THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY THE COUGAR CALL Est. 2008 Bringing the MKA Middle School news, sports, reviews, information, events and everything Cougars... A MONTHLY NEWSPAPER Vol. 1, Issue No. 4 - February/March 2009 New! Upcoming Events Winter Wonderland Dress code got you Students vs. Faculty Letters to the Editor Plan ahead with Look back at the chilly down? Basketball Game Recap Members of the Maggie Dancy’s guide season that is finally You’re not alone! See community respond to for a very busy April. giving way to spring. the survey. Aaron Stagoff-Belfort past Cougar Call Page 4 Photos by Megan Ross Page 11 gives a play-by-play issues. and Aaron Sterling. Need Advice? that will make you relive the game all over Page 2 Page 7 Staffers “Carl & Carla” again! offer thoughtful answers to your Page 12 questions. Page 9 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR the word “juice.” At first, Jude thought he Jude Stephen has been around for five short Harvey Juice had said “Jude,” but once he realized what years. For his entire life, George W. Bush has was happening, he retrieved food from the been president, ruling and reigning. For his A St. Petersburg five-year-old, Jude Stephen, kitchen; Jude poured juice and honey into entire life, people have been losing health recently saved his father’s life by cramming his Danny Stephen’s mouth, stuffed him with insurance and jobs to the government. dad’s mouth full of icing. cupcakes. Barack Obama has been around for 48 years. Danny Stephen, 43 years old, is a full-blown Stephen, who was diagnosed with diabetes 26 For his entire presidency—all of almost two diabetic. He lost his construction job in years ago and came out of his episode thanks months—there have been doubters and October. He says that the blood-sugar testing to his son’s awareness, says the five-year-old planners. strips he needs cost about a dollar each, and “knows [his] expressions when [his] sugar’s he has to check his blood four or five times a The United States of America, however, has low.” day every day because of his type of diabetes been around for 233 years. For her entire —so it costs approximately $400 per month to existence, the people have looked to the keep himself in shape. government to set themselves and their current predicaments, whatever they may be, Stephen was making an effort to cut down of right. the amount of test strips he uses in an effort to save money when he collapsed on a couch, But now, as President Obama so hopefully unconscious for ten hours, a few weeks ago. preached back on the campaign trail, is the time for change. Now, Obama needs you. Young Jude was the only person at home at When America cries out for juice, the people the time, and he tried to wake his father up at —and Obama—must reach out and make an dinnertime. But Danny Stephen was effort to pour in that honey. completely passed out. He couldn’t move or speak coherently. When his son attempted to ~Zoe Ferguson, Editor-in-Chief wake his dad up, Stephen said he mumbled News Channel 8 photo by Wally Patanow

Big Cool Words About LOVE by Michelle Custode 1. Affectionate- (adj.) readily feeling or showing tenderness 2. Devotion- (n.) love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause 3. Fidelity- (n.) faithfulness demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support 4. Fondness- (adj.) having an affection or liking for

sciencia, somniantas, integritas 1 THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR “'No homo'... But really, it's a coded way of around in the cafeteria. Even some people who to leave early to make sure kids don’t miss their saying, "I think being gay is bad," that you were enjoying the movie left. A while later I bus. may not even realize you’re sending. If you decided to go to the cafeteria. I wish I hadn’t, it Douglas Gertner haven’t heard this popular expression, well­­ was complete chaos, like WW3. I got out of there irst of all, you’re probably a faculty member as fast as I could, and boy was I glad when it was I would like to address your article entitled or administrator...” all over. I asked some people what they said about “Chanukah, Chanukah let the fun begin – or not?.” Why hasn't anyone reported this to a faculty movie night, and most of them said they only went The irst point I would like to make [is] about your member or administrator? to see their friends, so I guess we could have gone comment, “We Jews don’t care all too much about anywhere and they would all still come. To me, the Festival of Lights, how it last for eight days, or I have to say I have never read this that really doesn’t sound like a success. really any other aspects of this particular ‘special’ publication before‐‐not really sure why I did week besides the fact that it’s yet another excuse tonight‐‐but I found it terribly disturbing. I Miki Peiffer during this holiday season to receive chocolate.” thought the word tolerance was rather I disagree with Molly Peek on how much you need Zoe Ferguson, if all that you can think about when passe. Aren't we all about inclusion? No one a laptop in school. Ms. Zagariello (from the you think of Chanukah is getting chocolate, I may should just be tolerated‐‐implying we have computer department) and Nandita Shankar disagree with you, but I have to grant you your to put up with someone of different beliefs‐‐ (seventh grader) both think everyone should have personal opinion. However, when you claim that having no choice but to do so. Shouldn't we a laptop. Most middle schoolers type slower than “we Jews” all feel this way, I feel misrepresented rather be reaching out to include everyone of they can write by hand, so that the argument for and offended. Holidays can have different different beliefs, customs or sexual using a laptop for taking notes does not make any meanings to different Jews. For some, Chanukah orientation in our community to make all sense to me. may be about the miracle of the oil. For others, it feel welcome and validated? I have an eighth grade brother and I know for a might be just simply lighting a light in the We have families in our community‐‐children fact that he didn’t use a laptop in school until this darkness. For many, it’s about the pleasures of from same sex marriages, faculty with family year in eighth grade. I am in sixth grade and coming together with family. What’s clear is that of same sex partners. Being gay is a part of haven’t needed a laptop in school at all this year. holidays like Chanukah and Christmas and life and all the members of our community There have only been a couple of times where I Kwanzaa survive because people attach meaning should be included and treated with equal have had to bring home my pen drive to work on to them. If Chanukah were only about the respect. Guess I'll have to keep my eyes an assignment at home that I have started in chocolate, it would have died out long ago. open. Glad you wrote about it. school. Bringing in the pen drive back and forth The second point of yours that I would like to Kristen Weaver from home is much easier than bringing a laptop. address is how you describe the Maccabees. In Dance­ Brookside For me, especially with playing sports after your article, you state, “I’m dead serious. The Montclair Kimberley Academy school, I would worry about keeping track of and Maccabees mean nothing. For all we care, they’re [email protected] not losing an expensive laptop. no more real than the Tooth Fairy.”

I am shocked with the audacity of many of I know eventually I will need a laptop, but I don’t’ First of all, the Maccabees were a small band of your articles. In the January issue there think that until we start working on bigger and warriors who defeated the massive Greek army. were two articles where I saw you downing longer term projects, like the eighth grade science These are cold, hard facts. There is no speculation students that go to MKA. You generally project, that I will really need a laptop in school. about this. We know that they existed and we accused kids going to MKA of saying “no Dan Yanes know their great accomplishments. How can we homo.” Now I’m not saying I haven’t heard it compare them to the Tooth Fairy? Not only were said, but it’s deinitely a very small I am writing to comment on the article written by they real people, they also stood for something percentage of the school making these types Aaron about the middle school basketball teams. I larger than themselves. These brave warriors of remarks. You also said “If Hiroshima, with agree with Aaron, about using the same offense teach us that no matter what the odds, if you are whom we have fought terrible battles, can from the B team to the varsity team at the Upper righteous and you believe in your cause, you can respect racial diversity and honor human School was a great idea. By the time you go to the overcome any evil. rights, can not the well educated and highly high school after going to MKA at the middle I suggest that the next time you write something fortunate students of MKA do the same?” I school that play will work like clockwork. And it in the name of an entire group of people, you mean really, MKA is deinitely not that bad. I does work great with our type of team; we have think through the implications of what you’re wonder how you would react at Montclair speed and athleticism for it. However, having saying. more than one play can be very useful. In a game High. Leo Hentschker after using the same play the whole time, it’s easy Casey Hunter for the other team to memorize it, at least parts of Re: “Movie Night is ‘New’ to Another Crew,” it. So if you have another play you can switch it We appreciate your thoughts. If you would like January issue, page 4. I disagree completely up to keep the defense on their toes and to write a letter to the editor, please send an with Krissy; I was there, and movie night did uncomfortable. To have more than one play you email to [email protected]. We apologize in not look like it was a success. I’m no expert, need to have more practice time. And our team advance if we are unable to publish every letter, but I’m pretty sure at movie night, you’re does not practice every day of the week. In but space is limited. addition, our practices are at Brookside (MKA’s supposed to watch the movie. I do agree Special thanks go out to all of the 6th graders though about all the texting. elementary school). Because of this, we waste time waiting for the bus, waiting for everyone to who read and react to our articles. Thanks for I have no shame in saying that the second the settle down in the bus, then waiting for the bus to your support and feedback! cafeteria was open, everyone, other than get to Brookside. Finally, when we do get there, around eight people, went to text and talk we only have about 40 minutes because we have

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to keep repeating scenes, and a lot of times From left to right: Kendal B. (Titania), Madeline C. Behind the Scenes: we just had to do nothing while they igured (Helena), Halle M. (Hermia), Ian N. (Lysander) out cues and things like that. Also the dress A Midsummer Night’s rehearsal is my favorite part because you do everything as, like, the performance, but you Dream don't have the stress of the audience.” by Kaila Fleisig As stage manager, I have seen behind‐the‐ The 7th grade is putting on a play by scenes work. The crews are doing amazing Shakespeare called A Midsummer Night’s work. They are working on lights and sound Dream. The play takes place in the dark, and putting together the stage. It looks as if mysterious woods at night. We have been you suddenly walked into the woods; there rehearsing for a little over a month. I is real grass on the stage, and there are interviewed Kassandra Fotiadis, also known trees. as Peaseblossom. Kassie said that While I am working, it feels like everyone is “Peaseblossom is one of Titania’s fairies, really getting into the play. The costumes Photo by John Short and Peaseblossom does anything Titania are amazing, and they really describe the needs.” I also asked her how she thought the characters. Christian, the director, is really play was going. She said, “Tech was having fun and making the play ours. deinitely the hardest part because we had

TOP 10 LOVE SONGS (...and their corresponding candy companions) by Arianna Petillo

#10 “Seasons of Love” by the Cast of Rent Conversation Hearts #9 “Love Story” by Taylor Swift Chocolate Rose #8 “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz Heart Box with Chocolates #7 “Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis Peep Hearts #6 “Kiss From a Rose” by Seal Hershey Kisses Backstage: Closing Night Photos by Aaron Sterling #5 “All You Need is Love” by the Beatles Valentines Day M&M’s #4 “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” by KT Chocolate Cherries #3 “Crush by David” Archuleta Marshmallow Hearts #2 “Forever and Always” by Taylor Swift Cinnamon Imperials And last but not least… #1 “Beautiful” by James Blunt Chocolate Lips

sciencia, somniantas, integritas 3 THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY Calendar by Maggie Dancy

For more information about Susan G. Komen, visit the website:

4 sciencia, somniantas, integritas THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY environment. It is decorated for the holidays, and it is Caring for a Cause: engineered so the walls reduce sound, which is great for those clients with sensitive hearing. The staff includes professionals Helping Seniors Stay Active such as an activities director, a nutritionist, and nurses. by Kelsey O’Connor Volunteers also help at the center, including a few in our own MKA community. So if you have an interest, give Senior Montclair has its very own innovative center for the seniors in Care a call and make a difference in a senior’s life. our community: the non-profit Senior Care and Activities Center. Founded in 1978, the center is a place for senior Whether a person has Alzheimer’s or gets lonely at home, citizens to go during the day to avoid being home alone with Senior Care is a terrific organization. It improves and nothing to do. exercises the mind with crafts and outings. The organization also makes participation easy by providing transportation to This center provides activities and outings for its clients. They and from the center. Senior Care is a viable alternative to a have the opportunity to do crafts such as making potholders nursing home. Montclair’s adult daycare helps countless and flower pots. Some of the ladies also participated in individuals with success and is, all in all, a great organization. decorating hats. These crafts help them improve their motor skills which often decline with age. They attend local For more information, visit www.seniorcarecenter.org. performances, including those at MKA. They also enjoy dining at local restaurants and talking with other seniors Sources: about current events. -www.seniorcarecenter.org The center itself is a desirable place to be. Newly built in -Kristine O’Connor, Board Member 2005, it is a cheerful, bright 17,000-square-foot, welcoming There are also cool things to know about Valentine’s Day The Love Behind Valentine’s Day traditions that were initiated after Saint Valentine’s time. In by Kassandra Fotiadis and Michelle Custode the United States, Esther Howland was the first girl to write When you think of Valentine’s Day, what do you think of ? Valentine’s Day cards. Nowadays, Valentine’s Day is a Most people think of chocolates, flowers, and Valentine cards. tremendously commercial holiday, but most people would Though all this is thrilling, a lot of people don’t know the never guess that commercial Valentine’s Day cards began deeper meaning behind the holiday. In fact, a survey of 7th back in the 1800s. and 8th grade MKA students showed that more than 85% Now, on February 14th each year, we celebrate St. Valentine them don’t know the origin of Valentines Day. by giving the traditional gifts listed above. The custom of There are a few different stories about how the holiday was giving candies and flowers was started to honor Juno, the formed. A favorite account is the story of Saint Valentine, queen of Roman gods and goddesses. Another tradition is to which takes place in Ancient Roman times, who was ask people to be “Your Valentine.” As St. Valentine’s story punished because he didn’t want to give up Christianity. He says, this saying originated from his now-famous love note. was killed on February 14, 269 AD. It is told that he left a love Valentine’s Day is an entertaining holiday for all people from note for the warden’s daughter, with whom he had become young children to the elderly. From now on, when you’re close friends. He signed the note, “From Your Valentine.” celebrating Valentine’s Day, concentrate on the candy, cards, Even today, people still use the term “Your Valentine” or “My and love--but also remember St. Valentine and all the other Valentine.” people who contributed to creating one of the most looked- forward-to holidays in America.

CLOSE UP Wondering why your Cougar Call isn’t showing up in your Mrs. Elliot inbox? Of course you are! by Emily Greenberg To you she may just be the lady sitting at the We’re currently trying to work out a glitch with our email desk all day, but she is busy doing a lot of subscriptions. Thank you for being so patient. Until it is important things that are unrecognized by students. resolved, you can always find She presses the buzzer to open the door, takes the Cougar Call on the main calls from ALL three campuses, checks emails from teachers, checks all packages, sends Moodle page or try the emails to all staff, tells all visitors to sign in and shows them where to go, makes sure all following web address: http:// kids get sent home at the end of the day, www.mka.org/page.cfm?p=576. receives mail from ALL THREE CAMPUSES, and stuffs envelopes. Mrs. Elliot ...’Cause that’s how much we is always very busy and she deserves to be recognized for everything she does. love you! Here’s to you, Mrs. Elliot! Illustration by Krissy Bylancik sciencia, somniantas, integritas 5 THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY BOOK REVIEW But the subway is unpredictable and Latrella This January, Apple announced a new Review by Aaron Stagoff-Belfort doesn’t know where he will end up next. upgrade in the iLife suite. It included a major Backtracked started slow but I got pulled into update to iMovie. Although the user interface Backtracked by Pedro De Alcantara it right when Latrella was transported. I is for the most part unchanged, iMovie ‘09 is would give this book 8.5 out of 10. It was a incredibly easy to use. Many of the people Your brother died on 9/11, you’re unable to who disliked the interface of ‘08 probably live up to your family’s expectations and nice easy read that is appropriate for ages 9-13. I enjoyed the historical and scenic have yet to use the program for more than five teachers and your basketball coach alike hate minutes. you. Enter the life of Tommy Latrella. But aspects of Backtracked very much. It seemed his bland existence takes an exciting turn that Alcantara has a vast amount of When I first picked up iMovie ‘08 in the when he goes on a subway ride he will never knowledge about New York and the Subway summer of 2008, I found it incredibly easy to forget. System. use. And now that I have upgraded yet again to iMovie ‘09, I find this program to be even Backtracked by Pedro De Alcantara is a However, I thought that the protagonist in the story, Latrella, left something to be desired. more advanced, yet simpler to use than its Historical Fiction/Fantasy book that is about predecessor, iMovie ‘08. Tommy Anthony Latrella, an ordinary 14 His character did develop enormously but year old. He likes to hang out with his rich Latrella was not extremely interesting or As well as an upgraded user interface, iMovie friends Malfitano and Capra. He goes to realistic. Still it was fun to watch him 09 also adds the precious video effects and school and plays sports. Latrella also loves throughout his journey. I liked a lot of the animated titles that pushed so many users riding the subway. One night after riding the minor characters such as Alfie and Mickey, toward iMovie HD. These effects include train and tagging random places with spray who helped paint a startlingly accurate picture speed adjustments, color adjustments paint he comes home to an angry household. of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s in New York. (negative, black and white, etc.), and other His parents suspect that he has been up to While this story may not have been something miscellaneous video effects. The title something. After a fight with his dad he runs that Alcantara experienced himself, it seemed animations include bouncing titles, special fly- away mad at his father and angry about the like it was very well researched and was well in effects for titles, and other standard title constant pressure everyone puts on him to be written when talking about New York. animations. There is also a new feature called like his older brother, Jimmy, who died a hero video stabilization, which analyzes footage The impression this book left on me was rescuing people from the Twin Towers on and stabilizes so that the footage is no longer about the lives of New Yorkers throughout the 9/11. shaky. years and how hard it was to live back then. Latrella angrily goes to the subways where he The book itself was good but mostly when There are also two new features called themes pulls a stupid prank that goes very, very Alcantara was traveling through time. I and maps. With themes, you can choose a wrong. He stumbles into an abandoned would recommend it to others who are style that you would like to show your movie corridor and hits his head. Suddenly looking for a nice easy read that is interesting in, and iMovie automatically inserts special everything goes blank. And nothing will ever and fantasy-like, while actually giving you transitions to tie the project together. With be the same again. information about the past. If you are into maps, you can visually show the course of your trip using world maps. You input the Latrella finds himself transported to the Fantasy or Historical Fiction you will like this book. start point, end point, and any other locations height of WWI and the Influenza Epidemic of you visit, and iMovie creates a map with pins 1918. At first he is very disorientated but Backtracked is unlike any book I have on your locations and a line that traces your eventually learns to accept life as it is. He reviewed so far because it not only is about course every step of the way. This is perfect meets a young boy named Alfie and learns to fantasy and the made up of story of Latrella, for presentations of travel footage. hustle on the streets. Many people are hungry but the book gave me a history lesson in a and Latrella is starving for the first time. sincerely fun way. Latrella and Alfie move in with a kind Italian Alcantara is a young new author. This writer immigrant named Susanna who houses them may not be extremely well known but I think and gets them work as diggers building the he will become a major player in YA subways Latrella will one day ride. He learns Historical Fiction writing. I enjoyed how hard it was to live in the early 1900’s and Backtracked and hope to see more books from starts to see how precious his comfortable Pedro De Alcantara. existence really was. He experiences hardships that he had never dreamt of facing and that were the norm for his ancestors. TECH TIPS After a horrible tragedy he finds him thrown into the height of the Depression, in 1932. iMovie ’09 As you can see, iMovie ‘09 is one of the best He goes to live in a ramshackle town called and simplest video editing programs around, by Ryan Durando Hooverville, USA, which is situated in Central and it comes packed with many other top-of- Park. He begins a life of begging and in Last year, when Apple released iMovie ‘08, the-line applications to organize and present desperation joins the Mafia, which is in high they turned some heads ...right back to your life. Hopefully, the newest release of flight due to the Prohibition laws at the time. iMovie HD. Many people complained about these applications will help you to embrace Latrella turns out to be a stud in the Mafia but the user interface, as most people said that it the new iMovie, instead of turning your head when faced with murdering a man he runs was annoying and difficult to use. Many other away from it. away and barely escapes. This time he is complaints included the lack of video effects thrown into America during WWII. He For more information, visit http:// as well as animated titles. www.apple.com/ilife/imovie/. begins to understand how good his life is and longs to get back to see his parents and sister.

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SNOW DAY! photos by Megan Ross and Aaron Sterling

M.R. M.R.

M.R.

M.R.

A.S.

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divided into two separate groups. The older individually,” said Mr. Burroughs, “but groups MLK “Day On” children and adults went to the President’s of students can do even more than most by Aaron Stagoff-Belfort Room to watch a video about the 1963 individuals.” Mr. Burroughs, who is biracial, Birmingham children’s march. Meanwhile, added, “In a lot of ways, without people like Martin Luther King, Jr. was born January 15, the Brooksiders watched an age-appropriate him pushing the envelope, my parents would 1929. King is long dead, but his message lives video shown by senior Kelly Froelich and never have had the chance to get together.” on: help others and treat them like you would junior Suzanne Abuhadba, both members of want to be treated. Sixty years later, MKA The first MLK Day was a great start to an MKA’s Student Diversity Committee. did something special to honor the life and event that many hope becomes an MKA legacy of King by hosting the first ever MLK Then Diana London gave a presentation to tradition. Burroughs ended the “day on” by “day-on” ceremony. students and faculty about the March on inviting anyone who has ideas about the Washington and the Montclair Food Pantry. second MLK Day to email him. The people Most people don’t often think about Martin For a week, MKA students and faculty had who came together and contributed to this Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, and it just passes been donating cans of food to the pantry. event honored King’s message and legacy of by without significance. But this year, MKA Bags and bags of food lined the walls of serving others. “What a great day!" said parents and staff decided to make it a “day MKA, all to be donated to the fight against Burroughs; "I'm thankful to be part of such a on,” not a day off. The original creators of hunger in our community. At the end of the generous and active school community.” MLK Day were parents Susan Dunn and presentation, the Upper School Step Team Cindy Stagoff, teachers Sue Reiter, Brian performed, as well as singer Max Jefferson, a Kelly and Nate Burroughs, and the junior at the Upper School. Check out this link for pictures of the Headmaster of MKA, Thomas Nammack. event: http://www.mka.org/cf_news/ As the event picked up steam, many people “I have grown up with MLK in that I was five view.cfm?newsid=50 from PAMKA joined in to make MKA years old when he spoke in DC,” said history. Headmaster Nammack. “It has evolved from when we remembered his death to a day of January 15th was the big day. When you service. He has been an influence on my walked into the Penick lobby, about 150 definition of what it means to be an American people--adults and children--were chatting citizen.” Both Mr. Burroughs and Mr. and waiting for the event to begin. There was Nammack agree on what children can do to an air of uncertainty since the event had help their community in these difficult never taken place before. First, the people economic times. “It’s good to volunteer

Favorite Artists of February got into a bad car crash on the way home from the by Emily Greenberg recording studio. That inspired him to make his first single, “Through the Wire.” Kanye’s first album, College Kanye West Dropout, was released in February of 2004, and still ****************** remains one of his most popular albums. Britney Spears Other albums by Kanye West: ***** •Late Registration which was released August Jonas Brothers 30th, 2005 ******* •Graduation, which was released on September th Taylor Swift 11 , 2007 ************* •And his most recent album, 808s & Heartbreak, which was released on November Kanye West was born in Atlanta, 25th, 2008 Georgia on June 6th, 1977. Source Awards: 2004 His full name is Kanye Omari Grammy Awards: 2005, 2006 West. When he was three years World Music Awards 2006 old, his parents got divorced and Brit Awards 2006 he moved with his mom to MTV European Music Awards: 2006 Chicago, Illinois. Kanye attended Polaris High School in Sources: Oak Lawn, Illinois. He took art classes at the American http://www.123musicstars.com/music-stars/kanye- Academy of Art, an art school in Chicago. He also west.htm attended the Chicago State University, but later on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanye_west#Life_and_career dropped out because of bad grades, and he was too focused on his music career. On October 23rd, 2002, he

8 sciencia, somniantas, integritas THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY Dear Unloved, Carl & Carla Everyone goes through this at some point during his or her life. However, why are you saying that you’re sorry for liking him? You Advice for middle schoolers from middle schoolers. can’t control how you feel. If he’s not going to listen to you, then Dear Carl and Carla, what’s the point in even trying? If he’s the type of guy who doesn’t I think it’s a very odd rule that only 6th-8th graders can be on the newspaper. The care at all how you feel, then chances are that he’s not the right guy for incoming 4th graders are capable. Did you think Beethoven composed his pieces at you. Hang out with your friends and just move on. Maybe he needs a 252? No, he was about 4 years old! I think 4th graders should be able to join the little time to breathe. newspaper. After all, 4th graders are capable, not just meant to sit in a classroom. XOXO, Sincerely, Carl and Carla Nash F. Dear Nash, Dear Carl and Carla, I understand where you are coming from. By saying that 6th to 8th I have a big problem. I love my science teacher, but when I was staying after school, graders only can be on the newspaper, we don’t mean we believe that I heard a girl telling my science teacher that some people from the other class hate 4th and 5th graders are incapable of the workload. In fact, we believe her. When someone from that class heard the student saying that, they confronted that younger minds will have just as many creative ideas as those in that girl. Plus, everyone knows that I was there, and is asking me all these older grades. However, it’s very difficult for Mrs. Demaria to have so questions. I try to stay out of it, but I know the real story. What should I do? many students on the staff. Not only does it make the newspaper Help, unnecessarily long, but also, it’s hard to manage so many students. We Stuck in Science would love to have you on the staff, but it would be too difficult to manage. Why not try to make your own newspaper or literary Dear Stuck in Science, magazine for the younger grades? I’m sure a lot of people would Wow, that’s a tough situation. We think it’s great that you’re trying to really love your idea and would jump at the chance to join. Sorry! stay out of it. When people ask you questions, say that you were there, but don’t give any information. All you have to say, “It is none of my XOXO, business, and it’s not yours either.” People will respect you for that. Carl and Carla Try to distance yourself, and forget about it. Soon the whole ordeal will blow over. Good luck. Dear Carl and Carla, XOXO, I have a problem. I like this guy, but I’m not sure if he likes me back. We talk a lot, and we’re pretty good friends, but he is never the one to start the conversation. I Carl and Carla just don’t know if I’m wasting my time… Could you help me? Are you in a sticky situation? Have a problem? Thanks, Unrealistic Romantic Need advice? Look no further! Dear Unrealistic Romantic, I think that it’s really smart of you to talk to him as a friend before rushing into anything. Communication is key, and you definitely Ask Carl and Carla! followed that rule. Don’t worry about Valentine’s Day or when you should ask him out. Take it slowly. I’m sure he will get more comfortable around you and strike up the conversation more often. If it doesn’t work out, you’ll know that you will always have a friend by your side. Good luck with everything! XOXO, Carl and Carla

Dear Carl and Carla, Send your questions to [email protected]. I really like someone and I told him, but now he hates me and won’t listen to me anymore when I tell him I’m sorry. What should I do? Please be sure to write Carl/Carla in the subject line! Help, Unloved

MKA Hockey photos by Megan Ross sciencia, somniantas, integritas 9 THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY According to martinlutherking.org, King nearby buildings “the Martin Luther King, Jr. Martin Luther King, Jr. visited the Gandhi family in India in 1959. National Historic Site”. His assassination This trip deeply influenced King’s outlook on prompted the Martin Luther King, Jr. A Man to Remember life and how his ideas should be National Memorial in the National Mall. He by Danielle Charpentier communicated. He began to see that violence was the first non- president and African- Snow swiftly drifts down from the serene sky, wasn’t going to help the blacks’ situation in American to even be commemorated in such forming a silky blanket of white. Red roses are America. A non-violent approach, like a way. Also, his wife established the King wrapped with feathery, magenta confectionery Gandhi’s, would be much more affective. Center in Atlanta where she and several other paper. Dark chocolate and succulent King began to deliver his ideas. He was family members supported his vision. strawberries are bought in gold, glossy Godiva awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, as the Martin Luther King, Jr. was an inspirational boxes, and gushy, romantic movies are hitting youngest recipient, in 1964 after his “Letter man. He led with perseverance, faith, and the theaters. February is here, and Valentine’s from Birmingham Jail”. After Rosa Parks was determination, the idea that blacks are equal Day is in the midst. However, let’s not forget arrested for not giving up her bus seat to a to whites, that women are equal to men, that one of the key aspects of the cold month of white man, King led the Montgomery Bus LGBTQ people are equal to heterosexuals. February, Black History Month. Black History Boycott. His house was bombed and he was Thanks to him, black boys and girls can race Month is a time for remembering all the arrested; nevertheless, all racial segregation in on playgrounds with whites. Blacks have the inspirational men and women who have Montgomery public buses was abolished. In same job opportunities, voting rights, and dedicated their lives to the rights of all. 1958, King was signing copies of his insurance. Today, color does not matter. Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Frederick book, Strive Toward Freedom, when he was Martin Luther King, Jr. is considered a Douglas, and Abraham Lincoln were all stabbed in the chest by a deranged black human rights icon, and his legacy has been revolutionary leaders who fought for what woman. He narrowly escaped death, and that passed on for generations. they believed in. However, one of the incident inspired his speech, “I Have Been to Today, Martin Luther King Day is observed primary leaders was Martin Luther King, Jr, a the Mountaintop”. His ideas led to the Civil on the third Monday of January, this year man never to be forgotten. Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act. falling upon the 19th. Though, it’s not a part According to martinlutherking.org, Martin In the Birmingham Campaign and the of Black History Month, he is well- Luther King, Jr. was born on January 15, Albany Movement, he arranged a series of sit- recognized during February. At MKA it’s 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1948, King went ins and marches. In the March on crucial to recognize some of the important to Morehouse College at age fifteen and Washington, 1963, King delivered his famous members who have shaped our country into received a Bachelor’s Degree in sociology. In “I Have a Dream” speech, which galvanized what it is today. Without King, life would be 1953 he married Coretta Scot and had four the audience. Later in 1966 he visited the very different at MKA. To keep his legacy children. He finally became a pastor in the slums in Chicago and lived there, to show thriving, all students should strive to do what Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Alabama empathy towards the poor, not only to blacks they can. Equality doesn’t only mean when he was 25 years old. but whites too. between races, religions, or sexualities. It can At that time, blacks and whites could never be King was finally assassinated in the Lorraine also be between classes, and in school those together as one. Benches on the sidewalks, Motel in Memphis, 1968. Robert Kennedy, different “classes” are apparent. So, stick up restaurants, places of worship, gyms, movie Lyndon B. Johnson, Hubert Humphrey all for a friend who might be made fun of theaters, schools, and even water fountains mourned for the loss of King. They because of the shoes she wears, her hairstyle, were all segregated. Black men and women encouraged all to pursue equality in their her accent, her braces. Don’t forget about were considered a disgrace to society, for they every day lives. King’s assassination created a yourself, either. Stick up for your opinions on were thought as inferior. It was difficult for uproar between the black people of America. religion, science, politics, or even celebrities. blacks to be admitted into fine colleges or Now, it was a necessity to secure their natural By truly believing in something, we can do receive job opportunities. Why discriminate rights. what little we can to make sure that the next based on the color of some one’s skin? Aren’t In 1980, the Department of Interior ten years have an equal opportunity for we all part of mankind? designated King’s home in Atlanta and several everyone. As Martin Luther King said, “A man can't ride your back unless it's bent.”

silver-tongued. People 4079: Year of The Ox of the ox are by Alex Pai intellectually and physically alert. They On January 31, 2009, the Chinese had their New Year. In Chinese are generally easy- years, it is now the year 4079. Similar to people having different going, they can be constellations based on what month they were born in, there are remarkably different animals or signs based on the year for the Chinese. obstinate, and they Someone born in 1997 was born in the year of the ox. Since there 12 hate to be animals in the cycle, the cycle repeats itself every 12 years. Therefore, unsuccessful or 2009 is the year of the ox again because it has been 12 years since opposed. They are 1997. most compatible For each animal, there are certain personality traits. Here are the with people of the traits for people born in the year of the ox: People born in the year of Snake, Rooster, http://sandbox14.clearconceptsllc.com/ the ox are patient, quiet and inspire confidence in others. However, and Rat. ox.aspx they are usually eccentric and irritable. They have fierce tempers, and although they don’t speak a lot, when they do they are quite

10 sciencia, somniantas, integritas THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY th an hour before the show, students were instead of meeting back at the Alliance 8 Grade French Trip allowed to explore. Lainey Bukowiec, a Française. But crisis was averted because by Katy Nolan student of advanced French, said, "It was Carly Zurcher realized she had the number After a “French” breakfast consisting of nice that we were trusted to walk around of one of the missing students' cell phones. croissants and jus d’orange (orange juice), New York City." Some students went and Dialing the number, the teachers were able 47 students and three teachers left to go to posed with Hagrid, stopped at Starbucks, or to contact the students and ind them, and the Big Apple. Madame Benson, Madame even shopped at DKNY, while others all was okay. The group made their way Amirata, and Ms. Elmore were the discovered little shops and delis. After over to Central Park and entered through supervisors. After a 45‐minute bus trip, the wandering around, students met up and Scholars Gate. Minutes later, the missing kids were dropped off at 59th Street. With went to see La Vie en Rose. Two lucky students were found, and after a bit of students got to appear on stage. Dorian scolding, they too ate their lunches. This Allen and Emma Layton were pre‐selected day will go down in many students' by Madame Benson to go onstage and learn memories as being fun and exciting—plus some of the dance sequences. They were they learned a good lesson: always know taught a dance along with students from where you are going before you leave! other schools as well. The two were hardly Many students had fun and have many lost in the crowd. pictures from the trip. The trip was a really After learning the dances, the students left wonderful experience that hopefully will be and were allowed 20 minutes to get lunch available to younger French students over from any surrounding delis. After a quick the years as well. Cougar Call staffer Megan count‐up, it was discovered that about ten Ross said, "It was really fun! It's always nice students did not follow the instructions of to go to the city, and going for French was the teachers and went to Central Park even better!" Photo by Megan Ross NEW TO MKA Knows-It-All—a.k.a. the eighth grade—didn’t even know that we had something so new, and, supposedly, so important. Have the iPod Touches Really Touched So, the votes are in and the students have spoken. The final result is…Bad and boring! MKA Students? by Kristina Bylancik Many students were overly excited for the opportunity to get to use the new-to-the-school iPod Touches. But the real question now is, were they really all that, or was it just another hoax? So what are the students’ true feelings about these iPod Touches? Business is booming…or bad and boring? The sixth grade consensus seemed to conclude that they were old news, and that the students never really got to use them for anything other than just practice. The sixth graders were so unexcited because they didn’t really get to use the iPod Touches in a way that made them want to learn (because either they haven’t used them, or they didn’t get to do much with them). As student Nicole Romola said, “I have an iPod touch I use all the time, [so] using one wasn’t anything new.” The seventh- and eighth-graders seemed to have the same idea: the iPod touches are not worth all of the excitement; they just simply are bad and boring. Danielle Charpentier of the eighth grade said, “To . be quite honest, I didn’t even know that we had iPod Touches,” thus Disagree? Let us know at [email protected] proving that they can’t be that big of a deal if The-Grade-That-

“It’s restricted.” Aiden Newman of the 6th grade Dress Code: Good or Evil? dislikes the dress code. “Button‐down shirts are a by Daniel Barrett waste of time to put on.” Kristina Bylancik from 6th Do people like or dislike the dress code? The Cougar grade likes the dress code. “Girls ight a lot about Call found out. We interviewed ive people from each things like designers, styles, and things like that.” grade. Here is what they said: Kassandra Fotiadis of Here is a pie chart of the data. th the 7 grade likes our dress code. “Some dress codes Red=people that like the dress code (5%) are really strict, so I’m happy with the choices.” Matt Timmons, of the 8th grade, dislikes the dress code. Blue=people that dislike the dress code (95%) ! sciencia, somniantas, integritas 11 THE MONTCLAIR KIMBERLEY ACADEMY The day of the game, kids 3, 2, 1...BLASTOFF! packed the MKA Middle by Hendrik Riemens School’s “new gym.” Every On January 28th, the 6th grade blasted off seat was filled, and from the Buehler Challenger Center and approximately 150 people landed themselves--and a probe--on the waited in anticipation. Before moon. The mission was a complete success, the game a group of students and every 6th grader was amazed because of sang the national anthem, and the intensity of the mission. a school band played. Then, the game finally started. Some people thought that maybe in the liftoff, there should have been a fake rumble. The The girls’ A team began the answer to that is that it would cost a lot of game with Kaitlyn Eda, money, and it’s a building. You can’t make a Kayla Eda, Sarah Michigan, building rumble. But most of the six graders Lainey Bukowiec and Claudia made positive comments about Buehler. Sheer. They quickly made short work of the women, Buehler had a lot of jobs and three flight ending the first quarter with a crews. The jobs at Buehler were: data, remote, 38-0 lead! But that’s when medical, navigation, probe, life support, the boys come on and things isolation and communication. A lot of the started to tighten up. jobs in Buehler were easier than the others, but one thing is for sure--without one of them, The second half started with boys’ A team co- court and went crazy. The students had the flight crews may never complete their captain Matt Lane imitating Lebron James by beaten the faculty for the second year in a row. mission to the Moon. taking baby powder and throwing it up into The students ended up dressing down on the air. The crowd erupted. But then things Valentine’s Day. With bragging rights for the Here are some comments from Aiden started to not go so well for the boys. Matt Newman and Alex Pai: next year, students and faculty alike cannot Lane, Chaz Smith, Nic Harris, Kevin Taylor wait for Students vs. Faculty 2010. The “It was awesome; you really get to learn what and Elijah Adderley spread the floor for the faculty had better practice, because the the jobs are like. My favorite part was when I Cougars. The faculty, led by Kyle Chapman, students have shown that they are more than was in the spaceship because my job was Leon Shade and Coy (Baby Shaq) Dailey, ready. Remote; I really liked the experiments we had started to wear the boys down and slowly to do.” creep back in. “It was very exhilarating because I was Probe. With the lead cut in half, the boys’ B team I had to guide my friends on how to build the had starters Matt probe, and I got to build it myself with my Greene, Aaron partner Kristina Bylancik. My favorite part Stagoff-Belfort, about Buehler was learning how spaceships Carter Chase, really work.” Douglas Gertner Overall, Buehler was a complete success and and David all the 6th graders liked it. Kauffman ready for the third quarter. The boys then hit their Student Faculty stride and were able to hold off Basketball Game the faculty. Photos by Megan Ross by Aaron Stagoff-Belfort The students found themselves To many people, the most prestigious sporting down nine at the start of event of February is the Super Bowl. But the last quarter. It here at MKA, it is the cutthroat competition seemed that their of the student-faculty basketball game. For outstanding start had years, MKA student basketball players have been cut short. After played a “friendly” game against MKA jumping out to a 38- teachers and staff. This game has turned into point lead, the boys had one of MKA’s biggest rivalries. The game been outscored by 47. was especially meaningful this year, with the But the girls’ A team winner getting a coveted dress down day. came back on and was The days before the game, students and staff able to pull out a close begin to “talk smack” to each other. A victory, edging the Facebook group was even created by one A- faculty 76-68 and taking team player, Kyle Borden, entitled “Support home the crown. the Students in Student-Faculty game.” Players stormed the

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result of Hermione’s advice to Ginny to kisses Ron irst, instead of the traditional A Crazy Hogwarts get a boyfriend so Harry would notice her boys kissing girls. more. Towards the end of the sixth book, Whether it’s half‐giants, wizards or Thing Called Love after winning a Quidditch match, Harry muggles, JKR’s make‐believe relationships by Kassandra Fotiadis and Ginny shared a kiss, which lead to the are as complex as they come. She weaves and Kelsey O’Connor beginning of their romantic relationship. the connections into an intricate web. Despite their love for each other, Harry Throughout the seven books we see many HERMIONE’S DATING TIPS relationships rise and fall, both broke up with Ginny at the end of HBP, ✴ friendships and romances. As well as the because he didn’t want Ginny to be in “You should have told her differently... main characters’, there are also some danger from Voldemort, as she was you should have said that you would lesser‐known relationships that blossom, intending to go with him on Harry’s much rather have spent the whole day such as those of Hagrid and Madame search of the Horcruxes. To see if their with her…” HP5 Maxime, Lupin and Tonks, and Teddy and relationship ever lourishes again, check ✴ “Just because you have the emotional Victoir. out the epilogue of Harry Potter and the range of a teaspoon doesn’t mean we Deathly Hallows. all have.” HP5 When we think of famous relationships, ✴ we think of Rick and Ilsa, and Edward and Another signiicant relationship in Harry “Hermione told me to get on with life… Bell—but two more names that come to Potter is that of Hermione and Ron. It is she thought you might take a bit more mind are Harry and Ginny. Their implied throughout the series that Ron notice if I was a bit more— relationship was hidden in the rafters for and Hermione like each other. For myself.” (FYI: Ginny takes Hermione’s 5 ½ years while they both went through instance, in the 6th book, Ron dates advice.) their various phases. “’ Ginny’, said Ron in Lavender Brown, and Hermione gets FAMOUS ROMANTIC QUOTES jealous and starts dating a boy that she an undertone to Harry. ‘My sister. She’s ✴ “We’ll always have Paris.” Rick, knows Ron hates. They both get mad at been talking about you all Casablanca summer.’” (Harry Potter and the Chamber each other and are in a feud for most of the sixth book. With their friendship ✴ “Take care of my heart; I’ve left it with of Secrets) As you can see, Ginny had a you.” Edward Cullen, Eclipse crush on Harry from the beginning. In intact, they seem to like each other even ✴ “I talked to your dad, you’ll pick out a this passage, she walks down the stairs of more in the seventh book; for example, at white dress, it’s a love story, baby just the Burrow and, upon seeing Harry at her 12 Grimmauld Place, Harry wakes up and say yes.” Taylor Swift, “Love Story” kitchen table, runs back up the stairs. believes that Hermione and Ron had Harry, however, did not have feelings for fallen asleep holding hands. Furthermore, ✴ “Here’s lookin’ at you, kid.” Rick, Ginny until Half Blood Prince, when he when Ron leaves, Hermione goes into a Casablanca and Ron caught Ginny and Dean Thomas state of depression. An interesting feature ✴ “Don’t be afraid; we belong together” “snogging” in a corridor. This was the of their relationship is that Hermione Bella, Breaking Dawn

STUDENTS VS. FACULTY BASKETBALL GAME PROCEEDS by Student Council Representative Maggie Dancy Cougar Call Michelle Custode Maggie Dancy Congratulations students, you beat the faculty (again) in the annual Editorial Staff: Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game! You all must be ecstatic. The Thea Flurry best part about it is we raised $7,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Zoe Ferguson--Editor-in-Chief Kassie Fotiadis Research Foundation (JDRF). This is an amazing outcome for a Ryan Durando--Director of one night event. You should know that these proceeds will support Isabella Gerard research toward a cure, for juvenile diabetics like me and tens of Layout and Design thousands of others around the world that face the challenges of Kaila Fleisig--Assistant Director Emily Greenberg the disease. of Layout and Design Katy Nolan Juvenile diabetes is a critical disease that has diabetics checking Virginia Flurry--Director of their blood glucose levels 10-12 times a day, and they also have to Kelsey O’Connor Media and Publishing give themselves shots of insulin. The pancreas produces insulin and Alex Pai when you have juvenile diabetes your body does not make it so Megan Ross--Chief Molly Peek that’s why diabetics take insulin shots. Without the proper care, Photographer diabetics can get a high or low blood glucose level, which could Arianna Petillo lead to a coma, and then possible death. Staff Writers and Hendrik Riemens On a personal note, I thank you for getting us closer to a cure and Photographers: look forward to next year’s annual Student vs. Faculty Basketball Daniel Barrett John Short Game. Kristina Bylancik Aaron Stagoff-Belfort Woo hoo, go students! Danielle Charpentier Aaron Sterling

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