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Volu m e 6 5 , Issu e 4
A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School
Novemb er 21, 2016
Football Team Wins ISL for the First Time in Ten Years By Henry Wyett Panel Staff
“I feel we have a much-improved team from last year,” says senior captain and quarterback Zach Geddes. “We’re looking to rebound and make Belmont Hill Football great again.” Geddes was spot on, Belmont Hill football has completely rebounded, sitting with a 6-2 record, with notable wins coming against St. Sebastian’s and Milton Academy. Perhaps the biggest victory of the season so far was the win against New Hampton. The boys were in need of a win mentally, overcoming the tough previous season and setting their minds on the season to come. The four captains, Nate Miller, Zach Geddes, Ray Hunt, and Peter Tamasi
have all done an outstanding job leading the team through a grueling pre-season and tough first practices. Constant reminders of last years season are what keeps many of the players determined and focused. Although the season has gone well so far, the team has also suffered losses due to injured players. Quarterback, Mike Piazza ‘19 was injured and
Election Results: Preview
In this issue of The Panel, Belmont Hill and Winsor take a look at the Presidential Election of 2016. The results led to mixed emotions on Wednesday, November 9, with shock, grief, and happiness spreading throughout campus. The election of Donald Trump sent a shockwave through both of our schools; we wanted to examine the students’ various pre-election expectations and hopes, as well as their post-voting reactions. To do so, we look at the election from a statistical standpoint and consider different aspects of the political spectrum in our center spread. Both schools offered courses that were directly related
to the election that led the charge in a school-wide election, graphing results, ballot initiatives, and other polls worthy of our attention. The Panel Staff also administered polls to gather a census of where students stand and where they feel the country is headed. No matter what stance you held in the election, politics plays a major role in all of our lives, and the impacts of this election will significantly influence our futures. Our country will look different now, but it is our right and duty as Americans to fight for what we believe. So to all who disagree with the president elect and all who support him, explore the possibilities and look inward to understand your peers’ opinions. A look at the initial aftermath is analyzed by both schools on pages 10 and 11.☐
Look Inside
By Sindhu Krishnamurthy Panel Staff
By the Editors Panel Staff
has been ruled out for the season. Offensive lineman Brett Willis was also sidelined for the season, as well as Anthony Marinello and Cole Nagahama. Although these players will be dearly missed, the team has played well, as the 6-2 record speaks for itself, and hopes to finish the season in high form. In the final game of the regular season, the team traveled to Governor’s to fight for the top spot in the ISL. In a tightly fought game, Belmont Hill emerged victorious in a 21-14 victory, with touchdowns from Bradley Hart, Zach Geddes, and Jake Haase. The victory was enough to lock in Belmont Hill as the ISL Champions for the first time in 10 years, a remarkable feat for the team. ☐
Technology Restrictions at Bemont Hill: Students Don’t Need Online Babysitting As you probably noticed, Belmont Hill has made serious changes regarding technology since last year. Included in this are a number of new restrictions, particularly on YouTube. While in theory this is a good way for the school to prevent students from using the internet unproductively, there are inherent flaws with this system of regulation and with the policy itself. The system often fails to serve its intended purpose. And upon further examination, it becomes clear the restrictions actually detract from the school’s mis-
sion of ingraining important skills like time management. The new, stringent system has blocked educational videos. This poses problems for students and teachers alike. Oftentimes, videos are used in class and for homework, but it is now almost impossible to access these materials. If a teacher sends out a video to watch, it is usually restricted by the school. To circumnavigate this block, a student must request that the teacher approve. This is a time-consuming process. At Belmont Hill, we are already pressed for time as it is, and approving videos can take 15 minutes. For example, during a recent Form
IV biology class, students were tasked with watching a YouTube video upon completing a quiz. However, the video was blocked. Approving it ate up much of the remaining class time. Most of us did not get to watching the video. Additionally, when doing homework during a free period, a student is oftentimes unable to watch a video, tacking on even more work a student must complete at home. Overall, the YouTube restrictions consume valuable school time, contrary to their purpose of forcing students to be more productive.
our flag, get… out, that’s what I think,” remarked Mike Dikta, a former Bears coach. NFL clarified, however, that “players are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the National Anthem.” Indeed, Colin Kaepernick was not the first ath-
lete to protest against the national anthem. During the 1968 Olympics, American runners Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists during the national anthem to acknowledge racial inequality, and they were supported by Australian runner Peter Norman as well. There
was huge backlash against their actions, and they even received death threats. However, they succeeded in making a statement to America and inspired more athletes such as Kaepernick to eventually imitate their actions.
By Charlie Donahue & Richie Kendall Panel Staff
Continued on page 6
Students Take a Knee: Social Justice in Sports
News pg 2-5 Opinions pg 6-9 Election Center Spread pg 10 Sports pg 12-15 Arts pg 16-19 Back pg 20
On August 26, 2016, Colin Kaepernick, the quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, kneeled while the National Anthem played at his third preseason game. He had sat for the previous two games as well, but it was at the third game that people began to notice what he was doing. He explained that he was speaking out against unfair treatment of people of color and the abuse of power within the police force. Response to Kaepernick is mixed. While most people agree that he had the right to sit for the anthem, many do not approve of his actions. “I think it’s a problem, anybody who disrespects this countr y and the flag. If they don’t like the countr y, they don’t like
Continued on page 12
Belmont Hill NEWS
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Th e Pan el
Historic Parallels: The 2016 Presedential Election Ishaan prasad & William McCormack
Panel Staff
America’s 2016 election has been noted for its seemingly unprecedented rhetoric. Often hateful, unbridled criticism has been abundant over the past year and a half. While Republican nominee Donald Trump, targeting attacks and insults at virtually every influential figure in the American political sphere (and beyond), may be the main culprit, his adversary Hillary Clinton and former Republican candidates are also to blame. Under the international spotlight, candidates have been especially blunt with their mudslinging, expressing no regret or remorse after launching insults at countries, groups, and each other. Moreover, this immoral brand of political rhetoric has lowered other American politicians and the general public to the same unimpressive standard, with worried observers declaring this past election cycle to be the start of a new, lowly era in American politics. Nevertheless, while this callous, demeaning style of discourse seems unprecedented in western democracy, history proves otherwise.
THE FOUNDING FATHERS
the pamphlet with one, intense line delivExamining America’s founding with vigor. James Callender, a journalist ered by Hamilton in his Broadway musi- preterition allowed them to attack their fathers, a group often purported to be in- whose work was funded secretly by Jef- cal: “Sit down, John, you fat mother—!” opponents, without being held entirely acvincible and immune to misconduct, re- ferson, described Adams as a “repulsive REPUBLICAN ROME countable for the actions. As Michael von veals that this election’s brand of verbal pedant” who “behaved neither like a man Donald Trump’s rise to the top Albrecht, a German classics scholar exabuse certainly isn’t unparalleled. Instead nor like a woman but instead possessed of the GOP ticket has consistently eluded plained in his book, Cicero’s Style, “[Pretof brightly lit debate stages, newspapers a hideous hermaphroditical character.” the predictions of political pandits and the erition is] especially useful if you want to were the chosen means for mudslingSlander didn’t slow after the elec- American public alike: a self-proclaimed mention things you cannot prove.” They ing during the infant years of our nation. tion of 1800. In the next few years, the political “outsider,” known for his unadul- said they wouldn’t mention it, hadn’t they? With individual newspapers essentially terated remarks, the real-estate tycoon Masters of ecphonesis, or a form of short controlled by either the Federalists or reality TV star has used rhetoric exclamation, this device is present both in “A Connecticut newspaper warned turned Democratic-Republicans (early political that often seems wholly different from the Cicero’s orations and in many of Trump’s that in a Jefferson presidency, parties), rhetoric was one-sided, clearly familiar tactics of establishment politi- tweets. From Cicero lamenting “O tempobiased, unapologetic, and unrelenting. ‘murder, robbery, rape, adultery cians. Nevertheless, while his surprisingly ra! O mores!” in his oration against CatiUgliness and trickery peaked during the and incest will be openly taught successful strategies often seem unprec- line, to Trump’s occasional “Sad!” at the end early 1800s. In the evenly-matched elecedented, in truth, they harken back to the of his tweets, both men seek to influence and practiced.’” tion of 1800 pitting Thomas Jefferson rhetoric of one of the most skilled orators the emotions of their listeners and readers. against John Adams, the Federalists—John in Western history: Marcus Tullius Cicero. Repetition marked the speeches Adams’s political party—published false political rivalry between John Adams and As political outsiders, or “new of both men as well. Just as Trump articuobituaries announcing Jefferson’s death, Alexander Hamilton, both Federalists, men” (novi homines), both Cicero and lated in January when he said, “It’s wrong. hoping to convince voters that Jeffer- reached a new extreme. Taking to the press Trump realized the importance of ora- They were wrong. The New York Times, son’s untimely passing would leave them in publicized episodes of verbal sparring, tion in winning over supporters from they’re always wrong. They were wrong,” no choice but to vote for Adams. Adams Adams ferociously attacked Hamilton’s their political adversaries. Whether or Cicero similarly was known to use repetiand the Federalists continued their attack, immigrant background, denouncing him not Mr. Trump or the American pub- tion to his advantage, even using the word with Adams commenting that Jefferson’s to be a “Creole bastard” and “bastard brat lic were aware of it, the rhetoric of his nihil (nothing), in six consecutive phrases. soul was “poisoned.” The Federalist nomi- of a Scottish peddler.” Hamilton, never one campaign was perfected by a politiNevertheless, while Trump nee’s insults, like those of this past elec- without paper and ink by his side, wrote a cian two-thousand years his senior. shared many rhetorical similarities to tion’s candidates, influenced other north- fifty-page pamphlet in response to Adams. Perhaps one of the most effective devices Cicero, he is eerily similar to one of Ciern Federalists to strike out with similarly Entitled “Letter from Alexander Hamil- in oration, Cicero and Trump were skilled cero’s most significant political adversarharsh jibes. Connecticut newspaper ton, Concerning the Public Conduct and users of preterition. Coming from the Lat- ies: Publius Clodius Pulcher. A populist warned that in a Jefferson presidency, Character of John Adams,” all fifty pages demagogue and infamous “ladies’ man” “murder, robbery, rape, adultery and in- of the pamphlet were used by Hamilton to “Whether or not Mr. Trump or the who capitalized on the frustrations of the cest will be openly taught and practiced.” destroy Adams in whatever way he could. common people, Clodius was a member The Democratic-Republicans responded Lin-Manuel Miranda accurately sums up American public were aware of it, of the Roman elite who decided to run the rhetoric of his campaign was for office as the leader of the displeased perfected by a politician two-thou- Roman working classes. Using fiery rhetoric to especially stir up the unemployed, sand years earlier.” Clodius rose to power as the Tribune of the Plebs, alarming the Romans in power. in praetereo, meaning “to pass over,” this When Cicero, working on behalf of the device was a mainstay in this election sea- establishment to stop this threatening son, as well as the campaigns and orations upstart, attempted to prevent Clodius’ of Republican Rome. When attacking an rise, Clodius retaliated, writing a law that adversary Cicero exclaimed, “I pass over exiled the great orator. Sound familiar? his murders, I omit all mention of his acts of lust.” Viewers of the first presidential deWhile this election’s ill-mannered bate might remember Trump’s comments discourse has been unfortunate, it’s definitely to the media on Hillary: “I was going to not revolutionary. Instead of it being a new say something extremely rough to Hillary, disease that plagues our country’s politics, to her family, and I said to myself, ‘I just the current political rhetoric is merely an old can’t do it. It’s not nice.’” For both men, ailment rearing its ugly head once again. ☐
Striving for Another Record-Breaking Year: Turkey Drive in Full Swing
and make a meaningful impact on those with those they care about most. The men it is important to take these events seriously that aren’t as fortunate as them. The drive and women that we help may not remem- and understand the importance of helpStaff Writer began in 2010 after being suggested by ber the exact meal they had on Thanksgiv- ing. As we look towards another unprecThis month, Belmont Hill Com- Belmont Hill’s one-and-only Mr. Trautz. ing 2016 but they will remember the hap- edented year for the turkey drive, we would munity Service continues their outstand- Mr. Trautz attended the Cheverus High piness they felt when they we able to enjoy also like to thank the greater Belmont Hill ing work by holding the seventh annual School in Portland, Maine that held a simi- a turkey amongst good company. All Bel- community: the drive is the ultimate emTurkey drive. The goal of this turkey drive lar event. When Mrs. David was pitched mont Hill students are given a magnificent bodiment of Belmont Hill’s commitment is for parents, students, and faculty mem- this idea she instantly fell in love with it: opportunity when coming to this school so to serving other and working together. ☐ bers to work together to provide substan- but she was only willing to do it “if he was tial Thanksgiving meals for as many people involved, too” and so the Turkey drive was in need as possible – every year the goal founded. Back in 2010 the goal was only 50 has been raised thanks to the increasing turkeys but as the years went by the popunumber of requests we have received. Each larity has steadily increased – this year we meal comes equipped with an assortment have received a new record of 425 requests. of goods including, canned vegetables, gra- In order to reach this lofty goal the third vy, stuffing, potatoes, cranberry sauce, and form has been hard at work, making anlast, but not least, halloween candy that nouncements, posting fliers, and raising was donated by the students after their suc- awareness in Belmont and neighboring cessful trick or treating. Some say never to towns. Last year the goal was 300 meals take candy from strangers – on Halloween and we achieved 415 so hopefully once we make an exception for those in need. again this year we can exceed expectations The Turkey Drive, led by the Form and provide a turkey for even more people. Hundreds of people on ThanksgivIII allows for class officers and any other individuals to take up a leadership role ing will now be able to enjoy a delicious meal Charlie Booth
Nove b er 21, 2016
Belmont Hill NEWS
Pa g e 3
Dr. Rachel Levine ‘75 Returns to Belmont Hill for Inspiring Chapel Talk Jason Fischman
Panel Staff
D r. R a c h e l L e v i n e , a B e l mont Hill alumni, returned to give a chapel talk in a long school meeting about her journey as a transgender woman. In her s p e e c h , t it l e d “ T h e Ey e of t h e Hu rr i c a n e ,” D r. L e v i n e d i s c u s s e d h e r time at B elmont Hill, her successful career as Physician General of Pennsy lvani a, and her t ransit ion. Fu l l o f hu m o r o u s a s i d e s about the B etter Buy sale and the u p c o m i n g AC Ts , D r. L e v i n e’s s p e e c h p r ov i d e d a r e m a r k a b l e o p p o r t u n i t y f o r B e l m o nt Hi l l s t u d e nt s t o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t L G B T i s s u e s ; h e r s t at u s a s a n a l u m n i a l l ow e d h e r t o b e t t e r c o n n e c t w i t h c u r r e nt s t u d e nt s , a n d e v e r y o n e l e f t t h e c h ap e l t h at d ay m o r e i n f o r m e d a n d u n d e r s t a n d i n g . t o Ha r v a r d a n d e v e n t u a l l y t o b e - o n t h e i s s u e o f t r a n s g e n d e r- g e t i c s t a n d i n g ov at i o n , a t e s t a Ta l k i n g s p e c i f i c a l l y a b o u t c o m i n g a d o c t o r a t Pe n n S t a t e . S h e i s m a t a n a l l - b o y s s c h o o l , w h e r e m e nt b o t h t o t h e q u a l i t y o f h e r h e r e x p e r i e n c e s a t B e l m o n t H i l l e x p l a i n e d h o w, h e r e n t i r e l i f e , s h e m a ny i n t h e c o m m u n i t y a r e a l - s p e e c h , a n d t h e o p e n m i n d e d a s a s t u d e n t a n d f o o t b a l l p l a y e r, f e l t l i k e s o m e t h i n g w a s o f f h e r w i t h r e a d y q u e s t i o n i n g h o w t h e s c h o o l n e s s o f t h e c o m mu n i t y a s a w h o l e . After wards, she met with L e v i n e a l s o r e l a t e d h e r j o u r n e y g e n d e r, b u t s h e c o m p a r t m e n t a l ized those feelAs t h e s p e e ch c am e t o an a s m a l l e r g r o u p o f t e a c h e r s a n d ings until her e n d , t h e st u d e nt s g av e an s t u d e nt s i n Mc P h e r s o n t o a n s w e r early forties. e about e n e r g e t i c stan ding ov at i o n , a qL uGeBsTt i oins ssu easn dat Bt aellkm omnto rHi At t h a t p o i n t , ll, the D r. L e v i n e b e - te stam e nt b ot h to t h e qu alit y t r a n s i t i o n i n g p r o c e s s , a n d h e r j o b g a n t h e t r a n - of h e r s p e e ch , an d t h e o p e n a s t h e P hy s i c i a n G e n e r a l . O v e rs i t i o n i n g p r o - min d e dn e s s of t h e c ommu - a l l , D r. L e v i n e’s c h ap e l t a l k w a s cess, living life a n i nt e r e s t i n g a n d i n f o r m at i v e nit y a s a w h o l e . completely as s p e e c h t h at s h e d l i g ht o n a v e r y a woman just a i mp o r t a nt i s s u e i n o u r s o c i e t y, f e w y e a r s l a t e r. w o u l d r e a c t t o a t r a n s g e n d e r s t u - a n d c e r t a i n l y h e l p e d e n c o u r a g e D r. L e v i n e d e nt . As t h e s p e e c h c a m e t o a n s t u d e nt s t o k e e p a n o p e n m i n d also t o u c h e d e n d , t h e s t u d e nt s g av e a n e n e r- w h e n c o n s i d e r i n g s u c h i d e a s . ☐
The Belmont Hill Debate Team after the Exeter Debate
Hunter Present ‘17 to Represent BH at Debate World Championships at the prestigious 2017 World Individual Debating and More news came; details of Public Speakwhat transpired at the Exeter Debate ing ChampionTournament were filtering back into ships in Sydthe bus as it raced southward back to- ney, Australia. wards Belmont. Initially, there were “I have just rumors about Belmont Hill’s per- no words. Just formance, but then it became clear no words,” the that Sunday’s debate was revolution- notoriously arar y for Belmont Hill. Sixth Former ticulate PresHunter Present ‘17, a veteran ad- ent said to his vanced debater, won first place at the fellow master debaters in Present is the first debater from the bus. Even previBelmont Hill to make it to the though ous Belmont world stage in a quarter-century. Hill debaters have come Exeter tournament and, as a result, close to winearned a spot on the US debate team ning WorldsArmin Thomas Panel Staff
q u a l i f y i n g suit in which scores of 80-85 are t o u r n a m e n t s considered average. His final tally (notably Alex for the day was 269 out of a possible C z a r n e c k i 300 points, the highest from Belmont ‘17), Present is Hill and the highest from all schools. the first debat- Initially fellow debaters on the bus er from Bel- were incredulous as pranks about mont Hill to debaters making Worlds have been a actually make common feature of Belmont Hill postit to the world debate activity. As more and more restage in a ports came in from Alex Czarnecki, quarter-centu- who stayed behind in the northern r y. He earned climes of Exeter to collect scores, the this spot by unthinkable became real and celebrareceiving an tion erupted inside the bus. Hunter e x t r a o r d i n a r y Present has made histor y for Belmont and outstand- Hill, and he has put officially Belmont ing score of 94 Hill debate on the map. Between now out of a possi- and April, Hunter will be practicing ble 100 points his debating skills to show the world in his first the virtues of Belmont Hill. We wish round of de- him success as he travels down under bating, a pur- to Sydney to take home the big gavel. ☐
winsor NEWS
Pa g e 4
Th e Pan el
Interview with Izzy Thorndike on Gender Identity By Juliet Isselbacher Panel Staff T h e re c e nt i n it i at i v e of Sp e c t r u m - - Wi n s or’s c lu b f or L G BT Q + s tu d e nt s a n d a l l i e s - - t o l a b e l a l l b at h ro om s a s g e n d e r n e ut r a l h a s d r aw n att e nt i on f rom s tu d e nt s a n d f a c u lt y a l i k e . In l i g ht of t h i s s c h o o l - w i d e d i s c u s s i on re g a rd i n g g e n d e r i d e nt it y, Iz z y T h or n d i k e ’ 1 9 a g re e d t o s h a re t h e i r p e r s p e c t i v e a s a p e r s on w h o i d e nt i f i e s a s g e n d e r n onbi n a r y.
How wou l d you des c r ib e you r ge nd e r i d e nt it y ?
I i d e nt i f y as n onbi n a r y, m e a n i n g t h at my g e n d e r d o e s n ot f it w it h i n t h e g e n d e r bi n a r y ( t h e i d e a t h at e v e r y on e i s e i -
Gender neutral bathroom sign
t h e r a b oy or a g i r l ) . I u s e t h e y / T h i s qu e s t i on i s s om e t h i n g t h e w or l d d o e s n ' t re a l l y k n ow t h at t h e m pron ou n s t o d e s c r i b e my s e l f I ' v e t h ou g ht a b out a l ot a c t u a l l y. g e n d e rqu e e r / n onbi n a r y p e op l e i n s t e a d of s h e / h e r, b e c au s e t h e y / S i n c e I w a s r a i s e d a s a g i r l , s o c i a l - e v e n e x i s t , a ny s or t of i n s t itut i on t h e m pron ou n s h av e a c om f or t - i z e d a s a g i r l , a n d a m s t i l l , f or t h e t h at k n ow s a b out t h e my t h of t h e a b l e s e n s e of g e n d e r a mbi g u it y. m o s t p a r t , s e e n a s a g i r l , I a m s t i l l g e n d e r bi n a r y s h ou l d t a k e a n a c t i v e Wh at are s ome m i s c onc e p - a f f e c t e d by s e x i s m , m i s o g y ny, a n d p a r t i n d e s t roy i n g t h at a n d prov i d t i ons ab out you r ge nd e r i d e nt it y ? a l l t h e re s t r i c t i on s t h at t h e w or l d i n g t h e s a m e k i n d s of a d v a nt a g e s A c om m on m i s c on c e pt i on t e n d s t o f orc e on w om e n . For t h at of s i n g l e - g e n d e re d s c h o o l s f or k i d s a b out a n on bi n a r y g e n d e r i d e nt it y re a s on , I f i n d " a l l g i r l s " s p a c e s t o w h o a re g e n d e rqu e e r / n onbi n a r y. i s t h at it d o e s n ' t e x i s t . A lt h ou g h b e pre tt y e mp ow e r i n g , a s I f e e l t h e re i s a n i n c re a s i n g aw a re n e s s of t h at t h e y ' re p l a c e s w h e re g i r l s a n d Wh at , i f any t h i ng , d o e s t r a n s g e n d e r p e op l e , it i s s t i l l c om - w om e n a re t au g ht t o b e c on f i d e nt Wi ns or ne e d to ch ange ab out m on l y b e l i e v e d t h at t h e y c a n on l y a n d i n d e p e n d e nt . I a m , of c ou r s e , t he w ay it d i s c u ss e s and u n t r a n s it i on w it h i n t h e bi n a r y ( i . e . a hu g e f e m i n i s t , a n d I l ov e , s up - d e rst and s ge nd e r i d e nt it y ? f rom m a l e t o f e m a l e or f rom f e m a l e p or t , a n d b e n e f it f rom t h e t e a c h i n g It w ou l d b e aw e s om e i f g e n d e r t o m a l e ) . How e v e r, g e n d e r i s a c tu a l - of t h o s e v a lu e s t o g i r l s of a l l a g e s . i d e nt it i e s b e s i d e s ju s t t h e bi n a r y l y m ore of a s p e c t r u m t h a n a bi n a r y. How e v e r, it ' s of t e n v e r y d i f f i c u lt on e s ( m a l e a n d f e m a l e ) w e re a d t o f e e l t h at I ' m p a r t of a c om mu - d re s s e d i n c l a s s d i s c u s s i on s a b out How do you re c onc i l e n it y w h e re my i d e nt it y i s n ot re c - g e n d e r. G e n d e r i s c omp l i c at e d , a n d you r i d e nt it y w it h Wi ns or’s d e f i - o g n i z e d or i s c on s t a nt l y i g n ore d . t h e re i s c u r re nt l y s t i g m a a rou n d n it i on a s an “a l l - g i rl s s cho ol ? ” T h e re i s a T O N of g e n d e re d l a n - t h e i d e a of b e i n g n onbi n a r y, s o it g u a g e t h at f l o at s a l l ov e r Wi n s or, w ou l d b e re a l l y c o o l i f p e op l e w e re a n d t h e f a c t t h at t h e l a r g e m aj or- ju s t m ore op e n - m i n d e d t o t h e i d e a it y of s tu d e nt s h e re D O i d e nt i f y of i d e nt it i e s t h e y ' v e n e v e r h e a rd of . a s f e m a l e m a k e s it pre tt y e a s y t o B ut m o s t i mp or t a nt l y, g e n d e re d l a n f or g e t t h at n ot EV E RYO N E d o e s . g u a g e i s n ' t v e r y f u n t o h e a r. Te a c h e r s of t e n u s e t h e t e r m " t h e av e r a g e In you r opi n i on , Wi n s or g i r l " a n d a l s o a d d re s s t h e i r w ho “ b el ong s” at Wi ns or ? c l a s s e s a s " g i r l s " a n d " l a d i e s .” T h i s T h i s i s a d i f f i c u lt qu e s t i on , l a n g u a g e w e a r s d ow n on my s e l f s e e i n g a s I c a n ' t s p e a k f or a l l c on f i d e n c e a n d pr i d e i n my i d e nt it y t r a n s / g e n d e r q u e e r / n o n b i n a r y / e t c . w h e n I h e a r it e v e r y f i v e m i nut e s . p e op l e w h o m i g ht att e n d Wi n s or. I c a n re a l l y s p e a k on l y f or my How c an non - ge nd e rqu e e r s e l f . I t h i n k t h at a ny on e w h o f e e l s Wi ns or stu d e nt s b e tte r supp or t you ? t h e y b e l on g h e re h a s a r i g ht t o d o It w ou l d b e re a l l y aw e s om e s o, a n d I t h i n k t h e s c h o o l s h ou l d i f p e op l e s t a r t e d u s i n g my c or re c t b e op e n t o a c c e pt i n g s tu d e nt s of pron ou n s ! It w ou l d m e a n a l ot t o g e n d e r i d e nt it i e s a l l a c ro s s t h e m e , e s p e c i a l l y s i n c e it’s a c h a n g e s p e c t r u m . I ' m pre tt y s u re I b e - t h at’s n ot t o o d i f f i c u lt t o w or k l on g - - at l e a s t m o s t of t h e t i m e . i nt o y ou r v o c a bu l a r y. It m a k e s m e f e e l re s p e c t e d , l ov e d , a n d s up As s ome one w ho s e e s ge n - p or t e d w h e n p e op l e u s e my c or re c t d e r a s a sp e c t r u m , d o you b el i e ve pron ou n s , but w h e n p e op l e c a l l t h at t he c onc e pt of a s i ng l e - s e x m e " s h e , " it c a n f e e l d i s c ou r a g i n g s cho ol i s i n he re nt ly probl e m at i c ? a n d d e f l at i n g . Ev e n i f y ou t h i n k No. L i k e I s a i d b e f ore , I t h i n k it m i g ht b e h a rd t o re m e mb e r a l l t h at a l l - f e m a l e s p a c e s c a n b e s up e r t h e t i m e , at l e a s t m a k i n g a n e f f or t e mp ow e r i n g a n d d o aw e s om e t h i n g s t o u s e t h e m w ou l d b e s o appre c i f or w om e n . B ut t h i s i s a c omp l e x at e d . Ta l k i n g a b out m e , y ou m i g ht qu e s t i on b e c au s e I a l s o t h i n k t h at s ay, “ T h e y w e nt t o t h e p a r k . T h e y h av i n g a ny s or t of qu a l i f i c at i on brou g ht t h e i r f r i s b e e t o t h e p a r k b a s e d on g e n it a l i a i s pre t t y r i d i c u - w it h t h e m . T h e y p l ay e d f r i s b e e w it h l ou s . S o y e a h , I t h i n k s i n g l e - g e n - t h e m s e l f .” T h a n k y ou i n a d v a n c e ! d e re d s p a c e s c a n b e pre tt y g re at ; A n d s t ay tu n e d f or Sp e c t r u m’s Va l h ow e v e r, I t h i n k i n a t i m e w h e re e nt i n e’s D ay D a n c e i n Fe br u a r y ! ☐ Onwardstate.com
Reflections on Community Curriculum Day
portunity to learn about their own areas of interest within the election, Community Curriculum Day also allowed some Every four years coinciding with the juniors and seniors to lead workshops presidential race, Winsor holds its Com- and educate their peers about potentially munity Curriculum Day - an entire day unfamiliar topics. Erin Simshauser ’17, dedicated to discussing the 2016 election. who taught the workshop “Gender and This year’s chaotic and, at times, nail- the Election” along with Maggie Hart ’17 biting election promised interesting and and Betsy Kim ’17, explained, “Gender is provocative discussion. Students could obviously a very controversial matter in pick two workshops to attend through- this election… [Maggie, Betsy, and I] felt out the day, some led by Winsor alums like we could use this workshop as an opand outside speakers, and others were led portunity to provide a different spin on a by Winsor students. In one workshop, topic that is so widely discussed but only titled “Finding a Voice Through Cartoon- in a one-sided manner.” Maggie Hart ’17 ing,” Winsor alum Sage Stossel ’89 spoke agreed, saying, “the student-run nature about her experience covering the elec- of Community Curriculum Day gave us tion through political cartoons. In an- a opportunity to discuss aspects of genother, titled “Ms. Tyler Goes to Beacon der that we wouldn’t have been able to Hill,” State Representative Chyna Tyler and discuss in a normal classroom setting.” Campaign Manager Frank Farrow shared their insights into the process of organizFor those who have not experienced ing a campaign on the local level. Amanda a Community Curriculum Day before, Lu ’17 praised the variety of workshops November 4th was a new experience. this year, commenting that she was “re- Though some may find it questionable ally impressed with all the different angles to halt classes for an entire day, Commufrom which we’re examining the election.” nity Curriculum Day was a incredibly insightful and informative experience that Aside from giving students the op- reminded students of the relevance of By Abigail Weyer and Betsy Kim Panel Staff
Political cartoon by Winsor alum Sage Stossel ’89
Sagestossel.com
discussion outside standard academic cur- I am grateful to have experienced before ricula. Priya Shukla ’17, who came to Win- I left Winsor.” On behalf of the Panel, we sor freshman year, commented, “Though I would like to thank Mr. Braxton and stuwas unsure about how the day would turn dent workshop leaders for putting Comout, it was a really unique opportunity that munity Curriculum Day together. ☐
winsor NEWS
Novemb er 21, 2016
Pa g e 5
New Wellesley College President Committed to Women’s Health and Education Johnson is very aware of the fact that, in the perspectives of her students, “women face distinctive challenges” such as “unequal On September 30, 2016, Wellesley pay for work” and “vast underrepresentaCollege held an inauguration ceremony tion at the highest levels across professions for President Paula Johnson. The ceremony and industries.” She reflects that these setbegan with a colorful parade: faculty membacks are minor, and that women, especially bers wearing the robes of their alma maters, Wellesley women, know that “the world students representing sports teams, and is far better off with women at the table.” alumnae wearing their class colors. After Arielle Mitropoulos, a Winsor alumthe processional of faculty, students, and nae from the Class of 2015 and current alumnae, President Johnson entered the Wellesley College student, reflected on her ceremony and was met with loud cheers experience having a new Wellesley College and chants of “PJ! PJ!”, a nickname given President: “Everyone has been very excited to her by the Wellesley College students. to welcome President Johnson to WellesWellesley students were excited ley. With the coming of a new President, a about the appointment of President Paula new era is ushered, bringing new and fresh A. Johnson as the fourteenth president of ideas, and perhaps different ways of leadWellesley College, which is a prominent ing the school. President Johnson has been liberal arts school in Wellesley, Massachuvery visible about making an effort to meet setts. She has held impressive leadership as many students as possible. She is a dypositions at world-renowned institutions namic, and successful woman in her field, such as the chief of the Division of Womand is a great role model for all women.” Bostonglobe.com Though President Johnson has only begun en’s Health at Harvard Medical School President Johnson addresses Wellesley students and the Brigham and Women’s Hospi- tion” who will “lead a university of some Johnson remarked in her speech at the latter her direction at Wellesley College, she has tal, and as a professor of epidemiology at of the smartest, toughest, most passion- part of the program. “In these women, I see been a strong female role model at Wellesthe Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public ate women on earth.” Using her kind and the power of education to change women’s ley and shown exceptional leadership in Health. Her presidency is historic: she is powerful words, Senator Warren ultimately lives and create a better world. I see the pow- her previous fields. Her example can inspire both the first African-American and the conveyed the great benefit of having such er of shared experience, shared ideas, shared Winsor girls as well. They are independent first physician president of the school. a strong female leader and pioneer lead- commitments, across time and space, across and passionate girls who will one day drive The inauguration program began ing Wellesley College for the years to come. cultures and identities. I give gratitude to the movement for the representation of with speeches by many distinguished “I am here today because of a 30- them and for them,” she continued. She de- women in various fields, become the role women. In her speech, the Senator of Mas- year career in women’s health, and my deep clared that in order to move forward and models that all young women and girls will sachusetts Elizabeth Warren described commitment to women’s education. I stand grow even stronger united, women must strive to be, and be the most hardworkPresident Johnson “as a woman of great before you on the shoulders and hard-won look to spirited and motivated women past ing and inspiring women in their fields. ☐ vision who pursues excellence with sharp wisdom of so many women who laid the for both answers and courage. Although intelligence and unwavering determina- groundwork and pointed the way,” President she sees great hope for women, President By Alison Poussaint Panel Staff
Students snap a selfie with Paula Johnson and Elizabeth Warren
Bostonglobe.com
Creepy Clown Sightings Sweep across the Country By Juliet Isselbacher Panel Staff America’s very first clown sighting occurred three decades ago, right here in Massachusetts; in 1981, Brookline children reported that a clown attempted to lure them into his van with candy. The subsequent wave of purported sightings died down within a month, only to be revived in 1985, 1991, and, now, in 2016. Some type of comic entertainer can be identified in almost every culture. Take, for example, the jester YuSze who amused Imperial Chinese emperors, or the fool stupidus who delighted Ancient Roman rulers. Yet the first true antecedent of our modern clown was Joseph Grimaldi, who diverted the masses in nineteenth century London. Grimaldi, who suffered from depression, alcoholism, and constant bodily
pain, would tell his audiences, “I am grim all day, but I make you laugh at night.” Charles Dickens took on the project of Grimaldi’s memoir, in which he examined the dissonance between the man’s internal suffering and external humor. This “straddling of opposites” --which Sigmunc Freud would define as “unheimlich” or uncanny-- triggers, in most people, powerful feelings of unease and discomfort. Dickens thus introduced a degree of creepiness into the public’s conception of clowns. But clowns only began to invite real suspicion in the 1990s, when John Wayne Gacy, who often donned the persona of Pogo the Clown, was convicted of sexually assaulting and killing dozens of young men. Before his arrest, Gacy remarked to police, “You know… clowns can get away with murder.” “The Great Clown Scare of 2016” be-
Creepy clown gan in August, when children in South Carolina reported that clowns had attempted to lure them into the woods with flashing green lights. Sightings soon swept across most American states, nine Canadian provinces, and eighteen other countries, including Australia, Mexico, and Germany. Many chalk this clown scare up to mass hysteria. Yet perhaps these sightings should not be dismissed entirely as harmless hoaxes: some have forced school closings and resulted in arrests, while others have been linked to robberies, assaults, and the fatal stabbing of a sixteen year old boy. The Clown Scare has even prompted a comment from White House press secretary John Earnest, who assured reporters, “Obviously, this is a situation that local law enforcement authorities take quite seriously. And they should carefully and thoroughly review perceived threats to the safety of the com-
Thenypost.com munity, and they should do so prudently.” Predicting that pranksters would dress as clowns on Halloween, some Americans resolved to arm themselves before trick-or-treating. “I’ll be carrying for sure,” reported one Florida resident. “I’m terrified of clowns already and if one messes with me or my kids it’ll be to the hospital or morgue they go.” Halloween indeed proved scary for many: Margaret Michalowski ’17 shared, “On Halloween, I was chased by a clown with a chainsaw. It was pretty terrifying, since it’s impossible to tell the difference between a kid trying to scare people and a real threat.” That’s why, in fact, police across the country warned people against dressing as clowns on the holiday, even with the threat of criminal prosecution and civil liability. “Only in America,” sighed the President of the World Clown Association. ☐
BELMONT HILL OPINION
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Th e Pan el
The STEM Imperative: A Spotlight on New Learning at BH
By Arnav Prasad Panel staff The advocacy for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) initiatives at Belmont Hill—whether through engineering robots in the iLab, writing code for the newly established AP Computer Science class, or attending the Sherman Lecture series in the Chapel—has emerged as a principal focus of the school curriculum. Supported by faculty, parents, and alumni alike, increasing access to cutting-edge facilities has empowered students to indulge in their creative instincts and passions. Around campus, students of all grades have demonstrated the appeal of a newly popular academic model: experiential learning.
as a mode of innovation, remarking, “Engineers never have a rote situation that’s really trivial and just involves applying an equation.” Belmont Hill’s commitment to experiential learning in STEM has come to fruition in the development of several programs and facilities. In addition to this, Advanced Science Research (ASR) has propelled a select group of Juniors and Seniors to the frontiers of science and technology research. Paired with local laboratories at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Medical School, MIT, and Massachusetts General Hospital, ASR students explore their scientific research interest, adopting independent projects to present at Regeneron Student Talent Search (previously known as the Intel Student Talent Search) by senior year. As the only two-year course at the school, Juniors accepted to the program learn to juggle their responsibilities as both students and research assistants in local laboratories. Experiential learning is engaging; After being accepted into the ASR it empowers students with an education that program as a sophomore, Massimo Aufiero ‘18 is both practical and innovative. The learning has dedicated himself to biomedical research model not only requires a keen understanding in the laboratory of Dr. Xandra O. Breakefield of material, but also gauges problem-solving at Mass. General Hospital. As a highly skills. Beyond Belmont Hill, local institutions accomplished student, Massimo risen to the such as Harvard University have reevaluated top of his class in the math and sciences; he was the principles behind modern education, awarded a New England Mathematics League emphasizing the importance of experiential Award at 2016’s Prize Day as the cumulative top learning in STEM fields. At the School of scorer in the Upper School math competition. Engineering and Applied Sciences at Harvard Despite his love for physics, Massimo realized University (SEAS), experiential learning has his aptitude for biology in his sophomore year become a core component of approximately during his AP Biology course: “I have always one-third of engineering courses. According been interested in physics, but I really never to former dean of SEAS at Harvard University knew that I had a passion for biology until last Cherry Murray, experiential learning enables year.” Following David Yellen ‘16, who worked at students to have “the confidence to address Dr. Breakefield’s laboratory as a student during problems and not be afraid that you don’t have his ASR course, Massimo seized the opportunity the background.” When applied to STEM, to explore a research area which challenged and Murray stresses the value of experiential learning gauged his newfound interest in biomedicine.
Technology Restrictions
Using CRISPR, a novel gene-editing technique, to address dystonia, a neurological disease with a genetic basis, Massimo has concentrated on understanding the intricacies of the research topics and learning laboratory techniques while working under the guidance of laboratory postdocs. In addition to conducting cutting-edge research that can translate into meaningful therapeutics, Massimo commented that “building relationships” with leaders in scientific research is an opportunity that is wholly unique to ASR. “I look forward to going to the laboratory more often during winter break and through the summer. After researching at such a high level, I already feel that this is a career path I want to pursue,” noted Massimo. The success of ASR students serves as a testament to value of experiential learning in Belmont Hill. As a complement to a conventional AP curriculum, an experiential model of learning empowers Belmont Hill students to apply the knowledge learnt in the classroom while developing novel skills in problemsolving and communication. Nonetheless, as other programs begin to immerse students in experiential learning at the school, Belmont Hill’s renewed enthusiasm around STEM and innovation reflects both the student body and the faculty’s dedication to addressing real-world issues, a commitment key to a Belmont Hill education. ☐
A Letter to Progressives
students had more internet freedom and, therefore, more responsibility. They could choose to be unproductive with their time, sacrificing leisure time and sleep. Speaking from personal experience, students learn to be productive quickly. In life beyond Belmont Hill, there will be distractions, but there won’t be someone to hold our hands. In its attempt to improve productivBy Richie Kendall and ity among students, the school is setting Charlie Donahue us up for a rude awakening in college and Panel Staff beyond. While this article may slightly overstate the long-term consequences of By Philip Bailey this singular policy, the core principle holds Continued from the front page Founder of Young Progressives true. The cumulative effect of such policies In addition to taking precious time hampers preparation for life beyond Belout of the school day, this new policy is mont Hill. In thirty years, most of us won’t To all my Progressives out there, contradictory to what Belmont Hill should remember chemical properties or quotes aim to teach boys. One of the greatest from The Scarlet Letter. Skills like time It is not an easy time for us. We skills that can be acquired through a prep management, however, will be utilized on a haven’t had this little representation since at school education is time management. daily basis. least 1928. Hopefully, 2017 does not turn Like the majority of other life skills, this is Therefore, we urge Belmont Hill to out like 1929. Regardless, we could lose something that must be learned on one’s scrap these ineffectual restrictions and help a lot over the next four years. But we are own, through careful practice and repeated students learn what will serve them best. ☐ progressives - we just don’t know how to decision making. Under the old system, remain anything but hopeful. Don’t give up-there does appear to be a silver lining in this election. The Democratic party appears to be finally realizing that it must fully embrace the progressive wing of the party. Hillary lost because the Rust Belt was not going to be sold on a corporate politician yet again. States like Wisconsin and Michigan needed a president who would not continue to allow manufacturing jobs to be shipped away. But that president wasn’t Trump: it was Bernie. The primaries were biased against Bernie. The chair of the DNC, Debbie Wasserman Schultz was the chair of Hillary’s campaign in 2008. When she finally reLastWeekTonight, a satirical news show on HBO presented by John Oliver, is completely blocked on YouTube, despite its being signed, she was replaced by Donna Brazile, assigned as homework for numerous classes, most notably for Global Economics who leaked a debate question to Hillary. But after the election, Bernie & Elizabeth Warren quickly endorsed Keith Ellison to
be the new DNC chair. The first Muslim elected to congress, he is a strong progressive who endorsed Bernie in the primaries. Surprisingly, Harry Reid, the departing senate democratic leader, and Chuck Schumer, the likely incoming leader, have also endorsed Keith. The establishment is finally coming around, and they are ready to let us into the fold. When we are proud of our beliefs, when we stand tall for the middle class, that’s when we win. During the primaries, we were tired of being told we were too progressive. We were tired of being told we were unelectable. Unfortunately, now we have Trump in the White House. His recent college debt plan adds fuel to the idea that he is a progressive in disguise. But we cannot bank on that. The Democratic Establishment is ready for us, & we are not going to hold a grudge (even though we would be justified to do so). We are ready to fight for a future to believe in. With boundless optimism for the promise of America, Philip Bailey
Novemb er 21, 2016
BELMONT HILL OPINION
Pa g e 7
Opposites Attract: Climate Change In this issue of the Panel, we are continuing a tradition of good-hearted debate between two Belmont Hill VI Formers, Phil Bailey and Robbie Warming. In it, they will satirically argue views completely contrary to their true beliefs. We are proud to present: “Opposites Attract.”
Team Bleeding Heart Liberal
Team Libertarian (What is Aleppo?)
the knowledge that he will die. He told me everything is fine because a piece of him By Philip Bailey lives on through his children and grandPanel staff children. That might sound like a good argument to save the Earth for our own Alright, let’s get this out of the descendents. But none of that will matway. Of course climate change is real. 99% ter when the entirety of human history is of scientists are in agreement. My Repubthrown into a massive furnace never to be lican friends like to tell me that number is discovered again. It would be kind of nice inflated and only 97% of scientists agree. if our descendants could live a good life. No difference, really. Climate change is But earth is just a tiny speck in the universe. going to be extremely harmful to all of And our universe is likely just one universe humanity. If climate change continues to in whatever unit is larger than the universe. be left unheeded, our current global world So who cares about our grandchildren? order will, in time, be uprooted by politiWho really cares about anything? I assume cal change. The world’s poorest countries that logic is why no one cares about me. It will be decimated by the effects of climate must be cause they are too consumed with change that they barely contributed to. the meaningless of life to care about me, Their people will flee in massive numbers right? That’s why I became a Libertarian. and overwhelm Western governments to If we are all going to die eventually, who would become an island. The Muddy River the point of collapse. Now, that may sound cares about dying a bit sooner from climate By Robbie Warming would go from a boring ditch to the Muddy bad to many people. But quite frankly, I change? Sure, government intervention Panel staff Ocean. At 25 feet, Beacon Hill would be the call that the Libertarian Platform. could prevent climate change, but governAnd besides, even if the clenching only point of land remaining of the “city ment is lame. I should give a Woodbury Climate change is happening, and upon a hill”. That’s a pun. Boston would lit- fist of pollution that will eventually strangle speech about this. Oh wait, nevermind, politicians have to recognize it. No, this erally consist of only a hill. I’d be surprised our children into death’s cold hands is those speeches are just for personal stories. unappealing to you, take solace in the fact isn’t a Chinese conspiracy. No, the Sun will if there were a city still on top of it. In fact, if we are all going to die anyway, not engulf the Earth before sea levels rise. So what do I do about it? I make a that the sun will, in a few billion years, grow and I have no one who cares about me, why This is real. difference. I make political posts on Face- to encompass the Earth. When I was a don’t I just end it now? ☐ Ninety-nine percent of scienbook. I drive a Prius. It has 58 miles to the child, I asked my father how he deals with tists recognize that human-driven climate gallon and is very green. I also don’t shower change is happening. But you don’t need in order to save water. I make an enormous to have a PhD to understand that. In fact, difference with my personal sacrifices for you don’t even need to be in AP Environ- Mother Earth, and I’m going to let you mental Science (or AP Daycare) to grasp know every single chance I get. the concept of climate change. It’s all in the This past election, I voted for the numbers. From 1980 to 2012, the averonly candidate who will shut all the coal age temperature rose 1 degree Celsius. mines down. Yeah, that’s right. I’m with Though that doesn’t seem like much, on her and not with coal. In order to dig out average, such a rise in temperature can the cancer that is air pollution, you need to be catastrophic. If we keep heading in the kill it at its source. Will nearly one million direction we’re going, humanity will pay the American blue collar workers lose their price. jobs? Sure. Would this destroy the econoAround 2.96 billion people, or mies of some of the poorest parts of the about forty percent of the world’s popula- country? Okay, yeah. Would Appalachia tion, live within 62 miles of the ocean. become even more impoverished than it is When the polar ice melts and sea levels rise, today? I mean… Will people starve? Okay, as they already have been doing, millions maybe a lil… of lives and billions of dollars in property But the environment matters more would be in danger. Boston would be at than all that. Screw American workers, all particular risk. If the ocean were to rise they’ve done is elect a President Trump. just five feet, parts of both Cambridge and Slash and burn coal jobs… Right? ☐ South Boston would flood. At twelve feet, the Back Bay would flood, and Boston
A Letter to Conservatives
party, the party left me. Clinton, a strong Libertarian run would Since 2012, the GOP had been pressure Republicans to get back on course. making strides to better itself and the Boy, was I wrong… country. They conducted a post-Romney Now that we have President-Elect autopsy and finally started to reach out to Trump, we have to fight tooth and nail to minorities and women. They adopted a ensure American Conservatism survives. more socially tolerant platform, and instead Donald Trump’s racist, sexist, and big focused their efforts on shrinking a bloated government rhetoric cannot take over our federal government. Things were looking movement. In fact, he has already proposed good. But then Donald Trump came along. a student loan plan that is more left than With Donald Trump’s highjacking of President Obama’s current plan. the GOP, Republicans abandoned their In these next four years, we as Conservacore values of patriotism and responsible tives must remain vigilant. We must fight government. Their platform was replaced for the Constitutional, God-given rights of by Trump’s hateful rhetoric and reckless our neighbors. We must ensure that freeBy Robbie Warming government spending. How ironic that the dom of speech survives. We must ensure President of the Belmont Hill face of the Party of Lincoln was attacking that our government, now completely in Johnson/Weld Youth Chapter the Black Lives Matter movement, alienat- Republican control, conducts itself in the ing swathes of young black voters… most streamlined fashion as possible. For the presidential election, I had To be perfectly honest, I have no idea what My fellow Conservatives, nowhere to turn but to Gary Johnson, a for- Trump will be like. However, I do know mer Republican governor who was fiscally that Congress is filled with principled ConLast spring, I proudly registered to vote as a Republican. Two months later, conservative and socially tolerant. I thought servatives uneasy with the idea of a Trump presidency. They will feel pressured to folI became an independent. I didn’t leave the that, after Trump was walloped by Hillary
low Trump’s plan, and we must make sure that that does not happen. We must stay involved: contact our congressmen, rally Conservative voters, and support groups like the American Civil Liberties Union. In two years, we must elect a Conservative congress to buffer the bombastic Donald. And in 2020, let’s get another nominee. American Conservatism is in danger, but it’s not dead yet. Its survival is now on us. In Liberty, Robbie Warming
Winsor Opinion
Pa g e 8
Th e Pan el
Where in the World are the Winsor Girls?
Catching up with a few of Winsor’s students studying away this year Alison Poussaint Panel Staff At some point during this semester, you may have noticed a lack of Class VII students on your sports team, at lunch, or in class and might have wondered, where are they? Many Class VII students are attending Semester Away programs or School Year Abroad (SYA) programs around or out of the country during the school year. Every year representatives from each program visit Class VI students to inform them about the programs offered during their Class VII year. The students who take interest in the Semester Away programs or SYA programs apply to the programs a few weeks after the information sessions. The programs run during either the fall or spring semester or over the course of the whole year. Eight Class VII students are currently attending Semester Away or SYA programs. The programs that these students are attending include The School for Ethics and Global Leadership in Washington D.C., The Mountain School (TMS) in Vershire, Vermont, and CITYterm at the Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, New York for the Semester-Away programs during the fall semester. The School Year Abroad programs that students are attending this year are School Year Abroad: China and School Year Abroad: Spain. An informative survey, sent out to this year’s participants, documented the experiences of three students, whose responses give enriching insight into the events and experiences of the programs.
Please give a 1-2 line description of the program you are in and where it is located: Meera Narayanan-Pandit: I am currently at The Mountain School, which is located in Vershire, Vermont. Mikako Murphy: I am at CITYterm which is an experience based semester away program in New York that takes learning in classrooms and transfers it to learning opportunities in the city. Lena Venkatraman: I am attending School Year Abroad in Beijing, China.
Which classes are you taking?
demic class. We also have a block each day called “Work Program.” We are divided into multiple groups that change every day so that I am always working with new people and doing different jobs. I’ve worked in the gardens, in the forest chopping wood, in the kitchen helping prepare meals, or even learning how to orienteer a compass and learn the land of Vershire. MM: We have Urban Core classes and lots of different projects like making a small magazine about an activist movement, event, or activist, expressing the Brooklyn Bridge in the form of art, reading buildings, giving a tour on a building in the Lower East Side, and many, many more. LV: Environmental Science and Chinese traditional arts (calligraphy, dance, martial arts).
What is the most rewarding or favorite part of your experience so far? MNP: Probably that everything we do directly affects the school and the people here. I get to see a direct impact of my actions and the role I play in the community. MM: I think the most rewarding part of my experience so Susy Liu far is meeting the people that I have met and having the learning experi- Susy Liu ‘17 and Genna Brusie ‘17 with her CITYterm classmattes in New York ences that I have had whether that is in the dorm community, within my friend fear is to give yourself no choice to turn back. activities we do. My day is packed full and by the group, or on the greater scale of New York. end of the day I can’t believe how much I did. LV: My Chinese host famiMM: No. What do you enjoy the most ly. They’re incredible. LV: I am taking part in Chinese traabout being in a different state/ ditional dance, taijiquan, abastomedia.com and martial arts.
What has the program taught you that you would not have learned otherwise?
country and why? Are there any challenges?
What is one thing that your program has that you think Winsor MNP: At first I had trouble adapting to should have (e.g. food, an activity MNP: I have really learned how to live the rural aspect of Vershire since I’ve always lived or an event)? in the moment. Being without my phone, wifi, in the city. However, I’ve really grown into lov-
and human interaction outside of TMS, I have ing being away from my normal life and just MNP: I think that Winsor should have learned how to enjoy where I am and who I’m taking a break from my same life for 16 years. MNP: I am taking Honors English, with. I hang out with anyone who I run into MM: I love how busy and intricate New a “Winsor Olympics” event. The teams should Honors Environmental Science, Honors Phys- on campus and we are creative in ways to have York City is. In Boston, I found myself going to be intermixed between all the classes. One ics, Honors Pre-Calculus, and Honors Spanish. fun even with not being in a city or large town. the same places with the same 2 or 3 people and event could be going to lunch and choosing the MM: Chinese 1, English, Hon- I’m really glad I can just be without worry or trapping ourselves in the places that we make a most nutritious meal possible. Another event ors Precalculus, Environmental Science, stress and just enjoy what is in front of me. habit of going to. However, in New York, there could be going to each science room (Biology, and Chinese History. MM: At the core of the program, CITY- are thousands of activities every weekend and Chemistry, Physics) and doing a small thing reterm is really about discovering who you are as just so many new places and new experiences lated to each subject in that room. This could be learner and who you are in many other set- that have yet to be discovered. For me the biggest such a fun, hands-on, and Winsor-esque event! What are some of the activities/ atings MM: First of all, the dining options here as well. From the first half of the program, challenge of being away from Winsor and away classes that you are able to take at I have picked up on my strengths as a learner from home is the aspect of missing out on certain are endless and there’s basically 5 meals per meal the program that are not offered and have been able to tap into them when school traditions or just missing out on things that you have the option of eating. Second of all, needed while also improving my “weaknesses” that happen within your class, friend group, ad- there’s this whole other world of exploratory writat Winsor? in a space that applauses and appreciates failure. visory, etc. I think that by having this challenge I ing in which you take subject matter, themes, LV: I can do so much more than I have learned that I would have never been able ideas etc and relate them to yourself to find a way MNP: Environmental Science as an aca- ever thought I could. The key to overcoming to go through this experience without miss- in which what you are writing affects you directing something and to come to terms with that. ly. I think that bringing this whole up in the air LV: I enjoy doing new things every single talk about themes and motifs in a piece of writday. That is both a benefit and a challenge. I didn’t ing can be brought down onto a personal level. go through culture shock coming here, but I do LV: Opportunities for group travel face challenges in day-to-day communication. or field trips. However,Idon’tregretmydecisiontotakethisstep. The experiences in the classroom, with new activities, in a different state or country, and with Are you playing any sports or new peers at the SYA or Semester Away programs doing any after-school activities? described by students demonstrate their enthusiasm and excitement towards the programs. The If so, what are they? SYA and Semester-Away programs strive to give MNP: With Work Program every day it Class VII students a way of enriching and deepening almost feels like a sport and after-school activ- their knowledge of the world around them in a new ity combined into one! I’m always reaching that setting and very much allow students to build on 10,000 step goal on my FitBit! Hiking, chopping the knowledge they have acquired at Winsor. These wood, harvesting plants, making cider, cutting students have proven that going away for either a down trees, learning how to read a topographical semester or a full year proves tobe a very rewardmap and use it: these are just a few of the many ing, remarkable and unforgettable experience. ☐ Katherine Lempres ‘17 visiting Park Guell in Barcelona.
Novemb er 21,2016
Winsor Opinion
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Pilgrims to Pies: the Evolution of Thanksgiving
A few little known facts about Thanksgiving’s history and present Isabel Griffith-Gorgati Panel Staff
was the founder of American Ladies Magazine, the editor of Godey’s Lady Book, and an outspoken proponent of women’s education-- she even played a large role in the founding of Vassar College, originally an all-women’s institution. For decades she also advocated for the institution of the Thanksgiving tradition as a national holiday, writing articles on the subject and appealing to government officials on the regional and national level; Linc o l n made h i s
We all learned in elementary school about the “first Thanksgiving,” when European settlers in Plymouth shared a feast with Wampanoag Native Americans as a gesture of thanks for helping them achieve a fruitful first harvest. What we aren’t often taught is that it took hundreds of years for Thanksgiving to be instituted as an official national holiday. In October of 1863, Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation that Thanksgiving would be celebrated each November was meant to “heal the wounds of the naom clipartkid.c tion” in the midst of the procCivil War, which was tearlamation only days ing the country apart. after receiving a letI think it’s also worth nott e r from her on the topic. ing that the creation of the national While the original inholiday was largely thanks to a feminist tention of Thanksgiving was to bring activist named Sarah Josepha Hale. She Americans together and unify a divided
country, it has generally become a holiday more specifically about bringing together friends and family (as well as eating good food!). Christina Bulkeley ’17 reflected that T h an k s g iv ing is a special holiday wordpress.com because “the entire point is just to eat with family a n d friends—there are no religious duties or anything we have to celebrate except each other.” Siri Kazilionis ’19 said that Thanksgiving for her is a rare “time to get together with extended family. We don’t ever get together besides that one day. I love the food – my cousin makes three types of Brussels sprouts and my great uncle always brings a jello mold. There are new traditions every year.” One American tradition related to Thanksgiving that is comparatively new is Black Friday; this name first became popular in the 1950s to describe the difficult task for Philadelphia police of dealing with the influx of shoppers on the day before an important annual football game. Stores across the
country eventually managed to turn Black Friday into a (supposedly) fun national shopping tradition. Thanksgiving and Black Friday have since become linked by proximity, although the histories of the two traditions are unrelated. Nonetheless, w i t h Thanksgiving ironically followed each year by this modern-day tradition of rampant consumerism, it’s important to remember that the Thanksgiving spirit of simplicity, community, and gratitude should extend beyond the official holiday. According to Joanna Grill ’17, “Thanksgiving acts as a wakeup call for me to remember everything in my life that I should be thankful for – not just on Thanksgiving, but on every day of the year. The world would be kinder and more loving if we merely told the people we care about and value how thankful we are for them.” Although the context (and the menu) of the Thanksgiving tradition has changed over the centuries, the fundamental idea of building connections through gratitude has stuck around. ☐
So Many Choices! So Many (Early) Decisions!
A look into the pros and cons of early decision applications fees is greatly lessened if you are able admitted regular while 23.2% were ad- that, in an age in which college prestige to attend your early college and do not mitted early. When you dedicate is often based off an acceptance rate, have to submit to more schools. In addiyour application to one better statistics help colleges succeed As Winsor seniors are all too aware tion, it is an easy way to tell your college school, col- in a competitive college climate. For so of, the deadlines for most early college of choice that you are very interested many, numbers are all that seem to matapplications have just passed. There and will definitely attend if you get in. ter within the college process, are several options to apply to college However, early decision has also and this unfortunate early: including “early decision,”, “early reflected the growing competition in idea drives action,” and “restrictive early action” . college admissions within the past deAll these options give high school se- cade. As most things related to the colniors a chance to submit their applica- lege process, ED is a victim of colleges’ tion early fall and receive an admissions attempts to raise their appeal. Most colschools ultedecision right before the holidays. Ap- leges will advertise to apply early if you rior motives when adverplying “regular decision” would land are “ready” to do so by mid-fall and are tising options like early decision. m o .c 2 you a acceptance/denial letter much sure you want to go to their school. Even l e g e s Some people may be asking, “why 1 k gms later in the spring. Probably the more better, most schools boast higher acare impressed to don’t people just apply early to get the well-known deadline, however, is “early ceptance rates for those who apply early see “commitment” and it is advantage?” Although the deadline is decision” or “ED”. For ED applicants, decision compared to those who apply a greater incentive to accept. But are only two months before regular deadinstead of applying to multiple col- regular. As Lee Stetson, Dean of Ad- the other motivations at hand? One can line, many high school students are not leges at once, you dedicate your appli- missions for University of Pennsylvania easily deduce that if a college accepts ready by the early November deadline. cation to one school and, if you get in, put it, “Everybody likes to be loved, and most of its class early, since these people Being ready assumes that you have comare obligated to go there. Other than the we’re no exception. Everybody likes to who are obligated to attend, their ma- pleted and are satisfied with an SAT or chance to be done with the stress sur- see a sign of commitment, and it helps triculation rates will be quite impressive. ACT score before the fall. Additionally, rounding college applications earlier in the selection process.” The statistics Instead of, let’s say, 50% of the admit- lots of high schools do not communicate in the year, early decision poses other reflect Stetson’s words: for U Penn’s ted class deciding to enroll in the col- to their students to begin the applicabenefits. The heavy load of submission Class of 2020, only 9% of applicants were lege, 80% of the admitted class enrolls tion process until senior year starts in because 30% had to under September, leaving only two months to early decision. In addition, if get everything together. At Winsor, we a college accepts many peo- are lucky to have a college counseling ple early, it can reject more program that informs us and prepares people in the regular appli- us well during junior year so as to get cant pool, forcing down their a headstart on the college application “regular acceptance rate.” process. Therefore, we are exempt from These strategies are at work: a lot of disadvantages other high school for the Class of 2015, schools students face. However, there are still like Lehigh, Hamilton, and existing pressures of deciding to comColby admitted close to 50% mit to a school so early within the year of their class early decision. and being academically prepared for the Elizabeth Kim ’17 comments, application process by midterms. Af“it is discouraging to think ter all, the early decision got its name that those who apply regular because it is early. Colleges seem to asfor whatever reason are put sume that early deadlines have become to a disadvantage because of the new “regular.” For other students college’s incentives to admit who do not get the same advantages we a huge number of early can- do, the concept of early decision could Comparison of acceptance rates for early vs regular decision. collegeraptor.com didates.” The sad reality is be bringing more harm than good. ☐ Abby Weyer Panel Staff
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The 2016 Presidential Election: An Exclusive Look By The Panel Executive Staff Belmont Hill and Winsor The mood on Belmont Hill’s campus Wednesday morning was one of shock and disbelief. While some students were visibly distraught, and others could barely hide their massive smiles whenever talk of the election came up, the majority of the community was more stunned by the results than anything else. In class discussion, the same trend continued; some students ranted about the misinformed American voter and how the country would descend into darkness, but most were simply baffled. However, Belmont Hill as a school did
tant factor to look at. As one poll responder pointed out: “I believe that many kids are more biased against Hillary. I don’t understand why but maybe it’s because some of us boys can’t fathom the idea of a woman being president.” Compared to the poll results at Winsor, and all girls school, Hillary Clinton received far less support, and one has to wonder how much role her gender played in that. Third party voters also performed very well, earning a combined 17% of the vote, with 14% for Gary Johnson and 3% for Jill Stein. Gary Johnson’s large support group likely comes from the large amounts of fiscal conservatives at Belmont Hill who feel left out of the Republican party on social issues or dislike Trump’s rhetoric. This large third party support is a testament to the far-reaching dislike for both Trump and Clinton within the
tive, for example, Donald Trump’s name was brought up while discussing trade policy, as his proposals were directly opposed to the basic principles of economics being taught. The matter of appropriateness is an essential characteristic in discussion. In most cases, it can be determined by class. History classes have, and should have, the liberty of talking about the candidates in an unbiased perspective. On the other hand, most students feel that other classes should not unless it is directly correlates to the topic at hand. Many courses this year are tailored to the discussion of politics, such as senior year history electives, economics and world reli-
gions. If political discussion is something a student desires, they should seek it by attending clubs or signing up for classes, but the idea of teachers influencing political opinions is not one of the pillars of the teacher-student relationships that Belmont Hill promotes. Additionally, Donald Trump is a very different candidate in comparison to the typical politician. In the appropriate environment, teachers have the right to comment on the nature of his campaign as a political strategy. The reason Hillary is not quite as critiqued is not solely due to bias on teachers’ political views, but also her campaign being more typical of the political process.
“Trump’s administration...could hurt social progress indirectly. His rhetoric tapped into the fear and anger of many Americans and directed it towards immigrants, people of color, and Muslims. His administration will likely become a vessel of hatred for Americans who cling tightly to these views, emboldening them and protecting them as the sea of progression churns around them.”
little to react to the campaign results. There was no emergency chapel, no cancellation of classes, and, aside from casual discussion with faculty members in specific classes, life at Belmont Hill continued on as normal. By Thursday, talk of the campaign was dwindling, and, while certain clubs and students tried to keep the conversation going, most of the school community was already back to focusing on whatever their next assessment was. Hillary Clinton performed some-
Belmont Hill community, a mindset further proved by the 66% of students who said the two party system was not beneficial to our country. Discussion of this campaign has been pervasive at Belmont Hill since the primaries kicked off last year, but most Belmont Hill students said that they believe there was the right amount of discussion. However, many felt there was an inherent bias in this discussion, and, although there were accusations of bias towards both sides, but the consensus was, as
Belmont Hill: Is the two-party system beneficial to the country?
“I think a lot of people voted for him...because they didn’t want another four years of stagnation. He is our president, he got elected by the American people, and he will Make America Great Again.” what well at Belmont Hill, winning just over half the vote. Considering that Belmont Hill was split relatively evenly between Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, and that Mitt Romney won the school election in 2012, Clinton’s performance is somewhat out of the ordinary for Belmont Hill, but it is understandable considering the divisiveness of
put by one responder, “the administrative staff speaks more favorably about Clinton whereas the student body is more supportive of Trump.” While looking at the results from the mock election, Hillary Clinton received all but four votes from the faculty, two of which went to Donald Trump and the other two to Gary Johnson. Among students, however, the vote
Belmont Hill: Who do you support for president?
“A lot of people at Belmont Hill don’t realize that people who aren’t straight white men are fearing for their livelihood. It doesn’t matter that he held up an LGBT flag at one of his rallies, what he’s said he will do to that community is a major setback for America and the progress we’ve made.” Donald Trump’s campaign. In fact, many students were shocked that Donald Trump even received 30% of the vote, as they felt that, while technically a Republican, Trump’s rhetoric was far too harsh and students should be willing to cross party lines to vote for Clinton. In the election, Donald Trump beat Hillary Clinton 53% to 41% with males, and Clinton beat Trump 54% to 41% among women. At an all boys school, the gender impact is an impor-
was much more split, and, although Hillary Clinton still won, Donald Trump certainly received support. Another student responded that: “Teachers should not talk about politics. On a number of times teachers roast Donald Trump and only say great things about Hillary Clinton. Totally biased.” However, while teachers do certainly point out negatives about Donald Trump in class, one must wonder how much of that is justified. In the senior economics elec-
Belmont Hill: With which party do you identify?
There are strengths and shortcomings in both the Winsor and Belmont Hill communities. Winsor had a more cohesive reaction to the election’s startling result. Its impromptu school meeting was an important recognition of the election’s far reaching impacts, and encouraging political discussion in such a tumultuous election will only further students’ understanding and involvement in politics. Because Winsor provided a platform for students to express their thoughts to the community, Winsor students have the advantage of processing the results of the election together. However, data showed that Belmont Hill has a more politically diverse student body, so its students have the advantage of exposure to different political beliefs.
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Behind the Political Scenes of Belmont Hill and Winsor On the day following the election, a somber mood fell over Winsor. In hallways and classrooms alike, many students were seen crying or comforting each other. Students who walked into the senior homeroom to greet their peers or visit their lockers were met with a dead silence - many seniors simply sat on the couches without speaking, as if in shock. The school even called an impromptu Upper School meeting to provide an opportunity for students to express their feelings to the school community. Some students expressed hope, calling on the community to continue fighting for what
we believe in the coming years, instead of simply regarding this election as a defeat. Others shared genuine worries for what is to come and their personal stories about how this election has impacted themselves and their families. This meeting was intended to be a safe space for students to share their reactions to the election. Our Head of School Ms. Pelmas emphasized the importance of respecting everyone’s viewpoints, however, it’s worth noting that not one student who spoke up indicated support for Trump or expressed happiness with the result. Was this really a safe
space, if it did not serve the same purpose for someone who felt satisfied with president elect and wanted to share their sentiments with the community? Is this indicative of a larger community bias that Winsor holds? The Panel hopes that the poll we sent out a few days before the election, to which over 330 students and faculty members total responded, provides for some useful reflection upon these questions. Given the understanding that Winsor (and Massachusetts in general) is predominantly liberal, much of the data received from the pre-election poll was unsurprising: 56.6% of the 332 respondents identified as Democrats, while only 6% were Republicans. Yet, support for
and Clinton. This phenomenon is reflected in Winsor’s evident dissatisfaction with the two-party system: nearly half of the respondents were against it. But perhaps the most revealing parts of our data came from the free response sections of the poll, in which it became clear that our community does not hold one, all-inclusive stance on what happened in this election. One response succinctly described the election as “not our country’s brightest moment.” Another answer expressed disappointment in Winsor students’ treatment of Trump supporters, arguing; “We need to stop writing Trump fans off. Their support for a candidate that
“I believe that people have let blind passion and often anger cloud their ideas and ability to think about the election and the future of our nation.”
Winsor: Is the two-party system beneficial to the country?
Donald Trump was half of the latter figure, hitting just below 3%. Thus, despite party affiliations, it appears that many Winsor Republicans did not back Trump, perhaps mirroring what we are seeing on the national stage: a split within the Republican party. On the other hand, Clinton evidently picked up votes outside party lines—74.1% of respondents supported her for president. It seems that she pulled from the pool of Winsor’s independents,
so many of us find disgusting… reflects a real disaffection from lower/middle class Americans… not trying to understand their concerns is close-minded.” When prompted to describe discussion surrounding the election at Winsor, many students indicated that they felt that political discourse at school was rather one-sided. While one person responded that discussion was “heated, but all in agreement” because “everyone sup-
“Winsor is seen by the student body as a very democratic/liberal school, just because the more conservative students are, quite frankly, scared to voice their opinions for fear of being alienated/hurt by their peers.”
Winsor: Who do you support for president?
who constituted 30.4% of respondents. However, some who voted for Clinton do not wholeheartedly support her: in a free response section of the poll, many remarked that their votes for Clinton were, as one person put it, “really a ‘lesser of two evils’ vote.” The widespread dislike of both candidates perhaps contributed to the 13.6% of voters who remained undecided. Though most decided voters supported major party candidates, nearly
ports [Hillary]”, another vented that conversations were “incredibly liberal, even to the point where people turn their backs on Trump supporters rather than trying to learn about why they sympathize with such parties”. Comments on the frequency of political discourse occurred over a large range. A couple of students commented that there was “minimal discussion” in the Lower School during election; indeed, though there was a Lower School
“My home environment was celebrating the win of Donald Trump, but my classmates were mourning Hillary’s loss. My initial positivity about the outcome of the election was immediately overshadowed by the grief my classmates felt. In this moment, I didn’t know how to feel.”
Winsor: With which party do you identify?
10% of respondents went in a different direction. 1.2% chose Stein, 2.7% chose Johnson, and around 6% selected the option “Other” (presumably a write-in candidate). Like Clinton, Stein and Johnson received votes from people who did not identify with their parties: only 0.3% of respondents supported the Green Party and 1.2% supported the Libertarian Party. Either way, it seems that some Winsor voters found themselves looking for other options outside of Trump
version of the Upper School forum in which students were allowed to ask Ms. Pelmas questions, the floor was not open to student commentary. Even before these meetings occurred, one student felt restricted from discussing the election at school: “I have had teachers say ‘we’re not even going to discuss it’ and shut it down which doesn’t give us a chance to talk about with peers… School is supposed to be a place we can openly discuss the world but many times we’re told not to.”
Whether liberal or conservative, it is important that the youth stays in tune with political happenings. This election was one for the history books, and many students had their first opportunity to vote. It is essential to the future of our country that we do not shy away from controversial political discussion, but rather embrace it. Though this election may be intimidating, faith must be restored in the American political process, and this generation must play a role in doing so. As Americans who seek to benefit our communities and country, we should strive to understand all aspects of the political spectrum. If, as schools, we choose to respect all aspects of the political spectrum, we can be leaders in healing our country’s divide.
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Fall Sports Wrap-Ups Soccer Record: 3-9-2 Captains: Olivia Chapman ’17 and Alexa Green ’17 Favorite memory: “Beating LCA during our UTL rematch and our team trip to haunted farm with WVFH!” - Olivia Chapman ’17 Team motto: “Fake it ‘til you make it.” Favorite rival: LCA
Cross Country Kristie Rae Gillooly
Record: Undefeated, EIL champions Captains: Katie Cronin ’17 and Fiona Duckworth ’17 Favorite memory: “Doing the team dance after every race” Katie Cronin ’17 Team motto: “Put your pants on.” Favorite rival: Thayer!
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Crew
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Record: N/A Captains: Isabelle Bastian ’17, Ruby Eisenbud ’17, and Sophie Stone ’17 Favorite memory: The Double Ewe Regatta: Halloween regatta involving costumes where rowers cox and coxswains row. Team motto: “Pain is good, extreme pain is extremely good!” Favorite rival: The wind
Field Hockey Record: 6-6-1 Captains: Hannah Green ’17 and Helen Sayegh ’17 Favorite memory: The first time Coach Cal dabbed. Team motto: “Don’t get injured,” Favorite rival: NCDS
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Volleyball Kristie Rae Gillooly
Record: 1-0 Captains: Alexandra Belluck ’17, Emma Bernstein ’17, Susy Liu ’17, and Emma Pan ’17 Favorite memory: Beating Dana Hall at home as the underdog! Favorite rival: Dana Hall Kristie Rae Gillooly
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Kaylee Chang
KristieRae Rae Gillooly Kristie Gillooly
Novemb er 21, 2016
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What Even Is Curling?
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Featured Athlete: Madison Lehan ’18
But only one team gets the points, so whichever team has the closest stones to the middle of the house gets the points. So each team’s stone that is closer to the middle of the tarCurling at Winsor seems to be get than the nearest stone of the opposing By Hammond Hearle shrouded in mystery and confusion. team gets 1 point. Whichever team has the panel staff What does a curler do? Does one curl, most points at the end of the game, wins. or do curling? What could possibly be When asked the one thing she wanted the appeal of throwing a stone across Winsor to know about curling, Lena FulkerMadison Lehan ’18 has been an enthuice and furiously sweeping the space in son ’17 wanted to clear up the basics. She re- siastic and talented member of the soccer, front of it? Despite its prevalence as a sponded simply, “We are a real team. We have hockey and lacrosse teams at Winsor for the winter sport, Winsor girls are still con- fun and we win.” She had decided to try curl- past 4 years, and she has just completed her fused about what this sport is all about. ing because she thought it would be “fun,” but third season on Winsor Varsity Soccer. She is The sport of curling is simple in part of the appeal was that “people made fun of currently beginning her first season as one of theory. Players slide stones (forty pound it,” playfully acknowledging the oddity of the the captains for Winsor Varsity Hockey and circles of polished granite) across a sheet sport and its general perception. But her favor- scored over 50 goals for the Winsor Varsity of ice towards a target area comprised of ite moment thus far? “When me and my team Lacrosse team in the 2016 season. Her posifour concentric circles. The teams are made won the Curling League Championships.”☐ tive attitude and constant encouragement as well as her natural skill have made her a up of four players. Each team has a head, valuable member of each team she has been called the skip, and there are two people a part of and a leader on and off the field. that sweep. Each team has eight stones that Curling FAQ: The Panel asked Madison a few questions they will “throw” in an attempt to gain the about her experience as a Winsor Athlete: most amount of points. In one game of Kristie Rae Gillooly When do they practice? curling, a team plays a certain number of smaller games which are called “ends.” In Tuesdays and Thursdays one end, only one of the teams can score P: What is your favorite part of being on a Winsor sports team? points. A team scores when a stone lands ML: “My favorite part is getting to be friends with so many girls who aren’t in my class. I Where do they practice? on the target which is called “the house.” love knowing people from every grade.” By Kiran Butte and Sophie Stone panel staff
Brookline Country Club
Who do they play against? Curling League of 5 private schools, including British School, Brimmer and May School, Dexter Southfield, and Brookline High School Lena Fulkerson ’17
World Series Curses to an end in 2016 when, ironically, on the 46th anniversary of Sianis’ death, the Cubs won the National League Pennant and adThe Major League Baseball season vanced to the World Series and eventuhas finally come to close with a nail-biting ally ended up winning the World Series. World Series Win by the Chicago Cubs. The Indians still have their own Going into the 2016 World Series, the In- curse to deal with. The curse of Rocky Codians and the Cubs had not seen World Se- lavito was started before the Indians’ 1960 ries victories for their teams in several de- season when slugger Rocky Colavito was cades. The Cleveland Indians had not made traded to the Detroit Tigers. This trade an appearance in the World Series since was shocking because Colavito was popu1997, and have not won the series since lar amongst fans and had hit 42 home runs 1948. Their losing streak seemed somewhat insignificant to that of the Chicago Cubs, who had not won a title since 1908. Over the years, baseball fans have developed theories as to why their favorite team wasn’t winning; Red Sox fans may be familiar with “The Curse of the Bambino,” a superstition that was developed in 1919 when Babe Ruth was traded and cursed the Red Sox. Superstitions surrounding the long-standing unlucky stretches for the Cubs and Insportsmockery.com dians have also arisen, however this year’s World Series win by the Cubs has made in the previous season. Unfortunately, the fans wonder: has the curse been reversed? Indians went from 89-65 in 1959 to 76-78 The Curse of the Billy Goat is a in 1960. The curse was given its name in long standing superstition that was seem- 1994 when author Terry Pluto wrote the ingly placed upon the Chicago Cubs in book, “The Curse of Rocky Colavito: A 1945. Tavern owner William Sianis was Loving Look at a Thirty-Year Slump” about asked to leave Wrigley Field because of the the Indians’ decline. Of course, the Indiodor of his pet goat, Murphy, for whom he ans’ place in the World Series was earned had bought a ticket. Outraged, Sianis ex- when they won the Pennant; players and claimed that “them Cubs, they ain’t gonna fans alike assumed the curse was broken. win no more,” which has been interpreted Hammond Hearle ’18 comments, as either the Cubs will never win another “I feel like these two teams have been a little National League Pennant or World Series bit of a joke in baseball because of their retitle. In an attempt to get rid of the curse, spective curses, but this World Series defithe Cubs invited descendants of both Sia- nitely validates the fans for both teams, even nis and Murphy to Wrigley, where Sianis’ though technically only the Cubs won.” nephew announced that “the curse is lift- The Cubs’ win earlier this November has ed.” When that proved unsuccessful, the many celebrating the end of the Curse of 2008 Cubs invited a priest to spread holy the Billy Goat. As for those in Cleveland, water across the home dugout. However, only time will tell if another World Series The Curse of the Billy Goat finally came appearance is enough to break the curse.☐ By sam goldenson Staff Writer
P: When did you start playing your sports? ML: “I’ve played sports my whole life. I started soccer when I was in kindergarten, lacrosse in third grade, and hockey in fifth grade.” P: What is your favorite sport out of soccer, hockey, and lacrosse? ML: “I can’t pick a favorite, but there is nothing like the speed of play in hockey.” P: Do you think being an athlete at Winsor is more challenging because of the intense work load? ML: “It usually helps me because playing sports makes me less stressed. Sometimes it can be hard coming home late from hockey practice or from a game.” P: What do you think is the most important aspect of Winsor athletics? ML: “The most important part is the girls that make up the teams. Every team that I have been on at Winsor is full of funny, kind, and thoughtful girls. I’m so lucky to be a part of it.” ☐
Students Take a Knee
socially below someone, you live your life in fear. You do not have a voice, much less the same opportunities and rights that everyone else may have. I kneel in soliContinued from Front Page... tude to this feeling.” Another student who Kaepernick has also influenced others considered kneeling adds, “The National to stand up against oppression. More and Anthem is a tribute to America, particumore athletes have been kneeling during the larly the equality it has always upheld, national anthem ever since August, includ- and it seems logical that any American ing Kaepernick’s teammate Eric Reid, Jere- citizen would refuse to honor that in these my Lane of the Seattle Seahawks, and Megan times of racial chaos and injustice.” Rapinoe, a gay player for Seattle Reign FC. In the past, sports has mainEven a few students and faculty at tained a relatively unbiased perspecWinsor sat during the National Anthem at tive on social issues, and is traditionally UTL. “While a sea of bodies have stood up, an escape from political tension. HowI will be sitting at the bottom of their feet,” ever, Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling has explained a student who kneeled. “I believe highlighted sports’ growing involvethat this is a physical representation of what ment in the discussion of social issues. some people must face every single day. Be- Even Winsor students have taken nocause I believe when you are physically and tice and been inspired by his actions. ☐ By Sindhu Krishnamurthy Staff Writer
usatoday.com
Belmont Hill Sp orts
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Cross Country Captures Fourth ISL Championship By Mack Perry panel staff Led by captains Andrew Kaneb ‘17 and John Pappo ‘18, the cross country team raced to their first league title since 2010, defeating league powers Nobles and St. Mark’s to earn sixtynine points in the championship race at Groton on November 5. Quinn McGaugh ‘18 (4), John Pappo (7), and Charlie Donahue ‘19 (12) placed within the Top 15 overall in the Varsity race. Eric Whitehead ‘18 (5) and Bennett Morris ‘18 (9) placed within the Top 15 in JV with Andrew Berg ‘18 winning the race with a 5K time of 17:54. The secret to the team’s championship fall was the depth and parity in the thirty-man roster. Often met with setbacks of injuries, runners filled the gaps in the Varsity and top JV spots. Jack Daley ‘17, Andrew Berg, Bennett Morris, John High ‘19, and Nick Daley
‘19 made a heavy impact in their rookie seasons; J. Daley and High anchored the
Soccer Team Heads to NEPSAC Playoffs For Second Straight Year V. Picon
By Matt Bracken Top 5 while Berg, Morris, and N. Daley panel staff all stepped up to compete with Varsity. “Early in the season, I realized The Belmont Hill Soccer team that we could win the league if we finished the regular season with a 12stayed healthy and pushed ourselves,” 3-2 record overall. Belmont Hill startsaid Andrew. “Everybody worked his ed off the season with impressive wins tail off, and we had some really gutsy over A schools Bridgton and Exeter, runs at ISL’s that let us take home the before starting the ISL season. There championship. I’m incredibly proud of was no shortage of drama in the ISL what we have accomplished as a team.” opener against rival school BB&N unThe team’s combination of long- der the lights, as a last minute goal from distance runs, tempo pieces, and track freshman Matthew Goncalves rescued workouts pushed them to be the fittest a 2-2 tie after being down for most of in the league. September gave runners the second half. Belmont Hill soon rea heavy dose of mileage to build a solid turned to their winning ways, however, foundation for the season; workouts ripping off a five-game winning streak, transitioned into shorter, faster piec- which included a come from behind es for the last month of the season to win against Rivers, as well as a crucial prime conditioning for the ISL champi- 2-1 win against Nobles. The winning onship. Coaches Trautz, Vailas, Harder, streak came to a halt on October 15th, and Rice emphasized “team-running” where Belmont Hill lost a devastating and grit, stressing the importance of 1-0 game to St. Sebastian’s at the Arpack running, team support, and men- rows’ homecoming. Needing to bounce tal toughness in practice and races. “You back, Belmont Hill managed to defeat can do anything for twenty minutes,” Middlesex 3-2, with two goals from seCoach Trautz often reminded the team. nior midfielder Cam Gordon, and anThe squad finished their regular other last-minute goal from Matthew season at 12-4, with losses to Nobles, St. Goncalves to give Belmont Hill the vicMark’s, St. Paul’s and ISL newcomer Tabor. tory. Next came a clash with undefeated “I am extremely proud of this ISL leaders Brooks, where Belmont Hill team,” remarked Coach Trautz. lost 1-0 in a closely-contested matchup. “They set a goal early in the sea- Belmont Hill was able to hold Brooks’s son to win an ISL Championship.” high-scoring offense to only one goal, Last Saturday, the team posted its but was unable to break down Brooks’ best finish ever at the NEPSTA Divi- defense and was handed another dission 1 Championships at Phillips Exeter, finishing 4th overall in the Varsity race and 6th in the JV race. Quinn McGaugh ‘18 placed fifteenth in the Varsity race with a blistering time of 16:54. With a strong lineup of John Pappo, Quinn McGaugh, Charlie Donahue ‘19, John High ‘19, Eric Whitehead ‘18, Bennett Morris, Andrew Berg, Jackson Stone ‘19, Nick Daley, and John Markis ‘18, the team has already set its sights on repeating as champions next fall. ☐
Belmont Hill’s Top Ten Faculty Athletes By John markis panel staff Belmont Hill students dominate the playing fields. This aspect of the school attracts a variety of young teachers, many of whom competed and excelled at a serious level. The criteria used to evaluate faculty members consist of the following: difficulty of sport (i.e., popularity in U.S./competition pool), success attained, and continued athletic prowess. Honorable Mention: Mr. Kirby (Holy Cross Baseball) People say he was less than a god but more than a man.”- Benny “The Jet” RodriguezAfter pitching at BC High and Holy Cross with incredible skill, Kirby came to the Hill prepared to coach one of his favorite sports; however, there were no coaching availabilities, so he opted for track. He revived the program, leading the team to over 300 wins. Kirby’s feats as an athlete, though, seem to grow with every passing year. He hit a ball over the dorm. He could bench all of the weights in the old gymnasium (thanks to Darren Sullivan ‘87 for those tidbits). Kirby remains perhaps the best faculty athlete in the School’s history. 10: Mr. Glor (Georgetown Football) Glor played four years of wide receiver for the Hoyas after turning down the option of playing both basketball and football at Williams. Teaming up with Kyle Nolan, now an NFL practice squad player, Glor solidified his position as a starting WR during his lt two years, cultivating in the best game of his career: nine catches, a touchdown, and over 100 receiving yards in a loss to ranked Fordham.
9: Mrs. O’Connor (Williams Cross Country/Track) As an All-American in both cross country and the 1500m in her sophomore year, O’Connor led the Ephs to the NCAA Championship in both sports. With a blistering sub-17 5k, O’Connor could have earned even more accolades without an injury during her junior year; however, she returned in her senior year and ran her best-ever 1500mandresumedherstatusasanAll-American. 8: Dr. Davis (Harvard Wrestling) After walking onto the team, Davis had to beat out five recruited wrestlers at perhaps the toughest weight class, 132, to break the starting line-up. With an unbelievable work ethic, examples of which include waking up at dawn to run and then attending classes, Davis earned his spot in the truest sense of the word. His teammates rewarded him with the captainship in his senior year, and he responded by pinning wrestlers from all other Ivy League teams. 7: Ms. Vailas (Dartmouth CrossCountry/Track) As the Gatorade Track Athlete of The Year from the Granite State, Vailas joined the Dartmouth running teams as the owner of the New Hampshire mile record holder. After watching her perform admirably various relays, Vailas’ coaches designated her as the youngest captain in Big Green history. She ran a 2:08 800m and 4:24 1500m, both of which merited all-league. Ultimately, she and Olympian Abbey D’Agostino led the track team to the Heps championship, one of the first in the team’s history. 6: Sr. Montoya (Boston College Soccer) Montoya played four years for the Eagles,
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making All-Big East in his junior year and being elected captain in his senior year. As a professional, he joined the Boston Bolts, the precursor to the Revolution, where he earned team MVP honors and led his squad to the finals. Montoya competed against and defeated a plethora of top-notch strikers, including World Cup champions Osvaldo Ardiles and Rudi Voller. 5: Mr. Martin (Bowdoin Hockey) As a starting center for the Polar Bears, Martin held many of the scoring records when he graduated; had he been permitted to play in his freshman season (this rule was changed in 1968), many of his records would have stood to this day. Still, Martin became the first player in Bowdoin history to record over 1,000 points, and he was elected captain his senior year. Martin tried out for the Buffalo Sabres, playing alongside future Hall of Famer Gilbert Perreault and performed well; however, he decided that the NHL life did not agree with him. Mr. Martin coached the BH varsity team for thirty-nine years and retired with an astounding 707 wins, making him the winningest high school coach in the state. 4: Mr. Leonardis (UNC-Chapel Hill Wrestling) After winning the Most Outstanding Wrestler award, given to the best prep school wrestler in the nation, twice, Leonardis took his talents to Chapel Hill. A four-year starter, he won 110 matches, beating thirteen All-Americans in the process. As an ACC champion, Leonardis qualified for the NCAA’s multiple times, nearly winning the whole tournament. 3: Mr. Cofield (William and Mary Basketball)
appointing loss. Now with two losses on the season, Belmont Hill needed to finish the season perfectly to have a fighting chance at the NEPSAC Class A tournament at the end of the year. A midweek 5-0 win over Thayer got Belmont Hill back on track before their contest with ISL and NEPSAC defending champions Milton Academy. With both teams on the bubble, a win was critical for Belmont Hill if they were to make it two straight postseason appearances. The game was played at the Belmont Hill homecoming on October 29th, and Belmont Hill capitalized on the home-field advantage by jumping out to an early 1-0 lead through a header from senior midfielder Robbie Cronin. Belmont Hill proceeded to shut out Milton through the rest of the game, handing Milton their first ISL League loss since September 2013. A period spanning 51 consecutive games without a loss. With the win against Milton, Belmont Hill is in position to make the NEPSAC playoffs, sitting 7th out of all Class A teams, with the top 8 making the tournament. However, following a disappointing loss to St. Mark’s, the team earned the 8th seed in the NEPSAC tournament. With this record, Belmont Hill is slated to play Worcester Academy on November 16th in a bid to take the New England Class A title. ☐
Even though William and Mary has never reached the NCAAs known as March Madness, Cofield dominated his conference, becoming somewhat of a paradox in the process: an RL student good at sports. As the Rookie of the Year in the CAA, Cofield played against Ray Felton, Rajon Rondo, and a whole host of other NBA players during his four years. Cofield earned all-conference in all four years. 2: Mr. McCarthy (Harvard Hockey) After an outstanding career at Belmont Hill, McCarthy brought his skills to a small liberal arts college in Cambridge, MA. At Harvard, he lined up as both a defenseman and center, and his teammates rewarded both his versatility and dedication to the team with the captainship. After graduating, McCarthy travelled abroad, lacing up in Russia, Slovakia, Sweden, and the AHL. 1: Mr. Brownell (Williams Soccer, Hockey, Baseball) On his soccer team, Brownell lined up at midfield; in hockey, he skated as a center; he played first base for the Ephs. On each of his teams, Brownell participated fully, dominating the pitch, the rink, and the diamond. His peers, recognizing his elite talent, named him the best athlete at Williams. Brownell led his hockey team to the ECAC championship multiple times, attracting coaches from both the States and abroad. As an adult, Brownell picked up squash as a casual activity; he proceeded to become the best squash player for his age group on Earth. Simply put, even some current professional athletes’ accolades pale in comparison to Brownell’s athletic career, and he stands alone as the best faculty athlete at Belmont Hill. ☐
Belmont Hill Sp orts
Novemb er 21, 2016
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Belmont Hill Varsity Scoreboard TEAM
RECORD
Football
6-2
Cross Country
12-4
ISL Champions W 27-28 vs. St. George’s
Quin McGaugh Cam Hall
12-3-2
W 1-0 vs. Milton W 2-1 vs. Nobles
Chris Kingston
Soccer
NOTABLE RESULTS ISL Champions W 29-19 vs. St. Seb’s
Head Of the Charles Recap: BH and Winsor Crews Thrive By Robbie Warming Panel Staff
For all crews involved, the 52nd annual Head of the Charles was one to remember. On the first day of racing, the skies released a torrent of rain upon competitors. With reduced visibility and slipper y oar handles, the Saturday crews p u s h e d down the course regardless. Sunday was much drier, but crews were instead battered by a westsouthwest wind. B ecause of the winding nature of the course, the wind changed from a headwind to a tailwind in just minutes. Saturday morning saw many of the masters events race down the course. B elmont Hill’s own Mr. Richards finished second in the Men’s Senior Master Fours, just four seconds behind first place. Gregg Stone, a B elmont Hill rowing coach and the father of Winsor Olympian Gevvie Stone, finished second in the Veteran I Singles. B oth raced with the sky-blue oars of Cambridge B oat Club. The youth sweep crews descended on the course on Sunday. B elmont Hill and Winsor each entered a four and eight. Crowds crammed onto a sinking dock to scream the
boathouse crews around the final turn. The B elmont Hill and Winsor fours both finished 10th in their respective events. The young B elmont Hill eight claimed 63rd and the Winsor eight got 67th. B elmont Hill captain B obby Jahrling (VI) said, “We
Recent alumni from B elmont Hill and Winsor also charged down the course in Championship events. Tommy Ruggles (BH ‘16) took 4th with Georgetown’s Lightweight Four. Elizabeth Roe (W ‘16) took 11th in Har vard-R adcliffe’s
wanted to do a little better in the four, but considering our lack of practice time, I think we’re happy with the result. I think the entire team had a great showing.” B ecause of ISL rules, the B elmont Hill eight could only practice once a week. The four could only practice twice a week. The four practiced with the rest of the team on Sundays and then rose early ever y Thursday morning for a second weekly practice. Mr. Richards and Mr. George would lead most of the Sunday practices while C oaches Greer Dent, Jacob Sobstyl, and B elmont Hill alumnus Henr y Ogilby took the helm on Thursdays. The Head of the Charles marked the final hurrah of Winsor’s fall rowing season, where they raced in the Head of the Housatonic and Textile River Regatta.
Champ Four. Giovanna De Vito (W ‘16) raced in the Champ Eight with the Naval Academy. C oxswain C ole Durbin (BH’14) and Alexander Richards (BH ‘14) took 3rd in the Champ Eight with Har vard. Robbie Danziger (BH ‘13) raced in Georgetown’s Champ Eight. And Gevvie Stone (W’03) made rowing headlines when she tied a Head of the Charles Women’s Championship Single record by winning the event for the seventh time. She also won the Championship Eight with her world sculling peers in the “Great Eight.” The Head of the Charles is much more than a rowing race. The regatta is rowing’s Mecca, bringing rowers from all over the world to the frigid shores of the Charles. This year was no exception.☐
MVPS
Ray Hunt Zach Geddes Nate Miller Peter Tamasi
Athlete of the Issue: Raymond Hunt All that can be heard is the uproar from The L o o p. R a y Hu n t ‘ 1 7 h a s just broken a tackle and f lown into the end zone. This has been a ver y common occurrence on Saturday afternoons this
s t u d e n t , o r t e a c h e r, t h a t spends time with him. Last season, when the football team did not have t h e m o s t s u c c e s s f u l y e a r, R ay still showed up to ever y practice with a smile on his face and ready to improve. His reliability as a sprinter and running back makes him a serious
f a l l . A s R a y, t h e s c h o o l president, explained in his speech to the school, his talents were not always as outstanding as t h e y a r e t o d a y. A f t e r b e ing put on the defensive l i n e a s a s e v e n t h g r a d e r, R a y ’s a m b i t i o n t o b e a running back pushed him t o b e b e t t e r. S i x y e a r s a n d c o u n t l e s s s p r i n t s l a t e r, R ay is now the captain of both football and track. No t o n l y c a n t h e s e f e a t s be attributed to his skills, but also his natural leade r s h i p a b i l i t y. R a y ’s p a s sion for athletics and B elm o n t H i l l r u b o f f o n a ny
t h r e a t t o o t h e r t e a m s . No t only is R ay able to gain yards in times of need, b u t a l s o p r o t e c t t h e q u a rterback on passing plays. His experience on offense and defense make him an excellent mentor to all the younger players o n v a r s i t y f o o t b a l l . R a y ’s determination to improve makes him an excellent role model for all athletes at B elmont Hill. B eing a two-sport varsity captain, school president, member o f t h e C u m L a u d e S o c i e t y, and violinist in the school orchestra, R ay truly is a “r a y - n a i s s a n c e m a n”. ☐
By Lawson Morris Staff Writer
Winsor Arts
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The Marginalized Take Center Stage in She Kills Monsters By Teresa Lawlor Contributing Writer Never before has Winsor seen a production more fantastical, intense, or daring than She Kills Monsters , which was performed on November 11th and 12th at Winsor. After finding an old Dungeons and Dragons notebook, Agnes (Saphia Suarez ’17) sets out on a wild adventure that spans both reality and a fantasy world with the goal of finally understanding her dead sister Tilly (Ariela Rosenzweig ’19), with whom she had a complicated and distant relationship. Along the
She Kills Monsters Poster
Jeremy Johnson
way, Agnes befriends a miscellany of magical, other worldly creatures who push her out of her comfort zone. The show featured eleven combat sequences that were choreographed by professional fight director Dr. Danielle Rosvally, and the actors were armed with live steel weapons. “I’ve never worked on a show in either a professional or educational setting that has incorporated this much stage combat!” says Mr. Johnson, the director of the show. This level of complexity certainly presented some challenges; for many of the actors, stage combat is a completely new skill. “You have to really focus and know what you’re doing to make sure no one gets hurt,” says Asrah Rizvi ’20, who plays the role of Steve. However, the Seniors in She Kills Monsters pose for a picture Isabel Griffith-Gorgati challenge was also rewarding. Rehearsing a sequence to perfection production,” says Mr. Johnson. Ac- script highlights powerful, indepenand “knowing how realistic it will cording to the cast of this particular dent female characters and tells the look to the audience is a great feel- production, he has succeeded. “ The stories of several queer teenagers, as ing,” says Lia Kornmehl ’19 (Vera). Winsor drama department is a won- well as celebrating “geeker y” typiThis year, the Winsor fall play derful, thriving group of talented cally viewed as untrendy – all topexperienced a surprisingly high people, and I love each and ever y one ics that are rarely together onstage. One of the central themes of She turn-out for auditions; twenty-five of them” says Ariela Rosenzweig ’19. The other part of this growth is Kills Monsters is self-discover y, as girls auditioned for fifteen parts. But a rising interest in the arts is not due to the shows that Mr. Johnson and seen in Agnes’s journey from an “avjust due to this play – over the last the Performing Arts Department have erage” high school teacher to a monfew years, the Winsor theater pro- chosen for the students. “It’s been ster-slaying warrior, but the show also gram has been growing in size and really fascinating to explore what it advocates for looking past someone’s creating new opportunities. “Our means to be a woman in the world by outward appearance to understand new space has also allowed us to re- selecting plays from different places, and appreciate who the person truly ally start owning our place in the time periods, and writers,” says Mr. is. The play deals with these issues community…I’ve been able to build Johnson. “I loved that She Kills Mon- within the context of a teenage girl’s a sense of respect and trust with my sters had so many complex, well writ- life and invites its audience to fight actors so that our work continues ten female roles and really dug into their own dragons through the lense to get richer and stronger with each the relationship between sisters.” The of adventure, magic, and fantasy. ☐
Thanksgiving Recipes You Should Try This Year By Blair Englert and Greta Goldberg Contributing Writers What’s better than a no homework weekend and a holiday dedicated entirely to food? Literally nothing. Thankfully, Thanksgiving break is approaching at a rapid speed, and since the holiday is just around the corner, here are some recipes you may consider as you get out your cookbooks. We can’t wait to stock our kitchens with ingredients and food for this spirited holiday! •
Ingredients • 5 sweet potatoes (sliced) • 1/4 cup of orange juice • 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup of white sugar • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon • 1 pinch of salt • 1/2 cup of butter • 1 1/2 cups of miniature marshmallows
To make these delicious sweet potheodysseyonline.com tatoes, first preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Then put the sliced potatoes in Cranberry Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon of salt a pot of boiling water on the stove. Af• 1 unbaked pie crust (9 inch)* Another classic dish for Thankster 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are *we recommend Pillsbury giving is your festive cranberry sauce! soft, remove them from the water, drain Many people buy it right from the the potatoes and mash them up. Then To put this delicious dish together, can, but you can make even bet- distribute them on a shallow baking pan first preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. ter sauce yourself. Here’s how: (10x6 inch) and pour the orange juice Then whisk the pumpkin, sweetened over the potatoes. Separately, in a small condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, gin- Ingredients: bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, ger, nutmeg, and salt together in a bowl. • 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and salt together and then add the butNext, pour the mixture into the pie crust • 1 cup orange juice ter. Sprinkle this mixture over the sweet and put in the oven for 15 minutes. Af- • 1 cup of white sugar potatoes and bake for 30 minutes in the ter 15 mins, turn the oven down to 350 oven. After the time is up, put marshmaldegrees F and bake for another 35-40 To make this yummy sauce, lows on the potatoes and broil the pan unPumpkin Pie thedoctorstv.com mins. To check if the pie is done, insert a first place a medium pan on the stove til the marshmallows are golden brown. knife in the pie about 1 inch in from the at medium heat. Then put the orange Pumpkin Pie: crust, and if it comes out clean it is done! juice in the pan and pour in the sugar What’s a Thanksgiving meal withLet the pie cool and top it as you wish; until it is dissolved. Next mix in the out a pumpkin pie? Here is our favor- we recommend lots of whipped cream! cranberries and cook until the skins ite recipe that fills the whole house break (approximately ten minutes). Fiwith an amazing aroma. Grab your sibnally, take the pan off the stove and lings or friends and get ready to cook! pour the sauce into a bowl. As the pan’s temperature drops, the cranberry sauce Ingredients will cool until it has a thick consistency. • 1 can of puréed pumpkin (15 oz) • 1 can of sweetened condensed milk Sweet Potatoes: Sweet Potatoes pinterest.com (14 oz) • 2 large eggs This last recipe is a combina• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon tion of sweet and savory. Here is how All of these recipes came from all• 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger to make this mouth-watering dish. recipes.com. Happy Thanksgiving! ☐ Cranberry Sauce foodnetwork.com • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
Novemb er 21, 2016
Winsor ARts
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Hamilton: Still Great Despite New Cast Members
Brandon Victor Dixon, Seth Stewart, Chris Jackson, and Javier Muñoz all came to chat with the crowd of fans. They took selfies, Who lives, who chatted with people, and signed autographs. dies, who tells your story? After listening to the cast album obThis is the question at the center of sessively for a year (y’all, I literally bought Hamilton, the cultural phenomenon that my ticket in November of last year), my fayou’ve probably heard of even if you aren’t vorite part of finally seeing the show was a fan. Last month, I was lucky enough to be watching the songs I knew by heart come in the room where it happens (I apologize to life onstage. There are so many little moin advance for my terrible puns) and let me ments and details that you can’t know by tell you, the show did not disappoint. Al- only listening to the music. For example, though the three original leads Lin-Manuel there are lines in some of the songs that Miranda, Phillipa Soo, and Leslie Odom are said to specific characters, which you Jr. are no longer in the show, original cast can’t tell from the cast recording. In admembers Anthony Ramos (John Laurens/ dition, the balcony that goes around the Phillip Hamilton), Chris Jackson (George perimeter of the stage adds another diWashington), and Jasmine Cephas Jones mension to the show. There is often action Lin-Manuel Miranda as Hamilton broadway.com (Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds) were on happening in the balcony in addition to on for that performance. The new cast mem- the main stage, such as foreshadowing the the musical and visual aspects of the show. ing Fathers (who were all white and owned bers are all amazing, but Brandon Victor next scene or hinting at past scenes. Lastly, Getting to see Hamilton was hon- slaves) made such a huge impact on me. Dixon’s performance as Aaron Burr really the dancing in Hamilton is so intricate. estly one of the best moments of my life This show is so important because a cast stood out. He portrayed Burr’s character Andy Blankenbuehler’s choreography blew (no joke). One of the main reasons that who looks like America today (i.e., many arc from Hamilton’s friend to his enemy in my mind, especially in “The Room Where Hamilton received so much initial atten- different races) is telling the story of Amersuch a nuanced way, while also making Burr it Happens.” In addition, just as there are tion was because of its diverse, non-tradi- ica at a time when pretty much everyone actually likeable – well, at least until he musical motifs that run throughout the tional cast. I knew that virtually no one in in the country, except slaves, was white. shoots Hamilton. After the show, I went to songs, there are choreographic motifs that the cast (except Rory O’Malley) was white, Hamilton is the most incredible show the stage door to get my Playbill signed and reappear (often when a lyric or idea is re- but seeing these incredible black, Latino, I’ve ever seen, and if you ever manage to to meet any cast members who came out. peated in multiple songs) that tie together and Asian actors portraying our Found- get tickets, don’t throw away your shot! ☐ Julia Mastandrea Contributing Writer
Netflix Original: “Haters Back Off!” The Illusion to Premier this Week
despite having been a fan of the Youtube Katie Tsai personality, she was disappointed by the Staff Writer show. “It was that awkward, forced kind of humor that makes you cringe more “Grey’s Anatomy?” Tragic. “Or- than laugh...I used to be a crazy fan but Mystique. Love. Jealousy. Beange is the New Black”? Intense. now I find the newer version of Mi- trayal. Roxbury Latin’s fall produc“American Horror Story”? Terrify- randa not as funny as she was in 2012- tion of The Illusion by Tony Kushner, ing. “Haters Back Off !”? It’s...different. 2014.” Olivia Brasher ’18 agreed that “as which is adapted from Pierre Cor“Haters Back Off !,” Netflix’s new- I watched the first half of the episode – I neille’s 17th century comedic play est original TV series, started streaming couldn’t make it through the whole thing L’Illusion Comique , will captivate auon October 14th. The series stars Colleen – I felt equal parts confusion, amuse- dience members with its humorous, Ballinger, who is a popular comedian with ment, and disgust.” According to Mad- intriguing and poignant plot. The play over 7 million subscribers on Youtube. eleine Montagner ’18, the series “is only begins when Pridamant, an elderly She gained fame through her portrayal funny if you are really tired or otherwise.” man, visits the cave of a magician in of Miranda Sings, a singer/character of That being said, different isn’t nec- search of his son, Clindor, whom he her own invention, whom Wikipedia ac- essarily a bad thing. If you’ve had your has not seen for 15 years. The magicurately describes as “comically talentless, fill of Shonda Rhimes, and you like loud cian shows Pridamant three increasegotistical, and quirky.” Ballinger stays comedy (make that very loud comedy), ingly complicated visions, each dein character as Miranda Sings in “Haters the show might be a good fit for you. picting Clindor’s interactions with a new love interest, the love interest’s scheming maid, and Clindor’s rivals. The play will feature three Winsor students: Lydia Forti ’19, Maddie Latimore ’17, and Katie Tsai ’19, as well as ten RL boys in grades 10-12 and uaplayclubwest.com two girls from neighboring schools. The Illusion Poster The performances will be held on interests, for example, the cast has Friday and Saturday, November 18 bonded over time. Additionally, most and 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the Robert P. of the actors have dramatic moments and Salua J.A. Smith Center at RL. as part of their roles, so they have The actors have been working been trying to play them accurately hard to connect with each other and and with enough emotion. Truthfully, to create a cohesive, believable story. one of the hardest parts of rehearsWhen rehearsals began, the major- ing has been trying to stifle laughity of the cast did not know one an- ter after hearing someone’s bizarre other well, but because many of the lines or while watching other cast characters in the play have close rela- members’ funny characterizations. tionships – the maids and their misMaddie and Lydia shared their tresses and the maidens and their love thoughts on why they believe audiColleen Ballinger in “Haters Back Off!” youtube.com ence members will enjoy the play. Back Off !,” which documents the aspiring Besides, “Haters Back Off !” is particuReferring to its puzzling plot, Madcelebrities bumbling journey to stardom. larly relevant in today’s digital age. With die stated, “At first [they] will be Miranda’s odd, eccentric manner- so many celebrities gaining their fame confused, but they will be drawn in isms are what make “Haters Back Off !” through Youtube and Vine, the series because they want to figure out what so weird and hilarious. As the New York provides insight into the chaotic relais happening.” Furthermore, they Times put it, “Netflix helped popular- tionship between fame and social media. “should look forward to all the fight ize the binge-watch. “Haters Back Off !” CNN conceded that “the show’s critique scenes because they will be awesome!” introduces the cringe-watch.” In epi- of a fame-obsessed culture certainly has Lydia added, “So many of the characsode one of the eight part series, Miran- merit,” adding that “‘Haters Back Off !’” is ters are sneaky and like to play around da throws a temper tantrum when her just the latest transplant to demonstrate with their fellow friends, and it’s very mother awards her an A+ instead of an the lingering if narrowing gap between entertaining. I would pinpoint one A+++. In another scene, she croons “De- YouTube and more traditional platforms.” scene that is hilarious, but quite honfying Gravity” for a painful two minutes. Given the mixed reviews of the series, estly there are too many great scenes This kind of comedy is definitely I recommend you give the first episode of to pick just one.” If you would like an acquired taste, and “Haters Back Off !” “Haters Back Off !” a shot before passing to see the show, tickets may be purhas some “haters” within the Winsor com- judgment. If you like it, great! If you hate it, chased at the box office in the Smith pinterest.com Center before each performance. ☐ munity. Isabella Sibble ’20 admitted that, Miranda encourages you to “back off.” ☐ Isabel Isselbacher Staff Writer
Belmont Hill Arts
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The Hamilton Mixtape: Raps, Rhymes, and Remixes
By William McCormack Panel Staff
On August 6, 2015, Hamilton: The Musical first debuted at the Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway. Its premiere was an evening full of budding optimism, joy, and accomplishment. Celebrating after the premiere, the show’s core of creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, orchestrator Alex Lacamoire, director Thomas Kail, and producer Jeffrey Seller maintained elevated, but realistic expectations, hoping their unique play could impact Broadway for at least a few seasons. However, in merely a few weeks, their short-sighted expectations had been long forgotten. Today, after 15 months on Broadway, it is clear Hamilton has traversed uncharted territory with its journey from a small offBroadway production at the Public Theater to an artistic masterpiece of this century. Creator, writer, composer, and lead actor Lin-Manuel Miranda’s remarkable rise has paralleled that of his successful show’s. Now a recognized genius, Miranda’s mastery of language, lyric, and music has become a highly sought-after talent. Miranda, having stepped away from his role as Alexander Hamilton this past July, has continued to share his brilliance with the
world. Hosting Saturday Night Live, lead- of Broadway music, “The Hamilton Mixtape” ing a relentless campaign to increase voter features some of the biggest names in today’s participation in the 2016 election, and writ- hip-hop, rap, pop, and R&B landscape. The ing music for the Disney film Moana have star-studded roster includes Questlove, Tariq been a few of the activities in which he has Trotter (Black Thought), Busta Rhymes, been recently involved. Most importantly, Jimmy Fallon, Ben Folds, Regina Spektor, Lin-Manuel Miranda has spent the past few Queen Latifah, Jill Scott, Common, Sia, months finalizing “The Hamilton Mixtape,” Usher, Alicia Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Miguel, set to be released on December 2nd and Andra Day, Nas, Aloe Blacc, Wiz Khalifa, available for pre-order as of November 4th. Chance the Rapper, and more… Simply wow. First anQuestlove, Tariq Trotnounced on ter, and the Roots, Twitter just four Jimmy Fallon’s music days after the group on the Tonight original cast show, have helped album was reLin direct the project. leased in SepThere are simtember 2015, ply too many excit“The Hamilton ing combinations to Mixtape” will be preview in one article. a collection of Busta Rhymes will rap on “My Shot,” Jimmy covers, remixes, Fallon and the Roots and originally will perform “You’ll deleted songs Be Back,” John Legend from the origiwill sing “History Has nal 46-song cast album. The new album’s lineup that Lin- its Eyes on You,” Alicia Keys will cover “That Manuel has managed to recruit would aston- Would Be Enough,” and Usher will sing “Wait ish even DJ Khaled, known for his collabo- For It,” an interesting and equally-talented rations with big-name artists. A testament to replacement for Leslie Odom Jr. (actor for how Hamilton has redefined the boundaries Aaron Burr in the actual show). Expanding
on Cabinet Battles #1 and #2 in the original cast album, Miranda also plans on including a rap battle about the American institution of slavery and its legacy. Hamilton apparently raps, “This is the stain on our soul/ and democracy/ A land of the free? No, it’s not, it’s hypocrisy/ To subjugate, dehumanize a race, call ‘em property/ And say that we are powerless to stop it, can you not foresee?” In a recent interview with Complex Magazine, Lin-Manuel revealed he was especially excited about Chance the Rapper’s contribution on the song “Dear Theodosia.” Intertwining the brand name of wellestablished billboard stars with American history and Broadway theater should prove to be an exciting affair. With the original cast album already having made an impressive Billboard debut last fall, after a year of positive press and hype, it’s probable that come December 2nd, songs from “The Hamilton Mixtape” will begin a lengthy reign on top charts, hit playlists, and radio stations. In addition to standard audio format, Tariq Trotter teased last month that fans could expect “The Hamilton Mixtape” to be performed live at least once. A ticket to this epic show with Lin-Manuel, hit rappers, and original cast members would be the only ticket in the world more difficult to get than a ticket to the actual Broadway play itself. ☐
about his work in progress, he gave me great insight on the project, and what the process of writing music means to him:
to the theme in the title of the piece and the portraits themselves. The beauty in this is that each viewer is tasked with discovering the theme on their own. Hill states that his intention was to create a puzzle of sorts, that each person would solve individually, and that there isn’t just one correct interpretation of his paintings. While some paintings are easier to “solve” than others, all promote a different type of thinking than we often find in the arts. Not only do the paintings easily engage the viewer, but they also make it very accessible to find a deeper meaning behind each piece and truly appreciate it. Mr. Hill’s Iconographies are certainly a wonderful and thought-provoking addition to the gallery. His paintings will only be on display until November 18, and I highly recommend you stop by to ex-
Artist of the Issue: Sebastian Themelis Landau Gallery: Studio Art Review By Augustus Lamb Panel Staff
What defines a Belmont Hill boy? Is it winning an ISL championship? Is it being good at math and science? Is it being on the debate team? In my opinion, any of those things and more are applicable, given you are being true to yourself. But the thing is, it can be hard to be true to yourself at Belmont Hill. It can be hard to do your own thing. But, you know who is true to himself? Sebastian Themelis. Sebastian Themelis is one of the most down-to-earth and stylish kids in the greater Boston area. He is back at Belmont Hill for one last hurrah(!) after having spent his junior year at SYA Italy. Although returning to the US after a year filled with personal growth and adventure is difficult, Sebastian’s passion for music has not wavered. “What makes me happy is to sing and play piano. The largest part of my identity, I think, is that I am a musician,” Sebastian says. Because he has grown up with music, being a longstanding member of the Boston Children’s Chorus and a singer in B-Flats throughout high school, it is fair to say Sebastian values music over most natural resources. He meets with his chorus twice a week, and he spends those afternoons combining music with social justice work, as the group discusses social issues and practices songs, some of which are related to their discussions. Sebastian also enjoys chorus because he has the opportunity to perform music with many kids that you would not meet an overwhelming amount of at Belmont Hill, as the group is partially composed of students from lower-income families and students of color. In addition to the BCC, Sebastian takes part in the BFlats, Belmont Hill’s premiere Glee Club that meets during B Block every day and performs several times throughout the year. While Sebastian has great musical experience in and outside of school, he plans to leave his musical mark on his high school years through something of his own creation. At the moment, he is working on an EP, short for Extended Play, which is a smallscale album that contains a few piano tracks featuring yours truly on the drums. Sebastian hopes to release the EP in the spring as his senior project. When I asked Sebastian
“I’m a little embarrassed because it’s only three songs, but it’s personal stuff. Part of being a musician is you have to be able to be openly vulnerable. Because that’s what music is, you’re being openly vulnerable about stuff that’s hurt you. And, that’s hard to do. I get embarrassed when I play the songs for people, but you have to be able to open yourself up and show the world who you are. Sometimes when I’m writing music and writing lyrics, I realize things about myself that I wouldn’t have realized had I not been writing music. And I admit things to myself that I wouldn’t have admitted. So, I learn about myself through writing music, and then showing that to the world is a hard thing to do, but it’s something I’m very excited to do. It’s a very personal passion project.”
By Benjamin London Panel Staff Over the past month, the work of local artist Richard Hill has been on display in the gallery in the Robsham building. The pieces on display are a set of paintings from Hill’s show, Not Just Another Pretty Face, which is made up of what he has described as “Group Iconographies”. Each piece is made up of a variety of different, iconic portraits that are taken from an assortment of places; some are from movies, pop culture, comics, coins, sculptures, and others. However, all the portraits revolve around a singular, often humorous theme and are typically juxtaposed to the surrounding portraits. The most interesting aspect of the paintings is the theme itself, which is not made expressly clear. Rather, the artist leaves hints
Executive Editors Kiran Butte Elizabeth Kim Mack Perry
Editors-in-Chief Bennett Rush Jason Fischman Helen Sayegh
Copy Editors John Markis JP Champa Emily Chen
Arts Editors Augustus Lamb Susy Liu Isabel Isselbacher
Online Editors Emma Pan Arnav Prasad
News Editors Ishaan Prasad Juliet Isselbacher
Assistant Editors Sophie Stone Armin Thomas Hammond Hearle Matt Bracken William McCormack Phillip Bailey Jordan Sclar
Opinion Editors Robbie Warming Priya Shukla
Sports Editors Evan Ricci Abby Weyer
Sebastian believes the EP might be the only music he will ever officially put out. But if you ask me, I don’t think this spring will be the last time we hear his exquisite fingering of the piano keys and mellifluous pitch sounding fervently through our eardrums. But just in case, I think you should stop by the music building during X block or 2:15, as there is a nice chance you will see Sebastian sitting at the piano, playing his heart out, and expanding the definition of a Belmont Hill boy. ☐
perience his show before it is too late. ☐
Photo Editors Arielle Blacklow Duncan Grant Graphics Editor Lawson Morris Bennett Morris
Backpage Editors Seamus Clair Matt O’Leary
Faculty Advisors Meghan Hazard David Hegarty Sarah Wolf Juliette Zener
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. Published by the Belmont Printing Co., Belmont, MA 02478.
Belmont Hill Arts
...Live from New York, It’s Saturday Night! By Gavin Colbert Panel Staff
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Armin and Gus’s Playlist of the Month By Augustus Lamb and Armin Thomas Panel Staff
Here are some of the Arts Editors’s Kicker - Alex G favorite songs at the moment that we hope Although Kicker is a great song, for a while, I did not know what it was about. Alex G’s Saturday Night Live (SNL) has en- seamlessly, the two hilariously imperson- you take into consideration. lyrics can be very vague, and I assumed the tered its 42nd season this fall on NBC ated the presidential candidates, playing song was about a complex relationship of with simply hilarious material. SNL has off of their odd idiosyncrasies. With some Gus: his. That being said, when I went to Alex illuminated TV screens at 11:30pm on edgy humor, SNL generates laughs based iT’s YoU ZAYN G’s show this summer, I went looking for Saturday nights for three decades. With on campaigns that in reality have generIt is the best song from Zayn’s debut solo an answer. Half-way through the band’s set, live skits, celebrity hosts, musical guests, ated quite the opposite reactions. Baldwin album, Mind of Mine, and this current Alex announced that the next song they and a cast of genius comedians, SNL has has brought levity through his portrayal year, in my opinion. Zayn’s old band, One were going to play was about his favorite accomplished what many TV shows have of Donald Trump while McKinnon nails Direction, undoubtedly has many lovely Philly cheesesteak. A few seconds later, and often failed to do: staying alive. Led by the awkwardness and scripted feel of Hillsongs; however, iT’s YoU is beautiful in its the simple yet mesmerizing chord progresproducer Lorne Michaels, SNL has be- ary Clinton. The mock debates were three own way in that it strays away from the sion of Kicker was blasting throughout the come a cultural staple of American enter- ridiculously funny, must-watch videos sound of 1D and allows Zayn to showcase a small venue. I don’t know why, but I was tainment. Filming live on Saturday nights that will make you laugh until you realize piece that is utterly ethereal. I love this song pleased with his answer. (hence the name), it brings an original much of the content was directly from the so much. The way in which Zayn sings the air to entertainment, capturing all the real debates. With other SNL skits ranging mistakes, genuine laughs, and breaks in from a Family Feud parody to a faux-local two-word chorus is so delicate and sooth- Armin: Revolution 9 - The Beatles character. It has helped mold comedic news report, returning cast members Leslie ing and makes me feel like I can hit any note I like if I just turn the volume up loud This song is an avant-garde piece done icons such as Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Jones, Kenan Thompson, and Beck Bennett enough. by the Beatles and it is one of their lesserJimmy Fallon, Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Amy always lead the way with their outstanding known songs. Initially starting off with a Poehler, Chris Farley, and so many more. performances, while newcomers like Merepetitive piano motif of John Lennon utSNL has a unique ability to transcend the lissa Villaseñor look to leave their mark on tering “number 9”, it descends from relative limits of a pixelated screen to appear as if this venerable show. Also, so far this seatranquility to the chaos and indeterminacy the cast son, musiof Revolution. Too subversive to be the is percal guests anthem of the revolution, it serves as a forming the Weeknd confession of ideals for my revolution. Also, the skit and Bruno there are a lot of conspiracy theories around right in Mars have playing it backwards too, so there’s that. f ront performed
of you, their new Smooth Criminal - Michael Jackson and rough s o n g s 2CELLOS around Starboy I love MJ. I love cellos. What’s better than the edgand 24K this? Croatian cellists Luka Sulic and es, nothMagic reMandy Barry Manilow Stjepan Hauser dueling it out on electric ing held spectively, My mom has been a Fanilow for as long as cello in a big hall is pure awesomeness. back, contributshe can remember, and this is her favorite Nothing more to say here, this cover is pure just like comedy should be. When Lin- ing to the fresh content of this 36 song. When I hear it, I think of car rides to gold. 2CELLOS has other great covers, and Manuel Miranda hosted the show, he time Emmy Award winning show. my grandmothers in Connecticut, when they’re actually really good at putting them told of the many Saturday nights he Even if your social life or lack of sleep my mom and I have just gotten back on the together (check out 2CELLOS Thunderspent around the TV, laughing with his lead you away from the TV on Saturday highway after a detour to Dairy Queen, the struck). whole family, dreaming of one day be- nights, SNL has a YouTube page where you rain is pouring, Barry is doing his thing, ing on this seemingly magical show. can check out the skits. If you have not seen Due to its live filming, SNL is SNL before, I recommend you at least try and my mom and I reminisce about this able to keep up with pop culture, espe- it out, and if you watch it regularly, well ambiguous woman named Mandy whom cially politics. This 42nd season has cen- keep enjoying the most unique, longest we can both find a place for in our personal tered around raucous imitations of the running live show on television. Comedy lives somewhat intertwined. three 2016 presidential debates featur- has a unique ability to unite, to cheer up, to ing Kate McKinnon as Hillary Clinton, distract, and to enthrall; SNL does all this Second Chances - Gregory Alan Isakov and Alec Baldwin as Donald Trump. and more. Tune in on Saturday nights. ☐ Gregory Alan Isakov is the only folk artist on my list this month. His song Second While following the events of the debates Chances preaches that if it were not for second chances, we would all be alone. I try my best to agree with Gregory, but I The Room Where it Happens - Leslie Odom do feel as though he sometimes gives me Jr., Lin-Manuel Miranda, Daveed Diggs, false hope. Nonetheless, the song has great Okieriete Onaodowan, Hamilton Original By Duncan Grant acoustics and intention, as does the remain- Broadway Cast Panel Staff der of his 2013 album, The Weatherman. Easily in the top five songs in the whole show. Detailing about the Compromise of From start to finish, director 1790 where Hamilton conceded the US Alejandro G. Inarritu and his strong cast of Keaton’s performance strays from the likes capitol to Southern politicians (Washington of his usual characters, such as Batman in actors dazzle in Birdman or (The UnexDC) in exchange for his ability to establish pected Virtue of Ignorance). In the movie, Tim Burton’s Batman, and the personable a national bank. Lin’s suave brushing off of Michael Keaton plays Riggan Thomson, an leader of the justice-seeking team in SpotLeslie coupled with Leslie’s audible desire light. As Thomson, Keaton increases his actor once famous for starring in several to be in the room where decisions are made range and adds newfound emotion to his movies as the superhero Birdman. In an www.etonline.com make this song. The language and music most complicated character yet. Interestattempt to revitalize his fading career, in this number are on point, and Leslie’s Thomson mounts an ambitious Broadway ingly enough, one could consider Thomson control of his voice is impeccable. as a reflection of Keaton: both are actors production that he writes, directs, and stars in. As opening night comes closer, a past their prime and both played superheSymphony No. 9 in d minor, Op. 125 - Ludroes, Birdman and Batman, respectively. I castmate suffers from injury, and Thomwig van Beethoven son is forced to find a replacement for the just hope that Keaton does not continue to Beethoven. Symphony. A chorus. Nothing supporting role and hires Mike Shiner (Ed- follow the storyline of Thomson. more to be said. The best. While many of the actors put ward Norton), a passionate and renowned She’s Out of Her Mind - blink-182 on their best showing, it is Inarritu who performer who challenges Thomson’s Off of blink-182’s new album, California, Nessun dorma from Turandot - Giacomo deserves the majority of the credit. The authority and credibility. Thomson is constantly overwhelmed with the stresses film is set up as one, continuous shot that which was released this past summer, She’s Puccini feat. Luciano Pavarotti Out of Her Mind is a really nice and sweet Pavarotti owned this song when he made it spans the days leading up to opening of running a performance, his broken headbanger that you can play air-drums famous to the world in 1994 at the World relationship with his ex-wife (Amy Ryan), night. This technique accurately portrays Cup in Italy. That final line of his, all’alba his drug-addicted daughter (Emma Stone), the non-stop turmoil of the show business, to while being undisrupted by fond, yet distracting thoughts of all the people you vincerò (at dawn I will win), is one of the and also of a life spinning rapidly out of and the host of critics and surrounding know who are utterly crazy, but love for most spine-tingling lines in all of music. control. Accompanied by the single take characters who doubt and question him Not only is he expressing hope of victory, is the background percussion that adds to some weird, unavoidable, yet comforting throughout. Yet, as Thomson fights to reason. he does it jumping to a treacherously high stay relevant to the rest world, his biggest the chaos and New York flavor. This feat B natural and holding it defying all expecobstacle is himself in the form of Birdman, of cinematography magnifies an already tations. One of the more famous pieces of spectacular film, and the result is one of a pessimistic alter-ego who fills Riggan’s operatic work, for sure. At the metaphorical the greatest movies of the past few years, if head with thoughts that drive him to the dawn, the revolution will win. ☐ edge. not the decade. ☐
Movie Review: Birdman (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)
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A Back Page Exclusive In his brief time so far at Belmont Hill, Mr. Schneider has become well-known for his nicknames. A sparki bot from the physics room recently revealed to the editors a few nicknames that just didn’t make the cut: 1. Rhunt of the Litter (Ray Hunt) 2. Granite Boulevard (Will Stonestreet) 3. Mario Bad Guy* (Drew Bowser) 4. The Zakon Bridge (Daniel Zakon) 5. David Confifty (David Conforti) 6. Cameron Corridor (Cam Hall) 7. Metz.gif (Gifford Metz) 8. New Orleans Melicans (Jimmy Melican) 9. Hunter Past (Hunter Present) 10. Justin Fischman* (Jason Fischman) *Editor’s Note: Our apologies, these ended up passing. Thank you to Sparkileaks for disclosing this information.
LOOK ALIKES
THE WINSOR PROMISE Few thought it would happen. Indeed, the student body was among the most skeptical of critics. But now, after a multi-year fundraising campaign, The Winsor Promise has surpassed its fundraising goal of 80 million dollars. The school community (everyone but students, obviously, because students never get Winsor emails) received an exciting announcement complete with a real live gif of fireworks to commemorate the 81.4 million dollar accomplishment. At this time, it is only right to reflect on how we, the students, have observed and experienced this revamping of the our beloved Winsor School over the past few crucial fundraising years. One senior notes, “I can’t believe how nice Winsor swag has gotten. When I came in Class II, I’d be hard pressed to snag an extra gym shirt. Now, every sports team gets Winsor sports bags and warm ups. And they’re nice bags! Like, a pad for the shoulder and everything.” A notable improvement in the school has been its human advertising. It is positively commendable that Winsor managed to get the cost of their “Winsor Superfan” t-shirts down to only $5. Truly, brava. Winsor has also updated its mascot, ditching its clearly outdated, normal-looking animal costume for a sumptuous red-velvety hued wildcat. When asked to rate their level of comfort with the new mascot, 72% of the student body chose “little to no comfort” to describe their sentiments towards the unnaturally colored cat. From the silk-screened Winsor sweat towels at the groundbreaking ceremony in 2013 all the way to the notable presentday increase in school events serving crab cakes and alcohol (again, students are obviously excluded from these gatherings), this school has been spruced to the nines. I mean, this is some Belmont Hill level luxury. Am I the only one who’s noticed not only the reappearance of brand name Oreos in the cafeteria, but also the new presence of those sweet, sweet blue capsules of Skippy peanut butter? Word on the street can be confirmed by students, parents, and alumnae alike, The Winsor School for girls is well on its way to becoming the shining star of the Longwood Medical Area and the Eastern Independent League (#sportsschool #nonarps #nowandforever). I think we can all agree that the campaign said it best. This is what promise looks like.
Barron Trump
Lawson Morris
John Goodman
Seamus Clair
John Francis Daley
Young Pat Shea