April 15, !2010 Gilman Schoole www.GilmanNews.comNews Volume CIX No. 5 Back on the Home Front: Dean White Returns

BY CONNOR LOUNSBURY was excited to do something he’s wanted Gilman continue supporting those to do for a long for a long time-this was soldiers. There’s a party in the U.S.A. as Gilman his first time serving overseas in a combat When asked about the politics welcomes back Mr. Rob White from area. According to White, “The Taliban is and his opinion of the war, Mr. Afghanistan after ending his tour with more certified and stronger.” The veteran White responded, “as soldiers, an Army National Guard Unit at Bagram estimates that while only about 10% of the we’re asked not to expound on Airfield. There, population politics. I don’t presume to know he filled the engages in what the right answer is.” However, role of staff the extrem- he did mention, “I always sup- officer, whose ist activities, port the motto of my special force responsibili- the “other unit, ‘Free the Oppressed.’” This t ies include 9 0 % a r e saying kept him going in Afghani- o r g a n i z i n g caught in the stan and he definitely saw efforts support units middle while being made by so many to free the for the towns- the Taliban oppressed. people, as well exerts its fear Mr. White is thrilled to be as non-kinetic factor over back. He views his time overseas (non-combat) the people. with satisfaction, gratitude for his and humani- They choose friendships, thanks for his safety, tarian efforts to the Taliban and sorrow for the 5 soldiers lost in meet the needs as a means his company. For those who have of the Afghan of securing a expressed interest in joining the p o p u l a t i o n . paycheck for armed forces after high school, The humani- their family. Mr. White hopes that their choices tarian system Mr. White in uniform on the streets of Afghanistan. ” With this will be heartfelt: “Consider those (Photo Courtesy of Mr. White) involved pro- in mind, Mr. around you, especially the moth- curing items, such as food, clothing, and White and the troops he served with did ers.” blankets, as well as ensuring their place- what they could to help fortify the Afghan The Gilman community is so ment in the hands of needy people. government to help serve people. happy to see Mr. White’s smiling (Photo by Seth Gray) As many acknowledge, fighting for In terms of troop support, Mr. White face on campus again. No matter our nation is a most honorable endeavor says that “a day didn’t go by that we didn’t your political views or opinions of and Mr. White’s dedication to his country feel support” from the American people the war, this community can certainly safe return and will hopefully continue is extremely admirable. He decided to and government. Through care packages agree on the heroic efforts of the men to show its support for those men who return because for he felt that “the deploy- and heartfelt letters, the troops felt the like Mr. White who risk their lives for continue to stand in harm’s way. To Mr. ment cycle for active duty was causing the love of their nation. Mr. White hopes this nation, what it stands for, and its citi- White, thank you for everything you’ve bulk of the work to fall on very few.” He to institute programs next year to have zens. Gilman is thankful for Mr. White’s done and welcome back! Helping Haiti: Gilman Sends Support responded in times of need – particularly various drives at Gilman, it is easy to lose know. “We are the World. We are the BY ALEC TARANTINO when disastrous events affect our neigh- sight of why we help those less fortunate children. We are the ones who make a “We are the World. We are the bors. The earthquake that struck Haiti than ourselves. As a school who values brighter day so let’s start giving.” children. We are the ones who make a is no different”, said Mr. Thompson. As the notion of community, we all hope brighter day so let’s start giving”. In of now, the school has raised $5596.95 that our Gilman family will be there to light of the recent tragedy in Haiti, an for Haiti, the Lower school leading the support us, whenever we may need them. eagerness to help those in need has charge with over $3000 raised in one Apply this concept on a larger scale: the rapidly spread across the world. From day. The money is going to the Red Cross, world is Gilman, and Haiti needs us. celebrities such as Lil’ Wayne and Miley and is to be used to buy food and other Simply donating the change in our Cyrus to church relief groups, the world survival necessities for the earthquake pockets to the relief drive is not enough. is doing all it can to help the earthquake survivors. To further benefit the drive, It is our duty to do more. Whether you survivors. Kostas Skordalos (‘10) is selling wrist- take the initiative and start your own Donnell Thompson, who immediately bands inscribed with “Support Haiti drive in a church community or neigh- saw an opportunity for Gilman to join Relief” (see him to purchase one). borhood, or convince your friends to The text reads “An earthquake in Haiti the worldwide relief efforts, is heading In the midst of the repetitive assembly spare this week’s allowance, doing your killed many people, but we are still alive.” Gilman’s drive. “Gilman has always announcements about donating to the part will help someone more than you (Photo Courtesy of BBC News)

Features: Call of Duty/Sporcle (page 3), Cultural Arts Festival Photo Essay (page 6) Exclusives: Health Care Debate: Fair or Foul? (page 2), One Year In: Bulletin Board (Page 4) Arts: LiveGilman, Artistic Addition to the Lumen Center (page 5) Sports: The World of Intramural Basketball, Lacrosse Preview (Page 8) April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 The Health Care Bill Foul? Fair?

BY RYAN MULLICAN BY EVAN BEHRLE American companies, big and small, individuals and small businesses, which President Obama desperately wanted will be forced to release jobs due to the While I may be your standard teen- allow federally-approved plans to compete to get his health care bill passed, expenses of mandatory insurance, even age communist (joke), the legisla- directly, driving down costs. The subject and many Americans would agree if they do receive some tax benefits. tion looks to me like a collection of of the expansion of Medicaid, which pro- that health care reform needed to These regulations go against the common sense reforms, reforms that vides coverage to the poorest Americans, happen. However, this rapid change American belief of free market capital- are badly needed, reforms that will save or federal subsidies that will help families happened so quickly that most Ameri- ism, a principle on which this country lives, and reforms that – depending on who do not qualify for Medicaid buy cans still don’t know what hit them. was founded. Small business owners, your level of skepticism – will either their own insurance, is not a frequently Most would agree that no one likes who employ an overwhelming majority save money or not cost terribly much. debated topic. Nor do many argue with paying excessive money out of their of our country’s population, will not I haven’t heard many critics take issue requiring insurance companies to keep paycheck, waiting in long, inefficient have money to hire new people. with individual components of the bill. children on their parents’ plans until lines and feeling cheated or bribed. In Considering the U.S. is in a deep Few bring up the ban on pre-existing they are twenty-six, which eliminates the essence, these three reasons are what recession, now is not the time to imple- conditions discrimination, annual caps, problem of college grads walking around is wrong with the Health Care bill and ment an expensive, government-run or lifetime caps, which take steps towards uninsured before they find their first job. the process by which it was signed. program. The conflicting information ensuring that insurance companies actu- Occasionally, you’ll hear complaints Even the President himself said he coming from our government is hard to ally take care of sick people. Few take issue about the unconstitutionality of the did not read the bill completely. How believe. According to the Congressional with closing the Medicare “donut hole,” “mandate,” which requires everyone to can the most impactful bill of our gen- Budget Office, this bill will reduce the which covers seniors who had no coverage buy health insurance by a certain date, eration be signed when millions haven’t federal deficit by about $1.3 trillion. I because of a loophole in past legislation, but the constitutionality of mandates has read it, let alone agree with it? wouldn’t bet any money on that. or about new insurance “exchanges” for been upheld by the Supreme Court (think If the bill truly benefited all Ameri- car insurance). It’s not like you’re going to cans, why did President Obama and be thrown into jail if you don’t buy health Nancy Pelosi have to convince Loui- insurance – you’ll simply face a fine. On siana by giving them a bonus of $100 a practical level, mandating coverage million dollars? There are multiple saves money by reducing unnecessary add-ons and policies snuck in that many emergency room visits. Furthermore, the Americans have problems with and popular ban on pre-existing condition believe will compromise the integrity discrimination would be impossible with- of America. Under no circumstance out a mandate – health insurance com- should deal-making and bribery go into panies can only be required to cover sick making decisions affecting the whole people if healthy people absorb some of country. that risk. Otherwise they would collapse. What worries tax-payers more is Aside from the mandate, critics bring the cost and inefficiency of what a up the inefficiency of government and the government-run Health Care entails. cost of the bill. The first complaint has When young people voted for Obama, little basis in reality. According to the they also voted for their money to be Center for Medicare and Medicaid Ser- given away to the 46 million ‘unin- vices, only 2% of all Medicare spending sured.’ Soon, young, healthy Americans goes towards program management, or will be forced to buy health insurance bureaucracy. Compare this to the average disguised as another tax. health insurance company, where 30% To make sure everyone has the proper of spending goes towards bureaucracy and legal health insurance, the govern- Gilman School (If you’re wondering, that’s because it ment has prepared to hire an estimated takes a lot of time and money to comb seventeen thousand IRS agents. What through your medical history in order could be better? (410)323-3800 ext. 448 to deny you coverage). Germany has Thinking health care could run effi- www.GilmanNews.com what is widely acknowledged to be one ciently is like believing the DMV has of, if the not the, best health care system short and reasonable lines—it’s irra- The Gilman News welcomes letters to the editor. The News in the world. And guess what – it’s run tional. In private sectors, innovation reserves the right to edit letters for length and grammar. Send by the government, a verifiable “Medi- and the ability to budget is what made correspondence to [email protected], or to: care for all,” and it costs the taxpayers them so successful. There are reasons less per person than our free market the U.S. leads the globe in accessibility system does (NPR.com, July 3, 2008). to advanced medicine and equipment. The Gilman News Speaking of cost… according to the Government control over private sec- Gilman School Congressional Budget Office, the bill tors limits potential, opportunity, and 5407 Roland Avenue will actually save money, reducing the productivity. Baltimore, Maryland deficit by $143 billion over the first ten When the government proposes years and $1.2 trillion over the next a tax that has one person paying for ten (CBSNews.com, March 23, 2010). ten years in exchange for six years of Editor-in-Chief...... David Williams So why do you hear people complain benefits, how does that reduce deficit? Managing Editors...... Rishi Bedi, Michael Katz about the cost? Well, mostly because Healthcare will soon be “free” to the Sports Editor...... Daniel Radov they believe Congress will restore the uninsured, which opens the door for Photo Editor...... Seth Gray $500 billion the bill cuts from Medicare them to visit their doctors as often as Copy Editor...... Noah Delwiche funding, mostly by removing waste. This they would like. These visits will be Arts Staff...... Nick Cortezi, Alex Fang is quite possible, but that’s a problem exploited so that more time will be Features Editors...... Teddy Delwiche, Alec Tarantino with Congress, not with the bill itself. spent on non-critical patients and less Political Editor...... Harrison Ebeling The bottom line: the bill imposes on those who truly need care. Faculty Advisors...... Will Perkins, Cesare Ciccanti, Michael Kelly long-needed regulations on insurance In small businesses, owners will soon companies, provides coverage to most of have to provide all of their employees Contributors: Ryan Mullican, Daniel Hoffman, Ned Whitman, Connor America’s uninsured, and pays for itself with health insurance if the amount Lounsbury, Matt Berger, Cooper Sutton, Evan Behrle through taxes, fines, and cuts in waste- of employees exceeds fifty people. All ful spending. Sounds pretty good to me. April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 Expanding Our Horizons: Multi-National Exchange Program Comes to Gilman

BY TEDDY DELWICHE just that. Henry even went to the dance After hearing so much about foreign and had so much fun that he regrets the exchange opportunities, many new faces lack of dances in his native country. He have appeared around campus. Wheth- smiles when he comments on the fast- er waiting in the lunch line, or checking food industry dominating much of the our email in the library we are present- food market in the US, as well. Not hav- ed with a new face, a new opportunity, ing school on Saturdays is a pleasant but most of all a new culture. The for- change from 6-day workweeks in the eign exchange students have blended UK, allowing him to go bowling and vis- in with the Gilman community very it Washington D.C. and New York. All in nicely and before their short experience all, Henry says he is having a great time has expired, it would be be appropriate during his first visit to the United States. for us to learn a little bit about them. This is not the first time Michael Cer- Henry Bickers discovered this foreign ruti has visited the United States, but he exchange opportunity via his school, St. is thoroughly enjoying staying with Jack Edward’s. Henry arrived at Gilman from Flowers (‘11). Michael goes to school at Oxford, England last week, staying with St. Joseph in Lyon, France. Over forty the family of Chuckie Knudsen (‘11). Al- students from St. Joseph applied for though both English-speaking countries, this program, so Michael considers him of course, there are cultural differences lucky to be selected. Coming to Gilman, Henry has noticed. One of the most ob- Michael seeks “to improve his English” vious to him was the variation in popu- and says it has been a “beautiful experi- lar sports. As opposed to rugby, soccer, ence so far.” Similar to Henry, Michael and rowing, many Gilman students par- enjoys not having school as much, be- take in basketball and lacrosse. He has cause of the extended school week in tried to learn the ways of lacrosse, but it much of Europe. Michael comments proves rather baffling at times. Similar, that athletics here at Gilman are “more however, are television shows in the UK serious.” In France, athletics are sepa- and the United States, he remarks. For rate from the school and students only instance, he has found a large following play them through special associations. to the ABC show LOST in the states as The trip will certainly fly by for both the well. Seeking to “experience a new cul- exchange students visiting the tri-school Above: Exchange students Charlie Kowszun and Henry Bickers (Photo by Rishi ture and have some fun,” Henry is doing community this spring and their hosts. Bedi). Below: The phenomenon: Modern Warfare (Photo Courtesy of google.com)

How We Relax: Call of Duty; Sporcle description. After finishing the quiz- (COD) is another game that many Gil- with friends. According to Justin Wyatt BY DAVID WILLIAMS zes, the user can view the most-missed man students have grown particularly (’11), “while answering the call of duty, questions so they can compare their fond of playing in their free time at I’ve learned more things about people “Sometimes having a COD sesh with knowledge to that of others around the home. COD is a first person shooter than I ever thought possible. I get to my boys is just so relaxing. It’s the best world. Sporcle was first introduced to video game released late in 2009. Ac- know kids in battle that I normally thing to do to wind down after a long Gilman when people frequently began cording to a recent survey taken in the don’t get the chance to talk to.” While day of school before starting my home- to see juniors Nick Cortezi and Michael library, 7 in every 10 Gilman students connecting with friends and people all work… just letting the bullets fly,” says Katz, who discovered the site over the devote time to this video game. It is over the world over XBOX Live, Gilman Brian Midei (’11). Recently, many Gil- summer, doing quizzes on school com- based on an American war against ter- students also believe that COD helps man students have found it enjoyable puters. Katz quickly became “the sym- rorism that progresses from the United develop a sense of camaraderie as they to play online quiz games on Sporcle, bol of Sporcle in school,” according to States to Eastern Europe. The most work together in battle. In order to be or even shooting up their friends on Cortezi, and his consistent use of the popular game mode among Gilman successful in the game, they must work the recent video game of the year, Call site spurred its growing popularity. It students is multiplayer on XBOX Live together to formulate strategies, help- of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (COD). is now common to see groups of stu- in which they can play against their ing them develop a sense of teamwork. Regardless of whether the students dents huddled around a computer, en- friends and people all across the world At the same time, the students gain a prefer Sporcle or COD, they all agree thusiastically searching their memory over the Internet while talking to them realistic knowledge of the weaponry that playing games is a productive use banks for random facts to complete over a headset. While most adults feel and strategies that are a part of modern of their free time. They not only teach their quizzes. When addressing the that playing COD is unproductive and warfare. Drew Tucker (’11) says, “while students interesting facts about the joy he finds in Sporcle, Katz says, “The a distraction from schoolwork, many COD is a good stress reliever and in- world and society, but they also give quizzes are fun to do with friends so students feel that playing the game is spires teamwork, it also gives us a good them a good opportunity to bond with everyone can contribute. It’s a mix of in fact a beneficial addition to their day. sense of the realties of what goes on in and learn more about their friends. competing with others and learning They find that playing COD is a good war. The game gives us a greater appre- In June 2007, Matt Ramme started facts about pop culture, geography, way for them to unwind after a stress- ciation for what our troops go through.” the online quiz game site called Sporcle sports, and everything else.” Many ful day at school as a break before or While it is clear that Sporcle and that comprises what he calls “mentally other students agree that Sporcle gives after they finish their homework. Brian COD have negative aspects and can stimulating diversions.” The website them a good opportunity to gain new, Midei (’11) says: “playing COD always be distracting, it is clear that these consists of thousands of quizzes for interesting knowledge while taking a helps me relieve the stress build-up af- games can also be relaxing and ben- which the user is given a set time to en- break from the stressful environment ter a long school day. I always feel great eficial ways to spend free time. They ter all of the items which fall into the of their classes. According to Cortezi, starting my work after a hot streak on present ways in which Gilman stu- category of the specific quiz. The quiz- “Sporcle allows me to take a break af- COD.” Most Gilman students who play dents can learn, connect with friends zes range from identifying the names ter a long day of school without turn- COD also feel that the game is benefi- and people all over, and relate to mod- of all of the NFL quarterbacks to lose ing my brain off entirely. It helps me let cial because it is a great way for them ern issues through fun, humor, and the Super Bowl to matching the names loose some of the intellectual build up.” to participate in friendly competition simulation in ways less stressful than of Shakespearean characters by their Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 while relieving stress and connecting their work throughout the school day. April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 Bulletin Board Sparks Discussion

BY NOAH DELWICHE

With the addition of the bulletin board this year, the Gilman community has been eager to see its effect on the Upper School population. Comments on the bulletin board have varied from study hall policy to questions raised about the judgment of certain Judiciary Committee cases. Many students have utilized the opportunity to voice their opinions in a manner that is heard by the students, faculty, and administration. Students generally view the bulletin board as a tool to bring issues impor- tant to them to the attention of the community. Evan Behrle (’10) remarks, “It has done a good job of stimulating intelligent discussions.” Indeed, the bulletin board comments have sparked controversy, allowing students to take a stand on their beliefs. Students are split, however, when it comes to the ano- nymity of authors. Forrest Naylor (’12) says, “[posts] shouldn’t be anonymous,” but others strongly disagree. In one instance, Andrew Kandel (’10) wrote at the end of his post, “Wishing I could be anonymous.” Students are generally pleased with faculty responses. The faculty frequently responds to concerns of the students Derek Won (‘10) reads the opinions of his fellow students on the bulletin board in the library. (Photo by Daniel Hoffman) and as Behrle notes, “When members of the administration respond to student’s comments, it is a reassuring demon- stration that they care about what we think and are willing to make changes.” RPCS Presents Nonetheless, many students recognize the faults of the bulletin board. Naylor says the bulletin board is “a good idea but hasn’t been refined yet.” Christian Wulff (’12), elaborates, stating that we “should be able to write what’s on our William Shakespeare’s mind and immediately post it. Instead, we end up spending time writing posts that ultimately do not make it to the bul- letin board.” Evidently, there is a difference in what students believe and reality. Ms. Diane Much Ado About Fuller, the faculty advisor on the Bul- letin Board Committee, states that she displays every post except those that are attacking. When she sees a comment as attacking, the comment will not go to the committee. Instead, Ms. Fuller will Nothing e-mail the author and explain why it is unfit to be published. Although attacking comments are not posted, Mrs. Fuller says, “Students can sometimes feel that they are obligated to defend themselves.” Ms. Fuller thinks that some students are intimidated to post comments that may April 16th to 18th be controversial, yet she would love to see increased student participation. The Bulletin Board Committee, having grown to seven students and fac- ulty members, has engaged in deep dis- course about controversial comments. (7:30, 7:30, 2:00) The bulletin board committee has met occasionally this year, and the majority of questionable comments were posted. The Committee would greatly appre- ciate student participation, as well as suggestions on improving the quality of Tickets at RPCS.org this public service. April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 TT HEHE AARR TT SS By Ben Zunkeler Grace Hartigan’s Painting Graces Gilman

BY NED WHITMAN was even included in a Life magazine Have you noticed anything particu spread and was noted as “the most cele- larly new in the Lumen Center staircase? brated of the young American painters.” Anything out of the ordinary? A paint- She moved to Baltimore in the early ing by a prominent American artist of 1960’s after marrying a Johns Hopkins the second-generation Abstract Expres- research scientist. In 1993, she was fea- sionists, perhaps? This fall, a painting by tured in the show “Hand Painted Pop” at Grace Hartigan, a pioneer of Pop Art, was the Whitney Museum of Modern Art. In installed in the Lumen Center. “It’s nice this exhibition, her work was identified to have Gilman accept such a gift,” says as a key stage in the development of what Upper School art teacher, Mr. Connolly. was to become Pop Art. Though Hartigan Through a connection with the father noted Pop was a movement she disliked, of Ryan Stevens ’12, Rex Stevens, Gilman she was quoted in saying, “I’d much rath- graciously accepted one of Hartigan’s er be a pioneer of a movement [Pop Art] paintings. Mr. Stevens used to be Grace that I hate than the second generation Hartigan’s studio assistant, living in the of a movement [Abstract Expression- same building as Ms. Hartigan. In signif- ism] that I love.” Aside from influencing icant appreciation for the Gilman com- the expansive Pop Art movement, Grace munity, it was Ms. Hartigan’s wish that Hartigan has made a significant impres- one of her paintings be given to Gilman, sion on Gilman. Karl Connolly was her upon her death in November of 2008. Teaching Assistant at the Hoffberger No doubt, the installation of her paint- School of Painting at Maryland Institute ing mirrors the community’s respect College of Art. During that time in his for Gilman’s own serious art program. life, Mr. Connolly got to know her quite In the late 1940’s, Hartigan made well. “I’m glad to have Grace here with her way to New York City, the upcom- me at Gilman,” Mr. Connolly reflects af- ing epicenter of the art world, to paint. ter the recent installation in the Lumen “Dostoyevsky”, a composition featured on LiveGilman, by Tony Rutka. There, she befriended Jackson Pollack, Center. Abstract Expressionism was the Willem De Kooning, and other Abstract moment that American painters took Expressionist painters. In a short period the lead of art on the global scene. For of time, she became a vital part of the centuries, the art world was dominated second-generation Abstract Expression- by Europe, and Hartigan was a player Long Live LiveGilman ist movement. Through the beginning in this monumental transition. While BY NICK CORTEZI to the middle of the 1950’s, she estab- some families donate money to show lished herself as one of the most signifi- their thanks for Gilman; other members Topics centered on the daily aspects of cant modern painters in America, sell- of the community choose otherwise, This year, the Gilman arts communi- life both on and off the campus. The ing the second painting she ever sold to and Hartigan chose to leave Gilman ty made the leap into cyberspace. With open nature of the website created worry the Museum of Modern Art. In 1957, she one of her vibrant, colorful paintings. the newly founded LiveGilman website, about the possibility of students taking the artists, writers and musicians of advantage of the anonymity, and posting the school can publish their works in a inappropriate or offensive comments. public, online gallery, giving them ex- Maddox assured the Gilman commu- posure as well as displaying their works nity that each and every submission to a new audience beyond the readers of would be reviewed and deleted if found Paragon and those who walk Gilman’s insulting. Ultimately, whether through halls. The entirely student-run web- administrative intervention or a lack of site was announced during this year’s student participation, the site was dis- Paragon assembly, and the growing ar- continued. The simple fact that LiveGil- chives already feature contributions man shares the Gilman moniker and is from several grades, along with past associated with the school demands a work by the class of 2009. The Art and certain level of editing in the published Literature sections so far seem to pull works. Much like Paragon refuses to mostly from the recent editions of Para- include material that the editors deem gon, but the website now has a Comics offensive, Ben and the future editor of category and select videos of Traveling the website will have to review submis- Men performances in 2009, so the op- sions before they are allowed on the site. tions for the student medium are open. An ever-present danger that comes The project is the brainchild of senior with starting new traditions is the inevi- Ben Zunkeler who came up with the idea table need to pass the torch to the next during his campaign for school presi- class in order to keep that tradition alive. dent last year. He designed the website Elliot Wakefield, the literary editor for so that those students who were not Paragon next year, voiced concerns over necessarily fully involved in the Gilman the technical nature of running a web- Arts programs could gain exposure and site, saying, “I have about zero experi- put their art out for the community to ence running websites, and though I see. The website also works to archive would be willing to learn now to operate the works for future generations of Gil- it, I would rather have someone who ac- man students to log on and access the tually knew what they were doing with creativity of classes past. Ben hopes that websites run it. I’m sure I could work when he graduates, a new student leader together on the website with someone will take the helm and assume the re- who knew what they were doing.” Art sponsibilities of the website and, as he editor Griffin Quasebarth voiced similar says, “maintain and expand [the site] to support, describing the website as pro- encourage people to try something new.” viding “people a chance to appreciate LiveGilman is not the first effort for the somewhat neglected talents of their a fully student run website involving the classmates.” Ultimately, however, the school community. In the 2008-2009 responsibility of LiveGilman remains school year, senior Chris Maddox of the with the students. The website presents Grace Hartigan’s “Wedding Fashions” (Photo by Rishi Bedi). class of 2009, created the now defunct a terrific opportunity for the Gilman Blue-Grey Nation blog for the students Arts community, one which will hope- to voice their opinions anonymously. fully be sustained for years to come. April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 Gilman’s Melting Pot Annual Cultural Arts Fair Demonstrates Gilman’s Diversity

Visiting Germany, Myanmar, Brazil, and Pakistan in one day is no mean feat. The annual Cultural Arts Festi- val manages to do just that: bringing together the cultures of over twenty countries, celebrating the rich diver- sity of the Gilman community. From watching lively Greek dancers to sampling an Indian samosa, the Cul- tural Arts Festival brings out aspects of Gilman that we may not see on a daily basis. Organized by the Diversity PHOTO ESSAY BY RISHI BEDI Committee of the Parents Association, Clockwise from top left: Mr. Otto the festivities lasted over three hours, gives a visitor to his Germany booth giving those in attendance a chance to a sticker to place on his ‘passport’ for enjoy the colorful displays set up by the day, recording the various coun- volunteer families of the School. The tries visited. exhibitors transformed the Old Gym into a microcosmic view of the world Dominic Wong intently focuses on for a few hours on a Sunday morning, filling out a form at the Parents Asso- and those that visited tasted (quite lit- ciation booth. erally, in fact) a bit of the rich cultural diversity at Gilman. Greg Flanigan (‘10) serves Zach Hoff- man chicken tikka masala from the central food table.

Gauri Bedi (P’13) paints a henna design on the hand of Monique Ran- dolph (P’12) at the India booth.

Parents, students, faculty, staff, and other members of the Gilman com- munity mill around the Old Gym, enjoying the displays of Greece, Italy, and Israel, among others.

Kostas Skordalos (‘10) shows off a henna peace sign on his hand.

Center: Martial artists from Blue Dragon Tae Kwon Do perform an impressive board-breaking routine. April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 2010 GIBL Champion Berger’s Bytes Seagulls, ‘Best Ever’? Why do I care so BY TEDDY DELWICHE After an opening round playoff loss, What first comes to mind when we however, the Greyhounds, along with the much about sports? hear the words ‘Gilman Intramural Bas- Tigers, Terrors, and Blue Jays, had been ketball’? Do we think of an intense exhibi- eliminated from championship conten- BY MATT BERGER fans have dealt with for many years. We tion of basketball or a bunch of lazy kids tion. The Greyhounds had also failed in know that we are acting ridiculously and fooling around in the Old Gym? It’s unfor- their attempt to win a single game during “It’s just a game. They’ll be back next uncharacteristically during games, and tunate but true that intramural sports at the 2010 campaign. In the semifinals, season.” That’s all my friend could say to we know that the passion that we feel Gilman are looked down upon, as if there the top two seeds, the Midshipmen and me as I stared silently at the red Terps’ towards our teams is truly indefinable. is some prehistoric rule governing that Bears, looked to claim spots in the finals. hat which I had just hurled halfway across Still, we keep on rooting. We keep on all intrams are inferior to interscholastic However, with two major upsets, the his basement. His words of sympathy and cheering. We keep on letting the results sports. We tend to think that intramural Terps and Seagulls came out victorious. compassion had only made me angrier. of games matter so much to us. Why do basketball at Gilman is a joke in which the When asked about the Seagulls’ upset win Because to me, then a freshman here at we do it? style of play vaguely resembles a Harlem in the semifinals, senior captain Patrick Gilman, Maryland Basketball was not Baseball writer Roger Angell may have Globetrotters game. Shikani pompously replied, “I don’t feel just a game. NBA Live 2007 was a game, the answer. Angell has been called the As I walk into the arena (yes, the like answering this question.” trying to skip study hall and not get “poet laureate of baseball” and is consid- arena) for the championship game, I In any case, Shikani’s Seagulls took caught was a game, attempting to impress ered one of the sport’s greatest writers. quickly sit down in the bleachers, eager on Max Cooke’s (’10) Terps in the GIBL girls outside of school was a game, but In November, 1975, he wrote a column to see what intramural basketball is really championship the next day. After a very Maryland Basketball was NOT a game. describing the fervor of Boston Red Sox’ like. Much to my surprise, I glance over to fast-paced and close game, the upset- I had invested way too much emotion- fans during their extremely exciting 1975 see Gilman Athletic Director Tim Holley minded Seagulls once again came out vic- ally, and I was way too upset for that two World Series loss to the Cincinnati Reds. (‘77) in a full referee suit ready to toss up torious. Senior Patrick Shikani attributed hour spectacle to be called simply a game. Angell’s writing may finally answer the the opening tip off. I then begin to realize the win to Jack Volk (’10), Brendan King Maryland was out of the NCAA Tourna- question as to why so many people can that intramural basketball is taken much (’10), Ethan Levine (’13), and his superior ment. They had just lost to Butler. For me, become so emotionally attached to the more seriously than I had first thought. leadership. The Terps slowly walked off the college basketball season was over. teams that they closely follow. He admits It’s hard not to notice the brightly the court, disappointed in their perfor- Was that just a game? Not a chance. that a strong affiliation with a profes- colored intramural basketball updates mance in the finals. Still shaken up by his Fast forward two years. It’s fourth sional sports team may seem foolish to on the bulletin boards just as you can team’s performance, Cooke, the team’s down with less than a minute left in the non-fans but these cynics have failed hardly ignore the athletes in their differ- unquesionable leader and best player, Ravens’ playoff battle against the Ten- to recognize “the business of caring” ent brightly colored uniforms. In both refused to comment on the loss. nessee Titans. Kerry Collins goes back for those who continue rooting for their cases, one glance is all you need to be As a freshman, I had no clue how to pass and initially has time to throw, favorite teams. immediately drawn to the upbeat and important intramural basketball is to the but then Ravens’ outside linebacker “The business of caring,” according competitive atmosphere of GIBL (the Gilman community. “GIBL is the largest Jarret Johnson comes free through the to Angell is when a fan is “caring deeply Gilman Intramural Basketball League). intram offering and maybe the larg- middle of the Titans’ protection. Collins and passionately, really caring, which is The GIBL season starts each winter est overall athletic offering at Gilman,” is rushed, and his pass falls incomplete. a capacity or an emotion that has almost when senior captains are selected and remarked Dr. Harris, GIBL chairman. The Ravens win. gone out of our lives.” That in the end, this given the extremely important task of Intram basketball is an intense, fast In a basement in North Baltimore, caring is the only thing that can send “a choosing their squads in the draft. Cuts paced game that draws a large crowd. It there is utter pandemonium. Ten high grown man or woman dancing and shout- are made; in fact, more athletes are cut breaks the common stereotype that all school juniors scream at the top of their ing with joy in the middle of the night from GIBL than are cut from the Gilman intramural sports aren’t taken seriously, lungs. Hugs and handshakes eventually over the haphazardous flight of a distant Varsity Basketball team. Then, each team except for when juniors Matt Kantz, Will lead to a huge dog pile in front of the ball.” is given uniforms that correspond with Gilbert, and the rest of the Terrors throw television screen. I’m in the middle of So back to the original question. Why a local college basketball program. The up half court shots during their games. the action and barely notice our school do my teams matter so much to me? Why 2009-2010 version of intramural basket- That isn’t totally serious. president preparing to jump on top of the do their wins and losses truly affect my ball consisted of eight teams: the Bears, In an interview after taking the 2009- pile from the couch that he had once been life? Because I care about them in an Blue Jays, Greyhounds, Midshipmen, 2010 title, Shikani confidently remarked, sitting on. He jumps, and it feels like I’ve intangible way. And when you care about Seagulls, Terps, Terrors, and Tigers. “I don’t think it’s too bold to say that the broken several vertebrae, but I can take something so deeply, when you love it After a grueling regular season, the ’09-‘10 Seagulls were the best intramural the pain, as I remind myself once again so much, you are exhilarated when it eight teams entered the playoffs with basketball team ever to play in the his- that the Ravens are only a couple of kneel succeeds and devastated when it fails. varying goals. For seven teams, the hope tory of Gilman athletics. We might have downs away from victory. A couple of Thus, this caring is the only thing that was to win the league championship while even been better than Gilman’s Varsity kneel downs later and victory becomes a can send me to the point of not being able for the Greyhounds, it was to not become Basketball team. It would have been an reality for me. to respond to my friend when he tried to the first winless team in league history. interesting match-up.” Of course, both those instances men- comfort me after Maryland’s loss or to tioned are extremes. Maryland’s loss to participate in a primitive celebration in a Butler in the 2007 NCAA Tournament small basement after the Ravens’ playoff was so heartbreaking because it ended win. another disappointing season for the At this point, non-fans are probably Terps as well as the careers of six fine thinking, “This guy is crazy. He needs seniors. On the other hand, the Ravens’ to get a life.” While I, along with Roger playoff win against Tennessee extended a Angell, understand your thinking, you miracle season and put the team one win still don’t get it. There is a reason why away from another Super Bowl appear- Gilman is so energized on the Monday ance. after a Ravens’ win and so depressed the But in any case, no matter what the day after a loss. There is a reason why significance of the win or loss, I have Gilman students rally behind school always struggled with one question. Why teams and create a true home field advan- do my favorite teams matter so much to tage. There is a reason why upper class me? Why do I go into a near depression adults in big cities will pay hundreds of after a tough loss, and why do I enter dollars to sit way up in the upper deck in a state of euphoria after a big win? I’m the snow and rain to watch their teams not talking about the results of the high play. There is a reason why nations will school volleyball and basketball games put wars on pause during the Olympic that I’ve participated in. It’s hard not to Games. become emotionally attached to a team What is this reason? It is that people that you are actually a part of, and all at this school and people all over the good athletes should feel something after world really, really, really care. It is a great win or a tough loss. simply impossible to explain the passion Cooper Sutton (‘10) and Gordie Koerber (‘12) battle for the loose ball as other What I really never understood is why of sports fans in any other way. players look on (Photo by Rishi Bedi). I could care so deeply about other teams, Keep on rooting, Gilman. Keep on on the professional and college levels. cheering, and don’t ever be ashamed to It’s a question that passionate sports be a fan. April 15, 2010 Gilman School www.GilmanNews.com Volume CIX No. 5 New Look Gilman Lacrosse Team Faces High Expectations and a Tough Schedule in 2010

BY COOPER SUTTON in that many players can run the offense, rather than just one or two guys. While How does a team follow up a year in it will certainly be difficult to cope with which it went undefeated at home, won the losses on offense, this style should the MIAA “A” Conference title and was add another element to a very good team. ranked number one in the country by Dennis Foster adds, saying, “We’ve got a many sources? This is the question that hardworking team with a lot of opportuni- the 2010 Gilman Varsity Lacrosse team ties for new varsity members to play big is faced with. According to Jack Volk, the roles.” answer is very much the same. “Our goal is The schedule this year will be chal- to win the MIAA and try to go undefeated lenging both in and out of conference. at home,” said the senior midfielder. As usual, the MIAA is full of formidable This goal of repeating is difficult by teams, which means that Gilman will itself, but the loss of many key, talented have to fight hard to repeat as champion. and even All-American players from last Specifically, Calvert Hall, Boys’ Latin, year’s team makes another MIAA title and St. Paul’s look to occupy the top tier much less attainable. Players like Jack of the conference. Other teams that will Doyle, Greg McBride, Marcus Holman, challenge the Greyhounds include St. Davy Emala, and Harry Prevas were all Mary’s, Loyola, and McDonogh. Although staples of the 2009 championship squad, these six teams are some of the best in and they all graduated Gilman to play for the conference, senior Beda Cha claims, top Division I teams. “All of our MIAA games are going to be However, the team still feels that it has important.” the chance to once again compete for a Out of conference, the squad has championship. “There are many talented already been challenged with early returning players,” said attackman R season match-ups at home against Hill Adams Cowley (’10). “We are looking to be Academy and Landon and away against a force again in the MIAA.” These talented Georgetown Prep and Haverford School. players include attackmen Jack Matthews These games have produced uneven (’10), Paul Danko (’10), and Conor Doyle results as the Hounds defeated Hill but (’11), midfielders Duncan Hutchins (’10), fell to Georgetown Prep, Landon, and Justin George (’11), and Ryan Tucker Haverford. “I expect our team to make (’11), and defensemen Dennis Foster (’10), mistakes in the beginning of the season,” Patrick Shikani (’10), and Tripp Trainor said Foster, “but I think we’ll do a good job (’10). eliminating those mistakes by the time Unlike last season, when the Grey- postseason rolls around.” Of course, the hounds could rely mainly on explosive aim of these early preseason games is to plays from players like Doyle or McBride, prepare the team for the grueling MIAA the team will have to focus on a more schedule ahead. balanced offensive attack. Instead of a In the end, the success of the varsity group of stars, the offense this year is lacrosse team may be compared to that of comprised of five or six guys who can all last year, but, with so much change and move the ball effectively and make plays turnover, that may be unfair. The true going towards the goal. gauge of success should be how well the Therefore, this year, many different players create their own path from under Rising star sophomore Jake Matthai hopes to defend the Hounds’ MIAA “A” title. players are expected to contribute and the shadow of last year’s top-ranked, (Photo by Seth Gray) score goals. The team has great flexibility Goliath of a team. Sutton’s Take: Orioles on the Right Track Before I start, I just want to clarify: I 4. The Corner Infielders. Head of all coming off good rookie seasons- a superstar, and he is still improving. am not saying that the Orioles will go Baseball Operations Andy MacPhail particularly Bergesen, who sported And then there is . to the playoffs, nor am I saying that did not make the big free agent acquisi- a superb 3.43 ERA- and should only they will even be above .500. I am just tions or trades that everybody wanted. improve in their second year. Finally, 1. Matt Wieters. There is no doubt saying that this year the Orioles may However, he did solidify two problem Jeremy Guthrie should have a much that Matt Wieters started his career actually be competitive, an adjective areas for the birds- first and third better year this year. Last year, he slowly. When he started hitting well, long forgotten by many Baltimore base. After all, anything is better than played in the World Baseball Classic, however, he became a force. From his baseball fans. Here are the top five Ty Wigginton and a worn-down Melvin where, many have speculated, he sus- first game in late May to the end of his reasons, in descending order, why the Mora, right? At first base, Garrett tained an injury that plagued him for first full month in June, he batted only may actually win Atkins provides a veteran presence, the entire season. .247. This may seem like a respectable some games this year. and even though he does not have batting average for a rookie, but for the the talent of a player like the Padres’ 2. Time. For one of the youngest much-acclaimed Prospect of the Year, Adrian Gonzalez, he has a solid .289 teams in the league last year, the this number was unacceptable. In the 5. Rich Hill, Adam Eaton, Jason career batting average. Miguel Tejada most important cure to losing is month of July, Wieters came to life, Berken. I do not want to be mean, offers another middle of the lineup bat time- time to sculpt the young, raw batting .323, and two months later, but these three starting from at third base. Although his power num- talent into major league skill. I have Wieters became the offensive machine last year are utterly devoid of talent,. bers have mysteriously disappeared already mentioned the youthful arms that most expected. He batted .362. Berken led the trio with an absolutely since he was accused of steroids in the (Matusz, Tillman, Bergesen) that have Rookies do not hit .362. He reached stunning 6.54 ERA, while Rich Hill Mitchell Report, he still had a batting the chance at some time down the base over 42% of the time and his came in second with 7.80, followed by average over .300 last year, something road to become something special. slugging percentage was above .500. Adam Eaton’s 8.56. It is amazing that no other Oriole can claim. The outfield is also filled with talent. Expect more of the same this year. I these guys were even pitching in the In left field, Nolan Reimold had a would not be surprised if he hit well majors, let alone in a starting rotation. 3. Improved Starting Pitching. great rookie season last year, batting over .300 for the year and rocketed 30 That is not the case in 2010. The Orioles’ most improved area this .245 with 15 homeruns. Adam Jones, balls out of the park. Matt Wieters is year will most likely be the starting the Orioles’ lone all-star last year, is going to drive the Orioles offense this With the release of this sad trio, we pitching. The acquisition of Kevin quickly becoming a superstar both year and be the middle of the lineup fans this year will not have to endure Millwood through free agency not only in the field and at the plate, winning power hitter that has not been seen pitchers that routinely make their adds a very good (3.67 ERA in a Gold Glove Award and batting .277 in Baltimore for a long time. Matt exit before the end of the fifth inning. 2009), but also an experienced starter with 19 homers, despite a cold streak Wieters has the chance to be the best That’s certainly a welcome change in for a very young staff. Brad Bergesen, towards the end of his year. The third catcher in all of baseball. Matt Wieters 2010. and Chris Tillman are outfielder, Nick Markakis, is already is ridiculous.