April/May 2018 The

www.thewestwordonline.com Volume 45, Number 6 / April/May 2018 The

WestwordStudent voice of the Westhill community “The test of good journalism is the measure of its public service.” Northstar Playmakers dazzle the stage in Footloose Page 29

PRINCIPAL RINALDI LAUNCHES NEW 6 STRATEGIC PLAN

OP-ED LOOKING INTO THE IMPACT OF 11 SEATING IN CLASS

WESTHILL WINTER PERCUSSION BRINGS 30 THE NOISE 2 TheWestword April/May 2018 2017-2018 Staff Note from the Editors Editor-in-Chief Sports Editors Noah Klein Tamar Bellete, Joseph DiSalvo Dear Readers, Rico y cómo los ciudadanos se cut from a sports team. Print Executive Editor Copy Manager As the weather heats up, our reaccionaron. Special Report We would also like to con- Addison Magrath Sahithi Kollipara staff continues to push to provide sheds light on the recent testi- gratulate all of our staff as The Online Executive Editor Copy Editors the best product possible to our mony by Mark Zuckerburg, and Westword has been named “Most Josh Eimbinder Brooke Glatzhofer, readers. We hope you enjoy our the issue of privacy online. Outstanding Newspaper” by the Managing Editors Ryan Hart, Kaela Shaulson, April/May Issue and look forward Our Supplement provides American Scholastic Press Asso- Daniel Greco, Sheetal Sudhir, to producing our Senior Issue. a “blast from the past” looking ciation. The Westword is one of Rachel Plotzky, Jessica Wallen Our Editorial this month back at trends from the early two schools to receive this honor Nicholas Zarrilli Graphic Designers looks at downward trend of teen 2000s on. In Feature, take a look out of the 205 that applied. The Ombudsman Ryka ChandraRaj, Zachary Kitay social skills, read more to find at which teachers are hanging award is a testament to the work Max Zussman Pollsters out how and why these prob- out outside of their classrooms. and dedication our staff provides Media Manager Zainab Jafri, Alexandra Lazo, lems will create issues. Limelight contains a movie day in and day out. Meghan Prabhu David Mezias, Bella Vaccaro In News, read about Haitian review of the recent box office We encourage any and all Business Manager Reporters Flag Day, as well as Principal boomer, A Quiet Place. Scat- readers with comments, ques- Paola Socci Ries Allyn, Audrey Molina, Rinaldi’s new strategic plan. terbrain covers our Slay of the tions, or concerns to contact us Social Media Managers Hannah Nekritz, Ashley Shapiro, Viewpoint gives insight to Month: Jonathan Joseph, as well by either dropping a letter into Christina Burgess, Valerie Neyra Shaira Sunbeam students’ conflicting opinions on as the “page of fun.” Noah Klein’s mailbox in room Distribution Mangers Illustrators the U.S.’ decision to bomb Syria. In Express, view our inter- 224 or emailing us at westword- Hudson Price, Daniel Brennan Neeka Baclayon, Moving on to Las Noticias, view with Tia Blumenau, as well [email protected]. Head Illustrator Zachary Kitay, hablamos sobre la catástrofe as other student work. In Sports, Alexis Marchetti Kathryn Kopec, natural que ocurrió en Puerto find out what it feels like to be Sincerely, Creative Director Tamar Frydman, Editorial Policy Emma Cali Paulina Seremetis The Westword will be guided in the News Editors Videographers publication of material by a concern for Chloe Giulini, Lexi Boccuzzi Skylar Rubin, :KDW·V inside truth, human decency, and human ben- Viewpoint Editors Stephaine Tancs H¿W ,W LV SXEOLVKHG GXULQJ WKH VFKRRO Jude Ponthieu, Photographers year by the late night staff, along with Alexandra Watkinson Alexa Smeriglio, Editorial Examining the problems with FXUUHQWWHHQVDQGKRZWRÀ[WKHP the Journalism and Communications Las Noticias Editor Nikhil Tungaturthy, 3 classes. Letters to the Editor, advertis- Guilmar Valle Nicole Vantman, Gabe Schmidt ing requests, comments, criticism, or Special Editor Co-Advisers News Detailing the recent fundraising carried out by the AgriScience program. suggestions are always welcome. The Katherine Williams Mr. von Wahlde, 5 views expressed in Viewpoint and the Feature Editors Mr. Wooley Viewpoint Debating the requirement of Op-Ed page do not necessarily repre- Molly Cannon, Marta Zach Las Noticas Advisors sent the opinions of The Westword. Supplement Editors Mr. Sandoval 11 Google Classroom. Bailee Esposito, Katie Gaia, Ms. Mendez The Editorial Board consists of Micayla Roth Columnists Las Noticias Una ventana al caos eco- nomica en Venezuela. Noah Klein, Addison Magrath, Josh Ei- Scatterbrain Editors Jennifer Carias, 12 mbinder, Max Zussman, Daniel Greco, Veda Bhalla, Kevin Costello, Special Report The Zuckerburg Trial Rachel Plotzky, Nicholas Zarrilli, Lexi Jason Zarrilli Jackie Fahey, Boccuzzi, Bailee Esposito, Alexandra Limelight Editors Matthew Greenbaum, 15 and the idea of privacy. Watkinson, Molly Cannon, Jude Pon- Lucca Metzger, Jude Ponthieu, thineu, Tamar Bellete, Katherine Wil- Joaquin Monteclaro Valerie Neyra, Supplement Reminiscing on past trends from the 2000s. liams, Guilmar Valle, Mr. von Wahlde, Express Editors Jack Williamson, 17 and Mr. Wooley. The Editorial can be Sophia Colfer, Max Zussman, found on page 3. Michael Dubon Kelly Fox Feature A look at Allergy Season at The Hill Announcements 28 Senior wills are due May 15 and can The Westword Limelight This Month in Hip-Hop be found in your school e-mail. Corrections Westhill High School 29 The Westword incorrectly phrased the 125 Roxbury Road Scatterbrain De-bunking myths in the poll displayed with the Editorial as “have classroom April break extended or school extend- Stamford, CT 06902 31 ed,” while the question posed was “April (203) 977-4894 Express Artist of the month: Tia break shortened,” in the March issue. [email protected] 34 Blumenau If you have an announcement or an advertisement you would like thewestwordonline.com Sports What it takes to host a varsity published in the next issue, please Visit ourschoolnewspaper.com/Westword 37 athletic event. e-mail us at to view our print archives. [email protected].

Front cover photo by Noah Klein / Editor-in-Chief. Back cover photos contributed by Nicholas Zarrilli, Olivia Butler & Brendan Pierre / Managing Editor, & Contributors. Back cover graphics by Rachel Plotzky / Managing Editor. EDITORIAL 3 More followers create less friends When it comes to issues with the late “With the advancement of technol- Having strong interviews, being able vulnerability or unfair judgement and set up Millennial to Generation Z demographic, ogy, more and more students are becoming to work with others, and understanding dif- in a manner that is anxiety-ripe. few are more concerning than the heavy somewhat resistant to face to face interac- ferent personalities of people is a major key “Social media de¿nitely encourages a reliance on technology and social media, tion and feel most comfortable behind a towards success. This is harder, though not place of judgement. I feel like sometimes which can seriously hurt human interaction. screen. , feel this de¿nitely has an impact impossible, online. we don’t even mean to but we do,” Ava How many Friends? How many fol- on the way we all communicate and how Nevertheless, Generation Z may strug- Mastrone (‘20) said. lowers? How many likes? How many we exist,” Mrs. Mitchell, Guidance Coun- gle more and more with those aforemen- Judging people and making assump- tweets, posts, hashtags, and pictures are we selor said. tioned skills. tions about them based off a social media creating our second selves with on a day to If real-life social skills are not used of- Similarly, social anxiety has also be- persona, whether consciously or subcon- day basis? Critics have long said that we sciously, makes for a unique source of are developing second lives, but have we Bottom Line: While technology and social media have made anxiety that all other generations have not reached the tipping point where the pseudo- grappled with. self is taking over the real one? Genertion Z more connected, serious social issues such as anx- We, as Generation Z, are unique in this Today, “talking” and interacting with manner, and can not always ¿nd adults with others can be done all online. Message iety, awkwardness, and isolation have suffered. similar experiences. boards, blogs and other internet commu- From a very young age, we have been nities have connected millions of people ten enough, a person becomes socially awk- come a serious problem for this generation. constantly bombarded with information, without ever meeting one another. Prob- ward and incapable of handling themselves According to socialphobia.org, Social anxi- and we have grown up in an age where we lems are solved. Jobs won and lost. Papers in confrontations. This isolation and awk- ety is de¿ned as “the fear of social situa- have access to an immense amount of infor- researched, typed, and handed in, never to wardness can become a serious problem for tions that involve interaction with other mation at the touch of a ¿ngertip, and yet - actually be on actual paper. of this generation. people, more speci¿cally situations where we often lack our own personal experience However, as more and more people For example, intellects that struggle people feel they may be judged in a harsh and the knowledge to sift through and prior- continue to connect to the world via the in- with face to face interaction can be out- or unfair way.” itize and socialize in such an environment. ternet, they can start to struggle with real shone by others who have better “people” If we take that anxiety and mix it with This has created issues in our genera- life interactions. skills. social media, we are left open to feelings of tion. A lack of emotional maturity, common sense, as well as the ability to perform day to day human interactions are just some of the ways in which Generation Z is losing skills needed to thrive socially. Everything in our lives, comes and goes so instantaneously and as a result we have challenged the ability to create emotional attachments. Our increased use of technology in relationships and our lack of exposure has inhibited our ability to understand, appreciate, and communicate with one another. “In addition, they (Generation Z) do not have the patience to develop interper- sonal listening skills since everything in their lives is so fast paced,” Ms. DeAngelis, English teacher said. We have become a generation that is poorly equipped to navigate society and effectively communicate with other people. “...phones have changed us in that we are at extremes in the umbrella of knowing about such experiences. We communicate so far and well with tech that people who do not know about certain issues are almost gone,” Giselle Estevez (’20) said. We are left with some disturbing information: what we love is, in fact, destroying us; and we are left asking what is our role in making sure we do not give into the second lives, the anxiety, and the social media; forgetting the real attachments of our ¿rst, living and breathing lives.

Illustration by Neeka Baclayon / Illustrator. Please submitsubmit op-edsop-eds andand letters toto NoaNoahh Klein’sKlein’s mailboxmailbox in Room 224 or email them to [email protected]@gmail.com. 4 NEWS Principal Rinaldi launches new initiative

Noah Klein your vision should be informed Class President, Nikki Newcom- they are worthy, and overtime DOO GD\ OLVWHQLQJ WR D OHFWXUH´ Editor-in-Chief by everything you learned in er (’19), was in attendance. that connection may help stu- Goddieu Royal (’18) said. \RXU¿UVW\HDU´5LQDOGLVDLG “It was amazing to see how GHQWV´5LQDOGLVDLG The SSEI describes Rinaldi’s At a staff meeting on Wednes- Some teachers were apprecia- passionate Rinaldi is about his The SSEI will look to change vision and his beliefs about teach- day, May 2, Principal Rinaldi an- tive of Rinaldi’s openness and ZRUN´1HZFRPHUVDLG the way students learn, and the ers, and the job of an educator. As nounced Westhill’s new Strategic honesty in his vision, while oth- The SSEI focuses on getting initiative claims that teachers the SSEI is rolled out, he says some Student Engagement Initiative ers felt the plan lacked concrete students on track for the Depth must change and adapt to the SDUWVRILWDUH³QRQQHJRWLDEOH´ (SSEI). instructions. of Knowledge (DOK) Scale. The teens of today. “I know there are kids that can The SSEI plan lays out Rinal- “It is very positive to have a DOK refers to the level of knowl- “It is harder to engage stu- still fail, but we should never give di’s beliefs and vision of student clear understanding of your prin- edge or understanding to answer dents today then it was before all up on a kid. If you are going to engagement, and how it will be cipal’s vision for the school. It is DVSHFL¿FTXHVWLRQ/HYHO2QHUH- social media and technology. Stu- admit that you are going to give accomplished. The plan focuses really helpful and should trickle fers to basic knowledge of facts, GHQWV ZDQW LQVWDQW JUDWL¿FDWLRQ up on a kid, you are going to be on equality amongst students, GRZQZLWKLQDWHDP´0UV6DQ- ZKLOH/HYHO)RXUUHIHUVWRVROY- and because of that, we should XQFRPIRUWDEOH DW:HVWKLOO´ 5LQ- student voice, and engagement sone, Senior Class Advisor/busi- ing real world, multi-step, com- be compelled to evolve our prac- aldi said. in the classroom. The SSEI will ness teacher said. plex world problems. tice to meet the needs of the 2018 The plan pinpoints the idea that begin at the end of the 2017-2018 “I think there has to be a more Rinaldi discussed the impor- adolescent...I want activities that teachers are responsible for both school year. concrete plan in place, [SSEI] has tance of all levels, but the need students take part in to be student student success and student failure. $IWHUKLV¿UVW\HDUDW:HVWKLOO merit as an idea, but from what IRU WHDFKHUV WR EH JLYLQJ /HYHO run. I want them to have a voice. “We should strive to ensure that Rinaldi felt it was necessary to I could see from the presenta- Three and Four questions. The I want them to be active when our students succeed, to a point. share his vision through the SSEI. tion, it seemed like that was his plan takes into account the dif- getting lectured. That is antiquat- You can lead a horse to water but “I feel it is very important that [Rinaldi’s] vision and plan rather ¿FXOW\ RI WHDFKLQJ WHHQDJHUV HG ,W LV MXVW QRW JRRG HQRXJK´ \RXFDQQRWPDNHLWGULQN´+LOOVDLG I share, after this year, what I have than a concrete step-by-step plan and illustrates the need for all Rinaldi continued. and links to teacher responsibility. learned about my new school, WRLQFUHDVHVWXGHQWHQJDJHPHQW´ students to be taught, as well as Engaging students through The SSEI presentation will [and] what my vision is. For a Mr. Hill, history teacher, said. treated, equally. lesson plans is a very large part be released soon through a video new principal in a new school, a The plan has not yet been re- “We have a responsibility that of the SSEI. linked to the Prezi presentation, vision is not something you can leased to parents and students, goes beyond delivering curricu- “I am usually most engaged giving students and parents a articulate when you start a school although select students were in- lum to make connections with with group work and activities. It chance to see Rinaldi’s vision for year. You can have an idea, but vited to the staff meeting. Junior kids so that they understand, that is better than just sitting around the school in coming years. Senior Wills CLASS OF 2018 Do you want to leave something behind? Visit thewestwordonline.com or check your school email for a OLQNWRÀOORXW\RXUYHU\RZQ Senior Will for the Senior Issue! Act fast! Wills are due Tuesday May 22 NEWS APRIL/MAY 2018 5 Graduation day encroaching on the start of summer

Andrew Lappas year, seniors put in effort try- ditional days on the calendar.” hen, Special Education teacher, the change in the graduation Staff Writer ing to get into college, enlist Leiva said. said. date. McCalla is very upset be- in military services, or identify Like many other seniors, Cohen is also nervous for cause, she is missing her best Graduation is the end of a a trade that they are interested he is looking forward to gradu- some seniors who possibly might friend’s graduation at Stam- student’s high school career. It in pursuing. Moving the graduation, getting a job and prepar- have planned trips that students ford High school, since Wes- is the day when the past four ation date will be both hurtful ing for college. now need to cancel or move back thill’s graduation now falls on years of a student’s life come to and beneficialficial fforor sstudenttudent aandnd the dates. Cohen alsoals relayed the the same day. an end, and students are forced staff. fact that summer camcamps in the area “Moving graduation back to grow up. Seniors need to Frank Leiva (’(’18),18), are startingstarting bbefore schools was actually good for me be- wait an extra week this year be- explained how he getget out, forcing stu- cause it gives me an extra fore being considered a gradu- thinks thehe dentsden to have to week to plan and get ready,” ate because of the many snow gradua- make dif- Mrs. Sansone, Senior Class days Westhill had this year. tion day ¿FXOW GHFL- Advisor, said. Students will not be giv- situation sions about Sansone is in charge of en their diplomas on the day is unfairr finishing planning graduation logistics of graduation. According to for seniors,iors, schoolsch or start- for the seniors. the official Stamford Public like him, who will ing their jobs. “If graduation was moved Schools website,“…students be participatingpating in “I am eagereag to move up I would be in trouble be- are not officially graduated un- the seniorr interintern-n- onto the next chapterchap of my life cause it would be less time to til they complete the 180th day ship program. and enjoy the sumsummer. It is un- make it the best experience for of school on Monday June 25 Leiva thinksnks sese-- fortunate that it is later, but it is the seniors. The overall excite- at which time the class will be niors shouldld be lelett just something uus seniors have ment for graduation will still be certified and students will re- out of schoolool earliearli-- to deal with,” Pete Burgess there,” Sansone continued. ceive their diplomas.” er and thatt the stress (’18)(’18) said. Seniors may have to wait The last thing seniors need on the studentsdents this year has Burgess believebelieves that gradua- a little longer for their diplo- to be worrying about is when EHHQHVSHFLDOO\VLJQL¿FDQW tion could have been earlier since the mas, creating a stir amongst graduation will take place and “I am worried about a lot of “I am fine with it moving, last three to four days of school are students. The delay may create getting their diploma because seniors failing because of ab- because it is still on a Friday, half days that are low on work load. scheduling conflicts or be an they still have more work to sences and losing credits they and I still get to see the students Chrystahsa McCalla (’18) annoyance. However, the day do before the year is over. All need to graduate with the ad- I have taught walk,” Mrs. Co- expressed her opinion about will still be a momentus event.

Haitian Flag Day is around the corner Westhill students to celebrate Haitian Flag Day

Grace Etienna and Flag Day go far back. During The color Blue symbolizes Thierrie Maigan 1791, the early days before the mulattoes and the blacks Contributors the revolt in Saint Domingue, while the color red symbol- many large groups raised up izes their blood. Haitian Flag day will be and became separated due to Emperor Dessalines ends celebrated at Westhill on May the political turmoil. Each up changing the flag to black 7KH GD\ ZLOO EH ¿OOHG ZLWK group leader would use a and red upon crowning him- facts about Haiti, dances, food, small piece of cloth as a flag. self as emperor in 1805. Af- and overall culture of Haiti. The During this revolt Toussaint ter the murder of Dessalines data from the most recent census Louverture realized it was in 1806, the empire was es- show that 7.7% percent of Stam- silly to use the same flags as tablished by General Alex- ford is made up of those of Hai- the French, their enemy. Due andre Pétion the new ruler tian descent, while in compari- to this, Louverture invented of Haiti established returned son the U.S. is made up of 1.1% his own flag, a white piece the colors blue and red, sub- Editors note: The follow- of cloth with a depiction of sequently turning them hori- ing portion of this article was a negro head. That flag rep- zontal and adding the newly submitted by two representa- resented Haitians during the adopted Haitian coat of arms. tives of the Haitian Culture revolution for their freedom. A video will be shown dur- Club in order to get the word Years later, the first of- ing Connection Time on May out about Haitian Flag Day ficial Haitian flag was ad- 25 showcasing a Haitian dance and its origins. opted on May 18, 1803. The and facts about Haiti. There Haitian Flag Day has Haitian lore holds up a new- will also be “A Taste of Haiti” been around for centuries. ly appointed revolutionary in the cafeterias during all three This year however, the Hai- leader Jean-Jacques Dessa- lunch waves. The Haitian Club tian Club will celebrate the lines, he created the flags by will look to share the culture day as a sanctioned event. taking a French tricolor and and taste of Haiti through both The origins of Haitian ripping out the white center. events. NEWS 6 APRIL/MAY 2018 Cloonan hosts annual Parent University

Hannah Nekritz A total of eight courses experience than their children. ent. Others simply address the gan as a single event offering a Reporter were offered this year. Each Courses offered such as “Surf- consistent challenges of high source of information and sup- course conducted panels on the ing Safely and Other Internet school, such as academic pres- port for parents, it has since On Thursday, May 10, subjects, many led by experts. Issues,” address some of the sure, relationships, stress, anger, become an annual event that Cloonan Middle School hosted Overall, the evening offered a differences that come from and their impact on parents and parents and students alike, find its spring forum of Parent Uni- source of information and sup- changing technology, as well as their teens. to be a positive resource for stu- versity. This annual program port for parents seeking to help changing culture. Although the program be- dents and their families. offers an evening of education- their children navigate the com- Parents registered in ad- al courses and discussions de- plexities of high school. vance for the spring session, and signed to provide parents with “I have enjoyed attending selected the courses that they are the information needed to help Parent University for the past interested in. These courses ad- their children succeed, inside two years, it is a great way for dress emotional, social, and aca- and outside of school. parents to come together to learn demic challenges that students This is the fourth year of the vital information to help support may face, and how parents can program, which was presented their teenagers throughout high prepare their child for success. in partnership with Westhill, and school,” Mrs. Essenfeld, a Wes- The program provided din- is open to all Stamford Public thill parent, said. ner for attendees, as well as Schools (SPS)parents. Mr. Dun- Many students also recog- childcare for younger students. lap was one of the founders, and nize the importance of a pro- From 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., is the administrator behind the gram that helps to bridge dif- SPS invited any interested par- program. ferences in age and experience ents to engage in conversation This year, the program in- between parents and students. with experts, to learn and dis- cluded three new courses: “The “Parent University is a help- cuss ways to properly aid their Dangers of Vaping” and “What ful tool for parents learning how children throughout their high Parents Need to Know,” “The to help their children through school experience. Neurological Impact on Execu- their teenage years, and under- Some of these courses ad- tive Functioning Skills,” and stand the kinds of things they dress new changing technol- “The New SPS Curriculum, might be going through,” Gabby ogy, interests, challenges, and Post-Secondary Transition Ser- Lovishuk (’19) said. acknowledging that the high LEARNING ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL Parents sitting at Parent University for a les- vices for Special Education Stu- After all, many parents school experiences of the parent VRQRQWKHLUFKLOGUHQ·VGD\WRGD\OLYHVDQGKRZWKH\FDQKHOSVXSSRUWWKHP dents.” faced a different high school and the child tend to be differ- 3KRWRFRQWULEXWHGE\Hannah Nekritz5HSRUWHU ThT WestwordWeW stwordord Looking for the perfect club for you? Join The Westword! The Westword offers positions for all skill sets. Become an editor, reporter, illustrator, graphic designer, photographer, copy editor, or videographer...... If interested please contact us at [email protected] or visit 224. NEWS APRIL/MAY 2018 Good Month 7 Bad Month AgriScience puts the “fun” in fundraising Column by Students sell plants, wash cars and dogs to raise money for the program Matthew Greenbaum & Max Zussman Josh Eimbinder houses to answer any ques- plant sale. Online Executive Editor tions customers might have “Students in the Agri- had about the plants. People Science learn proper cus- Good Month for... Bad Month for... On May 5, 12, and 19, VKRXOG GH¿QLWHO\ FRPH RXW WR tomer service skills, how the Stamford Regional Agri- support our program, because to write receipts, and with North Korea Kim Jong-un stepped Tristan Thompson 1%$ &HQWHU Science is hosting their an- not only did we put so much this sale, they get to apply foot in South Korea, making it the Tristan Thompson found his name in nual plant sale. AgriScience effort into preparing for it, but them. I am excited to see ¿UVW WLPH D 1RUWK .RUHDQ UXOHU KDG the headlines this month, but not for students will be working from all of the money raised goes all the freshman use their ever done so since the division of the right reasons. Cheating scandals 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Herbs, pe- towards educational scholar- newfound customer ser- the nation in 1945. During the Win- were brought to light after photos rennials, hanging baskets, and VKLSVDQG¿HOGWULSV´%ULDQQD vice skills. That is the thing ter Olympics, Kim sent his sister, and videos of him with multiple other geraniums will all be avail- Weinreb (’19) said. I love about [these] plant along with many others, to attend women appeared online. Tristian’s able for sale. There will be a The AgriScience program sales,”Appel said. the games in South Korea. In ad- ¿UVWGDXJKWHUZLWK.KORH.DUGDVKLDQ dog wash on May 5. Prices helps the Fairgate Farm dur- While this is the last plant dition, Kim has met with Presi- True, was born days after the scandal. UDQJHIURP¿YHGROODUVIRUHDU ing their growing season, as sale for the seniors, it is just dent Trump. Kim Jong-un has also The Kardashian family is looking out cleaning, to 40 dollars for a well as participating in mul- WKH¿UVWIRUPDQ\RIWKH$JUL- agreed to end nuclear missile test- IRU .KORH DQG QR RI¿FLDO VWDWHPHQW 30-pound dog or more. tiple beach clean-ups with Science underclassmen. ing in efforts to promote peace. has been made on the allegations.g “A great thing about this sale Sound Waters. If you cannot make the sale LV WKH SULFHV

Royal Baby Prince William and Kate Romaine Lettuce There has been 0LGGOHWRQ KDG DQRWKHU 5R\DO %DE\ a recent outbreak of E. coli induced on April 23. A few days after giving food poisoning. Scientists are saying birth, the couple decided to name it is linked to romaine lettuce. At least the baby boy Louis Arthur Charles. 121 people have been reported sick Louis came into the world at a healthy as of May 1. More than 50 patients eight pounds and seven ounces. With have been hospitalized due to E. coli George and Charlotte as the baby’s poisoning. There have been no casu- WZRROGHUVLEOLQJV/RXLVLVQRZ¿IWK alties, but the infections have spread in succession to the throne. The name to 22 states. Scientists have located a Louis came from Prince Charles’ men- VSHFL¿F IDUP LQ

Illustrations by Kathryn Kopec (Tristian Thomas), Paulina Seremen- tis (North Korea and Lettuce) & Zac Kitay (Royal Baby) / Illustrators. 8 VIEWPOINT Highlighting the Syria bombing

Nicholas Zarrilli Sabrina Boyd Managing Editor Staff Writer

Whenever the U.S. ggets involved with the issues On April 13, the U.S., United Kingdom and ofof foreign nations there wwill no doubt be people won- France bombed Syrian research, storage, and mili- deringdering why. However, tthethh U.S. has sworn to lend a tary targets as a form of punishment for President helpinghelping hand to nations iin both times of conflict and Bashar al-Assad after a suspected chemical attack inn times of peace with hhumanitarian efforts. that claimed the lives of more than 70 people. “We“We should have a ppresence in Syria because it “We are prepared to sustain this response until Prois a hiihumanitarian cause,” Ms. Denninger, English the Syrian regime stops its use of prohibited chemical teacher, said. agents,” President Trump said during a press conference. Despite the mounting evidence in the past Trump refuses to pull the troops out of Syria be- against the Syrian government, the Obama Admin- cause he wants to stop any further chemical attacks istration was unable to get congressional approval the Assad regime may be planning. for military action. From that point forward the only The day before the reported use of chemical thing the U.S. could do was carry out bombing raids weapons, the Trump Administration publicly aban- on Islamic State bases within Syria and hope that doned Obama’s policy that rejected Assad remain- Syria had forfeited all of its chemical weapons. ing in office. Two days later, the president ordered This position of waiting would prove to be inef- 59 missiles into a country without any declaration of fective in taking care of the problem when the Syr- war, based on his emotional response to televised im- ian government launched a gas attack in April 2017. ages of suffering. With a new administration in place and Syria let off Strikes on Syria’s fuel pumps and structures are the hook, it was finally time for the U.S. to stand up not likely to stop the Assad regime from further- and take action. ing their attacks using chemical weapons, or even The attack left approximately 74 dead and over weaken the Assad regime. With the continuation of 500 injured. With the Trump Administration in these attacks from Assad, President Trump’s policy place, the president got approval for a missile bar- can divert taking full military action on Syria, which rage aimed at the air base from which the gas attack could prolong the war. The public is unaware of what was launched. President Trump will do next since he campaigned Polls conducted by ABC News and The Morning as a non-interventionist who vowed to withdraw U.S. Consult showed that respectively 51 percent and 66 troops from the Middle East entanglements. percent of the nation approved of the decision to According to The Washington Post, at a White take further action in Syria. These actions prevented House dinner, Trump said that the reason there are gas attacks for another year. still problems in Syria is “because Obama did not en- “The U.S. should have minimal influence be- force his redlines.” cause it is a humanitarian crisis. It involves a lot Trump’s bombing of Syria’s chemical weapon of families and children, but we should take some structures does not protect the U.S. Troops stationed action because the U.S. is one of the major na- in Syria from Assad’s chemical weapons, it actually tions and government that the world looks up to,” puts them at a higher risk of being attacked. Mr.Temilini, business teacher, said. “[The U.S. is] already involved and in terms of On April 7, Syrian government troops launched aiding rebels who are also using chemical weapons, an offensive on one of the few remaining cities held why are we not looking at diplomatic tactics in trying by rebel forces near the Syrian capital of Damascus. to resolve this issue? Why is our only response drop- In this offensive, on site doctors and witnesses re- ping bombs?” Mr. Kubick, history teacher, said. ported attack helicopters dropping gas filled bombs, “[The U.S. has] no overall strategy before, or killing at least 70 people. Syria and its ally Russia even now, going into Syria and we do not have any have denied the use of chemical weapons. exit strategy in getting out without causing more The U.S., the United Kingdom and France have problems. This is a example of political platitudes all begun justified bombing raids on targets suspect- and in my opinion this is what happened with Iraq ed of housing chemical weapons. and Afghanistan,” Mr. White, history teacher, said. Considering how many times Syria has been rep- It is important to note that many students felt un- rimanded for chemical warfare attacks in the past, it able to comment on the issue because they felt unedu- is surprising that the nation would once again use cated on the topic. these outlawed weapons in the conflict. The U.S. is unclear on who was affected by the “The U.S. should get involved because they are bombing. There could have been innocent civilians bombing religious people, so a third party needs to who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong get involved to calm things down,” Melvin Andre time that got caught in the crossfire. If we continue (’18) said. to bomb Syria, more innocent civilians are likely to With Syria’s continued use of these weapons, get hurt. comes the necessity for foreign intervention. If the There needs to be more thought put into our strat- U.S. can finally bring an end to this war, which con- egy in handling the problems in Syria. Instead, the tinues to break international law, then intervention U.S. government should worry about more pressing DESTRUCTION IN SYRIA After the Assad regime delivered attacks is not only justified, but required. issues that are happening Concurrently in this country. using chemical weaponry, the U.S. sent missile strikes to send a mes- VDJH7KLVUHVXOWHGLQWKHGHVWUXFWLRQRI6\ULD·VFDSLWDO'DPDVFXV Photos courtesy of wikimedia.commons.org. VIEWPOINT APRIL/MAY 2018 9

7KHGLIÀFXOWO\RIVHWWLQJDJUDGXDWLRQWLPH Ashley Shapiro Stamford High School’s. This makes it It is bad that all the schools are at the same Westhill. The congestion in the neigh- Reporter impossible for friends attending the other time because it is just inconvenient for borhood makes it nearly impossible for school to see each other graduate. parents,” Sabine Sawyer (’18) said. people to come or go around graduation Graduation day is a special occasion In past years, Westhill and Stam- Some people are appreciative of the time. The traffic at the end of graduation for seniors; it is the final step as they ford High’s graduations have been on the early start time because of the weekly will also cause problems for the people move onto the next chapter of their lives. same day, but at different times making it Jewish event, Shabbat, which begins at coming home from work who live near Unfortunately, due to the unusual amount easy to attend both. sundown. However, others are frustrated the school or need to pass through. of snow days, there was uncertainty sur- “I think it is very inconvenient for that they will have the leave work early Graduation begins at peak traffic rounding the date and time this important any families that are trying to attend to attend graduation. time which will only cause more frustra- event would occur. both graduations after all of the confu- “I am happy the Board of Education tion. The district did their best to accom- The uncertainty caused many issues sion of when the date was,” Laura Car- decided to make graduation the 22nd modate scheduling, traffic and religious for families this year. It made it difficult roll (’18) said. rather than the end of the month. We do conflicts but there is not an ideal time to plan for family members to travel, as The new date is also controversial not do any work at the end of school that would work for everyone. Whether well as families who plan to celebrate because some students and parents had anyway so this way people can leave students are in support of the date of post graduation. planned for an earlier graduation. earlier for vacation,” Amanda Friedman graduation or not, June 22nd will be a This momentous event was finally “It causes an issue because people al- (’18) said. memorable day. setset for June 22 at 4 pp.m..mm. WeWWesthill’ssthill’s ggrad-rad- readyready had thinthingsgs pplannedlanned at that time, like The time also causes issues for peo-peo- uation this year is at ttheheh ssameama e time as collegecollege orientation or early summer plans. ple who live in the neighborhood around

Photo courtesy of commons.wikimedia.com. How educated should substitutes be? Jack Williamson However, having less quantity of sub- tute can be teaching it. However if it adjust to losing a day. Teachers are Staff Writer stitutes would not mean lower quality. is an art class, the students most of the absent at times, but their short term Substitutes, just like teachers, time are doing a continuous assign- replacements can change from being Every student has had at least should be resources for students. They ment that does not require much over- in charge of a free period to an in- one experience in common, arriving structional one. to class and being met by a substitute A substitute teacher should need teacher. Every student reacts differ- to have a degree in the area they are ently, some see the substitute and head substituting for to be able to help right out of class, while other students students. If students have a math test begin to treat the class as a study hall. the next day and their substitute has Students may use the time to talk to an English degree, in any class this their friends or go on their phones. could negatively affect the students. Stamford Public School’s current Following a lesson plan left be- policy is that substitute teachers must hind by a teacher can be done by a have a bachelors degree from an ac- substitute with any degree, but stu- credited school. dents need more. Requiring substitutes to have a “If a substitute is [covering] for a bachelors degree is a great first step, math class, they should have a degree but it can still be improved. Having in math because the teacher can be out someone with a bachelors degree for [an unknown amount of time],” means they are highly educated, but Jemeson Charlestin (’18) said. requiring substitutes to have a spe- Substitute teachers should have de- cialized degree would keep a substi- grees in the field they are substituting tute that majored in accounting from for. Even though days off may seem teaching a Spanish class. would need a degree in the class they seeing,” Allison Wilson (’18) said. like fun, the truth is students are wast- “Making all of these substitutes are teaching to be useful for the class. Even though having a period to ing time they could be using to contin- specialized would make them more ex- “It depends on the class because decompress sounds nice, it inter- ue to better themselves as student. pensive and definitely fewer in num- for a math class there is a lot that can rupts the class curriculum. Students bers,” Kelly Bernatchez (’18) said. be missed in one class when the substi- fall behind and the teacher has to Illustration by Alexis Marchetti / Head Illustrator. VIEWPOINT 10 APRIL/MAY 2018

The need for Google Classroom

Nathan Isenstein if you miss a day of school [with online, there is no need for pa- to able to learn the technology, UPCOMING Staff Writer Google Classroom],” Mason per, which saves trees and light- more of them would be able to Perkins (’19) said. ens students backpacks. use it more effectively in the Google Classroom, a virtual Another advantage is that There are also disadvantag- classroom,” Mr. Capriotti, Math Senior Issue classroom platform, has risen feedback is instant on Google es that come with using Google Department Head, said. through the ranks since 2014 Classroom. For instance, teach- classroom. One of them is that Google Classroom is over- as a tool for teachers to bet- ers can have students take a it has to be managed properly in all an optimal tool for teach- ter communicate with students. quiz on the classroom’s stream order to be effective. ers. Even though it is hard for Google Classroom comes with and get quick results from their Students must learn to be teachers to be required to use many advantages, the main one students. able to use Google Classroom an online program, it should be TOPICS being the increase in accessibil- Google Classroom is also a without getting distracted. used by every teacher who does ity to assignments. way to integrate today’s internet “It is hard to access with your not have a curriculum based on Senior Wills With Google Classroom, reliant society with a classroom phones, and not everyone has ac- a textbook. assignments are never lost and environment without losing any cess to a computer all of the time,” The benefits that come can easily be completed outside information. Anything can be Shane Hackett (’19) said. with Google Classroom are WestAwards of the classroom. Students that readily posted on a class’ feed. Google Classroom would be very hard to ignore. With the miss a days work can easily re- Google Classroom can also hard to use for math or science right exposure, Google Class- Editor-in-Chief trieve assignments and make be helpful in preparing students classes, where a lot of the work room may become a staple in UHÁHFWLRQ them up online as opposed to for the future by creating the op- students get is textbook based. an everyday classroom. waiting the next day, dealing portunity to experience an on- Teachers also may not have with the stress of making up a line classroom dynamic. the time to be able to learn Google lot of work in one day. Google Classroom is en- Classroom well enough to make it “It is easier to keep track of vironmentally friendly. Since a viable tool for students. + assignments and get your work Google Classroom is entirely “If teachers had more time Should junior prom become a formal?

Lexi Boccuzzi school to have the opportunity to attend dresses. Research by kclegacypress. News Editor an event where they can dress up and com came to the conclusion that boys enjoy a fun, special night. spend approximately 184 dollars for Prom is the pinnacle of many “Junior Prom should continue their tuxedos. students’ high school experience, to be a prom, because for most of the $V D UHVXOW PRGL¿FDWLRQV FRXOG and a true representation of Ameri- students there are very few opportuni- be made to Junior Prom in order to can culture. ties where we can dress up and go to a decrease the cost of attendance. One Most schools throughout the dance together and just have fun,” Di- of which could be modifying the dress country only have a Senior Prom. On vya Gada (’20) said. code associated with prom and urging the contrary, Westhill hosts a prom for In changing the event from a prom girls to wear short or less extravagant the Junior and Senior class’. to a formal, the Junior Prom would lose dresses and boys to wear suits or slacks In recent years Junior Prom has its noteworthy status and thus people rather than tuxedos. FDXVHG D ORW RI GLVFRXUVH VSHFL¿FDOO\ would not have the same high regard “I think keeping the name prom over whether or not it should still exist. for the event, making it less enjoyable. but encouraging girls to wear short Parents and staff have been con- Additionally, part of the appeal as- dresses would keep the formality of FHUQHG DERXW WKH VLJQL¿FDQW ¿QDQFLDO sociated with prom is the other details it so that it is not like homecoming burden that having two proms places that go along with prom night, such and would also solve the cost issue,” on Westhill students, and as a result as “promposing” and pre-prom. In Sachs said. have proposed changing the prom to a changing the event to a formal, many 1RW RQO\ ZRXOG WKHVH PRGL¿FD- formal. The hope is that this would de- of these unique experiences could be tions to Junior Prom aid in making the crease the cost students feel obligated taken away. event more affordable for all students, to pay associated with the event. “Just like Senior Prom, Junior but it would also differentiate it from “Junior Prom is so extravagant Prom should be a prom as well. That Senior Prom. It would additionally that most girls buy expensive, long is how it has always been and that is give students something to look for- dresses and spend a lot of money get- how most Juniors like it,” Elsa Amiti ward to for Senior Prom, with an event ting hair and makeup done. This makes (’19) said. that is more formal. it unaffordable to many and makes Se- Junior Prom does have its issues. Despite the proposed changes nior Prom nothing major to look for- In many cases, it does present an un- that could be made to the event, Junior ward to,” Betsy Sachs (’20) said. QHFHVVDU\ ¿QDQFLDO EXUGHQ RQ ERWK Prom should continue to be a prom in Nevertheless, the Junior Prom students and their families who have to order to keep with tradition and retain should continue with the precedent set SD\IRUWKHFRVWVRIDQRXW¿WVKRHVDQG the esteem for the event. by Westhill tradition. The event should jewelry on top of the ticket price. Editors Note: After this article remain a prom in an effort to retain the A poll conducted by Seventeen was written, the sophomore class be- respect for the event. Magazine found that girls spend gan deliberations of whether or not to It is rare for students in high an average of 231 dollars on prom have junior prom or a formal next year. Graphics by Emma Cali / Creative Director. VIEWPOINT APRIL/MAY 2018 11 How seating impacts education

Maura Johnston could depend on the material be- but unfortunately it may not be Staff Writer ing taught in each class, along with available to them in school. the teachers individual preference. “I work best on a couch and a Classroom desks or chairs “In the beginning of the year, laptop. If we had laptops and iPads are organized in different ways I always try to sit in the front row [in the classroom] it would be depending on a teacher’s style of if possible. I have Attention Defi- more of a ‘homey’ environment. teaching. The desks may be orga- cit Disorder (ADD) so it helps me I do not like sitting in a desk all nized in rows, a large circle, semi- focus a lot better. For discussion day, I work best when I am com- circle, tables, or other layouts. The classes like history and English fortable,” Mikela Pirri (’21) said. teacher may also have assigned or I prefer to sit in a large circle,” Students thrive in different at- free seating. Danielle Gleaton (’19) said. mospheres, whether they are more The reason a teacher decides Although having the desks in of a home-like environment or the to organize their classroom could rows may work best for some stu- traditional classroom setting. be for a variety of reasons. For ex- dents in certain classes, it is not “If I am going to do work in ample, if the class is group task ori- always the best layout in others. school, it needs to be in a school ented, the teacher may have their “In art classes, it is definitely like environment. I could get very students in assigned clusters, based best to have large tables to spread distracted with couches and other on who works best together. Simi- materials apart and around. I can- things that are not usually in a lar situations may happen for abil- not imagine an art class with desks classroom around me,” Hannah ity level and behavior management. instead of tables,” Ramie Hale Scherrer (’21) said. A teachermagazine.com study (’19) said. With each seating arrangement in 1999 tested whether differ- Mrs. Gallo, an English teacher comes issues, such as students ent seating arrangements led to decided to put a unique twist to her with their backs to the board or a students asking more questions. seating arrangements. In her class- taller student blocking the view of They tested traditional rows and room there are bean bags, couches the board. a semicircle. and other non-traditional seating More specifically, accord- According to the researchers, available for her students. ing to teachermagazine.com, “the “the results showed that question- “I like Mrs. Gallo’s classroom lighting may be much better in one asking was more frequent when the seating a lot because for this class part of the room than elsewhere, it children were seated in the semi- specifically, the style of learning is may be cold over by the windows, circular arrangement than in the more group work and talking with and perhaps too warm by the heat- row-and-column arrangement.” each other. It is not as effective to ing vent. The view of the black- Researchers learned that those be in desks and rows. I look for- board differs dramatically from sitting in a more central seat asked ward to this class because of the one part of the room to another, more questions per lesson display- seating,” Tejas Vermani (’21) said. often because of a glare from the ing how seating can seriously im- Students that do not have this ceiling lights.” pact the classroom setting. type of seating available to them Overall, the utilisation of more In certain types of classes, may feel like they are missing out. creative seating arrangements has some seating arrangements are Many excel in this type of uncon- the potential to truly benefit the more preferred than others. This ventional learning environment students at Westhill.

Illustrations by Neeka Baclayon / Illustrator. The disadvantages of morning practices

Yulia Lozynska lows the student to have more time Staff Writer to do homework and study. Also, it would allow student athletes to spend Sports can take up a large amount more time with family during their of time in a teenager’s life. Many on-season,” Jakai Young (’19) said. have debated that having early morn- According to palyvoice.com, ing practices will provide student “getting as little as five hours of sleep athletes with more time than after- during the school day. They will be Buckey (’19) said. a night is detrimental to the perfor- noon practices would. This creates drained from waking up so early, they “We should not have morning prac- mance of a student-athlete. Morning the discussion for schools and stu- will want to sleep during school,” tices because students are tired in the practices or conditionings can start dents to try both. Leo Socci (’19) said. morning from waking up early. Prac- as early as 5:45 a.m., which means Even though morning practices If students had morning workouts, tice in the afternoon is perfect because in order to make it to school in time can give students an easier opportuni- they could get tired during the school we are then awake, alert and ready to the student must wake up at approxi- ty to participate in other school activ- day because of lack of sleep. With af- play,” Bella Vaccaro (’19) said. mately 5 a.m. the sleep requirements ities or clubs, some student athletes ternoon practices, students are more Some believe that playing a sport for a teenager are around nine hours.” have said that having morning prac- alert during the day and have more takes time away from studying and Student athletes starting their day tice can affect students performance energy to focus on their school work. being able to focus on their aca- before the sun has risen, can lead to in school as well as students tend to “I definitely prefer the afternoon demics. However, changing practice exhaustion. Being part of a team is lack in school work due to fatigue. considering I am not a morning per- times will not effect this. particularly difficult for many stu- “Moving practice to before school son and have no energy to play my “Student athletes should have dents, but students try their best to will make students pay less attention hardest in the morning,” Margot practice in the morning because it al- balance sports and their education. Illustration by Alexis Marchetti / Head Illustrator. 12 LAS NOTICIAS La crisis de los refugiados venezolanos Kevin Alvarado incrementado a niveles mayores. Colombianos se ven conmovidos un sueldo mínimo. Sin lugar a extranjeros con sueldos mínimos y Colaborador Joel Marroquin (’19), un es- con este problema y ayudan con duda, este acto toma lugar exclu- sin experiencia. Esa es nuestra Co- tudiante venezola no, opina suplementos médicos y comida. sivamente por el hecho de que la lombia.” Como ella, muchos más Con el transcurso de loss años sosobrebre la Sin embargo,embargo, los Colombianos nenecesidadcesidad ha aalcanzadolcanzado uunana ccrisisrisis ciudadanosc colombianos se quejan se pensaría que hemos aprendidoendido que en la acactualidadtuuala idadad carecen de trttra-a- existencial para nuestros hermaherma-- porp la contratación de venezola- del pasado y que los problemasemas bajo debido a que el país no brinda nnosos vevenezolanos.nenezolanos. Como resultado,resultado, nosn en el país. De igual manera, la en nuestras naciones seríanían opoportunidadesortunidades a su ppropiaropip a gegente,nte,, lollosos cocolombianoslombianos susufrenfren tamtambiénbién durad situación es para todos dice la mínimos. Sin embargo, eess porque eess venezolanav Maria Mercedes Mon- lo contrario. Cada vez, loss sósólolo ovbioovbio tielt Yáñez, “No he logrado trabajar problemas empeoran y ququee ene mi área. No es por problemas ahora es nuestro país emem-- ded documentación porque están hermano, Venezuela el qqu ue ala día. Se hace difícil a la hora sufre y derrama sangre. ded conseguir empleo porque los Su crisis comenzó en octu- empleadores continúan viendo bre del 2016 a causa del caosaos como ventaja pagar menos.” político y económico del país,aís, Por otra parte, Domenica administrado por el régimenn de Cruz Torres (’19), estudiante Nicolás Maduro desde 2013,3, el en el grado onceavo se conmueve cual ha llevado una larga dicta-cta- con el problema, “Los venezola- dura devastadora que ha causadousado nos son personas que necesitan un desastre nacional. ayudaa y merecen ser tratados con Pese a la situación económica,ómica, ssituaciónituación por la respetor y bondad, hay que abrirnos social y política del país, mmuchosuchos ququee muchos venvene-e- ele corazón y ayudar a estas perso- venezolanos han sido obligadosados a zolanos se refrefugianugian en nasn que están pasando una situ- tomar la drástica y dura decisiónecisión CColombia.olombia. “Los venezolanos emi-emi- acióna inexplicable, brindándoles de emigrar a su país vecino,o, Co-Co- ggranran a Colombia porque hay ees-s- comida,c y trabajo para que salgan lombia. Estos emprenden su destidesti-- ccasez,asez, desabastecimientodesabastecimiento,, falta de adelante.”a no por medio de la frontera eenn CúCú-- mmedicinaedicina y comida.” dice MarroMarro-- Es claro que para los colom- cuta. La razón, esperar conseguirnseguir quin. Es por ello, que a los venezo-venezo- bianosb la llegada de venezola- un futuro mejor ya que el ppaísaís se llanosanos les urge comenzar una nuevnuevaa pleadorepleadoress nosn se convierte en un problema encuentra con pocos recursosos aliali-- vvidaida y establecerse en ColombiColombiaa cocontratenntraten mamanono crucialc ya que están causando un menticios, higiénicos y médicos.édicos. poporr medio del trabtrabajoajo informal o de obra barata y ddejenejen desequilibriod económico y social. Las autoridades de migraciónión en ccomoomo muchos Colombianos dicendicen,, a su propia gente dedes-s- MientrasM muchos colombianos si- Colombia indicaron que debidobido a ““regalarse”regalarse” por poco dinero paparara empleada. Sandra LoLon-n- entene compasión y continúan dem- la crisis en Venezuela, han llegadolegado así poder tener un mejor bienestbienestarar doñodoño,, una contadorcontadoraa ostrandoo su generosidad ayudando aproximadamente entre 600.00000.000 y tener un sustento parapara sus ffa-a- ccolombianaolombiana eespecialistaspecialista a sus hermanos venezolanos, a la a 800.000 venezolanos a esestete mimilias.lias. esestostos HQ ¿QDQ]DV \ DGPLQLVWUDFLyDGPLQLVWUDFLyQQ mismam vez, otros no evitan sentir país. “Diariamente entran y salen La llegada de venezolanos a se vvenen pública se ve gravemente afectaafecta-- queq los venezolanos han generan- 40.000 venezolanos.” dice Felipe Colombialbiili implica que estos acce- grave- dda y respalda ld el l problema bl didiciendo, i d dod más desempleo en la economía Muñoz (’20), quien supervisa en dan a trabajar por la mitad del suel- mente af- “ Yo llevo más de un año buscando colombiana y han causando que FHQVRGHOSDtV(VFODURTXHHOÀX- do que normalmente le pagan a un ectados por los venezolanos que trabajo y, aun siendo profesional y muchos sientan recelo contra el- jo de venezolanos en Colombia ha ciudadano Colombiano. Algunos están dispuestos a trabajar por HVSHFLDOL]DGD SUH¿HUHQ FRQWUDWDU los.

MADURO NO MÁS Los venezolanos están protestando el régi- UNA LLAMADA PARA ACCIÓN La gente de Venezuela quiere HUYENDO DEL CAOS Muchos de los venezolanos están via- men de Nicolás Maduro a favor de una democracia. mejorar la economía venezolana. jando a Columbia para refugiarse.

CAUSA Efecto

Fotos cortesía del Washington Examiner y Brookings Institution. LAS NOTICIAS ABRIL/MAYO 2018 13 Sin luz por horas Cómo los ciudadanos de Puerto Rico se reaccionaron al apagón

Domenica Cruz Torres El tema de la comunicación, tas unidades de la red tras el im- efectos que tenga en la población Rico, Ricardo Rosselló, prometió Colaboradora en todos los sentidos electrónicos pacto “negativo” que genera para este retraso y que procederán a que para el 15 de diciembre del se ha vuelto un problema la falta la isla la decisión de una jueza de conservar sus reservas. También 2017 quedaría restablecido el 95 La catástrofe natural que de electricidad, no está demás in- conceder un préstamo. mencionan que esta situación por ciento del servicio, mientras ocurrió en Puerto Rico los meses dicar que de esta manera también La jueza Laura Taylor de podría acelerar la emigración de el Cuerpo de Ingenieros del Ejér- pasados, ha dejado consecuencias muchos sectores empresariales Nueva York negó este viernes los residentes. “Muchas personas cito de Estados Unidos ha dicho que por supuesto han afectado a están perdiendo dinero debido una petición de la AEE para ob- se sienten en abandono debido que el trabajo se completará en la mayoría de su población. Desde a que por obvias razones no pu- tener un préstamo de mil mil- a que las autoridades no hacen PD\R GH ³&RQ¿DPRV TXH casas totalmente destruidas, calles eden utilizar sus artefactos y va lones de dólares solicitado por nada para recuperar las pérdidas con la llegada de más traba- irreconocibles, y pérdidas de made la mano con tener cerrado los el Gobierno de Puerto Rico con en la isla,” dice Bridgette Calde- jadores de las compañías eléc- teriales además recursos necesa- ORFDOHV(VWHVXFHVRVHYHUHÀH- OD ¿QDOLGDG PDQWHQHU ODV RSHUD- URQ ¶ $Vt PLVPR VH D¿UPD tricas de Estados Unidos y con rios para la vida cotidiana uno de jado en la opinión de la estudi- ciones de la corporación pública, los daños recibidos por el pueblo un plan actualizado de restaura- ellos, lo más importante la electri- ante, Jhoselyn Bazan (’19), que mientras continúa con el restab- de Puerto Rico se han intensi- ción, veremos un progreso para cidad. Las quejas en los pobladores comentó: “Afecta a muchas áreas lecimiento del servicio de elec- ¿FDGRGHELGRDODOHQWDUHVSXHVWD reconectar el servicio de energía VRQ MXVWL¿FDEOHV SXHVWR D TXH VLQ de trabajo, la actividad económi- tricidad en la isla. El gobierno ofrecida por el Departamento a todos.” dijo como para aplacar electricidad se privan de acceder ca para las empresas pequeñas”. D¿UPy TXH OD GHFLVLyQ WLHQH XQ del Tesoro de Estados Unidos y la molestia de las comunidades, a la red más necesaria en la actu- Pero cuando los problemas llegan impacto negativo en los trabajos el Agencia Federal de Manejo que ya han comenzado a manife- alidad, el famoso internet. Daniela a un país no sólo afecta el sector de recuperación tras el huracán de Emergencias (FEMA, en in- starse en las calles. Esta vez se Hernández (’20), una estudiante económico también el bienestar María, que destruyó una buena glés) para viabilizar el acceso espera que el gobierno cumpla opina sobre esta problemática “Los de la población. La Autoridad de parte de la red, y la operación de a los 4,900 millones de dólares su palabra y que no sea la misma deja sin acceso a la comunicación y Energía Eléctrica (AEE) de Puer- la AEE. aprobados por el Congreso por historia de siempre, ignorar las pueden recuperar exigiendo al go- to Rico anunció que comenzará a En un comunicado la AEE concepto de préstamos para de- necesidades y el sufrimiento de bierno que haga algo.” disminuir la generación en cier- expresa su preocupación por los sastres. El gobernador de Puerto su pueblo.

Dibujo de Daniel Greco / Editor Directivo. “Senior Wills!” Clase de 2018: Vas a thewestwordonline.com para un en- lace para completar tu propio “Senior Will” SDUDHOHGLFLyQÀQDOGHODxR 14 SPECIAL REPORT: Zuckerberg faces trial for Facebook scandal Rachel Deutsch On Tuesday April 10, Zucker- tioned by a series of state representa- Zuckerberg who either turned a blind Staff Writer berg appeared at a joint hearing con- tives including Connecticut’s senator, eye to malicious behavior on his plat- ducted by the Senate Judiciary and Richard Blumenthal. form or was unaware of terms tied to Since its conception, Facebook has Commerce committees to discuss the Blumenthal pointed out that Face- the company’s name. pulled private lives into the public sec- possible breach of Facebook users’ book had violated a Fair Trade Commis- The questioning brings to light the tor. This leaves access to individual’s security. In his deposition, Zucker- sion (FTC) agreement in the protection free reign the company has over public private information just a few clicks berg was asked questions on own- of user information in their allowance information. away from any interested parties. ership of users digital data; and if of Kogan’s terms for his app. “I would feel violated and I would There is power in understanding Facebook has sufficiently protected Blumenthal called out the social definitely want my personal informa- the population in such an invasive man- that information. media platform’s negligence as, “heed- tion protected by whatever means pos- ner, which can be abused by users and The next day, Zuckerberg was ques- less and reckless,” pointing blame at sible,” James Macintosh (’18) said. advertisers alike. The investigation of Not only did students display dis- Mark Zuckerberg, Chief Executive Of- comfort with the distribution of infor- ficer (C.E.O) and founder of Facebook, mation, but also the idea that only large surrounds Facebook’s protection of corporations benefit from the distribu- user privacy in wake of the Cambridge tion of their information. Analytica scandal. “Well it is being sold by Facebook Cambridge Analytica is a private and not by me, so not only is my in- firm of political consultants that has ties formation being violated but someone to Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential else is getting profit from it,” Nick campaign. Aleksandr Kogan, a social Robles (’18) said. psychologist and professor at the Uni- “People put their information on versity of Cambridge, conducted a self- there willingly, and go on there willing- described survey on happiness and kind- ly, but that does not give Facebook the ness. Participants would take the survey right to distribute their information,” using their Facebook login informa- Fahmida Ahmed (’18) said. tion, effectively linking it to their Face- Although Zuckerberg was heav- book account. ily coached and provided a bounty Kogan failed to disclose that he of vague answers, his action creates was conducting this survey for Cam- a dialogue and is moving towards bridge Analytica, and with Cambridge the direction of protection of the Analytica’s monetary backing, Kogan public’s data. gained access to users’ private infor- If this incident can provoke change, mation. This information was used to rather than being one in a string of predict or sway these votes through many past apologies, then user privacy direct advertisements. Kogan ascer- may prevail after all. tained not only users who participated in his survey, but friends of participants. According to the acceptance of terms for survey participants, an individual would grant the survey access Cambridge Analytica to their own account and to associated friends accounts (neglecting to ask the friend’s permission). accessed over According to CBS News, within this network of people, Kogan admittedly gained access to data including, “their location, their gender, their birthday, 87 MILLION and their page ‘likes.’” “I would not feel comfortable with [my privacy being violated]. Having someone else have my information and being able to find where I am makes me uncomfortable,” Eva Laforte (’21) said. unknowing users. Cambridge Analytica mined the data of what Facebook believes to be 87 million unknowing users. The use -CNBC News of Facebook breached willing participants. The issue also raises questions as to who else the data Kogan acquired may have been sold to. Facebook began to notify users whose information was leaked in early April despite knowing about the breach since 2015. Graphic courtesy of pngimg.com. Illustration by Tamar Frydman / Illustrator. SPECIAL REPORT 15 APRIL/MAY 2018 Changing the idea of user privacy

Tyler Fisher third party apps using Google’s Application Until it was revealed that Facebook on a variety of things, such as their ability Staff Writer Programming Interfaces (API). had ties to AxiCom, few people knew of to keep a job or how likely they are to be a “It is not safe [online] anymore their existence. This made it easy for not ³SUR¿WDEOHFRQVXPHU´ In the last few months, social media anything can happen with that kind of data, only AxiCom, but other similar companies ,Q D UHSRUW UHOHDVHG E\ WKH QRQSUR¿W MXJJHUQDXW )DFHERRN KDV EHHQ XQGHU ¿UH people should go out and protest to insure collect and sell consumer data. World Privacy Forum (WPF), it was found from its users, the media, and government their privacy,” Franko Nunez (’18) said. One of the ethical issues that arose with that, “consumers have little to no ability to RI¿FLDOV GXH WR LWV UHYHDOHG LQYDVLRQ RI People’s data is not only being the sale of data is the lack of knowledge of learn when their lives are affected in a major privacy towards its users. FROOHFWHG EXW LW LV EHLQJ VROG IRU SUR¿W what the data is actually being used for. or minor way, by a consumer score that they The data collected by Facebook can $W WKH HQG RI WKH ¿VFDO \HDU LW ZDV According to AxiCom’s website, “the never heard about.” show the location of a user during their reported that AxiCom, a data brokering data [they] collect helps companies market In the report written by Pam Dixon, last login, in addition to people’s contacts, company, made 402.56 million dollars in more effectively and reduces fraud and Executive Director of WPF, and Bob emails, the apps people use and when they gross income. AxiCom’s data collection is identity theft. [Their] data also helps people Gellman, Privacy and Information Policy use them, the music people listen to, and the also used to make 12 percent of the nations ¿QGEXVLQHVVHVRURWKHUSHRSOHWKURXJKRXU Consultant, multiple types of consumer videos people watch. marketing sales. directory services.” scores were shown. “I feel uncomfortable because I have In an issue of Forbes Magazine, Although many companies abstain These include a Job Security Score that a right to privacy, but I do not think the Bernard Marr said that the company claimed from selling the data of their users, some still uses employment data and economic trends collection of our data is malicious,” Kevin to have data on, “all but a small percentage grant third-party apps access to this data. to predict if people will lose their jobs, and Morales (’18) said. of U.S. households.” Often times, the data is used to personalize the person’s ability to pay bills. The Churn Facebook is not the only site guilty According to an article in The New advertisements that a user may see or Score, or the number of people leaving of invading the privacy of its users. The York Times by Natasha Singer, AxiCom, improve the app’s end-user functionality. a service, is used by wireless and cable Guardian revealed that Google also “peers deeper into American life than the While this may seem harmless, this still companies to determine if people are likely collects data from millions of users. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and leaves users’ personal data at risk of being to switch to their competitors. Consumers data Google collects allows the company Internal Revenue Service (IRS). [If you are seen without their knowledge. may be unknowingly charged a higher price to log every event users have ever been to, an American adult it is likely] that AxiCom The social media app Snapchat is for the same service as a result of this score. every photo they have ever searched for, knows things like your age, race, sex, reportedly working on a new feature that The collection and sale of data affects and every email they have sent. Though weight, height, marital status, education would allow this kind of data sharing to occur. people more than one may think it does. mainly used to feed for user personalization level, politics, buying habits, household Data brokers, retailers, and analytic It can put privacy at risk and even prevent through machine learning applications, the health worries, vacation dreams—and on ¿UPV WKDW SURFHVV GDWD KDYH FUHDWHG people from receiving fair and equal data has the possibility of being accessed by and on.” multiple consumer scores that rank people treatment from certain companies. Do you think privacy is invaded on the Internet? YES NO 62% 38%

Graphics courtesy of wikimedia.commons.org. Illustration by Alexis Marchetti / Head Illustrator. Poll conducted by Bella Vaccaro / Pollster. *Poll conducted out of 250 people. ADVERTISEMENT 16 APRIL/MAY 2018

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A blast from the past: trends from the 2000s SUPPLEMENT 18 APRIL/MAY 2018 Shows that shaped the 2000s

and what they did as kids. Kids from the 2000s have even start- show $OOLH ed to force their favorite child- ended,

&RORUDGR hood TV shows upon the young- with Raven Staff Writer er generation to encourage them Baxter having to enjoy it as much as they did. her own two young As children, the “I, for one, loved Dexter’s children, one of who teenagers of today ex- Laboratory. I have taken im- has the same psychic perienced carefree and portant values from watching abilities as she does. joyous times, where they him come up with new, in- Within the show, the writ- could sit down in the liv- novative ideas, not giving up ers were sure to incorporate ing room, eat a bowl of ce- on his creations, and always references from the original real, and watch any show learning from his mistakes,” Disney show. that came on Disney Channel, Vanessa Heredia (’18) said. “It is an impressive idea Nickelodeon, or Cartoon Net- Some shows that were pop- for networks to bring back work for hours. ular in the early 2000s are still some of our generation’s fa- Any student who grew relevant in students’ lives today. vorite shows. It definitely up in the early 2000s may “I loved watching Sponge- pulls back a large audience for remember the times where bob. My dad and I still refer- these producers,” Marco Al- the biggest stressor he or ence Spongebob to this day,” varado (’18) said. she would experience came Simone Kenny (’18) said. It can be nice to be hit with from wondering what show According to variety.com, a blast from the past, it reminds would air next on their se- views on Disney and Nickel- teenagers of better times and al- lected channel. odeon have gone down over lows them to reminisce about There was a large the past decade since Suite Life their childhood memories. number of shows, rang- of Zack and Cody and Hannah These iconic shows ing from Drake & Josh Montana Forever ended. In at- will stay in the memory of to Foster’s Home for tempts to get the early 2000s many teenagers forever. Imaginary Friends, babies back to watching their The teens of tomorrow that shaped who network, Disney Channel re- will soon be shaped children of leased a continuation series of by the shows of the 2000s That’s So Raven in July of 2017 their child- were called Raven’s Home. hood. Raven’s Home is set several years after the original

Photos courtesy of ÁLFNUFRP, ZLNLSHGLDRUJ, GHYLDQWDUWFRP, WKHWYGEFRPZLNLYLVXDOO\FRP&ZLNLVSDFHVFRP SUPPLEMENT APRIL/MAY 2018 19 Nostalgic Kiddie Food

dinosaur Animal Crackers‘·n chicken Crackers Cheese Dip nuggets

mies and the lunch- products were really ables frozen meals,” Leslie trendy at this time... The Caltenco (’19) said. Keebler Scooby Doo graham The decade can also be recog- cracker sticks were my favorite,” Ka- nized by popular sugary drinks includ- tie Hollenberg (’18) said. Wes- ing Capri Sun, Kool Aid Bursts and The 2000s also consisted of food thill stu- 3KRHEH Yoohoo chocolate milk. trends that are still eaten today, such as dents grow- /XNDVZLW] Today, many of these foods have EDFRQÁDYRUHGIRRGVFUD]\FXSFDNHV ing up. Staff Writer been discontinued due to decreas- fun-size meals, and cake pops. “I remem- es in demand for products such as Bacon is still a popular food to- ber eating Yogos The 2000s can Gripz, fruit-shaped Trix, and Plant- day. However, the 2000s was when Bits in second grade bring back many child- ers Cheez Balls. everything included bacon, from and Gushers at school. hood memories from all as- With all of these snacks changing breakfast to dessert. These make me feel a little pects, such as clothing, music, and being discontinued, many stu- Another trend during the 2000s [old now]. My mom used to toys, and even food. dents are nostalgic and wish to have was food documentaries. Super Size give me them before going to There were many trade- them once again. Luckily, some 2000s Me was a documentary about exper- school and I always used to feel mark foods that characterized the snacks that are still available today are iments with fast food and showing happy because of that,” Myra 2000s. Dinosaur shaped chicken Ritz crackers ‘n’ cheese dip, Corn Pops the effects on the body from eating Perez (’19) said. nuggets, character- shaped Mac ‘n’ cereal, Fruit Roll Ups, and even frozen only McDonalds for a whole month. The food trends from the Cheese, Dunkaroos, Yoplait Trix dinners from Kid Cuisine. Food blogs and shows were 2000s bring back memories and Yogurt, and Altoids Sours are some “I remember eating...dinosaur popular as well. Channels like the a feeling of nostalgia for students. that dominated the industry. chicken nuggets on a ZooPal animal Food Network were responsible for It is always fun to look back on the “I remember [eating] animal plate and the Annie’s peace sign Mac popularizing careers of stars, such as trends from the past and see what has crackers all throughout elementary ‘n’ Cheese. I also remember Easy- Rachael Ray. changed, or in some cases, what has school which I loved, Scooby gum- Bake Ovens and [that] all their food These foods were popular among stayed the same.

Photos courtesy of ÁLFNUFRPSL[DED\FRPSL[QLRFRPZLNLSHGLDRUJ&FRPPRQVZLNLPHGLDRUJ. Graphic by =DFKDU\.LWD\/ Graphic Designer. SUPPLEMENT SUPPLEMENT 20 APRIL/MAY 2018 APRIL/MAY 2018 21 Telephone THEN AND NOW The beginnings of technology still used today 2006 2005 twitter 2006 Youtube created Wii created released 2004 2007 Facebook First went live iphone 2001 Xbox 2001 released 2004 First ipod Nintendo DS released released

2000 2000 first civilian PlayStation use of GPS 2 released

2000 USB Flash Drive first sold

Mobile phones of the early 2000s entailed plastic exteriorsors DQGVPDOOVFUHHQVWKDWÁLSSHGRUVOLGRSHQWRUHYHDONH\SDGVGV These phones could do little more than call and text. Theyhey Flip rarely had a full keyboard; one would most likely use the num-m- phone EHUNH\VWRW\SHWH[WPHVVDJHV6RPHÁLSSKRQHVKDGFDPHUDVUDV 1996 as well and could be purchased in various colors and styles.es. flip phones 7KHÀUVWJHQHUDWLRQL3KRQHZDVUHOHDVHGLQ,WERDVWHGHG a touch screen and access to internet connection, as wellell First as countless downloadable applications. This “smartphone”e” iPhone ZDVXQOLNHDQ\ÁLSSKRQHDVLWZDVVRPHZKDWRIDPRELOHLOH 2007 computer, in addition to its basic calling and texting fea-ea-

1st iPhone tures. The iPhone was also equipped with a camera. The iPhone X was released in 2017. It features new VFUHHQ WHFKQRORJ\ ZLUHOHVV FKDUJLQJ IDFH LGHQWLÀFDWLRQ and a very advanced camera. It also has plentiful stor- iPhone age for applications, music, and text messages. This is x by far the most advanced mobile Apple device, the com- 2017 iPhone X pany itself aims to represent technology of the future.

Briefs by Lucy Hart / Staff Writer. Photos courtesy of forums.hardwarezone.com, pinterest.com, wikipedia.org, techpinas.org. freestockphotos.biz, commons.wikimedia.org & pixabay.com. Timeline information from digitaltrends.com, webdesignerdepot.com, britannica.com & timetoast.com. SUPPLEMENT 22 APRIL/MAY 2018 Toys that took the decade by storm

Jennifer Carias Villard (’18) said. en the world by storm. has a hand in toys not being used their home. All customers have to Staff Writer Children today are gaining “I do not think it is really as frequently. Students know it do is pay a shipping and handling more access to the internet than that surprising. Nowadays you LVHDV\WRÀQGDJRRGGHDORQOLQH fee. With all of these new develop- In September of 2017, Toys any generation before them, and see a lot more kids around with and parents have noticed too. ments online, it is inevitable that ‘R’ Us declared bankruptcy as an are spending more of their time new iPhones or tablets instead With kids getting on the in- stores such as Toys ‘R’ Us will attempt to keep the business go- using technology rather than of toys, so I feel like [Toys ‘R’ ternet at young ages, the desire shut down. ing. However, in the past month playing with actual toys. As the Us’] shut down has been com- for toys has decreased. As re- “I am bothered by the turn the company announced a liq- years have gone on, the internet ing for a long time now,” Ni- ported by The Guardian in 2016, that society has taken with its uidation of their assets and that gradually started taking up more cole Leon (‘19) said. “smart toys,” technologically ad- children... It is honestly sad be- they are shutting down stores and more of children’s time. These days it seems as if vanced toys with internet access cause it just comes to show how all around America. Toys ‘R’ Playing with toys such as children would rather spend hours geared toward kids, have made a technology is taking over the Us was struggling with making Polly Pockets, Hot Wheels, and playing online, than being outside large impact in the market, with youth whereas ten years ago, kids DSURÀWIRUDZKLOHGXHWRWR\V LEGOs turned into playing on with their imaginations or friends sales escalating from $2.8bn in would play with actual toys,” being sold at discount stores like Club Penguin and Webkinz. to entertain them. These games 2015 to $11.3bn projected by Francesca Figueroa (’18) said. Target, Walmart and Amazon. According to adweek.com, this keep kids occupied and it is hard 2020. Parents may wonder why The exact date Toys ‘R’ Us “I feel old knowing Toys ‘R’ has ultimately led to the use of to stop this trend from continu- they would spend money on a toy will be closing their doors is un- Us is shutting down, but I am social media. ing. Parents can continue to tell at stores like Toys ‘R’ Us, when clear, but it seems there is not not surprised. It is not shocking Online gaming has changed their kids to go outside and play, they could easily get the same much students can do about it because kids are not interested the industry as well. As more but there is always a new game or toy for less online. now. With the internet growing with toys anymore. Instead they games get developed and en- console coming out that children Now, instead of going through and developing each day, it is like tablets and more interac- KDQFHG PRUH SDUHQWV ÀQG WKHLU believe they just have to have. the hassle of traveling to a store, getting harder to find a kid who tive things rather than dolls, toy kids playing them. Games like In addition to all of the on- customers have the resources to awaits trips to Toys ‘R’ Us for trucks or LEGO sets,” Stanley Minecraft and Fortnite have tak- line gaming, online shopping also have an item delivered directly to their next gadget.

Images courtesy of ÁLFNUFRPZLNLSHGLDRUJ & SL[DED\FRP. SUPPLEMENT APRIL/MAY 2018 23 Fashion flashback and flash forward

Alyssa Goldberg Staff Writer s Low rise jeans, Abercrom- Fashion trends of the 2000 bie & Fitch, and Juicy tracksuits are all trademarks of 2000s fashion. Though we have left these exact styles behind, today’s society still mirrors parts of the iconic fashion of the 2000s. Britney Spears started the unforgettable terry cloth track- suit trend, in which women wore full Juicy Couture tracksuits. This style plagued the 2000s, and is remembered through pictures of sky blue crocs Abercrombie and hot pink sweatpants with flared striped Shirts “JUICY” printed on the back. pants Though this particular style is typically laughed at nowadays, tracksuits are still making have risen in popularity, and reas the fishnets are still utilized and a baby pink top typical 2000s, is seen as yet another their mark on fashion. Begin- semble the design of the chok- in the same fashion today. for 2000s style. Today, tinted fashion trademark of the de- ning in the late 2010s, Adidas ers of the 2000s. A style once unique to the glasses have made a come- cade. Ten years ago, crocs were tracksuits have rapidly increased Cut up jerseys, number 2000s was vertical-striped flare back; the main character in a actually worn as part of stylish in popularity and are now classi- tops with rhinestones, eye- pants. However, according to Black Mirror episode “Shut Up outfits, though more so by kids fied as a going out outfit, rather let holes, or decorative cuts thefashionspot.com, this look and Dance” iconically wears than adults. Now, crocs are rec- than workout apparel. are now seen in the design- has made a massive comeback yellow aviators. Music festival ognized as merely a shoe. Child stars often set the ing of tailgate college t-shirts. in 2018. Big brands, including goers always keep a pair of the “I see people still wearing trends—Hilary Duff and Lind- Though the designs today Urban Outfitters, are getting retro shades to wear to their crocs to school. I would never say Lohan were continuously at might be updated, they are not massive business from their next event. wear those,” Kimberly Hernan- the fashion forefront. Both stars far off from old styles. large selection of pants. Mod- “I remember the velvet dez (’19) said. rocked chokers and cut up sport Ashley Tisdale was anoth- els and social influencers have Juicy sweatsuits, chokers, and Men’s fashion also has shirts. Chokers are often tied to er child star known for setting been seen styling these distinc- crocs. Everyone wore crocs be- trends that stand out: spiky the 90s, but with the new decade, tween trends. Tisdale was one tive pants in recent fashion. cause ‘that was cool,’ [and] the hair, layered polos with popped they have progressed from the of the many celebrities pho- Even eyewear made a mark jibbitz were big,” Jessica Os- collars, bootcut jeans, and Ab- typical “tattoo chokers” to stud- tographed wearing fishnets on 2000s fashion highlights. troff (’18) said. ercrombie athletic club t-shirts. ded and decorative chokers. at Hollywood events in the Dated photos of Beyoncé show Crocs, the all-too famil- It seemed like every guy was These styles are reflected 2000s. The former Disney star her flaunting pink tinted avia- iar foam clogs that almost ev- on an athletic team, as they all in today’s fashions, as chokers styled them under shorts, just tor glasses, paired with pigtails eryone regrettably wore in the had it printed on their Aber- crombie t-shirts. Without debate, it is clear that low rise jeans are the style most symbolic of the 2000s. Fashion Icons of the 2000s Jeans were being made to fall as low as possible while still being counted as pants, and everyone was wearing them. With the high rise jean craze in today’s fashion, low rise jeans are completely outdated. “I would never wear low rise jeans again,” Alyssa Gua- diano (’19) said. People are still just as brand obsessed as they were in the 2000s, plastering “Su- preme” and “Nike” logos all Hilary Duff JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE over our wardrobe. We just con- sider these trends to be “styl- Beyonce ish” now, unlike the outfits we cringe at from less than twenty years ago.

Images courtesy of commons.wikimedia.orga org,ÁLFNUFRPÁLFNU FRP, coveraliacoveralia.com, com & pxherepxhere.com com. Front cover photo illustration by Sydnie Lesser / Contributor. Back cover photo illustration by Addison Magrath & Nicole Vantman / Print Executive Editor & Photographer. FEATURE 25 Colleagues by day, friends by night Taking a look at some of the most well-known Westhill staff friend groups

The Trivia-ers

One of the most recognizable core teacher friendships at Westhill is between Mrs. Grant, Ms. Tobin and Ms. Tintle. Though they have their main group, it offshoots to a larger group consisting of Mr. Pereira, Mrs. Brunner, Ms. Cahill, Ms. Begetis, Mr. Stone, Mr. Marchesani, Ms. Ochoa, Ms. Bunn, and many more. They generally spend their time together by going to dinner and brunch, as well as having barbecues. They also like to do fun activities like trivia night. “We do pretty well given we have a whole team of people who dedicated their lives to var- ied ˡelds of education.” Tobin said. ... They also celebrate birthdays together. “For Mr. Pereira’s birthday, ten of us did an escape room. We won the timed one which is the hardest. It was time-travel-themed and we had to @triviasquad The Westhill staff “supergroup” managed to escape one of the most challeng- cure the president. Only 20 percent of people solve it and we completed it with just six clues. ing escape rooms for Mr. Pereira’s birthday. Our teamwork was great, Grant said. Photo contributed by Ms.Tobin

The Math Squad

Our next group of teachers is made up entirely of math teachers and is commonly re- ferred to as the “math squad” by their students. Mrs. Ashkin, Mrs. Manning, Mrs. Khetan, Dr. O’Brien and Mrs. Manzino are a group who enjoy each other’s presence in and outside of school. “One of our best outings was a trip to New York City where we went out to lunch and saw a matinee show. Afterwards we went to Sephora to buy makeup, went to the top of the Mar- riot to drink martinis, and then went to Carmines for dinner,” Ashkin said. ... On less extravagant occasions The Math Squad likes to go out to dinner and see a movie. @mathandmartinis The “Math Squad” poses for a picture during an outing. Photo contributed by Mrs. Khetan

Jam Session

Our next group is composed of Mr. Pinsence, Mr. Wooley, Mr. Celsus and Mr. von Wahlde. The four teachers are all in the English department. Mr. Wooley, Mr. Pinsince and Mr. Celsus all work on music together as well. “With Mr. Pinsince it is more of a jam situation; Mr. Celsus and I record rap music together at least once a week during the summer,” Wooley said. Mr. von Wahlde says he is not very involved with the music production, but on occasion has assisted with lyricism. The group gets lunch at least three times a month, and over the ... summer get together for a barbecue and jam session. @whsteacherband The English department friend group poses for last year’s Purple and Gold day. Photo contributed by The Westword

The Superhero Duo

Our last pair is a fan favorite among underclassmen. Security guard Sean Segovia and health teacher Mr. Bertone are well-renowned for being best friends. In previous years, they could be found having lunch together in the courtyard on a nice day. Bertone says he appre- ciates Sean’s sense of humor, and is glad to have somebody to talk about superheroes with. “We see movies together sometimes. We saw Batman vs. Superman together. Then we talk about more movies in school,” Bertone said. ... @adminavengers Sean and Mr. Bertone pose for a picture together in the hallways of Westhill. Photo by Addison Magrath / Print Executive Editor Briefs by Samantha Hamilton / Staff Writer. FEATURE 26 ARPIL/MAY 2018 Spring allergy season at Westhill As allergy season comes into full swing, many students suffer with seasonal symptoms Devonte Atwell immune system tries to get rid of these sub- of coming into contact with your body, and to the nasal passageway in order to relieve Staff Writer stances by releasing histamine. This is when go outside after a rainy day when most of the congestion and swelling. symptoms begin to take effect. Symptoms pollen has washed up. Common allergy medications are Like the general population, Westhill from allergies often occur around the nose, Westhill students are dealing with their Zyrtek, Allegra, and others. Most allergy students are also prone to allergies. Allergies ears, eyes, and in the respiratory system. allergies throughout the school day, when medications can be given over the counter. Symptoms can cause pain in the ears, pollen is at its highest. Students rely on the are sensitive responses from the immune “For severe allergy sufferers like system to outside substances that come into runny and stuffy noses, sneezing, loss of nurse’s of¿ce for relief, or they can try head- myself, having to medicate for my symp- contact with your body. smell, red, itchy, or watery eyes, wheezing, ing to the health center at Westhill. toms as well as going to school is dif¿cult Pet dander, pollen, and bee venom are fatigue, coughing, and headaches. “We have around 25 kids come in ev- some of the most common allergens today. “Allergies will sometimes distract me eryday because of their allergies. There is not because my concentration is heavily im- As students come into Westhill, they from my work. When my eyes get very wa- much we can do besides give them ice,” Ms. paired.” Anissa Jahaj (’20), said. have a chance of bringing pollen and other tery, or my throat gets itchy, I start to worry Ferrero, school nurse, said. All information for this article was allergens with them that can affect other about that instead of school,” Divya Gada “During school, my allergies tend to provided by hopkinsmedcine.org. people around them and can cause allergic (’20) said. bother me in a few ways: itchy eyes, runny reactions. Seasonal allergies are less common dur- nose, and a headache. It makes it hard for me Allergies are the sixth leading cause of ing the winter. Trees are the primary culprit to concentrate, but I feel comfortable going illness in the United States, and affect more for allergies in the spring. Nearly ¿fty percent to the nurse’s of¿ce,” Olivia Berni (’19) than ¿fty million Americans each year. of Westhill students suffer from seasonal al- said. Allergies are mainly caused by the re- lergies. These students rely on medication to Antihistamines can be used as lease of pollen and other allergens in trees, get them through the school day. medicine to reduce sneezing, snifÀing, plants, and grass. When a person is allergic The pollen count is highest in between and itching by lowering the amount of to something, the body treats the substance 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. It is best to stay inside on a histamine in your body. Decongestants as harmful and attempts to destroy it. The windy day so that pollen has a smaller chance are used for shrinking the blood vessels in

Do you suffer from Yes No seasonal allergies? 49% 51% *Poll out of 115 students. Poll conducted by Zainab Jafri / Pollster. Graphic by Zac Kitay / Graphic Designer. Don’t Bully the Breed: Animal Testing Column by Kelly Fox

Imagine millions of inno- them. Also, the majority of the Unfortunately, this act does they are dangerous or ineffective can recreate organ functions. cent animals getting chemicals animals end up being euthanized not cover a great deal of the ani- according to PETA. In addition Furthermore, advanced com- constantly flung at them while if they survive the test according mals used for testing including to that, some things that harm puter programs can predict infor- being trapped in a cage. They to aboutanimaltesting.co.uk. fish, birds, mice, and rats. This animals do not harm people. For mation regarding products such may be trembling in fear or pull- This testing is done to virtu- means that the people conduct- example, when aspirin is used as the toxicity of substances. ing at their fur, waiting to be ex- ally any type of animal, including research can essentially do on animals it has a negative ef- Research through animals is perimented on. ing bunnies, monkeys, mice, whatever they want to these poor fect. However, aspirin aids in complicated. It can take months Animal testing is a contro- dogs and cats. Cosmetic test- creatures. These animals could relieving pain for many people. to plan the experiments and ana- versial subject that has spread ing usually places chemicals on easily become subject to star- Alternative testing meth- lyze the results. Additionally, it infuriation amongst many peo- the skin and eyes of the animal, vation, dehydration, pain, and ods now exist that can be used consumes an extensive amount ple. Different parts of the world where they could have all sorts countless other types of abuse. instead of harming animals. An of money, and can cost anywhere have diverse stances on this is- of reactions, causing them se- Animal testing can also be example of this is cell cultures from thousands to millions of sue. Europe has completely vere harm. ineffective, because animals do in a petri dish. This can predict dollars. In a study conducted by banned products made as a result The majority of creatures not have the exact same reaction results more effectively because PETA, it was discovered that a of cruelty, while China requires used for research are not protect- as people do. There are copious it is tested on human cells. total of 56.4 million dollars of animal testing for products. ed by the Animal Welfare Act amounts of cellular, anatomi- Artificial human skin can government funds were spent on Every year roughly 100 mil- (AWA). The AWA puts up regu- cal, and metabolic differences, display more accurate results. ineffective animal testing. lion animals die from this cruel lations to help improve the way which could make products that These are made from people’s People can help this cause treatment according to People that animals are treated. This act were deemed safe for animals skin cells and are typically by purchasing cruelty-free cos- for the Ethical Treatment of Ani- can prevent abuse and has aided ineffective on people. grown in test tubes. metic brands such as Becca, mals (PETA). The chemicals that a tremendous amount of animals In fact, 92 percent of experi- An additional non-cruelty Anastasia Beverly Hills, Hour- they are given have the potential involved in various industries, mental drugs that work for ani- alternative is micro fluidic chips, glass. to poison, blind, or even kill such as breeding. mals fail in human trials because which contains human cells and FEATURE APRIL/MAY 2018 27 FEATURE 28 APRIL/MAY 2018 Azure Time Converter: A student built app

Daniel Greco plication was no easy task. Managing Editor ³,WZDVKDUGWR¿QGWLPHWRGHGLFDWHWR making the app,” Zyskowski said. Publishing an application to the Apple The app took roughly three weeks of App Store is a rigorous, multi-step process. work. By committing as much time as pos- After the content developer has written all sible in-between schools and extracurricu- of the application’s code, which may take lars to the development, the app was cre- months of dedicated work, he or she must ated in a timely manner. submit it to the Apple Application Review The basis for creating this application system. This ensures that the application was Zyskowski’s own need to convert his is not malicious in nature and passes all of swim times, as he competes on the Chel- Apple’s application standards. If the appli- sea Piers Aquatic Club swim team. He felt cation makes it through this step, the devel- that the current implementations of this oper is able to publish it after agreeing to tool were too “clunky” and not very user- pay an annual 99 dollar fee to Apple. friendly. He then chose to create an appli- Throughout Westhill’s history, no indi- cation that was simple and practical. vidual student developer has published an Zyskowski acquired his skills in com- application to the App Store—that is, until puter science through taking the AP Com- .HYLQ=\VNRZVNL ¶ SXEOLVKHGKLV¿UVW puter Science course offered at Westhill. application Azure Time Converter. “AP Computer Science taught me the READY, SET, CONVERT Kevin Zyskowski demonstrates the use of Azure Time Converter. “The app is really just about convert- core principles of programming used every- Photo by Daniel Greco / Managing Editor. ing times between different pool lengths,” day by programmers, and really facilitated projects were made in another language to both the Xcode development environment Zyskowski said. the development process,” Zyskowski said. called “Swift” through the development as well as the Swift language for free on The idea is simple at its roots: enter After learning fundamentals with the pro- platform Xcode—both of which were cre- their website. your time, choose the units to convert to, gramming language Java, the young coder ated by Apple for the purpose of application Azure Time Converter is available on and press “Enter.” Though, writing this ap- began several small side projects. These development. Apple offers beginner guides the App Store for free today. 72 Hours: The Magic 8 Ball Column by Valerie Neyra & Jennifer Carias

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The ABBOT FAMILY (Left to Right): Millcent Simmonds, Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Noah Jupe, & Cade Woodward. Photos courtesy of Gettysburg Images North Ameria, Wikimedia Commons & Danny Acres Photography. LIMELIGHT 30 APRIL/MAY 2018 Westhill Winter Percussion takes center stage Audrey Molina is befriended by three monsters. skills, and a family. I would like Reporter Musical selections included to think we were successful on “Enter Sandman” by Metallica all three fronts.” Mr. Wyatt said. For members of the Wes- and “The Monster” by Eminem For snare player Noah thill Winter Percussion Ensem- featuring Rihanna. Schaffer (‘18) this year’s trip ble, hearing a booming voice The Westhill team was to Dayton was bittersweet. He announce teams over a micro- awarded first and second place knows he will never perform phone to a crowd of expectant at nearly every event they com- with this group of people again. listeners is nothing new. In fact, peted at this year. “Between the staff and my it is an average Saturday night Last month, they travelled peers, I have developed a com- for this group of dedicated mu- to Dayton, Ohio to compete in munity I will be able to hold sicians and performers. They the Winter Guard International onto for my entire life,” Schaf- work long hours on their show (WGI) World Championships fer said. to bring their best to each week- for the 11th consecutive year. The best part, for him, was CHAMPIONS :HVWKLOO·VSHUFXVVLRQWHDPDIWHUZLQQLQJWKH0$&FKDPSLRQVKLS ly competition. To this incredible group, the watching his peers develop into Photo by @westhillpercussion / Instagram. Winter Percussion, in short, grueling 11-hour bus ride to truly amazing performers and sion is confidence. At the begin- her sister Julia Brown (’19), a is a version of marching band in Ohio was a small price to pay people throughout the course ning of the year I could never cymbal player said. which percussion instruments for the opportunity to perform of the season. Because of these dream of doing something like Elizabeth played the little such as snares, bass drums, on an international stage. They experiences, Schaffer intends this… But I am honestly so girl who discovers monsters liv- cymbals, marimbas, drum kit, made it to the semi-final round to continue with music into col- happy I did because I learned so ing under her bed. She formed and many more play an extend- and nearly clinched a ticket to lege. much and had a lot of amazing a close bond with Helena and ed show in front of judges and finals, but just missed the finals Schaffer is not the only people to support me,” Dough- the other two monsters, Ashley audiences. The mobile instru- cutoff. one who feels this way. Hel- erty said. Cherres (’19) and Brianna Gib- ments march on a themed mat Band director Mr. Wyatt ena Dougherty (’21), who por- Even the youngest mem- son (’19). and often portray a story through cares less about the group’s trayed one of the monsters, says ber of the group, six-year-old As this year comes to an end, their performance. placement and more about what that the relationships she made Elizabeth Brown, was given the these performers look to the fu- This year, Westhill’s show his students get out of their time through the band program al- chance to shine. ture. They barely have any time was entitled The Monsters Un- in Winter Percussion. lowed her to be herself. “She was always so excited to mourn one season before a new der My Bed. It told the eerily de- “I want the students to gain “I think the biggest thing to go to rehearsal and was al- season begins and they must pick lightful story of a little girl who valuable life skills, musical I gained from Winter Percus- ways asking ‘When can I go?’” up their instruments anew. This month in hip-hop Column by Jude Ponthieu It has been a hot spring with keeping it New York with half of Cardi’s simple yet beautiful vo- many big name artists coming the features on the album being cals on this heartfelt track. SZA out of the blue with new releases New York natives. Artists such is featured on the final track “I and long awaited projects finally as Joey Bada$$, A$AP Twelvy, Do” as they go off for the boss making their way out into the Jadakiss, and Nyck Caution women out there. Other features market. continue to make the empire include Chance the Rapper and April kicked off with Fa- state shine in the album. Other his smooth, lyric packed flow as mous Dex’s debut trap rap al- features include Bun B, Dia, well as incomparable vocals on bum, Dex Meets Dexter, which Dave B, Portugal. The Man, and “Best Life.” Migos also makes dropped on April 6. The album, Denzel Curry. “YouAreMySun- an appearance on “Drip,” as well despite being trap oriented dif- shine” mourns the death of rap- as 21 Savage on previously refers from Rich the Kid’s hard- per A$AP Yams and the track leased track “Bartier Cardi,” and hitting album with more melodic “Facts” comes at the rap game. YG on “She Bad.” A lot of big hooks and beats. Dexter did not Big tracks off of the album in- tracks came out of this album have many features on the album clude “Vacation,” “Headstone,” but some tracks to highlight are besides Wiz Khalifa and Diplo, and “HELL-O”. “I Like It,” “I Do,” “Drip,” and as well as A$AP Rocky who was Continuing through April, “Best Life.” HARD HITTING &KLOGLVK*DPELQR·VDQG-&ROH·VQHZUHOHDVHVKDYHEHHQO\UL- FDOO\JURXQGEUHDNLQJDQGFXOWXUDOO\LQÁXHQWLDO featured on the previously re- the chart-topping female rap- Aside from all of the album ,PDJHVFRXUWHV\RIwikimediacommons.org leased track “Pick it Up.” The per Cardi B also dropped her releases, a lot of artists are mak- powering women throughout it. Illmatic and the rappers own per- lesser known group named Drax long awaited debut album Inva- ing returns with some singles. We can look forward to Drake’s sonal favorite. The song paints a Project was also featured on sion of Privacy. Cardi B did not Nicki Minaj has broke her si- “Scorpion” in the month of June picture of the ghettos of New York the track “Light,” where Dex’s hold back on her artistry on this lence dropping two new tracks along with Kanye West and Kid that he grew up in and speaks on vocals shine. Big tracks off the album, refusing to stick to her “Chun-Li” and “Barbie Tingz” Cudi collab “Kids See Ghost.” the mindstate of the many gang- album include “Japan,” “Pick it common trap genre and branch- with two exciting videos in an The hip hop world was sters he grew up around. The leg- Up,” and “DMD.” ing out to Spanish trap on “I Like attempt to maintain her throne as buzzing even before Kanye West end also has a new album coming The same day as Famous It” with features from Bad Bun- queen of the rap game. announced his list of upcoming out in the month of June as DJ Dex’s release, the Brooklyn ny, J Balvin, and Kehlani. Prior Childish Gambino’s “This projects. West is back in full Khaled tweeted out “Nas Album group Flatbush Zombies re- to dropping the album, Cardi is America” is also racking up force with a lot of controversy Done”. These past two months leased their second studio al- released the track “Be Careful.” major views as the video and its and a lot of new music to come. have been packed with heat, and bum, Vacation in Hell. The al- This track took a different ap- messages are being discussed all We wrap this up with our the month of May may still have bum is packed with witty lyrics proach from her usual hard trap over. Drake’s “Nice for what” throwback song of the month, more to come. It is exciting to see and hooks, fresh concepts, hard rap style and took shots at her last month was also breaking “N.Y. State of Mind” by Nas. This what the month of June and sum- hitting drums, and gritty vocals. fiance, Offset, who had cheated records, the video featuring a track is one of the many legend- mer have to hold for the world of The trio does not hold back on on her previously. We get to hear lot of female superstars and em- ary songs off of the classic album Hip-Hop. SCATTERBRAIN 31 De-Bunking common classroom myths

If a teacher does not come to class within 15 minutes you may leave without repercussions. If a teacher or student dies during an exam, the class One of the most popular myths at Westhill is that students are free to automatically gets a passing grade. leave a class if a teacher is at least 15 minutes late. The myth mostost A death in the classroom is a very unlikely event to happen, but students likely originates from college level education, where classes are lessss like to theorize and speculate the “what ifs” when it comes to testing. monitored and students are given more freedom. Despite widespreadad While it may be reassuring (in a way) to know what the school’s policies belief around school, this myth is undeniably false. There is nothing iinn on death are, in truth, staff and student deaths are handled on a case by Westhill policy that allows students to leave a class prior to its dismissalal case basis by the school both in and outside of the classroom. There is time. If the aforementioned situation were to happen, the most logicalal no end-all be-all policy on what happens to students if someone inside solution is to call over a security guard and they will contact the of¿ce the classroom falls ill or dies during an exam. If this does happen the requesting a substitute to watch over the class for the rest of the period.eriod. best course of action would be to call for help from another teacher, the This way attendance will be taken and anyone who stayed will get ccreditredit nurse, or an ambulance if things are really bad. and those who left will be marked absent.

Are school and prison food practically the same thing? &DIHWHULDVZHUHRQFHRI¿FLDOO\VHJUHJDWHGDV Students are always quick to complain about the quality of food that the “Black and White.” cafeteria serves up for lunch; some go as far as to say it is worse than Some students say the cafeterias were originally segregated, and the what is served to inmates. While there is no way to directly compare the nicknames “Black” and “White” originate from that. This myth was two, we can look at the objectives. According to the LA weekly, it costs started long ago. A former student of Westhill, James E. Tompkins Sr. 1.10 dollars per meal of prison food while according to the New York says that students have been calling the cafeterias those names before he Times, it costs about 2.72 dollars per meal of school food. School food started at Westhill in 1992. Westhill opened in 1972, almost two decades is also closely monitored by the government to make sure it complies after segregation was ended in schools by Brown vs. Board of Educa- with USDA health standards whereas prison food is regulated by the in- tion in 1954. The nicknames most likely originated from the students stitutions themselves, not the government. Taking this information into and have persisted out of habit, as they are no longer even relevant to account its safe to say that Westhill food is better than most prison food the current demographics of the cafeterias. across the country.

Briefs by Christian Rybalko / Staff Writer Photo courtesy of pixabay.com.

A special thank you to the Westhill High School Custodial and Security staff. The work you do does not go unnoticed.

The Darth in Darth Vader is just a variation of dark, while Vader means father in Dutch. Every second Apple makes $1997, Google makes $658, and Facebook makes $81. SCATTERBRAIN 32 APRIL/MAY 2018 Slay of the month: Jonathan Joseph

“My name is Jonathan Joseph and I am the Slay of the Month. Many things inspire my style. I love to take inspiration from everyone around me and from everything I see, then form it into my RZQVW\OH,OLNHWRWDNHSDUWVRIRXW¿WV,VHHRQ,QVWDJUDPPL[ them with my own ideas and make a whole new style. ³,WKLQNWKDWWKHZD\\RXGUHVVUHDOO\H[SUHVVHVWKHW\SHRI SHUVRQ\RXDUH7KHZD\,GUHVVLVKRZ,H[SUHVVP\VHOIDQGVKRZ a part of me that I cannot really show any other way. My favorite SLHFHVDUHÀDQQHOVYLQWDJHMDFNHWVDQGGLVWUHVVHGMHDQV7KHIDOO LVZKHQ,XVXDOO\ZHDUWKHPRVWÀDQQHOVEHFDXVHWKH\DUHXVXDOO\ FRORUIXODQGWKDWLVMXVWWKHSHUIHFWZHDWKHUWRJHWUHDOO\GUHVVHG up in. “Some of the stores that have good pieces of clothing are American Eagle, Zara, and H&M. These stores are on the afford- DEOH VLGH DQG SURYLGH SLHFHV WKDW FDQ JR ZLWK DOPRVW DQ\WKLQJ 7KHUHDUHVRPHSUHWW\GRSHSLHFHVWKDWFDQDOVREHWKULIWHGEXWLW LVYHU\UDUHWKDW\RXZRXOG¿QGDUHDOO\JRRGSLHFHDWDWKULIWVWRUH ³0RVWRIWKHFHOHEULWLHVWKDW,ORRNXSWRIDVKLRQZLVHDUH involved in music: A$ap Rocky, Travis Scott, and Khalid. I also IROORZDEXQFKRIIDVKLRQSDJHVRQ,QVWDJUDPWKDWLQVSLUHPHDQG KHOSPDNHP\LGHDVÀRZ6RPHSHRSOHRQ,QVWDJUDPWKDWKDYHD YHU\JRRGVHQVHRIVW\OHDUH/XND6DEEDWDQG0DUNHO:LOOLDPV ³0\DGYLFHFRQFHUQLQJIDVKLRQIRUJX\VLVGRQRWEHDIUDLG WRWU\QHZVW\OHVDQGJRIRUPRUHFUHDWLYHFRORUVEHFDXVHWKH\DUH ZKDWPDNHV\RXURXW¿WVSRSDQGORRNGLIIHUHQW7KHZD\\RXGUHVV LVDQH[WHQVLRQRI\RXUVHOI:KHQ\RX¿UVWPHHWVRPHRQHWKH¿UVW thing one looks at is the way you dress. Your manner of dress tells WKHPLI\RXFDUHDERXWKRZ\RXORRNDQGLI\RXDUHWDNLQJFDUH of yourself. ³0\VW\OHKDVFKDQJHGRYHUWKH\HDUVEHFDXVHRIWKHSHR- ple around me who give me tips and ideas of what I am doing wrong or what I am doing right. I am always open to suggestions to my style, that is why it has improved and why it will keep improving.” To Do This Month: May

May 17: Norwegian May 19: Armed May 31: World No Independence Day Forces Day Tobacco Day The day Norway inde- Appreciate those who A day to spread pendence began with the are currently serving to awareness of the signing of a new consti- protect the country. heath risks associ- tution with Sweden. ated with tobacco.

May 18: Haitian May 28: National Flag Day Burger Day The day Haiti de- This is a day to FLGHGRQDÁDJGH- praise one of the sign and celebrated most iconic foods in their independence America. from France.

Photo courtesy of pixels.com. The only countries in the world that do not sell Coca Cola are Cuba and North Korea. A banana is both a fruit and an herb. A tree cord of 128 cubic feet can make 90,000 sheets of paper. SCATTERBRAIN Spring Word Search APRIL/MAY 2018 33 Word List ANIMALS BLOOM BLOSSOM CAMPING FLOWERS GARDEN RAIN RAINBOW SPRING SUN VACATION WARM TREES BIRDS Sudoku

6295

78 How To Play: Fill the board so that 26471 each column, row and 1739 3x3 box has digits 1 97 135through 9 without any 91 repeats. Good luck! 47

3452 Puzzles courtesy of lakeshorelearning.com. & opensky.ca. It took the Apollo Mission three days to reach the moon. Hurricanes started to receive names in the 1950s. Birds bob their heads when they walk to stabilize their vision. The Westword Online - St (;35(667KH:RUOG·s B

www.Express.com/ArtBlog EXPRESS: Art blog OCTOBERNovember December JANUARY February MARCH APRIL

Rock Clapps (’20) #Trump, #Lemon, #Photoshop...

Victor Carias (’19) #Tesla, #Face, #Scientist...

Samantha Lucas (’19) Noah Cheruk (’18) #Shapes, #Hand... #Album Art, #Headphones... The Westword Online - St (;35(667KH:RUOG·s B

www.Express.com/ArtistOfTheMonth/TiaBlumenau Artist of the Month: Tia Blumenau OCTOBERNovember December JANUARY FEBrUARY MARCH APRIL

The Westword (TW): How would you describe your artistic style to others? Tia Blumenau (TB): My art is usually in cartoon form. TW: What is your favorite medium to work with? What would you like to work with in the future? TB: My favorite medium is markers. I would like to work more with paint and watercolors in the future. TW: What do you like to portray through your art? TB: I like to portray fantasy and wonder through my drawings and stories that I make. TW: +RZKDVDUWLQÀXHQFHG\RXUOLIH" TB,WKDVLQÀXHQFHGPHDORWEHFDXVHDWKHGHFLVLRQV,PDNHIRUWKHIX- ture are portrayed through [my] art and it helps me express my emotions. TW: :KRRUZKDWKDVLQVSLUHG\RXWRFUHDWHDUW"+RZGLG\RX¿QG this inspiration? TB: A lot of cartoons on TV like Steven Universe inspired my art, and different anime. TW: Is there a message you want to convey though your art? TB: A message I would like to convey is to not take things for granted and to live life in the moment. TW: Do you see an artistic career in your future? TB: Yeah, I hope so. TW: How do other people typically describe your art? TB3HRSOHGHVFULEHLWDVYHU\IXQDQGEULJKW TW: Do you have any advice for students interested in art? TB'RQRWJLYHXS*HWWKURXJKWKHDUWEORFNVEHFDXVH\RXDUHDOZD\V improving, even if it does not seem like it. 36 SPORTS Hosting at home Looking at what it takes to host a varsity sports game Chloe Giulini Student athletes spread the RIWKRVHIRXURI¿FHUVLQFOXGH:HV- “Most games will be sched- News Editor word about upcoming games, mak- thill’s own SROs. uled by the FCIAC league. They ing sure they can get as many of It is critical that both the play- determine the teams playing and the When it comes to hosting a var- their friends to join them at sport- ers and students remain safe, and the location. From there, it is a matter sity sports game, a lot goes on behind ing events. Thanks to the school’s event does not get out of hand. of communicating with custodians the scenes to make sure everything social media, it is easier than ever to “We are there to make sure that DQG RI¿FLDOV IRU KRPH JDPHV DQG runs smoothly and successfully. One spread the word. D¿JKWGRHVQRWEUHDNRXWDQGWKDW WKHEXVFRPSDQ\IRUDZD\JDPHV´ of the biggest undertakings in the Westhill has multiple sports that HYHU\WKLQJ UHPDLQV XQGHU FRQWURO´ Cerone said. process is scheduling and setting up attract a large crowd. On Thanksgiv- Wright continued. Another factor that goes into games. Everything from security to ing, the bleachers were packed with Some of the most dedicated the spectacle of a Westhill game is spreading the word must be handled a large portion of the school there people who make pre game prepara- the Purple Pack. The Purple Pack in advance of the big day. to support Westhill’s Football team tions are, of course, the students. is a group of students who attend Every morning, students are when they played against Stamford “Our team is very upbeat and games to show support. The pack MROWHG DZDNH LQ WKHLU ¿UVW SHULRG High School in football. positive. We are all so close. Be- cheers on the players from the classes by the morning announce- Students from both the compet- fore a game, we love to listen to stands, and they are willing to travel ments. The announcements are a ing schools and Westhill show up loud music on the bus or at home to away games to show their excite- helpful way of releasing all sorts of to watch a game, but they may not PDWFKHV´ WHQQLV SOD\HU 6DQMDQD PHQW7KHSOD\HUVFDQEHQH¿WIURP information, including the upcom- realize all the preparation it takes 1D\DN ¶ VDLG their schoolmates’ enthusiasm. ing game schedule. to host one. At each event, there “...we are trying to stay calm “Any game consists of a bunch The morning announcements is a routine followed to prevent or and relaxed before the game. We of people doing a lot of little things are a way to spread the word about LQWHUFHSW FRQÀLFW DQG LVVXHV WKDW get there early, shoot around and FRQWULEXWLQJ WR WKH ZKROH WHDP´ the games, and get students excited can arise. Westhill security guards, try to keep our nerves down if it is a Mr. DeVellis, girls basketball and for the team playing. If more peo- teachers, and Stamford police of- ELJJDPH´EDVNHWEDOOSOD\HU-DFN lacrosse coach, said. ple know about a game, there will ¿FHUVDOOZRUNWRJHWKHUWRNHHSWKH 6FKODFKWHQKDXIHQ ¶ VDLG At the end of the game, play- likely be more purple and gold in situation in the stands under control. In each sport, about half of the ers will board the bus and make the stands. “At a game or event, there games will be away. For the away their way back to Westhill. The next The school also has opened will be security at each door. There games, transportation has to be ar- morning, Mr. Pereira will get back on several social media accounts that are usually two to three security ranged there and back for all of the the speaker and announce the wins or spread the word about sports games guards at games, along with four players. All of this travel and organi- losses of the Westhill teams. Pereira on top of the regular announce- 6WDPIRUG 3ROLFH RI¿FHUV´ 1LFN zation falls into the hands of Mr. Ce- mentions the upcoming games, and ments. Wright, head of security, said. Two rone, the Westhill Athletic Director. the cycle starts all over again.

Graphic by Ryka ChandraRaj / Graphic Designer.

6th Peter Cernansky Memorial Golf Tournament, Dinner & Auction

Monday ... June 18, 2018

Rockrimmon Country Club

2949 Long Ridge Road, Stamford, CT 06903

Golf Tournament Dinner & Auction Proceeds support:

Play your own ball; shotgun start [Noon Sharp] All invited Westhill HS “Purple PACT” & Stamford HS “Knight Life”

Pistol Pete Trophies for men & women low gross Dinner & silent auction 5:15pm; open bar ends 8:00pm Stamford Public Education Foundation (SPEP) & Stamford Youth Foundation (SYF) Brunch/warm-up 10:30am to 11:55am; dinner follows See www.pcmgolf.org for ticketing/details/updates AthLife Foundation & Stamford Middle School Mentoring Initiative

Callari Auto Group:

Hole-In -One CaryPrizes Sponsor for the 6th year SPORTS APRIL/MAY 2018 37 Effect of rejection on athletes

Maria Mirafuentes cheer, I decided to not improve Staff Writer and try something else out. As a result of that, I found out that I At the turn of each sea- had a desire to play ¿eld hockey. son when sports tryouts come I made the team. Even though I around, many people put out failed at cheer, I found something their best in hopes of making a that I love,” Karla Servin (’19) team. However, no matter what said. level of experience one has, mak- Being inexperienced at a ing a team is not always guaran- sport is not the only reason some- teed. Whether it is poor grades one might not be able to play. If a not allowing for quali¿cation or student’s GPA is 2.0 or lower, they the coaches believe that one is will be kept from the team or put not ready or skilled enough, re- on academic probation. Some stu- jection is something that some dents regret their actions and wish athletes must deal with. they could have done more to ful- Not making the team be- ¿ll their goals. cause the coaches decide an ath- “I would try out again and lete is unprepared can cause one work on my grades because bas- to think that they will never be ketball is my passion” Brian Mar- good enough and can sometimes tin (’19) said when asked what he make them feel like they should would do if he failed off a team. not tryout the upcoming year. Overall, rejection is a painful, This negative outlook will yet also important, step to becom- not bring anyone success. Even ing good at anything. Of course it though rejection stings, the ef- wrong way can make one feel make the baseball team this past you,” Martinez said. stings, but that pain can help tell fects all depends on one’s out- ashamed about not being good year and took it as inspiration. Another positive way of the recipient a change is needed. A look. Rejection can be taken as enough and just not want to try “It gives you a certain inspi- looking at rejection is as an op- chance after rejection could mean motivation to practice everyday anymore. ration, to work harder and puts portunity to try something new. trying harder in the same ¿eld or and improve. Rejection taken the Noel Martinez (’18) did not a lot of things in perspective for “When I did not make it into trying something new. Photo illustration by Gabe Schmidt / Photographer. Dance team debuts at Westhill Shaira Sunbeam been dancing since they were kids, prospective member Naomi Julca kids soo they can express them-them- Reporter and have a passion for dance. (’18) said. selves throughhhrough dance,” AlexandeAlexanderr “They were amazing,” said The captains are looking for said whenhhen asked what inspiredinspired Westhill provides many op- Mrs. Sher-Kalter, the advisor to dancers who want to have fun and her to startttart ththee ddanceance tteam.eam. portunities to students in order to the Dance Club, and dance class can follow along with the choreog- Thee captains emphasized feed their interests and discover teacher said. raphy provided. The captains are the needd for potential club memem-m- new hobbies through after school Sher-Kalter elaborated on open to perform several varieties bers to be free-spirited and have programs. how great Alexander, Ortega, and of dance styles. the abilitylity to ‘let loose’. The Westhill is now offering a new Xy were at the talent show and One of these styles is hip-hop, trio claimsaims that a key trait addition to its long list of clubs as even promoted the video of them which is a type of dance that in- in beingnng able to shine on a dance team has been formed. Al- dancing. As an advisor to the club, volves quick, full-body, move- the dancennce Àoor is havinghaving though Westhill already offers a Sher-Kalter’s enthusiasm drives ments separated by brief pauses. enough enthusiasm dance class, this club is great for the Dance Team to be the best they The next style is Spanish, and characteraaracter to cap-cap- those who cannot ¿t a class into can be which is recognizable by its bold tivate thehhe audience.audience. their school schedule, or just want By talking with Principle Rin- and expressive movements. Sincennce it is a new to dance for fun with a passionate aldi and Mrs. Sher-Kalter, the trio The team’s third area of inter- club andnnd iiss ststillill be-be- group of students. The team will was able to establish the club of¿- est is contemporary dance, which ing putt together,together, there look to draw in both students who cially. Club meetings take place in combines the range of classic are not manymany funds putput already take part in dance, like the dance room after school. ballroom dancing with the speed into it yet. Nonethe-Nonethe- those who perform in the musicals Now that the club is estab- and full body movement of more less, thehe captains are or dance outside of school, and lished and has made itself known modern styles. determined.iined. ThroughThrough students who are new to the scene. through the posters hung up The team, however is wary fund-raising,aising, they hope The club was initially started around the school, students have of lyrical dancing, a type of cho- to be ableble to expand when Shauna Alexander (’19), been expressing interest. reography where dancers sync and growoow enoughenough Jessye Ortega (’19), and Janet Xy “I honestly believe that [the their movements to the rhythm of to enterer schoolschool (’19) performed at the talent show. dance team] is a great addition to the lyrics of a song instead of the competitionstitions The juniors enjoyed performing so our school, it is a way for students background music. as wellll aass much that they decided to form the to express their talents, and is a “My passion for dance made dance new club. All three captains have great way for them to stay active” me want to teach other talented shows.

Graphic by Nicholas Zarrilli / Managing Editor SPORTS 38 APRIL/MAY 2018 Butler up to bat

Leiny Otero summer and I have been playing tinue playing softball? Staff Writer on travel teams since I started soft- OB: The feeling of winning and en- ball, but this year I decided to take joying it with others, also learning Commitment is one qual- a break and have a free summer. how to put in effort and gain success ity that every athlete should have. One of my travel teams made it to full results. Olivia Butler has this quality in the World Series in Florida. TW: What do you like and dis- spades. Butler has been playing on TW: Do you have any routines or like about playing softball? the Westhill softball team since she pre-game rituals? OB: My favorite thing is getting was a freshman, and is now one of OB: My dad and I have had a into shape and working on the me- the captains for the team. Her hard handshake since I was younger so chanics so you know what you are work and commitment has landed I always do our handshake before GRLQJRQWKH¿HOG0\OHDVWIDYRU- her the female athlete of the month ,JRRXWRQWKH¿HOG:HDOVRKDYH ite thing is probably running. spot for this issue. The Westword a tribal dance that we do before TW: Do you play or take inter- sat down with her to talk about her every game where we make a beat est in any other sport? history with the sport and favorite and dance. OB: I do like playing volleyball softball experiences. TW: What is your proudest ath- but I wanted to focus more on one letic achievement? sport this season. The Westword (TW): How long OB: Placing Second Team All TW: What do you think are have you been playing softball? FCIAC for second base. your strengths in softball? Olivia Butler (OB): I have been TW: What is your favorite thing OB: I would say being able to playing softball since I was seven. about playing softball? play a lot of positions and being I played baseball originally in a OB: I get to spend time with my versatile. I am also good with boys league, but I wanted to gain IDYRULWHJLUOVRQDQGRIIWKH¿HOG hitting and not getting stressed / Olivia Butler more of a bond with my teammates and softball just brings everyone in the box. so I switched to softball. Plus, it is closer. TW: What do you think you more fast paced than baseball. TW: What has softball taught need to improve on? FOCUS Butler steps up to bat, one of her strong suits when it comes TW: Outside of school, do you you in life? OB: Adjusting to shortstop since to playing softball. play on any other softball teams? OB: How to communicate with oth- I have been playing second for Photo contributed by Olivia Butler / Contributor. OB: I did play on the Westhill ers and be a leader. two years. I also want to work on coaches travel team during the TW: What motivates you to con- my mental game. %UHQGDQEULQJVLWRQWKHÀHOG

Petra Ramirez crosse, but I started to take an inter- most fun part of playing lacrosse? Staff Writer est in the sport near the end of my BP: The most fun part of lacrosse junior year. would be my teammates, we get Though this season is Bren- TW: What or who inspired you along pretty well. Mechanics wise,

Athletes of the Month GDQ3LHUUH¶V¿UVWWLPHSOD\LQJOD- to start playing? the most fun part of the game is /

crosse, he has learned a lot thus BP: No one really inspired me. I playing with a stick, it separates far. To get a better look into how mostly did it for the comradery. I it from any other sport I have the Westhill senior has gotten such wanted to be a part of something played. Players use the head of the a strong start, The Westword sat special, to go out there with my lacrosse stick to carry, pass, catch, down with him and asked about teammates and give it all we have and shoot. his personal highlights playing together even if our record does not TW: Do you plan on continuing this year. UHDOO\UHÀHFWRXUHIIRUW lacrosse in college? TW: In what other capacities do BP: I will mostly like not continue The Westword (TW): What posi- you train or play lacrosse in plac- my lacrosse career in college. tion do you play? es other than at Westhill? TW: What do you do to prepare Brendan Pierre (BP): I play De- BP: I keep in shape by going to the yourself before your games? IHQVLYH0LG¿HOGHU,WLVDPXOWLIDF- gym during the season and getting BP: To prepare for a game we eted position, but our main job is to involved in other sports. I do a lot of usually shut off all the outside SUHYHQW DQ\ RIIHQVLYH PLG¿HOGHUV cardio in order to keep my stamina distractions and start to focus in Brendan Pierre Brendan from scoring and bring the ball up up and a bunch of calisthenics to pre- on our game, and of course we WKH¿HOGIRUWKHRIIHQFH vent any injuries during the season. blast some music. TW: What is the team’s record TW: What other sports do you TW: Describe a favorite game or for the season? play in your free time? series of plays from this year. BP: The team is currently one BP: I also enjoy playing football BP: The Trinity High School game and eight. and basketball in my free time, because beating a city rival always TW: When did you begin play- they are another way for me to stay feels good, but I am looking for- PROFICIENCY 3LHUUHSOD\LQJDV'HIHQVLYH0LGÀHOGHUDKLJKO\WDU- ing Lacrosse? in shape. ward to the Stamford High School geted spot by opposing teams. BP7KLVLVP\¿UVW\HDUSOD\LQJOD- TW: What do you think is the game coming up. Photo contributed by Brendan Pierre / Contributor. SPORTS APRIL/MAY 2018 39

MAY SPORTS CALENDAR

Week 1: 7-12 Week 2: 13-17 Week 3: 18-26 DATE: 11 DATE: 14 DATE: 18 EVENT: JV Softball EVENT: Varsity Girs Tennis EVENT: Freshman Boys Lacrosse OPPONENT: Darien OPPONENT: New Canaan OPPONENT: Stamford LOCATION: Away LOCATION: Home LOCATION: Home TIME: 4:00 P.M. TIME: 4:00 P.M. TIME: 5:00 P.M.

DATE: 11 DATE: 15 DATE: 22 EVENT: Varsity Boys Volleyball EVENT: Varsity Boys Lacrosse EVENT: Varsity Boys Volleyball OPPONENT: Staples OPPONENT: Brian McMahon OPPONENT: Kolbe Cathedral LOCATION: Away LOCATION: Home LOCATION: Home TIME: 4:00 P.M. TIME: 5:30 P.M. TIME: 5:30 P.M.

DATE: 12 DATE: 16 EVENT: Varsity Girls Lacrosse EVENT: Varsity Baseball Good luck to all of the OPPONENT: Fairfield Ludlowe OPPONENT: New Canaan Westhill Sports teams LOCATION: Home LOCATION: Away in FCIACS and States! TIME: 11:00 A.M. TIME: 4:00 P.M. 1RQ3URÀW2UJDQL]DWLRQ 863267$*(3$,' Permit Number 57 6WDPIRUG&RQQHFWLFXW

Athletes of the Month p. 38 / Evaluating what it takes to host a varsity sports game p. 37

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