The Index Eutxia Swzein Dokei
Volume LXXIII, No. 2
October 2011
Haverford, Pennsylvania
Haverford’s Jury Takes to the Stage Dave Harris ‘12 “I don’t give a god damn about the law!” “I’ll kill him! I’ll kill him!” “Don’t tell me to calm down!” “There is something personal!” “You don’t really mean you’ll kill me, do you?” The Haverford School is in for a treat -
the play is Twelve Angry Men. If you have taken Theatre, then you are familiar with Twelve Angry Men. Reginald Rose’s explosive play centers on twelve jurors deliberating on the guilt of a Puerto Rican teenager accused of murder. It is an intense character-driven play filled with racism, bigotry, and conflict. The original setting was New York, 1954; however, director Mr. Matthew Cloran opted to use the script from the acclaimed 1997 film version of the play. He also chose to change the date of the action to 2011. A play like Twelve Angry Men is relevant to the current American culture. Recent headlines have seen many pivotal court cases (e.g. the shocking Casey Anthony and Troy Davis cases). As a result of this controversial news media, Mr. Cloran picked the show because “we can talk about the American judicial system, and we can discuss race and prejudice in the context of the play and how it ‘plays’ out at Haverford.” The show was also appealing to Mr. Cloran because it has an all-male cast that is on stage the entire time and must remain present and in character for the duration. The cast of the show is unlike any show
in recent Haverford history. It contains both seasoned veterans of the Haverford stage and newcomers to the craft. Sixth Former Deepak Bhagat is the Guard and Understudy; Sixth Former Dean Feinman is the calming Foreman; Fifth Former Ben Rohr is the awkward Juror #2; Sixth Former Marcel Logan is the bigoted Juror #3; Sixth Former Chris Compendio is the logical
Prince is the reserved, European Juror #11; and Fifth Former Tyler Brooks is the fickle-minded Juror #12. Needless to say, this cast is stacked. Logan and Green will consistently battle as Harris demonstrates racism toward Yang, and Spahr attempts to escape the room while Feinman tries to maintain order. Compendio tries to point out the flaws in everyone’s logic. Every member of the cast will leave their mark
Twelve Angry Men cast (left to right): Dein Feinman, Rémi Yang, Chris Compendio, Ben Rohr, Marcel Logan, Mike Green, Tyler Brooks, Cal Spahr, Max Schmidt, Dave Harris, Erich Prince, Kyle Holsten (not pictured: Deepak Bhagat). Photo by Deepak Bhagat
weisenheimer, Juror #4; Sixth Former Rémi Yang is the reticent slum-born Juror #5; Sixth Former Kyle Holsten is the sympathetic and comical Juror #6; Fourth Former Cal Spahr is the arrogant Juror #7; Fifth Former Mike Green is the gentle yet powerful Juror #8; Fifth Former Max Schmidt is the senile yet pedantic Juror #9; Sixth Former Dave Harris is the overpowered racist, Juror #10; Fifth Former Erich
on the stage. What makes this show unique is not only its relevance, but also the newcomers in the cast. Four students - Spahr, Prince, Compendio, and Holsten - have never done a Haverford Upper School show before. It is remarkable to have this much new and quality talent in a play that is as difficult as this one. Compendio in particular has a huge role for his first time
in a show. “It’s very exciting, but I admit that I am a little nervous. But I think that all will go well if I put time and effort into this, and I look forward to making my stage debut.” The feelings of excitement and nervousness are ubiquitous amongst the cast members. The challenges of the show lay not only with the vast amount of memorization that all twelve jurors must do or the character development that must be portayed but also in the fact that all twelve jurors are on stage the entire time. Mr. Cloran has the arduous task of maintaining compelling yet presentable blocking and keeping the action moving forward throughout. However, he is unsurprisingly optimistic about this as he “loves ensemble plays where most of the cast is on stage during most of the play. That kind of production offers a great learning experience in being a present actor on stage.” Twelve Angry Men differs greatly from many of the shows in Haverford’s recent past. It is not a musical. There are no glamorous songs or fantastic dance numbers to hide behind. There are no set changes. There are simply twelve dynamic characters battling to decide the difference between life and death. It requires acting in its purest of forms rather than opulent scenery and show. It is a daunting task; however, Mr. Cloran says it best: “If we work hard and stay focused, this has the potential to be one of the best plays Haverford has produced.” Prepare to have your mind blown on November 3rd and 4th in Centennial Hall.
Eating with Sam: All Around the USA Sam Bloch ‘13
This summer, “Eating with Sam” hit the road. In my travels, I ate some really good food. There are three restaurants and an ice cream place that really stood out above all the rest. Judge Bean’s BBQ, Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana, Zingerman’s, and The Juice Bar provided me with some of the best eating experiences of the summer. Judge Bean’s BBQ and Steakhouse is located outside of Nashville, Tennessee in the small town of Brentwood. This BBQ joint claims to be the “best BBQ east of Texas,” but it is most likely one of the best in the country.
Everything on the menu is sure to impress from the nachos to the brisket. However, none of the items on the menu compare to the baby back ribs. Hands down, these are the best ribs I have ever tasted. In fact, it is one of the best foods I have ever had. The ribs are smoked for six hours to a juicy tenderness. They are then smothered in the best BBQ sauce that you can find outside of Texas. The ribs fall right off the bone, and that tenderness, combined with the excellent sauce, makes for a great rack of ribs. If you find yourself in Nashville or the surrounding area, Judge Bean’s is a place worth going out of your way at which to enjoy. Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana in New Haven, Connecticut, is the best pizza place
Polls Results Are In!
in the country. Founded in 1925 by Frank Pepe, Pepe’s is one of the first American pizza places. Things at Pepe’s are done the same way as they were in 1925, and that is part of the reason why it is so special. The oven that is used is the original oven that Pepe himself used. It was fired by coke until the late 1960s, when they began to use coal instead. This oven gives the pizza a distinct crisp flavor that is unlike any other pizza in the world. Pepe’s is the birthplace of New Haven thin crust pizza, a style where the crust is thin and crispy, but still has a little chewiness on the inside. Pepe’s crust is second to none, but the other elements of their pizza are also delicious. The sauce, fresh and sweet, is smothered in great cheese.
Haverford Sports Making Their Mark
As soccer continues to rise through the national rankings and water polo fights on towards EA Day, all of Haverford’s sports teams are having exciting seasons. Comprehensive sports coverage begins on Page 9.
Poll of 64 Haverford Students conducted by James Shecter using Facebook over a period of approximately one week.
This time, the polls ranging from time spent on clubs to how parental influence affects political affiliation are scattered throughout the issue. Flip through to check them out!
Clubs Still Want New Members
Service Board Leaders: Amar Patel (Form V) and Fitz Tepper (Form VI). Photo by Ms. Dawn Blake
Many of Haverford’s clubs are always looking to expand their numbers. Read about a handful of them on pages 4 through 6 to gauge your interest, and then sign up for them using the provided QR Code. In addition, community service is always a good way to get involved on an event-by-event basis.
The plain pizza is the best I have ever had, but the toppings make the pizza even better. On my last visit, I had pepperoni on my pizza, and it was fantastic. The pepperoni was thick cut, crisp, and flavorful and really enhanced the flavor of the pizza. I do not eat clams, but Pepe’s most famous pizza is their white-clam pie. It is just white clams on the crust with oil and garlic. The people with whom I have eaten at Pepe’s have told me it is one of the best things they have ever eaten, so I will just have to take their word for it and recommend trying the white-clam pie. Continued on Page 7
Also Inside the Issue... The Café Mystery, pg. 2 Midterm Coverage, pg. 4 Debate vs. Mock Trial, pg. 5 The Quiet Premier, pg. 7 Watch the Throne, pg. 8
Sixth Former Eli Koven beats a defender to the ball. Photo by Elias Economou
Haverford Takes on Politics Haverford students from all perspectives have opinions on various topics in modern politics, including President Barack Obama’s record, his proposed tax reform, a general analysis of the US Economy, and more. Find all the coverage among pages 12 to 15.
Mr. Tirado’s Column, pg. 9 Theft at Haverford, pg. 14 Paras on the Economy, pg. 15 And much more...
Page 2
October 2011
News & Features
A Letter from the President
Letter from the Editors
Dear Student Body,
Dear Reader,
It is hard to believe that a month has already passed. School life, so far as I can see, is off to a fantastic start. Adam Taliaferro’s speech on student leadership seems to have left a lasting impact on the school community as already I have seen fellow students taking leadership roles around the school. At sporting events, I have been very excited to see the number of students coming to show support rise with each additional week. I only hope that we can keep up the current trend and make this year very special. Of course, this first month of school has had a few bumps. I must admit that discovering the issue of theft as early as the second week of school came as a very serious and saddening blow. The only thing that we can do now as students of Student Council President Peter Rogers. this community is strive to beat the confines of distrust and Photo by Jake Pechet disrespect. We cannot dwell on what has happened but instead must look to the future as a means to better ourselves and each other by providing good examples for other students and the strength necessary to tell other students that what they are doing is wrong. We can and will beat this issue. I see great things for the month of October, the rest of this semester, and the year in general. Our teams are doing exceedingly well, so let us all make an effort to support them when we can. The clubs assembly and following sign-up period showed that many of us are interested in immersing ourselves into the surrounding environment. I look forward to watching more than just sports as clubs that compete ready themselves for their upcoming competitions. Furthermore, the hard work of many other Upper School students in the upcoming play is reason for excitement, and I suggest that everyone supports the production of 12 Angry Men in November. Good luck to all of you in your first quarter. Third formers, the initial stress that always comes with a new school will settle down as you learn to manage your time. Fourth Formers, this year will prove more testing than your last, but it will be easier if you try to relax when you can and enjoy yourself. Fifth Formers, yes many of you have started SAT prep, it is time to look at colleges, and your grades this year are more important than ever. However, you have all proven yourself for the past two years and can do it again. My fellow Sixth Formers, we are worrying enough about grades and schools for me to say anything on the subject, so I would just like to congratulate all of you on being amazing role models thus far. The cohesiveness of our class has never been more apparent, and I look forward to the rest of the year.
The year is flying by, but it’s never too late to try something new. This club-themed issue brings you a deeper insight into some of the clubs you learned about in the clubs assembly. We hope you take advantage of this and take a risk – you never know when signing up for that one club could give you a whole new perspective on what you wish to do with your life. Editors-in-Chief Sixth Former Tadas Antanavicius and Fifth Former GrayLife is short, and it is up son Sessa. to you to make something of Photo by Fisher Pressman it. These four years of Upper School will pass by before you know it, and what will you have done in that time? We here at The Index believe that this paper is the perfect medium for you to make a difference and leave your mark on the community. The Index too has made a big change in the last issue. We debuted “QR codes,” truly bringing the paper into a new day of technological-awareness. These barcodes can be scanned with simple, free smartphone applications (we suggest “QRReader” for the iPhone, “Barcode Scanner” for Android, and “QR Code Scanner Pro” for Blackberry). The codes will automatically open a certain webpage on your phone, allowing readers to get so much more out of articles. Whether it means actually listening to the music that English teacher Mr. Luqman Kolade recommends or watching the trailer of Sixth Former Chris Compendio’s current favorite movie, the codes will fundamentally change the way readers interact with The Index. Everyone has a story, and everyone has an opinion. The question is, how many of you have the courage to tell that story or stand behind what you believe? How many of you are willing to write about it and have that opinion take its seat forever in the archives of Haverford? Of the hundreds of Upper School students, there appears to be but a few dozen of such brave souls. Many members of the faculty and administration read The Index regularly, and its ability to influence is often underestimated. As you read through this issue of The Index, we challenge you to consider what is missing from these pages. Is there an accomplishment that has gone unnoticed? Is there an issue left unaddressed? Is there a published opinion that you believe to be misguided? Do you have an opinion that is worth expressing? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” we hope to hear from you soon about writing an article (or more) for The Index.
Your President, Peter Rogers
Tadas Antanavicius ’12 & Grayson Sessa ‘13
What’s up with the Café?
Will Tackett ‘14 Late last year, The Haverford School Café was often closed, and the circumstances of the hiatus were somewhat mysterious. Haverford students wondered why it was closed and did not know when, or if, they could expect
normalcy again. Mr. Garrett O’Neill, Haverford’s General Manager of Dining Services, explained that the former manager left due to personal reasons, but did not go into further detail. This provides a sufficient enough explanation as to why the Café abruptly closed. As for when we should expect normalcy Haverford’s Dining Service has already solved the problem of the vacancy with an internal promotion. Ms. Sabrina Doerr, who last year
worked in the Lower School section of the cafeteria, is beginning her new responsibility as Café manager this fall. She is “excited to step into this role,” says Mr. O’Neill. Ms. Doerr already has plans to start to improve the Café with new artwork and new products, among other things. Also, she will be asking the community for ideas to improve the Café in the near future. Some students, such as Fourth Former Michael
The Haverford School’s Café. Photo by Erich Prince & Josh Pau
Solomon, have already seen positive changes in the Café. He noticed that the selection is “getting better.” It also appears that the Café has been a hit with many of the new Third Formers: “I don’t go the Café that much, but a lot of other freshmen do go there, sometimes even between class,” said Connor Atkins. Some students like the Café because it is a good place to relax. Haverford students also have suggestions for
how the Café could improve. An anonymous Fourth Former recommended that it expands its hours: “Keep it open later, until after sports. [The Café] would get much more money that way.” Its hours are from 10:30-11:15 AM and 2:00-5:00 PM, but sports practices typically end slightly after 5 o’clock. It is true that if the Café extended its hours, it could net many sports players waiting to be picked up at the circle near Centennial Hall. Some students have protested that the prices in the Café are too high; others want a better availability of products. Either way, it is clear that there are areas to improve upon and areas that many people enjoy when it comes to the Cafe. As for the worries towards its improvement, Ms. Doerr has stepped up to the plate.
The Index
2011-2012 Staff Tadas Antanavicius, Editor-in-Chief Grayson Sessa, Editor-in-Chief Peter Thompson, News and Features Editor James Shecter, Sports Editor Amar Patel, Arts & Entertainment Editor Fisher Pressman, Opinions Editor Jonathan Smith, Outdex Editor Elias Economou, Staff Photographer Fitz Tepper, Website Manager Mr. Thomas Stambaugh, Faculty Advisor
The Index is a student-run publication of the Haverford School that does more than bring news: it provides the diverse perspectives of the Haverford student body. It is an outlet for student writers to take stands on issues they deem important. It chronicles the daily struggles and accomplishments of the Haverford community. The Index also provides a forum for discussion of pertinent issues, such as student culture, academic policy, and Haverford’s place in world affairs. The Index presents new ideas and aspires to influence constructive change.
All opinions and viewpoints expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of The Index or the school. The Index is designed and produced digitally. Photographs may be retouched. Submissions and letters to the editors regarding any and all articles are welcomed at hsindex@gmail.com. The Index, a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, is composed on Apple OSX, using Adobe InDesign CS3. Its surveys are conducted via SurveyMonkey as they are advertised on Facebook to only current Haverford students. School Publications Company of Neptune, N.J., prints 200-400 copies of each issue, and its editorial staff distributes them in the Upper School on the day of release. The Index serves the needs of a total school population of 1091 community members, consisting of 975 students and 116 faculty members. Contact The Index: 450 Lancaster Ave, Haverford, PA 19041 hsindex@gmail.com http://www.haverfordindex.com/ 610.642.3020 x. 1222 Volume LXXIII, No. 2 - October 7, 2011
Page 3
October 2011
News & Features Dining hall Redone Matt Larson ‘14
gold throughout. The green presents a modern touch and [is] the color representing food. You can see green, maroon and gold colors When students arrived at Haverford for integrated in to [the] new floor. The colors the 2011-12 school year, they were no doubt tie the ceiling, surprised to see that walls, floor and the Dining Hall had new signage been redesigned. together. The darker The changes were wainscoting helps new and exciting. protect the lower Notable standouts half of the wall include a new, as well as giving separate “action a feel of history station” as well as of the building. a general feeling The “family style” of more space seating down the between tables middle of the and lunchroom Poll of 64 Haverford Students conducted by James Shecter using Facebook over a period of approximately one week. Dining Area adds to amenities. However, that reflective sense of community. The idea why were these changes made? To answer worked two-fold because it also created more that question, The Index sat down with Mr. space and we were able to add about 25 seats Garrett O’Neill, General Manager of the to accommodate the growth of the Middle and Dining Services at Haverford, to provide an Upper School. explanation as well as give a full range of the The biggest changes were the positioning changes that improved the Dining Hall. of the meal work (stations). We were able to create more room in the middle of the floor Garrett O’Neill: “When I arrived at and add my favorite piece, the Haverford Haverford, I was excited about the Dining shield logo…Other new concepts here at Hall and what it had to offer. It is a great Haverford: (1) the acoustical ceiling on the space and a good size. However, I did not feel Lower School side to help with trapping as if it was used to its full potential. This is sound; (2) our new store room to help cut off how the remodel concept came to fruition. footsteps from the kitchen; (3) new tables With a layout and design architect, we in the Lower and Upper Schools; (4) lower brainstormed. We wanted to give the Dining School “H” Logo; and (5) new equipment – Hall an updated feel while utilizing the very toasters, refrigerators, sneeze guards, soup important Haverford olors of maroon and kettles and more.”
Service Update
right reason. As Taliaferro stated, service learning is about doing something because you genuinely care about the cause and helping others less During one of the most memorable speeches fortunate than you. It is an opportunity to give presented at a Haveford assembly, former college back to your community. football player Adam Taliaferro told us of his The Service Board organizes most recovery from of the service near-paralysis. events and From this advertises experience he upcoming was imbued service with the idea opportunities. of being a Riverbend servant leader. Shiverfest, an In his touching event that raises speech, money to support Taliaferro the Riverbend stated that a Environmental servant leader Education Center is someone in Gladwyne, is that does good on October 15th things, not from 4:00-9:00 for an award PM. Another or credit, but very popular simply for the event is the pleasure of AIDS Walk Poll of 64 Haverford Students conducted by James Shecter using Facebook over a period of approximately one week. helping others. on October 16th Servant leaders are crucial in a successful at the Art Museum. Agnes Irwin students will participate in this walk to support the people community. who have been challenged by AIDS. There are Haverford does not require a certain many other service opportunities besides these. amount of community service hours because Information about any service events can be Haverford consists of so many servant leaders. found in Ms. Loos’ office or from any of the Community service is critical in helping Service Board members. Doing service is vital a community progress. Some people do in giving back to your community, so go to any community service just because they want that community service event you can. recognition on their resumés, but that is not the
Bryan Rodriguez ‘14
Haverford’s dirty secret Grayson Sessa ‘13 Rubbish. Trash. Garbage. The community may be more friendly to recycling initiatives than ever before. But students are unfortunately accustomed to overflowing trash cans in the dining hall. Does The Haverford
School have a problem? The Waste Management Company picks up Haverford’s trash between three and five days a week depending on if it is needed. All campus waste is delivered to a central location, the back dock near the café. Fourth Former Beauchamp Zirnkilton notes that he does not see a lot of trash in the building, but, “I presume, because it’s a big school, it must [produce large amounts of trash].” He recognizes that most of the trash he sees is disposed of in the dining hall. General Manager of the dining hall Garrett O’Neill is proud of the steps that his section of Haverford has taken to reduce waste, noting that the kitchen has reduced its amount of trash in the last year. “Our staff is very good at controlling waste in our kitchen. We have waste sheets for any items that need to be tossed. This helps us control our costs and watch what we are throwing away closely.” The plan at Haverford is called “A Better Tomorrow.” Director of Facilities Jim Pettus calls reduction of waste “an on-going issue” and says that his department is “adjusting it to improve.” Haverford’s new Upper School was nationally acclaimed in receiving LEED Gold Certification status, but students last year still saw room for improvement as many in the community worried that the recycling program was not actually effective. This led Nick Desatnick ’11, Rameen Vafa ’11, and then-Fourth Former Wick Egan to start the Sustainability Alliance with the help of former advisor Mr. Ian Ranzer and current advisor Mr. Tom Trocano. After building up steam in the middle of last year, the Alliance members have become a regular sight around the Upper School on Wednesday mornings as they carry recycling out to a dumpster beyond the Lower School.
disposed of in the dining hall as the biggest area for concern. Problems of this sort, beyond the reach of recycling programs, may take longer to fix and cut deeper into the school’s culture. He offered a school-wide awareness campaign as a potential solution. But even with the potential fixes in place, not all students think that the problem is urgent. Bloch says, “I think it’s important to cut the unnecessary waste, but it’s not necessarily something where we have to completely change our lifes at school.” Fifth Former Josh Pau said, “I don’t think we generate a lot of trash, and we recycle a lot, so we’re pretty ‘green.’” Sixth Former Geoff Bocobo agrees that Haverford does not produce too much trash, “For any Upper School of about 400 kids, we mainly utilize only two trashcans near the door during both lunches.” He believes that “There is nothing you can do about the amount of trash you put out,” arguing that the only place for improvement would be for the school “to enforce strict and proper recycling because it is obviously not enforced.” Bocobo does not One of Haverford’s overflowing dumpsters. believe that the school’s attitude on recycling Photo by Erich Prince and Josh Pau has changed in the last year. Egan offered some promising statistics: hand with the school’s Third Former 500-800 pounds of recycling are collected relatively new policy of Drew Supinski, each week. That striking number shows sending grades home who first came just how much paper waste is generated via the Parent portal of to Haverford this by Haverford classes. Fourth Former Paul the Haverford website. year, has a unique Addonizio mentions, “I know I have seen Egan also admits, “Sure, perspective, having people recycling more.” But he followed Haverford generates a only just left another up saying that educating the student body huge amount of trash.” school. He does not so that it knows which items ought to be He sees a partial solution think that the amount placed in the recycling bins is an important as “replacing plastic of trash generated next step. Mr. Trocano sees the next step for water bottles with water at Haverford is the Sustainability Alliance as expanding the bottled in eco-friendly considerable: in fact, recycling program to cans and plastic bottles. containers.” Another he characterized Waste Management Company also helps pet peeve of his are the the amount as “not Haverford recycle. According to Mr. O’Neill, lighting habits. “The as much as my old they use a single stream system where the school gloats [about] school.” recyclables, including cans and plastic bottles, large windows which Maybe the “green are separated from other waste and reused at let in huge amounts of mentality” and various recycling plants. light; however, blinds the Sustainability A classroom recycling bin emptied by the Students generally agree on what could be are often drawn, and Alliance really have Sustainability Alliance. done to combat excessive trash. Fifth Former fluorescent lights turned changed the school’s Photo by Drew Field Sam Bloch suggested that teachers be open to on.” practices for the students submitting even more of their work Addonizio went in better. electronically. This practice would go hand-ina different direction, naming “wasted food”
Page 4
October 2011
News & Features
Mr. Green Responds to midterm Concern Jonathon Paras ‘14 As the month of September begins to wrap up, the end of the semester seems distant but is really not that far off. Due to the huge wave of concerns that flooded in after September’s front-page article about the new midterm policy, this interview with Head of Upper School Mr. Matthew Green may clarify the uncertainty that is sure to come with any type of change to the system.
Jonathan Paras: To recap, why was there such a big push to change the midterm system so radically? Mr. Green: The return from the winter holiday [was] followed by a week of fresh [classes], three days of review, four or five days of exams and a grading day. The end result was two-fold: first, [while] you have well-rested students and well-prepared teachers, the school goes up and running [only to] power down [so soon to accommodate midterm exam week]. Second, if you do the math, from the day of the Thanksgiving assembly to the opening day of the second semester, you have 63 calendar days, 14 of which are between two holidays. You have the effect of almost a second summer break interrupting academic flow. JP: Whom was this decision meant to benefit, considering that some students see this as making it harder for them?
MG: This was made for the students, actually. I can appreciate the anxiety students are feeling and I think that’s because the students are having a difficult time shifting their [perspective]. If we just take a 120 minute exam and stuff it into 85 minutes, it [would be] tough on students but not particularly valuable to them... The main purpose [of changing the system] is to switch midterms to something more like [an end-of-quarter major test] and allow for more learning. JP: If these decisions are made for the students, then does it benefit the faculty in any way?
more material, and then spiral back to previous knowledge. I don’t think of it as “box, box, box, box, assessment,” I think of it as a spiral drawing. So when I say that faculty have 30 double periods in the year, my argument is that those provide ample time for them to come up with a good assessment. When we go back, the reason for finals are for you to tie all this together and for it to be an on-going process, the idea is not for them to take exam week and shove it into double periods but to allow it to be up to the discretion of the teacher.
JP: Why was this MG: The challenge solution chosen Head of Upper School Mr. Matthew Green. to the teachers is... out of so many Photo by Elias Economous understanding that other possible assessment and evaluation are ongoing. ones? Learning does not happen as effectively with the model of discrete unit. What I mean is, MG: I could have come right out and said no the magical time [for a] test is arbitrary, but exams at all, which essentially is the policy, it’s familiar so it doesn’t feel arbitrary. In my but I know teachers are going to want to have opinion, kids learn best when you introduce something at the end as a form of wrapping new material, you evaluate it, you introduce up. Like I said, this is to allow us to enjoy the
benefits of uninterrupted teacher and student continuity. JP: Theoretically, if we get to this point, and we take the tests as a school, and it is a colossal failure, is this set in stone? MG: No not at all, but you have to take a few risks [with] what we identified as a problem. This is one possible solution. The best thing is to gather up a group of teachers and students and ask what is the reality on the ground. But you cannot do that ahead of time when you’re dealing with a sacred cow such as the exam because when people, given a choice between what they know and something new, are asked to predict about them...[they] are in most cases going to side with the familiar. What I’m hoping to demonstrate is that we are nimble enough to make these decisions, [unlike] at my previous school [where] we had trimesters and no exams in the winter. The idea was that the winter term was meant for experimentation with alternate forms of assessment. And yes, I am concerned about the students’ point of view, and we have had a lot of conversations about that at the faculty level. But it’s something you have to be mindful of; you’re studying for tests all the time, even in the context of the busy day. Why should this be any different than any other tests that you take during the day? And I may be wrong, but one of my hopes is that the absence of the dedicated exam time will cause teachers to reconsider the whole notion of the cumulative assessment.
Clubs Coverage The next few pages are full of articles detailing some specific clubs. You can scan this QR Code with your smartphone to open up a webpage that will allow you to sign up for almost any club. The Index recommends the following free apps: QR Reader (iPhone) Barcode Scanner (Android) QR Code Scanner Pro (Blackberry) The Index will forward your name and email address to each club’s laders, and hopefully you will be contacted by them to confirm your standing in the club.
Politics & Global Awareness
Lab & Demo
be exciting and worth the time. The club will contacting some of Haverford’s alumni. We Austin Merritt ‘13 meet during the designated clubs period during also look to the future possibility of taking In the Lab and Demo club, students are the community block. It is a low-commitment field trips that would given the opportunity to perform and observe club, but it does require your attention and The Politics and give students handsboth demonstrations participation while in the Global Awareness club on experience as and laboratory lab room. has citizens in a political experiments. This The Lab and Demo club a comprehensive and society. club provides access takes place in the chemistry aggressive agenda for Our goals are to experiments labs on the second floor of the upcoming school to educate students that students may Wilson Hall. year. We will meet every on the important never get to see in The Faculty advisers are Monday during lunch, political and global a science class at Science Department faculty both A and B, as well as issues of today Haverford. It is also members Mr. Tom Trocano, certain clubs periods to while encouraging a good opportunity Ms. Carol O’Brien, and Ms. discuss current issues discussion on these to see intriguing Brandy Bardell; they will relating to politics issues both inside demonstrations a help perform the labs safely and/or global events. and outside of the second time. The goal and explain any scientific These discussions will group. The mission is to provide a fun phenomena present in the range from the current Conservative and Liberal leaders of the Politics & Global Aware- is to gain a better yet safe atmosphere demo. Basically, the Lab Republican primaries toness Club. From left to right: Fifth Formers Grayson Sessa, Lucasunderstanding of to perform science and Demo Club is all the Elek, and John McMichael. human rights conflicts Photo by Erich Prince how we can make an activities that are fun of labs without having in Africa. We will impact in our political hopefully interesting to to write a lab report. work to create a curriculum to allow us to society. This includes preparing students for the If you have any spend several weeks on a topic. We hope to upcoming 2012 election, for which we hope to all members. questions or would like to Suggestions for lead one Reflections Assembly to educate the help register student voters. join the club, contact Fifth possible labs are student body on an important issue. Ideally, The club will surely be using many of these materials If anyone has any questions or would like Formers James Shecter or in its experiments. accepted, but all of the the club will be able to arrange for a speaker to join please contact Fifth Formers John Photo by Index Staff Austin Merritt. activities are designed to to discuss an issue in their particular field by McMichael or Lucas Elek.
Lucas Elek ‘13
Page 5 October 2011
Clubs “We’re Legit” - Debate “Objection, Your Honor” - Mock Trial Club 2011-2012 more towards argument…the ability to stand up and convey an argument convincingly is As Haverford School students begin to crucial. Most of all, it’s fun.” choose which clubs to pursue for the 2011Harris hopes that the promise of learning 2012 school year, and maybe for the rest of “the necessary tactics of proving points, their Upper School years, they should pay speaking eloquently, and verbally demolishing special attention to the Speech & Debate Club. anyone who makes the mistake of standing Participants have the opportunity to compete in your way” will lure students to debate. in monthly events sponsored by the National He noted that the team competes in national Forensic League’s local chapter. Students can tournaments at Ivy League schools, including choose from a wide variety of debate events, the University of Pennsylvania Liberty Bell including Public Forum (a partner, fact-based Classic and the Princeton Classic. event), Policy (where students reconfigure a Some students may be concerned about current federal government policy), or Lincoln- choosing between joining the Haverford Douglas Mock Trial (which or Debate focuses on teams. After issues of joking that morality). debate is Team “superior Captain in every Sixth Former way,” Harris David Harris explained, offers two “Debate is potential more focused Lincolnon debate Douglas and speech topics: in its raw you may forms. Mock “debate the Trial centers importance on debating of animal issues rights [this regarding month’s the law in topic] or criminal whether it’s cases justified to whereas A Survey Monkey poll conducted over Facebook with 64 Haverford Upper School kill one man debate students. to save five.” centers on Coordinated by James Shecter Harris also debating notes that there are non-debate competitions issues relating to life in general.” Mr. Graham that still test and finesse speaking skills. These agrees with Harris, saying “Mock Trial is Speech events include, but are not limited all about law,” though he admits he is still to, Dramatic Interpretation (acting), Original unfamiliar with its intricacies. “Mock Trial has Oratory (writing and presenting speeches a much narrower focus on what the concerns about any subject), and Extemporaneous (an are…but debate: it’s policy, it’s government improvised speech about a randomly selected stuff, it’s drama. [There are] all different sorts of realms in debate.” Consequently, Mr. topic). Graham believes that conflicted students are Mr. Andrew Scibilia and new English more likely to find their place in debate. teacher Mr. Kellen Graham serve as this year’s This year, meetings will be held in Mr. advisors. Mr. Graham believes that “debate Graham’s room from 5:30 to 6:30 each gives our guys concrete practice in kinds of Wednesday evening. Interested students should argument and the kinds of rhetorical strategies come to a meeting or speak to Mr. Graham, that they will be using for the rest of their Mr. Scibilia, or Harris for further information. lives.” He notes that “our society is moving
Grayson Sessa ‘13
previously participated is the Pennsylvania Mock Trial Competition. The cases the Whether you regard yourself as a litigious Competition Board writes are fictional but individual, you are yearning to improve your realistic. Last year, the team dealt with a public speaking skills, or you simply enjoy doctor who was sued for medical malpractice arguing, you should by a woman who check out the Mock claimed the doctor obtained her cancer Trial team. cells without consent. In the courtroom, The year before, you will be able to the case was about convey your own the mysterious unique perspective on disappearance and the given trial to an likely murder of an actual judge: you will immigrant worker. either play a lawyer Briefly stated, the or a witness, and cases are interesting you will be given the and thoughtwitness statements to provoking. A gavel similar to one that may appear in a Mock Trial review. There is only courtroom. This year the team one catch: nothing is Photo by Drew Field also will be competing scripted. You have to in an exclusive, invitation-only competition come up with your own answers to opposing at the University of Pennsylvania. Sra. lawyers’ challenging cross-examination Mateos eagerly stated, “Being invited to this questions if you are a witness. Or, if you play competition is an honor: only the top-50 teams a lawyer, you will do your best to expose the in the state compete out of 300+ teams.” flaws in the witness’ arguments and “cross up” Fifth Former and three-year Mock Trial the witness on the stand. As a lawyer, you will veteran Sam Bloch is looking forward to also be able to say boldly, “Objection, Your the upcoming year and is eager to have new Honor” – something most people have an urge to say at some point in their life (particularly in members join. Bloch remarked, “It’s always fun to have new blood in the courtroom. a courtroom). The past few years the Fords have had a The team generally begins meeting once or very solid team, but there is always room for twice a week sometime between Thanksgiving improvement.” Bloch’s tongue-in-cheek goal and Winter Break. The meetings take place is“to win the national championship, which has in advisor Sra. Carmen Mateos’s room after eluded Haverford for 129 years.” sports and last less than an hour and a half. When compared to the Debate Team, During these meetings, Mr. Frank DeSimone, Lemmon commented, “Mock Trial is more of a veteran courtroom lawyer in Philadelphia, a team event that is focused on only one case,” comes and lectures the team about trial rather than “a variety of topics that you can strategies and gives the team tips about how debate.” Sra. Mateos, supporting Lemmon’s to embarrass and dominate the opposing side. point, said, “[In Mock Trial] you have to Sra. Mateos said that getting the chance to elaborate the theory of a case and then base work with a top trial lawyer is “fascinating. those facts to defend or prosecute a position.” His unique perspectives help the newcomers She also mentioned “courtroom protocol” that incredibly.” is unique to Mock Trial: “[Students need to Sixth Form Captain B.G Lemmon have] proper etiquette, and they have to be able remarked, “Mock Trial requires careful to present correctly evidence, examinations, analysis of a ton of information at once. exhibits.” [Those] who succeed are the ones who can If you are interested in joining the Mock maintain that focus throughout the three-month Trial team, it is never too late: the team can period leading up to the case.” Sra. Mateos agreed, stating that, “it requires nearly 30 hours use all of the manpower it can get. Contact Sra. Mateos, Lemmon, or Sixth Form Captains of work, but all of the work is worth it in the Kevin Zipf and Frank Brown for further end.” information. The competition in which the team has
James Shecter ‘13
Haverford TV Making a Comeback
Chris Compendio ‘12 The Haverford TV (HTV) News started off as an ambitious project in 2009 that gained much attention after screening its first episode in front of the entire Upper School. For most of the 2009-10 school year, Haverford TV was able to produce weekly episodes and additional web content. At the beginning of the 2010 school year, Haverford TV attempted to tinker with the format, making the weekly TV News more like a newsmagazine rather than a series of PSAs and interviews. However, because of the lack of commitment from its members and the restricting one-week deadline for news segments, only one episode was completed, and HTV subsequently “died off.” This year, Fifth Former Avery Bass along with Sixth Formers Fitz Tepper and Chris Compendio are bringing Haverford TV back. Haverford TV is almost entirely studentdriven. Instead of having weekly episodes, the current plan is to provide a stream of regular content that will be uploaded on Vimeo and shared through The Index’s website. We will provide videos that will accompany online articles. For example, highlight reels of sports games can accompany an article about the game itself. An interview for The Index could
also be filmed, and the newspaper article would include a QR code that would lead the reader to a video of the interview. Haverford TV and The Index are looking to work together this year rather than act as separate entities as in previous years. We are looking for cameramen, editors, producers, sports commentators, and on-screen personalities (field reporters, interviewers). In addition, any potential news anchor must be willing to commit himself for the entire year. We also want to take advantage of the “Haverford TV” brand and provide video entertainment, which would include comedy skits, short films, and possibly scheduled “television shows.” Like the News segments, these would be uploaded on Vimeo, posted on a section on The Index website, and shared through a Facebook page and Twitter account. And as in the previous two years, being an active member of the HTV crew will earn you a sports credit. We share the TV Studio with The Index staff. We have already begun a Facebook group composed of Sixth and Fifth Formers who have expressed interest in helping HTV. However, we still need plenty of Third and Fourth Formers. If you have any interest in joining or contributing, please speak to Tepper, Bass, or Compendio.
Chris Compendio in the middle of shooting an HTV News piece. Photo by Dave Harris
Page 6 October 2011
Clubs People to People at haveford
Erich Prince ‘13
blog to promote cultural exchange. Beginning this year, People to People will Now entering its third year, People to participate in Challenge 20/20 in a partnership People’s Haverford chapter aims to continue with Holy Trinity School in Ontario. Together, its joint mission of humanitarian initiative the two chapters will develop a theoretical and the discussion resolution to and understanding combat global of global events. terrorism Following a year in and promote which community international service focused security. on the support of The final Soles for Souls relationship and the chapter’s is the most in own initiative of depth of the Operation Tooth (a three as People program that seeks to People joins to provide dental Girls Learn Members of the People to People Club. hygiene supplies to International, Photo by Erich Prince Philadelphia’s homeless), an organization members will select another lead project for the based in Manhattan with an objective to ensure education for girls in nations where women’s fall. rights have historically been in question. On In the past, the chapter has supported People Sunday, September 25, both Faasel Khan and to People International’s quest to provide Erich Prince traveled to the GLI headquarters children in war-torn nations with school in New York City to attend a summit on the supplies through Operation International organization’s objectives for the coming year. Children. On the environmental front, members Before communication with the academy cleaned the trails of Wissahickon Valley Park in Islamabad begins in the spring, People to in August of 2010. The humanitarian half of People will devote regular meetings to the People to People strives for a balanced effort discussion of women’s rights, HIV, and Human between local and global service. Trafficking. Involving both the humanitarian and These partnerships allow for a more global discussion forum, the chapter will interactive application of Dwight Eisenhower’s, participate in three international partnerships the founder of People to People International, for the 2011-2012 year. First, the chapter will vision of “Peace through Understanding,” continue its relationship with the Colombo, and the achievement of a more united world Sri Lanka student chapter of People to People created through the acknowledgment of cultural International. Both chapters collaborate on a discrepancy.
Jazz Band
Will Tackett ‘14 The Notables are perhaps the most wellknown group in Haverford’s arts program, however, less notable groups deserve attention as well. One such group is the Jazz Band, which has been a part of Haverford for twenty years. Mr. Duane Case, the Director of Music, sums up the Jazz Band in this way: “While the Jazz Band is a relatively small ensemble, the sound and quality of their playing is big.” The Jazz Band is led by Mr. Larry Davison. According to Mr. Case, Mr. Davison toured with the Glenn Miller Orchestra as a trumpeter for three years and “has been teaching brass [instruments] in the area for more than twenty years.” Mr. Davison has also led the Haverford High and Cardinal O’Hara jazz bands. The Jazz Band lost only one former Sixth Former to graduation last June, so last year’s group is still largely intact, including Sixth Formers Brennan Kensey, Daniel Kim, Matt Luminais, Jack and Pat Meehan, Steven Molitor,
Tadas Antanavicius ‘12
Submit to Pegasus Morphin Power Rangers. Our current goal is the achievement of world peace through the fabulous and sometimes grammaticallyincorrect art that Haverford students submit
Jack Meehan ‘12
Around 1440, Johannes Guttenberg invented the to us. printing press. To be Around the same serious, we time, a man named are a club Lars Shudenheim that every discovered a small year creates a race of diminutive compilation men living in of Haverford’s subterranean studenttunnels beneath created art and his cellar. In literature in 1550, moon men magazine form. attacked Atlantis Currently, in their glittery we have ships of death, enough editors and Helsinki, the (although capital of Finland, underclassmen was founded by should talk to Gustav Vasa. The Dr. William first computer Ehrhart if was invented they truly are Jack Meehan, one of the head editors of Pegasus. in 1940, and Photo by Index Staff interested), Godzilla attacked Japan for the first time in but we will be looking for submissions from 1954. Finally, in 1993, the greatest of all these the student body. If you are an artist or a notable achievements occurred: the creation writer, we ask that you submit your work of the Haverford literary magazine, Pegasus. to Pegasus@haverford.org. We ask you to For those poor souls who do not know what remember that this is a fabulous and simple Pegasus is, I will take some time to explain. way to make a permanent mark upon The We are a secret organization that protects Haverford School. mankind, similar to the Freemasons or Mighty
Submissions to Pegasus due by October 28th
Peer Counseling
Will Schwartz ‘12
Peer Counseling is a program in which Fifth and Sixth Form students discuss issues important to themselves and help clear the anxiety in their lives. Peer Counseling meets every other week through both lunches
that day (since one meeting takes place during both lunches), but generally, if there is not a major assessment in that class, there should be few scheduling problems. I encourage all upperclassmen to attend Peer Counseling: my mental health always receives a boost from getting issues off of my chest and discussing, with my peers, whatever problems I may have. Everybody who attends will benefit from Peer Counseling.
and Ryan Terker. The Jazz Band’s pieces are primarily in one of three styles of jazz, says Mr. Case: swing, Latin, and rock. According to Mr. Davison, the usually on Wednesdays. Jazz Band is looking to improve on its “reading Students must get the permission of their and soloing capabilities” this year. teacher to miss their fourth period class for For interested students, the Jazz Band meets from 7:00-8:30 in Middle School music teacher Mr. John Stroud’s room in Centennial Hall on Wednesdays and performs two scheduled concerts (one in the winter and one in the spring). The Jazz Band also appears at “other informal venues, such as the Parents’ Association Luncheon in the spring, that they are invited to during the course of the year,” says Mr. Case. Participation in Jazz Band offers a good opportunity to learn how to improvise solos, which is major aspect of jazz music. Jazz Band encourages anyone who plays a brass or wind instruments, such as a trumpet, trombone, or saxophone, or who plays an instrument in the Poll of 64 Haverford Students conducted by James Shecter using Facebook over a period of approximately one week. rhythm section, consisting of drums, bass, and guitar, to audition in the beginning of the year.
Diplomacy: The Board Game
For the typical Haverford student, every day is filled with mountains of work, hours of commitments, and an ever-increasing pressure to do well in everything in which he participates. Some of these students have chosen to make these challenges more tolerable by participating daily in an always-exciting, always-enjoyable game of Diplomacy. Diplomacy is a strategic board game played on a map of Europe as it appeared circa 1914. At a glance, the game may appear to be similar to a game of chess or Risk, but it has several distinct features of its own. Each player begins with a certain amount of units - “fleets” and “armies” - and his job is to move them around the board, landing on territories with “supply centers” to increase the number of units his country can support. The game is turn-based with one set of moves taking place per day. In a move, each player may move each one of his units to adjacent territories. Between moves is where the fun occurs and the game earns its name:
players must negotiate – engage in diplomacy – amongst each other to arrange alliances and work together to overpower other players and their countries. A winner is declared when a player has acquired over half of the supply centers on the map or a treaty is signed by all the players still in the game. Games generally last for weeks. Tensions grow high, friendships may be tested, and there is never a lack of competitive spirit. Yet, at the core of it all, Diplomacy is the perfect distraction to what is often a stressful day. If nothing else, you can enjoy the spectacles caused by Sixth Formers Dave Harris and Jack Meehan, the entertaining personalities of Fourth Formers Jonathan Paras and Graham Gaddes, or even the amusing commentary of Fifth Former Scott Jaster. If you are interested in learning more, want to learn how to play, or are ready to jump in on the next game, contact Faculty Advisor Mr. Daque Tirado or the presidents of the Diplomacy Club, Sixth Formers Kelly Mao and Tadas Antanavicius.
The Diplomacy game board, in the middle of a game. Photo by Drew Field
Page 7 October 2011
Arts & Entertainment Ford’s artist
Amar Patel ‘13
As members of the Haverford community, we often assume that only upperclassmen have passion and talent, for they have been able to show it off to us for the last few years. We rarely make the connection that underclassmen also have this same ardent passion, which often takes time to burgeon into a talent, worthy of displaying to peers and teachers. One student with such a passion for the arts is Fourth Former Henry Ortmeyer. You may recognize Ortmeyer in Mr. Chris Fox’s art room, perfecting his latest artwork, or you may see him in decorous Haverford uniform with the Notables, singing the national anthem along with the rest of their repertoire. Ortmeyer enjoys expressing himself on canvas because it gives him more liberty in expression. He finds it challenging to fully express himself through words, so painting provides a viable medium to portray his emotions. Environmental issues and concerns are the most prevalent subjects in Ortmeyer’s paintings. Although his portfolio contains numerous pieces, he created his masterpiece over the summer. This painting seeks to convey the significance and gravity of the decline in environmental stability. As a budding artist, Ortmeyer is still attempting to develop a style, improve his techniques, and acquire new skills. Nevertheless, he can offer advice to other students, who have a passion in the visual arts: do it for yourself. He disagrees with the idea that one should complete a piece of artwork just for the sake of it or just to receive a good grade. You should want to make art because it interests you, not because you have to. He finally adds that the aspiring artist must spend even more time than necessary, in order to truly develop and improve his skills. In fact, he often gives up free periods or time after the academic school day to perfect his current work. Ortmeyer’s passion for the arts extends beyond the realm of aesthetic pleasure to that musicianship. He was admitted to the Haverford School in fifth grade and immediately joined the choir continuing to sing throughout Middle School with the Celebrantes. This year, he auditioned for the Notables and was accepted as their newest bass. Although he strummed a few notes on the guitar when he was younger, his first real commitment to music was when he began to sing. In addition to his paintings, Ortmeyer uses singing to relieve stress and communicate his emotions. Look for Ortmeyer as he continues to develop his passion for the arts in the studio and the concert stage.
Music producer calls haverford home Peter Thompson ‘13 People listen to music on a daily basis. Some people cannot survive without it. It has a profound effect on the human mind and attitude, to supply motivation or inspire hope. One can be consumed in the feel-good vibes that lead to the inevitable headbobbing or foot-tapping. Rhythm is flowing through the human body at all times whether apparent or not. It can be seen in class when students tap their fingers on desks or stomp their feet to simulate a kick drum. Producers such as J Dilla, 9th Wonder, DJ Premier, Kanye West, Pete Rock, and Dr. Dre have found ways to communicate to audiences worldwide through their own beats, some of which include a simple snare and bass drum pattern. It is incredible then to think of the impact such a basic concept can have on millions of people. One man at Haverford is personally in touch with this very concept. Fourth Former Haram Lee participates in an online community that shares everything related to music. He finds his interests drawn in the direction of production, and he has been very successful. Lee discovered his inspiration five years ago in Korea. While at home, he found himself listening to hip-hop albums he had collected over the years. Artists such as BT, DJ Soulscape, DJ Crush, Electron Boy, IU, Casker, Portishead, Lee juk, and mo:tet. As he rapped along with some of his favorite artists, the beats began to grow on him. All of a sudden he became inspired to create his own beats like his friends in the speakers. Four years ago was his first attempt at such a feat. Lee used FL Studio 7 to create a piano loop that he had sampled from another song. He then added various synths, a cello, and a drum track to complete his work. “I liked it quite a lot and was
very proud of myself,” Lee states. “I showed it to Premier, J Dilla, and more to this day. my family, and they liked it too.” This one track Last Thanksgiving Day Lee made the decision to took Lee a month to complete because he had only get a SoundCloud account. SoundCloud is a website just begun that allows teaching its members himself to post the songs they necessary have made skills themselves to be for a successful community in the to comment art of on. It is producing where beats. fellow artists After critique moving each other to the and provide U.S. last constructive August, feedback or Lee has tremendous been applause. Haram Lee at work. constantly Since that Photo by Peter Thompson making beats. He derives his ideas from some of his favorite Thanksgiving Day, Lee has uploaded 26 tracks, genres, including trans, hip-hop, classical, jazz, and not to mention the 20 or so tracks he has made and house. He also finds inspiration in his long list of not uploaded. He follows his favorite artists and is underground artists. For instance, Lee attempted followed by those who find his music interesting. electronic beats only after hearing Electron Boy’s “I’m thinking of becoming a musician in the future ideas, from which he was able to create a beat with as a career,” Lee states excitedly. “I just like it so his own mark. much. It makes all my stress gone,” he describes. Recently, Lee has been sharpening his skills There is no doubt that Lee is passionate about even further. He attempted to make one song a day music. But more than just that, he is also passionate during the summer to teach himself to think on his to help others. Although he is quiet and reserved, he feet, rather than settle down and spend months on requests that fellow musicians find him and talk to a single track. He continues to practice sampling, a him. He stresses how he wants to help others create method of taking specific components (i.e. drums, music. bass, or vocals) from a pre-existing track and Those looking for inspiration should do as he has placing them among a brand new beat. This style done. Listen to music. Listen to him: soundcloud. of beat making is done by famous producers DJ com/lyhraam.
Continued from pg. 1 If you find yourself driving up I-95 North past New Haven, you should stop in at Frank Pepe’s and enjoy the world famous pizza. Ann Arbor, Michigan, seems like an odd place to find a great deli. So, one might find it awkward that Zingerman’s is, in fact, one of the best delis in the country. Since 1982, Zingerman’s has served the highest quality meats, cheeses, and breads that can be found. These three components combine to create one amazing sandwich. Every sandwich I have ever had at Zingerman’s (I have had quite a few) has been incredible, but I feel inclined to talk about the Georgia Reuben because it was the sandwich that introduced me to Zingerman’s. When reading the description off the Georgia Reuben, the casual food enthusiast would probably comment that it is simply a Reuben with turkey instead of corned beef or pastrami. This sandwich is really much more than that. The turkey breast is thick cut and as juicy as juicy could be. The Swiss cheese is of the highest quality, and I believe it is actually from Switzerland. The coleslaw is fresh, crisp, and made with the right amount of mayo. I am a believer that the most important part of any sandwich is the bread, and Zingerman’s happens to
have the absolute best. The Jewish rye bread that the turkey, cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing
Map detailing Fifth Former Sam Bloch’s travels. Screenshot by Index Staff
lie between may just be the best there is. It is fresh, thick cut, warm, chewy, and, most importantly, great tasting. The Zingerman’s bread makes the Georgia Reuben one of the best sandwiches I have ever had and makes every Zingerman’s sandwich really good. If you cannot make it out to Ann Arbor to try the Zingerman’s sandwiches or breads, Zingerman’s will ship their products to you fresh so you can enjoy them. So, no matter what, you should not miss out on delicious Zingerman’s food. Summer cannot be complete without dessert, and ice cream is the preferred dessert in the hot weather.
The Juice Bar in Nantucket Island in Massachusetts is one of the best if not the best ice cream place to which I have ever been. The Juice Bar always has a line out the door and down the street in the summer because people love their ice cream. The ice cream is thicker, creamier, and more flavorful than most. Every flavor that they make will be the best ice cream that you have ever tasted. Among my favorites are Brownie A-La-Mode, vanilla ice cream with brownies in it; Peanut Butter Cup, peanut butter ice cream with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in it; and Native Blackberry, freshly picked blackberry ice cream. The ice cream is great, but at the juice bar that is only half of the story. The hand-rolled cups and cones are “out of this world” good. Using waffle makers to make the cups and cones fresh, they serve their excellent ice cream in warm, chewy cups that go well with the ice cream. The ice cream and cup or cone combination at The Juice Bar makes for one of the best ice cream experiences there is. If you happen to be in Nantucket, The Juice Bar is a place you must go to. Overall, Judge Bean’s, Frank Pepe’s, Zingerman’s, and The Juice Bar are among the best in their respective categories in the country. If you find yourself near these places, you should definitely make sure to stop in and have some of the best food that you can find. In fact, all of these places are worth going out of your way to try. So, enjoy your barbeque, pizza, sandwich, or ice cream whenever you get the chance to make it to these places.
Page 8 October 2011
Arts & Entertainment Mr. Kolade’s Music recommendations Mr. Luqman Kolade
Harper Blynn – “Halo” (Cover): Let us just get this out of the way: most covers stink. In the age of YouTube, everyone with a mic, a camera, and a friend that convinced them that they could sing, has a cover of a song. Even more so, most covers of dynamic artists like Beyonce stink even more. Most people lack that thing that makes her songs, well…hers. But this version of “Halo” by the Brooklyn-based band Harper Blynn surpasses the original in almost every way and becomes an entirely new song. Both soulful and energetic, this version manages to make you completely forget about Beyonce’s. With a dash of the Dirty Projector’s “Cannibal Resources” thrown in, the song is what every upcoming band should strive to do when covering larger, more well-known artists. This song has brought a new fan base to the band and has brought them a lot of recent publicity. Probably the most interesting to me about the song is that the band is fronted by a former Haverford grad and Notables alum – Jason Blynn ‘00. He is clearly enigmatic and his vocal range is quite impressive. I look forward to more things from both him and the band.
Logic – “Are You Ready” (ft. Phil Ade): The first thing that you notice when you see Logic is that he looks like he is a 16-year old. While not much older (21), his flow and lyricism remind you of a much older and polished MC. “Are You Ready,” an upbeat party song from his new mixtape “Young Sinatra,” samples Suzanne Vega’s “Tom’s Diner” which is probably one of the most recognizable songs of the 90s. The catchiness of the sample alone is what initially caught my interest and it is not the only sample on the mixtape that harkens back to a better time musically. Logic’s obvious love and knowledge of music separate him from the many other young artists popping up. Aside from the sample and being co-signed by some pretty big names in the D.C./Maryland area, with his rapid fire delivery Logic demonstrates on this song, and the mixtape in general, a genuine passion for rapping. While he may remind some of Drake at times or sound like Diggy Simmons, his flow is definitely his own. Do not just check out this song, but do yourself a favor and get the whole mixtape. It is almost worth it for the cover alone (a picture of Frank Sinatra’s mug shot from his 1938 arrest).
Casey Veggies – “Swag Worth a Mill” (explicit): Another song with the word “swag” in the title? Usually this would be a huge warning sign for me. However, the L.A. native, who recently graduated from high school, gets a bit of a pass on this partly because he is from the west coast, but also because he can rhyme. Casey Veggies manages to make the listener forget about his age and put you in that laid back, beach cruising, slow frame of mind without trying too hard. The song gives a quick recap of his life as of late: girls, success, tours, family, etc. all in a song that you wish was just a bit longer. The two minutes puts you right there with him and, even though he is young, he knows how to paint a very vivid L.A. picture. With some pretty significant co-signs and his album “Sleeping in Class” being re-released and given the “Deluxe Edition” treatment, CV is ready to blow.
Davis on Music: Watch the Throne
this can be found in pop-influenced chorus of “Why I Love You” and the song “****** In Paris.” When two of the biggest names in hip hop Lyrically, this album can stand up to and rap today come together to make a record, neither West’s nor Jay-Z’s older stuff. West a high-quality seems to have had product should more prominence be expected. than Jay-Z in However, Jay-Z’s this album. For and Kanye West’s the most part, collaborative the lyrics simply album Watch state that these the Throne artists have the (WTT) left me right to brag disappointed. about rising from As a fan of humble means the Kanye to superstardom. from “College Still, relationships, Dropout” all familial and the way to romantic, are also “Graduation,” strong themes. I had high For example in expectations for the song “New this album as well Day” Jay-Z and as the hope that West describe he might return Watch The Throne Album Cover. how they would to his older stuff. raise their hypothetical children. No Between the producing abilities of West and matter how interesting the themes or the lyrical ability of both, WTT could have elaborate the premise, these two artists did been so much more than it is. not deliver the product that many were With West as such a prolific producer expecting. Conversely, Frank Ocean’s and beat-maker, I was expecting incredible singing in “No Church in the Wild” and his instrumentals. I was surprised by the thinness bows to prominent civil rights leaders in of the basslines. Having produced such songs “Made in America” gives the album more such as Common’s “Be” and “All Falls “listenability.” Down,” West is clearly capable of coming up The album is still enjoyable, particularly with some superb beats. Also, the fact that the song “Murder to Excellence,” in which many other prolific producers collaborated on Kanye makes a slight return to his former the instrumentals of this album might have style by delving into some social problems; had something to do with the variations in the “Lift Off,” which features Beyoncé; and beats. “Made in America” for the homage it pays to The explanations that I can offer are that many prominent civil rights leaders of the 20th West played a smaller role in the production century. I found myself nodding my head to a and also went for a more mainstream sound significant portion of Watch the Throne . to appeal to a wider audience. Evidence of
Niticon Davis ‘13
Haverford sees Blink 182
was packed in together and screaming. It was intense.” Indeed it was intense, especially once the sounds of “Feeling This” (one of Crude, repulsive, rebellious, loud, obnoxious, their many popular songs) swept through the inappropriate, misbehaved, and absolutely remarkably stunned crowd that exploded with awesome. In 1992, Mark Hoppus, a prophet a scream of emotion. The experience continued from Mt. Olympus with bass guitar talents with multiple surprises, incredible animations, so incredible and breaththat (if played taking lighting with full productions; Fifth effort) would Former Alex Ware annihilate the said, “I was in awe human race was at how incredible ordered by Zeus and surreal the to ally with experience was.” Tom DeLonge, As the energy a guitarist with slowly drifted the skills of Jimi away from the Hendrix and crowd during the the knowledge last few songs, of Albert an indescribable Einstein’s event occurred; brother’s the immortals friend’s struck the audience Fifth Former Isaiah Jones listening to a Blink 182 album. Photo by Index Staff cousin’s college with one last rush roommate’s of excitement. toilet. Their alliance was incomplete as they Performing their hit song “Dammit,” the crowd lacked a drummer; it was then that Travis praised the band with outstanding admiration, Barker, a man of vocal silence and superhuman, closing with another unforgettable, catchy tune, five-handed, lightning-fast drumming abilities “Family Reunion.” that talk louder than any words, joined to form The controversial use of language and certain the ineffable experience known simply as Blink characteristics of the band are objected to by 182. many, but those who understand the importance On Saturday, September 17, 2011, the punk of these thought-provoking ideas can relate. gods awakened the world. This enlightenment Fifth Former Jake Mullin wisely stated, “Their began with outstanding performances by My have-fun attitudes and recklessness are things Chemical Romance and Matt and Kim at the teenagers need to get over the stresses of high Susquehanna Bank Center in Camden, New school.” Though Blink 182’s music and lyrics Jersey. Then, as the sun began to set and the consist of foul language, rebellious remarks, and moon began to rise with the stars lighting up irresponsible events, these aspects also allow the enormous gathering of pedestrians, the three teenagers to relieve the agony and pressures immortals approached the stage. they face on a daily basis, adding excitement to When asked about the erupting emotions, the traditional, uninteresting view on life that Fifth Former Chris Weiner answered, “Everyone presumes, “Well, I guess this is growing up.”
Michael Green ‘13
Page 9 October 2011
Teams Look forward to new field James Shecter ‘13
After just about three months of grueling work during the hottest days of summer, a twenty-man construction team finished the new soccer and baseball field in late August. Despite the initial criticisms that the fresh turf and renovated seating area were only aesthetically-pleasing, the majority of players and coaches alike find the new field functionally outstanding. And, not to sound superstitious, the field has also
brought great luck to the Fords’ nationally-ranked soccer team. The field, according to players of both sports, needed to be redone. “The old turf was too short and didn’t have enough give,” said Fifth Form soccer sensation Carlo DeMarco. “It hurt our knees; there was a random patch of dirt in the middle of the field, and if you tapped a ball a tiny bit, it would practically travel the whole field.” Varsity baseball Coach Mr. Bob Castell and other baseball players agreed with DeMarco. Castell remarked that the old field was uneven and unpredictable. Now, with the new, longer turf, the elimination of dirtsurrounded bases, and the addition of stands, practically everyone is pleased. DeMarco said happily, “I like [the new field] a lot better because the turf is a lot more forgiving on joints and is thicker so it’s more natural like grass, which we soccer players prefer.” DeMarco’s statement brings up another question: why did the school not just get a grass field? The answer is that grass requires far too much maintenance and is less reliable. If it poured for a day, a grass field would be muddy and slick for days afterwards, whereas the turf field is dry by the next day. Grass fields also require constant attention: cutting the grass, watering it, repainting the boundary lines, etc., but the turf field only rarely requires maintenance. Said simply, turf is easier to manage. And, this new turf is the highest quality available. Coach Castell is eager to get his team back on the field come spring. He commented, “I’m really looking forward to baseball season on the new field. It’s a great new field with nice turf and has good places to watch the game.” However, he said that the bounce would be different, which will just take some simple “getting used to.” The overall result of the new field is stunning, but, like any new project, the field still has some minor problems. Baseball players noticed that it is still far easier to hit a homerun over right field than over left field: a situation that benefits lefties. Soccer players find extreme difficulties “taking corner kicks on the far side of the field” because there is practically no run-up room, according to DeMarco. Could these problems that were present last year have been fixed? Having only lefty batters on the baseball team and soccer players taking their corner kicks in the middle of Lancaster Avenue traffic are the only “fixes” to these inherent problems. Said simply, this new field is the best possible outcome athletes could have asked for without expanding the campus. Hopefully, the field leads to as much success on the baseball diamond as it has on the soccer pitch.
Sports Haverford’s Newest Fad? about your team’s victory every Monday never gets old.” While most leagues have a dollar prize that the champion takes home at the end of the year, as DeMarco stated, bragging rights are Ever since football began in America, fans have constantly truly the ultimate reward in a community that spends at least 40 become angered with the front offices and coaching staff of hours per week together. their favorite teams for many of One of the problems the decisions that they make. In that fantasy football recent years a new opportunity can cause is the conflict has arisen that allows fans to between rooting for a prove their skills in managing fantasy team to succeed their own football.teams: vs. a favorite team in real fantasy football. life. DeMarco mentioned, Haverford is no stranger to “I often do find problems fantasy football, a game that with rooting for my team’s allows fans to draft their teams players over my favorite and manage it throughout the [NFL] teams. As much year via trades, free agents, as I want the Eagles to and decisions regarding who to win, I also want [Ravens start and who to bench. Fifth Running Back] Ray Rice Former James Tarte stated that to run all over them.” Sixth Former Doug Lisk playing Fantasy Football. Photo by Elias Economou he plays for “around one hour a Fourth Former Jon day, including online research Ruth concurred, “I do and discussions in school.” have conflicts rooting against Most Haverford students seem or for players that are playing to be playing through the free against the Eagles in a given ESPN interface; however, many week. Sometimes it is hard to different websites including Yahoo, start them. For instance, I did FOX Sports, and CBS Sports also not start Eli Manning last week offer the experience for no charge. because he was playing the In real life, most football teams Eagles.” are comprised of a 53-man roster While bragging about real with eleven starters on offense and football teams is still common, defense, a kicker, a punter, a long it seems that it makes more snapper, and 28 bench players. A sense to argue about the teams fantasy football team, depending that are under the direct control on the league format, contains of the user. This makes the roughly one quarterback, two discussions more fair because running backs, two wide receivers, A Survey Monkey poll conducted over Facebook with 64 Haverford Upper discussions focus upon actions School students. a tight end, a defense/special teams, that the fantasy football Coordinated by James Shecter and a kicker, plus around eight bench spots. user personally authorized. Fantasy football has become a When asked about how big fantasy football is at Haverford, revolutionary product that has forever changed the way fans Fifth Former Carlo DeMarco said, “It is a huge deal here. There observe the sport. are tons of leagues throughout the Upper School, and boasting
Drew Field ‘13
“Out of the Rough”
Mr. Dacque Tirado
A conversation with Sixth Form Golf Captain Mac Selverian. Earliest Golf Memory: I started because my grandfather got my dad into golf, my dad got my mom hooked, and I have lots of early memories at the range with my family. On Winning Inter-Ac Title: It was great, especially beating Malvern after they beat us the year before. I think it’s the start of a dynasty at Haverford because we have a lot of really good young players. On the Inter-Ac Season and Format Change: Fall season I like, but the new format not so much...I play better when I’m loose, [but now] we are paired with 3 other players from different teams…It’s much more serious and less fun. I would much rather play with my Haverford teammates. Clubs: Ping i15 (Driver), Titleist 910F (3 Wood), Titleist 910 (Hybrid), 4 Iron through Pitching Wedge are Titleist AP2’s, Vokey Spin Milled (Wedges), Taylor Made Rossa Daytona 1 (Putter) What ball do you use: Pro V1 x Favorite Club in a Jam: Stuck behind trees out to the fairway…punch shots? I can cut it or hook it……4 iron. Best 9 hole score= 32 (Gulph Mills – Against Malvern, needed to win to take the Inter-Ac Championship outright - if we lost that match, then we would have tied with EA)
Photo by Index Staff
Photo by Elias Economou
the best Rooney imitation…It’s spot on. Favorite Pro: Rickie Fowler…He will win pretty soon. Favorite Non-American Pro: Probably Jason Day. Dream Match-Play Duo: I’d like to see Rory [McIlroy] take on Rickie Fowler as a younger generation America vs. Europe pride match. It would take some serious golf out of Rickie to win, but on the course anything can happen.
Best 18 hole score= 70 at Aronomink Golf Club
On more internationals winning over here: It makes for better golf which is obviously exciting to watch, and a lot of them are good guys. But at the same time, I’d love to see more Americans winning.
Superstitions: When I mark my ball on the green, I don’t like to see any writing…I put the ball down so I see all white.
Advice for Tiger: Remember back in the day when you could block everything out like no one else.
Quirky Items in Your Bag: Sunflower seeds, bay leaves (from a golf trip to Bermuda)
Favorite Major: Masters
On the Movie Caddyshack: Best golf movie ever. The field during and after construction.
Haverford-themed golf ball.
Hours logged playing golf this summer: Around 200 hours. On Coach Rooney’s accent: [Chuckle]...Jack Van Arkel can do
On U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club in 2013: To watch a pro play a course you have played many times is so much more significant than seeing them play a random course…to see how far they they hit, their strategy on holes you’ve played, and the up and downs they make from spots where you know how hard it is...it’s crazy.
Page 10
October 2011
Sports Football team fights on towards inter-ac games Joe Solomon ‘13 The Haverford Football team is, so far, living up to expectations. The Fords started off the season with a 26-21 victory against Pennridge at Sabol Field, redeeming a big loss from the previous season. The Fords forced four Pennridge interceptions, each by a different player. The Fords went into the half down 7-3, but came
out the the second half on a mission, going up 20-14. Pennridge, though, returned a kick on the ensuing kickoff to make it 21-20, but their defense was unable to stop the Fords offensive line and the running of Sixth Former Zach Rego, who had a fantastic 153-yard performance. Heading into Week Two of the season, the Fords, once again, had redemption on their mind. In a match-up against Lawrenceville, the Fords looked to redeem the loss from the previous season and did so in a massive 56-15 victory. The offensive onslaught was led by Sixth Form Quarterback James Chakey and running back Rego, both of whom had 100-yard games (passing and rushing respectively) in the first half alone. Once again, the Fords’ defense
(Left) Sixth Former Zach Rego celebrates a touchdown against Lawrenceville. Photo by Index Staff
dominated remarkable the pace of catch and play and held soon punched Lawrenceville it in to go up to merely one 18-14, which first down in would serve the entire first as the final half. When tally. interviewed At this post-game, point in the Rego added, “I season, the love scoring,” Fords hold and against a 2-1 record Lawrenceville, that, in the there was no eyes of the shortage. team, could After the and should Archdiocese be 3-0. The strike caused Fords play Cardinal one more O’Hara to non-league reschedule the game against week-three George game, the Washington Fords turned (not including their focus to the make-up West Catholic, game against who escaped Cardinal last year with O’Hara a victory at scheduled Sabol Field. for the week On the rainy after EA Quarterback James Chakey reaches across the goal line. Friday night, the Day) and then Photo by Index Staff Fords broke out to an early 14-0 lead over the begin their 2011 quest to win a third straight Burrs and took the 14 point lead into half time. Inter-Ac crown. However, this statement game for the Fords Many now look to the November 4th matchturned into a tale of two halves. up with a strong Malvern Friars team as the In the second half, the Fords offense just key point in that campaign. The Fords have could not get over the hump and punch one bested the Friars in their last few meetings, into the end zone as the Burrs held strong. and now the Fords look to continue that streak With a strong defensive performance in the in their quest for the Inter-Ac title. As Sixth first half, the Fords figured they would be able Former Chris DiBello put it, “The loss to to maintain the lead. But, with under a minute West Catholic was definitely a tough one, but in regulation and up 14-12, West Catholic now we have to set our focus on finishing the converted a key “third down and long” with a season the way we want to.”
Water polo Preps for EA Day Fisher Pressman ‘13 With the anticipation building for EA Day, the Haverford School water polo team has been in full swing preparing for their monumental encounter at the end of the season with Episcopal Academy, a clash
they have sworn to win. The team has recently opened their Inter-Ac games for the year against Penn Charter, against whom they lost. But, the preparations for the most important focus have started long before this game. Coming out of the preseason scrimmages and tournaments, such as the Philmore Cup, the team has been preparing for the start of what will hopefully be a promising regular season. Head Coach Matthew Deasey commented, “I am very optimistic about our prospects for the remainder of the season. The team looks strong. We have lots of strong players and a wealth of talent. We have done a good job so far, and I am very much looking forward to the rest of the season.” The starters coming out of the preseason are a group of several Sixth Formers who have been playing for the past seven years in most cases. They have grown as a team over the years, and, with the support of the younger players and fellow upperclassmen, this year will be most successful. Coach Deasey commented, “The team looks strong. We have lots of returning players who seem willing to work together.” Sixth Formers Andrew Helber, Max Whitehead, Kevin Zipf, Pat Meehan, Jack Meehan, Jimmy Orsini, and Peter Rogers, the team’s strong and well-practiced starting line up, have been showing skills both in the pool and out: they have been fostering the younger JV team, often showing them necessary skills required to win. Other varsity players include Fifth Formers Patrick Somers, Colin Meehan, Travis Chou, Jimmy Jamison, J.J. House, Reilly Hupfeldt, Harry Rosenberg and many others. There are also “swing” players, who play both varsity and junior varsity. They have been learning from the more experienced players, studying the more intricate
and difficult skills of what it takes to be a varsity player. During the first month of school, the team has played a number of challenging games, all focused on preparation for both the Inter-Ac season and EA Day. In this first month, the team played LaSalle College High School, whom they bested 10-9. Later that same week, the team faced off against Loyola Blakefield High School, resulting in a 12-18 loss. Zipf remarked, “We started off with a strong preseason and a strong first few games. I think that this season looks good, and we have a good chance for this season being successful.” Following this minor - and close - loss, the team defeated the Gilman School 20-9. The polo team then traveled to two away games, against Calvert Hall and Lawrenceville, both of which they lost in very intense and close games: they lost 2-15 and 8-10, respectively. Next, the team traveled to the Beast of the East competition, a polo competition that encompassed a variety of teams from all over the East Coast; the team played well here, gaining a lot of play-time, again helping give the older players the necessary preparation for the upcoming games in the Inter-Ac. Helber adds, “We have done a good job in the games before the Inter-Ac season started, and I am excited for the rest of the games of the season, mostly the match ups against Penn Charter and Germantown Academy. Even more, though, I am looking forward to EA Day.” As for the opening of the Inter-Ac season, the team lost to Penn Charter 17-18. They did a very good job in this game and have shown themselves to be very impressive in these tight games against strong opponents. The rest of the season will be a good indication of how the team will do on EA Day. With nine more games, the team will have much more practice time to secure the talent and chemistry needed to beat EA and bring back the pride associated with defeating the Churchmen’s polo team.
Sixth Former Max Whitehead playing water polo. Photo by Fisher Pressman
Page 11 October 2011
Sports
Soccer 13th in the Nation - And Rising Eric Senior ‘13 In the most recent national rankings, as of October 2, the Fords’ soccer team was placed 13th, their best ranking in recent history. The team, led by Sixth Form Captains Nate Arronson and Harrison Kendall, has legitimized itself as a strong competitor for the Inter-Ac title and answered any preseason questions by dominating each of their first eight games. “What makes this year’s team special is that it has developed a chemistry where all of the boys care about each other, and it shows on the field,” said new Head Coach Mr. Bill Brady when asked what has made this team so successful. It is evident that the Fords have developed unparalleled team camaraderie, seeing that they have yet to give up a goal all year and are averaging just under six goals per
game. Haverford is receiving plenty of recognition for their recent success; however, the team is not eager to let up. “I feel that there is no reason we should lose one game this year,” commented Kendall when asked about the team’s hopes for the rest of the season. It is clear that Fords’ soccer has set high standards for themselves not only in hoping to win the Inter-Ac but also in going undefeated. Haverford soccer has had impressive talent in past years, but the Inter-Ac crown has eluded them since 2008. Arronson remarked, “This team wants to succeed for each other, and we all care about the team as a whole more than our own individual goals. This is a main component that allows us to have the success we’re having.” In their first eight games the Fords have out scored their opponents 45 to 0, and have
since continued their streak of shutouts. The Fords are clearly a well-rounded soccer team with a power offense led by Fifth Former Brett Campbell, a strong defense led by Arronson, and the midfield led by Fifth Former Danny Rubenstein. Some memorable wins in the season so far include a 3-0
victory over Gilman School, who were previously ranked 15th in the nation by ESPN Rise’s Powerade FAB 50, and a 5-0 victory over last years Inter-Ac champs Penn Charter. Not only has Haverford soccer gained recognition in the local area, but they have also been recognized on the national stage by ESPN Rise’s Powerade FAB 50. Obviously, Haverford’s Varsity soccer team is eager to bring an Inter-Ac championship back to Haverford for the first time in three years. However, it looks as if the team has no intention on settling with an Inter-Ac title. Fifth Form Keeper Jeff Green said on Facebook that their current ranking was, “child’s play... Top 10 here we come!” Will the Fords win the Inter-Ac? Will they crack the top-10 for the first time in history? Haverford students just have to wait and find out.
Personal success outshines team’s on cross country “We just don’t have that solid number one guy that can run This year’s Cross Country team is off to a slow start, losing with the number one guy of the first three meets to Episcopal other teams Academy, Malvern, and Penn in the InterCharter but winning its fourth against Ac.” Prince, Chestnut Hill Academy. Even though an important the team has had limited success this varsity year, many people have ran personalrunner in the best times. With Fifth Form star Erich top three, who Prince injured, fellow Fifth Former is usually the Lucas Elek was able to step up and number-one runner, place first overall in the first race of recently returned the year against rival Episcopal. Fifth from a training injury Former Josh Collins ran a 16:56 in the over the summer. second official race of the year, taking When asked about The Cross Country team. fourth overall in the race and first the future of the season, Photo by Index Staff overall for Haverford,while Fourth Former Eamon Glavin ran Collins stated “Everyone is running well, but a 17:04 and placed fifth. we need more people to step up if we want This year has also brought new and promising Third Form to take it to the next level.” Rappaport runners. In the past, the Third Form runners usually finish claims that “Even though we haven’t won near 22 minutes. In the first race on the home course this year, yet, we are becoming more of a team.” every Third Former finished under 22 minutes, which has not When asked about his performance, happened in the past five years. When asked about the rookies Rappaport said, “I’ve ran pretty well, on the team, Collins stated, “They are very strong and if they but I want to improve more.” train hard they can be solid contributors later in the year.” The Cross Country team hopes to Third Former Avery Weiss shares his opinion, “The freshmen improve its record in its upcoming two are performing very well.” Third Former Spencer Rappaport meets against Chestnut Hill Academy took 12th overall in the first home race against Penn Charter and Germantown Academy. Looking running 18:29. farther ahead, the team wants to place Coach Brian Skelly believes that the team is not missing well in the Inter-Ac race as well raw talent nor a will to win, rather just a solid “number-one” as Independent States, the latter of runner. Skelly said to the team after the loss to Malvern, which is at Belmont Plateau.
Evan Kuritzkes ‘13
(Left) Sixth Former Sam Rohr in action. Photo by Index Staff
golf team Eyeing record the seasoned veteran Selverian. The Sixth Form captain posted the low round 38 in the second Inter-Ac tournament of the year at Merion Golf Club. Unlike previous years, all six Inter-Ac The Haverford School Golf Team has gotten off to a teams met to compete in a nine-hole challenge extravaganza fantastic start in its first-ever fall season. The team’s sights are for each match. For example, last year two teams would set on a second straight compete in a head-toInter-Ac Championship. head competition at Golf will be one of the team’s home incorporated into the EA courses. In the new Day format this fall: it format, the team with will act as the tiebreaker the least amount of total as the fifth sport during strokes at the end of the competition between each match earns a 5-0 The Haverford School record. The second team and Episcopal Academy fittingly receives a 4-1 in November. The move record and the pattern to add golf has been continues until the team widely accepted since it with the most strokes is means The Sweater will given a 0-5 record. Varsity Golf’s Team 1. The Fords smoked Photo by Penn Charter never be shared again. the field in the first match So far, the Fords are undefeated during Inter-Ac play thanks to the stellar play of Fourth Former Cole Berman, Sixth Former of the year by beating the closest competitor by 18 strokes. With this impressive performance, Captain Mac Selverian has Mac Selverian, Fifth Former Scott Jaster, and Fifth Former his sights Timmy Brooks. The Fords, sporting a 12-0 record, are led by
Garrett Grubb ‘13
set on the InterAc record, “We have so much talent on this team and a lot of experience despite how young we are, and I think there is a really good chance we can set an Inter-Ac record for low team round after tying it last year with 216.” It seems like the Fords are full of confidence in setting new records this fall. Coaches Mr. Gerard Rooney and Mr. Gui Costin ‘85 are dedicated to success of the golfers on and off the golf course. While the coaches strive for success on the links, they also teach moral values. These two coaches have led the golf program in the right direction as Haverford seeks its second straight Inter-Ac title. The Fords will hopefully finish their season strongly on October 31st at the Inter-Ac Championships.
Page 12 October 2011
Opinions Haverford students on Obama “Flawed President” “Good Record”
Affordable Care Act (PPACA) or, as it is more commonly known, “Obamacare.” Many people just get caught up in the media frenzy and do Thunderous applause followed by an not really understand what PPACA will do for immediate earth-shattering roar. The crowd them. The vast majority of Americans will was jubilantly alive and proudly cheering for actually save money under PPACA. The Federal the man who had government brought them itself will save an all together. It estimated $418 was a moment Billion Dollars by to celebrate, and 2019. If PPACA a moment to is repealed the remember. As the government would “Yes We Can” lose a substantial President-Elect took amount of money. to the stage that The bill directly crisp November affects the youth night, America was today in several forever changed. ways. Health care Fast-forward companies can nearly three years. no longer deny a Unemployment patient because continues to of a pre-existing hover around condition. But nine percent, and what does all this America is facing a mumbo-jumbo record high debt. It really mean? is easy to forget that Say you are born President Obama with a disease has accomplished at birth, and the anything. But, disease would be in reality, even expensive to cover. in the face of Before PPACA, Fifth Former Lucas Elek. Photo by Index Staff stiff Congressional companies could opposition, the deny you coverage because they knew you President has quite an impressive record. would be expensive. And so, through no fault Remember that President Obama came into of your own, you could find yourself without office during a recession of unprecedented the money or insurance to get the proper severity since the Great Depression. He came at treatments. PPACA also allows young adults to a time after eight years of failed practices and stay on their parents health insurance plans until tactics that had led this country into a dark and they are twenty-six; before PPACA, most kids sometimes seemingly-endless abyss. had to be off their parents plans by nineteen. But why should any of us care? Politics have That means that young adults do not have to earned a reputation of being “unnecessary” worry about the hassle or financial burden of and “unimportant.” Many students across the healthcare until much later in their lives. country could care less about what goes on in a There has been some controversy circling highly-complex, bureaucratic Washington, D.C. The American Jobs Act, and some Americans However, so many of the issues currently being are in uproar over PPACA; however, one issue, debated in the halls of Congress will have a which I whole heartily and honestly believe huge impact on us. We will have to foot the bill should never had been an issue to begin with, for many of the expensive measures being voted was “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” (DADT). Don’t on right now. And many other policy decisions Ask Don’t Tell was a policy in place for nearly concerning students and youth are made two decades that forbid gays, lesbians, and without even thinking about how it will affect other non-heterosexual military members from the youth in the future. However, the youth talking about their sexuality. Those that did have found an advocate in President Obama. talk, and there were thousands who did, were Most notably the President put forth a actually expelled from military service. It is historic jobs bill called The American Jobs horrifically strange to consider that LGTBQ Act. If it becomes a law the AJA will have a people can die for our country but they cannot huge impact on students like us. The Act has talk about their sexuality. Even today there are $35 billion set aside to help rehire teachers actually advocates of putting DADT back into and to prevent layoffs of an estimated 280,000 place. Tell that to a gay solider who just lost his educators (whitehouse.gov). Many states, leg trying to save a civilian. He cannot openly facing mounting debt, have slashed education thank his partner for carrying for him. Tell that programs. The bill also promises $25 billion to to a lesbian who has served four tours because help renovate and update many deteriorating she wants to serve her country. She cannot be education facilities. That money will help to publicly welcomed home by her wife. And rebuild schools and purchase technological tell that to the bisexual man who lost his life equipment for these fine institutions. The defending his unit but could never tell anyone President once said, “Cutting the deficit by who he really was. I applaud President Obama’s gutting our investments in innovation and willingness to stand up for the rights of LGTBQ education is like lightening an overloaded people, and I believe he will continue to do that airplane by removing its engine. It may make in the future. After all, these men and women you feel like you’re flying high at first, but it put their lives on the line for our safety and won’t take long before you feel the impact.” security, the least we can do is respect them for How very right he was. America cannot who they are. solve its debt problems by cutting education The Repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, PPACA, programs. In the long run putting education in and The American Jobs Act are only a few the backseat will only cause us more problems. things that President Obama has accomplished The entire American Jobs Act will cost in his distinguished three year tenure. He has $447 Billion. It is an innovative bill entirely maintained a safe and peaceful environment at dedicated to getting America back on its feet. home and abroad. He has kept his word with According to the non-partisan site Politico, the removal of troops in Iraq. He has prevented many economists agree, including one who genocide in Libya without ever putting an said, “President Barack Obama’s jobs plan American solider in harm’s way. The President has permanently eliminated the infamous could help prevent a 2012 recession .” terrorist Osama Bin Laden. With all of these The President has done a lot more for the military successes, the commander-in-chief has youth than just The American Jobs Act. One helped to keep peace and establish world order. of the best things he did for this country was It should be remembered what the President helping to pass the Patient Protection and the was facing as he came into office.
Lucas Elek ‘13
Geoff Bocobo ‘12 President Barack Obama. He wanted change, and he gave it to us. Unfortunately, it was not for the better. He seems like a great person and a good speaker. Sadly, that is where all his positive characteristics end. Looking at his presidency as a whole, there is no way that he should be re-elected as
The mortgage crisis, which acts as a little brother to the entire banking crisis, began specifically in 2007 when two Bear Stearns hedge funds collapsed. This was due to their engagement in derivative transactions which contained sub-prime investments. A sub-prime investment is one that is risky, but banks benefited in the short-term by distributing and selling these loans to other banks. Banks continue to struggle today due to the noncirculating state of money, especially
our leader. I am sure all of you have heard about Obamacare, in the real estate maybe in the context industry. How is any of of “Wow, Obamacare this related to Obama? is great” or “This is He created a plan that why I hate him.” Those was counter-intuitive. who hate it are right The problem was in their beliefs. It was the money or lack created to let more thereof, and he offered people have access to a $75 billion fix. Not healthcare and reduce very smart. A lot of associated expenses. the onus on this one The plan to lower Sixth Former Geoff Bocobo. can fall on Obama’s Photo by Index Staff premiums has instead administration, caused skyrocketing prices in anticipation of though. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform the bill’s regulations. In the last year, a survey and Consumer Protection Act, a law signed by the Kaiser Family Foundation displays a by Obama in 2010 that attempts to bolster whopping 9% increase in premiums over the the economy, handles the framework for the last year, and Congress still has no idea what banking business but has done nothing to aid this ambitious law’s further effects will be. it. The plan will not cost “under a trillion,” it will Obama’s administration is plain bad. It will cost upwards of double that. not help the Fannie May and Freddie Mac The plan literally takes away states’ crisis, it will not help local banks, it will constitutional powers and attempts to expand the government, kill jobs, and raise make the federal government an answer to interest rates. It even limits local banks from healthcare problems. Its individual mandate extending credit. The start of all of this is seen (the requirement for each citizen to purchase with a Bank of America $5 per month charge. healthcare) was ruled unconstitutional Banks began to feel wary and unstable, thus by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. becoming reluctant and sometimes unable to The Supreme Court accepted to hear the loan out money because of the uncertainty tied case due to an appeal by The National to Obama’s polices. This wariness started in Federation of Independent Business that 2007 with a Democrat-controlled Congress. it is unconstitutional. The fact that this Our economy is not just failing, it is failing for law’s constitutionality must be reviewed a reason. by the Supreme Court shows how inept an These issues were factors in the U.S. inexperienced President can be. credit downgrading for the first time in history, Do you want a leader who passes a bill losing its AAA credit rating (becoming AA+). which forces you to buy something that would Many thought that would never happen, but it be a drain on your own resources? Estimates did. expect that about 100 million workers will Another misstep, recently being dubbed the lose their employer-paid healthcare and, New Watergate Scandal, Obama has been a consequently, by law have to purchase their part of an operation called “Fast and Furious.” own. The higher healthcare costs will also According to Forbes, Obama or someone in bankrupt employers, either making them his administration secretly let thousands of close or force them not to hire, in turn causing guns across our border and into the hands of further unemployment. To hide the real cost foreign criminals. Arms dealers in Arizona of Obamacare, Obama cut the budgets of through a medium of the federal government Medicare and Medicaid. Now the poor souls received guns and sold them to drug cartels of the destitute and elderly are thrown to two in Mexico. Apparently, the operation was so coverages that now are inadequately funded secretive that the Mexican government had no and, as before, can deny patients treatment. knowledge of it. The worst part about Fast and It seems that Obama does not like our Furious is not only that it was done secretively constitution. and breaks the law but also that it endangers Obama bombed Libya and just recently our borders by strengthening the cartels and ordered U.S. boots to land there. It was all those that want to traffic drugs in and out of unconstitutional. Obama simply did not ask the U.S. for Congress’ approval before engaging in Another negative: Obama and his empty this war. Obamacare and the Libya campaign promises. Does a good president promise the are already two unconstitutional actions, bailing-out of a definitely-failing company both authorized by the person supposed to be like Solyndra? It would seem like common leading our country towards change for the sense not to make promises for a highly better. Is there reason in his decision-making unlikely chance, but on top of that Obama at all? used billions of dollars of taxpayers money in Is he making inroads that could benefit a failed bailout. our economy? The government is struggling If he wants jobs to be created, and he wants to create jobs because of the failing banking to stimulate our economy, why does he pass industry. Obama and his administration have anti-business regulations? That is probably exponentially made the banking crisis worse. why unemployment has risen from an average Although the problem stemmed from times of 5.5% during former President George W. before Obama was in office, it all began when Bush’s presidency to upwards of 10% under the government talked buyers with poor credit Obama according to the Bureau of Labor. into getting mortgages they could not afford Another aspect to note about Obama is with almost no down payment. his lack of leadership. Do leaders, let alone, Obama has done nothing to stop this Presidents downplay the greatness of the U.S. practice, and so banks are continuing to by bowing to foreign leaders? Do leaders cut weaken since they are not being paid back. all funding of space programs? Consequently, banks are weakening as they are not paid back.
Page 13 October 2011
Opinions Obama Opinions, Continued Pro-Obama
He inherited two wars, a failing healthcare system, and a failing banking system, which had placed the country on the precipice of another depression. And yet, we are still here today. While the unemployment rate may seem high, it could be much worse, and the President is taking actions to make it better. Sadly, he has not received much help from the other side in his attempts to fix our economy. Rather, the Republicans have challenged him every chance they could, not only making the President’s life miserable but the lives of the American people as well. I honestly believe that, while the President’s tenure has not been perfect,
he has been able to stand tall in the face of strong opposition to put this country back on track. His policies will help to make this country a better nation. My hope is that he will continue to be the advocate for the youth, and others will recognize his success; otherwise, I believe we as a nation will elect a leader in 2012 who will not make our economy and our country better, but far, far worse. Disagree with Lucas? Be to sure to come to the Politics & Global Awareness Club at A and B Lunches on Mondays in the private dining room to argue your points!
Anti-Obama
Do Presidents let 300,000 illegal immigrants stay in the U.S. if they have not committed a crime although they have all done so already by coming into the U.S. illegally? Obama’s interests do not parallel those of our people; that is ironic since government was made for the people. Lastly, if you think all of these scandals are coincidences, research: “Lightsquared.” In the end, Obama has angered Americans, destroyed our economy, ruined how the world views the U.S., and
made generally bad decisions. This is not a critique on the character of Obama, rather on his inability to be a president of the U.S. due to his inexperience. “President” is a task suitable for an extremely small percentage of the best of the best of the best. He deserves respect for trying, but the truth is he failed. He is inexperienced, and experience matters. His own party and administration is beginning to question his decisions. This is not the ideal picture of a leader or a president.
Obama’s tax policy: Class warfare? justification for it.” The only problem with President Obama’s reasoning is that his facts are completely President Barack Obama announced his wrong. Stephen Ohlemacher of the Associated new $1.5 trillion dollar increase in taxes Press published the figures that President recently as a part of his ten-year deficit Obama easily reduction plan that could have aims to cut $3 obtained from the trillion dollars Congressional off of the deficit. Budget Office. Highlighting this The CBO states increase in taxes that the top was the President’s ten percent of so-called “Buffett households pay Rule.” The “Buffett more than half Rule,” named for of all federal billionaire investor taxes and 70% of Warren Buffett, federal income states that “Anyone taxes. As far making over a as individual million dollars a percentages year should not pay go, the Tax a smaller share of Sixth Former Jonathan Smith. Policy Center Photo by Index Staff their income in taxes in Washington than what middle-class families pay.” This shows that people earning one million dollars point was highlighted when the President said, and above will pay 29.1% of their income “Warren Buffett’s secretary shouldn’t pay a in federal taxes. Families making $50,000 higher tax rate than Warren Buffett. There is no to $70,000 will pay 12.5% of their income
Jonathan Smith ‘12
in taxes and households making $20,000 to $30,000 a year will pay 5.7% of their income in taxes. Households making less than $20,000 pay practically no taxes and even have tax rebates given to them. The most startling fact is 46% of households ranging from low-tomiddle income will pay no federal income taxes. The question that must be raised is how can the President hold a news conference and so blatantly deceive the American people when his own budget office says his facts aren’t true. The answer is simple, what we are seeing is a desperate and shallow attempt to create classwarfare in an upcoming election year. Instead of working on legitimate cuts in overblown and unsustainable programs like Social Security and Medicare, he instead chooses to hold firm with his liberal base by trying to pit one class of Americans against the other. That is not a solution to the problems this country faces. If this President was serious about deficit reduction he would be making substantial cuts to these entitlement programs, not pretending a tax increase will make the problems we face go away. Coming from a President who passed a $1.2 trillion dollar “stimulus plan” that has actually seen the unemployment rate increase
A Survey Monkey poll conducted over Facebook with 64 Haverford Upper School students. Coordinated by James Shecter
The Haverford School Poetry Club will be part of a poetry reading alongside Mr. Keefe and Dr. Ehrhart at 7:00pm, Thursday, October 13th. Come out and support the hourlong reading at Milkboy in Bryn Mawr. Admission is free.
since its passing, his preaching on the need for fiscal responsibility through increased taxes is rather humorous. What Obama is trying to do is get the American people caught up in a class battle in order to take the focus off of his dismal economic record. Why are we supposed to blame and fault a fellow American for their economic success? When did we become a nation that set limits on how prosperous one could become? Think of those questions the next time you hear Obama talk about the need for increased taxes. Do not get caught up in this President’s deception as it stands only for his own political gain, a sad thing as he was elected to provide growth and gains for the American people. For millionaires and billionaires like Warren Buffett who wish to pay higher taxes, I would like to remind you that you are free to donate as much money as you want to the federal government at anytime. Instead of turning against each other, let us work together to cut our unsustainable entitlement programs, which, coupled with other budget reductions, will give our generation a fighting chance not to be strangled by the massive debt being piled onto our laps, a debt we have had no say in.
Disagree with any opinions in this issue? Submit a contrasting opinion, or an entirely new opinion for the next issue. We welcome all submissions at hsindex@gmail.com. Visit www.haverfordindex.com to view an online version of Haverford’s electronic message board, catch up on articles you missed, view a PDF of the latest issue of The Index, or even discuss the latest articles.
Page 14 October 2011
Opinions
Should Native American mascots Exist in the Sports World? “Yes” “NO” and would, in fact, have supporters numbering few to none. Although many people argue that the Native So, teams only use Native American mascots American mascots of because the Native American American sports teams are image carries with it the unethical, they often fail to connotation of a brave warrior recognize the true purpose who participates in a culture of a mascot as well as the which venerates honor. reasoning behind choosing a Thus, by using the Native American mascots or team mascot. names, teams are not trying to Because mascots and demean the Native American team names are a method tribes, but rather celebrate the of inspiring the teams’ fans exceptional qualities of their and of intimidating other people. The representation teams, they mostly revolve of Native American mascots around characteristics, usually depicts a fierce, such as bravery, courage, determined face, further and strength. Teams can stressing the importance of portray these qualities in such qualities. The goal of the three fundamental ways: mascot of a Native American their name, their mascot, Fifth Former Amar Patel. is equivalent to that of the and their representation of a Photo by Index Staff Spartan, for both represent mascot. Take for example, the intrepid soldiers, rather than derogatory symbols of Atlanta Braves, who explicitly use their name as a a defeated, subjugated people. demonstration of the audacity of their team. Other To further argue that Native American mascots teams, however, use more subtle names, which are not intended to be derogatory, one can look have similar connotations. The Texas Longhorns, at the actions of the Florida Seminoles. With specifically chose to name their team after a horn, this controversy over Native American mascots the fiercest and most dangerous part of a cow. gaining new-found intensity and focus, the Florida The bulls make effective use of their mascot, as a symbol of strength, for a bull has come to be known Seminoles took the matter into their own hands to palliate the anger of those, who accused the team as of the most feared and strongest of mammals. of supporting a mascot representing insensitive Lastly, all teams use the representation of racism, by formally asking permission from the their mascot to demonstrate the aforementioned Seminole Tribe, currently inhabiting a region in qualities. There is an example in our very own central Florida, if it could use the tribe name as its state: the Philadelphia Eagles. The image of the team name and continue to use the Native American Philadelphia Eagles is the head of an eagle with mascot. Realizing that the team meant no harm, the a fierce, determined demeanor, exemplifying the Seminole Tribe agreed. characteristics of the team. Because the image Thus, the use of such mascots is not, in fact, portrays such feeling, it serves to inspire the fans offensive to all Native Americans, but rather only when they see the logo on their jerseys or other to those who still harbor bitterness over the events team memorabilia. of America’s colonial expansion westward, which These team mascots would not be as effective occurred over two hundred years ago. Therefore, if they used images which did not symbolize such ferocity or strength. What if the Philadelphia Eagles teams should be allowed to keep their Native American mascots, for they are not derogatory, but suddenly changed their name to the Philadelphia celebratory. Tulips? They would not be taken seriously at all
Amar Patel ‘13
that you walked up to a Native American and called him a “redskin.” If he reacted in an embarrassed and a disturbed The usage of Native American names, manner, would you be surprised? The images, and the like in American sports team name has been tossed around all today shows too freely and a nation that is almost a has yet to common word confront its among football past. The discussions here continuous in Philadelphia. use of what To me, this are essentially team name is Native almost an open American acknowledgement slurs in not of racism in the only college, United States. but also Furthermore, professional the actual logos sports, is for the teams entirely in question do Fifth Former Joe Solomon. unacceptable. nothing to help Photo by Index Staff Team names the image of range from the “Seminoles” of Florida racism. For instance, the Cleveland State University and the “Chippewas” Indians logo features a bright, red-faced of Central Michigan University to man with a wide grin across his face the Washington “Redskins,” Atlanta and a single feather on his head. Most “Braves,” and Cleveland “Indians” in of these teams claim that their team names and logos are in honor of those professional sports arenas. Native Americans, but, if this logo Personally, I cannot believe that the were honoring the tribes, the use of a American public is not outraged by single feather is simply wrong, in that these names, especially the “Redskins.” Native Americans wore entire feather The name “Redskins” may be the headdresses. most racially inappropriate name I can The portrayal of Native Americans in think of that is used in sports today. sports would be appropriate if other races To think of the name “Redskins,” you were represented as well. The overall need to imagine what else it could be in feeling among the Native Americans regards to other races. If the team was themselves is that of anger, and, if a named the Washington “Yellowskins” race is offended by something, who is or “Whiteskins,” the outrage over the anybody outside of that race to say what name would be unprecedented. The term should or should not offend them? These “redskin” is the most degrading racial sports team names and logos are clearly slur that could be made towards Native insensitive to the history and culture Americans, yet it stands as the name of a of Native Americans,. Names like the professional sports team, in our nation’s “Redskins” are inexcusably racist towards capital nonetheless. Imagine for a second what should be a proud culture.
Joe Solomon ‘13
Exposing Ethical depravity: Theft at haverford Will Schwartz ‘12
freedom. My ancestors worked very hard to go from dirt-poor immigrants to financial successes, and, when I see other students who feel that the road to higher material possession is by robbing others, my blood
I find it disgusting that there are members of the Haverford School community who feel it is acceptable to take from boils . other students. Ever since Any student who I arrived at Haverford, I makes the most out have always been proud of their Haverford to be a member of this experience will be community. Being a primed for future Haverford student is an success. What I exceptional privilege personally hope is for exceptional young that students can men. When I learned that realize that success other students had gone in life should not be through book bags and measured by capital lockers, taking shoes and gain, but rather by cash, I no longer felt as enjoyment of life and though this was such an Sixth Former Will Schwartz. kindness to others. exceptional community. Photo by Index Staff I feel that many Haverford students began However, my pride was restored when I to feel this way after the theft occurred. Many witnessed the anger and disgust felt by the students felt the lost money and shoes dwarfed entire community. in comparison to the moral issues revealed by The Haverford School is made up of many the theft. hard-working, exceptionally-talented students. Fourth Former Justin Chermol agreed and While many of us share common traits such felt that the issue can be something that helps as talent in Academics, Athletics and Art, our community grow in a positive direction. there is a great socioeconomic disparity in He said, “I feel that the school will learn a lot the Haverford community. While I feel that from this. Theft happens in the world, but it is such an economic divide should not exist wrong. Haverford students should know better, in a developed nation such as the United and whoever thought it was okay to take a States, I also am a descendant of immigrants pair of shoes out of my locker does not belong searching for better opportunity and religious here.”
Recently, valuables were taken from students’ lockers in the locker room. Photo by Erich Prince and Josh Pau
Page 15 October 2011
Opinions Fixing the US Economy full amount of deposited dollars. When the economy begins to shudder and people come to withdraw their money, an issue arises. This The very name of the United States inspires “fractional banking” creates a huge sum of thoughts of grandeur and money that does not even economic stability, but does exist. The Federal Reserve it live up to this reputation? keeps track of this data. The United States became a According their reports, real power during the post there is actually less than World War II-era, during $5 trillion of real money which it gained control in the U.S. GDP. Fourteen of 50% of the global trillion is a figure for all market share, turned into a the money that the banks manufacturing powerhouse, should have or is owed to raised standards on quality them through loans and of life for its people, and money invested into the saw a time of prosperity U.S. Fourth Former Jonathan Paras unheard of in war-torn Europe Photo by Index Staff and the Far East. The U.S. The Housing Market grew through the Cold War with such quick developments in technology that its intellectual If things could not get worse, the banks property was years ahead that of other nations. destabilized the one thing that had always been One may wonder, with all of this built up stable: the housing market. This was the one prestige and technology, how has the U.S. area of stability that American families always sunk so low that it is now contemplating trusted whether it was to purchase goods and the dissolution of Medicare, privatization of drive the consumer markets or to pay off hefty major government assets, and dealing with debts. In the end the home gave a sense of what is now being commonly known as “The security. The process of sub-prime loaning had Long Emergency”? There is no one answer not started recently but had been budding since to this question, and a slew of politicians has the 1970’s. During that time, new commercial attempted and failed to solve all of the issues banking companies that specialized in subthat are now threatening not only the economy prime loaning emerged. They were willing but also social stability. to pass on risk to investors for high yield and The current U.S. economic growth is bundled the loans together in order to offer still sluggish for reasons which include the some semblance of security for the investment. functioning of our Treasury system, privatized This was destined to fail. banking regulation issues, gambling with the Then, traditional banks held nearly sixty housing market, removal of regulation on percent of the market around 1971. Now they the stock market such as “the uptick rule,” have nearly ten percent and the sub-prime entitlement programming issues, and the tax banking firms have gone from almost zero to code. a whopping forty percent. Being that these non-traditional firms crept around federal The Banking System regulations, such dangerous transactions were allowed to occur on a large scale. With The first among the issues lies with the the housing bubble and the credit crunch, Federal Reserve. Contrary to popular belief, the housing market which had once stood as the Federal Reserve is not a part of the United a bastion of safety in tough times began to States government: they are two separate crumble, dragging the rest of the economy entities. The current federal reserve system down with it. came about in 1913 from the Federal Reserve Act which combined private banking and a Stock Market Regulation government-run system. Currently, Congress receives money from the Federal Reserve One may say that the stock markets are when it needs money to satisfy budgetary to blame as well, due to their volatility and shortfalls. instability. This is not without reason, and Normally, this would not be a problem. there were a few seemingly minor government However, consider the Federal Reserve’s two policy shifts that have allowed for this to options through which it can pay the money: continue. Probably the most important was one, it can print all of this money for literally the removal of the “uptick rule” in 2007. This pennies on the dollar; two, it can use the rule effectively banned short-selling on the capital it has built up from selling bonds. stock market on a “down tick” in order to The problem with printing money is obvious stop investors from fanning the flames and - inflation. However, there are also major giving momentum on quickly declining stock problems with selling bonds to investors. prices. Now removed, the uptick rule had one The Federal Reserve puts its money into unknown benefit. Due to the fact that a lot of circulation stock trading by lending it is becoming to either the computer government controlled, (as mentioned the rule had above) or to effectively private banks. stopped these This causes programs from major flaws in adding unneeded the American momentum banking system to major sellA local abandoned building. to open up. As the offs and scaring Photo by Fisher Pressman money is circulated, investors at it is multiplied very quickly due to fractional unpredictable intervals. banking. This is a process by which the bank only keeps a certain amount of money Welfare and Unemployment physically in a vault and loans the rest out. This in itself creates a problem because the Dead weight has also seemed to become an bank assumes that not everyone will come issue in the United States, and it has painted back asking for that same deposit at the same a picture of an entitlement kingdom for some time. Americans. The idea is that Peter works hard to Compounding this dilemma is the fact pay Paul, who does not work. This inequality that in America banks are not required to opens hostilities for those on programs such hold a certain amount of physical money in as Unemployment or Welfare, but what really the bank (for example 5 or 10 percent as is goes on behind these systems? required in other nations) so they loan out the Unemployment grew out of the Social
Jonathan Paras ‘14
Security Act of 1935, much like the majority of well been the tax code. Constantly battled over the current Welfare programs. It was meant to by both political parties with entirely different ease economic ideologies, it may be woes between interesting to note what jobs, but it has really happens when the currently been tax rates are high or low. extended not From 1945 through once, not twice, the 1950’s it was but three times. known that America Unemployment was prosperous and can now be financially sound, in collected at the process of paying a historic 99 off the debt taken on by weeks. This financing a war. It is also does make interesting to note that sense for those if an American made having difficulty over $400,000 a year, searching for a 91% of that would go job. However, to the government. In the program is this day an age such a beginning to high percentage would become overly be seen as preposterous, expensive due but it lasted well into the to abuse. early sixties and even A local “for-lease” advertisement. According then the highest bracket Photo by Fisher Pressman to the Labour fell only to 77% in Bureau, over $14 million worth of illegal comparison to the current highest tax bracket unemployment was collected in 2010 alone. at 35%. Welfare, on the other hand, has shown more Though fiscal conservatives are correct significant issues. First and foremost, benefits in predicting slower growth when the taxes should not go on indefinitely. In 2010, welfare are high, whenever taxes were lowered by accounted for $727 billion of the American large increments (such as in the Reagan budget. It has become one of the most Administration) unsustainable growth ensued expensive “money vacuums” for the United and caused a bubble. Sound familiar? To solve States. the current economic woes, raising taxes to While seemingly atypical, welfare abuse is such high levels would certainly be off the much more prevalent than one would imagine. table but to not raise rates at all is equally Consider the following case: a family, for preposterous. Data shows the economy whatever reason, is unable to provide for itself. grew the most quickly and sustainably It applies for welfare and receives a house during transitions between Democratic and along with payments for their kids as well as Republican leadership. In these time periods, things such as food stamps in order to help the government regulated important aspects them pay for food. There is no incentive to of the economy without being overbearing work because the government is paying and and managed to have taxes at a level where it it is easier this way. The family can buy a car provided enough revenue for the government if they properly finance the checks given to to run a surplus. them by the government. The family that once Republicans may seem correct in cutting started out with one or two kids can soon and government spending, but, when billions of easily grow to have four or five children. By dollars are cut from the public school system this time its expense begins to grow as more and Social Security, without the systems and more weight is added to the system. By themselves being reformed, they no longer chance assume that one child has a severe have a leg to stand on as both systems are in disability such as paralysis or diabetes. The states of failure. government picks up some of these expenses and soon the costs begin to eclipse entire Solutions workers’ salaries. It is not that Welfare recipients are bad The U.S. economy does not need radical people: there are those who need assistance to policies but sensible judgement. Swinging far get back on their feet, but there is a difference left or right has major consequences, so finding between being on welfare for a few years the middle ground has its benefits. Making cuts and a few generations. These people may no and freezing government spending should be longer value becoming a productive citizen, on the table but so should raising taxes. If both not fully integrate into society, and continue were done in moderation, taxes would not need this leeching without a second thought. This to be raised so high and the cuts made so deep. family ends up creating generation after The very systems in which the government generation of takers, further adding to the bill spends its money are in need of streamlining that the American worker must foot. During and reform. Money can be saved by simply its lifetime, the average family of welfare can making them more efficient. In the case of run the cost to a fairly significant sum. By public schooling, simply throwing money at consequence this takes benefits away from these problems will not fix the inherent flaws. those who truly are in need and gives it to As for the Unemployment and Welfare those able but not willing to do their part. dilemmas, it is hard to judge who is trying to find work and who is not, but there are Stimulus and Bailouts still methods of easing the burden off of American workers’ backs. The U.S. should As America trudged from 2007 to 2009, adopt the work center concept of other the stimulus bill was enacted in addition to Western European nations such as England, government funded bailouts of major banking where the beneficiary puts in part-time hours firms and automotive companies. The problem doing everything from extra paperwork, city with the bailout was that the money did not cleaning, and other community services. do what it was intended to. Instead of the cash But what does this all mean for The payout to Americans going into the consumer Haverford School and its students? Our economy it most likely ended up paying bills generation will inherit this economy one and debts. What was left of the bailout was day. The decisions made today will either trapped by Wall Street and when that occurs eventually benefit the country or become the money no longer does good for Main another problem. If the U.S. is to be a country Street. where the next generation of adults can provide not only for themselves but their families, its The Tax Code citizens need to learn the facts. The leaders of tomorrow need to learn from the past; all The final nail in the coffin may have very Americans must pay attention.
Page 16 October 2011
The Outdex
only 217 days of school left!
In the news... After Dr. Cox received a plaque commemorating the Servant Leadership series named in his honor, Mr. Fifer was given a plaque for “Best Dress Code Enforcement.” Did you notice Dave Harris in the clubs video? The Jesuit Order is suing Student Body President Peter Rogers for copyright infringement of their original phrase, “Be a Man for Others.” The suit argues that Rogers owes at least $2,000 in royalties for his use of the phrase. The Haverford Tour Guide Program recently had its first meeting with all 248 specially selected guides present. After a record number of cramping issues with the soccer team against Malvern, Coach Brady is now mandating his players haveIV Fluids pumped into them as they sleep. After being addressed as “Ma’am” for the third time in one week, Zach Rego finally realized it was time to cut his hair. Mr. Green has announced he is changing the length of the first quarter for seniors from its current three weeks down to two weeks. Serial club member, Dave Harris. “What club will I join next?” Photo by The Cappies
Clubs as intepreted by the outdex DECA: Jon Smith and Fitz Tepper will train you to win innumerable trophies, and you get to take several extravagant trips during school weeks that are passed off as “educational.” Economics: You’ll have a great time with Peter Rogers and his friends as they briefly go over economic topics that can be reviewed just as easily and more thoroughly on Wikipedia. Robotics: You’ll win trophies that look like sheet metal with holes in them and create robots that do the valuable task of lifting rings onto pegs. The Index: You wish it was just one Big Outdex. [Editor’s note: Not if we made you write it all.] Debate: If you attend this club you will hear Dave Harris’ voice get louder and louder in volume each passing minute. Service Board: You wish you could get into this club but it’s too exclusive to allow mass membership. You can still participate in service, just without the recognition. Model U.N.: Here you’ll learn the invaluable skills the actual United Nations employs every week. These skills include but are This picture has been censored. not limited to: passing sanctions that hold no value and are never Photo was by Outdex Staff enforced by the international community, hoping that genocide in Darfur will eventually run its course and stop without any intervention, and appointing the trustworthy North Korea to lead the Nuclear Disarmament Program. (The list above details actual U.N. acts and were not made up by the Outdex although for the sake of the world we wish we could say we did.) Math Club: A scared-looking underclassman will give you donuts while you discuss math topics. Political Awareness Club: This is essentially the same as Debate except it is held over lunch, and it’s Lucas Elek’s voice that gets louder, not Dave Harris’s. Video Game Club: Frank Brown and Doug Lisk are serious about video games. Maybe you’ll get to play them, but we’re not really sure. Mock Trial: This has something to do with pretending like you’re a lawyer in court. However, we caution you not to assume it’ll be like Law and Order, maybe more along the lines of traffic court. Diversity Alliance: Arguably the friendliest club. Ms. Smedley is one of the advisers. Lab and Demo Club: You’ll be doing enough interesting experiments to make you feel like a real scientist, but in the end you’re just making some sparks and gurgling noises. Pegasus: As the video told us nothing about it, we’re going to assume it consists of Jack Meehan speaking about mythological horses. We actually recommend signing up as you never know what Jack will say. Dance Club: This club will involve loud yelling and Marcel dancing. At this point we can make neither a negative nor a positive recommendation. Diplomacy Society: Mr. Tirado’s smiling face watches over you as you take over the world via a board game. Sustainability Alliance: Wick Egan recycles in his free-time. Rave Club: Whoever it was that had the courage to stand up and announce this one, kudos to you.