The Postscript November 26, 2013 The Park School of Baltimore | 2425 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 Volume 74 Issue No.3

In the Heights, the theater dept.’s fall production, drew on a wide variety of student talent, spicing up a typical musical with a unique cultural twist. J. Walker ’14 as Usnavi leads the opening number (above); seniors G. Reamer as Carla and R. Shapiro as Daniela gossip in their local salon. ‘Heights’ cooks up a bit of Latin flavor by Baylor Knobloch ’14 and a front stoop. “There is an actual intersection in Washington Heights What would you do with $96,000? This is the question that this set is specifically modeled off of,” said Drew that a group of neighbors faces in Lin-Manuel Miranda Himmelrich ’14, who has impressively taken on the roles and Quiara Aelgría Hudes’s Broadway musical In the of stage manager, lighting designer, and set designer, photos by B. Knobloch ’14 Heights, a story of power outages, coffee with cream, jobs which are typically filled by three different people. Along with the music are dance numbers, of which gossip sessions, fireworks, and young love. “That’s never happened before,” set design teacher John there are many. “The show is unique because there is so The story takes place over the course of three days Trout said of Himmelrich’s ambition. “Physically, in much student choreography,” co-choreographer Rebecca on a single city intersection in Washington Heights, NY. terms of space and height, it’s the largest set we’ve done Shapiro ’14 said. Shapiro and Elana Liebow-Feeser ’14 But everything gets turned upside down when Abuela in my time here.” got right down to work in the summer, when they took Claudia finds herself with the winning lottery ticket, and During the show, the barrio intersection bustles with classes in salsa, Zumba, and reggaeton, a Latin-style getting out of Washington Heights is suddenly closer hip-hop face-offs, Caribbean flair, sexual tension, Span- hip-hop. than ever before. ish slang, and fiery club dancing. Making the magic hap- “Rebecca and Elana had the energy from the summer,” Casually referred to as the barrio (Spanish for “neigh- pen down in the orchestra pit is US music teacher Adele said MS Spanish teacher Di Bobrow, a native Puerto borhood”), Washington Heights is a predominantly La- Dinerstein on keyboard, MS music teacher Maeve Royce Rican who worked with the cast as a cultural coach, tino area north of Harlem, where Spanglish is the norm on bass, student guitarists Baird Acheson ’15 and Evan weighing in on accents, attitudes, and dance moves. Full and the streets corners are never quiet. The theater’s Semenza ’14, and a host of musicians brought in from of hip thrusts, high claps, lingering eyes, and tapping feet, stage was entirely transformed into an urban intersec- outside of school. “This show is a good 80% music— the ensemble dances don’t disappoint. tion, marked by a salon, a corner store, a car service, maybe even more,” Dinerstein said. Heights continued p. 7 Hunting bravely through a ‘wilderness of books’ by Phillip Merrick ‘15 a Wall of Fame for successful O-Rama mascot, the cat: stalk with a paw-print stamp. Good children and say, ‘Now, you must browsers. On their visits to the slowly and quietly through the browsing behavior is “when do this, and you must do that’— Lamenting the loss of the art library, Lower School classes bookshelves, pounce on and ex- kids feel successful about being it’s like telling them to eat their of browsing, the Lower School enjoy special exercises in which plore books that look good, and brave and exploring the different vegetables.” library has launched a new initia- they learn skills like taking time finally curl up and purr with the books,” George said, “because The Browse-O-Rama isn’t tive to get it back. The Browse- to really look through a book or right book. The Browse-O-Ra- it’s hard to go in there and face exclusive to the Lower School; O-Rama, begun this month, is an how to properly judge a book by ma motto is: “Sink your claws a shelf of books and not know parents, faculty, and older stu- effort by librarians Laura Schlitz its cover. into the best book you’ve never how to go about finding them.” dents are all encouraged to get and Twig George to teach young “The art of browsing,” said read!” So why such a big fuss? “We in on the action. students how to find the right li- Schlitz, the librarian for grades When children exhibit good thought we should do this in as In a letter to Lower School brary book, and it’s a big deal. 3-5, “has to do with being able browsing behavior, they are re- silly a way as we can,” Schlitz parents, Schlitz and George Lasting until the end of No- to go into a kind of wilderness warded with face paint on their said, “because what we’re af- urged them to “model browsing vember, or maybe longer, this of books and find the one that eyebrows (so they can say, “I ter is something that I think is behaviors. Tell your child how event is complete with book- you want.” Children are encour- browse!”), or get to sign their important, but the last thing we you pick your books. Do some marks, stamps, face paint, and aged to behave like the Browse- name on the Wall of Fame along want is to stand up in front of side-by-side browsing.” Browsing continued p. 5

Lower School Librarian Twig George guides second graders through a lesson in judging a book by its cov- er during the month-long Browse-o-Rama. The new initiative, created by George and Librarian Laura Schlitz, is an effort to spark brows- ing behavior in children.

photos by S. Weintraub Editorial The Postscript, November 26, 2013 2 Spotlight on Drew We don’t normally do this. We don’t “That was my beach book.” normally use this space to talk about a And if that’s not enough to melt your specific person, to paint a picture of praise heart, then consider a day in the life: Drew or sing a sweet serenade. started designing the set this past summer, But Park doesn’t normally have a kid when he and John Trout exchanged count- like Drew Himmelrich ’14. less emails of Google sketches. “I work This issue, the editorial staff was tied for Drew right now,” Trout said. “I’ve up with In the Heights—an interlude that gotten used to it over the past two years.” we like to think of as a passionate, roman- Starting off the year with a vision for tic affair in the midst of our marriage to the set, Drew got down to work on every- the paper. No matter how late we were thing Heights. He used his independent at school, running back and forth between study, a science concentration in statics cartoon by Jessie Lamworth ’14 the publications office and the theater, the and suspension, to engineer the functional tech crew always stayed later. It was nice fire escape used in the show, and his free Letters to the editors to have another group to go visit, their block to perfect the set. company making the dark halls a little During the musical’s in-school class, ‘Rightsizing’ affects more than classroom teachers less daunting, and the pizza dinners a little he worked as the production’s manager, specialists, thus impacting their full-time more entertaining. keeping student actors in the loop and giv- Thank you for the coverage in the employment. Drew, their fearless leader, was more ing his input to director Peter King and November 8 Postscript of the issues The administration has made efforts to involved in the show than any of us can music director Adele Dinerstein, putting concerning the Lower School and “right- continue to offer full-time status by allow- imagine. Every day we are amazed at how his beach book knowledge into action. sizing.” Although your coverage was ing specialists affected by “right-sizing” much he does. Yes, there are the titles: After school, Drew attended the daily quite good, you failed to point out the to teach cross-divisionally. This has not set designer, lighting designer, and stage afternoon rehearsals, calling out scene impact of the reduction of classes on the always resolved the problem. manager—roles that are usually given to numbers and keeping everyone in line, full-time status of lower elementary teach- Next year the impact of the reduction three different people, entailing an absurd all while programming the show’s lights ers in special areas of music and visual of class sizes reaches 4th grade (most amount of work. and overseeing the set’s construction. art. I am unsure of the effect on sched- likely) affecting the upper elementary But more notable is his personal invest- After leaving school, the production ules of the other special areas—Spanish, specialists’ schedules. ment in the show, his passion for the pro- didn’t end for him—in his “free” time, PE, and library. As the number of classes duction and obsession with every single he updated a website that highlights the at each grade level has decreased, so has —Bruce Bryant, Lower School Music aspect of it. “If I could say anything to process of the school’s production of the the contact time for the lower elementary Lin-Manuel Miranda, I would tell him show. to talk to Drew because he is obsessed Drew, you have reached new heights, with the show,” ensemble member Josh and we couldn’t stand the thought of your The sports field is preparation for success in life Schwartz ’14 said. not taking a bow on stage. So here is your I am responding to the October 2, 2013 These same keys to success for team “I don’t know if stage managers usu- spotlight of sorts, with the editorial staff Letter to the Editor entitled, “A Sports sports apply equally in the real world. ally do this, but over the summer I read a giving you a standing ovation. You de- Field is Not a Classroom.” The letter mis- When I am not coaching the Boys’ JV book about stage-managing,” Drew said. serve it. states a fundamental component of the Soccer team, I am a trial lawyer who rep- educational goals embedded in our Park resents physicians and hospitals in medi- The Postscript community. Contrary to the unfortunate cal malpractice cases. Defending these title and sentiment expressed therein, the cases is a team effort. First, we spend The Park Sc hool o f Baltimore athletic field is the most important class- hours researching and reading to define 2425 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 room a student will enter, and one where our defense themes. Next, I work with Tel. 410-339-7070 they learn many of the invaluable lessons other attorneys to determine which themes Parkschool.net/news/postscript necessary to succeed in life. (This sen- work best, and then prepare our witnesses November 26, 2013 timent applies to other group activities, to express these themes. Finally, I de- Volume 74|Issue No. 3 such as theater or the debate team, but I termine who is best suited to tackle each Editors-in-Chief limited my comments to team sports only.) specific component of the case. I can do Andrew Bahl, Sarah Cohen, Baylor Knobloch As a coach, one of my jobs is to prepare all the work myself, but the results would my team for success on the athletic field. not be the same. Based on my experiences, I believe there One’s ability to master the four keys News Sports ARts and Culture are four keys to success in team sports: to success is an essential component for Sophie Bailowitz AJ Kohn Hannah Blau (1) the ability to work with others and be success in life. I would not be where I am Melanie Weiskopf Idris Mitchell Peter Califano Zach Wetzler Evan Semenza part of a team; (2) determining your goals today, both professionally and personally, Features and figuring out a way to achieve them; but for the lessons I learned playing team Commentary (3) sacrificing one’s personal wants for the sports, and in particular, from my high Samantha max Julia Gross Photography Hannah Block Kitty Kouwenhoven betterment of the team; and (4) preparing school soccer coach. Daniel Moskowitz for and working hard to succeed, which When I am coaching (teaching), I try Sheridan Merrick peter Coulson, Asst. Liza Schoenberg includes focusing on fundamentals. everyday to impart to my players my The Boys’ JV Soccer team had a very knowledge, including the four keys to suc- Faculty Adviser Cartoons Sasha Fishman, Jessie Lamworth, successful year. We ended the season 10-2 cess. In that regard, I am a teacher and the Susan G. Weintraub Tymani Ratchford and lost in a heartbreaking championship athletic field is my classroom. School Population: Students—830; Employees—216 game to Boys’ Latin. Although talented, I appreciate that when participating in Distributed to Mailboxes of Upper School Students and Employees, we did not win with talent alone. Instead, team sports or watching as fan, one does and Lower and Middle School Students by Faculty Request our success occurred because the team not automatically think of team sports as Mailed to Current Parents by Letter Perfect Copies Printed—1300 applied the four keys listed above. The an extension of the classroom. Nonethe- Member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Assn boys worked together, prepared for each less, the lessons learned on the athletic Policies challenge, and focused on mastering the field are instrumental in a student athlete’s We welcome letters to the editor, unsolicited op-ed pieces, and other contribu- fundamentals. Additionally, many players education at Park. The more we all accept tions. Please send work to [email protected]. We reserve the right to edit had to put their personal desires aside by and embrace this truth, the better off our all submissions for language and length. Submissions are published at the discre- either playing a position that was not their community will be. tion of the Editors. first choice or assuming a role on the team Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High —Chad Joseph, Coach, School Newspaper Service. that was not their preference. Boys’ JV Soccer Commentary The Postscript, November 26, 2013 3 Is messiness Party on, progressive? but keep it by Leah Smith ‘16 to yourself

ark prides itself as a place that by Peter Coulson ‘16 embraces debate, and where Pfaculty, administration, and stu- aise your hand if you’ve ever dents are encouraged to question each seen people post photos on other to maintain a spirit of inquiry. So RFacebook of parties to which it is no surprise, then, that a particularly you weren’t invited. Let’s see: one… sharply worded announcement caught ev- two…okay, that’s just about everyone. eryone’s attention. Facebook exists for several purposes, The announcement instructed students including creating an intricately tailored to keep the school clean, and pick up after façade of your life for others to admire, themselves to leave a better impression envy, or even despise. All Facebook users with visitors. Can this sort of directive be are guilty of it to one point or another, and reconciled with our philosophy? by that I mean literally all 1.15 billion of Park rejects arbitrary codes and rules cartoon by Jessie Lamworth ’14 them. Some do it unconsciously, and some so that students can internalize self-disci- do it consciously, and it’s not inherently pline and autonomy. We are not required The punishment process bad—people just like to make themselves to wear a uniform because our school seem attractive. This ought to go without considers prescribing a dress code to be by Daniel Moskowitz ’15 the grass pastures, creating donut-shaped saying. unnecessary. ruts. When no one came forward to take Personally, I’ve got nothing against But, the announcement did not ask us here I went to middle school responsibility, all student drivers were told parties. As long as you’re not being a to be clean just for the sake of being clean, detention was the primary they would not be allowed to park on cam- complete idiot, party away; I don’t care. or to pick up trash because some higher Wpunishment. It entailed pus for the next event; they would have However—you knew there was going to authority wanted us to do so. It asked us to sitting in a room silently during lunch, to park off-campus and be shuttled here. be a “however”—I tend to have a prob- refrain from messiness to display a neater reading a packet, and answering ques- Bob Peck, Director of Safety, Security, lem when people post pictures of these environment for visitors walking through tions about it. It didn’t matter what you and Transportation, said putting restric- parties in order to directly or indirectly the school. This isn’t an irrational reason were there for because everyone read the tions on all student drivers “is the easiest provoke envy, jealousy, or fear of missing because part of the admissions process same packet. This is the approach of most way to find out who’s responsible because out. They’re distinct from parties for wed- involves showcasing our buildings and schools, but that doesn’t mean it’s effec- people have a tendency not to come for- dings, Bar Mitzvahs, and the like, which facilities. tive; it teaches nothing about what you did ward” on their own. After the restriction are worth celebrating; I’m going to call To quote from the school’s philosophy: wrong besides what the consequences for was announced, the responsible students them Parties For the Sake of Partying, or “…human beings are capable and desirous doing it are. did admit their guilt. PFSP. of rational self discipline and of acting Park is the exception to this system; we As a means of finding the most natural I remember that in first grade, everyone towards others with respect, kindness, don’t standardize our punishments. Why consequence, these students were asked learned that it wasn’t nice to distribute concern, open-mindedness and moral con- should we? Here, consequences are de- what they thought the consequences birthday party invitations in school unless viction.” If we occasionally need to be re- cided “deeply specifically,” Upper School should be. They came up with speaking all were invited, and that it wasn’t nice to minded to pick up our trash, this does not Principal Kevin Coll said. They are de- to juniors and seniors at class meetings talk about play dates in school because diametrically contradict our philosophy. termined by looking at every factor: the about what they had done, and researching people who weren’t invit- In fact, our school’s focus on fostering offenders’ backgrounds, the contexts, why and repairing the damage. ed might get upset. At positive learning could only be helped if they did what they did, etc. Coll said that So while perhaps our disciplinary sys- the risk of oversimplify- we enjoy our school environment—few when thinking about a consequence, “our tem is just another example of the “Park ing this issue, the same would argue that a cleaner Commons is foremost questions are always: what’s bubble” because in the outside world, of- rules ought somehow worse than a messy one. And, fair and what’s going to be educational?” fenders won’t get to come up with their to apply to rather than calling out individual students Consequences, Coll said, are miles away own consequences, it’s also an example of PFSP as for leaving trash, the school chose to an- from writing “I will not talk in class” 500 how everything here is a learning process. well, sim- nounce it, thereby giving everyone fair times on a blackboard; “natural conse- Outside of school, it doesn’t matter if ply because warning and knowledge. quences” are the goal. it’s murder or drug dealing; the conse- photos of But those visiting the school want to There is another major component to quences, including jail, are much more PFSP will frequently produce the same see the ethos of the school, and this begs our handling of infractions. “The honesty devastating. But by making discipline emotions—jealousy, envy, fear of missing the question: Is preparing ourselves, or that we expect from students is inherent educational, we are able to keep kids from out, or even anger—at yourself, for not somehow altering habits, going to pro- in our philosophy,” Upper School Dean enduring harsh punishments. being cool enough to be invited, or at the vide an authentic image for visitors? Of of Students Traci Wright said. So in the In school, there’s no better way to stop partiers for not inviting you. course not. Who hasn’t sat up straighter, same way students own their education students from being re-offenders than Lots of things on Facebook have con- or rethought an answer, when visitors en- here, they also need to take ownership of teaching them why what they did was structive effects. Posting witty statuses ter a classroom? In reality, messiness and their mistakes. The question of whether or wrong; if they don’t understand what was allows you to share your comedic gifts. trash have nothing to do with progressive not the person responsible came clean is wrong about their actions, then they’ll Messaging an old friend allows you to education’s teachings. “hugely important” when deciding how to have no real incentive not to do it again. keep up with each other even though you The discussion centered on this an- move forward, according to Coll. “Trust The desire to avoid punishment might not be able to talk very much. But, nouncement reveals more about our is how we operate every day,” Wright said shouldn’t be the only incentive not to do posting photos of yourself with a few of school than the directive itself. It has fos- and a breach in that trust can be detrimen- something. Making sure that a student your friends at parties sends a clear mes- tered conversation and reminded us that tal to the way our school runs. knows why what he or she did was wrong sage of “look at how great we are,” pro- at Park, rules are not rigid and unfair, but A recent incident showed how impor- is an integral part of staying out of trouble vokes negative emotions in those who flexible, and that we have an administra- tant this process is. A few weeks ago, in the future. “As students are learning and view these photos, and has no construc- tion willing to accept challenges and pro- students were asked to park in the horse as students are making mistakes or tak- tive purpose whatsoever. As I said before, vide explanations. pasture to free up spaces for a large num- ing risks, we help them to understand the party all you want—just be considerate of So, is messiness progressive? No. But ber of visitors. After this, it was discov- result and the impact of those decisions,” the people who weren’t invited. discussion certainly is. ered that students had driven in circles on Wright said. Features The Postscript, November 26, 2013 4 Thanksgiving Labyrinth Club by Helen Moos ’16 and Salecia Poles ’16 Traditions Over the past year, a vacant lot near Druid Hill Park has un- dergone a drastic transformation: Students and teachers tell us where weeds and trash once cov- ered the ground, something spe- The Labyrinth Club revital- cial for the neighborhood now why they love Thanksgiving ized this lot a 2178 Reister- photos courtesy S. Larson stands. stown Road. The Labyrinth Club works mosaic the front wall of the site, with people who may not be di- “My three-year on a once-abandoned lot that install trellises, and plant morn- rectly associated with Park and they have sponsored through ing glories that bloomed all sea- with whom we may not other- old cousins the Adopt-A-Lot Program, a son long. With each visit, we wise have an opportunity to drive my aunt Baltimore City initiative that talk with locals who appreciate work. The philosophy states, “To encourages projects like the the positive change the newly- achieve a richer understanding of Labyrinth Club to revitalize one renovated lot has brought to the the world, one must participate in insane.” of the 10,000+ vacant lots in the Liberty Square community—one it,” and we strongly believe this. city. Our lot is located at 2718 passerby even described it as “his The topic of being involved is —Aaron E.’17 Reisterstown Road, not far from own little area of peace.” often discussed and seems to be the original Park School. The The Labyrinth Club is also a understood, but we want the pro- project started last year during great opportunity for Park stu- cess of becoming physically in- the Centennial when we began dents to connect with Baltimore volved to be given more weight; “Big cleaning the lot and making plans City through community service. we want this to become an actual for a labyrinth and garden. Since We find the emphasis Park plac- part of the school’s curriculum, family then, we have been awarded over es on service to be an important and to really connect students $2,000 of grant funding from the part of the school philosophy: with helping those less fortunate. Mitzvah Fund for Good Deeds we want students and faculty to We could do more when it dinner!” and Baltimore City’s Parks and become part of the greater Balti- comes to community service, and People Community Greening more community and engage in while it isn’t required, activities —Soleil B.’20 Grant Program. efforts to improve the quality of like the Labyrinth Club provide During the spring and sum- life for city residents. an outlet for students to get out of mer we visited the lot every other We think it is imperative that the school and into the surround- “When you make sweet po- weekend to plant garden beds, students develop relationships ing community. tato casserole you have to put marshmallows on top. Have you checked out these clubs? Some people don’t, by Alia Satterfield ‘15 Portuguese Club and they’re wrong.” —Paul Worley, MS With over 70 clubs in place Você fala Português? Por- during X blocks, there are plenty tuguese isn’t offered at many of opportunities to get involved. schools, but it’s one of the fastest Take the leap and join all three growing languages today. Sara “My mother always makes of these activities; each meets on Philippe ‘15 and Eva Schneider- a different day. man ‘15 meet every Thursday X because my Stage Combat red cabbage with faculty leader Paul (Pablo) Computers for Kids grandmother likes it. It’s liter- Every Friday at X, the Macks- Villmoare to explore all things ally the worst substance in the Computers for Kids, led by Fidler Blackbox Theater is over- Portuguese. Harry Dove Robinson ’14 and taken by a handful of students, “Portuguese is hard,” Schnei- world.” Brandon Sloane ’14, meets finely trained in the arts of derman says, “but it’s really fun.” —Annika S.’15 Wednesdays at X. fencing, martial arts, and many Aside from learning vocabu- The purpose of the club is to other combat styles, all perfectly lary and grammar and working collect and repair old, broken adapted for the stage. towards basic conversational computers and donate them to in- “[Stage Combat] is the closest skills, Portuguese club also dividuals in need of the technol- thing to Fight Club Park has ever concentrates on Portuguese and “Constant football.” ogy, free of charge. “We spend had,” leader Annika Salzberg ‘15 Brazilian culture, most recently a lot of time screwing around, admits modestly, disabling, with- focusing on television and film. —Max R. ’16 but we also get a lot done,” says out the slightest glance, a nov- They are working towards Chloe Wright ’15. ice member of the club who has getting an in-block class together What is lacking in monetary snuck up behind her. in the next few years that would expense for repairs is made up With faculty leader Peter King have a balanced focus on lan- for by the amount of time and lending the occasional profound guage and culture similar to that “I always look for- work it takes to fix up some of theatre maxim, Stage Combat is of the club. the computers—there’s a lot to the perfect club for anyone in- ward to my aunt’s be done, and at the end of the terested in learning how a few day, Computers for Kids, or swords and a bunch of clumsy sweet potato “CFK.” is a labor of love. teenagers can result not in di- pie.” If you’re interested in com- saster but in an expertly choreo- —Brooke G. ’16 puters and want to help out peo- graphed fight scene to rival even ple who can’t afford them, check the finest of slow-motion action out CFK. movie climaxes. The Postscript Features November 26, 2013 5 Science department finds its raison d’etre Learning to by Hannah Block ‘15 lobby for a cause The Upper School science de- partment has found its “it.” by Leah Fishman ‘16 According to science teacher From Sunday, November 3 to Julie Rogers, the “it” of the mod- Tuesday, November 5, over 400 ern language department is oral teens from across the country proficiency, while in English the gathered together in Washington “it” is writing, editing, and revis- D.C. for a conference organized ing. In math, the “it” is habits of by the American Israel Public mind. Affairs Committee (AIPAC). I “But what is it that science applied and was selected to go would want to hang its hat on?” with 87 other delegates from she said. “We’re thinking prob- B’nai B’rith Youth Organiza- lem solving and research skills tion (BBYO), a Jewish youth are exactly that.” program. “Last year the science depart- The first two days consisted ment wrote a document propos- of speakers presenting about the ing a broad program of research American-Israeli relationship. both in and out of classrooms,” Sessions included Sanctions science teacher Jeff Jennings Against Iran, The Peace Talk, said. “This document talked Anti-Israel Lobbying, Hezbol- about a variety of ways research lah, and Syria. College students exposure can be further incorpo- photo by K. Kouwenhoven ’15 involved in AIPAC led sessions rated into our program.” Juniors J. Wyda and B. Busch, and Senior B. Weissman study moss and its location on different on more practical subjects in the Two new classes aim to put trees in a class on ecological research methods. political world: Public Speaking, some of the proposed methods reading and analyzing primary and others have run into chal- Elevator Speeches, and Publiciz- into action. Rogers and Jennings literature about particular eco- lenges,” Jennings said. “This is ing–Twitter. are co-teaching Ecological Re- logical questions, and unique the nature of research and it’s As interesting as all of these search—formerly known as research,” Jennings said. “We actually a valuable lesson about sessions sound, the two days Advanced Ecology—in the first have also spent a bit of time the difficulties of conducting re- turned out to be hour after hour semester. Rogers and fellow sci- talking about statistical analy- search.” of AIPAC-trained adults lectur- ence teacher Dr. Stephanie Lar- sis—an important aspect to be- “I expect we’ll run into seri- ing 60 students on the wonders of son will then lead Biomedical ing an educated participant in the ous, unforeseeable issues with AIPAC. It wasn’t as informative Research in the second semester. larger community of ecological the bluegill experiment,” Rog- or interesting as I’d expected it “I chose to take [Ecological researchers.” ers said, “and their end of-the- to be. Research] to extend the knowl- “Most recently, we’ve been semester project will require On Monday afternoon, we edge of the land around me, looking at different methods of patience, flexibility, and perse- were split up by district to work particularly because I feel so estimating population sizes,” verance at a bare minimum.” on writing proposals and speech- compelled to protect our envi- Roswell said. “We started off by Students will design their own es to take to our congressmen. ronment,” Naomi Roswell ’14 using different methods to esti- experiment to answer a question On Tuesday morning, I went said. mate the number of lima beans about the school’s campus. Ques- photo by K. Kouwenhoven ’15 with 16 high school students “I plan to work in biology, so in a bag and then determining tions students could research, from Beth Tfiloh Dahan Com- this class is a perfect starter for M. Stefanak ’15 records tree which method is best. Now, we according to Rogers, include: munity School to speak to our me,” Matt Stefanak ’15 said. are moving from a population of “What species of lichen do we species distribution on the south side campus. congressman, John Sarbanes, “Each of the two classes inanimate beans to fish [bluegill have on campus, where, and about supporting bills that keep will teach the content and skills minnows] in our own pond.” why? How many deer are using “There are many world and the American-Israeli relationship needed for conducting long-term “We’ve worked around cam- the campus and how are they us- social problems, such as climate strong. Because Congress wasn’t and short-term research,” Rogers pus for a large portion of the year ing it? What types of foraging for change and poverty, that require in session and no congressmen said. The courses will go further focusing on ‘microhabitats’— seeds by birds invite the greatest people to think in a more inter- were actually there, we had to than the “cook-book style ex- small determined spaces—and competition and why?” disciplinary way and use a multi- settle for meeting with one of periments, where the answer is observing their abiotic factors, In the spring semester, the hypothesis method for problem his assistants. known by the teacher.” such as temperature or light, Biomedical Research course solving,” Rogers said. “There Our appointment ran late and “The Ecological Research and biotic factors, such as spe- will focus on research tech- is no one problem at the root of we ended up stranded on Capi- course focuses on broad prin- cies living in the microhabitat,” niques more central to biology such issues. These courses will tol Hill. AIPAC managed to acci- ciples of ecology as approached Stefanak said. and health, expanding the focus offer more questions than an- dentally leave 20 people in D.C., through three angles: lecture, “Some things have gone well of the science department. swers.” so we all crammed ourselves into taxis to go back to the hotel. Stalking the right Besides the whole being left in D.C. ordeal and the constant lecturing, I did find it to be a use- book takes skill ful time to learn about how I can personally make a difference. As Browsing from p. 1 Gauck ’21, “because I think that kids a chance to find books they George. “It really is about being a high school student, I can make it’s the whole school, and that don’t usually read or look for,” brave.” my voice heard by just writing a “A lot of people are get- everybody can just go in there said Harry Genth ’21, “and it To Schlitz, the Browse-O- letter to my congressman. ting involved in this,” George and browse.” opens up their horizons to good Rama is about making a differ- Although I didn’t actually said. “Upper School teachers Most importantly, the books.” ence in “the way they roam the meet with Sarbanes, the fact that are bringing their classes in to Browse-O-Rama helps Lower “I think it’s pretty overwhelm- shelves,” and about making them 20 high school students came to browse, and Upper School Prin- School students take the first step ing sometimes to walk into a li- “realize that they can do that-- his office to discuss Israel was cipal Kevin Coll came by to in getting excited to explore new brary with 20,000 books when that they can pick up a book and notable and helped improve the browse…it’s huge.” things in the library and learn to you’re just starting to read and investigate it. Hunt, stalk. Curl chances of his continued support “It’s really cool,” said Sam take risks with books. “It gives don’t know where to go,” said up and purr.” of Israel in the future. 6 The Postscript Features November 26, 2013

The stance on pants: Are Leggings Legit? by Samantha Max ‘14 donna wore them in music videos at least not in the traditional leggings can be a distraction, or while still being comfortable. paired with long sweaters and sense, because “pants cover up even a source of discomfort. Every girl, at one point or an- Disclaimer: Samantha Max shirts, leg warmers, sweatbands, key parts of your body, mostly “At the end of the day, I don’t other, has woken up at 7 A.M. on was wearing leggings when she and canvas sneakers. Actresses for warmth, but also for what- want to see the outline of your a Monday morning to a 68-de- wrote this article. wore them in popular movies ever standards our society sets of crotch or your butt,” Larson said. gree bedroom, when the idea of such as Flashdance. In the 1990s, propriety. Leggings often violate “I would never wear them, be- crawling out of bed and squeez- Trends come and go, but one girls began wearing them with those standards of propriety.” cause I know you would look at ing on cold, denim skinny jeans thing seems to stay the same; dis- short skirts and dresses. And in Huntsman feels that leggings, my butt.” seems unbearable. For those agreement about what is fashion- 2006, after a short respite, leg- if worn with a top that does not For those who do wear leg- morning when you wake up ex- able and what is not. One type of gings made their comeback on cover at least “three inches past gings, many people have dif- hausted from only five hours of garment in particular, leggings, the runways of Fashion Week, the crotch,” are not appropriate, ferent opinions about how they sleep and wish you could stay in has been the source of much con- and have since earned a spot in because they “can really convey should best be worn so as not to your pajamas all day, the perfect troversy at school lately. the wardrobes of women of all too much information.” be inappropriate. solution is a stretchy cotton- Leggings made their first ap- ages. Upper school science teacher “Cover your butt,” Upper spandex blend that molds to your pearance in fourteenth century However, these tight, stretchy Stephanie Larson said “the con- School Music Chair Adele Din- legs like an extra pair of skin. in Scotland, where men wore garments are not welcome by ev- tour definition that results from erstein said. “I get that they’re comfort- “trews,” tight cloth pants, during eryone. In recent years, leggings wearing leggings is enough to “You should wear a long able,” Larson said. “There are the winter when it became too have sparked debates nation- make me slightly uncomfort- enough shirt,” Elana Liebow- many things that I find very cold to wear kilts. Native Ameri- wide. Some people love leggings able.” Leggings, typically made Feeser ’14 said. “It doesn’t comfortable, and if I wore them cans, hunters, fur trappers, and and wear them regularly, while of a cotton, spandex, and Lycra necessarily have to cover your to school, it would be terrible.” mountain climbers wore leather others feel that they are a lame blend, are tighter and thinner entire butt, but it should be long Students disagreed, though. stockings for extra warmth. In excuse for pants. than most pants. If worn with enough.” “People ask me why I don’t wear the Wild Wild West, cowboys According to Upper School a short shirt, leggings can mold Most students, however, feel jeans.” Melissa Miller ’14 said. wore buckskin leggings while Science teacher Elliot Hunts- to the body in ways that other that wearing an exceptionally “I’m the kind of person that likes riding to protect their legs from man, leggings are not pants, pants cannot. “It leaves little to long shirt with leggings is not to move around a lot, and jeans chafing and from snake and bug the imagination,” Larson said. imperative. or other kinds of pants are really bites. Leggings are much less ex- “You could wear a bigger shirt restricting.” Women and girls wore linen pensive than jeans or corduroys, if you wanted to,” Ellie Cody ’15 “I think people can wear what leggings under their dresses in which makes them accessible said. If opaque and styled with they want,” Beth Weissman ’14 the mid-nineteenth century to and cost-effective, but can also a loose, long shirt, leggings can said. “No one else should have serve as a barrier from the itchy compromise their quality. In cer- look presentable and appropriate a say in it.” crinoline material used to give tain lighting, cotton leggings that their dresses volume. seem to be opaque can suddenly In 1959, DuPont, an Ameri- become completely see-through. can chemical company, invented Thin leggings can reveal panty Lycra and forever revolutionized lines, and even the color or pat- the fashion industry. Women be- tern of underwear that a person gan wearing legging-like pants in is wearing. the 1960s that were similar to the According to the school Capri pants donned by fashion website, there is no dress code icons such as Audrey Hepburn, in place. “Students wear clothes but even tighter. that are comfortable and appro- photos by K. Kouwenhoven ’15 With the aerobics fad of the photo courtesy main.stylist.com priately respectful of a learning Leggings are the clothing selection of choice for students and 1980s came a surge of leggings Iconic photo of Audrey Hep- environment.” While, for some, teachers alike, but opinions vary about their ‘appropriate- to the fashion scene. Singers burn in the 1954 film Sabri- leggings are a perfect representa- ness,’ raising hackles on both sides of the argument. such as Cindy Lauper and Ma- na: Capris, no long shirt. tion of this statement, for others, Pop quiz: Are leggings “Yes, they are.” “No, they’re not.” “No. But that doesn’t mean that —Ian Simon ’15 —Micah Saltzberg ’15 they can’t be worn as pants.” pants? —Dani Bieler ’16 ARTS & CulTURE The Postscript, November 26, 2013 7 The Dismemberment Plan releases long-awaited album latest album, Uncanney Valley? Trash” and “Go and Get It” both by Max Morrison ‘16 The album sounds a lot like what have unimaginative lyrics: “We you might expect based on the go and get it/We go and get it/ We Uncanney Valley, The Dis- evolution of their previous al- go and get it now.” Other lyrics memberment Plan’s fifth album bums. Uncanney Valley is calm- are too abstract to be coherent, released mid-October, follows er, and less rockish. Rarely does and don’t seem to mean anything a 10 year breakup of the band, Morrison climb into the upper at all. and a12 year gap since their last register of his vocal range with On the other hand, Morrison’s album. Having been critically the urgency heard before, such as vocals are a positive. Although acclaimed in the underground on “Time Bomb” and “Following the other instruments don’t shine music scene, previous albums Through” from Change. as well as previous albums in have proved to be seminal to the The album is also more elec- terms of technicality, and al- indie-rock genre, and because of tronic, with strange synth effects, though Morrison rarely fully the band’s long break, Uncanney such as opener “No One’s Say- utilizes his range, his voice still Valley has been a largely antici- ing Nothing” that has an oscillat- has an earnest tone that sounds pated album for music media and photo courtesy npr.org ing synth, and “Go and Get It,” honest and individual to him, myself. The Dismemberment Plan, an indie rock band from Washing- which features a heavy, heavy, with a nice vibrato. Originating from the Wash- ton, D.C., just released its fifth album, Uncanney Valley. synth bass sound. Uncanney Valley is an OK al- ington D.C. hardcore scene, the “Living in Song” features the bum, but pales in comparison to Dismemberment Plan—Travis mon structure of dissonant and tion is: could The Dismember- typical Dismemberment Plan the rest of The Dismemberment Morrison on vocals and guitar, strange melodic melodies for the ment Plan please new fans and structure of a minimally com- Plan’s discography; because of Jason Caddell on guitar, Eric verse, and catchy pop hooks for come back with all the energy posed verse switching to a catchy the nonsensical lyrics and less Axelson on bass, and Joe Easley the chorus, with dancey drum they used to have? The answer and lavish chorus. “Mexican City urgent nature of the songs, it’s on drums—was formed January grooves throughout. is yes and no. Christmas” is the most energet- harder to connect to. 1, 1993. Since their first experi- Change, the last album, which After seeing the Dismember- ic, and features very impressive Yet, the record was never bor- mental, hardcore, and pop-punk came out two years before the ment Plan on October 20 at the drum playing. “Invisible,” how- ing, thanks to nice drum grooves, record ! was released in 1995, 2003 breakup, tended to be more 9:30 Club in Washington D.C., ever, is classic Dismemberment general catchiness of the album, the band began pulling from conventional, atmospheric, and just five days after the album re- Plan because of its melody, song Morrison’s voice, and good pro- dance music and indie-rock, dis- slower, but still kept the energy lease, I was convinced that the structure, and lyrics. duction, which kept the tracks tinguishing themselves through- of previous works. group still had it. But, after lis- The song shares the introspec- from sounding too relatively out the next three albums. Dismemberment Plan left on tening to their new album, I’m tive aspect of Morrison’s previ- muddy or loud. Overall, I en- Their breakout album, the a good note with critical acclaim not sure if I’m as much of a fan. ous songwriting: “Now I’m bit- joyed listening to the album, but 1999 critically acclaimed Emer- but not too much of a fan base, I don’t dislike the new album; I ing my nails and I’m calling it was rarely blown away. I look gency & I, garnered much atten- that is, until more people dis- think it’s decent. “Decent,” how- dinner.” Unfortunately, the lyr- forward to the Plan’s next effort. tion for its creative pop sound, covered the cult-followed-band ever, is less than expected. ics are where most other songs I just hope that it doesn’t take an- experimenting with a com- through the Internet. The ques- So what’s different with their fall short. “White Collar White other 12 years to make. In the Heights brings a Latin flavor to theater Heights from p. 1 lot, because my mom is Cuban,” from her first year at Stanford selling to pay for Nina’s tuition. he said. University. Benjamin’s tender The business’s main employee Abuela Claudia (Sarah Cohen “This play is my [Usnavi’s] voice and elegance serve Nina’s is Benny (Ian Simon ’15), a first ’14) is the corner’s source of tried life story,” Walker said. “It’s do-gooder attitude perfectly, and generation Italian who struggles and true wisdom, having raised about what it’s like growing up her delicate features effortlessly to fit in with the Latino culture. the current generation of makers in the ghetto of New York. I try convey Nina’s vulnerability. Simon’s natural stage presence and shakers as if they were her to portray that even though we’re “My character is very hard- and cool collectedness fit well own. Cohen’s strong voice and poor, we’re very proud of our working and academic,” Benja- with Benny’s ambition as an as- grounded assurance brings to life heritage and our style of life.” min said. “She’s trying to make a piring businessman. His charm the character’s old age. Usnavi’s long-time crush difference for herself and for her and intuition make him an ob- Struggling with growing old is the neighborhood’s natural neighborhood.” vious choice for Nina’s heart in while missing her home in Cuba, beauty Vanessa, who works at “I got every scholarship, the end. Abuela suddenly wins the lottery. the hair salon, trying every day saved every dollar, the first to The plot’s pivotal point is “What do you do when your to make it out of the barrio. Li- go to college, how do I tell them Abuela’s death; looking back on dreams come true?” she sings in ebow-Feeser’s sexy hip swings why I’m coming back home?” her life causes the cast to realize her solo, “Paciencia y Fe.” She and hair flips make her hard to she sings in her solo, “Breathe.” how many memories they have decides to share the winnings resist, which is probably why Nina’s parents, Camila and with each other. Usnavi real- with her adopted grandson Us- “the boys around the way holler Kevin Rosario (Zoe Feldman izes that Washington Heights is navi (Joseph Walker ’14) and his at me when I’m walking down ’15 and Abram Foster ’16) strug- where he belongs, and that he has cousin Sonny (Levi Cooper ’16). the street,” she sings in her solo, gle with Nina’s news, blaming been home all along. Usnavi’s parents died when he “It Won’t Be Long Now.” themselves for their daughter’s In the finale, he raps, “There’s photos by B. Knobloch ’14 was young, leaving him with the Vanessa works for Daniela inability to maintain the grades a breeze off the Hudson, and just Couples Usnavi and Vanessa (J. family’s corner store. There, Us- (Rebecca Shapiro ’14), the cor- needed for her scholarship while when you think you’re sick of Walker ’14 and E. Liebow-Feeser navi passes the days dreaming of ner’s saucy hair salon owner and also working two jobs. living here, the memory floods ’14) and Nina and Benny (A. Ben- notorious gossip. Shapiro steals Feldman heads the fam- in.” jamin ’14 and I. Simon ’15), fall returning to the Dominican Re- in love in Washington Heights. public and pining after Vanessa the show with her thick accent, ily with reason and logic, her “The main theme that the (Elana Liebow-Feeser ’14). sassy hand gestures, and well- clipped tone and loving eyes add- show explores is the idea of Walker delivers with an im- timed eye rolls. Always close ing up to the quintessential ma- home,” director Peter King said. feel. And this entire show is all peccable ability to tell narrative behind is Daniela’s endearingly ternal figure. As for her husband, “The journey to find our way about sabor.” through rap, keeping the audi- spacey sidekick Carla (Gabby Foster wears the face of guilt like home ends up being life long.” Looking around at the audi- ence engaged with his every Reamer ’14). a pro, conveying the shame and “There is this word called sab- ence’s misty eyes and under- move and making the quick lines Vanessa’s best friend is Nina frustration he feels as a father. or, which means flavor,” Bobrow standing nods, it’s clear that In roll right off the tongue. “It helps Rosario (Alexandra Benjamin The Rosarios own a car ser- said. “But it also means flavor to the Heights dishes out a healthy that I speak Spanish at home a ’14), who is home indefinitely vice, which they are considering the dance, to the music—to the serving of the sabor of home. Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Sports Permit #1262 The Postscript, November 26, 2013 Baltimore, MD Page 8 Sports: more than playing the game Wetz Up? in an athletic program because it al- coaches who are mentors on and by Sara Lerner ‘15 lows me to focus on my academics off the field. Nothing frustrates me more than and extracurricular activities other Some of the most important Wanted: Fans hearing the words, “Park athletics than sports while still growing as things I have learned from this are terrible.” One of my favorite as- an athlete. school have been on the field. Park by Zach Wetzler ‘14 pects of Park has been being part of The lessons I have acquired from Athletics have offered so many his past weekend, on an athletic team. Every day I look Park teams are immeasurable. As a learning opportunities and helped my long, seemingly forward to practicing and compet- member of a Park team, I am able me grow into the person I am. When T never ending path to find the ing with my teammates. I have to learn and work together with my describing myself, one of the words perfect college, I stumbled never been the strongest player on teammates to achieve a common I would use is “athlete.” This is not upon basketball greatness. my team, but that hasn’t limited the goal. You push each other and help because I am necessarily highly Along Tobacco Road and experiences or knowledge that I’ve each other to become the best play- skilled in each of the sports I play, the surrounding area, I wit- gained from being a Park athlete. er one can be. Teams also cultivate but because of the important role nessed not only greatness The program’s emphasis on skill and promote inter-grade bonding, that sports play in my life. This on the court, but even more building, teamwork, and leader- which has visible effects on and school’s athletic program has of- so in the stands. Sitting in ship, allows everybody to have the off the field. Your team becomes fered me incredible opportunities the Raleigh/Durham airport opportunity to be an important part a network of cohesive friends and and nothing makes me prouder surrounded by competing of the team. you have each others’ backs no than saying I am a Park athlete. So, shades of blue and the occa- Park’s teams are not just about matter what. Whether the result of please, next time you hear someone sional flicker of gold or red, I started to think of our fans, winning, but rather the overall your game is a win or a loss, your say anything negative about Park or the absence thereof. Why are fewer students going to experience. At the same time, stu- teammates stick together under the Athletics, tell them why they are games? Is it due to a lack of interest? dents who want to play their sport leadership of your captains and wrong. When I start to reflect upon my fan history at Park, I at a collegiate level are given the think back to great memories of storming the court after preparation necessary to make this championship victories at Villa Julie or back to the chants happen. of “We still love ya!” after a heartbreaking defeat. But, The athletic program encour- these are now just memories of a different era. ages and supports athletes with Yet, not all hope is lost. With our basketball program their schoolwork and other extra- on the rise, there may soon come again packed gyms and curricular activities. “The fact that championship banners. The 2013-2014 Boys’ Varsity we value the ‘whole child’ [is one Basketball squad presents not only a respectable, but of the best parts of the athletic pro- also a potentially dominant team. This current roster of gram.] We acknowledge that our players is a team that avid Bruins have been patiently student athletes are also passion- waiting to watch. ate about many other things,” said First off, this year’s team will give us the opportunity Robin Cardin Lowe, Girls’ Athletic to watch star forward Jair Williams ’15 play his first sea- Director. “We support participa- son at Park. Due to MIAA rules, Williams, who trans- tion in other activities even though ferred here in tenth grade, was not allowed to participate it pulls on our program.” in games last year. With his Amateur Athletic Union This is such an important quality cartoon by Tymani Ratchford ’14 (AAU) background, Williams brings lots of potential and his ceiling is certainly high headed into this season. Concussions: Where are we headed? Along with some new faces, returning veterans also fuel this team. Instrumental players such as Jack Curley ’14, by AJ Kohn ’14 the high school level. For players in win for the NFL, since most thought Idris Mitchell ’14, and Fran Porcarelli ’14 all will look the National Football League, life they would have to pay more. to build off last season’s successes to lead this current Concussions are a problem at is pretty good, especially if you are While more organizations and team to victory. every level of athletics. From high a star, or Pro Bowl performer. You boards of education recognize that Given all of this talent and potential for success, how school to the pros, concussions are are cheered on by tens of thousands concussions are an issue, and treat- could you not be intrigued? I understand that many of a new, unfortunate trend. About a of fans every Sunday. You are well ments are improving, not enough is you might not find basketball particularly interesting, third of the Varsity Soccer team, known by many people around being done to prevent these devas- and that’s ok. But don’t think of a game simply as a and a large portion of other teams, your town, given the best tables at tating injuries. game; think of these games as a way to support your suffered from concussions this year. restaurants, asked for autographs How can we prevent concus- friends and classmates. Coming from a member of three According to the NCAA, there and, best of all, paid a whole lot sions from happening in the first different Park teams, nothing is better than seeing the are an estimated 1.6 million to 3.8 of money. place? Sure newer equipment may sidelines filled. million sports-related concussions But what happens after the foot- be of some help in the future, but This request is not only directed to the Upper School, a year, and athletic trainers are be- ball player’s career ends, and the according to an ABC news report, but also to our parents. Bring your children out to one of ing taught to recognize the signs cheers fade? Until recently, it was even the best helmets don’t slow the Friday night games. Not only will they enjoy them- so that the players can get proper this part of pro football that no one down the contents of the skull when selves, but they will also be inspired to play in the future. treatment. But while these head really followed. With what we now the head is struck, and won’t be able When I was a member of the Lower School nothing was injuries are being spotted more know about concussions and CTE to protect against concussions at a more exciting than running out onto the court at halftime quickly, they aren’t being stopped. that can occur as a result, these significant level. to practice my half court game. Concussions have been shown seemingly invincible athletes are The real answer is in address- Your time here is limited and will fly by. Just ask any to have a lasting impact on the in serious danger. ing the way that sports are played. senior. The last thing you want to do is miss out on some- brain, causing Chronic Traumatic The NFL recently settled a law- The days of smashmouth football thing great like a game, because you were too stressed Encephalopathy (CTE), a degen- suit brought by a group of retired and colliding headers in soccer are out or simply didn’t feel like it. To quote the great Ferris erative brain disease apparent in players who claimed the organiza- soon going to come to an end. We Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and individuals who have suffered from tion had withheld information about have to change the way we play the look around once in a while you could miss it.” multiple brain injuries or concus- the long-term effects of concus- games, or else the development of Bruins fans: join me. Grab the brown and white body sions. sions. They settled for a whopping this disease will continue. paint, and your vuvuzela, and march “on to victory ’neath And this isn’t just a problem at $765 million, and that was called a the Brown and White.”