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Volu m e 6 3 , Issu e 1
One Year Later: The Marathon Tragedy By Jay O’Brien Panel Staff Nearly one year ago, the citizens of Boston lined the streets of the city to cheer on the runners of the 117th Boston Marathon. A tradition like no other in the city of Boston, “Marathon Monday” is meant to be a day for celebration, especially due to the historical significance of Patriots Day to the state of Massachusetts; however, on April 15, 2013, two pressure cooker bombs exploded at the finish line of the marathon, stunning not only the city of Boston, but the nation as a whole. The ripple effect from these two explosions is still felt to this day. Around Boston, people are honoring the memory of Martin Richard, Krystle Campbell, Lu Lingzi, and Officer Sean Collier, all of whom were killed by the two alleged terrorists. With so many students at the school living in or around the city, the Belmont Hill community felt the impact from the explosions considering its close proximity to the city of Boston. On the subsequent Friday morning, approximately four days after the Marathon bombings, I walked down a flight of stairs in my house, an upcoming World Issues test occupying my thoughts. As I went to fix myself a bowl of cereal, the TV broadcasted headlines from the previous night regarding a chaotic manhunt that left MIT police officer Sean Collier dead, another
Anderson Cooper Enlightens the Hill By Sreehaas Digumarthi Panel Staff Over the last several years, Belmont Hill has been honored to host several influential and distinguished speakers in Chapel, ranging from former Mexican President Felipe Calderón to Boston sports writer Jackie MacMullan. With all due respect to our former guests, it is safe to say that few have been nearly as famous or recognizable as our most recent speaker, famed news anchor Anderson Cooper. On the Tuesday morning following Patriot’s Day weekend, the entire student body filed into Chapel, many unaware of the nature of the Chapel and the identity of the speaker. This was by design, as the school wanted to avoid the commotion associated with having a celebrity on campus, to keep it a surprise, and avoid any confusion in case Mr. Cooper had to cancel unexpectedly to return to his job. By the time everyone arrived in Chapel, the secret was out and many students already knew who the speaker was going to be, but it was still exciting to see the reaction on everyone’s face when they immediately recognized who the man on stage was. In addition to being one of the most recognizable Chapel speakers in recent memory, Anderson Cooper also gave one of the best pre-
Members of the Panel staff pose with Anderson Cooper after a question & answer session in MacPherson sentations. Mr. Cooper talked about the journey that he took to get to the point that he is at today, detailing parts of his childhood, his introduction to journalism, the growth of his love for journalism, and the ups and downs of his career. In addition, he recounted some of his most unusual adventures during his career. Cooper explained that, by the time he was out of college, he did not really know what he was going to do or how he was going to make a living. He stated that he eventually obtained a fake press pass and traveled to war zones to chronicle the monstrosities that were being hidden from the rest
By Colin Ward Staff Writer
Look Inside
San Diego Trip pg 3 Schedule Shift pg 4 Coffee House pg 6 Athlete of the Issue pg 7
of the world. While he witnessed several unthinkable horrors, he felt a responsibility to make sure that everyone knew about these horrors in hopes of invoking some sort of change. As he produced more and more of these self-made videos, Mr. Cooper began to gain recognition among the media back home. He would go on to work for several news stations over the next several years, continuing his work of reporting from the front lines of any story that he felt deserves to be noticed. His current work is highlighted by his CNN show AC360o and his work with CBS’s 60 Minutes. After his
talk, Mr. Cooper opened it up to the audience for questions, providing details on everything from his experiences on Saturday Night Live to his work with the surprisingly crass singer Adele to the time he was attacked and beaten by a mob in Egypt. At the end of his presentation, he was greeted with a thunderous round of applause, as just about everyone was thankful for the experience of having him speak at Belmont Hill. After his speech, Anderson Cooper moved to MacPherson to field a Q&A for a small group of students during E block. continued on page 2
Form III Ventures to China BH Baseball Tops the ISL
continued on page 5
Woodbury’s pg 3
May 1 , 2 0 1 4
A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School
Chinese scholars show school pride on the Great Wall
By Mack Perry & Jason Fischman Panel Staff At 6 o’clock in the morning on the first day of break, seventeen Belmont Hill students -thriteen Third Formers and four Fourth Formers -- and two faculty members, Mr. DiResta and Mr. Shen, prepared to embark on a trip to the other side of the world. After a quick connection through Washington DC, the group departed on their 14 hour flight, and arrived in Beijing on Sunday afternoon. Jet lagged and exhausted, the boys grumpily boarded the
Mr. Shen
bus, only to be greeted pleasantly by the ever-enthusiastic Roger, our tour guide for the next week. During the bus ride back to the hotel, Roger explained a lot about Chinese history and culture, and covered all the interesting things the boys would be doing throughout the next 6 days in Beijing. After dropping off the luggage at the hotel, and wanting nothing more than to go to bed, we were dragged from the hotel to the first group dinner. Even though we would have rather been sleeping, it was very exciting to eat, and it served as a pump-up for the rest of the trip. For most of the boys, it continued on page 2
The Varsity Baseball team is off to a fantastic start this year with a 9-0 record, in both league and out of league play. However, the season really started off during the second week of March break while the team endured the blistering winds and freezing temperatures of New England. These chilly practices really brought the team together, and experience in cold weather conditions has been important in some regular season games. In the first game of the year against Worcester Academy, the team battled back from some early struggles to send the game into extra innings, where second baseman Charlie McConnell hit a walk off single to bring home a victory. The next test for the boys was at Roxbury Latin, where a phenomenal start by A.J. DiFillipo kept the team in the game as the bats weren’t alive that day. Ultimately, in the top of the seventh inning, down by a run, down to our last strike, Noah Levine hit a hard ground ball
off of the pitcher to bring home the tying run. BH ultimately won. Starting to settle in, the boys picked up a few more wins before taking the field in a clash of two unbeaten squads against Milton Academy. Nolan Brennan started the game, and he simply dominated their largely returner lineup. Along with great pitching came great hitting, as the team would put up 17 runs through six innings, enough for the mercy rule. After Milton, the last undefeated team in the ISL was up next, St. Sebastian’s. The contest was close, as a St. Seb’s first inning home run was matched by Danny Kelly’s bomb to straightaway center field. Also smoking the ball in the game was Harry Roberson, who added key hits throughout the contest. But the most crucial hit came in the bottom of the seventh, where Sam Stack, down to his last strike, ripped a single into left field to break the tie. The walk-off victory left Belmont Hill alone atop the ISL with a month to play in the season. The team looks forward to a successful rest of the year, with its sights set on a third league title for the graduating seniors. ☐
Pa g e 2
Belmont Hill News
Th e Pan el
Far East Trip Worth it for Form III Chaletzky Excited for Final Presidency
really come to know and appreciate evBy Charlie Blank Wall Climber who had made hundreds of treks eryone in this Form and I think that can continued from page 1 Staff writer was the first time having authentic up the wall before, accompanied the group just be said for most kids in our Form. We are Chinese food, and although some strug- for the climb. Jinshanling, the segment of the incredibly tight-knit.” Evan stresses his gled with chopsticks, it was very enjoy- great wall we were to be climbing, was further For the past 4 years, Belmont Hill’s peers ever more as his motivation to run able and a great introduction to China. from the city, but it was more authentic and had class of 2015 has been searching for some- for office originally. “I felt that my friends However, everyone was fatigued from better views than the parts of the wall closer to one to unseat Evan Chaletzky as form should have an opportunity to be heard in the long flight and we retired to our hotel Beijing. After a two hour drive, on a cold windy president, but that has yet to happen. “I the school and the only way to make sure rooms for the night soon after. The next morn- day, we climbed the 1450 steps to the top of the started off as vice president in 8th grade, of that was to run for office, so I just did it.” ing, most of the group rose early, their sleeping Great Wall, and followed its winding twists and and I saw a great opportunity as [the inIn recent years, the class of ‘15 has schedules thrown off by the flight. Even though turns, treacherous declines, and steep uphills cumbent] Lucius [Xuan] left the school.” enjoyed paintball, a day at Kimball farms, we were tired, the group was still ready to learn for miles. After around three hours of hiking, Defeating upstart challengers such as Con- an almost semi, the first middle school about and experience this interesting place. The we left the wall and were picked up by the bus. nor Metz, Michael Gates, Alex Santangelo, dance in decades, and a 3-on-3 tournament first destination was the Lama Temple, a Bud- The bus took us on a quick ride to Hexi village, and Will Malloy in recent years, as well as as well as countless eloquently worded dhist temple. Students were allowed to burn in- one of the oldest villages in China. Out of all running unopposed for Form IV president, email reminders about dress down days. cense, a small piece of wood, and partake in an the family names in China, hundreds can be Evan is a veteran of the school’s political “It’s not all about what you get to ancient Chinese ritual. Everyone was very im- traced back to this one village. It also gave the campaigns. But though he loves the com- physically enjoy, though. The most impressed by the jeweled and fancy structures rep- boys insight into another part of China; we had petition, Evan was ultimately inspired to portant aspect of my presidency over the resenting the Buddha, and we were all shocked been staying in the city, interacting with the serve in order to represent our Form’s best past years has been having your opinions and awed by the 85 foot tall Buddha in the cen- people who lived there, and had not glimpsed interests in the school senate. “Our form heard each and every opportunity in the is special because we are different. We are Senate and I pride myself on listening and not the cliché Belmont Hill class. We have respecting everyone’s ideas. I am honored gymnasts and swimmers and musicians to have been elected Form and School and writers...and of course an abundance president next year and cannot wait to lead of athletes and intellects,” he boasted. “I’ve our Form to an incredible senior year.” ☐
Junior Journey to Spain a Special One food was amazing, and everyone had a great time. From going golfing to watching family sporting events, the only complaint was Mr. Shen that the experience didn’t last long enough. Students in front of the Bird’s Nest, Site of the 2008 Summer Olympics Let it be known that if you did not go After a late night train ride, we were ter of the temple. After leaving the temple, the how the rural Chinese lived. “It was a very in- on this year’s trip to Spain, you made the finally checked into our Madrid hotel. That group proceeded to the Olympic Village. The teresting experience.” said Third Former James worst decision of your life, period. Led by Mr. very night, we walked by El Palacio Royal on last stop for the day was a silk production fac- Cardichon, “I thought it was necessary for us as Harder and Señor Montoya, thirteen Belmont our way to Plaza Mayor. Like many nights tory, where an expert silk maker explained the a group to experience how both urban people Hill students, accompanied by Mr. Harder’s in Madrid to come, we were let loose to find delicate process of making silk, which started live in the city and how the other majority of daughter Keira, made their way to Spain. Af- our own dinner, immersed in the world from the silkworm and ended in a gift shop full Chinese citizens live in the countryside. It was ter a six hour flight to London and a two hour of true tourist. The next day, a group of us of hand-made, but expensive, silk garments. breathtaking to see how different it was in the flight to Spain, we finally arrived at Madrid found ourselves in the middle of the royal The next day, we started out with a stop village from the city.” We watched the locals Barajas International Airport. It was a mad courtyard at the Palacio Royal. The view was at the iconic Tiananmen Square, which a mere herd goats and farm the land, and participated dash to Atocha Train Station, but in the end breathtaking and was a sight that could never 25 years ago was the scene of the infamous in dumpling-making under the instruction of we found ourselves on our way to Zaragoza. be seen in the United States. That same day protests. After meandering through the mas- local legend “Big Mama”. and although the livIn Zaragoza, we spent some time at the we had the chance of a lifetime to go to the sive plaza, we walked through to the Forbid- ing conditions of the village may not have been Student Year Abroad (SYA) program and had legendary Estadio Bernabeu and watch Real den City, the palace of some previous Chinese as nice as the hotel, and the toilets were noth- a chance to talk to kids our age about what it Madrid take on Schalke 04. Following a 6-1 emperors. Roger provided the boys with even ing more than a hole in the ground, the boys was like living in Spain. With no time to spare, away victory in the first leg, Real Madrid more knowledge of ancient China, and ex- were shocked to find it was in the nicest 10% we made our way to Colegio de Fomento Mon- pulled off a convincing 3-1 victory to clinch plained a lot about Mao’s cult-like following of villages, and that these villagers were liv- tearagón, where many of Belmont Hill’s Span- a place in the Champions League semifinals. and the degree to which Chinese people idolize ing well compared to most. Perhaps the most ish exchange students come from and where The rest of our time in Spain was split him. The last stop of the day was at a freshwater meaningful part of the night was dinner, when we planned on meeting our host families for between visiting tourist attractions, group pearl factory. Freshwater pearls are from a spe- we made dumplings with the locals, ate dinner the first time. Nervous and jumpy, we stood in lunches and dinners, and the coveted tiempo cies of clam living in lakes and ponds, and be- together, and partook in an ancient chinese the school’s parking as, one by one, our host libre (free time). We visited the Pedro, mulcause each clam can form of art, paper families arrived and the tension was relieved. tiple naval museums, the Stanford study hold up to 20 pearls, With one student per family, these abroad program, and countless sites that will Mr. Shen cutting, with one of these pearls are sigthe village elders. brave souls were stranded in the middle of never be forgotten. After hiking trips, days at nificantly more afThe boys retired to Spain, forced to constantly use and improve Arab baths, and nights at Spanish cinemas, fordable, allowing bed later that night, their Spanish-speaking skills. Despite a few the Belmont Hill students that went on this some boys to pursatisfied with their run-ins around the city, the students did not trip can safely say that it was one of, if not the chase gifts for famhomemade dump- see one another until the three-day, every- best trip they had ever been on. The last night ily members back lings and exhausted man-for-himself hiatus was complete. After was spent at a nice restaurant that gave us a home. The pearl from the day’s climb. the three days, all the families reconvened at moment to ponder over our recent experiencmaker also went Some of us the school and after a group photo and a tour es over our steak dinners. To return trip back into great detail rose early on our last of Montearagón, we were on our way to SYA. to the U.S. was not as bad as the departing one about how to disday to walk down to We viewed some tourist sites including La Al- for Spain, and in the end, everyone on the trip tinguish fake pearls Tiananmen Square jafería and El Pilar, and discussed our home- had an experience that would forever be emfrom real ones, and to visit Mao’s Tomb, stays over lunch. The general attitude towards bedded in their memory. For more informato never buy pearls where his body was the homestays was that they went better tion about the trip go to spainbhs.blogspot. on the street from Freshman Nate Miller with Chinese incense put on display. We than expected, the families were great, the com, written primarily by Connor Metz. ☐ a vendor. She explained that real pearls are waited in the line, which spread out for several flawed, and fake ones appear to shiny and per- hundred yards, to enter the museum. There is fect, and a slight discoloration or abnormality heavy debate on whether the body is real and continued from page 1 answering questions about his day-to-day duproves it is real. After leaving the pearl factory, just heavily embalmed (makeup) or is a fake. we proceeded to pearl market, the premier The guards rushed us through the room, so we The Q&A was much more intimate, and ties and his personal inspirations and motivashopping center for counterfeit items. It is like could only get a quick glance at the late Chinese he was able to give thoughtful answers to all of tions in journalism. Afterwards, he was kind a giant shopping mall containing floors of fake leader, and we could still not agree on whether the questions that students had regarding his enough to take pictures with the entire group. watches: Beats headphones, Louis Vuitton the body was real or not. After we arrived back experiences as a journalist. He explained the All in all, it was truly an honor and a purses, hockey jerseys, Air Jordans, and tons at the Beijing Hotel, we all spent our last two hard work that is put into each news story that pleasure to have someone of Anderson Cooof fake brand name items modeled after their hours in China on Wangfujing, eating our last he works on, told the group about the time he per’s caliber and reputation here at Belmont high-end counterparts. We were forced to use meal and having some last-minute shopping. went directly into the line of fire of Serbian snip- Hill. Just about everyone on campus was our Chinese language skills to bargain with the We packed our bags stuffed with hock- ers, and gave his thoughts about various cur- thankful for the experience, and this will surely vendors and get a reasonable price for the items, ey jerseys and knock-off Beats and departed rent events and storylines that he is working on. go down as one of the most memorable Chabecause they thought we would be dumb and to the airport at 3:30 for our Six o’clock flight During X block, the Q&A was narrowed down pels in everyone’s Belmont Hill careers. The spend lots of money on things because we were back to Washington D.C. After nearly miss- yet again, as he answered questions for the Pan- Panel would like to thank Mack Perry ’17 and Americans. The boys finished the day with in- ing our flight to Boston, we arrived at Logan el and Bell staffs. This Q&A was highlighted by his family for their part in bringing Anderdividual shopping and dinner by the hotel. Airport Monday, March 24th at 12:30am, a focus on journalism itself, as the staff was ea- son Cooper to Belmont Hill and Mr. Harder On Wednesday, we woke up early with tired, but amazed that we had come back ger to learn from one of the best in the business. for coordinating the event. While he may excitement; we were going to climb the Great from a country half a world away, and proud Again, he talked about the kind of work that he never read this, the Panel would also like to Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the of the experiences we had and memories puts into the journalistic process and told the thank Mr. Cooper for visiting our school and World. A new tour guide, Joey, an expert Great we made that will never be forgotten. ☐ group about his roots in the field of journalism, taking the time to answer our questions. ☐ By JJ Onyeukwu Staff writer
Cooper Talk One of School’s Greatest
May 1, 2014
Belmont Hill NEWS
Pa g e 3
Pan-Mass Creator Enlightens Students would love for the whole school to come together and make a difference.” While Stack, Murphy and Malloy are spearheadThe Annual Belmont Pan-Mass Chal- ing the ride this year, former student lenge Kids Ride takes place on Sunday, May Teddy Mitropoulos organized the first Bel18th with the help of Form VI students mont PMC Kids Ride ride to raise money Paul Malloy, Matt Murphy, and Sam Stack. in honor of Belmont Hill teacher, Mr. The three Form VI students are volunteer- Goodband. The PMC Kids ride has been ing their time as part of their Senior Proj- a Belmont Hill Senior Project since then. ect. In order to drum up even more supAs organizers of the ride, Murphy, port for the local kids ride, the founder of Stack and Malloy are charged with organizthe Pan-Mass ing donations, Challenge, Billy working with Mr. Mahoney Starr, was the the town, and guest speaker at members of the Chapel on TuesBelmont Hill Trip attendees take a break from their hard work and spend a day at Sea World Mrs. David day, April 15th. c o m m u n i t y. Starr shared his There are reenthusiasm for quirements that his fundraiser must be fulfilled and as Paul Malgoing door-to-door asking locals if they and is looking By Gabe Schmittlein loy says, “I’d say needed us to take any trash out for them. for volunteers of Staff Writer so far the hardWhile much of the trip was con- all ages to parest part for me San Diego is generally known for its sumed by work, there was also ample time ticipate whether has been calling blazing heat and extensive beaches, but for us to have fun. On one day we visited it be riding or companies and what some people don’t recognize is that Sea World and saw the world-renowned simply donating. asking for food San Diego also has large amounts of pover- and rather controversial Shamu show. The The PMC has donations bety, unemployment, and homelessness. This show was certainly entertaining but also raised a total of cause I basically spring break, 57 Belmont Hill boys and five raised questions about the treatment of $414 million dol- Mr. Starr poses with Mr. Melvoin for a photo needed to try fantastic chaperones gave away a week of captive killer whales. On another day, we lars, and 100% their time in an attempt to make a posi- spent the morning at the San Diego Naval of that has gone to adult and pediat- to convince them to give us free food for a tive impact on the San Diego community. Base, where we shown several astounding ric care and research for cancer through few hundred people.” Many members of the We spent most of our trip working boats and given a tour of the base commu- the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Belmont Hill community have assisted the Starr founded the PMC in 1980, af- seniors. Murphy appreciates the help they for Groundwork San Diego, a local com- nity. Additionally, we spent one afternoon at munity service group run by Mrs. David’s Ocean Beach, first visiting a farmer’s mar- ter personally witnessing the effects of have received from, “Mrs. David, Dr. Melson-in-law, Seth Connolly. Groundwork ket and then heading over to the water to cancer in his own family. Now, the PMC voin, and many others including Belmont San Diego set up several projects for us, catch some waves. Of course, a community is the nation’s largest single fundraising Hill parents and Belmont Hill community the largest being our weeklong experience service trip would not be complete with- event that raises money for a charity. Sam members. But we’re hoping to recruit as at Earthlab. Here, we were led by Earthlab out some sports activity, and we managed Stack says, “This is something that should much help as possible from members of manager Nicole Schott in creating a park- to fit in games of soccer or football nearly be more than just a senior project. We every form for the day of the event!” ☐ like space where plants could be grown and everywhere we went. This year was the first kids at nearby schools could learn about year that we stayed in a hotel for the comthe environment. The project included long munity service trip, which was a point of and rewarding days of weeding, mulch- excitement for many boys. The hotel pool Mr. Mahoney ing, digging, and even more weeding. In found its way into most evenings, while the By Jack Richards the end, we had constructed a massive buffet breakfasts were absolutely delicious. Staff writer area of beautifully mulched land on which The 2014 community service trip to we built a greenhouse, an irrigation sys- San Diego was a huge success, with a perThe Spring Woodbury Speech tem, an outdoor workplace, and even a fect balance of work and fun. The trip would Competition, a long-standing tradimural. Outside of our work at Earthlab, not have been possible without the leader- tion at Belmont Hill, kicked off in Chawe spent one day in the surfing commu- ship of Mrs. David, along with the rest of pel on Monday, April 14, and again on nity of Ocean Beach, where we painted the chaperones – Mrs. Richardson, Mr. Col- Friday, April 18. In the first of the two bicycle racks and picked up more than 500 lins, Mr. Hegarty, and Mr. Moronta. I can- semi-finals, Fourth Former Juan-Carlos pounds of trash. We also spent time at a not wait to see where we will be going next Fernández del Castillo, Fifth Former local school cleaning squash courts, plant- year, but if it is anywhere near as rewarding John Lazor, and Sixth Former Axel Maring cacti in their natural environment, and as this year, it will certainly be a success. ☐ celin delivered a diverse array of speeches, covering lessons to the human-esque Form V’s Andres Cordoba delivers his speech love of pianos to being a short basketball player. The second round, Fifth Formers ous speech about how his shortness, esChris Byrnes and Andres Cordoba spoke pecially for a basketball player, was, inabout hard work, golfing, and growing stead of a hinderance, a motivation. Part up. The Woodbury trend typically is of what made his speech a success was to write a speech about a personal les- that his energy was palpable to the audison or meaningful moment; occasion- ence. Also, he labeled Mr. Grant as one of Editor-in-Chief ally there is a more creative story that his short role models. Although Axel was Michael O’Neill Executive Editors Faculty Advisors might not necessarily have a true mean- successful, Andres really engaged the John Driscoll David Hegarty ing. Juan-Carlos delivered a calm, per- student body for his semi-final speech. Will Treanor Juliette Zener sonal speech, where he told the story Delivering a manically funny speech, Copy Editor about how his crippling leg break in the there was hardly a quiet moment from Matt Reppucci 8th grade initially isolated him from his the crowd. Somehow willing to rip on Arts Editor News Editor normal passions, but in the end helped himself and his family for several minBrendan Pulsifer Sreehaas Digumarthi him realize his affection (and possibly utes in front of the whole school, Cordotrue love) for the seemingly feminine ba is a born self-deprecating comedian. Sports Editor Assistant Editors Opinion Editor piano. John Lazor was similar, shar- Although at times he slurs his word to an Liam Foley Chip Daley Jay O’Brien ing his lesson of how his grandfather’s unintelligible degree, that is part of what Jake DeCaprio 10-second decisions constantly affect makes his speeches so great; he doesn’t Jason Fischman his life, making the difference between deliver them as a robot, but instead as Online Editor Photo Editor Mack Perry success and failure time after time. For a story teller. Who cares what else he Sreehaas Digumarthi Jamie Mazzio-Manson the second semi-final round, Chris says when he admits to “unironically spoke sincerely, and confidently, about Googling ‘light-up shoes, Men’s size’”? how, although not being very talented at Woodbury’s do not necessarily need Follow the Panel on Twitter @BHPanel for the latest updates from around the school! many things, he was the master of a dif- to play to someone’s talent at writing. Inficult golf shot, one that made him shine stead, they play to the talents of delivery in his own way. For him, that golf shot and, to a greater degree, understanding was the best thing since the holograph- the crowd. It is in this respect where lessic Charizard Pokemon card came out. er writers have their chance to shine, and 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 Nearly every Woodbury, there is at it is in this respect that Woodbury’s are so 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 least one comic, someone who really gets enjoyable. Good luck to our three finalreserve the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Copyright 2013 The Panel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be the crowd energetic. Axel was the comic ists, Senior Axel Marcelin, and Juniors reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief. Published by the Belmont Printing Co., Belmont, MA 02478. for the first round, delivering a humor- Andres Cordoba and Chris Byrne. ☐ By Ben Rush Staff writer
Students Enjoy Service and Fun in San Diego
Woodbury’s Witness Witicism & Wisdom
Pa g e 4
BELMONT HILL OPINION
Th e Pan el
New Schedule Skeptics: How It May Actually Help Students Prepare for the Future -seventy-five minute classes, rather focused on revising and rewriting two free blocks, each one lasting too will reap some rewards from than five standard-length ones. Fri- the response. Also, the new Mel- over an hour. However, there is one the schedule revamping. Lunch on days are only slightly changed, as it voin Academic Center will include drawback in that one of the two days Wednesday and Thursday will be maintains the current daily plan, “breakout space” in which classes you won’t have a free block at all. earlier. Most significantly, Thursexcept that the first period will be C can use to work on more interactive Additionally, lunch has been day provides an all-new extended X This coming fall, for the first Block, not E. Start times on each day and movement oriented activities. pushed up to a 12:55 start time on block following lunch for students time in nineteen years, Belmont remain unaffected, and by 1:35 each For Upper Schoolers, and par- Wednesdays for all Upper Schoolers, in the lower forms. “We think we’re Hill will change its academic sched- day returns to the current schedule. ticularly Seniors come springtime, not just those who are free last period going to be able to provide more ule. The last change to the schedStudents can expect their this plan has some clear-cut ben- as it is now. Mr. Grant explained that access to arts, music, and drama ule created the “rotating periods” in grades 7, 8, and 9, through the schedule so familiar to every stuuse of that period,” explained Mr. dent at Belmont Hill. Before that, Grant. He also mentioned the inthe schedule did not rotate, so every clusion of more health and wellday was essentially the same. The ness education along with “a brand rotation change of 1994 apparently new approach to the arts program.” was stubbornly opposed by faculty Throughout the entire probut was eventually passed. Simicess of creating a new weekly layout larly, changing the current schedule for the school, students have been has faced many obstacles as it did asking one question more than any in 1994, but the debate is over. Belother: why change the schedule mont Hill is moving toward a more now? Admittedly, the phrase ‘If it modern and collegiate approach ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ does come to scheduling, with the rigid yet to mind in situations like this one. cozy system, that some have come Students and faculty alike have to love, coming to an end this year. been skeptical about the prospects The Academic Policy Comof having to adjust to a new roumittee, which consists of Mr. Bradtine, and some dislike the idea of ley, Mrs. Hamilton, and all of the long periods altogether. It is underdepartment heads, is responsible for standable to feel that an hour and the organization of the new schedule. fifteen minutes of one class could Mr. Grant, who heads the commiteasily drag on, particularly if it’s a tee, explains that the new schedule subject you don’t particularly enjoy. strives “to fulfill two core principles However, it can be arthat we feel are very difficult to acgued that the pros of the new syscomplish in a 40 minute class - [first] tem heavily outweigh the cons. It’s we are seeking to develop creative safe to assume that everyone will thinking and skills pertinent to the have adjusted to long-block days at class such as essay writing. The secleast by the end of the first quarter. ond part we sought to address was Those lamenting the idea of sevpace; Belmont Hill will maintain its enty-five minutes in an especially Michael O’Neill difficult or tedious class can look rigor, but the prior structure we felt created high stress levels.” He called forward to extra-long free periods the new schedule more of a “crescen- longer period classes on Wednes- efits. All students in Forms IV-VI, this will make it “easier to get out for or extended lessons in their favorite do rather than the hamster wheel” day and Thursday to be similar excluding those who take an extra games for Upper Schoolers, which subjects with their favorite teachers. that the current system had created. to a sports practice in that the 75 sixth class, on either Wednesday we think is a benefit.” The schedule With the aforementioned shift to Parts of the new schedule minutes could be broken up into or Thursday every week will only also makes accommodations for Se- walkthrough lunch and the enticwill look familiar to all Belmont three to four segments that would have two classes, with an extra long niors involved in the ASR program, ing potential for extremely relaxed Hill students, as the class rotation include more interaction, move- free block thrown in for good mea- as the plan is for these students in days during Senior spring, the new and period lengths on Monday and ment, and creative thinking. For sure. If your free period happens the spring to have E block free and schedule sounds refreshing and apTuesday remain unchanged. The example, in an English class, the to be either C block or F block, on F block count as their ASR period. pealing. Come next school year, same cannot be said, however, for first twenty minutes could be spent Wednesday or Thursday (respec- Thus, ASR enrollees will be able to go much of the skepticism about a new the rest of the week. Most noticeably, writing a short response about the tively), you would be finished with their labs off-campus after milk and schedule might have practically disWednesday and Thursday have been prior night’s reading, the next twen- your classes for the day by X-block. cookies on Thursday and be back appeared. Only time will tell if this transformed into “long-block days,” ty-five minutes could be focused As for Seniors only taking three in time for their athletic practices. new plan will be both beneficial and where students will have two or on discussing the response, and the classes in the Spring, there would Though Middle School- popular, but the chances of this bethree--depending on your free block- last twenty-five minutes could be be one day each week with at least ers don’t have free periods, they ing true look to be very good. ☐ By Michael O’Neill & Alex Santangelo Panel Staff
March Break Delayed One Week: How Has it Impacted This Year’s Schedule?
ity of students at Belmont Hill. said, “Adding a week to the third though the fields were unusable. the first exam less than seven So why, then, would the quarter is nice because it was so Lastly, having a week of practice weeks away, students were thrown school choose to change some- short, and I also like how it lines before two weeks of break seems back into the harsh reality of their thing that has been the same for up with other schools like Win- a bit useless, because unless the academics, and there was no time The weeks right before as long as anyone can remember? sor so that people with siblings team practices during break, play- to adjust. Also, considering how March break are some of the Historically, the third quarter have the same breaks”. However, ers are likely to forget or lose all close exams are, and with a week worst weeks of the year for stu- has been known as the shortest it is not that simple, and there the skills they gain during those of review before them, the actual dents. Teachers are trying to get quarter, the quarter where, if you are many reasons for and against practices. If March break were to assessment period in the fourth a few more grades in before the bomb one test, stay the way it quarter becomes very short, which end of the quarter, filling the fi- you cannot salthis year, I puts even more pressure on stuAfter returning from two weeks off, students need an accli- was nal few days with almost daily vage your grade. think the ath- dents to perform well on exams. tests, quizzes, and essays. For stu- In 2013, the third mation period to get back into the rythym of school; however, letic calendar Overall, I think that March dents, it’s a matter of getting by, quarter lasted just with the first exam less than seven weeks away, students were should be ad- break should be moved back to its and not completely ruining their six weeks, which thrown back into the harsh reality of their acedemics, and justed accord- original date. The athletic schedquarter grades before the much was shorter than ingly so winter ule does not coordinate well with there was no time to adjust awaited two-week break comes. all other quarsports extend the current March break schedule This year, as students anxiously ters by at least two full weeks. changing the schedule from for one more week, and spring because practicing before break counted down to break, they re- It would seem logical, then, to the way it has been historically. sports do not start until after for one week is illogical and hard alized something was wrong. In- move one week from the fourth A large problem with hav- break, although this might make due to weather conditions. To stead of being released after only quarter to the third, which would ing March break later is athletics. the spring season a bit too short. make matters worse, starting afone week in March, students make the third quarter seven This year, spring sports started Another issue is the ter break would make the spring were forced to endure yet another weeks and the 4th quarter eight before March break, which caused speed with which exams and final season, already the shortest of week, with vacation not starting weeks, thus having March break problems due to the fact that there projects are approaching. Just a the three, even shorter. Even until the 14th. That one week may split the second semester in half. was still snow on the fields. Teams week or two after returning from though the third quarter would not seem like much on a calendar, Most other schools in the area, were forced to practice off-campus break, final projects were being be a bit brief, I think it is better but with the excitement of vaca- such as Roxbury Latin, Win- or inside, although neither situ- introduced and exams mentioned. to have a longer fourth quarter, tion around the corner, and the sor, St. Sebastians, and BB&N, ation was ideal. Also, there had After returning from two-weeks giving more time for exam prep always present assessment, the have their March break sched- already been two weeks of mud- off, students need an acclima- and final project work, thus alsecond week in March was an ules reflect the way ours was this week, and a third seemed exces- tion period to get back into the lowing students to finish the year exhausting week for the major- year. Third Former Mack Perry, sive, so spring sports started even rhythm of school; however, with on a high note academically. ☐ By Jason Fischman Panel Staff
May 1, 2014
BELMONT HILL OPINION
Pa g e 5
Influence of the Boston Marathon Tragedies One Year Later
Abscence at Continued From page 1 Boston Marathon attacks occurred tantly, how the city was able to come to help those who were injured. For a Coffehouse just one year ago, and not only can we together in support of our neighbors city that takes immense pride in their
police officer critically injured, one of distinctly remember particular details who were affected by the bombings. sports teams, the people of Boston By Michael O’Neill the terrorists killed, while his brother from April 15, 2013, but the fact that Last June, the One Fund Boston gained a sense of unity through the panel Staff escaped from police. An entire city, as the tragedies occurred in our very distributed roughly $61 million dollars support of Boston’s sports franchises. well as surrounding towns like Bel- own city and neighborhoods adds to to the victims of the Marathon bomb- When Belmont Hill students returned As plenty of Belmont Hill stumont, was locked down until the fu- significance of these attacks for the citi- ings. Although the bombings left us to campus last September, the Boston dents know, a few weeks ago the annual Red Sox served as a symbol of new be- spring coffeehouse was held in the Kraft ginnings, especially after their lacklus- Theater. The coffeehouse is a bi-annual ter season the year before. In the words event, with one concert held each Deof Chip Daley, “I believe it was impor- cember and the other held in April or tant because they represented the city sometimes May. The shows are always well after such a devastating event, and entertaining and in all honesty a blast it gave something for the city to believe to be a part of, as students from every in.” The miraculous run by the Boston grade in the school get a rare chance to Red Sox was discussed throughout the showcase their carefully curated musihalls of our school, and eventually, the cal abilities. As both a performer and Red Sox hoisted the Commissioner’s avid listener of music, I know that evTrophy as 2013 World Series Champi- ery coffeehouse is a special occasion ons, all the while a jersey that read “Bos- for attendees and participants alike. However, both coffeehouses this ton Strong” with the city’s area code of “617” hung proudly in the dugout. year felt noticeably different from those Then, on April 21, 2014, in a day filled of past school years. Especially at the winwith joy and tears, Meb Keflezighi was ter show, the energy tangible at previous the first male to cross the finish line at coffeehouses was missing. This was not the 118th Boston Marathon, and, as the fault of the musicians, as both nights the first American male winner in the witnessed excellent performances from Boston Marathon since 1983, Meb’s seventh graders and Seniors alike. Instead, victory served as a fitting testament the lack of energy was a result of the low to this historic race that celebrates attendance of each show from the student American pride and independence. body. At the spring show, I noticed that all Brian Snyder In an interview with Sports Illustrated but one of the students from my form in Meb Keflezighi celebrates his victory at the Boston Marathon following his victory at the Boston attendance were either playing in the congitive was captured, an ordeal unlike zens of Boston. As a school, Belmont feeling fearful for our safety at first, the Marathon, Meb said, “A year ago we cert or helping run the bake sale for ORBIS. any other event in the recent history of Hill students reacted differently to the citizens of Boston feel reassured know- were helpless. [My brother and I] start- In December, even fewer people came. Boston. As a member of the Belmont attacks, but eventually, the school re- ing that strangers are willing to risk ed crying. We both cried again today, Of course, there are bounds of Hill community, our school being shut sponded by providing their services their lives in order to help those who but this time they were tears of joy.” ☐ legitimate reasons not to go to a coffeedown was yet another chilling remind- to those in need of assistance. “Some need it most, but would also continue house, given they do start at 7:00 PM on er of how close to home these bomb- of the students here obviously felt it to offer their services long after the tera Friday night, a timeslot many students ings were for Belmont Hill’s students more personally than others, but as a rorists were caught. Heroes emerged are reluctant to give up. Some are busy and teachers. In last year’s edition of school, we had a moment of silence out of these tragedies, and thanks to with sports, and no one really wants to social media through sites such as Dear Panel readers, spend the first night of the weekend at The events of the morning of April 15 shocked the nation. Facebook and Twitter, these heroic acts Welcome to Volume 63 of The Panel. school after a long-distance away game. Additionally, some students simply don’t For the first time, violence struck close to home. Newtown, were seen across the country. As Car- As the new group heads for the los Arredando wheeled an injured Jeff upcoming school year, the three of us have interest in music. Understandably, Aurora, and Oklahoma City felt so distant, but the bombs Bauman through the chaotic streets are very excited to be able to bring you a majority of students choose not to go to on Boylston Street shattered our sense of immunity from of Boston following the explosions, a all an informative and entertaining coffeehouse, which again is perfectly fine. these acts ov violence Still, fact that almost nobody volphotographer captured the moment publication in conjunction with untarily goes to coffeehouse, whether it’s to with his camera, and Arredando re- Winsor. Our primary goals for support their friends who do perform or the Panel following the Marathon trag- to remember the lives that were lost,” ceived an incredible amount of praise the upcoming twelve months are just hear some great music, is disappointedies, one Belmont Hill student said, said Fourth Former Chip Daley. “As a for saving Bauman’s life. At this past the same as those of any good “The events of the morning of April 15 school we bounced back pretty well: Boston Marathon, Arredando stood journalists; to represent the news and ing to say the least. There’s no excitement drummed up for the concerts within the shocked the nation. For the first time, we had a couple students leading proudly at the finish line, wearing a opinions from around the school student body, as you don’t hear kids talkviolence struck close to home. New- the way, students who knew Martin blue Boston Strong t-shirt and his in an accurate, balanced, and most ing about an upcoming coffeehouse in the town, Aurora, and Oklahoma City felt Richards, the boy who was killed in trademark white cowboy hat, handing of all enjoyable manner. We strive same manner they would a big lacrosse so distant, but the bombs on Boylston to continue up the path set by past Although the bombings left us feeling fearful for our safety editors, making improvements along game. While these two events may sound Street shattered our sense of immunity incomparable, there are more similarities from these acts of violence.” at first, the citizens of Boston feel reassured knowing that the way. between the two than one might think. On For the majority of students strangers are willing to risk their their lives in order to help As you have seen throughout this any sports team, athletes practice regularly currently at Belmont Hill, the Boston issue, we have a wide variety of those who need it most in preparation for a game, and come game Marathon Tragedy was the first seritopics to cover, and believe that day, they get the chance to display their ous terrorist attack within our own this diversity of content will ensure talents while trying to reach a common country that we can truly remember. the bombings. Wristbands were then out small American flags to those pass- that there’s something for everyone Most students currently enrolled in the purchased so we could donate the ing by in the street. Boston is still heal- within each publication. It’s no secret goal, winning. For musicians, the idea of preparing rigorously is a well understood school were born in the late 1990’s or money to the One Fund to show our ing, and the victims of these attacks that readership of The Panel has not one. Bands and smaller groups practice early 2000’s, and thus, we saw the re- resilience and, more importantly, help continue to deal with the effects of the always been as high as it could be, so percussion of the attacks of the Twin those who were affected.” In the future, bombings to this day, and quite possi- of course we hope to get more people week after week all year just for typically bly, for the rest of their lives. For people reading and, hopefully, writing as well. a total of ten minutes stage time between the two coffeehouses. When none of their like Marc Fucarile, Jeff Bauman, and Our commitment to making sure peers are there to observe their one or two the fourteen others who lost limbs as the newspaper is as good as possible opportunities to prove their skills, it can be a result of the bombings, their lives is tremendous, and we only ask that will clearly be impacted, both physi- you reciprocate our effort by reading extremely deflating. Speaking from personal experience, it’s hard to prove your cally and mentally; however, born the words of your peers contained worth as a musician to peers without them out of the tragedies is a city more en- inside each issue. We have many ergized and fiercely determined than dedicated writers on our staff, whom actually witnessing you playing - an issue that doesn’t often apply to the school’s top ever before, reminiscent of the patri- we are eager to collaborate with on a ots before them who fought valiantly regular basis. There is no telling what athletes - and if they don’t come to coffor our freedom over 200 years ago. events the upcoming school year will feehouse, you’re essentially out of luck. Again, no single person should feel “Boston Strong” is the phrase bring, but rest assured The Panel will obligated to go to coffeehouse. However, that has emerged from the tragedies, be there to cover and analyze all the theoveralllackofsupportformusiciansand the idea that the civilians of Boston major happenings around campus. other artists at the school is apparent when have responded to the bombings by We have so many ideas that we can’t uniting in an effort to “take back the wait to share with you, and hope that only a handful of students make their way city.” The “Boston Strong” slogan you all will join us on this new chapter to Kraft Theater just to watch once or twice Jared Wickerham World Series Trophy placed at the finish line a year. If you have a close friend performing, serves as a reminder of the many brave for The Panel. I guarantee that it would mean a lot to them police officers, medics, and most imforyoutobetheretowitnesstofruitsofyour Towers on September 11th, but not we will tell the next generation about portantly, spectators at the marathon Sincerely, labor. And who knows, you might be surnecessarily the specific events on the the tragedies that took place at the who did not hesitate to jump into the John Driscoll, Michael O’Neill, and prised at how fun the coffeehouse can be. ☐ day of these attacks. However, the Boston Marathon, but more impor- wreckage caused by the blasts in order Will Treanor
Letter from the New Editors
Belmont Hill Arts
Pa g e 6
Th e Pan el
Musician of the Issue: Jeremy Welborn Spring Coffee House
Do you have any favorite pieces, songs, or What about piano? Keys. I tried them when I was young- genres of music? er, but that was a bit of a bust. The trigger I’m into it all. Shuffle the iPod and I to “relearn” arose a year or two ago. There’s get Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, then Senior Jeremy Welborn is a versatile a scene in the Notebook, yes, the movie -- Dyme Def, then Smokey Robinson, then musician who plays both drums and piano. where someone’s floating through Chopin’s Jack Johnson, etc. Some students may recognize him as the Prélude No. 4. Just gorgeous. I started with drummer and co-president of the upper that and went from there. Schubert’s Ständ- Any recent performances? school jazz band, but what others may not chen is the current conquest. The coffeehouse was really fun for the realize is that he has a broad range of museniors. I was able to get on the kit, keys, and sical interests. In addition to jazz, Jeremy What ensembles do you play in both inside sing a bit too (albeit not so well). also enjoys listening to and playing rock and and outside of school? classical music. Here are his thoughts on the I’ve been involved in the school jazz Why do you play music? role of music in his life: band for six years. I also get to jam with Eric That’s tough to answer. If you’ve been Kim. We’ve formed rock groups spontane- on the kit, on the keys, or even in an audiWhen and how did you start playing drums? ously through the years. Right now, we are ence and you’re in tight, tight synchrony I’ve been toying around on the kit starting to record ourselves on keys and with everyone else around you, that’s sort of since sixth grade or so, but I wasn’t in a real drums alone. We want to splice together a an out of body sensation. ensemble setting until seventh. As a first series of semi-consonant indie alternative former, I tried out for the rock band, but tracks and try to add our own sound. OutJeremy will be attending Harvard Uniwas beat out by a third former. After this side of school, I still play in groups at NEC. versity next year, where he will continue to devastating defeat, Mr. Fiori relegated me to play drums and piano. He hopes to find a the jazz band, a style I hadn’t ever really en- Do you take formal lessons with any musispontaneous group atmosphere that will alcountered. I quickly found jazz to be a more cians? low him to explore new styles of music, infun and faster style - not the tedious, unI started working with a funk/fusion/ cluding funk and fusion. varying 4/4 rhythms of rock (well, the sort jazz drummer in 7th grade, Zeke, who’s an of rock you’d come across in a 7th/8th grade awesome teacher. I’ve also worked closely group I should concede). I started in several over the summers with the staff at NEC and ensembles at New England Conservatory Berklee. This spring, Mr. Fiori has been kind (NEC) the summer after first form and I enough to help me learn some of the funstayed there for several summers. I was al- damentals of jazz piano as a senior project. ways with really talented kids, and kids who We’re working out of The Real Book. knew jazz. That was a big boost. By Spencer Kim Staff Writer
Senior-Directed Play Promises Mystery and Comedy
Chicago: The Riviting Spring Musical
art and reality begin to blur. Add in a few murders, lost love, womanizing men, and over-the-top actors, and it becomes clear why this play was chosen. Director SuOne of the most exciting things com- sannah explained, “I wanted to do a comBy DJ Demetri ing out of the theater department is the edy, and this one stood out to me because Staff Writer yearly senior-directed play. Led by a senior it’s smart, silly, and satirical all at once.” from Belmont Hill or Winsor, the producAn actress first, Susannah’s interDana Hall and Belmont Hill are at tion provides an opportunity for students est in directing stemmed from her roles it again with another amazing musical: to prove they can take on the challenges in past student directed plays such as Chicago. After last year’s heartstopping that students are not typically tasked with. Rumors, Albertine, and Proof. “I love performance of The Wiz, this year’s cast This year’s cast consists of seniors from acting and have been in lots of pro- has a lot to live up to. With the masboth Belmont Hill and Winsor. Entitled, ductions at Winsor and Belmont Hill, terful Mr. Kevin Groppe directing, Mr. The Real Inspector Hound, the play is di- but, until recently, I hadn’t thought I David Coleman leading the music, and rected by Winsor senior Susannah Howe. would be capable of directing a show.” Devon Fitchett choreographing, this An English mystery/comedy spoof of AgThe play is a one act, allowing for performance is guaranteed to be a hit! atha Christie’s famous mysteries such as less stress on the cast and its first-time Chicago tells the slightly burlesque The Mousetrap, the play centers on two director. With a cast involving Belmont tale of two foxy murderesses, Velma critics watching a play. The critics, named Hill’s own Charlie Hill, Shane Rossi, and Kelly and Roxy Hart, and follows their Birdboot and Moon, find themselves be- Andres Cordoba, it’s sure to be an enter- dramatic adventure as they each hope coming wrapped up in the play they are re- taining performance. The tentative per- to shoot their names to stardom. After viewing, and eventually the lines between formance dates are May 30th and 31st. ☐ murdering her nightclub-regular boyfriend, Roxy (played by Gracie Brakeman) meets the already well-known Velma Kelly (played by Meaghan Robichaud) in the Cook County Jail, where Roxy proceeds to steal her limelight, and her lawyer, Billy Flynn. Together, Hindi. The A-Sharps, consisting of five sopho- Billy (played by Robert Sayegh) and mores, took the microphones from the B-Flats Roxy craft her story to appear in front By Dider Lucceus and sang Follow Me; the harmonies were ex- of a judge and jury. The musical delivers Staff Writer ecuted perfectly. The A-Sharps then ceded the great numbers such as “All That Jazz,” in On April 25th, the various Belmont stage to the Middle School Jazz Ensemble, who which Velma welcomes the audience and Hill orchestral, choral, and jazz bands played performed some classic jazz repertoire, includ- introduces them to the fun-filled show together under one roof at the Scottish Rite ing P. Desmond’s Take Five. Another group ahead; “Razzle Dazzle,” where Billy FlyMuseum to showcase their talent and dedica- from the middle school, the Middle School nn truly displays the circus-like nature tion in this annual gathering. The night started Glee, took the stage as well, performing Geo- of the courtroom as he tries to prove that off with an exhilarating performance by the graphical Fugue for Speaking Chorus, a spoken a glamorous murder is one you can get Orchestra, whose fantastic arrangement of song with many overlapping parts. As the night away with; and “Mr. Cellophane,” Amos Mozart’s Symphony No. 25 starting the show came to a close, the Upper School Jazz Ensem- Hart’s (Roxy’s husband played by ChrisAngus Smith off with a ‘bang.’ The B-Flats stormed the stage ble performed the last few pieces: In A Senti- tian Dolan) dejected and pitiful solo. after the Orchestra with two beautiful Afri- mental Mood, Hey Pocky Way, and Tuesday If you want to know how the dracan songs, Nkosi Sikelel’ I Afrika and Soon- Heartbreak. The night finally came to an amaz- matic, laugh-out-loud trial progresses ah Will Be Done, which captivated the crowd ing conclusion as the B-Flats, Middle School and concludes, then come out to Dana with swelling crescendos and staccatos. Next Glee, and the Upper School Jazz Ensemble Hall’s Bardwell Auditorium on May 16 up came the Jazz Combo, who began with the performed Pharrell Williams’ Happy, arranged or 17 at 8:00 pm and find out; you will snazzy In Green Dolphin Street and Golson’s specially by Mr. Fiori. The song reflected the not regret it. Other members of the Killer Joe. The B-Flats returned to the stage audience’s mood as they surely were happy that cast from Belmont Hill include, Wilwith a collection of popular songs - Good Ole the students of Belmont Hill put on another liam Galligan, Matthew Hennessy, A Capella, Pompeii, Vande Mataram, sung in amazing display of their musical talents. ☐ Seamus Clair, and D.J. Demetri. ☐ By Andres Cordoba Panel Staff
Students Shine at Annual Spring Concert
By Brendan Pulsifer Panel Staff The spring coffee house on Friday, April 11 was a success to say the least. There was much anticipation for this Coffee House - everyone, especially the seniors, was hoping that this event would be the best of them all. There were plenty of potential acts, as many students play instruments, sing, or can even do standup, and all they needed to do was sign up. The spring coffee house was heavily publicized by students (who sent out text messages and advertised the event on Facebook) and teachers, especially Mr. Fiori, who focused his rock bands, took to the lunch podium for announcements, and sent school-wide emails. Students strongly encouraged each other to try something new and perform (Juan Carlos Fernandez del Castillo made it a personal mission to track down campus musicians so that the show could be the best possible.) The enthusiasm and hard work yielded 27 acts who performed like superstars in an arena to a packed standing-room only audience. The crowd included the usual supportive parents, but mostly fellow Belmont Hill students and teachers. A number of Winsor girls joined the audience to see their friends perform, and even perform with them. Led by Mr. Fiori and Mr. Pettine, the middle school rock bands opened the show with outstanding performances of “Hotel California” and “Dance the Night Away,” hooking the crowd with their rhythms. Later on, the upper school rock bands continued to show great performances; a rock band led by Mr. Fiori played “Reelin’ in the Years,” and even some student run bands took the stage. A country rock band performed country classics by Eric Church; another band did a rendition of “Over My Head (Cable Car.)” The most exciting and unexpected part of the coffee house was the solo and duet acts that took the stage. Between Nate Trznadel’s well-executed, jazzy “Sunday Morning” and Alex Hall’s unplugged version of “Carry On,” the level of talent in the room blew everyone away. Seamus Clair performed quite a throwback with Frank Sinatra’s “Come Fly with Me.” Duets also dominated the stage: Christian Dolan and Becca Koppel of Winsor sang “Say It Right”; Brendan Pulsifer and Brooke Kennedy of Dana Hall sang “Just Give Me a Reason”; Jeremy and Jacob Welborn performed “Kids”; and Juan Carlos and Hailey Yetman of Winsor excited us with “Don’t Know Why.” Two performances in particular involved all students if not the whole crowd – “Free Fallin’,” performed by Mihir Gulati, Mack Perry, and dozens of other upperclassmen; and the closing number of the night, “Oye Como Va,” led by Juan Carlos Fernandez Del Castillo, Jeremy Welborn, and many more. “Oye Como Va” closed the show with quite a bang, as all those who stayed the long but enjoyable three hours of performances stood up in their seats and danced. It is also important to mention that the Orbis Bake Sale, which sold cookies, brownies, and delicious desserts at the Coffee House, sold $250 for Water for People, an organization that collaborates with local communities to build clean water infrastructure in impoverished regions around the world. Thanks to all those who helped make this coffee house possible – it truly was a great night not to be forgotten. ☐
Belmont Hill Sp orts
May 1, 2014
Pa g e 7
Belmont Hill Varsity Scoreboard TEAM
RECORD
Lacrosse
7-1
W 6-5 vs. St. Sebastian’s W 9-8 vs. Governor’s Academy
Danny Seibel Joe Delaney
Baseball Track Tennis Golf Sailing
9-0
W 12-2 vs. Milton W 6-5 vs. St. Sebastian’s
Nolan Brennan Danny Kelley
11-1 5-2 5-2
W 165-59 vs. St. George’s W 138-76 vs. Middlesex
Lucas Ribeiro Yohannes Mezgebu
W 13-0 vs. Thayer W 14-1 vs. Governor’s Academy
Sabri Eyuboglu Ben Green
W 4-3 vs. Nobles W 7-0 vs. Middlesex W 5-0 vs. St. John’s Prep
Joe Lynch John Lazor Chris Champa Bernardo Pacini
Crew
3-0
W 6-0 vs. Middlesex W 6-0 Vs. Pomfret
Alexander Richards Cole Durbin
1-0
NOTABLE RESULTS
Track Looks to Reclaim Top ISL Spot
MVPS
Records as of 4/27/2014
Belmont Hill Crew Off to a Racing Start
of my teammates, especially of my throwing By Harry Porter team captain Joey Laliberte. “ When asked Staff Writer about goals for the rest of the season, Ribeiro The Belmont Hill varsity track team replies, “ My goals for this season are to help is looking to recover in a strong way this our track team win the ISL and New Engseason. Last year, the squad suffered heart- land championships. I also hope to place at every race by a large margin. Four-Year breaking losses at the ISL and New England the New Balance Outdoor Nationals and the Varsity oarsman and 2014 captain, AlexBy Bennett Rush Championships and brought home a re- Junior Olympics this summer.” The captains ander Richards said, “The varsity crew Staff Writer spectable second place at each meet. This of the squad, Matt Czarnecki, Paul Malloy team is excited for the year ahead. Last season the team has one goal: to recapture and Sultan Olusekun are confident in the This year the Belmont Hill Varsity year was one of the most successful seathe league and New England titles. Belmont team’s progress. Matt has been leading the Crew team is off to a great start led by sons in recent history and we hope to reHill lost multiple senior athletes from last distance squad in training, although he has captains Alexander Richards, Alex Bailey, peat it. We have a great group of young season but appears to be stronger than ever. been sidelined with a knee injury. Paul Mal- Mac Manion and Cole Durbin. The pre- guys who are really motivated.” Captain During his first meet, Fifth Former Lucas loy has been leading the hurdlers in training season presented the team with extraordi- Mac Manion summed up the season, “we Ribeiro broke the Belmont Hill and ISL re- and Sultan leads the sprinters and jump- nary challenges as the Charles River was have high expectations for everyone to cord in the discus with a whopping throw ers. Sultan, a two sport captain in basket- frozen going into March break. With the race well and over the next 6 weeks the of 163 feet and 1 inch. Extremely modest, ball and track, says, “Usually known for our rough conditions on the water, the re- racing schedule is intense, up until the Ribeiro says, “Breaking the school and ISL natural speed from athletes of the past like turning NEIRA champions still took on climax of our season at NEIRA’S. If evrecord in the discus throw was a great feel- David Alexander and Mike Minahan, the the weather day after day without second erything falls into place in terms of hard ing! I have been working extremely hard track team looks towards effort this year to thought. Coach Richards says, “I cannot work, health, and some luck we hope during the off-season and I had the support improve times. Although we do have some recall a colder, windier start to the spring to have another good showing this year standouts, hard work is the only way to suc- -- I think we have gotten off to a great start. at our showcase regatta.” The team will ceed and this year will take a team effort.” We have a large and enthusiastic group and face some competition, Coach RichThe track season won the Thayer Relays the team has been making good progress.” ards looked ahead at the season stating, pre-season meet and convincingly captured All boats from the First Four to the “There are a number of great programs its first two wins of the season. The first Novice Four were able to schedule pre- in the NEIRA who will keep us honest, two meets were won in dominant fashion season scrimmages with teams such as among them Choate, Deerfield, and Groas Sultan remains undefeated in the long BC High and Brooks, winning a major- ton probably pose the biggest threats.” and triple jumps and Paul Malloy remains ity of the races. The racing season startLast year, the top four varsity boats undefeated in the hurdles. Coaches Kirby, ed at Pomfret Saturday, April 19th. The were undefeated and New England chamCollins, Harder, and Anam will continue to team brought the first four-man boat pions and the 2014 Crew team looks toexpect high results from the team. The track through sixth four-man boat, and won ward another year dominating the water. ☐ team will be looking to stay hot throughout the short season and seems well on its way to regaining the titles once again. ☐ Mr. Mahoney Lucas Ribeiro hurls a shotput
Lacrosse Team Hopes to Maintain Early Success
UA Athlete of the Issue
emy for the first time in ten years. Keeping the momentum from the win against Governor’s Academy, the lacrosse team beat St. Paul’s 14-3 at home and Milton 15-0 at MilThe lacrosse team is off to a strong ton. At the St. Sebastian’s game on Wednesstart this season. Led by Daniel Seibel and day April 23, Belmont Hill beat Seb’s by one Max Gustafsson, the team is currently 6-1, point in overtime, the second overtime win highlighted by an astounding overtime win of the season. Belmont Hill started the game against Governor’s Academy plus five victo- with four quick goals in the first half, but St. ries against St. Paul’s, Milton Academy, St. Sebastian’s responded aggressively, adding Sebastian’s, Roxbury Latin and St. Marks. three goals in the second half to their two The one loss was inflicted by Thayer Acad- in the first, putting Belmont in a one-goal emy in the team’s first home game. In scrim- hole with just a few minutes left in regulamages earlier in the season, Belmont Hill tion time. A goal scored in the last seconds beat Deerfield Academy at Deerfield, a wel- of the fourth quarter forced overtime, which comed win which helped the lacrosse team ended in a dramatic Belmont Hill goal by identify its strengths and weaknesses as a Joe Delaney to win the game. Overall, the cohesive singular unit. The team lost 9-8 to first seven games show a promising seaThayer which caused them to practice even son, and the lacrosse team has been winMr. Mahoney harder in order to defeat Governor’s Acad- ning games and scoring goals prolifically. ☐ Kyle Parsons dodges a defender By John Gosselin Staff Writer
This spring season’s Athlete of the Issue goes to senior attack Kyle Parsons. Just 7 games into the season, Kyle is second on the team in scoring with 7 goals and is tied for the lead in assists with 7, along with Daniel Seibel. Parsons scored a crucial goal against Governor’s in overtime to give the team a 9-8 win, ending a 10-year losing streak against this tough ISL competitor. Mr. Sullivan, head coach of the lacrosse team, had this to say about Parsons: “He quarterbacks the offense from behind the net. He knows when to attack the net and score, but also knows when to pass the ball off to another teammate.” We hope Kyle continues his success this year and we wish him well as he takes his talents to Bucknell next year. ☐
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