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The MandolinSt. Francis Catholic High School February 20, 2020 “Spread the Word.” Issue 104 The Loss of a Legend BY HAILEY KOPP ’21 He also dedicated his time to coach Gianna’s bas- ketball team. Gianna was a budding basketball star, de- On Sunday, January 26th, , his daugh- termined to play for the University of Connecticut. “She ter Gianna, and seven other people were killed in a helicop- looked out for the underdog and never left anyone out,” a ter crash near Calabasas, California. Many grieve the nine representative of her school, Harbor Day, said in a state- victims aboard the helicopter that were killed while on the ment. “Gianna was a strong leader, had a work ethic that way to a youth basketball tournament at Bryant’s Mamba was unmatched, and had a level of maturity beyond her thir- Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, California. There had teen years.” been speculation that the helicopter’s engine failed; how- ever, evidence leans more towards pilot error. The weather Kobe and Gianna’s memorial will be held on Feb- reports state that the area was saturated with heavy fog, ruary 24th at the Staples Center, where Kobe played for clouding the pilot’s ability to see the surrounding terrain. most of his twenty season career. His wife, Vanessa Bryant, According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the stated: “My girls and I want to thank the millions of people helicopter was not equipped with a system to warn pilots if who’ve shown support and love during this horrific time. they are approaching the ground. Thank you for all the prayers. We definitely need them.”

The pilot, Ara Zobayan, had been flying aircraft The memorial will be a “Celebration of Life,” re- in Southern California for twenty years. Mr. Zoyaban even membering the life of a legend who influenced others, and his daughter, who demonstrated great dedication and perse- taught others as a certified flight instructor. One of his flight Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna Bryant. students, Darren Kemp, explained that Zoyaban had been Photo Courtesy of Google Images verance. Kobe Bryant once said: Bryant’s private pilot: “He doesn’t let anyone else fly him and daughter--J.J. and Lexi--and the Orange Coast baseball “You know, if you do the work, you work hard around but Ara.” In his last message before the crash, Zoy- community. enough, dreams come true. Those times when you get up aban told air traffic control that he was climbing to avoid early and you work hard. Those times when you stay up late a cloud layer. Sarah and Payton Chester, a mother and daugh- and you work hard. Those times when you don’t feel like ter, also died in the crash. Payton had played for Bryant’s John Altobelli, head coach of a junior college working, you’re too tired, you don’t want to push yourself, team for several years and planned to develop her basketball baseball team in Costa Mesa, was a victim of the fatal crash but you do it anyway. That is actually the dream.” skills in high school and college. Her mother, Sarah, also alongside his wife and daughter, Keri and Alyssa, respec- leaves behind her two sixteen-year-old sons. Sources: tively. Alyssa Altobelli was scheduled to play in the youth tournament. Mr. and Mrs. Altobelli did not want to miss Christina Mauser, a defensive specialist for Bry- New York Times their daughter’s game, so they hitched a ride with Bryant ant’s team, was another victim of the crash. She had flown to avoid an eighty-mile drive in traffic. The death of the in a helicopter with Gianna and Kobe many times before. CNN Altobelli’s devastates their family, leaving behind their son Christina leaves behind her husband, Matthew Mauser, two daughters and son. In an interview on the “Today” show, CBS News Mr. Mauser talked about his children’s grief: “We watched ‘Sports Center’ for two seconds, and everything was about how much everybody was mourning and hurting, and she What’s Inside... [his oldest daughter] said it was nice to know that every- body was hurting along with us.” The Impeachment Trial . . . . . 2 Kobe and Gianna’s death has stunned fans from Australian Bush Fires . . . . 3 around the world who have watched and supported Kobe Iran Overview ...... 3 when he first joined the NBA. Straight out of high school, Kobe joined the Lakers--his team for his entire Troubies in Ghana...... 4 twenty-year NBA career. In his career, he won five NBA Streaming ...... 5 championships. After retiring in 2016, he went on to coach Gianna’s basketball team. In 2018, Kobe won an Oscar for International Night ...... 5 his animated short, “Dear Basketball,” based on a letter he Democratic Debate ...... 6 wrote to the Player’s Tribune to announce his retirement. Review . . . . 6 On and off the court, Kobe had a heart full of pas- The Oscars ...... 7 sion that inspired others. During his games he played with Horoscopes ...... 7 determination, he dedicated his free time to his daughters, Shrine of flowers outside Staples Center in Los Angeles. Galentine’s Recipe . . . . 8 Photo Courtesy of Google Images and he assisted those in need. For example, over the past two decades, he granted 200 wishes for the Make-A-Wish Valentine’s Word Search . . . . 8 Foundation. 2 U.S. News February 20, 2020 The Impeachment Trial BY AUBREY SPOWART ’23 Michael Duffy, a White House budget of- firmed that the men “explicitly -and re a close, a pre-publication leak of the former ficial. The Senate would debate and vote peatedly discussed the possibility that national security advisor’s forthcoming book on each one. Mr. Trump’s lawyers would Trump wanted to dangle US military aid brings new evidence to light -- it reportedly President Trump has been im- also have the option to request witnesses to Ukraine in exchange for politically accuses the president of tying military aid to peached and now faces the next steps in a such as Hunter Biden, the son of former beneficial investigations on the Bidens” Ukraine to investigations of Democrats. The process that could potentially remove him Vice President Joseph R. Biden. If sena- (Business Insider, 18 Oct. 2019, par. 5). claims allegedly made by Mr. Bolton could from office, depending on levels of support tors agree to call witnesses, this would ex- potentially damage the president’s defense. in Congress. Mr. Trump became the third tend the trial well into February, pushing During this ordeal, Mr. Trump or- The account has immediately renewed calls president in U.S. history to be impeached out other important steps for the impeach- dered his administration to withhold a $400 from the Democrats for the Senate to call after two articles of impeachment were ap- ment process to a much later time. Senators million military-aid package to Ukraine Bolton during the impeachment trial. As proved by the House of Representatives, must take a final vote to decide whether days before the phone call. Mr. Trump also Bolton’s new revelations throw into doubt which leaves the U.S. with little precedent to allow the testimonies. It is difficult to pressured Mr. Zelensky to probe a cyber- how Trump’s trial will proceed, many Re- to look to during the trial. This trial runs say when such votes might take place. security firm retained by the Democratic publicans appear to be reconsidering their full steam ahead in the Senate on the two National Committee to investigate Rus- opposition to bringing in witnesses. During articles of impeachment, which includes After the witnesses testify, the sia’s hack of its servers in 2016. Later, in a private lunch, Republican senators dis- abuse of power and obstruction of Con- senators will vote on the two articles of im- the midst of the impeachment inquiry, cussed a possible one-for-one witness deal gress -- criminal bribery and wire fraud peachment, which includes abuse of power President Donald Trump called on China to as part of the impeachment trial. Trump’s charges are incorporated in the abuse of and obstruction of Congress. This resolu- look into former Vice President Joe Biden team would likely call Hunter Biden or the power charge. The trial could end in two tion calls for no debate -- only final votes, and his son Hunter, on the eve of restart- Ukraine whistleblower if John R. Bolton weeks, or it could stretch on much longer, which would conclude the third Senate im- ed trade talks between the two countries. were called as the Democrat’s witness. As depending on how much time is used by peachment trial of a president in U.S. his- Biden has called Trump’s push to have of now, Senators must still partake in a four each side and how much additional evi- tory. When the final votes will take place him investigated by a foreign power “dis- hour debate on whether calling witnesses dence senators vote to review. In the mean- is tentative. Depending on time spent on turbing” and said “it shows Trump is unfit and seeking additional documents is in order. time, events such as the introduction of Trump’s lawyers, senator questions, and for office”. On the other hand, at the UN witnesses and new evidence will arise, and witness testimonies, the vote could happen General Assembly meeting in late Septem- While the impeachment trial is a senators will decide whether to vote in favor days before the President’s union address on ber, “Zelensky denied that he felt pressure threat to Donald Trump, it has also crippled of removing President Trump from office. Tuesday, February 4th, or much later. If the from Trump to investigate the Bidens, and the campaigns of a half dozen Democratic Senate fails to convict, Mr. Trump will be emphasized that he did not want to be in- candidates vying to beat him. The impeach- Beginning the week of January considered impeached but not removed, as volved in American elections”(Business ment schedule consumes every Senator’s 23rd, White House lawyers presented open- was the case with both Clinton in 1998 and Insider, 18 October 2019, par. 19). schedule. Under the Senate’s current rules, ing arguments defending the president. Af- Andrew Johnson in 1868. While the Sen- “all senators must be in session Monday ter this, Trump’s team will have the chance ate trial has the power to oust a president Nearing the end of January, im- through Saturday, starting at around noon to attack the House’s case. Under a clause from office, it does not have the power to peachment managers presented their open- each day”(BuzzFeed News, 17 Oct. 2019, inserted by Senator Mitch McConnell, the send a president to jail, as this is merely a ing arguments, using audio and video tape to par. 3). The trial may last up to five weeks, rules allow Mr. Trump’s legal team to ob- political trial and not a criminal trial. While support their oral presentations, quoting the thus putting several Democratic nominees’ ject to pieces of evidence the House im- presidential removal is unprecedented, the president’s own words in their effort to prove campaigns on hold until the primaries start. peachment investigators gathered in their current Vice President Mike Pence would him guilty. On January 24th, the managers Sens. Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren inquiry. It is not yet clear whether Chief assume office under the 25th Amendment tackled the obstruction of Congress charge. and Amy Klobuchar scramble across the Justice John G. Robers Jr. will rule on these should Trump be removed from office. The They argued that “Mr Trump’s refusal to country in one of their last bursts of cam- objections or if the Senate will debate and new president would then appoint a Vice allow certain members of his administra- paigning during a brief pause in the im- vote on them, but the process could take President, who would have to be confirmed tion to answer questions from the House of peachment trial. Their untimely lockdown some time. After each side has presented its by a majority of both houses in Congress. Representatives was akin to hiding informa- provides an extreme advantage to their case, with the Democrats allotted the same tion from a grand jury investigation”(BBC leading rivals, including Joe Biden and amount of time to present, senators will Trump is on trial for high crimes News, 25 Jan. 2020, par. 19). After the con- Pete Buttigeg, who both have dozens of submit questions in writing, which will be and misdemeanors, which has histori- clusion of Democratic opening arguments, events scheduled before the senators return. directed to the House managers or to the cally encompassed corruption and abuses the Republican defense team mounted an White House legal team. If they use all 16 of public trust, as opposed to violations aggressive offense by attacking Democratic In the upcoming weeks, senators hours allotted for questions, this stage will of criminal statutes. This stems back to a accusers as “partisan witch-hunters trying to will pose questions, debate on whether to finish sometime around the January 30th. call to Mr. Trump’s Ukranian counterpart remove him from office because they could call witnesses such as Bolton or the whis- Volodymyr Zelensky on July 25, 2019, to not beat him at the ballot box”(The New tleblower, and ultimately decide whether Following this, the trial moves congratulate him on his election victory. York Times, 25 Jan. 2020, par. 1). The presi- to vote in favor of removing President into a crucial point regarding the impeach- But an anonymous whistleblower, a CIA dent’s lawyers presented a radically differ- Trump from office. For impeachment to oc- ment process. Senators will decide whether official, claimed there was a more serious ent view of the Ukraine facts and the Consti- cur, the Senate has to convict Trump with to subpoena witnesses and seek additional element to the exchange, and filed a formal tution, seeking to turn the Democrats’ own a two-thirds majority. With 53 Republican documents that could be relevant to the im- complaint on August 12, 2019, claiming charges against them while pronouncing Senators and 47 Democratic Senators, re- peachment inquiry. There will be a four hour the president was “using the power of his the whole process as unfounded. The goal moval from office is unlikely. Nonetheless, debate on whether these actions are in order, office to solicit interference from a foreign was to “poke holes in the House managers’ Donald J. Trump is the third president in followed by a vote. If Republicans succeed country in the 2020 U.S. election”(BBC arguments in order to provide enough fod- U.S. history to face an impeachment trial, in this debate, they will quickly move to News, 22 Jan. 2020, par. 21). Details of the der to Senate Republicans already inclined marking a key event in the path of Ameri- vote on the two articles of impeachment. If call were disclosed by the White House, but to acquit him”(, 25. can history and shaping how we view Democrats succeed in this debate, they will not the full, verbatim account. These notes, Jan 2020, par. 4). On Monday, January 27th American politics for decades to come. likely subpoena witnesses they have recent- and details that later arose through an ex- both sides wrapped up five days of presen- ly insisted upon: John R. Bolton, the former change between Trump’s personal attorney tations and arguments on the Senate floor.. national security advisor; Mick Mulvaney, Rudy Giuliani and former U.S. Special the acting White House chief of staff; Rob- Representative to Ukraine Kurt Volker, con- As the opening arguments came to ert B. Blair, a top aide to Mr. Mulvaney; and February 20, 2020 World News 3 Australian Bush Fires

BY JANA LUKAS ’21 tory. Overall, an estimated one billion animals have been af- Most of the fires have been caused by lightning fected by the fires, including kangaroos, koalas, platypus, and strikes and the spread of the fires are compounded by cli- cockatoos. They are faced with starvation, dehydration, and mate change. Some people wrongly believe that the fires Having destroyed millions of acres of land, the many are even perishing in the devastation of their homes. have been caused by arson--an act of deliberately setting fourteen mile per hour Australian bush fires still rage on, with Scientists are racing to identify and save animals that are on property on fire--in order to minimize the links to climate more than one hundred still blazing in the country. The Gos- the brink of extinction. Similarly, animal rescue workers are change and the Australian government’s inaction on the is- pers Mountain Fire, which is the largest of Australia’s fire, making an effort to go out to affected areas like Kangaroo sue. Others have argued that the continuing drought of Aus- was largely contained; however, fires are still devastating Island and search for any animals that may need help. Many tralia is unrelated; however, the warming temperatures of Australia’s southeast coast, especially in the states of New organizations have brought animals that are on the brink of Australia have pushed rain out of parts of the country where South Wales and Victoria. Despite heavy rainfall these past dying back to emergency vet hospitals, where veterinarians rain used to fall. Strong winds, combined with the higher few days, fire season is far from over. Hot and windy condi- take care of them and offer them another chance at survival. temperatures and dry forests have combined to form strong tions are expected to return very soon in Australia as a month fires. Thousands of firefighters, including volunteers, are- at of summer still remains. What is the devastation so far? These fires are happening in populated areas, ul- tempting to stop these bushfires. Additionally, many Ameri- timately setting these fires apart from previous ones that can firefighters have traveled all the way to Australia to assist The fires began in September 2019, blazing on sparked global attention. Smoke has blanketed Melbourne, in containing the fires. Firefighters are called to work long for more than three months and still counting. In total, an , and Canberra, sometimes giving them some of the days over extended periods of time to combat the flames. estimated twenty-nine people have been killed and about worst air in the world. NASA tracked a plume of smoke There are many organizations that you can donate to in or- sixteen million acres of bush, forest, and parks across Aus- from Australia that was the size of the continental United der to directly fund to help mitigate the disastrous impact tralia have been burned; that is roughly the size of West States. By mid-January, smoke had traveled across the of the Australian wildfires, including International Fund for Virginia. The fires have destroyed more than two- thou globe, giving South America discolored skies and New Animal Welfare (https://www.ifaw.org/) and GIVIT (http:// sands homes; people are forced to evacuate and leave ev- Zealand hazardous breathing conditions.The smoke that www.givit.org.au/). Hopefully, Australia will experience a erything they have to burn. Compared to the 2018 Cali- these countries all over the world are facing today are decline in the severity of the fires as soon as possible, allow- fornia WildFires, when even our school took about two unhealthy, as they can cause a range of health problems ing the countless innocent animals, firefighters, and citizens or three days off from the unhealthy amount of smoke in from runny, itchy, and burning eyes/noses to aggravated to be free from risk and exposure to the dangerous flames. the air, Australia’s bushfires have burned approximately chronic lung and heart diseases. Inhaling smoke from eight times as much land than the California wildfires. fires can inflame one’s lungs and airways, causing them

to swell and block oxygen. Eventually, this can lead to On Kangaroo Island, roughly twenty-five thou- acute respiratory syndromes and even respiratory failure. sand koalas were killed as flames devastated their terri- Iran Overview BY SAMMI GUERRERO ’21 ly 750 soldiers from the U.S.’s 82nd Airborne Division.

On January 26, 2020, three rockets were fired by By far the most controversial move from Wash- Iranian-backed militia at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, leav- ington was President Trump’s order on January 2nd, 2020 ing one injured. This is the most recent event in the long saga to assassinate Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. Trump of strained relations with Iran. Although conflict has been defended the decision, claiming that the General posed an going on for decades, within the past month, tensions have imminent threat to the United States, though the administra- escalated to mass proportions. However, with the awareness tion has yet to provide intelligence supporting this claim. that further violence could have unintended consequenc- Grief and mourning for the passing of Soleimani pervaded es, both have seemed to err on the side of de-escalation. the nation, inciting not only sadness but extreme anger and hatred for the United States. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatol- In 2015, under the Obama administration, Iran and lah Khamenei called for “vigorous vengeance” in response. six other nations signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), an agreement stating that Iran would slow Shortly after, on January 7th, Iran fired twenty-two down its production of nuclear weapons and in exchange, missiles into American-occupied Iraqi military bases with- the West would lift some sanctions on the Middle Eastern out killing or injuring anyone. Because the missiles yielded nation. This agreement stood until May 2018 when Presi- no casualties and only limited damage to the military bases, dent Trump backed out of the JCPOA and in turn promised Trump and his officials considered this an attempt at de- additional sanctions and regulations on Iran. This decision escalation, saying that Iran “appears to be standing down,” led to Iranian backlash in the form of further enrichment but he still promises that new sanctions will be put in place. of uranium--at that point surpassing the maximum lev- Mourners attend a funeral ceremony of Iranian Major Gen- Sources: eral Qassim Suleimani and others who were killed in Iraq els outlined in the 2015 nuclear agreement. This makes by a U.S. drone strike on January 6, 2020, in Tehran, Iran. them more capable of manufacturing a nuclear bomb. ABC Photo Courtesy Of Majid Saeedi The most recent of these events were set in motion by a U.S. airstrike on an Iranian-backed militia installment CNN in Iraq (Kata’ib Hezbollah) on December 29th, 2019. Twen- ty-five fighters from this group were killed and many more The Washington Post injured. This upset many people and resulted in pro-Iranian demonstrators violently protesting outside of the U.S. Em- NPR bassy in Baghdad just days later. This prompted Defense Secretary Mark Esper to immediately deploy approximate- The New York Times 4 School News February 20, 2020 Troubies in Ghana! BY GRACE PAYNTER ’20 I have come to know. They were eager to ing for the first time. All of the Assisi girls Ghana with my sisters at St. Francis Senior get to know us, but in doing so they gave of cheered, and they all looked overjoyed to Girls High School. I remember sitting in the themselves what they could to help us adapt see us. As we got off the bus, each of us was van, looking out the window, waving good- About two and a half months and feel comfortable. Not only were they the greeted by a student who took our arm and bye to Marijanata, and seeing her beautiful ago, my life changed forever. I was step- perfect embodiment of giving of themselves danced us into the hall, where everyone was smile with tears running down her cheeks. ping on a plane destined for Ghana, Af- so that they may receive, but also they so cheering for us. It was a surreal experience.” It’s heartbreaking, but it’s so precious, too. rica. Through all the fear and anxiety I flawlessly captured the prominence of sis- I left knowing that I’ll always have a fam- felt before leaving for the trip, I would terhood. The universal language of love and Emma Houle said: ily, that I had been given a second home, have never imagined that my life would compassion was conveyed to me through “This many months after the trip, and that I would never be alone because be so radically changed by this experience. their interactions, which never included the moments have collided together in a my girls in Ghana would forever be sup- technology. They used basic communica- perfect sort of puzzle. One memory how- porting me from two thousand miles away.” The trip to Ghana has been in tion and a baseline of respect and dignity for ever stands out to me specifically; it was preparation for almost two years, after Sis- all people, and regardless of what year they during our stay at the school when I wan- The trip to Ghana, Africa was truly ter Martha from St. Francis in Ghana came were, or other hierarchical determinations, dered off to find students by myself while the most life-changing experience I have to visit Sacramento. Mr. Tholcke explained every single one of the girls I encountered the others were sleeping. The girls were ever had. I had never traveled outside of how the trip to Ghana started once Gha- would acquaint themselves with one anoth- preparing for the big jubilee celebration America before going to Ghana, so I was naian students tried to get visas to come er. Even with our close access to so many and were making food and decorations that really nervous about what I would experi- to America and were not accepted, so he material things, these girls were among the I eventually hopped right into with them. ence, but I never imagined what an impact found that the best way to keep the sister wealthiest I have ever encountered in human We talked for about 2 hours about our simi- it would have on my life. The connections school bond personal was to send students experience, gratitude, and selflessness.” larities and differences and personal inter- and relationships I made with so many girls from St. Francis in Sacramento to St. Fran- ests and I got to know the girls on a closer in Ghana will stay with me forever because cis in Ghana: “After trying twice to bring Theresa Rodgers said: level. Getting that simple opportunity to we all opened our hearts to each other. I was them [students from St. Francis in Ghana] “The first thing that comes to mind talk with such amazing and humorous free to be my true self around them and they here, and that not going through, I fig- was when we were stuck at the security young women will forever have a place in loved me for me, just as I love them for them. ured that it was time to go the other way.” checkpoint at like one in the morning on our my heart and I’m thankful for the adventure To this day, we all still keep in contact with second night of the trip before even getting I had with connecting across the world.” our amazing sisters in Ghana and we will Once the idea of the trip started to to the school and we were celebrating Nata- continue to keep these relationships for unfold into a reality, applications and in- lia’s birthday. I think we were all just deliri- Stephanie Villanueva said: the rest of our lives because, even though terviews were sent out to the students and ously tired and that’s when we [the members “It was probably one of the days the trip may have ended after a short ten six were chosen to represent Sacramento of the trip] started to bond and create nick- when we were just sitting in the living days, the memories and connections we while at our sister school. It was a dream names for each other. Being that tired, we room. I was watching you all play games made will last for the rest of our lives. come true to those who were chosen to got to be real with each other because you and chat with the girls in Ghana like you represent Sacramento and the excitement see someone’s true personality when you’re guys had known each other forever, not was immeasurable. From “how am I go- stuck at a police barrier for almost four only a few days. Usually when you meet ing to do this?” to “this is surreal, it can’t hours. Everybody had a very good sense of people, there’s a lot of awkwardness and be happening” the members of the Ghana humor and was flexible and I really felt like people being standoffish, trying to fig- trip felt every emotion before leaving for that’s when we started bonding. I know it ure each other out, but everyone went in Africa. It was a journey that will never be sounds silly, but we were all joking with each with such an open heart and open mind forgotten. It’s hard to describe how impact- other and dancing, and I’ll never forget it.” that everyone was open to what the other ful this trip was to someone who didn’t go had to offer. I didn’t feel like I was in an to Ghana, so I asked every member who Natalia Edgar said: unusual, far away place, it felt like home.” went to tell me about their favorite mo- “After hours of delirious Drama- ment on the trip to help explain the emo- mine filled travel, our van finally rolled Samantha Davis said: tions behind the bonds we made in Ghana. through the teal gates of the front of St. “The night before beginning our journey Francis Girls Senior High School in Jirapa back to California, my two favorite girls Katrina Uthoff said: at 4 AM. I remember I could finally take a gave me letters to read and remember them “From the moment we landed in deep breath. This was real. We were there. by. Crying isn’t my strong suit, but their Ghana, I was amazed by the people. Being Climbing out of the car into the humid air, messages containing their friendship, love, immersed in the community was an experi- our group was embraced into the arms of and wishes for me were powerful enough ence that taught me the importance of their smiling staff members, including Sister to bring tears to my eyes. At that moment, traditions and relationships. Every person Martha, who had stayed up in anticipation I knew I had made friends for life. As I we encountered was [a] pillar of patience of our arrival. We were shown our sleeping was gathering my luggage to put in the car, and exhibited nothing less than the utmost quarters where girls from the school had Emma Houle told me someone came to hospitality and generosity. We were greeted decorated the walls with poetry and person- wish me farewell. I knew who had come to and warmly welcomed by the entire stu- ally addressed cards for each one of us.” see me, my beautiful Ghanain sister, Mari- dent body, and the excitement could be felt \Students in Jirapa, Ghana janata A. Tampouri. We had already said our through the sticky, stagnant air. While we Photo Courtesy Of SFHS Inst- Emma Halloran said: goodbyes the night before, but after reading gram were on campus, whenever a girl would ap- “My favorite memory from Ghana her letter, I knew I had to see her again. I proach us, she shared with us the most wide was our first afternoon at the sister school. We cannot count how long or how many times and contagious smile, and they proved to drove out of the school and saw a thousand we hugged but forever would not have felt be equally as captivated by us as we were students standing outside the assembly hall. like long enough at that moment. She placed by them. From living on campus, I quickly I didn’t know why we were leaving, but right a yellow and white bracelet on my right realized the importance of community. The after we pulled out of the school, Charles, wrist, which I have yet to take off. I knew girls, our sisters, at St. Francis Girls Senior our driver, turned the bus back around and that although I was physically leaving, a High School are hands down, the most in- drove into the school as if we were enter- piece of my heart will always remain in credible, well-functioning group of people February 20, 2020 School News 5 Streaming BY GRACE PAYNTER ’20 Mrs. Anderson, the director of “St. Francis Live: “Both parts of the performance were really good Girls Aren’t Funny,” helped many girls go out of their com- and I absolutely loved every second of it. I took a lot away fort zones to be loud and go over the top to create a comedy for from the show in that we all are addicted to technology just girls. This One Act is a playoff of SNL, showing how girls and it was cool to see how both the positives and nega- really are funny. The show, despite being a comedy, address- tives of technology were expressed in the performance.” es a lot of issues regarding stereotypes seen in society today. This is how Reagan Eaddy, someone who saw “Stream- “St. Francis Live” addresses the biggest stereotype that girls ing”, described the show. “Streaming” is both a One Act can’t naturally be funny, so they fight this stereotype putting and a dance performance wrapped into one written all by on a comedy show that had people laughing the whole time. young women at St. Francis. It explores the different ef- fects of social media and technology on teenage girls today. “Streaming” was a brilliant performance that helped describe the positives and negatives of social media to teen- Nowadays, social media and technology have many age girls who have struggled or felt “disconnected” while on different effects on the world. Technology can either enter- social media. The strong message was carried home with girls tain people and make them laugh, as seen in “St. Francis Live: who value the special connections kept on social media, but Girls Aren’t Funny”, the One Act in “Streaming,” or it can re- who also remember that one cannot let it absorb one’s life. ally damage people and hurt their self esteem, like shown in A dance from St. Francis’ One Act and Dance Showcase: “disconnected,” the dance concert surrounding the One Act. Streaming. Photo Courtesy of SFHS Website Ms. Agata, the dance teacher for “disconnected,” explained that the dancing portion of “Streaming” was fo- cused on exploring social media through the eyes of teen- age girls. The dance performance asks the question whether girls are “disconnected” from their lives because of social media or more “connected” to people because of the ad- vantages on social media. The dancers did an incredence emotional dances that touched many people’s hearts. 29th Annual International Night BY HAILEY KOPP ’21

St. Francis High School’s 29th Annual Internation- Madame Picca’s French Club al Night took place on Wednesday, January 29th, celebrat- Photo Courtesy of Lauren Cannon ’21 ing the various cultures of our Troubie community. Students and families were welcomed to take part in the celebration of food, music, and dance offered that evening. There was a di- verse array of desserts made by parents, and delicious tacos provided by the Chando’s Tacos Food Truck. The night was buzzing with excited audience members and anxious stu- dents running about in their traditional outfits. As the open- ing of the show neared, families and students began to pack into the theater, filling all of the seats of the sold-out event. Grace Barger ’20, Laura Freeworth ’20, and Grace Harrison ’20 acted as the mistresses of ceremony, guiding the audi- ence as they experienced various cultures. The show opened with Senora Diver’s Spanish Three class showcasing various flags from around the world. The French Club, Latin Club, Italian Club, K-Pop Chinghu Club, Asian Pacific Islander Club, and Spanish 3 classes were featured in the showcase.

There were also multiple solo performances. Freshman, Sofia Perez-Lanza performed a traditional latin dance. Ena Nayak ’20, a member of the SFHS Bollywood Dance Group, presented a classical Bollywood dance. Leti- Señora Vargas’ Honors Spanish 3 Class cia Nambo ’20 and Kayla Mison ’20 displayed their musi- Photo Courtesy of Hailey Kopp ’21 cal talents and sang “La Llorona.” Kelsi Towle ’21 wrote and sang “C’est la Vie,” a French song. The night closed with a Tahiti dance led by Mrs. Macugay, the Na Wahine O’ Olu Hula teacher. International Night highlighted the great talents, diversity, and international culture of St. Francis. 6 U.S. News February 20, 2020 Democratic Debate BY CHLOE HENNING ’21 revolved around his message that the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, opportunity to low income families. winning candidate should bring the party building a trade bloc to make the US stronger Elizabeth Warren debated foreign together. He also explicitly criticized against China. She also regarded the debate policy, electability, and taxes. She threw On January 14, 2020, millions Sanders’ plan to pay for Medicare for All over Medicare for All as not real because her support behind the United States- tuned in to listen to six of the top Democratic and put his support in universal infant of the numerous Democratic senators Mexico-Canada Agreement to bring relief presidential candidates discuss and debate care and $8,000 childcare tax credit. and governors who are opposed to it. to laborers and farmers, and that foreign pressing issues facing the country. Debates policy should be driven by diplomacy are crucial to all candidate’s campaigns Mayor Pete stood his ground Bernie Sanders discussed why he and economy over the defense industry. because they are given the opportunity on military action, climate change, and opposed his fellow candidates on many issues She pointed out her advantage of being a to persuade voters that they should be the education. He agreed with Biden in that including war, trade, and climate change. He woman, bringing up the fact that herself and person not only to earn the Democratic staying in the Middle East, but he believes criticized Joe Biden for supporting the war Klobuchar were the only people who have nomination but to defeat Donald Trump Congress should control whether or not in Iraq, stating that the “Iraq and Vietnam won every election. She spoke about her in the 2020 Presidential Election. To be to approve the use of military force. He wars are the greatest modern foreign policy plan to reduce taxes on prescription drugs, eligible to debate, candidates needed is ready to move away from a fossil- disasters.” He opposed Klobuchar in her using taxes to fund her healthcare proposal, 225,000 contributors and at least five dependent economy, and to begin to involve support of the United States-Mexico- which supports generic drug manufacturing. percent support in four eligible polls. The farmers and industrial laborers in the fight Canada Agreement because it lacked eligible candidates included: Joe Biden, against climate change. He presented environmental and labor provisions. He Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar, Bernie the least expensive health care plan, also proposed the Green New Deal, which Sanders, Tom Steyer, and Elizabeth Warren. and opposed free college tuition for the leads the U.S. away from fossil fuels.

wealthy, aiming to have more low income Joe Biden dove into foreign students graduate debt-free from college. Tom Steyer discussed foreign policy stating that forces needed to stay policy, his experience, and climate change. put in the Middle East, but the consent Amy Klobuchar discussed foreign He states he will put economic pressure of the people is essential in entering into policy, trade, and health care. She opposed on Iran, form coalitions addressing a war. He also opposed meeting with the Iraq War, which gave her a segue into Middle East conflict, and would not meet North Korea without trade agreements The six eligible Democratic nominees on stage speaking about her experience as a member with North Korea without preconditions. approved by environmentalists, labor for the seventh debate leading up to the Demo- of the Senate. She supports leaving some He states his business credentials and unions, and enforcement mechanisms. His cratic primaries. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, but bringing billionaire status makes him qualified to Photo Courtesy OF ABC NEWS arguments against his fellow candidates many home. She stated her support for the be commander-in-chief and bring equal

Movie Review: Little Women BY ELLA SEBOK ’23 to live in luxury, Amy () who storyline, but also because the film ven- desires to be a great and rich painter, or Beth tured out from its predictable past and (Eliza Scanlen) who wants to live a quiet made its own, individual name. Gerwig’s Often when literature is turned into and normal life. However, as they venture Little Women is definitely worth your time. a film, it fails to satisfy the viewer. It is even into adult life, each sister learns that their more difficult to produce a stunning film childish ambitions will be squashed by the when the story has been previously adapted. reality of adulthood and the expectation to But this adaptation of Little Women, which conform to society’s standards for women. has received six Oscar nominations, defies all stereotypes. Written and directed by St. But what sets this Little Women Francis alumna , this film sur- adaptation apart from the others is the amaz- prised audiences as it brought an unexpect- ing directing. Rather than following the ed, modern perspective on the classic novel. sisters’ lives chronologically, as the novel does, Gerwig’s adaptation jumps back and Little Women, based on Louisa forth from the sisters’ comfortable child- May Alcott’s classic novel, follows the four hood to their harsh awakening of adult life, March sisters, mainly Jo (Saorise Ronan), as bringing a refreshing take on the classic they reach the end of their childhood days and story. The warm glow of the March sisters’ venture from the comfort of their home to the childhood scenes highlights the innocence reality of adulthood. Throughout this time and pure enjoyment of their early life and of change, the March sisters grow into their the bonds that will last a lifetime. The adult adulthood, as they gravitate away from each “Little Women” from left to right: Meg March (), Amy scenes, however, contrast with the child- other to pursue separate lives of their own. March (Florence Pugh), Jo March (Saorise Roman), and Beth March hood scenes as they demonstrate the harsh (Eliza Scanlen). world the March sisters leap into, full of The four sisters undergo major PHOTO COURTESY OF SONY IMAGES prejudice, poverty, and pressure to marry. development over the course of the film. They all have great ambition, whether Overall, this was a great film not it is Jo who wants to be an independent only because of the amazing acting and- writer, Meg (Emma Waston) who longs February 20, 2020 Entertainment News 7 The 92nd BY HAILEY KOPP ’21 industry. The winner of Best Supporting Actress was , who earned her award for her role as Nora Fanshaw in , a film that discusses the struggle ofa The 92nd Academy Awards ceremony took place grueling divorce. on Sunday, February 9th. The hostless show opened with Janelle Monáe, performing a cover of “A Beautiful Day Renée Zellweger won Best Actress for her role in the Neighborhood,” featuring dancers that donned the as in Judy, which follows Garland’s career costumes that highlighted the various films of the year, such during the last year of her life. earned Best as Parasite, Dolemite, Little Women, and Midsommar. Actor for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck, a mentally troubled comedian that embarks on a downward spiral where he Without a host, the Oscars maintained the discovers his alter ego, in ’ . momentum of the show with various musical performances. performed “Into the Unknown,” a song from St. Francis Catholic High School alumna, Greta Frozen II, alongside nine women from around the world Gerwig’s Little Women, was nominated for various awards. who sang parts of the song in their native language. Elton Her film was nominated for Best Picture, Best Adapted John performed “Love Me Again” from his biographical Screenplay, Best Original Music Score, for film, Rocketman. There was a surprise performance from Best Actress as her role as Jo March, and Florence Pugh , who performed his Academy Award-winning for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Amy March. song from 2002, “.” Eminem had skipped the However, Little Women garnered only one award for Best awards ceremony in 2003, so he thanked the Academy for Costume Design by . the opportunity to perform at this year’s ceremony. With her Best Supporting Actor winner, . nominated song “Stand Up” from Harriet, Photo Courtesy of Google Images Bong Joon-ho had a night of triumphs—Best performed a powerful tribute to . Billie International Feature Film, Best Screenplay, Best Director, Eilish sang a touching rendition of ’ “Yesterday” and Best Picture—for his film, Parasite. Parasite is a story alongside her brother, Finneas, who played the piano during about greed and class discrimination as it explores the life the “In Memoriam” segment. of a low-income family who plots to become employed by a wealthy family. This movie represents an affirmation of The first award of the night, Best Supporting Actor, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences diversity was awarded to Brad Pitt for his role as Cliff Booth in Once initiatives as it was the first foreign film to win Best Picture. Upon a Time in , a film about a television actor and his stunt double who strive to achieve success in the film February Horoscopes

Aquarius is the eleventh astrological sign in the BY IZABELLA TAYLOR ’21 Zodiac and ends on February 20th. Altogether there are The zodiac sign associated with the month of twelve astrological signs total in the Zodiac. August is the Leo. For those born from August 1st to August 22nd, they are members of the Leo zodiac sign. Leos are February 2020 Compatible Horoscopes: The zodiac sign associated with March is Pisces. known for being exuberant, loyal and self-confident. Those born from March 1st to March 20th are members of the Pisces sign. Pisces are known for being generous, The zodiac sign associated with the month of Aries matches best with Libra amiable, positive natured people with a deep sense of September is Virgo. People born from September 1st to Taurus matches best with Scorpio kindness and compassion. September 22nd are members of the Virgo sign Virgos are Gemini matches best with Sagittarius known for being analytical, careful and orderly. Cancer matches best with Taurus The zodiac sign associated with the month of Leo matches best with Sagittarius April is Aries. People born from April 1st to April 19th The sign associated with the month of October is Virgo matches best with Scorpio are members of the Aries sign. Aries are known for being Libra. People born from October 1st to October 22nd are Libra matches best with Taurus and Libra passionate, motivated, and a confident leader to others. members of the Libra sign. Libras are known for being Scorpio matches best with Pisces serious, charming, graceful and good humorists. Sagittarius matches best with Aquarius The zodiac sign associated with the month of May Capricorn matches best with Virgo is Taurus. Individuals born from May 1st to May 20th are People born from November 1st to November Aquarius matches best with Sagittarius members of the Taurus sign. Taurus are known for being 22nd are members of the Scorpio sign. Scorpios are known Pisces matches best with Scorpio practical, determined, and ambitious. for willpower, resolve, grit and tenacity.

The zodiac sign associated with the month of June Sagittarius are born from December 1st to 22nd. February is the month of Aquarius, whose is the Gemini. For those born from June 1st to June 20th, Sagittarius are known for being open, friendly, enthusiastic constellation incorporates the Sun. The sun brings light they are members of the Gemini zodiac sign. Gemini are and energetic. Those are all the future upcoming signs in the and showcases love in relationships in February. The Sun known for being smart, sharp and speedy. 2020 months. is most important in the constellation chart and symbolizes one’s will and sense of vitality. This symbolizes the traits The zodiac sign associated with the month of we wish to see in ourselves and our relationships, and can July is Cancer. People born from July 1st to July 22nd are obtain, especially within the month of Aquarius. members of the Cancer zodiac sign. Cancer is known for being sweet, kind and caring towards others. 8 Entertainment News February 20, 2020 Galentine’s Recipe BY SOFIA SCHUMAKER ’21 coffee for a more intense flavor.) ● 1 cup of block style cream cheese ● Use melted butter in place of (8-ounce) Valentine’s Day may be the day of vegetable oil. ● ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened love, but that includes self-love. Why not to room temperature pamper yourself this Valentine’s season and Follow baking directions from your ● 1 ¾ cup of powdered sugar get to work on some delicious holiday treat given cake mix. After cooling, carefully ● 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract that will astonish your friends and family. place the cake on a plate and slice through its middle to leave room for the filler. Beat cream cheese until smooth Cupid’s Strawberry Cake in a large mixing bowl. Mix in butter The standard boxed cake mix can provide Ingredients for the strawberry filler: until well combined and smooth. Add a good foundation for a tasty dessert. Prep time: 7 min in vanilla extract and powdered sugar Here’s how you can adjust almost any ● ½ cup of sugar until well combined. Then spread your cake mix to fit this month’s Valentine’s ● 2 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch homemade icing over your fabulous cake. theme, and whip up a flavoursome ● 2 ½ of strawberries delicacy with a strawberry filling. Mix all ingredients together in a Ingredients for the basic cake: small saucepan, then let boil while stirring (Store bought cake mix) and crushing the strawberries with the back Prep time: depends on your cake mix of a spoon. Let boil for two minutes to thicken Cupid’s Strawberry Cake (the filler should be slightly chunky). Pour Photo Courtesy of Google Im- ● An extra egg than what is ages recommended (for richer taste) into a bowl to let cool. Once cooled spread ● Add ¼ a cup of sugar and flour to your filling between the cakes two layers, your cake mix and carefully place together both halves. ● Add milk instead of water (any kind of milk is fine. If using dark Ingredients for cream cheese icing: chocolate cake, I recommend Prep time: 10 min Valentine’s Day Word Search

J C T I R Z R D R J Y A W D I Word Bank: H V A Z Q E B P T N R H P B U A Y U N W S E C J V A N I H L -Candy R V A O D B W L Y C U J P Z X -Valentine N E L J U Y D D A R R W D P K -Chocolate O F N U W C G N G O B J G N U -Heart -Flower Q G H I K D R K A S E U Y O B -Rose F X U B T E V O L E F L Y Z V -Love E T S J Y N Y D O C I K R J B -Date B P G L U R E E M Q O K G B M -February Q X K D R L Q L Z B J A S G V S Q A S T C J H A B L U U O H E T A L O C O H C V H E A R T E F Y G Z K V K K L Z O H C J