May 2017

Saint Basil Academy 711 Fox Chase Road Volume 84 Issue 6 Basilian Pillar Justice Served, Message Received The Next Tess White '19 Chapter: NHS

“The Constitution belongs to the Induction people,” announced U.S. Supreme Court Justice Alito as he began his presentation at Regina Campion '20 the Union League March 23, 2017. A select group of SBA students had the pleasure of attending this event. Sophomore, Colleen On April 24, 2017, new inductees Quinn, described the event as, “as an were welcomed into the Saint Macrina experience she will never forget.” For a Chapter of the National Honors Society. man who is the final decision on many These girls, who have proven their important cases, he was unassuming and academic prowess, were chosen based down-to-Earth. He spoke with candor and on the Four Pillars of the National wit, leaving the audience enlightened and amused. He delved deep into discussing the Honors Society, which include true importance and depth of the liberties Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and we are all granted thanks to the U.S. Character. Constitution. A strict Constitutionalist, Alito Together, with the help of faculty holds firm that judges should apply the adviser Mrs. Fina and school NHS constitution as it is written, interpreting the President, Uma Patel, the students of law not recreating it. He believes that Saint Basil Academy were able to pursue personal and political views should not and excel in each of these standards. affect the laws that all must follow. The Scholarship is determined by a student’s Constitution belongs to all people, not one demonstration to learn and continue to group over another. search for knowledge. Service is the Justice Alito, during his time on the student's experiences to help, while court, has learned to appreciate his own working towards a better future for freedom of speech, claiming it to have everyone. Leaders that fulfill the pillar equal importance to the air that we breathe, for National Honors Society take the however this freedom, he worries, is Mrs. Fina becoming increasingly infringed upon. He necessary steps to guide others. These believes the First Amendment is “the jewel 6 SBA students had the pleasure of going downtown to attend the Justice leaders pave new roads and put others of our Constitution.” Alito spoke about the Alito event, accompanied by Mrs. Fina. before themselves to serve their needs. situation of censorship on many college Character distinguishes an NHS girl campuses as an atrocity against the core than embracing them as talking points for Constitution. from any other girl. These girls all share beliefs of our Founding Fathers. Our further debate. He reminded all that the We may not always agree with how scholarship, service, and leadership. The Founding Fathers held the freedom of all First Amendment was not made for speech one uses their freedom of speech, but in the way they display these best qualities everyone agrees with; it was created to words of French philosopher, Voltaire, “I speech, regardless of its popularity, at the sets them apart from the crowd. They protect the outliers, people who go against disapprove of what you say but I will highest importance. Some young people demonstrate responsibility, justice, today, however, do not see a problem with the norm, and those who truly challenge defend to the death your right to say it.” society. Justice Alito believes that without Justice Alito impressed upon the crowd that citizenship, honesty, and compassion. silencing speech that they do not like The SBA community congratulates the because they find it offensive. They feel dissent, debate, and discussion, there would words should not be feared, but silence and exemplary members of the National threatened by opposing viewpoints rather be no true Democracy; he sees freedom of suppression are a true threat to our freedom. speech as a defining characteristic of the Honors Society. The French Election and what it A Magical Mini-THON means for all Zoe Dixon '20 morning, we all danced like crazy, but once Erin Drumm '20 President Vladimir Putin, yet still collaborate 3 A.M. rolled around, the exhaustion began with Russia to combat Islamic terrorists who to kick in. I was doing anything just to fight have harmed France. Macron supports the the exhaustion, from jumping on the bouncy North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) The SBA Mini -Thon, one of St. Basil castle, to drinking soda, to eating sugary France, among the most significant and is both pro-Europe and pro- Academy's largest fundraisers, was held on candy. countries in the world and America’s first ally, internationalism. May 12th, 2017. All the money raised during After hours of dancing and fun activities just elected a new president, Emmanuel Furthermore, he plans to increase the this twelve-hour dance event goes directly time we all had been waiting for, the Macron. The En Marche! candidate won with foreign aid budget in order to help France’s towards the Four Diamonds Foundation. announcement of the total amount of money 65.8% of the votes over Marine Le Pen, the allies and other countries in need, especially When I came to Basil’s in September, I was raised, came around. Overall, we raised over National Front candidate. African nations. Also, so excited to participate in this event. $30,000 for the kids. Macron is an independent "Although French president- France’s president- Finally, once May 12th rolled around I I can say as a freshman this was one of the centrist, who has never elect is held any office, and at elect Emmanuel Macron has could barely make best nights of my pro-immigration; he is thirty-nine years old, he is it through the life. Thank you to never held political office, his against President the youngest president in school day everyone who put Donald Trump’s move French history. ideals of peace, prosperity and without thinking this amazing and to build a wall between Macron plans to freedom have won over the about our Disney- fun event Mexico and the United themed THON. improve job training, French and are sure to bring States. In spite of his together! It was transportation and At 7 p.m. I came truly magical, just change to the foreign nation." anti-immigration ban back to school to healthcare, among other stance, Macron plans as its effects on issues. He plans to give dance the night the lives of young to increase the limit for away with the rest more flexibility to Erin Drumm defense spending and princes and industry, cutting taxes on of my Basil princesses to strengthen security labor and business. Another one of his goals is forces. Although French president-elect sisters. The only certainly will be! worry I had was to unite France through a fight against Emmanuel Macron has never held political growing tired as Tess White '19 political divisions. office, his ideals of peace, prosperity and the night went on. On the international scene, France will freedom have won over the French and are Tess White and Colleen Quinn share in remain a member of the European Union, From 7 at night sure to bring change to the foreign nation. while trying to strengthen the EU as a whole. to 7 in the the magic that is Mini-Thon Macron wants to confront Russian Federation Basilian Pillar 2 May, 2017 Editorials & News Letters from the Editors Tess White '19 Maddie Riehman '17

Ezekiel 16:4 reads, “As is the mother, so is the As "Friends" television sitcom character daughter.” Meaning that the first and foremost Phoebe Buffay bluntly put it, “They don't role model in every young girl’s life is her mother, know that we know they know we know.” And the woman charged with her protection since while we figure that out, there is one thing for before birth. A mother to many is someone who certain: this is the May edition of the Basilian imparts not only affection, but also morals. They Pillar-- my final opportunity to edit the turn these lessons, which are merely words, into Basilian Pillar. action, providing an example of a life to emulate. I cannot help but feel bittersweet. I will By this definition, Saint Basil Academy students always look back at my years at SBA and have are blessed by a wealth of mothers. As a school founded and run by females, the biggest smile on my face. The teachers, the Saint Basil Academy is a community that prides coaches, and especially the girls have made itself on fostering the development of capable and my time at the academy most memorable. confident young women. A community of women I take with me all of the Halloween helping women is one unparalleled. Nothing festivities, Spirit Days, THONs, picnics, and sends a more powerful message to girls during proms. But, as the saying goes, “All good their formative years, than to be constantly Tess White '19 Maddie Riehman '17 things must come to an end.” surrounded by those they admire. Co-Editor Co-Editor At this time, I want to extend to a special Out of all the mothers in Saint Basil thank you to faculty also leaving us. Mrs. Academy, we will soon say goodbye to two whom have left an indelible mark on each of their Schmitt has graciously served as a math teacher at SBA for 36 years. Also, a big thank you students, Ms. Cotê and Mrs. Schmitt. Ms. Cotê has made changes in scheduling and curriculum that goes to Ms. Cote. As Principal, Ms. Cote has improved so many things. We wish them well brought our school academically up to a higher standard, allowing for all students to be more in the next chapter of their lives. prepared for their futures. Along the way, Ms. Cotê was never shy about acknowledging pride in I am off to the next chapter of my life. I am excited for all that is to come in the upcoming her students, like any mother. Mrs. Schmitt has served our school for 37 years, touching hundreds years, but I will never forget the memories I have made here at SBA. My team and I at the of lives. Her students know her class teaches much more than math concepts. Each student leaves a more confident, determined, and responsible young woman. Basilian Pillar feel the love and spirit of this great school, and I hope we successfully have We have been shaped by the women who surround us in more ways than we know or shared that enthusiasm in these pages of the school newspaper. appreciate. It would be remiss of us not to thank all of the women in our lives that do their share Please do not let me hold you back another second too long as you read through current of raising us. The greatest thank you lies in putting our capabilities to work so that someday we can events and happenings throughout our school community. Our staff has been busy at work serve as mothers. these past few weeks to bring the best edition of the Pillar yet. Now we are sure that I know that you know the things that make this community so special and unique. I hope you enjoy this issue and farewell for now, girls. It has truly been a privilege to serve as Co-Editor in Chief for the Basilian Pillar this year!

Suicide Prevention: A Threat to World Peace: North Korea 13 Reasons Why Not Caitlin Ponert '20 Erin O'Riley '20 Contrary to typical Netflix TV shows, Jay Asher’s "Thirteen Reasons Life in North Korea is almost unheard of, Why" challenges a more serious viewer because the nation has isolated itself. When question. This show focuses on the life traveling to North Korea, no cameras, cell of teenage Hannah Baker, and more phones, movies, or anything relating to the specifically, why her life ends. Through outside world are permitted to enter the tapes that she sends out to her former country. The government keeps all western acquaintances, Hannah tells the reasons society away, and keeps Koreans “in”. why she took her own life. Each tape If anyone is found breaking this law, represents a different person and how they can be sent to a labor camp, or even they affected her. Every person’s killed. A labor camp in North Korea is a actions and words impacted her life. punishment like jail, but worse. If one is This show signifies all the harsh sent to a labor camp, there is a law stating realities of bullying through their that anyone related to that person will be potential results. punished also. One is worked 14-16 hours a The show reflects how one never day, and only given a handful of corn a day knows a simple action can affect others. to survive. Torture is common in labor If someone is having a bad day, a smile camps, especially if suspected to be a and “Hello,” could impact their life defector. A defector is someone who tries to tremendously. Mrs. Smith, guidance counselor at leave North Korea. It is against the law to SBA, has some helpful thoughts leave North Korea. regarding this show: A question some might ask is why the Image credit: One Stop Map “My main concern is that I don’t citizens do not revolt, change the power and North Korea is close to South Korea, China, Russia, and Japan, all are think the show addresses the mental open the nation up. The answer is because health of the main character, Hannah, North Korean citizens technically do not within range of its missiles. but rather focuses on the behaviors of know there is an outside world. The the third ruler from his family and looked invincible army will create a sea of fire and those around her, until it is too late.” majority of North Koreans are starving, up to as a god. He is worshipped and destroy US imperialists”. Also, Mrs. Smith said, “I wish she homeless, and freezing. The few that are honored in absolutely all things. The form Kim Jong Un has launched missile tests. would have reached out earlier to adults shown in propaganda videos, news reports, Kim Jong Un is running the country under, Most of the tests done have failed which are in her life, and I also wish adults in her or even documentaries, are of a wealthy is a form of isolationism and nationalism. huge losses for the North Korean reputation life would have reached out to her. Take class. During the day, all day, there are An example Nationalism is present when of being a big and powerful country. The the time to listen to the people in your speakers spilling propaganda against the the citizens gather for the “Day of the Sun” US has warned them to stop, but nothing life. I’m glad people are talking about United States and other powerful European parade in honor of the supreme leader’s seems to dissuade them. the show, but I also want to keep it in countries. The leader dictates what the context of mental health.” grandfather, the first of the communist rule The next decisions are a pivotal time in propaganda is about and how they are She explained, “When we are feeling in that family. The citizens practice their how the world will react, and who will side supposed to influence these citizens. North physically unhealthy, we seek out help, routines until they are absolutely flawless, with whom. Will North Korea will listen to Koreans believe they are a superior country, so ALWAYS remember, if you are to honor Kim Jong Un. the warnings or not? It is a scary thought to and in all other countries everywhere, feeling mentally unhealthy -- seek out In recent years, tensions between the think about what could happen; it is hoped everyone lives as poor or poorer than they the adults in your life and talk to them North Korea and The United States have that world influences will help North do. But who is controlling this nation? His and get the help you need.” been rising. Lately, threats to the US were Korea’s leader become reasonable. name is Kim Jong Un and he is the made by North Korea claiming “our “supreme leader”, as they refer to him. He is Basilian Pillar 3 May 2017 Feature Page Oh, the Places They Will Go! Grace Comas '20 Elizabeth Mahoney-Loyola U. of Chicago Emily Mancini-Duquesne U. Mikayla Adams-West Chester U. Gwyneth Marsden-Indiana University of Gabrielle Alleva-West Chester U. PA Kiera Marsh-Hall-West Chester U. Briana Renee Barge-Bowie State U. Jennifer Martin-Southern Maine U. Sophia Barnett-U. of Pittsburgh Cate McCreavy-Salisbury U. Regina Boyle-East Stroudsburg U. Annemarie McGettigan-Loyola U. of Alysa Braga-Drexel University Maryland Mary Kate McKeever-La Salle U. Regina Brennan-Catholic U. Catherine Michvech-Bloomsburg U. Claire Cassidy-Penn State U. Tara Miengacci-Mansfield U. Molly Davis-Penn State Abington Brooke Myers-Holy Family U. Caitey DiFilippo-University of the Stephanie Noel-University of the Sciences Sciences Alexandra Djugninov- Alyssa Norat-Bloomsburg U. Duquesne U. Kaitlin Dougherty- Olivia O’Brien-Temple U. Chestnut Hill College Bronagh Molly O’Donnell-U. of Pittsburgh Douglas-St. Joseph U. Kayla O’Malley-La Salle U. Caitlin Drumm-Catholic U. Uma Patel-Drexel U. Ashley Ewert-California University Olivia Potok-La Salle U. of PA Siobhan Ferguson-Catholic U. Madelyn Riehman-Monmouth U. Claire Fleck-La Salle U. Halle Rosenwald-West Chester U. Dianna Gavrykh-Temple U. Jessica Ruggieri-Pittsburgh at Johnstown U. Riley Gayton- St. Joseph U. Kelly Anne Ryan-Drexel U. Mallory Hagee-Temple U. Julia Scalfaro-St Joseph U. Mia Hagerty-La Salle U. Gabriela Scipione-Penn State U. Joy Iaconianni-Drexel U. Melissa Tapley-Bucks County Community Aviana Ingram-La Salle U. College Cecilia Verrillo-West Chester U. Jackson Dominique-Ursuline College Julia Violi-Neumann U. Brenda Jones-Penn State U. Kristen Wetton-GAP year

Natalie Kucowski-Lafayette College Michaela Whelan-Temple U. Mrs. Ryan Colleen Lang-West Chester U. Grace Haleigh Williams-USF Tampa Mackel-La Salle U. Larissa Zeek-Weiler-DeSales U. The Class of 2017 has received $9,164,484 in Merit Scholarships! Angela Zeidler-Penn State Altoona Need A Good Book? A close-knit (& crochet) Here's "Everything" club: get new skills You Need To Read with Sisters-in-Stitches: Erica Miller '20 One night they start talking, and from that Molly Deal '18 sonally.” point on, her life is never the same. Now it is Knitting is a tricky task to learn, but once full of love, secrets, betrayal, and risks. one gets the hang of it, it seems as though it’s Madeline discovers more than she ever second nature,” claims freshman Kelly Grant, Summer is coming soon and sometimes it is thought possible. A new close-knit (and close crocheting) club “At first I was so confused about what to do, hard to find the perfect book to bring to the After reading the book earlier this year, I has emerged at SBA. Sisters-in-Stitches is but after a lot of practice, I got the hang of it. beach. Here is one of my favorites. highly recommend it. It is an easy read and SBA’s very own knitting club. The club is de- Not a lot of teenagers can say that they know “Is it always like that?” definitely a book that you will not want to put signed for all students to come together once a how to knit, and being one that says that she can “It’s never like that.” down. I would rate it an eight-and-a-half out week to talk, listen to good music, and learn a is pretty awesome!” "Everything, Everything", by Nicola Yoon, of ten. If you are not in the mood for reading, new skill - knitting or crocheting. In Fact, knitting proves to be healthy al- is about a girl, Madeline, who has never been then I highly recommend the movie. Conve- Co-moderators Ms. Sutton and Mrs. Stan- ternative for some people! According to Dr. ton have put a lot of time and effort into the outside, due to an extreme sickness. Imagine niently, the premiere is on Friday, May 19, Herbert Benson, a pioneer in mind/body medi- club to assure its success. staying in one place, never meeting new peo- 2017. Amandla Stenberg and Nick Robin- cine and author of “The Relaxation Response,” Freshmen Lizzie Deal says, “Every ple. That is what Madeline Whittier has ex- son play the main characters in this gripping knitting has proven to lower stress levels. Wednesday I look forward to Sisters-in- perienced through her whole life. Then one love story. Meetings are held every Wednesday dur- Stitches. I personally think that this club is a ing the second half of lunch in Ms. Sutton’s day a new family moves in across the street. It is a good opportunity to read, think, and great way for me to become closer not only room; all are welcome. Whether you are a be- Madeline is particularly fascinated by the risk everything...for love -- between the safe with the girls in my grade, but upperclassmen ginner or an expert, join us for camaraderie and new family's son, the mysterious Olly. He covers a good book. seems to be curious about her too. that I have not yet had the chance to know per- this fun life skill. All that was PROMised: A Night in Venice Molly Deal '18 fordable. end of the dance, remember that comfort comes first. It was all that was PROMised: A Night in 3 – Instead of wearing heels, consider a pair of Venice was a magical theme. Students and their converse or vans, that are a comfortable and af- 4 - Instead of a spray tan, Jergens self- tanner dates dined and danced to a spectacular song se- Prom night, is with a doubt, one of the most an- fordable solution. Most heels are removed be the does a great job on giving one that natural glow. lection from the DJ. ticipated nights of a teenager’s life. From picking Junior Cheryl Remolde said, “It was so much out the right dress, to styling makeup and hair, to fun to dance with all my friends, not to mention the planning the flowers, everything is planned down remarkable DJ. It was an overall amazing night!” to the last detail. With the expenses of the exactly- Senior Elizabeth Mahoney emphasizes, “Prom right-dress and shoes, jewelry, spray tan or tanning, unites all upper classmen and brings us together as hair, nails, and makeup appointments, prom has the one for a night of pure bliss. All the joy that comes potential to be quite pricey. However, there are from this night truly represents one of the signifi- ways to alleviate some of this spending: cant high school events Basils has brought to us, with memories that we hold in our hearts forever.” 1 - Borrow a dress from your friend, sister, cousin Prom night would have not been such a suc- or another person. Also, be on the look for sales - cess without the hard work of the faculty, led by you never know what you may see that strikes your Mrs. Fina. interest. Even thrift stores have some great finds. We thank her and the faculty team for planning, decorating, and chaperoning help. We also thank 2 - Ask a friend who is good at stalling makeup parents for dealing with us as we prepared prom. and hair to do it for you. While they may not be the Thank you again to all staff, parents, and jun- professional you were hoping for, the result can Regina Brennan '17 iors and seniors for making Saint Basil Prom 2017 nonetheless be gorgeous, and a whole lot more af- Seniors gather to strike a pose for the camera while showing off their prom a success! May 2017 Basilian Pillar Page 4 SBA Sports Retrospective 2016-17 By: Grace Comas '20 season. set for the season. competed well in all of their meets this season. Truly, the 2016 fall sports season brought The SBA cheerleader’s talents were chal- While back at SBA, the basketball team many victories for the fall athletes of SBA. lenged when they were invited to compete at the ended their year with a record of 29-1. Along As the air became cooler and snow filled ESPN center in Disney World against other high with winning the competitive Catholic Academy Throughout this school year, the SBA sports the ground, new SBA sports teams commenced. schools across the country. They represent the League, the team also captured the district title, teams have improved their skills on and off the The basketball players, indoor track team, and white and gold with enthusiasm and pride. and made it to the 3rd round of States. The suc- field. With confidence and perseverance, each the cheerleading squad exceeded expectations The indoor track team worked hard and cess of winter sports teams showed that our SBA athlete has set high expectations for the sea- school is one to watch. son ahead. As May flowers bloom, our seniors play in The 2016-17 year started with the soccer, field their last sports season for Basils. The spring hockey, cross country, tennis, and volleyball sports season kicked off with the softball, teams. Each team was eager to train and improve lacrosse, and outdoor track teams, continuing to each day. Throughout the fall season, each team make SBA proud. The softball team welcomed established high standards for the rest of their ten new freshmen to the team to help them keep season. up the good work and tradition of success. The soccer team worked hard during the The team captain, junior Carly Jensen, says, fall season, and became District champs after a “We have been working hard and are building win against New Hope Solebury High School. up our team.” Their success continued into the state tourna- Our lacrosse team has had a record-setting ment, but it was not enough, as they fell in the season, winning a school record of nine games. second round. Even though the team lost, they Captain Elizabeth Mahoney says, “Aside have a lot to look forward to next, especially from everyone’s contribution skill-wise, the real when one recognizes that they are only losing reason we have done so well is because of our two seniors. T amazing coaching staff and our ability to com- Coach Lloyd, the track coach, had his first municate well as a team.” season as the cross-country coach and trained the The outdoor track team has been working girls consistently to ensure that they would suc- hard since the fall cross country season, and their ceed. In fact, freshman Taylor Thomas qualified hard work has shown on the track and field. The for the state meet that was held in October of team looks forward to competing for a district 2016. title. The volleyball team also proved themselves As spring season comes to a close, SBA this year with a berth in the District tournament. teams continue to work hard to improve every Despite the loss, the team has a lot to look for- day. St. Basil Academy athletes continue to pur- ward to next season. Anya Bohatiuk '18 sue discipline, excellence, and sportsmanship to Also, the field hockey and tennis teams honor the school. SBA athletes certainly look worked very hard. They continued to improve The softball seniors smile after a victory! forward to success in the 2017-18 season. with each game, and look forward to their next Workouts lead to good health & good looks Lights, Action, Talent! By: Mikhala Frankunas '19 on rats. The rats in the jogging group experi- By: Maddy Yevoli '19 Far I’ll Go” from Disney’s “Moana.” Junior enced the most neuron increase and their brain Paige Larini said, “We all worked so hard and I function and activity was enhanced greatly. am glad that the performance was a huge suc- cess!” The girls’ performance was rewarded a Summer is coming, and many of us are try- The high intensity training rats showed a sig- Student Council hosted the annual SBA talent standing ovation. ing to get that “summer body” look. However, nificantly less amount of new neurons than the show May 11, 2017. The show was filled with Student Council advisor Mrs. Clemente did you ever consider trying to work on your long distance runners. Finally, the weight lift- performances from singers, dancers and musi- said, “I love the talent show because it is great brain? ing rats showed no increase at all. However, cians from every class. to see the girls show talents that we may not see Exercise changes the structure and function they had proven to be much stronger than be- The afternoon started with arrangements fore the experiment. performed by Mr. Meany’s Wacky Wednesday otherwise. I am always so impressed with their of your brain. Studies have shown that physi- courage to get up in front of the school and per- Obviously rats are not humans, but our brain Bells. Then sophomore Maura Crotty did a vio- cal activity generally increases brain volume form.” and reduces the chances of getting brain holes structures are quite similar. The experiment lin rendition of "Hallelujah". Mary Theresa and age-related brain diseases. Exercise also shows that long distance running is important O’Hara and Liz Kasmer performed a modern dance to Harry Styles’ “Sign of the Times.” increases the creation of new brain cells in an to brain health and can increase one’s brain Freshman Edna Cassell left the audience already mature brain. Sometimes it is difficult function - an increase in brain function height- speechless with her rendition of “Don’t You to choose the workouts that will get the best ens performance in school, too. While high-in- Worry ‘Bout a Thing,” originally sung by Tori results. tensity training is not bad for you, it is the least Kelly. Sarah Haughton played the ukulele and Research scientists at the University of beneficial and at times can even cause stress sang “I Want to be Like You” from the “The Jyvaskyla in Finland wanted to see which type to your body. On the other hand, weight train- ing is not bad for brain health either. It is one Jungle Book.” Taylor Grobowski and Tabitha of exercise would prompt the most production Ford performed a parody from "High School of the best ways to gain strength and it im- of new neurons in the brain. From their re- Musical 2". Junior Kaitlyn Stacherski used her proves your muscular health. search they found long-distance jogging/run- hands to sign “Alexander Hamilton” from the Overall, there is no such thing as bad ex- ning, weight training, or high-intensity interval Broadway musical, "Hamilton". Freshman ercise. By keeping a consistent schedule that training promote the most production of new Adrianna Zones and Juliette Citrigno tap danced includes jogging, high intensity training, and neurons. to “Sing Sing Sing” by Benny Goodman. Taylor This research was a result of various tests weight lifting, one can get a “summer body” Grabowski performed a second time; she sang that combines good health and good looks. and played the ukulele for “I Lava You” from Disney’s "Inside Out", with sophomore Julia Mayro. The final set included Dianna Gavrykh New Healthcare on the Horizon? singing and playing the piano for “This is By: Sienna Wonders '19 newly named the American Health Care Act, Gospel” by Panic! At the Disco and then “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton. Stephanie has many new provisions that the Trump ad- Noel showcased her talents in Sara Bareilles’ ministration and other Republican supporters On Thursday, May 4, 2017, the House nar- “She Used to Be Mine.” AnneMarie McGetti- Kelly Anne Ryan '17 added in order to repeal and replace the Af- gan and Regina Boyle performed a parody of rowly approved legislation to repeal and re- fordable Care Act. The Acapanthers relax after their place major parts of the Affordable Care Act, “Love is an Open Door” from “Frozen.” The new House bill will eliminate The finale was by SBA’s own acapella performance. which has been commonly known as Oba- tax penalties for people who go group, the Acapanthers, who performed “How macare. The Republicans have recovered without health insurance, roll back state-by- from their earlier failures and have now state expansions of Medicaid - which cover federal money for one year. other health care providers have joined pa- moved a step closer to delivering on their millions of low-income Americans, and sub- As a result of these extreme provisions, tient advocacy groups like the American Can- promise to reshape American health care stantially reduce subsidies available for the bill is sure to face strong opposition from cer Society and AARP to oppose the repeal without mandated insurance coverage. Americans just over the poverty line. The both Democrats and Republicans in the Sen- of the bill. This new legislative action was led by new bill also waives the previous rule on ate. Several Republicans have been skeptical As of right now, the American Health Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, along with minimum benefit standards allowing insur- of the House’s effort and the bill is expected Care Act is not going anywhere. On the cam- other Republican House members and the ance companies to charge higher prices from to undergo sweeping changes that might paign trail, President Trump constantly men- Trump administration. The final vote was people with pre-existing health conditions. leave it unrecognizable. A Senate filibuster tioned repealing and replacing Obamacare 217 to 213 in favor to repeal and replace The American Health Care Act will seek to will be inevitable and Republicans will have and creating an intensive health care reform. Obamacare. The House’s measures face pro- reduce access to abortions, by preventing a difficult time getting the votes needed to This newly passed bill, on its way to the Sen- found uncertainty in the Senate, where a federal subsidies from going to any health pass the new bill. Republicans concerns in- ate, definitely is seen as a win for the Trump handful of Republican Senators have imme- plan that covers abortions. This is exempli- clude insurance costs for those in poverty and administration as he seems to be fulfilling the diately rejected the bill, signaling that they fied by the part of the bill that states that it older Americans, and funding issues in states promises he made in his campaign. would start work on a new version of the bill will not provide Planned Parenthood with with high populations of hard-to-insure peo- virtually from scratch. This controversial bill, ple. Additionally, doctors, hospitals, and