THE ENTRALIZERCentral High School of December, 2019 C Volume 145, Issue #2 Winter Edition “Great Big Stuff:” Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Jessica Lvov (279) like there was no way we would be Editor-in-Chief ready in time. Somehow, everything just came together at the last Students, faculty, parents, minute; it was kind of miraculous. and more gathered in the grand This is definitely the most fun I’ve Central auditorium as the lights had doing Central’s musical we dimmed and the pit orchestra got an amazing group of people performed, revealing a massive wire together this year, and that’s what sculpture among colorful scenery, makes staying at school until 7pm choreography, and outstanding bearable.” acting. The audience laughed along Noe Bunster (279), who played with the comical remarks of Noe the classical Freddy, said, “The Bunster (279) as Freddy Benson, opening night, it just felt magical. gasped at Patrick Brinkley’s (279) The energy with the audience entrance as Lawrence Jamieson, cheering us on, it felt rejuvenating. and marveled at the singing of The entire cast bow after the performance. | PC: Jessica Lvov We made it the best opening night Anja Castro-Diephouse (279) as intense love tangle, fake disability, first time, participation in the show we ever had!” Christine Colgate. and the reveal of ulterior motives, kept the audience amazed. The show would not be complete Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a the woman in turn reins victorious Anja Castro-Diephouse (279), without the work of the pit orchestra, comedy musical based on the 1998 as she uses her wits and charm to the iconic Christine, wowed the playing impeccably during the film and the book of the same title defeat and eventually bring together audience with her angelic voice and entire performance, setting the by Jeffrey Lane. Central took on the two men. The overarching plot professional acting. When asked to mood and keeping the audience on this musical for the first time ever is peppered with multiple subplots, describe her experiences, she states, edge. Siobhan McAtamney (279), a in a marvelous performance that such as the love affair of Lawrence’s “I had a ball! It was pretty nerve- violinist in the orchestra, describes features two conmen, Freddy and manservant Arthur, that gave wracking for a while there– moving her perspective: “Being in the pit Lawrence, attempting to swindle Ms. the production depth and the pit the show to the fall meant we had orchestra was really cool.” Colgate out of $50,000. Through an orchestra’s performance and, for the less time than ever, and it seemed Continued on page 2 A Day in the Life of Mr. McKenna Turkey Bowl Grace Jickling (279) Anika Koruba (281) Editor-in-Chief Staff Writer On Thanksgiving day, 2019, Mr. McKenna is a Central legend, the annual homecoming football he makes the school what it is, and game was held at Central’s home makes the students who they are. field against its biggest rival: But, how many students are aware Northeast. Lancers felt prepared of what Mr. McKenna actually does? for the biggest game of the year His office is surrounded by mystery, after extra practices and training. a forbidden territory past the safety The team was hungry for a win of the main office. As a journalist Our president sits in his office, such a small room for so much responsibility. and felt confident going in. With and a senior, I wanted to uncover | PC: Grace Jickling government. I would go to graduate many fans coming out to support the truth behind Mr. McKenna, so I announcements and spending school one day a week at Lehigh, the two teams came an exciting shadowed him for a day to discover advisory doing paperwork and and four days a week I would be a and intense game that finished with more about our beloved president. addressing the tasks of the day, principal intern,” he recalled. He Northeast as the victors, 34-16. Here is what I found: Mr. McKenna moved on to one then became an elementary school Continued on page 4 The day began at 7:40 when the of his favorite tasks, his “rounds.” principal before he became the man himself entered the Central Interacting with students and principal of High School building after dropping teachers is “the best part” of the where he taught for four years his four year old daughter off at job to Mr. McKenna. Visiting until Dr. Pavel, his predecessor, preschool. Mr. McKenna made his classrooms, he sees “the intellect and told him that he was retiring. Mr. way to the office and started his day connection that Central students McKenna thought to himself, “if with his usual banana and cup of have that other kids don’t have.” you don’t want to lead Central High coffee. He calls himself a “creature As we walked through the School after you’ve lived in the city of habit,” implementing certain halls, I asked Mr. McKenna how he your whole life, then you’re not in routines like reading ten minutes got to Central. After changing his the right business.” Mr. McKenna of news from CNN to ground his career at age 24 from business to became the fourteenth president of day and to help “create balance and education, he taught at a bilingual Central High School in 2011– he control apart from the chaos of spanish elementary school. During was intimidated at first, but he knew Central,” to “see what’s happening his sixth year he was “recruited to he would not regret his decision. in the world before focusing on the become a part of partnership with the School District of Philadelphia, After returning to his office, Students and teachers alike watch as the world of Central.” players stand proudly on the field. | PC: Lehigh University, and the federal Mr. McKenna was met with After making the morning Continued on page 2 Max Hall In This Issue Philadelphia Election Homecoming Spotlights Mr. Steinberg Basketball Page 3 Page 4 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8

PAGE 1 THE CENTRALIZER Continued from page 1 such grand proportions, of course, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels many meetings over top secret Continued from page 1 with the help of the many stage information I am not allowed to crew members, the supervisors, “We get to see a completely report: namely, the eighth grade and the orchestra. Everyone different side of the musical. It’s applications. One of the biggest involved sacrificed many hours to very technical work so it’s hard, tasks Mr. McKenna faces at this perfect the performance and the and tiring, but it pays off. Seeing point in the year is the applications end result undoubtedly reflected the entire show with the audience for the 283rd class, each of which their dedication, the audience was four times and countless times in are individually examined by Mr. blown away. Maybe, Dirty Rotten rehearsals is awesome because you McKenna and Ms. Harrington, Mr. McKenna speaks at the pep rally. Scoundrels aren’t so dirty and rotten get to see it evolve into a finished with the help of Mr. Steinburg and | PC: Grace Jickling after all. product that’s actually decent. I Ms. Vanbuskirke. Mr. McKenna’s The meeting was followed by loved the music for this show and advice to the new students is to the Thanksgiving game pep-rally, the pit orchestra all became good “get involved with something, but a celebration of Central spirit with friends.” also learn to organize your time, all of the classes as well as alumni. If it were not for the directing and come to the realization quickly Mr. McKenna tells the current and supervision of Mr. Kelsey, Mr. that...time management is critical.” senior class as they prepare for the Blazer, Mr. Burns, and Mr. Francetti, With the decision of the future transition to college, “make sure you the musical would not have been of Central High School, the past move away, make sure you live on possible. Importantly, the help of returned. The day I shadowed Mr. campus– it’s a big part of growing. many stage crew members kept the Christine and the maids dance. | PC: Grace Jickling McKenna was young alumni day, You’re going to be a little nervous, production running smoothly. Judy when recent graduates flooded the but you should always go with the Luong (279), a stage crew member, halls. As we joined the now college confidence that you’re ready for says, “This musical was the funniest freshmen, members of 278, burying that campus. You should believe in one I’ve worked in and I’m so glad their time capsule in the south yourself. Continue to set goals, be but sad it’s my last one.” lawn, he noted, “people feel that confident that you’re prepared, live This year, the musical was even this school has taught them to learn away from home, and have fun.” more difficult to put together due what is important; the importance Mr. McKenna’s day concluded to the department’s time restraints. of hard work, the importance of there. From spending just a single In the spring, students and faculty dedication.” day with Mr. McKenna, I realized will travel to Puerto Rico to Christine and Freddy in ‘love.’ | PC: Grace Jickling After the ceremony, we had to how much he really does for our commemorate a job well done and return to the office for a meeting with school. Without Mr. McKenna, celebrate a successful year. This trip the construction workers to discuss Central would not be Central. “I was made possible through tireless the next plans of the building. While love coming to work everyday,” fundraising and revenue from the waiting, Mr. McKenna opened up Mr. McKenna concluded, “I can’t musical and cup noodle sales. the “chs_philadelphia_memes” believe that I’m in my eight year Overall, this musical was instagram page, which he finds already, time flies at Central. I don’t definitely one for the books. The cast quite funny. He says in response to know how I got here, I’m very lucky. was able to go above and beyond the page to “never get too big for A lot of luck, a lot of hard work, a lot what was expected for a musical of your britches.” of good people in my life.” The three join hands in song. | PC: Grace Jickling The Great American Impeachment, Explained

Maximillian Hall (279) didn’t like them or their politics. Op-Ed Editor Rather, impeachment was only Impeachment in American History to be employed if the president The process of impeachment is was found guilty of “Treason, deeply rooted in America’s past. As Bribery, or other high Crimes and juniors and seniors know from their Misdemeanors,” ( as stated in Article U.S. history classes, the American II, Section 4 of the Constitution. ) colonies initiated war against While the first two are Britain for one principal reason: rather clear in the activities they to escape tyranny. And when the refer to, the final reason, “high Americans won the Revolutionary crimes and misdemeanors,” is War, the looming threat of tyranny intentionally vague; high crimes didn’t escape their minds: in fact, in and misdemeanors can refer to any establishing their own government crime or abuse of power by a federal of several United States, the Framers official, and deciding so is left September 25, 2019: Trump meets with President Zelensky in New York | PC: The New Yorker. structured the government to intentionally by the Constitution to The impeachment process starts The Senate holds a trial, the evade tyrannical rule at every level, members of the legislative branch. in the House of Representatives. A rules for which are determined in separating and limiting powers, and Two Presidents have been member of the House must formally each individual impeachment case. installing “checks and balances” to impeached in American history. introduce an “impeachment Members of the House, keep every branch of government President Andrew Johnson was resolution” to begin the process. called managers, present in line. When the Framers impeached for “high crimes and The Speaker of the House evidence and call witnesses discussed adding impeachment misdemeanors,” and President (currently Nancy Pelosi, D-CA) Chief Justice of the to the Constitution for the first Bill Clinton for perjury to a grand then directs the House Judiciary Supreme Court (John time in 1787, they decided its jury and obstruction of justice. committee to hear the resolution, Roberts, currently) presides purpose was to fairly remove a Both were later acquitted by the who will vote on it and decide the At the conclusion of the ruler if they were found guilty of Senate following the reasoning logistics of a resolution vote by trial, members of the Senate act egregious offenses, which they that their impeachment was based the full House of Representatives. as jurors and vote on whether kept vague in anticipation of the on politics and policy rather than If the Judiciary committee or not the president committed development of American politics. actual crimes against America. approves the resolution, an impeachable offense. In their mind, impeachment the full House votes. The Senate must reach a ⅔ was not a power of the legislative The Process If members present vote by majority of 66 senators (out of branch to be used lightly or All federal officials maya simple majority to impeach, 100) to convict a sitting President, for political purposes: in other be impeached and removed the president is officiallyat which point the vice president words, you couldn’t kick the from office if found guilty of “impeached” and the process (Mike Pence, R) takes over. president out of office because you any of the charges listed above. moves to the U.S. Senate. Continued on page 7

PAGE 2 THE CENTRALIZER The College Board: How Can We Measure Experience? Kate Ratner (280) additional numerical scale would Op-Ed Editor be detrimental and unfair within As a high school junior, my college admissions. The information thoughts about college applications on Landscape will contribute to and concerns for my post- individual applications, yet the Central education are spiraling. data is generalized and will make The obnoxiously large SAT prep the application review process books, the hours of diagnostic test- simpler for admissions officers. Dr. taking, and the fear of scores and Soda, the chair of the Counseling competition is daunting. When I Department at Central, expressed heard of the SAT Adversity Score, her concerns with the original my instinct was to support the Adversity Score. She states,“an College Board in their efforts to Adversity Score wouldn’t consider present applicants’ scores based on the individuality of each student and would blanket available resources not only their test-taking abilities The College Board Landscape | PC: The College Board without taking into account unique and academic knowledge but template called the “environmental College Board site as a resource circumstances.” Both Dr. Soda and also their social and economic context dashboard.” Living in that “incorporate[s] contextual I questioned to what extent college backgrounds and the ways in which Philadelphia, we are I’m privileged information about students and admission officers would allow these factors affect their results. In to attend a school with substantial provide[s] a more comprehensive the Adversity Score to affect one’s an interview with CBS News, the academic opportunities and support view of the applicant” for college admission decision. In regards to CEO of the College Board, David from an alumni association, as many admissions officers. Rather than the revised Landscape database, Coleman, stated that though the students of the Philadelphia School assigning applicants a score that Dr. Soda questions, “how will this SAT is intended to measure a District are slighted by unkempt represents their struggles, Landscape system prove effective in the college student’s achievement, it doesn’t school buildings and under-funded will equip college admissions offices admissions world?” Personally, my measure “what [the student] has academic programs. However, with general information about hope for Landscape and the mission overcome.” The Adversity Score there are many students at Central schools and neighborhoods to fill of the College Board in the future is was a number ranging from 1 to and other schools nationwide that in application gaps. In light of the that it strives to holistically serve as 100 measuring fifteen factors of experience struggles not resulting college admissions scandals of many students as possible in their a student’s background including from their school environments or March 2019 and the Students for Fair college process and to encourage one’s median family income, crime socioeconomic statuses. Since the Admissions’ hopes of removing race staff and faculty at every school reports of one’s neighborhood, College Board’s announcement of from college admissions, the College to inform students of any free test housing accommodations, the Adversity Score, a backlash from Board saw a need for a system that preparatory resources available advanced classes available at one’s students, educators, and families has gave a truthful understanding of an to them. The College Board must school, and others. This number caused the organization to replace applicant’s background. The SAT, or understand that a database won’t would not have been accessible the Adversity Score spectrum the Scholastic Aptitude Test, itself solve educational inequality or to students but could be viewed with a system called Landscape. has already succeeded in defining make college admissions fair. by college admissions staff on a Landscape is described by the our students with numbers. An Philadelphia Election Results Viktor Kagan (279) retaining these seats. Rather than Op-Ed Editor continuing this same pattern, the , a November 5, 2019 proved to be progressive party affiliated with the a momentous day in Philadelphia: Bernie Sanders campaign garnered not only was City Council thrown two candidates to run for these into a huge, unknown abyss, but seats: Kendra Brooks and Nicolas new polling machines were used, O’Roarke. Since Philadelphia has the Philadelphia Republican (and so many registered Democrats, Democratic) Party was put to the the goal was for some Democrats test, and the surprisingly large to sacrifice two of their votes for turnout proves to be fortelling for at-large candidates and vote for the 2020 elections. Brooks and O’Roarke. Brooks was Mayor speaks among his supporters. | PC: WHYY One of the key takeaways from able to raise more money for her running a campaign, managed to O’Neill won his victory with the the election was the strength of campaign than any other minority win on immense margins, proving smallest margins ever. The loss of money in local city council elections. party candidate and secured one the power of the Democratic voting an at-large seat and a new struggle All seventeen councilmembers, of the minority party seats, ousting bloc in Philly. The true question to maintain the only Republican seven at-large and ten representing councilmember Taubenberger. now lies in how this off-year district seat shows the leftward districts across Philadelphia, were , winning reelection, is election foretells the upcoming polarization of Philadelphia that up for election. Two at-large seats now the only Republican to win 2020 election. With incredibly is indicative of the voters’ attitude were open due to two retiring city-wide in Philadelphia. large margins for Democratic towards the Republican Party within Democratic incumbents and were Most of the district elections candidates, Philadelphia’s nature Philadelphia, and in a more general easily won by Democrats Katherine proved to be easily won. The as a Democratic stronghold will state, the United States Republican Gilmore Richardson and Isaiah incumbents in eight of the ten stay. Yet, with the loss of another Party. Thomas, two prominent millennial districts sailed to victory. Central elected Philadelphia Republican, With the huge Democratic community activists. Incumbent grad easily coasted the question is not about the power and Working Party victories, at-large Democrats , to victory in the 3rd District, after of Democrats, but of how weak Philadelphia looks to maintain its Alan Domb, and Derek Green won defeating the longtime incumbent, the Republican Party is within the liberal outlook and the Democratic reelection. Jannie Blackwell in the Democratic city. After the election, the sitting victories in former Republican The true challenge was in primaries. In the 10th District, Philadelphia Republican Party chair, strongholds like Delaware County, the remaining two at-large Republican council member Brian Mike Meehan, resigned, claiming Chester County, and Bucks County. seats, reserved to minority party O’Neill faced his first true challenge that the party is in shambles. Voters are evidently energized and candidates. For more than fifty years, to his forty year incumbency from Even in the Northeast, where if there are any takeaways from the Republicans held these seats, with Judy Moore, but managed to win an Republicans are 33% of the voter 2019 election, it is that this election councilmembers Al Taubenberger eleventh term in city council. base, the Republican party showed is only a droplet of the wave that the and David Oh, a Central alumnus, Mayor Kenney, without even its lowest performance yet, as Brian 2020 election will bring.

PAGE 3 THE CENTRALIZER Homecoming 2019: A Night to Remember Homecoming and King Queen Pictures Courtesy of Ms. Alina Whittle Ms. Alina of Courtesy Pictures

The Turkey Bowl, 2019 Game Overview: • Last win against NE on thanksgiving was in 2013 • First Quarter: CHS #33 scores TD, +1 point conversion • 3rd Quarter: CHS 2 Point Safety, NE intercepts late in 3rd quarter • CHS #11 Injured → stretched off field • 4th Quarter: #33 → Huge run. CHS #33 throws TD, completed by #44, +1 Point conversion • On-side punt late in 4th quarter, successful possession • Northeast wins, Final: 36-16

Written by and Pictures Courtesy of Maxamillian Hall (279) Op-Ed Editor

PAGE 4 THE CENTRALIZER Career Day, 2019

Vincent L. Calloway (235) is Denis P. Cohen (228) currently a marriage and family therapist serves as a judge in the Philadelphia dedicated to pragmatic practice County Court of Common Pleas and promoting diversity within but previously worked in public psychological work fields. He service at the District Attorney’s studied at UPenn where he learned office. After undergrad at UPenn the importance of failure in building and law school at Boston College, character and went on to work for Cohen began his career in the PECO where he was a counselor for Philadelphia DA’s office, employing alcoholics. From there, he entered his Political Science and Urban Marjorie Thomas (267) poses in her a family therapy training program Studies double major to tackle cases former English classroom. at the Bryn Mawr Graduate School Hayley Bartkus (272) presents her concerning economic crimes, most career as a sonographer. Marjorie Thomas (267) has Of Social Work and Social Research often consumer fraud and false a long history with Central, her and started his own practice, Hayley Bartkus (272) is a advertising. Judge Cohen remarks father and brother also alumni. She offering individual, couples, and Diagnostic Medical Sonographer on the importance of “networking” graduated from family therapy, in addition to who graduated from the Rochester to hold public office, and credits as a Communications and Mass premarital counseling. Mr. Calloway Institute of Technology, a top college Central for many of the connections Media major, going into the news emphasizes the importance of for sonography, as a first-generation he has made over the years. More production field. Ms. Thomas later communication at all steps in any student. During her time at Central, than 50 years after Central, Judge worked as a Television director in relationship and advocates for the Ms. Bartkus played several sports Cohen continues to be involved Texas with NBC, in Baltimore with increased participation of males and including basketball, volleyball, in the school community through Fox, and in South Dakota with ABC minorities in therapy to improve the and soccer. After graduating from the alumni association, never as a news producer helping with quality of treatment and of society college, she accepted a position underestimating the power of the the teleprompter to writing scripts as a whole. in Albany in a mixed adult and Central name. for news anchors. She focused on Written by Maximillian Hall (279) pediatric level-one trauma center, Written by Maximillian Hall (279) the “new, now, text” policy when working 60 hours per week. She she picked the order of events wants to convey that ultrasound is presented and decided the video commonly the first step to diagnosis clips, and designed the sounds and for patients sensitive to radiation graphics. Ms. Thomas is now a and is conveniently non-invasive producer for the local game show and relatively affordable. She now “ClassH-Room” and hopes to be works at Einstein and St. Chris’s an executive producer in the near medical centers and aims to obtain future. She hopes to inspire students her masters to teach ultrasound. to think “outside-the-box” to make Written by Jessica Lvov (279) themselves different. Vincent L. Calloway explaining Denis Cohen (228, Left) with Michael Written by Jessica Lvov (279) approach to effective therapy. Horwits (251, right) Sofi Disepio (255) is a Spanish Terron Graham (272) had langauge medical interpreter at always been told that he had a talent Jefferson, CHOP, Temple, and the for mathematics while growing up, Fox Chase Cancer Center. As an which inspired him to pursue a “average, B student” in Spanish 1 career involving statistics. He first and 2, Ms. Disepio studied abroad went to Penn State University with in Argentina for 6 months during the goal to study actuary science her junior year, falling in love with in 2017. Graham went to New the Spanish language and becoming York for an internship related to nearly fluent. In college, she his planned career path, however, majored in Spanish with a minor he recalls waking up one morning Stephen Gerhenson (216) discussing in Latin American Studies. Then, and realizing that he wasn’t satisfied how he became a pediatrician. Ms. Disepio taught Spanish for ten Paul Steerman (226) retelling his most with where his planned career path years before deciding she wanted to memorable surgical procedures. Stephen Gerhenson (216) is was leading him. After attending the pursue interpretation. She took the a pediatrician who did not know Paul Steerman (226) is a general University of in 2018, LSATs to interpret for a law firm, but what career he wanted to pursue surgeon who attended Franklin he now studies marketing research later chose to go into the medical after high school. He received a Marshall College and majored in in the area. Through his journey field. She wants to emphasize that scholarship to UPenn to study Chemistry. After graduating from and experience, he learned that one a medical interpreter is “the voice engineering. However, while he Temple University for medicine, he should never be afraid to get out of of the doctor and the voice of the was in engineering school he was worked at Einstein Medical Center their comfort zone and ask for help patient,” which is vital in a city like influenced by the Civil Rights and for his surgical residency. As a from friends, advisors, and peers. Philadelphia where 52 languages Vietnam Era to study Liberal Arts surgeon, Mr. Steerman constantly are spoken. Written by Judy Tran (279)) while he worked at a laboratory. faces the responsibility for people’s Written by Jessica Lvov (279) He graduated from UPenn in 1965 lives, controlling the fate of his without knowing what career he patients. The scariest part of his job would go into. The Era and Liberal is having to accept any situation Arts helped him realise that he has what comes to his way, good or bad. a passion for helping people, thus, In times of panic and distress, he is he finally knew he wanted to be a the one who comes to the rescue, doctor and chose pediatrics because even though the responsibility can he loves working with children. get scary. Despite having a heavy When it comes to choosing his burden, it’s the appreciation of his career, he states, “I changed my patients that makes all his hard work mind several times and sometimes worth it. Mr. Steerman emphasises it can look indecisive, but for me it that a career in medicine is very rewarding. was a learning experience.” Sofi DiSepio (255) shares important Terron Graham (272) stresses the Written by Amanda Serjani (280) aspects of her career as a Medical Written by Judy Tran (279)) importance of making connections. Interpreter. PAGE 5 THE CENTRALIZER Mr. Fitzgerald Takes on Central Mr. Bezanis Takes on Jessica Lvov (279) The World Editor-in-Chief Gabriel Raytsis (279) Science Editor Grace Jickling (279) Editor-in-Chief We welcome Mr. Fitzgerald to the science department as a biology teacher. Mr. Fitzgerald teaches both Last year Mr. Bezanis was AP Biology as well as the required mysteriously absent. The Bezanis biology course for freshmen. From Buck black market died down New Jersey, he first gained exposure in Central, but Mr. Bezanis was to the school through a student- spreading the market all across teacher program that placed him in Europe and Asia during his year- Mr. Fowler’s biology classes in 2018. long sabbatical. After teaching at Ridley High School Mr. Bezanis has been teaching for a year, Mr. Fitzgerald joined the for twelve years, this year his ninth Lancers as soon as a position was year at Central, which made him Mr. Fitzgerald teaches his AP class about cellular respiration. | PC: Jessica Lvov available. qualified to go on a sabbatical, a Mr. Fitzgerald did not always to try and help alleviate or reduce his Master’s Degree at St. Joseph’s year-long study break for teachers have his mind set on a teaching the symptoms. University and entered Central as with ten years of experience. He career. Prior to becoming a teacher, When Mr. Fitzgerald was in a student teacher for Mr. Fowler’s described his motivation saying, “I he was heavily involved in science college, he believed that he was biology classes and “immediately was qualified, I had young kids, my research. He began his research “going to do research forever,” but it fell in love with Central, love[d] wife who is Czech doesn’t have any career while in college and pursued was at NYU where he discovered his the students.” Now working across family here, I have dual citizenship, that path at New York University second passion. While at NYU, Mr. the hall, Mr. Fitzgerald says he is an American passport and a Greek after graduating. There, he worked Fitzgerald mentored high school delighted to work with Central passport, which lets me travel as a scientist researcher at the and undergraduate students who students since “[they] are very anywhere in the EU. I did it because Nathan Kline Institute, where he were interested in gaining research excited about science, which [he] is I could, number one, but number conducted Alzheimer’s research experience. Through this process, he very excited about.” Mr. Fitzgerald two, I love traveling too, so it was a on mouse models. Later in his was given a glimpse into the world has also quickly found a community, great opportunity.” career, he took up the position of teaching. Soon enough, his love becoming friends with the other While on his sabbatical, Mr. of lab manager at the Children’s for teaching outgrew his passion teachers in the department, stating Bezanis rented a house in Prague, Hospital of Philadelphia, where for research, and after sitting in on “we are all science nerds...we talk where his wife’s family lives, and he remained for about three years. several high school science lessons, about science well after class ends.” enrolled his two kids in the local At CHOP, Mr. Fitzgerald aided in Mr. Fitzgerald decided to make the Central looks for teachers who school, where they became fluent schizophrenia research with mice switch from the laboratory to the are trained to challenge intelligent in Czech in two months. During that were genetically altered to classroom. high school minds, and Mr. the day, Mr. Bezanis would read, already have the symptoms. The lab Having his mind set on Fitzgerald definitely fits this criteria go to museums, and explore, all then performed neuron transplants teaching, Mr. Fitzgerald obtained and goes above and beyond. while continuing his education. Mr. Bezanis and his family traveled A Glimpse into Ms. Bonner’s Life around Europe, spending a weekend Gabriel Raytsis (279) she decided to change her major to in Germany, two weeks in Spain, Science Editor Biology in Education. and four weeks in Greece. Jay Pandya (279) Prior to joining the Central For all of November, Mr. Bezanis Staff Writer teaching staff, Ms. Bonner taught at traveled all around Asia through Furness High School for 12 years. China, Cambodia, Thailand, and September 2019 marked When she wanted to change schools, Vietnam. Mr. Bezanis took several Ms. Bonner’s fourteenth year as a Central was not Ms. Bonner’s first lessons from his time in Asia, “the teacher at Central. Former science choice, it was her last. June and July most interesting thing for me was department head and current went by and Ms. Bonner had yet traveling to places where people live sponsor of the Science Olympiad to receive any offers from her list differently from here. Especially as team, Ms. Bonner currently a history teacher and a geography of schools. After waiting for two Mr. Bezanis and Mr. Li on top of the Prague teaches forensics, anatomy and months, in late August, she received Castle. | PC: Mr. Bezanis teacher, I often teach about global physiology, and genetics, but has a phone call saying that Central was inequality, and to go to a place taught everything from marine available, and she accepted. like Cambodia and to see utter biology to physics. Born and Since coming to Central, Ms. poverty you really realize the utter raised in Philadelphia, Ms. Bonner Bonner has taken note of several discrepancies.” attended Villanova University as an unique aspects of the school. She Mr. Bezanis did miss Central, undergraduate student and taught first mentioned the level of safety in but he experienced a bit of Central at Furness High and Norristown our school. “[Furness] was a violent in the middle of his travels. Mr. Area School District before joining place. It was in an area where there Bezanis’ sabbatical aligned with the Central science department in was a lot of gangs, and there were that of another Central teacher: Mr. 2005. fights regularly. When I came here, Li. Mr. Li went to visit his family During her undergraduate years, you don’t have that kind of thing.” Repping Central pride on the iconic Wall in China and spent time studying Ms. Bonner originally planned She is also impressed by the student of China. | PC: Mr. Bezanis in Paris, as well as backpacking to become an engineer. However, dedication: “You guys get here at 6 by himself all throughout Europe. she quickly changed her major. o’clock in the morning and you stay However, for about a week, he “I got an opportunity to actually here until 8, 9, or 10 o’clock at night. stayed in Prague with Mr. Bezanis, see what engineers do, and for the I don’t think that happens at any who showed him around the city. most part it was sitting in a cubicle other school.” Mr. Bezanis has returned to programming on a computer, A skilled teacher who has served Central, the Bezanis buck market and that was not what I wanted to the Central community for over a booming once again, but his travels do.” At the time of her realization, decade, Ms. Bonner continues to display the unity and connectivity Ms. Bonner did a project through prove to be an excellent addition of the Central community that Habitat for Humanity, working to the teaching staff, strengthening does not only span throughout with students from Philadelphia, the science department with her Mr. Bezanis posed in Cambodia by the Philadelphia, not only America, but a pleasant experience after which wisdom and experience. Angkor Wat. | PC: Mr. Bezanis spans all over the world.

PAGE 6 THE CENTRALIZER Mr. Steinberg: No Longer in the Shadows Construction Miller Gentry-Sharp (281) the end of October. He also leads many important projects for Grace Jickling (279) News Editor an impassioned tour for the parents Central High School. Mr. Steinberg Editor-in-Chief of the eighth-grade shadows. When has an incredible impact on Central Sitting in class, a drumming Mr. Charles Steinberg, class of asked what his favorite part of and all of its students, through both noise enters your ears. It’s not the 221, wears many hats at Central High his work is he responded without his work as president of the Alumni sound of your teacher, not the sound School. He’s an alumnus, a retired hesitation, “working with the kids.” Association and as director of the of your thoughts, but the sound teacher, and an integral part of the As with any ongoing program, shadowing program. of the construction! Outside our Central High School community. adjustments and changes are still very classrooms, the construction Mr. Steinberg currently serves two being made. When I spoke to Mr. workers are diligently progressing in major roles at Central High School. Steinberg, one change he mentioned building the new edition to Central He is both the president of the was removing the restrictions on High School. So far they have almost Central Alumni Association and who is allowed to shadow whom. completely leveled the the previous the director of Central’s shadowing Currently, eighth-graders can only parking lot, built the steps up to program. shadow students of the same gender. the location of the new parking Mr. Steinberg arrives every The new policy would waive this lot, and have begun to make the day at Central before most rule and allow students to shadow necessary preliminary adjustments students during the fall to organize their siblings. These changes are an to prepare for the structure that shadowing. He embodies many of example of ongoing progress that is will fill Central’s campus. With the the virtues that Central High School being made to improve the program new donation of a million dollars, holds dear, showing passion for for those involved. the project is looking even more what he does and for Central. His As president of the Alumni promising, bringing in a new era for work has affected every student in Association, Mr. Steinberg leads Central High School. the school. a board of around 40 people The progress of the construction. | PC: Grace During the fall, the hall of fame managing the day to day operations Jickling corridor becomes a gathering spot of an organization that handles Mr. Steinberg (212) handles official for the many eighth grade shadows “$10-$11 million dollars in business in the hall of his dear and parents. The shadowing endowment funds.” This is an ol’ high. | Picture courtesy of the program, run by Mr. Steinberg, important position as the Alumni Alumni Association helps eighth-graders begin to Association plays is integral to understand the daily life of a almost every major fundraiser The Associated Alumni of the Central student. The program has Central holds. Mr. Steinberg cited Central High School of Philadelphia been running for many years, and that the alumni association played contact information: last month, Mr. Steinberg wrapped a key role in obtaining money for up another successful shadowing the new building project currently P: 215-845-3308 season. Over 800 students underway. E: [email protected] shadowed at Central, starting in late Through this work, Mr. September and running through Steinberg and others help fund

Continued from page 2 Trump’s Impeachment: campaign, helping Trump win the and 1 Independent (4 vacancies); independent and all Democratic July 25, 2019: Trump holds presidency in 2020. for impeachment to go to trial in Senators would have to vote against a phone call with Ukrainian On September 24, 2019, the Senate, the House only needs Trump, and that’s incredibly President Volodymyr Zelensky (an Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi a simple majority, 51%, or 218 of unlikely. If those twenty Republican unclassified transcript of the call initiated a formal “impeachment the 435 members, to vote in favor senators stayed home on the day of can be found on whitehouse.gov), inquiry:” an in-depth investigation of impeachment. According to the vote, the Democrats might have in which the two discuss United into the crimes Trump is accused a poll by the New York Times, a fighting chance at impeaching States military aid to Ukraine, of– a potentially illegal exchange 227 Democrats of the 233 have Trump, but this, again, is not likely and Ukrainian investigations into of military aid for an investigation announced their support of an to happen. controversies surrounding Joe that would defame the Bidens while impeachment inquiry, so it’s more Biden’s son, Hunter Biden. aiding Trump’s 2020 presidential than likely that they will vote Conclusion In the months following campaign, or a quid quo pro. following that support for articles of No matter how you frame it, the phone call, a whistleblower Trump has yet to be impeachment, moving the process impeachment will always be a from within the White House “impeached,” however the House to the Senate. political issue. The members of anonymously reported the call of Representatives has initiated the The Senate vote is harder to Congress voting on a president’s as an abuse of power, marking impeachment process and at the predict at this time, given the ⅔ removal, though called to vote the conversation as potentially present time, (December 13, 2019), supermajority needed to convict objectively, will invariably decide withholding military aid unless the House Judiciary Committee has in a Senate impeachment trial and based in part on their own rationale Ukraine complied with Trump’s voted on articles of impeachment ambiguous positions of several and biases. It’s for this reason among wishes and investigated Hunter (abuse of power and obstruction of Democratic and Republican others that the impeachment Biden. Congress). Senators elected by swing districts. process will likely be a wash, serving According to BBC, the military Several prominent factors, however, only to hurt the Democrats in the aid referred to amounts to $400 The Expected Outcome indicate that Trump will be upcoming 2020 presidential bid. million to Ukrainian military forces. No one can predict the future, acquitted. Though it’s very unlikely that From April, 2014 to April, 2019, but judging by the current makeup In the 230 years in the history of President Trump will be removed Hunter Biden served on the board of the House and the Senate, the the U.S. government, the Senate has from office, as the impeachment of Ukrainian energy company actions of members of Congress, never convicted a sitting President process proceeds, facts will emerge Burisma Holdings, where he was and historical trends, the outcome in impeachment proceedings. that will have huge implications compensated by more than $50,000 of this impeachment is fairly Given the Republican majority for the 2020 presidential election, a month. Many, including Trump, predictable. in the Senate (53 Republicans to serving to tear down the campaigns speculate that he was awarded In the event that the 45 Democrats, 2 Independents of some of the top Democratic this position based on his father’s impeachment is taken to a vote in that caucus with the Democrats), contenders for President, or solidify name rather than his competence the House of Representatives, it’s Democratic senators may also find the hold of the incumbent himself. or experience. Following the most likely that the House will vote it difficult to get the 67% of votes impeachment narrative, exposure in favor of articles of impeachment. needed to impeach Trump. Live updates can be found on of this alleged corruption may The current House is composed To achieve a supermajority like CNN after the house votes in late significantly damage Joe Biden’s of 233 Democrats, 197 Republicans, that, at least 20 Republicans, all December. PAGE 7 THE CENTRALIZER The Powderpuff Game Viktor Kagan (279) two touchdowns and two one-point hopeful for a win, but of course, it’s Op-Ed Editor conversions. She expressed her gonna be a wild ride!” On November 21, 2019, Central gratitude for the team, elaborating, Trinity Osbourne (279) was a High School hosted its 13th annual “Football is a team effort and I bit more blunt about her hopes for Powderpuff game. The seniors, couldn’t have done it without my the Central vs. Northeast game, 279, thirsty for a win after their amazing quarterback Saia and the sharing, “I’m excited to kick some loss junior year, faced off against rest of the greatest team Central has Viking butts!” the junior class, 280. After many ever seen.” Despite the loss against the weeks of intense practice, with Jillian Gatmaitan (280) was Northeast team, the Central seniors players coming in early and staying proud of the work her team put in: “I still remain forever victorious in the late after school to prepare, the two am so proud of my team. Their hard heart of our dear ol’ Central High. teams competed in an exciting and work and dedication is unmatched. nerve-wracking game. The football The 279 team pictured before their initial Although we didn’t get the outcome victory. | PC: Mr. Horwits traveled across the field, flags we wanted, we’ve learned so much. were snatched, and fans of both Everyone gave it their all and we’re teams lost their voices cheering on going to keep our heads high. I’m their classes. In the end, 279 was confident to say that we’ll get it next triumphant, scoring 20 points to year. Great job 280!” 280’s 12 points. The champions, 279, will faced Ah’Nazha Jackson (279), the off against Northeast’s resilient MVP, shared, “Today’s Powderpuff Powderpuff team on Tuesday, game was a great experience and of November 26th at 2:30 PM on course, in the end, 279 got the win. Central’s football field. We all had a great time and can’t Samantha Mangus (279), wait to beat Northeast!” Jackson expressed her hopes for a victory Coaches of the game pictured with their sponsor, Mrs. Zeserman | PC: Mr. Horwits The upperclassmen face off, the seniors in helped lead 279 to its victory with against our rival, saying, “we are pink, the juniors in yellow | PC: Mr. Horwits “Let’s Go Lady Lancers!” Alexis Lin: Basketball Queen Jordan Carrier (280) higher levels of confidence. With Jordan Carrier (280) dubs (wins) this upcoming season.” Sports Editor this bulk of experienced, confident Sports Editor Captain Alexis states, “A students, we will be able to build off Alexis is 1 out of 3 girls’ varsity personal goal I have for this season Coach Williams is “excited of last year’s success and we expect basketball captains. As a senior is becoming more of a leader. I want about [the girls’ varsity basketball] more wins.” on the team for four years, Alexis to develop my communication season due to the returning Coach Williams emphasizes is ready to end her final Central skills to better verbally interact leadership, experience, and the that “in addition to the varsity basketball season with a bang. Alexis with my team and lead by example.” new talent. Coach Williams states veterans, we picked up 8 new comments on the significant athlete Also, Alexis “play[s] basketball and that “this year’s team consists of 7 talented players who are mostly additions to the team: “Ending last volleyball with The Philadelphia returning players, including team 9th graders. These new players are season with a small team, I think we Suns and partake[s] in lion dance captains, Bene Butler, Alexis Lin, some of the most skilled young have some fresh talent with our new and community service events.” She and Zoe Moosbrugger, who each players I have seen in a while. They additions. Instead of the new girls also “work[s] part-time but tries have the leadership experience to are committed, strong, aggressive, assimilating into our set system, I to spend any remaining time with help mold the younger players to the knowledgeable, and love the sport, think the meshing of the girls will friends.” Alexis is an impressive expectations of varsity basketball in as some have been playing basketball establish an extraordinary team leader and student-athlete, on and the most competitive division in for years. I am excited to get the ball culture...I am excited to catch more off the court. the Philadelphia Public League. The rolling and to see how well they all captains’ experience and leadership play together– especially against illustrate what hustling the entire the most competitive teams in the game looks like as they execute plays. public league.” Alexsis Lin Furthermore, they maintain team jumping to make Regarding Coach Williams’s the basket. morale and keep the team focused goals and focuses for the upcoming | PC: Jordan through effective communication. season, she stresses the importance Carrier Overall, the returning squad is of “defense, rebounding, and experienced having played varsity moving without the ball.” With the basketball all of last season together team’s first scrimmage on Friday, and reaching the state playoff level December 6th against of competition. Most importantly, Simon Gratz High School they are dedicated and committed Mastery Charter, Coach as they have worked on their says, “we have a lot of THE ENTRALIZER STAFF game last summer and have made work to do and I know visible strides in their ball handling [the girls] are eager to C and shooting skills. It is most work hard and dominate Editors-in-Chief Layout Editor Proofreading Editor invigorating to see this growth in this season! LET’S GO Lily Lam (280) Sydney French (280) Grace Jickling (279) their basketball skillset result in LADY LANCERS!” Kayla Elie (280) Jessica Lvov (279) Entertainment Editors Basketball captain, Alexsis Lin, dribbling the ball into a great season | PC: Sports Editors Kayla Lark (279) Jordan Carrier Managing Editors Jordan Carrier (280) Amaliya Yunusova (279) Esther Besson (279) Mahala Bartch (280) Brianna Chau (280) Photography Editors Judy Tran (279) Faculty Adviser Online Managers Mr. John McElhenny Lynn Larabi (279) Op-Ed Editors Kayla Elie (280) Maximillian Hall (279) Printer Kate Ratner (280) Hocking Printing Company News Editors Viktor Kagan (279) Miller Gentry-Sharp (281) Anna Bokarev (280) Science Editor Gabriel Raytis (279)

President of Central High School: Mr. McKenna Room 228, Email us: [email protected] PAGE 8