My Two Weeks in the “Prison Dress”

The
Paw Print
JSerra Catholic High School
Volume 32 • April 2015
My Two Weeks in
the “Prison Dress”
by Zoe Kaffen
My Monday morning on March 16,
2015, started out like most Mondays. I got
up at the crack of dawn, raced to school, and
struggled to shove twenty pounds of books
in my locker before going to the Bistro to
grab a water. However, as fate would have
it, going to the Bistro would be my undoing,
and as I turned the corner I came face to face
with Mrs. Desmond. It didn’t help that my
sister tried to run away, leaving me stranded.
But by then it was too late and I was already
resigned to my fate.
Mrs. Desmond, who enjoyed
watching our attempt to escape, brought
me to her office and informed me I was on
my third skirt violation; she presented me
with a dire ultimatum: baggy-boy Dickies for
a month, or the Amish plaid dress for two
weeks.
The rest of that day all I could do
was weigh the pro’s and con’s of a dress versus pants.What would people
think? What would my teachers think? Will I look just straight up horrible
for two weeks or a month? In the end I chose the Amish outfit, and the
very next morning, there I was, at the start of what was
going to be two very long weeks, seriously regretting
my decision, but ready to take on the challenge.
continued on page 2
JSerra Catholic High School • 26351 Junipero Serra Road
Camino Walk
by Garret Prendiville
Along with the Catalina Trip and
Grad Night, the Camino Walk is one of the
last times the senior class will be together
before everyone goes their separate ways.
The Camino Walk consists of students
walking from the JSerra Campus all the way
to St. Michael’s Abbey located in Silverado.
This 14-mile journey may seem daunting and
useless in concept. However, The Camino
serves a spiritual purpose as well.
The inspiration of this JSerra
tradition comes from the spiritual pilgrimage
walk, “Camino de Santiago,” also known as,
“The Way of St. James.” The pilgrimage trip
has various trails all over western Europe
and all end at the Cathedral of Santiago de
Compostela in Galicia, Spain. This gothicbaroque style church is the final resting place
of Saint James the Great, one of the twelve
Apostles.
But why would someone want to do
a spiritual pilgrimage such as JSerra’s Camino
Walk? The Camino Walk offers the students
the opportunity to grow closer to Christ as
well as their friends just like retreats, such
as the junior retreat and Kairos. Through the
challenge of walking 14 miles, the seniors
find a common problem and conquer it with
camaraderie.
continued on page 5
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 • (949) 493-9307 • JSerra.org
Page Two
“Prison Dress”
continued from page 1
The first day flew by in a breeze
of jokes from my friends, lots of unwanted
selfies, and laughter from every teacher I
walked by. A lot of people took pictures;
even in the athletic parking lot after school
random parents would ask to take a picture of
me. The most common jokes were the ones
about churning butter and running down the
grassy knoll singing, “Sound of Music.” Even
teachers came up with clever comparisons.
Looking back on it, all the jokes
and laughs actually made the dress more
fun to wear. And to be honest, no one that
approached me was judgmental or insulting.
As the week went on, the dress became less
like a funny joke and more like a punishment.
Mass days became my favorite days of the
week and a short break from the Amish
dress. I can’t say I’m really going to regret
taking this dress off, but if I learned anything
from this experience, it’s how accepting and
non judgmental the JSerra student body and
faculty are and that what is on the inside
matters more to people than the outside.
The
Paw Print
Staff
Katia Bergstrom
Sydni Brown
Olivia Coyle
Megan D’Souza
Michael Elsanadi
Connor Ferrell
Mary Kaffen
Zoe Kaffen
Emma McClellan
Garrett Prendiville
Julia Sanchez
Ryan Sánchez
Jenny Woo
Mr. Jeff Kahl, Advisor
College Gap Years
by Mary Kaffen
After college students graduate from their respective colleges,
more and more students are beginning to take advantage of a few free
years post-graduation. Many students are hesitant to jump right into the
workforce and pursue a full-time career. If you find yourself hesitant to
begin a life-long career right after school, you should consider doing
other productive activities with your time, like interning, traveling, or even
volunteering, to beef up your resume for future and more permanent
careers.
Here is a list of 5 activities to improve your chances of getting
into your dream job while enjoying a few years of freedom:
1) Be an Adventure Guide: If you like outdoors and adventure
you should check out this part-time job. Remember that most adventure
companies are looking to hire young people who love to rock climb, white
water raft, sky dive, and bungee-jump.
2) Nanny: Being a nanny is a great opportunity for people who like
working with children. It’s also great if you want to save your money for
future excursions. Live-in nannies get added perks, such as free room and
board, as well as a weekly paycheck, travel opportunities with the family,
and a free car.
3) Gap Year Program: Try a gap year like the Peace Corps or
AmeriCorps. These various organizations will not only teach you
important life lessens but give you a ton of material to discuss during a
job interview. You may even be able to travel to various countries with a
charity organization.
4) Internships:There are numerous companies that do not require
a student to be enrolled in a college during the internship. Most of these
internships also offer the intern a salary. This is a great way to gain work
experience and connections with multiple employers.
5) Invest in your Passion: If you love yoga or rumba, enjoy skiing or
painting or have another passion that you wish you could pursue, consider
investing a training course to become certified in your passion.You could
become a certified yoga instructor or teach others how to ski. Love the
beach? Look into to becoming a life guard so that you can spend your
time on the beach while getting paid. You may even be able to turn your
hobby into a career.
Page Three
Young Role Models
Our Drought
by Sydni Brown
How is it that people our age, teenagers, are able
to win Nobel Peace prizes, or contribute greatly to cancer
research? How did these people come to achieve so much
success when they started out the same way we did? What
changed in their lives that didn’t in everybody else’s?
What makes people great is not their one crowning
achievement or their fifteen minutes of fame they’re know
for. They were great way before that, becoming experts
in their field long before they were known by the world.
There’s a theory that states, “ten thousand hours is the
magic number for greatness.” But what does that mean?
Look at Jack Andraka, the 15-year-old who created
a new diagnostic test for pancreatic cancer, and won the Intel
International Science and Engineering Fair in 2013.Andraka didn’t
just one day wake up and decide to create a new diagnostic test.
He’d had an interest in science for as long as he could remember.
His mother stated, “…we have a million [science]
magazines [and] sit around the table and talk about how people
came up with their ideas and what we would do differently.”
Andraka had already acquired a vast knowledge of science,
so when he became interested in the world of pancreatic cancer, he
invested so much time and effort into his project, that he virtually
became an expert in the field.While looking for a place to conduct
his research, Andraka contacted 200 professors at Johns Hopkins
University at the National Institutes of Heath with his plan for the
entire project, including time line and budget. He received 199
rejection e-mails, but one acceptance was all he needed.
People like Jack Andraka, and other successful teenagers,
don’t just achieve success overnight, yet, we are astounded that the
world would allow these teenagers to achieve so much.But that’s not
what happens.The world only allows one sixteen-year-old access to
research facilities at Johns Hopkins University because that teenager
put in his 10,000 hours of work, on top of his natural knack for
science. It was his drive and dedication that got him to where he is
now, because his natural talent could have only taken him so far.
by Michael Elsanadi
Continuing with our fourth year into a recordbreaking drought, we, as residents of the state of California, are
confronted with the continual threat of no water. Our reservoir
levels have reached an all-time low as, according to the California
state government’s bi-weekly drought brief, the majority of our
major reservoirs have below-the-average amount of water.This
is the result of a reduced amount of snow pack in recent years.
Snow pack is essentially compressed and hardened snow on
the ground; however this snow, when melted, provides a major
source of water as it supplies our rivers and reservoirs.The less
snow pack we receive each year, the lesser amount of water we
have in our rivers and reservoirs.
There is speculation around the reasons for the drought.
A recent study done by Columbia University for the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration concluded that “natural
oceanic and atmospheric patterns are the primary drivers behind
California’s ongoing drought.” The study argues that these
patterns are normal and have occurred in previous times during
California and its area’s history. In an additional study done by a
team of scientists at Stanford University, it was concluded that the
high pressure, as it was concluded by the NOAA, that prevents
rain from falling in California is the reason for the drought.
However differing from the NOAA, the Stanford scientists argue
that this high pressure that is blocking precipitation is more likely
to occur now because of the emission of greenhouse gases.
Regardless, we are in a severe drought and we desperately
need to conserve water. When watering plants or timing your
sprinklers, the best time to water, or time them, both for your
plants and conserving water, is 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. Additional steps
you can take to conserve water include using the water you use to
wash fruits and vegetables to water your plants, using mulch around
trees and plants to reduce the evaporation of water in the soil, and
also looking into composting fruit and vegetable waste. Recognizing
our drought and working to prevent the waste of our own water
are small and simple steps towards remedying this drought.
Campus Ministry
Cissie, Chiara, and Gloria
by Katia Bergstrom
Cissie, Chiara, and Gloria, all born in the late
20th century, were stricken with cancer as children, but
overcame adversity by trusting in God and offering up their
illness. In doing so, these three girls inspired many, whether
friends and families, or people around the world.
Cissie Morse died in 1970, when she was thirteen.
She lived in La Puente, California, a mere 45-minute drive
north of JSerra in the San Gabriel Valley. Cissie, who had
been a rambunctious, athletic girl, now decided to give
up her suffering for aborted babies, and said that if God
accepted that, then she hoped she would retain her appetite
for sweets. She was able to eat any type of sweets, including
candy and soda, and she even compared all of her sufferings
to what Jesus suffered on the Cross. She was devoted to
her crucifix and scapular. She died on July 13th, 1970.
Cissie would often climb on the house, in spite of her
parents telling her not to. Her mother was deeply worried
about her, and wished she would act more like a respectful
young lady. However, in order for Cissie to get her energy out,
she encouraged her to join the volleyball team her eighth grade
year. She did, and one day during a game, she fell on her knee.
The knee had been painful for a while, but the fall made it worse.
Then, weeks later during a shopping trip, Cissie complained that
her knee hurt so bad she felt faint. Her mother immediately
took her to the doctor: she had a form of bone cancer, and
would not live long (the treatment for cancer was not as well
established compared to today.) Everyday at school, she left at
twelve o’clock for radiation, which was how she decided to
treat her cancer, rather than chemotherapy.
One night, her mother walked into the room
seeing her with her eyes wild. She said, “Get out, go away,”
as though she were speaking to someone who wasn’t there.
She then broke down and cried that she was bad and wasn’t
going to Heaven. Her mother told her to kiss her crucifix
and then, she calmed down. Her mother assumed that
Cissie had been attacked by the devil.
When Cissie died, one of her youngest siblings (she
had ten siblings) was sad that she died. He was four, and he
didn’t quite understand the concept of Heaven. So he said
that if Cissie was still there and loved her, then he wanted
her to send him some lollipops. Not even a day passed by,
and a lady soon knocked on their door. She said she had a
big bag a lollipops for the children. When her brother saw
that he was so happy, and knew it was a sign that his older
sister was watching over him from Heaven.
Chiara Badano was the only child in her family. Her
parents had prayed for a child for eleven years. She was
born on October 29th, 1971, in the small village of Sassello,
Italy. When she was eighteen, she got a painful form of bone
cancer, the result of athletic falls or injuries, like the other
two girls. Chiara refused morphine and offered up all of
her sufferings to God. She would walk with a depressed
patient who was also in the hospital at that time.
Gloria Strauss, born near Seattle, Washington, in
1996, contracted her cancer when she was hit in the face
with a soccer ball at the age of seven. She was diagnosed
with nueroblastoma (the deadliest form of cancer to attack
children) and suffered with her cancer for the longest
period of time. She eventually died after four years. She
led many people to Christ by her example. One blind man
heard about her and went to visit her. He said that when
she came into the room, he could see Gloria perfectly,
dressed in white. When Gloria went out of the room, he
was blind once more.
These girls are inspirations of courage and
determination, not only in their acceptance of God’s will,
but also in the spreading of their faith and the carrying of
their crosses.
Campus Ministry
Camino Walk
continued from page 1
JSerra graduate, Ryan Najjar (Class of 2014),
remembered his Camino Walk by saying, “We bonded in
the same ways athletes endure pain and accomplishment
together. I felt that I was able to become a little bit closer
to those whom I endured the arduous walk with.”
To any concerned parent or student, the Camino Walk will
be safe and water will always be readily available.
In addition, our fearless spiritual leader on campus,
Father Damien, will lead the students to the Abbey in a
spiritual and adventurous way by showing us wildlife along
the way and also celebrating mass in the chapel with the
students before the walk.
With all these factors, the Camino Walk is bound
to be a success as it is each year. The graduating class will
grow closer and have fun along the way.To any seniors who
are still on the fence about the whole walk, Father Damien
added one more bonus by saying: “the students can fit into
their dresses and suits for prom.”
Nature vs. Grace
or How I Tuned Out the Noise...
The real Camino de Santiago, which runs from France to Spain.
There is even a route that begins in Norway.
Noah Mudd, who walked the path last year, enjoyed
how students from different social groups experienced the
same walk:“It didn’t matter if you were a CIF Cross Country
Runner or a professional couch potato, the Camino is a
great time for everybody. I loved getting the chance to walk
different parts with different people and talking to them,
praying with them, or even belting various Jesus songs with
them to get us through the long walk.”
Although the trek may seem grueling and
intimidating, the Camino Walk is truly a bonding experience
that will last years to come for myself and fellow graduates.
by Mr. Kahl
Though a political science graduate, I have
turned my back on political discourse. The acrimony
has become painful, even sad. Prognosticators, pundits,
experts, friends, Romans, countrymen—all scrambling
to be heard.
Reading the The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas
Á Kempis, I reached page 215 and found my voice—as
written by a Catholic monk nearly 600 years ago:
“My child, study carefully the impulses of Nature
and Grace, for they are opposed to one another...
“Nature does everything for her own gain and
interest. She does nothing without a fee, hoping either
to gain some equal or greater return for her services,
or else praise and favor...
“Grace refers all things to God... She is not
arrogant and presumptuous. She does not argue and
exult her own opinion before others, but submits all her
powers of mind and perception to the eternal wisdom
and judgement of God.”
Fine Arts
Fine Arts Magnet
by Olivia Coyle
JSerra takes pride in the many opportunities
What inspired you to begin the Fine Arts Magnet?
offered to students, and it seems as though more and more
When JSerra opened, I became the Vice Principal
departments are becoming involved in the development of
for Student Affairs for several years. Once I came back
various magnet programs. The Fine Arts program will be
into the classroom, the Arts Program was not that strong. I
offering an exciting new Fine Arts Magnet this upcoming fall.
started trying to form a little bit of what we had at OCHSA:
Its mission is to expose art students to opportunities that
a pre-professional training for students who are interested
will help them thrive in their different interests and talents.
in the arts.
Mrs. Harrell is heading the Magnet, so she has answered
What are some of the new courses being offered?
questions some may have about the new program.
We are working on completing that list on the
website. There will be a track according to each area of
discipline and the requirements to get the mark on your
diploma stating you graduated from this program.
What are some future plans for the Magnet?
Classes will continue to be added throughout the
development of the program. Starting next year, we will
hopefully be bringing back AP Art History, and eventually
other courses such as AP Music Theory and a higher level
of dance.
Is it too late to apply?
Applications are due on April 22 and auditions
will shortly follow. Students are encouraged to speak to
directors about the applications.
What are the different facets of the Magnet?
What are some requirements of the Magnet?
There are six different ones including broadcast
It is required to take part in the Magnet for all four
journalism, theatre, dance, instrumental music, and choir.
years at JSerra. Incoming freshmen have to choose whether
or not to make that decision. Various outside activities are
What is your background here at JSerra regarding
required, such as recitals, individual concerts, internships,
the Arts Program?
community art shows, etc.
When I first came to JSerra, I came from Orange
County School of the Arts (OCHSA) and was at OCHSA
What should applicants know?
for eighteen years until I moved south. A partner and I
There will be a limit put on how many people can be
decided to open up California Conservatory of the Arts.
a part of the Magnet. It will be a little bit more competitive.
We did that for a year before JSerra opened. The Building
We are encouraging everyone to get their applications in
One classrooms located downstairs such as the black box
and do the audition and go to your directors to find out
and the dance rooms were built out for us to get started
specific times and processes. It will become more selective
knowing that eventually it would be part of JSerra.
due to the limit of students.
Fine Arts
“Movie Magic” Coming Soon!
by Jenny Woo
The difference is that the JSerra program invites dancers of all
While many of you are counting down the days until the
levels to participate; therefore there is always that extra thrill
start of summer vacation, make sure you’re also counting down
of beginners going out on stage for maybe their first or second
the days until Friday, May 8, JSerra’s last dance recital of the school
time. It can seem scary at first, but in the end, it is always fun
year! The recital will be held at the Laguna Hills Community
for the dancers and for their families to see them on stage.”
Center at 7:30 PM, with tickets being sold for $5.00 each.
The finale of the show, which is a piece of music from the
Even if you didn’t get a chance to see the JSerra
classic movie Grease, has been in high demand for the last three
Dance Program’s last recital back in November, you’re in for
an entertaining evening with family, friends, or even a cute date.
years and Mrs. McClellan states she was “happy and inspired”
Definitely be prepared to put your hands together for the dancers
when she announced it to all three of her dance classes.
as they pirouette away, but not in the classical way you’d expect.
For those of you who love watching dance
This year’s spring dance theme is “Movie Magic;” the audience will
performances, or even those of you who have never seen one
have the opportunity to see students dance to some of the most
before, you should definitely consider coming to see the Spring
memorable soundtracks from timeless movies, such as Grease,
Dance Concert.With music and dance moves from all of your
favorite movies, I guarantee you will not be disappointed!
The Polar Express, and Star Wars, along with some modern
favorites like Wreck It Ralph and Twilight.
Dance styles throughout the performance will include jazz,
Bridging Birds of Spirit
musical theater, lyrical, ballet en pointe, and much more! Students
by Katia Bergstrom
When you’re sitting in the darkness with only tunes as your guide,
will even perform group pieces that they have choreographed
alone in your plight,
themselves in addition to self-choreographed solos. I spoke with
playing the booming keys of the cathedral’s voice steps,
Mrs.Ann-Marie McClellan,JSerra’s dance department director,about
and the bird that comes flocking reminds you of his presence;
her upcoming showcase and her thoughts on how it is functioning,
who was listening to you.
as well as the students that are working hard to perform in it.
You know it’s his spirit that’s bridging the gap
between the light and the doom.
As a very talented dancer herself, Mrs. Ann-Marie
Sitting
down
again in the place he dwelt with you,
McClellan has brought so much energy and liveliness to the JSerra
you find his wings fly around your arm,
dance performances and always leaves the audience wanting
just as they did years ago.
more. Mrs. McClellan, a dance teacher who “love[s] helping the
And his spirit lives with you on your fingertips,
making your words as numerous
students to discover their personal, artistic potential,” has directed
as the emotions that drive your heart.
countless performances, including many with her own company,
His soul interspersed on the instrument of your gusto,
the Pacific Theatre Ballet in Aliso Viejo.
until he flies off into the clouds, leaving strings of his feathers strewn.
When asked how JSerra performances and her
And forever he lives imprinted within your memory.
company performances compare, she replied,“Directing JSerra
All because of your metaphors of charity at the door and steps,
unlocking them with your magic.
shows are very similar to directing my Pacific Theatre Ballet
And
you
know it’s his spirit, bridging the gap
productions in that we hold the performances at the same
between the light and the doom;
location, Laguna Hills Community Center; there are always
only you know why as tears flow from your eyes.
tickets, posters, and programs to be designed, printed, and sold.
Sports
Boys Lacrosse
by Julia Sanchez
With an overall
record of 9-3 (as of
4/18) and an in-league
record of 3-0, defeating
Santa Margarita, Servite
and Mater Dei, the 2015
lacrosse season has begun
with a bang. Now that the
winter sports season has
ended, the spring sports for
JSerra begin. With a ranking
of 78th in the nation
and 17th in the state of
California, the team enters
league with a strong record
behind them. After beating
Santa Margarita in their first in-league game with a final score of
12-11, the team’s next in-league game will be played on April 16
against Mater Dei at home.
JSerra lacrosse has been known across the board
as one the best teams in CIF. Six JSerra seniors have already
committed to schools to play NCAA Division 1 lacrosse. Those
seniors include James Yanes-Hofstra University, Jake SchleppyHigh Point University, Nick Georgagi-Colorado Mesa University,
Kennedy Solomon-UMBC,Yuta Murata- ColbyCollege, and Logan
Olmsted-Colorado Mesa University.
As the defending Trinity League Champions, the team is heading
into the season ready to keep their title as one of the most
respected lacrosse programs west of the Rockies.
Coach Kyle Harrison has a positive outlook on the rest
of the season, hoping to bring the team all the way gaining more
wins as the season
progresses, hopefully
heading
towards
another CIF Trinity
League title. The
lacrosse season still
has multiple games
left in their season
so there is still an
opportunity to watch
one of the most
highly-accoladed
sport
in Trinity
League sports!
Sports
Baseball
by Mary Kaffen
Entertainment
Empire
by Megan D’Souza
CFO of Empire, talented singer-songwriter Jamal (Jussie
Fox Network’s latest musical drama series,
Smollett), and fame-obsessed rapper Hakeem (Bryshere Y.
“Empire,” has gracefully, yet powerfully, destroyed media
Gray)—against each other to see who will take over the
and television stereotypes with Fox’s first all-Africancompany after he passes. Lucious’s conniving with Andre,
American cast. Created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong,
however, has sent his family into a frenzy to compete with
“Empire” was renewed for a second season on January
one another in any way possible, whether it be leaking
17th, only seven days after its pilot aired on television. Its
private photos to the public or issuing controversial
pilot garnered 12.7 million viewers, surpassing the 10.3
statements to the press.
million viewers of the “Breaking Bad” series finale.
Sprinkled with guest-stars such as Raven-Symoné,
The show
Rita
Ora,
Mary J. Blige, and Juicy J, “Empire” has been widely
follows the
regarded as one of the best new shows this pilot season.
lives of the
The show’s premiere has ranked as Fox Network’s highest
Lyon family,
debut in three years. Viewership increases steadily on a
a well-toweekly basis, including streaming services and On Demand
do
clan
viewing. In
in
New
its
first
York City
season,
who owns
“Empire”
a hip-hop
h a s
production
eclipsed
c o m p a n y,
“ T h e
entitled “Empire Entertainment.” The father, Lucious Lyon,
Big Bang
played by Terrence Howard, (former drug dealer-turned
Theory”
successful rapper) has been
as
the
recently diagnosed with ALS,
highest-ranking scripted show in the 2014-2015 season.
and his ex-wife, Cookie Lyon
Its first season has also surpassed the rankings of the
(Taraji P. Henson), has just
first season of “Grey’s Anatomy.” Script writers Daniels
been released from her 17and Strong have been praised on their ability to integrate
year jail sentence. Ironically,
modern socio-economic issues with the characters’ plots
the $400,000 worth of
and subplots.
drug money that started
Many viewers have already expressed their
the company is what landed
interest and theories about the second season’s plot
Cookie in jail to begin with.
online and all over social media. You can catch up on
Since Lucious’s ALS diagnosis,
“Empire” on the Fox website, and look forward to new
he has been secretly pitting
episodes coming later this year.
his sons—Andre (Trai Byers),
Entertainment
Neon Genesis Evangelion
by Ryan Sanchez
realistic view of how your average teenager would act in a
Back in the year 1995, the Japanese economy was
situation as dire as theirs.
in shambles, and millions of men were withdrawing from
If your typical action hero is brave, handsome,
society and became obsessed with unproductive hobbies
and cool under pressure, then Shinji is his antithesis; he
such as watching anime, modeling, and video games. One
is cowardly, weak, and has virtually no self-confidence.
man, Gainax animator Hideaki Anno, was struggling with
He reluctantly pilots the Eva, and only does so to gain
depression and began to realize how destructive this
the approval of his father and others. His situation
phenomenon really was. He soon began crafting his most
is not helped by the fact that his fellow pilots are
famous work, Neon Genesis Evangelion, an apocalyptic
equally damaged. The First Child, Rei, is quiet, nearly
coming-of-age story known for its stunning visuals,
emotionless, and completely lacks self-worth. The Third
memorable characters, and its rejection of the cliches that
Child, Asuka, a fiery German, is the polar opposite. Her
plagued the animation industry.The series’ psychoanalysis of
loud, obnoxious, and domineering disposition serves as
its characters, exploration of themes such as fear, love, selfthe foil to Shinji and Rei’s passivity, and the interactions
worth, and the complexities of human relationships have
the three share become increasingly dysfunctional as
made the Evangelion franchise one of the most popular in
the series progresses. On the surface, the pilots might
Japanese history.
seem like stereotypical characters, but Evangelion offers
The story begins in the year 2000, when scientists
insight into each of their tragic back stories and how
uncovered a being named Adam frozen under the ice of
past psychological trauma can have lasting impacts on
Antarctica. Without warning, the creature triggered an
the human mind.
explosion that melted the ice and caused the deaths of half
The 26 episode series and the finale movie, End
of the human race. 15 years later, Earth is under assault
by Adam’s kin, called Angels. The nations of the world
of Evangelion, are rightfully remembered as some of the
have constructed a small fleet of giant robots known as
best examples of Japanese animation and actors such as
Evangelions to do battle with this mysterious foe.The story
Robin Williams have drawn inspiration from its themes and
revolves around the 14 year
referenced it in their works.
old Second Child, Shinji Ikari,
With a few exceptions, the
and his fellow pilots. They
hand-drawn animation is
carry the burden of ensuring
great and the intricate plot
humanity’s survival, while
keeps viewers engaged the
trying to live a normal life on
whole time. If you cannot
the front lines of a seemingly
live without a happy ending,
un-winnable war. The series
watching this is not advised,
explores the psychological
but if intense fight scenes,
states of the pilots, who are
drama, and teenage angst
little more than glorified
are your thing, then this is
child soldiers, and offers a
the show for you.
Opinions
The opinions expressed here are those of the student journalist.
They do not reflect the views of the JSerra faculty, staff or administration.
School Bell
#BlackBrunch
Beloved
The JSerra
community
is
burdened
with the most
unpleasant
noise about 20
times a day: the
bell. Ever since
I
shadowed
by Garrett Prendiville
JSerra in eighth
grade, I have had emotions of fear and
hatred of this horrific noise. The bell
produces a ringing sound so boring,
yet intimidating, that it almost creates
a vibe of imprisonment, sadness, and
angst.
JSerra is not the only culprit
exposing their students to such dread.
Almost every school has a bell that
manufactures unpleasant noises that
can bother students. I believe this bell
can, and should be, changed. Even a
softer or more pleasant sounding bell
would make a big change compared to
the current bell.
Another suggestion is so play
segments of songs in replacement
for bells. I remember as a freshmen
the administration played Christmas
music during passing periods over the
PA system which brought everyone
into the spirit of Christmas.
If we were able to change
the current bell, the whole JSerra
community would become more
cheerful and calm.
Racial
tensions
have
been
running
high the last few
months, with the
media incessantly
talking
about
young Africanby Ryan Sánchez
Americans
killed by police.
The “#Blacklivesmatter” movement has
protested this by staging demonstrations
and marches around the country, but their
“#BlackBrunch” movement has been, by
far, the most controversial.
#BlackBrunch consists of blacks
and their “allies” (read: white hipsters)
going into “white spaces,” such as fancy
restaurants, raising their fists, and loudly
reading off the names of blacks killed by
police. Pictures of white families trying
to calm their terrified children while
their table is surrounded by screaming
protestors are all over the internet, and
many of the perpetrators have posted
mocking messages on Twitter.
This a sick parody of the sit-in
protests during the 1960s, only this time
with the races reversed. This movement
is racist and it drives people apart.
During the
second reading
at Mass, we
sometimes hear
about Saint Paul’s
letters to Timothy.
In them, Saint Paul
calls Saint Timothy
“Beloved.” He did
by Katia Bergstrom
this to express
affection and love for him because he
saw God in his friend. It shows how
deeply he cared for him, how much he
loved him as God loves.
I love to reflect on this word.I see
a positive connotation to it. Would a father
not want to address his child as “beloved?”
Doesn’t a mother caress her children and
say that she loves them? Don’t brothers
and sisters hug one another and say their
sibling’s name with affection? Even friends,
in greeting or parting, will use terms of
endearment with a person they care about.
Since we are all human beings, connected
to one another, shouldn’t we all address
one another with little signs of love?
Saint Paul says we should,“Greet
one another with a holy kiss.” I believe
we should stop breaking the human bond
with one another. Rather, we should pull
the bond tighter and embrace it. We
should try to see the good in one another,
try to see God within each other, as Saint
Paul did with Timothy, shining warm light
into the souls of others, so that they may
get glimpses of Heaven on Earth.
Letters to the Editor
The Paw Print welcomes reader feedback. Letters
must contain your full name and grade level, or if a
non-student, your full name and city of residence.
Please e-mail Mr. Kahl at jkahl@jserra.org with a
subject heading of “Letters to the Editor.”
Opinions
Germanwings
Airbus A320
With the
recent crash of
the Germanwings
Airbus
A320,
questions arise
about the many
conflicts
with
airplanes
and
their
captains.
by Julia Sanchez
With discovery
that Andreas Lubitz was unhealthy and
deemed unable to fly, yet still went on
board and intentionally crashed the plane,
killing innocent civilians, I think the ICAO
(International Civil Aviation Organization)
should perform thorough background
checks on their pilots.
Although Lubitz passed all the
standard medical tests allowing him to
fly again—after a break from flying in
2006 due to depression—he did not
undergo a new psychological exam.
After his stint in 2006 with depression
and a burnout, he should have been
required to undergo an exam in order
to deem whether or not he was
mentally healthy to fly.
I think one of these exams
should be mandatory for every pilot
no matter what country or airline,
especially if in the past they have had
problems with mental health. Now
many families mourn the loss of their
loved ones because Lubitz was able to
board the flight.
White-Water Rafting
When you
think of whitewater
rafting,
do you think of
tubing down the
sleepy Colorado
river with your
family—or
running
the
by Zoe Kaffen
rapids at New
Zealand’s River of Death?
White water rafting is largely
considered a family-fun summer trip, but
experienced rapid runners know that
the toughest rapids are anything but.
Having been down two rapids myself,
one in Arizona and one in Colorado,
I can definitely say that white water
rafting is not a Disney Rapid Falls ride
with fun splashes and quick drops.
Most often a river’s danger level
is graded on the International Scale of
River Difficulty from one to six, one
being a flat lake to six being the absolute
limit to what is humanly possible to run.
Rivers vary with drops, whirlpools, rock
beds and much more that can cause
harm to a raft or rafter. Despite the
obvious dangers, adventurous rafters
still try to tackle the biggest, baddest
rivers in an attempt to push the River
Difficulty boundaries.
So is white water rafting
a summer death wish? With only 30
casualties per year out of three million
people that ride the rapids, white water
rafting is definitely not a death wish.
Spotify
As an avid
Spotify
user,
I
began
to
question how
the streaming
service worked
and how artists
benefit
from
people listening
by Olivia Coyle
to music for
“free.”
Spotify allows its users to listen
to music for free, with advertisements.
Listeners also have the option to
subscribe to Spotify services for $9.99/
month to enjoy ad-free music. So
how do artists themselves benefit by
allowing their music to be posted on
Spotify? After all, one sale on iTunes is
worth 33 streams through Spotify. Last
November, Taylor Swift withdrew her
music library with the belief that music
should be valued at a higher level than
what Spotify offers. She has a point.
Spotify states, “by bringing
listeners into our free, ad-supported
tier, we migrate them away from
piracy and less-monetized platforms
and allow them to generate far greater
loyalties than before.”
Spotify serves to be very
useful and exposes people to new
artists and music, however I believe in
supporting artists as much as possible.
I can’t help but to feel a little guilty
when I listen to streamed music.
Opinions
An Interesting
Candidate
With cheering
supporters,
Senator Rand
Paul of Kentucky
announced his
candidacy for
the Republican
presidential
nomination.
by Michael Elsanadi
Following
in
the Libertarian footsteps of his father,
Ron Paul, Senator Rand Paul is an
interesting candidate.
His proposed policies and
ideologies deviate from not only the
Republican and Democratic norm, but
the recent American political norm as
a whole. With his campaign to “defeat
the Washington Machine,” Rand Paul
claims that he will do what most
Republican candidates claim they
will do: cut taxes, balance the budget,
work towards repealing Obamacare,
and reduce government regulation.
However, Senator Paul differs
in what he emphasizes: term limits
on Representatives and Senators,
allowing judges to depart from
mandatory minimum-sentencing laws,
and allowing non-violent felons in the
country to vote in federal elections.
Rand Paul is a new candidate
that we all should consider because
he is bringing something different to,
what seem to be, mundane elections.
My 16th Birthday
Audition Process
On this day,
April 21st, I am
writing this as a
newly-celebrated
16-year-old. As
much as I knew
I would receive
greetings and hugs
on my birthday, I
by Megan D’Souza
had no idea turning
sixteen was such an enormous occasion.
Students and teachers I
haven’t spoken to before wished me a
wonderful day, which only added to the
excitement of this special time.You only
turn sixteen once, so I would also like
to take this opportunity to thank my
incredible friends and teachers that have
made this birthday one to remember.
To my friends Delaina Nelson,
Sydney Fitzgerald, Riley Brown, Alden
Hagopian, Kanan Hermosillo, Sarah
Abdeshahian, Aidan Nally, Heather
Baker, Olivia Coyle, and Maddie Banker:
You are beautiful people and I am so
lucky to share this time with you.
Thank you for helping me celebrate
this special day, I love you so much.
And
my
teachers
Mr.
Misiow, Mr. Kahl, the entire religion
department, Mrs. McKeagney, Ms.
Ybarra, and Mrs. Hirsch, you have all
given me such strength and inspiration
throughout my years here at JSerra,
and I am blessed to have each of you
in my life. Thank you all for everything.
Recently
I watched a
documentary
on the audition
process for A
Chorus
Line.
The
many
hopefuls
who
vied desperately
by Emma McClellan
for a role in the
production were narrowed down to a
small number of candidates. The journey
for these performers lasted eight months
before the director finally informed them
who had been cast in the show. For those
who had been cast, it was a moment of
total elation; for those who were cut, it was
the tragic outcome of eight months of their
lives spent fiercely trying to get the part.
Few people understand the
hard work and the heartbreak that
contributes to the Broadway musical they
view. All of the competing performers
were talented, all were excellent singers
and actors, and all brought a bit of flair
and interpretation to the character they
were auditioning for.
In the end, it came down simply
to the director’s preference. What
struck me most were those who had
been cut and left to start the process
all over again. Still, they expressed a
strong conviction that their turn would
come one day, and that all their hard
work would pay off when they got their
chance on the stage.
Opinions
Traditional
Schedule vs.
Year-Round
by Connor Ferrell
After being
enrolled
in
schools
that
have operated
in both types
of schedules for
the school years,
I believe that
the traditional
school schedule
is more efficient.
With the traditional school
system a student will have a twomonth summer vacation, a two-week
Christmas vacation, and a week break
for Thanksgiving and spring. The
year-around system has a four-week
summer break and three weeks for
fall, winter, and spring break with an
additional week for Thanksgiving.
I feel that even though the
three-week break throughout the
school year is nice, there is no distinct
break between academic years and
it can get tiresome after being in the
system for five or more years. With
the traditional schedule students really
get a long summer break, offering a
real break between academic years.
The traditional school schedule
is better, compared to the year-around
system, because it provides a break
between school years.
College Loans
College Visits
It has recently
come to my
attention of how
much
parents
really sacrifice
for our needs.
For instance, our
college student
loans; I was
by Jenny Woo
sitting with my
dad at the dinner table one night and he
mentioned how one of his friends just
finished paying off their child’s college
loans after almost a decade.
As teenagers in high school,
when we think of college, we think of
decorating our dorm room, hanging out
with roommates, partying, or grabbing a
bite to eat on campus. But do we ever
stop to think who exactly is going to pay
for all these things? Who is going to pay
for the dorm room, the food, or most
importantly, the college tuition?
Parents these days, and even
the teens themselves, work hard to
raise the funds to pay for their food,
living expenses, and most importantly,
their education.
So the next time you find
yourself complaining to your parents,
remember that your parents are
going to be the ones supporting you
all the way (physically, mentally, and
most importantly financially), and
occasionally tell them how much you
appreciate them.
Up until
last week I’d
never believed
that
college
visits were all
that important.
I figured why
should I go visit
a ton of schools
by Sydni Brown
I might not get
into, or even apply to?
However, I have come to
the conclusion that when faced with
options so different from each other, it
is necessary to visit campuses in order
to discover what type of environment
one feels most comfortable in and can
thrive in.
I recently visited three very
different schools: Westmont, a private
Catholic school in Santa Barbara
with 1,700 students, Cal Poly SLO,
a polytechnic school with 18,000
students, and UCSB, a UC school with
21,000 students. I was shocked at how
different they all are.
While my college visits were
merely an excuse for a road trip,
it made me realize how important
looking at colleges is—but only
if you’re seriously thinking about
the school and have already been
accepted. Premature visits only leave
you longing for schools you might
never have a chance at. So go visit
them when they want you back, too.
JSerra Catholic High School
26351 Junipero Serra Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
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Permit No. 5724
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Spring Musical: “Seussical”...........................................April 23- May 2
Mariner’s Ocean Hills Church
XLT...............................................................................................April 29
JSerra Center Room
AP Testing..........................................................................May 4-May 15
JSerra Campus
Dance Concert..............................May 8
Laguna Hills Community Center
Mother-Son Brunch......................May 9
JSerra Center Room