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Fenway, Gillette, Now the Garden: Basketball Shines During Turn on Big Stage shot selection. Senior forward Myles Walsh, sporting a mullet hair-cut, provided the team with an early basket and a fundamentally strong style of play while senior guard James Russo scored an impressive NBA three-point basket in the final minutes of the game. Point-forward Walsh called the game “An incredible experience that I
By Liam Foley Panel Staff The Belmont Hill Varsity Basketball team observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day by beating BBN’s varsity team at TD Garden in Boston. The Belmont Hill team’s unique opportunity to play on the Boston Celtics home floor was made possible due to a high school basketball showcase which also raised donations for the ARC of Massachusetts, an organization that supports families with children who have intellectual disabilities. Belmont Hill started the game strongly and held onto its lead for the entire game; the team led the BBN Knights by just five points at halftime but managed to extend their lead to double digits and never looked back as the
Myles Walsh
Basketball team, managers, and coaches gather after beating BB&N team ultimately breezed to a 56-40 victory. Senior shooting guard, Hilal Dahleh, provided a teamhigh twelve points. Belmont Hill’s two freshman stars, Jovan Jones and David Mitchell each turned in excellent performances with Jovan Jones scoring eleven points to accompany his
nine rebounds while David Mitchell pulled in seven rebounds to complement his eleven points. Senior point guard Sultan Olusekun scored five points and dished out five assists. Jesse Wims, the team’s six footeight inch center accrued six rebounds and eight points along with strong
will never forget; being able to play on the same court as Jae Crowder, Delonte West, Wally Szczerbiak, and my personal favorite Bob ‘Big Bob’ Bigelow was truly amazing!” and commended the Belmont Hill Loop for their strong attendance. Senior center Jesse Wims emphatically declared that the Belmont Hill community should “Believe the hype!” A week later the Varsity basketball squad maintained their momentum with a win against St. Sebastian’s featuring a Jovan Jones last-second onehanded putback layup. The team closed January Belmont Hill improved their overall record to 11-2 and Bill Mahoney their in-league record to 5-1, and are one of Senior Hilal Dahleh led the game in scor- the top contenders for ing with 12 points this year’s ISL title. ☐
The Year in Music: Grammy Awards to Recognize 2014’s Best School Alum Keys (alternate choice: take home trophies. to take home her long- looks to be a toss-up. Morning Phase, Beck) Details Work By Michael O’Neill overdue first Album “Stay With Me” is the Best Alternative Panel Staff Album of the Year: of the Year prize this more artistic of the Album: St. Vincent, with ESPN The Grammy Nominees: Morn- year, but don’t rule two, while “Shake It Awards can be fickle. Known for common miscategorizations of artists and baffling winners, the awards show tends to confound critics with its unpredictability. Examples of results that have raised a few eyebrows in the past include granting Jethro Tull the first Best Metal Performance award despite their decidedly un-metal sound, or more recently, Esperanza Spalding beating out Drake, Mumford & Sons, and Florence & the Machine for best new artist in 2011. Still, the ceremony is a spectacle worth watching, if not for the awards, then at least for the live performances. 2015’s installment, which takes place this upcoming Sunday, boasts an impressive lineup of live acts: Ed Sheeran, Pharrell, Ariana Grande, Common with John Legend, and Usher will all take the stage over the course of the show. LL Cool J will host for the fourth consecutive time, despite his reliably bland presentation year after year. But that is as far as the night’s guarantees go, as it’s anybody’s guess who will
ing Phase, Beck; Beyonce, Beyonce; X, Ed Sheeran; In the Lonely Hour; Sam Smith; GIRL, Pharrell Williams. Not too many surprises among the Album of the Year nominees, other than the snub of Katy Perry’s mega-hit Prism, which spawned two #1 hits in the U.S. and three more singles which cracked the top 25. The annual “we-need-a-rock-album” nominee, Beck’s Morning Phase, could have been swapped out for more deserving 2014 efforts from Arcade Fire, The War on Drugs, Spoon, St. Vincent, or The Black Keys. Still, some of the year’s most universally liked albums made the shortlist: Sam Smith’s album was well received by both fans and critics, Pharrell’s “Happy” topped the charts for 10 weeks, and Beyonce reinforced her claim as the music world’s queen with her consistently great selftitled release. Sheeran’s output shifted to more electronic sounds and garnered mixed reactions, and Beck’s record was overshadowed by many others, so I’d be surprised if either won. I expect Beyonce
out Smith or Pharrell.
Record of the Year Nominees: “Fancy,” Iggy Azalea ft. Charli XCX; “Chandelier,” Sia; “Stay With Me,” Sam Smith; “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift; “All About That Bass,” Meghan Trainor Confusion often surrounds the difference between the Record and Song of the Year categories, and though similar in nature, the awards examine very different parts of a song. Record of the Year looks at a song’s performance and production, and is granted to the artist. Song of the Year rewards songwriting quality. This year’s Record of the Year is tough to predict, as all five nominees cracked Billboard’s top ten. “All About That Bass” seems the weakest of the bunch, and despite its bombastic production, I can’t see “Chandelier” winning either. “Fancy” has been embroiled in controversy over rapper Iggy Azalea’s questionable cultural appropriation, which may prevent some voters from choosing it. That leaves Smith’s and Swift’s singles, and it
Off ” is more immediate and catchy. Since this category tends to favor the latter of those qualities, I’ll stick my neck out and say Swift grabs the award.
Song of the Year Nominees: “Chandelier,” Sia; “Stay With Me,” Sam Smith; “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift; “All About That Bass,” Meghan Trainor; “Take Me to Church,” Hozier Four Record of the Year nominees return for the songwriting category, with Hozier’s recent smash hit, “Take Me to Church,” replacing “Fancy.” The winner of this category and Record of the Year are hardly ever the same, so that would probably rule out “Shake it Off.” “Stay With Me” still stands above Sia’s and Trainor’s tracks when compared by songwriting, and Hozier doesn’t make enough of a challenge to wrest the award away from Smith, who is certain to win something on the night. Other Predictions: Best New Artist: Sam Smith (alternate choice: HAIM) Best Rock Album: Turn Blue, The Black
St. Vincent (alternate choice: Blunderbuss, Jack White) Best R&B Performance: “Drunk in Love,” Beyonce ft. JayZ (alternate choice: “Good Kisser, Usher) Best Rap Album: Because the Internet, Childish Gambino (alternate choice: Nobody’s Smiling, Common) Best Countr y Album: The Outsiders, Eric Church (alternate choice: Platinum, Miranda Lambert) Best Dance Recording: “Rather Be,” Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glyne (alternate choice: “F For You,” Disclosure ft. Mary J. Blige Best Music Video: “Chandelier,” Sia (alternate choice: “We Exist,” Arcade Fire)
By Mack Perry Panel Staff “I have the greatest job on earth,” he proudly announces to the Patriot jersey-clad chapel. A 2005 graduate of Belmont Hill, Field Yates now works as an ESPN NFL Insider. His contributions cover TV, radio and written duties, including as a regular on NFL Insiders and a frequent guest on SportsCenter, noted school president Evan Chaletzky during Yates’ introduction. Additionally, Yates is very active on Twitter, constantly tweeting football news and answering fans’ questions. Dressed in a sharp suit with a Belmont Hill navy and maroon-colored tie, Yates stood up on the podium and took a look at the chapel where he once sat, ten years ago. continued on page 3
Look Inside MLK Chapel pg 2 Debate: Marvel vs. DC pg 5 Featured Athlete: Timothy Brownell pg 7 Funny Tweets: Back page
Belmont Hill News
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SAFE Makes for a Powerful and Meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel By Sreehaas Digumarthi Panel Staff For the past several years, Martin Luther King Jr. Day has followed a similar template at Belmont Hill. Generally, the day marks the end of a loaded exam week and a chance for students to recover from the first semester. The following morning would often bring a guest speaker to Belmont Hill, one who would relate his or her own experiences to the importance of the holiday that we often take for granted. However, this year was quite different. Not only did the new exam schedule bring a different feeling to the long weekend, but the allschool Chapel on the day after the weekend was quite different as well. This year, there was no guest speaker. Instead, Belmont Hill looked within its own community for inspiration and wisdom on a day meant to remember and learn from the ideals of the great Dr. Martin Luther King. This year’s Chapel was organized by Students Actively Fos-
tering Equality (SAFE). The Chapel some of his own thoughts on the day began with brief introductions by and the man and movement behind Mr. Collins it. JonaMr. Mahoney and Harry t h a n Porter ’15. s p o k e They reof the m i n d e d m a j o r impact us why we that Dr. were gathK i n g’s ered that teachmorning; ings and they talkactions ed about have on some of Dr. King’s Jonathan Innocent spoke evocatively about MLK’s legacy in chapel our lives today, as achievements and the lessons that we can well as the work that still needs to draw from them. Next, a series of be done as he reminded us that we powerful and meaningful quotes are still very far away from achievfrom Dr. King were presented by ing the dream that Dr. King so students and teachers scattered eloquently depicted. Jonathan acthroughout the Chapel. King’s knowledged Dr. King’s great impact words remind us of not only of his on the world but reminded us that ideals and values but also inspire us we can not be complacent; we must to think about our own core beliefs also take it upon ourselves to make and how we can take inspiration our own progress towards a better from a man like Martin Luther King. world, even if it may not live up to Afterwards, Jonathan Innocent the magnitude of Dr. King’s work. ’15 came to the podium to deliver Jonathan closed by having every-
one in the Chapel stand and pledge to work towards a better tomorrow. Mr. Collins concluded the Chapel by challenging the audience to think about the impact that Dr. King and the civil rights movement has had not only on the world at large, but even within our small community at Belmont Hill. He asked us to think about how different Belmont Hill would be if a group like SAFE was not actively working towards a better Belmont Hill. These were definitely tough questions to confront, but they were ones that needed to be asked, especially during a gathering to honor a man who worked so hard to make a lasting positive impact on the world around him. All in all, this year’s school meeting proved to be quite powerful. While the guest speakers that the school has had in years past have provided their own meaningful lessons, it was also important for the school to look within itself for inspiration, change, and meaning during this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel.☐
Mr. Martellini Returns to Classroom and Court from First Semester Sabbatical (and class of 2010 Belmont Hill alumnus) Marco, in San Francisco. Though he speaks very highly of the experiAfter a well deserved sabbatical, ence, the trip was not one of extravaMr. Martellini returned to school this gant leisure. Traveling only by bicycle, January ready for the start of semester he averaged about 80 miles per day, two. Last year marked 30 years at Bel- carrying all supplies on his bike and mont Hill for Mr. Martellini, and also spending his nights camping, with the his third opportunity to take a sabbati- occasional reprieve of a soft hotel bed. cal, as they are offered every ten years. Upon his return home, he took Though he previously had two oppor- to a more relaxed lifestyle, spending tunities to take time away from school, days taking everyone’s favorite dog, this was the first time he was able to Gus, on long morning walks, in addi“just relax” and take time to pursue his tion to working around the house and hobbies, saying, “I really appreciate the biking in Boston. He describes the exopportunity to be able to do something perience as “recharging my batteries like this. Most secondary schools do not so that I’d ready to deal with the likes actually offer sabbaticals, so to have this of Eric Butte.” He also returned to San opportunity is just fantastic.” Through- Francisco in October, though this time out most of August and September, Mr. with his wife on a more leisurely visit Martellini spent his time in the North- to see Marco and enjoy the California west, biking all over the region through weather. He was also lucky enough to Montana, Idaho, California, as well as be there during the Giants triumph a few other places, ultimately finish- in the World Series, saying “it was ing his trip with a visit to see his son awesome to be in there in that atmoBy Chad Meyers Staff Writer
sphere; the whole city was excited and we had a lot of fun being there for it.” Now back at school, again assuming his familiar role as teacher and coach, he is enjoying spending time with the students and getting back to teaching. When asked what he missed most about being away from school, he immediately responded saying it was “definitely spending time around the kids and teaching them everyday,” though added that he was not missing the paperwork that comes along with it. With Coach Marto’s return to school came the return of Gus, who couldn’t be happier to assume his familiar position, sprawled below the smartboard. “He’s a lounger at heart,” remarked Mr. Martellini, adding that he’s “incredibly happy to be back.” As he looks at the second semester to come, Mr. Martellini, thanks to his rest and time away, is reenergized and ready to take on the school year and seasons to come.☐
Henry Swain and Hendricks Delva ‘16 Return from Island School in Bahamas dricks, the Island School is an ex- swim (usually Henry’s choice) or pants bond and foster great friendperience like no other. About 50 run (Hendrick’s option). After the ships. In the first week of the prostudents attend each session and, morning workout, students attend- gram, students took an 8-day kayak though the co-ed program is open ed class from 9:15 am to 4:00 pm. trip during which they split up into In the fall of 2014, Henry to kids from all over the country, From 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm stu- groups of about ten and then reconSwain and Hendricks Delva set out Hendricks explained that, “All the dents had “exploration time,” when vened for the last day. Hendricks on an adventure to the Island School kids were mainly from Boston and they were free to do as they pleased, also enjoyed the kayak trips, but his in the Bahamas. Each boy had dif- New York.” When asked about the whether roaming around the is- favorite part was free diving, which ferent reasons for pursuing the se- school schedule, the two agreed, land, exploring caves, or snorkeling. included diving 50 feet down into mester experience. Henry had heard that in certain ways, the academics Both Hendricks and Henry appre- water without a breathing apparaabout the Island School for years, is were more challenging that at Bel- ciated the Island School’s “sense of tus. Hendricks described the whole deeply interested in marine biology, mont Hill. Though content diffi- place” and the community bond that experience as “absolutely exhilaratand had always wanted to go. Hen- culty wasn’t greater, “We had much formed between the students. Hen- ing.” Hendricks also appreciated dricks decided that it was time to ex- less time to complete the work we ry most appreciated the two over- nightly stargazing, which he said plore something different from the were assigned.” The day started at night kayak trips, which bookended was breathtaking, meditative, and daily routine of school, sports, and 6:30 am with either a mandatory the semester and helped partici- truly put him at peace. As for the home and was eager community, it was for a new challenge. wonderful, and if Both boys closed out there were any probthe spring excited lems with kids, they about the prospect of were resolved rather swimming through quickly. Welcome crystal blue waters back to Hendricks and making the Isand Henry, who land School their now join Belmont temporary home. Hill’s growing ranks A c c o r d i n g The main courtyard of the Island School, where students gathered each morning to begin their days. Ms. Gettings of enthusiastic Isto Henry and Henland School alums.☐ By Evan Ricci Staff Writer
Febr u ar y 5, 2015
Belmont Hill NEWS
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Field Yates, Class of 2005, Returns to Belmont Hill Before Super Bowl continued from page 1 for the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons, Thanking Evan for the intro- helping them win the 2010 AFC West duction, Yates exclaimed how ex- title. It was not easy work, Field adcited he was to be back on campus, mitted. “My first day on the job was and acknowledged the Patriots’ re- July twenty-fourth, and my first day cent success and the upcoming Super off was Memorial Day the following Bowl game. “You guys are spoiled,” May,” he said, but I had finally made he added with a wide grin, “six Su- it. I had learned the ins and outs per Bowls in thirteen years is crazy.” of how to build a football team.” In Growing up in Weston, Yates 2011, Field says that he “pressed replayed football and lacrosse at Bel- set on life”, moving home to Boston mont Hill, sports he continued at and earning a real estate license. “I Wesleyan University. “In high school, had walked away from the only job I was not a star athlete,” he admits, I had ever wanted,” he said, “part “but I loved sports.” He gestured to of me felt like I failed. The real esa slide behind him on the projec- tate dream did not last long, and six tor, titled “Proof I wasn’t good at months later Field had his heart set sports”, and showing a tweet sent to back on the sport he loved. He starthim that reads “You probably never ed a football blog, entitled “Thoughts got picked in PE football”. Although From The Field” from his parents he enjoyed his time on the lacrosse couch, and fed the website to local field, Field made football his life’s news stations and other sports webpassion. “I thought I had my life fig- sites. “It wasn’t glamorous, it wasn’t ured out from the days where I was profitable. It got only a hundred-fifty sitting where you are now. I was go- views a day, and I was through the ing to be the head coach of an NFL roof.” Finally, Mike Reiss, a Patriots team. I dreamed that every day.” The beat writer for the Boston Globe, summer before his junior year, Yates reached out to Yates, offering him worked as an intern in the coach- an opportunity to cover the 2012 ing and scouting departments of the NFL Draft for ESPN Boston. “That Patriots, a job which he continued turned into an opportunity for me to to work for the next three summers. get in the door, and never let them Field has written that most of the give me a reason to leave.” The Draft principles and beliefs he has about reporting led him to work for ESPN. football were shaped while watching com and ESPN radio, as well as loand breaking down film for the Pats. cal stations. In 2013, ESPN Insider After graduating from Wesleyan, was launched as a premium, subYates worked full time for the Kansas scription-based section of its parent City Chiefs, serving one season on company, and Yates was chosen to both the scouting and coaching staffs be a regular on the NFL division for Mr. Mahoney
its daily radio show. “It was a twisty road that I had never envisioned, but all of a sudden it had felt like I had found something about football that I was passionate about again.” Field recalled words from his own graduation speaker that have stuck with him for the past ten years. “He said, ‘Life was not about your successes, but how you respond to your failures.’ It felt like a reality check at the time, but then it became a reality. I have failed on a couple of occasions, and I don’t succeed every day. But I have realized my failures help me find what I am most passionate about. I think falling short of a goal is a good opportunity to set a new one. Keep chasing your goals and you will achieve them,” he offers. He mentioned with a laugh that most of the criticism on Twitter ridicules his age and name, pointing to a tweet that asks him if he needed permission from his mother to be on SportsCenter. “Each of you is entirely capable much of what you set your sights on to accomplish in life but that doesn’t mean that you should on your own. I have found that some of the smartest and talented people I know are most hesitant to rely on those around them to help them, because they don’t realize that it’s OK to ask for it. Life isn’t always easy - don’t hesitate to rely on those around you.” Yates also advised to take advantage of Belmont Hill’s alumni networking to reach out for help,
enthusiastically encouraging anyone to contact him if they wanted to venture into sports media. “Just don’t do it this way,” showing a tweet that reads “I hate @FieldYates just because his name is Field Yates”, as the chapel roared with laughter. “There’s a tendency to examine our life through these pivot-point moments, whether it’s getting into college, meeting your future spouse, or a promotion at work,” Yates remarks. “Those moments are gratifying and fulfilling, no doubt about it. But there’s a lot of life that takes place in between those moments where you can make a positive impact on someone else’s life. So, later today, hold the door open for the person behind you. We used to say around here ‘little things make big things’. Lots of little acts of kindness add up.” When asked on his predictions for that Sunday’s Super Bowl matchup between his hometown Patriots and Seattle Seahawks, Yates grinned. “In the beginning of the season I had to make fifty predictions for Super Bowl scenarios, and the only one that is so far accurate is Seahawks over Pats. But,” he added as the chapel gasped, “that’s wrong. Pats beat the Seahawks, and I honestly mean that,” as the students roared to cheer out the young, successful Belmont Hill grad, who in ten short years has transitioned from sitting in the wooden pews in chapel to sitting in on SportsCenter, talking about his life’s passion - football. ☐
Students Help Organize Christmas in the City By Armin Thomas Staff Writer The day after school in 2014 ended, on 20 December, Ms. Zener led a group of B elmont Hill students and teachers into B oston to participate in “Christmas in the City,” a volunteer-run Christmas party for homeless children in the B oston area that converted the barren warehouse inside the Convention Center into a Christmas theme park. For two hours, the team painted wooden Christmas trees
with vivid colors and images. One of the most notable was Mrs. Sweeney’s biolog y-themed tree. The staff members at Christmas in the City were ver y pleased with the work of the students and teachers, and after saying thank you and goodbye, the students departed to go home. Overall, it proved to be a ver y enriching experience. Even though the contribution may have seemed minor, it felt great for ever yone to contribute to such a great cause that would help make the Christmas for hundreds of children.☐
Field Yates poses with Dr. Melvoin and Senior Class President Evan Chaletzky
Diversity Celebrated Over MAP Breakfast the MAP and SAFE breakfast, we reflected on our Belmont Hill experience, past or present, discussed the values that are important to us and define us (family, social For a Belmont Hill boy, arriving status, health etc.), and examined tough and at school early on a Thursday morning can complex questions that might not be raised be a bit of a challenge, but the Multicultural or discussed during the average school day. Alumni Partnership and SAFE breakfast According to fifth Former and SAFE on January 8th was worth the extra effort. member Frank McField, “We were open The gathering of about thirty current stu- about everything. We wanted to explore the dents, faculty, and alumni was led by Mr. truth behind these hard questions about staCollins and Mr. Ekwelum through a series tus and beliefs that might not be dealt with of discussion questions pertaining to iden- in the everyday Belmont Hill community”. tity, community, and justice. Conducted in The MAP/SAFE breakfast even referred a speed dating style, participants discussed back to Mr. Melvoin’s “Beyond Ray Rice” a question within an allotted time after chapel from the previous Monday which which students moved one seat over to dis- covered domestic violence. Though this was cuss the next question with another alum or a relatively small gathering in Wadsworth, teacher. Whether you were across from a the breakfast dealt with large-scale issues teacher, an old friend, or someone you had that everyone should be aware of. Thanks just met, each question prompted an avid to MAP and SAFE for putting on this great discussion as each participant shared their event, to all who attended, and to the kitchen thoughts, experiences and impressions. At staff for serving up a delicious breakfast.☐ By DJ Demetri Panel Staff
Executive Editors John Driscoll Will Treanor Arts Editor Brendan Pulsifer Sports Editor Liam Foley Photo Editor Jamie Mazzio-Manson
Editor-in-Chief Michael O’Neill Copy Editor Matt Reppucci
Assistant Editors Chip Daley Jake DeCaprio Jason Fischman
Faculty Advisors David Hegarty Juliette Zener News Editor Sreehaas Digumarthi Opinion Editor Jay O’Brien Online Editor Sreehaas Digumarthi
The Panel, founded in 1953, is the official school newspaper of the Belmont Hill and Winsor schools. The Panel is the voice of the student body. We publish articles that are of consequence to the students, as well as the school communities. The views expressed in The Panel belong solely to the authors and editors and do not necessarily represent the student body, faculty or administration of either school. Any comment about the content should be addressed directly to the editors. The Panel encourages responsible opinion in the form of Letters to the Editor. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Copyright 2014 The Panel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief. Published by the
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BELMONT HILL OPINION
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Examining Satirical and West-Centric Journalism in the Wake of the Charlie Hebdo Attacks that allegedly ignited the attacks was the magazine’s repeatedly provocative and Nearly a month ago, usually negative front-page France was rocked by the hor- portrayals of the prophet Murific attacks on Charlie Heb- hammad, whose facial depicdo, a non-conformist satirical tion is prohibited in Islam. weekly magazine. Two French- It is widely accepted that the born brothers, Cherif and Said Kouachi brothers acted out of Kouachi, stormed the maga- anger over the magazine’s dezine’s headquarters armed with maning depiction of Muhamassault rifles and other weaponry and killed twelve people, claiming links to al-Qaeda’s base in Yemen. The manhunt for the culprits lasted several days, resulting in two separate hostage situations in which the two assailants and one accomplice were killed, but not before five more victims had died. The world was visibly shaken by the event; rallies across the world, “Je Suis Charlie” became a calling card of support, and Belgium conducted a widespread domestic terror raid in the aftermath of the attacks. It’s no surprise that the Charlie Hebdo attacks have affected so many. Obviously, a terrorist attack of this magnitude should absolutely be made known, both to honor the victims and for the public’s safety and awareness of the world around them. But these attacks mad’s likeness, which implied were not only an attack against the prophet’s support for funindividuals, but on the demo- damentalist Muslim attacks in cratic ideals of free speech and the name of religion. In the free press. Certainly Charlie wake of the shootings, some Hebdo has generated its fair have criticized the paper’s inshare of controversy for pub- flammatory contents. They arlishing satirical material de- gue (either explicitly or by imsigned to provoke and offend. plication) that Charlie Hebdo Recent covers have criticized brought this upon themselves, the Catholic Church’s ban- that they “were asking for it” ning of contraceptives, France’s by publishing such provoca2010 law banning women from tive content. First of all, the publicly wearing burqas, and notion that any kind of viothe world’s sluggish progress lence on this scale is ever justowards legalizing same-sex tified or even understandable marriage.Past issues have fea- is preposterous, especially tured unflattering illustrations when part of a disproportionof the Pope, Jesus Christ, and ate response to an injustice, numerous other public figures and no one ever deserves to as well as unflattering portray- die, doing a job they felt pasals of various cultural figures. sionately about that brought The particular transgression no physical harm to anybody. By Michael O’Neill Panel Staff
Secondly, those who point to the magazine’s controversial nature as bait for terrorism seem to miss the point of satire entirely. Charlie Hebdo, and publications like it, do not simply try and generate buzz by offending as many people as possible in order to sell more copies; there is almost always an important point be-
freedom to the press, though there are restrictions on speech that have the potential to incite violence. It’s arguably the most important civil right in existence, as the unlimited dissemination of information and expression of ideas is crucial to any democratic society. International reaction to the events in Paris has been
ing made behind the shock value. Through its cartoons, Charlie Hebdo has criticized injustices across the world, whether it be the racism, sexism, or the perversion of religions by fundamentalists. The magazine uses extreme, instigative imagery to get its readers to really think about the restrictions of civil liberties across the globe. This is the root of satire as an art form. Lastly, to chastise Charlie Hebdo for its editorial decisions is to effectively try and limit the right to freedom of speech. France, like many other of the world’s constitutionally-based governments, guarantees its citizens the right to free expression, and makes a deliberate extension of this
expansive and compassionate; huge rallies of support, including many world leaders linking arms at the site of the attacks, and significant news coverage immediately following the assault demonstrated such. However, I’ve been struck by the continuing lack of attention given to other atrocities around the world. The same week that the murder of seventeen innocent people kicked off a 24-hour news cycle of analysis and fact-reporting, an estimated 2,000 civilians were massacred in Baga, Nigeria by Boko Haram terrorists, who have wrested control of the nation’s north-eastern corner. Despite the enormous death toll, there was hardly any news cover-
age of the event and many in the Western world remain unaware of Nigerian crisis. This isn’t to say that Charlie Hebdo did not deserve to be recognized but I’m left wondering: why Nigeria received so little airtime by comparison. Western journalism continues to focus on Westerncentric and Christian-centric content, a disturbing tendency that slights a huge portion of Earth’s population. When stories happen overseas, we tend to pay attention more to ones that occur in places we live or countries similar to our own. Take, for example, the recent shooting at a school in Peshawar, where 145 people, including 132 children, were killed by the Taliban. The massacre remained prominent in the Western media cycle for, at most, three days, whereas similar events in the US or Europe with much smaller (though obviously still tragic) death tolls dominate news networks for weeks. Compare events in this manner of any category of tragedy, and you’ll find similar results again and again. This unequal distribution of media attention confirms to many the principles that have lead to the West’s alienation of non-Western peoples. Non-violent actions never warrant violent responses, regardless of how incendiary the original actions may have been. But the western media must acknowledge the flaws in their coverage of world issues - specifically disproportionate coverage of the West - if it wishes to help avoid events like this in the future. Acts of violence taking place outside Europe and North American should be treated with the same amount of shock and mourning as those within the region. Otherwise, non-Western peoples will continue to feel slighted, unrepresented, and overlooked by Westerners. ☐
Dr. Melvoin Chapel Talk Sheds Light on Gender Roles in Today’s Society us that, though we may not think about gender in our daily life at school, we live in On Monday, January 5th, a culture where there is “huge as all of Belmont Hill returned concern about how men treat from winter break with the sec- women, and this needs to be ond week of exams at the fore- our issue as well.” News stofront of everyone’s minds, Dr. ries about the government’s inMelvoin stood before us in the vestigation into sexual assault chapel and delivered a speech on college campuses across that challenged us to consider the country and violence our lives beyond this campus. against women (such as Jameis Dr. Melvoin opened by Winston’s alleged rape case) affirming his love of working should call us to reflect on our with boys at all-boys schools own attitudes about gender. -- something he has done for The domestic violence 36 years (22 at Belmont Hill). issue has specifically arisen He especially loves watching due to the incident involving us grow and mature into young football player Ray Rice, who men during our time here. His punched his then-fiance (now concern for us extends to our wife) in an elevator, knocking future beyond the Hill, to how her unconscious. The NFL we carry ourselves after we seemingly gave little thought graduate, and to how we inter- to the matter, sentencing Rice act in a world that includes both to just a 2-game suspension... women and men. He reminded until the actual video of Rice By Matt Reppucci Panel Staff
throwing the punch became public. The ensuing outrage (directed at the NFL and Ravens leadership as well as Rice) caused increased scrutiny of football culture and drew national attention to the issue of domestic violence, as well as other forms of harassment. Dr. Melvoin emphasized that “the issues of gender will not go away,” and “we as a society have a lot of work to do.” He is correct in declaring that our school has a responsibility to prepare us to “live well in the world after Belmont Hill,” and not only by teaching a strong work ethic and well-rounded skillset. We must learn “how men and women are viewed in our society, how they are treated, how the media portrays them, and how expectations for both men and women get formed.”
It appears that a conscious effort has been made in our curriculum, where possible, to bring in different voices, especially of females, into the classroom. Obviously there are female faculty members, who play a crucial role in balancing the maledriven environment, but also the English classes read books and plays with female protagonists and other characters. However, these pieces of literature have declined in the Upper School English classes, and although it is clearly important to reinforce through students’ younger years that treating everyone with respect is important, that philosophy should continue as we advance towards graduation. Throughout our lives, Dr. Melvoin says that we must avoid “moral disengagements”
that allow or even encourage men to act in ways that we know are wrong, and forgo excuses like, “everyone does it so it is OK” or “others have done worse.” These ideas do not just relate to how men treat women, but about how we all treat and respect each other as fellow human beings. In order to do so we have to be “ethical, thoughtful, and independent young men,” so we are not “bystanders, but upstanders, willing to stand up for what is right.” Due to all his experience with the students at Belmont Hill, it is in our best interest toconsider carefully Dr. Melvoin’s wise words. Because no matter where we go after high school, his advice is crucial to success in life at a moral level: “Whether you are here, or in a coed setting, your compass should still point true.” ☐
BELMONT HILL OPINION
Febr u ar y 5th , 2015
Student Debate: DC Comics vs. Marvel Comics In this issue of The Panel, we are continuing our feature debate between Form V students Jay O’Brien and Gabe Schmittlein. After the Panel is released, a poll will be sent out to assess the student body’s views on the topic at hand. These results will be published in the subsequent issue along with a brand new talking point. So without further ado, we present the third debate—DC Comics versus Marvel Comics
Team DC Comics By Jay O’Brien Panel Staff Congratulations to Gabe Schmittlein on winning last issue’s argument on professional sports versus college sports. I’m on to the next debate. Marvel has certainly picked up steam within the past few years due to several successful movies in the box office, but I’ll be the first to tell you that in no universe does Marvel even come close to DC in terms of superhero personalities, the quality of villainous figures, and the level of originality. Right off the bat, DC has
Batman and Superman as its two main superheroes: the debate should be over with such a dominant duo. Just look at the list of Superman’s super powers: flight, invulnerability, x-ray vision, freezing breath, as well as superhuman strength, speed, hearing, and intelligence. Superman is clearly the most powerful superhero of all time, and I’m 110% sure that he could beat the Avengers in record time all by himself. Yet, as if Superman wasn’t cool enough on his own, DC outdid themselves by creating a true American hero, Bruce Wayne’s Batman. While Batman does not have supernatural powers, Batman is a master of stealth, disguise, martial arts, and best of all, enjoys utilizing incredibly sophisticated technology thanks to his immense amount of wealth. I mean, have you seen Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, in particular The Dark Knight? Those movies are AWESOME. Batman is the most respectable superhero of them all, especially with his unwillingness to kill even the most villainous figures. Naturally, Marvel became jealous of Batman’s capabilities when, 29 years later, they created Iron Man, an American playboy turned superhero who utilizes high-tech weaponry. Coincidence?
Team Marvel Comics
Pa g e 5
New Exam Schedule Receives Mixed Reviews By Jason Fischman Panel Staff
Now I’m not necessarily saying that Thor movies, two Hulk movies, three By Gabe Schmittlein Marvel copied one of DC’s greatest This year Belmont Hill inIron Man movies, two Captain AmerStaff Writer superheroes, but then again, I am. ica movies, and one full-scale Avengers augurated a new exam schedule in Marvel copied DC, plain and simple. Marvel vs. DC; The Avengers movie with another on the way. The an attempt to make mid-year exWhile there are certainly other vs. Justice League; Captain America movies aren’t just in great quantities, ams less stressful for students and superheroes that have helped make vs. Superman; Iron Man vs. Batman; though, they’re also great movies with improve their performance. Three DC Comics the most prestigious Thor vs. Aquaman… The list goes on incredible superheroes. However, the exams--math, history, and Englishname in the game--Flash, Wonder and on. Except, it doesn’t. See, while fun certainly doesn’t stop at the bounds -were shortened to 75 minutes Woman, Green Lantern--what dif- Marvel’s ranks of well-known and gen- of the core Avengers group, as count- instead of the usual two hours, ferentiates DC from Marvel is the erally awesome superheroes appears less other Marvel franchises have been and science and language exams abundance of incredibly sophisticat- almost endless, DC presents very little hugely successful despite not carrying remained the full two hours. Two ed villains constantly battling against outside of the comfortable confines of the same comic weight as their Avengers exams--history and math--came two of DC’s best superheroes. The the core Justice League members. counterparts. The Spider Man franchise before break, scheduled for the fivillainous figures from the Batman Sure, DC has a couple cool su- has been wonderfully popular, and that nal Monday and Tuesday. The Engseries include Mr. Freeze, Bane, The perheroes and a couple cool movies, but the movies have managed to do well de- lish exam fell on the Wednesday Penguin, Catwoman, Two Face, and neither appear in the abundance that spite the horrid lead acting of Andrew following break, with the science Marvel’s universe has to offer. While Garfield and Tobey Maguire has to exam two days later and the lanthe Batman movies are, admittedly, say something about the natural awe- guage exam the following Monday. great movies, they’re not great because someness of Spider Man. The X-Men In the past, mid-year exams of the awe-inspiring power of Batman. franchise has also done remarkably took place in a single exam period, In fact, Batman is a superhero with no well, with superheroes like Wolverine, two weeks after break. All exams natural powers except a large inheri- Professor X, and Magneto leading the were two hours long, and neither tance and, I can’t help but wonder what way as brilliantly powerful superheroes. classes nor athletics met during the DC writers were thinking when The last major movie franchise outside the exam week. Coming after the they decided it would be a good idea of the Avengers, The Fantastic Four, is two-week break, the exams were to model a superhero after a bat. Some also a great watch and produced two of high-stress and the schedule did people will point out that Batman is es- my personal favorite Marvel superhe- not optimize student performance. sentially DC’s equivalent of Iron Man, roes, the Human Torch (flame on!) and Mr. Grant, Dean of Studies, exwhich is true when considering just the Silver Surfer (what could be cooler plained the goal for the schedule their “superpowers,” but Iron Man has than a metal dude riding a surfboard change as “twofold.” “First, it was more personality in his left pinky toe through space???). Even where the ma- to improve exam performance. than Bruce Wayne, who, let me just jor Marvel franchises end, the movies Historically, performance has desay, spends the first hour of The Dark and the incredible superheroes don’t clined over the last few exams as Knight Rises limping around with a stop. The Guardians of the Galaxy was stress builds up, and the idea was cane (what a wimp!). Outside of Bat- my favorite movie of the year and I will to solve that problem,” said Mr. man, the superheroes get slightly better, fight anybody that doesn’t think that Grant. “Secondly, the old exam pewith Superman, Aquaman, and Flash Peter Quinn is an awesome protago- riod took five entire school days, being the best DC has to offer, but the nist, plus, Marvel is working on new but only the fourth and fifth form, movies take a drastic turn for the worst, individual superhero movies like Ant- roughly a third of the student body, as every Superman movie has managed Man, which will star Paul Rudd and have five exams, and it was unnecto disappoint and the only other large thus undeniably be either a laugh riot or essary to occupy all that time when scale production was the Green Lantern an awkward romantic comedy (I’ll take some students weren’t taking the movie (need I say more?). For heaven’s the former), the Black Panther, which exams.” Designed to combat these sake, the plot of Green Lantern is based will feature a sleeker and less breakable issues, the new exam schedule around a guy who finds a special ring version of Batman, and Captain Mar- met with mixed student reviews. at the bottom of a Lucky Charms box, vel, which could be the first large-scale Many students preferred the decides green is his favorite color, and production to star a female superhero. new schedule, citing the reduced joins an intergalactic police force (my With all the evidence that I’ve stress-load created by three shorter dramatic and abbreviated interpreta- provided, I struggle to see how anybody exams and the split December-Janmost importantly, Batman’s psychot- tion). It’s really a shame that DC hasn’t could argue that DC is better. Sure, the uary exam calendar. Proponents ic arch-nemesis known as The Joker. come out with movies for superheroes Batman movies are awesome movies, appreciated that the schedule enSuperman combats an equally enter- like Flash, Aquaman, and Wonder and sure, there are a couple really cool abled them to focus their preparataining group of villains, notably Lex Woman. However, outside of those superheroes within the core ranks of tion on individual exams instead of Luther, but also Brainiac and Dooms- three, there aren’t any DC members the Justice League. However, the wealth cramming for five exams at once. day. There is no doubt in my mind that honestly deserve their own mov- of fantastic Marvel movies that clearly Nevertheless, many disliked that the Marvel villains lack the same ies, which is testament to the lack of dominates the few movies that DC has the new schedule. With exams impersonality, sophistication, and commediately after break, instead of plexity in comparison to DC villains. two weeks later, students felt even Now, my competitor Gabe more pressure to study over break. will likely mention how successand they felt rushed with an exam ful The Avenger movie was at the on just the third day back. Alex box office, which is true, but in my Czarnecki, a member of the fourth opinion, the two and a half hour form, said: “This year’s exam schedmovie took far too long to get to ule dragged on the exams and their any major fight scene. Simply compreparation for almost a month, paring superhero to superhero, and and I believe one week of heightvillain to villain, DC has a far ened stress and little sleep is betbetter cast of characters that ter than four weeks of the same.” are far more entertaining than Furthermore, classes held on exam those of the Marvel Comics.☐ days were quite unproductive, as students were mentally exhausted. Many feel this reform did not go far enough, and all exams should be before winter break, allowing students a chance to truly relax. However, this would make the second depth within the DC superhero ranks. to offer and the fact that there seems an semester significantly longer than While DC is egregiously lack- endless supply of powerful and unique the first, and one semester classes ing in terms of depth, Marvel has an superheroes to choose from makes me would have trouble finishing all of abundance of fantastic movies and question the sanity in Jay O’Brien’s deci- their material. Overall, this new even more awesome superheroes that sion to represent DC. Sorry Jay, I didn’t schedule, although still flawed, prodeserve their own movies. Just within want to have to do this to you, but Marvel vided students with an improved Advantage: Pro Sports the world of the Avengers, we have two is better than DC, and that’s the truth.☐ mid-term exam experience. ☐
Results from Last Debate
Belmont Hill Arts
Pa g e 6
Th e Pan el
Academy Awards
Screen Actors Guild Awards (among account of a group of English math- and Birdman, respectively. Best acother ceremonies) have rewarded the ematicians who must band together to tress nods go to France’s Marion Coyear’s best from Hollywood and for- crack the code of a captured German tillard, Britain’s Felicity Jones, and By Ranjit Thomas eign film. The Academy Awards, Enigma encryption machine, Selma, American actresses Julianne Moore, Staff Writer also known as the Oscars, close the a depiction of the events surround- and Reese Witherspoon, all of whom January and February are perhaps much-anticipated awards season. ing the 1965 Selma to Montgomery gave extraordinary performances in the two most important months of the Mark February 22nd down on civil rights march led by Dr. Martin their respective pictures: Two Days year in cinema, television, and music. your calendars, for the 87th Academy Luther King, Jr., and The Theory of One Night; The Theory of Everything; In the span of about five weeks, the en- Awards will be hosted by the hilarious Everything, a biopic-romance about Still Alice; and Wild. Actors nomitertainment industry produces a num- and uber-talented Neil Patrick Harris. physicist Stephen Hawking battling nated for their work in supporting ber of high-profile, televised award Films nominated for Best Picture in- a progressive motor neuron disease roles include Robert Duvall, Ethan ceremonies, which commemorate the clude: American Sniper, a powerfully while re-conceptualizing space and Hawke, Edward Norton, Emma Stone, works and achievements of individuals done movie which depicts American time. All of these pictures have re- Meryl Streep, and Keira Knightley. or groups of individuals who have ex- military marksman Chris Kyle; Bird- ceived considerable critical acclaim On the whole, it was a good year celled in their respective fields in film man, a movie which stars Michael Ke- and experts struggle to predict which for film and, given that there are no and television. Going back to 1929, aton as a “has-been” actor who seeks one will be dubbed the year’s best. runaway favorites for the most popular these ceremonies have collectively be- cinematic fame once again; and BoyOther awards include those for award categories, we predict that this come an integral and fundamental el- hood, a twelve year project that follows best actor and actress in leading roles. year’s Oscars will be highly entertainement of American popular culture. a young child’s life as he navigates his Among males, it would be wise to ing and even suspenseful. If you don’t As January closes, one can con- parents’ divorce and growing into ad- keep our eyes on Steve Carell, Bradley have plans to watch the ceremony, fidently say that the Critics Choice olescence. Other Best Picture candi- Cooper, and Michael Keaton for their make the time watch some of the nomiAwards, Golden Globe Awards, and dates include The Imitation Game, an work in Foxcatcher, American Sniper, nated films -- you’ll be glad you did! ☐
Trainor’s New Album Disappoints
Artist of the Issue: Brendan Pulsifer
girls should determine their value based section leader of the First Tenors, By Alex Afeyan on their bodies and what appeals to men. enhancing performances with his Staff Writer Perhaps the song with the most anresonant pitch and deep knowledge of music. He deploys his In July, Massachusetts native noying lyrics is “Credit,” the closing song to This issue’s Ar tist of the Is- piano talents frequently to teach Meghan Trainor released her first song, the set. In “Credit,” Trainor is bothered be“All About That Bass,” to iTunes and other cause her ex-boyfriend used to be a “loser” sue is Fifth Former Brendan Pul- fellow students their parts durmedia outlets. Little did she suspect that until he met her and she, being so extraor- sifer. Not only has he sung in the ing practices, and his playing and only two months later the song would top dinary, made him “cool.” Now, of course, Middle School Glee Club, the A- singing have featured in numerthe Billboard Hot 100 chart and remain at Trainor wants the credit. It baffles me how Sharps, and the B-Flats over the ous Coffee House performances. the pinnacle for eight consecutive weeks. she can possess such an inflated self-image, past 5 years, he has also acted and Since helping to found the AIn addition to topping the U.S. Hot 100, she who sings the immature, laughable line, sung in middle and upper school Sharps while in the First Form, “All About That Bass” reached the num- “He holds her hand at the movies, Never ever plays and musicals. He featured Brendan has been a musical leadber one spot in 58 other countries around stares at other boobies.” Trainor is asking for as Andrew Carnes in the wonder- er on campus. In his own words, the world, broke records set by greats such more credit than anyone will ever give her. ful performance of Oklahoma!, “Singing has been an integral part It would be unfair to claim that Title played Motel in Fiddler on the of my B elmont Hill experience. as Michael Jackson, and has sold over six Learning from million copies worldwide – quite a feat for held no admirable aspects at all. In fact, al- Roof, starred Mr. Patterson a newcomer. The song became famous for most all songs on the album contain well- as Sid Soand working good reason: its catchy bass line and doo- written instrumental scores and employ rokin in the Pajama with the singers wop, throwback sound easily propelled it majestic harmonies that can be found vir- The in the B-Flats to stardom. Yet while some see the song as tually nowhere else in music today. On top Game, singand A-Sharps uplifting for women who are self-conscious of the alluring backtrack, Trainor’s voice ing the iconic “Hey have been reabout their figures, “All About That Bass” sounds poised and controlled in many piece and ally special has been criticized for attacking femi- songs, especially “What If I.” Trainor suc- There,” experiences, nism, disparaging skinny girls, and equat- cessfully pulls off the unique 1950s feel also had roles Macbeth. and ones that ing self-worth to male approval. Despite and makes it relevant to pop music in in added I have enjoyed its catchy hook, perhaps Trainor should 2015. The public received Trainor’s long- He i m m e n s e l y .” have thought a bit more about the lyrics. awaited debut album positively, as Title brilliantly to B r e n d a n’s The story is the same for Trainor’s bowed out at number one on the Billboard the cast of all love for the arts debut album, Title. Trainor’s lack of lyrical 200 chart, selling 195,000 in its first week. of these plays, In the end, the cons heavily outweigh but especially extends to jourconsideration undermines what could have in nalism and he been a groundbreaking pop record. In al- the pros for the album as a whole. The lyr- Macbeth, has been an acmost every song, she finds a way to alien- ics, first and foremost, drag the album down, which he died ate her audience and make herself unlikable. with at least one cringe-worthy line in each not once, but Pulsifer has starred in plays such as Macbeth tive contributor (above) and The Beverly Hillbillies (below) and to both The After “Bass” opens the album auspiciously, song. Although it can be argued that she twice, Bell and The “Dear Future Husband” quickly slows the discusses substantive material of self-worth c o n v i n c i n g l y Panel, ser ving momentum. The title alone supplies enough in “All About That Bass,” she falls flat when so. He also a this year as irritation to cause eyes to roll. For the next she decides to rap about her obsession with presented editor of the three minutes, Trainor demands that her “fu- drummers in “Bang Dem Sticks” or sing tour de force Arts section ture husband” buy her everything she wants, about how all her friends’ boyfriends want p e r f o r m a n c e Lady (don’t worr y, take her on dates, and cook for her, and then her in “Not Good for You.” Second to the lyr- as no conflict of maybe she will let him “try and rock [her] ics are the unforgivable rap interludes that Bracknell in interest there body right.” Keep in mind that this song is appear too often for too long. Trainor should the 2013 stag. . .). He has being sung to a man she has not yet met. put her stock in singing, not rapping. Even ing of The written many She professes a similar kind of pre- the guest rap in “Mr. Almost” by Shy Carter is Impor tance of articles on alrogative and neediness in the title track, comically atrocious. Finally, Trainor needs to Being Earnest. In his bum releases “Title.” In this song, Trainor pleads that find an identity in the pop music world. Her and various a boy give her the “title” of girlfriend or musical style serves as a unique alternative singing with B-Flats, performancelse she will leave him and not let him in to the EDM-infused characteristic of Top 40 the es by cambed with her. The most baffling line of the radio, but her lyrics seem even more generic he has soloed pus musical song is “You gotta treat me like a trophy, than most. Although Trainor’s unparalleled n u m e r o u s and groups, as well put me on the shelf, or call me something sound provides her a comfortable niche, if times, as several Ar telse.” This notion that she projects of a girl- her only convictions are that she’s “pretty has been the ist of the Isfriend as a trophy goes along with the ide- awesome” and that boys should love her, it is section leader sue articles. ☐ als put forth in “All About That Bass,” that unlikely we will see her for much longer. ☐ and then coBy Brendan Pulsifer Panel Staff
Belmont Hill Sp orts
Febr u ar y 5, 2015
Pa g e 7
Belmont Hill Varsity Scoreboard Team
Record
Notable Results
Team MVPs
9-5-2
W 2-1 vs. Thayer T 4-4 vs. Lawrence Academy
Charley Michalowski Charlie McConnell Charlie Barrow
Basketball
11-2
W vs. 54-52 vs. Rivers W vs. 60-58 vs. St. Sebastian’s
Hilal Dahleh Sultan Olusekun
Wrestling
8-0
W 57-12 vs. BBN W 40-36 vs. Roxbury Latin
Pete Tedesco Phil Conigliaro
Alpine Ski
22-2
W Alpine Ski-ISL League Race
Dan Remondi Will Cannistraro
NEPSAC Championships coming February 18th
John Power Will Malloy
W 7-0 vs. Phillips Exeter W 7-0 vs. St. George’s
Clark Doyle Timmy Brownell
Hockey
Nordic Ski Squash
N/A 7-0
Ohio State Beats Oregon In NCAA Final By Chip Daley Panel Staff Wit h c o l l e g e f o ot b a l l f a n s up s e t w it h t h e pre v i ou s B C S b ow l g a m e s y s t e m , m a ny d e m a n d e d a n e w p l ay of f t y p e of s y s t e m w it h mu lt ip l e t e a m s c omp e t i n g f or a s p ot i n t h e n a t i on a l c h a mpi on s h ip g a m e . A G a l lup p o l l i n 2 0 0 7 s h ow e d t h at 8 6 % of f a n s s upp or t e d a c h a n g e t o a p l ay of f - l i k e t ou r n a m e nt of t h e t op f ou r, e i g ht , or s i x t e e n teams. 2015 marked the first y e a r of t h e h i s t or i c a l a lt e r a t i on t o a c o l l e g e f o ot b a l l p l ay of f br a c k e t . As f a r a s p o s it i v e s to the change, the new system a l l ow s f or t e a m s i n t h e F B S t o l o s e a g a m e , p ot e nt i a l l y e v e n t w o, a n d s t i l l q u a l i f y f or a p l a c e i n t h e t op f ou r. In t h e pre v i ou s s y s t e m , a n e a r l y s e a s on l o s s t o a t op D i v i s i on I f o ot b a l l pro g r a m c ou l d m ore e a s i l y k n o c k t h e m out of c ont e nt i on f or a mu c h s ou g ht a f t e r s p ot i n t h e n at i on a l c h a mpi on s h ip g a m e . In t h i s y e a r’s h i g h l y a n t i c ip at e d f i r s t d i s p l ay of t h e s y s t e m , t h e c o l l e g e f o ot b a l l f a n s w e re p l e a s e d w it h h av i n g m ore f o ot b a l l ! If t h e B C S s t i l l d e c i d e d t h e c h a mpi on s h ip g a m e t e a m s , it w ou l d h av e r a n k e d a n d c re at e d a n A l a b a m a # 1 v s . F l or i d a St at e # 2 n a t i on a l c h a mpi on s h ip, y e t n e i t h e r t e a m m a d e it t o t h e f i n a l game under this new system. In s t e a d , t h e b e t t e r t e a m s w e re a b l e t o a d v a n c e w h e n m at c h e d up h e a d - t o - h e a d , a n d t h e C F B P l ay of f c re at e d a # 2 O re g on v s . # 4 O h i o St at e c h a mpi on s h ip m at c hup, w it h O h i o St at e pre v a i l i n g f or t h e w i n ! T h i s out c om e w a s s om e t h i n g t h at n e v e r w ou l d h av e b e e n p o s s i b l e u n d e r t h e o l d B C S f or m at . The games themselves prov e d t o b e e v e n m ore e x c it i n g , a s t h e f ou r t e a m s w e re n ot on l y p l ay i n g i n a Su g a r B ow l or a R o s e B ow l , but c omp e t i n g f or a bi d t o c o l l e g e f o ot -
b a l l’s bi g g e s t s t a g e . E SP N re p or t e d t h at 7 7 % of p e op l e v ot e d t h at t h e c h a n g e t o a C F B p l ay of f w a s t h e r i g ht m ov e i n 2 0 1 2 a n d t h at nu mb e r h a s on l y g on e up i n t h e i r m o s t re c e nt p o l l s i n c e t h e g a m e t r a n s pi re d . Wh at i s t h e n e x t s t e p ? D o e s it c h a n g e t o a 1 6 - t e a m p l ay of f ? Ma ny f a n s e n c ou r a g e t h e p l ay of f t o b e e x p a n d e d e v e n f u r t h e r, but t h i s w ou l d e x t e n d t h e s e a s on mu c h l on g e r t h a n t h e 1 5 - w e e k s e a s on f or t h i s y e a r’s c h a mpi on s h ip c ont e n d e r s . For n ow, m o s t of A m e r i c a i s h appy w it h t h e c h a n g e t o t h e p l ay of f a n d it w i l l c e r t a i n l y u nv e i l m ore of c o l l e g e f o ot b a l l’s m o s t e x c it i n g g a m e s ! ☐
Jack Tamasi
Senior Jack Tamasi was one of many Belmont Hill students to witness Super Bowl XLIX firsthand
Athlete of the Issue: Timmy Brownell D u s s o u rd ( o n e o f t h e t o p t e n j u n i o r s q u a s h p l ay e r s i n t h e w o r l d ) , ap p e a re d s t ro n g e r o n p ap e r, b u t a f t e r a l o n g , h a rd f o u g ht m at c h , Ti m my F i f t h f o r m e r Ti m my B row n e l l e m e r g e d v i c t o r i o u s i n f ro nt o f i s w i t h o u t a d o u b t a g i f t e d s q u a s h t h e l a r g e s t c row d h e h a s e v e r h a d p l ay e r : a c ap t a i n , t o p p l ay e r, a n d w at c h i n g h i m i n h i s s q u a s h c a re e r. f i v e y e a r v e t e r a n o f B e l m o nt Hi l l’s P r i o r t o w i n n i n g t h e U. S . Va r s i t y S q u a s h Te a m . T h i s w i nt e r, O p e n , Ti m my s ay s h i s p ro u d e s t Ti m my a s s e r t e d h i s d o m i n a n c e o f a c h i e v e m e nt i n s q u a s h w a s p l ay t h e s p o r t by c l a i m i n g f i r s t p l a c e i n i n g o n t h e U. S . Ju n i o r Nat i o n a l t h e U 1 9 d i v i s i o n at t h e U. S . Ju n i o r S q u a s h Te a m a n d c o mp e t i n g at O p e n S q u a s h C h a mp i o n s h i p s ( t h e a w o r l d l e v e l . Ti m my j o i n e d t h e w o r l d’s l a r g e s t i n d i v i d u a l t o u r n a - U. S . t e a m f o r t h i s y e a r ’s B r i t m e nt f o r j u n i o r p l ay e r s ) , h e l d at i s h Ju n i o r O p e n s h o r t l y a f t e r Ya l e Un i v e r s i t y o n D e c e m b e r 2 0 - h i s w i n at t h e U. S . O p e n , t a k 2 3 , a n a c h i e v e m e nt at t a i n e d i n t h e i n g 8 t h p l a c e at t h e t o u r n a m e nt . p a s t by v e r y f e w A m e r i c a n s . Ti m L o o k i n g f o r w a rd , Ti m my my s ay s h i s v i c t o r y i s i n d i c at i v e h o p e s h e c a n b e a p a r t o f c a r r y i n g o f t h e f a c t t h at “A m e r i c a n s q u a s h t h e B e l m o nt Hi l l Va r s i t y S q u a s h i s i mp rov i n g ,” a n d h e i s p ro u d t e a m t o a v i c t o r y at t h i s y e a r ’s o f t h e a d v a n c e m e nt o f A m e r i - U. S . Hi g h S c h o o l Te a m S q u a s h c a n s q u a s h i n w o r l d c o mp e t i t i o n . C h a mp i o n s h i p s i n Ha r t f o rd , C T Ti m my d e s c r i b e s h i s f i v e o n Fe b r u a r y 6 - 8 . In c o nt i nu i n g g a m e c h a mp i o n s h i p m at c h a s o n e h i s s q u a s h c a re e r, Ti m my h o p e s o f g re at d i f f i c u l t y, b u t o n e o f t h e t o a g a i n re c e i v e a p o s i t i o n o n t h e b e s t f e e l i n g s o f h i s l i f e . T h e o d d s U. S . Ju n i o r Nat i o n a l Te a m t h i s w e re s t a c k e d a g a i n s t h i m : h i s o p - s u m m e r, a s w e l l a s m a k e a n i mp a c t p o n e nt , Fre n c h n at i v e Au g u s t e at a s q u a s h p ro g r a m i n c o l l e g e . ☐ By Jake DeCaprio Panel Staff
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*DISCLAIMER* We, the Back Page editors, are trying something new for this issue of The Panel. If at any point in time you find the content on this back page unfunny, please send any complaints you might have to our Editor in Chief, Michael O’Neill. However, if you ever find yourself chuckling, or even just releasing some air out of your nose (we’ll count that), give us the credit we rightfully deserve. Love, The Back Page Editors
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(Actual tweet. LOL)
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