The Plank

The internet is arguably the best invention since the wheel. It allows us to connect with other people and share our ideas. Many people have harnessed this ability and shaped it into various online communities.

However, in the words of the late Ben Parker: “With great power comes great responsibility.” While these communities are often used for good purposes – advocacy, education, or even plain and simple entertainment – the power granted by the internet is very easily used to promote hateful ideology, whether intentionally or not.

“Gladiator II” is a historical fiction action film directed and produced by Ridley Scott. The film released on Oct. 30 2024, with a Tomatometer score of 72% and an 82% score on the “popcornmeter.” Generally speaking, the movie has garnered positive views and generated a whopping $369.7 million worldwide.

The plot focuses around Hanno (Paul Mescal), a disgraced Numidian soldier who was forced into slavery as a gladiator after being captured by the Roman army. The twin emperors Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hichinger) have both corrupted Rome’s ideals, and launched an invasion into Northern Africa, where Hanno was living. The movie focuses on spectacular fights, grand visuals, and Hanno’s quest for vengeance against those who have ruined the “Roman dream.”

Although Christmas break is right around the corner, something a lot less exciting stands in the way: finals. 

With the ability to make or break your grade, knowing how to study for finals can be a daunting task, especially if it is your first time taking one at Jesuit. Sam David ’28 echoes these sentiments.

On Thursday, Dec. 12 Jesuit High School Sacramento’s Symphonic Band and Jazz Band will perform at their annual winter band concert in the Harris Center. 

Sam Gegax ’25 has been a member of the Symphonic and Jazz Band for the last four years. He is excited to see how far he and the rest of band have grown with their music throughout the year.

On Wednesday, Dec. 11, Jesuit High School Sacramento’s three choirs will unite for one of their biggest performances of the year. The men’s choir, concert choir, and chamber choir are welcoming people to attend their joint Winter Concert performance at the Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. 

The concert will feature all three levels of Jesuit’s choir singing a variety of Christmas-themed pieces – all of which will be tied together by the concert’s theme, “Brightest and Best”.

On Sunday, Dec. 8, Jesuit High School Sacramento’s chamber choir will collaborate with the Saint Francis High School choir to host the annual Lessons and Carols service. 

Originating in England, Lessons and Carols is an event with a rich history that is dedicated to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Choir Director Mr. David Vanderbout explains the central themes and ideas that are communicated in the service.

On Friday, Nov. 22, Jesuit High School Sacramento will host its first ever Thanksgiving Interfaith Prayer Service. In light of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, the service will center on the theme of gratitude; more specifically, how we can be thankful in our everyday lives.

As the first interfaith Campus Ministry event, the service will feature Jesuit student speakers and guest speakers from various religions.

Environmental justice is a globally recognized issue that the current generation of students needs to confront now in order to protect the future of our planet. Jesuit High School Sacramento’s Environmental Justice and Sustainability Club seeks to address this issue. 

The club aims to help the environment by spreading awareness for environmental justice among Jesuit students. 

The Jesuit High School Sacramento Sportsman’s Association helps students develop their passion for trap shooting in a controlled and welcoming environment. The club is led by Math Teacher Mr. Keegan Smith, and Mr. Mark Smith, the father of Cooper Smith ’25 and Griffin Smith ’27. Every week, Mr. Smith leads practices where members hone their skills, preparing for the several competitions they attend throughout the year.

“The club is primarily focused on giving the boys an opportunity to learn and practice clay target shooting in a safe and fun environment,” Mr. Mark Smith said. “We accomplish this by having practices at the [Sacramento] Valley Shooting Center on Sunday afternoons.”