February 2017 (65, 6)

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bhpanel.org

Volu m e 6 5 , Issu e 6

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School

DOES BELMONT HILL RECYCLE? A Campus Investigation into the Workings of Belmont Hill’s Recycling System

By William McCormack ‘18 and Bennett Morris ‘18 Panel Staff A few months ago, a teacher, who will remain anonymous, revealed that one afternoon he had seen the recycling in Morse dumped into the same bin as the trash. Upon sharing his observation with Belmont Hill colleagues, he realized other faculty members had also witnessed a similar occurrence at least once or twice in their Belmont Hill careers. In fact, one faculty member recalled that about five years ago, some teachers speculated so much that recycling at Belmont Hill became somewhat scandalous. Hungry for the truth, we set out to investigate, hoping to unveil the cloaked recycling process on campus. We began our research with the dining staff. We had noticed that the recycling bins outside the kitchen door were lined with the same bags that are primarily used for collecting trash.

Look Inside Teaching at Belmont Hill Page 3 Four Students Return from Semester Aboroad Page 6

Frozen Fenway Page 8

Alumni Feature: Dylan Hayre ‘04 on his Panel Page 10

However, Denis Gagne, head of Belmont Hill’s dining services, dispelled our worries and explained to us the kitchen’s separation regimen. Rest assured: behind the big red fence b ord e r i n g the milk and cookies area, the dining hall does separate trash from recyclables. Cardboard is placed in its own special bin, while large plastic bottles (often used for juice) and other large plastic items are placed in another bin. Unfortunately, due to con-

tamination with food, the dining hall is un-

able to recycle many other items. If an item was to be recycled with remaining food or liquid waste, the whole batch of recycling would need to be nu l l i fied. A f ter talking with Mr. Gagne, we met with Mr. Casey Young, Director of Facilities. Mr. Young is also responsible for Belmont Hill’s relationship and contract with Prospect Cleaning, a company whose employees clean the school after hours. Very happy to help, Mr. Young walked

us through many previously unknown aspects of Belmont Hill’s recycling systems. According to Mr. Young, recycling collected by Prospect Cleaning employees on the academic side of campus is first stored in a temporary, separate location behind the dining hall. Maintenance employees continually monitor the recycling bags and trash dumpster, moving recycling to a larger storage center behind the Jordan Athletic Center if needed. Trash, however, is picked up by the waste disposal company directly from the dining hall. Subsequently, every few days, a Belmont Hill-contracted waste management company picks up recycling, trash, and cardboard from the JAC and any trash from the dining hall, transporting them separately to the Belmont Dump for proper disposal. (continued

on

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2)

Politics and Journalism By Arnav Prasad ‘18, and Ishaan Prasaad ‘18, and William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff On a cold Wednesday night last December, we three Panel editors, accompanied by faculty advisor Ms. Zener, journeyed to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum for a timely discussion on the role of journalism in the current political climate. Treated by the Boston Globe and their student journalism outreach program, we anticipated a riveting forum led by ABC’s Chief Washington Correspondent Ann Compton and CBS News Political Director John Dickerson. With the recent Presidential campaign and the present state of journalism as a focal point of the conversation, Compton and Dickerson’s analysis found direction in Dickerson’s new book Whistlestop: My Favorite Stories from Presidential Campaign History before answering audience questions and conducting a special private session with student journalists.

Ann Compton covered seven consecutive presidents in the White House, travelling to all 50 states with presidents ranging from Gerald Ford to Barack Obama. The first full-time female reporter at the White House for network television, Compton also served as a panelist on two presidential debates, one in 1988 and the other in 1992. Dickerson, on the other hand, has written about American politics and the White House for Time, Slate, and CBS News. Now the moderator of CBS’s weekly Face the Nation, he has hosted Donald Trump, Joe Biden, Mike Pence, Bernie Sanders, Marco Rubio, and Paul Ryan within the last year. Both were extremely qualified to comment on journalism and American elections, but even more impressively, they graciously and thoughtfully answered our own questions after the larger event. (continued on page 4)

Basketball Starts 8-0 in ISL By William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff Entering this season with two consecutive secondplace finishes in the ISL, Varsity basketball has thus far managed to maintain expectations during league play. As of February 3rd, with league wins over Rivers, Nobles, Groton, BBN, Lawrence, St. Sebastian’s, St. Mark’s, and Roxbury Latin, Belmont Hill is a perfect 8-0 in Independent School League competition. Currently tied atop the standings with another undefeated team, Brooks, team captains Jovan Jones ‘18 and David Mitchell ‘18 have been very satisfied with the first two months of the season. Considering the notable increase in ISL basketball talent, Belmont Hill’s undefeated record becomes all the more im-

pressive. While St. Mark’s used to essentially be the lone source of Division I talent, sending Kaleb Tarczewski to Arizona and Nik Stauskas to Michigan and the NBA, the ISL has recently mushroomed into one of New England’s premier basketball circuits, boasting a considerable number of D1 commits and New England’s top-ranked 2018 player (Cormac Ryan at Milton). Rivers’s Jermaine Samuels ‘17 will most notably play at Villanova next year, and Brooks, Governor’s, Rivers, Milton, and Lawrence (and BH) all have at least a couple Division 1 recruits on their rosters. Plus, to many, NEPSAC (New England Preparatory School Athletic Council) is the most competitive prep athletic league in the country, especially for basketball. (continued on page 7)

Pa g e 2

BELMONT HILL OPINION

Drop Lisbon.

Th e Pan el

Tweeter-In-Chief? By John Markis ‘18 Panel Staff

Although various groups find President Trump deplorable for a plethora of reasons, one of the most common critiques against him remains his use of Twitter. The president’s statements over social media--from calling climate change a hoax perpetuated by the Chinese “to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive,” to criticizing former beauty pageant darling Alicia Machado--have made headlines across the country. Republicans and Democrats alike, citing both a potential loss in respectability for the office and Trump’s propensity for rash state- sue carries enormous sway, and the public ments, have urged President Trump has the right to have access to his attitudes. to surrender his account to his aides. While Trump should retain the option of soRepresentatives gather to celebrate the death of their respective national sovereignties In spite of these real dangers, cial media as an avenue to the masses, he should wield Trump’s account enables him to speak his influence cautiously. Trump’s advisors should By Robbie Warming ‘17 this simplified the governance of the directly to the masses, a necessity for warn him to avoid any unneeded negative reference Panel Staff Union, it began a slippery slope towards any president. Where FDR utilized his to the following: Clinton (either one), Obama, the a centralized European state forced fireside chats to retain popularity with Democratic Party, Paul Ryan, and the media. He will On December 13th, 2007, upon its diverse peoples. Voters want his constituents, Trump can employ the obtain nothing but ridicule by attacking any of these. the European Union signed its death representation, and they don’t feel rep- same strategy to keep his base engaged. Trump should also remove from social media any warrant. And now, a decade later, resented when their European Parlia- Furthermore, Trump’s campaign has mention of Russia, China, or the European Union. Britain will be its just executioner. ment consists of 751 MEPs, the major- been slandered repeatedly by the press. If international treaties unravel, United States citizens The European Union has far ity of whom come from vastly different Whether the media claims that Trump could be in legitimate danger. The best discussions overstepped its original intentions. Aris- cultures than their own. Centuries-old removed the Dr. King bust from the for treaties, trade alliances, and renegotiations ocing from the ashes of two world wars that Oval Office, asserts that the president’s cur behind closed doors, not in 140-character mesdevastated the continent, the Union beassertions on illegal immigration are sui sages. Finally, President Trump, while maintaining Each state would be repgan as a loose group of states which dared generis, or releases fake news concern- the spunk that makes him The Donald, should reresented by a delegation to strive towards peace. Their intentions ing golden showers under the guise of nounce his beloved one-word phrases, especially any selected by their own govwere pure and simple: stronger diplomatic “classified information,” the truth has which require exclamation marks. For an example ernment. Sovereignty is reand economic ties within the continent become painstakingly clear: the press of the type of Twitter account which Trump should spected, human rights issues works to hinder the Trump presiden- strive for, search up “MatureTrumpTwts” on Twitwould put a stop to the past centuries of near-constant warfare. The goal was nocy. Now, to be clear, the media should ter. Conveniently, this handle compares what Trump are addressed, and Europeble, and it worked. Europe emerged from an trade deals are brokered. hold President Trump accountable for tweets to what a more experienced politician would the carnage as an economic powerhouse. his actions, and reputable news sources write. Some of the ire concerning Trump’s tweets Instead of embarking on the such as the Washington Post, Chicago comes from the lack of sophistication contained, and The Union itself evolved throughimpossible goal of forming a Tribune, and New York Post have per- Trump’s tweets read much more professionally when out the later 20th century, but it has now single European superstate, reached a critical point. The Lisbon Treaformed admirably under harsh condi- a stronger vocabulary is displayed, as seen in this acty, signed in 2007, and the older Maastricht tions; however, far too many others, count. While his base may be dismayed initially based the new union would focus Treaty it replaced greatly increased the on European friendship and allowing bias to turn news pieces into off its fondness for blunt phrases, Trump can expand powers of a central European government. opinion editorials, have failed in this his appeal dramatically by enhancing the quality of cooperation. The people of Europe now have two opregard. Until all outlets report Trump his tweets. Ultimately, Trump should heed this fations: either they can let this expansion of fairly, he must tweet to allow his opin- mous expression before he publishes any new mescentral power continue, resulting in a vir- nations cannot be deconstructed with- ion to resound loudly. After all, the sages: with great power comes great responsibility. ☐ out friction. president’s view on a particular istual nation-state More over, encompassing all we checked the contents of the dumpster. the European of Europe, or they Bags with recyclables from buildings MelParliament is can ditch Lisbon voin, Morse, and Science had been mixed itself a weak in the name of nawith bags of trash on all three days. Accordinstitution, tional sovereignty. ing to Mr. Young, the dumpster at the dining with the unThe Lishall is only supposed to include trash, since elected Eurobon Treaty is a the waste disposal company picks up conpean Commispolitical disaster. tents of the dining hall dumpster and discards sion having It threatens the them as trash, not recyclables. As mentioned the power to national soverFood, cardboard, paper, and trash mixed earlier, recycling bags are to be stored tempointroduce legeignty of member rarily at the dining hall (propped up against islation. In ef- Continued from Page 1 states and puts the gray bins next to the dumpster) before befect, the EU’s European Union, During our investigation, we ing relocated to Jordan. Thus, the fact that g o v e r n a n c e also met with a cleaner for Prospect bags of recycling and trash were mixed in the which is economihas a demo- Cleaning. Informally interviewing him dumpster poses a serious problem, as most cally advantacratic defi- on a Wednesday night around 6:00 pm of the recycling on Belmont Hill’s academic geous to all, in jeopardy. Opposition to the overreaching cit. That voter opposition to unity will on the second floor of the Melvoin Aca- side is being treated and processed like trash. Lisbon treaty has sparked the rise of far- doom the Union in its current form. demic Center, we asked the employee, Though our trash and recycling policy may be Instead, the European Union whose English was limited, about the sound, the actual implementation is flawed. right groups like the UK Independence Party, Front National of France, and the should model itself after the United Na- procedure he followed when collectBy exposing these lapses in Belmont Freedom Party of Austria. These groups, tions. Each state would be represented ing trash and recycling. When asked if Hill’s recycling systems, we call for greater utilizing the anti-Lisbon sentiment in their by a delegation selected by their own cleaners merged trash and recycling, adherence to the current policies and prorespective countries, have grasped power. government. Sovereignty is respected, he responded affirmatively. Then when cedures. We encourage everyone to employ Their rise has given political legitimacy human rights issues are addressed, and asked if this was usual procedure cam- vigilance around disposal practices. Should to racist anti-Muslim policies. And in- European trade deals are brokered. In- pus-wide, the answer remained the you witness recycling foul play, please constead of dismantling the Lisbon Treaty, stead of embarking on the impossible same. However, adding to our confu- tact Mr. Young, Director of Facilities. He can they seek to destroy the Union entirely, goal of forming a single European su- sion, about fifteen minutes later, when be reached at kyoung@belmonthill.org and demolishing the economic framework perstate, the new union would focus on the employee reached Melvoin Com- is committed to communicating with cleanthat benefits all members. Instead of try- European friendship and cooperation. mons and we asked him a final ques- ing staff and making the proper changes. ☐ ing to weather this new wave of national- It would ensure nations are respected, tion, he began to explain that actually, ism, the European Union must save it- continue the economic stability Eu- recycling and trash are separated. His self. The Union must be wholly reformed. rope has enjoyed, and take the wind changed response could be due to an arAs constituted by the Lisbon Trea- out of the sails of right wing parties. ray of issues (i.e. context, clarity), but is So what will it be? Will the Eu- most likely because of a language barrier. ty, the European Union looks a lot like a national government. It has a Parliament ropean Union continue to be stubborn Our most concerning discovand Council acting as its dual legislative and risk seeing its member states bow ery pertains to the dumpster behind branches. And it has a European Commis- out? Or will it take a step back and do the dining hall. On three separate occasion to run its executive functions. Though what’s best for the European people? ☐ sions (12/6/16, 1/11/17, and 1/25/17),

Recycling

BELMONT HILL OPINION

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Teaching and Working at Belmont Hill: An In-Depth Look

Pa g e 3

Fixing Attendance

When asked for a comment, Maahin said that, “in my opinion this application will help make life easier and If you’re anything like me, you more time efficient for all the students have, on more than one occasion, grum- at Belmont Hill. The current attendance bled to yourself about having to walk system can be tedious at times and our across campus to sign in with your advi- goal is to solve this issue with our new sor. Our current system is undeniably app. Will has done a great job so far but archaic. In a world where you can order the job is not yet complete. We are hopcoffee on a smartphone app, walk into the ing to launch it during this school year!” Mr. Smith, Director of Academic store, and pick up your drink, we still have Technology, did point out one issue that to write our names down on a whiteboard needed to be addressed concerning the or a piece of paper to let the school know app: “I suspect that the main hesitation we are present. I propose a better way. with an app like this is that certain adviWhat if daily attendance was sors will lose opportunities to check-in on your phone? Or your computer? Or with their students… While innovation is any other device with access to the interimportant, our relationship with students net? What if signing in simply required you to type your name and hit sub- is more so, and we want to be sure that we mit? Such a system could be on its way. don’t allow technology to steer this ship.” Alongside Maahin Gulati ‘18, I While such hesitation is well-founded, Mr. Martin ‘65 has taught and coached at Belmont Hill since 1972 have been developing an attendance ap- such an app would make signing sturific students who certainly make it all worth- plication that would enable students to dents in easier for advisors. Advisor time By Gavin Colbert ‘18 while. When I was younger, one of my wise sign in from anywhere on campus. With should be set aside, because those conStaff Writer friends told me, ‘Oh, you are absolutely going the school’s new BYOD policy, we thought nections are sacred. But when a meeting to be a lifer at Belmont Hill’ and after all these it only suitable that the attendance sys- isn’t scheduled, running to one’s advisor Belmont Hill School is an out- years I have been very stimulated and happy tem should receive an internet-age up- just seems like a waste of everyone’s time. The app is still in its developstanding institution that garners a sterling working here. It’s been a happy marriage.” date as well. The app would function mental stages, but the strong support reputation for academics, arts, and athNot only is the Belmont Hill environ- just like a website, allowing any student from students who have heard of the letics. For many burgeoning prospective ment molded by teachers, but also by the staff to sign in from any device. The student idea has been a great motivator in the students, our school is on the top of their who work diligently to maintain the campus would sign in with their BH email, input process. We are working with the adlists. Furthermore, many students expe- from the Library to the playing fields. I spoke some more information, including their ministration to iron out the details and rience a real brotherhood at school, one with the very friendly and hard-working Evi form and advisor, then hit submit. In orfull functionality of the app, but are enthat connects and bonds classmates for Tejada, who cleans the library and lunchroom der to ensure the student is on campus, couraged to bring you a product that will the rest of their lives. But is it the same for in the afternoons. We held our conversation in they would need to be connected to the make your mornings just a little bit easier. faculty and staff? Is Belmont Hill a quality Spanish as she spoke graciously and enthusi- wifi in order to sign in. Once you receive In the coming months, we ask workplace conducive to a supportive com- astically about the teachers and students who, a confirmation alert, you’re good to go. that students get involved with voicmunity not just for faculty but also for the for the past seventeen years, have made this The new system would also have ing their support for this new system. staff working here? I decided to find out. community feel like a family: “[translated] I included features for the faculty. A facChange best comes from the bottom up. Tasked with great responsibility love working at Belmont Hill. When I applied ulty specific website will allow teachers Hopefully, with the support of the stuas the Dean of Faculty, Mr. Armstrong is to work, I thought I would work here for only to search for an individual’s status or see dents, faculty, and administration beentrusted with nurturing the lifeblood of a couple of months, but later I discovered how how many of their advisees have signed hind us, we’ll be able to do away with an the school: its teachers. Since all new fac- great the school was. The teachers and students in. Possible features could include a readoutdated and frustrating system, replaculty must first pass through his office, I was were always so friendly, always asking how I able ‘notes’ section so that faculty would ing it with easier system for everyone. ☐ interested in hearing his take on aspiring was doing, how my family was. It became a know the nature of a student’s absence. Belmont Hill teachers as well as the cur- very special place for me. I feel very grateful rent Belmont Hill teaching community: to not only be at this school but also in this “As faculty members, we are treated very country and for the opportunities that both well. We love being here, it is a great place have provided. I am very happy and thankful.” to work our craft as teachers everyday. I Indeed the underlying theme of comtake a lot of pride in being a faculty mem- munity and connection exists not only for the ber at Belmont Hill; that’s what I consid- faculty but also for the staff here on the Hill. er myself first and foremost.” At current Therefore, if in your future you happen to be count, a substantial eight teachers are a recently graduated alum looking for a place graduates of Belmont Hill. Their gradua- to work with a strong community feel, look tion years span generations, marking dif- no farther than from whence you came. ☐ ferent times in the school’s history. Both Many seniors must sign in in Morse (left), which is not centrally located young and old alumi come back to teach. Mr. Murphy, who runs the Annual Giving program among faculty members, has been successful with 100% of signing this executive order, is purport- the Republican Party, protectors and proBy Matt O’Leary ‘17 teachers giving back to the school annuing a narrative that refugees are not giv- ponents of the American Dream to their Panel Staff ally, demonstrating that as Mr. Murphy en proper screening and are, therefore, constituents, have not spoken out about said, “We all clearly believe in the school On Friday afternoon, President a potential loophole for terrorists. This Trump’s denying of it to those willing to and its mission.” Similarly, Mr. Armstrong Donald Trump signed an executive order is not true. Refugees are subject to in- work hard and take pride in the country. added that the 100% giving is “a reflection On the campaign trail, Donald that suspended indefinitely all Syrian ref- tense screening and the process of their of Dr. Melvoin and how much we believe relocation is overseen by the State DeTrump’s oft-heard slogan was “Make ugees, put a 120 day freeze on all admisin his leadership and a reflection of how partment, the Department of Homeland America Great Again.” America has sions of refugees, and blocked citizens of much we believe in the school and the Security, and the Department of Health long revered the values of hard work, seven Muslim majority nations from enboys.” Interestingly enough, I heard this and Human Services. The only way for cooperation, and freedom from persecutering the United States for 90 days: Iran, same sentiment about connecting with refugees to enter the United States is tion. One of the “great” times that may Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yestudents from one of the youngest faculty with the government’s permission, as fit Trump’s catchphrase is the foundmen. Outrage swelled as Muslims who are members, Ms. Vailas. She underscored, they can’t take a raft across the Atlaning years of this country. There may be valid Green Card holders or have student as one of her favorite aspects of being a tic similar to how one would get to the no figure more closely associated with visas were either stopped in foreign airfaculty member, the opportunity to conGreek islands. On average, the refugee patriotism and nobility than our First ports or detained in domestic ones. The nect with her students and the athletes President passed this executive order with admission process to the United States President, George Washington. In 1788, on her teams, “I’ve really loved getting America’s safety from terrorism in mind; takes around 18 months. The United one year before taking office, Washto know the boys, specifically the athhowever, Syrian and Iraqi nationals have States has ample time to screen these in- ington wrote concerning his view of letes on my teams. I really enjoy the time not been the main perpetrators of terror dividuals, so the President’s stopgap ap- America, “I had always hoped that this I spend with them, my runs in the afterattacks. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United proach to immigration is unnecessary. land might become a safe and agreeable noon are some of the best hours of my day.” Arab Emirates, and Turkey are all Muslim There is no plausible way for Middle Asylum to the virtuous and persecuted Next, I wanted to hear from a majority nations who have had citizens Eastern refugees to come here illegally. part of mankind, to whatever nation so-called “lifer” at Belmont Hill, the escommit terror attacks against America, Refugees are also required to pay the they might belong.” America’s role as teemed and hilarious Mr. Sherman, to find none of which are included on Trump’s government back over time for the cost an “Asylum,” as outlined by Washington, out what has compelled him to stay on the list. Nobody is able to pick and choose of their flight, and are not afforded long has long been upheld and celebrated by Hill for the past forty-five years: “I have a which countries breed terrorists; there is term housing. They must work for the the country’s leaders. The 45th Presilovely space in which to work here...but no established formula to find the coun- American Dream similar to anyone else dent’s executive order undoubtedly does more importantly, I’ve been blessed with tries where our potential enemies live. in the country, a task they are willing and not reflect the acceptance and cohewonderful colleagues, and of course terAdditionally, the President, in thankful to take on. It is perplexing why siveness envisioned by the very first. ☐ By Will Ryan ‘17 Staff Writer

Trump’s Ban on Immigration Lacks Logic and Morality

Belmont Hill NEWS

Pa g e 4

Th e Pan el

Politics and Journalism: John Dickerson and Ann Compton Offer Valuable Insight to Panel Editors continued from Page 1... Speaking to the crowd at the library less than a month after Donald Trump’s sensational victory, Compton and Dickerson prefaced their conversation with a rather pertinent theory from Dickerson’s Whistlestop: “If there is a constant to the American campaign story, it is that elites cannot protect the future very well.” When considering how to approach politics, Dickerson explained that he has always thought of politics the same way physicists approach physics. There is both a delight and expectation that the complicated, unknown world will consistently present surprises. Acknowledging that the press often makes faults, both conceded that news agencies are in the business of covering and publicizing surprises; however, considering these flaws, both also strongly asserted the fact that journalism is not dead. Compton reminded student writers that “journalism is not only alive, but thriving.” Commenting after an election cycle in which the media was often criticized, she stressed the importance of giving voice to conflicting opinions, minimizing sensational, “noise” stories, and emphasizing the most important (but not necessarily most exciting) news. Reporters, she believe, must employ tolerance, thoughtfulness, and an open mind, a special willingness to consider multiple perspectives on an issue. Relating stories and anecdotes from our nation’s history with ease, both Dickerson and Compton were experts in capturing and explaining the captivating similarities and connections that have persisted throughout the United States’ complex political history. As any student of history can attest, there is something deeply compelling about hearing the thoughts of renowned individuals in person. Having spent time in our U.S. History classes this year discussing some of the very same topics, it was thrilling to be in the midst of a dynamic, animated conversation between historians, rather than just reading their words on a page. Elections from 1800 to 2008 were synthesized and analyzed before our eyes, as Compton and Dick-

erson examined events from the 2016 election against the backdrop of history. While the Belmont Hill community is no stranger to national politics, the results of the recent election seemed to resonate deeply with the student body and revive school-wide debate on social issues. Both faculty and students found themselves personally investing in their politics, especially as more classes and student organizations began to unpack the election season. Noting the importance of the youth in America’s future, Compton urged students to “have an open mind” and “respect each other” when engaging with politics. In Mr. Curran’s Form V American Literature class, students commented on an evolving American identity. While The Scarlet Letter and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn may have seemed outdated, students in the class began to appreciate how literary themes have transcended time while describing the complexities

Acknowledging that the press often makes faults, both conceded that news agencies are in the business of covering and publicizing surprises; however, considering these flaws, both also strongly asserted the fact that journalism is not dead. Compton reminded student writers that “journalism is not only alive, but thriving.” of society and commenting on the roots of American institutions. Mr. Curran and his class’s readiness to delve into American politics reflects the school community’s commitment to addressing real-world issues through a holistic curriculum. Ultimately, Compton ended the evening with an important truism: “History teaches us so much about not only where we’ve been, but where we are, and we can draw lessons from that on where we are headed as well.” ☐

Ishaan and William Listen to Ann Compton

Icelandic Scientist Halla Hrund Logadóttir Speaks on the Hill about Climate Change Jason Fischman ‘17 and Mack Perry ‘17 use of geothermal energy, were jumpPanel Staff started by individuals’ entrepreneurialism and experimentation. She answered In the fourth Hunt Global Lecture student questions pertaining to governSeries, Halla Hrund Logadóttir gave an ment-led/top-down change vs. peopleinformative and engaging talk about cli- led/bottom-up change, the viability of mate change, its causes, and its poten- a carbon tax in the US, the viewpoint of tial solutions. Ms. Logadóttir, currently climate change deniers, and the role of a Davis Bacon Environmental Fellow at private companies in sustainability. Ms. the Harvard Kennedy School, formerly Logadóttir spent the rest of the day on directed the School of Energy at Reyk- campus visiting classes and participatjavik University, founded the Arctic ing in various small group discussions. Innovation Lab, and previously conMs. Logadóttir was introduced to the sulted with the Icelandic Energy fund. school community by Nobel laureate WilAt Belmont Hill, she discussed liam Moomaw (aka Mr. Harder’s father-inthe gravity of climate change, includ- law), Professor Emeritus of International ing the melting ice caps, droughts, and Environmental Policy at the Fletcher rising sea levels, providing a unique School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts Uniinsight into her climate change niche versity . Moomaw is the founding direcof the Arctic. Having worked in the tor of the Tufts Climate Initiative and the Arctic for years, Ms. Logadóttir hu- Center for International Environment morously explained how protecting and Resource Policy, and co-founded the the Arctic is about so much more than Global Development and Environment Injust saving the polar bears, pointing stitute. His work with the Intergovernmento the area’s massive size and the dev- tal Panel on Climate Change was acknowlastating effects of rising sea levels. edged with the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. Afterwards, Ms. Logadóttir Thank you to Mr. Harder, Profesdiscussed what each student could do sor Moomaw, and the Hunt family for to minimize their own carbon foot- bringing Ms. Logadóttir to Belmont print, noting that even top-down, gov- Hill for an engaging day on campus. ☐ ernment-side efforts such as Iceland’s

Mrs. Sweeney Departs for Well-Deserved Sabattical By Charlie Booth ‘19 Staff Writer Mrs. Sweeney will be leaving Belmont Hill to enjoy a restorative sabbatical, returning in the fall to continue her tireless mission teaching Biology. Mrs. Sweeney has been hard at work teaching young scientists at Belmont Hill since 1996. Somehow, she even finds time to coach the fearsome Thirds Crew team, rain or shine. She teaches AP Biology to the novice sophomore scientists of Belmont Hill, covering a large course load in record time. This challenges not only the few students willing to grind their way through the course, but also Mrs. Sweeney, who somehow manages to give the impression that it is a pleasure to teach. Classes are notoriously fast moving, energetic and thought-provoking. Throughout the carefully planned “torture,” Mrs. Sweeney mitigates the suffering with a plentiful supply of her famous homemade baked goods. For the few, the lucky few who enjoyed having Mrs Sweeney as advisor, we were able to benefit from her nurturing involvement

in our broader school life, as we received sensible advice, were introduced to a positive approach, and were supported by a stalwart advocate. While away on her sabbatical, Mrs. Sweeney expects to keep busy. She has plans to coach Crew to inner-city girls and to study Biology in the Galapagos Islands—even joining an orchestra has been a possibility she’s considered. However Mrs. Sweeney chooses to spend her semester, we wish her well and anticipate her return next fall. ☐

After Short, Impactful Stay in the Music Department, Dr. Slaughter Moves On By Charlie Booth ‘19 Staff Writer What makes an excellent teacher? Enthusiasm? Passion? Dr. Slaughter embodies those characteristics and many more. Some students who were enrolled in his Music Appreciation class would even go as far as to say that he is the best teacher ever to walk the hallowed grounds of Belmont Hill. Not because he was an equal opportunities grader, but because he was an engaging teacher who demonstrably

cared about his young charges. He engages his students as he lives his life, aiming to “minimize the stress, focus on the journey.” Dr. Slaughter was never offended that many boys prioritized science or languages ahead of music; all he asked was that you approach the class in a serious way with an open ear, mind, and heart, and a willingness to learn something new every day. To call his class “Music Appreciation” is to understate its influence. In Slaughter’s Music App, we built a few of the tools of life: the gentleman’s handshake, the ability to present one’s views in public, and of course, the disdain for teenage slang. I shall miss the customary handshake at the beginning of every class, the cheerful greeting, the warmth of his engagement. Dr. Slaughter cared about us, the boys, his cherished students. We on the Hill all wish him well with future endeavors. ☐

Belmont Hill NEWS

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Mr. Patterson: To Paris and Back By Bennett Morris ‘18 Panel Staff This past fall, while the B-Flats were hard at work under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Slaughter, “Brother P” was taking advantage of a well-earned sabbatical. As part of Belmont Hill’s teacher contract, one is granted a sabbatical after every 10 years of service, so Mr. Patterson wasted no time embarking on his seven-month journey. In June, after securing his replacement for the fall semester, Brother P mirrored his travel itinerary to when he accompanied former Belmont Hill Chinese teacher, Jenny Gao, on a trip to China. He then continued on to Taipei, Taiwan; Seoul, South Korea; Tokyo, Japan; and Shanghai, China. Upon his return to the states, he spent the remainder of August planning his September departure to Nice, France, where he took up residency for a month. While many may not know, Brother P is fluent in French. The French life agreed with Brother P as he recounted his relaxing routine of, “going to the same bakery, meat place, and supermarket.” One other highlight of his European tour included working with a gospel choir in Bavaria, Germany. November brought Brother P stateside for a nanosecond, before he was off to Bermuda. Of particular interest and enjoyment was the warm weather and cave exploration. But the thrill of the election drew him back to Washington D.C., where he spent much of his time parading up and down the

mall and popping into all of the Smithsonian Museums. Most exciting was an opportunity to visit the highly anticipated African American Museum, which recently opened in September 2016. From there, Brother P travelled to New York and although he has much family living in the area, he was too busy visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, One Trade Center, Ground Zero, and attending the four-hour opera Tristan Und Isolde at the Lincoln Center to stay with relatives. This trip to New York was particularly emotional since he had been in New York one month prior to the attacks on 9/11. Brother P returned home for Christmas and on the 26th, his bags were packed and he was jetting off to Panama! While he enjoyed what he referred to as a “professional New Year’s celebration” orchestrated by the Panamanians, he is intrigued by the Panama Canal, even dedicating one day of his trip exploring it via boat. Coming back to Belmont Hill, Brother P brings with him a refreshed sense of excitement for the classroom and the arts. While he enjoyed his extensive travels and relaxing pastimes, he confided in me his desire to occasionally “sneak into the play or see the flats.” I know I speak for the entire Belmont Hill community when I say Brother P was missed; we are thrilled to have him back. ☐

MAP/SAFE Breakfast Discusses Issues of Community and Diversity By Arnav Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff On Januar y 5th, students, alumni, and faculty met for the annual MAP (Multicultural Alumni Partnership)/SAFE(Students Actively Fostering Equality) breakfast, one of the many events run by the Alumni office to facilitate conversation around key diversity and community issues. With one of the larger turnouts in recent years, the breakfast acted as a bridge of communication by exposing current students to new perspectives and conversely reacquainting faculty and alumni with the experiences of a B elmont Hill student. Throughout the morning, Mr. Collins, a leader within MAP and a faculty advisor of SAFE, posed

thoughtful questions about the B elmont Hill community that challenged each participant to ref lect and share their ideas with the group. The questions often challenged participants to think on their feet and communicate their ideas with their partners. While at times conversation seemed to gravitate towards national affairs and politics, especially in ref lection of the tumultuous and divisive presidential campaign season, participants found comfort in reconnecting with the B elmont Hill community by recounting schoolwide traditions and personal anecdotes. The MAP/SAFE Breakfast has continually been a highlight for students interested in reconnecting with alumni, and the discussion can always benefit from new voices! ☐

Pa g e 5

Doc Wacht: Back from the Farm By Duncan Grant ‘18 Panel Staff As the second semester began, long time science teacher Dr. Wachtmeister returned from his semester sabbatical. Doc Wacht. first started working in the science department at Belmont Hill in the fall of 1987. However, this was far from the beginning of his teaching career. In 1967, Doc Wacht. began teaching at a community college in Virginia Beach, VA. In his time at Belmont Hill, Doc Wacht. has taught several science classes (most notably AP Biology, which he has taught since his first year) and also coaches JV Baseball with Mr. Greer. Doc Wachtmeister was not due for a sabbatical until next year, but he was able to take his a year early in order to join his wife’s family on a safari in South Africa. As a biology teacher, Doc Wacht was “amazed” by the wildlife, especially when he witnessed a herd of elephants dig up a dried river basin to find water. After returning from Africa, he and his wife spent seven warm days in Cuba, where he had previously travelled as part of a summer faculty trip. Doc spent the remainder of his time away from Bel-

mont Hill on his cattle farm in Northern Virginia. Doc Wacht. grew up on the farm and now works there in the summer. Along with his wife and son Kurt, Doc spent his days doing odd jobs around the farmhouse, tending to the nearly 100 cattle, and chopping trees to supply his growing firewood business. “It’s exhausting at any age,” says Doc, “but extremely rewarding.” Even so, Doc admits that he is excited to be back at Belmont Hill, something he considers a vacation compared to grueling farm work. Doc

Doc looks forward to chatting and being around the other members of the Science Department because in Virginia, “all you can talk to is the cattle, and they never say anything back.” is thrilled to return to teaching; like farming, he enjoys seeing his hard work during the year pay off. But most of all, Doc looks forward to chatting and being around the other members of the Science Department because in Virginia, “all you can talk to is the cattle, and they never say anything back.” ☐

Trump Stumbles Out of the Gate By Robbie Warming ‘17 Panel Staff Thousands of eager supporters waited under gray clouds and sprinkles of rain. Eager supporters waited on the National Mall to see their new President deliver his first address. But before the ceremony even began, controversy loomed. Trump’s inaugural committee found difficulty recruiting artists to perform at his “Make America Great Again Welcome Celebration” concert. When Elton John was floated as an option, the English singer, who was an outspoken Clinton supporter, quickly shut it down, saying “it’s nothing personal… [but] I’m not a Republican in a million years.” Other singers joined the chorus of voices boycotting President Trump’s inauguration. Finally, Trump’s team found their match in Lee Greenwood, Toby Keith, 3 Doors Down, DJ Ravidrums, and the Piano Guys. Trump hosted the event on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. With fireworks and dancing, the sun set on President Barack Obama’s last day in office. The day-long marathon of Inauguration events began early in the morning. First, President Obama, Michelle Obama, President Trump, and his wife, Melania Trump, met for tea. After that, in a powerful and traditional symbol of the peaceful transfer of power, Trump and Obama shared a car for the procession to the Capitol. The inauguration stand on the western front of the capitol was packed with important Washington leaders of past and present. President Jimmy Carter, Vice President Dick Cheney, President George W. Bush, and Belmont Hill alumni General Mark Milley, Chief of Staff of the Army, were seated behind the presidential podium. Hillary Clinton, Trump’s bitter rival throughout the election, was accompanied by President Bill Clinton. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the presidential oath of office, and President Trump swore on both his childhood bible and the Lincoln bible. President Trump’s inaugural

address, written by aides Stephen Miller and Steve Bannon, focused on many of the messages he focused on during his campaign; it highlighted his philosophy of “America First.” In front of a crowd of established politicians, Trump went to the jugular early on, declaring that “a small group in our nation’s Capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost… That all changes -- starting right here, and right now.” Trump touched on quelling the “carnage” of the inner cities, tightening up the borders, and bringing back jobs. The speech also invoked God multiple times, a strange move for a man who was controversial among Evangelical leaders and remarked in 2015 that he has never sought for forgiveness from God. The true controversy began after the inauguration had concluded. Many social media users remarked that Trump’s inauguration crowd was lackluster compared to President Obama’s 2009 inauguration. Trump fired back, saying his inauguration crowd “looked like a million, a million and a half people.” But numbers do not lie. Trump’s inauguration crowd was estimated to be 160,000 people. Obama’s was 1.8 million in 2008. But Obama wasn’t the only one that beat President Trump’s crowd. The very next day, an estimated 470,000 people participated in the Women’s March on Washington. The worldwide movement was a show of force against what many perceive to be a threat to women’s rights in Trump’s administration. Marches were staged in London (100,000 people), Chicago (250,000), Los Angeles (750,000), New York (400,000), and Boston (175,000). The spit over crowd sizes became a story after the White House Press Secretary scolded reporters for lying about Trump’s crowd size. Trump Advisor Kellyanne Conway backed him up, saying Spicer was reporting “alternative facts.” The internet pounced and made memes. Trump is off to a rocky start. He has stumbled out of the gates. He has damaged his image by making an embarrassing “nonstory” a story. Whether he is able to let it go and let the news cycle pass is yet to be seen. ☐

Belmont HIll NEWS

Pa g e 6

Th e Pan el

Four Students Return From Semesters Abroad By Nick Daley ‘19 Panel Staff As the Belmont Hill community returned from winter break, it welcomed back four students from semesters abroad. Colin Braun ’19, Matt McGaffigan ’18, and Alex Ackerman ’18 all spent the Fall at the Island School, on Cape Eleuthera, Bahamas, while Donavan Payne ’18 studied at the Master’s School in New York City, as a part of the CityTerm program. At the Island School, the students took full advantage of their surroundings, focusing on marine biology and sustainability. The program emphasized learning from experiences, rather than teachers: “Even when you weren’t in class, every day was a school day.” Matt and Alex participated in a four-mile swim, and Colin ran a half-marathon. They described the feats as grueling, but none had any complaints about spending days under the Bahamian sun. Although in a very different environment, Donavan’s time at Cityterm included many similar themes. CityTerm specialized in “experienced-based learning,” using New York City as the classroom. Every

week, Donavan would spend three days on campus and three days out in the city itself, interviewing strangers in a park and taking weekend trips to Coney Is-

land without guidance from a teacher. the strong sense of togetherness at The program stressed self-reliance their respective schools, as well as the and was a stark contrast to the rigid- close relationships with their teachity of an everyday school: “Every day ers, who felt more like peers than auwas different,” Donavan said. The students called their initial decision to travel a “leap of faith,” but now agree that it was one of the best decisions they have made, even life-changing. The trips taught thority figures. The independence the them to “re- students were allowed and the uniqueally like learn- ness of the experience strongly resoing,” and work nated with them and taught them that hard not because “there is a lot outside of Belmont Hill.” they were told Now back at school, Colin, Alex, to, but because Donavan, and Matt have found the tranthey genuinely sition to be bittersweet. It was tough to wanted to. Find- say goodbye to their tight knit communiing that there is ties and the readjustment to the Belmont “so much more Hill routine has been difficult at times, to life than just but none have any regrets. When asked getting the A,” if they had any advice for any students the students considering a semester away, all four Donavan Payne ‘18 in New York City During CityTerm fell in love with agreed on a simple answer: “Do it.” ☐

Sustainability Club Attends Global Forum at Winsor (he had presented the story to National Geographic only days earlier) covering some of the most polOn Monday, January 23, five se- luted places on earth. nior members of Belmont Hill’s Sus- Hettwer finished tainability Club ventured to Winsor up his talk for the opening day of the school’s first with sugever Global Forum. Modeled around g e s t i o n s “J-Term” or “Winter Term” programs on how in use at various colleges, the Global s t u Forum spans the week between first d e nt s and second semester at Winsor and aims to educate students on relevant, complex issues facing the world. This Forum’s subject was “Waste Not, Want Not: An Investigation into What We Throw Away.” Its focus on human waste and its implications for the environment naturally drew the interest of five members of Belmont Hill’s Sustainability Club: Andrew Kaneb, Jack Daley, Mike Armstrong, Cam c o u l d Gordon, and Will Ryan. Members’ t a k e successful coordination with Win- a c t i o n sor faculty gave them the chance to to fight look in on the Forum with their fac- p o l l u t i o n . ulty advisor, Mr. McAlpin. The day opened with an all- After a brief mornschool meeting, where National Geo- ing snack, students split graphic photojournalist Mike Hettwer, up into workshops, known as stuthe Forum’s keynote speaker, gave dios. Andrew, Will, and Mr. McAla powerful presentation document- pin attended “Massachusetts Zero ing the aspects of waste that many of Waste 2020: Can We Get There?” us never see. Hettwer, whose photo- while Jack, Mike, and Cam attended graphs have appeared in the New York “The Great Pacific Garbage Patch: Times, BBC, and National Geograph- The Real Reason Dory Can’t Find ic, among other prestigious publica- Her Way Home.” “Massachusetts tions, first gave a harrowing account Zero Waste 2020” focused on Masof the shipbreaking industry in Ban- sachusetts’ current plan to reduce gladesh. Shipbreaking refers to the waste by 30 percent by 2030 and by deconstruction and recycling of mas- 90 percent by 2080, and the steps sive, defunct container ships and oil necessary to accomplish such goals. tankers. In Bangladesh, home to the In the morning, students worked to world’s largest shipbreaking industry, present “elevator pitches” to each workers toil in toxic conditions with other on four topics of interest: no safety equipment for twelve hours Pay-As-You-Throw trash programs, a day in exchange for $1-3. Hettwer’s eWaste, home composting, and 2014 National Geographic article textile recycling. Following lunch, broke the story on shipbreaking and students spent an hour researchhelped spur notable health and safety ing waste reduction plans in their improvements in the industry. Next, hometowns. The day closed with a he presented a new top-secret story visit from guest speaker John FischBy Jack Daley ‘17 and Andrew Kaneb ‘17

Staff Writers

er, the Branch Manager for Commer- of the ocean that is full of floating cial Waste Reduction and Waste Plan- debri, plastic waste, and styrofoam. ning at the Mass. Department This waste, which comes primarily of Environmental Pro- from the US, Japan, and China, coltection. The stu- lects around the region due to ocean dio provided a currents. The Patch is more than f a s c i n a t i n g twice the size of Texas, and the waste look into within it is estimated to weigh 7 milthe poli- lion tons--enough to fill 130,000 basc i e s ketball gyms from floor to ceiling. All t h a t this waste has extremely detrimental effects on sea life, including many of the species commonly consumed by humans. After students learned about the garbage patch, they devised ways to raise awareness about the issues among the general community, while also coming up with plans to reduce plastic use on campus. All in all, the Global Forum on Waste and Pollution was interesting, s h a p e well-organized, and engaging. The w a s t e Sustainability Club’s visit was a rem a n - warding learning experience. Mike a g e m e n t and Cam agreed, “The experience was in Mas- unique and informative, and speaker s a c h u s e t t s Mike Hettwer’s work on shipbreakand highlight- ing in Bangladesh was eye-opening.” ed the importance and The Forum’s focuses on real-world, complexity of waste reduction. multi-disciplinary issues and coopThe other workshop attended eration between the whole school to by Belmont Hill students was about address them, provide an image that the so-called “Great Pacific Garbage Belmont Hill should look to repliPatch.” The workshop began with an cate in the future. Lastly, the memoverview of the problem: the gar- bers of Sustainability Club would bage patch, located a few hundred like to thank Winsor for accommomiles north of Hawaii, is a segment dating their interest in the Forum. ☐

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Belmont Hill Sp orts

Wrestling Team Excels Through Early Season Matches By Ishaan Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff Rounding out the first half of the regular season with an exceptional 12-0 record, Varsity Wrestling has continued to blaze a trail of dominance through the ISL and New England Prep circuits. Facing several tough injuries, the squad has looked to capitalize on its depth, with many of the team’s victories resting on the shoulders of newcomers to the starting lineup. Handily defeating nearly every opponent by solid margins of at least 30 points — including two back-to-back shutouts against Lawrence Academy (730) and Thayer Academy (75-0) — on January 21, the team confronted their toughest

challenge yet, hosting a defiant Roxbury Latin and three other teams at a quad meet. Besting an RL wrestler at 106 pounds, newcomer Hamza Shemsu ‘19 started off the match by giving Belmont Hill a 3-0 lead on the scoreboard. Nevertheless, facing a string of hard-fought losses, as Seth Israel ‘18 walked on the mats to wrestle off at the 138 pound weight class, the boys in blue trailed by 14. Securing another 3 points after a well-executed threeperiod match, Belmont Hill feel another 6 points after a demanding match at 152. Sitting on the lower end of the score by 16 points — a first for the team this season — the perennial powerhouses of Beast of the East Champ Phil Conigliaro ‘18, and former freshman phenoms Colin Vallis ‘19 and Luca Pontone ‘19, all came up with much needed victories for the home team. With the score now tied at 23-23, Fifth Former Billy Weldon ‘18 stepped on the mat, filling the role of Captain Will Ryan ‘17 at 182. Undeniably the pivotal match of the day, Weldon exemplified the

Pa g e 7

Varsity Basketball Meeting ISL Expectations Continued from Page 1

Outside of the ISL, January was a of the 2016-2017 ISL season, the school’s more difficult month for the team. Facing first-ever ISL title in basketball is just a few depth and perseverance that has come to difficult competition, Belmont Hill dropped big wins away. Matchups against Milton dominate the wrestling program at Bel- two games to Philips Exeter and Loomis Academy, rescheduled because of snow, mont Hill. Coming up with a slight lead to Chaffee (whose players came from London, Governor’s, and most importantly Brooks start the third period, Weldon fought im- California, South Carolina, New York, and will determine the ISL’s champion. Preparpressively off his back to earn Belmont Hill other places), but also beat Master’s and Ta- ing for the final stretch, Harris stresses the its place at the top of the scoreboard. With bor. Speaking at practice after the team’s loss importance of everyday improvement and “big guns” Mike Glauninger ‘19 and Shane to Exeter, starting point guard Jake Haase trust in the process: “We just have to trust Rockett ‘19 each pinning their opponents, ‘18 stressed the importance of increasing ourselves. The ISL is a tough league, but at Belmont Hill triumphantly reclaimed the energy: “We’ve been a little dead lately be- the same time we’re a tough team. We have match for a dramatic 38-29 victory. End- cause of injuries and illnesses, but we need to make sure we’re getting better everyday.” ing the day with additional wins against to play with more energy, especially on dePhillips Andover and Loomis Chaffee, the fense. Reigniting that spark on defense will Will Ryan squad moved just as swiftly the follow- lead to great offense.” Playing in front of an ing Wednesday (January 25) to secure a insane Loop™ crowd the next night, Belcommanding victory over the (formerly) mont Hill didn’t need to worry about a lack undefeated squad at Middlesex (78-4). of energy, handling St. Sebastian’s with ease. A true testament to the strength David Mitchell ‘18 and Jovan Jones ‘18 of the program, the middle school team have continued to provide strong play and leadership this season. Particularly, Mitchell has been invincible under the basket, grabbing boards and drawing contact from multiple defenders for and-ones. Although Jake Bobo ‘18 missed most of January with a broken hand sustained over Belmont Hill’s basketball holiday tournament, junior guard Quentin Harris ‘18 has filled in Bobo’s starting role admirably. Providing energy and stringent defense, Quentin plays a principled game, very rarely turning over the ball. Spenser Smith ‘18 made a valuable impact off the bench during the month of January, and Pat Shea ‘17 played exceptionally well against BBN. Center Eric Taitano ‘18 has matched up well with other big men, even The Loop™ has been a clear conpicking up a few key blocks against Lawrence, tributing factor to the team’s success this and TJ Agnihotri ‘17 has supplied important year. Their presence, arguably at historic athleticism. Jake Haase’s in-game facilitation levels for the basketball program, has been and passing from the point guard position like having a sixth player on defense and has has also demonstrated their extraordi- often goes unnoticed, but is also instrumen- been a motivating force during practice. Acnary dominance over their opponents, tal to the team’s success. Finally, sophomore cording to Mitchell, “The Loop was influenclearly letting their adversaries know that sharpshooter Kevin Michael O’Boy ‘19 tial in the wins versus Rivers and Sebs.” Dathey won’t be a team to be trifled with ei- seems to score more and more each game. vid reports, “that was the loudest and most ther as they move up to the Varsity pro- As opponents initially concentrate all their packed the gym has been in the last ten gram. Defeating opposing schools with effort on the duo of Mitchell and Jones, it is years.” Assuming both teams are still undea plethora of pins, this year’s first form often “Kmo” who is the one to collect points feated, Belmont Hill’s February 15th home wrestlers also capped off an impressive on offense. With only a foot of open space matchup against Brooks (ISL champion or showing at the annual Fay School tourna- between the defender, O’Boy seems to be runner-up since 2011) will be monumenment (a rite of passage for seventh grade able to convert any 3-point shot he attempts. tal and likely the biggest game in Belmont wrestlers at Belmont Hill), with all of As the team enters the final month Hill basketball history. Don’t miss it. ☐ them coming away with 1st place ribbons. With such dominance throughout the wrestling program at Belmont Hill, it’s certain that Belmont Hill is poised to excel this season, and in many seasons to come. Facing a string of opponents leading up to the Graves Kelsey ISL tournament, the team stands with additional victories over Avon Old Farms, Long Island Lutheran, Nobles, St. Sebastian’s, and Brooks. Met with a tough, one point loss from perennial powerhouse, Phillips Exeter, the team is poised to avenge this loss and continue its legacy to round out the rest of the season.☐

Belmont Hill Sp orts

Pa g e 8

Th e Pan el

Hockey Looks to Finish Strong tremendous defense and held down the fort. The goalies, Sophomore Connor Hopkins and Senior Jack Eselius, have exhibited very strong play and kept the Led by talented senior leaders Sam team in it when they have needed it the Hesler, Christian O’Neill, and Jonny Fol- most. Senior captain Folsom and fellow som, the Belmont Hill Varsity Hockey senior Peter O’Connell both returned Team is enjoying a very solid season. Thus from injury a few weeks into the season far, the team has compiled a record of and both have shined; Folsom has scored By jack ablon ‘17 staff writer

Hockey Shines at Fenway By Evan ricci ‘17 panel staff On January 11, 2017, Belmont Hill’s varsity hockey team took to Fenway. In this year’s edition, the squad took on the Tabor Seawolves. While the team looked to take in the incredible opportunity, captains Folsom, Hesler, and O’Neill also looked to leave Yawkey Way with a W. Leading up to the game, rain from the previous night threatened the playing of the game. Rumors regarding the ice melting and the team not being able to play quickly circulated. However, the next day, the game proceeded as scheduled and spirits were high. Belmont Hill’s Loop™ came out in full force as the weather was perfect for a night of outdoor

hockey. As the game proceeded, Tabor got off to a fast start as they potted a goal home within the first five minutes. However, this goal proved to be their only tally of the night as the rest of the night belonged to Belmont Hill. Senior Zach Shpilner put home the first goal off of a tip. Four minutes later, captain Jonny Folsom snuck a shot by the Tabor goalie and put the boys up one. The Loop™ was in full force, as a phenomenal number of kids both showed support and cheered their heads off. Then, another four minutes later, Christian O’Neill buried Max Fields’ shot while falling to ice. Finally, Jonny Folsom tallied the final goal off of a slick wrist shot. Special shout out to the varsity hockey team for making this 13-5-2. Over winter break, the boys com- 5 goals in 3 games, while O’Connell night so special for all those involved. ☐ peted in tournaments at the Lawrencev- scored his first against St. Paul’s and ille School in New Jersey and the Nichols has been giving 100% on every shift. School in Buffalo, securing two 5th place Additionally, returning seniors Evan finishes. At Lawrenceville, they beat de- Daddario and Kyle Maxwell, juniors Max fending champion Canterbury in their Fields, John Copeland, and Noah Traylor, last game, and at Nichols, they outlasted and sophomores Michael Hayes, Andrew a tough Millbrook team in addition to Holland, and Joe Goguen have given beating Upper Canada College and tying Coach McCarthy and the boys consisBrunswick. In the ISL, the boys in blue tently solid play. Lastly, new members of have secured very solid wins over Nobles, the team this year are senior Zach ShpilMilton, and St. Paul’s, and on a magical ner and freshmen Mike Brown and Brett night that the team and the school will re- Bliss, and all three are proving themmember for a long time, they earned a de- selves to be very valuable contributors. Varsity Hockey now looks ahead cisive 4-1 win over Tabor at Fenway Park. Captains O’Neill and Hesler lead to the main stretch of ISL games as the team in scoring, once again proving they aim to top the Keller Division, themselves as two of the most prominent climb up the New England rankings, forwards in the league, as well as New and avenge some losses from earlier England. Seniors Mike Armstrong and in the season. Big upcoming games Brendan Rocha, and Sophomores Robert include Lawrence, Rivers, St. Sebas☐ Radochia and James Perullo have played tian’s, and Thayer. Roll sextants. Bill Mahoney

Phil Conigliaro: Beast of the East

own, and have dominated the league since their entrance into it. Harden, with 28.7 ppg, 8.3 rpg, and 11.6 apg, is widely viewed Whi le s ome students as the fuel of the Rocket’s title hopes. Simij ette d of f to t ropic a l res or ts The date was July 4, 2016. Russell larly, Durant has compiled 26.3 ppg, 8.5 rpg, or sk i lo dges to b eg in t heir Westbrook’s friend, teammate, and partner and 4.7 apg. Although these three statistics w inter bre a k, Phi l C onig li a in crime, Kevin Durant, had just made the fall short of the pace set by Westbrook and ro, a long w it h C olin Va l lis, decision to abandon the Thunder and test Harden, Durant’s impressive 54.6 FG% has Wi l l Ryan, and C o ach L e on the waters of Golden State. Having com- kept him in the running. Furthermore, the ardis, j our ne ye d dow n to pleted a full nine seasons with Oklahoma man they call “KD” has seemingly unseated D el aware to comp ete in t he City, Durant’s Steph Curry prest ig ious B e ast of t he E ast move infurias Golden w rest ling tour nament. Now ated many a State’s brightin its 24t h ye ar, t his nat iona l Thunder fan, est star. tour nament ho sts more t han and all eyes We st bro ok , 800 of t he b est w rest lers turned to Harden, in t he count r y f rom over O k l a h o m a’s and Durant 100 te ams, pr ivate, public, one remaining have all been and club. C onig li aro, w resstar, Russell awarded the t ling in a 64-man bracket, We s t b r o o k , all-star delwon six matches over t wo who was preegation for d ays to emerge w it h a f irstparing to not their contripl ace f inish. This fe at aconly bear the butions to complishe d by C onig li aro load of a team, but of a city as well. So far, their respective teams. However, the votis remark able. Even more Westbrook has been nothing short of sensa- ers deemed that Westbrook would come remarkably, C onig li aro tional, averaging a triple-double per game. off the bench rather than start. This slight cr ushe d his opp onents, not Due to his 30.6 ppg, 10.6 rpg, and 10.4 will not go unnoticed by Westbrook, and y ieldi ng a sing le p oint in t he apg, Westbrook is rightfully considered it will propel him to an equally successf irst four of t ho s e matches . His ac- for B elmont Hi l l, a ver y impressive the frontrunner for MVP honors. In ad- ful second half of the season. Overall, complishment is unpre ce dente d not fe at at such a comp et it ive tour na- dition, it is interesting to note that each of the contributions of all three stars deon ly for B elmont Hi l l, t he Indep en - ment. As defending Ne w Eng l and the three leading candidates for MVP have, serve recognition. However, the adversity dent S cho ol L e ague, and t he Ne w and ISL champions, B elmont Hi l l at one point in their respective careers, Westbrook has had to overcome on the Eng l and Prep L e ague, but it is a ls o lo oks for ward to a p otent i a l s e c- donned the blue and orange of Oklahoma way to his team’s 25-19 record should be b elie ve d t hat he is t he f irst w rest ler ond st raig ht t it l e in b ot h l e agues. ☐ City. James Harden and Kevin Durant have the reason he is given the MVP nod. ☐ By matt smith ‘19 Staff Writer

f rom Mass achus etts to have e ver achie ve d t his honor. B ot h Ryan and Va l lis a ls o manage d to s e c ure w ins

NBA MVP Race Heats Up each put together decorated careers of their

By Thomas mcevoy ‘19 Staff Writer

Belmont Hill Sp orts

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Pa g e 9

Belmont Hill Varsity Scoreboard TEAM

RECORD

Hockey

14-6-4

W 4-2 vs. Nobles W 5-4 vs. Rivers

Christian O’Neill Sam Hesler

11-5

W 73-67 vs. Rivers W 68-52 vs. St. Sebastian’s

Jovan Jones David Mitchell Kevin Michael O’Boy

W 38-29 vs. Roxury Latin

Phil Conigliaro Luca Pontone

Basketball Wrestling

17-1

NOTABLE RESULTS

TEAM MVPS

Alpine Ski

N/A

Sam Rohrer

Nordic Ski

N/A

Cam Hall Ben Pradko

Squash

12-0

W 5-2 vs. St. George’s W 4-3 vs. Nobles

Squash Team Continues Dominance a commanding 3-0 lead as Jack Bell, Alex By J.P. Champa ‘17 Kurtin, and Douglas Conigliaro all seStaff Writer cured wins at positions 2, 4, and 6 respecBoth the Varsity and JV squash tively; however, during the second round teams are currently undefeated in both matches, James Bell, John Paul Champa, ISL and non-league play. The varsity and Robert Williamson, at positions 1,3, stands with an impressive 7-0 record and 5, fell to their Nobles competitors. as their eyes are set on a ninth-straight Nevertheless, Andrew Lee, at number 7, ISL championship, while the JV holds a took control in his match from the first similarly notable 6-0 record, having only point and won with a convincing 3-0 score dropped one individual match all season. to secure the Belmont Hill victory. As the The Varsity’s most impressive wins so far team continues training, it is looking forhave come against league rivals St. Georg- ward to both High School Nationals and es (5-2) and Nobles (4-3). Against No- the New England Tournament, in which bles, BH’s biggest challenger in the ISL, the team is looking to improve upon the team showed true determination and their third and second place finishes. a fierce competitive spirit. Coming out of Good luck to the Varsity Squash team as the first round of play, Belmont Hill took they look towards an undefeated season!

Veterans Continue to Lead Nordic Ski Team By Arnav Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff Despite the unusually warm weather in Belmont, the Nordic Ski team has been vying for success in recent Lakes Region races, facing tough field of competition from schools as far as New Hampshire and Vermont. Without the advantage of fresh snow at the Weston Ski Track, Belmont Hill skiers and coaches have salvaged the season with a productive stay at the Jackson Ski Center, where technique-focused practices and weekly strength workouts with the Stella trainers have been performed. Undeterred by the absence of snow during practices, long bus rides to races, ski-waxing sessions,

and entertaining team dinners have fostered a team camaraderie that has become uniquely rewarding for each skier. Fueled by intra-squad competition and personal ambitions to succeed at races, the Belmont Hill Ski team has also progressed through Lakes-Region rankings, rivaling schools such as Phillips Andover, Vermont Academy, and St. Paul’s. A recent fourth place (out of 12 official school teams) finish at a Lakes-Region skate-style race at the Holderness School, a possible inflection point for the team, featured breakout performances by Belmont Hill skiers Charlie Donahue ’19, Quin McGaugh ’18, Ben Pradko ’18, and Aidan McGaugh ’21. Much promise has been shown for future races this season and for years to come. ☐

Alex Kurtin James Bell Jack Bell

Athlete of the Issue: Christian O’Neill Goguen ‘19, “(O’Neill’s) everyday work ethic is unparalleled. Despite being the captain of the team, O’Neill trains just as if he were fighting for a spot.” With Christian O’Neill has been an this combination of both talent and deundeniable asset to the Belmont Hill termination, O’Neill will take his talhockey program since his arrival. Nick- ents to Princeton University next fall. named “Wheels O’Neill,” he is oftentimes O’Neill’s athletic achievements the fastest do not skater on end on the ice. His the ice. ability to In the glide quickspring, ly across he is also the rink a major provides a asset to subst ant ia l the varadvantage sity laagainst opcrosse posing playt e a m . ers. Once His raw he has posspeed, session, a g i l i t y, O’Neill does and pure not allow the other team to stop him. athletic talent have all factored into his His premier stick skills and puck han- success in this sport as well. Similar to dling allow him to weave through de- his play on the rink, he passes defendfenders; as a result, O’Neill has racked ers with ease en route to the net. He will up thirteen goals through just nineteen continue to lead the hockey team through games. As a forward, O’Neill works in the winter season and will surely be an synchrony with other starters to cre- impact player on the lacrosse team this ate opportunities to score. In addition coming spring. Christian’s multifachis exceptional skill, his hard play in- eted skills and talents truly emulate the spires his teammates; according to Joe qualities of an outstanding athlete.☐ By Richard kendall ‘19 Staff Writer

Belmont hill arts

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Why I See My Panel By Dylan Hayre ‘04 Alumni Contributor It’s been over twelve years since I carved it. But, every time I visit Belmont Hill, I go to see my panel. I’m back here teaching for a month (filling in for Mr. Sullivan), and visiting my panel in the Science Building was one of the first things I did after my first day of classes wrapped up. The reason is simple: my panel still defines me. Its staying power as a representation of who I am has far outlasted my expectations. Because of that, I am so glad that I took Mr. Kaplan’s

advice as a senior, and actually thought a little bit about how I saw myself as I approached the end of my time at Belmont Hill. What were my hopes? What were my fears? What part of me would stay on the Hill forever? What would I take with me? These were some of the questions that ran through my mind when I decided what to carve. My hope was that I’d have the chance to take everything I learned at BHS and pass it on, in some way, to future students. My fear was that one day I’d be too old, too far removed from Belmont Hill, to be able to do that. I knew that parts of my heart and soul would always be on campus, in Mr. Mar-

Rogue Kwoun: A Star Wars Review

tellini’s room or in Doc. Wach’s lab. And I was excited to take with me the things I learned from Mr. Richards and Mr. Greer about confronting challenges head-on. I ended up carving a scene from one of my favorite books that captured all of this. I carved the depiction of a catcher in the rye as described by Holden Caulfield in that quintessential American novel. The panel depicts me, standing at the edge of a cliff with a rye field stretched out before me. There I am, trying to catch that next wave of BHS grads before they leave the rye field and have to do what I was getting ready to do, myself - what I am still doing: growing up. To seniors who are now getting ready to start their own panels, from my story I offer this: slow down and think. But don’t just think about what might look good, or what might be easy to carve. Do not worry about coming up with something that says everything. Focus, instead, on carving a panel that says something. Something about who. Something about what you love at BHS. Something about why you’re excited to go but maybe afraid to leave. Carve something that matters - not to your teachers or your parents or even your friends, but to you. Carve that, and I promise that you’ll want to visit your panel because your panel will still matter every time you’re back on campus. And, most important of all, enjoy this process. You only get it once.☐

Th e Pan el

Artist of the Issue: Armin Thomas By Austin Kwoun ‘18 Panel staff Few Belmont Hill boys are unfamiliar with Armin Thomas’s immortal battle cry. It rings through the chapel in his renowned Woodbury performances, and it echoes through The Kraft Theater (as much as something can echo in The Kraft Theater), where his coffee house renditions, those both serious and humorous, have drawn rave reviews. Most of all, it leaves its indelible mark on the hallowed halls of the Prenatt Music Building, where Armin has spent countless hours of his Belmont Hill career, lost in the magic of creating and perfecting his own style of music. Armin is renowned across campus for his prowess on both the piano and the trombone, but his musical journey actually started with cello at five years old. After six months, six year old Armin switched to the violin, and his search for his musical passion continued. Armin finally found it the next year at seven, when he picked up the piano. Now, he studies with Andrew Goodridge at NEC as he works towards his PLE IV evaluation as a member of the NEC Certificate Program. He is also a prolific composer, and among his fondest memories is the legendary performance of highlights from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony - “Belmont Hill music’s finest hour” - that he himself arranged and conducted at the Spring Concert a year ago.

Armin’s contributions to the arts reach far and wide to nearly every corner. President of the Belmont Hill Orchestra and one of its spiritual leaders since his arrival in Form III, Armin is also the de facto leader of the vaunted Belmont Hill Chamber Society. He also plays trombone in the Jazz Combo (and dabbles with the Jazz Band), and he won the Spring Woodbury competition in his junior year. Outside of school, he both plays trombone in New England Conservatory’s Youth Repertory Orchestra and is a leading member of NEC’s top level piano seminar. Armin is multifaceted in his music-making, and as such he has many artists whom he admires. Among composers, he draws inspiration from Gustav Mahler’s blaring brass and legendary Ludwig van Beethoven; he admires conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and his favorite pianist is Krystian Zimerman. I’m sure Armin will be happy to hear that his own energetic musicality has likewise inspired many Belmont Hill musicians as well. As somebody who has worked with him on several musical projects over the past three years, I know that he has certainly been an inspiration to me. As Armin graduates and continues his music-making in college and beyond, I’m sure he will bring his tireless energy and limitless passion to every community that is lucky enough to have him. ☐

Above left: Panel carving of Dylan Hayre ‘04 Right: Armin Thomas’s trombone makes The Kraft Theater rumble Below left: Felicity Jones acts in Rogue One

tween sides, but still largely affected by it. This group of independents excluded nearly every character from the As an eighth installment in the main series and did well to do so. In storied Star Wars film franchise, Rogue addition to the new, fresh perspective One: A Star Wars Story offered the same it yielded, the introduction of a new set action-packed, graphically astounding of characters dispelled the possibility of showing that fans have come to expect. the continuity issues that are always a Movie critics across the galaxy are split risk when creating a film meant to fill in on whether the film, which surpassed plot gaps and tie up loose ends. In par$1.011 billion in global earnings as of Jan- ticular (spoiler!), Gareth Edwards’ deciuary 22, was up to par with the others in sion to kill off the majority of the film’s the legendary series. Although it is diffi- main characters eliminated any ambicult for any Star Wars film to measure up guity, not to mention provided an efto the lauded original trilogy, Rogue One fective subversion of the “heroes never put its best foot forward for this critic. die” trend that the feel-good Star Wars The film follows Jyn Erso’s (Felic- movies have tended to avoid (with noity Jones) campaign to an Imperial base on table exceptions). In all, the new film the planet Scarif, wherein she is tasked with was a darker and heavier take on the sestealing the infamous Death Star plans of ries, featuring jaded characters from the Episode IV: A New Hope fame. Jyn’s mot- dregs of society and culminating in their ley crew crusades to Scarif, initially inde- demise; it certainly feels out of place if pendent of the Rebel Alliance, to vanquish considered among the other seven films. the Empire, offering a new perspective on And yet, with a grand the Star Wars universe through the lens soundtrack that screamed Star Wars with of a people uninvested in the battle be- blaring brass and swelling strings, and with lovable side characters played by the likes of Donnie Yen and Ben Mendelsohn, Rogue One did not disappoint. The film embraced an extensive special effects budget with planet-shaking explosions and convincing CGI renderings of Princess Leia and Grand Moff Tarkin. In spite of the inevitable occasional lull in plot and a handful of contrived jokes, Rogue One was riveting and was certainly a cut above my expectations. ☐ By Austin Kwoun ‘18 Panel Staff

Executive Editor Mack Perry ‘17

Arts Editor Augustus Lamb ‘17 Sports Editor Evan Ricci ‘17 Photo Editor Duncan Grant ‘18

Editors-in-Chief Jason Fischman ‘17 Bennett Rush ‘17 Copy Editors John Paul Champa ‘17 John Markis ‘18

Faculty Advisors David Hegarty Juliette Zener News Editor Ishaan Prasad ‘18

Assistant Editors Matthew Bracken ‘17 William McCormack ‘18 Opinion Editor Phillip Bailey ‘17 Robbie Warming ‘17 Armin Thomas ‘17 Back Page Editors Seamus Clair ‘17 Matt O’Leary ‘17

Online Editors Arnav Prasad ‘18 Matthew Smith ‘19

Graphics Editors Lawson Morris ‘19 Bennett Morris ‘18

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 2015 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. Printed by Belmont Printing Company, Belmont, MA 02478.

belmont hill arts

Febr u ar y 9th, 20 1 7

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Armin and Gus’s Playlist of the Month By Augustus Lamb ‘17 and Armin Thomas ‘17 Panel staff PWR BTTM is a queer, punk-rock band Lordy, give me something for my soul. French 0. Armin from New York that I first heard on NPR’s Dschinghis Khan - Moskau Youtube, when the band performed their The Shins - Name For You This is a ‘70s song about the great city of Franz Liszt - Hungarian Rhapsody No. 6 own Tiny Desk Concert. In their perforThe Shins have been on my list before, but I A classical one on here, but by no means Moscow, the capital of our new Russian mance, the duo showed crazy musical chose them again because they’ve been refriends/overlords. It’s got a sick beat, and any less in standard and quality than any of talent and vibrancy that singled them out as leasing new music! Within the past couple that chorus always gets me every time. It’s the others. Liszt’s fine musicianship shines artists in my knowledge of music. My two months, James Mercer, who basically is like I just spontaneously break into doing through, especially during the Lassan section favorite songs on the album are Ugly Cher- the entire band, dropped two singles of the the Hopak. Also, the lyrics are in German, that conveys a melancholy demeanor. The ries and C U Around. band’s first album since 2012, Heartworms, so if you want to learn another language, final octave section is basically proto-metal, which will be fully released in March. The it’s just so addicting. Playing those octaves listen to this song. An English speaker Nat and Alex Wolff - Disappointed Shins’s newest single is Name For You, a listening to a German song about Russia. I on repeat is probably one of the most annoycatchy song which has gotten me even more ing things a pianist can do ever. excited for the album. I cannot wait for The love the world. Shins to make a comeback this spring.

Xi Yang, Li Huanzhi - She Hui Zhu Yi Hao Gotta love the Revolutionary songs. The point of listening to the song is not saying that “socialism is good”, it’s about appreciating the ardor for progress and forward motion that China has. This song makes me want to fly down to the Strait to liberate Taiwan.

Katy Perry - Firework This song is pretty old in our short atten tion spans, but it’s got an infectious buildup to the wicked awesome. I mean, they even used this song as a central plot element in a movie about bringing down a North Korean dictator, if I remember chorus, and the Patrick Doyle - Non Nobis Domine From the 1989 film adaptation of Shake- energy unleashed on that suspended ninth of “firework” in the chorus is correctly. Jokes speare’s “Henry V”, this song is one of aside, there is a reason people still listen to those “Hallelujah” moments that makes atheists wonder their beliefs are correct at this song six years after it was written (where has Friday gone?). Definitely a recommendaall. From the single voice at the beginning tion from me. to the entire chorus of the English army, this song kills it on all counts. English 1, Gus

My favorite TV show growing up was The Naked Brothers Band, and Nat and Alex Wolff were the first musicians I ever saw perform live, so it has made me really happy to see the two brothers continue Kraus - Three their careers in both music and movies over My friend Jack’s brother makes noise-rock the past few years. Although, I do not think music, which is a type of experimental rock anything either of them will ever do will with a lot of heavy drums, guitar, and feedmake me feel more than I did when the mu- back. He came out with his first record, End sic video for their song, Banana Smoothie, Tomorrow, this summer and was recently premiered on Nickelodeon a melancholy featured as a rising artist on Pitchfork, an ten years ago, their recent music is aweonline music magazine. He says his music is some. Disappointed is a song off one of their made to help calm anxious people. Listen to albums, Black Sheep, and I also recommend Kraus if you are feeling nervous. ☐ Thump, Thump, Thump and Greatest Prize. Isaiah Rashad - Heavenly Father

Celebrating the Lives Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher By Thomas McEvoy ‘19 and Matt Goguen ‘19 Panel staff

Carrie Fisher: where Reynolds was an outcast in school. However, Born in Burbank, California, to par- when she was sixteen years old, Reynolds won the ents Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie Miss Burbank Beauty Contest and inked a contract Fisher experienced a tumultuous upbringing. with Warner Brothers. After two years with the At the age of two, Fisher was forced to endure company, she left for MGM because Warner Brothher parents’ divorce. Her parents would go on ers stopped producing musicals. Because of her to remarry with varying amounts of success. consistent performances, MGM gave her a starring By Owen Pickette ‘18 Nonetheless, the split-up had a profound effect role in Singin’ in the Rain (1952), a trailblazer movie Panel staff of Fisher, almost certainly contributing to her which was one of the first films to have sound. Three years later, Reynolds married Eddie Recently nominated for six ately inform you of who Lee is. Lucas Hedges spending much of her childhood immersed in book after book, seeking relief from the real world. Fisher. However, the marriage did not last, as the Academy Awards, Manchester by the Sea is demonstrates incredible emotional range Years later, Fisher’s promising career couple split in 1959 after Eddie was caught hava stunningly intimate study of how people as Lee’s teenage nephew, and their relationon Broadway led to her decision to drop out of ing an affair with Elizabeth Taylor. The affair was deal with hardship and grief. Written and ship forms the heart of the film. In fact, directed by Kenneth Lonergan (You Can their exchanges are actually quite humorous, high school. Fisher experienced similar amounts one of the biggest public scandals of its era, and it Count On Me, Margaret) and starring which balances out the other heavy material. of success in college, dropping out before gradua- sent ripples through the Reynolds-Fisher famtion. However, Fisher’s almost two year stint at the ily lives, including her two children’s: Carrie and Boston-native Casey Affleck (The AsThe film has an unusual history, Central School of Speech and Drama in London Todd Fisher. Reynolds’ second husband, Harry sassination of Jesse James by the Coward starting with its inception in 2014. Origibegan to fuel the fire that was her love of perform- Karl, was a heavy gambler and bad investor. And Robert Ford, Gone Baby Gone), the film nally, Matt Damon was set to star in and tells the story of Lee Chandler (Affleck) direct the film, with Lonergan solely writing ing. Fisher finally got her “big break” in 1977 when after 13 years, the couple split, giving Debbie her she played Princess Leia in George Lucas’ timeless second divorce. Later on, she got married again, returning to his hometown in order to the script; however, scheduling conflicts classic Star Wars. Known mostly for her work in the this time to real estate investor Richard Hamlett. take care of his nephew, Patrick Chandler forced Damon off the project, though he In a successful career, Reynolds starred (Lucas Hedges, Moonrise Kingdom), after still produced. Damon passed the role onto Star Wars series, Fisher also contributed to numerhis brother Joe Chandler (Kyle Chandler, Affleck, and filming commenced on location ous other successful movies. Other films featuring in productions such as: How the West Was Won the talents of Fisher include: The Blues Brothers, (1963), The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964), CharFriday Night Lights) dies. Upon his return, in Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts Hannah and Her Sisters, The ‘Burbs, and When lotte’s Web (1973), and Mother (1996). Reynolds also he must begin to face the demons that in spring 2015. After it premiered to rave drove him away from his hometown in reviews at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, Harry Met Sally. In 2008, Fisher took a leap of faith starred in her own TV Show, The Debbie Reynolds the first place. Michelle Williams (Broke- Amazon Studios purchased the distribution in writing her own novel, which she entitled Wishful Show, which received a Golden Globe Award. Her Drinking. The novel was based on an autobiograph- accolades include: four Golden Globe Nominaback Mountain, Blue Valentine) plays Lee’s rights for $10.5 million. ex-wife, Randi, and steals the show with a Interestingly, Manchester by the Sea ical play she had written, which chronicled much of tions, one Academy Award (Jean Hersholt Huher life including her struggles with bipolar disorder. manitarian Award), and one American Comedy scene late in the film’s third act. has connections to Belmont Hill. Mr. McThe tragic news of Carrie Fisher’s Award (Lifetime Achievement Award in Comedy). Lonergan has crafted a beautiCarthy and some of the Belmont Hill Varsity death, due to cardiac arrest, on December 27 On a sadder note, this past December, ful meditation on grief and tragedy with Hockey team are featured within the film devestated the public. However, despite her Debbie’s daughter, Carrie died of cardiac arrest. Manchester by the Sea. All of the charac- because he knew a producer for the film, passing, Fisher has made a tremendous im- The following day, Debbie Reynolds was hospitalters experience loss in the film, and Loner- and both Mr. McCarthy and Belmont Hill gan explores these themes in a structurally are thanked in the film’s credits. The hockey pact on the world of acting, and she will live on ized for a severe stroke. Later that afternoon, the interesting way, which will not be spoiled team fills in for Patrick’s hockey teammates, through each and every character she portrayed. 84-year-old died of a intracerebral hemorrhage. Both her daughter’s death and her own sent a here. The dialogue is sharp and believable, while Mr. McCarthy plays a coach. Mr. Debbie Reynolds: ripple across the country. Their legacy still lives on delivered with perfection by his outstand- McCarthy’s performance in the one frame Born in El Paso, Texas, on April 1, 1932, today. Debbie has left her footprint on American ing cast. Propelling him to frontrunner in which he was featured individually was for the Academy Award for Best Actor, critically acclaimed, and when the Academy Debbie Reynolds was raised by Raymond and Max- film and charities such as The Thailans, which foCasey Affleck gives the performance of his failed to nominate him for Best Supporting ene Reynolds in a very poor family. Her father was cuses on children and adults with mental health a ditch digger, her mother was a laundry lady, and issues. Her cheerful spirit, beautiful smile, and film career. His portrayal of Lee is subtle and Actor, the film community was outraged. Holly Gettings quiet, but the pain Affleck has in his eyes, Sadly, Belmont Hill will have to wait a little the three of them lived in a cozy shack in El Paso. legacy will live on in Hollywood lore. Both Debbie In 1939, her family moved to Burbank, California, Reynolds and Carrie Fisher are deeply missed. ☐ and the way he carries himself immedilonger to bring home Oscar gold. ☐ PWR BTTM - Ugly Cherries

Manchester By The Sea Features BH’s Mr. McCarthy

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L SHPIL astYALDRINK o ok

A Public Service Announcement from the Belmont Hill Athletic Department: The student spectators at recent athletic events, while certainly lively, have not necessarily been a positive representation of the Belmont Hill Community™. Below we have included a list of chants that the Athletic Department, with the approval of the School Senate, have deemed appropriate. • • • • • •

•

Let’s go Belmont We respect you (clap clap clapclapclap) Not my president! Not my president! Say what? (Repeat) We have STEM/STEAM programs! (To the tune of the former “Olay” chant) Let’s get ethical! (The “Let’s get fundamental” chant was being abused by some students) Belmont Hill is a community dedicated to developing boys in mind, body, spirit. In a school that challenges and supports students in and beyond the classroom, we strive for excellence, honoring clear thinking and creativity, competition and teamwork, and tradition and vision. Jablon, give us a wave!

“The best taco bowls can be found in the Belmont Hill dining hall!”

Th e Pan el

In a surprising turn of events, Dr. Melvoin recently took to Twitter late at night to voice his opinions on several issues currently surrounding the Belmont Hill community. Below are the tweets as they appeared on the social media site.