like eight of us - and then we would draw what we thought that word was and then we would pass that picture and they would write what they thought that picture was,” explained senior Kelly Luong, one of the students who worked on the piece. “That got us in the realm for the beginning of brainstorming.”

Wright’s eight-student creative team - Luong, juniors Julia Honda, August Uecker and Kathleen Brown, along with seniors Austin Dilley, Marcus Hartz, Hannah Elias and Trevor Anderberg - spent about six months of the school year just coming up with a design for the piece, Wright said. Students said they wanted to create a piece that students could interact with, like similar statues around the globe that people rub for good luck.

Dilley also said the sculpture and its creation process were representative of SDA’s spirit. “It’s a very SDA sculpture. It came together very or-

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ganically… Whatever our idea was, we ran with it. No matter how out there, [Mr. Wright] was willing to help us kind of make our ideas come to fruition.”

After initial brainstorming, students then came up with inspirational words (‘aquatic,’ ‘power,’ and ‘wings’ comprised the top three), and Dilley, Elias and Hartz made initial drawn designs. After another round of brainstorming and voting, Anderberg and Uecker shaped “little mini sculptures” based on the chosen designs, Luong said.

The final chosen shape was originally created with a wood frame and an oil-based clay, and “slowly became a sculpture,” said Luong. But even then, the process was still moving and changing. The team made several adjustments, including altering the whole shape of the sculpture so it was more curved than straight up and down.

“It’s almost like the piece is speaking to us, and it’s our job to listen,” Wright said. “And I think that’s very important, especially in something that’s collaborative. When you do that, there’s less ego involved. It’s not, ‘Look at this piece I made!’ It’s almost kind of like giving birth to a child, but then listening to the child and to what the child needs. ‘I’m hungry, I need food, I need water.’

It’s our job to listen, rather than just imposing our will on it. Honestly, I think that makes for better public art, because this piece is not about one person. It’s a gift to the public.”

The sculpture is Wright’s first foray into a collaborative sculpture project of this size, with the only other comparable piece being an abstract one that was built by four students and used to stand near the 90s buildings, he said.

“In artwork, it’s usually not collaborative, and usually when artwork is collaborative, you can really see distinct styles between,” Wright said. “Like when Andy Warhol and Basquiat collaborated, you definitely knew what was Andy Warhol and what was Basquiat. But with this, it’s almost like a rock band. You have four people, and they come up with one song.” He described the creative process as “fascinating” and “democratic” because of the student’s strategy of choosing the designs by voting on ideas.

“We had a rule that was to not be mad or upset if you put something on the sculpture and it got taken off.

We all worked really well together because we were chosen for specific things,” explained Honda.

With the design process behind them, the statue is now a solidstanding, 3-ft mass of bubblegum

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pink, a close-to-complete rubber molded shape awaiting the final pourings of bronze. The art department is collaborating with the Fallbrook Center for the Arts through Steve Dilley (artist Austin Dilley’s dad) to create the layers of molds and materials necessary for the complete figure.

Wright said he had never helped create a large bronze piece, but was encouraged by Brown to take on the project.

“I’ve worked with bronze but never on this scale. I really felt like a leader that was walking into a fog bank,” he said.

Honda, who said she worked on details of the project like texture, didn’t have any bronze experience either “besides watching a lot of videos.”

“Bronze is a very frustrating process… everything that could go wrong pretty much did,” she said.

“It’s a long process but overall pretty rewarding.”

Moving forward, the team is planning on installing the piece in the new math and science buildings opening next school year. Although they won’t finish by their original deadline of the end of this school year, Wright described it as a “blessing in disguise” because they can now finish once the building opens.

“[The sculpture] has a math-science feel to it. It almost has a marine biology feel to it… To me, it fits more in a math-science department than an art department,” he said.

Moreover, the group wanted to make something that students could do more than just stare at.

“We want it to be somewhere where students can walk by it, and touch it if they want, because the texture looks fun,” said Luong “We want to make it at a height, because it’s going to be on a concrete pedestal, that people walk by and they rub it,” added Wright. “I want to put it by a walkway, and it becomes this thing that people interact with.”

He cited pieces like the seal at Seal Beach in Long Beach, whose nose has been rubbed shiny by tourists on the pier, as inspiration for creating meaningful interactive art.

“It’s interesting that artwork can become a part of a culture,” Wright said. “A lot of times in Western thinking, we think that artwork goes to the studio, goes to the gallery, then if it can go to the museum, that’s the zenith of the piece of artwork. But one of my mentors said, ‘The museum is the mausoleum of a piece. That’s where it goes to die.’ I like this idea that this piece is a living piece.”

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Summer Previews the mustang

Story by Mary Ford. Design By Hannah Elias.

Take a deep breath. Did you do it?

Really? I don’t believe you.

Look! Ahead of you. You’re almost there. Can’t you see it? Four more days and you’re done with this school year. A practical sprint to the finish line compared with how long this year has seemed. Isn’t that surreal? So inhale until your lungs are full, lunge ahead, and run through that finish line tape.

Good. You’ve made it. Now what do you do? You (excluding seniors and teachers) have around 75 days this summer dedicated to yourself. I know that seems silly for some of you, those of you tied down by jobs or family reunions or even summer school.

Still, you’re free from group projects and fourhour homework sessions. No matter what you’re doing, you’ll have a little extra time on the side.

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So, in order to help you fill that time, The Mustang has compiled a list of some of the hottest events of the summer, with some cool, lesser known ones sprinkled in, to make sure that you have a strong start to the upcoming season. With favorite cinema like “Orange is the New Black” and “Cars 3” coming out, music from popular artists like HAIM and Lorde appearing on the charts, and performers like Kendrick Lamar coming to town, there is so much culture to consume.

Read up on a few of our previews: we’ve chosen eight events each for the months of June, July, and August. See what’s happening all over San Diego County and enjoy your summer!

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PORTUGAL. THE MAN - June 11

LORDE - June 16

After four long soul-searching years, Portugal. The Man is back with their new album “Woodstock.” Seven records deep, the indie group is known for their song “Purple Yellow Red and Blue” and, more recently, their lead single off their upcoming album, “Feel It Still.” The band had been working on a compilation piece, “Gloomin + Doomin,” for three years but scrapped it, in exchange for “Woodstock.”

The singles released so far, “Feel It Still” “Number One” and the most recent “So Young,” provide a great soundtrack for cruising down the PCH with the windows down.

As seniors graduate from SDA June 16, Lorde will drop her sophomore album, “Melodrama.” The 20-year-old released “Pure Heroine,” the story of her teenage years in New Zealand, as her Grammy-nominated first album in 2013. This new record includes singles “Green Light” and “Liability,” which were released this March to general critical acclaim. Lorde is primarily known for her eloquent soundtracks to youth rebellion, and says “Melodrama” will be about the latter part of her adolescence. “Pure Heroine” was my way of enshrining our teenage glory,” Lorde wrote on Facebook. “And this record - well, this one is about what comes next.” asdfasdf

Mary Ford

Olivia Olander

Photo Courtesy of 91x.com

Photo Courtesy of Lorde.co.nz

CARS 3 - June 16

OH WONDER - June 16

Remember “Ka-chow” and “backwards driving?” The fun, fast-paced world of automobiles will be making a resurgence this summer with the release of “Cars 3.”. The adventures of Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) and his lovable tow-truck friend, Mater (Larry the Cable Guy), continue in this Pixar film, as McQueen finds his racing career in jeopardy. With the help of his Radiator Springs friends, the flashy racer will have to jump through hoops, yet again, to claim his glory on the Piston Cup stage. The eventful plot will undoubtedly be coupled with action and humor, and the film is sure to not disappoint.

In 2014, a small British indie duo posted their first song on Soundcloud and within a week had 100,000 shares. If a start on a music-sharing website doesn’t give you enough of a hint towards the experimental synthesized indie-pop that defines Oh Wonder, maybe you’ll be tipped off by their previous efforts to release a new song every month for a year. Whereas Oh Wonder’s first album acted more as a compilation of their released singles, their second album “Ultralife,” promises a more polished, media-branded approach to a band experimental by nature.

Linnea Leidy

Mary Ford

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asdfasdf

Photo Courtesy of Disney.movies.com

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Photo Courtesy of Ohwondermusic.com

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MARIAN HILL - June 16

ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK - June 19

Celebrate barely making it through another school year by going down to a dance party for a concert at the Observatory North Park. With some of the best minimalist pop beats around, Marian Hill, the electronic pop duo responsible for hits like “Down” and “Got It” are sure to put on a seductively enticing show. Touring behind their new album “Act One,” Marian Hill is known for their less is more approach: less talking, more dancing, more moving. Singer Samantha Gongol’s angelic voice paired with DJ Jeremy Lloyd’s shaken, not stirred sound lead the wave of new electronic pop perfection. Are you down, ditty down, ditty down, down, down?

Since the trailer for the fifth season of “Orange is the New Black” was released May 9, people have become increasingly excited to see what’s in store for the show. The new season, coming to Netflix June 9, is predicted to take a rebellious turn and focus on the inmates taking a stand against the inhumane conditions they face.

Although the last season received mixed reviews for the portrayal of prison guard brutality, the trailer seems to promise a better and more exciting next season.

Hopefully the next season can bring back the show’s reputation, as themes of justice may resonate more with an audience angry over inequalities in their own world.

Mary Ford

Maddy Campbell

Photo Courtesy of Marianhill.com

TREVOR NOAH - June 27

Photo Courtesy of Netflix

JEREMIH - June 28

Trevor Noah, the man forever guilty of not being John Stewart, is slated to perform his signature brand of socially conscious, accent-and-impression-heavy standup comedy at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Touring in support of his most recent television special, the Netflix-sponsored “Afraid of the Dark,” Noah is trekking across North America to spread his admittedly left-leaning gospel to the masses. Although tickets may be a little pricier than your average concert jaunt at Soma or the House of Blues, anyone willing to scrape together the dollars for this one will not be disappointed. People wanting to laugh should not miss out on this one.

R&B and Urban Soul artist Jeremih will be playing at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Get ready to get those hip hop dance skills set for Jeremih’s rapping voice. “Dont tell ‘Em’’ was his third top-ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and released his new album Late Nights in 2015. This lead Jeremih to continue onto his fourth studio album “Later that Night” featuring PartyNextDoor. Jeremih will perform at the San Diego County Fair, so it would be a perfect night to enjoy the fair but at the same time to go Jeremih’s concert in the same day!

Kieran Zimmer

Rosie Alvarado

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asdfasdf

Photo Courtesy of Neo Lekota

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Photo Courtesy of Toglenn

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SPIDERMAN: HOMECOMING - July 5

DESPICABLE ME - July 9

People are excited to see the return of their favorite web-slinging hero as “Spiderman: Homecoming” swings into theatres. This movie picks up after the events of “Captain America: Civil War,” as the new Peter Parker (Tom Holland) returns home to New York and begins to balance his school life with his newfound superhero life. With Spiderman’s recent entrance into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), as well as the pending arrival of “The Avengers: Infinity Wars” (the culmination of all parts of the MCU), this movie is bound to be a massive hit among Marvel fans.

More evil will return to the screen with the release of “Despicable Me 3.” This film will tell the story of Gru (Steve Carell) meeting his evil twin brother Dru (Steve Carell)—whom he never knew about—for the first time. The brothers team up to swipe a diamond from former child star Balthazar Bratt (Trey Parker), who previously stole the gem. Like the two other films in the series, “Despicable Me 3” is anticipated to be a funny, light and cute animation that will give audiences memeinspiring phrases to employ in everyday conversations like “It’s so fluffy. I’m gonna die.”

Michael McQuarrie

Mallika Seshadri

Photo Courtesy of Spiderman: Homecoming Facebook

Photo Courtesy of Despicable.me

PRINCE ROYCE - July 9

HAIM - July 9

Bachata-lovers get ready because Prince Royce, award-winning Latin superstar extraordinaire, is making his way to San Diego on his FIVE Tour. He will be belting his heart out (and melting our hearts out) at the Open Air Theater at San Diego State University. Prince Royce has attracted millions of fans over the years and is best known for his Latin chart toppers like “Corazón sin Cara,” a beautiful ballad about loving someone because of their personality rather than their appearance. If you’ve never swayed your hips to a Bachata beat, you need to buy a ticket, bring a buddy, and let the suave rhythms move you.

After four years of tortured waiting, fans of the pop rock sister band Haim are finally being rewarded with the coming release of the band’s new album “Something to Tell You” on July 7. In April, a teaser video of their song “Right Now” from the album was released and in May, the lead single “Want You Back” was released, exciting fans who do indeed want them back. Fans are looking forward to the exciting mix of 80s and 90s pop they enjoyed in Haim’s first album “Days are Gone” in 2013.

Megan Levan

Kate Sequeira

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Photo Courtesy of Prince Royce Facebook

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Photo Courtesy of HAIM.com

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SHAWN MENDES - July 14

DUNKIRK - July 21

After rising to popularity by posting singing renditions on Vine, singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes has grown to become one of the biggest young talents of the music industry. Mendes will be taking his Illuminate world tour to the Valley View Casino Center. His unique blend of acappella music and pop combine to create a special kind of soundtrack people across the world rave over. Mendes will be joined by Charlie Puth, known for his song “See You Again,” an ode to the late Paul Walker on the “Fast Five” soundtrack. As the two rising stars combine their strong talents, a concert experience full of smiles, joy, and excitement is inevitable.

Christopher Nolan has taken his reputation for analog technology and real-world sets to new heights with his WWII epic “Dunkirk,” the true story of the largest military evacuation to ever take place. Typical of Nolan’s dedication to making his films as realistic as possible, it will be shot in 70mm film, appropriate for the timeframe in which the medium was popular, along with a real life battleship destroyer instead of a CGI replica. Though the movie is about an intense and violent period in the war, the film has garnered a rather diverse following; the Harry Styles fan club will be excited for the release of the film, this being his cinematic debut.

Yarisette Sequeira

Patrick Hall

Photo Courtesy of Shawn Mendez Facebook

Photo Courtesy of Dunkirkmovie.com

VALERIAN - July 21

ATOMIC BLONDE - July 28

For those looking for a new adventure outside of the Marvel and DC comic worlds, a graphic novel is coming to the big screen with a star-studded cast that is sure to give the classic comics a run for their money. Originally a European comic known as “Valerian,” the movie “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” will explore a futuristic world in which agents Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) attempt to protect Alpha, the City of a Thousand Planets, from a mysterious dark force. With an additional appearance from Rihanna, “Valerian” is a must-see for sci-fi and comic lovers, or anyone looking for an exciting summer movie.

Get ready for ultraviolence and ultra-fashion strutting into theaters this summer with the movie “Atomic Blonde.” Starring everyone’s favorite ruthless feminist actress Charlize Theron, the film centers around the actress as a deadly MI6 agent taking down an espionage ring in late 1980s Berlin. At face value, “Atomic Blonde” resembles the cult classic “Kill Bill” in a different setting; it has all the action-fight scenes and proud displays of ruthless feminism, with a little less gore. With feminism and fighting, it’s a movie good for the male and female stereotypes in your life on a summer date night.

Julia Shapero

Mary Ford

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Photo Courtesy of Valerianmovie.com

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Photo Courtesy of Atomic Blonde Facebook

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PVRIS - August 4

WARPED TOUR - August 5

The electro-rock group PVRIS will release their album, All We Know Of Heaven, All We Need Of Hell, on August 4th this year. This will be the trio’s second album following their debut White Noise in 2014. As of now, the only information known about the new LP is that it is 10 tracks long and leads with the song “Heaven,” which has already been released. The band will also be going on an international tour this summer with Muse and 30 Seconds to Mars, and, while the album drops halfway through the tour, the new songs are certain to be on their set list. asdfasdf

Year after year, the pop-punk kids have willed it and thus it has come: Warped Tour. Each August, the throngs of black-clad Neck Deep fans descend on Qualcomm Stadium in the glaring summer heat to witness the foremost acts in alternative music, ranging this year from the indie-pop of American Authors, to the theatrical heavy metal of GWAR. Attendees will need to be sure to bring sunscreen (and lots of it), extra hair dye for any that gets lost via sweat, and, of course, a cheaply made drawstring bag from Hot Topic to fill with band merch. See you there.

Brittany Serbin

Kieran Zimmer

Photo Courtesy of Pvris.com

Vans Warped Tour/Flickr

ED SHEERAN - August 6

KENDRICK LAMAR - August 6,7,8

Ed Sheeran, with his soulful voice and smooth acoustic guitar, will be playing at the San Diego Valley View Casino Center as part of his North American Tour. As Sheeran has risen to the top of the charts in recent years, he hasn’t strayed from his original style. When asked to change who he was, Sheeran went and wrote “You Need Me, I Don’t Need You” to fight against the music producers who demanded he dye his ginger hair and stop his personal loop-pedal rapped songs. This concert will be the highlight of your summer; you are guaranteed a very genuine experience. a sdfasdf Sarah LaVake Photo Courtesy of Ed Sheeran Facebook

Hot off his new hit album, “Damn.” Kendrick Lamar is touring the United States this summer with Travis Scott and D.R.A.M. Lamar will be headlining STAPLES Center for three dates; each show sold out within minutes. It is no surprise that the Compton native is showing so much love for his hometown, his loyalty to his city is apparent in his music. With the massive success of “Damn.” these past few weeks, the crowds will be eagerly flocking to STAPLES for the trifecta of Kung Fu Kenny shows this August, and the hype couldn’t be more real. asdfasdf

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Luke Oldham

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Photo Courtesy of Kendriklamar.com

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INCUBUS - August 11

HANS ZIMMER - August 12

Alt-rock/nu-metal outfit Incubus, with fellow alternative rockers Jimmy Eat World in tow, are scheduled to perform their signature brands of catchy jams at the Sleep Train Amphitheatre. For those who haven’t seen Incubus before, they are incredibly in-sync live and a spectacle to watch, largely due to the energy of lead singer Brandon Boyd and the talented musicianship of all members. Jimmy Eat World (who to your surprise have lots of other material besides “The Middle”) are sure to be a solid opener, with all sorts of singalong catchiness for fans of all ages. asd

World-renowned film score composer Hans Zimmer will be embarking on a summer tour that is set to end right here, in San Diego. Zimmer’s work can be found in countless classic films, like “The Lion King,” “Interstellar,” and “Pirates of the Caribbean,” and dedicated fans have flocked to ticket-selling sites to see the musical genius live. The composer also made headlines after his impressive performance at the 2017 Coachella music festival. He is scheduled to appear at the Viejas Arena, and it will undoubtedly be an incredible performance.

Kieran Zimmer

Linnea Leidy

Photo Courtesy of Incubus Facebook

Photo Courtesy of Hans-zimmer.com

YOUNG THE GIANT - August 24

SYLVIAN ESSO - August 26

Young the Giant, an indie rock band with a chill, relaxed sound perfect for summer nights, will be coming to San Diego. The band is touring for their new album, “Home of the Strange,” which includes themes of adventure, youthful dreams, and growing up. Young the Giant will be playing with Cold War Kids and Joywave at the CalCoast Credit Union Open Theatre. The band’s ritual of relaxing with tea before a live performance helps them to do their best and put on a vibrant and energetic show. Whether you’re a long-time fan or casual listener, this concert is the perfect opportunity to create a lasting memory of summer.

They’re probably not a band that you’ve heard of, but they’re someone you should know. Sylvan Esso, an electronic indie pop duo that has graced the charts with calming minimalist beats, is coming to the North Park Observatory. Focused on promoting their new album “What Now,” the band offers a calmer concert experience, with a graceful folk voice coming from singer Amelia Meath and sparse electronic beats from electronic music producer Nick Sanborn. Set more on good music than stage presence, a Saturday night filled with friends listening to Sylvan Esso will end summer on a positive note.

Sylvia Young

Mary Ford

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Photo Courtesy of Young the Giant Facebook

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Photo Courtesy of Sylvianesso.com

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Sentinel

THE WORLD’S ONLY RELIABLE NEWSPAPER

Group Plans School Coup in Bathroom Bathroom manifestos beat Communist Manifestos. By Mary Ford.

A manifesto to overthrow San Dieguito administration has been discovered on the walls of the girls’ bathroom south of the Learning Commons, said campus celebrity and janitorial hero John. At least 76 sophomores and 67 freshmen have been detained in connection with this plot, with more expected to be caught via legally ambiguous car and phone searches today.

The manifesto was taped on the inside of stalls, as well as written onto grimy bathroom mirrors in MAC Cosmetics’ famous Russian Red lipstick, worn by Madonna in the 1980s. It’s really quite a nice shade, and when combined with a lip liner set right, can complement any girl’s date night look.

Alas, that bathroom, which earned its notoriety thanks to the many fire drills let off by people who could never really understand the connection between joint smoke and a smoke alarm, is simultaneously the most heavily trafficked, least maintained, and grossest bathroom on campus.

The bathroom also serves as the unofficial meeting place of many a crucial girl talk, as well as the biweekly conference of the Junior Official Karaoke Enterprise (JOKE).

Thanks to phenomenal investigative work by awardwinning journalist Mary Ford of The Mustang, JOKE has been discovered as a front for the underground movement Students Taking Underground Probable Initiative to Destroy (STUPID), the group suspected of composing

the manifesto, which also came with a fire mixtape and band merch available for a tax-deductible donation on Soundcloud.

“We announced the manifesto via our Instagram page @STUPIDgirls, hacked into the announcement system and recited the manifesto, and then had a “Sign the Manifesto” day in front of the PAC at lunch,” said STUPID leader Stacey.

There has been no acknowledgement or action taken by administrators.

“We really aren’t asking for much,” said Stacey. “All we want is for Mr. Paige to be proclaimed Napoleon IV of the First San Dieguito Empire, who will invade LCC and impose his second Napoleonic Code. We also want stressrelieving ponies to be given to

The manifesto is 20 pages long and translated into five different languages, including emoji and esperanto. Photo by Mary Ford.

every freshman girl, and for there to be at least two more Proms, for starters.”

Stacey, now painting her nails and using the elliptical she keeps in her back pocket, continued, “Every proper manifesto needs a thinly veiled threat. The “or-else”

part on our manifesto comes from girls being the majority of the school population to attend, get good grades, and try moderately hard on standardized tests. If we don’t get what we want, we’ll stop coming to school and trying on tests.”

What Are You Doing This Summer?

Take the quiz and find out. By Mary Ford.

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the mustang

Sentinel

THE WORLD’S ONLY RELIABLE NEWSPAPER

Ask a Senior: Senior Edition Senior Chloe Williams tries to prevent graduating seniors’ earth-shattering meltdowns in their last weeks of high school.

What should I bring to college?

Let’s be real. You’re not going to do any laundry. I recommend you take five of everything.

How do I say goodbye to the underclassmen?

Do them a favor by imparting unto them meaningful advice that you learned being a whole two years older.

Word Search Something to do when your teacher confiscates your phone because Snapchat relaeased new filters and you just couldn’t help yourself. By Chloe Williams.

Okay, so your phone’s been confiscated. Again.

It’s okay, I mean who can blame you? Those filters do make your skin glow.

And your teacher was in a bad mood. It happens.

Now you’re bored to death. I feel ya. I care about you. I might even be in love with you.

Maybe I stalk you every Wednesday night. Maybe I’m watching you right now. Or maybe I just like puzzles. Only time will tell.

Anyway, if you’re bored, take out a pen, pencil, highlighter, paint, lipstick, june 12

or nail polish and circle the hidden MUSTANG within the box to the right.

If you take a video of yourself finding it within 30 seconds and send it to the Mustang Facebook page (that’s right, we’re on Facebook #shamelessplug), you will recieve a year’s subscription to the Mustang for FREEEEEEE. The fastest staff member was able to find it in 13.6 seconds but the average time was three minutes and four seconds, so don’t give up!

Put it in the form of a personalized note. Don’t forget an inspirational quote you stole from the internet, and, of course, you need to mention an inside joke you have together. Don’t have one?

Just make one up and pretend like you’re really deep and better than them for remembering something so special.

Throw in a meme, a few tear drops, and a *drop the mic* and you’re all set.

What is the senior prank going to be?

Ha ha. Nice one, Senior *wink wink*. I’ll see you in the bus lot at noon, right?

A M U M U T G M T G S

N G T T A M T U U S M humor

T U M N U N U S A S G

A N G S T M S T M U T

Ah heck, I don’t know how to adult. How do I do my taxes? What is a credit score? Hellllllllp!

Eh, don’t worry about all that. You know that and that’s all that matters.

How do I maintain a long distance relationship with my high school sweetheart?

You don’t.

How many people should I bring to graduation?

I say bring your entire extended family. Bring your crazy aunt and invite her ex, or your grandparents who haven’t spoken in 25 years.

Take ‘em all. It makes for a great story when, “hypothetically” one dad punches another.

Honestly, the ceremony needs some spicing up.

G U T N G U N A U N A

S A M G A N T G S T N

M N U S T S S A T M S

U A T M A U T U A U U

How do I decorate my graduation cap?

Sparkles are a must.

And obviously rainbow colors must appear at some point. Add the face of a celebrity, a cheer for your new college mascot, and a quote about how much you’ve changed.

What if my new school isn’t as awesome as SDA? It won’t be, so... good luck.

T S A N G S N G M S M

A U G U M T G A G N G

N M S T U G S U M T A page 39

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Sentinel

THE WORLD’S ONLY RELIABLE NEWSPAPER

Shocking Yearbook Draft Found In Dumpster This never before seen yearbook page, ultimately rejected, was recovered by our undercover investigative team and rubbish recovery specialists. By Chloe Williams. Photos by Patrick Hall.

Class of 2017 Senior Quotes!

Josh Santa Ana

Ocean Holland & Mat Zones

Dr. Indiana Jones

National Cornucopia

Erik Whimsat

Dijorn Page Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age 18. Common cents are the pennies that appear everywhere that you are too proud to pick up.

Kai Nakkama

Raul

Shea Butter

Kumquat

“(I’ll) never let go Jack!”

N8 Westly

Wait! I sneezed.

Shoot, I lost the game.

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We nominate ourselves for Cutest Couple.

“My fake plants died because I did not pretend to water them”Abraham Lincoln

I’m Kanoa.

My skin is so perfect because this blanket is SPF 45.

humor

Things don’t always end up the way you think they willy wonka.

Hey Nat, are we in the Brady Bunch?

I don’t care, you can just make up some quote for me.

Jack Salts

*Dies*

june 12

the mustang

Sentinel

THE WORLD’S ONLY RELIABLE NEWSPAPER

Fidget Spinners Send Students to Hospital

The fidget spinner fad is quickly becoming a danger. By Patrick Hall.

As the fidget spinner fad continues to grow, concerns are growing among parents and staff. Last Friday, a junior, who wishes to remain anonymous, was found choking on a spinning fidget on the floor of the boy’s bathroom. Senior Brett Tissuepaper successfully performed the Heimlich maneuver on the junior, saving his life. “I was just taking a bathroom break from my CPR course in the library when I saw him,” said Tissuepaper Tissuepaper also claims to have seen the junior starting to spin the gadget that had just been pulled out of his esophagus.

“He kept repeating

something like ‘spin, spin, spin.’ I asked if he was okay but he just looked at me saying ‘spin, spin spin.’ It was really cool so I bought one after school,” said Tissuepaper.

This is the fifth time this month a student was found choking on a fidget spinner.

All of the victims are expected to live, but one student is still in critical condition at Scripps Hospital.

Parents fought to ban the gadgets, insisting it isn’t fair that only children can play with the spinners. Mother Meredith Backflip represents the parents’ concerns: “Why can my kid, who’s never given birth or had to default on a loan, relieve his stress with fidget spinners but when we

(the parents) do it, society chastises us? It isn’t weird, it’s perfectly normal!”

Principal Bjorn Paige has pledged to introduce CPR training programs to maintain “the safety of our students from the potential asphyxia of spinning toys.” However, Paige has repeatedly combated efforts to ban the toys.

According to anonymous sources, Paige has a secret button that accesses a secret room which stores hundreds of fidget spinners that he’s confiscated.

Though he claims not to play with them, Assistant Principal Jeanne Jones says otherwise.

“I have seen him more than once with a spinner during office hours,” accounts Jones.

A chest x-ray displays a fidget spinner implanted in a student’s chest. Photo illustration by Patrick Hall.

“One time I tried to catch him, but when I got in the room he immediately put it behind his back, pretending as if there was nothing there.”

In press statement, Paige wrote, “I don’t want our

students choking on fidget spinners as much as the next guy, but do we need to suppress the incredibly entertaining practice of spinning colorful toys in between the tips of your fingers?”

Don’t Quote Them On This No one really could have seen this coming? By Josh Santana.

In heartbreaking news for all future senior classes of San Dieguito Academy, the school board has decided to end senior quotes during graduation. Why future classes are being punished for the graduating class of 2017 seems excessive, but it is reasonable to punish the current class to send a message of no tolerance to future generations of senior classes. In addition, considering the atrocity of a “Senior Prank” which resulted in the arrests of 5 seniors, it makes sense that the class would be on thin ice. The senior quotes really just pushed it over the edge.

Initially, ASB and Administration suspected nothing unusual from the seniors submitting the

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quotes, but they did notice a surprisingly low turnout for quotes by the deadline. Only the arrested seniors turned in quotes, which resulted in an extension of the due date.

The entire senior class came together as one to avenge the arrests of their fellow Mustangs following their prank. One by one, each senior produced the most vile and vulgar sentences they could muster.

Such an act of unity from a senior class is fascinating, as the rationale seems to be without reason. This grotesque display of community shows the strongest and strangest bond of any senior class in San Dieguito Academy’s history.

Such unification foreshadows a potential catastrophe, as many seniors

attempt to give the school a final act of rebellion. If the seniors mass together again for graduation on June 16, there is no telling what the class might do.

This will obviously put the faculty on high alert for these final weeks of the school year. Additionally, the issues with the parking situation have increased tensions. The Mustang now would like to issue a warning to all classes under the Seniors, as it is the duty of the press to inform it’s readers of all potential dangers.

Freshmen and Sophomores, be careful of the upperclassmen.

They view themselves above you and you must change this seniority mentality. Juniors, while the seniors will ignore your existence for these last few weeks, the underclassmen

humor

One senior’s censored attempt for quote submission. Photo illustration by Josh Santana

will look to you to determine whether you will follow the dangerous behaviour of the 2017 class. Change the stigma for them if not yourselves.

Many have questioned whether these actions were the most productive for the seniors to make as a social statement. The main issue being the vulgarity, as initially, I was going to give a few

examples of quotes, so I sought the database which holds each and every quote, and I do not feel it’s safe to share these on the Mustang.

It would likely be destructive to any reader, as it resulted in personal sickness which has lead to extensive counseling after reading what my peers produced in their civil revolt.

june 12

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Sentinel

THE WORLD’S ONLY RELIABLE NEWSPAPER

Horoscope of the Month

By Nadia Ballard Aries If you want to start spicing up your life with spectacular and crazy things like almond milk, don’t wake up early everyday to milk your almonds. Instead milk all your almonds on the weekends, this way is much more efficient. Now you’ll be able to enjoy drinking hand squeezed almond milk.

Taurus To prepare yourself for real life tasks such as a taking care of a dog, invest in Nintendogs. Be happy and joyous with your virtual dogs. Oh wait, You managed to kill this virtual unkillable dog. Next time start with Nintenlizards, better yet, Nintensucculents try killing that.

Gemini You open your bedroom door only to realize it leads to your backyard, but you don’t have a backyard, you only have a behind yard.

This month, don’t trust labels and reason, just go with the flow, it will benefit you in the long run.

Cancer You are one of a kind. You truly epitomize what it means to be different from the mainstream. You’re not like most others. You’re worse.

Leo Sometimes after a large meal of pasta, you feel like something is wrong.

Is the pasta trying to poison you?

Is there an evil secret organization tampering with your food and playing mind games with you by turning your own body against you? No, it’s called indigestion eat slower you hooligan.

Virgo Sing your lungs out, literally. Scream and shout the lyrics to your favorite song until your lungs just come popping out. You won’t need those anymore, not where you’re going.

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Libra Improve your brain by becoming more knowledgeable. To do so, try learning a new language.

A good one to start off with is Dog. Once you are able to bark at a native (dog) and they bark back then you are barklingual.

Scorpio You ask big questions in life. You’re not afraid to speak up. Nothing holds you back from asking the real questions like, ‘How many times have I seen the same bird twice.’

Never stop, you beautiful monster.

Sagittarius You are probably feeling uncomfortable with all the unfamiliarity that accompanies the natural passage of time. Things naturally change, however it doesn’t have to. This month, stop the space time continuum and prevent change in your life by changing time itself.

Capricorn Never forget. Never forget what?

You forgot what to never forget but at least you remembered to remember never to forget that one forgotten thing. Good job.

roads to success start here They provide the potential. We provide the fuel.

Putting knowledge to work prepares students for success after graduation.

That's why San Diego State University offers more than 300 student organizations like the Aztec Baja SAE team, whose members develop the talent, teamwork and tenacity they'll need as working professionals.

SDSU.edu

Aquarius You’re painting your nails. As you wait for the nail polish to dry, you notice the clock on the wall, it’s already been two hours. You check your nails to see if they’re dry. They’re dripping with paint, you check the label on the bottle. It says that nails dry in 10 minutes, no wait, it actually says 10 days. You’re not going to school today.

Check Out the Online Paper at sdamustang.com

Pisces You are as unstable as a desk with three legs, a sailboat drifting in choppy seas off kilter, an untrained clown trying to balance on a ball, you are the human mind.

humor

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the mustang

Spring Sports Succeed at CIFS

Lots of SDA sports made it into CIFs this season, including junior Kevin Ward, a pole vaulter who advanced to states. By Luke Oldham, Yarisette Sequeira, and Sylvia Young.

M

any of SDA’s spring sports made it to CIFs, both as teams and individuals. Track & Field, baseball, girls and boys lacrosse, and boys golf were all given the opportunity to play against some of the top competitors in San Diego during CIFs.

Girls Lacrosse

This season, the SDA girls lacrosse team made it to CIF quarterfinals. They played their first game at Bonita Vista on May 6. It was a difficult game. “It was back and forth a lot… and then we won,” said sophomore Maya Goldschmidt. The final score was 7-6, so the SDA team advanced to the quarterfinals.

They played against Mission Bay on May 9. However, Mission Bay was ranked first, while SDA was eighth. The SDA team fought hard, despite the bad odds. “We scored the first goal,” said sophomore Gaby Vonder. Although the team started out strong, the final score of the game was a 5-17 loss, which knocked SDA out of CIFs. Although the team expected to make it to CIFs, Goldschmidt said that she was “surprised we won the first game.” The girls lacrosse team made it further than expected and displayed their talents.

Boys Lacrosse

SDA Boys Lacrosse competed in the CIF Div. II playoffs, as the sixth seeded team out of twelve. In the first round, SDA defeated the eleven seed Point Loma 11-6. It was the second time that SDA had played Point Loma this year, bringing home two wins in two matches. Advancing to the second round, SDA was pitted against rival CCA. Unfortunately, SDA fell short to the third seeded CCA, losing a close one 9-8; thus concluding the team’s .500 season.

Boys Golf

Boys golf also played in CIFs as individuals. The team sent Blake Iwaisako, Ethan Wiessman, Kyle Roy, and Conner Edlebeck to the CIF San Diego Section Championships on May 16. It was a tough competition with a low cutoff in order to advance. In the end, Iwaisako was the only one to continue on to with a score of 72.

june 12

He played in the final round of Championships on Thursday and shot 77. He explained, “the course played slightly tougher since there was more wind and the greens were more firm.” Iwaisako wasn’t able to get to regionals, but said, “I plan on making it next year.” Iwaisako said, “CIFs was a great experience since they had players from all of San Diego Section and college scouts adding to the pressure.”

Baseball

SDA Baseball competed in the Div. III playoffs for the first time in a few years. The Mustangs were pitted against Clairemont High School in a play-in game for the twelfth seed. SDA started off the first few innings hot, going up 9-2 in the fourth. The rally was sparked by Senior Coleman Foster’s incredible diving catch in center field, followed by his two run double in the same inning. The Mustang’s unfortunately faltered, giving up 9 runs in the following three innings, ultimately losing 11-9. “It was a heartbreaker,” said senior leader Noah Hauptman.

Junior Kevin Ward vaults his way to state championships after placing first in his event.

Photo by Phil Urbina.

Track & Field

Twenty-four San Dieguito Track and Field athletes advanced to CIF prelims, where the top runners, jumpers, and throwers in San Diego competed in hope of qualifying for CIF finals. “It was awesome to run against some of the fastest kids in San Diego and perform at such a competitive level,” said senior Jack Romero who competed in the 800 meter dash. Of these athletes, only six advanced to CIF finals the following weekend. Junior pole vaulter Kevin Ward had an impressive performance as he received first place in his event, becoming the first San Dieguito Track and Field Champion since 2004. “Going into the meet, I felt a mix of fear and cofidence,” said Ward. “I was still coming off an injury, and that combined with everyone warming up better than I did freaked me out. So I just tried to forget about everyone else and just jump my best and focus on myself.” Ward contiued to State finals where he placed ninth with a vault of 15 feet and four inches.

Junior Matt Pisacane fires a pitch from the mound. Photo courtesy of Matt Pisacane.

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the mustang

SDA’s Top Athletes Recruited For College

Seniors plan to play their high school sport in college. These seniors will compete among other NCAA and MCLA athletes. Story By Natalie Haghani, Sarah Lavake and Vicky van der Wagt.

Boys Lacrosse

Boys Lacrosse

Andrew Peterson Calvin College, MIAA

Ben Jennings UCSB, MCLA D1

Why do you want to play in college?

I have played sports my whole life and have always enjoyed it. I didn’t want my athletic career to end after high school.

Whats your favorite memory of playing lacrosse for SDA? My favorite memory while playing for SDA was beating Point Loma 10-3 on my senior night.

Are you nervous to play Lacrosse in college? I’m a little nervous about playing lacrosse in college next year but I know that as long as I work hard in the off season I will be able to compete at the next level.

What do you look forward to when playing for Calvin College? I look forward to and am excited about extending my lacrosse career, and to have the ability to play at a higher level.

Photo courtesy of Andrew Peterson.

Photo courtesy of Ben Jennings.

Boys Soccer

Boys Basketball

Jonathon Sabouri UCSD, NCAA D1

Luke Oldham Trinity University, NCAA D3

Why do you want to play in college? I have always wanted to play soccer at the next level, and knowing how competitive college soccer is, I knew it would be an awesome experience for me to improve as a player. My love and passion for the game motivated me to continue my soccer career.

Whats your favorite memory of playing soccer for SDA? My favorite SDA soccer memory was my entire sophomore season. The team had an amazing season and made it to the open division semifinals.

Are you nervous to play socccer in college? I am nervous to play in college because I will be playing with 24-yearolds at a physically competitive level.

What do you look forward to when playing for UCSD? I am looking forward to having an awesome soccer experience while studying and improving my academics at a top tier school.

Photo courtesy of Jonathon Sabouri.

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What motivated you, why do you want to play in college? I immediately really liked lacrosse and I have never stopped liking it since. I think if I stopped playing in college I might go crazy (haha).

Whats your favorite memory of playing LAX for SDA? Beating CCA my junior year was one of my favorite lacrosse memories of all time, because it really showed how much we had improved over the last few years.

Are you nervous to play in college? How competitive will it be? I’m a little bit nervous to play in college just because the athleticism is on a much higher level but I think that if I train enough over summer I should be OK. What do you look forward to when playing for UCSB? I’m excited to see how I mesh with the team. Building relationships is, to me, the most important part about playing any sport.

Why do you want to play in college? I’ve played basketball my whole life, and it’s always been a passion of mine to improve my game and get better every day. Playing at the collegiate level has always been a goal of mine, and chasing that goal has kept me going throughout the years.

What’s your favorite memory of playing basketball for SDA? My favorite memory of SDA would have to be winning the Under Armor Holiday Classic. It was such an incredible achievement for our team, and it is a memory I will never forget.

Are you nervous to play basketball in college?

I am nervous to play in college. The competition and physicality is at a much higher level.

What do you look forward to when playing for Trinity University? I look forward to the relationships that I will form with my teammates, and traveling to different parts of the country. I am also excited to continue representing my school on the basketball court.

Photo courtesy of Lucas Oldham.

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the mustang

Girls Volleyball

Girls Tennis

Jennifer Kerr Columbia University, NCAA D1

Kiani Kerstetter Stony Brook, NCAA D1

Why do you want to play in college? I enjoy the competitive aspect of the sport itself, it keeps me disciplined and hardworking.

What’s your favorite memory of playing volleyball for SDA? My favorite memories are, of course, winning CIF championships my junior and senior years of high school. Also having the opportunity to meet everyone I have met through tennis.

Are you nervous to play tennis in college? I’m not nervous to play in college but it will definetely be a new experience and competitive. All the other tennis players are competitive players who have been playing throughout high school.

What do you look forward to when playing for Columbia? I look forward to being a part of a team and being able to play for not only myself but my school.

Photo courtesy of Kiani Kerstetter.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Kerr.

Girls Volleyball

Girls Volleyball

Kiahna Holman Kentucky Christian University, NCAA D3

Savannah Casey University of Redlands, NCAA D3

Why do you want to play in college? My mom played volleyball at the D1 level for San Diego State, so I was raised that after high school, you carry your career on into college. I love the sport and being a competitive person, I desire tough competition that can only be found at the collegiate level.

What’s your favorite memory of playing Volleyball for SDA? I think my favorite memories are on-court celebrations after scoring a big point with the Stang Gang cheering in the background. Those moments fill me up.

Are you nervous to play in college? No, I went to Kentucky for my official visit the whole team was warm and welcoming and the coaching staff was extremely knowledgable.

What do you look forward to when playing for Kentucky Christian University? I am super excited to refine my skills while traveling to brand new states with new teammates, with whom I hope to form lifelong friendships with.

Photo courtesy of Kiahna Holman.

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Why do you want to play in college? I’ve been playing volleyball since I was young and have fallen in love with the sport. I want to challenge myself at the the collegiate level.

What’s your favorite memory of playing volleyball for SDA? My favorite memory would be our team bonding trips to Mammoth at the beginning of each season. They were always so fun and I will never forget them!

Are you nervous to play volleyball in college?

I’m more excited than nervous. I can’t wait to start training with the team. Since it’s D1 it should be very competitive which I’m really looking forward to because I love competing.

What do you look forward to when playing for Stony Brook? I’m really looking forward to improving my game and being challenged by high level athletes in my position. I’m also really excited to experience life in Long Island.

Why do you want to play in college? I really enjoy the sport. It’s something I’m passionate about so I wanted to continue it in college.

What’s your favorite memory of playing volleyball for SDA? I’ve had a lot of memories but I think my favorite was when we pulled an all-nighter in Las Vegas.

Are you nervous to play volleyball in college? I’m a little nervous to play in college but incredibly excited. I’m worried it will be too much since I’m double majoring, but the coach is extremely helpful and committed so I know she will help me. I’m playing in a Division 3 school so it’s not very competitive. That was one of the reasons why I decided to play volleyball there.

What do you look forward to when playing for the University of Redlands? I’m so excited because I get to start school with 15 friends and two supportive mentors. I’m looking forward to friendships and this community that will be established on campus.

Photo courtesy of Savannah Casey.

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the mustang

Two Sport Athletes

SDA student athletes struggle to balance the busy lifestyle of playing two different sports at the same time. By Yarisette Sequeira.

S

he’s left exhausted from the daily grind of going from school, to track practice, to soccer practice, and then home to complete schoolwork late at night. The next morning she wakes up, only to do it all over again. This is merely the typical schedule for freshman Morgan Busick, a two sport athlete, who runs track and field while playing club soccer.

For some students, balancing one grueling practice after another puts a lot on their plate. However, even after the exhausting workload, many say the challenge is well worth it.

“I did except it to be hard,” said Busick. “I did two sports because I love soccer and it's always been a part of my life and I did track because it was high school, and it's a great experience especially if you do it with friends.”

For many two sports athletes, balancing their busy schedule is a lot to handle. Junior Sofia McAndrews, who is a horseback rider and hurdler on track and field said, “I've gone back and forth from horse competitions to track practice and track races back to horse competitions. Once I'm finished with one I'm like ok I'm done now I can focus on the other one.”

In order to balance the constant rush of sports and academic commitments, some athletes develop methods to make their time most efficient.” I try to get as much homework done during classes and during homeroom and lunch,” said Senior Nick Haghani who participates in both track and field as well as club soccer.

For Busick, the most difficult part about competing in multiple sports is that “It's a lot of work on your body and you get tight and tired and so it's important to eat and sleep

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Junior Sofia McAndrews jumps hurdles with her horse in competitions when she’s not jumping hurdles during track and field. Photo courtesy of Sofia McAndrews. well,” she said.

But bouncing back and forth between sports has its perks. For many, one sport allows them to develop skills or abilities that help them in the other.

“Riding helps me get more focused for track because you have to focus more on that sport than surrounding things so when it comes to racing I can get in the zone easier and try to block out all the outside distractions,” said McAndrews.

“I do track because it benefits me in soccer,” Busick said. “So far by doing track it has helped me with my speed and endurance on the soccer field. I have been able to get to the soccer ball faster.”

Although it is demanding, many athletes remain committed to their sport out of love for what they do and the benefits that they derive from it.

“It’s definitely worth it. I wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t,” said Haghani.

“I think soccer is a little more fun but I take track a little more competitively. It's good to have a balance of both.”

The double life of two sport athletes may be a constant hustle and large workload, but the passion for athletics and eye for improvement keeps many two sports athletes unwilling to spend their days any other way.

“I’ve been riding horses since I was one,” said McAndrews. “And I saw that there were hurdles in track and I was like I have to run like my horses. After that I just sort of stuck with it. It keeps me fit and I don't have to worry about going to the gym and it helps me focus. It's like a stress reliever. I think it is worth it having more than one sport and you definitely don't get bored during the offseason.”

Off the soccer field, senior Nick Haghani competes as a sprinter at track and field meets. Photo by Phil Urbina.

Freshman Morgan Busick, left, excels in competitive soccer, but also runs for track and field. Photo courtesy of Morgan Busick.

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the mustang

Surfer vs. Skater

Senior surfer Cole Clisby and junior skater Vinny Couch share their knowledge and opinions about geometry, music, and more. Story by Mary Ford.

W

hat music can everyone sing along to in the car?

Surfer: Death Grips’

“Get Got” Skater: Some funk

Hey Surfer, I took a quick listen and look at “Get Got” on Vevo. Wow. Then, because my right ear wasn’t really processing it (my left ear was busy), I looked up the lyrics. Another wow. If hard-core metaphorical existential rap is your thing, you go girl. Hopefully, you have some sick subwoofers. And I don’t mean underground dogs. You get 10 points for the letters in subwoofers.

Howdy Skater, or should I say, howdy hodad. Just so you know, that was 1960s slang. It means someone who doesn’t surf. Although I totally schooled you with my knowledge right then, I do actually appreciate your taste in music. Funk is fun for

june 12

the whole family. Well, most of the family. Sometimes dogs don’t like funk music. Most dogs are pretty into rock and roll. Sometimes they like heavy metal. Never pop or funk.

A good Chopin piano composition might bring them to tears. Nonetheless, you defied my expectations.

Most skaters nowadays listen to the Wu-Tang Clan or Black Flag. But funk? That’s real living. Here’s 60 points, man.

Where is Mr. Paige really going next year?

Surfer: To find himself in Australia Skater: I don’t know who that is Hey Surfer, I feel as if you are projecting your own dreams upon the man we belovedly call our principal.

That’s okay. That’s actually why he’s leaving our unconventional, weird school for another weirder, more

unconventional school. Because we want too much. Surfer, we’re too needy. Maybe we all need that trip to Australia to find ourselves. Unfortunately, that visa eventually runs out and they kick you out of the country faster than a kangaroo jumping through the outback. So just spread some Vegemite over your additional 20 points and dream on.

Dang, Skater. How philosophical!

Do any of us really know who Mr. Paige is? The man just waltzed in here two years ago with the audacity to allow us to call him Bjorn, whistle around school like it is nobody’s business, and genuinely smile. Smiling? Here? I’ve been saying for a long time that if we really want to keep SDA funky, we need to ban smiling.

I hope you see what I’m saying. You get 32 points for the number of human teeth.

sports

Couch awaits his fate as Clisby prepares to punch him.

Photo by Mary Ford.

What is the best shape?

Surfer: A triangle. That’s what Mr. Stimson told me Skater: Like shape of a person? A circle.

Hey Surfer. Don’t listen to Mr. Stimson. Triangles are not the best shape. Triangles are boring and just incomplete half rectangles. Minus three points for the points of a triangle.

Hey Skater, I might be missing some audio recording here, but I’m

not sure that any person ever has actually had the shape of a circle.

Sometimes, like Violet Beauregarde from “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” they turn into blueberries and become spheres. Never circles. You get zero points because that is also almost a circle, but not quite.

Surfer: 27 points Skater: 92 points Congratulations Skater, you win nothing!

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06.12.17

The Mustang