Campus News, Pages 4-7 Features, Pages 10-11 Arts & Entertainment, Page 13 Sports, Pages 16-19

FREE VOLUME LXX ISSUE iii ARCHBISHOP RIORDAN February 2020 HIGH SCHOOL SERVING RIORDAN SINCE 1949 THE NEWSPAPER OF CRUSADER COUNTRY

Coed Crusaders According to the official results, By Steven Rissotto ’20 758 alumni took the survey, and and Antonio Maffei ’20 57.9 percent of them were in favor After weeks of discussions and of Riordan making the change for meetings, on Jan. 29, President the next school year. About 74.9 Dr. Andrew Currier announced percent of former Crusaders were Archbishop Riordan High School in favor of a five-year strategic would become a co-educational plan to accept girls. institution starting in the fall of Joe Shasky, current sports 2020. radio host for 95.7 The Game and Riordan is San Francisco’s former Crusader, sent out a tweet oldest all-boys school and was in support of the change. established in 1949. After one “I’m happy for Riordan. It’s final meeting with the faculty and about the greater good evolving staff, then the Board of Trustees and fostering community,” the on the evening of Jan. 28, the tweet read. “The core values can decision was nearly final with Photo by Steven Rissotto ’20 can still be intact. I will embrace two final approvals still needed: On Feb. 20 and 24, Riordan students welcomed girls to campus who the change and look forward to the Moderator of the Curia, Fr. are considering Riordan as an option for the 2020-2021 school year. a new chapter to the long, proud Piderit, SJ, and Archbishop of San Crusader legacy. Francisco Salvatore Cordileone. and 20 minutes later by Currier. decision, students, teachers, Meanwhile, Keith Leveroni The final approval from At 5:00 p.m, the applications alumni, and parents were all ’92 said, “I truly feel such a big Archbishop Cordileone was opened up on the Riordan website asked for feedback in the form of received at 2:10 p.m. The to accept young women. online surveys used to assist in Please see “Coed,” announcement was made an hour In the weeks leading up to the the decision to accept girls. continued on page 4 Mercy SF to close in June after 68 years By Grayson Salomon ’22 After 68 years of educating the young women of San Francisco, Mercy High School will close its doors at the end of the academic school year on June 1, 2020. “The trustees and administration have worked tirelessly to preserve the important mission to which we have been devoted for the past 68 years and are incredibly disappointed that we are unable to keep Mercy’s doors open,” said Head of School Sister Carolyn Krohn ’65. Mercy is one of the last all-girls high schools in San Francisco next to Convent of the Sacred Heart and ICA Cristo Rey Academy. The main reason for the closure was being unable to reach financial needs and stability. There are multiple reasons why reaching financial stability was impossible, such as a decrease in enrollment over the past two decades, financial aid promised to the students always falls short $5,000 of actual costs, and operating costs, including salaries, and the need to meet the needs of faculty and staff, according to Mercy Communications. “The lack of stable financial support has hurt the school’s ability to meet the financial needs of families seeking a Catholic high school education at Mercy,” according to Mercy Communications. There have been multiple attempts and ideas explored, Photo by Sophia Carrasquilla ’22, Mercy SF but no solution could properly get the school to financial stability. Please see “Mercy,” Mercy High School on 19th Avenue in San Francisco announced in continued on page 4 January that it will close its doors in June, after nearly seven decades. 2 Opinion The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School School spirit soars as sports teams triumph The Crusader Staff Editorial For the last several years, large crowd like this has become happening. attendance at Riordan sporting more typical. The school needs to capitalize is increasingly likely that student events has been low. Really This change can be attributed on its recent surge in attendance support for the athletic events low. So low that our principal in large part to our state-ranked in order to preserve school spirit will be a mainstay of our school. held an assembly to address the basketball team. Quite simply, for the years to come. If a more Freshmen brought into a spirited issue, students openly mocked people are more invested when organized system is established culture will be more likely to the attendance at games, and they’re winning. And since, game at the present time that sets adopt and continue that spirit, parents outnumbered students after game, Riordan’s basketball standards for our cheering thereby increasing its longevity. at virtually every event. Finally, team continues to triumph with a section, props for the crowd, The school has a chance to things have begun to change. stylish flair, it makes sense that creative cheers, and more, then it turn its culture of apathy into a At the Riordan-SI basketball the size of the crowd is increasing. will be more likely to be carried long lasting culture of spirit and game on Jan. 31, so many students But what happens when our into the future. energy. Organizing the energy of came out to watch the event that basketball program takes a dip in Most of the responsibility for the student body now will keep there wasn’t enough room to seat quality years down the line? Such this promulgation of school spirit the gym packed for years to come. them all, and many had to be an event is inevitable. And, when rests on the shoulders of the The Spirit Club can start working moved to the court. Flags, swords, it happens, Riordan is left in the newly established Spirit Club, on new traditions, new cheers, shields, and even stuffed rabbits, same position it was two or three an organization created with and consistent advertising to were waved by the rancorous years ago, with a general apathy the intent to support Riordan’s make that happen. crowd of cheering students in a towards sporting events. athletic events. Right now, Riordan is in a position of show of school pride reminiscent It is the position of this students are more willing to be strength. We, the staff of The of days gone by, when a packed newspaper that programs be put spirited. If that spirit is shaped Crusader, want to keep it that gym was the norm. Suddenly, a in place now to prevent that from and directed by the Spirit Club, it way.

Pope Francis to journalists on World Communications Day: “I would like, then, to invite everyone to promote a journalism of peace . . . a journalism that is truthful and opposed to falsehoods, rhetorical slogans, and sensational headlines. A journalism created by people for people, one that is at the service of all, especially those – and they are the majority in our world – who have no voice.”

Social Media, Online Editor Antonio Maffei ’20 Editor’s Note In commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the newspaper, Exchange Editor Art Director Miles Poon ’20 recreated some of the designs Cole Anderson ’22 from previous decades, as well as created new ones. This is the third different masthead this school year. We will post Copy Editor a poll on our social media platforms so readers can vote Brandon Vargas ’20 for their favorite, which will become the new masthead.

Photo Editors Michael Ortega-Portillo ’21 Mission Statement for the JJ Trujeque ’21 Archbishop Riordan High School Newspaper 175 Frida Kahlo Way San Francisco, CA 94112 The mission of The Crusader is to inform, educate and Art Director RCrusaderNews.com entertain the readers—students, teachers, parents, [email protected] Miles Poon ’20 members of the community—about issues that affect the students as well as citizens of San Francisco and the nation. Editor-in-Chief Staff Reporters We hope to instill a sense of understanding, responsibility, Steven Rissotto ’20 Henry Bensurto ’20 and curiosity in our readers that results in an eagerness to CJ Cabanero ’21 learn more about their peers and the world around them. Opinion Editor Elijah Calip ’22 Michael Gray ’20 Christian Ramirez Cortes ’22 Michael Curran ’20 News Editors Noah David ’22 Jamar Kittling ’20 Corrections and Clarifications Sean DiNicola ’22 Zachary Phillips ’20 The Crusader strives to maintain journalistic Sebastian Elsner ’23 standards of accuracy and integrity at all times. Steven Elsner ’20 Features Editor Please help us maintain this level of excellence Logan Estrada ’22 Alexander Ruivivar ’20 by reporting anything inaccurate or unclear. Jonathan Godoy ’21 Sports News Editor Mauricio Granera ’23 Cameron Bevan-Abel ’22 Massimo Hoffman ’20 Andrei Lynch ’22 Sports Features Editor Nathan Loeffler Malatesta ’23 Aidan Murtagh ’20 Jordan Tyler Maralit ’21 Letters to the Editor Lizandro Munoz ’22 Letters to the editors will be accepted with the same deadlines Arts & Entertainment Editor Christopher Murray ’22 as ads. These letters may come from students, staff, parents, Ian Martin ’20 Jordan Noeuku ’21 board members, or other members of the community. The Levis Rodriguez ’20 Crusader reserves the right to edit the letter for grammatical Environment & Tech Editor Grayson Salomon ’22 and spelling errors, as well as length, but not content. If the David Dorantes ’21 Anthony Wierzba ’23 facts are absolutely incorrect, The Crusader reserves the Religion Editor Nicholas Yee ’20 right to refuse publication of the letter. Michael Conefrey ’21 Joseph Zuloaga ’23

Health & Science Editor Adviser Matt Balmy ’21 Susan Sutton, CJE Opinion February 2020 The Crusader 3 Archbishop Riordan High School Senioritis: Is it real, or an excuse to be lazy? Riordan Roundtable Spartan Spear By Michael Gray ’20 By Christina Marie Green ’20 I almost didn’t write this According to Merriam-Webster, article. Honestly, I didn’t want senioritis means “an ebbing of to. In fact, I started writing motivation and effort by school it nearly a week after it was seniors as evidenced by tardiness, originally due. absences, and lower grades.” Senioritis hit me like a Senioritis affects second-semester 16-wheeler carrying boulders seniors—students trying to pass shooting down a steep decline their last semester of high school at 70 MPH. Since freshman before graduation. year, I’ve been working hard to As a senior at ICA Cristo get my work done on time, plan Rey Academy, I can say that out my schedule, and stay on anything at all? “senioritis” does exist. Although freshmen students. This can top of everything I’m doing. Or In one’s senior year, the bare some may say that it is an even result in drop-outs, with at least, I did until senior year minimum becomes the standard. excuse to slack off, I notice that over 1.2 million high-school started. Now, everything I do is It doesn’t make sense to work seniors being bombarded with student drop-outs in the U.S. last minute, with minimal effort. harder if there is no incentive to do academics, home-life, leadership, every year, according to the U.S. And it’s pretty obvious why. so. Teachers would say otherwise. extracurricular activities, social Department of Education. Humans need motivation to They claim that students still life, and the college admissions My peers and I are also do things. Actions are performed need to maintain their grades, at process result in this “I´m done” experiencing senioritis, feeling for survival, entertainment, the very least, in order to placate state known as senioritis. symptoms of low energy, severe advancement, and pleasure. college admissions offices. But Imagine the pressures and procrastination, diminished Nothing is done without reason. often times, the abilities of a high expectations for college-bound ability to concentrate, repeated In one’s freshman, sophomore, school senior have grown at a far high school students who are tardiness or absences—just to and junior years, motivation to faster rate than the difficulty of experiencing the finish-line name a few. But here are some do work is plentiful: for college their classes. They know how the mindset: feeling that their ways to combat senioritis that I applications, for a feeling of game is played. They can put in primary goal, in this case college found helpful in my endeavors: 1) success, for status, etc. less work, and get the same result acceptances, has been achieved, organize and de-clutter yourself, During senior year, those as they did in the past. And with and they no longer see the point 2) make time for relaxation or motivations dwindle. Colleges that, the apathy takes hold. of putting much effort into their “me-time,” 3) study smarter, not have already been applied It’s a slippery slope to stop remaining classes. harder, and 4) be persistent in to. Success in academics and doing work. The less you do, the Some 69.7 percent of high school your work and schedule. extracurriculars has largely less you want to do. And so, when seniors in an NYU survey agreed By recognizing these symptoms already been determined. One’s a senior who simultaneously that “[their] academic effort will and taking steps to mitigate the status among their peers has lacks motivation and requires less most likely decline in the second senioritis phenomenon you are already been established. effort to accomplish tasks does semester of [their] senior year,” sure to succeed in senior year With all these motivations slightly less, they are enveloped compared with 29.7 percent of and the future. gone, what’s the point of doing by the reality of Senioritis. Is coed the right move for Riordan’s future? Jamar’s Judgement Nathan’s Naysay By Jamar Kittling ’20 Pro By Nathan Loeffler Malatesta ’23 Con The Archbishop Riordan the unfortunate closing of Mercy community has been in tumult High School, opening up Riordan On Jan. 29, Archbishop Riordan with the recent announcement to those left by Mercy’s closing, High School announced its plan which could cost upwards of $2 that the school is accepting and therefore to the female to become a coed school following million. female students this coming fall. population, is by far the most the surprising closure of Mercy Another concern is that the In such a decision, two things surefire and feasible way to High School. students’ opportunities to get are in dire jeopardy: the long- ensure a smooth transition and Throughout this process of into programs like Student standing legacy that Riordan has Riordan’s future. Any hesitation becoming coed, the administration Parliament and Knights of as San Francisco’s oldest and only in action may lead to a school created surveys–some of which Riordan will decrease with the all boy’s Catholic school, and the unprepared to adapt. students and teachers alike added competition that girls unique sense of Brotherhood that To advocate for continual single- deemed biased. bring. Last but not least is the Riordan fosters and culminates. gender education is to advocate The administration and board’s issue of girls’ sports like volleyball, Because of this, many are for Riordan’s closure, robbing decision to become coed seemingly basketball, soccer, and softball, in staunch opposition. Yet, in many students, boys and girls disregarded the concerns of those which Riordan’s facilities do not fighting for these intangible alike, of a quality education. Our opposed, which consisted of the have enough space to hold with values, we forget about the desire to maintain our image and fall of traditions and the Riordan four teams already using the field characteristics and mission legacy is superseded by Riordan’s brotherhood, the loss of the and gym. With all of the negatives that Riordan strives to achieve mission to educate in a family benefits of single-sex education outweighing the positives, some as a Marianist institution. spirit. Our need to “hang with the like a relaxed environment, and a members of the community were It is imperative to recognize boys” is superseded by Riordan’s more tailored curriculum–reasons shocked when the administration that Riordan going coed is an mission to educate for adaptation that make this school so unique to announced the news that Riordan unavoidable outcome for its and change. the community. would become coed. survival, and that doing so next Of all of the characteristics that Current students also fear Altogether, the decision to go year would be the most opportune define Riordan, it is primarily a that the male students’ needs will coed, along with the negatives time. Catholic school enrollment school founded in the Marianist be pushed to the side due to the stated above, is counter to what is in a severe decline. As numbers tradition with a duty to educate incoming girls, which is reinforced some students, parents, and continue to drop, Riordan is and serve. We as a community by the fact that the school now alumni believe makes Riordan shown to be in extreme danger must not selfishly cling to the needs additional funding, new unique among high schools in San in a few years if something is not past in order to secure a future for facilities, and four new teachers, Francisco, and everywhere else. done. others and a future for Riordan With this upcoming crisis and itself. 4 Campus News The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School New features added to math classrooms By Christopher Murray ’22 whiteboards because the old ones Some of the math teachers were warped, and he will use the started a new semester with new television for his lessons. classrooms. One drastic change that has Over the Christmas break, mixed responses is the different many of the math classrooms light fixtures. Instead of having were remodeled and received new light fixtures hanging down on desks. the ceiling, the lights in the Math Anne Freeman, a teacher in classrooms are flush with the the Math Department, said, “It ceiling. was fresh and clean, and it was “I would change the lighting,” a change to take down all my old said Freeman. posters and decorate, and I like Ivan Dubriwny ’22 said one doing that.” advantage of the classroom Along with the refreshing look remodel is the new lights because of new classrooms, Freeman said the old lights were dim, but his that the new features provide her Photo by Christopher Murray ’22 eyes had to adjust. with a better way to teach. Overall, the new classrooms at Riordan also in the Math Another student, Joseph “Now I have a giant television, are an upgrade. Freeman has Department, said the rooms Harbart ’22, said the new and I can project a calculator. already started decorating. “I are brighter, with more storage environment motivates him to do Before I had a small black kept it more minimal. Instead of so he is able to move around better. Joseph and Ivan’s favorite television, which had a smaller putting up old stuff, I put up all the class to help students. He part about the remodeling is the calculator without color… I’ve new stuff. Everything is related also has bigger desks, and new whiteboards, and both said they gone from low tech to high tech,” to Riordan.” whiteboards. His favorite part in look forward to other classrooms she said. Richard Kim, a new teacher the remodeling is the new being remodeled. “Coed,” continued rushed and not enough student option for a few teachers from improved locker room, and the from page 1 input was considered in making Mercy, according to Principal girls will have what they need.” decision like this was rushed. the decision, but if the decision is Tim Reardon. On Feb. 21, Archbishop Riordan They should have taken another final, I have faith in my school to He said, “Once we know was given $500,000 from the school year to really do some handle this with class.” exactly which departments will Archdiocese of San Francisco research and alumni input.” The move came after Riordan’s need additional staffing, we will toward remodeling the school. There were 72 total surveys sister school, Mercy High School, post all positions, and we hope to Currier estimated the transition recorded between the faculty announced they would be shutting bring some Mercy teachers over would cost around $2 million. and staff, divided into three down after this current school to Riordan.” “This change makes a stronger categories. For next fall, they year due to lingering financial According to Currier, roughly Riordan,” said Currier. “Stronger voted 40.3 percent in favor, 20.8 and enrollment issues. Now that 150 girls will attend Riordan next in family spirit and mission, percent neutral, and 38.9 percent Riordan will accept girls, a new school year. stronger in enrollment, stronger opposed to it, while 90.3 percent alternative is presented to Mercy It won’t just be Mercy students, financially, and we will still be were for the five-year strategic students from the classes of 2021, either. Riordan plans on accepting unique in our offering of single- plan to include coeducation. 2022, 2023, and even the incoming girls, in general, to expand their gender classes.” Social Science Department freshman class of 2024. “brotherhood” slogan to more of a As for athletics, Reardon Chair Chris Fern said, “It All prospective students had family approach and feel. stated, “The plan right now is to will allow Riordan to deepen the opportunity to visit Riordan Many changes will take place keep them [girls] in their current persepctives. More voices mean on Feb. 20 and 24. A few weeks over the summer to facilities league, the WBAL.” more opportunity to empathize earlier, on Feb. 6, an open house to accommodate incoming The new sports offered for and grow.” was held. girls. According to Currier, the girls might include cross-country, Across two surveys for current “Well, I’m not against it,” said administration is examining volleyball, soccer, basketball, students, the majority was student Hayden Peregrino ’21. “I what restrooms will be converted, track, and swimming. Reardon supportive of the change for this don’t mind, but the only thing I’m as well as plans and designs said there could be more. this fall. The most significant worried about is the possible lack to accommodate an athletic “While I am saddened by the opposition is parents of current of facilities and making sure we and changing space within the loss of the brotherhood tradition, students, 60.2 percent of which have things for girls. Other than existing complex. I understand the financial need were opposed to the change. those concerns, the change makes Currier said, “The hope is that for Riordan to go coed,” said Theo Alec Douglas ’21 said, “I don’t sense for the future.” everyone wins. By that, I mean, Reese ’20. “This decision will only agree with it. I believe it was too Riordan is a possible employment the boys will have a better, better the school in the long run.”

“Mercy,” continued the school open and running, English teacher and Mercy for the 2020-2021 school year. from page 1 which included faculty and staff alumna Diana Assereto said, Mercy Admissions and staff have salaries, financial aid, and all “I had so many feelings and been trying to help the students “We had so hoped that we operating expenses. Although thoughts running through my during this time of change. would find a solution to Mercy’s the amount was at first an head when I first heard of the “Along with counseling to challenges, but unfortunately, estimate, once we received closing, but the overwhelming ensure student wellness, Mercy even with the multiple strategies detailed information from our feeling was sadness because I put on a High School Information we have explored, it is just not head of school, we concluded that have such wonderful memories of Fair, hosting 20 high schools in possible,” stated Krohn. $5 million would be close to the my time at Mercy.” the San Francisco Bay Area ready Some students have taken the amount needed to keep the school She added, “I received a to accept transfer students next announcement as a challenge, operating,” said Gigi DiGiulio ’21, very solid education and felt year. We are working with local and are not willing to give up. one of the creators. extremely prepared for college school admissions directors to They still hold out hope that As for the rest of the students, academically. It feels like a part streamline the application process they can save Mercy. On Jan. 10, sadness permeates the hallways, of my past and a part of the city for Mercy students,” according to shortly after the announcement especially for current juniors, with will be lost in a way, but it will Mercy Communications. of the closure, a GoFundMe next year being their graduation be up to us to continue to live in Even with the GoFundMe, the donation page appeared with year. service as the Sisters of Mercy chance of Mercy being saved is the title “SAVE MERCY SAN “I guess the mood is a mix and our teachers modeled for us.” unlikely, given the huge financial FRANCISCO” with a goal of $5 of being heartbroken and The closure, being close to hill it would have to climb. million created by members of confused, but also hopeful and deadlines for transfers to other According to Mercy the Class of 2021. having a feeling of strength in schools, has caused stress for Communications, “This currently “My friends and I did research our community needing to come students trying to beat the does not seem possible, but the into the amount needed to keep together,” said DiGiulio. deadlines to find a new school Sisters do believe in miracles.” February 2020 The Crusader Campus News 5 Archbishop Riordan High School New guidelines for grading includes no zeros By Joseph Zuloaga ’23 the recent change. He said, “To me, the change in the grading New year, new changes. scale is great because it can help Archbishop Riordan High School students a lot, especially those started the second semester struggling with low scores on with another new aspect to the assessments.” standards-based grading policy. Another student, Alexander Now, 50 percent is the new 0. Robinson ’23, is also in favor of In the first semester, an “I” the change. He said, “This change replaced an F, and was given to is a smart decision because the students who received a grade student won’t feel like a complete between 0 and 59 percent. Now, failure when they see that they starting this semester, the got a 0 percent on an assessment. grading scale will start at 50. This could make a student feel According to Michael O’Brien, like he is below average.” To him, Dean of Academics, “With this new “getting 0 percent is like knowing change, we are giving students 0 percent of the material of a the ability to show mastery in particular course; getting a 50 Photo illustration by Antonio Maffei ’20 ways they were unable to before.” percent gets you points and at The new grading policy includes no zeros—scores In relation to the shrinking of the least proves that you know half of and final grades cannot be lower than 50 percent. grading scale, O’Brien added that the material.” “students can improve their grade Many students are applauding teachers, Assereto stated, “This with the requirements for that and the updated grade will give the new change because it will change makes record keeping particular course. a more accurate representation improve their grades and there is harder for teachers because we Assereto added, “I like standards- of what they are capable of.” In more chance that they will pass now have much more data entry based grading, but I don’t like addition, “teachers will not enter some classes in which they were for one assignment.” Ultimately, the way these grades are now anything lower than 50 into the struggling before the grading if this proves to be the best way reported on PowerSchool because grade book on any assignment.” change was applied. to measure learning, she is on it doesn’t accurately report what The grading scale has been English teacher Diana Assereto board. I want parents, students, and updated to five levels, so each has mixed feelings towards this O’Brien said more changes counselors to know.” letter grade is equally worth the new change. She said, “Starting coming in the near future. “Next Starting next year, an “I” grade same amount of points. In the the low end of the grading scale at school year, students’ grades for a standard will be 50 percent, first semester, an “I” grade was in 50 percent makes sense because will be fully standards-based,” a D grade will be 65 percent, a the range of 0 to 59 percent. Now there is a big gap in the grade scale he added. “Student percentage C grade will be 75 percent, a B with the updated scale, the range between 0 and 50; however, the scores will be reflected through grade will be 85 percent and an A will be 50 to 59 percent. new policy is unclear to students letter grades on standards rather will be 98 percent. O’Brien said, “The purpose of about why he earns 50 percent than points given.” O’Brien said, “I would like to shrinking the scale was to help for not turning in an assignment This year, specific standards say a word of appreciation for create fairness as the percent or for not taking a test. While it weren’t worth anything on an our outstanding teachers and our ranges between grades are now still equates to an ‘incomplete’ it assignment; they just served as a students during this transition. equal.” is still confusing.” reference point to what the final This will continue to bring positive Mason McKee ’23 agrees with In regards to the workload for grade was based on and how it fit change to our school.” New program focuses on frosh reading, math skills By Jordan Noeuku ’21 The year 2020 started with a lot of app that meets students where they are and surprises, and one of them includes a helps them improve their reading and math new program for Riordan, that will give skills at their own pace, and in turn will freshmen the ability to improve their hopefully help them improve their STAR test math and English skills either at school scores and in their overall learning here at or at home by using a specific website Riordan.” designed by the teachers. Simon said, “We have only been running the The Freckle Program, which started program for [a few] weeks. We won’t be able at the beginning of the spring semester, to see the results until the students take the helps students improve basic skills by STAR test again in April. It’s adaptive, so no having them practice English and math matter where the student is, the app adjusts questions at their current level, and then its difficulty level to that student and slowly slowly increase the difficulty. increases the difficulty as it sees the student English teacher Diana Assereto said, is learning.” “Improving reading comprehension and Students took their second STAR tests in reading levels is the primary goal of the both subjects on Feb. 10 and 11. program, but also honing in on developing Luke Grogan ’23 said, “The Freckle Program reading analysis and inference levels are is all about math, comprehension and vocab, important goals, too. Riordan students and it basically helps us in improving our benefit because the program is specifically academic skills. I’ve taken the test twice and designed to address these skills with a I think I did very well on my STAR test, and I more individualized program for specific don’t feel the need to take it anymore.” student needs rather than a one size fits Assereto said, “Except for a few technical all approach.” Photo by Jordan Noeuku ’21 issues and learning to read and interpret the Assereto added, “Also, students can Freshmen use the Freckle Program to improve skills. results, there have been very few challenges.” access the program even when they are Simon further added, “This is helpful not on campus so they can practice and RSP Director Nate Simon, who was instrumental because classrooms are not like this, and improve their reading level and reading in instituting this program, said, “All of our sometimes students can fall behind - whereas skills whenever possible. I am hearing freshmen took the STAR test at the beginning with this app, it will always be at the level of from students that they like the format of of the year, and it showed that a large number the student. the program, the reward system, and the of students in the class have a lot of room for “It was difficult to get up and running, but freedom to choose reading selection topics growth in their reading and math skills.” we handled that on the back end and have not that interest them.” He added, “The Freckle Program is an adaptive had many hiccups since.” 6 Campus News The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Crab Feed produces unprecedented success By Brandon Vargas ’20 “I anticipated less attendance with a lot of [his] due to us falling short a bit last friends.” Archbishop Riordan’s annual year,” Cronin stated. “But we Despite the Crab Feed featured an hour of had a lot more donors sponsor exciting atmosphere refreshments and hors d’oeuvres, the event this year, which helped of the event, the followed by a crab dinner, courtesy tremendously.” volunteers did of Riordan’s own Epicurean Last year’s annual Crab Feed have to work hard catering company. saw a shortage of crab, but this bussing tables Paul Cronin ’93, the director year’s event was supervised and serving food. of the event, said that the event under new management. As a Parenti admits that raised $13,000, the most successful result, Riordan had more than his least favorite Crab Feed that he is aware of. The enough crab to offer this year. part of the evening money will go toward Riordan The leftover crab was sold for $20 was “cleaning after Tuition Assistance, which Cronin a bag. because everyone was really tired Photo by Lifetouch identifies as “Riordan’s biggest About 25 current Crusaders after a long day of working… we Cole Anderson ’22 bussed tables need.” volunteered at the Crab Feed, were there for a good 5-6 hours of at the crab feed and earned tips. Parents, faculty, staff, sponsors, excited at the prospect of earning working hard.” and alumni were invited to attend tips while serving the Riordan Cronin appreciates the hard work years. “I think we figured out the this event, which provides a great community simultaneously. Drew and dedication the volunteers and right formula and will stick with platform to reminisce on all that Parenti ’22, who volunteered for kitchen staff put into the event. it,” Cronin said. “When an event Riordan has accomplished. The the first time at the Crab Feed, He said, “It’s pretty special and runs as smooth as this one did, months leading up to the Crab initially didn’t want to work the a great experience for the young I expect us to do really well in Feed were extremely promising, event: “I wasn’t looking forward men of Riordan to work hard and future years.” as the construction of Riordan’s to it, but doing it was actually get some socializing experience.” Guests left with their stomachs revitalized field was sure to be a fun.” The event was exciting for Overall, the Crab Feed proved filled with crab and hearts filled topic of conversation. Parenti because “[he] got to do it to be a success compared to recent with cheer. Legendary alumnus McGraw celebrated with historic scholarship By Christian Ramirez Cortes ’22 Tyrone Leon McGraw, an “The Tyrone McGraw Scholarship the growth of the scholarship. athlete and scholar, was born in will end up being the largest and Humility, adverse circumstances, San Francisco’s Hunters Point most important scholarship in the and high-achieving despite neighborhood. He attended history of the school.” the given circumstances are Archbishop Riordan High School The Tyrone McGraw characteristics of McGraw where he excelled, and graduated Scholarship continues to expand himself, but also of a deserving in 2006. McGraw went on to as it is now past $140,000 raised recipient of the Tyrone McGraw attend Stanford University by contributions from many Scholarship. on the Bill and Melinda Gates generous people. Information Ring exclaimed, “Tyrone was Scholarship, which awards a full about the Tyrone L. McGraw an incredible role model and ride to any college. Scholarship can be found on the inspiration and this scholarship McGraw not only accomplished Riordan website where anyone will ensure that his story will be many feats, but did so through can make a donation towards told forever.” adverse circumstances that he faced his whole life. He was born with crack cocaine in his system Photo by Stanford Photo RSP scores ‘Victor’ with new staff member and his father was incarcerated at the time of his birth. He lived characteristics of McGraw and in language-based learning with his mom, whom he lost to has also fought through adverse disorders, grades one to eight. cancer, and had to live with his circumstances. The recipient During his time there, he godfather who suffered from a is preferred to be an African coached basketball, baseball, stroke and also died. American or Latino student from and track. Although he enjoyed At the end of his young life, Hunters Point and/or someone his previous job, Veal applied for McGraw had to face one of the who has faced and overcome his current Resource Specialist hardest challenges ever: cancer. adversity in their young lives just Program position once he learned He was diagnosed in 2014 and like McGraw did. about the opening. Veal recently lost a three-year -ong battle on Valerie O’Riordan, one of joined the staff at the beginning June 18, 2017, at the age of 29. Tyrone’s former teachers and of the second semester. At his 2016 commencement current visual and performing Currently, Veal is having a speech, McGraw said, “Getting arts instructor at Riordan, stated, great time at Riordan, and his up, believing in yourself, and “If I were a Riordan student By Noah David ’22 transition into the system has finding a way is a simple lesson and received a Tyrone McGraw Victor Veal grew up and lived been seamless. He described his to carry forward. Never give up.” Scholarship, I believe it would in San Francisco his whole life. working environment and fellow As a way to honor Tyrone be one of the most cherished Being a San Francisco Native, staff as relaxed, caring, and very McGraw’s legacy, Archbishop credits on my resume. Tyrone Veal always knew about Riordan, welcoming. Additionally, in terms Riordan High School created a was a humble student-leader in and was always interested in the of the school community, Veal video to be shown at the Purple the classroom, on the field, on the school. He even wanted to come to described the student body as and Gold Gala on Feb. 29 at track, and everywhere he went. Riordan after attending a sports close to one another, and having Bimbo’s in order to advance the All of that, despite his given camp during one summer, but that true sense of brotherhood. scholarship for future students. circumstances from birth.” ended up going to Lowell High He even mentioned that he might The Tyrone McGraw Scholarship Tyrone McGraw was an School, where he played various coach track or football in the awards financial assistance each inspirational student at Riordan sports, including football. 2020-2021 school year. year to deserving students. It was and his incredible story continues After high school, Veal Outside of school, Veal loves created in memory of McGraw and to impact many people. The attended San Francisco State, spending time with his wife his amazing accomplishments, as Tyrone McGraw Scholarship will where he studied Psychology, and and two boys, riding his Harley this scholarship gives young men also continue to grow and will eventually got a degree in special Davidson motorcycle, and like Tyrone the opportunity to continue his legacy of serving the education. Veal then went on to working out. Overall, Veal has follow in his footsteps. underserved. teach mathematics and language been enjoying his time here at This scholarship is awarded to John Ring, Director of arts at Charles Armstrong School Riordan, and would like to stay a senior who exemplifies the Development at Riordan, said, in Belmont, which specializes here for some time. February 2020 The Crusader Campus News 7 Archbishop Riordan High School Fr. John called to serve in Half Moon Bay Cockrell retires after 49 years at Riordan

Ministry retreats. Prior to By JJ Trujeque ’21 Riordan, he was a pastor for St. After more than forty years of Charles, where he came in contact walking down the same halls with with several Riordan graduates, purple striped walls, legendary who helped the school with Archbishop Riordan teacher, sports and music. Through his George Cockrell, has announced encounter with former Riordan his retirement from the school. students, he knew that Riordan In 1971, George Cockrell was would be a great place to continue a young, ambitious teacher just his mission. beginning his tenure at a Catholic “I knew Riordan was a great all boys’ school. He began as a scheduling was done on index By Alex Ruivivar ’20 place, and I had hoped to be able Religious Studies teacher, except cards using colored pens, and Father John Jimenez, a to combine the two,” he said. his goal was to teach more than evolved to key punched IBM beloved figure at Archbishop He also helped out with the just religion. During high school cards, to eventually PowerSchool. Riordan High School, left the activities in Campus Ministry Cockrell took a very active role Math teacher Ottilie Valverde, Riordan community last month. as well as teaching freshman in the Civil Rights Movement, longtime friend and colleague During his time at Riordan, he and sophomore religion, and writing articles and participating of Cockrell, said, “He was one of made an impact on the students occasionally math. in several protest marches and the persons who could help me as and faculty. “I enjoyed it when students campaigns led by Dr. Martin a new teacher and help find my Diego Mijares ’20 said, “He was called me ‘coach,’ for teaching in a Luther King Jr. It was his way. There were only two women a great listener. He set aside time classroom. It is really like practice proactivity in high school that and he was very kind. He was a to help those in need. Overall, he for ‘The Big Game of Life,’ and I led Cockrell to pursue a career good teacher, respected. He was so is a great person and I will never realized that the Marianist way is in teaching, and with hope of patient with everything and kept forget the things he has done for a great way of forming young men bringing awareness to the anti- shepherding us through the new Riordan.” to bring good to society.” war and Civil Rights movements changes of the grading program.” Campus Ministry Director Fr. John now looks forward by influencing change within the In truth, the legacy of Cockrell Alex Datoc ’87 added, “Father to continuing his mission in Half classroom. is one that many students may John has made a huge impact Moon Bay. However, there are The Vietnam War was also not know, but it is important. To because he built relationships by certain aspects that he will miss at its peak during this time, but spend 49 years at one academic going to the MLCs. He enjoyed at Riordan. Cockrell was fortunate to attend institution is an incredible feat, going up to retreats and seeing “What I will miss most about college and receive a student but to also implement new the young men. He helped with being at Riordan is the Marianist deferment from the draft. programs is not something that the sacramental program, which Spirit, which has manifested in Besides teaching all four levels should be taken for granted, but baptized and confirmed 15 the generosity of the faculty, staff, of Religious Studies, Cockrell also that is simply who Cockrell is. students and their families. He and students in so many great taught: Economics, Computer Cockrell leaves Archbishop really bought into the Marianist things that they are doing.” Applications, Graphic Design, Riordan with a happy and full charism and the characteristics In the near future, he is looking and Web Design. While teaching heart. His words to the future of our education. He really loved forward to still being involved at these classes part of the time, generation of students is, “Change working here at Archbishop Riordan, and in the long term, he he was also working on the is also the thing that keeps the Riordan.” plans on going to another mission Student Information System and world turning. Embrace change Father John first came to to Sudan and Ecuador, where he Scheduling that were in place at for the better and make it an Riordan in July of 2017, while knows some priests and those the time prior to PowerSchool. absolute in your life. Don’t fear assisting on some of the Campus who need help. At the time, PowerSchool, or even the Internet, was not invented or change; make it happen.” Steve Mayer ’72 honored with Chaminade Award By Steven Rissotto ’20 member of the prestigious Board Every year a Riordan of Trustees and has since served community member is presented as a well-respected member the Blessed William Joseph among his colleagues. He and his Chaminade Award in front of a brother Michael, who is also on packed Lindland Theatre. On the board and won the award in Jan. 17, the 2020 recipient, Steve 2008, made significant donations Mayer ’72, accepted the award. to the brand new multi-sport The Chaminade Award is facility on Riordan’s campus. Riordan’s highest honor, as it Hence the official title, “Mayer exemplifies the Marianist spirit Family Field.” of service and loyalty. Mayer’s What sets Mayer apart from efforts in meeting that criteria others isn’t necessarily his service were above and beyond. to the Board of Trustees or even With roughly 40 years of business the fact that he grinded through experience, Mayer’s career after an Iron Man shortly after he Riordan has flourished. He went turned 60. He also has a great on to attend UC Berkeley and ability to read the room and help Leadership San Francisco, with out a community in need. Photo by Antonio Maffei ’20 an emphasis on the business In 2018, Mayer received a call Steve Mayer ’72 was named this year’s Chaminade Award winner. model. Smack in the middle of to inform him that fellow Riordan San Francisco’s financial district alumnus Bill Blanchard’s health lies SD Mayer and Associates, a was deteriorating and his business he founded seven years financial struggles were digging Go Fund Me page in support of his accepted the Chaminade Award ago. His love for entrepreneurship him down a deep hole. Blanchard fellow Crusader. The page quickly at the podium, “It was one of the has given him the ability to start was a quadriplegic after a football gained traction and raised a little most important things that I’ve 18 different businesses. These accident in high school, so the over $130,000. The money would ever done in my life.” include two accounting firms, need to pay caretakers was last him through the rest of his It was a remarkable gesture, one restaurants, foundations, real essential. life, until he died earlier this that was felt throughout Linland estate projects, and many more Without knowing Blanchard month. Theatre when Mayer emotionally endeavors. personally, Mayer, along with a “I have to tell you,” Mayer told explained the story to the current Mayer returned to Riordan as a few other classmates, started a the Riordan community as he student body. 8 Local News The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Golden Gate Park celebrates 150 years By Sebastian Elsner ’23 said, “Frequently hummingbirds For 150 years this park has will stop to check out what you seen this city rise and fall, and are doing. They will just sit on now Golden Gate Park is being a branch a comfortable distance honored on its 150th anniversary. away from you and watch. San Francisco will celebrate Sometimes they buzz your head this milestone in many ways, and you can almost feel the including a limited time Ferris percussion from their wing beats. wheel in the Music Concourse Other times, they stop to either section of the park. critique your work, or serenade The biggest park in the United you - I have no idea which, but States—stretching 1,017 acres— whatever they are saying sounds Golden Gate Park officially opened like an angry cat over performing April 4, 1870. In 1894, they opened techno karaoke. It’s a unique the first Ferris wheel in Golden noise you learn to love.” Gate Park for the Midwinter Living in San Francisco, people International Exposition. This see weird stuff every day, and first wheel stood (or spun) about working in Golden Gate Park, one 120 feet in the air and carried 10 Illustration by Skystar can probably see twice as much people per carriage. To celebrate its 150th anniversary, Golden Gate Park will add weird stuff. For McCormick, The new wheel will be as a Ferris wheel, among other features and events, this year. he has a “cursed gardener.” He tall as the deYoung Museum’s explained, “I have seen a gardener observation deck. Each ride will houses and educational activities. of Flowers, the first building think he was being cursed because last about 12 minutes and cost $18 There will also be free in Golden Gate Park, will be he would come in and find raw for a ride to see the entire park programs and activities at the decorated in different colors. cuts of pork (feet, knuckles, ribs, from the air, provided fog does not park’s museums, gardens, and James McCormick is a park etc), uncooked beans, expired deter the view. The Ferris wheel recreational clubs. There will be supervisor at Golden Gate Park noodles, and rotting fruit on his will open to the public on April 2 a display of the AIDS Memorial and a Riordan grad, Class of 2000. shack door. Anytime something with free admission, but on the Quilt, and a picnic in Hellman He is the maintenance supervisor was vandalized or something April 4 anniversary celebration Hollow with entertainment, food, of section 2 of the park, which bad happened, he thought it was day, the ride will cost $18. The and more. In addition, Kaiser includes, Music Concourse, de someone haunting/taunting him.” Ferris wheel will remain for a Permanente will provide yoga in Young Museum, Japanese Tea “The final straw came when an year, with many other year long the park, and free movies will be Garden, Shakespeare Garden, entire section of lawn was rolled events coming soon. shown. During this period, most John McLaren Rhododendron up like fruit roll-ups. Years later, The Ferris wheel is not the only of the park will be closed, so no Dell, and Tree Fern Dell, which is we watched a grandma drop off highlight of the 150th anniversary. cars will be allowed in the those about 100 acres of the park. groceries and she said she did On April 4, there will be musical areas. On a daily basis, he maintains not have much, but she wanted to groups performing in the Music The park has survived many events at the park from weddings thank him for doing such a good Concourse in the bandshell twice events, from the 1906 and 1989 to mowing the lawn. One job. Shortly after, we watched a month, a kids’ carnival in the earthquakes to BlueGrass interesting thing he sees every raccoons roll up the lawns as they Polo Fields with rides, bouncy festivals. The Conservatory day is the hummingbirds. He peeled back the turf looking for Tuesday’s noon siren suddenly silenced By Antonio Maffei ’20 “14 years ago, I don’t know why Every Tuesday at noon in San and I don’t know how, we [she and Francisco, a familiar sound blared her son] started this thing so we through the city streets and out would be connected on Tuesday at into the bay. noon.” She continued by stating, The Outdoor Public Warning “The person who texts the other System tested its network of 119 person first and says ‘Tuesday at air-raid sirens every Tuesday at noon’ wins. No matter where he is noon until Dec. 10, 2019, when or no matter where I am, we have the City and County of San tried to keep it up. It’s our little Francisco performed its last test way of saying I love you.” of OPWS before shutting down Many residents are concerned the network. The siren system that they will not be notified will be out of service during the in the event of an emergency. two-year upgrade project. The Department of Emergency The upgrades include a new Management in San Francisco operating system, stronger assures people there is nothing encryption and hardware that to be afraid of, stating, “San will improve the reliability and Francisco uses numerous alert Photo by Antonio Maffei ’20 security of the siren system. and warning tools to deliver Established in 1942 during emergency notifications, alerts The noon siren, a Tuesday staple for decades, sounded for World War II as a civil defense and warnings. During the the last time on Dec. 10, 2019, as it undergoes repairs and measure, the original network OPWS upgrade the City will upgrades that could take up to two years to complete. consisted of 50 sirens, in the case still have access to AlertSF, the of an Axis attack. The sirens EmergencyAlert System (EAS) would wail for five minutes while and Wireless Emergency Alerts instructions would be given. The (WEA). We will also utilize siren can now be used in the event traditional and social media residents.” need them?” of a natural disaster, attack from to amplify emergency alerts. Even with that, O’Riordan is The Outdoor Public Warning foreign enemies, and many more The City’s alert and warning still concerned with the sirens System will be shut down for occasions. dissemination tools include being shut off. “I think it’s really at least two years, pending the Drama Director and House deploying first responders, silly that they turned them off software and hardware upgrades. of Russi Provincial, Valerie disaster service workers and completely, how do they not It’s still unknown if the Tuesday O’Riordan, shares a special community based organizations know that there’s going to be an noon tests will continue once the connection with the siren network. to impacted areas to help warn emergency where they’re going to network is restarted. February 2020 The Crusader State News 9 Archbishop Riordan High School Car owners understand shattered truth about state’s petty theft law By Massimo Hoffman ’20 According to Rachel Michelin, Since raising the petty theft the president of the California threshold in California, Prop. Retailers Association, “Shoplifting 47 makes anything stolen under is not only hurting retailers but $950 a misdemeanor. is also becoming a public safety In November of 2014, issue for consumers, black-market Californians voted to lower the dealers frequently cross state lines consequences of these crimes because they know California will in hopes of being able to focus go easy on them if caught.” on “more violent” criminals. The black market is bigger than While California has some of the what most would imagine and highest property crime rates in a higher threshold allows crime the country, it’s surprisingly low rings to make a big check with arrest rate is most prevalent in little to no risk. the Bay Area. “It hasn’t personally affected me While this law isn’t necessarily but my dad, who works downtown, new, it has shown to have taken has to deal with crimes to his car the biggest effect on Bay Area almost every day. He has to deal residents lately. According with broken windows and trash to SFgov.org, in 2018 San in and around his car,” said Jack Francisco had 5,000 property Barnes ’21. crimes per 100,000 residents, For a working person in which is among the highest in the downtown area, it can be the country. a constant worry about their While this number continues cars being broken into while to grow, it’s been said that police they are working. To put this will do little if anything about it into perspective, according to as long as what they took was Repairpal.com, the average car under $950. window should cost anywhere Photo provided by David Dorantes ’21 In San Francisco, where from $200 to $450, leaving $500 everything is expensive, it worth at the low end of things to Broken car windows are a common scene on San Francisco can be disheartening to come take once a window is broken. streets, and some blame California’s Proposition 47. home and see a laptop has been In regards to the petty theft stolen and that the police won’t threshold and its possible do anything about it. Often, connection to raising property crimes I’ve personally witnessed perpetrators steal items then go crime rate is so high in California, crimes, Alejandro Martinez ’20 allows most of them to get away out on the streets and sell them a major factor continues to be said, “Oh yeah, the amount of car with it.” for half value, which could be the petty theft limit, which break-ins in San Francisco and While there are more contributing used for a myriad of things. undoubtedly makes it easier to is outstanding and the high limit factors as to why the property steal than ever. Earthquake warning app shakes up seismology community By Nicholas Yee ’20 warnings will be issued in two On Oct. 17, 1989 at 5:04pm, a ways: a smartphone app called 6.9 magnitude earthquake shook MyShake or the notification San Francisco. The earthquake system that sends out Amber caused 63 deaths, nearly 3,800 Alerts. injuries, and approximately $6 Their first test of this system billion in property damages. was when quakes the magnitude of A part of the top deck of the 4.5 and 4.7 hit Central California. Bay Bridge collapsed because of Alerts rang phones with a median the shaking. This was a warning time of 1.6 to 2.1 seconds. Even and the motivation for California though this is not enough time to to create laws for newly built take cover, it is better than taking structures and to start retrofitting cover right when an earthquake already built complexes like happens. schools and bridges to make them So far, alerts will only give more resistant to earthquakes. people less than 5 seconds to take Since then, there have potentially life-saving action. been hundreds, thousands of There are also rare circumstances earthquakes in California. that one may receive a ShakeAlert The Ridgecrest 6.4 and 7.1 with no earthquake in response. earthquakes shook Southern Officials say that this is a far California on July 4 and 5. There from perfect system however, were over 1,400 aftershocks. they hope to give people time to There was also the 1999 Hector protect themselves. Mine earthquake, which was a Users not only see earthquakes magnitude of 7.1. in California, but also can see The closest major earthquake earthquakes all over the world: to San Francisco was the 6.0 the location, time, and 3.5+ Photo by Antonio Maffei ’20 magnitude. magnitude 2014 South Napa A new app, MyShake, alerts users of earthquakes. earthquake which caused nearly California is not the first to $1 billion in damages. develop this system. For example, Geologists have recently launched Mexico City’s Early Warning an early warning system, also System has sensors off Mexico’s developed for stopping high-speed People like the idea of an an known as “ShakeAlert” on the coast that warn of strong shaking. trains, they used the same system early warning system; however, 30th anniversary of Loma Prieta It has been operating since 1991. to detect earthquakes and have some would like at least a minute to alert Californians that there Japan has the most sophisticated been issuing public warnings notice, which will come in time is an earthquake coming. These system in the world. Originally since 2007. through new technology. 10 Features The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Black History Month: Glen Park’s Tyrrel family broke racial barriers By Levis Rodriguez ’20 his way up to become part of the Black History Month is a time to Department of Public Works. remember significant milestones “If you could make the effort to and the steps taken to achieve the move – and it was a big move at goal for equality. An important that point – that it offered the piece of Black History in San possibility if you’re willing to Francisco took place when the first risk the unknowns in California,” Black family moved into nearby O’Hair said, explaining the Glen Park, a predominantly white difficulty in picking up and neighborhood. moving to another state. Bertram and Frances Tyrrel According to SF genealogy, were the first Black family to the population of black people move into Glen Park in 1917. in the 1910s was about 7,000 to Bertram Tyrrel was an immigrant 10,000 in the city. The Tyrrels from British Guyana and came to moving into Glen Park broke a the United States around the late momentous barrier that opened 1880s. He first arrived in Virginia, up single race neighborhoods to where he enlisted himself in the diversity. US Navy, but then moved to San The house that the Tyrrels Francisco where he worked as moved into is located on Laidley a porter at The Palace Hotel in and Fairmount streets. The house downtown San Francisco. was originally owned by Teresa Bertram Tyrrel was dismissed Bell, who moved away and rented from The Palace in 1896 due to to the Tyrrel family. As Bertram white conservative unions who became part of a new community found the hotel was becoming too along with his family, he became “diverse and liberal.” part of fraternal organizations “In other places in the U.S. that helped the African American Photo courtesy of the Charles Reid/Ivy Reid Collection at that time, even if it was a free Community through “social, state, the hostility towards black economic, and political support.” The Tyrrel family, circa 1919, in front of a house on Laidley Street. people was difficult to avoid,” said “Now, fraternal organizations Amy O’Hair, the historian behind have worked with churches or belonged to, probably, one to the Sunnyside History Project, been aligned with churches at even three organizations. Plus a those who fought for unity between who researched the Tyrrel family various times, but fraternal union,” O’Hair said. races, those who fought against and the hardship Black people organizations are a sort of a Black Student Union member discrimination, and by knowing went through during the early unique–I mean, they got to be Jordan Noeuku ’21 said learning this will help us understand more stages of America. very strong in the U.S. For any about Bertram Tyrrel and Black of who we are, as individuals… This firing led to Bertram different person in the nineteenth History is important. and by celebrating these people becoming a janitor and working century, they would have “You’re actually celebrating we are also thanking them.” The ’20s come roaring back 100 years later By Steven Rissotto ’20 A perfect day would include It wasn’t too long ago that watching Babe Ruth hit a home America was in trouble. The run and heading to a club to stock market plummeted, people watch Louis Armstrong perform were losing their jobs and houses, later that night. banks were closing without any Outside of the financial empathy, and the hope for a hardships, everything was easier, bounce-back was uncertain. This and the lack of technology was was the Great Depression, the a reason for the generation’s main takeaway story from the “roaring” historical status. As Roaring Twenties. humans, it’s second nature to It’s been 100 years since compare and contrast. Gas prices the decade that changed the are often looked at as a key world. Now, society has forever example. In 1920, it started at 30 triumphed the creations of that cents a gallon and dipped down to time, and made them stronger 21 cents by the end of the decade. than ever. World War I had just Millions of Americans would ended and another one wasn’t fantasize about the idea of paying far from happening. Prohibition’s Photo by Levis Rodriguez ’20 that much nowadays. effect on the country was Gino Zarich ’21 (left) and Jack O’Connor ’21 read The Great Gatsby. The main takeaway from 100 overlooked and often bypassed years ago is that people enjoyed as a total joke. Now, it’s looked important business brands of together and race didn’t matter; the easy going nature of the time, back on with laughs as even the all-time. Today, the legacy of the music simply united all people. but feared the secondary threats. famous Taco Bell in Pacifica has Disney and his animating peers The great Louis Armstrong Wars were scary, the Depression renovated into a cantina. are being stretched to new and started a successful career that was scary, and Al Capone was In reality, the ’20s weren’t technological based limits with spanned nearly four decades. It scary. However, there were completely useless or negative. cool new features. was a wonderful world, indeed for additions to the era as well. Popular culture is intriguing to The Great Gatsby, an iconic those with creative ideas within Sports, music, entertainment, curious individuals all over the novel that is still being taught the industry. and technology still remain the world today, but it didn’t used to in student curriculum across the Before basketball and football driving forces of enjoyment in the be like that. world, was released in the 1920s. boomed the sports world, baseball world. In 1928, Walt Disney released Pop and R&B music is popular was America’s sweetheart. The Thanks to decades like the a short film titled “Steamboat amongst young adults today, but stadiums and the smell of the 1920s, we still have a unique Willie.” It wasn’t just the start back then, jazz was the resting grass were just small details of opportunity to keep building of Mickey Mouse, but it was the place of America’s pride. In the distraction the game had on tradition we initially began 100 beginning of one of the most reality, it bonded the Old South many during the ugly Depression. years prior. Features February 2020 The Crusader 11 Archbishop Riordan High School From brotherhood to fatherhood: Baby boom hits Riordan By Jordan Maralit ’21 The Riordan community is Religious studies teacher and experiencing a baby boom, as soccer coach Michael So and two teachers and two counselors his wife Angela So welcomed recently welcomed new additions daughter Marguerite Eunae to their families. So, named after St. Marguerite Art teacher Irman Arcibal Bourgeoys, CND. She was 7 and his wife Robelene Novero pounds, 11.6 ounces, and 20.5 had their firstborn child, a son inches long the day she was born, named Ceferink Roman Novero on Oct. 12, 2019 at 6:28 p.m. Arcibal, named after Arcibal’s Counselor and baseball Grandfather, Ceferino Villanueva. coach David Lin ’99 and his wife He weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce, Shirley Cheung had their third and was 20 inches long at birth. child, a daughter, Naomi Rose He was born on May 30, 2019 Lin on Nov. 8, 2019, at Kaiser in at 3:53 a.m. at Kaiser on Geary Redwood City. She joins her two Boulevard in San Francisco. brothers, Nathan and Noah in the Counselor Jon Aguilar and his expanding Lin family. Naomi Rose Lin wife Trina Aguilar, had their first Teachers and faculty of Nov. 8, 2019 child, a daughter named, Estelle the Riordan community are Maryn Aguilar, on Dec. 7, 2019 at hardworking people, many of 5:25 p.m. Her name is translated whom also want to start a family. as “Star of the Sea.” She weighed Once they have their newborns, 6 pounds, 12 ounces, and was 19.5 they need to make time for them inches long at birth. and stay on track with their work.

Estelle Maryn Aguilar Dec. 7, 2019

The challenge now remains, can schedule and plan out things they manage grading work with ahead of time in order to make Marguerite Eunae So changing diapers? Fortunately, things work. Also, incorporating Oct. 12, 2019 these professionals have shown and my boys into the community proven that they are always ready makes it easy. I bring them to for the challenge. games, my morning workouts Arcibal felt relief after having sometimes, and just meshing the a newborn child. He said he is two as much as possible keeps “Exhilaratingly and happily everyone happy.” exhausted.” Arcibal balances his Aguilar said, “As a first-time time grading papers after he puts father, I’m excited to show my his son down for a nap. He added, daughter the world and to see her “Most grading happens during the grow into her own.” school day, after my son has been He added, “Balancing work and put to bed.” personal life is always going to be While counselors do not grade difficult, but I’m excited for the papers, they do have to be available challenge and really believe that to check in with students for support being a father will help me be a and guidance while ensuring they better counselor, and that will have time for their children. help me be a better father.” Lin said, “Balance for me comes College Counselor Melissa with the fact that I have my parents Nagar, who has had two children and my wife’s parents helping us. while working at Riordan, offered Not everyone has that luxury, but some advice and shared her because we do, we’re able to continue personal experience. She said, working.” “You got this! Take it one day at Lin added, “Part of the reason a time. Every day isn’t going to why I work hard to balance both is be hard and you’ll slowly gain that I love my work and I love being confidence. Enjoy all the small Ceferink Roman Novero Arcibal around Riordan so I know I must moments and accept your friends May 30, 2019 put in more time and effort and and family’s help!” 12 National News The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Students to soldiers: How selective service works By Michael Curran ’20 According to the Selective The last draft was in 1973 for Service System, the mission of the Vietnam War. That draft was selective service is “To register met with lots of protests since men and maintain a system that, protesters did not believe the war when authorized by the President was a just cause. and Congress, rapidly provides The draft has six phases. The personnel in a fair and equitable president and Congress authorize manner while managing an the draft. Then, the lottery starts, alternative service program for which is based on birthdays. After conscientious objectors.” someone is drafted, he undergoes The Selective Service also physical and mental evaluations. confirms that there is no active They decide whether or not he can draft, so any message about fight in a war, and send a letter being drafted was not sent by the informing him of their decision. Selective Service System or any Next, first draftees are inducted. other federal entity. People who are exempt from To clarify, the draft is the the draft are: Conscientious mandatory enrollment into the Objectors, Ministers, Ministerial armed forces. students, people in hardship Photo by Michael Curran ’20 Almost all men ages 18-25 (taking care of someone else), All male citizens 18 and older must register for Selective Service, but must register. Those who don’t certain elected officials, if someone there is currently no active draft, which is enrollment in the military. register,won’t get any federal in the family, like a sibling, has student aid, federal job training, died in the military, only sons, required two years of service,” and federal jobs. They could also veterans, immigrants and dual veteran might be drafted. This has said AP Government teacher get a fine as high as $250,000 and nationals, those with certain never happened in the U.S., but in Jeff Isola ’98. “The U.S. does not up to 5 years in prison. medical conditions, and women. other countries they have lowered have that, so I think it is kinda “We need it for the war,” said Some of these are very the age in some cases. strange that people believe it’s Brendan Jordan ’20. conditional. In extreme cases, a “A lot of countries have a unjustifiable.” Partisan impeachment on Capitol Hill ends in acquittal By Michael Conefrey ’21 In the space of time between Dec. 18, 2019 and Feb. 5, 2020, abuse of power, and the other President Donald J. Trump was for obstruction of Congress. On both impeached by the House of Dec. 18, the House voted to send Representatives on two charges of articles of impeachment to the abuse of power and acquitted by Republican controlled senate. the Senate on those charges, an Speaker of the House Nancy occurrence that has happened to Pelosi initially withheld the the president only twice before. articles from the Senate, delaying The impeachment followed an the trial for about a month in official House inquiry, in which order to ensure that witnesses Democrats accused President would be called. Trump of soliciting Ukrainian Pelosi’s efforts were ultimately President Volodymyr Zelensky for fruitless, as the Senate voted an investigation into Democratic 51-49 to block any witnesses presidential candidate Joe Biden from appearing in the trial. in exchange for military aid. Two Republican senators, Mitt Concerns over the conversation Wikimedia Commons Romney of Utah and Susan were first raised when a then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi bangs the gavel, Collins of Maine, voted along unnamed whistleblower claimed announcing impeachment proceedings had begun. with all Democrats against the he was on the call. The transcript can investigate misdealings or the National Security Council Lt. measure. of the call has since been released, things outside the law. If he truly Col. Alexander Vindman. The Senate then voted to and the whistleblower has been believed there were dealings that The committee then voted 13-9 acquit the president on both revealed to be CIA analyst Eric were outside of the parameters of to send through a final report on charges, falling well short of the Ciaramella. legality, the president could have the information they gathered. two-thirds vote needed to remove Trump presumably wanted called the FBI or even perhaps the On Dec. 4, the House Judiciary a sitting president. Romney, the Biden investigated for his son Intelligence Services if he thought Committee commenced official Republican presidential nominee Hunter’s involvement in Burisma something was nefarious.What impeachment hearings. in 2012, voted to convict the Holdings, a Ukrainian natural gas he truly did wrong was go outside On Dec. 13, the House Judiciary president for abuse of power, producer. The younger Biden was his scope of powers as president Committee voted 23-17 along but not obstruction of congress, a member of the company’s board to investigate American citizens,” party lines to recommend two becoming the only senator to vote from 2014 to 2019, a position that said Social Science teacher David articles of impeachment, one for across party lines. garnered him a whopping $50,000 Elu. a month despite his limited The House inquiry lasted from experience in the energy industry September of 2019 to November and in Ukraine. of 2019, which included multiple Suspicion first arose when hearings held by the House then Vice President Joe Biden, Intelligence Committee in who was in charge of Ukrainian October. In those hearings, the relations at the time, pressured public was able to hear from for the firing of a Ukrainian important witnesses including prosecutor who was investigating former Ukraine ambassador Burisma at the time. Marie Yovanovitch, ambassador “There are other ways and other to the European Union Gordon means by which the president Sondland, and top Ukraine aid to February 2020 The Crusader Arts & Entertainment 13 Archbishop Riordan High School A long time ago, By Sean DiNicola ’22 There is no doubt that Star a surprise when it was announced Wars is one of the biggest movie that Disney would be purchasing franchises ever, and is loved by LucasFilm in 2012. many. “I think George wanted to In 2012, Disney purchased just quit after the prequel trilogy Lucasfilm for $4 billion and movies. He had a goal to make with the 2019 release of “Star nine movies and probably thought Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” it would be best if Disney took completed the nine movie plan over and finished them up,” said laid out over four decades ago by Connor Situ ’22. Star Wars creator and director, Since 2015, Disney has released George Lucas. In six short years, five Star Wars feature films and Disney has more than made four spin-off shows. It seems that their investment back, grossing fans are divided on how they almost $5 billion as of 2018. Rise feel about the prequels, created of Skywalker, alone, grossed by Lucasfilm, and the sequels, $1.1 billion. created by Disney. Since we were first introduced “I think that the prequel trilogy to our furry friend, Chewbacca, is superior to the sequels because in 1977, the Star Wars movies the story is told better and there have entertained millions of are not many plot holes,” said fans all over the world. Lucas Araav Patel ’22. released two sequels: Star Wars: How about the future? Fans are The Empire Strikes Back (1980) very excited to hear about the final and Star Wars: Return of the season of Star Wars: The Clone Jedi (1983), after the debut of Wars on Disney+ and wonder the hugely popular Star Wars: A what is next. This series, which New Hope (1977). started on Cartoon Network and It wasn’t until 1999 that the is funded by Lucasfilm, ended in next movies (Episodes I, II, and 2014, and Disney is now reviving III) were released between 1999 the series after a six year gap. and 2007. They were popular The show has excellent for being bad due to bad CGI, storytelling and animation, so poor storytelling, and overall there is no telling where they will boring to the movie watchers. take the saga, and Star Wars, in There were also a lot of high general. Aside from Clone Wars, expectations after several years, which airs this month, there’s no yet when the sequels came out, telling where Disney will go next. most people were disappointed. “I think there will be more and The only exception is the last more spin-off series in the near movie in the prequel trilogy, future. Disney is going to want StarWars.com Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith to keep making money, especially which is set to debut Fall 2020. Mary Dalton said, “The (2007), which almost made up for since they have one of the biggest After December, they were left Mandalorian’s first season was the previous two movies. Most movie franchises in the whole on a huge cliff hanger and there very successful. I was totally fans would agree that it seemed world,” said Dennis Polyack ’22. is not much information about into ‘The Mandalorian,’ and I’m George Lucas was running out of Fans are very excited about the what is to come. looking forward to seeing more steam at that point, so it wasn’t new season of “The Mandolorian,” English Department Chair Baby Yoda.” in a galaxy far, far away . . . more easily traverse the By John McQuaid ’22 environment and defeat enemies. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order The combat is tight and enjoyable, is a recently released, standalone the characters have interesting game for all platforms, which and engaging backstories, and follows the story of Cal Kestis. Cal the story is excellent on the first is a Jedi Padawan who escaped playthrough. the Purge of Order 66 thanks to On the second playthrough, the sacrifice of his master, and the unskippable cutscenes were has been hiding on the planet annoying, and the story did not Bracca as a scrapper. He is found have anything new to show. The by the Empire’s Jedi hunters, collectibles were still fun to get, called Inquisitors, and escapes but knowing their locations made once again with the help of Cere only a few difficult. Junda, a former Jedi, and Greez Overall combat does not Dritus, the captain and pilot of StarWars.com change, but less powerful The Mantis. Commonly referred the attack patterns and tells of storyline. The game is also fairly enemies will be easier to dispatch to as Jedi: Fallen Order or just every enemy to survive, especially short, with most of the playtime and more powerful enemies will Fallen Order, the game falls into on higher difficulties, and every coming from backtracking to display additional exploitable the Souls-like, third-person, and use of your healing item counts, previous areas for new objectives weaknesses. Players will have action-adventure genres, with a like in the Souls games. The game to use new abilities to find more to use their skill and wits to find compelling story to complement is mostly very fair, though some collectibles. ways to quickly defeat enemies. the gameplay. segments and bosses prove to be The main character, Cal Kestis, I enjoyed Fallen Order. The Fallen Order obviously takes rather annoying. Unlike the Souls actually has a very limited set combat is tight and enjoyable, great inspiration from the Darks games, however, Fallen Order of abilities, but as the game the characters have interesting Souls series, which is known for follows an obvious story, and has progresses, he remembers his and engaging backstories, and being unforgiving but extremely a story difficulty setting for those teachings and collects upgrades the story is excellent on the first rewarding. The player must learn who just want to enjoy the for his droid that allow him to playthrough. 14 Environment The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Conflagration ravages Australia’s land, wildlife By Brandon Vargas ’20 fires are comparable to the recent Additionally, more than a Since fire season began in July California wildfires. third of koalas in New South 2019, bushfires have ravaged “The differences could be Wales have perished as a result the southeast side of Australia, myriad,” he stated. “The of the fires. However, koalas are particularly in the territory of topography, the undergrowth, not at risk of extinction because New South Wales. The fires have the availability of resources to be of their existence throughout filled the air of some of Australia’s able to contain fires... those are various parts of Australia. On largest cities, including Melbourne so different in Australia than in the other hand, such species as and Sydney, with smoke. northern California.” the antechinus (also referred The fires started and spread However, as the world keeps to as the marsupial mouse) as a result of the hot, arid seeing streaks of wildfires, or and glossy black cockatoo face weather during Australia’s extremes, many wonder whether extinction since they exist summer. However, according this could be a result of human mainly in eastern Australia. to AP Environmental Sciences activity. For months on end, firefighters teacher Michael O’Brien, weather O’Brien stated, “The more have been battling the fires, isn’t the only factor that aids we see these extremes, the more but to no overarching avail yet. the emergence and expansion of we have to start considering, is As a tribute to the relentless wildfires. this anthropogenic? Did humans effort of the firefighters, the “Because of anthropogenic cause this on a long term scale?” famous sails of the Sydney climate change, because of As of Jan. 13, the fires have Opera House were lit up on human aided climate change, it destroyed more than 17.9 million Jan. 11. They depicted images has made certain climates in the acres across Australia’s six of volunteer firefighters, as well world more susceptible to what territories. The fires have also as a sign that read “THANK we might call natural disasters, taken the lives of more than 30 YOU FIRIES,” acknowledging including wildfires,” he said. “The individuals along with countless the firefighters for their efforts. NASA via Creative Commons problem is when human beings animals, and have destroyed more The fires kept rambling get involved and start setting the than 2,000 homes. At least one on throughout February, but NASA Aqua Satellite shows fires for their own purposes, you billion animals have been killed firefighters are doing their best data of the Australian end up depleting the nutrients in so far as a result of the fires, but to combat the blazes. bushfires. The highlighted the soil.” that number doesn’t include frogs, However, O’Brien stated that areas in red are fire detections. As a result of human activity, invertebrates, or bats. According in order to diminish the rates of He asked, “Do our endeavors climate change may be considered to ScienceNews, invertebrates, wildfires, humans must think set things in motion that would one of the primary catalysts of which include butterflies, spiders, about their part in the tragedy make it possible for fires to the fires. Additionally, O’Brien and ladybugs, could be dying by and recovery. happen?” doesn’t believe the Australian the trillions. Filipino invents possible plastic to fuel solution By Logan Estrada ’22 that we are already burning too Turning plastic to fuel is now many fossil fuels.” a reality. She warned, “Burning these Jayme Navarro, a Filipino fuels which were once trapped inventor from the town of Bacolod, in the ground releases a massive has found a useful method to turn load of carbon dioxide into the plastic trash into usable fuel, such atmosphere, which increases heat as gasoline, diesel, and kerosene. absorption and retention, leading Navarro made this discovery to climate shifts.” while trying to convert plastic College counselor Melissa waste, such as plastic bottles, Nagar said, “I think this invention bags, utensils, and such back into is a great idea for two reasons: their original form. the depletion of natural resources Science Department Chair and the massive amount of Colleen O’Rourke explained, “This plastic waste. I also believe innovation is interesting because that it’s significant that this it takes a resource which is already discovery was made by a Filipino plentiful across the globe—trash inventor because it demonstrates plastic—and turns it into a usable the creativity and intellect of daigdigpinoy.com source of combustible energy. It’s our people, which isn’t always Jayme Navarro, a Filipino inventor, has found a a technique that is already widely highlighted in mainstream media useful method to turn plastic trash into usable fuel. used in chemical engineering to or historical texts.” process material, often as a way AP Environmental Sciences of processing material to make teacher Michael O’Brien said, it easier to combust and release “First of all, this process sounds stored energy.” amazing, and scientifically O’Rourke continued, “Barbeque feasible. It almost seems too good charcoal briquettes, for example, to be true, but the only things that are prepared through certain may be stopping it from being types of pyrolysis to make them implemented is the extreme cost easier to light and burn more and inefficiency, and how this evenly than just chunks of wood may affect petroleum companies.” would do. I’ve heard a lot of people He added, “On a widespread suggest and get excited about basis, the first thought would be to using plastics for energy, but provide fuel for fuel depositories, honestly, it’s an idea that makes such as gas stations. I have a me very, very nervous. Plastic is question, however, that even made from fossil fuels, just like though this process, this pyrolysis gasoline and natural gas, and the process is “cleaner,” isn’t it still majority of our current climate burning fossil fuels? I also think it change crises stem from the fact will drive down the price of gas.” February 2020 The Crusader Health 15 Archbishop Riordan High School Influenza cases increase, Coronavirus nears pandemic level By Elijah Calip ’22 To prevent the spread of the flu, The new year started with an health professionals advise people immense increase of infections to schedule an appointment with during this winter flu season, their physician to receive the flu with influenza claiming the lives shot. Flu vaccinations will reduce of around 8,200 in the United the risk of death from the flu, States. according to a study conducted The Centers for Disease in 2017. Also, remember to Control and Prevention reported cough into the elbow and to wash that most of these cases are young hands often, since the flu can be adults under the age of 25 and transmitted through the air and children. The CDC also reported human contact. that around 140,000 have been Alongside the flu, a new virus, hospitalized. coming from the Coronavirus Furthermore, clinical labs have family, has caused panic around seen an increase from 23.4 percent the world. The new virus was to 25.6 percent in respiratory speculated to have originated in specimens testing positive for the a fish market in Wuhan, China Photo by Mikael Häggström, M.D. via Wikimedia Commons flu in the week ending Jan. 18. where fish and other exotic However, the mortality rate animals were being sold. This throughout that week has seen a new virus has been shown to be China. At least five have been Epidemiology and Control in Hong decrease from 7.1 percent to 6.7 contagious even before symptoms reported in the United States, Kong, stated in a news release, percent. could be seen. one being from Los Angeles, “This epidemic is growing at quite The two types of the influenza To date, around 60 million California. a fast rate and its accelerating.” virus that are infecting young people have been quarantined No vaccine has been made yet The total confirmed cases have adults and children are Influenza in mainland China in an effort and cases are increasing every been reported to be 2,744 and B and Influenza A. Influenza A, or for the Chinese government to day. Gabriel Leung, a founding a death toll of 80 in mainland H1N1 is more common with older prevent the spread of the virus. director of the World Health China. However, more cases adults, whereas Influenza B is However, around 50 cases have Organization Collaborating may be reported in the upcoming more common with children. been confirmed outside mainland Center for Infectious Disease weeks.

Editor’s Note: For more stories and photos, go to our website RCrusaderNews.com. Dieters cut carbs, lose weight quickly with keto By Aidan Murtagh ’20 A new diet has quickly grown in popularity over the last couple Moreover, Mukatash only of years, and many people have recommended the diet for those seen tremendous results after who have a specific goal in mind: switching to the diet. losing weight. He explained that This ketogenic diet, more many fruits and vegetables are commonly known as the “keto not compatible with the keto diet,” is an intensive diet that diet, but in general they are still consists of foods that are very low healthy. By depriving the body in carbohydrates and high in fat. of fruits and vegetables, one may These types of foods eventually not obtain important nutrients (usually in a little less than a that are specific to these foods. week) allow the body to enter Harlan shares the concerns “ketosis,” a metabolic state in of Kolokotrones and Mukatash, which the body burns body fat as advising that people take caution energy as opposed to sugar. when considering the keto diet. Although being in ketosis does He said, “I would not recommend allow the body to quickly burn fat, the keto diet for someone trying to lose weight. The reason being there are some drawbacks to it. Cooksmarts.com it is a short term fix for a long Anatomy teacher Thomas Harlan Although there are drawbacks to the keto diet, it does have benefits. ’08 explained, “The problem with term problem… Instead, I would being in ketosis is that it changes He claimed, “The keto diet is Kolokotrones reported that they recommend that a person start the chemical balance of your 100 percent effective, but only if experienced strong headaches. by tracking either their calories blood and can cause damage to you stick to it. It takes a few days In addition, Harlan explained or macronutrients (carbs, fats, your organs if you stay on it for to enter ketosis and you can’t that many people try the keto proteins) first.” too long. Being in ketosis makes slack off at all, but if you stick to diet and quit within a few days “I would also recommend your blood acidic, which can be the diet you’ll see the results.” because of how much time and that a person begin to exercise. harmful to the body past a certain Senior Waheeb Mukatash also effort it takes to maintain. These are long term solutions point.” tried the keto diet, and he agrees Because of its intensive and are much more manageable Whether or not it is bad for the that the keto diet allows people to and tasking nature, the keto day-to-day. Losing weight is very body, there is no doubt that the quickly lose weight. He said, “The diet is not fit for everybody. simple; it comes down to calories keto diet is effective at helping keto diet is very effective; you lose Kolokotrones said that he would consumed versus calories burned, people lose weight. weight very fast if done properly not recommend the diet for those and people seem to forget this Adam Kolokotrones ’20 started with exercise.” without a lot of body fat because concept. Weight loss/weight gain, a high protein keto diet last Despite the keto diet’s quickness eventually, their body would if done right, takes time. People spring and immediately noticed and effectiveness, the keto diet is burn almost all of their body always want things fast, but for results, losing 9 pounds in a little very intensive and tasking for the fat and start using the muscles weight loss and lifestyle change, over a week. body. Both Mukatash and themselves as sources of energy. it takes time.” 16 Sports The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School 49ers fumble against Chiefs in Super Bowl By Matt Balmy ’21 The San Francisco 49ers had and Steven Elsner ’20 an outstanding season that ended For the first time in 50 years, with an unfortunate loss in Super the Kansas City Chiefs are the Bowl LIV. The 49ers started Super Bowl Champions. the year off projected to go 3-13, Their first Super Bowl victory which seemed reasonable after was in 1969, when they beat 2018-19’s 4-12 season. The 49ers the Vikings. For that game, had a good draft in the offseason, Joe Buck’s dad, Jack Buck, was picking Nick Bosa second overall, announcing the game, and for Deebo Samuel in the second their most recent win, his son Joe round, and Jalen Hurd in the Buck, announced the game. third round. Jimmy Garoppolo The Chiefs were led by Super entered the year with everyone Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes, nfl.com questioning how he would do in who had two touchdown passes to his comeback year after missing The Chiefs defeated the 49ers in Super Bowl LIV. go along with 286 passing yards. the 2018-19 season with a torn offenses and call the right plays and Dre Greenlaw were a problem Also with Mahomes, leading the ACL. on defense to stop them. The for an offense, as they were also charge, was Damien Williams, The 49ers started off the year talent on defense was also a great at covering the pass whether who had 17 carries for 104 yards with an 8-0 record, which shocked huge factor. Defensive Rookie of in zone or man. and one touchdown. the NFL. The 49ers were playing the Year Bosa wreaked havoc on The 49ers had a good playoff The Chiefs were losing 20-10 tough physical football. Their run- offensive coordinators’ game plan. run, and earned first seed after going into the fourth quarter and heavy offense was a huge success, Bosa was fast off the line, making Dre Greenlaw stopped the scored 21 unanswered to propel mostly because of blocking. him a great speed rusher, but he Seahawks on the 1 yard line them to a Super Bowl victory. Kyle Shanahan stressed the also had enough strength to push in the last game of the season. The play that started their 21 fundamentals, such as blocking. a tackle back into the pocket. After earning the bye, the 49ers point comeback was a 3rd and 15 The 49ers’ wide receivers The rest of the defensive line beat the Vikings in the divisional conversion to Tyreek Hill for a could hold a block and George could also get into the backfield round and clobbered the Packers 44 yard gain to move them to the Kittle would pancake defenders, with ease. The 49ers could play in the NFC Championship. 22 yard line of San Francisco, to laughing as he did so. When a a game with a 4-man pass rush In Super Bowl LIV against start the comeback. team stopped the run, Garoppolo and still get to the quarterback the Chiefs in Miami, the 49ers The Super Bowl victory made could throw a pass to any of them a significant amount of times. came out strong but ended up Mahomes the youngest player in or all-pro tight end Kittle. With Richard Sherman at corner- losing the game, despite having the NFL to win both MVP and a The 49ers defense was the back, he helped to lead and teach a strong season. The 49ers have Super Bowl. Also, this gives Andy real game-changer this year. the defensive backs how to play hope and potential heading into Reid his first Super Bowl as a Defensive mastermind Robert smarter and to hit. the offseason, and are looking to head coach. Saleh could pick apart a team’s Kwon Alexander, Fred Warner, be back in the Super Bowl. Raiders roll the dice on Las Vegas strip By Cameron Bevan-Abel ’22 In April of 2016, Mark Davis, Gruden may have had one owner of the former Oakland of the best defenses of all time Raiders and son of former owner with the Buccaneers that season, and all-time legend Al Davis, but that did not matter because announced he planned to move he also knew their entire game the team to Las Vegas. In January plan, having been the coach for 2020, Mark Davis officially the four previous seasons and announced the team as the Las with Callahan not changing Vegas Raiders. much of the offense. The Raiders Just less than 40 years ago, went 4-12 the following season Al Davis moved the team from and Callahan was fired. Oakland to Los Angeles after Over the last 17 seasons in winning Super Bowls in 1976 and Oakland, the Raiders went 1980. They ended up winning through 10 different head the Super Bowl in the franchise’s coaches, 19 different starting second year in L.A. in 1983, but AllegiantStadium.com quarterbacks, one playoff appearance, and their record have not won since. The Raiders will open the 2020 season at Allegiant Stadium in Vegas. The Oakland Raiders started was 92-180. as a franchise in the AFL in 1960 With the team now in Vegas, and merged along with the other they might have some serious AFL teams to the NFL in 1970. Offensive Coordinator Jon Jon Gruden was fired and the playoff expectations. The Raiders Al Davis was a co-commissioner Gruden as the head coach. In his Raiders promoted Bill Callahan to were still in playoff contention in the AFL alongside Chief’s fourth year in Oakland, Gruden Head Coach. He was the offensive a until Week 17, barring the legendary owner Lamar Hunt for led the team to the Divisional coordinator and offensive line weight of playing in arguably a couple of years and disapproved Round of the playoffs. coach of the Raiders and also a the toughest schedule in the the merger. At the time, Al Davis Thanks to an obscure rule member of the coaching staff of the league. It was unlikely for them was also the owner of the Oakland called “The Tuck Rule,” Raiders Eagles with Gruden. Gruden was to contend for the playoffs going Raiders. He also coached them cornerback Charles Woodson’s the one who convinced Callahan into the season, but standing from 1963-1965. forced fumble on second year to go to Oakland with him. at a 6-4 mark having just gone The Raiders moved to Los quarterback Tom Brady was The Buccaneers hired Gruden through the toughest part of the Angeles in 1982, but moved back overturned. The Patriots did not as head coach and he led them schedule, the Raiders seemed fit to Oakland in 1995. After not blow their chances as the all time to the Super Bowl in his first to play in January. Yet, they lost getting past the Divisional round leading scorer Adam Vinatieri year there. Callahan also led his four games straight. since 1990, when star running made a game tying 45-yard kick team to the Super Bowl, making back Bo Jackson suffered a career in the snow. The Patriots won in for a revenge-filled Super Bowl Please see “Raiders,” ending injury against the Bengals overtime and won the Super Bowl matchup. This hyped-up game left continued on page 17 in the playoffs, the Raiders hired as well as five others in the next viewers something to be desired the former Philadelphia Eagles two decades. as the Raiders were blown out. February 2020 The Crusader Sports Features 17 Archbishop Riordan High School From manager to ‘MVP’: The legend of D Steves By Steven Rissotto ’20 Stevens told The Crusader. “But It was well anticipated that every other week after that I got Dominic Stevens ’20 was going used to it.” to make an appearance on senior Jones started the movement night for the basketball team. He earlier than anyone and started always does, the only difference posting clips of Stevens working is that he had the opportunity to out on his Instagram page. Titled suit up as a player for the first “DSteves Chronicles,” students time in his high school career. started to become familiar with That means quickly swapping his the features and figured out quite khakis for a jersey. fast what was going on. It might For the better part of four years, have been a far fetched idea for he’s served as the team manager some, but Stevens had a feeling for basketball and football, hard work wouldn’t let him where he helped with water, the down. Jones, meanwhile, quickly training staff and everything in- became his biggest fan. between. It was a whirlwind for “We did a lot of cardio and Stevens, who made a bet with fundamental work to try and get Riordan’s head coach Joey Curtin him as ready as possible,” Jones Photo by Steven Rissotto ’20 five weeks ago that he would get said. “I’m 100 percent in the Dominic Stevens ’20 went from team manager to hero in minutes. in shape just in time for the game. ‘dsteves’ fan club.” During that time, he worked Fast forward to the game itself: Riordan, in a tough three-team It was an unforgettable moment every day after school with 2:00 left and Stevens had his fight for first place in the West in Riordan Athletics history. The strength and conditioning coach promise sealed. All he had to do Catholic Athletic League, was student section, located on the Ryan Jones ’08 to get stronger was wait for the chance and with leading Sacred Heart Cathedral court, didn’t have a clue what to and create a goal to strive for. It 1:58 left, Curtin made the move. by almost 30 points, which created do. Hugs were flying, and faculty wasn’t easy for Stevens. After all, All game long, the Crusaders’ the leverage for Curtin to pull the had trouble holding everyone his only other athletic experience student section was ready for the trigger that was in jeopardy of back from charging the court. It at Riordan is golf, which event and even had decent-size becoming stale if the Crusaders’ was pure emotion and pure chaos. includes less physical demand. posters of him printed out. Once he lead was thinner. For Stevens, it was real Basketball’s nonstop movement took a knee by the scorer’s table, After an airball on a corner and actually happened. And it presents a completely different the crowd went into a frenzy. It three-attempt, Stevens rebounded happened in a big way. animal. was almost as if Michael Jordan by sinking a Dominic Wilson ’20 “It’s crazy,” Stevens said. “It’s “The first week I was dying,” himself walked onto the court. pass from downtown. a dream come true.” World mourns NBA icon Kobe Bryant By Cameron Bevan-Abel ’22 Legendary NBA superstar Kobe Bryant’s death stunned the sport’s world on Jan. 26. What to be. His work ethic, his hurt even more was that his mentality, and most importantly daughter, Gianna, also died. his efforts as a father and positive Kobe Bryant was in a helicopter role model to society. The role he with his daughter on their way played in his daughters’ lives, to his daughter’s basketball current players lives, and the game, Kobe being the coach. W[N]BA were beyond amazing. Other victims of the crash were These are all things young John, Keri, and Alyssa Altobelli athletes can aspire to,” Willers who wanted to see Alyssa play said. basketball for the same team “I truly believe the WNBA lost as Gianna; another teammate, a powerful voice. He’s contributed Payton Chester, and her mom a lot. Sport[s] and athletics Sarah Chester, Christina Mauser, in general lost an amazing an assistant coach for the team, spokesperson. Most importantly, and finally Ara Zobayan, the pilot he seemed to be an awesome of the helicopter. father to his daughters. That’s Kobe Bryant was one of the what gets me the most. Guys like most inspirational sports players him and LeBron really make it of all time. There was always hard for you to hate them.” controversy and hatred to his tattoo of a black mamba with a Illustration by Miles Poon ’20 name, but that never deterred rose and the numbers 8 and 24, him. Nobody liked to play against along with the words, “Mamba 4 him, but when he died, the whole Continued from “Raiders,” Life.” NBA community went into a state Morris, a Raiders fan, said the His life meant a lot to Doc on page 16 of shock and mourning. move could help rebuild the Rivers, who just lost it in his Damian Lillard said, “I don’t broken down franchise. “The press conference after his win. It The Raiders last moment even know how we’re supposed Raiders have a real rich tradition says a lot about a player if even representing Oakland was a to play this game tonight,” right and it goes back a long time. the rival team’s coach is in tears Derek Carr pass batted down before a 50-point night game Raiders are tough, gritty and the from Kobe’s death. at the line of scrimmage on a against the Pacers and exclaimed bad boys of the NFL.” One person Kobe Bryant’s two-point conversion in the final afterwards, “[Kobe] was the best He added, “Now it’s kinda hard death really got to is Riordan seconds leaving Denver victorious player I ever played against.” to pinpoint their reputation...they Coach Benny Willers ’. “Kobe by one point. LeBron James passed Bryant haven’t really reached the place was my idol. I looked up to Now, the franchise is officially for third on the all-time scoring people expect them to reach. They him, not because of how many in Las Vegas, playing in Allegiant list the day before and cried need to rebrand themselves and points he scored or how many Stadium, which is set to finish heavily upon hearing the news of find an identity or at least tie their championships he won, but construction in July or August. his passing. He also later got a identity to their historic roots.” because of the person he strived Athletic Director Jay’Sen Sports Preview 18 The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Giants take a swing at new season with new staff By Ethan Vargas ’23 With baseball season right around the corner, the San Francisco Giants have made some important roster modifications, managerial changes, and even a historical move. With a new coaching staff and additions to the roster, will it be enough to even get to the playoffs? With Madison Bumgarner leaving for Arizona with a five year, $85 million contract, the Giants need someone to replace him. The Giants are also looking to Anthony Wustefeld ’23 said bring up catcher Joey Bart, who of Bumgarner’s departure, “I’m is ranked the 14th best prospect disappointed. I feel like somebody in all of baseball as of right now. with experience, like Johnny The Giants have also signed back Cueto, needs to step up and Hunter Pence, who helped them sfgiants.com replace Madison Bumgarner.” win two World Series. He returns New members of the 2020 Giants team include assistant coach Veterans Johnny Cueto and Jeff after spending one year with the Alyssa Nakken, and players Kevin Gausman and Drew Smyly. Samardzija are looking to be that Rangers, and even earning a spot Nakken. This is a history-making new ace the Giants need. in the all-star game. coaching the Phillies, has had move, as she is the first ever So far, the Giants acquired lefty Although Pence is much older a record of 161-163. Although woman to be part of an MLB Drew Smyly and righty Kevin now, he provides much needed he hasn’t led the Phillies to the coaching staff. With all these new Gausman. Both didn’t do too well experience and great enthusiasm playoffs, he’s looking to do it with additions, will the Giants be able last year, as they hope to have in the locker room. There haven’t the Giants. to have a successful year? And is a bounce back year. The Giants been any other major changes to The Giants have also hired there anything Giants fans can lineup is looking mostly the same the lineup, as the Giants look like Cubs executive Scott Harris look forward to this year? Most as last year, with veterans like they’re in the rebuilding process. as the new General Manager. of the players are looking healthy Buster Posey and Evan Longoria The Giants have made some He has spent seven successful and are projected to perform looking to have a better year. major changes to the coaching years in the Cubs organization, above-average this season. Aside Mike Yastrzemski had a pretty staff. With Bruce Bochy retiring, including a World Series title in from that, perhaps fans can just remarkable season, and he’s the Giants have hired Gabe 2016. In addition to these new enjoy another day of America’s looking like a piece of the next Kapler as the new manager. people, the Giants have also pastime with garlic fries and hot Giants’ core. Kapler, who spent three years hired assistant coach Alyssa dogs at Oracle Park. Burrow, Young predicted to top NFL draft picks By Cameron Bevan-Abel ’22 they will let Philip Rivers go into free agency, the Chargers must Round 1 get a new quarterback and it Pick 1: Cincinnati Bengals: should come in the draft with the QB Joe Burrow LSU sixth overall pick and who better The Bengals made it clear to snatch than the most accurate they were going to shop for a new quarterback in the draft who had quarterback when they benched a huge Senior Bowl performance? Andy Dalton midseason for a fourth round rookie, so who better Pick 7: Carolina Panthers: to draft than the quarterback ILB Isaiah Simmons Clemson with perhaps the greatest college This guy is...unbelievable. He OhioStateBuckeyes.com season of all time, winning the has the size of a linebacker and Edge Chase Young of Ohio State National Championship and the speed of a cornerback. He getting the most first place votes LSU Athletics started his career at Clemson own linemen in week 1). for the Heisman trophy in NCAA Joe Burrow of LSU as a safety, but switched to history? linebacker in his junior year Pick 9: Jacksonville Jaguars: Pick 4: New York Giants: last season in which he had 104 ILB Kenneth Murray Pick 2: Washington Redskins: CB Jeff Okudah Ohio State tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, Oklahoma Edge Chase Young Ohio State Okudah is the best lockdown 8 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 2 The Jaguars’ defense was If you watched college football corner in the draft and deserves forced fumbles. The Panthers are a pathetic 28th ranked rush at all last season, you obviously to be picked this high. Last year, in need of a playmaker on defense defense and 31st opponent knew this guy was going to the Giants’ defense ranked 28th since 5-time all-pro linebacker rushing yards per attempt. be picked very high. His raw in opponent’s passing yards per Luke Kuechly retired in the Murray was the x-factor for why athleticism and high motor led game, completion percentage ans off-season and as a team, the Oklahoma reached the College him to get 16.5 sacks in 2019 in passer rating. Panthers ranked 29th against Football Playoffs with his great just 12 games. He is the safest the run last season. run stopping ability and sideline player to pick in the draft. Pick 5: Miami Dolphins: to sideline speed. QB Tua Tagovailoa Alabama Pick 8: Arizona Cardinals: Pick 3: Seattle Seahawks There is definitely some concern OT Jedrick Wills Alabama Pick 10: Cleveland Browns: (via Detroit Lions): for injury with Tua, but the There is definitely a question S Grant Delpit LSU DT Derrick Brown Auburn Dolphins have been waiting for who is the best offensive linemen The Browns have three safeties I know this has not actually a quarterback since Dan Marino in this class, but Arizona with expiring contracts going into happened, but I think it would retired. It has been 20 years. Can badly needs one in the first this offseason. Grant Delpit can be an interesting draft day trade. they finally find his heir? round. Arizona has found their run all over the field and does The ‘Hawks might be losing five quarterback, but hopefully Kyler not miss many tackles. The most defensive linemen this offseason, Pick 6: Los Angeles Chargers: Murray will not have to run for talented of a very skilled LSU but Brown could more than make QB Justin Herbert Oregon his life in his second season as that shut down Clemson’s offense up for that. Since the Chargers announced well. (Kyler was sacked by his in the National Championship. Campus Sports February 2020 The Crusader 19 Archbishop Riordan High School Riordan basketball runs the City, capturing WCAL title By Cameron Bevan-Abel ’22 18 of them, they outscored their The Archbishop Riordan opponent in the second half. They varsity basketball team had sky- were also 7-1 in one-score games high expectations going into the and 2-0 in overtime games. 2019-2020 season and yet those Archbishop Riordan’s starting expectations may have even been backcourt can compete with any surpassed, at least in the regular others in Northern California season. with Bryce Monroe ’20 going to Riordan started the season off Sam Houston State and Clark with a huge non conference win going to Nevada. Bryce Monroe is against a very good J Serra team. the leading scorer of the team and Afterward, they won the most consistent player, and Clark 61st annual Crusader Classic can get any crowd on its feet with tournament by beating Mills, his thunderous slam dunks. Mission, and San Ramon Valley. “Dom Wilson and Lee Hubbard... The Crusaders started 9-1 both of those guys are really going into the WCAL portion of talented players and were their schedule. expected to contribute, but Archbishop Riordan lost to they have been really good and Serra, but then went on a 9 even great at times. Obviously, conference game winning streak, Je’lani and Bryce are players their most in the last 15 years. who everyone knows about and They swept their rival, Saint they have been even better this Ignatius, for the first time in the season than last, so for guys like Photo by Alex Hsing ’21 regular season since 2007. Lee and Dom to shine themselves Mor Seck ’22 slam dunks against Mission High School. They also swept Sacred Heart at times, even among the other in a blowout win, in which Je’lani great players, has been nice to with star guards Clark and the books for Archbishop Riordan, Clark scored 38 points and team see,” Athletic Director Bob Greene Monroe, Archbishop Riordan as the Crusaders won the WCAL manager Dominic Stevens or “D said. won the WCAL in a three-way tie for the first time in 13 years and Steves” made two 3’s late, playing Monroe and Clark may with Bellarmine and Archbishop were 6-0 against schools in San in his first varsity game. have been a huge part of the Mitty. This was the first time the Francisco. Riordan has just not had many improvement this season, but varsity basketball team has won “This year’s team is clearly weaknesses this season. They the supporting pieces were the the WCAL since 2007. different than last year’s, if for no have two stars in the backcourt ones to complete the puzzle with The Crusaders set up to play other reason than its overall size,” who can score in a hurry, Wilson and Hubbard having seen Saint Francis on Feb. 21 to start Greene said. defensive stars like Lee Hubbard increased roles, while sophomore postseason play. They came in as “Our team last year was really III ’21 and Dominic Wilson ’20, center double double machine the second seed. Saint Francis talented, but this team has many and great depth at the big man Mor Seck ’22 has burst onto the beat them 66-60, a heartbreaking more front court options, which position. As a team, Riordan is an scene. loss for Archbishop Riordan. makes it far different than last insanely clutch team. In the first With this supporting cast, along The season will still go down in year.” Undefeated wrestling team takes home WCAL Championship By Steven Elsner ’20 For the first time in the wrestling program, the team finished league play with a 6-0 undefeated record. They started their undefeated run by beating the Serra Padres 57-12. Their next matches took place at the Lincoln Invitational where they finished first place out of five schools. The string of victories continued with their next WCAL duel against Archbishop Mitty, and they took home the victory 72-9, followed by a 57-18 win over the Sacred Heart Cathedral Fighting Irish, a 53-20 win over Bellarmine, who Raymond Russell ’20 said is “the toughest team in the WCAL.” They then defeated St. Francis 59-5, and finally faced Valley Christian, winning 73-0 for their sixth and final league win. After their Valley Christian Photo provided by Coach Tony Tran win, they had to get ready for the WCAL finals. The Crusaders Riordan’s wrestling team finished with a 6-0 record, winning the WCAL Championship. finished in first place overall, with Renato Bezzera ’21 (180), a WCAL record of 285 points, had Raymond Russell ’20 (220), and quarterfinalists (7), most third in CCS, Michael Bigler eight WCAL league champions, Gabriel Martin ’20 (285). semifinalists (5), most CCS team who finished second in CCS, and three WCAL runner-ups and one The runners-up were Michael points (134.5), most CCS placers Russell who also finished second. third-place finish. Bigler ’20 (120), David Aberouette (5), and most state qualifiers (3). At CCS, the Crusaders finished The league champions consisted ’22 (154), and William Ortiz ’22 The CCS quarterfinalist consists 5th out of 80 plus teams. of Jahmon Burton ’22 (115), (190). of Randy and David Aberouette, Russell said, “We really came Brandon Bigler ’22 (126), Donald Next came CCS (Central Coast Brandon Bigler and Bezzera. The together as a family, which makes Gruda ’21 (140), Jason Tang ’20 Section) where the Crusaders state qualifiers consisted of Tang, it easier for us to be the best in the (147), Randy Aberouette ’20 (162), broke records with the most who was unseeded and finished league and do well as a program.” 20 Food Review The Crusader February 2020 Archbishop Riordan High School Crusaders go fishing for sushi Review and photo by Noah David ’22 The next dish I tried was their Located at 270 Potrero Avenue chicken katsu, which was tender in San Francisco is a casual and juicy, and enhanced by their Japanese restaurant called I Luv homemade sauce. Along with Teriyaki and Sushi. This homey a side of rice, this combination establishment takes great pride is unbeatable, and is an easy in its food, and specializes in its choice for everyone. name, delicious sushi rolls and The last roll I tried was the teriyaki dishes. Mia roll, and was arguably the I arrived around dinnertime, highlight of my meal. Topped when it was getting crowded. with assorted fresh fish, this roll Upon entering, I immediately was easily complimented with felt welcomed and appreciated, its fresh crab meat and shrimp as I received greetings and tempura, and gave me wonderful smiles from the workers. The tastes from everywhere. first roll I tried was the Ruby With dishes ranging anywhere Roll, salmon, crab, avocado, and between $8 to 14, patrons are cucumber bundled around a truly paying for a high quality, blanket of white rice, seaweed, exquisite experience. From the pleasant workers to the and ebi. Upon the first bite, I was I Luv Teriyaki and Sushi’s Mia Roll is topped with assorted fresh enjoyable food, I would highly met with delicious crab and thick fish, and complemented with its fresh crab meat and shrimp. salmon, which is complemented recommend I Luv Teriyaki and by the smooth avocado, crunchy Sushi to everyone, from sushi cucumber, and soft rice. enthusiasts to simple eaters.

Review and photo by Nathan Loeffler Malatesta ’23 Uoyakutei, a Japanese restaurant in Pacifica, has been in business for only a few years, yet has made a name for itself throughout the community. The restaurant features a multitude of entrees varying from fish tacos to veggie gyoza, with every type of sushi in between. They have many sushi plates and assortments, but I chose to be simple and ordered the most popular platter, the California, with the fish sashimi. The service was excellent as it only took around 15 minutes to get our food. I enjoyed the sushi, as it was one of the best-made rolls I have ever had, due in part to the delicious crab, the delightful rice, and the fresh, vibrant colored fish that exploded with rich, juicy flavor. Out of five stars, Uoyakutei earns four and a half stars. The California platter with the fish sashimi The most popular dish at Uoyakutei in Pacifica is the California costs $36.95. Platter, which includes a California Roll and sashimi.

Review and photo by Anthony Wierzba ’23 Flower Maki Roll was the Spider Located in the Westlake Maki Roll. This roll had soft Shopping Center is an shell crab, avocado, cucumber, outstanding restaurant known as sesame, and tobiko, with a Spiral Japanese Cuisine. bundle of greens surrounded by After looking at the variety the rice and drizzled with sauce of options of different types of through the roll. This roll hits sushi that this restaurant made, I you with multiple flavors that decided to order the Flower Maki meld into a perfect combination Roll, which had: tempura shrimp, to what makes this Spider Roll. imitation crab, avocado, and an What particularly sticks out is unagi sauce, which has green and the cucumber and soft shell crab light brown colors in the middle because they’re so different, yet with brown sauce drizzled over it they mix well together. all. This amazing roll was cooked Their basic rolls can cost as low to perfection with a blast of flavor as $7.00, but their special rolls as you bite into it, and different can cost as high as $18.00. This textures from the cooked Tempura amazing restaurant gets four and Shrimp and imitation Crab. a half out of five stars because Another roll that came right of the great service, generous The Flower Maki Roll at Spiral Japanese Cuisine after we were done with the workers, and quick food service. features soft shell crab, avocado, cucumber, sesame, and tobiko, surrounded by rice and drizzled with sauce.