VOL XXXIV · ISSUEFocus 2 A BLIND BROOK HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT PUBLICATION FEBRUARY 2017 Robotics Marketing Team Classes and Revels in School Store Recent Club Attend Successes Gift Show at By Allison Chien The Robotics Team has re- Javits cently had numerous successes, Photo courtesy/Dr. Michele Sugantino including their eighth place win Science Research seniors after the JSHS Awards Ceremony. From left at the Somers Qualifier that to right: Owen Xie, Paul Soden, Divya Kumaran, and Petal Samrow. Center took place on January 7. Founded by current presidents By Stacy Gerchick Adam Fleishaker and Owen Xie, Blind Brook Wins Big at Business teacher Charlene Decker the Robotics Team, also known took her classes to the NY NOW gift as “The Jellyfish” has brought show at the Javits Center, located in together technologically mind- Local Science Symposium downtown Manhattan on February 7 ed students from both the high and 8. Select members of the School school and middle school. By Hannah Marrow ment impacted their academic Store Club, more commonly known as The team meets during activ- Seven students and from the lives. the Blind Brook Marketplace, joined ity period and after school in the Honors Science Research pro- After analyzing the results of Decker’s classes. room of their advisor, middle gram attended the Westchester- his questionnaire, Soden conclud- Students who attended the trip school Robotics teacher Steven Rockland Junior Science and Hu- ed that alternative medications, gained valuable insight into the mar- Giglio, to build, discuss, and im- manities Symposium (WR-JSHS) contrary to popular belief, yield keting techniques used by different prove upon their projects. with program director and sci- higher academic index scores and brands. A test area exists in the cen- ence teacher Dr. Michele Sugan- thus work to maximize the aca- “I think that it is helpful to see ter of the room so that the team tino on Saturday, February 4. Of demic potential of minors with how what we learn in class translates can observe its robots, complete the students that attended the ADHD. into real world practices,” said senior with a child size basketball hoop symposium, three were juniors: “These results give parents of Alana Applebaum. and a barricade closing off the Sarah Rogers, Caroline Levine children with ADHD a new per- Throughout the trip, students rectangular space. and Julia Levine, and four were spective on the effectiveness of walked throughout the Javits Center The robots are able to move seniors: Paul Soden, Divya Kuma- different treatment plans for this and visited the booths of different freely throughout this area, ran, Petal Samrow and Owen Xie. condition while also emphasizing vendors. These vendors sold items completing their programmed Soden took home the first place the importance of motivation in ranging from novelty toys to artisanal tasks, which include shooting a speaker award in behavioral and the classroom setting,” he said. foods. small ball, which the team re- social sciences, and will be mov- Kumaran’s research aimed to “My favorite vendor was definitely fers to as a “particle”, through ing on to compete at the state test three different anxiety-con- Yogibo, which is a company that sells the basketball hoop, and picking JSHS competition in Albany on trolling sounds for preoperative different types of beanbags. They had up the particle. The team has March 7 and 8. Kumaran won the patients. The three sound waves such a colorful display and were let- extensively worked to refine the third place competitive poster that Kumaran evaluated in her ting visitors test out their products,” mechanisms that the robot uses award in the medicine and health study were hemispheric synchro- said Applebaum. to complete these actions. category. nization (hemi-sync), a type of While students of the market- “We’re using two spinning Soden’s project focuses on the white noise, classical music, and ing classes were only able to observe wheels that rotate at a high ve- effect of stimulant medications silence. Her results demonstrated the different sellers, members of the locity and we shoot the balls on the academic behavior of chil- that hemi-sync was, in fact, the School Store club were given special through these wheels,” said Xie. dren and adolescents with ADHD. most effective type of noise to passes that allowed them to interact “[The robot] uses a conveyer “I am so honored to have my calm the anxiety of patients pre- with and ask questions to the vendors. belt system to pick up the balls. research recognized in this way paring to undergo surgery. “The trip exposed us to new prod- It pushes the balls up a ramp we and I look forward to repre- “I expected that my hypothesis uct and marketing ideas for our store,” made out of sheet metal, and we senting Blind Brook at the state would be proven to be true, but said junior Isabel Steinberg. put them into a sort of storage JSHS competition in Albany next did not expect that there would The Marketplace took home fidget holding area where we can then month,” said Soden. be so much evidence to support cubes and a number of phone acces- retrieve the balls to to shoot In order to conduct his research, it,” said Kumaran. sories in bulk that will be sold in the them,” he added. he worked under the guidance of Students interested in learn- store in the near future. At the Somers Qualifier, the Dr. Peter Acker, a local pediatri- ing more about the studies of any “I really hope that we attend the team had to complete several cian. Soden distributed a ques- of the particpants in the Science show again next year. I think it’s a challenges with their robot. tionnaire to parents of children Research program can contact great opportunity for members of the with ADHD in order to deter- Dr. Sugantino to obtain copies of store to expand their business knowl- Continued on page three mine how their course of treat- their abstracts. edge,” Steinberg said. Inside Focus Politics Features Sports News...... 1 Junior Hannah Steinthal shares What’s all the hype about Rye Senior Ethan Finkelstein Politics...... 5 Viewpoints...... 8 her experience at the Women’s Ridge Shopping Center? Junior brings Focus to the lanes with Features...... 12 March in New York City. Allison Chien explores new Blind Brook’s new Bowling Health and Science...... 14 See page 5. stores on pages 12 & 13. Club on page 19. Arts and Entertainment...... 16 Sports...... 19 A Blind Brook High School Student Publication News February 2017

More High School Student Awards

Congratulations to the following students for their recent achievements! Senior Miranda Rasch has been nominated by the Board of Regents and the New York State Education Department for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. This program was established in 1964 by Execu- tive Order to recognize some of the best and brightest graduating seniors in the country. The distinction is awarded for academic scholarship, leadership, service, talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts, and/ or outstanding achievement in the in career/technical skills. Miranda is required to apply for the award to advance to one of 800 possible semi-finalists.

The Speech Team had two award winners, senior Lauren Asen and junior Josh Schlactus, at a recent tournament held at Hendrick Hudson High School in Montrose, NY. The award was given for placing in the Top 10 for the Novice Public Forum at the Malcolm A. Bump Memorial Tournament that took place on Sat- urday, February 4. They had a speaking record of 3-1.

Senior Sam Brandeis was an honorable mention winner at the recent Golden Dozen awards dinner at the Westchester Country Club in Rye. Senior varsity football standouts who excel both on the football field and in the classroom were honored as Westchester’s chapter of the National Football Hall of Fame held its 44th annual Golden Dozen award banquet on Thursday, January 26.

Seniors Rowan Reddy, Bryan Weintraub, and Jonah Glick, all three of our National Merit Semi-Finalists have advanced to the Finalist status and now qualify to receive National Merit Scholarships.

At the Model UN Conference held at John Hopkins University (JHUMUNC) from February 9 to 12, Blind Brook had an unprescedented total of eleven award winners. Seniors Sammy Landino, Haley Feuerman, and Will Hartman, as well as junior Sarah Rogers and sophomores Rachel Penn and Carly Kabot received the honor of Best Delegate (1st Place). Senior Spencer Kaplan and sophomores Bryan Wei and Spencer Gladstone earned the title of Outstanding Delegate (2nd Place), and senior Dylan Robins and freshman Shivani Thaneer took home Honorable Mention awards (3rd Place).

Photo courtesy of Ms. Simmons Photo courtesy of Ms. Simmons (From left to right) Seniors Haley Feuerman, Sammy The Model UN team smiles after yet another Landino, Dylan Robins and Will Hartman celebrate their successful conference. achievements at JHUMUNC.

2 A Blind Brook High School Student Publication News February 2017 Students and Faculty Saddened by Sudden Retirement of Dave Centofanti By Mitchell Saunders After nearly fifteen years, security guard David “Dave” Centofanti retired from his position at BBMHS on November 29, 2016. Centofanti worked tirelessly over the years to ensure the safety of students and faculty members. One of Centofanti’s main roles as security monitor was to control the morning and afternoon traffic proceedings. Rain or shine he and his coworkers regulated the pickup and drop-off lines of cars and helped students safely cross the parking lot to reach the school building. Centofanti also worked in the security office at the front of the school signing in and assisting visitors. Security monitors William “Billy” Santoro and Denise Longua have taken over Centofanti’s morning and afternoon routines, while security monitors Gary Leibstein, Joseph Funigiello and Don Ahrenburg have also shifted responsibilities at the security desk “Everything has been running smoothly,” said Santoro. “Dave taught us well.” Ahrenburg is now working night shifts and Santoro has switched from working afternoons and nights to working the full school day. Liebstein has remained working his normal hours, though willing to assist when- ever necessary. “We’re bringing in new people for different shifts and I think the new system is working well. Dave is hard to replace and we will miss him, but everything is running as scheduled and I am not concerned about the organization or the security of the school,” Liebstein said.

Robotics Team Revels in Recent Successes Continued from page one “Each team has a single of appealing to our local had very different ideas, “Our team participates in robot, and there are 20-30 community”. These com- but we were still able to FTC, First Tech Challenge, teams, depending on each mendations allowed for the work together as a unit,” where what we’re trying to competition. The robots all team to advance to region- said Fleishaker. do is score as many points compete on a field, where als. However, Fleishaker also as possible with an alliance there are lots of objectives Members of The Jelly- believes that The Jellyfish partner. And from there, we that they must complete, fish attribute their success have room for improve- are able to move up to qual- from scoring into vortex- to their ability to work to- ment. ifying for regionals, then es, to hitting lower field gether as a team. “Our outreach and our the state competition, and beacons, to other different “I think a lot of it is the communication as a team so on,” said Xie. “We went tests. It’s sort of like a bas- fact that we are willing was good, but the biggest up against a lot of tough ketball game, but for ro- to have conversations. So, thing we want to improve teams. We did really well bots,” said Fleishaker. when anyone has an idea, is the functionality of the though, I have to say. Our The Jellyfish won eighth we talk about it. Some- robot. We are able to drive robot did really well. We place in the Somers Qualifi- times there are good ideas, fine, we’re able to score have an autonomous phase, er, and earned two awards. and others we get rid of. points, but the big catch is where our robot basical- They won second place There’s always a discus- the autonomous phase. We ly works by itself and it for the Motivate Award, sion, debate, and argument. want to refine it so that we worked rather successfully. and also won the Connect Everyone’s pretty friendly can score even more points It was able to get us a lot Award, for, as Xie said, with one another” said Xie. and therefore move farther of points.” “[doing] a really good job “This year our team all in the competition,” he said.

Photo courtesy of Ethan Tillison Juniors Orsen Wei and Claire Wieser work on their robot.

Photo courtesy of Ethan Tillison The Robotics Team, aka The Jellyfish, touch up their robot before the First Tech Challenge competition.

3 Hey, Blind Brook! HOSTING A PARTY WITH UNDERAGE DRINKING DOESN’T MAKE IT SAFER. IT MAKES IT ILLEGAL.

Did you know? HOSTING A PARTY WITH UNDERAGE DRINKING ISN’T GOOD FOR ANYONE. Some parents mistakenly believe that allowing underage drinking in their home is no big thing. They may think they can keep youth safe if they drink at home. Underage consumption can lead to further risky behavior including sexual assaults and rape as well as cause a range of physical consequences including alcohol poisoning, suicide, and traffc crashes. We also know that alcohol can have lasting negative effects on the developing teenage brain. As for the adults, allowing underage drinking to occur is illegal. Period. There are plenty of activities for our kids that do not include drinking. Don’t be a party to underage consumption. WHAT YOU PERMIT, YOU PROMOTE.

We are your local community Facebook.com/BlindBrookCoalition coalition, here to provide tips

and resources to families, @BBCoalition1 centered around youth

substance-use and underage YouTube.com/BlindBrookCoalition drinking. Please visit our website and join our mailing list: [email protected] BLINDBROOKCOALITION.ORG

4 Politics A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 The Women’s March on NYC An Opinion By Hannah Steinthal Some said, “Love Is Love,” one big that there were far too many truly empowering environment. On Saturday, January 21, the said “Build Bridges, Not Walls” people to fit at one starting point. As we kept on, our group be- day after President Trump’s in- and others said “Only Love Can Participants were marching in gan to disperse into small clus- auguration, protests erupted, not Drive Out Hate.” Mine read, “MY seas through the streets and up ters because there were too many only countrywide, but worldwide. body...MY rights!” with #IStand- avenues to reach the final desti- of us to stay together in such a Waking up to the panoramas on WithPlannedParenthood under- nation of Trump Tower, so we huge crowd. We didn’t all end the the news of protestors around neath it. jumped right in, making our way march together, but there was an the world was a reassuring and My day started by arriving at through walls of emptied taxis overwhelming sense of solidarity inspiring sight, because I knew the Port Chester train station to stopped in their tracks. Some of in the streets, so we were still to- that I was about to do the same catch a train that would have us the drivers even joined in chant- gether in spirit. What struck me thing. I was lucky enough to be in the city by 12:30 to meet the ing from the tops of their vehicles. the most was how wonderfully di- able to experience one of these rest of our group. As I walked The sun was shining so vibrantly verse the crowd was, but also how protests first hand by participat- onto the platform with my mom on the diverse faces in the crowd peacefully and willingly everyone ing in the Women’s March in New and her friends, we ran into two and their beautifully crafted signs. could join together for a power- York City. I asked my mom about other friends who were also on It drew us right in and I felt so ful cause. The day was so inspir- her motivation for going to the their way to the March. A large comfortable marching next to all ing to me that it was all I could March and she said that she be- number of people on the platform of the welcoming people, with think about for a few days after it lieves in equal rights and a wom- appeared to be in their marching their warm smiles and inspiring happened. I feel even more moti- an’s right to make choices about gear, and later we found that al- messages. I met incredible people vated to bring change and justice her own body, which is what she most the entire train was planning on our way to the finish line that to our country during such a con- wanted to advocate for when she on marching, too. As we boarded, had their own unique stories to troversial time. I will continue to marched. I then asked her what it rows of women of all generations share and we discussed what we look for opportunities to advocate was like marching alongside me, cheered in their pink cat ear hats. would like to see change. Many for human rights. The power we her daughter, and she told me that Like us, each had their own sign protested Nancy DeVos’s nomi- have together is incredibly strong she is so happy that we agree on and different message to share. nation as Secretary of Education, and I hope that as time goes on, this matter and that it is some- We took photos together, social- while others were concerned about we continue to grow stronger and thing that brings us closer, while ized, and took in all of the posi- climate change, marriage equal- fight together. There are so many doing good for others and stand- tive and supportive energy offered ity and immigration reform. As things that make us different and ing up for human rights. by each passenger. a whole, the people at the March forces that may tear us apart, but The day before the March, my When we first reached the city, stood to advocate for tolerance one thing I learned at the March mom invited a group of women we realized that this March was and love. The Women’s March is that, united, we can achieve so over to help decorate signs that not the organized March we had was all about acceptance, respect, much, so it is important to stand we would hold during the demon- seen online, rather it had become and humanity. I felt as if I could together. The Women’s March stration. By the end of the day we something entirely new. There feel the support and pure compas- was a truly moving and stunning- were set with a huge pile of signs, wasn’t a starting point anymore sion radiating from the hearts of ly beautiful experience that I will each with a different message. because the March had grown so everybody around me. It was a hold in my heart for years to come.

Photo courtesy of Hannah Steinthal A group of marchers pose with their signs in Grand Central Station.

Photos courtesy of Hannah Steinthal Marchers hold up signs and flood the streets of Manhattan.

5 Politics A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 How Trump Actually Won the Election An Opinion By Kellie Franzblau vive. These workers have ucts transited other coun- tion, Trump has also already The 2016 Presidential become increasingly angry tries through the packaging changed this unreasonable Election brought many sur- with the, “establishment,” and shipping process — position and plans to only prises, the biggest of which in Washington, which Hill- meaning workers in more deport violent illegal im- was Trump’s unforeseen ary Clinton represents, that than 12 countries contrib- migrants, despite campaign victory. Millions watched supports the outsourcing of uted to getting many of promises. Yet, Trump still on election night as then- their jobs to foreign coun- Trump’s products made, stands firmly on his pledge candidate Trump brought tries. packaged and delivered to to build a wall to keep ille- down the “blue wall” and Donald Trump harnessed the United States.” It is gals out, a project that, as- achieved victory in the tra- the anger, fear, and despair rather ironic that Trump suming he does not convince ditionally Democratic states of this now unemployed won support from this vot- the Mexican government to of Michigan, Pennsylva- population in his promises ing block by promising to pay for it, would cost tax- nia, and Wisconsin. The to, “drain the swamp,” in stop outsourcing jobs over- payers over $25 billion. Trump campaign’s ability Washington and to bring seas, which he has been a Partisan media outlets to defy all the pollsters in jobs, wealth, and prosperity major culprit of throughout such as FOX news and MS- their predictions of a Clin- back to America. Support his professional life. NBS also played a large role ton landslide in these states from this frustrated commu- Trump has also convinced in Trump’s victory on Elec- won him the election and is nity, especially in manufac- many Americans that illegal tion Day. His often bold and a feat that political analysts ture-dependent states such immigrants are the cause controversial statements to are only now beginning to as Michigan and Wisconsin, of job loss among blue col- the press, especially regard- unravel. ultimately won Trump the lar workers and ran his ing his immigration poli- Trump’s unexpected vic- White House. campaign on a platform of cies, gave him over $2 bil- tory is often attributed to Although Trump has stricter immigration regu- lion of free media coverage the underestimated, “Secret promised to bring many of lation, which will presum- throughout his campaign. Trump vote,” which is made these blue collar jobs, es- ably improve the nation’s This constant coverage al- up of poor, white, and re- pecially in the field of coal economic situation. lowed Trump to spend less cently unemployed males. mining, back to America, it This is where Trump’s time and money on getting According to CNN, in the is unlikely that he will ac- logic falls flat, as Mexican his policies across through past eight years since Pres- tually be able to uphold immigrants typically per- advertising and more time ident Obama took office, this promise. With the in- form the jobs that Ameri- to spend on speeches, ral- 14.4 million jobs have been crease in renewable energy cans do not want to do. lies, and campaign events. created and the unemploy- and technology, the coal in- Therefore, the American Trump’s victory can be ment rate has dropped to dustry is declining. As the economy would greatly suf- largely attributed to his 4.9%. Despite this decreas- world advances, the country fer if all illegal immigrants controversial promises that ing unemployment rate un- needs to keep up with other were deported. According have served to win him both der President Obama, many nations technologically by to CNBC, the deportation air time and votes, yet it is white, blue-collar workers improving education and of illegal immigrants would questionable that he will in rural America have yet allowing for workers to de- result in “a [net] loss of follow through, as we have to share in this economic velop new skills for a new $1.6 trillion,”. The Ameri- already seen with his flawed prosperity. This is largely job market. can Action Forum also es- immigration policies. due to the globalization of Trump, himself has also timated that attempting to Although surprising, the economy, which has out- spent years buil,ding his remove all illegal aliens and Trump’s win is not as sourced many blue-collar businesses by shipping jobs secure the border would shocking as the fact that jobs. Many of these indi- overseas. According to The cost upwards of $500 bil- millions of Americans have viduals lack college educa- Washington Post, “at least lion, which would certain- been decieved into believing tions, and rely on manufac- 12 countries where Trump ly strain the already weak that President Trump will turing jobs that are being products were manufac- American economy. actually keep his promise to shipped overseas to sur- tured… [and] Trump prod- Since winning the elec- make America great again.

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6 Politics A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 World Leaders Respond to Trump in the White House An Opinion By Abe Baker-Butler between the United States and and “unpredictable,” two quali- past Presidents, even in the face On election day, outsider Don- Israel. ties that seem to contradict each of aggression. Moreover, his iso- ald Trump stunned the world in Meanwhile, Mexican Presi- other. However, confused citizens lationist views hint that Trump his slim victory against former dent Enrique Peña Nieto has re- can gather a rough idea of what will not necessarily fight against Secretary of State Hillary Rod- acted much more adversely to Trump may do from all his cam- the disintegration of the EU. ham Clinton. Over the course Trump’s victory. For over a year, paign trail bluster. With promis- Rather, he has stated that we will of the raucous campaign, Don- Nieto has rejected Trump’s plan es to renege on the Iran nuclear pick a fight with countries that ald Trump’s unorthodox style to build a wall on the Mexican deal, the Paris Climate Change have signed “unfair” deals with and blunt statements made news border, claiming in an interview Agreement, the North American the United States. headlines around the world. On with the Guardian, that he, “does Free Trade Agreement (NAF- Another major concern of an international level, Brexit, not believe in walls.” TA), the NATO charter, and oth- many Americans is Trump’s ex- Russia’s suspected interference In Europe, responses to er international agreements, we tensive praise of Russian Presi- in the election, and the rise of Trump’s election varied. While can at least tell that Trump has dent Vladimir Putin. Even after populist political parties across centrist leaders in France and an affinity for isolationism and it was proven by multiple gov- Europe, further inflamed the ev- Germany expressed their con- promises to be a radical leader. ernment agencies that Russia er-changing political landscape cern about Trump’s promise to However, we cannot necessarily was in fact behind the hacking across the globe. As a country withdraw from the North Atlan- say that Trump will live by this of Clinton and Democratic Na- and a global community, we have tic Treaty Organization (NATO), philosophy, given that Trump tional Committee emails, Trump very little idea of what these sig- far-right populists across the has lavishly praised Russia and still refused to accept it. During nificant changes portend for the continent celebrated Trump’s pledged to be a “true friend” to a Trump presidency, we can ex- future of international relations. victory as a huge boost for their Israel. pect to see a closer relationship In the months since Trump’s cause. Donald Tusk, the presi- Throughout his campaign, with Russia and a cooler rela- election, many world leaders dent of the European Council, Trump has promised a policy of tionship with traditional allies, have released statements of con- cited Trump’s election as a wake- American renewal and to place , especially those that are existen- gratulations to the President- up call for those who believe in “America first.” As part of that tially threatened by Russian ag- Elect and have shared their de- liberal democracy. promise, Trump has preached gression. sire to cooperate and collaborate American allies in Japan and isolationist trade and alliance As for predicting Trump’s suc- with the incoming Trump Ad- South Korea expressed their de- policies as well as demanded cess in interacting with foreign ministration. sire to cooperate with the Trump that American allies pay for U.S. officials, many major news out- Israeli Prime Minister Ben- administration despite anxiety protection abroad. Accordingly, lets speculate that his extensive jamin Netanyahu expressed his over Trump’s promises of disen- Trump has called the NATO al- background in business will give optimism regarding the upcom- gagement in Asia. Overall, world liance “obsolete” and has greatly him the skills he needs to develop ing Trump Presidency in his No- leaders seem to be uncertain alarmed the nations of the EU strong and lasting relationships vember 9 statement: “President- about Trump but ready to work by referring to himself as “Mr. with political leaders across the Elect Trump is a true friend of with him to fulfill their common Brexit.” In addition, he has sug- globe. Nicole Rosenzweig com- the state of Israel. [We hope goals. gested that Japan and South Ko- mented, “I think Trump will to] continue to work together to But what will Trump actually rea should develop nuclear weap- encounter troubles cooperating promote security, stability, and do? It seems that even he him- ons instead of relying on U.S. with foreign leaders at first, but peace at home and abroad.” Ne- self can not make up his mind. forces for protection. With these his experience in business leads tanyahu added that he was op- Last April, in his first and only promises, it is extremely likely me to believe that he will ulti- timistic about further strength- foreign policy speech, Trump that Trump will provide less mately establish good relations ening the strong relationship promised to be both “reliable” support to American allies than with other governments.”

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7 Viewpoints A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 Don’t Give Up the Fight The fight for female equality ples of laws passed in the Unit- can Progress. According to The ing to the Huffington Post, only is far from over. In the United ed States intended to bridge the Institute for Women’s Policy 16% of stay-at-home parents in States and even more so in other gender gap, these laws have not Research, in 2015, full-time fe- the United States are men as of countries throughout the world, fully been able to do so. Consid- male workers made only 80 cents 2014. women face significant discrimi- ering the fact that much of this for every dollar earned by men, The fact is, women are not go- nation and lack opportunities legislation has already been in a wage gap of a shocking 20%. ing to achieve true equality until that are readily available to their place for decades, the deficiency In addition, while women hold every last person believes that male counterparts. For many in- in its effectiveness is highly con- almost 52% of all professional- women deserve to be equal. I dividuals, the sexism that women cerning. level jobs, they are only 14.6% am tired of hearing people com- are confronted with is difficult According to The Institute of executive officers, 8.1% of plain that women do not face to understand because it is usu- for Women’s Policy Research, top earners, and 4.6% of Fortune a real struggle. That protests ally not obvious. In many cases, in 2015, full-time female work- 500 CEOs, according to the Cen- and events such as the Women’s women feel forced to conform to ers made only 80 cents for every ter for American Progress. March are useless because wom- the expectations of their gender dollar earned by men, a wage gap These statistics show that en already have equal rights. role due to overwhelming soci- of a shocking 20%. In addition, women are lagging behind in the Words written down on a piece etal and familial pressure. while women hold almost 52% of workforce despite the passage of of paper have no meaning to While it may seem like a sim- all professional-level jobs, they the Equal Pay Act in 1963, Title the thousands of women in our ple fix, passing new legislation is are only 14.6% of executive of- VII of the Civil Rights Act in country facing daily oppression. not the only solution to ending ficers, 8.1% of top earners, and 1964 (which prohibits employ- There is still so much work discrimination toward females. 4.6% of Fortune 500 CEOs, ac- ment discrimination on the ba- to be done. Individuals who are Although there are many exam- cording to the Center for Ameri- sis of sex, race, color, national taking an active role in further- origin, and religion), and sev- ing the women’s rights move- eral other lesser-known pieces ment through protests and other Focus of legislation intended to give forms of civil disobedience are women equal opportunities in helping to raise awareness of Editor-in-Chief Stacy Gerchick the working world. the need to close the gender gap Managing Editor Lauren Rothmann Clearly, these laws are not once and for all. Layout Editor Hannah Marrow helping women enough in the However, the primary means News Editor Emma DePaola way that they were intended. of influencing the American Viewpoints Editor Hannah Brady The unfortunate reality is that public should be through the ed- Features Editor Sydney Goodman legislation cannot be effective if ucation system. The best way to Politics Editor Paul Soden it does not have enough public eliminate biases and stereotypes Arts and Entertainment Editor Rachel Goodman support. And even though it may toward females is by targeting Health and Science Editor Eliana Rosenzweig be well-concealed, there is still the generations that have not yet Sports Editor Lily Koenig an underlying mindset—even in had prolonged exposure to the Design Editor Julia Mendelsohn America, the land of the free— sexist undertones in American Photography Editor Rachel Brown that women should not have the society. Business Editor Gabby Applebaum same opportunities as men. The Unfortunately, the curricu- Web Editor Spencer Kaplan first step in ensuring that wom- lums in primary and secondary Webmaster Bryan Wei en gain equal rights is to target schools often fail to address the Multimedia Editor Rachel Sarch the traditionally-accepted beliefs fact that women still do not have about the role of women that the same rights as men. It is easy Staff have existed for centuries. to explain the advancements Mike Abrutyn Alexa Limb While most of the students at that women have made over the Alexis Anello Julia Morlino Blind Brook are fortunate enough past few decades. However, it is Alana Applebaum Olivia Morrisey to have grown up in upper-mid- much harder to explain why and Lauren Asen Sam Naveran dle class households, millions of how these advancements have Abe Baker-Butler Joie Ng individuals do not have access failed to provide women with full Alyson Barsky Sydney Panzier to the same resources that are equality. Danielle Barsky Matthew Pariser available to us and our families. Nevertheless, children and Kaitlyn Basset Rachel Penn Many of us have parents who young adults need to be informed Ayden Bauer Lee Price both work full-time jobs. How- of these shortfalls. In order to Jordan Bellin Ethan Richard ever, this requires enough money be able to confront the problems Jared Benson David Rosenberg to afford daily childcare, which that women face, the first step is Anna Campbell Drew Rosenberg can often be quite pricey. to ensure that everyone knows Amanda Capelli Julia Rosenberg For families who do not have the extent to which they are Allison Chien Nicole Rosenzweig this luxury, it is almost always prevalent in our society. Zoe Cohen Scott Rosson the mother who stays home to Though these efforts may be Meghan Comstock Sabrina Rubinshteyn take care of the children. Even ardous and time-consuming, Christine Crumley Ben Sachs in situations where families have they are absolutely necessary for Damien Cuk Mitchell Saunders access to childcare, women still women to win the fight for the Jeffrey D’Ambrosio Hannah Schaenman choose not to work. Accord- treatment that we deserve. Michael Discolo Margot Schwartz Spencer Feuerman Emma Seguljic Ethan Finklestein Alex Simon Kellie Franzblau Ben Simon Samantha Gibbs Sarah Simon Brett Goodman Rachel Sosin Stacy Gerchick Lily Janjigian Emma Stevens Editor-in-Chief Jackson Jarvis Abby Strauzer Carly Kabot Ben Striar Evan Ketchabaw Lilli Trevino Abby Kimmel Sabrina Vuong Feeling strongly about something you’ve read Joie Koenig Jeremy Weingarten in Focus? Arianna Kohilakis Alex Weiss Kidar Koverjee Jack Wells Respond in a Isabella Lazar Erica Wels Letter to the Editor! Caroline Levine Noah Zeitlin Julia Levine Send your letters to Adviser [email protected] Dr. Kenyon Submissions should be no longer than 350 words. Focus is a student run public forum. Staff members make all content decisions. Focus is a member of CSPA, NSPA, and Quill and Scroll. Focus reserves the right to edit for length and/or content. 8 Viewpoints A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 Why Don’t We Read Anymore? Senior Hannah Brady This break I was blessed with ly large influence over the way we comparison to non-readers. Also, in their house. When students re- little school work, and unfor- think. As we upgrade from pages reading books is the only out of fuse to give the books in school tunately, was stuck at home for to screens, we lose our ability to school activity for teenagers that a chance, and then allow that at- the holidays. As days of Netflix focus, and this can cause books to is linked to getting a leadership titude to extend to their personal slowly turned monotonous, I re- seem dry and uninteresting. Of position later in life, and reading life, they hurt themselves and turned to my roots, to the love of course technology has its merits for pleasure increases GPA more their future opportunities. my younger self: reading. At first and is both important and useful than required school reading. We There are plenty of good rea- I found it too slow. Not having all to society, but in my experience, all have to make our sacrifices sons to stop reading. It is hard the information at my fingertips Netflix, social media, and other in the face of time, but reading to focus, there is hardly any time, is difficult- and with reading, it forms of communication cannot should not constantly be the first and a lot of the books we are fa- can take hours, even days, to see completely fill the shoes of read- thing to go. miliar with are not very interest- a conflict worked out. But as I ing. In addition to school taking ing. But the positive aspects of continued on I began to remem- Another reason not to read? up too much time, I often hear reading outweigh these factors. ber why I used to love reading Lack of time- probably my big- people complain that the books Reading allows us to be more so much, and wondered why so gest excuse. School is not only assigned are too boring. Now, imaginative and to experience many of us have stopped. exhausting but seemingly never many students routinely turn to stories in our own unique ways. According to the National ending. Just because we get home SparkNotes instead of giving as- It improves our ability to commu- Book Foundation, almost half around 3:00 does not mean we are signed books a chance. This is nicate by making writing easier, of our generation’s nine year done. There is homework, study- incredibly unfortunate because and fiction has also been proven olds stopped reading by age sev- ing, extra credit, standardized students allow a few poor expe- to increase theory of mind (the enteen. Why? Though I hate to testing, and so much more. This riences with reading to stand in ability to understand what oth- hear technology get such a bad is all on top of community ser- the way of experiencing some of ers are thinking) in younger chil- rap all the time, is it possible that vice, clubs, and sports. Though it literature’s best works, and they dren. it plays a role? According to Psy- is difficult to find time to read in also cheat themselves out of a It is easy to allow reading to chology Today, technology teach- all of this, we might actually be quality education and future. The take a backseat in the craziness es us to scan for facts efficiently hurting our resumes and scores National Book Foundation found of my busy schedule, but when- while reading teaches us how to when we allow reading to take that 500 books in a home library is ever I stray for too long I always focus for sustained amounts of a backseat. The National Book the equivalent of 2.4 extra years find myself coming back to it. time. As teenagers, our brains Foundation found that children of education. This means that a We should all make an effort to are more malleable than those of who read 90 minutes a day in- person with a 500 book library read more because at the end of older generations, and this means crease their standardized reading could make up to $14,000 more a the day, nothing else can truly that technology has a particular- scores by 88 percentile points in year than a person with no books measure up to it.

A Thank You Note to the White Helmets Sophomore Carly Kabot With every new horror story Instead of sitting in silence like tal reality resonated with me in a their motto. I was witnessing one and gruesome photo, the situation much of our world, they have way it had not before. The leader life that could have easily been an- in Aleppo has caused my faith in chosen to fight on the front lines of the White Helmets, Raed al- other causality be given a chance humanity to waiver. Despite this, of a war that has no end in sight. Saleh, shared that 150 of his men to see tomorrow, all because of my pessimistic perspective was The White Helmets vow to help had died and his sorrow showed someone’s immense and unflag- changed by a segment on 60 Min- those on all sides of the conflict, on his worn and haggard face. ging bravery. We see life as a as a utes that left me in awe of one cou- upholding a policy of neutrality. Though unarmed and neutral, right. They see it as a gift. rageous group. This is my thank Instead of fretting about reli- the Assad regime still sees them The White Helmets were nomi- you note to the White Helmets, gion or politics, they chose to let as a threat and has turned them nated for the 2016 Nobel Peace Syria’s non-governmental and their core principles of humanity, into targets. I sat in complete prize and though they did not win, voluntary civil defense, for restor- solidarity, and impartiality guide shock of what was on my televi- they are now a worldwide symbol ing my hope in today’s world. their actions. sion screen, a grimy gray land for hope. These volunteers are This ragtag team of ordinary The bombings are never few with people of all ages covered in who we all should aspire to be: Syrians- ranging from tailors to nor far between, as the White dust. The only color present be- selfless and unafraid. These are teachers- have saved over 73,530 Helmets respond to an average of sides this gray was a deep red on difficult traits to have in a world lives. Their motto from the Quran thirty five attacks a day. With the each of the zombie-like figures. filled with things to be fearful of, explains their purpose for risking knowledge that the next devastat- The dehumanized people in front but we must think like they did their own lives each day, “To save ing blow could be mere minutes of my eyes sent a nauseating feel- and create light, hope, and dignity a life is to save all of humanity.” away, their goal is to save as many ing through me-the chaos on the when there is none. There is no Although hundreds of thousands lives as possible in the shortest screen more like a horrible movie greater contribution to the world of lives have been lost during amount of time. Digging through than an actual account. than human decency and compas- what has been deemed the worst mountains of rubble, they search A few minutes later, a woman sion, and the White Helmets are a humanitarian crisis of all time, for any sign of life before those came on and an interview began, chief example of this. I have tried this small group of 3,000 civil- trapped are suffocated or bleed allowing me to breathe again. to internalize their motto as an ians has stopped at nothing to to death. They work furiously She was the mother of the “mir- oath to those who have died fight- save every life they can. against a ticking clock, knowing acle baby”, a ten day old infant ing for the greatest cause: “To The White Helmets are the that they could very well be the that was rescued from the rubble save a life is to save all of human- first to rush in when barrel bombs next victims. by the White Helmets. It then ity.” Thank you, White Helmets, rain down on an already desolate As I watched the segment on 60 showed him two years later as a for showing us what humanity wasteland that screams of death. Minutes, the footage of this bru- healthy boy, and I understood means. 9 to Strength Management Believe Gratitude Acceptance Goals Strength Love Help

New School Illustration/Ben Striar Sleep Friends Family Pressure Change

Positive Harmony

Deadlines College

Exhaustion By Jeffrey D’Ambrosio Illustration/Jessica Scher Between progress reports, report including delivering adrenaline to physically tolerable. that is provoking stress. According to cards, midterms, finals, clubs, and col- our muscles, increasing cortisol levels Consequently, according to science BYU researchers, some remedies such Friends lege admissions, Blind Brook students to raise one’s blood sugar, and aiding in journalist, cortisol is unable to stop as eliminating perfectionism from one’s For Blind Brook metabolic processes. This can be benefi- pulling glucose from our body fat and mindset help to convince our bodies that “ Appearance are bound to encounter stress at one point or another along their four-year cial for us, seeing as short term stress tissues for use. Students usually receive we both have control over its physical students, the easi- future high school career. These stress induc- requires enhanced performance of one’s a refractory period in which they are responses and that we have the power to body to function and cortisol also di- able to collect themselves as their bod- change ourselves for the better. Money ing events, called stressors, can come in est method for deal- Job more shapes and sizes than assignments rectly aids in our sleep-wake cycles to ies’ hormones level off, giving our sys- Procrastination strikes deep in the stimulate wakefulness. Since cortisol tems allowance to cope again with our heart of many students, and is propor- ing with short-term Change and deadlines, with some actually prov- ing to do more good than harm. Our and epinephrine facilitate the movement environment, says Brigham Young Uni- tionally the largest catalyst for stress. bodies undergo physical alterations af- of immune cells from the bloodstream versity scientists. Changing our capacities for dealing stress is a simple ter we become stressed as the region of to organ cells, short-term stress can aid Stress, as powerful as it may seem, with stressful situations has seen great our brain called the hypothalamus stim- in our defense against centralized at- has simple remedies that all students success in coping with stress caused by reassessment of a Health tension death ulates our bodies to release hormones tacks in our systems. and adults alike can apply to their lives menial tasks like homework and study- stressor in their life.” into our bloodstream. Scientists link While short term stress can often at any moment. Since perception of a ing for tests. Additionally, a good sleep be helpful in efficiency and productivity, stressor is a vital factor in our body’s cycle goes hand in hand with a system Responsibilities Grades these hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, with the “fight or flight” stress that persists over long periods of stress-related processes, the easiest way free from stress, seeing as cortisol is re- response time can often prove to be detrimental, to handle stress would be to assert more leased to wake the body up. Exercise has that occurs disabling our bodies from entering a control over the actions one feels stress- also been found to have a positive effect when we calming period that allow hormone lev- es them out. In fact, one of the easiest on stress-related hormones in our bod- are put into els return to normal resting levels be- methods to avoid overbearing stress is ies, giving ourselves energy to contrib- an immedi- fore we are exposed to another stressor. as easy as pre planning. Having a men- ute to physical activity. Finally, finding ate pressur- This chronic stress takes a direct toll on tal assessment of stress takes a toll on time to just relax or even taking naps ing situation. our immune system, with systems such our bodies only if we allow it to, with after school can prove to be extremely These stress as our digestive tract being suppressed negative effects only having a potential- beneficial because hormone levels can response as adrenaline and cortisol levels remain ly harmful outcome if unfaltering. regress to their norm. Although the h o r m o n e s upwards of the norm in individuals un- For Blind Brook students, the easi- physical response can be harrowing in are common- dergoing long-term stress. A combina- est method for dealing with short-term individuals living under constant stress, ly referred tion of studies by Sheldon Cohen and stress is a simple reassessment of a the ability to reassess our lives can bet- to as gluco- a multitude of other scientists have stressor in their life. Diving headfirst ter our fears for the future and save us corticoids, found that high levels of psychological into the pit of fears that causes one’s from events we never thought to be serving sev- stress affects our glucocorticoid recep- stress is the best medicine against al- stressful. Illustration/ Ben Striar eral differ- tors. From this constant state of stress lowing it to offset their hormone levels. ent functions and elevated levels of cortisol, our bod- Altering perception of stressors allows ies are subjected to more tension than people to define clearly the variable Illustration/Jared Benson Features A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 Redefining the Teenage Finding Food Love and Adventure Stereotype at Rye Ridge Shopping Center By Allison Chien cold. “Roasted” generally con- As the acropolis of our town, notes warm, does it not? I only By Carly Kabot opinions and gain exposure to much more Rye Ridge Shopping Center has got the carrots to try something Our generation often gets a bad rap than ever before. Many times what we see been reinventing itself to be new, but apparently no one else for coming off as narcissistic, materialis- online in terms of the world is upsetting trendier and more modern. While does that and the carrots end up tic, and being way too immersed in social and shocking, but powerful stories and I shall forever mourn the loss of sitting there. I’m iffy about car- media. While this claim may hold some images are exactly what spark us to take Waldenbooks, popular new chain rots in the first place, since raw truth, many teenagers don’t fit into this action. When it comes to topics students franchises like Chipotle, Chop’t, carrots are for rabbits, and over- stereotypical description. In fact, all over at our school care most about, we have an and SoulCycle are quickly filling cooked carrots are mushy and dis- the world more and more teenagers immense diversity. Students have a keen store space and replacing clas- gusting. Thus, when I bit into my are becoming involved in world causes awareness that the state of our commu- sics with shiny new storefronts. mushy AND cold carrots, I was and advocating for issues they feel most nity is a paradox to much of the world Recently, several new shops have rather underwhelmed. Neverthe- strongly about. Throughout nations all and wish to improve various facets of life opened in Rye Ridge, and even less, I soldiered on and conquered over the world, young adults are stand- for others in any way they can. more are set to arrive in the com- my entire bowl of artisanal fancy ing up for their beliefs, rights, and change Equality, whether it be racial or gender ing months. food. itself. Teenagers are fighting for causes based, is always at the top of the list for The most buzzed about install- Hannah and I both agreed that such as equal education, women’s rights, young people. During our time, there has ment is Dig Inn, which has loca- lunch at Dig Inn got three out of and climate change, not waiting to reach been a major push for equality between tions in New York City, Boston, five stars, one for the aesthetics adulthood to pursue making their impact women and men. “I really hope there and now, Rye Brook. The chain of both the dish and the restau- on the world. comes a time where we are not treated prides itself in serving ethically rant itself, one for the really good Many of them have become house- as sexual objects, that women around sourced, mostly vegetable, sea- chicken breast, and one for the hold names, their voices reaching far and the world get paid just as much as men sonal dishes. It’s healthy bougie quality of the veggies. We took wide. In 2015, Time Maga- for doing the same work. I want people food, making it a natural off two because of the unappetiz- zine named thirty of the to see the day where every fit for Rye Brook. Dig Inn occu- ing flavor of the carrots, broccoli, world’s most influen- woman and I can walk pies the space which once was the and brussel sprouts. tial teens, with some outside feeling safe, beloved Family Discount Center. We also came up with a list of of them being a wearing and doing However, Dig Inn only takes up tips for coming for lunch: mere thirteen what I please,” said half of the space Family Discount 1. Sit in the back area because years old. Many sophomore Rachel Center did, with a small seating it’s less crowded than the front; of them, such as Harris, an avid area in front, a kitchen and or- 2. Get there before 11:30, which feminist Rowan feminist. She hopes dering/waiting area, and a larg- is when all the stay at home par- Blanchard or to one day be a er seating area in the back. It’s ents and babies start showing up; girl’s education therapist with a fo- minimalist and hipster, with an 3. Get the chicken breast- it’s advocate Ma- cus on women who exposed brick wall, menus hang- really good; lala Yousafzai, are have been victims of ing by brass colored clips along 4. The raspberry tea is un- world-renowned sexual abuse or who the walls, and tiny succulents in sweetened so it’d probably would leaders in their field. have been discriminated earthy-toned pots everywhere. taste better with sweetener; While we can’t all be like against. The first time I ate at Dig Inn 5. Don’t be a wimp and get ner- Malala, who has Without our health, was for lunch on a Friday after- vous about talking to the staff- won a Nobel Peace Photo Courtesy of Carly Kabot we have nothing. In noon. It was wild and confusing they’re wonderfully helpful. Prize and has spoken many parts of the for both layout editor Hannah Not one to be deterred by a at the United Nations General Assembly, world, people don’t have close to what Marrow and I. We got two Mar- single bad meal, I went back for we can use stories like hers as inspira- they need to sustain, nourish, and treat ketbowls, which are quite simi- brunch the weekend after, this tion and motivation. People like Malala their bodies. “One substantial issue is the lar to Chipotle’s burrito bowls time with my friend Sabrina Ru- are helping to redefine the stereotypes privatization of pharmaceutical compa- in concept. The Marketbowls binshteyn. I got the egg sand- we are often labeled with and show that nies. Much of the medical care in the U.S. consist of a base, either salad or wich with bacon and avocado their is no age requirement when it comes and abroad has been limited as a result of some form of carbs, two market with a matcha latte, and she got to helping the global community. When these companies. Medical treatment in of sides, and a protein, as well as ex- the avocado toast with a latte. It it comes to humanitarian causes, it’s not itself is not cheap, and the fact the price of tras if desired. was at this point that it became about how many people know your name. drugs is so heightened is something that I got farm greens, roasted car- definitively obvious to me that It’s not something that is done for oneself, is entirely aggravating,” stated junior Jared rots, Sicilian cauliflower, and I’m a breakfast person. We both but rather for the injustice one sees and Basset, who is set on one day working in herb roasted chicken breast with loved what we ordered. Sabrina how one can help influence change. the medical field. sriracha dressing, while Hannah gave it a 6/5 and I gave it a 5/5. When we look at our own commu- It’s no secret that climate change is an got brown rice, brussel sprouts, We got there at around 9:20 am, nity, it’s clear that students do care about extremely threatening and ominous issue. broccoli, and also chicken breast. since it opens at 9 on weekends. more than just themselves. The number Demographically, it’s an issue millennials The veggies were very fresh and of community service clubs is higher tend to lean towards since we know it will good, however I was NOT ex- Continued on next page than ever before; opportunities range from affect us greatly in due time and certain re- helping to beat cancer to feeding the hun- percussions, such as intense drought and gry. Not only are these programs opening a decrease in biodiversity, are already pres- the door for students to become involved ent. “The environment is a major worry in larger causes, but they are directly help- of mine because I’m concerned about the ing change our society. The Soup Kitchen, way that I’m leaving the planet for my which feeds 150 people each week, is help- children’s generation,” said senior Bryan ing to eradicate hunger in Westchester. Weintraub. Clubs such as Little Wishes, Pediatric Can- As a generation, there’s a lot more cer Foundation, and Relay For Life pro- to us than adults expect. Before anyone vide awareness for cancer and raise funds makes the statement that we are shallow for local hospitals. Community Learning and self-absorbed, they should be ask- Partnership ,which offers library tutoring ing our opinion. As a group, we clearly in Port Chester, supports equal education. have a lot to say and a burning desire to We often don’t look at how our small ac- be heard. We have grown up in a time tions truly have a large impact, but it’s im- where we can see poverty, destruction, portant to see that the work students are and inequality without being a part of it. doing is just as significant and necessary We have grown up in an area that grants as those listed in Time magazine. us the opportunity and support to stand Although adults may think all we care up for what is right and condemn wrong- about is the number of likes a selfie got, doings. Together, these two components many students are constantly thinking bestow upon us a chance to become part about issues across the globe. Because of of something greater than ourselves, to the internet and the level of access we effect something larger than Rye Brook, have to information, students can develop and to redefine the teenage stereotype. A healthy breakfast is enjoyed at Dig Inn. Photo courtesy of Allison Chien 12 Features A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 Early Decision: an Option for Everyone? an opinion By Arianna Kohilakis accepted, I found out mid-December, and I Come Mid-December there is a one didn’t have to wait to hear back from any major thing on most high school seniors’ other schools. While the college process minds: college. As a junior preparing to is very stressful, applying early decision take my standardized tests and having made it all seem a lot simpler.” discussed college visits with my family, I Despite the previously stated benefits already am well into my journey that will of such an approach, there are obvious hopefully end with an acceptance letter to flaws. To begin, you are “placing all your my school of choice. eggs in one basket” and have to wait for Yes, many schools notify their appli- the university to come back to you with a cants about whether or not they have been decision. For many individuals this is emo- admitted earlier in the year, but the reason tionally trying, especially when they do not Above: Shoppers at Balducci’s are greeted by a welcoming entrance. Below: Hannah Marrow why I focus on Mid-December is because receive the news that they were hoping for finds excitement at a table of cannoli. Photos courtesy of Allison Chien this is when Early Decision applicants in the end. Individuals become obsessive hear back from the university to which about the university to which they have ap- they have applied. The time period during plied to and are also overwhelmed with a which Early Decision applicants hear back lot of stress around the time when individ- has recently come to a close, but I wanted uals begin to hear back from the schools. to take this opportunity to explore the pros Another evident issue with Early Deci- and cons of this unique option and explore sion is that should you be accepted you are why it is so attractive to high school se- unable to change your mind. For individu- niors across the nation. als who may need to attend a The concept of “Early different university for eco- Decision” has perplexed nomic reasons there is and fascinated me a lot of pressure that ever since my sister, arises under Early now a freshman in Decision, which I college, was faced will examine be- with the decision low. as to whether ap- What type of plying under this students are choos- possibly reward- ing to apply under ing ultimatum Early Decision you was suiting to her may wonder? Re- interests. In layman’s search points to a very terms, or non-college ap- specific demographic: plication savvy speak for that those who are economically matter, Early Deci- stable enough to be sion is an option that Photo courtesy of Arianna Kohilakis able to commit to many well-known paying a large tu- universities and colleges (450, according ition price tag, without knowing exactly Continued from previous page was the fact that they had represen- to the College Board) offer to their appli- how much of the tuition will be paid by tatives from different sections of the cants in which you make a promise to the financial aid. Many individuals are simply There was a decent crowd, which store milling about in their formal school that should you be accepted you unable to take advantage of the higher ad- was surprising considering that it wear. Balducci’s went all in on the will undoubtedly matriculate as a student mission rates that come along with Early was pretty early. Sabrina thoroughly authenticity, having Japanese men in there next fall. Why would a student limit Decision because their families need to take enjoyed her avocado toast, which also suits serve as spokespeople for the su- themselves in such a way and make such into account tuition costs when coming had some ricotta cheese on it. The shi station. a definitive decision contingent only upon to a final decision as to what college their avocado toast was ready serve, with Balducci’s is the gourmet market whether the university decides to “like son or daughter will attend. This idea is fresh batches of it being brought out of our dreams, stocking nearly ev- them back”? A few reasons. explored in an article by the Washington every few minutes. My egg sand- erything under the sun from cheese First, Early Decision applicants are Post entitled “A college-admissions edge wich, on the other hand, took a solid enchiladas, to jumbo Fiji waters, four- normally met with higher acceptance rates, for the wealthy: Early Decision”, which eon. There must have been a dozen teen types of frozen flatbread pizza, ranging from a few to even more than ten comments on the individuals “who apply other people’s orders called before and eight different types of fresh ol- percentage points higher than regular de- early and simultaneously pledge to attend mine. Anyway, I got bored after that, ives. cision. (Don’t be completely fooled, though! just one [university], without fear of cost, and sat down and my meal ended We also visited Rye Ridge Phar- Many college athletes are accepted under at a time when the sticker price for private up being brought to me, meaning I macy, which shares the space that the Early Decision and thus may skew the ac- schools often tops $60,000 a year.” didn’t have to spend those five min- supermarket D’Agostino used to oc- ceptance rates upwards.) Thankfully, however, should a student utes waiting around near the counter. cupy with Balducci’s. This store has Regardless, individuals have a greater who is dependent on financial aid apply un- Another recent addition to the Rye undeniably the best greeting card chance of acceptance under Early Deci- der Early Decision and not receive enough Ridge complex is Balducci’s, a gour- selection we’ve ever seen, stocking sion because they are making a promise to money, there is a way out of the bind that met, high-end grocery chain much a card for literally every occasion. the school that they will come there, which, results. The Washington Post explains, like Citarella’s in Greenwich. Hannah A birthday card for your gassy dad? in many cases, is greeted with a certain “While most early-decision admits enroll, and I went to the grand opening for They’ve got it. A thank you card for kindness from the universities. a few do not. The most common reason: If the free samples, and for this article, your religious aunt? Got it. But the The second major reason to do Early a financial aid offer is deemed insufficient, respectively. We concluded that Bal- addition of a pharmacy right near Decision is that if you have had a “dream an admitted student may be released from ducci’s has lots of things, and lots of two CVS stores seems pretty redun- school” since the time you were little and their pledge.” things of things. For example, there dant, so the longevity of Rye Ridge you would choose that school over any The final thought that I will leave you were so many different types of pas- Pharmacy seems debatable. other college you were accepted to, Early with is this: College is a business. You ta, and so many different brands of Overall, the new stores in Rye Decision allows you to find out much ear- may have been qualified for the school and the different types of pasta. Keep- Ridge have made the shopping cen- lier instead of having to wait until Febru- competitive with the rest of the applicant ing with the lots of things of things, ter much more diverse and appealing. ary, March, or even April. This way, should pool only to have your heart shattered by there was also a stand with cannoli Though Rye Brook is often referred you be accepted, the rest of senior year is an admissions committee who has turned dip samples, with a display of a huge to as boring, the fact that so many rather un-stressful and there is no need to you and all your accomplishments into a cannoli stuffed with smaller cannolis. great and convenient options have worry any more about college acceptances. piece of paper. The endless letters in the Cannoli-ception. Brilliant. There was been made available to us makes our Current senior Haley Feuerman, who mail, the published acceptance rates, and also a wall of artisanal bread, a huge small town seem much more exciting. was recently admitted under Early Deci- the large importance placed upon legacy tall cake specially made for the occa- If you haven’t already visited these sion to Vanderbilt University, sheds light and donations serves only to strengthen sion, a radio show, and, our personal new locales, it would behoove you to on her choice to apply early: “I’ve always each college brand and thus help with their favorite, a trio playing classical music give them a try. wanted to go to Vanderbilt. For me, the business. Universities are no exception to in the background. Another highlight decision to apply to Vanderbilt early was a the seven deadly sins as they too act greed- no-brainer. I had a better chance of getting ily in their practices. 13 Health and Science A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 CRISPR, Harbinger of Animal Research Miracles or Disaster? Controversy By Joie Ng melting of snow and ice, and By Eliana Rosenzweig of laboratory research. Instead, AWA was The rapid globalization of thus resulting in rising sea lev- Animal research began in the time of established for dogs, cats, and nonhuman countries around the world els. Scientists estimate that over the Greeks and Romans to find out how primates. It covers regulation of hunting, over the past few centuries has 13 million Americans may be the human body and other complex or- treatment of pets, and controls how ani- increasingly raised dire envi- forced to relocate as early as the ganisms work. Ever since, such research mals are handled in research facilities. ronmental issues that must be year 2100. Further, humanity has been a critical, yet at times a contro- According to the National Academy of addressed. This year, carbon di- has devastated approximately versial, practice. Almost everything from Sciences, the Public Health Service Policy oxide levels in the atmosphere 1.27 million square miles, or 10 genetics to cancer drugs have been discov- (PHS) was established in 1944 and pro- passed 400 parts per million, percent of Earth’s wilderness, ered through knowledge that scientists tects vertebrate animals which includes a milestone that many sourc- in the last twenty years, while have gained using animal models that rats, mice, and birds that were excluded in es have identified as “a point climate change has led to the closely resemble humans. the Animal Welfare Act. of no return.” Levels of this damage of about 93 percent of The United States spends more money With this law, each research institu- greenhouse gas typically reach the Great Barrier Reef. than any other country on research. There tion that receives PHS funding is required their low point around the last Fortunately, in order to com- is a significant focus on research using to get animal experimental protocols ap- week of September. However, bat climate change and the animals to help cure diseases, create novel proved by the Institutional Animal Care measurements taken at the Na- myriad concerns that are raised devices and treatments, and to generate and Use Committee, or IACUC, as well as tional Oceanic and Atmospheric along with it, leaders of nations better and faster therapies. The U.S. Food have their facilities inspected. Administration’s atmospheric around the world gathered at observatories in Mauna Loa, the Paris Climate Conference in Hawaii and at the South Pole, re- December of 2015. At the con- vealed that this year, CO2 levels ference, 195 countries endorsed failed to drop below 400 the first universal, legally ppm for the first time binding global cli- since the Ice Age. mate deal. The The news, main goal of although this agree- alarming, is ment is to not alto- reduce gether un- emis- expected. sions and Carbon slow the pollution flow of has been green- s t e a d i l y house increasing gases into since the the atmo- Chart courtesy of James Madison University start of the sphere in Industrial order to lim- Revolution, a it the increase and Drug Administration (FDA) requires Every federally funded research ex- period of time in the global av- preclinical animal studies for virtually periment using animals must have an where most of the erage temperature every treatment to ensure safety before IACUC, allowing for regulation of ani- world rapidly be- during this century testing in humans. With animal research, mal use in research and establishes a pro- gan shifting from Photo courtesy of Joie Ng to 1.5°C. medical breakthroughs in the past century cess of approval to promote the ethical agrarian societies Earlier this have included blood transfusions, insulin, use of the animals as research subjects. to urban, industrialized societ- month, the European Union prosthetics, anesthetics, vaccines, penicil- To obtain an IACUC, a justification for ies. According to Science News, and seven of its member states lin, MRI scanning, stem cell research and the use of animals and a specification for the current rate of CO2 increase officially signed onto the Cli- more. the number of animals, species, as well is over 100 times faster than it mate Accord, after the Euro- Most historians consider animal re- as any procedures or drugs that might has ever been in the last 800,000 pean Parliament voted in favor search the largest contributor in establish- be used on the animals to reduce pain is years. of passing the Paris Pact. This ing the fundamental principles of human required. Ralph Keeling, a scientist allowed the agreement to clear physiology and anatomy. However, some Students involved in the Honors Sci- who runs Scripps Institute for the ratification threshold, which would argue that it actually detracted from ence Research program are able to con- Oceanography’s CO2 monitor- required the treaty to be adopt- medical research and instead it has solely duct research using animals with a men- ing program, said, “Brief ex- ed by 55 nations and totaling presented information about animals, not tor, but there are regulations they must cursions toward lower values at least 55% of greenhouse gas humans. For example, some medications follow to protect the animals they are are still possible, but it already emissions, before it could be put may work in an animal model of a par- working with. The project must be ap- seems safe to conclude that we into effect. ticular disease and not in humans with the proved by IACUC as it is research deal- won’t be seeing a monthly value The Paris Agreement has been same disease. ing with animal usage and in doing so below 400 ppm this year – or pushed forward at a much faster Animal experimentation has remained the IACUC can prevent any harm that ever again for the indefinite fu- pace than previous deals, such as a widely controversial issue to this day can potentially be done to creatures. ture.” the Kyoto Climate Agreement, because, although it has been propagated While research students are not per- This is a cause for substan- which took a total of eight years by many inquisitive scientists, there are mitted to have direct contact with the tial concern as the crossing of to be put into action. On Novem- also many firm believers in animal rights. animals, they are able to act as observers this significant threshold is a ber 7, 2016 many of the world’s While animals may look different, they are and care for the animals in certain ways precursor for the substantial leaders met in Marrakesh, Mo- still living creatures like human beings. In such as cleaning the cages or feeding the intensification of widespread rocco for the annual U.N. backed some cases, innocent animals are being research subjects. ramifications, particularly when Climate Change Summit in or- killed and injected with deadly diseases Sarah Rogers, Science Research stu- considering the safe level of car- der to establish a formal plan for solely for medical research and much back- dent, works with mice. “I am a veg- bon dioxide in the atmosphere is moving forward. lash has tried to protect animals across etarian and have pets so I feel really considered to be 350 ppm. Sci- Countless problems must be countries from major research establish- strongly about animal rights. However, entists are beginning to see an tackled, including the settle- ments. I recognize, especially after researching increase in temperatures, ocean ment of common methods for Currently the Animal Welfare Act this summer, that at a certain point ani- acidification, extreme weather documenting greenhouse gas (AWA), established in 1966, is the only U.S. mal research is necessary for the greater patterns, and countless other emissions, and how aid will be federal law that regulates animal research, good.” According to Rogers, her mentor consequences that have emerged provided to developing coun- testing, teaching, and transport. Accord- goes beyond IACUC regulations. as a result of rising CO2 levels. tries to help lower emissions and ing to the New England Anti-Vivisection For many, their first reaction when As stated by Inside Climate deal with the impact of climate Society, the law installs standards for hous- hearing about animal related research News, global temperatures have change. This deal provides hope ing, feeding, handling, and veterinary care, is to speak out for their furry friends, been risen by 1.6°F, or 0.9°C, that nations will successfully however, the law only covers approximate- however, animal research is undeniably since the start of the 20th cen- collaborate to make the future ly 10% of animals while excluding cer- responsible for almost all treatments and tury, largely contributing to the of this planet a bit brighter. tain animals such as rats, mice, and birds medical advances that are carving the fu- which constitute approximately 90-95% ture of medicine each and every day. 14 16 Health and Science A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 Blind Brook Addresses Contaminated Water Concerns By Abe Baker-Butler wellbeing of students and fac- natural and human-made con- law also says that schools, such In response to elevated lead ulty. taminants. In addition to lead, as Blind Brook, that had tested levels found in the water of The results of the test also the EPA standards regulate the their drinking water after Janu- Newark, NJ and Flint, MI, the showed that about one-third of amount of microorganisms, dis- ary 1, 2015, would be exempt Blind Brook School District the non-drinking/cooking fix- infectants, and chemicals that from this new round of testing. tested its water as a precaution- tures, many of which are locat- can be present in public drink- Blind Brook administrators ary measure last April. ed in bathrooms and science labs ing water. believe that solder, a lead sub- The results showed that one at the Middle/High School, had According to the Environ- stance used to bind pipes, is the high school water fountain, lead concentrations exceeding mental Protection Agency, no likely culprit of the contamina- of twenty two water fixtures the National Standards. Soon negative health effects can re- tion. In addition, when water tested, exceeded the Nation- after, the district publicized the sult from washing oneself with with any lead concentration re- al Drinking Water Standards results to the Blind Brook com- lead-contaminated water be- mains stagnant for an extended (NDWS) and it was soon re- munity via email. According to cause lead cannot be absorbed period of time, a process known placed. Ross, custodial staff also, “la- through the skin. as leaching can occur. The En- At Ridge Street Elementary beled all non-drinking and non- On August 30, New York vironmental Protection Agency School, one sink for dishwash- cooking water faucet locations Governor Andrew Cuomo (EPA) defines leaching as, “the ing was found to be contami- with abnormal lead level as, signed a law that required ev- dissolution of metals, solids, nated, and a filter was added to ‘Non-Potable Water’ and ‘Not ery school district to test their and chemicals into drinking eliminate pollutants. In the high For Drinking or Cooking Use.’” drinking water for lead by Oc- water.” Although the legisla- school, the contaminated water Currently, the EPA limits the tober 31. According to Cuomo, tion passed by Governor Cuomo sources are located in rooms concentration of lead in public “these rigorous new protections states that water is supposed H202, H203, H204, H216, H217, water systems to 0.015 mg/L. for New York’s children include to sit stagnant in the pipes for and H218, as well as all of the In Blind Brook’s testing of the toughest lead contamination 8-18 hours prior to testing, dis- bathrooms, with the exception non-drinking/cooking water, no testing standards in the nation trict administrators believe that of the bathroom near the first samples exceeded 0.1 mg/L. and provide clear guidance to water in the MS/HS science floor faculty room and the audi- By contrast, some districts, schools on when and how they labs had probably been stagnant torium women’s bathroom. such as Yonkers, according to should test their water.” The for much longer. In fact, Super- The district has addressed LoHud, have found lead con- law also states that if the lead intendent Ross said that, “in the lead contamination issue by centrations double that amount concentration is above the lev- terms of the science labs, if we replacing faucets, fixtures, and in their schools’ drinking wa- el established by the state, the followed [water testing proto- even plumbing. “We installed ter and at one New Rochelle el- school must enact a remedia- col], we might have had a dif- two double filter filtration sys- ementary school, all drinking tion plan or find an alternative ferent result.” tems, one in the BMPRSS nurse’s water was shut off due to high water source for students and “Please remember that all office and one in the BMPRSS levels of lead. faculty. This legislation only drinking and cooking water kitchen. Additionally, we put in The NDWS are national applies to buildings built be- sources are fine - they follow a new water fountain near high EPA regulations authorized by fore 1986, when lead pipes for the NDWS limits for both lead school classroom H201 with a the Safe Drinking Water Act drinking water were banned. and copper. That being said, we bottle filling station,” said Dr. (SDWA) of 1974. Although the Blind Brook High School’s pipes will address other non-drink- Jonathan Ross, Superintendent standards have been revised are from 1973, while the pipes ing water fixtures and the re- of Schools. over the years and only apply in the Middle School are from lated plumbing [issues] in the Although remediation is not to public water systems, their 2002, and those at Ridge Street months ahead,” said Ross. required by law, administrators ultimate goal is to prevent the School were installed between The school plans to retest af- believe it is important for the negative effects of exposure to 1950 and 1966. However, the fected faucets in summer 2017. Sleep More for Better Study

By Danielle Barsky this amount. A study from the Na- tively throughout the day. It is Although cramming for an tional Sleep Foundation showed recommended by experts to make exam until the early hours of that only fifteen percent of teens sleep a priority by keeping a sleep the morning may seem more im- are actually sleeping eight and a diary in order to correct one’s portant than sleeping, getting half hours on school nights. An- sleeping habits in order to stay enough sleep is a vital aspect of other increasingly harmful trend healthy. Many students also find life. Necessary activities through- is staying up late during week- that if planned correctly, naps are out the body occur while one nights and “catching up” on sleep a great way to make people work sleeps that are imperative to hu- over the weekend, which hurts the more efficiently. A quick nap after man functionality throughout the quality of sleep and negatively af- getting home from a long day of following day. fects a person’s biological clock. school can make a huge difference The repercussions of dismiss- The consequences of a lack of in a person’s mood and proficien- ing the value of sleep can be ex- sleep are endless and as society cy. It is shown that making one’s tremely harmful and even deadly progresses indefinitely towards room a “sleep haven” can also help Illustration/Allison Chien if one is behind the wheel of a less and less sleep, problems con- people fall asleep by keeping the car. Fortunately, while injury and tinue to arise. Disorders such as atmosphere cool, dark and quiet. students say that they thought illness are more likely to occur narcolepsy, a condition character- It is additionally advised to they were going to check their under sleep deprivation, there are ized by “an extreme tendency to avoid coffee, tea, soda, chocolate phones for five minutes but they plausible solutions to this trend. fall asleep whenever in a relax- and other stimulants later in the ended up staying on their phones Teenagers across the world ing place”, and insomnia are more day as well as to establish a bed- for an hour.” need approximately eight to ten likely to occur. Limited sleep also time and wake time every day. A Along with Blatt, many teachers hours of sleep each night to func- impairs one’s ability to learn, lis- consistent sleep schedule helps insist that in order to gain more tion at their best level, but many ten, concentrate and solve prob- individuals feel less tired and al- sleep at night, students should teens do not reach even close to lems. lows the body to become “in sync” avoid electronics before sleeping. Inadequate sleep is linked to with natural sleep patterns. By avoiding electronics, they are mood swings, frequently eating Social Studies teacher Tayla avoiding the light from the screen unhealthy foods, and the effects Blatt teaches her students about that stimulates the brain as well of alcohol accordingly increase. the necessity of sleep in her In- as social media distractions that When one is sleep deprived, they troduction to Psychology classes. can keep them awake. are as impaired as having an ille- “When I survey my psych stu- If one instead tries more calm- gal blood alcohol content percent. dents on how much sleep they get ing activities such as listening to In fact, drowsy driving causes it turns out that the most stu- music or reading a book, it will over 100,000 crashes each year. dents usually say are six. One of be easier to fall asleep at an ear- While negative effects are like- the things that we are finding out lier time and this easy trick will ly to occur, there are many solu- now is that right before bed many counteract heightened alertness Illustration/Allison Chien tions to this issue that can help students check their phones and that people often face before fall- teenagers function more effec- that keeps your mind up. I’ve had ing asleep. 15 17 Arts and Entertainment A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 SoundCloud Secrets It’s Not Easy Being Yeezy By Allison Chien of my favorites. Moreover, the By Caroline Levine going through something and it’s Students are often perceived to combination of her musical abil The past few months have been terrible that all of it is very pub- be listening to the same artists ity with that of producer dapurr filled with high drama in Holly- lic.” in the same genres over and over creates a fantastic track. The lyr- wood. On November 19, rapper Neither West nor his wife have again, limiting themselves to a ics portray the melancholic, bit- Kanye West had a meltdown in publicly discussed any of the re- small selection of music. In reality, tersweet thoughts of a girl lost in front of more than 13,000 fans at ports surrounding his “break- music on the Internet is like a gar- a world of love. The lyrics evoke Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, down”. Regardless, fans at Blind gantuan, gaping abyss. The trouble the image of a forlorn teen pick- California, ranting about every- Brook are concerned about West’s of dealing with such a massive col- ing away at a daisy, “he loves me, thing from Beyoncé and Jay-Z to wellbeing. lection is the sheer size of it. Sift- he loves me not”. The synth riffs the presidential election, before “I think it’s important for him ing through millions upon millions and beats make the song less of a storming offstage. to take time off if that’s what he of tracks would take eons, which whiney rant and more like a pow- Two days later, Dr. Michael Far- needs because at the end of the is why I compiled a list of my fa- erfully charged, passionate fight of zam made a frantic 911 call, telling day, health is more important than vorite songs to make the task of emotions. Gracie and dapurr are dispatchers that West needed to be fame,” said sophomore Carly Kabot. finding good music much simpler. both teenagers, and the song high- hospitalized. He feared West would “It’s important to try to look at All of these songs can be found on lights their young, creative energy. attack emergency responders due his perspective and see how over- SoundCloud; it is free, has compar- “Way I Live” by Skizzy Mars to his aggressive behavior. The whelming being in the industry atively few ads, and provides the Rap, melodic singing, electronic famous rapper spent eight days at can be,” said senior Danielle Goz. freedom to select tracks. bops, and a clip of a recorded con- UCLA Medical Center for “tem- West also found time for a very “Goodnight” by Juss versation are all artfully mixed porary psychosis” brought on by public meeting with President- Anyone who thinks of rhyming together on Skizzy Mars’s “Way I sleep deprivation and dehydration, Elect Donald Trump. According to diarrhea with taqueria, as well as Live” which delivers a great track according to TMZ. The New York Times, “after weeks Ikea with fajitas, tops my list al- about the lifestyle of an occasion- As a result, West’s U.S. Saint of reports of severe exhaustion most immediately. User Juss, also ally broke rapper who’s just hav- Pablo tour was cancelled, costing and ensuing hospitalization, Kanye known as Yezlawd, exhib- ing a good time and going him over $10 million. However, West walked into Trump Tower on its his skills as a rap- through various bouts West has started to plan a 2017 Eu- Tuesday morning. Journalists who per and a producer of economic and so- ropean tour that will include stops caught a glimpse of the musician in this track, cial success. Some- in Paris, Britain, and Germany. entering the tightly guarded build- creating an ex- how, even while “I think it’s really sad that he ing in Manhattan took to Twitter tremely catchy describing his had to cancel the tour because so to document the strange specta- beat. While libidinous ad- many were waiting to see him,” ju- cle.” This meeting sparked rumors the bass is a ventures, “Way nior Zoe Cohen said. about West possibly performing at consistently I Live” incor- In addition to his recovery, West Trump’s inauguration. repeating mel- porates some may need some time to work on his According to the New York ody through- sophisticated relationship with his wife, Kim Kar- Times, Trump told reporters out the song, piano notes. dashian. People Magazine reported ‘“We’ve been friends for a long the lyrics are re- “We could be after returning from his brief hos- time…we discussed life.’” West ally what takes the (prod. dapurr)” by pitalization, he is currently living tweeted later that he met with cake. 10/10 would drumaq apart from his spouse. West and Trump to discuss multicultural is- recommend. I originally found Drew Kardashian are now said to be re- sues including bullying, support- “Find My Macdonald on You- ceiving individual counseling. ing teachers, modernizing curricu- Socks (Feat Noah Photo courtesy of Allison Chien Tube, but he has “I don’t think it’s really clear lums, and the violence taking place Hill)” by Jimmy since then shifted what’s going on with him,” said ju- in Chicago. He also tweeted, “I feel Staple to focus on music exclusively. He nior Ayden Bauer. “All of it is real- it is important to have a direct line This is probably my favorite has a few songs out, but “We could ly sad. Whether or not he is having of communication with our future song of all time. “Find My Socks” be” is my favorite out of all of a ‘mental breakdown,’ he’s clearly President if we truly want change.” opens with the iconic lines from them. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, “Life moves Drumaq describes this track as pretty fast. If you don’t stop and being under “dream pop”, which I look around once in awhile, you concur with, as it has a glorious could miss it.” This tune is a remix lilting melody. Plus, Drew’s voice of the Chordettes’ “Mr. Sandman” is smooth as butter. “We could interspersed with original vers- be” features a variety of different es, which also contain some fun electronic edits, keeping the song rhymes: “wake up in the mornin’, interesting while still drilling in hit that serotonin, livin’ in the the takeaway message: “We could momen’”. The cheery theme of be beautiful”. I also highly recom- the song embodies what I would mend his latest song, “Neverland”. imagine the quintessential relaxed “sweet n sour” by Waterbed but happy morning to be like. The Indie duo Crystal and Cat of Wa- iconic “bung, bung, bung, bung” terbed are best well known for background perfectly compliments their feature on The Chainsmok- the quick slew of well-paced bars. ers’ creatively titled “Waterbed”. When you get passed the aux, this This track is what I’d imagine an song is guaranteed to be a car bop- psychedelically emerald colored ping hit. afternoon in Colorado to sound “You treat me like you hate like. It’s essentially a song about me (ft. Gracie Abrams)” by da- how a bad relationship helped the purr person realize how great a truly The name Gracie Abrams might good relationship is, as exemplified sound a little familiar. Gracie is in the line, “if I hadn’t met sour, the daughter of the famed direc- I’d have never known sweet”. This tor, producer, screenwriter, and song has been out for quite a while composer, J.J Abrams, known for now, but it’s still on the rise. The his work on Star Wars: The Force track is super groovy and bubbly, Awakens, Lost, and the Star Trek with a good portion of the song reboots. It is evident the familial consisting of electronic riffs and talent extends beyond cinematog- airy ‘woo’ sounds. As one com- raphy. menter described it, “This song is Not only does Gracie have an now swimming in my brain like a amazing voice, but she also writes parasite. Integrating itself within and composes her own songs. Her my body and soul, with no sight of Photo courtesy of ABC News song, “In Between” is another one a potential cure. Score. Sweet.” Kanye West appears on the cover of Time Magazine as one of “The 100 Most Influential People” of 2015. 16 Arts and Entertainment A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 A Night to Remember By Danielle Barsky at only 19 years old. She is the Every February, celebrities first solo female country mu- from all over the country attend sic artist to score a number one the Grammy Awards to celebrate hit on her debut single. The the greatest music of the year. Chainsmokers are an American This year, the Grammys take DJ duo including Andrew Tag- place on Sunday, February 12, gart and Alex Pall, who have at 8:00 pm and will be hosted by become worldwide celebrities af- James Corden, the star of The ter releasing “#Selfie” in 2014, Late Late Show. Lucky fans can “Roses” in 2015, and “Closer”, attend the event at the Staples in 2016. Chance the Rapper is Center in Los Angeles, howev- a hip-hop recording artist from er most can watch it from their Chicago who began to gain rec- homes on CBS. ognition following the release Some of the most popu- of his second mixtape, Acid Rap. lar categories for awards are In May, he released the mixtape Album of the Year, Song of ish singer and songwriter, Adele, 2015 but became Bieber’s third Coloring Book, which is the first the Year, Record of the Year, became a massive success as consecutive number-one hit and streaming-only album to ever and Best New Artist. These the world’s best-selling album was the seventh best selling song receive a Grammy nomination. four categories are called the of 2015. Lemonade is praised as of the year. Similarly, “Hello” is Maren Larae Morris is a country General Field. They are the stan- Beyoncé’s boldest work to date, a piano ballad that was the first singer, songwriter, and record dard awards for musical works, selling 45,000 copies in its first song to sell over a million digi- producer who began her career and do not restrict nominees week and earning Beyoncé her tal copies in a week and reached in 2005. She has released four by genre. There are also special sixth consecutive number one one billion YouTube views in studio albums and is the reigning awards, such as The Lifetime album in the country. Purpose record time. “I Took a Pill in 2016 Country Music Association Achievement Award, that are by Justin Bieber features vocals Ibiza” was originally acoustic New Artist of the Year. Ander- given without nominations, typi- from Travis Scott, Big Sean, and but was remixed in July 2015 by son Paak is a singer, songwriter, cally for accomplishments that Halsey. Bieber’s Purpose gave the Norwegian duo SeeB and be- rapper, and record producer from have occurred over a long period him the largest first-week sales came Posner’s hottest single. It California. In 2011, Paak began of time. of his career. Views by the rap- reached the top ten of the charts to gain acceptance in the music This year, the nominees for per Drake was released in late in twenty-seven countries. world as he worked on his de- Album of the Year are 25, Lem- April and had several produc- “Hello”, “Formation”, and “7 but album, O.B.E. Volume 1. He onade, Purpose, Views and A Sail- ers, including Kanye West. Views Years” were also nominated for later released three albums and or’s Guide To Earth. 25 by Brit- remained at number one on the Record of the Year, as well as performed six songs on Dr. Dre’s U.S. Billboard 200 for 13 non- “Work” by Rihanna featuring 2015 album, Compton. consecutive weeks. Although Drake, and “Stressed Out” by not very popular at Blind Brook, Twenty One Pilots. “Work” was A Sailor’s Guide to Earth is the recorded on Rihanna’s eighth third studio album by American studio album Anti. The song be- country singer-songwriter Stur- came Rihanna’s fourteenth num- gill Simpson. ber one single and her song re- The nominees for Song of the mained at the top of the charts Year are “Formation” by Beyon- for nine weeks. “Stressed Out”, cé, “7 Years” by Lukas Graham, written and recorded by Ameri- “Love Yourself ” by Justin Bieber, can musical duo Twenty One Pi- “Hello” by Adele and “I Took A lots was released as a single in Pill In Ibiza” by Mike Posner. April and sold 2.4 million copies. “Formation” served as Lemon- Kelsea Ballerini, The Chain- ade’s lead single and “7 Years” smokers, Chance The Rapper, is from Lukas Graham, the self- Maren Morris and Anderson Photo courtesy of Twenty One Pilots titled second studio album of Paak received nominations for Photo courtesy of Genius “Stressed Out” from Twenty One Pilot’s the Danish soul-pop band. “Love Best New Artist. Ballerini is a Chance the Rapper, creator of the album fourth album Blurryface is nominated for Yourself” was first released as a country pop singer and song- Coloring Book, is nominated for Best New Record of the Year. promotional single in November writer who signed a record deal Artist. Gilmore Girls Revival By Olivia Morrisey Lorelai’s father and Rory’s grand- Luke planned the party. Luke then in an argument over Rory’s book Almost ten years after the finale father. tells Lorelai, “I just like to see you idea and Lorelai leaves to hike the of Gilmore Girls, Netflix decided The last episode of the seventh happy,” and they kiss. In the final Pacific Crest Trail. to produce a four episode revival and final season of Gilmore Girls moments of the episode, Rory and Emily moves to Nantucket after of the beloved show. Released left fans at a loss for words. In Lorelai stop at Luke’s house, mir- accepting her husband’s death and on November 25, 2016, Gilmore “Bon Voyage”, Rory gets a job as a roring the final scene of the pilot is independent for the first time. Girls: A Year in the Life continues reporter covering Barack Obama’s episode. Lorelai then returns to Stars Hol- the story of the lives of Lorelai, presidential campaign and pre- “I love how the storyline came low, makes up with Rory, and pro- Rory, and Emily Gilmore, as well pares to leave in three days. Mean- full circle and the infamous last poses to Luke. Rory visits Christo- as many other characters from the while, Lorelai must address her lines left me speechless,” said ju- pher, her father, to tell him about original show. feelings toward Luke and cope nior Caroline Levine. the wedding and confronts him The miniseries is exclusive to with the fact that she may not see In the revival of Gilmore Girls, about why he let Lorelai raise her Netflix with 88 to 102 minute epi- her daughter again for a long time. Rory is now a freelance journalist as a single mother. Luke and Lo- sodes. Fans of the original show Rory and her mother plan to and decides to sell her apartment relai get married and Rory reveals are at ease knowing that many of have breakfast at Luke’s Diner and due to frequent traveling. She a shocking secret to end the show, the actors and actresses have re- cancel Rory’s college graduation chooses to live with Logan Hunt- leaving viewers with a major cliff- prised their roles in the show’s party. However, shes plans a sur- zberger (Matt Czuchry) in Lon- hanger. revival. Lauren Graham returns prise party for Rory with the help don and they begin a relationship “I loved the revival. I think it as Lorelai Gilmore, Alexis Bledel of Lorelai’s best friend, Sookie St. despite the fact that Rory already was great to bring everyone back. as Rory Gilmore, Kelly Bishop as James (Melissa McCarthy) at the has a boyfriend. Rory is then fired I’m so happy how Luke and Lorelai Emily Gilmore, and Scott Patter- Dragonfly Inn. The next day, Rory from her job and meets with her ended up, but I hated the ending son as Luke Danes. Unfortunately, and Lorelai drive into town to see ex-love-interest, Jess Mariano because I don’t like cliffhangers. Edward Herrmann passed away in that the entire community is at the (Milo Ventimiglia), who pushes They need to do another episode 2014, so he was unable to make an party ready to bid Rory farewell. her to write a book about her life. at least to tell us what happens,” appearance as Richard Gilmore, Sookie informs Lorelai that However, Rory and Lorelai get said Levine. 17 Book Club presents Open Mic Night

March 16th @ 7pm in the MSHS Library

Contact [email protected] if you are interested in performing or volunteering.

Do you need Community Service hours?

The Community Learning Partnership is looking for tutors to help Port Chester Middle School students in all academic areas. Tutors meet with their students after school at Port Chester’s Don Bosco Community Center OR on Saturdays at the Port Chester-Rye Brook Library. Contact [email protected] for more information.

18 Sports A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 It’s Time for the Big Rye Town Titans Talk Leagues to Step Up Team Dynamics By Michael Discolo terpart. "Have you seen his By Ayden Bauer the players from last year’s team While several other (Tom Brady’s) wife? I hope With an 11-6 record, the Rye have since graduated. The team leagues have made huge she comes to the game. I Town Titans are winding down an has also gained four new players, strides in eliminating do- hope her sister comes to the overall victorious season. The play- totalling 23 players that vary in mestic violence over the game, all her friends come to ers attribute their successful per- different skill levels. past few years, there is still the game. One of my favor- formances to the hard work they The captains of the team are one league that has com- ite games of the year," said put in both on and off the rink. from the other high schools, but pletely failed at handling Hardy. The team is made up of play- players like Chris Megdanis, Ike these delicate situations. The This is not the only mis- ers from Blind Brook, Rye Neck, Murov and Max Chalfin play key league that is being referred handled domestic violence and Harrison High Schools and roles in the team’s success. to is the National Football situation in the NFL today attracts fans from all over the tri- “We have a deadly offense com- League. From 2000 -2014 with the revealment from state area. bined with a strong defense to back about 48 NFL players have New York Giants Kicker “I like playing with kids from them up,” said Blind Brook senior been considered guilty of Josh Brown that he has had other schools. The team is re- Chris Megdanis. domestic violence. While numerous encounters of do- ally close and everyone is work- The season started in mid-No- this number may seem rela- mestic violence with his wife ing hard. Everyone is striving to vember and the team practices on tively small, the magnitude in the past few years. These get better and everyone is helping ice at Rye Playland four times a of the punishment these incidences have mainly fallen each other,” said Blind Brook ju- week for two and a half hours each players receive is absolutely in the timetable between the nior Kieran Storch. day. Once a week, they meet up for shocking. 2013 season, when Brown “I like playing with kids from team workout sessions and watch Out of 48 players con- was suspended just one game other schools because it gives me an their game film to see how they can sidered guilty of for domestic violence, opportunity to expand friendships improve. domestic vio- up until present just beyond Rye Brook. I think our “Varsity Ice Hockey is definitely lence under the day. This shows team does very well because we are a sport for those who are willing to league policy, that the NFL close-knit and have strong chemis- devote a lot of time for the team,” the NFL sus- failed to give try since we all play travel hock- said Murov. “Whether it’s for team pended play- Brown a cor- ey together as well,” added Blind dinners or practices lasting until ers for just rect punish- Brook senior Ike Murov. 10:30 pm, if you’re not willing to one game ment in 2013, Most of the team plays on the put in the time and effort, the sport or not at all as Brown White Plains Plainsmen, so they is not for you,” he added. in 88 % of clearly did are all aware of how each player The team is aiming to win the the cases. not learn works and the chemistry is obvious section title after losing last year This means from his mis- on the ice. All of the players are in the finals against Pelham. This that over takes and con- hopeful that they will surpass the year the team is determined to win, 50% of players tinued to com- success of the team last year and but continues to focus on one game found guilty of mit horrible acts make it far into the playoffs. at a time. a crime, punish- of violence against This year the Titans are focus- “We obviously want to win the able by his ing on improving communication section title this year, but we focus huge Photo courtesy of Michael Discolo wife for both in practice and in games. on our short term goals, which is fines multiple The team was lucky enough to looking to improve at practice and and even jail time in certain years. While the New York keep most of their star players winning each game as they come,” cases, received no punish- Giants have released Brown, from last season, as only three of said Murov. ment from the NFL at all. who has decided to check Meanwhile Pittsburgh himself into rehabilitation Steelers star wide receiver in order to fix his evident Bowling Club Recruiting Antonio Brown has been problem, the league office fined nearly $100, 000 over has barely stepped up dur- the past three years for ing this time, only putting for the Count “excessive” celebration pen- Brown on the commission- alties and wearing custom- er's exempt list. By Ethan Finkelstein Peper and DiGiacomo were not ized cleats honoring the late In doing this, the NFL All are welcome at Blind sure if the club could afford its Muhammad Ali. This shows sends a message to their Brook’s newest extracurricular practice space. However, they that the NFL cares more players that even if they sport--the Bowling Club. After quickly took action to ensure the about harmless dance moves commit serious crimes, they years of pining and planning, club would be able to pay for the and colorful attire than they will not send out a definite co-presidents Robert DiGiaco- venue. do illegal crimes. punishment of a certain mo and Thomas Peper, seniors, “We went to the bowling alley Even when commissioner amount of games, they will are striking forward to recruit prior to our first trip and worked Roger Goodell chooses to just put you on a list and more than its current 25 mem- out a deal to accommodate our punish these players, his take you off it when they bers. club that gives us a discounted plans end up ineffective. believe the time is best fit. Each month, 15 members of price for the practice space,” said After Carolina Panthers The NFL’s ratings are the club take a trip to the White DiGiacomo. Defensive End Greg Hardy continuing to decline, many Plains Bowling Alley to practice The bowling club does not was found guilty assault- believing that it is caused by and refine their skills. The club compete against other schools, ing his ex-girlfriend, he the general public not want- also holds weekly meetings af- but co-presidents Peper and Di- was moved to the exempt/ ing to see criminals playing ter school to discuss strategies Giacomo are working to ensure commissioner's permission football and getting paid on how to improve their perfor- that the team will be able to en- list for the remainder of millions of dollars while mance. ter tournaments next year. They the season. While this may doing it. Instead of hand- “One word to describe the already have Alyssa Angelori seem like a job well done on ing out harsh punishments season would be successful. We and Joanna Peper, both sopho- the league office’s part, they for celebrations or deflat- weren’t sure if the club would mores, lined up to take over as forgot one key part in their ing footballs, Roger Goodell work out or if we would get co-presidents next year. Adviser punishment toward Hardy. must come up with a more enough people to join, but my Carl Barnes will help ensure that Unlike the MLB has done, organized and efficient plan co-president Thomas Peper did the transition runs as smoothly the NFL failed to help teach to halt the domestic violence some recruiting and our club as possible. Hardy why his actions were cases in the NFL. If he con- grew big enough to be able to go “My goal for the club is to ex- wrong. After his suspension, tinues to ignore the valid- on trips,” said DiGiacomo. pand it so that it is big enough it was clear to the public ity of this issue, the ratings While the two co-presidents so that it can continue for future that Hardy was continu- will continue to drop and the have faced some difficulties in years. I feel as if most of these ing to objectify women as NFL owners will begin to managing the new club, the duo goals are being met and that the only “eye candy” and not as look in a new direction for has proven to be successful in bowling team will only continue equals to their male coun- the Commissioner position. managing any problems that to become more popular,” said arise. Due to a lack of funding, DiGiacomo. 19 19 Sports A Blind Brook High School Student Publication February 2017 Girls Varsity Basketball Toughens Season Strategy By Hannah Schaenman As the majority of the Girls’ Basketball team is a combi- nation of underclassmen and middle schoolers, the young team has to work together to become a strong unified force. up with other teams but lose it in the third quarter so the “We are currently 1-3 which isn’t a great record, but I goal is to keep up the energy. feel like we are playing a lot better than what our record Team chemistry is a key factor this year and working shows. At the end of the first half of all three of our loss- together to get future wins,” said captain Kaveri Reddy, a es, we were either up or down by 10 points, but we lost our senior. momentum in the second half,” said junior Lily Kamin. With the loss of five players, four of whom were seniors, Led by coaches Manny Martinez and assistant coach the team has been rebuilding. The team’s strategy might Alan Striar, the team is continuing to work hard and focus change to deal with these obstacles. Will they move from on techniques to improve their momentum in the second their traditional half court offense to a transition, more half. fast paced offense to combat the lack of height? Team unity has lead the team to success in the past. With “With the loss of our two tallest players we’ve been lack- a tough schedule playing Mamaroneck, a AA school, Ur- ing some height but our captains Jamie and Kaveri have suline B and Westlake the team has a 1-3 record. But the been playing really well and are doing a great job at their team is confident so that this record does not define them. new positions. We’ve been putting our all into these games Looking for a successful season, the team practices Mon- and practices and have been working our best to improve. day through Saturday with two hours of practice each day. I’m hopeful that we’ll have some big wins in the future “The losses have been tough, but we are coming back against John Jay, Ursuline, Rye Neck and Edgemont that and working harder than ever. We have been able to keep will improve our record but for now I believe we have been playing very well and it can only go up from here,” said Kamin. This mentality is shared among all the players. The team will not give up and continues to work hard and progress throughout the season in order to work toward finishing off the year with a winning record. Having the same over- all goal in mind every year, the team works to make it to playoffs and then to the County Center to compete for the Gold Ball.

Photo/Emma Seguljic The Girls Varsity Basketball team tries to steal the ball away from their opponent. Trojan Basketball Reaches for Playoffs By Evan Ketchabaw team has focused on The Varsity Boys’ Bas- finding more ways to ketball team is on the score. The team wants road to recovery after a to spread the opposing rocky start to their sea- team’s defense and score son. Their current re- points along the perim- cord is five wins to sev- eter. en losses. Leading the Off the court, improv- Photo/Emma Seguljic team this year are senior ing team’s chemistry Junior Captain Jake Giansante attempts to block a member from the captains Sam Brandeis, has been vital late in the opposing team from passing the ball. Garrett Hughes, and season. Getting to know junior captain Jake Di- each other’s strengths Giansante. has helped improve their “This tough start we ally help them go far in After losing strong se- cohesioins and on-court had was a huge wake up the playoffs. The start- nior players from last abilities. call and has helped us ing lineup consists of season, juniors Michael “I like how we move learn from our mistakes four juniors which is Bucci and Alex Feuer- the ball around quickly and hopefully we will beneficial and creates stein are two players and know where the open keep improving through- high potential for next that have the talent to guy will be and feed him out the season,” said year as well. fill their shoes. the ball. Also, having Brandeis. To improve The coaching staff is Some changes Coach the full court press is a this bad start, they have a huge reason why the Welsh made was hav- key point to our game: to treat every opponent team has success. Every- ing more of a run and getting quick steals and the same, forget about day they go into the gym gun style of play. This easy points,” said start- past mistakes and focus to work on things they is because of their quick ing guard Michael Bucci. on the next team. need to improve wheth- players, Bucci and Di- Even though the Tro- “The goal of this year’s er it is their shooting or giansante. jans were off to a slow team is to not only make strategies. They also want to try start this season, senior the playoffs, but to win Practice has been key. to push the ball and press Captain Sam Brandeis some games in the play- To compete, the Trojans as much as possible to said that they would offs,” said Brandeis. know success results generate quick steals. make a quick turn around Having a strong lineup from hard work on and During practice, the on the season. and a deep bench will re- off the court. 20 18