April-May 2011 Vol. 27No. 6
Townsend Harris High School at Queens College Talent shovv benefits Ecuador by Ella Leviyeva standout performance, bringing a majority Ephebic Oath Project Judges crowned seniors Frank of the crowd to their feet, was freshman Hoffman and Jason Kao victorious at Suswana Chowdhury's "Tribute to Iconic reaches finish line Townsend's Got Talent, a charity benefit Figures" as she married traditional Indian for Ecuador, on May 13. dancing and modem hip-hop. The self-proclaimed Fit To Sophomore Zunayed Abdullah Spit rappers wrote original said, "I enjoyed the show this lyrics corresponding to the year because there were many theme of the Free the different versions of music Children benefit fora clean related talent showcased, from Ecuadorian water system, Bollywood-Westem fusion reigning supreme over other dancing to pure singing to a contestants. whole band performing. Some Judges for the event included groups were very skilled in their Classical Languages teacher Andrew performance, also displaying their Hagerty, Math teacher Aleeza Widman, dedication and commitment, while and History teacher Charlene Levi. The others were sub-par." three judges said they had difficulty "This was a competition designed to choosing the winner, as the talent spanned showcase a variety of skills and talents, from opera to K-Pop to glow-in-the-dark not just musical ones, said senior Murari juggling, exhibiting Harris's diversity. Aidasani. "I enjoyed To.wnsend's Got With the auditorium almost full Talent very much. We had some amazing to capacity, the turnout proved to be bands, groups and individuals performing. successful and the crowd showed The K-Pop group had their songs stuck in satisfaction with cheers and laughter. One continued on Page 5 I ~.., Harrisites make strides for AIDS 1 by Tracey Wang ~ · Cheers blared throughout Central Park as 48, 000 people made their way t to the finish line of the AIDS Walk with For more on the dedication ceremony, see Page 3. umbrellas in hand on May 15. Of the $6.2 million that the walk For a timeline of the project, see Page 12. generated overall, the Townsend Harris High School team, sponsored by Straights and Gays Educating Students Healthapalooza educates, (SAGES), raised $5,106. The team surpassed its initial fundraising goal by more than a hundred dollars. encourages fit lifestyle The AIDS Walk raises awareness by Ella Leviyeva about HN and AIDS, but the proceeds An obstacle course challenged participants of Healthapalooza goontosupportGayMen'sHealthCrisis on May 21. The Alumni Association organized this event, including ..9 ::! (GMHC), a non-profit organization that raffi.es and information booths, to promote a healthy lifestyle. c §< provides services to the thousands of "In the first part of Healthapalooza, we held physical activities ·~ people living with or affected by HN including an obstacle course, stair running, basketball shooting, fitness ::: andAIDS inNewYorkCity. video games, a push up and sit up contest, and weight lifting," said 0:: g Senior Sheryl Rivas, president of junior Richie Bonilla. "The second part dealt with the informational ~ SAGES and co-director of the Harris side of health and fitness. We viewed presentations about disorders, ~ team with Social Studies teacher Franco which are the consequences of health neglect and what we can do to .6' Scardino, said, "SAGES chose this cause better ourselves." .':l principally as a way to make others more The event offered .healthy snacks and raffi.e prizes, as well as ·~ i:l, aware of our club. We've been doing trophies given to the winners of the obstacle courses. Few parents special events all year, so we thought and children were present, but the support of the Physical Education this one would appeal to everyone. department was evident, with most teachers from this department In addition, the money raised by our actively involved. Senior Usman Bhatti leads the team. continued on Page 3 continued on Page 3 INSIDE:
Cheating Technology Fast Five page6 in the classroom revtew• page7 pageS OPINION sound off! Rethinki'ng· Creative Thinking The Beginning of the End At a global conference in 2006, in a resounding speech that has since The time has come. spread all over the Internet, educational visionary Ken Robinson lamented: No, it's not the Rapture. It's the beautiful time of year when AP season is "We don't grow into creativity; we grow out of it. Or rather, we get educated over. out of it." The hours of cramming a year's worth of information into a few study ses This is terrifyingly true. Competition rules the corporate and academic sions, of drinking excessive amounts of caffeine to stay awake for all-nighters, world, and competition by nature squashes artistic expression. We all of loathing every new multiple choice question, are finally and officially over. possess a drive to think and express ourselves creatively, but if we are not Now, it would be easy to catch a case of Senioritis - which, by the way, deemed "really good'' at something early on - if we are not crowned with is not limited to seniors - but it is not advised. Symptoms include, but are not the title "Musician" or "Artist" or "Dancer"- then we're prompted to shove limited to: not doing homework, not studying, skipping class. It may be the end our creative impulses aside, or at least not give them the attention they of the school year, but this is the last stretch; this is the time to push through deserve. And that's how people get discouraged from trying new things, that "runner's wall" and finish the last mile. (For some of the underclassmen, froin thinking outside the box, from being entrepreneurs. finishing the school year might actually require them to run that last mile. They The environment at Townsend Harris typifies this societal setback. have our sympathies.) It would be extreme to say that Townsend Harris completely disparages With that said, it is also advised for everyone (adults included) to enjoy creativity. However, the atmosphere here doesn't encourage creative spring. While it might appear otherwise sometimes, Harrisites are not vampires expression as it should. The cancellation of this year's Harrisfest exposes who will bum when exposed to sunlight. (And no, we will not sparkle either.) this problem at its core. The sun is good. Natural lighting is good. Trade in the florescent lighting and Harrisfest presents a rare opportunity for all students to exhibit their the confining walls for a cool breeze and a tan. talents, specifically in the musical field, without the pretense of competition The administration has said, time and time again, how lucky Harrisites are or the constraints of strict guidelines. All the other annual performance to be on a college campus. And we are - lucky, that is. The college has a spacious events are wonderful showcases of student talent, but Harrisfest "is the only quad that's about two minutes away from the school building. Students should one that truly feels like a musical gathering rather than a polished, picture seize the opportunity and venture out onto the grass every once in a while. We perfect production. It's music for the sake of music, not for the sake of promise, the grass is perfectly okay to sit and to play on. Grab a ball or a book putting ourselves on a pedestal. and spend your afternoon relaxed and away from all the stress of schoolwork. In a school where so much weight is placed on competition and During any given band, there are seniors in the hallway or in the library perfection, something like Harrisfest is a welcome change of pace. It's with no work to do. The seniors lounge around and complain when faculty preposterous that such an event was in jeopardy to begin with. members ask them to quiet down. Why not go outside? There is no volume limit In fact, there need to be more opportunities like Harrisfest- and despite outside. The underclassmen don't have the luxury to leave the building during what seems to be the consensus, such things do not have to strain our budget, their lunch bands, but they should still spend some time outside after school our faculty, or our security personnel. has ended. Rather than leaving school to go straight home, why not spend some Of course, there are presently some ways students can channel their time at the park? The swings are nothing but some chains and a rubber seat, but creativity during the school day. There are electives like Creative Writing they are a guaranteed good time. Seriously. and Ekphrasis; there are clubs for art and photography. But these things are Of course, we are aware that most students in the building have Regents and subject to scheduling limitations, not to mention that they're jeopardized finals to dread, but a fifteen minute break outside is perfectly reasonable. A mini. year after year by budget cuts. With so many variables at stake, it's no vacation gives just the right amount of relief when it seems like the workload wonder that students here often get pigeonholed into what they're "good" will never end. Remember, spring will not be here forever. Enjoy this weather at, and aren't encouraged to venture into new territory. while it lasts, because the scorching hot oven that is summer will be here soon. Malcontents, a club featured in this issue of the paper, is taking a step I in the right direction by encouraging students to observe the world around Queens College them and to find their own creative voice. The members of this club prove that art has no boundaries, and neither do our minds. They remind us that we have the power to express ourselves, and we should use that power. Dear Editors, To a degree, it's the administration's responsibility to foster a creative How do you come up with environment, one that encourages the development oftalents and imaginative ideas such as food tasting on thinking. Those assets, as Ken Robinson and countless others have pointed the Queens College campus? out, are what will push us forward in this time of uncertainty in the real I think it's amazing to be able world. to find a place where you can But students can take this challenge upon themselves as well. Organize go after school to hang out with your friends. I am intrigued by a sketching session on the Queens Coll~ge campus. Have an impromptu the idea of "homemade-like ice musical gathering during your lunch band. It doesn't matter if you're not in cream" coming from a vending Concert Band or if you've never signed a canvas before in your life. We're machine. Although I have all artists here. wandered across and around the Queens Dear I Scream for Ice Cream, There is no single party that should shoulder the blame for Harrisfest's College campus a number of times, I would We are glad you liked our cancellation. But in light of the situation, it's apparent that something needs love to come across a spot such as this one. If feature. We've provided to change about our school's outlook towards creative expression. At a you wouldn't mind drawing a map and sending the map for you above and Humanities school that's supposed to emphasize critical thinking and foster it to me, I would be very happy. Who knows, I we hope you enjoy the ice creativity, things like this need to be a priority rather than an afterthought. might see you there! cream. Consume responsibly. None of us should be educated out of our creativity. From, Sincerely, I Scream for Ice Cream. The Classic Editors
IIDITOR:.;IN·CHIEF Rebecca Seidel ADVISOR Cat"olkte Cross The C~ic is an open forum NEWSEDfiDR R:upesm Shah PRINOPAL I
(continued from Page 1) lateral group to present our project about diabetes. Physical Education teacher Keith Hanson, the If it hadn't been for finding out in class, I would've event's honorary chairperson, commented, "I wish never known about it," said sophomore Izabella Sek. more parents were there because, to be honest, half "The publicity for an event so crucial to our com of them have cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pres munity was lacking and had it been better, the event sure, or something wrong with them. The point of would've been extremely successful." Healthapalooza was to inform and encourage a change "The turnout was a little disappointing. I think in lifestyle, because that's what this is, a lifestyle." this was due to poor advertising of the event," Richie "In my eyes, the point of Healthapalooza was to said. "I only heard about the event in one email short make the participants aware of what goes into living ly before the actual day. I believe posters and/or flyers ~:::: ~ a healthy lifestyle and the rewards ofliving one," said would surely have helped and a longer notice or more Richie. frequent reminders." "I found out about Healthapalooza from Mr. Han Mr. Hanson concluded, "If the event had been son's health class and decided to attend with my col- student led ... there would've been a larger crowd." Activities at Healthapalooza called for physical activity. Dedication unites team. UFT rally protests budget cuts by Rupeslli Shalt and Yuval Solmoon ~ ~ i"om Cny Hall to WaD Street <>B May 12, rallying against a on 6-m.ile AIDS Walk ~ to e~UlUmate over 6,100 educatien jobs. Memiers of the Townsend Harris ~joined the United Federation of!eackers (UFT) in protesting a $65.7 bil (continued from Page 1) lion budget unveiled by Mayor Michael Bloomberg on May 6, whida includes cuts to team would support services provided by the GMHC and other AIDS service organizations in the tri-state area." several agencies. Under the proposal, 4,000 teacllers will be laid off rutd 2,000 teachers will be Mr. Scardino, who personally raised $3,761 for the team, phased out through attritiOB, wi:Uob occurs wben teachers who resign or retire are not received numerous donations from friends and colleagues. replaced. One in eight teachers will lose their jobs and class sizes wiU increase by two He said that SAGES decided to sponsor the Harris team this year because the clubs that had organized it in the past were not to three students, om ~ Jolm o•Maiey, Social Studies teacher, said the rally ..was~· It's are planning to do so. "While AIDS is not necessarily a GSA [Gay that w«k.ers still have rights COUJ!ltry." Straight Alliance] issue," he said, "it does affect a lot of gay peo m1nder in tbis Fteach teacher Mariet D'Souza, who is also the UFT chapter leader at Hatris.. ple." said, "When politicans see aU those peop1e on the streets like that, they doo 't lik:e it. Mr. Scardino added that the walk was a good opportunity to dley have a tendency to listen when [large groups protest]." "bring students together for the day." .. [I] really elljeyed the eaergy of every
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~--.· · .. >'··...:- ·.;..,.:~-,..._...... - .~,"'".~:: - " _.._ . .... - -- ~· .... - - ~ ···- ·· ""'"""'' '•.•'-'· _,_, ,,,.,..,_*·----··!· - - --....,~.--~ --...... ,. -'-~ ..... -- ...... _ ...... ,. •.. ·- ... ----... - ~ - - .. ,____ _:.....,..._,.... ~ - ··· ·. ,..<"~------...... ,.._...... ,_... ~ ..,..-~ ,. . news 4The.Classie April-May 2d:H Harrisfest tradition falters, show- cancelled by Vanesa Martinez sultative Council, but no one 'brought the matter up you play in a band here or out of school, or if you just After much speculation, Harrisfest, Townsend for consideration. like to listen to music. It's kind of sad to see that a Harris' annual music performance event, has been Morta Bautrenaite, sophomore, said, "I think that program that allows people to express their love for cancelled. the people in charge should manage the event better. music is being halted. It's doing an injustice to the This is the first t1me the event has been cancelled I mean, the event has been going student body." since 2002, when Classical Languages teacher An- on for a few years, and I don't , lt' k · d f d t Principal Kenneth Bonamo drew Hagerty became the advisor. see why this year it should be , S In O sa O see suggested the bands perform at "No one took initiative to make [Harrisfest] a an exception. It's a really good that a program that al- Townsend's Got Talent, the Free The reality," said Mr. Hagerty. "No one was ready to take way to showcase the talent that lows people to express Children fundraiser on April 13. Mr. the leadership role." the school has, and it would be a . . . Hagerty said., "[The students] seemed Senior Aleksandra Kus, who was in charge of shame not to have an event that their love for mUSIC IS okay with it, but I don't think it re- last year's Harrisfest, informed Mr. Hagerty in early showcases it, specifically music- being halted." ally was." March that she would not be able to run this year's wise." -Rebecca Enis junior The only other time Harrisfest event and planned to have another student take over. Nicholas Ljeskovac, a soph- ' came close to being cancelled, Mr. However, this person remained unknown to Mr. omore and would-be performer Hagerty said, was one year when Hagerty. He said, "I got frustrated because I wasn't for Harrisfest, said, "I am utterly there was no drum set to use during working with any students about it," he said. confused and disappointed that my chance to show the show, and half of the participators and organizers Finally, Harrisfest was officially cancelled, as my talent is gone and revoked. It is kind of sad, actu- walked out. One person found cardboard boxes and students had not gotten in touch with Mr. Hagerty ally." banged on them with drumsticks. However, even about preparations. Anyone who wanted to counter Junior Rebecca Enis said, "Music plays a huge this improvisation was not enough to save Harris the decision had the option of speaking to the Con- role in everyone's life at Townsend Harris, whether Fest this year. Alu:rnni convene at 70th reunion and holllecollling by Geoffrey Yip street from the school when the dry cleaning business Studio, alumnus Jesse Ash, class of2002, interviewed There's only so much nostalgia one can glean next to it exploded. various alumni about their experiences at Harris, from outdated yearbook photos. That's why there Reunions have typically been held at locations in with the intent of preserving what the school was like are reunions, and somehow, despite not seeing each the city where many alumni live and work. However, through oral histories. other for seventy years, alumni can still recognize this year, the Alumni Association wanted the former The Alumni Association does its best to keep one another. Townsend Harris students to see the new building. an accurate record of all the still-living alumni who About 25 people attended the 70th Annual "Oh, the new facilities are terrific," said Mr. graduated between 1930 and 1944, filing addresses, Reunion and Alumni Homecoming held in the Kaplan. "We would never have had a library like this. phone numbers, and even occupations. A directory Malcolm G. Largmann Library on May 7. At the Our building was as second-rate office building ... but of this information was given out at the homecoming, suggestion of an alumnus, the Alumni Association that wasn't primary. If you have the core of bright currently holding a record of approximately 700 expanded the event, originally a reunion for just the students, and bright teachers, you could learn in a names. class of 1941, into a homecoming, open to all former bam." Reunion coordinator Vincent Yuen, class of1989, students of the old Townsend Harris building. Most alumni pointed out that while the school usually gets in contact with the alumni to recruit Most alumni came for the nostalgia. "I want to was closed in 1942 by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia volunteers for the reunion of that class. "You don't see if there's anyone I can remember, because [the for being elitist, New York City today nevertheless want to dictate; you want to facilitate," he said. original Townsend Harris] closed around the time of has nine specialized high schools and is emphasizing The 1941 yearbook opened up with the following \ the war, and we lost a lot of people in World War II," more rigorous schools. words: "An era is over. An era of conjugations Eli Kaplan, class of 1941, said. Principal Kenneth Bonamo gave Arthur Howard, and declensions, of theorems and propositions, of Memories of the old school ranged from fond to class of 1932 and the oldest alumnus at the event, a green cards, and report cards, of 'hourglass' and tragic. Mr. Kaplan caught up with his varsity chess bottle of wine. He said he doesn't drink, but thanked 'potpourri."' Some things never change. (__ team buddy, who played first board. But then he Mr. Bonamo anyway. talked of a friend who died in a snack store across the Meanwhile, upstairs in the Video Production Administration shuffles third floor office assignments by Demetra Panagiotopoulos "Poor Ms. Kendall is stuck in a little office now. disconcerting. Offices have found new homes on the third .. and people are always telling us to be quiet here," "When I first walked in [to the old College office], floor after a series of rearrangements by the she added. "That wasn't a problem before." I was like, where did everything go?" recounted junior administration. "The other room was better," agreed senior Dimitri Otero. "I didn't know what happened." The Attendance Office, as well as the senior Beverly Poon, "since when we were noisy we The move happened fairly quickly. In the days mailboxes and sign-in desk from Room 334, have couldn't disturb the people who were working here." before Spring Recess, students strolling down the moved into Room 314 - which used to house She shrugged. "At least there's more room now." third floor hallway would see the custodial staff the College Office. This left room for the senior Regarding students' complaints, Ms. Solomon shuffling furniture from room to room. By the Friday coordinator, Linda Steinmann, to move her office up said, "[It] the guidance counselors have to close before Spring Recess, the Attendance and College to 334. A senior lounge also now occupies Room 334, their doors for some quiet, we can do that. But," she Offices sat ready in their new residences. with tables for students and computers on the way. conceded, "it's more of a library setting, and even if "It's different, isn't it?" commented guidance The Guidance Suite, Room 312, now incorporates there are a lot of people talking low, it's loud. You counselor Sara Skoda, looking around the Guidance the College Office's resources. need to be aware that people are working." Suite on the Thursday before break. "I think it'll take Most of the seniors who had grown cozy Even those who didn't regularly lounge continued on Page 11 clustering around the table and computers in 314 in the College Office found the abrupt change during their free hours followed College Office aide Connie Acquista and College Office secretary Tina Marie Kendall into their new niche. "They've set up a refugee camp in the Guidance Office," remarked senior Sebastian Derian. Explanations detailing the reasons for the move were scarce among most students and faculty. "It's happening so that we can provide service more ] efficiently to the students," said Janet Solomon, ;::! C) Assistant Principal of Pupil Personnel Services. "The §< college and guidance office really work very closely .9 ~ together." Since the separate arrangement made it ~ tricky to file and keep track of records, she explained, ~ l: "We decided it would be better .to bring [everything] ~ together." ~ Reactions to the College Office relocation have ..s 2 been lukewarm. C) "I don't approve," asserted senior Vivian ~ Chandra. "There's no table here." Few items offurniture remained in Room 334 during the transition phrase. ------news 5 The Classic April-May 2011 Bin Laden's death sparks mixed reactions On top of the world: by Tracey Wang and Rupeshi Shah be a death, no matter who the person was." The announcement of the death of Osama bin Senior Matt Collins' initial reaction "was May's Top 5 events Laden on May 1 triggered shock and mixed reactions happiness." He said, "I knew people were killed on in world news worldwide. 9/11 and I do feel that justice has been served. I'm in partnership with the~ International dub Although President Barack Obama made his happy that's he's no longer here to wreak havoc, but Aquib Yacoob. president address to the nation at 11:35 P.M., many people unfortunately terrorism did not die with him." had already learned of bin Laden's death through According to documents found at bin Laden's Anti-homosexuality bilrs future television and social networking websites. compound in Pakistan, he was planning a series of uncertain Sophomore Alex Boychuk and senior Alice Kim attacks on the United States and remained influential Uganda's parliament adjourned on May 13 with both found out about the death through Facebook. in Al Qaeda's internal planning. These discoveries out votiOI on a highly criticiled amf-homosex.. Alice said, "The rapid status updates completely refuted the belief of some that bin Laden se!Ved uality biH. Originally proposed in October 2009, flooded by newsfeed and only after that I turned on largely as a figure head for the organization. While the bill went against a great number of interna my television and saw the news." this information has convinced many that the United tional statutes, and proposed harsh punishments Senior Niaz Ahmed found out about the news States is safer, others disagree. against LGBT persons and those believed to be while watching the New York Mets' baseball game "I actually feel less safe and I am afraid that LGBT. AccordingtoAtmesty lncemationai.''The against the Philadelphia Phillies. He said, "The crowd people who respected and loved Osama would want bil proposes a 3~year prison sentence for anyone started to randomly chant USA, and after a few to retaliate," said senior Rana Abdelhamid. failing to report homosexuals; a life sentence for minutes, the broadcasters announced that Osama is Ms. Lonergan said, "I do feel safer, [but] I don't engagi111 in 'homosexual actMty'; and the death dead. That explained the USA chants." think his death will end terrorist attacks. When you sentence for ~ed homosexuality'. [along Osama bin Laden, widely known as the leader of have someone who attracted so much loyalty, [you with] a 7-year sentence for providing proteCtion the terrorist organizationAl Qaeda and the mastermind will have followers who will retaliate]." or assistanCe to LGBT inc.fMduals:' Speaker of behind the attacks that killed thousands on September Among, the concerns for safety in the wake of Parliament Edward Kiwanuk said that there is 11, 2001, was buried at sea by American forces shortly bin Laden's death, the news also generated enormous no time in the current session to diSOJSS the bill, after he was killed. President Obama said the forces celebrations outside the White House, Times Square, leaving great uncertainty as to the future of the read sacred text from the Quran as bin Laden's body and at the site of Ground Zero. The media showed legislation was placed in the water and that they followed the images of crowds chanting "USA" and waving official Muslim rites. The decision to bury his body American flags. Natural disasters strike South at sea was prompted by concerns that his followers "I feel that others' reactions were completely A tornado tore through Joplin. Missouri on May would create shrin~s at his burial site. acceptable. Some say that celebrating his death was 24, leaving over I00 dead. Floodwaters from the "I agree with how they buried him," stated low and inappropriate. I disgree," Matt commented. Mississippi 1\tver could creep to depths of 20 feet freshman Joel Mampilly. "If they let his body be "For decades the world has been searching for this in coming weeks. Deputies warned residents to properly buried, it would have been a cause for a huge man. For the past 10 years our soldiers were fighting evacu<* as, for the flm time in four decades, incident by Al Qaeda. This private way was safer." overseas to find him and his death by our troops was wat« stowty filled communities in louisiana Ca Sophomore Annie Harrison said, "I believe the a major success and victory over terrorism and a big jlm countr'}< SwoJten by snow-melt and rains, the US acted hastily with the quick execution and burial step forward in the war. They had several reasons to water first started to come into peoplei yards at sea, but they were probably afraid of what would be happy." in MeMIIe.louisiana on May IS.Wlthin this year. happen if they didn't act fast." "I had a very mixed reaction [to the celebrations]. It the Mtssissippi and its trtbutaries have ftooded As more details about his death were made public, bothered me," said Assistant Principal of Humanities nearly 2.5 million acres of land in Arkansas.len people expressed mixed feelings about his death and Susan Getting, "It's like when I see other countries nessee, Missouri. Mississippi. and l.olJisiana. its meaning to the future of terrorism. when they celebrate the death of [an American]. I "It's hard to say [how I feel]," commented Social don't like it when they do it about us and when we do World leaders disagree on Studies teacher Maureen Longeran, "You can never it about them. I find it sad, very sad." compromise proposals be happy at the death of a human being." "I do not agree with celebrating anyone's death, President Barack Obama has declared support Alice said, "I personally believe that this was a even if this person did kill many, many people. I'm not for the pre-1967 borders as a starting point for violent reaction. I do not believe in the death penalty angry at the people who celebrated, though, because peace negotiations between lsrael and Palestine, because of one reason: no one has the right to take that's their emotion. They can express it any way they becoming the first us. president to olkialty anyone's life." want if they're not hurting anyone," Rana said. tak• a stance on this issue. Israeli Prime Minister "Killing Osama," she added, "did not bring about Ms. Lonergan commented, "I know he was an Benjamin NetBnyahu has repeatedly called these a new change in the country nor a sense of justice. evil person, but [when you celebrate someone's borders '"mdefensible;' rejecting the proposal That is why I don't really understand why people call death], you become as cruel as the person itself." and rnaint:aining that Israel will not accept the cJi.. this a new start or a rightful death. A death will always additional reporting by Michael Sanchez vision of jerusatem or relinquish the West Bank. Supporters of PaJestine have rallied in the face of these recent developments.
Thousands seek refuge throuah outlurope Thousands of migrants are fleeing to Europe, Talent show raises funds seeki01 asylum from increasing violence in north Africa. The Italian istand of lampedusa has seen the most refugees in the past weeks. prompting for water system in Ecuador the katian government to halt its recent crack down on iDegaf immigration. ltaly has since de (continued from Page 1) Shivani Mulji said, "Ecuador was chosen because we clared the recent w.we of immigrants a humani my head all day afterward and the juggler was all agreed that on the list of countries that need relief, tarian emergen<:)'. and has agreed to accept the amazing and totally unique with his skill. But, at Ecuador is not popularly known. Free the Children is refugees. the end of the day, I'd have to say Fit to Spit was a nonprofit organization that empowers young people definitely fit to win." like ourselves to reach out and affect positive change HIV study reveals major find Zunayed continued, "I was happy with the in the world. Its primary goals are to free children ings winner, although there were others who wer.e just from poverty and exploitation." Preliminary results rele3Sed on Thursday from a as talented. However, the reasoning behind the win, Senior Melina Iacovou, the other co-president of large clinical triaf showed that HIV patients were which I believe was because it related to the theme, Free the Children, stated, "We picked the Ecuador 96% less likely to pass on the infection if they was totally unjust because I think the show was project because we realized that many people do not were on antiretroviral drugs. According to this more about whose talent was superior rather than the have access to a commodity that we take for granted- study, paid for by the National Institute ofAllergy relevancy of it to the theme." water. We take 45 minute showers and buy 24 packs and Infectious Diseases, patients are less likely Despite aspects of the event such as showcasing of Poland Spring, and do not often think about the to infect their sexual partners if they are put on hidden abilities and determining a winner, the main people that walk long distances for water or drink treatment ~ instead of waidng until point of Townsend's Got Talent was to raise money contaminated water. The clean water system takes their immune systems begin to deteriorate.The for a clean water system in Ecuador alongside club thousands of dollars to construct, but I am happy to findings are likely to change the way American members of Free the Children. say that the show brought us $1,200 closer to our AIDS doctors treat patients and what treatment Junior and co-president of Free the Children goal amount." policies are adopted by the World Health Orga nization and other countries. ' -
6 feature artwork by Richie Bonilla I Th"""e..Ciassie I April-May 2o\r Survey explores habits of cheating and plagiarizing by Rebecca Seidel - affirming that they understand the "yes." Out of this Like any academic institution, contents of each. number, 43% say that Townsend Harris has its share of "I don't know how many other they have copied answers cheaters and plagiarizers. But according ways you can put it in front of people," offanother student during to a recent survey' of Harrisites, said Susan Getting, Assistant Principal a test, and 10% say they academic dishonesty as defined by the of the Humanities. have plagiarized from a Code of Behavior appears to be more . Some s~dents believe that published work. prevalent at this school than some may everyone should know from the start One junior, who have believed. whatisconsideredacademicdishonesty. declined to be named, satd, adding that "it's easier" now to The survey was conducted by one "There are no qualifications as to what believes that cheating is acceptable in pass off an uncited source's writing as of Franco Scardino's junior Social cheating is ... cheating is cheating," said a number of situations: "What if you your own work. Science Research classes, as part of a Cecelia Kim, sophomore. really need to cheat or you're going to "It's just so easy to paste it right unit on data collection and analysis. Altogether, 43.2% of students said fail the term or something? Or what if into your paper," she said. "Kids think After reviewing surveys filled out by they have copied answers from another you were absent or not feeling well and that there's so much out there that it 4 3 5 students, representing all grades, student during a test, 13 .1% say they you couldn't [study]? Or what if it's a won't be noticed." the class presented its findings to The have plagiarized from a published pop quiz or test?" Recorded instances of plagiarism Classic. work, and 63.9% say they have copied Alexis Martinez, sophomore, have become particularly prevalent Even allowing for a meaningful homework. disagrees. "If you didn't study, and among seniors, who all participate margin of error, the trends in responses Because copying homework you know you won't do well, take the in the reading- and writing-intensive raise significant questions for further involves passing off another's work as test with what you know," she said. Humanities Seminar. Seniors must consideration and are a starting-point one's own, it is technically considered "I'd rather get a grade I deserve than write two journal entries a week in for more research on the topic of plagiarism. However, students' actually take someone else's. You response to written works they are cheating and plagiarism at Harris. opinions on this vary: only 45% of the might as well give yourself an A+ and discussing in class. They submit their students surveyed believe that copying grade everything, for that matter." journals through SafeAssign, an online Seeking Definitions homework is a form of system which checks Out of the students who filled out plagiarism. Out of the 435 surveys, here's how many student writing for the survey, 80.5% believe that they students say they have... traces ofwriting from themselves have cheated or plagiarized The Drive to Cheat copied homework: 63.9% outside sources. at some point -leaving only 19.5% who or Plagiarize let someone copy their homework: 77% If SafeAssign claim that they "have never cheated or Whilemanysaythey deems a journal or plagiarized in the past." are unsure, a plurality paper to have a lot copied answers from another student during a test: Of the smaller fraction of students of students - amounting 43.2% of text copied from who say they have never cheated or to 49.4% - say they given answers to another student during a test: 52.4% other documented plagiarized, 20% admitted to copying believe that cheating is sources, "then we answers from another student during a unacceptable. Most of go back and see if it test, and 35.3% said they have copied these people consider copying answers Consequences of Academic really is plagiarism," explained English homework. during a test to be a form of cheating, Dishonesty teacher Raquel Chung, who teaches This points to a significant nugget and yet 30% of them say that they The DOE's Discipline Code lists two Humanities sections. of information gained from the survey: have copied answers off other students both cheating and plagiarizing as Humanities teachers agree that students' definitions of cheating vary during a test. In short, they believe it's Level Three infractions, putting them students are relying more and more widely. For instance, roughly 80% wrong, but they do it anyway. What in the category of "seriously disruptive on the Internet instead of attempting of students consider copying answers drives students to contradict themselves behavior." There are five levels of to analyze texts themselves. "They're during a test to be cheating, while only like this? infractions overall, five being the afraid of being wrong," said Ms. 68% consider cheating to include using Students who claim to have cheated highest. Chung. unauthorized study materials during a or plagiarized give a variety of reasons The Townsend Harris Code of "I can understand the pressure. I test. for having done so, as shown in the Behavior, a supplement to the citywide can understand the desperation," said The Townsend Harris Code of accompanying chart. Relatively few handbook, details the punishments for English teacher Judy Biener, who also Behavior outlines the school's basic students say they cheat or plagiarize up to three infractions of the school and teaches Humanities and recognizes that definition of academic dishonesty, because of social or competitive citywide policy for academic integrity. it's a high-demand course. However, breaking it down into three categories: pressure from their peers, while many Dean Wanda Nix said that more she added that online plagiarism is risky cheating, falsifying data, and cite concerns about their academic students typically get caught and business. "If you get used to lying, plagiarism. future, as well as a lack of sufficient penalized for plagiarism than for that can be dangerous," she said. Students are required to sign an time to study test material. cheating. "We try to make everyone Ms. Getting disagrees with the agreement to the Code of Behavior, When asked, "Are you scared that understand that in college, you can get idea that plagiarism has grown along in addition to the Department of colleges won't accept you if you don't expelled for it," she said. with the Internet. "There's always Education's citywide Discipline Code, perform well academically?", two One senior, who went through been the ability to cheat," she said. "I at the beginning of every school year thirds of the students surveyed said the disciplinary process after being think [whether a student cheats] has to accused of plagiarizing on Humanities do with personal beliefs." If you were aware of another student cheating or plagiarizing, Seminar journals, said that he believes She explained that a student either would you inform a teacher or administrator? the system is "fair in the sense that chooses to plagiarize or chooses not 3.9% their should be certain repercussions." to - regardless of the availability of However, he added, "I think in-house Internet sources. suspension should be used for harsher "I don't think there's been an [offenses], like fighting or weapon increase in [plagiarism]; I think our possession." methods make it harder to hide it," she 37.7% From the pool of students said, referring to the capabilities of surveyed, 81% said they were aware software like SafeAssign. depends on of the consequences of cheating or Multiple teachers said that the situatiGA plagiarizing, 15% said they were discovering that a student has 42.3% unaware, and the remaining students plagiarized permanently tarnishes were unsure. their image of that student. Students should take a chance or ask for help, Plagiarism: A Growing they insisted, rather than try to pass off not sure Problem? other work as their own. In a discussion about plagiarism, "Of course you don't understand Ms. Nix said that it's becoming an everything," said Ms. Biener. "You'll increasingly persistent issue. "I really never learn if you don't make a do attribute that to the Internet," she l roistakeY i ·''\~~y·.-, .. ,,.-,\.~l ... '.L•. •.i feature -l. A'pril-May' 2011 I! (t ~(f) ~It~~~ \It~ 'n the e!.-lassrooM Opinions vary on styles of teaching in the digital age by Hayley Desmond is very time-intensive, and often analyzing data, and to the multiple fixtures, as opposed to expendable Teenagers today have grown up non-intuitive," said Susan Brustein, media, such as sound, video and text, resources. fluent in the language of technology, Assistant Principal of Math, Science made available by technology. The The offices of the Borough while many members of previous and Technology. "Gathering resources, school received probeware, along President and city councilmen allocate generations find themselves lost in and learning how to teach in this new with three Smartboards, as a prize for these funds to schools of their choice. translation. way is very time intensive, but well winning the Intel School of Distinction This is one of the reasons · that the Smartboards and a multitude of worth the effort." Award for Science Excellence in 2008. school holds legislative lunches other gadgets abound in classrooms Mr. Tsai recognized the benefits "If technology can be used to showcasing the school's achievements that house tech-savvy students and of integrating technology into lessons, engage and complement, it can be and programs, such as the one that took educators who may or may not share saying, "Students many times are more effective," Mr. Scardino stated. place on May 20. their expertise. Embraced by some and technologically adept than teachers. We Some students expressed their Last school year, the $50,000 Harris shunned by others, this technology should be working with them or even support for the use of technology in the received went towards . refurbishing occupies a peculiar teaching them classroom. Room 434 with desktop computers. niche at Townsend If the teacher things they can Freshman Danielle Williams _The previous year, $110,000 helped Harris. 1 kn be using in jobs, enjoyed the videos and mock games refinish the television studio, and the "I don't think d oesn t ow even college." of Jeopardy! played in her classes. She year before that, $250,000 allowed technology just for ' He added commented, "You're not only learning, for the installation of the seemingly the sake of using it h ow t 0 work w h a t that technology but having fun while you're learning." omnipresent Smartboards. in place of an equally they're working can help_ by "In our Linguistics class, I take all Some members of the community effective tool or allow1ng my notes on the computer and it makes evinced a sense of apprehension about method makes any with it doesn't students to it much easier," Jillian said. such widespread use of technology in sense," said Franco ' • , answerquestions. Junior Marcin Rozcowski education. Scardino, social benefit us. in a different disagreed. He commented, "I like "When it comes to students having studies teacher, citing -Jillian Panagakos, way. He said, "If copying notes from the board with the their own, there's always people who theexampleofdrawing they're not ready teacher rather than a Powerpoint where will be doing what they're not supposed a simple graph, which freshman to give an answer a teacher isn't working with me. I think to be," Danielle said. "It's kind of your illustrates the same verbally, maybe old-fashioned teaching sinks in more." own responsibility." concept whether they can do it Marcin continued, "We could use "My concern is where it becomes it is drawn on a with a clicker." the money for paper, firstly. We can a disguise for rote learning," said Smartboard or a chalkboard. He added, Mr. Tsai also noted technology's fund more extracurriculars, .improve Mr. Scardino, noting. that he prefers "For me, [technology] has been more capacity for displaying visual models. the art department, make the school the Socratic method to Powerpoint valuable in planning my lessons." Ms. Brustein echoed this sentiment, more aesthetically pleasing." presentations. "It's very disrupting to learning instancing a video available on Youtube This statement reflects a concern Language teacher Silvio Martinez when you are depending on technology demonstrating the inner workings of common in the student body: that the also expressed concern, saying, and it's not working," Stephen Mazza, cellular biology. She noted, "Using school chooses to spend money on "As for education, I wonder if the math teacher, said. Students in his AP technology in the classroom can open Smartboards and other technology DOE [Department .of Education] is Statistics class related a phenomenon up instruction by including a myriad of when there are shortages of paper and unwittingly fomenting this virtual, they call "Disco Stat," which occurs resources that make instruction more staff, among other things. However, the nowhere world by packing the when sunlight interferes with the Elmo dynamic, and can always be current, funding that pays for such equipment, classrooms with techno-gadgets, by document camera, causing the screen unlike printed texts." called Resolution A or "Reso A" imposing on the impressionable young to reflect light in a manner similar to a She also referred to probeware, funding, is granted under the provision the banner 'Technology or Bust."' disco ball. which assists in collecting and that it must be used for permanent "My own experience has been that it's a crapshoot with technology .. in lessons," Mr. Scardino continued. Substitute Teacher? "You're either going to roll a seven or editorial cartoon by Edward Farquharson not." Nicholas Lupo, senior, commented, ~~--,.. "For those who know how to use it... I ~ think its helpful, but I feel the majority -~ ~. ~ ·· . . ...,...... , :.···d .. ..: ..= of teachers don't, so it's just sitting ~ ,, .c..p ; .~ ·. \ ·- there not being used." "If the teacher doesn't know how Po AI~ ¥ .--·· to work what they're working with, - ~ it doesn't benefit us," said Jillian ..,.....,..---. Panagakos, freshman. ·--...--- - -· "Sometimes the Smartboards don't ---- work, but it's probably just teachers not knowing how to do it," remarked Hannah Morse, sophomore. "They should really become more familiarized with it." John Tsai, physics teacher and technology coordinator, advised teachers faced with unexpected technological issues to try to solve the problem in 30 seconds, and, if unsuccessful, give students another task. He also recommended performing a dry run of the feature involving technology beforehand, to ensure it works properly in the classroom. \"For those of us who are non nati~e users, learning how to 1 implement technology in the chtssrO'om ·1· ,. ,. j j ~ ( J 1 •J lj l' t 1,J J J - ... I t;, I ' # '/ A E artSle1z te·r latl'tnzetzl In King Lear, sparse production proves powerful by Hayley Desmond control to create tension. Enemies Brooklyn Academy of Music has mirror one another's footsteps in tom King Lear from the pages and silence. On multiple occasions, enlivened it in a poignant amalgamation characters stop shouting only to of grief, understated aesthetics and make heavy, ominous statements in phenomenal acting. subdued voices. The actors step softly Sir Derek Jacobi plays King Lear, most of the time, but know when to the aging ruler of Britain and father drop their body weight onto the stage to three daughters, amongst whom through their heels, creating loud he divides his kingdom as he resigns footfall during swordfights and other himself to senescence. As issues oflove struggles. and insidious intentions complicate Even without words or sounds the lives of those around him, Lear does the cast develop relationships feels the effects of old age and seeks a between characters. The actors use comfortable place to endure them, only body language and physical contact, to discover that he cannot be assured of or lack thereof, to show the various his relations with anyone. levels of intimacy at play. When Sir Derek Jacobi embodies King Lear. Jacobi's Lear is almost unbearably Goneril (Gina McKee) emerges to tragic in his portrayal of the mental persuade Lear to change his lifestyle, of simple stage effects more than stand across from one another, changes that come with aging. He is he goes to embrace her, but stops short. compensates for the minimalist set goading each other on until they clash at times a king, and at times a large, Two allies join hands in the face of and props. The set consists only of in the middle. Conflicts often take bearded toddler. He powerfully defends their enemy, but later as rivals, do not panels covered with the same pattern place in the center, with uninvolved his right to be attended by a hundred break eye contact as they listen to other of neutral colors. Occasionally chairs, characters lingering at the outskirts soldiers. He arranges his jester and a characters speak. swords and a blanket are used, but of the stage. Symmetry, seen when beggar on stage like dolls at a make otherwise the success of the play Lear's two primary protectors join believe tea party. Some characters To simply read King Lear, depends on the actors and stage hands while standing on either side of revere his will and status. Others tug however, when one can see effects. Faint sounds, such as raging him, adds to the aesthetic beauty of the him across the stage against his will it performed, is an injustice winds and the distant beat of the performance. like an unruly child. drums of war, enhance the moods Dialogue is, of course, the bread Shortly after arguing powerfully to the work." set by the dialogue. The cycles of and butter of a play. To simply read and rather articulately with his lighting, from dim to bright and back King Lear, however, when one can daughter, Lear, on the verge of again, match the cycles of passing see it performed, is an injustice to the blubbering, demands his Fool, and There are simply too many cast days and help to develop atmospheres work. One reader's imagination cannot celebrates with whimsical giggling members in King Lear to enumerate appropriate to the scenes. Spotlights possibly conjure all the elements and dancing when he arrives. As he all of their individual talents, but they direct the attention of the audience of Brooklyn Academy of Music's vacillates between explosive anger and indeed all possess exceptional skills. to characters making important production, the products of the effort of frustration akin to that of an indignant Ron Cook deserves special mention for proclamations. Performers cast tall so many different minds. The richness child, Jacobi's tone masterfully jumps his physicality and gestures in his role shadows during disagreements in the of voices, the movements, the effects from authoritative and gritty to helpless as the Fool, which augment the comedy glow of lanterns. All of these elements and countless other aspects inspire and distraught. His voice hits painfully of Shakespeare's words. Interspersed come together to create an enthralling heartache that words alone never high pitches when Lear finds himself in jokes and humorous deliveries of production, which is made all the more could. desperate straits, suddenly becoming lines, from the Fool as well as other impressive by its reliance on the cast King Lear, directed by Michael shrill when his emotions get the best of characters, serve as reprieves from the and subtle effects. Grandage, runs through June 5. Get him. otherwise tragic mood. The performers take advantage of your tickets, and bring plenty of Although there are many booming Ample credit is also due to sound the open stage, whose lack of furniture tissues. exchanges in the play, cast members also designer Adam Cork and lighting and p~ps allows them to assemble in know how to use silence and volume designer Neil Austin, whose use a variety of ways. Opposing characters Fast Five: terribly hilarious and hilariously terrible by Max Bachhuber filtered to make it seem more dynamic, and physical that this movie exhibits. car that can just bash through a thick Nobody has any right to expect and the shiny-things approach is very Cars are crushed like soda cans and concrete wall. Fast Five to be good; there's little to effective. Almost every character kills every billed cast member somehow Every problem in the film is inspire confidence when you look somebody over the course of the movie, lives through it. It's not so much the eventually solved by an incredible, at the facts. A film reaching beyond which makes it impossible to find either destination as it is the journey, and script-based contrivance. Can't beat the fourth in a franchise is a dubious a protagonist or an antagonist. this journey involves an implausible a powerful thug to get his enhanced honor this one shares with Battle for To sum up the razor-thin plot, Vin amount of drag racing. car? Beat him off-screen. Looking for the Planet ofthe Apes, Son ofGodzilla, Diesel, Jordana Brewster, and Paul The sc.ene perhaps most indicative a chip with valuable information on it? and most James Bond movies. It stars Walker are on the run from federal ofthis comes when the team is planning Stumble upon it by accident. These dei Vin Diesel and Dwayne "The Rock" agents, escaping to Brazil and bringing its heist, ex machina may seem Johnson, the latter having about the with them a team coincidentally which It's not so much the cheap, but nobody acting talent of his namesake. There is composed of all-star actors to fulfill must take buys a ticket to Fast a scene in which lingerie-clad women the requisite "one last job." Dwayne place in destination as it is Five looking for a are stacking money in a warehouse for Johnson travels to Brazil with a team a police the journey, and cerebral dissection of no reason, and it feels entirely organic. of nondescript, threatening men and precinct the morality of racing. You now know what kind of movie recruits the one incorruptible female because this journey involves They're looking for we're dealing with. Brazilian officer as his aide. I didn't that makes chest-pounding action Despite all ofthese horrible omens, think tokenism was possible in a movie it far more an impausible amount sometimes interrupted Fast Five is shockingly good for a with such a multicultural cast, but here dramatic. of drag racing." by punching and popcorn movie. At over two hours, we are. T h e meaningful glares. it miraculously never slows down or The paint-by-numbers story characters build a massive diorama of This movie is . the new exploitation feels overly long. It's a long shot, but predictably culminates in a team-up the area they need to drive through, film, replacing racial stereotypes with it feels like this movie was designed against the Brazilian drug lord our and practice incessantly to beat the booming music and plastic one-liners. to be a massive chunk of action, to kill "heroes" are trying to steal from, but the numerous security cameras, but fail Fast Five is somehow both current and an afternoon with mindless cars and generic qualities are covered up by the every time. The writers solve this timeless; insane action never goes out shoot-outs. Every scene of the movie is utter disregard for laws both Brazilian problem by eventually giving them a of style. ------feature ..;
April-May 2011 The Food Chronicles Vegetarian, Chinese, Kosher in Flushing by Tracey Wang Perhaps the term "authentic" is something of a misnomer when describing a vegetarian restaurant that prides itself on mimicking the taste and texture of meat without actually using real meat. But in any case, Happy Buddha is an authentic ' vegetarian restaurant that serves the next best thing for those who do not eat meat. The quiet atmosphere and the friendly service are more than enough reasons to dine at Happy Buddha, but the food simply cannot be topped. There are so many options for appetizers and entrees that it seems like it's a life and death decision when the waitress asks, "What would you like?" But don't worry, because every thing ~n the menu is delicious. Not only does Happy Buddha serve "veg" meat, but they also serve "veg" fish - that is, tofu made to taste and look like meat and fish but are also completely vegetarian friendly. People often joke about fake meat (tofurkey is a frequent punch line every Thanksgiving), but it is actually quite tasty. The chicken noodle soup is considered a house special, and right fully so. While all the "chicken" in SEND this soup is some variation of tofu, it is seasoned in a way that makes it taste like -esstul to(ia:y w - actual chicken. But it's better, because no animals were killed in the process. My personal favorites are the steamed vegetable dumplings and the taro cake. Delectable yet satisfying, they make the perfect appetizers for two or even three To~ayt~ -ll~ard t&e ntO~ title :Th;~n~~ Pal} ~lliart~" ,and thought it people. The steamed vegetable dumplings are served in a traditional wooden con w~s al)o~ ~onkw9~ !fs ~~ut ~potgaQ. . .Mf?III{ , ' .-;./~ ::· . - , ' .. '• '~_, ' tainer, typically used for dim sum, and with a side of soy sauce. They may seem •; '-v'' ;•J~ -·''' ~~ •' 'I; . small, but those dumplings are filled with every assortment of vegetables possible. I pse.si to sj~g ~.,afong t$) plY favorj.te bands .. Now.l sing Latin While Happy Buddha does accept reservations, the restaurant is never so de~lensions ; and tbe quadratic equation. MLIT. crowded that you can't get a table. Actually, most of the time that I've been there, the place is just about half empty. But don't let that be an indication for the quality Today, some friends and I were sitting in the library. One pointed of its food. I find this to be quite nice, because there's none of that loud restaurant out that "senioritis" is a misnomer, because technically, it means chatter, and the. food always arrives sooner than expected. "inflammation of the senior." Another suggested that seniors actu It's shocking to see how affordable everything is once you receive'the bill. ally suffer from some sort of atrophy. I thought awhile and came Granted, it's more than if you had gone to McDonald's for lunch, but dining at up with a new term: senior psychosomatic atrophy. The first then Happy Buddha will satisfy your hunger and benefit your health. Every dish is whipped up the acronym SPA, and the second quickly suggested stocked with fresh vegetables and your body will thank you for having eaten it. If that's not enough to convince you, Happy Buddha was awarded the "Finest that our school set up SPA treatments for seniors. MLIT. Restaurant of Flushing" in 2006,2007,2008, and 2009 by the Zagat Guide. Today, I found out I have too many demerits to go to prom. I Rating: hope Ms. Nix accepts my application for detention. MLIT. Today, Mr. Owens returned to school after being out for a couple of days. He showed us a doctor's note to prove that his absence Happy Bud Holding Doors at Townsend Harris High School ·. ,.. Richard Bonilla · I q HOURS J,ATlR••• )o )I v 10 T~€tassic April-May 2011 •• I Malcontents fuses Inusic, art, literature, pizza ~ by Sara Clemente and Sara Feinstein "The members have a lot of Malcontent (n) - a person who is input about what happens in the dissatisfied and rebellious. club," commented sophomore John Members of the Malcontents lndergaard, about the process of club take this definition . to heart, deciding what places to visit. After describing themselves as "dissatisfied viewing the exhibits, the Malcontents and rebellious against the established dedicate time to expressing their f.; system." At meetings, however, the club opinions on the art through any form ~;:; does far more than plot the downfall of they choose. C> u the establishment. "Everybody does kind of different ~ C> With the guidance of English things. We have writers, artists, ~ teacher and advisor Rafal Olechowski, photographers and even musicians, the Malcontents meet every Wednesday everybody responds to the art in to experience and discuss all kinds different ways," John continued. of art, in addition to planning trips to Before parting ways, the club museums, sculpting centers, and other adheres to a tradition of discussing art-related places. Club members try each event over pizza. Members sit Malcontents sketch one of Ursula von Rydingsvard s cedar wood to find creative ways of expression around a large table to talk about their sculptures at Long Island City Sculpture Center. and communication through music, experience. art, and literature, the three fields "This club is a lot more relaxed from which they draw the "MAL" in than any other, and we have a lot more "Malcontents." creative freedom, and can easily have Sophomore Denisse Hernandez an intellectual conver~ation while Reflection: said, "No other club goes to such cool eating some pizza," said junior Max places, and is exposed to as much Bachhuber. "We also have really Edward Hopper exhibits American dreams culture as we are. Plus, we'd be nothing supportive leaders, Mr. 0, Marissa Although Hopper'~ without Mr. 0." She added, "Even if [Shieh], and Deborah [Yu], which The Malcontents visit various events works are primarily from we read a literature book or something, allows us to do things like this all the and exhibits, and·then review them. the early part of the 18tll it's different than doing it for school, time." This is a reaction to a coHection en century, it feels like they because in Malcontents we read Additionally, the Malcontents tided "Modem Life: Edward Hopper were finished yesterday. completely for our own satisfaction and discuss types ofcreative reflections they and his Time:· which was on exhibit While looking at a particula1 we see it through a philosophical lens, can write on each of their experiences, at the Whitney Museum of American painting, I noted to a friend mainly because of Mr. 0., [who] helps in preparation for creating their own Art until mid-April. that it was quiet and warm: us see the ingenuity and brilliance of magazine. This compilation will enable there were many shops, anc the work and writer." others to take part in Malcontents' one of those red, white an ~;:; York Interior there is a pale woman paintings hold a particular set of < 8 undressing in her apartment and "thousand words" that tell a story we ~ C> you can feel the strangeness of are all familiar with- the progressior ~ it- staring at someone that is in the of people and their emotions bU1 privacy of their own home going also their stagnant settings tha1 about their daily routine. However, don't change. He shows us that thf the way he depicts her makes you progression of life is through thf Club members dine and discuss their impressions ofthe exhibit. feel unbalanced or offbecause of the stories we make, not the things tha1 ··' ~ P.~l~I]-y~s . ~4 fragility of her boay. . , ·. change. around.us . . ~ ' ..; J c ' ' 1 •• ) l I I (' h I I I l (· \ l . •.I~~-4'LL. .~L ______news 11 ,T1te -~ Senior• self-defense class fights• verbal abuse.April-May 4011 by Demetra Panagiotopoulos had a bad experience," Ms. Biener which Ms. Biener has taught bits of in seventh band, when more senior girls It may have disappointed those said. "An adult male was harassing her the past. "But [Ms. Biener was telling are free." She added, "I would do it hoping for a karate lesson, but English in class, tried to kiss her." us] things like, 'If somebody asks you some more, if there was interest." teacher Judy Biener's self-defense class "It's an ongoing problem," she the time, say you don't have it and walk Whether they attend the class or on April 12 taught senior girls another continued, "even for boys, although away' ... I don't think I could do that." not, Ms. Biener insisted, "Everybody critical skill. "It was not a physical I do think girls suffer from it more." Saadia added, "[She spoke about] how should take a self-defense course." self-defense class," Ms. Biener said. Part of the problem, she asserted, is we're trained to be nice." "I tliink every young woman has a "It was a verbal self-defense class." that "women were not story about being harassed, "I've done self-defense for years," taught how to deal with unfortunately," she said. "I she explained. "There are lots ofways to it. In fact, they were Ms. Diener will be hosting another self- had things said to me . . . assert boundaries. Using your voice told the opposite-to defense class on June 1; girls from all grades unwanted attention ... less it's not easy. It's something you have smile, and laugh, and are welcome attend. Also, during Week now, now that I'm older, to practice; it's a skill." She added that not be unpleasant or to and because of the way I teaching girls to verbally rather than do anything that could of Women, seniors Rana. Abdelhamid a-nd carry myself. I do my best physically repel unwanted attention get them called the Aquib Yaoob will be teaching self-defense to look mean." is "more practical. I can't really teach 'B-word.' I remember classes open to everyone during lunch "All girls should thinks anyone self-defense-! can't say, after being younger and not about this," Ms. Biener a few days, you know, you're qualified! knowing how to say, bands. said. "It's never the girl's You're a blackbelt!" 'I don't want to talk to fault if the guy is being a In the past, Ms. Biener has opened you."' jerk." self-defense classes to students Senior Saadia For more information regardless ofgrade or gender. However, Rashid attended the class. "I thought it Students interested in future classes on abuse and abusive relationships, this most recent one was limited to was pretty good," she said, though she should keep their ears open. "I'd like to Ms. Biener suggests visiting www. senior girls, following an incident on added that she had expected to learn [have another class soon]," Ms. Biener loveisrespect.org. the Queens College campus. "A senior something in the way of martial arts, said, "on a Wednesday or Friday, Faculty and seniors adapt to new surroundings (continued from Page 4) very far beyond the senior class. Social Studies teacher and Senior The status of the office that Dr. some getting used to. I see some "Something happened on the third Advisor, first heard about the plan "the Steinmann vacated is uncertain. Math people have already made themselves floor?" replied one sophomore, taken week before the break." teacher and Coordinator of Student comfortable," she added with a smile, aback. "I asked [Principal Bonamo] when Activities (COSA) Aleeza Widman nodding towards a senior splayed The changes, said Ms. Solomon, I first got appointed [Senior Advisor said, "I'm assuming it'll be used for across a sofa. were not "anyone's decision in two years ago] .. .'Could I be on the 3rd COSA. That's how it was until last "I was really happy that Mr. [John] particular." floor?' ... I was told that there wasn't year." Tsai [Physics teacher and Technology "I talked to Ms. [Ellen] Fee any room," she recalled. "It's 'common "I think it'll be a nice thing if coordinator] was able to set [the [(Assistant Principal of Organization, sense that the senior advisor should be underclassmen feel more .comfortable computers] up so quickly," said Ms. Health, and Physical Education)] and near the seniors." coming in," Ms. Widman remarked. Solomon, "the College Office was only Principal [Kenneth] Bonamo about "The whole outer office [of334] is "Not that the seniors aren't welcoming, down for 24 hours." it, and we talked to some other staff going to be for seniors. It's great. Much but, I think, underclassmen come in Many seniors have been shaking members about it to firm it up," she better than this," she said, gesturing to and they're like, 'Oh, this is the senior their heads, enunciating the most oft recalled, emphasizing that the goal was the outer COSA office, which teemed, office?" echoed sentiment: "It's so weird." "to make it more efficient to work for as usual, with seniors. "I think that the staff members, "I don't like it," said senior the students, which is what we do." "Except for the food part," she in part, have been really great about Stephanie Gergoudis with an apologetic Principal Bonamo confirmed that ceded. "You guys won't be able to moving," Principal Bonamo noted. smile. "I don't know, I was just thrown the change resulted from "a series of eat [upstairs]. And there are going to "It can sound overly dramatic, but it's off a bit.. .it'll take some getting used to. conversations I had with the counselors be computers in there . . . Of course, very difficult to move. You get attached Also, I liked it more before because it and the assistant principals." [current seniors] are only going to to spaces. I had to do it as a teacher .. was more convenient--our mailboxes "When we eliminated the position enjoy the last month of it...but [future .So I appreciate how people essentially were right next to our lockers." of college counselor and went to a ninth classes l are getting a much bigger went along with the plan." "I think it's just because it's just to twelfth grade counseling model, we space." "I hope that this year's seniors the beginning," said senior Rana kept the [College] Office there because She· also pointed out that the will see the .benefits in it," said Ms. Abdelhamid. Ms. [Antoinette] Teague was there on services offered by the College Office Solomon. "We did this as thoughtfully News of the move didn't spread a part-time basis," he said, referring will remain unchanged. "It's just the as we could so that it would be the best to Townsend · Harris' geography that's different," she said. that it could be for everybody-the College Advisor who Principal Bonamo stressed that the staff and the students." retired last year. "But "overall goal is to create more spaces Ms. Kendall first learned of the after doing the survey for seniors to be during the day." move "about two weeks before it in December... the He also highlighted the efficiency happened," from Ms. Solomon. feedback from both the of having what he called "one-stop "I was very unhappy at first. I seniors and staff was spopping for seniors" on the 3rd floor. didn't want to move," she said. "I liked that [having students Ms. Solomon pointed out that the my spot...I don't know [why they're advised by their separate conference room in Guidance, where doing this.] My guess would be that guidance counselors] some students spend their lunch bands, they want all the guidance people in was working well." is still available to students. "Anyone the same area." "Given the budget who needs it is very welcome to be "I don't think it'll impact the climate that we're in," in there," she said. Because of end effectiveness [of the College Office he went on, "it seemed of-year work, though, "we'll [soon] at work]," she continued, ')ust the unlikely that we would be locking it up .. .It'll be a little more atmosphere will be different. It's kind be able to keep the available [next year.]" of weird . . . I feel like I'm locked position of College While having staff and students behind this glass and I can see you Counselor. And even relocate in the middle of the school guys out there." if we did get another year may have dismayed many, "I liked my College Office," said g counselor, it would be Principal Bonamo said, "asking them Ms. Acquista. "I like it in there more. can we best use this workload, interviewing students and it work. I just hope you guys feel that ~ space?"' certifying graduates, coincides with the this is as comfortable to come in to as The college o:ffice•is.no ·longer. hosted in room 314,. · · Dr.'Lmdasteihniann, beginning and end of each year. it was there." pictured above. i > .. )I .., 12 news/feature The Classic April-May 2011 THE EPHEBIC OATH PROJ.ECT: A LOOK BACK Latest news Retired Marine Battalion Chief Ceremony unveils Captain Alfredo Fuentes poses with walkers at the first ever permanent memorial THHS/ Patriot Group Walk. (continued from Page 3) Harrisites walked despite the "The dedication ceremony worked out better than I could pouring rain in order to raise have ever imagined," said Aquib. "The day started very emo funds for the Patriot Group, tional, as expected, but ended in high spirit. The families were which was created to provide most grateful for all that was done in honor of their sons." He support for first responders. At added, "The dedication served as a closure to what was for some this walk, Fuentes commented, a 10-year struggle. It reassured in them that their sons, their fire fighters, and the sacrifice they made for our city would never be "The raindrops were like the forgotten." tears of my brothers looking Ms. Rizzuto said, "I'd like to thank our firefighters who risk down on them from above, their own lives every day, to protect us, our 343 brothers and smiling." This walk inspired their brave families, the entire Townsend Harris family, with a many entries of the official special thanks to Ms. [Ellen] Fee [Assistant Principal of Organi Ephebic Oath "Memory Book." zation] for the consistent support and caring she provided us over the years, Captain Fuentes and his family, Dave Arciere, all the unsung heroes -and there are several- and finally, our extraordi nary Ephebic Oath Team who, in the end, gave the project new FDNYfamily life and brought the entire memorial from dream to reality." 2007: members pose with some of the volunteers Fundraising concert who worked on the second walk to raise honors firefighters funds for the Patriot by Michael Sanchez brother, so it was special for Group. Music echoed through the me," said Anne. halls onAprilll as the Ephebic According to the Oath Project's kick-off concert performers, preparation for the went underway. concert was minimal. The concert, held in "What preparation?" 2008: the lobby, brought together asked senior Chelsey Pellot. English eacher Helen Rizzuto Townsend Harris musicians "I don't know if singing in the read letters from students who as they honored the lives of hallways during our free bands had participated in the first the 343 firefighters who were counts." killed during the September 11 "It was a little bit last {J walk to her sophomore classes, J] attacks. It also raised funds for minute," noted Kerry. the current class of 2011. After the permanent 9/11 memorial "Everything happened so fast, ..t::l~ one reading, several interested in the library. but it pulled together nicely." ~ students came up to her, one .s Performances ranged from Mollie said, "I had about .2 by one, adding to what would junior Mollie Galchus's cover two weeks to prepare. It was <:> ~ become the Ephebic Oath of The Beatles' "Blackbird" kind of short notice, so I had Wristbands inscribed Project. Thus the idea to create to senior Kerry McEnerney's to choose a song I already with "9/11 --- 343" were the permananent memorial was born. original song, "Not for Me." knew." sold to raise funds for the The first fundraisers to create the The audience joined in with The concert was a prelude project. permanent memorial and display case every song, and was especially to the Dedication Ceremony enthusiastic when the Special to the 343 firefighters on April in the library. Education class, under the 30. stage name Melvin and the "Do you know what the Bluenotes, sang "Wake Up real beauty of it is?" asked Ephebic Oath Walk volunteers Everybody." The surprise senior Alice Kim. "It's the fact gather together on April 25, finale was a YouTube video that we bring together kids while setting up the lunchroom set to the song ."Hero" by from whom we never expect • • for a brunch to follow the largest .2 ;:s Enrique Iglesias. It featured to hear such beautiful voices, 0 fundraiser for the project. Ms. t:l artist Michael Israel painting to stand in front of their peers, ~ ~ Rizzuto told stories of the brave a canvas of a firefighter or people who they never 0 men to her next class of English protecting a young girl. really associated with before N students, the class of2012, Audience members and perform. The concert was ~ inspiring another group to join in received snacks and a indeed for the 343 firefighters, t:;:s the efforts of the Ephebic Oath 8 complimentary CD. The CD, their family and friends, and .2 compiled by senior Elaiza the project... but it was a way team to reach its goal. <:> ~ Santos, features recordings to remind the school of this submitted by the students who project through music." performed at the concert. § The final fundraiser for the Many students were ~ impressed by the performances JJ project took place on April 11. ·~ ..t::l It involved the creation of an students gave. "It was a ~ wonderful commemoration ~ Ephebic Oath Project CD, which ~ of the brave men who risked ..!:; features the talents ofHarrisites .s from all grades and songs of their lives," said sophomore Constantine Bournias. "I had § various musical genres. <::> a great time." ~ Senior Jie Dou ~ ~ ~ - news 13 Ttre~etassic Players add modern twist·to Shakespeare April-May 2011 by Magdalena Grabos and Lory Martinez four main characters. A war In this year's spring play, the Townsend Harris has just ended, and Claudio, Players redefined the style of Shakespeare as they a returning soldier, falls in integrated modem hits into the classic production of love. with Hero and asks for Much Ado About Nothing on April 1 and 2. her hand in marriage. She After producing four consecutive musicals, agrees, and during the time Joe Canzoneri, English teacher and director of the in which they prepare for the annual play, decided to do a contemporary version wedding ,they decide to set up of the Shakespearean show. "It was budgetary, but Hero's cousin Beatrice and to tell you the truth, even if we'd had the money, I Claudio's friend Benedick, still would've done a Shakespeare play. I've done who both vow never to love musicals for the past four years, and each year it gets or be loved. As expected, bigger and bigger. It was hard to keep trying to top things don't go as planned the year before," he explained. and hilarity ensues. Senior Bryan Medina, who participated in From the sharp ~·;:: previous musical productions, played Dogberry comebacks made by the d\ in this year's show. He said, "There was definitely leads - senior Matthew ....:-~ -~ a lot less music. It was an interesting experience, Collins as Benedick and ~ ~ althoug~ it was hard to learn the language. For a high juniors Stephanie Gomerez -2 c school show, it was very professional, one that only (Friday) and Kyra Leeds ....: !:>.. Townsend Harris could do." (Saturday) as Beatrice - to This year's cast decided to add a modem twist the antics of the watchmen, to the Shakespearean play by opening the show with "It was a clever presentation "Love Like This" by Natasha Bedingfield and "King of the humor involved in . , 'd Semors Sean Casey, Manny Daring, and Freddy Millan Jr. celebrate a punchline. of Anything" by Sara Bareilles. Throughout the a Sh ak espearean p Iay, sat play, pop, hits like "Raise Your Glass" by Pink and junior Rebecca Enis. out. He said, "I was afraid "Innocent" by Taylor Swift followed the traditional Commenting on her one-night performance, that the audience wouldn't ·like it, wouldn't get the Shakespearean dialogue. Mr. Canzoneri said, "I Stephanie said, "There wasn't that same pressure Shakespearean dialogue. We just hoped that when stole my daughter's iPod and listened to pop music having a lead role but there was still that pressure to the songs came in the audience would recognize it as on the way to work. Some of the songs were also do your best." an attempt to tell the story in a new way." recommended by the cast." Kyra added, "It was a good experience because He continued, "The whole experience is very Audience member Aleksandra Grabos, junior, we helped each other, and we had equal rehearsal exciting. When you do a show like West Side Story or said, "Although I thought it would be a strange time. We had helped each other learn more about the 42"d Street, you know it's a good show. All you have arrangement with the modem music and the old character." to worry about is making sure it's done right. When language, I thought that it fit in very well, and the Lameesa Dhanani, sophomore, said, "The actors you're dealing with Shakespeare, the challenges are transitions were very natural." Katelyn Schob, really got their roles down well and the songs that completely different. It's a matter of seeing how it all freshman, added, "The incorporation of pop songs went along with the play made it more enjoyable. I comes together. If it does, it's pretty special, really made the play more lively and exciting." can't wait for next year." magical seeing it come together. I think it was the The Shakespearean comedy follows the lives of Mr. Canzoneri initially feared it wouldn't work most exciting and gratifying experience for me." Research students cross paths with President 'Do.ors' design by Geoffrey Yip where President Obama spoke, and only 15 won the For senior Kevin Most, being interviewed top prize. The three judges also ranked the projects in by President Barack Obama was just a matter the categories of biology, chemistry and physics. wins cover contest of luck; winning the competition was the real All eleven Science Research students worked on accomplishment. their projects during the summer. Otherwise they had a by Lory Martinez On March 29, at the New York Museum ofNatural lot of discretion in how they pursued their projects and After careful deliberation, representatives History, Kevin's project on optical diodes was one of were allowed choice of topic, location, and hours. from the Department of Education and the five placed in the front of the room, just a few feet Senior Karishma Ruparel worked at the School Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum away from the podium where President Obama made of Medicine at Mount Sinai, testing the effects of chose senior Leo Mancini's "Doors" design his speech. osmotic changes on lens shapes, with the goal of curing for the cover of the 2011-2012 Directory of The President asked Kevin to explain the science presbyopia and cataracts. This involved dissecting 67 the New York City High Schools. of his project, its relevance, and what college he was rabbit eyes and using Adobe Photoshop's ruler tool for "My design incorporates doors, which going to. "He was personable," Kevin commented. measurements down to the pixel. represent opportunity and new paths for "You still respect him, but you're not intimidated by Stephanie said that she worked for an average of incoming high school students," he said. him." 8 hours every day over the summer. Kevin said that Despite competing against more than "[President Obama] was more concerned with his research continued into September and October at 130 other submissions for first place, Leo what we had to say, and stressed clean, renewable ·Queens College. · was confident in his chances. "In terms of the energy. Most definitely humble," senior Stephanie After finishing their research, students tailored competition, I thought I had a solid chance of Gergoudis said. their papers and presentations to the rules and winning and I am thrilled that my design will Security was extremely tight. Students had to go requirements of each competition, including Siems, assist eighth graders around the city to choose through metal detectors this year, and Secret Service Intel, NYCSEF, JSHS, and Google. Science teacher a high school," he said. agents crowded the upper level, "talking into their Philip Porzio often met with students during their free His design was put up to a public, online sleeves," according to Kevin. Senior Linamarie Miller bands- sometimes multiple times a day- to work on vote in the final round of the competition, from April4 to 8. Leo's campaigning helped said that the Secret Servic~ agents told them, "If you the arguments and clarify the science. have a pen, or a pencil, or any stick-like object, put A lot of discretion was allowed. here as well. him gain nearly 8,000 online votes. it on the ground. Also, don't stick your hand in your "Sometimes I make a suggestion to a student, and they "To promote my design, I utilized pocket. If you want access to your cell phone, then say no, they like it the way it is, and I let him keep the social networking mid paper fliers, which I leave it out on the table." paper as it is," he said. distributed around the scbool," he said. Mayor Michael Bloomberg was also present at Stephanie said, "I thought it would be a great The win attracted the attention of the the event, but did not speak. learning experieqce. By doing these things you learn producers of news channel NYl 's "Queens Eleven students from the Science Research class how to express your thoughts and ideas articulately. Person of the Week" segment, which featured applied to the New York City Science and Engineering It's so important to not just be able to do the research, Leo working with Assistant Principal of Fair (NYCSEF), a citywide competition sponsored by but also to relate your findings. And it was fun!" Languages other than English, Lisa Mars. the New York City Department of Education and the As for the future of Science Research, Mr. Porzio "The NYl story was a great experience. City University of New York, where students vie for said, "The option of in-house research has been I extend my gratitude to the team at NY1 for the chance to be on a team that will represent New York done before with [science teacher Phillip] Jones as a their fantastic coverage," Leo said. City at Intel's International Science and Engineering mentor, but for the level of research required for these The design will be used for the directory Fair (ISEF). Most of the Harris students advanced to competitions, it's usually not enough. We do have and all other related materials for the 2011- this team. a fully functioning DNA laboratory, but we're still 2012 school year. Over 5,000 applied to NYCSEF. About 900 made working on improving our laboratories by applying . it to the preliminary rounds. 191 advanced to the finals for grants." - . fl:li ~... !!: \ ~ ., .. - .._ ..... 14 - The Classic April-May 2011 Latin tea111 cq111petes at Harvard Certamen by Magdalena Grabos and in terms of leisure." At the Caveat hostis: may the enemy competition, the teams received beware. the support of Peter Michelli, The Latin team competed in a Townsend Harris alumnus and national competition on April 2 at former Latin Club president, as Harvard University, in which each well as the support of the Alumni division was one spot away from Association, which funded the reaching the semi-finals. trip. Three teams represented Harris Teodora Maftei, sophomore, in the competition, one each for the was one ·of the novice team novice, intermediate and advanced members. She concluded, "It Latin levels. The competition drew 30 was a new experience for us that to 40 teams from all across the nation, we greatly enjoyed. Even though and all three Harris teams ranked we didn't win, our hard work tenth. Latin Club advisor and Classical paid off and it's something that ~ Languages teacher Jonathan Owens, we would like to do again." ~ who accompanied the teams to Boston, The Harvard Certamen was ~ il said, "At that level of competition, a one day trivia-based event ~ tenth place was remarkable." which tested knowledge of . 'c;> ~ Murari Aidasani, senior and various topics, such as Roman ~ president of Latin Club, said "I was history, mythology, culture, 8 particularly proud of the sophomores, and Latin grammar. The teams ~ who have had less than a year's were put in separate rooms and The team assembles after the Certamen in front of Harvard University's Sever Hall. ~ experience of the subject matter and buzzed in answers to questions racked up many points against tough in those fields. To prepare for Lisa Mars, Assistant Principal of the Harris teams toured the Boston Boston schools that specialize in the competition, Mr. Owens said, "We Languages other than English, who also area. Ms. Mars said, "We were able Latin." crammed a lot because there was a lot accompanied the students on the trip, to have a tour of the school, and the Murari added, "The questions of culture to know. Beforehand, we set stated, "We competed against private surrounding area in Cambridge, as well were hard and the competition was up a competition-style environment schools whose students have been as meet peers from around the country; tough. It was intimidating, not to and practiced to see how everyone studying Latin since the fifth grade, we had a wonderful time." Sam Akil, mention the already intimidating idea would do." while our students have been learning junior, added, "We [the team] really that we were at Harvard competing _ This was the first national it for one or two years. I am very proud bonded because of this trip and it was a for this. However, it was an all-around Certamen competition at Harvard in of how well our Latin students did." good experience." fun experience, in terms of academics which Townsend Harris participated. While they were not competing, Classical Greek stude.nts Latest Phoenix poetry reading perform in City Diohysia by Cafb:eriue Moskos supplements Japanese relief efforts Classical Oreek stud:em 1 1 1 t_ ••"' ) ' ,• l • r .'''.,'1} ~ ~ ~ ~f,i)_,l, 1,;~ ... ;. -)i .,: -J ) .t)JJ., ; :...-l.' ... ~ 'J ' .. . 1 ..,.. ·., '-" <: ~-"',.' ,f,r_. •, ) ..._ \l; , ;\•! " .. _:.•...... •· ··· -· ·: · ..; .., -··~-4 •·<-...-•1 ,l, ·-~~,....-..- ·~ ...... ~· v·l'..;"""';'-, '~ "' '-' •"··-···.•· ...... ";"'": . · •• • ...... I._, ·1s The Classic April-May 2011 • Boys' Volleyball team hits ceiling Athletes kick off the day by Joshua Solomon offensive star, could not get going Coming from playing in the gym with the low ceiling. Back could not with the highest ceiling in PSAL, the set up Ok as they had been doing the with morning soccer Boys' Varsity Volleyball team had entire season, which ruined the flow by Bimiki Theofanis to play its first round playoff game the team had created throughout the Wb;i;le many students can't stop complaining a'IDout gettiag u:p early for against Newcomers High School - in year. zero bland., soocer du'ID members plrov:e t<> be the exception. the gym with the lowest ceiling. The second game was closer, with Meeting every Frltiay momin:g at 7 AM in the gymnasillm, players of a~l The ceiling limited the team, the Hawks leading in the beginning. gentiers and gt:ad.es ,.micipa:te in friendly soccer rnatcnes. ThOllliP the clll'bt which finished with eight wins and Their mental errors and errors due is mostly members of the hloys~ soccer team, .every Hawks reflect on victories,, as Baseball and Softball seasons conclude by Welles Tanzer hard and have now won three games in seniors lined up for next year, including Catherine Villani. Genao said that·the The Boy's Baseball and Girls' a row." Solomon and Diakogeorgios, as well girls are "playing great team softball, Softball teams showed us all this spring The team's work ethic has resulted as Lyle Weston and Adam Boiardi. adding that she notices a correlation that the best teams are the ones with the in stellar pitching from sophomore The underclassmen, including Doyle, between cheering on her teammates most heart and desire to win. Despite Connor Doyle and junior Billy his fellow sophomore T.J. Ritter and and great results on the field. "When the fact that neither team is eligible for Diakogeorgios. In addition, everyone current freshmen Daniel Restifo and you cheer someone on, you give them the PSAL playoffs this season, each has in the lineup has become a better hitter Harry Quinn, also give the Hawks confidence, and put them into a positive played their best ball as the season is during this recent stretch, with junior reasons to believe that next year could mindset," she said. ending by defeating legitimate playoff Josh Solomon and Horowitz - who is lead to many great things, and among Many of the team's younger contenders, a testament to the overall eighth in the city in on-base percentage them; possibly a trip to the playoffs. players have also been improving, such improvement of the individual players, and second in walks - leading the way. The Girls' Softball team, which has as juoiors Kayla Taggart and Ariella as well as the teams. The team's outfield defense, completed its season, also had a rough Wagner. The Boys' team opened the season led by senior Tommie Sperrazza, is begmning, starting the season with two Villani noticed the devotion of with seven straight losses, but is now in continually improving. wins and nine losses. However, the Taggart, Wagner, and others on the a. groove, having won four of their last Due to the rain in recent days, the Lady Hawks bounced back in a big team, commenting that "future success six games. Senior Ben Horowitz, the last three games of the Hawks' season way, winning their last four games in will be dependent on the effort they unquestioned team' leader, said, "This have yet to be played. However, this is emphatic fashion. The team scored runs have, and hopefully contioue to put year we gotnffto a slow start and played unlikely to slow the team down. "With at will and limited its opponents with in." most of our toughest opponents early three games remaining, I feel that we solid pitching from freshman Bianca All the girls on the team greatly in the season. We lost multiple close can finish the season on a strong note Dilan. The team's offensive surge was enjoy and value the team experience, games early in the year and the losses and win our final divisional games," led with authority by seniors Kristen and Genao and Villani both feel this will were definitely frustrating. However, said Horowitz. Eggers, Milerbin Genao (who led the continue to enhance team chemistry we continued and still continue to work The team has a strong core of team with a .484 batting average), and going forward. > )I ... ~.harris Fencers advance throu Girls' Varsity pia by Daniel Restifo The Girls' Fencing team emerged from the regular season undefeated, sweeping rival Cardozo. The girls achieved most of the goals they had set, especially in making the citywide playoffs, which they have done every season since 2006. Both the epee and foil teams were invited- to compete with New York's best fencing teams at the City College ofNewYork. The epee team entered the playoffs ~0.. as the third seed with a match-up "& -- against LaGuardia, while the foil ~ ~ team was ranked seventh and matched ~ against the very competitive Brooklyn 8 .g' Tech, which has a nationally ranked ~ ;::: foilist. The Hawks were led by. their ~ three seniors, Helen Wu, Vivian Li and ~ Gabriela Campoverde, who were all "" ~ excited to demonstrate their skills in ~ their final appearance with the team. £ The foil team had a difficult match ~c ..s:: against Brooklyn Tech. Tech got off !:), to a quick start by winning the first bout, but in the second bout, Li got Senior Gabriela Campoverde lunges to strike her opponent as her coaches, Ms. Yan and Ms. Michlewitz, watch the action. ten touches, giving the Hawks a 10 to 5 lead. Harris lost the next few bouts, won 45 to 34, advancing them to the had lost 45 to 22. However, this was Ms. Yan was very proud of h{ but Wu fenced her best to keep the semi- finals for a match-up against the not reason for disappointment. fencers. "Although I knew we had match close. Then, down by twelve, second-ranked Brooklyn Tech. Harris had won second place and strong team, the epee squad exceede sophomore Kayla Ho got fifteen The semi-finals were not easy. everyone was very proud, especially my expectations - not only on th touches in her bout to regain the lead. The match went back and forth with Campoverde, the only senior epeeist. fencing strip, but also in teamwod With just two bouts left, Wu and constant lead changes. In the seventh "I am truly impressed with what sportsmanship and camaraderie," sh Li gave it their all, but fell short, losing bout, sophomore Margaret Jia got six we accomplished as a team this said. "This first-year team worke 45 touches to 36 touches. The foil team touches to give the Hawks a four touch season," she said, "I never thought that together and taught one another, an suffered a painful loss but remained to lead. From there, the girls would not our epee team would go all the way to it paid off. The girls were undefeate cheer and support the epee team. look back. Sophomore Fariha Hussain the city finals." But they were able to this season and took silver in the Cit There has been much emphasis on secured the victory with .one last lunge, and did exceptionally well against a Championships." On coaching th the epee team this year because it is the making the score 45 touches to 41 in team that has now won back-to-hack team she was once on, Ms. Yan saic first ever girls' epee team at Townsend favor of Harris, allowing the team to Girls' Fencing championships. "It's an honor and a privilege. It make Harris. "It was hectic at first," said advance to the finals. Former coach Debra Michlewitz, me want to push them and fence agai Campoverde. "Most of us switched At the beginning of the season, who was with the Hawks to provide myself." from a totally different weapon, but we Li said one of the team's goals was guidance, was overjoyed by their Harris will also have seve have come very far." With their hard to· "have the number one epee team." performance. "I saw beautiful fencing; people representing the school ~ work, the girls became quite proficient Here they were, with the opportunity to skillful, athletic, and clever. Just a the individuals on May 15. All c in the use of the epee. - make this come true. They came in as really wonderful display of great them qualified based upon individm They advanced to the epee finals underdogs against first-ranked Hunter. talent!" she said. statistics from the regular seasor versus Hunter, the number one ranked The girls weren't able to get off to a Katherine Yan, Harris alumna including Hussain, who is second i team in the city. Their journey strong start, losing most of their bouts. and former member of the 2000-2001 the category of touches with 144. began with a match against sixth In the last three bouts, they began to co-ed championship team, has now Wu said, "It was just a great wa seed LaGuardia, which the Hawks catch on, but after the final bout, Harris taken the reins from Ms. Michlewitz. to end the season!" Girls' Varsity Tennis tean1 slices into playoffs by Benjamin Horowitz 3-2 (team matches) victory against Forest Hills on of vertigo on the court, she did not back down frorr. After finishing the 2010 season with 3 wins and April 8. The Hawks went on to finish the regular her match. She followed up Lyo's victory with he1 9 losses and losing senior Jane Selegean, the team's season with 4 wins and 6losses. They earned a play own impressive match, winning 8 sets to 5. top player, the Girls' Varsity Tennis team didn't know in game against Bronx High School of Science on Unfortunately for the Hawks, Staten Islanc what to expect for 2011. May 6 that would qualify the team for the playoffs Tech's third singles and doubles teams proved to b{ Before the year began, the team received a if they won. very strong. They were able to win three consecutivt: welcome surprise and energy boost when former The Hawks were able to beat Bronx Science with matches and after trailing by two, Staten Island Ted coach Shari Basis decided to return to the team. She wins in the first and third singles match as well as finished the day with a 3-2 lead. After the match, had coached the team for 5 consecutive years leading first doubles. The Hawks had officially qualified for Burton regretted the team's loss but said she trul) into the 2008 season and was ready for another year the playoffs and now faced the difficult but exciting enjoyed her last tennis season. "I definitely think ow of Townsend Harris tennis. "I was excited to come match up against Staten Island Technical High School team had a great chance to win and it is unfortunatt: back, and I already knew some of the older girls on on May 10 at Staten Island Tech's home court. that we couldn't pull it through," she said. "For mt: the team very well," she said. "They were happy to Senior Helen Lyo, who was been the team's top personally, I had a lot of fun on the tennis team thi~ have a coach they knew and who had experience singles player for the duration of the season, proved year, and we all got along as a team." with tennis. I had a lovely group of girls who were that the Hawks were ready for the playoffs. She played . The team has many underclassmen returning considerate and tried very hard. They made it fun a smooth match and quickly beat her opponent 8-2. next year, and with strong coaching, they hope tc and easy to return to coaching the team." Senior Candace Burton, another one of the team's return to the playoffs again next year and advance The team got off to a tough start, losing its first leaders this year, represented the Hawks at second through the opening rounds. four matches - but turned its season around after a singles. Though Burton was experiencing symptoms · «:"Y.