March 2011

TALON’SAES’ OFFICIAL STUDENT-RUN NEWSPAPER POST Can AES Clear the Middle East Hurdles? By Gautam Kapur school. Plus, I would think that all this politi- joins MESAC, our athletes will be traveling to Due to political unrest in Cairo, cal tension would stop by next school year.” the Middle East frequently. Nevertheless, it is the Screaming Eagles Track Invitational unwise to assume that the Middle East will be scheduled for March was cancelled. “We “Cairo is scheduled to host track every unstable for a significant period of time. “Six as a school decided to not travel for the year in the new MESAC league, so it months ago, nobody would have thought IN THIS ISSUE safety of our student athletes,” said Mr. will be interesting to see how things that Cairo would fall apart,” added Hoover. Hamilton. Large-scale protests led to Cairo unfold,” said track coach Mr. Hoover. - Genoa MUN American College (CAC), the host school, Cancellation of the highly anticipated deciding to close. Not only CAC, but also MESAC schools currently include the Ameri- track meet disappointed AES athletes. “I - Minicourse Feedback Cairo Japanese School decided to close. can Community School Abu Dhabi, Ameri- was looking forward to running the hurdle After all, safety comes first. However this can School Dubai, Dubai American Acade- event, since we don’t use hurdles in SAISA,” - Danger at Gate 2 raised the question: could Middle East my, American School Doha, and CAC. As AES said Sebastien Derveeuw, a Sophomore. - 3rd Season Sports instability affect our entrance into MESAC? AES has won SAISA Track and Field 15 years - Scott Beale Visit Some political analysts view the Egyptian in a row, with athletes from elementary demonstrations as part of a domino effect school all the way to high school setting in the Middle East. The clamor for political records and wining events. However, ath- reform began in late 2010 with the Tunisian letes recognized the importance of safety. NEWS FEED revolution and spread to Cairo in early 2011. “In the end, safety comes first. Thankfully, we’re hosting SAISA Track and Field this When asked if the Egyptian political year, so I’ll still be able to run for AES,” - Much Ado About Nothing situation would impact AES’s entrance said Benjamin Blackstone, a Freshman. - New Leaders of CHS into the new MESAC sports league, Mr. Hamilton replied, “It does not have any The good news: this year AES will host the - Holi Party Awareness implications. It is a local political issue track meet originally intended to be held - Minicourse Evaluation that occurred in Cairo.” Rebecca Robbins, in Cairo from April 14th to April 17th, so a former student at CAC, stated, “I am not AES athletes will still be able to compete. too concerned that the situation in the MARCH WEATHER: Middle East would affect our entrance into MESAC. CAC is a very secure and safe Temperatures to rise again maxing around 35 degrees Who needs the SAT? celsius. Get ready for summer

By Saumya Gulati

Prior to and after January 22nd, AES hall- ways were filled with ranting about the invalidity and needlessness of the SATs. Although one could simply pass this off as casual student banter, it raises the question: is the SAT a fair test, and does it warrant the importance it holds for US colleges? The SAT was initially created in order to predict how well a student would suc- ceed in college. However, Bates College, in Maine, has had a standardized testing optional for over 20 years. In 2004, Bates conducted a study based on 20 years of data that showed only a miniscule (0.1%) difference in graduation rates between SAT score submitters and non-submitters. Based on the results, Bates decided that “testing is not necessary for predicting good performance; the academic ratings assigned by Bates admissions staff are highly accurate for both submitters and non-submitters in predicting GPA.” Submit- ting SAT scores continues to be optional for Bates applicants. As other schools replicate reading, and math, because it’s standard- colleges prefer. “The ACT is a more holistic the Bates study, more are choosing to make ized.” test because it has more subject areas and score submission optional. Ms. Rosenfield, Rosenfield supports colleges taking a is more content based versus reasoning AES high school counselor, confirmed this: well-rounded approach: “I think that the ability. Many students who struggle with “More and more schools are jumping on SAT needs to be read very carefully in the the SAT find that they will be more success- the SAT-optional list; I think that’s good.” context of what the student has been ful with the ACT,” according to Rosenfield. Although these studies suggest that the able to do over three or four years of high As much as students would like to believe SAT may not be as important as people per- school when they’re applying and not that the SAT will go away, it’s unlikely that ceive it to be, many students and teachers what they do on a Saturday.” Both GPA and that will happen anytime soon. However, alike still believe that the test should not be SAT scores may be relevant, but those like students can hope to see a growing trend scrapped. A New York Times article stated Rosenfield would give more importance in colleges placing less importance on that the SAT allows for a standardized com- to factors such as the level of the student’s standardized tests and more importance parison of students from all backgrounds. classes. on other aspects of high school achieve- Junior Diksha Gupta agreed: “It’s a good Another option to the SAT is the ACT, ment. way to compare students in writing, critical another standardized test that some SCHOOL NEWS Shaping the World: Speaker Urges Public Service By Pooja Sivaraman on current developments in Egypt and Scot Beale, founder of Atlas Corp, spoke Tunisia, citing young people there as clear to AES students at lunchtime on February examples of the power youth can hold: 2nd. He has given over 500 speeches to “If you say something aloud loud enough, young people all over the world, encourag- you start to believe it, and others start to ing them to take part in service. “We are in believe it too.” a revolutionary period,” according to Beale. Beale emphasized the importance of the Overall, listeners responded positively to younger generation: “Young people have Beale’s speech. Senior Abhinav Tyagarajan the responsibility to change this world, said, “His whole manner was very inspira- and I hope that you step up and shape this tional, although his ideas were fairly sim- revolutionary period.” plistic.” Ms. Garg, head of community ser- vice at AES, enjoyed Beale’s speech, but she Beale began his service activities as a felt that “all of his examples were American, Georgetown University student govern- and he could have used more international ment leader. Since that time, he has started examples.” She also felt that “he could have the non-profit organization, Atlas Corp. had more hands-on examples.” In general, though, Garg found the speech “good for Beale offered three major tips to achieve students,” particularly Beale’s “leap before successful service. First, young people you look” focus on changing the world. “should not wait when you see challenges or want to make a difference”. He discussed Can AES students really make a difference? how people, as they grow older, lose per- Asked if Beale’s suggestions were applica- spective of how the world is. He urged stu- ble to AES, Ms. Garg responded positively: dents to take action: “Don’t assume there’s “Only when you do something, will you a better time.” His second tip was that know if it works.” The AES service council one must “believe in the power you have includes clubs that have made significant to change the world, and get involved.” differences in the community. According He explained that changing the world to Garg, “If five clubs work and three clubs is a daily event, and most feel unable to fail, it’s still okay, for it is more important make a difference. “We choose to believe to focus on the successes rather than the in this powerlessness.” Finally, he focused failures.” EC Update: Inside the Boardroom

BY SHANNEN Eikerman and ASC members, and concerned par- to discipline you if they see fit? Some may brought up? What was the condition of ents brainstorm what they really want out find that intimidating. the issue in the past? Students ask: “What does the Executive of the school, and how to deliver that to Council actually do? Why is it necessary?” the students. Also, you know that “Student Student stress is an ongoing issue. It Satisfaction Survey” that you take each year Dr. Hetzel, School Director, member comes up in our Wellness survey, from par- EC’s most important role is representing that often asks extremely awkward ques- of the EdSLC/School Director/dedicated ents and our own observations. Student AES students. EC, together with the Student use of tobacco, drugs and alcohol comes Life Committee (Senior Fari Sattar and this up often whenever its use becomes highly author), Environment and Facilities Com- visible, like the Holi party last spring or kids mittee (Senior Abhinav Tyagarajan, Senior smoking in Malcha Marg. Vikram Kumar, Junior Varun Batta) and the Board (Junior Rishi Sharma, Sophomore Adi Mehra), is tasked with producing an How does the EdSLC board decide environment where students can flourish. what needs to be put on the agenda? What is the process? Besides putting blood, sweat and tears (mostly Mr. Yeo’s) into Fall Fiesta, the In May, the committee will identify its school’s only fundraiser; creating a new goals for the coming year. Many of these blueprint for progressive changes in mini- come as a result of the ongoing curriculum course selections; installing a 42” televi- review process or from the satisfaction sur- sion in the breezeway that displays daily veys we conduct. announcements and other AES tid-bits; making the 35-minute lunch period a little Are there any contentious issues that bit sweeter by playing music throughout were discussed for a long period of time the breezeway; allocating funds so each before they actually changed? What class council can pay for their sumptuous brought rise to the change? VIP rooms; EC members attend School Board committee meetings. Trying to improve the quality of food ser- vice at school has been a long-term project In this issue, readers get the inside story and continues to date. The changes stem behind student-life policy changes: why from our satisfaction surveys and gather- the food was changed, surprising off-cam- tions? That also is one of the main ways morning-greeter, recently answered some ing input from parents and students. Three pus regulations, and other juicy pieces of they receive feed back from the students questions about the Education and Stu- years ago representatives of ASC came to information Sattar and this author picked on what to change. dent Life Committee: EdSL with a petition about food in the high up while attending the AES School Board school. Education and Student Life Committee In response to all of this feedback, EdSLC What is the purpose of the EdSLC? meetings. essentially creates many of the AES rules What does it hope to provide for the According to you, what is the best and regulations directly affecting your school? policy change the board has made? The Education and Student Life Commit- lives: how you may behave off campus, tee (EdSLC)’s role is to recommend changes which foods you can consume, what you To provide an official liaison between the In my judgment, having student and in student handbook policies regarding can wear and the overall character of The Board and the daily life of students, espe- faculty serve as honorary Board members the school philosophy and mission, health, American Embassy School. To really see the cially curriculum and student well being. at the meetings and participate on these safety and security, instructional programs results of the EdSLC in action, though, just It’s also a place for parents, students, or committees. It provides an opportunity to and students. Momentum for change origi- crack open the student handbook. You’ll faculty to take concerns or ideas. influence the direction of the school. nates at strategic retreats, where interest be surprised. For instance, did you know groups give feedback and make recom- that AES holds you accountable for your What are some issues that you think Attending EdSLC and other School Board mendations to the director and board. behavior, illegal or otherwise, through a will impact the high school popula- committee meetings is just one way that EC AES School Board members, faculty, EC signed contract, and they hold the right tion the most? Why were these issues represents the student body. Next month, look forward to another EC update. SCHOOL NEWS MUN Club Triumphs in Genoa

BY MANALI Banerjee to McDonald’s to enjoy juicy beef. Then language being a difficulty. Most del- runner-up for Best Dressed Delegate in came the pre-conference panic. Everyone egates were not native English speak- the Special Conference committee, Mago After a month of intensive preparation, worked on resolutions and revised speech- ers. Frequently, speakers were asked to was voted Best Chair in the Mediterra- eleven AES delegates and chaperones Ms. es to make sure they were prepared for the rephrase their questions. Despite the Guerin and Mr. Kleinhenz left on February first committee meetings the next day. language barrier, AES delegates as well 22nd for GEMUN, a Model United Nations as delegates from schools in Dubai, the conference in Genoa, Italy. Two flights and At the Opening Ceremony, Mago and UK, and the USA, were able to maintain 12 hours later, the group reached Genoa other officers were introduced. AES’s own good debate throughout the conference. and embraced the fresh, chilly air. AES Anuraag Bahl delivered an ambassador would represent Pakistan and China over speech on behalf of the People’s Republic AES delegates successfully got several the next few days. of China. resolutions passed at the conference. In the Environment Commission, Bahl’s resolution was passed. Müller’s resolution in the Economic and Social Commission passed unanimously and Manali Banerjee’s resolution passed with just two opposing votes. Other AES members co-submitted resolutions and proposed clauses which passed as well. Friday night, the AES team celebrated Guerin’s birthday with nean Conference, Müller was named “Mr. a cake presented to a surprised Guerin, Amendment” after proposing and passing who answered the door in her pajamas. a total of five amendments, and Banerjee was named “Next Hitler” after attempt- AES bagged three official and numer- ing to declare two wars during debate. ous unofficial, awards at Saturday’s clos- ing ceremony, .Müller won Best Resolution, Saturday night found MUNers blowing off steam at the celebratory dance. Jain said, “The dance party was awesome. I loved just hanging out and busting a move.”

Overall, some AES delegates com- plained that conference debate lacked quality and that too much attention was Three local students showed the team GEMUN involved a high level of “secu- paid to other aspects of the conference. around Genoa, pointing out the MUN con- rity,” which meant that scores of students “Dress code was taken much too seriously,” ference venues, Palazzo Ducale and Palazzo stood ready to prevent anyone wear- complained Bhatia. “I was sent back to the Rosso, as well as the ship from Pirates of the ing a coat, jeans, “too colorful” wear or hotel three times before being allowed into Caribbean and the “best chocolate shop above-the-knee skirts from entering the the conference. The problem against my in Europe” (Junior Tom Muller begged to committee rooms. Mago was told by the skirt was understandable, but I was sent differ). Senior Tanvi Mago, as a conference Conference Director that she would have back because my toes were showing. It officer, missed the tour to participate in a to cover the “ethnic” henna designs on her was ridiculous.” Committee room security mandatory workshop. hands by wearing gloves. One young man was also overly strict. Delegates required on security detail asked Anushka Bhatia an escort to go to the bathrooms. “I was After the tour, one group headed to a if he could “touch [her] pants” to verify very annoyed by their meticulous attitude local Italian café to enjoy pizza and pasta. that they were not jeans. Bhatia refused, towards apparel and security,” said Bahl. Arun Jain, AES’ youngest delegate and the and Ms. Guerin accompanied her on only sophomore, said “The pizza was so the next trip to the committee room. while Banerjee and Bahl were both Best After a brief respite following GEMUN, good, I’m never going to be able to have Delegates in their respective commit- the AES MUN Club is now preparing for Pizza Hut again.” The rest of the group went Committee meetings went slowly, with tees. Additionally, Stefan Hörtnagl was its very own “DELMUN” next month. AES Aces SAISA Tennis

BY GAUTAM Kapur tough for many of the players,” said Rishabh Sivakumar, a Junior. “The matches were From February 11th to February 13th shortened from a best of seventeen to a AES hosted SAISA Tennis at the Delhi Lawn best of thirteen,” said Bharany. “Sometimes Tennis Association (DLTA). By and large, the schedule didn’t give us enough time to SAISA Tennis this year was a smash for AES, recuperate from previous matches,” Sivaku- with the Boys winning the first place trophy mar added. and the Girls team taking second place. AES placed first overall as well, doing so for the “The experience the boys team had second year in a row. this year was pivotal to our success,” said Bharany. “Last year there were only three One of the reasons behind hosting SAISA returning varsity players, while we had six at the DLTA was that AES tennis surfaces are this year,” he added. inconsistent, offering either hard surface or clay In fact, this SAISA was fairer than most The victory in an unfamiliar venue was other tournaments, with AES not having a particularly rewarding. “It felt good when home court advantage. “We were as new AES won, because we were all playing at to the DLTA facilities as the visiting athletes a different set of courts for the first time, were,” Senior Shompa Choudhury stated. and we were really nervous since we lacked Nevertheless, AES triumphed at SAISA, and the home court advantage,” said [Class?] won a total of 444 points to earn first place, Jay Vaidya. more than 100 points ahead of second place. Athletes were sad to say goodbye to SAISA but look forward to the challenges However, there were some downfalls and experiences that await them in MESAC. to hosting SAISA Tennis at the Delhi Lawn “MESAC should be great because it will give Tennis Association. “We did not have as us a different level of competition com- much of a crowd as we would have if we pared to previous years,” said Sivakumar. hosted SAISA at AES,” said Senior Manit As a whole, the move will improve the AES Bharany, AES Tennis Team . Despite tennis program significantly, as the JV team additional courts at the DLTA, “many games will also travel next year. were played back to back, which was really SCHOOL NEWS MINICOURSEANECDOTES Name: David Clegg Name of Trip: Salang Meadows Trek Best moment: The view of everything at the top of the mountain. Scariest moment: coming down the mountain Maahika Srinivasan because of snow up to waists Name of Trip: Hope Foundation Chennai Funniest moment: every time that tom spoke, Best moment: watching 4-year olds do the and boccar coming down the mountain, he hula and doing itwith them cried (wanted to go home) Scariest moment: when our group and the Favorite food: pineapple fritters (all food was bus left us at thehotel and we though we amazing) were abandoned Name of a new friend/bud: Patrick Mooney, Funniest moment: when a random guy on really funny and cool person the beach asked for myfriends number, and we had to pretend we didn’t have cell phones Favorite food: Malabar (fatty) parantha Name of New Friend: KY

Richard Jan Kaleta Name of Trip: Hills of Garhwall Best moment: being at the pinnacle of the divine mountain(8000 feet) embracing it upon my soul simply blissful Scariest moment: none Funniest moment: screaming “This is herpes!”on a boat Name: Shaurya Rastogi Favorite food: none Name of Trip: Salang Meadow Trek Name of New Friend: Dong Best Moment: Reaching the bar at the Worst moment: train ride end Scariest Moment: Everyday, looking down at the mountain and knowing I have to walk so much and knowing I was on my own and so far from home Funniest Moment: Bocar crying Vikram Kumar Favorite Food: Fried pineapples Name of Trip: Panna and Bandhogarh and Safaris Name of a New Friend: Carl Lentz Best moment: Seeing 3 tigers while sitting on an elephant Scariest moment: suddenly seeing a tiger 2 feet away from us Funniest moment: Abhinav falling asleep on the safari and bouncingoff Mr. Toigo’s shoulder Favorite food: French fries Name of New Friend: James Reynolds (9th grade)

Name: Tara Venkatesan Name of Trip: Hope foundation Jodhpur Best moment: taking a guide audio tour of Rajput palace and seeing the armory with Kulveen Scariest moment: falling down the stairs at a hotel after seeing a spider Funniest moment: falling down a sand dune just after proclaiming I was coordinated Favorite food: gulab jamuns Name of a new friend/bud: Quatan

Nehal Joshi Name: Mahakali River Expidition Best Moment: When I got stung by a scorpion. Scariest Moment: Jumping into a rapid. Funniest Moment: Seeing Ankita fall off her raft. Favorite Food: Chicken Curry Grace Koclar Delhi and Around (Delhi Hope) Best Moment: seeing the pure joy on the kids faces and watching the orphanage children putting on dance for us – you could tell that they put so much effort into it. Name: Peter Mooney Scariest Moment: One girl, Nani, Name of Trip: Hope Foundation: Delhi about 6/7years old yelled at people Best moment: After helping the when she was telling them they were lepers doing something wrong. You didn’t Scariest moment: When entering want her to yell at you….no. the Tigri School, the basement was Funniest Moment: Watching Shompa creepy. dance with all the school kids. Funniest moment: those math Favorite Food: Pizza Hut contests. Some people couldn’t do math in our school. Favorite food: The food was disgusting. Name of a new friend/bud: Rishi Sharma SCHOOL NEWS MINICOURSE ANECDOTES

Name: Joomin Kim Name of Trip: Going to the Maahika Srinivasan Gaon Name of Trip: Hope Foundation Chennai Best moment: Night safari on Best moment: watching 4-year olds do the a tractor in the dark with only hula and doing itwith them torches and countless stars Scariest moment: when our group and the searching for elephants. We bus left us at thehotel and we though we spotted deer. were abandoned Scariest moment: Going to the Funniest moment: when a random guy on bathroom at night without any the beach asked for myfriends number, and electricity and rain. we had to pretend we didn’t have cell phones Favorite food: Papur! Roasted Favorite food: Malabar (fatty) parantha marshmallows. Name of New Friend: KY Name of a new friend/bud: Sohyun Kim

Name: Sophia Foutsitzis Name of Trip: Saat Tal Name: Shaurya Rastogi Best moment: Sitting by the campfire with the Name of Trip: Salang Meadow Trek school children and learning to dance with Best Moment: Reaching the bar at the them. end Scariest moment: plowing with oxen, I was so Scariest Moment: Everyday, looking scared one of them would kick me! down at the mountain and knowing I Funniest moment: My voices several pitches have to walk so much and knowing I because I was sick and everyone made fun of was on my own and so far from home me. Funniest Moment: Bocar crying Favorite food: chicken curry and paneer, and Favorite Food: Fried pineapples rhoti. Name of a New Friend: Carl Lentz Name of a new friend/bud: Lydia Phillips, we’ve known each other for a while and this gave us a chance to get to connect more

Name: Clarissa Masdar Trip: Camp Tusker Best moment: telling dead baby jokes Funniest moment: stealing Maggie’s clothes from the shower Favorite food: cookies Name of new friend: Mattia Name: Haewon Jeong Worst moment: waking up Name of Trip: Hillsof Garwahl at 3:45 to take the train Best moment: On third day, when we took a break duirng 6 hours trekking. And when we were rafting (wall) Scariest moment: When So young was about to fall down on the mountain, and Mr. Schmid was trying to help her, but he also was going fall down. Favorite food: chapatti with chilly chicken Name of a new friend/bud: AF (Anne Fleur)

Name: Isabella Rahm Trip: Going to the Gaon Best moment: Being on a tractor on a night safari when it was pitch black and seeing the deers’shimmering eyes in the dark and clear star constellations Scariest moment: Having to duck for 15 minutes under a buzzing bee hive Funniest moment: Going to the bathroom on the train and seeing just a hole on the floor leading to the tracks Favorite food: Roti which we ate everyday and we made some the last day New friend: Prerana Kumar, the 23-year-old daughter Worst Moment: Taking a bucket shower and washing my hair- it was HARD! OTHER NEWS Teaching Happiness: the Dalai Lama Visits Delhi tion. A seemingly nonchalant Dalai Lama while happiness can be at a physical, short urged the audience to embrace selfless- lived, sensorial level; humans can achieve a ness, love, kindness, and compassion. deeper, more genuine sense of satisfaction Speaking to over 3,000 people of all via human intelligence. A disturbed mind ages, the Dalai Lama urged people to find with loss of emotional control and anger their inner selves and to seek tranquility could destroy inner peace and intelligence, and satisfaction, which he claimed were thereby hampering clear thought, vision the secrets to happiness. According to the and happiness. Furthermore, dispersion of Dalai Lama, one transforms tragedy into this happiness always brings further hap- strength by developing the inner resolve piness and a deeper sense of satisfaction to view and deal with physical difficulties, to the giver. Encouraging warm hearted- obstacles, and grief realistically. He said ness, good intentions, and genuine con- that grieving for a dear one is not realistic, cern for others brings deep contentment. as nobody wants you to do that, not even According to the Dalai Lama, all the person for whom you are grieving. religious traditions discourage self- The Dalai Lama demonstrated the centeredness and ego in different importance of willpower in the follow- fashions. He believes that Buddhism ing story: Two hospital patients suffered is distinctive in that it uses “wisdom to from the same disease. The patient who the maximum” in establishing reality. tried to be positive and concentrated on An enthusiastic question and answer his illness healed faster, while the patient session towards the end of the presen- who constantly worried and complained tation suggested that the audience was took far longer to heal. The Dalai Lama’s deeply affected. Finally, the Dalai Lama point was that overcoming mental pain is encouraged listeners to “accept real- far harder than overcoming physical pain. ity” and achieve inner tranquility, not Those who are happy and satisfied have just focus on the abstruse concepts of BY ANUSHKA Bhatia School New Delhi, on the 9th of January, less mental pain and are generally more The Dalai Lama spoke on “The 2011. The occasion was the 30th anni- successful, regardless of the endeavor. Different Levels of Happiness” at Modern versary of the Tushita Dharma Celebra Also, the Dalai Lama spoke about how Egypt’s Mubarak: End of a 30-Year Reign

the Egyptian government shut down the have strong personal and professional of expression. The deaths were unfor- internet in an attempt to quell the protests. connections to Egypt. Before coming to tunate, but the community came Police began to control the sea of protes- AES, Junior Rebecca Robbins lived in Cairo together; people were protecting them- tors more aggressively, using tear gas and for 4 years (2002 – 2008) and attended selves and protecting their families.” Colonel Richard Ryder-Burbidge of the Canadian High Commission (CHC) also lived in Cairo from 2005-2008 as Colonel of the Cairo CHC. Ryder-Burbidge was “pleased to see that an autocratic, almost dictato- rial, government has been challenged.” He stated that Mubarak’s resignation “should allow tensions to ease and allow demo-

BY ALEX Bulch Mubarak is no longer at Egypt’s helm, as of last month. Hosni Mubarak first became president of Egypt in 1981, after the assas- sination of Egypt’s third president, Anwar El Sadat. Mubarak comes from a military background, educated in Egypt’s National Military Academy and Air Force Academy and at the Frunze General Staff Academy in Moscow. While Egypt was under the reign of El Sadat, Mubarak held numerous posi- tions, including Deputy Minister of War, until becoming Vice President in 1975. rubber bullets in an attempt to gain con- the Cairo American College (CAC). Friends On January 17t,h, a 50-year-old man trol. Confrontations between pro-Mubarak attending CAC informed her that, “they set himself on fire in front of the Cairo and anti-Mubarak forces became violent. had to shut down for a while,” and “did parliament. On January 18th, two more On February 1st Mubarak announced schooling online.” Robbins also reported men set themselves on fire as a protest that he would not run for re-election. that “the entire school had no internet, cratic processes to progress. However the against the Egyptian government. These This was not enough to satisfy the pro- which prevented the students from doing Egyptian army is taking over and needs events resembled the self-immolation that testers or the international community. any form of school work.” She added that to be watched. The Egyptian military is catalyzed the earlier Tunisian uprising. On February 10th, Mubarak formally “a lot of people ended up evacuating.” one of the strongest institutions in Egypt.” On January 24th, the opposition leader passed Presidential responsibilities to According to Robbins, students who had Colonel Ryder-Burbidge predicted that Mohamed El Barade, addressed protesters, Vice President Omar Suleiman in an been evacuated by an embassy were told “the Muslim Brotherhood is going to suggesting that the people of Egypt follow address to the Egyptian people, and that they could not re-enter Cairo for 2 step in and try to push its agenda. The the lead of Tunisia by overthrowing Mubarak. the announcement of Mubarak’s res- months with a diplomatic passport. If they Egyptian population is going to think Protesters in Egypt relied heavily on ignation followed the next day. Until wanted to re-enter Cairo they would have they can jump in on a regular basis by modern-day communication tools to orga- the September election, the Supreme to enter on a non- diplomatic passport. having demonstrations and the army nize: the internet and Twitter. In response, Council of Armed Forces will govern. When asked about the protests, is not used to governing, so Cairo could Some members of the AES community Robbins stated: “I agree with the free be a dangerous place for some time.” OPINION Behind Every World Cup There’s an... Octopus?? BY RAGHAV Verma outright boring. Paul created excitement for those outside the realm of football Supersonic cracks of incessant vuvuz- fandom (many, no doubt). “I actually began elas, thundering bellows of the crowd to have a greater interest in the games and in complete harmony with the 22-men actually sat to watch them through, to see scrambling for the Jabulani ball, spikes if he [Paul] would be correct,” said Nidhi and crashes of raging adrenaline: this was Saxena, an AES senior. the Soccer World Cup 2010 in the rainbow nation of South Africa. The lack of a similar unifying symbol in this Cricket World Cup may fail to attract But there was something more to strangers to the game. “I was already a this frenzy of sports. football fan, but he [Paul] certainly did make the game more grabbing, and per- As dreams were fulfilled and crushed and haps I would be more compelled to watch countries let out patriotic shouts of anguish cricket, as a foreigner to the sport, with the and celebration, a modest mollusk made excitement from a similar predictor,” said its way to the stage. He brought with him a Senior Leon De Boer. powerful talent: prediction. Paul the Octo- pus, as he was called, became a worldwide Paul, despite the limitations of eight suck- phenomenon after he correctly “foresaw” er-bearing arms, a soft saclike body and no the outcome of seven of the German team’s Paul’s presence in the Soccer World Cup £3 million (up to $4.5 million), maybe more,” internal shell, revolutionized the football matches and the result of the final game. was not singularly gimmicky, but it had said PR guru Max Clifford in an interview to industry. Only time will tell if a Bengali Crab profound and wide ranging impacts. CNN on 14 July 2010. or Bihari Prawn will make its way to the As India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh host Marketing experts predicted that Paul prophesying front. Until then, no crazed the 10th Cricket World Cup, one can only could have been worth millions of dollars Paul also introduced a universalizing fans will celebrate shellfish in the streets of wonder if this subcontinent will find a in endorsements, “If you get it right, and quality to the World Cup. Not everyone Delhi. Nor will they mourn its demise. magical crustacean/mollusk/annelid of its remember Paul has worldwide success… understands football. The game can be RIP Paul, January 2008 – October 2010. own. you’re talking an earning potential of £2 or confusing, complicating, and for some - Segregation: Alive and Well at AES By Haewon Jeong Americans, our students represent some 53 while one continues adjusting to the new competitive compared to other nation- nationalities. This melting pot of different environment. Belonging to a peer group alities and they are very focused on the IB.” Lunch time. The crowd pushes through nationalities would suggest that AES fol- reinforces your identity. Junior Aishwarya the doors to the cafeteria. I stop to look for lows the policy and “does not discriminate Srivastava commented: “It is true that stu- Categorizing others is a way of making an empty table. Where should I sit? In the among its students on the basis of race, far corner, I spot a large group of students color, national or ethnic origin, religion or speaking with broad American accents. In gender.” Certainly emotional enrichment the middle, a table with four fashionable stems from cultural and linguistic diver-

Latino girls whispering in each other’s ears. sity, but the process of integration is some- Closer to the window, another group speak- what harder, as students initially tend to ing rapidly in Korean. If you were in this separate into their own cultural groups. situation, where would you choose to sit? dents behave differently towards new stu- things simpler. Insecurity leads people The initial reaction is to associate with dents depending on their mental image of to differentiate themselves from others, Although 35 percent of our 1473 stu- other students from one’s own cultural a certain nationality.” Srivastava also added, so that they feel protected inside the dents from nursery to twelfth grade are group to feel understood and accepted, “For example, when a new Korean student umbrella of a common language and comes, our immediate assumption is that culture. Yet, categorizing people prevents the new student will join the Korean group.” people from seeing each individual for whom he or she is. If we choose one lunch Ethnic stereotypes are widespread at table over another based on stereotypes, AES. Sophomore YounJi Yang, who has been we are hampered by our assumptions. at AES for 8 years, said, “People from other We miss the real person, the friend we nations have a typical image of a Korean: may have made, the world of opportuni- a great artist who aces math.” She added, ties we could have have explored at AES. “Although I’m not good at art at all, people always claim that since I am Korean I must How can we combat these ste- be good at art.” In addition, Senior Leon reotypes? As you stand watching the lunch De Boer commented: “When I first meet crowd, think of the stereotype other people the people at AES, I unintentionally gen- have of your own cultural group. You may eralize that Asians are good at math and cringe. Do you really want others to see Caucasians are not so academically profi- you in that narrow box? If not, consider cient.” Junior Alex Bulch similarly admitted the possibility of rearranging our lunch- to having a “stereotypical image of Indian time seating plans. In the process, perhaps students. I think they are much more some of our stereotypes will dissolve. SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Artist of the Month: Midival Punditz

BY ASIM Lal and .

WHEN ONE thinks of Indian music MIDIVAL PUNDITZ launched Indian elec- artists, the word “eclectic” may come to tronic music onto the world stage. Their mind. Artists that one may think of are Ravi song “Atomizer” reached such success that Shankar, Jagjit Singh, A.R. Rahman, and my it was featured on the “FIFA World Cup: personal hero, Jay Sean. Sadly, though, South Africa” video game soundtrack. In the electronic genre includes a paucity 2000, they were signed to Karsh Kale’s of Indian artists. Therefore, the Artist of record label, Six Degree Records, and the Month in this issue is a unique elec- since then they have released three studio tronic group: Midival Punditz. This group albums, a remix album and a compilation. recently performed alongside Prodigy at the Invasion Music Festival in Delhi. “To has much to be honest, I didn’t go to Invasion for Midi- offer to electronic and dance music, as val Punditz, but when there I realized how shown through songs such as “Eastern good they really are,” said Kiera Pettersson, Jam” by Chase & Status, “Shiva’s India” by a Junior. Here is the inside story for Kiera 1200 Mics, and “Mandala” by Thievery Cor- and other Talon’s Post readers. poration. Thus, it’s surprising that there are not many artists like Midival Punditz who MIDIVAL PUNDITZ is an Indian fusion have used these cultural and traditional group consisting of two Delhi-based musi- sounds in their music. cians, Gaurav Raina and Tapan Raj. The two realized that Western dance music THE SONG “Electric Universe” by Midival did not connect with them on the same Punditz uses a flute, a traditional emotional level as India’s own classical and Indian instrument, throughout the track. folk music; therefore, they decided to insti- This instrument is the crux of the song and SIX DEGREES Records says about Midival can simultaneously obtain absolute inner gate change. In 1997, after setting up their creates an aura of extravagance. Without Punditz: “Their unique and expansive artis- peace and be prepared for a rave. own studio in New Delhi, the two launched it, the song would be only a drum beat; yet tic vision marries the soulful elegance of Midival Punditz. The duo’s style includes with it, the song fuses modern music and South Asia’s extraordinarily rich traditional THE GROUP has released no information jungle, electronica and North Indian clas- traditional roots. In another song, “Raan- and classical music heritage with the exu- about their next upcoming album, but sical music. Instruments normally used in jhan,” the group uses a spiritual prayer to berance and limitless potential of modern for now, you can indulge in their unique their songs are , tumbi, , , create a song as close to spiritual healing Western electronic music.” Midival Punditz’s expression of harmony by listening to , , and the . Moreover, Raina as music can get. The vocals accentuate the music combines the soothing effect of clas- “Night”, “Electric Universe”, “Raanjhan”, “Ali”, and Raj have worked with renowned artists soothing effect. Yet another song, “Ali,” cre- sical Indian vocals and samples along with and “Kesariya.” such as , Kailash Kher, ates a unique sound via classic Hindi vocals. upbeat drum loops and synth. The listener Can India Do It? Cricket World Cup By Rohan Goel Australia, the defending champion, is The Cricket World Cup is happening, the top team in the ICC rankings after and the top 12 teams (Australia, Paki- winning the World Cup for four consecu- stan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, tive years. They recently proved their Canada, Kenya, India, South Africa, Eng- strength against England in a crushing 6-1 land, West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, match. Their team is stacked with expe- and The Netherlands) are going head rience and skill. The backbone of their

Pakistan’s cricket team is one of the best recently smashed a 105 off Pakistan, and teams in the world, but sometimes under- averages 90 runs a game. Taylor has always performs. Their batting side composes amazed his audience with a range of shots. of , Misbah-ul-Haq, Abdul New Zealand’s bowling will include Daniel Razzaq, Kamran Akmal, and Younis Khan. Vettori, , and . If ul-Haq is an in-form batsmen, and has New Zealand is going to win any game, Vet- to head, but only one can win the title. batting lineup is Micheal Clarke, Mitch- played a good knock (93 runs with 7 fours tori will have to play his top performance. ell Johnson, Micheal Hussey, Cameron and 1 six) against New Zealand. Razzaq Two groups are vying for the title. Aus- White, Shane Watson, and David Hussey. averages an astounding 82 runs a game. Sri Lanka also poses a peril if its play- tralia, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Out of these talented bunch the recent Akmal has not played for Pakistan in a ers play their best. Kumar Sangakkara, Zimbabwe, Canada, and Kenya are in shining players are White and Watson. long time, but if he hits a ball it will fly out Tilakaratne Dilshan, Angelo Matthews, Group A. India, South Africa, England, the field. Pakistan’s bowlers are Shahid and Upul Tharanga will lead the batting. West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, and White averages 37 runs a game, and Afridi, Sohail Tanvir, and Umar Gul. Tanvir, Dilshan and Matthews will be the two play- Netherlands are in Group B. Only the Hussey is also a very good batsman. Aus- however, is out of the Cricket World Cup ers to watch. Dilshan averages 88 runs a top 4 teams in the group stages can tralia’s top bowlers are Doug Bollinger, due to a knee injury. Without Tanvir’s game, while Matthews averages 84. On advance to the quarterfinals and then the Shaun Tait, Brett Lee, and Mitchell John- fiery bowling, the team could suffer. Paki- the bowling side, Sri Lanka excels mostly World Cup becomes a knock out game. son. Brett Lee once took an astounding stan is at a setback right now since three because of Lasith Malinga’s and Muttiah 5 wickets for a mere 22 runs. Johnson is of their top players have been banned Muralidaran’s amazing, unorthodox bowl- In Group A, Australia, Pakistan, New Zealand, a dangerous Ozzie, capable of both bat- and suspended for illegal match fixing. ing. Muralidaran once took seven wick- and Sri Lanka are most likely to proceed due ting and bowling flawlessly; he once took ets, almost an entire team, for 30 runs. to their past performances. Also, in Group B, 5 wickets for 26 runs. Johnson has not New Zealand has a dangerous top order India, South Africa, England, and West Indies performed his best in his batting, but if he consisting of , Brendon McCul- are likely candidates for advancement. gets in the zone… he can be dangerous. lum, Jesse Ryder, and . Ryder has SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Crosswalk of Doom

By Suruj Pal only way to survive, and I’m going to hook Crossing the street in front of AES Gate 2 is you up. a struggle between traffic threats and the First tactic: Put your hands down by your natural desire to keep one’s limbs. Why are side and walk straight. As soon as you see drivers so angry? Crosswalks are supposed a car edging towards you, raise your palm to be safe, but what if the crosswalk is the in the direction of the car and shout ‘NO!’ most dangerous of places? Is it fair that the The vehicle may or may not stop and you AES crosswalk strikes fear into the hearts of may be risking your life, but this is your young preschoolers? first step to protesting against crazed The AES crosswalk: where drivers launch drivers. themselves into the air and cross whole Second tactic: Armor plating. ‘You hit me; sidewalks. Once, right in front of Gate 2, I dent your car’ type of concept. You will

Movie Review: How do you know?

By Komali Yashki not understand how his life became such How Do You Know, starring Reese Wither- a mess. When he discovers the reason, the spoon, Paul Rudd, Owen Wilson and Jack audience is relieved to find that lovable I was half way across the sidewalk when I be slowed down drastically, but you can Nicholson, is an endearing tale about the George remains a “good guy.” spotted a car thundering towards me from make it. about twenty feet away. Fortunately, I man- Third tactic: Wear a sign that says “Unin- aged to dislocate my torso and fling my sured” and walk through traffic swinging body across to safety. a baseball bat. This will make even the most aggressive drivers think twice. Trying to change the way Delhi natives “It does not matter how slowly drive is unimaginable. If you can’t beat you go so long as you do not stop.” –Con- them, join them. Avoidance tactics are the fucius. Jason Tasharski: The artemis Fowl of Theatre?

BY Sohel Dhawan Although the gender reversal was intrigu- encounter between two people from dif- Six feet tall, slim yet sharp, and full of con- ing, character depth was particularly strik- ferent walks of life. Although it may not be Jack Nicholson plays George’s father bril- fidence; Jason Tasharski lurks the halls ing. Senior Vikram Kumar said, “I thought as gripping as a horror thriller, How Do You liantly. Unfortunately, Owen Wilson as of the American Embassy School seek- the play had excellent parallelism,” referring Know has touchingly sincere moments. the stereotypical ‘jock’ lacks dimension; ing future superstars. This year, Tasharski to Lucius and Quintus versus Marcus and the character’s sole purpose seems to be embarked on a mission to stage a forty the slave. Kumar further lauded the play’s The main character, Lisa (Witherspoon), is holding back Lisa and George’s budding page play, Oak Leaves, the first draft of themes, such as the divisions in Ancient cut from her softball team and must reeval- friendship. which he wrote in a playwriting camp Roman society. uate her life. She befriends George (Rudd), during the Summer of 2009. Crisp, entertaining, and intellectually stim- a corporate worker going through a differ- Episodes of unexpected depth appear. Apart from Tasharski, five other actors ulating, Oak Leaves engrossed its audience ent type of crisis. Witherspoon’s portrayal of When George gives Lisa a box of Play-Doh devoted two or more days per week from and was an AES Blockbuster, leading writer- an emotionally distressed athlete trying to for her birthday, this author’s eyes teared November through February to practice: director Tasharski regretfully state, “I wish I keep up a “tough girl” façade is convincing, up. Such emotional moments, coupled Joel Potts, Alice Rossignol, Nina Wald- had scheduled a second performance of it.” though exhaustive at times. with Jack Nicholson’s trademark humor man, Priya Achaibar, and Kanchan Jha. and George’s attempts to drink himself into On the other hand, George’s situation is cluelessness, make the film memorable. annoyingly unclear. George himself does SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Pick Up Lines: Chemistry Crossword

You’re so hot, you denature my proteins.

Can I be the phasor to your electron and take you to an excited state?

I’m more attracted to you then Fluorine is attracted to an electron.

You’re hotter than a bunsen burner set to full power.

Sudoku

TALON’S POST STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Raghav Verma

LAYOUT EDITOR: Manali Banerjee PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR: Malvika Nagpal OPINIONS EDITOR: Shompa Choudhury NEWS EDITOR: Gautam Kapur

WRITERS: Anushka Bhatia, Rohan Goel, Sohel Dhawan, Alex Bulch, Haewon Jeong, Gautam Kapur, Manali Banerjee, Raghav Verma, Shompa Choudhury, Komali Yashki, Shannen Eikerman Saumya Gulati, Pooja Sivaraman, Suruj Pal, Asim Lal

FACULTY ADVISOR: Ms. Guerin

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