ENTRALIZER THE Central High School of Philadelphia December 2015 / January 2016 CNew Year’s Edition Volume 141, Issue 2 Meet the New Hall of Fame Inductees Jana Pugsley (277), News Editor Despina Evangelopoulos (277)
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High School held the eighteenth Hall of T t
Fame induction ceremony on October 29, lber
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2015. Guests from the alumni association, : A
school administration, and student body :
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enjoyed dinner at the Marriott downtown cre
before attending the ceremony hosted by
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o t o Ryan Smith, B.A., J.D. (247). The induc- ph tion class consisted of nine men, all of whom accepted the honor at the ceremony, with the exception of Eric Owens (247), Invited seniors standing with their class sponsor, Mr. Horwits. Inductees receiving their plaques. who had a separate induction ceremony at he earned a full scholarship to college. face with nature. You can’t learn natural Eisen has received two National Jew- take on many responsibilities as the Chan- Central this past spring due to scheduling Once in college, he stayed true to history from a book (or a web site)!” ish Book Awards and the Koret Prize for cellor of the Jewish Theological Seminary conflicts. his childhood interests by pursuing a After his time at Central, Shapiro went outstanding contributions to the Jewish (JTS), which inolves meeting with the cab- The night’s inductees were Arnold career as an evolutionary biologist, to the University of Pennsylvania on a community. When asked how he felt when inet, chairman, and other professors. He M. Eisen (228), Joseph M. Field (192), studying the evolution of life cycles scholarship and researched ecology. He he received those awards, Eisen stated, has time to write a blog, hold and attend Marvin Samson (211), Judge Jed S. Ra- through butterflies. Shapiro’s years of then studied at Cornell and taught at the “Writers of every kind are grateful for lectures, give speeches, and raising money koff (214), Arthur M. Shapiro (220), Leo researching the lives of butterflies have City University of New York. Now Sha- readers. I want my work to make a differ- for causes. Although he says it’s exhaust- Braudy (211), Ralph Horwitz (223), and also given him insight into human life. He piro teaches at U. C. Davis, and has been ence to people, and am happy when they ing, he enjoys what he does very much. Neil Powe (231). stated that “that life is a matter of contin- doing so for the past 43 years. He has tell me it does.” Neil McNair Jr., 275’s Class Treasurer The inductees were leaders in medi- gency; you can and should plan, but never recently published multiple papers based Eisen has taught at Stanford Uni- was among the group of students invited cine, science, research, the arts, and reli- be surprised to be overtaken by events. I on research he conducted while attending versity, Columbia University, and Tel to the induction. He stated, “Attending the gious and cultural communities. While certainly was. I was a total Aspergerian Central. Aviv University. He has made a differ- Hall of Fame Induction was a great honor most of those being inducted stayed close geek with no social skills and the physi- Arnold Eisen was also welcomed into ence in student’s lives by encouraging for me as a student and as the 275 trea- to home and Central, one of the induct- cal coordination and strength of a pickled Central’s Hall of Fame. Eisen received a them to study Judaism or other religions. surer. It was a special experience to be sur- ees, Arthur Shapiro left to study butter- tapeworm -- and still somehow ended up Mayor’s scholarship to Penn University Eisen expressed, “Running into stu- rounded by and gain insight from so many flies in the Patagonian Andes and made where I am today, working in the High and studied Bible. He was then offered a dents by chance, twenty years or more af- distinguished alumni.” a rare trip back to Philadelphia to accept Andes. Don’t assume who you are today fellowship to Oxford University, which is ter they studied with me, and having them Students from Central enjoyed the night his induction into Central’s hall of fame. is who you will always be. Aim higher.” where he studied abroad to help him un- tell me what my courses meant to them, as they got to converse and exchange sto- Shapiro quotes butterflies and me- Shapiro’s love for the exploration of na- derstand his family and himself. In making is one of the greatest things in the world.” ries about their times at Central with oth- teorology as his childhood passions, ture and the life within it has not faltered, the decision where to go next, Eisen said, Eisen stresses that students should ers that had stories of their own to tell. and he loved exploring nature. During and he claims to have been a “one trick “After the Yom Kippur War, I knew I had educate themselves in their traditions Alumni, staff, and students all had a great his time at Central, Shapiro participated pony” for most of his life. He emphasized to spend extended time in Israel — and they were raised with because those night and will definitely be excited for the in the Delaware Valley Science Fair, the importance of exploring nature, say- once I decided to study and teach the his- traditions, religious or cultural, are go- next one. made it to Nationals, and then to the ing, “Then it was the Wissahickon; now tory of Judaism, its was clear that Hebrew ing to play a big part in their adult life. Westinghouse (now Intel) Science Tal- it’s the high Andes--but in many ways it’s University was the best place to do that, A day in the life of Arnold Eisen is very ent Search in Washington, D.C., where all the same. You’re on your own, face-to- perhaps the only place.” busy, but also very fulfilling. Eisen has to Rock the Red and Gold Honors for Senior Students Chelsea Tepel (275) upcoming game. Entertainment Editor Rucksar Rahman, 275’s class president, Bella Baff (276), Entertainment Editor stated, “Since it was our first time doing a Jana Pugsley (277), News Editor “Central Lancers! Central Lancers!” ev- pep rally, we didn’t know what to expect.
On Tuesday, December 8, 2015, Cen- v ery student, faculty member, and alumnus At first, we were going to do it with just the ako
tral held a ceremony to laud the exem-
Y . cheered on the North Lawn on Wednes- seniors and juniors, but then I thought that s
plary work of Central’s 275 senior class. M day, November 25th. It was the day before wouldn’t be fair for the underclassmen. : Their accomplishments were heralded by Thanksgiving, but more importantly, it was Ms. Harrington and I convinced Mr. McK-
many of the students over the course of
dit cre the day before the big homecoming game. enna to let all students participate.” their academic careers at Central.
The last rally was in the fall of 2006. The Because of the early dismissal that day,
o t o President McKenna and assistant prin- ph 275 cabinet, in collaboration with the Stu- students covered the lawn by 12:00. Each cipals Ms. Harrington and Ms. Smith of- dent Association, worked to bring back the grade had built its own float to fered awards to students who made honor pep rally to get the students hype for the (continued on page 6) roll and achieved high honors. An impres- Honored 275 students gather for a group photograph. sive amount of students were named AP Scholars, or students who received a score support officer of the School District of take part in the event. “I am very glad that of three or higher on at least three AP ex- Philadelphia, revealed what she consid- Central takes the time to honor its excep- ers important life advice for the future of a tional students,” said Ella Comberg (275). (275) ams. There were also many National Mer-
aya it Scholarship Commended Students, who young scholar. Among many other pieces Katherine Laub (275) agreed, summing up j
an were ranked in the top three percent of of guidance, she urged that each member most of the attendees’ sentiments by sim- T
students for receiving high PSAT scores. of 275 “learn at least one other language” ply stating “I feel honored.” Nicole Dem- t
lber Of those students, four from 275 quali- and strive to acquire “not only a vocation, cenko (275) stated that the ceremony came A : : fied as Semifinalists, the top one percent but also an advocation.” Mr. Kahn, Cen- as a pleasant surprise. She embodied the
of high school seniors in the country out tral’s school historian and archivist, of- true spirit of a Central student when she
dit cre of 1.5 million applicants. A number of se- fered a bit of lasting advice to the future said that “at Central, you just do it and it
niors also received their enamel and silver graduates: “Work hard, play hard, and feels normal. But then you get rewarded
o t o ph pins, awarded as recognition for academic learn the school song.” for doing it and it’s just so unexpected.” achievement in past years at Central. The students honored at the convoca- Mr. McKenna riding Central’s “horse.” Ms. Logan, the chief academic tion conveyed their pride in being able to (continued on page 7) In This Issue
Career Day Manny Houndo Racism in Missouri Syrian Refugee Crisis Homecoming Game Page 2 Page 3 Pages 4-5 Pages 6-7 Page 8
THE CENTRALIZER page 2 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 Career Day: Life Beyond Central Homecoming Dance 2015 the fun that happened that night, many Zoey Miller (275) Andre Pak (278) students were eager to find out who the Staff Writer (275) Staff Writer Homecoming King and Queen would be.
aya All attendees voted, and towards the end of
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As the first period bell rang on the Tues- T Central’s annual Homecoming dance the night, it was revealed that Jeffrey Cop-
day leading up to Thanksgiving, students was held Tuesday, November 24, at Ro- lin (275) and Jennifer Perez (275) were this t
rushed to class in a rare state of excite- lber mano’s Catering from 6-10 PM. Students year’s Homecoming King and Queen. Fol- A ment. They settled in their seats, waiting to : came together to have a great time eating, lowing tradition, the two slow danced and
dancing, and taking pictures at the photo were eventuallyed joined by everyone else. dit
be reassured that the long hours of home- cre
work and grueling rides on SEPTA would booth. Everyone was involved in making Jennifer Perez (275), stated, “This year
o t o be worth it someday. Among the students ph the dance an exciting night. No one was was my third year going to homecom- on this day were those who had walked sitting down; everyone was up on their feet ing and I can honestly say it was the best Central’s hallways in previous years. The Central alumni in the Spain Conference Center. dancing the night away in their best dresses year out of the three. I never thought that alumni had gravitated back to the “dear the life of a doctor, lawyer, or business- McLaughlin. and suits. Kyle Quan (278) said, “It was I’d win homecoming queen, but it was a old High” to tell current enrollees of their man, and if any of them shared mutual Among the alumni were Jeff Thomas a fun experience and the music was awe- pleasant surprise and I wish that the night success for the annual tradition of Career teachers. Looks of empowerment and sat- (233) and Barry Rosenberg (229), Vice some.” Students who attended the event would’ve lasted forever!” Day. isfaction not only filled the room, but also President of The Alumni Association, who enjoyed themselves thoroughly as they Homecoming brought all students to- By fourth period, it was clear that this the whole building. both sat and conversed with numerous anxiously waited for the upcoming Home- gether out on the dance floor. The dance special day had a meaningful impact on Jeanette Yust (275), one of the students students. Thomas, a Certified Public Ac- coming game. was enjoyable and everybody made his the Central community. Classrooms were who was helping out to facilitate Career countant, hoped that students would take Ayana Curtis (277) said, “Homecom- or her own memories. The dance was an filled with speakers. Students were blown Day, stated, “One of the things I liked away, “an understanding of the fields that ing was really great and a well-deserved enjoyable evening and next year will be away by people like Dr. Jamie Paik (259), about Career Day the most is networking we represent and the idea that if they have end to the marking period.” On top of all better. an internist and Harvard graduate, and Au- with all of the different alumni. It’s really any questions, they can certainly contact drey Huntington, an operations manager nice to see the places that they go to be- us on an ongoing basis.” The two men of- and Yale graduate. Both women were able yond Central and the places that I’ll go as fered some insight to students about how to tell classes how they had reached their well.” Throughout the day, Yust assisted to handle with their futures. Rosenberg (275)
goals and ended up with the positions that speakers to their designated classrooms was reminded of the “academic excellence aya j
they have today. and offered a genuine smile that only add- [of Central] that very schools in the coun- an T
In the Spain Conference Center, volun- ed to the energy of the event. try afford their students with.” t
teers and organizers were gathered to keep Co-Organizer Ellianna McLaughlin After a satisfying lunch, speakers either lber A the event running smoothly. Several hours (275), spent weeks in advance contact- returned hastily to their jobs or lingered :
of preparation had been put into making ing alumni and teaming up with Jarlyn around, reminiscing on “those glorious
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this day happen, so it was only right that Silva (275), to make the event possible. days of old.” When the clock struck 3:04,
o t o the effort be carried out through the next “The planning was tedious, but also ex- it was clear that Career Day had been yet ph eight hours. Students and guests chatted as citing because it allowed me the opportu- another success. equals, covering topics like how to pursue nity to make personal connections,” said Homecoming King Jeffrey Coplin and Queen Jennifer Perez dancing during the event.
(275) Natron Moore, CHS Rapper
aya When asked about his inspiration, j an Asa Cadwallader (276) Moore names several rappers that influ-
T Real-Time Editor enced him like J. Cole and Earl Sweatshirt, t
lber but according to Moore, “What really in- A : : In a school as big as Central, sometimes spired me to rap were the things that were
it can be difficult for students to stand out. happening around me--issues that I felt I
dit cre This, however, is not a problem for Natron could only express through rap.”
Moore (275). He is a star runner for Cen- Moore’s advice for other aspiring
o t o ph tral’s cross-country and track teams, an rappers is to make connections and stick to exceptional student, and a natural leader. their own style. Connections are critical in 275 Student Association members with an alumnus Although Moore is widely known by the the rap game, and having a good producer Central community, many students are not can be crucial to a rapper’s success. Moore aware of another talent he possesses; he is records his music in a South Philadelphia an up-and-coming Philadelphia rapper. studio and has collaborated with several Central Writing Center “I started in sixth or seventh grade other rappers and producers. As for style, Jamie Razler (277) job is to be a good hostess,” Ms. Catlin and after I made some pretty good stuff, Moore has observed many rappers who Staff Writer explains. “I invite people in and create an I expanded and started reaching out to compromise their own flow or change their atmosphere where people feel comfort- other people,” says Moore on the incep- lyrics to appeal to a certain audience.
Every day after school in room 308, able and welcome. I want it to feel like (275)
o tion of his rap career. Moore, who is also “Be yourself. Never try and branch L excluding Fridays and half-days, Ms. Cat- a friendly place.” All of the volunteers at known by his alter ego Nate the Great, or off from your type of music for someone
lin hosts the Writing Center, where her the Writing Center are kind and patient leen
i NTG, has an extended play called Hard To else,” advised Moore. A “writing fellows” work vigorously to help people who enjoy writing and are there to : Get and has released several other singles As for the future, Moore has no plans
students enhance their writing. From 3:10 help. Whether a student needs help brain- on Soundcloud, a music sharing website. to slow down. “I’m going to take it as far
dit cre to 4:00, a student can walk in, sit down, storming ideas, organizing a paper, or just Moore combines his fast, flowing rhymes as I can,” he says. Moore will be releasing
and engage in conversations with peers to an overall proofread, the fellows will do with an array of different beats, ranging his highly anticipated EP sometime in ear-
o t o help resolve any issues that he or she may their best to help the student in any way. ph from chill R&B on his single, Long Path, ly 2016. His music is available at https:// have with writing an assignment. “Students usually leave smiling,” Ms. Cat- to the dreamlike synths on his song Words. soundcloud.com/guapxntg. Reluctant to have someone critique lin adds. rewarded with community service hours. your writing? Don’t fret; Ms. Catlin en- Anyone interested in becoming a The Writing Center offers all Central courages students who may be shy or not writing fellow can talk to Ms. Catlin in students the opportunity to polish and re- used to having someone give constructive room 308. Volunteering as a writing fel- vise their assignments with the assistance
criticism to come in at least once. “My low can help improve writing, and is and advice of helpful peers.
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Natran Moore (275). Liz Hua (276, on the right) helping a student. THE CENTRALIZER page 3 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 Kelly’s Korner Central Gets Trashed Liam Kelly (275) trilogy that contains two other equally im- Staff Writer pressive books. It’s praised for being very spots are usually around the alcove, main blunt and painfully realistic on several Ben Folk (275) hallways and the lunchroom, as they are instances. These qualities are what led to News Editor high traffic areas. This maximizes club The book I am sharing with you now, its most common criticism — that it is too advertising and potential for drawing in as well as books I will share in the future, violent. However, I argue that the cringe- Thanks to the Student Association’s prospective members, making the contest will not always be sunshine and roses. worthy realism is necessary to address the new initiative, Central’s clubs can help all the more competitive. That being said, I’m hoping that you high- social injustices the novel confronts head the school clean up after itself. Clubs now Students expect the club-customized ly educated and mature Central students on. The violence is not gratuitous, but have the opportunity to design a custom cans to be installed sometime in the near Cover is copyrighted material can handle the kind of content I am expos- rather crucial. The Girl with the Dragon trash can holder as a way of providing a future, as the SA office awaits Mr. McK- of the Millenium Series ing. One way or another, you’re going to Tattoo proves a point — the real world unique and creative solution to curb the enna’s approval for their requisition. Vot- experience it or hear about it, so you might isn’t as pleasant as some would lead you It’s difficult to pin this book down spread of litter in Central’s halls. ing on the can sleeves will take place at a as well read about it first. to believe. The violence portrays the real into a specific genre due to its wide range Each club has the choice to submit its later date, likely after President McKenna Choosing the first book to review was world exactly how it is and doesn’t bother of aspects. The book could be seen as one individual design for a can that that the SA approves this project. far from easy for me. There are many to sugarcoat it. promoting social justice and is geared office will review. If it passes, the design books which have left lasting impressions One of the main subjects of the book is more towards political stances. While will be printed on a sleeve that fits over a on me — impressions that I am certain the debate about gender equality. The book commonly labeled as a mystery, it’s also trash can. The driving forces behind the do not only apply to myself. For this rea- itself was originally titled Män som hatar considered a thriller, drama, romance, or concept of trashcan sleeves were “keep- son, I believe the books I choose to share kvinnor, “Men Who Hate Women.” Up even action novel. This draws an even ing the hallways clean and promoting the should all be special. With that in mind, front, it portrays this theme by introducing larger and more diverse fan base. How- clubs,” says SA Treasurer Skylar Scafidi
the first book needs to set the bar. That is a female protagonist, Lisbeth Salander, ever, this doesn’t mean it was completely (276). By giving each club “ownership” of (275)
why I decided to review The Girl with the who doesn’t present herself in a way most accepted by any means. an individual trash can, the hope is that stu- olk F Dragon Tattoo. dents will be more conscious of their trash
This is a book most of you stereotypes categorize as feminine. The I wish I could say the book was pub- en B have certainly heard of, even if you only eventual outcome of her conflict is even lished without any sort of censorship or and make a stronger effort to ensure that :
know about the movie. Few novels have more satisfying because of how empower- influence, but the title of the book was their waste finds its way into their- deco
dit cre achieved such widespread success and ing it is. I think this is just one more reason altered. Deemed more marketable and not rated receptacles.
even fewer have achieved such a level of the book is so relevant to young people as offensive, The Girl With the Dragon As an added level of student involve-
o t o popularity while still maintaining critical today. Even for young males, this idea Tattoo stuck more than it’s original Swed- ment, there is also a contest that runs in ph acclaim. of feminist power is important because it ish title. conjunction with the can decorations. The book itself was published after gives you a different perspective on so- Rest assured, the content is still as “Clubs vote on best trash can,” says SA the death of its Swedish author, Stieg Lars- cial injustices. An important lesson taken memorable as when it was originally pub- president Albert Tanjaya (275). “It’s a son, in 2005. Larson was a journalist who from the story is that although oppression lished. I’d rather not say any more, and let friendly competition where the winners get The SA will decorate these types focused on far-left policies, which is often doesn’t directly affect you, it doesn’t make you find out for yourself. bragging rights and can choose where they of trashcans and will make them visible in his novels. The book is part of a it any less of a problem. want their trash can placed first.” Coveted available within the school. Beauty Through Music: Manny Houndo Working With PACT
Bryan Huang (277) Brian Davis (275) Staff Writer Jeffer Zhang (275) Science Editors Turn your ears to the second floor al- became passionate about and found enjoy- from Central’s music department provided cove and you may be in for more than the ment in entertaining people. To Manny, him with great support in amping his per- “Given eight oranges on the table, sev-
treat of the sweet smell of food wafting the violin releases stress from his aca- formance level. Most importantly, Manny en of them have exactly the same weight (275)
down from the staircase. The playing of demic life. appreciates his parents for keeping him and the eighth is a little bit lighter. You are ang the violin rises above the mirthful din of During the fall of Manny’s junior year, steady and on track. Even on the night h
given a balance that can measure oranges Z the perusers of the bake sales, and in the Beyoncé shared one of his many fabulous when Beyoncé shared his video, Manny’s against each other and you are allowed to center of it all stands the player, Emman- music covers and commented “Amazing!” parents made sure he completed his home- use the balance at most twice. How can effer uel Houndo, known by many as Manny. This post from Beyoncé received more work. you determine which one of the oranges is J :
Manny immigrated from Togo when than 98,000 likes and 5,500 shares. The Every student is trying to find his or dit
lighter than the others?” (PACT website) cre he was in the third grade, and, forced to response to Beyoncé’s recognition was a her own niche while balancing academic This is a typical question for the stu-
acclimate to the foreign lifestyle of the revelation to Manny because he didn’t in- and social lives, and Manny is no excep-
o t o dents who pursue the Program in Algorith- ph US, soon found his calling in music. In tentionally create the video for her. Since tion. He comments that he loves the violin mic Combinatorial Thinking at Princeton the fourth grade, his music teacher intro- then, Manny does not act from impulse, so much more than ever before. According University. PACT helps educate and chal- duced him to the violin, and in the sixth, but thinks about how he wants to view to Manny, “If you’re not doing anything, lenge students interested in mathematics he learned to play “You Raise Me Up” by himself and how others will interpret his you’re not getting anywhere, period.” and algorithms fundamental to the comput- ear. It was in that moment when he real- actions. Manny’s advice is when you make a plan er science field. Brian Mata (275) decided ized how much he enjoyed performing for Numerous people have helped Manny and stick with the plan, simply work hard to take that challenge. Brian Mata (275). people. throughout the way, from teachers before and practice because that is how you Brian attended the program for eight During the summer, Manny practices his Central experience, to Frantz Cayo achieve perfection. Do it rather than only weeks over the summer and continues to “There is a more applied part to com- at least 4 hours a day. He has never given from the BET performance. Manny wants dream it. go back to the campus every other week- puter science, which consists of writing up because has the mindset of, “getting to acknowledge their efforts with his ut- end for lessons. Each seven hour lesson programs and functions for engineering in out there and getting known.” Later on, he most gratitude. Specifically, Mr. Blazer is taught by a Princeton professor or vol- physics. There is also a more theoretical unteer speaker. The topics feature simula- part, which I ended up really liking, which tions of real world events that Brian feels consists of going into algorithms and un- offered him a “perceptual advantage” for derstanding the fundamentals of how a an introduction to the computer science computer operates. field. He indicates that “PACT continues to “Say you’re in the U.S. and you’re a broaden your analytical skills. As in phys- travelling salesman. You want to go to all ics, you’re not gonna start throwing balls of the major cities. You know the roads and off of roofs. You need to know how to do how long it takes to get from one city to it. You need to have the toolset to approach another, and you want to design a round
(275) the problem.” trip so that you return to your starting
o L The strenuous coursework at PACT destination in the quickest amount of time
requires an extreme amount of devotion. possible. That’s a huge unsolved problem leen
i Brian feels that the time and effort that he in computer science that no one knows the
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places into the program is analogous to that most efficient solution. The only way you
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which he places in his high school classes. would know how to do that is to test every
He reached out to this program “because possible solution.”
o t o ph Central does not offer the courses that are This is just one of myriad obstacles presented at PACT.” the computer science field faces today, Brian’s inspiration to major in a STEM however, Brian feels confident that with career comes from his experience at Cen- commitment and diligence a solution will tral High School. During his freshman be found. year, he joined Central’s Robotics Team The PACT program is quintessential and became acquainted with various as- to those who are looking to further under- Manny Houndo (275) playing a violin. pects of programming that motivated him stand the rudimentary concepts of com- to pursue the field further. puter science.
THE CENTRALIZER page 4 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 Central’s Got Water A Student’s Experience with the Germination Project encountered a substantial problem: profit- Ashish Dahal (275) ability. “We realized we could not make Monica Volodarsky (276) Editor-In-Chief enough money simply by selling bottles, Staff Writer The water fountains at Central often so we started a gofundme (crowdsourcing) blend into the background. Although these campaign,” says Teena. The limit is four hundred and fifty (276) water fountains are plentiful and serve This gofundme campaign ultimately en- people.
as student amenities, many individu- countered success, raising $1200 over the Through the roar of the crowd and the
arsky d frantic beating of my heart, these words olo als simply use them without considering summer with the support of Central staff, V
the backstory behind each one. Recently, students, family, and alumni. Additionally, make their way to me, and heat rises to
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Central acquired two new filtered water the group received an $800 grant from the my cheeks. The capacity of the Philadel- on M fountains directly as a result of student 233rd class, which wanted to honor its 16 phia Union League’s Lincoln Hall might :
be four hundred and fifty, but I know that dit
activism. Due to the fundraising efforts classmates who died prior to a 40th class cre of Teena Simon, Bonnie Zheng, Ashley reunion. By the end, these students raised there are no fewer than six hundred indi-
viduals packed in the next room, waiting
o t o Coleman, Jada Paris, and Devin Wong enough money to buy not one but two fil- ph (all 275), Central was able to install new tered water fountains for the school com- expectantly. The Germination Project filtered fountains on the first floor and in munity. Draft Day Gala is just about to begin, and Members of the Germination Project gather for a group photo. the lunchroom. Ms. Cohen, who teaches the AP/IB the air is alight with electricity. The peo- This water fountain project was headed Environmental Science class, offered ple packed in the great ballroom adjoining Senator Robert P. Casey takes the stage and all I can think of is whether I’ll be able to by the aforementioned students as part of perspective on the water fountain initia- our small alcove are some of the most im- the crowd goes wild. I struggle not to pace make it to the stage without tripping over a do-something initiative in the last year’s tive. “I’m proud that my students found portant professionals in Philadelphia, and back and forth as my mind races. I think my own feet. Eric Berkowitz, the Project AP/IB Environmental Science Class. “We creative solutions to basic environmental they are here to see the next leaders of our of Philadelphia, as it is, now. I think of all Manager for the Germination Project, were inspired to raise money...we saw issues,”says Ms. Cohen. “Students need to city. By some turn of fate, I am among the of my friends and family that have left the leans over and asks me if I know who will how useful it was to the students and the understand that they can make widespread fifteen chosen. city in search of something more and of the be representing me. I’ve seen the name on environment because it motivates stu- impacts by themselves.” I think back to four months ago when biases, some justified, that have become the list. “David Lipson?” I ask, straining dents to refill their water bottles, rather Now, Central students have I applied to the Germination Project, associated with Philadelphia. I love Philly, to be heard over the excitement. “Yes”, he than bringing multiple bottles of water to access to clean water fountains on every a program which was described to us but I am aware of the problems that plague tells me, “That’s the President of Phila- school,” explains Teena Simon (275). In floor, thereby fulfilling an important envi- as an incubator for Philadelphia’s next it. For a moment, I am intimidated by the delphia Magazine. You should talk to him order to raise money to achieve their goal, ronmental initiative. The impact made by generation of leaders. Founded by Ajay responsibility that will be placed upon us after the event”. My breath catches in my these students sold CHS water bottles dur- the aforementioned group of students can- Raju, the CEO of Dilworth Paxson LLP, to improve the civic future of our city. throat, and very clearly I hear my name be- ing Earth Day celebrations in May. How- not be understated. the Germination Project was intended to I am snapped into the present as another ing called. ever, Teena and her group members soon be a “fifty year love letter” to the city. Germination Fellow approaches me. I do I do not remember walking to the stage, Ten schools were selected in the Greater not remember her name —momentarily, but suddenly I am there, holding a custom Philadelphia region to partake in the I think I forget mine, as well. But I look 76ers jersey with my last name on it; a Germination Project, each nominating into her earnest eyes and I know that our name that my father and his father wore, up to three of their brightest sophomores destinies are intertwined; we were both a name from a land thousands of miles
(275) for admission to the program. After un- chosen for something greater than our- away, a name that nobody had ever thought
dergoing an intense selection process in selves. She points at my clutch and tells would be heard in the ballroom of the
ang h
Z Central High School, Thomas Van Dean, me that she’ll hold it for me when I go up. Union League. As these thoughts rush to Trang Lam, and I sent in applications to I thank her profusely, my stomach churn- me, time stops. The flash of cameras still, effer ing as I think about being thrust into the and I can only dimly register the brouhaha : J : the Germination Project, and were invited
to the Dilworth Paxson offices in order expectant crowd, all foreboding thoughts all around me. Instead, I am transported,
dit cre to be interviewed. A few weeks after our quickly forgotten. The first name is called, fifty years into the future, to a Philadelphia
atypical interviews, it was revealed, to and unconsciously we Fellows line up. We brimming with opportunities and talent, a
o t o ph our astonishment, that all three of us were slap each other on the back, smile at the mecca of success. admitted into the program. Now, the three next person up, offer words of reassurance. The new water fountain. of us and twelve other Student Fellows We find unity in the midst of happy chaos. (The full Germination article can be found were anxiously waiting to be officially de- Before I notice it, my fellows are nudg- on the online Centralizer website.) An Internship in Medicine clared the 2015 Student Leadership Class. ing me forward. I am next, and suddenly
Jamie Razler (277) An Excursion With T.R.I.P. (275)
Staff Writer Andre Pak (278) ang
h Staff Writer Z Fruit flies and a food replacement?
Doctor Anand of Roxborough Memo- effer e rial Hospital hosted a program in which J : How can these two be related? The Teen
he selected four students to assist him in Research Internship Program (TRIP) has
tiv a iti n
dit cre his job as an anesthesiologist. Jeechieu Ta just completed its experiment involv-
of Central High School was one of those ing drosophila (fruit flies) and Soylent.
o t o ph students. The program took place at Temple’s Sci- Jeechieu’s tasks included: interview- ence Education Research Center over the
ing patients, documenting information, Jeechieu Ta (275). course of five weeks from July 7 to August
.I.P I .I.P R T. FCCC : and preparing injection compounds. Dr. Jeechieu also had the chance to work 6. There were many scientists and teach-
ers who mentored the students as their
dit cre
Anand also encouraged his interns to be on his social skills. “Networking and
up to date with recent medical discoveries. speaking genuinely with another person experiments progressed. Humna Chaudry
o t o Jeechieu received the opportunity to with little history has been a shortcoming (276) joined the program to gain experi- ph work on a new interface for nurses and I’ve had for a while now.” He goes on to ence in the scientific field. She learned doctors that allowed them to determine say that working with Dr. Anand was a about the program from Ms. Truong, her their patient’s heart status from their vital great way to break out of his shell. chemistry lab teacher. Ms. Truong sent signs, echocardiography, arterial pressure, Dr. Anand praised Jeechieu’s overall out an email to students encouraging them to join, this caught Humna’s attention and and wedge pressure. ability and said that he would be hired first Members of the program smile for a picture. Jeechieu truly experienced what it out of the other three interns. Jeechieu said she proceeded to get involved. means to work in the medical field on a that although Central’s curriculum was not In the experiment, each student had to she wanted to do as a scientist. In fact, she program as it is a learning experience that day to day basis. “It was so real,” he ex- particularly relevant to the type of work he test a substance of choice on drosophila. said that she wants to conduct the same ex- offers hands on learning skills as well as plained, “It didn’t even censor the drug was doing at the hospital, he found that the Drosophila is the scientific name given periment using mice instead of drosophila getting to talk to experienced scientists. abusers. I had to deal with people with a necessary skills he had learned at Central to fruit flies. They are known to - beat to get more realistic results to compare Before she joined TRIP, Humna was un- straight face and professionalism.” came in handy. “Having a great perspec- tracted to fruit that have ripened or rotted. with humans. TRIP has taught Chaudry ba- sure about her interests in science. She From the variety of memorable les- tive, thinking critically, and being person- Chaudry chose Soylent (a manufactured sic skills any scientist would need to know stated, “TRIP’s goal is to help students fig- sons learned and experiences gained, able are all relevant skills I learned at Cen- food replacement) as her substance to see in a lab and also taught her to use scientific ure out whether or not they are interested Jeechieu says his favorite moment was tral,” Jeechieu reflected. how it would affect the development of material. She learned how to use scientific in pursuing science as a career.” To do when a woman came in looking visibly In the coming years, Jeechieu hopes the flies and their fertilities. Two times a materials such as pipettes and incubators, this, they allow students to talk to differ- better than her earlier visit. “It was nice to to pursue the new STEM efforts in the sci- week, she would go back to the Temple’s how to prepare special food, and the life ent types of scientists to learn about what see such a drastic positive change in such a entific community. He is keeping an eye research center to work on the experi- cycle of drosophila. “Overall, TRIP pre- they do and what they research. If you’re short amount of time,” Jeechieu says. out for colleges or universities that include ment. When the experiment was drawing pared me well for further research oppor- interested in science or want more of an During his time volunteering at the programs dealing with recent progressions close to the end, she said, “My results tunities I might want to pursue,” she said. experience within the science field, make hospital, Jeechieu felt that he changed as a that he would be interested in. found that the substance slowed down Humna suggested, “If someone is in- sure you join the Teen Research Internship person. “I feel like I’ve become more hu- Any outspoken, fast learning, bold stu- the development rate and even lowered terested in pursuing a career in the STEM Program! For more information, students mane from living some moments with the dent who would be interested in working fertility.” fields, I would recommend taking this should contact Ms. Truong in the science patients,” he explains. with Dr. Anand can speak with Jeechieu Through this opportunity, Chaudry program or something similar.” Central department. for more information. was able to concentrate on what gives students the opportunity to join this
THE CENTRALIZER page 5 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 Racism in Missouri A Cause and a Voice A Case of Overreaction proached him on these grounds, to which though — the nonsensical demands of the Jamie Razler (277) Michael Moroz (275) Managing Editor Brown responded by attempting to grab student groups at Mizzou and elsewhere. Staff Writer the officer’s gun and fight him. The students formally demanded racial di- In case there is still doubt that Brown versity classes (this is college, folks) and On November 9, 2015, Tim Wolfe, the from the University of Missouri began If anyone wants to see a case study of was, at worst, justifiably killed, and at for the percentage of black staff and fac- President of the University of Missouri, a hunger strike on the campus, saying he the puerile politically correct campus cul- best, a thug, the grand jury cleared Wil- ulty to be increased to 10% (higher than resigned from his position due to the de- would not eat until Tim Wolfe resigned. ture that pervades modern colleges, they son of any wrongdoing. Further, President the black student population at Mizzou, by mands of several students. The reasoning The football team also pushed for Wolfe’s need only look at the incredible overreac- Obama’s Department of Justice could not the way). I was under the impression that for his departure branches back to over a resignation by refusing to practice or play tion at the University of Missouri. find any civil rights violations in the case, colleges should hire professors based on year ago. any games until he stepped down. Over a period of months, a few ter- and it definitively proved that the common qualifications alone, not skin color. Ober- On August 4, 2014, Michael Brown, After vigorous protests, demands, boy- rible occurrences were recorded at Miz- “Hands up, don’t shoot!” moniker had no lin College’s black student group brilliant- an unarmed, black, 18 year old male, cotts, and hunger strikes, Wolfe resigned zou — a black student was the recipient of basis in fact. ly fit into their demands divestment from was shot and killed by a police officer in from his presidency on November 9, 2015. racial slurs from unidentified individuals, More broadly, the students issue sev- Israel — insofar as these activists write Ferguson, Missouri. Many students from The attention drawn not only to the Uni- and a swastika was written in feces. These eral suspect claims about American so- absurdities, they might as well include the University of Missouri participated in versity of Missouri, but also to other col- events spurred massive protests calling ciety, and such claims deserve their own vaguely anti-semitic ones, too. protests regarding Brown’s death near the leges and universities across the country, for president Tim Wolfe’s resignation. (In columns to be refuted. The claim that When supporting facts don’t exist, the city. was caused by the voices of the students. case readers are missing a causative link, it police officers generally kill black people activists invent them, of course. Jonathan Over the next year, a series of events Payton Head addressed the magnitude of doesn’t exist unless Tim Wolfe draws fecal indiscriminately, for example, is nonsense. Butler, a student at Mizzou, went on a hun- occurred on campus to deliberately objec- the situation in Missouri by stating, “Stu- swastikas in his spare time.) If one adjusts for the significantly higher ger strike after blatantly lying about being tify and offend black students and other dents are empowered to speak up about We can trace these protests ultimately murder rates of black people, there’s ac- hit by Tim Wolfe’s car; he stepped in front minority groups at the university. The what is happening here, and that is em- to the events in Ferguson, where Darren tually a slightly higher cop homicide rate of the car, and it’s on video for anyone to student body president, Payton Head, who powering other students around the nation Wilson, a white cop, shot Michael Brown. for white people. In St. Louis, whose po- watch. The appropriate response to this is a black male, had racial slurs yelled at to speak up about what is happening at There are, of course, a few problems with lice department has been pushed to take nonsense should’ve been — starve. These him. A white male intruded upon a school their campuses as well.” this underlying cause. First of all, Saint over Ferguson’s, studies have shown that activists have not heeded the Michael play rehearsal and called students the n- Because the students raised their voic- Michael of the Gentle Giantedness (all black and white officers shoot suspects at Brown ruling, nor will they accept any of word. Two swastikas were drawn around es about something that they felt needed credit to Ben Shapiro for that particular the same rate, suggesting no evident racial the aforementioned claims about the jus- the campus, one in feces. to change, the entire country knows what epithet) was a delinquent who robbed a disparity. tice system as even debatable. The campus As the students took notice of the ongo- happened at the University of Missouri. convenience store, manhandling the store There’s one place where one can cer- left doesn’t engage in debate; it engages in ing problem at the university, they urged owner in the process. Wilson then ap- tainly and inarguably find discrimination, hunger strikes and sit-ins instead. President Wolfe to take action in regards to the hate crimes that were being com- mitted. The students blocked his car from passing by during the school’s homecom- ing parade. Wolfe, however, did not ac- knowledge the students. “Concerned Students 1950,” a group at the University of Missouri, called wrote
a list of demands concerning the hate (275)
crimes. The organization requested that
v ako Y
Wolfe step down from presidency and
an t
that the faculty and staff become more a N diverse in coming years. The students :
also expressed a desire to incorporate ra-
dit cre cial awareness into the university’s cur-
riculum, and demanded more funding
o t o for mental health programs. The list of ph demands reached Wolfe who again failed to take action. Once the media drew attention to the predicament, students undertook more drastic measures. An alumnus of Last year, Central students showed solidarity with Black Lives Matter. “Creed” Is A Knock-Out Film For All Throughout the film, fans will notice nally confront the anger and discontent he Natan Yakov (275) familiar elements that make Creed identi- had for his father and for being his father’s Editor-In-Chief cal to Rocky. Like Rocky, Donnie falls in illegitimate son. Donnie is only able to love with a girl while training, struggles overcome this ongoing spiritual conflict In 1976, Philadelphia became the city to work cooperatively with his trainer, and through the lessons he learns when he of the underdog when Rocky became a faces struggles to find his own identity in interacts with people like Rocky--people blockbuster film. It spawned a franchise an environment where all forces seeming- that must also face daily battles that take that grossed over one billion dollars and ly go against him. To Donnie, Philadelphia a toll on the soul. It is Donnie’s fight with left a tremendous impact on Philadelphia’s slowly transitions from a city of hope and his father, not so much the fight he faces in culture. However, after the failure of opportunity for change to the boxing ring the ring at the end of the film, that will stay Rocky V and satisfying closure presented itself. Donnie takes many punches, both with fans during and after they see Creed. in Rocky Balboa, the Rocky series seemed literally and figuratively, as he fights his Lastly, fans of the original Rocky series all but completed. With the release of way to be the best. will be seeing Creed with one question in Creed, fans are presented with something This description of Creed’s basic plot mind - what ever happened to Rocky Bal- unexpected - a story that, although is re- almost makes it sound like an exact copy boa? Photo is copyright of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. markably distinctive on its own, presents of Rocky’s plot, and in many ways, is set The film does takes an incredible step and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc. the same challenges and emotional obsta- up for disappointment from fans who were back to the original Rocky film to revisit cles that were found in the original Rocky hoping for something new and exciting. the qualities of Rocky Balboa that made In this way, Rocky and Donnie both Creed’s ability to be a fantastic film that made it a film for the ages. However, the film doesn’t save itself in him an underdog icon. In the original film, have to face their own fights while help- on its own makes it convenient for people In Creed, Adonis “Donnie” Johnson Donnie’s love story or Donnie’s interac- Rocky is honest, devoted, and true to his ing each other. Rocky is able to provide the who haven’t seen any of the Rocky mov- Creed attempts to distance himself from tions with Rocky. The key element to this principles. However, in Creed, Rocky is mental support Donnie lacks, and Donnie ies to still be able to understand the plots the image of his father, Apollo Creed, film that makes moviegoers want to see no longer the same youthful character. is able to provide the spiritual and physi- and themes that were presented in the who, in the original Rocky series, was the Donnie succeed is how he must come to He is a well retired boxer that now takes cal strength Rocky desperately needs as he Rocky movies. Creed will definitely leave heavyweight boxing champion, a famous terms with his relationship to his father on the role of trainer. He no longer sees encounters complications with his health. audiences cheering when Donnie deliv- celebrity, and Rocky’s closest friend. Don- and his father’s image. life with the same optimism as he once This exchange of support between mentor ers powerful punches, heartbroken when nie is the illegitimate son of Apollo, and Donnie’s struggles and victories in did nearly forty years ago. Rocky must and apprentice is something that the origi- Rocky mourns the loss of his friends, and decides to separate himself from the Creed Philadelphia are able to physically make address his own inner conflicts, which nal Rocky never really presented to fans, hopeful once more when the protagonists legacy to make a name for himself. To do him stronger and mentally prepare him- include his mortality, failing strength, and further providing to Creed’s uniqueness as overcome the famous steps preceding the so, he heads to Philadelphia to find Rocky, self as he focuses on boxing, but it takes ability to keep own going the distance, a both an independent film and addition to a Philadelphia Museum of Art. hoping that the retired boxer can train him. more than just training for Donnie to fi- common theme in both Rocky and Creed. great franchise.
THE CENTRALIZER page 6 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 “Is That Even a Language?” featuring ASL ple worldwide (according to the World Darya Bershadskaya (277) Health Organization) and ranked 4th in Staff Writer popularity within American Universities is not legitimate enough for a high school Interdependence amongst countries in setting?
the world today has opened up numerous Dominance in the “grown-up” world (275)
opportunities for future leaders to learn of tomorrow requires an individual with o L
languages outside typical choices such impeccable determination and the ability leen
as Spanish and French. Teaching foreign to communicate with people of different i A languages has recently become one of worlds. Now, let’s be real for a second :
the top priorities for many educators, and here — any studious high school student,
dit cre students continue to gain more exposure or a Central student perhaps, is always
to different cultures. However, if instruc- trying to become that “well-rounded per-
o t o tors are to preach about the importance of son” that colleges so desperately seek. ph diversity and the equality of communica- Becoming a gem in a pile of rust seems to tion, how can we blatantly ignore Ameri- be the main goal, and having an expertise can Sign Language, which is spoken by in speaking ASL is highly valued amongst millions of people around the world? many employers considering its rarity. Recently, American Sign Language, Simply put, adding the factor of knowing or ASL, has become a choice in foreign sign language to any equation can ulti- language education in universities across mately make you that special gem. Members of Central’s new Sign Language Club the country. This brings forth the ques- If one were to agree that sign language (From left to right, 275 members): Anh Nguyen, Maria Nguyen, Raymond Liu, Lee Mai, Alexander Lam tion — what exactly is language? Al- is indeed a language, then teaching it in ied a foreign language consistently scored American sign language is specifically Evidently, the final decision is ultimate- though many people believe that writing schools would be highly beneficial, just higher on the ACT than students without spoken on American soil as it differs ly dependent on school administration. and verbal communication are the most as any other foreign language is. Further- foreign language education. Introduc- from other forms of sign language such However, after conducting a non-scientific important factors in defining language, more, numerous studies conducted by the ing ASL into high schools would be yet as BSL, British Sign Language, or LSF, poll on Twitter asking students if they American Sign Language evidences the CollegeBoard have proven that students another tool that could significantly help la Langue des Signes Française (French would take sign language as a foreign lan- contrary. Thus, schools should seriously who study a foreign language perform normalize the image of students with dis- sign language). Therefore, there is much guage course in school, if available, 71% consider teaching ASL as part of language higher on standardized testing than those abilities as well as improve performance speculation on how valuable this dialect of voters said “yeah that’s cute,” while curriculums. who do not know a second language, at on standardized testing. can be. Other problems arise when con- 29% said “nope.” It’s quite clear that many There is an undeniable truth that the the least. For example, a study conducting The topic of teaching ASL to high sidering the oral and physical aspects of individuals at Central understand the mer- word “language” is in the term sign lan- by the American Council on the Teaching school students often boils down to ASL since it might not bring forward the its of ASL and a world beyond words. So guage. So, why is it that a language used of Foreign Languages (ASTFL) in 1992 the concern of its legitimacy in a for- common academic benefits of standard- Central, what do you say about sign lan- by over 360 million hearing disabled peo- found that high school students who stud- eign language department. Furthermore, ized testing, as previously mentioned. guage as a foreign language class?
Offering Our Aid to Those in Need (Rock the Red and Gold way up to the front along with the alumni Abdelrahman Elabd (276) continued from page 1) and teachers to get a view of the action. Staff Writer Following the dance, the homecom-
(275) present at the rally. As students made their ing court was announced, and King Jeffrey
Recently, several European countries v
ako way to the sides of the pathway, Mr. McK- Coplin and Queen Jennifer Perez were ap- Y including Hungary, Austria, and Croa- enna rode up on a Lancer float, looking plauded by the students. The most antici-
tia, as well as U.S. states like Michigan,
an t a eager and proud to be a Lancer. The other pated moment finally came as the football
Texas, and Florida, have closed their bor- N : : classes followed with their own floats, players ran up to the middle of the pathway
ders to the millions of refugees escaping starting with the freshmen float and ending and huddled together, getting pumped for
dit cre the civil war in Syria. Leaders in these re- with the senior float. The floats varied in the game. The crowd followed with cheers
gions state that the refugees are not worth color, presentation, and some representa- and excitement, showing extreme pride for
o t o the expenses and also claim that terrorists ph tion of a lancer defeating a viking. Central and the players. can easily disguise as refugees. What these Grace Del Vecchio (277) comment- Kyling Spaulding, (275) a player on leaders fail to understand is that this is a Graphic representation of the Syrian refugee crisis. ing on her float-making experience, saying the football team commented, “ I felt re- humanitarian crisis. Regardless of our na- “Through working on the 277 float, I was ally proud to be a Lancer and I enjoyed the With this information, it becomes ing Pennsylvania’s decision to accept tionality or our economic status, it is in able to truly see the incredible talents that fact that everyone came out to show their easier to understand the large scale vio- refugees, Governor Tom Wolf stated that times like this that we must help our fel- my class has. From the small float commit- support for us and to exhibit their central lence in Syria. The UN has estimated the the screenings include an in-person inter- low man. Syria has transformed into a liv- tee’s discussion of 277’s accomplishments pride. Even though we couldn’t get the civilian death toll at 220,000 people, with view, health and biometric screening, and ing hell over the past four and a half years. worthy of portrayal on the float; accompa- win on thanksgiving, I’m very happy that more than 70,000 casualties encompassing involvement from anti-terrorism agencies In order to understand the escalation nied by the vibrant atmosphere of the rally everyone showed love at the rally and on women and children. Syrians live in con- such as “the National Counterterrorism of violence since 2011, it is important to in it’s entirety, I can wholeheartedly say Game Day.” stant fear of being interrogated by, killed Center, the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Cen- realize that the Syrian conflict is not a that my first ever experience of a Central The pep rally was an amazing way by, or forced to fight for whatever mili- ter, the Department of Homeland Security, traditional war. What began as peaceful pep rally was a smashing success.” to get Central’s school spirit noticed. tant group is in the neighborhood. Thus, the Department of State, and the Depart- protests turned violent when security forc- After all the excitement around the Snapchats and tweets following the rally 11 million Syrians — half the country’s ment of Defense.”(Associated Press). The es opened fire on demonstrators and has floats had settled, Central’s ASU began its expressed excitement and spirit, with cap- population — have fled their homes since task of weeding out potential threats to the since transformed into full scale fighting dancing performance. They started with tions like “love my school’s spirit,” and “so the beginning of the war, 7 million being state is in more than able hands. between different ethnicities and religious “We’re All in This Together,” which made proud to be a lancer!” As the rally drew to displaced within the country and 4 million Indeed, Western leaders who claim that sects. Syrian citizens now face abductions the everyone feel sentimental and pumped, a close with our one and only school song, migrating out of the country in one of the taking on Syrian refugees will be a strug- by both their government and militant and eventually broke out into extremely dedicated to our dear old high, as well as a largest mass exoduses in history. gle for their countries haven’t known real groups, chemical warfare, and full-scale fast paced dances. The whole crowd was chant of “Rock the Red and Gold,” it was We must break the historical trend of struggle. It’s easy for first-world citizens genocide. To stay in Syria is to ultimately cheering, dancing, and singing along. Pep obvious that the pep rally was a huge suc- well-off, economically and politically sta- to become desensitized to the situation in die. Squad followed with an outstanding per- cess. Once a Lancer, always a lancer! ble countries refusing war refugees under Syria. Syrians are real people whose fam- The gargantuan scale of violence is formance, but of course, nothing less was the pretense that those refugees constitute ily members are shot, bombed, kidnapped, due to the plethora of militant groups in expected of them. Students pushed their the country, each one with its own array of a threat to the State. The claim that there and beheaded on a daily basis. We allow motives within Syria. On one side of the will be terrorists amongst refugees seek- ourselves to be preoccupied with fatuous war are the Sunni rebels, made up of the ing asylum from Syria is analogous, if not discussions about tax policy and mari- Islamic Front, ISIS, and Jabhat Al-Nusra, identical, to the claims Americans made juana legalization, yet fail to recognize the Al-Qaeda’s affiliate in Syria; all aim to about German Jewish refugees during real problems in the world. overthrow the Assad regime and displace WWII. A 1939 poll that asked if America It is time to stop making excuses. If the the Shi’ite groups. Yet, they insist on mur- should accept 10,000 Nazi refugee chil- right measures are taken, Syrian refugees (275)
dering each other and any civilians who dren showed that 60% of Americans an- do not constitute a threat. Furthermore, aya
j an
oppose them. swered no. Needless to say, there were any capital spent on the welcoming of T
On the other side of the spectrum stands never any terrorist attacks on US soil by Syrian refugees is a small price to pay for t
Assad’s mainly Shi’ite regime, backed Jewish German refugees during WWII. the liberation of our fellow man; it takes a lber A by smaller groups and a Syrian guerrilla The security measures and screenings complete lack of human empathy to dis- :
in place for refugees coming into coun- agree. It is time for the first world to set dit
group called the National Defense Force. cre
Somewhere in the midst of this chaos is tries like the US are more than adequate; a humanitarian example for future genera-
o t o the original Free Syrian Army, formed in for example, Pennsylvania’s refugee vet- tions, bear the responsibility that comes ph an attempt to overthrow Assad and estab- ting process involves a very thorough col- with being world leaders, and fulfill its lish a democracy in Syria. The Free Syrian laboration with the federal government blatant moral obligation to help humanity. that takes an average of 12 to 16 months For if humanity doesn’t help itself, it truly Army is largely backed by Western gov- Central students cheering. ernments. per applicant refugee. In a letter defend- has no hope. THE CENTRALIZER page 7 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 Car Talk: In Yust We Trust Substitute Teacher Crisis Isabella Ryan (276)
Ella Comberg (275) the entire Taylor Swift discography and is (275) Staff Writer
Thomas Davidenko (275) always ready to sing along.This driver is aya j
Ana Deluca-Mayne (275) a proud member of the Pennsylvania Girl an T
Staff Writers Choir and a local celebrity who has per- Have you ever walked into class one t
formed as a backup singer for the greats day to discover there was no substitute lber A The feud between Yearbook and Cen- like our very own Bobby Hill (278). teacher? Have you ever had a substitute :
tralizer is one for the books. This year, What’s more, the convertible nature of that could not teach the subject? These
dit cre Yearbook beat out Centralizer in holiday the car allows wind to flow through your events are occurring in many school
spirit when they transported a five foot tall hair while you listen to her sweet tunes. districts across the United States. The
o t o ph Douglas Fir from Roxborough to Central Of course this can be embarrassing when School District of Philadelphia being one (please, it’s a Holiday Tree™, this is a you are a six foot two inch man and Jean- of them. In June of 2015, Philadelphia A typical Central class. non-denominational school, people). This nette decides to play Taylor Swift in North contracted with Source4Teachers, a web- event is sure to go down in history, and it Philly. However, when you’re just a few site that allows school districts to choose department had to give up their lunch or not learning the material we needed. The wouldn’t have been possible without the beautiful teenage girls listening to the their substitutes from a list of those avail- prep period in order to look after the class. not learning the material we needed. The help of Jeannette Yust’s (275) Volkswagen Beach Boys with the top down, you can able. Philadelphia had 1,100 teachers that The pay cuts that substitutes are receiving students created a commotion because Beetle. This car certainly comes with its make even route 76 feel like the 405. were qualified substitutes, or teachers that are due to the School District of Philadel- there was no clear authority in the class- faults (we’ll get to those) but it also comes Jeannette Yust does not drive reck- had substituted at least once before. Re- phia’s budget crisis. Substitutes are being room, which only further prevented my with its perks—it’s a tiny car for a tiny lessly; as a matter of fact, it has been Car turning substitutes were surprised to see offered a daily rate of $90-$110. According learning. Now I’m behind where I want to woman that just screams, “I care more Talk™ tested that you can stick your foot that this new method of acquiring teach- to the “veteran” teacher from Mt. Airy, this be and should be,” recalled Kaila Caffey about aesthetic appeal than the environ- out the window while driving in Jean- ers had caused their pay to decrease dra- pay rate only helps new teachers because (277) about an extended period without a ment!” nette’s car, and nothing bad will happen. matically. A substitute teacher from Mt. they are starting off with a higher daily teacher last school year. Step into Jeannette’s car and you will As someone who is kind of nervous when Airy explained how the new pay rate he rate than the $75 that first time substitutes Absences for teachers typically in- feel like you’ve arrived for your first day she drives, Jeannette’s sure to not do crazy was offered was 37% of what he and other used to make. The Mt. Airy teacher went creases from November to the end of the at a really nice preschool: there are fake turns in the parking lot in order to show “veteran substitutes” were accustomed to. on to say that last school year he was mak- school year, according to Kelly Graham, flowers, and everything is small, pastel, off. While she may not know how to paral- The effects of the pay difference can ing $239 a day. School districts around the an Inquirer staff writer. She explains and smells like crayons. A passenger’s lel park, Jeannette doesn’t find this a prob- be seen in full effect as most schools U.S. are undergoing similar budget crises. that on some days over 400 Philadelphia first thought might be that the Crayola™ lem since she only ever drives to Target. reach the third or fourth month of their This is not only a dilemma for sub- classrooms can be missing a teacher. We smell comes from one of the many chil- This pastel Beetle is surprisingly school year. Veteran subs are refusing stitute and full time teachers, but also for are reaching the fifth month of the school dren Jeannette is always with, but it is in roomy. The leather seats can only legally to work because they value what they students. Many Central students have also year, but if the school district does not ad- fact a gas leak. We are all inhaling gas that accommodate five people but we, the Car do more than what the district is willing had bad experiences with substitutes. This dress the shortages of teachers and their makes the car smell that way. It’s just one Talk reviewers, have definitely put that to pay them for it. This forces full-time year alone, countless students at Central pay, this crisis will only continue, adding more high point of her car and makes rid- limit to the test, once fitting a full seven teachers to work extra for the absence of have complained about having an unquali- more problems to the ever growing list ing in her care more enjoyable. people (please don’t arrest us). While it’s subs. At Central, there have often been fied substitute, or sometimes no substitute that the School District of Philadelphia AP Environmental students, listen up. no Hummer, there is just enough leg room occurrences in which a teacher was ab- at all. must resolve in order to better the future This one’s for you! In Jeannette’s car, pas- to make for a comfortable ride. sent and other full-time teachers in the “It was frustrating because we were of its students. sengers can enjoy an interactive experi- Jeannette’s car could probably star ence with the Clean Air Act violations in the reboot of the Disney hit, “Herbie: committed by Volkswagon with just one Fully Loaded” because of just how dang Powderpuff—Traditionhave been softened. The game appears or to phenomenonOffensive? has been widely criticized, short ride. By the way Volkswagon, expect cute it is. If there ever was a car that could Jana Pugsley (277), News Editor be a way women can participate in a typi- and many schools and school districts to hear from our lawyers soon. fit a person’s personality, this is it. While Dylan Lewis (277), Staff Writer cally-male sport, but in truth, it perpetuates have banned the event in recent decades. What she lacks in air quality, Jean- very small, it was still a force to be reck- the gender roles and stereotypes created by Depending on one’s location within the nette makes up for in vibes; Yust has the oned with on the road. In a culture where At Central’s recent annual Powderpuff our society. country, Powderpuff is more or less an perfect taste in car tunes. At any given “bigger is better,” Jeannette Yust proves game, the seniors defeated the juniors by a One might ask whether the purpose of outdated tradition. However, the memories point in time she will have the latest and that maybe the best way to live big is to score of 24-18. Although powderpuff is a a Powderpuff game is to make fun of the of the game’s chauvinistic history cannot greatest Drake song playing from her tiny drive a tiny car. well-established tradition, it raises discus- seemingly “ludicrous” idea of girls playing be put to rest while its name still remains. Beetle speakers. Her car is equipped with sions about the derogatory nature behind football. The players must question wheth- Marcela Rolón Dow (277) is hesitant an AUX cord which most Central cars Ana: 8/10 Crayons the event. er the audience is laughing at them or with about playing in Central’s game next year, seem to lack, and her car’s music selection Thomas: Strong 7/10 Holiday Trees™ In the past, Powderpuff games were them. The presence of male cheerleaders stating, “I’d love to participate in the Pow- is not limited to mainstream rap. She has Ella: 7/10 hazardous emissions charity touch-football games played makes it clear that the spectators are mock- derpuff game next year, but I don’t know for entertainment, often including male ing the supposed silliness of the situation, if I’m comfortable with the associations football players dressed in cheerleader as if girls playing football or boys cheer- that come with the name. Although I know uniforms. In many cases, the teams were leading is something to turn into a joke. Central’s version of the event isn’t sexist, separated based on physical features like Powderpuff at Central is a much more I don’t like the fact that it shares its name hair color. The name “Powderpuff” is as- modern, inoffensive version of traditional with a derogatory and outdated practice.” sociated with the assumed femininity Powderpuff games. The only characteris- In this period of time, when feminism of the players. When one of the players, tics that Central’s rendition does not differ is becoming increasingly more popular Chelsea Tepel (275), was asked about the from are the female players and the event’s amongst younger generations, how is it
(275) name, she responded, “I don’t really mind name. Nothing about the game screams possible that we allow the school to con- t
us it because at our school, the game is not “sexism” except for its name. One of the tinue with a tradition that has qualities of Y offensive. It’s more like a tradition, but at players, Taylor Somers (276) recalled, the blatant sexism of past decades? Sim-
the same time I don’t see how it has any “Our coaches knew that our team had ply holding an annual girls’ football game
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eane correlation to football.” strong opinions and wouldn’t just brush is harmless, but the name implies that the : J :
The word originates from the makeup things off if they said something sexist to chauvinistic aspects of the game are still
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tool that was widely-used by women at the us, so we never really had a problem in that alive. Fortunately, the annual junior-senior
time of the game’s creation and the height area. At other schools, this event could be Powderpuff game are focused on reflecting
o t o ph of its popularity in the twentieth century. more sexist and they could talk down to Central’s longstanding traditions of class Because of this so-called innate femininity the girls who are willing to play.” pride, school spirit, and friendly competi- that the players possess, the game’s rules The degrading nature of the Powderpuff tion.
Ella Comberg (left) and Jeannette Yust (right) posing in front of Yust’s car.
(275) aya
(Honors continued from page 1)
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in the mail and are moving on towards the T
Though working sedulously is com- next stages of their education and careers.
t lber A mon practice at Central, there is evident The honors convocation was only the be- :
reason to commemorate 275 for its ac- ginning of the commendation the class
dit cre complishments. The class has excelled will receive. “This day starts the whole
academically and, as Mr. McKenna stated, swing to graduation,” declared Ms. Har-
o t o “also serves as a role model to the lower rington. “The next time we call out names ph classes.” will be at graduation.” 275 has brought 275 has completed three long, arduous great pride to Central, and the recognition and ultimately successful years at Central it received at the honors convocation can- High School. Members of the class are be- not begin to rival the good the class has ginning to receive college acceptance letters done for the school. Seniors and juniors engaged in a tough game of football. THE CENTRALIZER page 8 New Year’s Edition December 2015 / January 2016 We Bleed Crimson and Shine Like Gold Serene Schwartz (277) Staff Writer
The rambunctious sea of crimson (275)
and gold simultaneously chanted, “BEAT (275) aya
NORTHEAST!” The intense football aya
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game on Thanksgiving revved up the spirit T T
and fervor of the Central Lancers. Stu-
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dents from all grades, parents of all ages, lber
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and even the most prestigious alumni at- : dit
tended the Homecoming game to support cre
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Central’s football team.
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o t o On every Thanksgiving morning since ph 1892, the Central Lancers and the North- east Vikings challenge each other to an electrifying all-American game of foot- Spectators watching from the sidelines. The Lancers and Vikings clash on the field. ball. This year, the match occurred on No- vember 26th which, for many, kick-started stars of the game generated life-changing with high hopes for future champion- the Thanksgiving holiday. memories. ships.” The game delineated the core of Cen- “Looking back on all of the home- The players created a family when coming games, I will always remember they spent every day with each other to tral’s pride by boasting about the school (275)
and loving everything Central embodies. the screams coming from the fans in the train and strive towards their goal. aya j Chris Carson (277) attended the game and crowd,” said Nasir Womack (275), a de- “It wasn’t just football. We’re family. an
stated, “Since my parents went here, Cen- fensive end and tackle. The players may Those players are my brothers,” remarked T t
tral is in my blood, so it’s an amazing feel- be far on the field, but the expression of quarterback Jeffrey Coplin (275). Central lber A ing to know that I’m not just carrying on a eternal support from the school they love continuously fought and improved tre- :
century old tradition, but also one that’s in is one that they will remember for life. mendously from last year, making it into
dit cre my family as well.” Na’eem Allen-Stills (275), defensive the playoffs. Although the team did not
By halftime, the vehement stands line, recapped his last year of high school win to proceed further into the playoffs,
o t o cheered wildly as the ferocious Lancers football by stating, “This was a turnaround the future of Central’s football team con- ph are winning 20-18. Not only do the fans season that set a precedent for the upcom- tains a promising destiny filled with deter- create everlasting experiences, but the ing years, making us a playoff-ready team mination and triumph. Quarterback Jeffrey Coplin (275) attempting a pass. Training to Reach A Championship Grace Del Vecchio (277)
Staff Writer
(277) (277)
For the past twelve years, the Central
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Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team has played its v
rival team, Franklin Towne Charter, in the el
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Philadelphia Public League Championship race
game. For the past four years, Franklin race
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Towne always ended victorious. This year, : dit
the Central soccer girls were determined cre
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that this season would have a different
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o t o ending. The first time they played Franklin ph Towne, the game ended in a smashing tie, thus instilling a great deal of confidence in the players that certainly wasn’t in them at the end of last season. Sadly, on November The players warm up before an important match. Girls gather after an important victory. 2nd, the girls played Franklin Towne in the championship and lost to them yet again. loss of their sole senior player was some- Romie Azor, the player who scored the one dards and kept pushing. The season may However, the team was not discouraged Although this was a despairing loss, the thing that would not be taken lightly. “We and only goal scored by Central against be over and we are losing an instrumental by the loss. Instead, the players are full game was an incredible fight. The game had a great year. Good luck to the team Franklin Towne, commented, “We are a senior, but there is always next year. “ of anticipation to return to the field and ended 2-1, but the first goal was scored next season” said Katie Klenk (275). big team with many girls. But who said The team ended the regular season show Franklin Towne what they are truly by Central within the first thirty seconds The captains, Romie Azor (276), Dja- family is small? And that is what these with a record of 11-1, with the only loss capable of next season. of the game. von Dupree (276), and Lilliana Greene girls are to me - family. Every ace or sweat against Franklin Towne and went on to Though the high quality of the game (276), fully intend to lead the team to wasn’t wasted because everything I gave win two playoff games before falling short was an encouragement to the team, the receive the most deserved win next year. to the team, the players surpassed the stan- to Franklin Towne in the championship.
Lancer Records (At the time of printing) THE ENTRALIZER STAFF Varsity Football: 4-1 Girls’ Basketball: 2-1 ditors in hiefC p d ditors Girls’ Soccer: 7-0-2 E - -C Layout Editors O -E E Boys’ Soccer: 7-1 Ashish Dahal (275) Xu (Eric) Lin (275) Kaila Caffey (277) Boys’ Golf: 12-4 Girls’ Tennis: 14-5 Natan Yakov (275) Miguel Morel (276) Girls’ Volleyball: 9-0 Sports Editors Olivia Spratt (275) Boys’ Basketball 3-3 Managing Editor Baktiar Choudhury (276) Boys’ Wrestling 2-0 Girls’ Field Hockey: 3-3-1 Michael Moroz (275) Skylar Scafidi (276) Photography Editor Swimming: 1-0 Aileen Lo (275) Assistant Managing Editor Science Editors Zoe Braccia (275) Brian Davis (275) Real-Time Editor Jeffer Zhang (275) Asa Cadwallader (276) News Editors Ben Folk (275) Proofreading Editor Financial Adviser Follow us on Facebook: The Centralizer Jana Pugsley (277) Sophia Berg (276) Mr. Brian Howland Despina Evangelopoulos (277) Entertainment Editors Kelvin Lu (275) Faculty Adviser Follow us on Twitter @The_Centralizer Bella Baff (276) Anna Pugsley (276) Mr. John McElhenny Julia Garman (276) Kate Orlovskaya (275) Chelsea Tepel (275) George Russell (275) Printer Check out the NEW website: thecentralizer.com Susquehanna Printing
President of Central High School: Mr. McKenna Email us: [email protected] THE CENTRALIZER