he hieftain TMontville High School Oakdale ,C CT 06370 Issue #1 2015 Respect Yourself “All Lives Matter” By: Nina Costa Today’s world is very different than it ever has been. Technology now takes away from the simple idea of thinking before you act. Now, kids just do things out of impulse. This is where many problems are caused. But, it mainly comes down to self-respect. In this generation, self-respect is dwindling, especially in girls. The lack of self-esteem and self-respect mainly becomes an issue in the transition into high school. This is where girls are trying to find their places. The idea of being “accepted” by upperclassmen becomes a major concern for younger girls, and this puts them in a vulnerable state. More often than not, it results in girls doing almost anything older boys request, mainly Protesters in NYC. photo by: Becca Carroll involving sexting. But, this is where the question of self-respect comes into play. By: Stefanie Szot Why do the girls of this generation not The cases of Michael Brown and with the phrase, “Police lives matter!” and have enough self-respect to know they’re Eric Garner have widened the racial and say that both men were resisting arrest worth more than their bodies? Many may social gaps throughout the world. It is a which led to their demise; they focus say it’s just for attention or just due to how known fact that blacks and whites view on the fact that police officers risk their they were brought up, but it’s a bigger police in fundamentally different ways. lives every day and are bound to make problem than that. Jillian Porter, school A 2013 CNN and ORC International the wrong decisions eventually. They also psychologist at Montville High School, poll drives this home. The poll showed consider protests disrespectful to police says someone could be brought up in that 50% of whites think that police treat officers and put the police in danger; this a perfectly loving family and still have races equally while only 21% of blacks idea can be supported after the killings self-esteem issues. Porter pointed out that believed that. They also asked if the police of New York City police officers Rafael even if parents give their children all the in their communities were prejudice; 42% Ramos and Wenjian Liu. It’s obvious attention, love, and support they need, of minorities and only 17% of whites this is more than blacks versus whites; it going through one bad relationship could responded “most or some.” is also cops versus the public. Race has cause self-esteem issues. CNN broadcast journalist Tom found its way into a situation that it never This is an ongoing problem, but Foreman describes this debate like belonged in. really, it all comes down to awareness. a Rorschach inkblot test; people are Both sides are calling for change, Girls need to have a better mindset about looking at the same thing, but come to but neither will lead to revisions because themselves, they need to see that they different conclusions. There is one side it’s a problem that sits too close to home should want to be seen for more than their that is yelling, “Black lives matter!” and for them; it’s the people that have no bodies and their image. Self-respect is very when they look at the deaths of Brown opinion and live by the motto, “All lives important to have in this world. Without and Garner, they point their spotlight matter.” it, one will never feel good enough for on the fact that both men were unarmed anyone or anything. Looking into the and define the deaths as excessive force. future, if this issue isn’t resolved, it could They also think that protests will create a get increasingly worse for generations to positive change. The other side responds come.

Page 1 The Chieftain MHS SPORTS

The Health of Wrestling 5 x 5 = Futsal By: Gerald Aquino Futsal is a popular improvised game that has caught the attention of multiple MHS students. Futsal is a smaller version of soccer, and is often referred to as the “5-a-side game.” Although there isn’t a specific facility in CT for futsal, students manage to enjoy the game by playing with Southeast Soccer Club at UConn’s Avery Point. However, a group of soccer players recently discovered a new location that promotes futsal, the Norwich Alliance Church. The church includes a gymnasium that has proper boundary lines, and goals specifically designed for the small-sided game. MHS sophomore, Kyle Appicelli, talks about how he was able to become part of the action. “I heard from two Ian Concasia controls a Bacon wrestler. photo by: Alex Winakor friends on the MHS soccer team who play there all the time, and I figured I would By: Ryan Turney take a trip to the place to see what it was Lack of food brings him to his What advantage do you feel if you drop a like.” breaking point as he stresses to make weight class? Futsal began at the Norwich weight for his upcoming match. His If I didn’t drop a weight class, I feel Alliance Church when Brazilian Pastor hoodie weighs him down with his own like I wouldn’t do as well. In tough final Roberto opened the gym to the public. sweat as he drains himself of water and matches, and in the ones that matter, that Initially, there were no high school energy while his match creeps up behind weight difference is huge. I also do it for or youth players present as all teams him. This haunting scenario is a reality the benefit of the team. It’s better to have a consisted of adults. That would change for hundreds of wrestlers in the ECC and full lineup than to have me not lose weight when two students showed up to play, and around the country. Senior wrestler, Ian and wrestling at my natural size. from there on out, the church was available Concasia, shares his take on his wrestling for high school players. After Montville experiences throughout high school. Have you ever witnessed any specific became a regular participant of futsal at times where one of your teammates was the church, teams from New London High Do you feel that you have enough energy being unhealthy in how they lose weight? School, Norwich Free Academy, and Fitch before matches where you’re competing at Yes. I’ve seen people run in trash bags. High School have joined in and continue your highest level of ability? I’ve seen people throw up. I’ve seen to play. I definitely think that I have less energy people take laxatives a couple days before Futsal comes from Uruguay and than normal on match days because of their matches to get everything out of Brazil. It is known to have a unique sense the weight I have to cut. Being able to eat their body. of play, allowing players to get more before I wrestle helps, but only so much. creative with their passing, dribbling, With wrestlers desperate to reach their and shooting. In addition, endurance is Do you ever skip meals in a day? ideal weight class, health can be an issue. tested as players are constantly running. I don’t really skip meals, but I often don’t Unfortunately, in the name of winning and MHS Sophomore, Hunter Stepanian, have full ones. I’ll eat 1-2 times a day, but succeeding, these unhealthy practices will said, “I enjoy how much training I get they’ll be around a half of a normal meal probably remain in place. out of futsal. I’m building up endurance, each. dribbling skills, and changing my style of play. It’s great.” Page 2 The Chieftain

MHS SPORTS Snow Shovels and Running Spikes By: Van Heller Indoor track takes on a new angle institute a much more vigorous weight ride, with athletes already qualifying for for the 2014-15 season. There’s little program this winter, we’re really gonna states. Looks like Egan’s goal is looking ‘indoor’ when indoor track comes around [sic] concentrate on strength training, attainable this season. for MHS athletes. Daily occurrences are a give us a little break from the past.” Egan snow covered track, wind burn, and white pointed out during the interview how knuckles. With the usual school delays or this season’s team is very young and the cancelations that come with the sport, it’s focuses are that “there will be a lot of vital to get in as many practice days as learning, a lot of teaching going on.” He possible. Jumpers have to face the problem agreed that there will be a lot of older, of frozen sand pits which interfere with more experienced athletes teaching the their progress in the season. Some events newer athletes the ropes with MHS’s track don’t even get to be practiced because of program. these New England winters, but issues Egan was asked what he, as a could be resolved this year. coach, wants to accomplish this season, Indoor track head coach Timothy and he responded, “I would like very Egan said that practices will consist of at much to win the ECC (Eastern Conn. least 2 days in the weight room per week. Conference) for the small-medium Coach Egan explained how there will be division titles for both men and women changes in the strategies of this season this season… reasonable goal.” Well from prior seasons. “We are going to into the season it has been a successful photo by: Alex Winakor Remembering the Legacy of Stuart Scott By: Stefanie Szot A broadcasting chair at ESPN though the network and some viewers thought he had beat cancer, but it returned is open with the passing of 49-year-old pushed for refinement, he ignored them in 2011. He continued to fight it, but it Stuart Scott who fought a long battle with and stuck with his unique flair. Eventually, kept returning with more vengeance. No cancer, and it’s a spot that will never be all came to love his eccentric personality. matter how bad it got, Scott never asked filled again. Scott acted as the voice for Other hosts had catch phrases, but Scott’s the doctors what stage he was in because the new generation in broadcasting with words were more than that. Lines like, he wanted to experience life to its fullest his catchy phrases and soulful personality, “Just call him butter cuz he’s on a roll!” like everyone else. He never let his illness and ended up changing the boundaries and “Boo-yah!” have stuck for 2 decades define him. No matter how exhausted he of the industry. Because of his energized and will certainly last much longer. He felt, he continued to broadcast with just as attitude on camera, not many people were always kept his presence at ESPN, but much passion when the red light flashed aware of the battle he faced with cancer. expanded into other roles like the NBA on. He told the world in his ESPY speech, He was able to inspire many, and the finals. He also interviewed names as big after receiving the Jimmy V Perseverance world couldn’t help but collectively shed as Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan. Their Award, that what kept him going every a tear for the guy who was (in his own names stand small next to Scott’s though. day were his daughters. In that same words), “Cooler than the other side of the His life changed in Nov. 2007. speech, he shared some wise words and pillow.” He was covering the Steelers-Dolphin let everyone know that he lived his life the Scott started off on ESPN2 when game when he was rushed to the hospital way he wanted. He said, “When you die it was first created before switching over to have an emergency appendectomy. it does not mean that you lost to cancer. to ESPN. He went into the job knowing They found a tumor. Two surgeries and You beat cancer by how you live, why you how he wanted to present himself. Even months of chemotherapy later, Scott live, and in the manner in which you live.”

Page 3 The Chieftain ARTS AND CULTURE “Heaven is For Real” Joy’s Restaurant Book Review By: Catherine Furman and Staff Editor In November of 2010, the famous book “Heaven is For Real” was published. This novel has sold millions of copies worldwide and was loved by many. Readers call “Heaven is For Real” an inspiring story. The author, Todd Burpo, felt inspired to write the book after a traumatic accident had occurred to his son, Colton Burpo. When Colton was four years old, he had appendicitis (an inflammation of the appendix). If the appendix wasn’t treated soon, it would have burst. His case was very deadly and he needed to have an operation. After Colton had the surgery, he claimed he took a trip to Heaven. Colton’s story amazes readers, especially since he experienced this at Mexican food similar to that served at Joy’s Stock Photo such a young age. Burpo, being the father, wrote Colton’s story because he could By: Jordan Zeppieri tell his son’s events more accurately. Nestled on West Thames Street chimichangas will not disappoint! The Not many teenagers can remember what in Norwich, one will come across flautas are very delicate and savory along they did when they were four-years-old, an authentic Mexican and American with the pico de gallo which freshens it up. but Burpo was older and was able to restaurant, Joy’s Restaurant. Joy’s used The burritos are large and one definitely remember his son’s event exactly as they to have different ownership and before gets the biggest bang for their buck. The happened. there was no Mexican food. Now, with burritos are worth the trip alone and The beginning of “Heaven is For the Mexican introduced the restaurant is you will leave feeling full. My personal Real” has been said to be drag on. Burpo bringing in new customers. Before, Joy’s favorites however are the chimichangas. starts the story off by talking about the was like any old standard breakfast joint The crisp tortilla of the chimichanga is a family traveling and Colton having “the where you could find the same old people perfect hold for the tender beef and like flu.” The story becomes a page turner after drinking their coffee before sunrise. Now, with every authentic Mexican dish, are the surgery because that’s when exciting Joy’s is much more flavorful and vibrant served with rice and beans. events begin. The details and events while still keeping some of the old menu Customers that come to eat also that occurred were well written. While favorites. need something to quench their thirsts. some of the scenes tug at the readers For breakfast, the western omelet Joy’s carries an assortment of Jarritos emotionally, others simply drop their with home fries and toast is always to die Mexican sodas and if said customer has jaws; it’s those kinds of moods that make for. The egg engulfs the savory ham along never tried a Jarrito beverage then they the story interesting. Even though some of with the fresh green peppers and onions. must. Fans of strawberry flavors should the book fell flat, I thought “Heaven is For The home fries and buttery toast give a definitely give the strawberry Jarrito soda Real” was a good, easy read that is worth warm full feeling inside, once completed. a try taking the time to read. Joy’s pancakes are also worth the try. Leaving Joy’s I felt full, happy, The Burpo family has now Personally if one makes the trip and ready to fall asleep. Joy’s is a place written a second book called “Heaven to Joy’s no matter what time of day he where one will return again and again Changes Everything.” This is a sequel to or she needs to try some of the authentic after going for the first time. “Heaven is for Real” and tells the reader Mexican food. The flautas, burritos, and more information that wasn’t included in the first book. Page 4 The Chieftain ARTS AND CULTURE They Still Have It By: Ashley Kolasa and Staff Editor MHS students rose to their feet talented faculty members, and they all singing and they actually sounded good! whne the faculty band took the stage once love music.” It was amazing. The crowd went wild! again at the holiday concert. The teachers The faculty members aren’t I definatly can’t wait till next years in- Mr. Ventres, Mr. Cushing, Mr. Zyrilis, Mr. the only ones who get excited for their school concert.” Daly, Ms. Porter, Dr, Estep, Mrs. Brooks, performance. Every year, the students are Mrs. Delany, Mrs. Jimenez-Beltran, Mrs. surprised and entertained by the band. A Clark, Mrs. Castano, and Mrs. Patten MHS student, who preferred to be left performed a mix between the songs anonymous, said, “I really didn’t expect “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King and “Stay those teachers to be up there and singing. With Me” by Sam Smith. It was a surprise and different. I liked This is the third year that the it. Every year it gets better and better.” faculty has done the winter in-school That student continued, “Honestly, I concert. Mr. Cushing, who is in charge thought the whole in-school concert was of the faculty band and played the bass finished because we were just talking guitar and sang during the performance, and waiting for the bell to ring, but then enjoys putting together the band. When I saw the curtains open and some of the he was asked what makes playing in the teachers and Mr. Daly play the guitar and faculty band fun, he responded, “All the their instruments! I was like, Woah! And teachers get a chance to be a rock star then I saw the teachers and Mrs. Patten for a few minutes. We have some really come out dress in all white, and start photo by: Alex Winakor MLK Day of Service By: Gerald Aquino Martin Luther King (MLK) is recognized, it’s important to continue man on mission, and his mission was Day is a time for reflection about the MLK’s work in today’s society. equality. He didn’t use senseless violence, peacemaker’s actions during the Civil MLK Day is a chance to start or threatening demonstrations to get Rights Movement, and is celebrated on the year right by making an impact on a his message across, he used peaceful the third Monday in January. Now comes community. People leave their impact protesting. In the end, he was able to the question, how does one celebrate by creating lesson plans to educate ensure that all men are created equal. MLK MLK Day? According to the Corporation children, helping out at the local soup would continue to inspire his followers for National & Community Service, you kitchen, or simply going out of the way until 1968, where he would be cut down can celebrate it by simply answering a to make a difference in someone’s day. by an assassin’s bullet. his morals of question from MLK himself, “What are Many of today’s youth don’t understand peace, freedom, and equality would carry you doing for others?” The Corporation the significance of MLK Day. It’s an on with the next generation. Following states, “The MLK Day of Service is a opportunity to complete King’s vision of his assassination, the campaign to make a part of United We Serve, the President’s creating a better America, and a better federal holiday in MLK’s honor began. It national call to service initiative. It calls world. MHS Senior Julia McCarthy said, wasn’t until 1983 when President Ronald for Americans from all walks of life to “I feel like most of the people in our Reagan would sign the holiday into law. work together to provide solutions to our school don’t know why we get a day off According to www.infoplease.com, “A most pressing national problems.” MLK for MLK Day, they just take it for granted, number of states resisted celebrating the Day of Service is the official name of the and don’t appreciate the fact that schools holiday at first.” holiday. Although the public may have are giving us time to do what’s right.” different viewpoints on how the holiday Martin Luther King Jr. was a

Page 5 The Chieftain OPINION School Curriculum Private is not Private on a Teeter-totter By: Jordan Zeppieri Teens are careless when it comes to the internet and social media. Take Facebook for example, people have hundreds of “friends” that they do not even know. Montville High School students received a friend request on Facebook from Tim Smith. I, like many others, just unconsciously accepted the friend request and thought nothing of it. On December 22, the students of Montville High were introduced to Tim Smith. Tim Smith was a fake account created by Sergeant James Smith. Sergeant Smith exposed the activities of some fellow classmates. Some of the exploitations revealed consisted of students smoking marijuana, drinking alcohol, and playing drinking Struggling in class. photo by: Patrick Caron games. Sergeant Smith showed us that once something is put on the internet it is By: Van Heller really out there forever. Classes are organized unevenly in want if they don’t succeed the first time Some students felt that what school. You’ll see the kids who get by in around. In the real world, if you don’t Smith did was harsh and “uncalled for”. class every day by the skin of their teeth, work hard, you’re not going to succeed. I believe many students just do not want but never really seem to care, while in the Partial credit is an excuse for not failing to face the facts of how easy it is to be same class you’ll see kids striding right a kid, which could anger the student, but targeted online by a predator. It is eye- along feeling challenged, but successfully could also give that student a wake-up opening and feels somewhat intrusive. passing the course. The difference call. However, Sergeant Smith is doing his job between these two groups of students isn’t Every day there will be the kid by educating us and getting through to us something that is different, but rather it’s texting in the back, the student struggling that we, as a generation, need to be more something they have in common. These to find finished homework to copy off cautious with what we post. Personally, I students could retake assignments for full of, and the teacher still hasn’t entered am much happier that an authority figure credit. They could get credit for handing the classroom yet. Then, when class is was the one to “catfish” me rather than an in late homework that they didn’t hand in session, the students aren’t humans actual creep. in on the first day. How can you have a anymore, they’re little numbers in a grade The internet safety assembly was straight A student who participates well book, kids who are A students sit next beneficial. Everyone always hears about in class, and passes every paper handed to other kids who have A grades. The 2 someone getting “catfished” or deceived to teachers on time, with kids who are students may have the same grade, but over the internet, but it never seems to satisfied with average or below effort, one of them doesn’t retake a quiz once a happen to themselves or someone close doesn’t participate in class, and retakes a week to maintain it; doesn’t seem fair that to them. The assembly made it real for quiz or test 3 or 4 times just for a passing both students share the same prestige. many of us. Sergeant Smith showed three grade? Well it could happen. pictures of me during his presentation Students shouldn’t have retakes Interested in joining The and several pictures of my close friends. for full credit, nor given partial credit for Chieftain? I never thought that I or someone close late assignments. They should see that life See Mrs. Laurencot for to me would encounter an internet safety isn’t going to hand them the things they information problem. Instead of being agitated with Sergeant Smith we should be thankful. Page 6 The Chieftain OPINION Are Midterms Too Early? By: Catherine Furman and Staff Editor For 4 days, MHS students felt the would give students the chance to settle worries and then come back to start off a constant stress that come with midterms. down from break and start to regain whole new year. Now that testing is over, that pressure is focus which can’t be done in seven days. gone, but students still wish they were Teens all across the nation are full of given more time to prepare. Tests seemed stress year round due to the piles of work to arrive too early with the school only and the limited time given to them. The giving students a week after a long holiday stress level is raised even higher when break to get back into the studying mood. midterms arrive. There is always that fear I believe MHS students should of not passing and having grades drop, not have been given more than one week for getting enough sleep, or not being able preparation. The school expects students to socialize with the family because the to study during the break, but very few did; student is stuck in his/her room working. that time off from school is called “break” It is easier to study for two or three weeks for a reason. Especially as a freshman, rather than one, that way students are who has never taken a midterm or final, I not cramming all of their information, felt like one week wasn’t enough time to and that students actually understand the remember or understand my classes. material handed to them. If the midterms had to be in Another possible testing time January, they should have been scheduled could be right before break; with this, during the last week of the month. That students could take their time off with no photo by: Patrick Caron Motivation in High School Students By: Meagan McAdams It’s no secret that high school like in math class when someone always ways, whether it’s a coach screaming or students tend to lack motivation. When a asks “When am I going to use this is real getting a gold star on a test. However, teacher gives worksheets for homework life?” As naïve teenagers, we don’t always motivation is also very easily discouraged. on a subject that was beaten to death in see the benefits in everything that we have I think that what keeps some students class, students aren’t running home to to do, but when we don’t think that it’s unmotivated is grading and the honor roll, get it done. For students in college level beneficial at the time all motivation can which affect self-esteem. When students classes, motivation isn’t completely be lost. don’t get invited to the honor roll breakfast lacking, but what deters students from “Upwards of 40 percent of high or consistently have low grades, it creates doing homework the most is when it’s school students are chronically disengaged a cycle of having bad grades, feeling unnecessary. After we go over and practice from school, according to a 2003 National bad about themselves, and then being a certain subject in class, taking even more Research Council report on motivation less motivated to do the work. Students time after school to practice a concept we (Forbes.com).” Studies also show that sometimes need positive encouragement already understand is just monotonous the students who are disengaged, and to boost their self-esteem and give them and annoying. It’s difficult to motivate unmotivated have lower grades, and higher motivation. The problem is that yourself to do work when you don’t see a higher dropout rates. Students who do schools are discussing “how to test goal in it. Practicing skills we know we’ll have the motivation typically understand students, what they should learn, how need in the future or that we enjoy keep us concepts faster and better than those with to make their schools better, and how to interested enough to actually be inclined no motivation. evaluate and improve teachers, instead to do the work. Students have to be able to Motivation constantly needs to of…student motivation (Forbes.com)” see the end goal in what they’re doing. It’s be fed. Everyone is motivated in different

Page 7 The Chieftain LIFE Controversy Over Black Wolves Come to Montville “The Interview” By: Emma Baxter and Staff Editor After heated controversy with North Korea, Sony Pictures decided to release “The Interview” in theaters as well as online. Sony racked in $15 million in online purchases in only 4 days. On Dec. 16, hackers, who called themselves “Guardians of Peace,” threatened theaters with the message, “We will clearly show it to you at the very time and places ‘The Interview’ be shown, including the premiere, how bitter fate those who seek fun in terror should be doomed to…The world will be full of fear….” Seth Rogan and James Franco, the main actors in the movie playing the characters Aaron Rappaport and David Skylark, cancelled all interviews in fear of the threat. The New York premiere of New England Black Wolves. Photo By: Publicist, Jen Hildebrand the film was cancelled as well. Sony told theaters they would not cancel the release, By: Kyle Marsh but that owners could do what they felt Lacrosse has become one of Once the game started, the was best. Despite those comments, Sony the most played sports in the town of stadium erupted with the screams and pulled the film from theaters the next day. Montville in a matter of three years, with cheers from local fans. The Black Wolves “In light of the decision by the majority kids as young as 5 all the way up to high fell into a hole at the end of the first quarter of our exhibitors not to show the film school seniors joining. To top it all off, being down 4-2, but they battled back to “The Interview,” we have decided not to Montville is now home to its very own take a 6-5 lead by halftime. From there, move forward with the planned theatrical professional lacrosse team. New England never looked back. They release.” Rumors began to emerge that the This past summer, the Mohegan outscored Buffalo 6 to 3 in the second film would be released online. Sun made a deal with the owner of the half and cruised to a more than satisfying On Dec. 23, Sony announced Philadelphia Wings to bring the team to 12 to 8 victory in their first game in their that the film would have a short release the Mohegan Sun. The team has changed new home town. Kyle Buchanan and in theaters on Christmas day. 331 theaters its name to the New England Black Patrick Saunders lead the attack for New participated in the showing. The next day, Wolves and has started playing at the England, having three goals apiece. Evan Sony said they would allow viewers to Mohegan Sun Arena. Kirk had a stellar performance in goal with rent and purchase “The Interview” online. On Jan. 2, the Black Wolves 50 saves. Kevin Crowley (two), Quinn Sony stated that they do not mean to start hosted the Buffalo Bandits in their first Powless (one), Brett Manney (one), and releasing more films online; this film was game of their inaugural season. Montville Kevin Buchanan (one) also scored for the an exception. lacrosse has helped the team by choosing Black Wolves. After its release, North Korea’s eight players from the high school boys’ The Black Wolves are now 2-0 National Defense Commission issued a team to be ball boys for their home games. with a 17-7 win over Rochester. The next statement denouncing Sony. They also The pregame festivities were full of chance to support the team is Jan. 24 titled President Barak Obama the “chief excitement and anticipation. They began against Minnesota. culprit” in the release of the film; they with a traditional song and dance by the believe he “indiscriminately distribute” Mohegan tribe members. Pyrotechnics the picture and said, “Obama always goes went off during the team introductions. reckless in words and deeds like a monkey in a tropical forest.” Page 8 The Chieftain LIFE MHS Hall of Fame By: Isabel Orbe Montville’s athletic programs March 6 and the first class of inductees athletes like the Hall of Fame, hopefully are a major source of pride for Montville will be announced on March 29. An MHS can build its spirit and pride in order students, and now star athletes and area adjacent to the MHS gymnasium to remain a tight community. coaches can be nominated and inducted will be dedicated to recognizing these into MHS’s Athletic Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame inductees. The decision of Hall of Fame allows athletes and coaches who will be inducted falls to a special to be honored and remembered for their committee consisting of at least 5 people, accomplishments and contributions to 1 chairman, and must be approved by the MHS’s athletics. Administrators also MHS principal. hope the Hall of Fame will provide a Some prominent athletes better sense of community and pride in have already been honored for their Montville. achievements in MHS sports. Mr. Delaney, Anyone can nominate an ex the MHS Boys’ Soccer head coach, player, coach, or supporter/contributor framed and retired 2 jerseys at the end of of Montville’s athletics via the Montville this year’s season. These newly retired Schools’ website. In order to be eligible, jerseys, Anthony Occhialini’s number 1 the nominee must have graduated MHS and Tyler Leeman’s number 7, symbolize 10 years prior to the nomination or a Occhialini’s and Leeman’s hard work and coach must have coached for at least 10 dedication to the soccer program. years. The deadline for applications is With more ways to recognize star photo by: Michael Lopez Trial Begins for Boston Bomber By: Kyle Marsh The Boston bombings were stated that they have had adequate time to over to escape. The police then went on a tragedy that were heard worldwide. prepare for the trial. They did, however, a manhunt for Tsarnaev with thousands Dzhokar Tsarnaev, a 21-year-old from agree to push it back from the previously of officers searching a 20 block radius. Kyrgyzstan who was suspected to have scheduled date of November 2014. The During this vast search most businesses committed the act on April 15, 2013, has defense has tried to portray Tamerlan and public transportation companies were begun his trial. Tsarnaev is facing more Tsarnaev as an influential older brother closed. Once people were allowed back than 30 charges and may receive the death who pressured Dzhokar to take part in the out of their homes, a man found Tsarnaev penalty if convicted. bombings. hiding out in a boat in his back yard. The trial has begun by Dzhokar and his brother Tamerlan When interrogated, Tsarnaev admitted to selecting a jury for the case. A judge has Tsarnaev were seen on camera carrying everything and claimed that his brother excused 124 potential jury members from backpacks and “reacted differently” was the “mastermind.” He stated that they a group of 400. Lawyers for Tsarnaev and walked away “casually” rather than were self-radicalized and learned how to have requested to postpone the trial due to fleeing, according to the FBI. The blast make home-made bombs from an online being overwhelmed by the thousands of killed 3 people and injured more than magazine from a Yemen based affiliate documents that they have been presented 260. Just after the bombs went off, the of Al Qaeda. He was indicted with 30 with. They reasoned that, “To commence brothers allegedly killed an MIT officer, charges including use of weapons of mass trial as scheduled on Jan. 5 would threaten stole an SUV, and got into a shootout with destruction, and the shooting of an MIT both the fairness and finality of the local police in Watertown, Ma. During officer. proceedings.” The federal prosecutor did the shootout, Tamerlan was shot and not respond to the defense’s plea but have killed, and Dzhokar proceeded to run him

Page 9 The Chieftain MHS NEWS MHS Impresses Palmer Students Find Their Nirvana AP Board By: Isabel Orbe Montville was 1 of 547 school districts from the U.S. and Canada to be included on the 5th Annual AP District Honor Roll. This list represents the districts that are committed to expanding the availability and success in AP courses for all high school students. This is a tremendous accomplishment for Montville schools and positively reflects on the hardworking students. In order to be considered for this award, schools are examined for a 3 year period and the Advanced Placement (AP) Board looks for an increasing percent of students earning a 3 or better on the AP exam. A score of 3 or better is a passing score. In addition, the AP Board looks A student practices yoga at Palmer Academy. photo by Michael Lopez for an increasing percent of students taking AP classes in high school. Large By: Ashley Weekly school districts must increase by at least Every morning at Palmer abilities of a student. 4 percent; medium districts must increase Academy, Mr. Lilienthal teaches yoga to Mr. Lilienthal said, “My favorite by at least 6 percent; and small districts any students, teachers, and other staff that part about teaching yoga comes at the must increase by at least 11 percent. would like to participate. It is used to calm end of class when everyone is rolling up The last piece of criteria is schools down the students before the day starts, their mats and putting away the blocks must increase or maintain the percentage and to provide a stress-free environment. and straps we used. Everyone is much of exams taken by African-American, Mr. Lilienthal commented, “Research has more centered, self-aware, and in a better Hispanic, and American Indian students. shown that a regular yoga practice reduces mood than when they first walked in to the It is important to the AP Board that stress and anxiety in high school students. building.” Schools across America have schools broaden the student spectrum and We practice breathing exercises which added yoga as an option to their physical offer more opportunities to earn college increase students’ awareness of their own education curriculum. Some school credit in high school to all students. emotions which enables them to be less districts even offer it in the elementary Montville School District is also 1 reactive to stressors during their day.” and middle schools. “I think every of 13 Connecticut schools to make the AP The yoga classes are a great school should have some sort of yoga District Honor Roll. Other Connecticut success at Palmer Academy. Although program available to students, teachers school districts on the list include East some students are against it, most love and everyone involved in a school Granby, Fairfield, Newington, and yoga after trying it out for the first time. environment. I believe we will see more Greenwich. According to Mr. Lilienthal, “Students and more schools incorporating yoga into This award recognizes the number have reported feeling calmer, less reactive, their days,” said Mr. Lilienthal. Palmer of hours both students and teachers put and have better mental focus during their Academy’s yoga program has helped a into their work and they are rightfully classes.” In a 2012 study performed by lot of students control their actions and honored. Now that this goal has been the International Society for Scientific moods; with this much positive feedback, accomplished, Montville looks forward to Interdisciplinary Yoga Research, the the program will definitely continue. maintaining or increasing the percentages results proved that routine yoga activities in order to remain on the AP District improve concentration and academic Honor Roll in the upcoming year.

Page 10 The Chieftain MHS NEWS Humans of MHS: Anna Zhuang By: Michael Lopez What started your interest in lifting? Has lifting changed you in any way? Well first, I wanted to get big so I asked It’s made me a better person and taught Mr. Alves what I needed to do. And then me how to be committed and responsible he was like, “you can’t, you wouldn’t be and dedicated. Give everything your best dedicated enough,” and so that’s when I (that’s what I’ve been taught). I’m going started going to the gym every single day. to keep up getting big throughout college. I wanted to prove him wrong. Do any family members or friends lift When did you start lifting? weights? I started lifting seriously at the beginning I’m the only one in my family that does of junior year. I’ve been lifting on a this. All of my friends do track, basketball, regular basis ever since then, and plan on and actual sports and I’m not coordinated, lifting throughout the rest of my life. so that’s why I decided to start lifting. I see the same amount of dedication I have Are you going to get into anything serious within student athletes around MHS. I with physical education or lifting? wouldn’t consider myself an athlete at No. I am just going to do it for myself, for Montville High School though, because my own personal gain. I’m not on a specific team.

photo by: Michael Lopez The Ugliest Race of Them All By: Ryan Turney and Staff Editor Ugly sweaters and winter hats winter hat, a draw-string bag, unlimited adopting the Save the Children foundation littered the streets of Hartford at its 2nd hot chocolate throughout the race, and into their efforts to make the holiday annual Ugly Sweater Run. This 5k event one alcoholic beverage (for those of age). season a better place for those in need. The has been a big success in the two years it This run is becoming a theme around the “Make the World Better with a Sweater” has been running, and it seems to bring country with it occurring in cities like motto is ringing loudly, with famous sites more excitement and cheer with every New York City, Boston, and Denver. It sold out in a matter of weeks. A very passing holiday season. Among the seems like everyone wants a piece of the simple, yet cheerful event like this, has participants who ran Dec. 6 were MHS action due to the sheer size of each event the chance to change the lives of so many students Van Heller, Susan Fitzgerald, as it gets bigger each year. children and families and has appeared to Caleb Sheldon, and Josh Anderson. This family-friendly event isn’t have done that. Fitzgerald said, “It was fun to be a part of just meant to spread holiday cheer and Not all are able to attend races, something really big. I think it would be to give people the chance to come out but Human Movement, the company really fun if Montville took place in the of winter dormancy. It also benefits the that created the Ugly Sweater Run, still race or even had one of our own. I think Save the Children foundation, which is encourages people to raise awareness everyone should do an Ugly Sweater a “nonprofit that gives humanitarian aid for the Save the Children foundation 5k at some point in their lives.” Many to youth in the U.S. and abroad” (The by creating or buying an ugly sweater participants entered the race for the fun of Hartford Courant). All over the country, and wearing it throughout the holiday it, and barely any were in it for the actual the Ugly Sweater Run is focusing on the season. People can also donate all race aspect of the run. Upon entering “’fun’ in fundraising” (according to the year round by going onto their website the race, participants receive a vintage official Ugly Sweater Run website) by theuglysweaterrun.com.

Page 11 The Chieftain THE BACK PAGE Guess the Teacher By: Helena Sun Last issue’s Guess the Teacher caught one.” His dream destination is the stackable, linear and can store things.” His was Mrs. Glover, a history teacher. This Yellowstone River or Missouri River. His perfect chair would recline, have a built issue’s teacher uses the brand LA Looks first girlfriend had red hair. The worst in refrigerated compartment, cup holder, for his hair gel. If he could invent a color gift he has ever received was a tight shirt laser canon, and be able to fly. If he had to name, it would be “brook trout orange,” his mother got him around ten years ago. be a circus animal, he would be a tiger. characterized as a very bright orange. He “It was a shirt you would see a guy from believes people are born both good and Jersey Shore wear.” His favorite show is evil, but over time, people lean towards The Walking Dead. His guilty pleasure one way or another. The web browser he is tortilla chips with queso dip. If given uses is Internet Explorer. He uses Yahoo! the choice to go back to the 20s, 50s, 70s as his search engine. He does not like or 80s as a teenager, he would pick the going out to breakfast because it kills the 50s. He prefers silver over gold, but he day and he says he can make anything doesn’t “really care.” He would rather be they make. His favorite cartoon character Batman than Sherlock Holmes because of is Bugs Bunny (the old one). His favorite the “cool gadgets.” His biggest pet peeve hobby is fly-fishing. “[Fishing] is like is excessive smart phone use, which he playing peekaboo with a baby. Babies claims is “the number one productivity get excited every time you do it like it’s killer of the 21st century.” He has never the first time every time. When I catch done a crossword puzzle in his life. His a fish, it’s like it’s the first time Iever favorite shape is a cube because it is “neat, A clue to the teacher’s identity Photo by: Taylor Montminy Stephen Colbert Signing Off By: Van Heller Earlier this year, Stephen Colbert in a way where the public could see the making his viewers laugh at his political announced that this season will be the positive aspects of the program. shtick for nearly a decade. He started out finale of The Colbert Report. As the In the interview that came later as a correspondent on the Daily Show episodes are winding down, Colbert has in the show, Colbert asked, “Are you still with John Stewart reporting national news exceeded his material with fresh ideas to President after the midterms?” referring to in a soft toned humoristic way. Then, in keep the show at its peak performance the Republican sweep of the last midterm 2005, Colbert decided to air his own show this season. For instance, Colbert went elections. Obama responded, “…The creating a friendly competition with the down to Washington D.C. for a one night election didn’t go as I would like… but Daily Show. Colbert has been playing his only show with guest President Barack as President, the only office where you’re character as the intense conservative lead Obama. The show started with Colbert’s elected by people all across the country, anchor trying to the best all-American signature openers and his usual approach you still got a lot of responsibilities, and person he can be by using the devil’s to the “nation,” until President Obama my intentions for the next 2 years… to advocate technique to get his point across interrupted him and started hosting the help working families, to get ahead, to get to his viewers. He’s also had artists, show without Colbert. Obama changed young people get into college.” Colbert authors, actors, musicians, and politicians one of the show’s segments from The ended the interview with the President by interviewed on his show making it a must Wørd to The Deȼree and spoke about asking, “Last question sir, Barack Obama, watch for the latest in pop culture and current issues as if he was Colbert on the great president or the greatest president?” politics; his viewers have been eating it show. Obama took shots about himself Obama answered with a humble statement, up for 9 years. After this season, Colbert with some issues he’s faced in the past. “I’ll leave that one alone Stephen.” plans to become the new host on The Late He spoke about ObamaCare’s flaws, but Colbert has been satirically Show which airs this upcoming summer.

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