Forks are weaponry...for Christmas and Hanukkah...have been The team has a mix of veterans “ “ tainted by manufacturers in hopes of “ attacking salads. and first-time wrestlers, and ” increased sales. ” even has three girls. -Abby Tanen P. 9 -Nora Canellakis P. 6 -Erin Doherty ” P. 11

Woodrow Wilson High School

Please Recycle THE EACON December 12, 2014 3950 ChesapeakeB St. NW Washington, D.C. 20016 | www.thewilsonbeacon.com VOLUME 78 ISSUE 4 Non-Indictments in NMSI Program Police Killings Cause Discontinued Widespread not.” Claire Parker Co-Editor-in-Chief NMSI is a nationwide Outrage program dedicated to advancing Normally-lethargic STEM (science, technology, seniors snapped back to life engineering, and math) last week when they received education by improving AP their much-awaited NMSI exam performance in math, checks. Students who passed science, and English. It is made AP math, science, and English up of three main components: exams last spring received Saturday study sessions taught $100 per exam as part of the by outside instructors, mock National Math and Science exams graded by outside Initiative program, which the graders, and monetary school thought was supposed incentives for students and to last for three years. NMSI’s teachers. money for this program ran “The idea of the stipends is out, so it is not continuing this hugely expensive,” Mr. Wilson year. The Wilson community is said. “I mean it’s fifty-something expressing disappointment for thousand for teachers, $32,000 a variety of reasons. for students. It’s weird money.” “I’ve been here for The program’s high costs beg the 15 years, and I see lots of question: did it work? things come down the pipe,” “Opinions abound as to said Academic Coordinator what impact these incentives Alex Wilson, tasked with had on performance,” wrote implementing the NMSI Principal Pete Cahall in his program last school year. “We weekly note to parents. have [many] reform initiatives “However, there is no disputing or models come through. So the good news that a record Graphic by Tom Giagtzoglou this program was to be three years -- sure, right -- until it’s CONT ON PG 2 a protest on December 5 at Gallery Place: Emma Buzbee News Editor “We decided [protesting] was a better use of our time than going home. I believe Michael A national movement for justice and Brown and other things happening with reform took shape in recent weeks, as police brutality are something we need to protests erupted in cities across the nation focus on. [Police brutality] is not an every- against police abuse of power after grand now-and-then thing. Police brutality against juries in Missouri and New York ruled not to African Americans happens frequently.” indict police officers for the killings of two Ali Sefsaf, also a junior, said he believes unarmed black men last summer. that the non-indictment of Darren Wilson Murmurs of inequality between police sends a message. “It’s as if the government is and citizens, previously just felt in individual saying that [police shootings] are okay.” communities, grew increasingly loud after The two non-indictments have also the shooting of unarmed black teen Michael prompted responses by the government. An Brown by white police officer Darren Wilson ongoing federal civil rights investigation of in Ferguson, Missouri. On November 24, a the Cleveland police department recently Missouri grand jury announced that Wilson found patterns of use of unnecessary force. would not be indicted, and protests took “Accountability and legitimacy are place all over the country and the world, essential for communities to trust their though violence was primarily contained in police departments, and for there to be Ferguson. genuine collaboration between police and On December 3, a grand jury announced the citizens they serve,” Attorney General that white police officer Daniel Pantaleo, Eric Holder said in a public announcement. who strangled another unarmed black man President Barack Obama announced a plan named Eric Garner on Staten Island in July on December 1, with varying reactions, would also not be indicted. to place body cameras on police officers Photo from Creative Common/Cliff In the days following the non- to reduce ambiguity in Ferguson-like indictment of both Darren Wilson and situations. DC is mourning the passing of “Mayor for Life” Pantaleo, many protests occurred in DC. “At the end of the day,” Sefsaf said, “a Marion Barry. He was born on March 6, 1936 These protests followed the generally young black man was murdered in the street and died unexpectedly at Union Medical Center peaceful trend of those across the nation, by a white man. And I’m not going to stand in Washington, DC on November 23, 2014. Some featuring sign waving, marching, blocking for that.” Wilson students attended a funeral procession traffic, and staged die-ins where people A “National March against Police on December 6, who, along with thousands of DC lay on the ground, representing deceased Violence” is scheduled to happen on residents, paid their respects to honor his legacy. victims of police officers. December 13 at 12 pm on the Freedom To read Wilson students’ reactions to Marion Wilson students participated in some of Plaza. The families of Eric Gardner, Michael Barry’s passing and to learn more about his legacy, these protests. Junior Kellik Dawson joined Brown, and Trayvon Martin will attend. visit thewilsonbeacon.com. 2 NEWS December 12, 2014 NMSI Program Ends After One Year

rates. “I’m not entirely sure if I some type of reward.” year,” she said. However, her However, going into this, FROM PG 1 had kids pass because of NMSI “I would’ve taken [AP class is the only one of its kind they knew that they only had number of scholars took a record or because they put in the time courses] anyway, but I feel like at Wilson. guaranteed funding for one number of AP courses last year.” and effort to get prepared,” said some of my friends would’ve Students, teachers, and year,” Reif told me. “The hope In spring, 2013, 602 AP English Language teacher dropped them if there wasn’t an administrators were under had been that they would find students took 1318 exams, Molly Ramos. incentive,” senior Ahotep Holder the impression that NMSI funding for an additional year or compared to 661 students and However, she said “There are said. “I feel like its a nice gift for was a three-year program. two, so they applied for another 1471 exams in 2014. And 708 some kids that really benefitted people who put a lot of work in The program is not being grant from OSSE. However, they students are scheduled to take from two main things: the either way.” implemented this school year, didn’t get that grant.” 1691 exams in the spring of Saturday sessions and the English teacher Belle Belew and confusion still surrounds “I’m just concerned that 2015. mock exams graded by outside is worried that most of the the question of why. “I don’t we don’t get a second chance,” AP English Language graders.” Teachers said they students who profited from think anybody in this building Smith said. teachers saw higher pass rates found these two components NMSI were kids who would have has clear answers,” Ramos said. Wilson views NMSI as a and more students in their helpful to both their teaching done well on the exams anyway. “I don’t know the decision learning experience, and is classes. Pass rates also improved and students’ performance. “There were a lot of resources for tree,” Mr. Wilson said. “I do not hopeful that DCPS and the in biology, chemistry, computer Mr. Wilson calculated that kids who didn’t need it, and not know what happened to year school can replicate some of its science, and Physics C. the study sessions added up a lot of resources for kids who two or three. I always had the components. Reif however, said “Based on the data that we to an additional four weeks of did need it,” she said. And the sense it was supposed to be a that monetary incentives are have seen coming out of Wilson instruction. fact that the study sessions were multi-year program.” Neither cost-prohibitive for DCPS, but with the one-year partnership, “The presenters at the held on Saturdays prevented the school, NMSI, or District DCPS is looking into budgeting it definitely seemed like [NMSI] Saturday study sessions were disadvantaged students from offices ever announced to for other components, such as had some impact in helping outstanding. The resources were attending them, she said. teachers that the program would study sessions, next year. For to raise the AP passing rate at incredible. All the pieces were Belew teaches a not be continued. NMSI did now, though, no remnants of the Wilson and also expand the there,” said math teacher Elaine combination class made up of not respond to requests for an program remain. number of students in the AP Smith. both AP English Literature and interview. AP Physics teacher Angela program,” said Matthew Reif in Students were divided over English Four students, which Reif wrote in an email Benjamin said, “I wish the grant DCPS’ Office of Teaching and whether money was a motivator. in her opinion is exactly the to Mr. Wilson that the NMSI had lasted for three years so that Learning. “I would temper that Junior Asa Canty said, “I don’t environment where NMSI is grant was funded by the Office it would have a chance to change by saying that Wilson already have a lot of motivation to study beneficial. of the State Superintendent of the culture and not just be a has a strong record of increasing for those tests because I don’t “I think the purpose of Education, mainly with money one-time fluke.” AP scores and the number of even understand what they NMSI was to work with kids from George Washington students taking AP courses.” really do for you even if you get who were struggling to meet AP University. “Ideally, NMSI likes Teachers were divided over a 5, so at least if I knew money standards, and I think that was to partner with individual what caused improved pass was coming I would know there’s really useful [in that class] last schools for a three-year basis. “I Count” Returns Without the Stickers The Process Behind the Citywide Audit

Danielle Breslow Contributor Attendance was on everybody’s mind as DCPS counted heads on November 6 for its annual school audit. An audit counts all the kids who are physically in the school, to get an estimate of how much funding the school needs for the next school year. According to the Uniform Per Student Funding Formula (UPSFF) $10,795 will be given to a DCPS high school for each of their 9 to 12 grade students. That amount can change for English Language Learner students and special education students. Principal Pete Cahall says that in years past the audit went well. “Every year we do a real good job of getting the paperwork in line,” he says. “If students aren’t here we have documentation either through attendance sheets or work Photo by Ellie LeBlanc samples that allow us to get COUNT US IN - Mr. Garbus poses with auditors from DCPS. The school underwent a “warm body count” on No- them counted.” vember 6th. DCPS provides the school a certain amount of money for Principal Gregory Bargeman, the amount of money schools charter school gets to keep their attendance numbers determine each student annually. However, “After October 6, any student receive to educate them doesn’t funding, while the public school the school’s budget for the DCPS does not count students who comes, we don’t get any follow, so there’s no incentive receiving the student does not next school year. Each year, who come to Wilson later in the money.” This mobility goes both to keep those students in class,” receive any funding. the population is greater than year. ways. Some students transfer Scott Pearson the executive A continually growing the next but the school only “I am told that Wilson away from Wilson after October director of D.C. Public Charter student body also creates gets the budget money of last usually gets about 30 additional 6, but the school still gets their School Board, told WAMU radio problems for Wilson. The year’s smaller audit. According students each year after the money. “It generally balances station. This means that even number of students counted to Wilson and Bargeman, the city-wide audit occurs,” said out,” Academic Development if a charter school dismisses a towards the audit does not school is expecting 80 more Counselor Diana Blitz. Director Alex Wilson said. student who then transfers to a affect the school’s budget for students for the 2015-2016 According to Assistant “When students move, public school like Wilson, that the current year. Instead the school year. December 12, 2014 OPINIONS 3 THE BEACON Blame Bad Journalism, Co-Editors-in-Chief Claire Parker Annie Rosenthal Don’t Blame Jackie Chief Web Editor By The Beacon Staff Erin Sternlieb Managing Editor When you’re reading an Lauren ReVeal intensely emotional story that Rolling Stone seems to confirm all that you Visual Content Editor Misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting believe to be true, a story that misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep Sarah Torresen ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting seems to capture the essence of misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep Photo Editor an issue almost too perfectly, ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting. Misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting Ellie LeBlanc alarm bells should start to go misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting off. But too often, they don’t. misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep Business Manager ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting. Confirmation bias, the practice Alex Conte Misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting of believing information that misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting Layout validates our opinions, is a misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting.

Mason Strazzella common tendency that even Misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting the most seasoned critical misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep Advisers ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting thinkers succumb to. And it misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep Mary Stapp ortingmisreportingmisreporting. can be dangerous, as illustrated misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting Alexandra Stryker misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep by the recent debacle involving ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep PRINT WEB last month’s Rolling Stone ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting. article about sexual assault. V misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisrep News Editor News Editors In the article, author ortingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting misreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreportingmisreporting. Emma Buzbee Sophie ReVeal Sabrina Rubin Erdely recounts Opinions Editors Helen Malhotra the painful events that a Elias Benda Features Editor University of Virginia student, known to the public only Erin Sternlieb Greg Kopetsky as “Jackie,” went through Truth Features Editors Sports Editor during and after her assault. Graphic by Alexei Girdis Maria Brescia-Weiler Matthew Smee The article is incredibly Rachel Page Style Editor detailed, and includes a grisly were happy to finally see story fuels the dangerous and Sports Editors Sophie ReVeal description of the alleged a rape victim believed by overwhelmingly incorrect Erin Doherty Videographer gang-rape that for many was the mainstream and sexual notion that women who report Henry Shuldiner painful to read. After the assault entering the national sexual assault are often lying, Helen Malhotra assault, the article claims, consciousness. And we were setting back the movement Style Editor Graphic Designer Jackie reported the rape to all too willing to believe the against rape culture on college Ellie Melick Mason Strazzella her friends and university narrative because it seemed campuses. administrators, whose recognizable and real. But All news publications have Graphic Designers reactions sought to uphold just because something fits in the responsibility to bring Jarrah May, Jane Martin, Alexei Girdis, Tom personal and institutional conveniently with our image only well-reported stories to Giagtzoglou reputations, rather than help of reality, doesn’t mean it’s the their readers, and when they the traumatized victim. truth. do make mistakes, they must Junior Editors It is a terrifying and As readers, we should be held accountable. As the Ella Feldman, Brian Keyes, Sam Masling, Rochelle shocking story. have read the story more editorial staff of the Beacon, O’Brien, Elena Remez The article went viral carefully, and pushed ourselves we take that responsibility almost immediately. It tugged to be emotionally detached very seriously, and we strive Staff Writers at heart strings. It provoked enough to look at the facts above all else to uphold Zach Essig, David Fadul, Alex Martin tears and outrage. It caused as objectively as possible. journalistic integrity. We view Contributors the University of Virginia to We must be vigilant news the disaster Rolling Stone Eden Breslow, Danielle Breslow, Nora Canellakis, Nora almost immediately shut down consumers who think critically created by publishing the UVA Charles, Isaac Frumkin, Nick Girdis, Anna Joos, Zoe its fraternities. It became so about where information came article as a messy, painful, Mills, Sarah Robinson, Abby Tanen, Lauren White widely read that it sparked a from, how it was obtained, and unfortunate one, but also nationwide discussion about and whether it has been as a cautionary tale of how Thank you to our faithful volunteer, Mary Carpenter. rape on college campuses. And, corroborated or backed up by much can go wrong when news at least at first, almost no one fact. stories are not thoroughly The Beacon is published monthly by students of Woodrow Wilson High School, 3950 Chesapeake St. N.W., Washington D.C., 20016. doubted it was true. The Beacon would like to reported. Unsigned editorials and cartoons are the views of the staff; personal Then discrepancies in point out what many other We urge our readers to commentaries reflect the opinions of the writers. the story began to emerge. news sources already have: look at all stories, especially Our mission is to provide an accurate representation of the Certain details reported later, questioning the veracity of emotionally-charged ones, diverse views, opinions, and concerns of the students of Wilson such as the date of the assault Jackie’s story objectively is not with a critical eye. Don’t High School. We aim to serve as the voice of the students. Through responsible, ethical journalistic practices, we strive to provide and the fraternity affiliation the same as accusing her of take articles or pieces of thorough, reliable news coverage of issues relevant to Wilson. of assailants, didn’t align lying. It is simply doing what information at face value. Advertising and subscription rates are available by emailing with what Rolling Stone had the reporter of the story failed Look for hard evidence to [email protected]. published. The Washington to do: checking the account back up claims. Look to see if The Beacon welcomes all student and guest contributions: Post ran an article highlighting to make sure all the facts all sides are represented, and articles, photographs, art, commentary, and letters to the editor. All submissions can be sent to [email protected], and become the fact that the writer, line up and all the pieces fit that stories are corroborated. property of The Beacon. Erdely, didn’t get in touch together. The goal is to uphold Stories about the issues you The Beacon is a public forum created for the purpose of with any of the witnesses or the responsibility that all hold closest to your heart are expressing the views of and providing information to the Wilson accused perpetrators, a fairly journalists and news sources the ones you should question student body. Thank you for readingThe Beacon. uncommon thing to do when share: to deliver unbiased, the most, since misreported reporting on alleged crimes. fair, and accurate reporting, so stories obscure greater truths Many of us on the Beacon that the public can understand and obstruct positive change. Have you checked out The Beacon’s website, staff who had followed the the story fully, and draw Journalists have a thewilsonbeacon.com? This year we are shifting our story felt duped. We struggled, conclusions of their own. responsibility to tell the publication to a “web first” model. This means all our timely along with readers around The party who made a public the whole, thoroughly- content, such as breaking news, sports game coverage, and the country, to figure out why mistake here is not Jackie, reported, fact-checked truth, current events coverage will be published on the website instead we had believed the story so and while readers should have so that fiascos like the one of waiting for the paper issue. New content, including videos blindly at first. In retrospect, been more skeptical, the error the Rolling Stone story and photo galleries, is posted to the website almost daily. perhaps it was because we were isn’t theirs either. It’s Rolling created don’t happen. Hold Not to worry, though: all your favorites from the paper so caught up in the horrific Stone’s. all journalists, including the will still be here: Top 10 and Kids in the Hall aren't going details of the rape – the images Journalism is a powerful Beacon staff, to that standard. anywhere! The content in the paper will be more investigative of violence, blood, a broken thing. Like any power, it can Accept nothing less. news and long-form features. We believe that this transition girl – that we didn’t catch the be abused; and those involved will strengthen both the paper and website. If you don't already, fact that the perpetrators in the reporting of this story follow the Beacon on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay and Jackie’s friends had did just that. The reckless up-to-date on all things Wilson. never made statements. We publication of the UVA rape 4 OPINIONS December 12, 2014 Overworked Counselors Mean Underserved Students Graphic by Sarah Torresen Erin Sternlieb Chief Web Editor Ms. Sandy Bean This month, I had planned to write an article about how When Tolerance hard Wilson makes applying to college, but in doing research, I learned that there is more to the story. Wilson actually provides Next Available Appointment Falls Short more resources for students tolerance for fraternity brothers applying to college than many Maria Brescia-Weiler Features Editor and policemen. It simply means other public schools, especially you shouldn’t rule people out in DC, and Wilson does a 2018 When we got the call that because they fit into a box good job year after year with my brother David was joining that is not one of the ones you a small staff in helping a large a fraternity, the shock and identify with, or because they fit senior class get into college. disappointment in the house into a box at all. But despite measures that the were palpable. My parents – one, Recently I read an article in College and Career Center and a “Self-Expression and Creative NY Magazine by one of David’s the counseling department take Writing as a Pedagogical (fraternity) brothers about every year, students fall through Tool” major and the other, a his own reluctance to join a the cracks due to limited passionate advocate of non- fraternity because he believed, resources and man-hours. genetically modified food (or like many of us, that fraternities Sandra Bean is the only Graphic by Alexei Girdis as he calls it, “real” food) and were “bastion[s] of misogyny, college counselor employed the overthrow of the capitalist elitism, and white privilege.” by the school, and she is only psychological support, managing not only do the plethora of jobs system – searched for days Ultimately he ended up working part-time. Every academic intervention, enrolling that our counselors do, but they for the answer to the simple joining one, obviously, but year she meets with over 300 new students and running are essentially college counselors question, “Where did we go the article was about how students to aid them in the testing, counselors are in as well. wrong?” being in a fraternity helped college application process. Bean charge of sending grades and Just because Wilson is We took David to anti-war him to “better understand the is so busy, she says, that from writing recommendations for doing more and better than rallies starting when he was a histories of discrimination and August until about two weeks all seniors applying to college. many other schools doesn’t baby, my parents thought. We oppression from which [his] life ago she was booked solid, and it Each counselor is in charge of mean that Wilson is doing taught him to advocate for the as a straight, white, cisgender was almost impossible to get an approximately 360 students, 80 enough. The difficulty and rights of his aunts who could not man had shielded [him].” He appointment with her. to 100 of whom are graduating complexity of the college get married and of his friends found the fraternity to be a Sitting in the College and seniors. application process is the who could not attain citizenship. clear manifestation of such a Career Center with her, it is clear When I talked to the largest culprit; it is not easy We showed him that the futons shield. He was acknowledging how important Bean is. She counselors, they joked that for any student or school to in our basement ought to be his inherent advantage as answers many students’ frantic they “could sit here all day” manage. Quite frankly, the occupied by whoever needs a such a person (white, straight, last-minute questions, and she listing all their responsibilities biggest problem is that Wilson is warm place to sleep and taught cisgender, well-off) and promises to edit two students at Wilson. They talked about all crowded and the counselors are him to always, always side with when I idly began to read the essays over the Thanksgiving the things they would like to do overloaded, and it is impossible the marginalized. We never comments, as I clearly shouldn’t break. One student even if they had the time: running to give every student the could have seen this coming. have, I was surprised, as I clearly jokingly says “Bye, Mom” to group counseling, spending individual attention they need They were never able shouldn’t have been, by the way Bean as he leaves the office. But more time with parents, doing and deserve. to figure out where they he was being attacked. no matter how hard she works classroom guidance to talk about One important step Wilson went wrong for one simple Readers assailed him for or how beloved she is, one Ms. bullying or give students more could take towards making reason: they didn’t go wrong. his privilege, questioning the Bean is just not enough. information on things like the it easier would be improving There was no big screw-up validity of his white-straight- One of the biggest problems college application process. Their communication. Much of the or miscommunication that male voice, perhaps because Wilson students face is list goes on, but it all remains important information on led their beloved oldest son they didn’t realize that his underestimating the importance hypothetical; it is just not the college process I needed I to become a close-minded, understanding of it was the of their GPA until senior year, possible given their current case found out from other students. privileged, misogynistic frat boy, centerpiece of the article. Most Bean says. Seniors come in to load. This information needs to be because he never became one. surprisingly, they criticized his see her with a 2.0 and there Together, Bean and the more readily available to all It was unfair of them to assume use of the word “cisgender,” a isn’t much she can do. If she had counseling department, along students. Also, there needs that he would. word which I interpret to be the more time, if there were more of with Wilson’s DC College to be more efficiency in how This sort of thing seems epitome of political correctness. her, she would love to be talking Access Program (DC-CAP) students meet with counselors to have become a pattern, I don’t see how chastising to everyone and helping people representatives, manage to do and get their transcripts and especially in a city as liberal as someone for using a word understand what they need a lot to help students with the recommendations sent. This is DC, where open mindedness on which there is no existing to do to get into college from college process. The College all doable, and could make the is the norm and diversity consensus of appropriate use is the first day they walk into the and Career center hosts over lives of everyone involved in the is encouraged. Many of the more important than trying to building. 150 schools each year to come college process less stressful. most progressively-thinking, understand where said someone This causes another, maybe talk to students. Fifty to 75 Some steps are already being loving and seemingly tolerant is coming from. bigger, problem. Because Bean students get into college every taken, like the implementation people I know – at times myself Tolerance should not be doesn’t have time to meet with year through on-site admissions: of Naviance. included – seem to have strong a competition or a private party, every student, she ends up admissions counselors from The College and Career prejudices against those who are a grappling for newer and more using her time to meet with these schools come to Wilson, Center and its counselors not marginalized, who are not complicated words, a volley of the students who seek her out, review students’ grades and test deserve congratulations for different enough. angry internet comments. There the students whose parents scores, and either admit them the hard work they do to get I know that endorsing frats should be ample space on the understand the importance of or advise them on what to do in students into college every year is not a popular move, especially tolerance train for fraternity getting help with the college order to get admitted. with limited time and resources. right now, and that is not the brothers who think and religious process, often the students These programs are fairly Wilson deserves more resources message I intend to send. I fanatics who care and anyone whose parents went to college. unique to Wilson. In fact, Wilson so that no students fall through simply believe that tolerance who wants to join in. There are This means that the people who is the only DC public school with the cracks. In the meantime, should not be a selective state so many things to be angry really need the most help aren’t a College and Career Center. Wilson should continue to strive of mind. If you intend to be about that word choice and getting it because they aren’t Its inclusion was mandated in to improve the process with the tolerant (and you should), conformity don’t even come pushed to seek it out. Wilson’s charter, although the resources we have so the system then you must be tolerant of close to making the list. The counseling department name changed to the College works better for everyone. all people. This doesn’t mean is a similar story. On top and Career Center when Cahall you should ignore cases of rape of scheduling, managing took over as principal. At many or racial profiling in favor of transcripts, providing social and other DC schools, the counselors December 12, 2014 OPINIONS 5 Hip Hop Music is More TOP 10 than Meets the Ear and politically-conscious alcoholism, and “Wing$” David Fadul Staff Writer rap. The 2000’s brought new critiques consumerism. “Hey signs that the audiences to hip-hop through Mama” by Kanye West is an I usually hesitate when contributions from pop ode to mothers, especially holidays are around people ask me what my favorite artists, as well as a new wave those who raise children in genre of music is. More often of politically-charged rappers. the harsh environment of the than not, my response warrants Ice-T’s documentary “Something streets. “Sing for the Moment” the corner an eyebrow raise. Occasionally From Nothing” gives a more by Eminem conveys the somebody will say, “I didn’t in-depth explanation of this consequences of living in broken think you’d be the type to like complex history. households and the way rap can 1. Your favorite Kwanzaa jams are rap,” as if there is an archetype A history as rich and help. “The Message” by Dr. Dre for a hip-hop fan. There is not diverse as this cannot be merely reflects on the loss of a relative. non-stop on the radio only a preconceived idea of dismissed through broad (and These do not begin to scratch 2. Your candles are starting to last what kind of person listens to often incorrect) assumptions the surface of the topics that hip-hop, but also a negative and statements. Mainstream rappers deal with. for eight days (IT’S A MIRACLE!!) connotation to the genre as a culture has provided a vision McLaughlin is one of many whole. What some fail to see is of hip-hop that is overly hip-hop fans who can appreciate 3. You’re noticing more small people that hip-hop is complex. simplified, one that influences the genre for its poetic nature. Of course hip-hop isn’t the negative feelings towards Wilson junior Claire Cahoon also with pointy ears in your classes perfect. There are some the genre. For example, a recent believes in acknowledging that misogynistic songs, some Washington Post article titled this poetry is important. 4. The snowman you built just came homophobic lyrics, and some “Prosecutors Would Rather Read “[Hip-hop] is interpreted violent messages. However, Rap as a Threat than as Art,” as a sex and money genre. There to life it is important to remember described the growing trend of are rappers who speak about that these songs are not prosecutions based on threats this lifestyle. However, there are 5. The deer in Rock Creek Park are representative of all rappers. in rap lyrics, which is, according rappers who use it as a way to In the end, hip-hop is a tool to the Post, “effectively express deeper ideas, sometimes suddenly red-nosed to describe the society we live denying rap the status of art.” more effectively than mere in, just like it was when it was However, rap is not only being poetry.” 6. Instead of rolling dice, kids in the conceived 40 years ago. misrepresented in court. Barely There is a whole Hip-hop culture originated any introspective hip-hop songs underground community of bathroom are spinning dreidels in the 1970s, and included make it to mainstream radio, rappers who sound nothing graffiti, beat boxing, and break- and instead they are replaced like the so-called misogynistic 7. You really really want a Red Ryder dance artists. The first rappers by pop songs about superficial and homophobic rappers on appeared around 1976. Using topics. the radio. It is unfair to judge Carbine Action 200-shot Range the beats provided by DJs, they “I don’t think what is played hip-hop without knowing about Model air rifle rapped about their opinions on on the radio is representative of these rappers, because they street life and competed with any genre,” AP English teacher constitute just as much (or 8. All of the inns are booked up--all each other. Ice-T described Jennifer McLaughlin said. “I’m even more) of the genre as the hip-hop saying, “Hip-hop the an English teacher. I like good mainstream rappers we hear that’s left is the old manger out back culture is very much like a sport. storytelling. I don’t think we every day. It would be like saying It’s competition… It’s the way acknowledge the skill of good you know Mexican cuisine 9. Your aunt keeps asking you what inner city youths found pride in lyricists.” because you’ve eaten at Taco themselves.” These great lyricists-- Bell. CDs you’re into these days for “no Early rappers shared a including Biggie Smalls, Nas, “I don’t like when rap common sense of rebellion and Eminem and Tupac--have used discriminates against people, reason” resistance, especially against the their talent to tell detailed but that’s what the media disco music that dominated the stories of murder, romance, portrays. That’s not the genre, 10. People keep filling your shoes radio and had unimaginative hope, and the ghetto. To it’s just the artist,” reflects lyrics. In the 80’s, rap spread and anyone who wants a taste of Cahoon. People should keep and socks with candy started the diversification of the these deeper topics, “Changes” this in mind the next time they genre that continued into the by Tupac deals with poverty, think to pass judgment on a 90’s. Rap was no longer solely wars in the Middle East, drugs, whole thriving and evolving about bragging and street life; and violence. Macklemore’s community. it was the beginning of socially- “Neon Cathedral” deals with

describe the society tool to you p is a live in Hip-ho , just “ like it “ was when it was conceived

Photos: Roger Ho, Tomi Gunz, Tom Overlie, Daniel Gregory, Brandon Shigeta, Mat Honan Photo Collage by Rochelle O’Brien 6 OPINIONS December 12, 2014 Don’t Forget About the Arts budgets are slashed, leaving to have fun with other kids at into music and drama by our address the topics that make Brian Keyes Junior Editor many schools without the school. But I do think that those fellow students, the result being us human. According to junior resources to provide students who excel in sports are seen as that our arts programs are some Kellik Dawson, “The arts are I grew up in a household with adequate arts programs being in a higher level in society of the best in the area. important because they give surrounded by music. Almost during the regular school day. In than those in the arts. They The value of the arts people an environment where every person in my family plays New York City during the school should be seen as equal, instead extends beyond arts programs. they can express personal beliefs an instrument of some kind, year of 2006-2007, the budget of having one favored more than Activities like playing music on subjects that are too sensitive and our music collection is for arts programs in public the other. can help with academic classes to talk about. The different massive. I honestly believe that schools was cut by 68 percent, Just look at the benefits as well. Neuroscientists at mediums of art are to all express being around music has had a or $7.2 million dollars. Sports, of having creative outlets in Northwestern University have a feeling about something and great influence on my life, and on the other hand, are almost school. Classes like art, music, discovered that people who play let people understand your on the lives of others coming always left untouched, or at the and drama provide good breaks instruments often have stronger feelings without flat out telling from similar backgrounds. And very least, suffer minimal blows. between the intense schoolwork pathways linking the two sides them. The arts are important it’s not just music. Drawing, It seems that today we value we know all. Teachers like of the brain, allowing them to because they teach you how to acting, dancing, and painting people who can throw a football Harriet Bronstein (theater) develop better critical thinking be a person.” are all great ways for kids to much more than anyone who and Lori Williams (choir) have skills. Because playing music In conclusion, appreciate expand their minds and express can paint a masterpiece. been staples in the Wilson takes advanced thought process, what we have at Wilson. Our themselves. That’s not to say that I am community for years, teaching musicians have also been found arts program is top tier, so be Sadly, it seems that school advocating against athleticism; many generations of kids to to have stronger executive sure to make the most of it and boards across the country far from it. I am of the opinion love and embrace their creative functions, allowing for more use our programs to the fullest. do not agree with me. Arts that everyone should try and be paths. The theater department efficient planning and execution. programs are almost always active in some way or another, if and Wilson Choir reflect just I think most importantly, the first things to be cut when not to stay in shape then at least how much time and effort is put the arts give us an outlet to Commercialization Undermines Cultural Importance of the Holidays

Nora Canellakis and receiving gifts. October. Christmas has become Christmas in an effort to boost hopes of increased sales. Each Staff Writer Christmas is the largest and associated with pine trees, sales. More frequently now, month it seems that a different most commercialized holiday. lights, presents, reindeer, and stores sell a variety of Hanukkah holiday, such as Halloween, Today, holidays that once As its origin is the celebration candy canes as many focus on items including chocolate Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, traced their origins back to of and reflection on the birth of the number of presents under coins, dreidels, blue and white or Mother’s Day, decorates the religion and people celebrating Christ, it’s alarming how much their tree rather than on the candles, and menorahs, looking interior of markets and stores to their beliefs have become today’s holiday has strayed from birth of a momentous religious to commercialize the holiday. promote material goods. victims of commercialization by that. Christmas has become a figure. Although Christmas is placed A greater emphasis should modern businesses. chance for stores to open their The Jewish holiday in the forefront in the aisles of be placed on each holiday’s Holidays such as Christmas doors to customers for longer Hanukkah, too, has become stores, symbols and products purpose in commemoration of and Hanukkah, with roots in hours and to urge them that greatly commercialized, promoting Hanukkah have been traditions, thanks, love, culture, meaningful historical events the best way to celebrate the probably due to its proximity included to attract a greater and history - and less on the and cultures, have been taken holiday is with material goods. to and association with range of consumers. materialistic goods promoted by advantage of as opportunities The general sentiment keeps Christmas. Businesses look to Christmas and Hanukkah industries. for commercial profit. Now growing that Christmas is a time link Hanukkah, the eight-day are only two examples of more than ever, people look at of gain, as stores start selling celebration of light and its many holidays that have been holidays as a time of vacation “Christmas items” as early as triumph over darkness, with tainted by manufacturers in

GET IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

LAUREN WHITE December 12, 2014 FEATURES 7

Photos by Ellie LeBlanc DOMO ARIGATO - Scholars at Wilson were paired with Japanese exchange students for a day. They took part in various sports and activities. Japanese Students Anime-ate Our Day to shadow throughout the day. opportunity to experience a dance performance in the has made me really aware of Zach Essig Staff Writer Wilson students volunteered typical high school in America. atrium with hand lights. my country and what it means to host a Japanese student. At lunch, the Japanese At the end of the school to travel here.” Similarly, Sarah On November 6, Wilson Together, the pairings attended students took a break from day, the Wilson community said Robinson, also a sophomore, said “Konnichiwa” as the school third period and seventh classes and put on a cultural a bittersweet farewell to the was also enthusiastic about hosted 100 students from period, and participated in display in the atrium. They set Japanese students and wished the experience. “It’s really Japan. This was one stop on a group activity during fifth up stations for origami, shared them well on their way. interesting to see the differences their four-day trip through the period. The activity consisted of cultural information, and taught When asked about her between the two schools; I love United States. typical American games, such Wilson students how to write experience with the Japanese sharing the culture!” Each Japanese student was as soccer and basketball. This in traditional Japanese script. students, sophomore Abigail paired with one Wilson student gave the Japanese students an The visitors also put on a special Koerner said, “[This experience]

Human Rights Meet the Arts Tonight

they created -- as alternative be featured, as well as the art Lauren ReVeal Managing Editor gifts for the holidays. Other department and members of visual arts aspects include a HAM. HeArts for Humanity will Wilson has made many surprise sculpture related to spread out through the school. strides towards keeping up the recent police brutality in Though the Black Box will be expectations of being a diverse Ferguson and New York that occupied with the fall play, school that celebrates equality Lambert and fellow art teacher spoken word will be performed and different cultures. An Avram Walters built. However, in the library, and there will be a obvious example was last year’s the main focus of the activities few songs from the choir. Belew Pride Day when Principal Cahall will be human rights. hopes that the orchestra will came out as gay, or when the Attendees will give be in the center of the atrium, school stood together with other donations to various human surrounded by craft and food members of the community to rights charities that will be in tables. counter-protest the Westboro attendance, such as Amnesty It is important to everyone Baptist Church. International. This non-profit working on HeArts for Tonight, from 4 to 7:30 deals with “exposing and Humanity that plenty of Wilson p.m., Wilson does it again preventing human rights students attend. However, it with the first ever “HeArts abuses,” according to their is even more important that for Humanity.” Academies website. HAM has worked with this event is diverse. With the HAM and WISP (Humanities, them before but, in light of last issues in Ferguson and New York Arts and Media; and Wilson year’s Pride Day, Belew and still present in our minds, it is International Studies Program) Caccamise wanted to broaden important for us to realize that will come together with help students’ perspectives on other all types of people need to join from HAM lead teacher Belle human rights issues. together. Belew, International Studies “It’s sort of opening your HeArts for Humanity will lead teacher Julie Caccamise, eyes to other peoples’ trials and celebrate both the arts and and art teacher Mary Lambert. tribulations, but it’s also about human rights, but you don’t The Human Rights Club will celebrating and singing and have to be a HAM or WISP also be working with Caccamise. dancing and doing art. It’s like a student to attend. Belew, This event will be entertaining celebration of the human spirit,” Caccamise, and Lambert, along and enlightening, and requires said Belew. with the Human Rights Club student involvement. And, of course, there will be and all of the other participants The event will be similar food. Drinks, soups, and stews from the Wilson community to last year’s Arts Night, as can be purchased. hope to see you there, December Poster by Julia McGurk students will be manning booths The poetry team, choir, 12 (that’s tonight!). that will sell crafts and art that orchestra and jazz bands will 8 FEATURES December 12, 2014

Editor’s Note: The Beacon set up two students on a blind date, each hoping to find the Kim to their Kanye. If you are interested in having a blind date for next year’s BaeWatch scan the QR code or visit the URL provided and we will do our best to set you up with your soul mate. By Zoe Mills www.tinyurl.com/beacondatelab

On Monday, December can only last so long and soon funny snapchat stories and 1, juniors Sabrina Ortiz and the two were back to twiddling Meru shared a screenshot with Meru Kush spiced up their their thumbs. They continued to Sabrina of his friend that made STEP by going on a date… in struggle to find common ground them both chuckle heartily. the Beacon office! Before the to bond over, as well as to cope As to what they are looking date, both Sabrina and Meru with the uncomfortable task of for in romance, they both agreed agreed that they weren’t looking making eye contact, but both on a smart conversationalist for anything romantic, though identified some of their favorite with a sense of humor, and the sparkles in their eyes said clothing brands, like Zara and mostly someone who wasn’t otherwise. Alas, on a mission to American Apparel. With these going to be awkward when find a new friend, they began particular brands in mind, Meru they talked. They agreed to their epic journey. stated that there’s “nothing’s remain friends in their post- The date began without a better than a good sale.” date interviews. Sabrina rated hitch. Though somewhat tricky By the time the the date a six which is not a at first, with a slight loss for uncomfortable fidgeting had wonderfully high score, but also both Meru and Sabrina of what almost subsided (it never did not incredibly low. Meru decided to say and an awkward distance completely), both of them found “it doesn’t matter” to him between them, they quickly that they enjoy history class in whether they remain friends or began discussing their interests. school, but Meru is not a fan of not. Sabrina decided, “He’s cool, Meru plays soccer for Wilson English and the two found that and he can dress,” and they both and has been interested in Photos by Rochelle O’Brien they only read books assigned had a nice time. The duo both architecture since he was young, in school when it sparks their knew there would be no match TRUE LOVE - Juniors, Meru Kush and Sabrina Ortiz hit while Sabrina, who does not interest. They also love a good made in heaven this time, as it off at the Beacon date lab. If you have any interest in play any sport nor follows any, supernatural TV show, like Teen they were clearly not looking for participating, contact the Beacon office. has taken a strong interest in Wolf, which Meru claimed to be romance, but who knows what journalism. his favorite. Sabrina admitted the future holds? That six was With many differences just Sabrina is the middle child Sabrina continues to be stuck in her favorite is “That’s So very optimistic! begging to further separate the and Meru is the youngest, and the spotlight as a role model for Raven,” at which Meru scoffed two, the pair managed to land while Meru has learned how to her three-year old brother. slightly and not so discreetly. upon a commonality: siblings. get away with his mischief by Unfortunately, a They quickly bounced back to Both of them have two siblings. learning from his older siblings, conversation about siblings a lighter conversation about

New Cosmetics DC’s New Attorney Club Faces General Has Roots at Challenges Wilson Wilson in 1977. He says to raise money for makeup and Isaac Frumkin Eden Breslow he loved the diversity Contributor supplies, things like that…. for Staff Writer sponges, cotton balls, alcohol, of Wilson and how it As many of us know, Wilson things for makeup removing,” As a child, Karl Racine, DC’s made school such an has an enormous number of says Green. new Attorney General, played interesting place. “On after school clubs and activities. To date they have not on basketball courts all over the the surface everyone Sometimes it is hard to keep received any money from city. Now he will have a role in was different, but on the track of them all, as there the school, and have started overseeing a different kind of inside everyone had the is practically something for brainstorming ways to court. Racine is a former Wilson same goals: to expand everyone. But a new club trying fundraise. Tiger. He became the first their horizons, to learn to get off the ground faces some Skin care therapist and elected Attorney General, or top and to have fun,” he said hurdles. makeup artist Annaztazia Unce lawyer, in DC’s history when he in an interview. “Wilson The Cosmetics Club, which attended the club’s meeting on won the November election by a was a great opportunity is still in its first few months November 13 as a guest speaker, 20 percent margin. But Racine’s to meet kids of all of existence, is struggling with giving the members professional success can be traced back to his different backgrounds financial difficulties. Led by makeup advice and some of her earlier days. from all over the city.” Photo Courtesy of Karl Racine teacher LeJanika Green and club own home remedies for skin Karl Racine grew up By the time he got to TIGER PRIDE - Karl captain Olivhea Milligan, the care. Annaztazia donated her down the street from Wilson high school, Racine was gaining Racine in his 1979 club aims to teach young men time and expertise for free. near Nebraska and Connecticut national attention for his Wilson yearbook and women some of the skills However, most makeup artists Avenues. He attended Murch basketball talents. The teamwork picture necessary to pursue careers as are not willing to do that. and Deal before coming to aspect of the game appealed to makeup artists, which as it turns More funding would pay for Wilson. Racine, an avid sports him: “You can only win if all five Now, 33 years after out are pretty well-paying jobs. supplies as well as visits from player, could often be found on players contribute,” he says. graduating from high school, While some of the new professionals. the Murch playground with his His senior year, he Racine is on his way to helping club’s members are considering The Cosmetics Club is friends. From elementary to transferred to St. John’s College govern the city that raised him. this profession, others say it’s always open to new members high school, Racine would play High School and was named to High on his agenda: “direct kids just a really good skill to have. who are looking to improve pickup basketball and football the 1981 All-Met First Team. away from juvenile courts.” He A visit to one of the group’s their makeup skills, so if games with his friends from the Racine chose to play at the is a strong believer that one slip- recent meetings restated that you’re interested, they meet neighborhood. As my father, University of Pennsylvania, up should not hold kids back the club does not have enough on Mondays and Thursdays in a childhood friend of Racine, where he led the team in scoring in life. One way Racine plans materials, due to lack of funding. A301. remembers it, “Every day, for in 1984, and assists in 1983 and to go about steering kids away “We are trying to figure out ways weeks and weeks at a time, we’d 1985. During his senior year, he from jail is “reaching out to high be out there playing after school. was named captain of the Penn school kids so they can mentor And Karl was the best.” team and earned Second-Team younger kids.” Racine arrived at all-Ivy League. December 12, 2014 FEATURES 9 Security Wants Your Pizza Note: This is a satirucal piece there are ‘probably’ students Abby Tanen Staff Writer who get through security with contraband items and don’t For most Wilson students, get caught. Junior Cleo Krupa mornings are not filled with knows of friends who have freshly brewed coffee and pump- “snuck in lighters and forks” but up music. The loud beepings of as for Krupa herself, she would the metal detectors are what never condone such a thing. really tell us to rise and shine. Sophomore Haldan My Life Many students, half asleep, Jacobson says he understands reluctantly remove their belts that he could be injured with and jackets on their way into both “a glass bottle and a school. lighter” and that perhaps it’s So Far: For most, the transition beneficial to confiscate those from opening the front doors things. However, Jacobson also to getting into the atrium is knows there’s a good chance he smooth. However, for some it’s would catch on and realize he not. Every day, students get was on fire before actually being James their belongings confiscated injured. when going through security. Even though getting And rightfully so. I personally your things confiscated is an do not trust anyone who would inconvenience, both students Leonard come into school with a metal and security agree that it’s fork. Forks are dangerous probably for the best. weapons...for attacking salads. Glass, metal, and marijuana Nora Charles Officer Twanda Whittington are often confiscated, but Staff Writer says that the most common there are also some unique items confiscated at security expropriations. Junior Lilly Life does not always turn out the way are “silverware, lighters, glass Agnvall had a flask taken one expects it to. Just ask Jim Leonard! You bottles and perfume.” Any at security. In an exclusive can find him on the second floor teaching AP student who has visited the interview with the culprit we got U.S. Government and giving some life advice Photo by Maria girls locker room is well aware the story. along the way. Brescia-Weiler Leonard is known for his quick wit and that some people wear excessive Agnvall brought a Leonard is their first stop. offensive but good-natured jokes. “I like amounts of perfume, but that flask to school as a gift for a After moving to the District, Leonard to say I’m just poor white trash living the doesn’t seem reason enough to friend. When passing through met “a wonderful woman who just happened dream,” he states proudly. confiscate it. security she was stopped, and to have a lot of money.” He met her on He grew up in the small town of Odessa, According to Whittington, the flask was taken out of her Match.com, and they have a house in Chevy New York. His mother was a hairdresser and perfume “can be used as a bag, “and looked inside,” she Chase, but are not married, and marriage is his father was the postmaster of the town’s weapon, like mace.” But don’t said. Fortunately for Agnvall not in his future. He sums up his reasoning small post office. There were only a hundred worry, if your belonging is “when [security] realized that by saying, “If the dog bites you once it’s the students in his high school graduating class. confiscated you can come [the flask] was unopened they dog’s fault.” The two also have a beach house His ticket out of Odessa was basketball. He back and get it. However, just gave it to me.” Agnvall also in Canada on the north shore of Lake Erie, got a full basketball scholarship to Canisius, try and get it within 24 mentioned that she had gone where Leonard spends his time golfing and a division one college in Buffalo, New York. hours of it being confiscated through the metal detectors gardening. “I was a big white guy who could shoot the because, surprisingly, it’s an that morning with the flask in Although our beloved teacher may be snot out of a basketball,” he remembers. inconvenience for security to her bag and “no one found it “living the dream,” his youngest son Jamahl He thought he would get a degree to store everyone’s belongings. then.” Agnvall learned from this is not. While Leonard was teaching here at teach PE. Unfortunately, it turned out “That’s what we try to tell incident that flasks are not, nor Wilson, Jamahl was up in New York getting Canisius College did not offer that major, so them. Come back the same day!” will they ever be, appropriate rich off hundreds of pounds of marijuana naturally he signed up for what he was told Whittington said. gifts. smuggled into the country each month was the next easiest thing: social studies Whittington gave no So, scholars, if you’re from Canada through an Indian reservation. education. comment as to whether she interested in spending some Six years ago, Jamahl was arrested as Leonard got his first teaching job in thinks teachers should be quality time with Officers the ringleader of a six- to eight-person 1972 in a school outside of Rochester, scanned as well as students; Whittington, Johnson, Howard, distribution ring, making a million dollars a New York. Because of the small-town after all they could also have Burris, Gant, Wilson, Brunson, month. At the time his father was oblivious. atmosphere, he grew close to the students he contraband items. Is there Williams, Crawford, or Arechiga, He knew his son used marijuana but had no worked with. This situation seemed to breed something we should know? I recommend stashing your idea of the scale of the situation, he says. fewer discipline problems with students. Regarding drugs and bag with lighters, outside Now he visits Jamahl five or six times a year He thinks this was because he had often paraphernalia, if they’re food, forks, perfume and all in prison, and notices he is very popular taught the parents of his students too, and confiscated, you cannot come the glass bottles you can get among the people there, a lot like his father in some cases the grandparents. “I ended up back and get them. Your illicit your hands on. And for those in that he can get along with just about having kids of kids of kids in class,” Leonard substances are then “turned over of you students who still don’t anybody. He will come home next year if claims. He liked the environment and felt to the MPD [Metropolitan Police understand why you can’t bring he is eligible for a shorter sentence due to comfortable there, staying for 29 years. Department].” One junior who in outside food, well, “that’s the relaxing of laws regarding marijuana There he also enjoyed coaching basketball got his vaporizer confiscated, Cahall’s call,” said Whittington, convictions. Otherwise he will serve his and cross country. would like “to get it back.” so bring it up with him. full nine-and-a-half year sentence. When In 2000, after getting a divorce, he Whittington recognizes that Jamahl gets out, Mr. Leonard is unsure finally moved away from his home state and about what his son will be doing: “God familiar small town life. His ex-wife taught knows, I don’t know. I hope it’s something in the same small school district, so it made legal.” sense for one of them to move away. He Leonard cares deeply about his son came to DC because Wilson offered him a and is not embarrassed about him at all. He job and, of course, “there’s no better place to knows Jamahl “has a great heart and just got teach government but in the nation’s capital” involved in something he shouldn’t have and he says. He has seen and helped Wilson go is paying the price for that.” His older son is through its share of changes, the renovation more like his father in what he chose to do being the most apparent; he describes its with his life. Living in Berkeley, California, prior state as “a rodent-infested, breaking- he teaches social studies and coaches down building.” basketball. Leonard serves as the teachers’ Leonard visits his son in Berkeley every representative in the Washington Teachers year and is looking forward to his next trip, Union. The title is Building Representative, which will be in a couple weeks. “If I’m in the but it’s not about the building; it’s about twilight, the twilight has been pretty good to Wilson teachers having their interests aired me,” he admits. At age 64, he plans to retire by the union and by the city itself. When next year after forty five years of teaching. teachers have grievances against DCPS,

Photo by Anna Joos 10 FEATURES December 12, 2014 How to ACE the interview By Erin Sternlieb Graphic by Jarrah May Practice before your interview. Ask a parent or friend to ask you questions about yourself, your 1 qualifications, and why you want the job. Keep it conversational! No one-word 8 answers. Ask questions if you have any. Arrive early to the interview site. Wow people with your punctuality. Be prepared to explain why you would be good at 2 the job/a good fit for the school (ex. you’ve been cooking since you were... ). Dress nicely, but don’t overdo it. If you are interviewing to work 9 at a fast-food restaurant you don’t need to wear a suit. Same goes for college interviews. Wear something you feel good in, it will Give real life examples, like a time you were in 3 show. Take a shower. Brush your teeth. a leadership role, or a time you had to deal with 10 money. Research your interviewer, or the place you are interviewing for. It will show that you re- ally are interested in the job/college. Talk about yourself. The interview is ALL ABOUT 4 YOU. The more good things they know about you 11 the less likely they are to say no. Think of three points you want to make during the interview (ex. your positive attitude, responsibility, and diligence). Try to incorporate these into the interview. Don’t force it, but let If you have the interviewer’s email, send them 5 it serve as a guide. a thank you email, saying you appreciate them considering you for the job/school. This is polite and 12 will reflect well on you. Make eye contact and shake the interviewer’s hand; 6 it is very mature and adult. Celebrate because you got into school/ landed a job!! Think for a few seconds before you answer any ques- 13 tions. It will allow you to compose a good response, 7 and you will seem less nervous.

Easy Christmas Present Ideas By Gregory Kopetsky Want to get on the administrators’ good side this holiday season? Here are some easy gifts that are sure to please.

SMOS ShamWow! O C MOS OS C SEASON 1

SEASON 1

Mr .Cahall Coach Mark A Shamwow to replace his A watch synced perfectly to the old towel. With twice the Wilson clocks. This way, he’ll actually get his time-until-class- Mr. Barnes Mr .Thompson absorbance of his current . sweat hanky, he’ll be able Mr Hernandez starts countdowns right. To make A peacoat complete with Box set of seasons 1-5 to make longer and more A fresh new track suit. him extra happy, pair this gift matching gloves and of Cosmos: A Spacetime effective speeches! Any color will do. with a brand new megaphone. scarf Odyssey

Graphics by Alexei Girdis and Sarah Torresen December 12, 2014 SPORTS 11 Two Wilson Sports Networks Compete For Viewers NSN Alex Martin creating a rival sports network between TSN and NSN. Kosty- Staff Writer to TSN named NSN: Nick’s ack said, “TSN is sponsored Sports Network. by Wilson and has its videos Tiger Sports Network got Girdis liked the idea of his playing in the atrium.” TSN has its first taste of competition own sports network, but first support from the school and is this year in the form of senior wanted to try out TSN. When sponsored by the school. NSN is Nick Girdis. Started last year he filmed one of the girls soccer not sponsored by the school and by then-Senior Jason Perry, the games for TSN, Girdis was not is run by Girdis solely (with help Tiger Sports Network, or TSN, happy with the lack of control he from his younger brother Alexei is a club at Wilson that creates had over the steps of the video’s Girdis occasionally). highlight video compilations production. After a few days and When asked about how of many of the Wilson sports other sporting events, Girdis left “rivalry” pushes him to do teams. TSN’s videographers are TSN, and Nick’s Sports Network better, Girdis stated, “My real all Wilson students who enjoy was born. motivation comes from trying TSN producing and editing videos. When asked about the dif- to one-up myself with every new Girdis shares this passion ferences between NSN and TSN, video.” With NSN just starting NSN as well as a passion for soccer. Girdis said, “NSN has primarily out, Girdis says that he has been with athletes, What better combination than focused its efforts on filming filming only soccer. In the near only five but the to film Wilson soccer games. soccer games while TSN is more future, Girdis may film basket- videos to friendly com- When Girdis went to a boys broad in its coverage of the Wil- ball and other sports. date, compared petition drives both varsity soccer game, he decided son sports.” Although TSN is an official to NSN with 18. The two video NSN and TSN to produce their to bring his camera along to get One of the new leaders club at Wilson and does more production networks not only best videos. some cool shots of goals. Later of TSN, senior Ben Kostyack, than just one sport, it does not provide the Wilson community on, he and a friend joked about thinks that there is no rivalry produce as much content as with highlights of their talented Graphic by Jane Martin

TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT - Wil- son’s wrestling team is beginning their fifth sea- son. They have competed in three matches already, as the only DCPS wrestling team. They can be found practicing af- ter school in the atrium.

Photos by Nick Girdis Wrestling Team Takes it to the Mats School. coaches pay attention to every- last year welcomed all the new moves, and practicing wrestling Erin Doherty Today, the wrestling team’s body equally, and want us to im- guys with open arms and helped techniques. Sports Editor numbers have grown, and suc- prove,” Velasquez said. Joining us out with a lot of stuff,” Alten All of this work builds team Four years ago, it was a cess has followed. The team now the wrestling team has taught said. chemistry. “All the kids get along stretch to call the small collec- has 30 wrestlers, six times the Velasquez about her capability The 2014-2015 wrestling great,” Wims said. “It’s awesome tion of wrestlers at Wilson “the number four years ago. The team as a girl to compete with boys, season is well underway, and seeing the little guy (lighter Wilson wrestling team.” But has a mix of veterans and first- and her confidence and physical the Tigers have already com- weight) wrestling around with today, wrestling is an increas- time wrestlers, and even girls. strength have improved greatly. peted against four teams. Being the bigger guy (heavier weight). ingly popular winter sport, and Junior Shrysthaley “Cristal” Wrestling put her on an equal the only DC public school with All of them hold one another the wrestlers have become a real Velasquez is one of the three playing field, she said, and she a wrestling team, the Tigers accountable.” team, able to compete against girls on the team. This season has learned not to “be scared to compete against private school With committed coaches, the city’s top private schools. marks the beginning of her sec- do things because you’re a girl.” teams, many of which have had a captains, and athletes, the In 2010, Coach Brandon ond year as a wrestler, and she is Along with its trailblazing program for years. Ironically, the wrestling team is now turning Wims was well aware of the chal- more committed than ever. Last females, the team is thriving team beat Maret, the school that to the Wilson community to get lenges of launching a new winter winter, Velasquez decided that with interest, commitment and once hosted Wilson wrestling support and recognition. With sport at Wilson. Predictably, she was ready to start something dedication. “The future is bright, practices. It has been defeated matches scheduled most weeks, initial interest was limited: just new. She was used to wrestling there are a lot of underclassmen, by Sidwell and St. Anselm’s. there is ample opportunity to five wrestlers were on the inau- with her brother, so she decided the program is continuing to The Tigers are not worried support these hard-working gural team. But Wims, a former to give the Wilson wrestling grow,” Wims explained. Sopho- as “it’s still early in the season student athletes. wrestler, was undaunted, seeing team a try. Velasquez began more Sam Alten is the kind of and [we] have things to work on, “We are continuing to grow many possible benefits from this wrestling in matches against athlete who takes advantage but so far everything’s look- and would love to have anyone ancient sport. boys. of an opportunity to try a new ing good for our team,” senior who is interested to come out “It’s another winter sport Understandably, before her sport. Having previously only and co-captain Sean Schwartz and join the team,” Wims said. where kids can compete, learn first match, Velasquez said, “I played soccer, he found the explained. “It’s been hard, but reward- valuable life lessons, and get felt very nervous. I got emotion- physical demands of wrestling The athletes and coaches ing and fun too,” Alten added. in shape,” Wims said. But the ally attached to my performance different from anything he had are committed to creating a The Tigers will take on Glenelg first group was not just short- and the sport.” Since her first experienced. However, adjusting base level of fitness, and the Country School on December handed; for practice, they did match, Velasquez has improved to the team was quite easy with team often practices six days a 16, so be sure to root for the not even have a regular place at her game and has become more the help of his teammates. week. A typical practice includes Tigers. Wilson and had to go to Maret connected to the team. “The “All the guys who wrestled running sprints, learning new 12 SPORTS December 12, 2014 New Coaches Bring Inspiration to Wilson Basketball Teams This is Hernandez’s first we slow the game down and to attend as many home games which is winning the champion- Henry Shuldiner Sports Editor year as the head coach of Wil- get it down to our big men who as possible to rally our team to ship,” Green said. The team is son’s varsity program; previ- are very efficient in the paint,” success,” Long added. a strong force on the defensive With two new head coaches, ously Hernandez served as an junior Nikko Preece said. The girls team is also off to a front, but is still searching to and two new teams, the play- assistant coach to the team, and In practice, Hernandez will strong start under the command score more and become more ers of the boys and girls varsity he was the JV head coach. “This hope to reduce the amount of of new coach and dean of stu- offensively efficient. basketball teams are gearing up is my fourth year with [Her- turnovers and improve the free dents Nadira Ricks, who played “It’s very different trying to for a competitive season. The nandez], he just teaches you so throw percentage for all of his at Georgetown University. Ricks adjust to her coaching philoso- intensity can be seen on and off much about the game,” senior players. looks to make a big impression phies as opposed to last year’s,” the court for both squads. Every Anthony Johnson said. “He’s “[There are] lots of travelling after the success of her prede- senior Skyler Mackey said, “but player is trying to prepare for always giving up his time to and tough teams that we will cessor, former head basketball coach Ricks does bring a lot of the long road ahead. help us get better as players and be playing,” said Gillette, “but coach Eric White. experience to the team being a The boys team and new individuals.” it will give us a chance to show “Coach Ricks is doing a mar- hall-of-famer.” The team will be varsity head coach Angelo Her- “He takes knowledge about our experience and talent and velous job as coach,” junior Tyti- looking to build more chemistry nandez are off to a great start. the game and implements it into toughness.” layo Green said. “She inspires us and confidence among the play- After trouncing victories over St. our plays,” said senior Miles Gil- Through discipline, team- to give maximum effort every ers and create the bond neces- Albans and National Collegiate, lette, who added that the team work, and support of the stu- time we step on the court.” sary to win games and make a and a tough three-point loss to has great passing ability and is dents and fans, the team has a The team had its ups and deep play-off run. Capital Christian Academy, the very unselfish. good chance of taking home the downs during the preseason, but Tigers have had several well- “The team’s greatest trophy, according to senior Len- the players are “moving together fought games. strengths are in transition, when nard Long. “We ask all students as a team toward our dream,

SHOOTING FOR CHAMPION- SHIPS - Wilson basketball players are gearing up for the upcoming season. Both Wilson’s boys and girls basketball teams are aiming high this season.

Photos by Rochelle O’Brien

Boys and Girls Swimming Winter The Wilson swim team made a splash Boys and Girls early this November Indoor Track The 2014-2015 indoor when practices official- track season at Wilson ly began. With practic- Sports is off to a running start es four days a week and with almost double the meets once a week, the Squash number of athletes from team is preparing for The squash team has Preview last season, and over 100 a competitive season. high hopes for the upcoming participants. At a meet on “This season, the swim season as the athletes work to December 2, a mix of first- Erin Doherty team has been looking whack their individual skills time and veteran Wilson Sports Editor more promising than it has in the past years because we are in to the next level. With over runners competed, and it a league and have a lot of new talented freshmen,” sophomore ten matches on the schedule, was a positive start to the Ali Bauman the team plans to compete Girls Bowling season. Junior and first- commented. against private school pro- Four years ago, a new time track athlete, Duncan Previously, grams in the city. In the winter sport rolled into Fitzgerald, describes his School With- past, the Wilson squash Wilson. Since the inaugu- first meet experience: “The out Walls and team included athletes from ral season for the bowling meet was a lot of fun and Wilson were School Without Walls and team, the interest has everyone gave their all. The on a combined The British School of Wash- grown, and the talent has team performed very well team. This ington DC. Due to increasing increased. “There has been and I’m definitely excited year however, interest, the teams have split a lot of interest this school for future meets.” Walls cre- so that each school has their year as knowledge about “We are very young in ated their own own team. This season, the the team over the past four experience but we pos- team, mean- returning Tigers are more years has grown,” head sess a ton of energy and ing the Tigers experienced. “The season coach and health teacher enthusiasm for the sport,” swim team is made up of purely Wilson scholars. Despite looks promising. I think we Lejanika Green comment- head coach and physical losing some talented School Without Walls swimmers, the will get a lot more wins than ed. In fact, “this might be education teacher Des- young Wilson talent appears promising for the team. Looking last year because we are more the first year that we will mond Dunham explains. forward, Bauman believes experienced,” junior and have to do tryouts,” Green The positive team chemis- more Wilson swimmers second-year squash player said. Later in the winter, try will lead the Tigers far will qualify for the region- Bela Ortiz commented. The the team will officially come as “we truly have a team al championships, a meet positive team environment together and practice will where our runners fit our requiring qualifying times. makes the commute to begin. An interest meeting coaching philosophy as well The season looks encour- practice (practices are held will be held at STEP to re- as our team culture,” Dun- aging for the Tigers. Says at a gym in Dupont Circle) cruit new athletes. “[I am] ham said. “For any coach, Bauman, “we haven’t had worthwhile. “I love my team- looking forward to what it’s a blessing to have run- a meet yet, but so far our mates and the ability to play is to come this year,” said ners fit that profile!” team is looking pretty good!” my best friends!” Bela Ortiz Coach Green. Photos by Ellie Le Blanc exclaimed. December 12, 2014 STYLE 13 Black Box Becomes Opera House in Players’ “Lend Me A Tenor” obsession are frequent themes Brescia-Weiler added, “It’s really feisty wife. “Maria is a sassy, Brescia-Weiler thinks that Sarah Robinson Contributor in this screwball comedy, and fun to do as well.” pretty confident woman who “Lend Me a Tenor” has a lot to students and parents alike will As for the set, it’s fairly likes to put men in their place,” offer Wilson students. “Students This year’s Fall Play, “Lend not find themselves bored. simple: two hotel rooms with a she says. Carnevali-Doan says are not gonna be bored. There’s Me a Tenor,” holds a surprise The director of the show is wall in-between. The audience that “Lend Me a Tenor” may not always something to watch...we and a tenor around every corner. David Brescia-Weiler, a former can see and hear what’s going on be everyone’s cup of tea, but have an outstanding cast who In the fast-paced production set Wilson Player who graduated in in both rooms at the same time, people who go to the plays at is super passionate about their in 1934, Henry Saunders, gen- 2010. He says that being back at but the characters are oblivious Wilson will love it. roles. Everybody is going to eral manager of the Cleveland Wilson is “a little weird...but it’s about what’s going on in the Junior Cleo Krupa also bring something totally awe- Grand Opera Company, waits for probably the most fun thing for room they aren’t in. Getting the described her character. “I play some to the show.” the famed Italian opera singer me to be back here.” He spoke timing right with this kind of set Diana, who is the temptress, the Don’t loaf; come see “Lend Tito Merelli to play the lead in about the challenges he and is another one of the challenges soprano of the Cleveland Opera. Me a Tenor” at Wilson in the the company’s production of the actors face doing this show, Brescia-Weiler talked about. She’s kind of like, ‘I’m the great- Black Box on December 11, “Otello.” When Merelli arrives, “There’s some opera, and, well, Senior Suzanna Carnevali- est thing that’s happened, like, 12, and 13 at 7:30 PM. Tickets however, hilarity and confusion none of us really have any opera Doan spoke about her character, ever.” She also says that “Wilson are $5 for students and $7 for arrive with him. Love, loss, and experience.” That being said, Maria, who is Tito Merelli’s students are gonna love it.” adults.

Photos by Ellie Le Blanc A TEN OUT OF TENOR - Students prepare for this year’s fall musical, Lend Me a Tenor. The show will run on the December 11, 12, and 13 at 7:30 p.m. On the left, Michael Bayliss; center, Alex Rochon, Charlie Caspari, Jordan Barrett; right, Bayliss, Caspari, Rochon, and Suzy Carnevali. COp or Nah? BREAD & SALT With kopetsky and Smee

Bread and Salt has the potential to change the game. Before, the family outings you were dragged to were domi- nated by tacos, burritos, and sombrero-clad waiters awkwardly singing you happy birthday. Now, although it still sucks you’re getting dragged out, at least you have something to look forward to: the food.

Bread and Salt is pretty family-friendly but also fancy enough to have a separate wine menu. This tells you that you’re probably not going to go here without your parents, unless you’re trying to flex on a squad lunch out. The menu is pretty versatile, ranging from burgers to soups to pizzas to oysters. Being the adventurous teens we are, we wanted to really push our limits and try something new, so we went with pizza and a burger. The pizza was made in one of those old stone pizza ovens. Our waiter claimed it could reach 1000 degrees, but it barely broke 900. This bold-faced lie made subsequent interactions extremely awkward among the three of us, but luckily the pizza was so good we tipped that sucker handsomely. The pizza, which came in a quick three minutes, is so much better that there is no comparison to Angelicos, and it could arguably be put on the same level as Pete’s. The hamburger was just as good. The bun was toasted and buttered, the fries were like McDonald’s fries, only classier, as they were salted, peppered, and basil’d to perfection. Both of these cost about $10 apiece, which, considering the fanciness of this restaurant, is pretty solid. To make things even better, the staff blessed us with a free slice of cheesecake, which was unbelievably good. Turns out they also have a bakery that makes totally delish desserts.

All this being said, rumor has it that the dinner menu at this establishment is sub-par. We didn’t get a chance to try it out but would love to hear what you think. Final Verdict: Cop we can’t vouch for dinner Photo by Gregory Kopetsky but pls make sure to hit that OREGANO? NAH. OREGAN-YES-- Bread and Salt’s lunch jaunt up for lunch, YOU Won’t Be menu offers a variety of delicious options, such as the margherita pizza pictured above.The restaurant opened disappointed this August near Public Tenley. 14 STYLE December 12, 2014 Fugazi Remembers Wilson During DC’s Punk Days because they were white. Annie Rosenthal Co-Editor-in-Chief Canty didn’t love going to a school that was “kind of a battle- On a Saturday morning in ground.” But for MacKaye, who Photo by Glen E. Friedman the fall of 1979, 17-year-old was four years older, Wilson’s Ian MacKaye and the rest of chaos opened up possibilities. the Beacon staff found them- “I loved going to that which quickly morphed into selves locked out of Wilson. school,” he says. “It was like a the Teen Idles. The Idles shaved They climbed in through an family of people – dysfunctional their heads and drove thumb- open window and were starting of course, all kinds of crazy stuff tacks into their boots, playing at their first meeting of the year happening there – but every pizza parlors, art galleries and when the police showed up – the day we were together. It was an clubs like Madam’s Organ. They alarm had gone off. No one was environment where I could sort introduced the concept of mark- arrested, but the administration of mess with The Man without ing the hands of minors with X’s barred the aspiring journalists going to jail. Kind of push back at the 9:30 Club, and the double from putting their own names in on the system.” X’s eventually came to symbolize the paper for most of the year. There were plenty of things more than admittance to a club: “I love the fact that we got to push back against at Wilson: they meant punk, and underage, in trouble...for having a meeting the indifference of the admin- and “straight edge” – a move- cuz we gave a damn,” says MacK- istration, the hostility of race ment inspired by one of MacK- aye, who went on to become the relations, and, most memorably, aye’s songs about abstaining lead singer in Fugazi, the band the party culture. from drugs and alcohol. Photo by Jem Cohen that brought DC punk rock to “I’m really not trying to be Meanwhile, Canty’s brother the international stage in the judgmental about [the party- had given him some fraternal 90s. “I never stole, didn’t get ing], it was just all that anybody advice: “Play the drums, because high. I got in trouble for being a seemed to be doing at the time,” if you play the drums, you’ll free-thinker.” says Canty. “So much of the always be in a band, and if you’re Rebellion by definition social interaction was based on in a band, you’ll always have a is about breaking the rules. the acquisition of drugs and girlfriend.” When Canty saw And yet in being good, Fugazi the taking of drugs and it just the pioneering DC punk band epitomized the ultimate rebel- became really boring to me. And Bad Brains play at Fort Reno, he lion: they lived entirely by their it also seemed really clearly to be too was converted to punk. He ideals in a culture that didn’t holding onto this thing that was and three Gonzaga kids formed align with those ideals. They happening in the late sixties, Deadline, the first of a string of didn’t drink or do drugs. Their like Woodstock and stuff, and it bands that eventually led him to shows were all-ages, and cheap just felt really stale to me.” working with MacKaye. – the band-members declined an MacKaye had a similar Together with Joe Lally and offer to headline Lollapalooza response to the pervasive Guy Picciotto, a GDS graduate, because tickets cost a whopping drugged-up lifestyle: “In Players, Canty and MacKaye formed Fu- $30, and their concerts in DC, they used to call me ‘The Group gazi in 1987. The band’s name, their hometown, were often Conscience,’ and it was a term an acronym for “F***ed Up, Got free. Fugazi’s lyrics critiqued of derision,” he says. “They were Ambushed, Zipped In,” came Photo courtesy of Brendan Canty rape culture, homophobia, and my friends but they’d tease me from a book about the Vietnam A BUNCH OF PUNKS -From top to bottom: Fugazi plays racism. MacKaye would pause about it. They were all getting War. a concert; Ian in his corner of the Beacon office in 1980; shows to tell audience members high. That was regular. And I At Wilson, the punks had Brendan watches as a young Asa Canty plays the drums to stop fighting: “The violence in never partook.” been a minority – maybe 12 at Fort Reno. our culture gets so much atten- The best way to push back kids in a school of 2000. But tion, and we refused to provide a on the system – to say I don’t smile and say something appre- support: “He doesn’t force us to with Fugazi, they were heroes soundtrack to that,” he tells me. agree, I don’t conform, I do ciative. And sometimes it can get do anything, but he’ll support to a devoted fanbase of hundred The band and its ideals were things my way – was to be a annoying: people will ask them if us if we wanna do something of thousands worldwide. From born at our very own Woodrow punk. they want to be musicians, or if creative.” 1987 to 2002, the band played Wilson High, in the late 70s and MacKaye’s first experience their dad can hook them up with Fugazi has provided Asa over 1000 shows in all 50 states early 80s when MacKaye and with punk rock came at a benefit concert tickets. with a real appreciation for and in 35 countries. In 2003, it drummer Brendan Canty were concert for the Georgetown Uni- But mostly, they say, Fugazi growing up in DC. And, he says, went on indefinite hiatus. students here. versity radio station WGTP. He has been a positive force in their “It kind of gives me something Today, Canty and MacKaye “Going to Wilson, I learned: was there with a friend, protest- lives. to aspire to...and sort of a repu- both still live in DC. They both don’t ask permission, cuz the ing the closing of the station, “[My dad] doesn’t like... tation to uphold. I don’t listen have new bands, and children answer’s always no,” says MacK- when he heard the Cramps live being strict and all that stuff to their music...but the biggest – Canty’s two eldest attend aye, who graduated in 1980. and was blown away. cuz when he was my age and thing that I know about them is Wilson. He remembers looking through “Punk seemed to be the doing all this, that wasn’t what that a lot of people were really Asa Canty was five when classroom windows once and gathering point for people that he wanted,” Asa says. “But I just into their ideals. And so I kinda his dad’s band stopped playing seeing the school on fire, and challenged conventional think- think he has a better under- want to respect that.” together. As a two-year-old, he another time, a kid coming in ing and conventional ideas on standing of everything – me and Now, 30 years out, Brendan came on stage and played the with a shotgun. every level – obviously musical my friends and my life.” looks back on high school with drums to a cheering crowd of The school was freer then, and fashion, but also philo- Brendan says he tries to fondness – for the people he met 2000 in Seattle. Now, at 17, he’s and more chaotic: the Players sophically, intellectually, sexu- give his kids room to be innova- and the world Wilson opened a junior at Wilson. His younger theater troupe, of which MacK- ally, theologically, politically,” tive. “I think it’s really hard to up for him. And he has some brother, Leo, a freshman, ap- aye was a member, had taken MacKaye says. “I thought, I’m a create sitting alone in your room advice for Wilson students: pears on the back of Fugazi’s over the abandoned rifle range deviant. I wanna be with these pretending to do your home- “Don’t always look to people final album. in the basement and converted people.” work. I’d much rather have them who are already in a position of Sometimes when the names it into a graffiti-adorned, smoke- And just like that – with the being out and collaborating with power to give you power. That’s connect, teachers will say, “Oh, filled hangout. A student shot strum of an electric guitar and people,” he says. not where you’re gonna get your I saw Fugazi in concert fifteen the vice-principal in the chin the a guttural roar, Wilson’s punk Leo is grateful for that power. Your power is within years ago!” and the boys will year MacKaye was a freshman. scene was born. Together with combination of freedom and your grasp.” Racial tension was palpable and fellow Players Jeff Nelson, Mark both band members remem- Sullivan and Georgie Grindle, To learn more about Fugazi and hear their music, go to thewilsonbeacon.com. ber receiving regular beatings MacKaye formed the Slinkees, December 12, 2014 STYLE 15 Lori Williams Talks Music and Life LW: That’s hard to say...I would ementary school. You know, you Lauren ReVeal Managing Editor say one of the most rewarding always look at people who are on experiences, because I’ve had television and you want to see if Lauren Reveal: What were you a lot of great experiences…but that’s something you could pos- doing before you came to winning first place last year for sibly do. It’s a big dream and I’m Wilson in 2004? the Heritage Festival in the jazz still dreaming. Lori Williams: I was teaching at category, that was like the best Thompson Elementary School... ever because we worked so hard LR: What are your goals for And I was also working for and the kids did such a great job. the next five years? a foundation called the Best LW: I’m working on the third Friends Foundation, which is an LR: What awards has the CD…As far as the kids here, abstinence-only program, and I choir won? they’re really amazing, I’d love was the national choir director. LW: All of the awards are in the to see someone here go on to do [trophy case]. We’ve done Heri- something big in the music field. LR: What was the choir like tage Festival several years, we’ve That would be awesome. before you took over? also gone to Six Flags and done LW: I had six kids in the choir that competition…I don’t enter LR: What does music mean to when I first got here. It was a too many other competitions… I you? very interesting way for my don’t really like competition. We LW: I wouldn’t want to exist if I transition because the former just showcase. didn’t have music…It’s my life. It teacher left unexpectedly… I got is life. I get kind of emotional… a phone call from the assistant LR: What have you done in Music is in everything. I think principal at the time asking if I your personal music career? about my kids -- we were at could come and work with them LW: In 2010 I released my first home for the holidays and har- to teach them a song for gradua- CD and then in 2012 I released monizing and singing and that’s tion. And I said sure, and I came Photo Illustration by Rochelle O’Brien and Jane Martin the second, and both of them fun. That’s family. And then in and I worked with the choir are on Pandora. So that’s pretty music is this experience being SONG BIRD- Lori Williams has been the choir director and I worked with the kids from cool for me…I’ve gotten great here at Wilson. I get up to come at Wilson since 2004. She also has a solo career with graduation and I decided to use reviews. And from the CDs that to work for music. I go to sleep two CDs. Her music can be found on iTunes, Pandora, all of the seniors to have them I’ve released I’ve gotten gigs listening to music. It’s every- and Amazon. to sing a song…I hired a band took a leave of absence when my overseas. I’ve had three oppor- thing. Music is in every activity and we performed and it was been interviewed or anything. mother got ill so this was just a tunities to travel to Austria, and we do; it’s in the celebrations of great. And the principal at the But then I was here. good way to come back after she I do workshops with students life, it’s in the sadness of life. To time, Dr. Tarason, announced passed. So, this was great. there and then I do concerts me it’s everything, and I’m just to everybody in the audience, LR: Were you looking for a job while I’m there. grateful that I get a chance to “Ladies and gentlemen this is at the time? LR: What has been your most express it. your new choir teacher for the LW: I had been working in rewarding experience with LR: When did you know you fall.” And I had no idea, I hadn’t elementary school and then I the choir? wanted to be a performer? LW: Early on when I was in el-

Compiled by Ella Feldman The Beacon Archive Fashion In The Halls Video Beacon newspapers from the Visit thewilsonbeacon.com/fith2014/ years 1956-1967 are now online for a very special Fashion in the Halls video at wilsonhs.org compilation by Helen Malhotra. Go to Clubs and Extracurriculars, and select The Beacon Newspaper. DecemberMarch 24,12, 20112014 KIDS IN THE HALLCompiled by Ellie Le Blanc and Rochelle O’Brien What is the government hiding from us?

“Money” Mikheal Wise, 10 “Our swag” Loïc Huber, 12 ” Julian Qureshi, 12 “The locaton of the national treasure Anna Wilson, 9

“Zombies and flying cars” Stephen Coates, 11 “The Ebola vaccine” “Our f***ing rights” Bakari Sibert, 11 Elizabeth Martu, 9 Anna Stewart, 9

“Aliens” “Everything, you cant trust anyone Nathalie Dary, 11 Ethan Diner, 11 ” Queenie Madrid, 11 The secrets behind education” Belene Oudit, 11

“Plant and animal relationships” “The Past” Yousef Mourad, 11 Matt Di Rosa 10, Nicole Distino, 10 “Lil Wayne’s new album (Carter V)” Will Gibson, 12