he hieftain TMontville High School Oakdale ,C CT 06370 Issue #4 2013 Before I Die… Read Across America Day By: Tanner Schlepp We all have aspirations for the future, things we would like to do before we die. Candy Chang, an urban planner, artist and designer, started the “Before I die…” project in 2011.”After I lost someone I loved, I thought about death a lot. This helped clarify my life, the people I want to be with, and the things I want to do, but I struggled to maintain perspective,” Chang said on her website, candychang. com. The first board appeared in New Orleans and instantly became popular with thousands of responses being written on the board with colored chalk. She has given talks on Technology, Entertainment and Design (TED) and publically speaks across the country. Mrs. Laurencot, an English Helena Sun and Adrienne Foret at Read Across America Day. teacher at MHS, read about Chang and her work in an L.A. Times article. “It was By: Joey Weekly a response to a suicide in a high school. Every year MHS students will present to the class. The activity or The teachers thought about a way to have audition for the opportunity to go to craft pertains to the book that they have students start thinking more positively local elementary schools and share a read aloud to the class in an interesting about their futures. So that interested me, favorite book from their childhood with and entertaining way. “The students and I downloaded the kit.”Mrs. Laurencot the students. The Read Across America do fantastic stuff,” says Mr. Rousseau, placed the project on the chalk board in program allows high school students, “Other teachers rave about the students her room, 304, and welcomed anyone to with a friend of their choice, to reach out who participate.” The program has been come in and sign it. “All students will be to classrooms in the grades of preschool running a long time and is a successful invited in.” through second grade with a book and one, based on the ample participation year The response to the “Before some form of project. in and year out. The program isn’t losing I die…” board has been “very good” Read Across America is run by two any steam, even with the participants who according to Mrs. Laurencot. Some of the English teachers at MHS: Mr. Rousseau are lost because of graduation each year. responses have been: “Before I die I want and Mr. Richmond. At the auditions, which Many of the students participate all four to grow old.” “Before I die I want to face are held each year, Mr. Richmond and Mr. years, and they love participating in the my fears.” “Before I die I want to develop Rousseau judge students on their overall program. The level of participation each a way to breath under water to explore the reading ability and the creativity of their year gives the program a sort of friendly ocean forever.” “Before I die I want to self-designed follow up activities. There competition among students. live my life the way I want.” may be students reading in a partnership It appears as though Mr. Rousseau The publicity for the “Before I or they may do their assignment alone. and Mr. Richmond have many years of a die…” walls has been outstanding. Over A student’s overall responsibility level is successful program to look forward to, 100 “Before I Die…” walls have now been also a very important factor of whether or and so do the local elementary school created in over 10 languages and in over not they are chosen to participate in this students of Montville. 30 countries. Chang notes, “Regularly program. contemplating death is a powerful tool to A student’s follow up activity is restore perspective and remind us of the meant to be a hands-on activity that they things that make our lives meaningful.”

Page 1 The Chieftain MHS SPORTS Out of the Park! Rainville Reigns By: Zach Meisner and Staff Editors Many people would shudder when it comes to the thought of running laps or racing other people, it takes strength and dedication. But, Joe Rainville is a prime example of this strength and dedication. Rainville, a senior track member, has been frequently asked how he has been able to succeed over the years he has been running track, and he was very happy to share his experiences. One of his memories was placing 6th in an ECC championship where he ran the 800 meter dash, and experienced one of his best memories associated with track and field. He also mentioned his victory against Plainfield and his qualification for the state meet. When Rainville was asked about his favorite thing about track Brandon Haas at Dodd Stadium and field, he said, “It is really all about the good people and friends you make.” By: Natasha Burch He also said, “It’s important to have a Now that spring is finally here, school, Haas replied, “Yeah, I’m going good time running, and succeeding in it’s time to play ball! The baseball players to Uconn next year, so I want to continue something you’re dedicated to is very are happy to start the new season and hope there. I have a preferred walk on in the fall rewarding.” to start it with a bang. Brandon Haas is so I’ll be on the fall roster and then I get to Some of the advice that he was one of the eight seniors on the team who is practice with the team as like my try-out, willing to share with newcomers going excited to play again. He has been playing so I’ll see how that goes.” into track and field was to “go along with it baseball since his freshman year. Towards For his senior year, his first game and to simply show up and stay committed the end of that year, he was called to play in was against Fitch High School. Many because it definitely pays off in the end. states and ended up getting an appearance people were surprised to find out that The end result is definitely something that in Pitch Bran. Haas was fortunate enough they actually won that game due to Fitch pays off, whether it is the memories you to actually take one of the players spot on having a winning reputation and had make or how much your body has really the field. recently added skilled students from St. grown and gotten stronger since when Haas was asked if he plays any Benard’s to the team. you had first started.” He said, “It’s one of other sports which he replied, “No, this The proudest moment of Haas’s the best activities you could ever involve year I’m only doing baseball. But my whole baseball career happened in the yourself in.” Not many people are able to freshman year I played football, which season of 2011. Haas says that, “We own up to the track and field expectation, was my first year ever trying out. Then didn’t start the season off too well, we but looking back, he said it is going to be I played basketball and baseball. My were actually underrated. Our record a thing he will never forget for the rest sophomore year I stopped playing football didn’t show our potential, so we didn’t of his life: speed, commitment, victories, and I just played baseball and basketball. have the greatest record going into the and most importantly, the friends he had My junior and senior year I only played playoffs. But we ended up winning the made along the way. baseball because I wanted to make that state championship.” Rainville will be attending my main focus.” Eastern Connecticut State University When asked if he wanted to come this fall and will be a member of continue playing baseball after high their track team.

Page 2 The Chieftain MHS SPORTS Ben Reed: Far from Sub-Par By: Meagan McAdams Achieving the position of number his hardest to practice as much as he can. the division title, Reed has set his hopes one golfer as a sophomore is not an easy Last year, the team did not win as much high for this season and believes that all task. However, Ben Reed has a natural as they would have liked. “Losing was a his goals are reachable. talent for the sport. His freshman year, part of it as well, but once those matches Reed played number two on the team, were over we tried to forget about them occasionally moving up to number one and focus on our next match,” says Reed, when that player was out. This year, as always optimistic. He believes the golf a sophomore, he has moved his way up team is looking very promising this year, to the position of number one, followed other teams have moved out of their by Paul Hanrahan, John Delaney, Cory division, making the division title well Meigs, and Zach Meng. within reach. Reed began to play golf at a “I’ve learned that even if you hit a young age, around four or five. He admits, bad shot, you can always come back with however, that he never played very much the next. Also, it’s fun to get out there until the season started last year. The team and be with your friends,” said Reed. plays at Norwich Public Golf Course, He also said that he enjoys how relaxing Chanteclair, Shennecossett, Old Lyme the game is. He is good friends with all Country Club, River Ridge, and other golf the members of the golf team, making courses in the area. The team practices practice something to look forward to. Monday through Thursday, but Reed tries While the team has come close to The Showdown of the Season By: Velouria Joyner The Louisville Cardinals won The opinions of the fans didn’t shock, as well as fainting and tears from the NCAA Division 1 men’s basketball matter. Louisville was still playing a little Ware’s teammates. Michael Rosenberg championship on April 8th by defeating better than Michigan. Luke Hancock, of Sports Illustrated spoke with Ware the Michigan Wolverines. CNN reported the star of the team, scored 22 points, about the injury, asking him if he got so that “The showdown was one for the ages, and made all five of his attempted three- caught up in the mesmerizing action that with a dazzling array of airborne theatrics, pointers. From 3:24 left in the first half to he forgot about his plight. He replied with: jaw-dropping dunks and 3-pointers 13:28 left in the second half, Louisville “A lot of the season, I really wasn’t doing from well behind the line.” The score outscored Michigan 29-12. Sports what I was supposed to do. Coach P kind was 82 to 76 at the end of this cathartic Illustrated compliments the game with: of suspended me, and it kind of, really, game. According to Sports Illustrated, “Experience, toughness, and Rick Pitino’s just woke me up”. He also added that he “Louisville looked a little bit better than coaching made Louisville the best team in felt he was “wasting a scholarship”, and Michigan, and at least in this national title the country.” when he injured himself, he realized it. game, both teams looked a little bit better Despite the win, Lousiville All in all, it was a fantastic game. than anybody else in the country.” Spike suffered an incredible loss on March 31st. ESPN reports: “And when it was done, Albrecht, the freshman backup point The loss, however, was not the game. Pitino, Ware and the Cardinals were guard from Michigan, scored 17 points Louisville lost one of their players to a celebrating in the middle of the mammoth just in the first half. Michigan’s starting gruesome injury. Kevin Ware, a sophomore Georgia Dome, assuring the national title point guard, Trey Burke, scored 24 points guard landed badly during a block attempt will stay in the bluegrass another year.” in 26 minutes. Many thought that he and snapped his right shin. The stadium would carry Michigan to victory. was filled with gasps and screams of

Page 3 The Chieftain ARTS AND CULTURE Almost, Maine: Hilarious! 8th Grade Visits MHS By: Ashlee Shefer The school year is nearing the end, and 8th graders are preparing themselves for high school. Tyl students came to the high school to meet with Mrs. Clifford and Mrs. Woodman about furthering their world language education. As an eighth grader, taking a language is a large choice. These students will be starting high school taking either Spanish or French as a freshman. Only one year of a language is required to graduate but many colleges look for at least three. Many students start high school with a second level language class, because it can open up many opportunities for students in the future. The 8th graders were able to meet up with a high school class and get their questions answered, such as What it’s like A scene from Almost Maine. taking a language at this next level. High school language classes are about learning By: Helena Sun how to write and speak the language and The tales of love you remember involve various angles of love that can acquiring real world skills. Taking at least from when you were younger always seem certainly be relatable. One scene is about three years of a language can help with to match up with redundant modern day a couple saying “I love you” for the first college admissions. Spanish 5 and French novels and films. For a fresh perspective, time. Another entails the realization of 5 are AP level classes, and Spanish 5 also Almost, Maine, written by John Cariani, two best friends falling in love with each has an ECE option where college credit offers nine witty vignettes revolving other, after one friend admits it when they can be earned. Gaining that credit in high around the theme of love. This spring, on are both talking about their unsuccessful school can be beneficial once in college May 2nd and 3rd, Montville High debuted dates. Still, not all of the scenes end and result in not having to take as many Almost, Maine as the third production of happily. One scene explores the end of language classes. the year, which is the first time in MHS’ a marriage, where one couple thinks that Knowing another language can drama history where more than two plays getting away from their children for a also help in the long run when applying for were presented to the public. night would ignite the love they used to jobs. Being able to speak fluently in more However, there is another have. than one language is a definite plus and history making feature for the drama The future for the drama club can open up many great job opportunities department—senior Chelsea Dahmer took now steers towards a different direction. in the future. Having this skill is important on the demanding role as director. “I think “Over the past few years, we’ve become due to the amount of many different this show will be very successful. We have more student-run. It’s possible for a cultures that currently occupy America. an extremely dedicated cast and crew,” student-led musical to be produced,” Being able to communicate with others she says. Almost, Maine has nineteen Chelsea adds, “And I hope the students is something that every job requires and roles but is typically done with only four strive for excellence. I would love to see knowing how to speak someone else’s major actors. Because of the large amount an original script from one of Montville’s language will help greatly. of interest for this play, however, the own students as I feel it is completely For most eighth graders, entering drama troupe has decided to expand the capable.” high school can be a challenge and amount of actors from four to ten, with knowing what the expectation of a world five males and five females. The scenes language class is one less stress to have.

Page 4 The Chieftain ARTS AND CULTURE Mariah Carey wants you to feel #Beautiful By: Jacob Santos Mariah Carey is an artist who is Now she’s working on releasing a new the song owes a lot to the artist’s fans who known for making many comebacks, and album, and #Beautiful is the lead single. went out in droves to promote the song she’s trying to do that again with her new The song boasts a feel good vibe that through social networking sites. Mariah song #Beautiful. It’s apparent that Mariah brings the listener back to the times of Carey’s new album is expected to be is trying to tap into a younger audience by Motown. Mariah and Miguel serenade released this summer. having a hash tag in her title. Hash tags each other throughout the track, singing, are a popular thing on Twitter, and they’re “You’re beautiful. You know that you’re used to get topics trending. If that doesn’t beautiful.” solidify the push for success of the song, A music video was also released Mariah also recruited popular R&B artist in promotion for the song. In the video, Miguel to sing on the track. the two artists sing to each other while Comeback would be a good word driving on a motorcycle through the to describe Mariah Carey’s career lately. countryside. The video ends with Mariah First she landed a high profile seat at the dancing for Miguel in a barn. It has a very American Idol judging table. In this new relaxed feel that’s represented through the position, she’s received lots of publicity lighting, editing, and soothing nature of due to her feud with fellow judge Nicki the song. #Beautiful is projected to make Minaj. Then earlier this year she released a major chart debut due to its first day the song Almost Home as the theme song digital sales. Currently it sits at number for the film Oz The Great and Powerful. 10 on iTunes singles chart. The success of Talent Represents at All State Music Festival By: Lacia Japp Horns squawked, flutes squeaked, song Warum by Johannes Brahms, which selected for All State. and sopranos squealed, filling the air also happens to be his favorite piece sung Cregeur and Sun honored with a symphony of warm ups at the at the concert. Competition was fierce. “I Montville High with their presence at the Connecticut All State Music Concert. just barely made it,” admits Cregeur. festival. After carpooling up together, the Talented musicians and singers, including Once selected, there were more students struck a chord with the other young Montville’s own Jeffrey Cregeur and obstacles to overcome. Before the concert, musicians staying at the participants’ hotel Helena Sun, showcased their skills at the Cregeur was nervous about having all in the Crown Plaza in Cromwell. The All State Festival. From Tuesday April his material prepared, describing it as a audience in the Connecticut Convention 2nd to Thursday April 4th, participants “heavy burden.” It was hard to incorporate Center Ballroom was wowed by the young were surrounded by the best in show. these materials into his schedule along talent and coordinators were impressed Cregeur reflects, “It was a good with the script for his lead role in the MHS with how politely the students conducted opportunity to work with people that performance of the Music Man. Cregeur themselves. It was a fantastic opportunity have the same caliber of music as you was the second highest tenor in his first to highlight these musicians’ incredible do.” However, the standards for gaining year at Eastern Regionals, and it lead to talent and for Montville’s music makers to that opportunity were high and often his first year at All State. He deserves a form connections within the talented teen challenging. Students endured rigorous round of applause for his performance community. auditions on February 2nd to test their sight- on all fronts. Sun, a gifted clarinet player reading skills, performance presentation, and past winner of the Poetry Out Loud and overall musical ability. As a high contest, also commands kudos for her school tenor, Cregeur auditioned with the fabulous work and talent for being

Page 5 The Chieftain OPINION

Tanning Salons Let’s Not Dance Tonight Bend The Rules By: Carissa Leslie Since “Tan Mom” showed her face in the news, America has been in an uproar regarding the laws behind indoor tanning. After the famous “Tan Mom” brought her 5-year-old daughter into a tanning bed, tanning salons across the country have been bending the rules. Thirty-three states currently have age restrictions when it comes to minors tanning and spray tanning. Recently, New Jersey has been blowing the tabloids up with their new law. Governor Chris Christie signed a bill which banned children under the age of 17 from using tanning beds in order to protect the safety of minors. In 2012, California was the first state to prohibit minors under 18 from using UV indoor tanning beds. Personally, after hearing the rules Lady Katherine cruises’ Mystique. about the new tanning laws and being someone who is big into tanning, I am all By: Anna Williams in favor. Tanning has its pros and cons just There should be a class vote not be docked so there is a chance some like most things. Yes, you can get Vitamin to decide what a suitable idea for the students might get sea sick. Not feeling D from tanning but getting it from natural senior prom will be. Unlike past years, well turns an unforgettable night into a foods is the best and safest way to do it. the 2013 senior prom isn’t stationary: the nightmare. The students wouldn’t miss Most people don’t know that when you class will be aboard the Lady Katherine. an occasion they really want to be at. The indoor tan, it causes skin to age earlier Unfortunately, not all of the students are kids who want to go will be there on time than it should. Not only is your skin thrilled about it. At least 32 students I and have no need for the school to take getting harmed but so are your eyes, due surveyed said they didn’t like the idea. their responsibilities away. to UV exposure. The main reasons for this is that they The students who have no interest Studies show that tanning before don’t want to spend the night with the in the evening think that going on the age of 35 increases your risk at getting a entire class, they’d rather be with a small Lady Katherine is a risky idea. As to the form of skin cancer called Melanoma by group of friends on a party bus or in a sea sickness issue, the rumor is that the 75 percent. limo the way everyone envisions the night school will possibly be handing out sea Especially with prom just around starting. Prom is usually an all-day event sickness pills (this, remember is a rumor, the corner, girls are in and out of the in the eyes of a girl, including getting her and most likely not true), so the students tanning salon to look good for prom. Is hair and nails done with her friends. But can enjoy their night. risking your skin worth looking “good” in this year is different. The students have to If Prom was going to take place a few prom pictures? catch a coach bus to go to prom to get on at a hotel or in a ballroom, then I would Whether it’s indoor tanning, the boat. The bus is leaving early so the be going. The cost of the tickets, $80, is or even outdoor tanning, UV rays are students will have to start getting ready expensive because of the boat on top of harmful. There are so many other ways to even earlier than they thought they would all the expenses. Just getting ready for create a more healthy looking tan. You can need to. prom, to me, isn’t worth the price this purchase bronzer or even sunless tanners Meeting at the school also comes year because I feel like I wouldn’t enjoy which come in sprays, lotions, gels and with the realization that students would my night. And this is the realization that mists. Why damage your skin when you not be allowed to leave. The boat will many of the seniors are debating. can get the same look in healthier way?

Page 6 The Chieftain OPINION All the Work Makes Students Berserk By: Meagan McAdams “I have so many tests on we get to break. Teachers, however, than get off track and wait for the times Thursday!” complains sophomore Taylor are the opposite. They pile on all of the when we are the most unfocused to cram LaVallie when arguing with Ms. Joslin to units that we were supposed to cover in a in an unnecessary amount of work. change the date of a test. Teachers have course of a couple weeks, into five days. a tendency to pile on the work in the few No matter the amount of work piled on it days left before vacations. They argue that is all probably going to be forgotten over the reason for this is that they don’t want the break anyway. us to forget everything we just learned Then there are the teachers that over vacation; however I find it to be will give you more work to do over unbeneficial. The week before vacation, vacation because they still did not manage many students are focused on their plans. to cram it all in. Lots of students are In one week, some students had traveling to different states and different tests and quizzes in almost every one of countries. The purpose of break is to their classes. I found myself studying give everyone a break from schoolwork. for hours on a Thursday night, two days I do not think that any homework or any before vacation. I have heard many projects should be given, not just because students say they “just winged it” on a test no one likes homework, obviously, but or didn’t do their homework because it is because it is supposed to be a break. almost vacation so “whatever.” Students Teachers should stay on schedule with begin to lose focus the closer and closer all the work we are supposed to do rather Declaring War on Uncertainty By: Colleen Wells Since the end of the Korean War, peninsula, is without nuclear capabilities, general are complicated and there’s no the United States and North Korea have and since the international community guarantee that the Chinese will help the been on opposite sides of the fence. While as a whole has not developed a reliable United States despite the fact that both the United States is reluctant to use nuclear countermeasure for the bombs themselves of our economies depend on each other power, North Korea is desperate to create or the radiation, they’ll feel the direct and to maintain stability. If the Chinese get a nuclear missile capable of reaching the after effects of the weapons. Even though involved, there’s also a chance the other Pacific coast of the United States. Recent the atomic bombs were dropped on Japan nations in Asia close to North Korea— events imply that even though we are sixty-eight years ago, the citizens of both such as Japan, who depends on the United opposed to engaging in direct nuclear war Hiroshima and Nagasaki are still suffering States for military support as a result of with North Korea, our attempts to shut from the left-over radiation in the form of the Security Treaty following World the prospect down are actually taunting diseases, like leukemia. If we go to war War II—will be dragged into the war as the North Koreans into advancing their with North Korea, the same thing will well, with or without nuclear capabilities. technology. While I understand that we happen to South Korea, because fighting While I do understand the need to keep do not intend to pressure or challenge the nuclear with nuclear is the only way for possible threats to the United States and North Koreans in any way, shape, or form, each party to truly “defend” itself. our allies under control, I do not believe our attempts at dissuading them appear to We can’t forget about China going to war is the answer. My question have the opposite effect. either. In the Korean War, the Chinese to those who do is this: is going to war It wouldn’t be just the United entered the war on the North Korean with North Korea really worth sacrificing States caught in the crossfire if war should side, while we sided with South Korea. millions of innocent lives, stable industry, break out. South Korea, our ally on the Chinese—United States relations in and the peace we already have?

Page 7 The Chieftain WORLD NEWS Leadership: Dennis May Ready, Set, Race! By: Mikayla Poulin There is a monster far scarier than the one hiding under your bed, running around the world stealing lives: cancer. Luckily, people are fighting back with a vengeance. One of the weapons used is the Dr. Charles E. Murphy School’s Mad Dash for a Cure (the Mad Dash). The Mad Dash was put together by a small committee of Murphy School’s staff “to help find answers for all cancers,” said race director and third grade teacher, Susan McAdams. The committee also included Mary Aledia, Lou Rubino, Amy Jeffers, Deb Murphy, and Caroline Whitaker. The race’s first run took place on Saturday, May 18. “We are hoping that it is a tradition that will be embraced by Dennis May has earned the title of Eagle Scout. the Montville community and grow,” says McAdams. By: Helena Sun A Facebook event and website Only 7% of those who join any of his own money. Because of this, were created for the race and brought in Boy Scouts earn the Eagle Scout rank. he had to venture to various businesses over 400 runners in the first few weeks. Montville High’s junior Dennis May has to request donations. He acquired the Donations and all proceeds were donated earned this prestigious honor after years necessary materials to construct the signs to the American Cancer Society (ACS). of dedication. May started out as a Scout, from Montville Hardware. To further test The proceeds donated to the ACS are in then Tenderfoot, First Class, Second his leadership skills, May had to recruit a honor of first grade teacher Traci Hart, Class, Star, Life Scout, and eventually work force and obtain the town’s approval who lost a ten year battle to cancer in reached Eagle. to work on town property. “The biggest 2011, and her friends and family members To advance to the Eagle rank, one thing I definitely learned [from becoming affected by cancer. must acquire 21 merit badges total. To an Eagle Scout] was how to become an In 2012, there were an estimated earn a merit badge, one has to complete effective leader. Being a leader is more 21,350 new cancer cases in Connecticut learning about fundamental skills such as than organizing groups and getting things alone, according to the ACS website. communications, citizenship, camping, accomplished. It’s how well you can work ACS is a volunteer organization first aid, and family life. These are with others and what you do that benefits that is committed to “eliminating cancer experienced with a variety of activities, the group as a whole,” May says, “And as a major health problem,” according from reading, paperwork, and discussions throughout all of it, it’s also about making to the ACS website. The ACS sends out to mock accidents that test your emergency myself useful and being a good citizen.” the Healthy Living Newsletter, teaching preparedness. Being an Eagle Scout is more people about healthy lifestyle habits, To qualify for the rank of Eagle than just camping, swimming, and biking. and the Breast Cancer update, which Scout, May also had to lead a project to It’s about collaboration with others and features “new research and treatment construct twelve signs identifying wild aiming to follow up on the Boy Scouts’ breakthroughs, prevention and early life in the general area. The project started slogan: “Do a good turn daily!” detection tips and guidelines, and an in 2011 and took about a year and a half to inspirational story of a breast cancer complete. One of the criteria for this project survivor, caregiver, or volunteer,” says the was that Dennis was not allowed to spend ACS website.

Page 8 The Chieftain WORLD NEWS 18 and Drunk? By: Winnie Chen and Xiao Xiao Cao The health and safety risks high school student. lower the drinking age. that accompany underage drinking are According to Century Council, Note that these results have an commonly known. A poll was taken at a nonprofit organization dedicated to error of plus or minus 7%, because not MHS to find out the students’ opinions on fight against drunk driving and underage all students took the poll. There is a 95% lowering the drinking age from twenty- drinking, says that on average, more than confidence that 44.3% to 58.3% of MHS one. It found that 51.3% of the students three people under the age of 21 die each students oppose the idea of lowering the opposed the idea of lowering the drinking day in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. drinking age. age to eighteen and 48.7% were in favor The results of lowering the drinking age. of the MHS poll were In 2005, ABC News took a poll separated by gender asking people if the drinking age should and grade level, and be lowered to 18. The results concluded there were some that 78% of adults, including young adults surprises. Out of under the age of thirty, oppose lowing the 31 sophomore girls, drinking age. 67% believe that the The results from the MHS drinking age should poll differed because the national poll stay at twenty-one. surveyed people ages 30 and over. The Out of twenty-four older generations are more mature and junior boys, 79% think understands the risks more than a typical Connecticut should Mom and Dad or Moms and Dads? By: Andrew Fratoni, Jordan Volpe, Jeff Tryon, Connor Leeman, Brandon Haas Are there any major fundamental slightly, there is still a common trend of of Southern California, spent five years differences between the overall parenting support for same sex parenting. studying the topic of same sex parents. skills of heterosexual couples and those According to the polls, Montville “Children being raised by same-gender of homosexual couples? A poll was High School is more tolerant of same sex parents, on most all of the measures conducted in the Montville High School parenting than the nation. According to the that we care about, self-esteem, school cafeteria during each lunch block. The USA Today poll, 61% agreed that same performance, social adjustment and so question posed was, “Should same sex sex parents could raise children and 36% on, seem to be doing just fine and, in most couples be allowed to raise children?” disagreed. As of a 2010 census, a quarter cases, are statistically indistinguishable There is a 95% confidence that 81% ± 7% of gay couples were raising children. This from kids raised by married moms and of high school students between the grades brings up many controversies regarding dads on these measures,” Biblarz says. of 9 and 12 believe that same sex couples whether or not the child is affected by this No matter what our personal should be allowed to raise children. situation. opinions are, the debate should be about The results were then further The side against gay couples the children. If there is not sufficient examined to find any differences of raising children says that children may evidence showing that same sex marriage opinions between grades and genders. grow up against their natural preferences is potentially harmful for the children, then There is a 95% confidence that 93% ± 10% and take after their parents. Those why take away the right of parenthood? of high school females between the grades supporting same sex parenting say that of 9 and 12 believe that same sex couples there’s no significant difference between should be allowed to raise children. gay parenting and normal parenting. While the percentages for the grades vary Timothy Biblarz, from the University

Page 9 The Chieftain MHS NEWS And the Winner Is . . . They Mean Business By: Meagan McAdams MHS’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club recently brought home three winners in a FBLA competition. Winnie Chen placed first in web design, Rena Wu placed fourth in job interview, and Patrick Lam placed fifth in word processing. Chen qualified for nationals and will be heading to Anaheim, California to compete. FBLA competitions test students on their business knowledge and skills. There are three events that students can compete in: Individual, Team, and Chapter. The Individual and Team categories focus on skills useful in leadership and career development. The Chapter events recognize overall achievement and performance in chapter management and Lacia Japp winner of the Governor’s Award for Educational Excellence. growth. Montville’s FBLA club travelled By: Ashlee Shefer to Cromwell for the state competition. The Governor’s Award for keep my options open for college. Since The competition consisted of over 400 Educational Excellence is no small feat. I am so young, there is still a world of students from different schools. Junior Lacia Japp is one of only 30 opportunities to explore before deciding Some members took tests. For students out of 150 who were given this for sure.” She is looking forward to taking example, Kevin Fitzgerald and Sara award. Ms. Macri nominated Japp based classes such as Painting, Psychology, Wen Warykas were given a case to argue on academic criteria, such as class rank, Biology, and Creative Writing Fiction in front of three judges. Rena Wu was PSAT score, and CAPT score. Japp stated, next year. She is part of the color guard interviewed, and Patrick Lam was tested “It was almost a contest.” Each of the here at MHS and volunteers at the Wild in Word Processing. Also, Winnie Chen criteria is worth 20% of the score. A timed Rose Horse Farm in her spare time. designed a website for Montville’s FBLA one hour essay supervised by Dr. Phillips Japp is very proud of her team in a matter of a few days, and won is the final step, and it must be thought out, accomplishment and so is her family. This overall in Web Design. written, typed, and edited within the time award opens up a world of possibilities for The club is happy for all three of limit. The topic is not known beforehand. her, and shows that she is a very serious the winners because it puts the Montville This award is an amazing student who cares about her future. As she High School’s FBLA club on the map. achievement. It shines on college finishes her high school career next year, Their focus now is to fundraise in order to applications and shows that Japp is a she will have to make her decision on the send Chen to California. hardworking student who’s serious about many opportunities that are presented to The team plans on attending her studies, and excels in a variety of her and competing in a spring leadership areas. A very big benefit of this award conference and hosting several school is the ability to take college classes at events. The school’s talent show and state universities for free. “It will help bowling night will be put on by the FBLA, with the ECE classes I am taking next and all funds will go to the March of year as a senior,” Japp said. When asked Dimes, Adopt a Family, and a food drive. about what her plans are for her senior The FBLA is not only successful within year and college, Japp replied, “I like to the school, but also in the community.

Page 10 The Chieftain MHS NEWS On Their Way! By: Connor Atkinson The four-piece floor painted like score of 82, netting them a second place post cards set the scene of the day. “I finish in Scholastic Class A competition ‘Heart’ New York,” “Greetings from Las against schools from all over Connecticut. Vegas,” “Wish You Were Here…Miami,” For graduating seniors Bria and “Aloha From Hawaii” welcomed the Cave, Chelsea Dahmer, and Aximay audience to the travel-themed show. As Sosa, this was a great ending to their final eleven suitcase-wielding dancers dressed competition in high school guard. “I’m in black t-shirts and blue jeans filed out going to miss spinning and the other guard from the “Arrivals” backdrop, the vibe members, but I’m glad the season ended in the air said it all: these girls mean with a great competition,” said Cave.. business. This year’s show featured This year the MHS Winter Guard, spinning solos by Dahmer, Sosa, and coached by Jen and Melissa Kollwitz, junior, Kelley Kloner. “The first time got off to a late start. The competition I spun a solo, I was a nervous wreck,” at Bunnell High School in Stratford was says Dahmer, “but when the performance only their second competition this year. came, it was the best feeling ever. It was Despite this, the Montville Winter Guard like nothing could go wrong. When every ended their short 2012-13 season with eye is on only you, it’s like immortality in a bang. In the final performance of the a way.” show, “On My Way,” they received a Being an ALLI Against Substance Abuse By: Jacob Santos The community of Southeastern called Walk the Walk. There was a good learn so much every week about things Connecticut is coming together to raise turnout for it last year, so we’re hoping I wouldn’t have [learned] elsewhere. I awareness about substance abuse among for an even better one when it comes believe this has made me a better leader teens. ALLI, which stands for Adolescent around at the end of May.” MHS’s school and student because it has opened my Learning and Leadership Institution, is a faculty representative, Ms. Macri, says eyes to contemporary prevalent issues and group of students who plan community ALLI is a great opportunity for students the abundance of resources we possess service projects related to drugs. Many to participate in community service. to deal with them. I feel I’ve gained a lot high schools are involved, including The group’s first meeting was held at personally as well. It’s an adventure that Montville, Stonington, Ledyard, and Three Rivers Community College. Other builds character, and that isn’t something Wheeler. The student representatives meetings have been held at different high you find anymore.” for Montville High School are Daniel schools, like Norwich Free Academy. ALLI is sponsored by the Linkinhoker, Ryan Wrobel, Suzanna When asked about how he found Southeastern Regional Action Council, Fitzgerald, and Shaun Radgowski. The out about ALLI, Radgowski said, “My which is one of fourteen regional action members attend monthly meetings at friend, Suzie Fitzgerald, told me she was councils. It is stated on the official ALLI different locations to plan community planning on going back in October, and website that, “Our mission is to unite the projects. asked if I’d join her. I agreed, and went to communities of Southeastern Connecticut Shaun Radgowski said, “We’re the first meeting a few weeks later together. in order to reduce the impact of substance currently planning three projects. I’m I thoroughly enjoyed it, so we keep going abuse and other addictive behaviors.” on a committee planning a walk-a-thon back.” Radgowski ensures being part Student can join ALLI or ask questions to raise awareness for substance abuse of ALLI is a beneficial experience; “We through Ms. Macri.

Page 11 The Chieftain THE BACK PAGE Guess the Teacher By: Colleen Wells The Chieftain’s mystery teacher throwing the shot-put, this teacher was in the previous issue was Mrs. Smith. This also the school’s mascot for two years. issue, there is another puzzle. This mystery She “wanted to be a cheerleader, but not teacher is a member of the school’s English like one.” department and worked as a volunteer for This mystery teacher describes Norwich Free Academy’s writing center her fashion style as “Molly Ringwald’s during her high school career. She was Pretty n’ Pink mixed with Madonna” or also a member of the Shakespeare club, as in just one word “freaky.” To compliment well as being the class writer. her unique style, this teacher sported a This teacher also had musical mohawk during high school. Her first car talent and played both the baritone and was a Toyota Starlet, and her first job was tenor saxophones in her school’s marching, at Taftville Pharmacy. When asked what jazz, and regular bands. The teacher’s she was hired for, she commented, “to do choice in music was quite diversified: a display in the front window.” Art of Noise, Fishbone, Jungle Brothers, She met her future husband in Rush, The Smiths, and The Cure were middle school as a result of having the among his or her preferred artists because same piano teacher in Montville. This her entire family was interested in all sorts issue’s mystery teacher will definitely of music; there was no one specific genre. come as a surprise. The Chieftain will Last month’s Mystery Teacher Mrs. Smith. In addition to running track and reveal her identity in the next issue. Heartbreak of Being Waitlisted By: Joey Weekly For many upperclassmen, seniors waitlisted can sometimes keep hope alive applicants. in particular, the time has come and gone for students because they may be given Admission to a “number one” to apply for admission to universities admission by that university within the university, is not as easy as it once was. where they hope to spend the next chapter next few months. However, this only Though there is no way to guarantee your of their lives. Many students applied happens if space in the university becomes own acceptance, many college admissions to and got into state colleges such as available. Some people choose not to officers have recommendations for those Eastern Connecticut State University, accept a position on the waitlist, which of who have been waitlisted. You can always and many will go to local community course eliminates their chances of getting ask a university about your chances to colleges for their undergraduate degrees. in. In the country’s most elite universities, get accepted from the waitlist, but some Eastern Connecticut State is an excellent very few are accepted from the waitlist, if colleges don’t rank students from the university and is very affordable compared any at all. waitlist. Being a creative student will to most other universities in Connecticut. According to the Wall Street often help you get in, and sometimes a But many students dream of going to an Journal, in the past six years Princeton college will allow you to submit a letter elite university. Everyone has a different University has accepted anywhere updating your recent achievements and idea as to what their ideal, university is. between and one-hundred and sixty-five why you should still be admitted. The most When applying to a university that is students from their waitlist. In 2011, important thing is that you don’t become a considered to be more “elite” or “higher Cornell did not accept any of the 2,998 stalker of the admissions officers, because quality,” the competition to get accepted applicants that they put on their waitlist. even though persistence and dedication becomes much higher, especially if the Elite schools, such as Harvard, are also can be good, admissions officers do not applicant is an out of state resident. Being accepting a record low for percentage of want to be bothered with endless emails.

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