The RegisterRegister ForumForum Established 1891 Vol. 130, No. 4 Cambridge Rindge and Latin School December 2017 Teachers of Color at CRLS: Community Continues Discussion of an ongoing discussion at CRLS. By President of the Cambridge Educa- Isabelle Agee-Jacobson tion Association Dan Monahan told Contributing Writer the Register Forum, “I wouldn’t As CPS diversity development say that anything in our schools program manager Ramon DeJesus has necessarily changed to make it sees it, “In our society, it is impor- more of an issue. I think it’s been an tant for all of our students—regard- issue for a while.” less of ethnicity or race—to be able However, Monahan noted that to see underrepresented groups staff diversity is important to Ken- in leadership roles.” DeJesus was neth Salim, Cambridge’s super- hired to this new position for the intendent since last year, and that district this year. Many would say some teachers who left CRLS at this position couldn’t have come at the end of last year were very vocal a better time as the hiring and reten- about the issue. According to Mo- tion of teachers of color continue to nahan, both of these factors played be topics of conversation at CRLS. a part in raising awareness about the issue. The Broader Context Pictured: Photo teacher Archy LaSalle teaching Photo 1; the quote on his board reads: Senior Elaina Wolfson, who According to Massachusetts De- “Silence does not help to bring positive change in a society.” identifies as a student of color, says Photo Credit: Grace Ramsdell partment of Elementary and Sec- she thinks the mindset of those in ondary Education data for the is 39% white, 30% African Ameri- of principals are African American, Cambridge is part of the problem. 2016-2017 school year, CRLS’staff can, 14% Hispanic, and 12% Asian. Hispanic, or Latino. “I’ve noticed in Cambridge that is 76% white, 14% African Ameri- In the district, 50% of vice princi- Because of this breakdown, Cantabrigians [don’t think] they are can, 6% Hispanic, and 3% Asian. pals and deans are African Ameri- the hiring and retention of teach- In contrast, the CRLS student body can, Hispanic, or Latino, and 33% ers of color has been the subject Continued on pages 4 & 5 Singin’ in the Snow: A Cappella Jam Entertains School Committee By CRLS’ “Girls Next Door” to the stage. GND Addresses AV Policy Sophie Harrington kicked off the night with soloists Hanna Nor- Contributing Writer ris ‘18 and Honor O’Shaughnessy ‘19 singing By Corinne Bailey Rae’s “Put Your Records On.” Honor O’Shaughnessy On the snowy evening of Saturday, De- Both Norris and O’Shaughnessy performed Contributing Writer cember 9th, the Fitzgerald Theatre was packed with grace, adding charm to the neo-soul hit. The On Tuesday, December 5th, the School for the annual group then per- Committee held a meeting to discuss the up- CRLS Win- formed “Love dated attendance violation (AV) policy. Student ter A Cappella on the Brain” government members, CRLS administration Jam at 7:00 by Rihanna, and staff, interested CRLS students, and anyone PM. The stage with senior who was concerned or interested about the new was graced Maggie La- guidelines attended the meeting. with singers Master taking Through the collaboration of the Cambridge from all six of a command- Youth Council and CRLS’ administration, a new CRLS’ a cap- ing solo, and attendance violation policy was put in place for pella groups, they concluded the 2017-2018 school year that seems to please the “Pitch their set with a many students and staff members. According to Pipes” from Jason Derulo the new policy, once students have four unex- Arlington medley. As se- cused absences or twelve unexcused tardies, ten High School, nior Lila Lifton points will be deducted from whatever classes and the “Vocal said on stage, they have missed that amount of school in. Suspects” from “Who doesn’t At the meeting, administration made it UMASS Am- love Jason De- clear that they do not seek to punish students. herst. Nat Ruiz ‘18, Anya Harp ‘19, and Abby Jarcho ‘21 sang in Girls Next Door. rulo?” Photo Credit: Lucy Messineo-Witt However, attendance must be monitored in order To kick Follow- to prepare students for life after high school. To off the night, students, faculty, and parents alike ing the GND were the “Pitch Pipes,” an all-male make the AV policy more fair, students can “buy were welcomed to the show by two of CRLS’ group. They sang a Mumford and Sons medley, senior track stars, Pilli Cruz-deJesus and Jef- Continued on page 6 frey Chen. After a few jokes, the pair welcomed Continued on page 7 INSIDE THIS EDITION UNSUNG HEROES BEST MOVIES ‘17 TO DO IN BOSTON FREE SPEECH WINTER SPORTS Join CRLS in recognizing This winter break, make As a new season of sports students from each grade sure to head into Boston for begins, the Register Forum and LC who stand out in the lots of festive activities in is bringing you a preview of student body. the city. winter athletics. Around School, p. 6 A&E, p. 9 Metro, p. 10 Opinion, p. 11 Sports, p. 16 Page 2 AAROUNDROUND SSCHOOLCHOOL December 2017

Register Forum Behind the Scenes at CRLS Established in 1891 as the C.M.T.S Register Meet the Main Office Clerks: Yemisi & Sandy By Editor-in-Chief Grace Ramsdell Editor-in-Chief Grace Ramsdell ‘18 Editorial Note: “Behind the Scenes” is a new Reg- Managing Editors ister Forum feature meant Cecilia Barron ‘19 Sun-Jung Yum ‘19 to spotlight members of the CRLS staff who students Contributing Writers might not interact with di- Isabelle Agee-Jacobson ‘20, Oscar Berry ‘19, Jaret Berman rectly. This is our first “Be- ‘19, Miles Gilmore ‘21, Alva Fureman ‘18, Freddie Gould ‘18, hind the Scenes” article. Sophie Harrington ‘18, Abby Jarcho ‘21, Julian Knight ‘19, “It’s not just typing, Marc Leroux-Parra ‘18, Jennifer Louis-Juste ‘18, Tommy Ma- it’s not just administrative cArthur ‘20, Andrew Mello ‘21, Louisa Monahan ‘20, Honor O’Shaughnessy ‘19, Maeve Reilly ‘19, Shuvom Sadhuka ‘18, work—I’ve always done Robert Shapiro ‘18, Josie Weissburg ‘19, Aviv Yaacobi ‘20, that kind of work,” began Youssef Zerbouaa ‘18 main office clerk Yemisi Oluwole ‘85. “You’re talk- Photographers ing to people, you’re coun- Isabelle Agee-Jacobsen ‘20, Stella Engel-Werman ‘19, Sophie seling people, you’re run- Yemisi Oluwole (left) is in her fourth year at Rindge; Sandy Stone Harrington ‘18, Jennifer Louis-Juste ‘18, ning around trying to make (right) is in her third year. Lucy Messineo-Witt ‘19, Zeus Mondol ‘19, things happen, you’re using Photo Credit: Grace Ramsdell Vera Targoff ‘19, Juliana Vandermark ‘20 technology in a way that to get the work done regard- of unpleasant behavior, you’ve never used it any- less [is important], because they always strive to be that’s the nature of the job.” professional and friendly. Cartoonists where else, you’re talking to all kinds of people from Senior Leonardo Es- Vice-Principal Tynes de- Lara Garay ‘20, Megan Kelliher ‘19, Teymura Landsverk ‘19 all over the world repre- cobar, one of the morning scribed Oluwole and Stone senting all cultures and re- announcers, observed that as “dependable,” “profes- ligions and everything,” she Oluwole and Stone are “al- sional,” and “very skilled.” Layout Designers explained. ways very on top of every- He commented, “They’re a Isabelle Agee-Jacobson ‘20, Stella Engel-Werman ‘19 Fellow main office thing” and noted that they great team. … They’re al- Lucy Messineo-Witt ‘19, constantly look at “how to ways willing to do whatever Honor O’Shaughnessy ‘19, Vera Targoff ‘19 clerk Sandy Stone chimed in, “You’re trying to help improve the system.” Esco- it takes to make things run everybody as much as you bar concluded that because smoothly,” adding that they Copyeditors can.” there is so little time for take responsibility for be- Jesse Blumenthal ‘21, Eli Carengelo ‘21, Weileen Chen ‘18, morning announcements, ing the face of the school Maryam Dar ‘20, Katie Green ‘20, Alon Jacobson ‘21, Abby This is Oluwole’s Jarcho ‘21, Andrew Mello ‘21, Honor O’Shaughnessy ‘19, fourth year working at the organization that the when they answer calls and Dina Pfeffer ‘21, Miles Taylor ‘18 CRLS and Stone’s third. main office clerks bring is interact with visitors. “They Both retired from other ca- crucial. never complain,” Tynes reers before coming to work Oluwole and Stone concluded. Faculty Advisor in the main office, and both also noted that being dis- Oluwole noted, “We Steven Matteo were brought here by fam- creet is essential to their may not be the principal, ily—Oluwole by her sister role, because they deal with we may not be an educator, a lot of information. As Olu- but we need to understand Cambridge Rindge and Latin School who works at the Fletch- 459 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138 er Maynard wole explained, “We want what is going on and how [email protected] Academy things work, and that’s registerforum.org and Stone by “We may not be the principal, we may not her husband what makes us who works at be an educator, but we need to understand a really good CRLS. what is going on and how things work.” resource—be- Accord- cause we’re Ugly Sweater Contest ing to Olu- supposed to As you no doubt have noticed, it is December once again. wole and Stone, the job de- to make sure that that repu- know a lot of things, a lot of The holidays mean time with family, big meals, presents, and tation [of confidentiality] is different things.” of course the most important part: ugly holiday sweaters. Now, scription for the main office there are many, many kinds of ugly sweaters...But which is the clerk is pretty short, but they solid, that what comes into Stone added that they best kind? end up doing a little bit of this room does not get dis- put effort into following up We here at the Register Forum have pondered this for everything—from answer- cussed.” with people: “It’s not just hours on end, but after all that effort, we were unable to figure ing all the calls that come Family Liaison Greta here, we work 24/7, and out the best kind. This is where you come in. We need your Hardina said that she could I’ve built a lot of relation- help to figure out what the best ugly holiday sweater is. This into the main office and signals the start of the First Annual Cambridge Rindge and handing out MBTA passes not run the CRLS food pan- ships with the kids.” Latin School Register Forum Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest to managing Mr. Smith and try without support from Both Oluwole and (FACRLSRFUHSC, fah-CURLS-er-fusk). Mr. Tynes’s schedules and Oluwole and Stone. Stone spoke of the relation- We will accept your submissions on social media using planning the graduation cer- She added, “I believe ships that they’ve developed the hashtag #CRLSUglySweater2017, and if you wear your that they’ve changed the with students and other staff sweater on Student Government’s ugly sweater spirit day (De- emony. cember 21st), Register Forum photographers will be in the Stone added, “If a stu- school climate since they’ve as one of their favorite parts lobby of the Rindge building during all lunches to take your dent comes in with a prob- been the frontline staff in of the job. photograph. Then the First Annual Cambridge Rindge and lem, if we can’t help the stu- the main office. They wel- “When you leave here, Latin School Register Forum Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest dent, we’re going to find the come all students, families, you feel like you did some- Official Judgement Committee (FACRLSRFUHSCOJC)—com- and staff with a smile and thing today, not like when prised of the Register Forum’s editors, Student Body President appropriate person to help Sophie Harrington, and yours truly—will vote on a winner. The the student.” are extremely professional, I was in banking,” said winner will receive a $15 gift card to Broadway Marketplace Of challenges, Olu- which sets the tone of the Stone. “I didn’t feel like I and be featured on the Register Forum website. wole noted the “constant school.” was helping anybody. In We look forward to your sweaters so we can settle this interruption,” continuing, Although Oluwole the short time that I’ve been debate once and for all! and Stone can find them- here, I think that I’ve really – Miles Gilmore ‘21, Register Forum “The ability to focus and that level of professionalism selves on the receiving end impacted a lot of students.” December 2017 AAROUNDROUND SSCHOOLCHOOL Page 3 CRLS’ New Adolescent Substance Abuse Specialist Dr. David G. Stewart Brings Expertise and Resources to the Teen Health Center on Thursdays contributes to a lot of harm es by teens are alcohol and those meetings is not dis- and using alcohol and mari- By throughout the life in terms marijuana because they are cussed with the school or juana would benefit from Marc Leroux-Parra of criminal activity, health “mind-altering drugs that with parents unless that having as much informa- Contributing Writer problems, [and] mental become habit-forming.” is specifically negotiated. tion as possible about what health problems.” Dr Stew- Dr. Stewart noted that There are sets of computer- it means for their health and Tucked away in a small art explained, “I like to pre- problems resulting from ized assessment questions their mental health.” He room in the Teen Health vent those problems, and a substance use are not al- for students, allowing Dr. added, “I am available to Center is CRLS’ newest good place to start is when ways obvious. In order to Stewart to give visual and talk to groups or classes or part-time staff member: Dr. the problem—substance prevent consequences later graphical feedback which just talk to individuals who David G. Stewart, a clinical abuse—starts.” on, it is important to seek compares your substance have questions about their psychologist who received Dr. Stewart defines help. That is one of the rea- abuse to that of others. Then substances, as are the other his training in San Diego, substance abuse as using sons why CRLS contracted he asks questions like, “Do health providers and nurses California and specializes a mind-altering substance Dr. Stewart—having a spe- you think you have a prob- here.” in adolescent substance when “it’s causing prob- cialist who can respond to lem?” or, “Are you having Making an appoint- abuse. As of this October, ment with Dr. Stewart is Dr. Stewart is available to Making an appointment with Dr. Stewart is a straightforward process. a straightforward process. meet with students every You can be referred to Dr. Stewart by personally making an You can be referred to Dr. Thursday between 9:00 AM Stewart by personally mak- and 1:00 PM in the Teen appointment with the Teen Health Center. ing an appointment with the Health Center. Teen Health Center, or you After beginning his lems for you or putting you the common use of alcohol trouble getting along with can refer a friend who you work in San Diego, Dr. at risk.” Dr. Stewart listed and marijuana is an impor- friends because of your think would benefit. Once Stewart moved to the Uni- feeling sick, breaking the tant service. marijuana use?” the referral is submitted, versity of Washington in law to use a substance, or According to Dr. Stew- This feedback is con- the Teen Health Center will Seattle and then Seattle experiencing a negative art, his job at CRLS is to be densed into a report card make the appropriate con- Pacific University, where impact on school work or a psychologist and counsel- or checkup that assesses nections to schedule an ap- he was the head of the psy- family life as some of the or. He hopes to give individ- your drug use and can pro- pointment. chology department. Dur- problems substance abuse ual assessments and therapy vide you with information The Teen Health Cen- ing his time in Seattle, Dr. can cause. He added that for plans to reduce the harm of on what occurs when you ter is a resource for stu- Stewart worked as an ado- high schoolers, “It always substances or help students use substances. Counseling dents; as such, it will keep lescent substance abuse is breaking the law to use stop using them altogether. sessions that discuss what it your referrals confidential. specialist in public schools [substances].” According to In a meeting with Dr. would take to change follow. All students are encouraged there. He is interested in Dr. Stewart, the two most Stewart, confidentiality is Dr. Stewart believes that to make use of this unique substance abuse because it “ commonly abused substanc- key. What occurs within “everyone that’s underage resource at the school. Teacher Spotlight: Ms. Piotrowski Beloved French Teacher to Retire in January By of the airport, all because two students on the Louisa Monahan trip had forgotten their green cards and could Contributing Writer not board the plane to re-enter the United States. The green cards were not checked on our way Register Forum: How long have you been at out of the U.S., so it hadn’t been an issue when CRLS? we were traveling to France. Ann Piotrowski: I started working here in 1987 … The second memorable story is taking as a per diem sub and was hired a few months students from France to the World Trade Cen- later by the world language department head at ter in New York, months before the 9/11 event, the time, Walter J. Patacchiola, in the Cambridge and then after, feeling great sorrow and thinking middle schools. After about five years, I trans- about how precious life is. ... ferred to the high school. On a happier note, a third memorable story is receiving a gift from a parent of $1,000 to give RF: How long have you been a teacher? anonymously to a student who couldn’t afford to AP: 30 years. go to France on one of our exchanges. Ms. Piotrowski has worked within the district since 1987. Photo Credit: Vera Targoff RF: When did you start to learn French? RF: What will you miss most about CRLS? AP: From a very early age, as my Polish parents AP: I’ll miss the outstanding students and staff! RF: Do you have any last advice for students were refugees in France after WWII. They then or teachers? immigrated to the United States. I grew up with AP: For students: Continue your studies of for- both languages, French and Polish, which gave RF: Is there anything you won’t miss? eign languages—preferably more than one lan- me the opportunity to later learn additional lan- AP: I definitely won’t miss evaluation require- guage. I recommend a high school exchange or guages from each language group: Romance and ments, teachpoint and UBD’s, forever being in junior year or semester abroad. Travel as much Slavic. the process of writing letters of recommenda- as possible to learn about other cultures, which tion, correcting papers en masse on weekends, will make you a better person and give you op- RF: Do you have a favorite or funny story saying “put all phones and electronics away and portunities for various careers. ... about an experience you’ve had here? shut in bags” ten times a day, and lastly, teaching For teachers: In the preamble to The Little AP: In the past I organized several exchanges a few non-motivated students who, every chance Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery, the author in France with high schools in Paris (Lycée Fé- they get, disappear to go to the bathroom, lunch, dedicates his book to his dear friend. He writes, nelon), Paris suburbs (Bondy), Lyon, Amboise or wander the hallways like boulevardiers [wan- “To the child whom this grown-up once was. All (Loire Valley), and trips to Normandy and Ge- derers of Parisian boulevards]. grown-ups were children first. (But few of them neva, Switzerland. remember it.)” My advice is to enjoy and ap- On one of the exchanges, I had to stay in Paris RF: If you could describe your experience at preciate working with children, and don’t forget an extra three days dealing with customs, lug- CRLS in one word, what would it be? what it was like to be a kid. Have a sense of hu- gage issues, airlines, and the American embassy AP: Unique, because of its diversity and great mor, and surround yourself with colleagues who in Paris. I had to sleep overnight in the basement opportunities offered to students. also have one. Page 4 AAROUNDROUND SSCHOOLCHOOL December 2017 Conversation about Diversity of Staff at CRLS Continues In-depth article continued from page 1 part of the problem. If you cut yourself out of the problem, there’s not going to be any solution,” said Wolfson. Having less teachers of color than white teachers is not a situation specific to Cambridge. Photography teacher Archy LaSalle commented, “I don’t think it’s just a CRLS problem. I think it’s an epidemic across the country … This sys- tem is so skewed.”

CRLS’ Teaching Environment Many teachers and administrators at CRLS who talked to the Register Forum say they are aware of factors that could contribute to teachers of color leaving the school. They explained that they knew there had been conversations about teachers of color not feeling supported or com- fortable in the school last year. LaSalle said that the evaluation process is one reason that teachers of color might leave Mr. Dua (left) says reading about Victoria Angeles (right) and other CRLS students in a Cambridge Day article moti- CRLS. He signed a letter to Superintendent Sa- vated him to come work at CRLS this year. lim last March along with eight other teachers at Photo Credit: Grace Ramsdell CRLS agreeing that there are “current evaluation tion Association also has an educators of color ing DeJesus to manage diversity development. procedures that are targeting veteran educators committee. DeJesus described his role as “looking to build of color at CRLS and that are undermining at- English teacher Natasha Labaze told the [and] support diversity, equity, and inclusion tempts to retain educators of color.” The letter Register Forum that working here has been “a initiatives that really look at how we recruit and also included a list of actions the teachers want- positive experience” because of the diversity retain educators of color.” ed to see the district take to further their com- of the student body, saying, “I’ve grown and Regarding diversity at CRLS in particular, mitment to diversity among staff. LaSalle and learned so much from students.” However, she Principal Damon Smith told the Register Forum, English teacher Tanya Trayer emphasized that added, “We definitely need more teachers of “As a staff, as an administration here, we have three of the teachers who signed the letter are no color at a school with a majority of students of worked extra hard to recruit teachers of color longer working at CRLS. and have worked hard to retain History Dean Tanya them, and we’re continuing to Milner commented that “As a staff, as an administration here, we have worked extra do so.” teachers of color often feel hard to recruit teachers of color and have worked hard to Principal Smith explained they are subjected to “an retain them, and we’re continuing to do so.” that while the administration is invisible tax,” because in committed to diversity among addition to teaching their CRLS staff, Cambridge faces classes, they are often expected to act as role color. The faculty needs to reflect the school’s challenges as a small district. “Unless we know models for African American students and as diversity—that should be our goal.” in advance, we really can only hire when we have a voice for people of color. Given this burden, Edward Walker, a guidance counselor in somebody leaving, retiring, moving on, or if we she explained, teachers of color sometimes need Learning Community L, says his experience as know we are going to get a new position.” For a more support from the administration. a guidance counselor at CRLS has also been bigger district like Boston, he explained, there While English teachers Kim Parker and Mi- favorable; while he thinks that there need to be are always going to be positions to fill, so the chelle Li worked at the school, they were leaders more teachers of color at the school, in compar- city is able to hire new teachers when they may of a support group for teachers of color at CRLS, ison with other places he has worked, he says not have a specific opening. This means the pool and they held two conferences about staff diver- CRLS’ staff is fairly diverse. of candidates—especially candidates of color— sity. Parker and Li left CRLS at the end of last shrinks, making it harder for smaller districts in year, but moving forward the support group will The Administration’s Point of View the area to hire teachers of color. meet with teachers once a week and with admin- One of the most recent steps that CPS has tak- Math Dean Jeff Gaglione added that some istrators once a month. The Cambridge Educa- en to retain teachers of color at CRLS was hir- elements of hiring and retaining staff are outside of CRLS’ control, since teachers leave CRLS for a number of reasons, including other job oppor- tunities and circumstances. Milner commented that, nonetheless, there are things CRLS needs to improve, including cultural sensitivity. “As a whole building, we are working and need to continue working on our cultural proficiency as adults, with each other. I think teachers of color do feel micro- [or] macro- aggressions from other colleagues. I don’t think that’s because it’s other people’s intent to be hurtful or harmful, but they just aren’t aware of those aggressions that they have,” she said.

Benefits of Diversity For many CRLS students, regardless of how they identify, having teachers of color is important. In a Register Forum survey of 233 CRLS seniors, students reported having on average 2.72 teach- ers of color during their time at Rindge. When asked to rank the importance they placed on hav- ing teachers of color, the average ranking chosen Pictured: Data from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for the 2016-2017 year. by students of color was 7.39 on a scale of 1-10 Graphic Credit: Vera Targoff (10 meaning “very important”). December 2017 AAROUNDROUND SSCHOOLCHOOL Page 5 Elaina Wolfson then come back to Cam- told the Register Forum, bridge to teach. “I think learning from Edward Walker be- someone who has expe- lieves that collaboration rienced being in the mar- on diversity recruitment gins changes how some- efforts between districts one learns. The way is important, because not people interpret things is every teacher is the right different based on their fit for every school. Kells cultures.” She added that offered another way to she thinks the perspec- improve practices, say- tive of those who are in ing that a vision for what the margins isn’t always education looks like in incorporated into high Cambridge that values school curricula. diversity with actions For seniors who and not just words could did not identify as stu- attract more teachers of dents of color, the aver- color to Cambridge. age ranking was 6.31 out The consensus of 10. Sophomore Eli among many of the stu- Siegel-Bernstein com- dents and staff who talk- mented, “I think [CRLS] ed with the Register Fo- needs to hire more teach- rum is that dialogue is a ers of color, and I also necessary step. Dan Mo- think they need to create nahan noted, “Even the a safer environment for best of us is never go- the teachers of color that ing to be fully aware of they already have.” [the micro-aggressions However, not all we make]. The only way students are especially we can really do that is concerned about diver- to get that immediate sity among CRLS staff. feedback ... The victims “I think the focus on race need to feel safe in say- as a stand-in for qualifi- ing [when something is cations is distracting us hurtful], and the perpe- from issues of quality of trators also need to not education,” said junior go into defensive mode Jeffrey Liu, who identi- and not feel like they’re fies as a student of color. going to be attacked or Meanwhile, in a punished.” survey of 68 CRLS staff Maloney com- members (25% of whom mented, “If we truly identified as teachers value diversity, we need of color), respondents to make sure that people ranked the importance of in charge are listening to Pictured: Data (excluding outliers) from a Register Forum survey of CRLS seniors. having teachers of color Graphic Credit: Shuvom Sadhuka and Vera Targoff the voices of people they as 9.12 out of 10, on av- ideally want to keep in erage. Moreover, the majority of respondents more diverse staff. At CRLS, the hiring process the school instead of trying to fix things [from (75%) indicated that they believe hiring and is meant to meet the requirements of equal op- the] top down.” She continued, “If we can’t retention of teachers of color is an issue facing portunity employment. However, some students talk about something, we can’t fix it. We have CRLS that should be addressed. and staff believe CRLS’system can be improved. to name it, we have to confront it—discuss it. History teacher Kevin Dua, who identifies History teacher Brendon Kells told the Reg- Those are the only real steps we can take to fix- as a teacher of color, says he was motivated to ister Forum that he does not think the process ing these problems instead of just sweeping them come to CRLS this year because of what he read does enough to show commitment to diversity under the carpet.” in an inflammatory Cambridge Day article pub- and that the administration needs to be more pro- Ramon DeJesus has posed a series of lished in July about teachers of color at CRLS. In active in reaching out to teachers of color. Vic- questions to guide a conversation about retain- particular, he says he was struck by the work of toria Angeles commented she would like more ing teachers of color, an issue which he says is two current seniors, Annie Rose-Hallett and Vic- students to serve on hiring committees and for more nuanced than the recruitment process. He toria Angeles, whose English project on teach- the committees to be more diverse. asks, “How do you create a climate that supports ers of color leaving CRLS was featured in the In addition to adjusting the hiring process, people? How do you create a climate that makes article. many people who talked to the Register Forum people feel comfortable bringing their authentic Dua told the Register Forum, “Even if one about this issue feel that a important step is to selves day in and day out?” teacher is leaving because they experienced provide more support for teachers of color who According to DeJesus, Cambridge Public macro- and micro-aggressions Schools are on the right track related to race … we should ad- in having this conversation and dress it. We should try to em- “I think learning from someone who has experienced being implementing other strategies brace it—we should try to re- in the margins changes how someone learns. The way people to address a need for diver- solve it.” interpret things is different based on their cultures.” sity. “I’m heartened by things English teacher Ariel Ma- like [how] we’ve seen a small loney, who does not identify increase in the percentage of as a teacher of color, added, “It’s better for us are already at CRLS. Senior Nusrat Lamisa Ja- teachers of color that we have throughout the as teachers if we have a more diverse teaching han said, “Of course hiring is important, but the district. And I think about that the district has put staff, because we’re all then going to learn from bigger point is keeping teachers of color here.” resources behind the creation of my position—a one another about how to better support our stu- Tanya Milner added that teachers of color lot of districts don’t have positions like this.” dents.” do not necessarily have to come from outside Nonetheless, DeJesus realizes that his po- of Cambridge, and that Cambridge can create a sition is a starting point. He emphasized, “We A Way Forward “grow-your-own type program.” She noted that have a lot of work to do.” Students and teachers have both pointed to ad- Cambridge is a diverse city, and many students Shuvom Sadhuka also contributed to this justing the hiring process as a key step toward a could be encouraged to go into education and piece. Page 6 AAROUNDROUND SSCHOOLCHOOL December 2017 dance at CRLS are still up for debate. Many hope the point where the policy is equitable,” com- School Committee Addresses AV Policy that transportation to school via the MBTA could mented senior and Student Representative to the Continued from page 1 be improved, since that is how many CRLS stu- School Committee Juliette Low Fleury to the dents arrive to school. The CRLS administration Register Forum. back” their ten lost points once per year through is currently communicating with the MBTA on Low Fleury and others think that a good way coordination with their dean. Currently, the how to alter bus routes so that buses could arrive of achieving this goal is by combining different way that points can be bought back is not set in directly at CRLS. organizations within CRLS to work towards so- stone. Some possibilities include volunteering in Ideally, the Cambridge Youth Council aims lutions using a variety of opinions. For example, the tutoring center, helping out in the library, or for tardiness to be calculated by compiling the Student Government and the Cambridge Youth writing an essay. total amount of minutes a students is late to class Council may collaborate in the future. In addition to policy changes, other altera- within a fifteen minute threshold. Currently, Communication about the new AV policy tions have been made to CRLS’ approach to at- once a student is late, they might not have a mo- was a major topic of interest at the meeting. tendance. There are now no tardy check-in desks tive to come to class as quickly as possible since Many students in attendance were surprised that at the front doors at 8:05, and teachers must input they will be marked late no matter what. How- there was a buyback policy and felt that the ad- attendance twice throughout the class period. ever, Aspen is not yet capable of calculating the ministration was keeping this policy from them. While the AV policy has changed over re- number of minutes late a student is. This concern about transparency between CRLS cent years, the consequence for students and the administration attendance violation is consis- Administration made it clear that they do not seek to was mentioned by multiple stu- tently based on having four un- punish students. However, attendance must be monitored in dents during public comment. excused absences or twelve un- Senior Helina Mekonnen, excused tardies. order to prepare students for life after high school. who heard about the buyback During the 2013-2014 and policy for the first time during the 2015-2016 school years, the AVF policy was im- School Committee member Patty Nolan meeting, explained to the Register Forum, “The plemented. This declared that once a student had seemed hopeful on updating the technology that parts that are most critical to the policy have to be four unexcused absences or twelve unexcused takes attendance, saying, “Seamless integration known by the student body.” Patty Nolan agreed, tardies in a quarter, the student would receive a with technology in terms of tracking the policy telling the Register Forum, “There’s no reason failing grade in the class that quarter. However, seems to be something [we’ll be] able to solve.” not to let people know about the buyback—we there was a buyback policy. Overall, most who attended this School should all be about restorative justice.” After the AVF policy, the AVR or AV10 Committee meeting agree that the policy must Students, staff, and School Committee policy was created for the 2016-2017 school be fair for all students. School Committee mem- members are continuing to improve the atten- year. The AV10 policy stated that after being ber Emily Dexter brought statistics behind the dance protocol in attempts to make it more fair unexcused from four full classes or being tardy attendance of CRLS students to attention at the to all students while also maintaining an incen- to twelve classes within one quarter, a student’s meeting. Dexter explained that the major dif- tive to attend school. Cambridge Youth Council grade would be reduced by 10% in that class ferences in terms of attendance between demo- members Elaina Wolfson ‘18 and Rory Millar with no way to buy back the points. Even if stu- graphics, specifically regarding social class and ‘19 both played an important part in updating dents had missed the same amount of school, race, could be caused by a plethora of reasons. the AV policy. Wolfson says she encourages stu- those with higher grades would lose more points These causes to being absent or late usually stem dents to “keep fighting for change. … It took us compared to students with lower grades, which from equity issues including transportation, dif- a year to get to this place.” Further details on was viewed as a major equity issue in the eyes of ferent languages spoken at home, the distance of the updated attendance policy can be found on both students and the administration. students’ commutes to and from school, as well page 29 of the CRLS student handbook, which Other ideas about how to improve atten- as general responsibilities. “We’ve got to get to is available online. CRLS Recognizes 16 Students at Unsung Heroes Event By right time.” Learning Com- Robert Shapiro munity L went next, recog- Contributing Writer nizing Dabriel Benzan ‘21, Diana Marenco ‘20, Oliver On December 1st at Saffery ‘19, and Hadari 7:30 AM in the Media Caf- Binka ‘18. LC S followed, eteria, the Friends of Cam- honoring Marney O’Connor bridge Rindge and Latin ‘18, Peterlee Dorielan ‘19, School (FOCRLS) held the Ulysses “Sekai” Tully Carr Unsung Heroes awards cer- ‘20, and Sophia Price ‘21. emony. This non-profit -or LC R awarded the final he- ganization—which has been roes: Gelle Suleyman ‘21, operating since 2006 that Percilla Wilkins ‘20, Naika aims to “develop, support, Jeremie ‘19, and Katie Me- and enrich the academic and lendez ‘18. social development pro- There are many ways grams at Cambridge Rindge to be a great member of the and Latin School (CRLS) CRLS student body, which and to support the alumni of was reflected in the diverse CRLS and its predecessor group that featured out- schools.” Clockwise from top left: Learning Communities C, R, L, and S celebrate the 16 students recognized. standing athletes, hardwork- This goal takes the Photo Credit: Vera Targoff ing scholars, and emerging form of programs such as ognizes sixteen students— of nominators, which was Learning Community leaders. In addition to the faculty innovation grants, one from each grade of each made up of deans and teach- C awarded their Heroes recognition, the recipients faculty distinction awards, Learning Community—be- ers, each gave a brief speech first, honoring Leo Austin- took home certificates and student travel fellowships gan with Learning Com- about their connection to Spooner ‘21, Jose Moreno watches which featured the and, of course, Unsung He- munity S Dean of Students the students that they picked DeLos Santos ‘20, Nigel CRLS falcon logo on their roes awards. The ceremony Mr. Prince commending the and their achievements be- Wallace ‘19, and Victoria faces. is, as described by guidance hard work of Elaine Schear fore bringing them up front Angeles ‘18 in ascending The event, which was counselor Ms. Richards, “A as well as the parents of the for handshakes and hugs. It grade order. It meant a lot catered by the RSTA culi- bright light every quarter to winners. Schear, the FO- clearly meant a lot to more to people like Angeles, who nary program, served as a recognize students who are CRLS executive director, than just the students. As said, “It has a great impact reminder to both the win- doing an awesome job but runs the program and was Richards said, “It’s a small on my senior year, because ners and others in atten- may not know about it.” responsible for organiz- event that has a lot mean- I felt like I wasn’t being rec- dance that hard work does The event, which rec- ing the event. The group ing.” ognized, and it came at the not go unnoticed. December 2017 AARTRTSS && EENTERNTERTTAINMENTAINMENT Page 7 A Cappella Jam Although no winner was an- Continued from page 1 nounced, it was clear senior Nat Ruiz owned the stage. and then “Black and Gold” “Tonal Eclipse,” the second by Sam Sparro. The audi- of Rindge’s new groups, ence ate the group up with was the last CRLS group to whooping and cheering go on. The majority of the after their two songs. The group were underclassmen, group truly had perfect and their bravery to perform pitch, and their tonal range in front of a large audience was amazing. It’s too bad was commendable. they don’t perform Singing To top off the night, Valentines. UMASS Amherst’s “Vo- Junior Harry MacAr- cal Suspects” strutted onto thur watched the show and the stage to perform several said that although he en- songs, including an original joyed the Pitch Pipes’s per- hit. The powerhouse vocals formance, “Only one kid in the first song drew audi- had his pants cuffed, so that Sophomore Max Hunter sang “Ain’t No Sunshine” with the group Pitches and Dos. ence members in, and dy- took away from the entire Photo Credit: Lucy Messineo-Witt namic backing vocals car- experience.” the audience with their sec- safrass.” They sang “Can’t scheme of reds and yellows. ried the song. There was “Falcon Fortes,” Dr. ond song, “Born This Way” Hurry Love” by The Su- To start off the set, juniors not a moment of boredom Stefanov’s fourth period a by Lady Gaga. Audience premes and Alicia Keys’s (and cousins) Vera Targoff during their set. One of cappella class, performed members clapped along “Fallin.” The song choices and Harry Greenblatt eased the members of Vocal Sus- next. The group surprised and the choreography was showcased the group’s us into Imagine Dragons’s pects was none other than the audience with their live- refreshing, adding a bit of widespread talent, from the “Believer,” which was fol- CRLS alumna Liz Kubicek liness when freshman Vic- theatricality that was fun to challenging 60s rhythms lowed by the solid, steady ’15. Her solo in the group’s toria Heitzmann jumped off watch. to the powerful and mov- vocals of sophomore Max last song was flawless— the stage at the end of the Jasper Duval ‘19, one ing vocals. The group truly Hunter in “Ain’t No Sun- the Fitzgerald Theatre has first song to sing to people of the founders of “Transpo- lived up to its name with shine” by Bill Withers. missed her presence. sitting in the front row. For sitions,” created the group its performance of CeeLo Finally, they performed All in all, the show their second song, the group “as a way for transgender Green’s hit “Forget You,” a mashup of Lil Wayne’s was a success, according paid tribute to former boy students to have their own which was full of humor, “How to Love” and Queen to Kyla Freiden, the senior band One Direction, singing space. [Project 10 East] is charisma, and—of course— B’s “Love on Top,” which a cappella program leader. “Drag Me Down.” a space for everyone, and sass. Seniors Kyla Frieden, the group creatively named On the importance of a cap- This year CRLS added while that’s really nice as Jahnavi Zondervan, and “How to Love on Top.” The pella, Freiden commented, two new a cappella groups a place, generally, there is Caroline Workman soloed, mashup featured CRLS’ “There’s something about to the program, includ- a lack of exclusionary safe as well as sophomores Tee- new senior Elvira Horvei creating all the sound from ing “Transpositions.” Both spaces.” Duval continued, sa Manandhar, Zara Goun- from Norway and senior scratch that really brings a freshman Blue Rowe and “I’m really proud of my den, and Claire Wright. James Kubicek. group together. A cappella sophomore Zoe Haber so- group; I think we did fan- After a quick intermis- To spice up the show, is so much about connect- loed for the Transpositions tastic.” sion, the show continued there was a brief pause on ing with one another, and in “Heaven” by the infa- The last group to per- with CRLS’ “Pitches and the singing for a beatbox I think the program offers mous Youtube star Troye form before intermission Dos.” The group walked on competition between mem- singers a great way to come Sivan, and they captivated was CRLS’ very own “Sas- stage sporting a warm color bers of the various groups. together.”

Pictured (clockwise from left): Sassafrass, Transpositions, Tonal Eclipse, Sassafrass, Girls Next Door. Photo Credit: Lucy Messineo-Witt Page 8 AARTRTSS && EENTERNTERTTAINMENTAINMENT December 2017 Lady Bird Entertains Without Offering New Perspective The vibrant colors and spunky prove they are worthy of attention. bring in anything new to the genre 2003 style differs from most movies If you’re not strapped in from the of “girl coming of age stories.” as of late. This provides nostalgia beginning, the film doesn’t do much It didn’t push into any new terri- for adults now, but also a fantasy of later on to bring you in. The result tory or use an original perspective By a simple high school experience in- is flat characters that are never giv- on teenage life. A really good film Maeve Reilly stead of the complicated social me- en the screen time to just be—they gives the audience something much Contributing Writer dia-infused version teens are facing always have to be doing or saying deeper than just a story—it gives a today. something that fits into the thematic message. The filmLady Bird, directed by Ronan’s performance as Chris- “chaos” of Lady Bird’s life. A message can be drawn from Greta Gerwig, opens mid-conver- tine and Metcalf as her mother were It seems as if the film carried Lady Bird, but the film easily got sation between 17-year-old Chris- truly stellar. Their scenes together a checklist for high school charac- lost in itself, pulling the audience tine McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), overflow with raw emotion and ters: the rebellious, “I just want to in too many different directions of self-dubbed “Lady Bird,” and her provide substance the audience can get out of this town” girl, the popu- Lady Bird’s life. mother, Marion (Laurie Metcalf). connect with. lar rich girl with no aspirations, the Meanwhile, all other support- This is not the last scene to begin ing characters are dealing with seri- mid-conversation. In fact, most do, ous issues that the film never dives placing the audience into passive into. It’s almost as if Lady Bird observation as 2003, Lady Bird’s never paid much attention to these senior year of high school, unfolds. problems, only focusing on herself We watch as Lady Bird navigates and her dreams for the future. Af- relationships, sex, friendships, and terwards, I wondered what about family drama—most notably, her this story really merited an entire rocky relationship with her mother. movie. The movie is structured into The actors are experienced tight, linear vignettes hyperfocused and offer impressive performances, on specific experiences through- making the movie a fine piece of out nine months of a teen girl’s life entertainment. However, the origi- in her hometown of Sacramento, nality and voice of the film was of- which we immediately learn that ten drowned out by a storyline that she hates. Lady Bird displays an in- did not feel original or real and, at teresting world to exist in, but dis- times, was just boring. Some scenes playing it was all it did—it failed to Pictured: Saoirse Ronan (Lady Bird) at the 2014 Berlin International Film Festival. felt propped up for the purpose of bring the audience inside to expe- Photo Courtesy of: Siebbi injecting personality into Lady rience everything with the charac- However, for a movie that is nice guy, the mysterious boy, and, Bird’s character and building for ters. Watching shallow, predictable about such a specific time, place, of course, the best friend whose enough small zinger lines to clas- characters react to cliche life events and life story, Gerwig does not problems always get ignored. The sify the movie as a “dramedy.” merits no more than a two-Falcon spend her opening minutes laying dialogue only cemented Lady Bird’s Ultimately, Lady Bird is rath- rating from me. a solid foundation. Right from the characters into their predetermined er forgettable, not leaving a vivid Before criticizing too much, start, the movie assumes the audi- archetypes. emotion or perspective. I can rec- there are many splendid things to ence is already invested in each As a 16-year-old who’s seen a ognize the heartwarming story at say about the movie. In fact, all the character—especially Lady Bird— good deal of movies and television its core, but it is not a revolutionary reviews so far would have you be- rather than taking the time to give about teenagers, I was disappointed film, nor is it especially innovative lieve it’s the greatest film ever. each character more substance and when I realized Lady Bird didn’t or extraordinary. Björk Falls Flat with Latest Album years, garnered high praise ever, while this contribution from critics in compari- meshed well with the gen- son to her prior couple of erally somber string-based By releases; Consequence of instrumentation on Vulnicu- Jaret Berman Sound magazine gave the ra, the more optimistic and Contributing Writer album an “A-” rating, and woodwind-centered sound media company Pitchfork, on Utopia clashes with If there’s an artist alive assigned the album an 8.6 Arca’s drums on a texture today who has experiment- out of 10. Shortly after, level. ed with more genres and Björk was already discuss- Here, the worst quirks styles than any other while ing plans to release her next of Björk’s songwriting are still remaining on the fore- album—the light to Vulni- apparent. Her more recent front of their country’s pop cura’s dark—in an inter- tendency to write songs culture output, then that art- view published by Another without a clearly identifi- Pictured: Bjrk performing live in Mexico in March 2017. ist is undoubtedly Björk. magazine, and, after a short able melody can at best lead Photo Courtesy of: Santiago Felipe From her start in indie and two-year wait, Björk’s new to songs that feel ethereal her tendency towards more occasionally even pretty, punk bands kept local to her album Utopia was released. and dreamy, like the album raw lyrics helped to sell the they fail to liven up their native Iceland and a storied Sadly, the short germi- opener “Arisen My Sens- tortured self-portrait she respective halves of the al- art-pop output as a solo art- nation period of the album es,” but at worst it leads sought to portray, but when bum in any substantial way. ist through the 90s that saw has meant that many re- to ten-minute tracks that the same impulsive, first- While some who have been her touring around the world cycled concepts carry over sound like improvised spo- word-that-comes-to-mind devout followers of Björk all the way to the more ex- from Vulnicura, often with ken word with the occasion- writing comes into play on will find in this album ev- perimental electronic out- a reduced emotional im- al burst of flute noise, repre- the single “Blissing Me,” erything they ever wanted put and collaborations she’s pact. Arca, an artist whose sented in “Body Memory.” the result is cringe-induc- from the artist, others will known for today, Björk has drum programming and While a track like this ing. find here a sparkly mess remained a powerful and glitchy compositions were would be forgivable if the Clocking in at 71 of sickly-sweet textures, dominant voice in the music featured heavily on Vulni- words were up to snuff, an- minutes long and fourteen swirling flutes, and spastic industry. cura, returns again for this other facet of writing music tracks deep, Utopia is hard beats—a package bursting 2015’s Vulnicura, con- album with what feels like Björk has always seemed to to sit through. Even though at the seams with maximal- ceptually and lyrically cen- even more of his glitchy struggle with has been the a couple of tracks (nota- ist intent, yet failing to land tered around the dissolution drums permeating through lyrical content of her songs. bly “The Gate” and “Para- in any capacity as a whole of her marriage of thirteen each and every song. How- On her previous album, disia”) are inoffensive and body of work. December 2017 AARTRTSS && EENTERNTERTTAINMENTAINMENT Page 9 A Look Back at 2017’s Best Movies By Andrew Mello & Aviv Yaacobi This year had some great movies, so to celebrate the cream of the crop, here are each of our personal selections for the top five movies 2017 had to offer. To read more about about our recommendations, visit registerforum.org.

#5: T2 Trainspotting viewing mind, you won’t get much. #2: Baby Driver & Logan Lucky #2: Logan Set twenty years after the original But if you take it at more than face One of my own personal problems In Logan, the title character is old— film, T2 continues the story of a value, you’ll find Get Out’s conflict with modern action movies is they his healing factor is failing as his group of Scottish heroin addicts— is not just with the body-snatching often don’t do enough to stand out. adamantium skeleton is killing him. some clean, some still using. Many Armitage family, but with the sys- Baby Driver makes a point of dis- There is so much I can say of the characters exist in the same temic racism in this country and its tinguishing itself from the competi- about this movie. Dafne Keen ap- place they did twenty years ago. sinister nature. tion. pears for the first time in a motion Trainspotting 2 bookends the sto- The scariest moment of Get The main character listens to picture, and she plays her character ry, gives an entertaining two-hour Out isn’t a jumpscare, but the im- music throughout, making for some amazingly, holding up very well journey, and reflects on the regret plications of the alternate ending great musically tied in scenes, like with her more experienced co-stars. that comes with watching time pass director Jordan Peele originally a gunfight to the beat of “Tequila.” The action is great as we see how while you remain the same person. envisioned. After the conflict and With impressive action scenes, a brutal Wolverine is. However, this Trainspotting 2 made me think horrors are finished at the Armit- great soundtrack, and fun, sweet- movie is not just about amazing ac- about the path I’m headed on and age house, main character Chris is like-candy visuals, Baby Driver is tion—it has very touching moments where that path may end—for that caught by the police and sentenced easily the best action movie of the that pull your heartstrings. It’s the it deserves to be on this list. only movie that almost made me – AM cry this year. I have to say, Logan is the best movie I’ve seen this year, #5: Wind River but a different movie gets my num- Wind River is the story of Cory Lam- ber one ranking for a special reason. bert, a man who is sent to kill dan- – AY gerous wild animals. While track- ing them, he finds the body of a girl #1: Blade Runner 2049 in the snow who was raped. This I’ve already talked about this mov- movie does not pull any punches— ie before here, but any excuse to it shows you the full spectrum of praise it is good enough for me. Of grief that can follow after this kind all the movies that came out this of incident. The film is a fantastic year, Blade Runner 2049 is the most thriller, making your heart race at beautifully shot and told story I saw. many tense moments. The story is one you wouldn’t want – AY spoiled, full of twists and turns all complemented by the amazing visu- #4: Logan als from director Denis Villeneuve. I am tired of superhero movies. Blade Runner 2049 is not the most Every time another one comes out, fun movie of the year, but it’s the I feel more and more exhausted. best story of the year, and for that it However, Logan is not dissimilar deserves the highest recommenda- to 2012’s James Bond movie, Sky- tion I can give it. fall. Both include character studies – AM of broken men shadowed by the he- roes they used to be. But most im- #1: Silent Voice portantly, to quote Evan Puschak, The story follows Shôya Ishida, these two movies “reaffirm the who bullies a deaf girl in middle myth” the genre used to tell. And school. Once it’s discovered that that is what Logan is; it’s a way to the girl got bullied, all the other tell the viewers that there is still bullies throw Shôya under the bus, blood to be drawn from this stone, and he gets ostracized and bullied there are still stories to be told. in return. Flash forward to the cur- – AM rent moment and Shôya has learned sign language and tries to befriend #4: War for the Planet of the Apes Illustration Credit: Lara Garay the girl, hoping to make up for his War for the Planet of the Apes is the to prison. Even when Chris has es- year, impressive just by how enter- past sins. third and final film of the Planet of caped the horrors he’s survived, he taining it is. Among competition of The reason this movie gets my the Apes prequel series. After Cae- is still not free. lifeless genre fare, Baby Driver is a top ranking is because of its unique sar and his group get attacked by – AM colorful standout worth watching. story, because the bully is the main the military and Caesar loses his But, Logan Lucky and Baby character, not the deaf girl, and be- oldest son and his wife, he goes on #3: Baby Driver Driver tie for my second place on cause the animation of the movie is a path for revenge. The CGI in this Baby Driver is the story of a get- this list. very clever. movie is amazing—Caesar looks away driver known as Baby. He has I enjoyed Logan Lucky for – AY real and so does his movement—so tinnitus from a car crash when he many of the same reasons I loved the credit has to go to Andy Serkis was younger, so he listens to music Baby Driver. The main difference Do note that I did not see everything for doing motion capture and acting to drown out the ringing. The mu- between the two films is the tone I wanted to before the end of the for his character. Woody Harrelson sic in this movie acts like its own they choose to utilize. Baby Driver year, so there are a few other films plays the colonel very well; you character. The action is great—es- goes into dark places with its story. that may have made this list, such just grow to hate him as he does all pecially the car chases. The comedy Logan Lucky, however, is the least as Call Me By Your Name, Good these terrible things to the apes. To is hilarious, and all in all, the movie serious it can be while maintaining Time, and The Disaster Artist. top it all off, the ending is extremely is full of energy. a captivated audience. The culmi- – AM tense and well-executed. To top it all off, the cast is nation of the plot is the most enter- – AY stocked with A-listers like Ansel taining in recent years: the robbery A few of my honorable mentions #3: Get Out Elgort, Jon Bernthal, Jon Hamm, of a NASCAR track carried out by are: John Wick 2, Spider-Man: When you watch Get Out, you Eiza Gonzalez, Kevin Spacey, and fools. In a word, Logan Lucky is en- Homecoming, Thor: Ragnarok, De- only get out what you put in. If Jamie Foxx. tertaining. troit, and Split. you watch Get Out with a passive – AY – AM – AY Page 10 MMETROETRO December 2017 Baby It’s Cold Outside, But the Earth Is Burning Up who is familiar with weather patterns such as La La Niña/El Niño patterns, also predicts warmer- By Niña and El Niño. than-average temperatures for central and north- Abby Jarcho La Niña refers to unusually cold tempera- eastern U.S.—though they say it will be cooler Contributing Writer tures of the Equatorial Pacific, and El Niño is the than last winter overall. “This is going to be my first snow!” CRLS opposite, referring to uncharacteristically warm Still, the National Oceanic and Atmospher- freshman Aritra Roy Mazumder is excited to see ocean temperatures at the equator. La Niña re- ic Administration (NOAA) says this does not a snow day for the first time in his life. He spent sults in warmer temperatures in southeastern rule out the possibility of a few flakes. However, most of his childhood in Bangladesh and can’t U.S. and colder temperatures in the Northwest. this is similar to the predictions prior to Juno in wait to spend his first snow day “sitting on [his] El Niño, logically, has the opposite effect. Es- 2015—that winter began with a warmer-than- ass next to the heater.” sentially, El Niño and La Niña alter the patterns usual November and December period as well. If this winter is anything like Juno, the re- of warm and cool temperatures, as well as wet “Snow, in general, is unpredictable a little bit,” cord-breaking six-week-long blizzard of January and dry climates. Ms. Stomberg notices, “but now these trends are 2015, Mazumder can plan on spending most of So, what does this mean for us? La not trends: We are just kind of all over the place.” January at home keeping warm. However, un- Niña was strong in January 2015. We Snow days can be nice time off, but, as we usual storms such as Juno have many people experienced a record-breaking all know, we pay for them at the end of the year. worried about the effects of climate change. blizzard—it was the snow- Predictably, seniors are hoping for many days Even with the extreme conditions we’ve experi- iest January in his- off, knowing that they won’t have to extend enced in the past few years, what this means for tory for the greater school into their summer. “At least one the future is still uncertain. Boston area. That of these snow days will be seemingly un- The question is: What will Cambridge win- winter, we got necessary,” says freshman Ari Yannakis- ters end up looking like? Well, it’s complicated. 110.6 inches Carroll, noting that sometimes school is Despite common misconception, climate change of snow. Cam- canceled due to forecasts that turn out to does not just mean hot weather—it means ex- bridge had six be wrong. “Not that I’m complaining,” she tremes. Exceptionally warm or cold tempera- school days can- adds, “sometimes it’s nice to just not have to tures are evidence that our planet’s atmosphere celed due to snow go to school and sleep in.” is changing. during the season. Snow storms are not the only proof we Climate change is directly connected to the But the real have of climate change. This November, for moisture that comes from our warming climate. question that stu- example, we had sporadic temperatures, alter- Carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere acts dents are wondering nating between very cold and very warm days. as a heat-trapping blanket over the Earth. This is: Are we going to This past summer, we had a couple days in warm environment increases levels of moisture have any snow days the fifties, which is well below the average. in the air, which condense into clouds. In the this year? It’s Many have had to go digging for the sum- colder New England atmosphere, the condensa- uncertain, but mer clothes they had put into storage for tion usually takes the form of snowflakes in the there are some the winter and the next day been bundled winter. When the temperature is on the warmer clues. Meteo- up in their puffiest winter coat. side of freezing—like 31 degrees Fahrenheit— rologists say As of mid-December, it’s hard to tell those snowflakes are wet, heavy, and pile up fast, that this year’s just how we will be affected by La Niña be- which makes shoveling the sidewalk a much La Niña is looking cause there is no single tell-tale symptom of more grueling task. weak, which suggests climate change. The concepts of La Niña and El Niño are of- a warmer winter sea- Still, the extreme weather we have been ten mentioned when discussing climate change. son. The Old Farm- seeing is not unrelated. But, as the saying “It all has to do with the heating of the Pacific er’s Almanac, whose goes: If you don’t like the weather in New Ocean, and the air over the Pacific Ocean, and forecasts are largely England, just the movement of that air across to Asia,” says based off of solar wait a few Ms. Stomberg, a biology teacher here at CRLS activity instead of Illustration Credit: Teymura Landsverk minutes! What to Do in Boston Over This Winter Break By Nutcracker (December 15th to De- za is also a great choice when look- others at the First Night/First Day Sun-Jung Yum cember 28th at the Back Bay Events ing for a place to skate or shop— celebrations in Boston! The 41st Managing Editor Center) puts a modern twist on the the plaza is the host of over 85 pop celebration will feature a grand classic and introduces culturally up shops, local artists, and—most light show as well as parades, ice This year’s winter break is dis- diverse dances. And if your wallet importantly—holiday decorations, sculptures, live musical perfor- hearteningly short—just ten days isn’t empty yet, you do not want this winter. mances, and, of course, fireworks. long—but that doesn’t mean we to miss the 44th anniversary of the Make sure to bring your friends and should stay indoors hoping to fin- Holiday Pops, featuring the Boston Cheer on Your Favorite family along for this one—the show ish as many seasons of Game of Pops and the Tanglewood Festival Sports Teams is sure to put a smile on your faces. Thrones as possible. Instead, get up Chorus. School is on break, but that doesn’t from your bed to enjoy the festivi- mean the sports season is too! In- If Not...Get Lost in the ties that Boston has to offer before Head into the City for stead of burrowing inside your bed, Wonders of Holiday Blockbusters the dreaded return to school. Holiday Activities head out with a few friends to see We get it—winter break is meant Boston goes all out for the holidays, the New England Patriots at Gillette for relaxing. So, if you plan on sit- Splurge, Sit Back, and Relax so going out of your way to see the Stadium or the Boston Bruins and ting in bed with a plate of take-out Even though it may be more of an lights, trees, ice, and such is actu- Boston Celtics at TD Garden. The watching Netflix, we won’t judge investment, buying tickets to see ally worth the trek! Faneuil Hall Patriots have home games on both you. But, if you’re going to watch Boston’s most celebrated perfor- Marketplace’s Blink! will feature Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, TV, you might as well get festive mances of the season can be worth nightly light and sound shows with and the Celtics will also be playing and watch a few wintry movies. the price. Of course, there is Bos- 350,000 LED lights, Holiday Pops at home on Christmas Day, New Home Alone (every one) and Elf ton Ballet’s renowned rendition of music, and the largest Christmas Year’s Eve, and two other days dur- may already be your annual tradi- The Nutcracker (November 24th to tree in the Northeast. Plus, they’ll ing break. The Bruins will be play- tions, but there are countless oth- December 31st at the Boston Opera be hosting an ice sculpture show ing at the Garden on both the 23rd ers out there: Love Actually, It’s a House), which will take you to the from December 31st to January 1st. and the 27th of December. Wonderful Life, even Frozen, just to magical world of living dolls and It’s all there: shopping, food, lights, name a few. Watching others strug- toy soldiers. If you’re looking for and music. And, of Course, Fireworks gle in the cold, frosty winter as we something less traditional, Tony Boston Seasons presented Start off the new year by counting sit in a heated room with Chinese Williams Dance Center’s Urban by Berkshire Bank at City Hall Pla- down 2017 with over one million food? Sounds good! December 2017 OOPINIONPINION Page 11 When Invoking the First Amendment, Exercise Restraint By should be punitive damages for Tommy MacArthur using offensive language. Though Contributing Writer I find the majority of what these hate groups are saying disgusting What’s more important than and pathetic, and I would love to free speech? Many would say noth- see them get sued and lose all their ing. The rights guaranteed by the money, I respect their right to say First Amendment—collectively whatever they want. I just think known as freedom of expression— they’re not very good people, and are protections almost completely I feel the same way about anyone unique to our country. However, else who makes a mockery of the freedom of speech exists so that First Amendment by goading oth- you can’t be hurt for what you say, ers into anger. I’ll even admit that not as a tool for the purpose of in- it’s strangely noble to sacrifice be- flicting pain on others. ing a decent person to protect the To be clear, in terms of law en- First Amendment. But the events of forcement or policy, nothing should the rally in Charlottesville thid year change about the First Amendment. were a test of the boundaries of free But recently, there has been an in- speech, and it ended with the loss of creased culture of abusing freedom human life. It wasn’t worth it. of speech in order to preserve it, Freedom of speech will not go and, in doing so, our most cherished away if you go five minutes with- freedom has been warped and muti- out mentioning it—if anything, it lated beyond recognition. will become more powerful if it is The First Amendment guar- invoked sparingly. For example, Illustration Credit: Lara Garay antees the rights of free assembly, many CRLS students have taken press, religion, and speech, and part in protests, counter-protests, In Defense of the Offense now—according to many modern and marches for civil rights, and Americans—the right to be bla- these assemblies are perfectly ap- The Right to Offend Is Important to Society tantly racist, misogynistic, homo- propriate—so long as they remain munities. But the right to offend phobic, and all-around offensive in civil and peaceful, as the First By is important because any form of order to keep political correctness Amendment allows. We can’t have Youssef Zerbouaa social change or progress involves in check. freedom of speech if we don’t use Contributing Writer offending some deeply held sen- Good people can sympathize it right. sibility. “You can’t say that” is all with others enough to understand There are places in the world When conversing with fel- too often the response of those with that certain words or phrases are that need free speech now more low CRLS students, I have never power when their power is chal- hurtful and should not be said in than ever, and when Americans encountered opposition to the idea lenged. most contexts. In many cases, us- play with that right just to feel good of free speech. No one is willing to If we say there are certain ing a derogatory term to describe a or promote a bigoted agenda, we say “I don’t like free speech.” What things that can’t be said, what we’re person has been deemed protected risk ruining it for everyone else on they say instead is, “I am for free saying is that there are forms of speech, and hate groups have tak- the planet. In the end, free speech speech, but...” or, “You can say power that can’t be challenged. en this as a go-ahead to use them is something that should be avail- what you want, but don’t offend.” Censoring free speech in order whenever. According to a 2015 poll able to all, but this does not mean Many CRLS students don’t like to challenge bigotry may seem like by the Pew Research Center, 40% it should be treated as a toy—or, censorship, yet they’re not com- a good idea on the surface, but it of millennials believe that there worse yet, as a weapon. fortable with speech that offends or raises one big question: Who gets to provokes. The right to offend is not decide what is to be censored? Just an add-on to freedom of speech—it a few years ago, Charlie Hebdo, a lies at its very core. satirical French newspaper, pub- Since the 2016 election, I have lished pictures of Mohammed the sensed a growing culture at CRLS prophet, which is very offensive to that says it is wrong to offend. In Muslims. Iqbal Sacranie, the head this culture, students accept and of the Muslim council in Britain, even demand constrictions on free- wanted the cartoonists to be pros- dom of speech in the name of re- ecuted for offending Muslims. spect and tolerance. But a few years before the car- CRLS has a quote cased in toons were drawn, he made deroga- a staircase near the library on the tory comments about homosexual- second floor from author Salman ity on national radio. He thought he Rushdie that perfectly states the was expressing the Islamic view on trouble with this tendency: “What the matter. But many gay groups is freedom of expression? Without were offended, leading to a hate freedom to offend, it ceases to ex- speech investigation by the police. ist.” This shows that limiting the free In a community like CRLS, of- speech movement is very danger- fending someone is both inevitable ous. and often important. That is because When you try limit someone it’s far better to have clashes of else’s free speech, you might end up deeply held views in the open and limiting your own. Those in power to try to resolve them in the open like to state something along the than to repress them in the name of lines of, “My speech should be free, respect or tolerance. It’s true that but yours is too costly.” If we limit such a debate at CRLS may bring the right to offend, we limit the right into the open speech that is injuri- to offend power and, ultimately, the ous, especially to vulnerable com- right to speak. Illustration Credit: Lara Garay Page 12 OOPINIONPINION December 2017 The Battle for the Soul of the Democratic Party In a Period of Extreme Polarization, Moving Left Could Hurt Democrats Party effectively leaderless. With- to combat the radical nationalism ideology against the GOP. This By out an influential leader, Democrats that is characterized by President movement has threatened to over- Oscar Berry have lacked clear direction since Trump and a growing majority of come to remaining moderate hold- Contributing Writer the beginning of this year. There the Republican Party, Democrats outs in the party, and would have Take a look at the political are questions that are plaguing the have to regain the political middle, solidified Sanders’ and his allies’ culture in America. From afar, you elected members of the party. Op- and this socialist uprising is coun- control. will see two parties fighting for a pose Trump, or work with him? terproductive. However, on November 7th, majority. These are the governing Refuse tax cuts, or try to negotiate? Part of the socialist effort has 2017, Democratic candidates Republican Party and the oppos- Reject “moderate” Democrats, or been demands for “social purity” Ralph Northam and Phil Murphy ing Democratic Party. Yet the true broaden the ideology of the party? from Democratic candidates and won the governorships in Virginia situation is more complicated than Even more importantly, can the elected officials. Over the past year, and New Jersey, respectively. Both a snapshot could portray. center-left wing that has led the Democratic candidates across the Northam and Murphy identify as There is now as much conflict party for the past decades still com- country, such as Jon Ossoff in Geor- centrist Democrats, and their vic- within both parties between moder- tories offered a repudiation of the ates and radicals as there is between rapid socialist reemergence within Democrats and Republicans. The Without an influential leader, Democrats have lacked the party since last year. Certainly, Democratic Party occupies a large clear direction since the beginning of this year. the argument that moderate Demo- range on the political spectrum, crats cannot win important elec- and though it may not seem so, it is tions has been disproved, but it has rarely unified on any one issue. pete with the Republican Party? gia, have not been able to secure the not stopped the tide of liberal voters For example, Senator Joe Liberal voters who support necessary support from liberal vot- who urge complete opposition to Manchin of West Virginia openly a more oppositional stance and ers to win their elections. the Trump agenda. With the rising supports curtailing the power of the have been disappointed with recent Moderates in the party be- polarization of the American pub- EPA, is pro-life, and has been giv- Democratic leadership are rally- moaned the “narrow-mindedness” lic, there is no doubt that the Demo- en an “A” rating by the NRA. By ing around a “socialist resurgence” of holding candidates to such strict cratic Party is trekking further left. contrast, Senator Elizabeth Warren within the party. For decades, so- standards, while socialists have This poses a fundamental difficulty is far more progressive, support- cialist and far-left leaders such as jumped on the opportunity to claim for the party as they struggle to be ing more regulatory powers over Bernie Sanders have stood on the that the center-left is no longer competitive against the Republican the environment, strict gun control fringe of the party, never fully ac- competitive in elections. Indeed, Party amongst moderate and inde- laws, and socialized government cepted as part of the Democratic by withholding support to more pendent voters. health care. Both, however, are fold. Now though, Democrats moderate Democrats, “purists” are If Bernie Sanders succeeds in members of the Democratic Party. question whether Sanders and his actually weakening the power of reshaping the Democratic Party, he There has always been discord socialist ideology might be the so- the party in order to press a narrow might also doom it to failure. For between the moderates and radicals lution. Indeed, Bernie Sanders and ideological platform. now though, the fate of the party in the Democratic Party, and now his cohorts have become more em- In the past year, there can be hangs in the balance, and we will they are in open warfare for con- boldened, actively vying to rein- no doubt that the Democratic Party have to see who can claim the soul trol of the party. The loss of Hillary vent the definition of “Democrat” as a whole has lurched to the left, of the party: the socialists or the Clinton in 2016 left the Democratic around their ideology. Yet in order forming a more opposition-based moderates. My Hair, My Choice: Hair Isn’t a Distraction By rican culture, and if people Valley Regional Charter Jennifer Louis-Juste try to tell us how to do our School in Malden, faced Contributing Writer hair or what seems profes- detention and suspension sional in their eyes, then that due to their braided hair ex- Since when were hair- shows disrespect for some- tensions. Their dress code styles considered a “distrac- one else’s culture. Having banned “additional hair that tion” and a “violation”? Oh, straight hair should not be is woven in” along with you didn’t know? Neither a factor in what is consid- hair “more than two inch- did I. ered professional. For many es in thickness or height.” Black girls have al- black women, hair is not According to the Massa- ways been questioned about straight—it is kinky, curly, chusetts attorney general’s certain hairstyles they feel and beautiful. At the same office, the school believes comfortable with, such as time, it is a lot to manage, seeing this kind of hairstyle box braids, cornrows, and and box braids help us give is a distraction to other stu- sew-ins. The majority of our hair a break from all the dents that attend the school. these questions are: “Why tension and pulling that we This is the most out- did you put weave in?” add to it. There is absolute- rageous reason to be sus- and “Do you not have real ly nothing wrong with box pended and in detention. hair?” Lastly, the most an- braids. If white girls and Everybody in this world has noying one is: “Why don’t people of other races can their own styles and every- The hairstyles of black women have been viewed as “unprofessional” you just wear your real hair wear hair extensions, then body is comfortable in their by some. out?” we should be able to wear own ways. As a black girl Photo Credit: Jennifer Louis-Juste These questions shock box braids. Who gets to hearing about this situation their identities—we are in cal, unique, and different us black girls who wear decide that they are unpro- happening to girls that live a judgemental world that instead of discriminating weaves, because my style fessional? For a long time, in the same state as me, it wants us to live according against us for it. or comfort should not mat- cornrows and other braid- saddens me. It’s always the to society’s customs. Society needs to learn ter to society. Can’t a simple ing styles on a black woman black girls getting bashed For a long time, black how to accept us black black young lady appreciate were viewed as ugly, yet the for the littlest things. We women have had to endure women the way we are. her culture? Kardashians wore them and can never live how we de- society seeing their hair as My hair is not an imper- History has shown that ended up being praised. sire to live because of others a symbol of unprofessional- fection—why do you care society views natural black On May 12th, 2017, who constantly criticize our ism. I believe society needs what’s on my head? I have hair and weaves as a prob- two black African Ameri- looks, along with our per- to finally accept the fact that the freedom to express who lem in need of fixing. Box can sisters, Deanna and sonality and actions. This us African American wom- I am and do what I please. braids are a part of the Af- Mya, who attend Mystical causes other people to hide en have hair that is magi- My hair? My choice! December 2017 OOPINIONPINION Page 13 The Selfishness of Trophy Hunting Make the Season Current Policies Will Not Satisfy Needed Hunting Reform money that could go directly back to the conser- By vation effort. And though removed restrictions a Little Greener Julian Knight will encourage hunting, there is little evidence Contributing Writer to show that any money spent by hunters will By return to locals, rangers, or conservation groups. Josie Weissburg Graceful elephants may be among the first Though trophy hunting remains a small Contributing Writer images that come to mind when one considers industry in the parts of Africa where it remains the wilds of Africa, but this image may only be legalized, the ecological impact on elephant bound to the history books as trophy hunting populations far outweighs any fees paid by hunt- The palpable joy of the holiday sea- protections come under fire. Hunting has always ers. Male elephants are prized among hunters son is upon us at CRLS, and every student existed in many forms, but a recent poaching in- for their large stature and tusks, and these have is looking forward to their week-long break, crease and normalization of trophy hunting has seen the sharpest declines because of “desirable” no matter what holiday they do or do not cel- caused a dramatic decrease in populations of big characteristics. ebrate. The beloved materialism associated game, particularly among elephants. With the deaths of the strongest males with the holidays comes with a lot of packag- Under a slew of environmental protec- comes the decline in a population’s gene pool, ing. tions by President Obama in 2014, the import and the spread of genes for, say, smaller tusks, Cardboard, plastic, tape, ribbons, and of elephant trophies such as tusks and heads was less prominent manes, and diseases that would wrapping paper are all discarded and use- banned from many countries where hunters go otherwise discourage mating. Contrasting with less after the opening of a gift. In addition to on safari. While poaching and the illegal ivory natural predation, where individuals with un- the packaging, many gifts (whether initially trade remained a serious problem, these regula- desirable or harmful traits are picked off as the wanted or not) begin to collect dust after a tions led to the the close of a legal route of hunt- stronger ones survive, trophy hunters go for the few weeks of enjoyment. ing through which many had hunted elephants largest and strongest targets, whose tusks or teeth With the environment on the mind, it is for no purpose other than to impress and enter- cannot save them from bullets. hard to produce piles of waste without feeling tain. A change of tone came recently from Presi- bad. But there are things that you can do to To kill any animal for entertainment in the dent Donald Trump, who tweeted that he would enjoy the holidays with a clear conscience! 21st century is inappropriate, let alone an en- “review all conservation facts” pending further dangered one. Images of elephants and giraffes research into the adjusted policy. But while this Wrapping Paper gunned down policy rever- Wrapping “paper” can’t be recycled because by grin- sal brought it is laminated in plastic, and it is too saturat- ning chil- Trophy hunting is the slaughter of with it some ed in dyes to be reused. Along with that, rib- dren, adults, already endangered species for minimal gains of hope from bons, bows, and tape also need to be chucked or Donald those rich enough to afford the price of extinction. an unlikely into the trash. Wrap presents in newspaper Trump’s own source, this (like this edition after you’re done reading sons should should hardly it!) or a brown paper bag, which can func- conjure not only feelings of disgust, but of be taken as a return to Obama-era policies, and tion just like wrapping paper and can easily shame that our species (for we are a collection certainly not a reform of much-needed conser- be recycled. of intelligent animals ourselves) has reached a vation efforts. Trump’s own sons have proudly To be completely zero-waste, wrap point where we can no longer recognize our own posted images of their kills online, and while presents in fabric. Buy various types of fab- place in nature. their father does not participate in the killings, an ric by the yard from a fabric store, or simply In the early 20th century, elephant popula- extensive history of policy flip-flopping should use fabric from around the house! Fabric is tions were in the millions, but saw a dramatic de- be more than enough to prove that Trump’s ef- easily reusable every year. When gifting to cline to around 400,000 today due to habitat loss forts are in response to what he desires most: others, you can ask for the fabric back to re- and poaching. Trophy hunting is by no means public attention, supporter loyalty, and media use, or let them keep it to use themselves. the leading cause of elephant population decline, coverage. nor was it in the era of European imperialism. Elephants and big game animals are among Gifts But trophy hunting is the symptom of a wider the most graceful and exotic on the planet, and It’s great to receive a gift handmade by a problem—a lack of recognition of the true risk while they may have once appeared worthy op- friend or family, especially if it is specifically humans pose to the environment. Trophy hunters ponents to the first hunters, any hope of a fair tailored to you. Gift a knitted item, bath salts are indirectly claiming that the power they hold fight between humans and elephants quickly or varied balms, or any other DIY item you over the environment and elephant populations faded. know how to make. is nonexistent; to not hunt is to acknowledge the Trophy hunting is no longer the entertain- Hunting through vintage or thrift stores views of conservationists, and, by extension, ing, heart-racing undertaking that it once was; it for something to upcycle or a unique gift can that their own actions is the slaugh- ter of already endangered also be fun. A great way to avoid material are wrong. species for minimal buildup is to buy experiences, such as movie On No- gains of those or concert tickets, donations, or member- vember rich enough ships such as yoga classes. 16th how- to afford ever, the the price Decor US Fish of ex- Decorate your house with clementines (or and tinc- other citrus fruits) and cloves for a wonderful Wildlife tion. holiday smell. Simply press the individual Service And cloves into a clementine rind in any pattern as the you wish. made a fate Another compostable decor item is puzzling decision: of el- strung popcorn and cranberries. These make To sup- port “well- ephant great tree wrappings and hangings for around

managed hunting pro- Ill popu- your home. Thread popcorn and whole cran- ust grams” backed up by ratio iher lations berries onto a thick string or fishing line using n Credit: Megan Kell econom- ic conjecture. across the a needle and compost it after the holidays! The Ser- vice claimed that by globe hangs in the permit- ting the im- port of balance, it is now that we must ask Even if you don’t use any of these sugges- elephant tr op hi e s, thi s ourselves which is more important: tions, try to remember to be a little more would encour- age the the well-being of life on our planet, eco-friendly this season so the Earth can be purchase of new hunting or a taxidermied head to adorn our happy for the holidays, too. licens es and provide living room walls? Page 14 OOPINIONPINION December 2017 How the Penny Press Precursed Pop’s Pointlessness newspapers. At the time, newspapers normally According to Scientific American, a group By cost six cents, and the reading material proved of researchers conducted a study in 2012 where Sophie Harrington to be too complex for many American citizens. they took “a quantitative analysis of nearly half Contributing Writer Shortly after the evolution of the penny press, a million songs to look for widespread changes other newspapers began to copy The Sun’s style in music’s character over the years.” In the age of smartphones and bluetooth, of reporting, including the New York Herald and Basically, what they found is that since radios are seldom used by younger people. The the New York Tribune. the 1960s, the tone quality of songs has been in music played on the radio is often repetitive; Although he may have had pure intentions, steady decline, which means that there is “less radio stations seemingly shuffling the same ten Day compromised the standard of journalism diversity in instrumentation and recording tech- songs every day for months on end. According with his penny press style. In order to sell thou- niques.” Likewise, the basic pitches of songs to the New Yorker, most of the artists who are sands of tabloids, Day had to rely on human- have been stagnant. on the Billboard’s Top Forty list make their mu- interest stories. Stories often were subjective, Notes that were popular fifty years ago are sic on machines, not using real instruments. The and sometimes they did not even need to be fact- still popular today, but artists have limited their most popular artists churn out songs in an almost based to be published. In one 1834 edition, the vocal and musical ranges so songs often have unnatural way, and the question must be raised: paper published a story called “Moon Hoax” in repeating phrases. The only evolution that has Is it just to make a profit? which the “reporter” asserted that scientists had been made recently is making music louder. The We can draw a comparison between this sounds and beats artists now drop in their recent phenomenon of “machine produced songs are artificially produced by machines music” and the penny press era in journalism Like the penny press era of journalism, which stimulate their audiences but don’t tell that took place in the 19th century. pop music is not trying to engage a story or share a message that the audience Throughout the 1830s, newspapers in audiences on a deeper level. can think about. the United States began to shift their focus Pop artists today are not focused on pro- from writing hard news stories about politics, ducing moving ballads like “Purple Rain,” or war, and foreign affairs, to writing sensational- found life on the moon—this story was com- writing about social conflict like “Strange Fruit” ized news pieces about sex, scandal, and drugs. pletely fictionalized. by Billie Holiday, but rather figuring out how to This era of journalism was known as the penny Although this phenomenon happened near- trigger their audiences so that for three minutes press era because papers were sold for, shock- ly 180 years ago, this type of commercial en- the listener is captivated by quick changes in ingly, one penny. This revolution was started by tertainment is manifesting itself in today’s hit volume and artificial percussion. Benjamin Day, a journalist who founded The songs. Music is always evolving—the problem Like the penny press era of journalism, Sun—a New York City newspaper. is that in today’s world, the evolution of music pop music is not trying to engage audiences on Even though Day’s idea was radical, his has plateaued and allowed artists like Taylor a deeper level. Repeated lyrics, machine-based goal was fairly simple: He wanted to reach a Swift to write songs that really have no place sounds, and cliche music videos are like the sen- larger audience in the U.S. and make sure that in music. “Look What You Made Me Do” is a sationalized news pieces of journalists in 1830: the poorer, low-education citizens (the “com- prime example, with its repetitive and uninspir- The goal is to entertain rather than make people mon people”) had an opportunity to access ing lyrics and flat vocals. think. Extracurricular, Extra Benefit After School Activities Are Important is around $600 per year, according By to research by the Swedish Sports Alva Fureman Confederation—excluding the cost Contributing Writer of gear. Extracurriculars here at CRLS Imagine if CRLS offered no are free, making activities much extracurricular activities. No clubs, more accessible. Apart from the athletic teams, or opportunities to opportunity to learn a new skill or practice music or theatre. Whether meet friends, extracurriculars can it means being a member of year- also be a powerful tool for dealing book club or playing for CRLS’ with stress. According to the Anxi- football team, extracurriculars are ety and Depression Association of a significant part of many students’ America, physical activity is prov- high school experiences. As a for- en to reduce stress by decreasing eign exchange student from Swe- tension levels, elevating and stabi- den, I had never experienced ex- lizing mood, and improving sleep tracurriculars before I started going and even self-esteem. This makes to CRLS. Having this perspective, school athletic teams very impor- I would like to encourage students tant from a health perspective. to truly appreciate the activities that Some may say that high school At the beginning of each year, clubs recruit new members. the school has to offer. is about the academics and should Photo Credit: Stella Engel-Werman Rindge offers over 50 different therefore be structured in a way that for rehearsals as well as individual proven to be connected to fewer clubs and 32 athletic teams, which students are able to learn in the best practice. Does this mean that extra- incidents of drug use and violence. means that no matter what inter- possible way. Despite the benefits curriculars are a threat to a student’s As long as a good balance is held ests you may have, the chances of of the activities that CRLS offers, academic performance? between academics and hobbies, finding a place at school to prac- participation in extracurriculars According to research done by students seem to benefit from par- tice a hobby are high. In contrast to takes a lot of time and effort. Most the U.S. Department of Education, ticipating in extracurriculars. this, the public high schools in my athletic teams have practice at least this is not the case. The study shows Students at CRLS: Make sure home country offer no that students who par- not to take extracurriculars for extracurriculars at all. No matter what interests you may ticipate in after-school granted. Extracurriculars can not If students wish to play have, the chances of finding a place at activities have better only help you get into your college a sport, participate in grades in general and of choice and be a way of earning PE theatre, learn an instru- school to practice a hobby are high. that they are taking ad- credit, but they are also an incred- ment, or develop their vantage of the activities’ ible resource at school that allow artistic abilities, they must enroll in five times a week, and other activi- opportunities more compared to students to try new things, destress, private programs outside of school. ties, such as music ensembles or students that do not. Furthermore, meet new people, and have a great The median cost for playing tennis theatre groups, require a lot of time participation in extracurriculars is time while doing so. December 2017 HHUMORUMOR Page 15 CRLS RESPONDS: What is your New Year’s Resolution? Janina Green Class of 2019 “To work towards being more organized.”

Anna McDonald-Martin Class of 2019 “I guess to procrastinate less.”

Harold Klapper Class of 2021 “To get good at my instrument—guitar— and have a really fun year.”

Robbie McNulty Class of 2020 “I want to get an A in my English class.”

Kyla Friedan Class of 2018 “I want to make the most out of every moment.”

By Isabelle Agee-Jacobson

Cartoon Credit: Lara Garay Cartoon Credit: Teymura Landsverk Page 16 SPORTS December 2017 The Register Forum Winter Sports Preview By Freddie Gould

Gymnastics

After a record setting season last year, the gymnastics team is ready to take the next step forward and get some critical victories in Division 1 meets. The team is hoping that a new level of commitment and dedication across the board can help them set even more records and take big strides towards the next level. Says junior Gilli Danen- berg, “This year we have a new coach and a whole new dynamic and we are so excited to come together and beat our records from last year.”

The CRLS girls basketball team had their first home game on Tuesday, December 12th. Photo Credit: Zeus Mondol

Basketball Fencing Boys: The boys basketball team in the past few years has enjoyed incredible success, winning two With motivated competitors filling each blade straight state championships in 2016 and 2017. This year, their expectations remain high. Despite the discipline, they hope that focusing on a strong talented seniors the team lost last year, they are confident in the ability of new players to step up. Says team dynamic and across-the-board consistency senior Aidan Keefer, “The team personnel definitely looks different as we have eleven new guys this can bring them key wins at states. Says junior year. But they’re ready to go, and everybody is working hard.” David Lee, “Our goal for this season is to do well at states. We have always had a strong team Girls: As the girls basketball team heads into another season, they are looking to increase their tourna- and have placed relatively well in the past, but ment success after a tough first round exit the previous year. With an experienced squad returning, they I feel like this year we can go even further. ... have the pieces to puzzle together a winning formula. A key to their success this year will be seniors There are a lot of skilled fencers from the pre- stepping up to fill the scoring holes left by last year’s graduating class, according to senior Maggie Pim- vious years that have come back, but there are lott. “We have a very small team with just ten on varsity, and it is going to be a tough year, as last year’s also a lot of new talents that are showing a lot of leading scorers are gone,” she says. promise for the team.”

Girls Track Hockey Girls: After a restful off-season, the girls hockey team is back on the ice and ready to develop an even Although the girls track team is fairly small stronger team than years past. Although they lost seven seniors, several returning players are stepping compared to the rest of the league, the team is up to lead the team. Working together as a unified team is a large focus for this year, according to junior feeling confident in their abilities to cooperate Maggie Bayly. “Hockey is a mental game, so we want to stay positive ... and just be a team out there on and improve this winter season. According to the ice, working together as one,” she explains. junior Sophie Wright, “If we continue to work hard, the size of our team will not prevent us Boys: Coming off a second straight division championship last season, boys hockey is looking to get from being successful.” With cooperation from serious results in the state tournament. Despite losing some star players, an experienced attacking group each team member, girls indoor track is hoping and some key new additions will continue to raise the bar for this program, according to senior Casey to improve their times and distances and win Rideout. “The lads are shaping up really well this year. We lost a couple key players from last year, but more meets. the core of our team is still here, so we are looking to improve on our results from last season,” he says.

Swimming Wrestling Boys: The boys swim team is set to jump into another season with a talented group of underclass- The wrestling team has been successful in the men ready to propel them to new heights. Says senior Julian Baxandall, “I have great hope for our past few years, with their top competitors plac- season. ... We have a number of new competitive swimmers and an environment that promotes ing high in state and national meets. This year, intensity, self-improvement, and team spirit.” He and the rest of the team hope that this environ- those who have previously done well in com- ment can translate to wins at critical meets. petitions look to continue their results and lead the younger talent. “While we may have a small Girls: The girls swim team is excited to begin a new year and continue to make leaps forward. team this year, we have some good young wres- The experienced swimmers hope that an environment of intensity and a strong team dynamic can tlers and a handful of strong veterans. We have make those new to the program ready to compete. Says senior Miya Duffy, “The team is a lot a bunch of kids with the ability to make a deep bigger this year. The underclassmen are ready to make a big impact and CRLS can expect great run at states and beyond,” says senior Eli things, both this year and continuing on.” Zibello.

Boys Track The boys track team is fresh and ready to go for the season, which consists of shorter sprints af- ter the long-distance cross country season. With this change, the team is nonetheless looking for big contributions from many of their top cross country runners. “I feel like the varsity team has started to really step up in terms of effort and how connected we are to one another. I’m looking forward to running with the boys,” says senior Jeffrey Chen.

The CRLS swim team had their first home meet on Monday, December 11th. Photo Credit: Sophie Harrington Sun-Jung Yum also contributed to this piece.