Redcoat Review January 2021 / Issue 2

In this issue... Politics, Sports and More COVID-19 Vaccine Provides Hope By Julia Oakes and Emma LaFrance across the country. On December 16th, Redcoat Review Writers there were 636 authorized vaccination sites across the United States. Nursing On Monday, December 14, 2020, the home residents and healthcare work- long-awaited first dosage of the ers are being prioritized as they face the COVID-19 vaccine was administered in highest risk of infection with an estimated the United States to a New York nurse. 2.9 million doses being administered in This vaccine administration came quickly the first week alone. Nonetheless, the after the Food and Drug Administra- majority of Americans will not receive the tion (FDA) authorization on December vaccine until mid-2021, after the at-risk 12th when the vaccine was authorized population has been vaccinated. Photo Credit: Andrew Cuomo via Twitter for emergency use in individuals over 16 According to the COVID-19 years of age. Response Team in Connecticut, the state Nurse Sandra Lindsay was the first person to receive the COVID-19 vaccine dose in the United States on BioNTech is a biotechnology com- is currently in Phase 1a, meaning that the December 14th, 2020. pany who has partnered with Pfizer, a vaccine is available to healthcare work- pharmaceutical company, to work on and ers, long-term care facility residents, and year, that number surged to 39%. Mixed then release a COVID-19 vaccine to the first responders. Subsequent phases will messages spread to the public confused public. The two companies previously include members of the critical workforce, many, leading them to doubt the vaccine’s worked together to develop a flu vac- adults over 65, and high-risk individuals effectiveness. cine. Their past relationship allowed for under 65. Despite the data, the vaccine pro- a quicker development process, allow- While an estimated 40 million doses vides a beam of hope to millions of people ing for a faster vaccine release timeline. were delivered to the US, only 4.73 mil- across the world as the pandemic These companies have been working lion doses were administered as of early approaches its tenth month. Its production together since the beginning of March January 2021. This number is signifi- begins just as the United States surpasses and have since produced millions of cantly lower than the predicted 20 million 300,000 COVID-19 related deaths, COVID-19 vaccines. vaccinations. Both the BioNTech/Pfizer surpassing heart disease as the leading Pfizer and BioNTech conducted vaccine and the Moderna vaccine require cause of death in the US. Infection rates vaccine trials over the course of seven a second dosage weeks later to ensure the rise throughout the US as businesses and months in 2020, testing four different vaccine’s maximum efficacy. During the schools open and people return to their vaccine possibilities. Ultimately, they period between doses, masks must still daily lives. But the return of normality may developed an mRNA-based vaccine be worn and social distancing guidelines come to a halt with what scientists are requiring two doses to be administered must be followed as the vaccine will not calling a new strain of COVID-19, sprout- three weeks apart. A vaccine developed yet be fully effective. ing in the United Kingdom. This new by Moderna was authorized for use in the Surveys show that many Americans strain has already been said to be in the US US as of mid-December with the Oxford are opposed to receiving the vaccine. In and has similar properties to the original University/AstraZeneca vaccine being May of 2020, 27% of Americans, surveyed virus. approved in the UK shortly thereafter. by Pew Research Center, said they would The US leads the world in COVID-19 Sandra Lindsay, the nurse who either “probably” or “definitely” not get cases, a number that can hopefully begin a received the first dosage, initiated a wave a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes downward trend following the administra- of vaccinations for healthcare workers available. In November of that same tion of the vaccine. CIAC Postpones High School Winter Sports By Nick Spinali COVID numbers within their communi- Berlin High Redcoat Review Writer ties and experience widespread move- School athletes ments to distance learning.” have been forced In November, the Connecticut Inter- The announcement is a major disap- to learn new scholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) pointment for teams and athletes that ways to stay announced that all high school winter had been preparing for a successful win- in shape. “In sports would be postponed until at least ter season. Many athletes had thoroughly normal years, January 19 due to the ongoing corona- practiced the recommended guidelines we would have virus pandemic. The announcement designed to keep athletes and coaches 1-2 weeks off be- includes both games and team practices alike healthy. tween seasons; being postponed until the assigned date. BHS senior Megan Perrotta, a four- we consider this Before the announcement, the winter year varsity athlete and UConn commit week or so a sports season was scheduled to get un- who runs cross country in the fall and ‘rest week.’ Since derway on December 5. follows with indoor track in the winter, our winter sea- Senior Megan Perrotta “CIAC Interscholastic athletics is an explains that it was her responsibility as a son is postponed, education-based experience that main- captain to enforce these guidelines on her we are just trying to stay in shape,” said tains in-person learning and the health runners. “I made sure to remind every- Perrotta. and safety of our school communities as one to maintain 6 feet apart while doing “We’re trying to not lose any of the our top priority,” the CIAC Board of Con- warm ups and runs and to keep masks on endurance we gained from cross country trol said in an official statement. “[This] when not running.” while starting to add speed workouts [to action supports our member schools With the winter sports season post- prepare for the indoor track season. while they continue to manage rising poned and in-person training limited, Continued on Page 7 Redcoat Review • Page 2 Minority Politicians Make History By Lindsey Leary affordable healthcare, criminal justice most effective conservative leaders, and Redcoat Review Writer reform, expanding paid leave, and sup- is expected to spend her time in office porting public school systems. protecting business owners and fighting November 3rd, 2020 and the days Mondaire Jones and Ritchie Tor- to secure individual liberties. following focused largely on the presi- res were both elected Yvette Herrell became the first dential election, with a few battleground to the U.S. House of Cherokee woman elected to the United Senate races given some media attention. Representatives this States Congress when she won her House Many Americans were not informed of the election cycle, making seat in New Mexico this election. Herrell importance of the other races going on as them the first openly previously served four terms in the New well for the U.S. House of Representatives gay African-American Mexico House of Representatives, and is and state legislatures. The 2020 election men in Congress. also a successful entrepreneur, owning introduced several Torres also becomes Mondaire Jones several small businesses. minority groups into the first gay Black Latin Herrell is known to have fairly positions of power for American person ever elected to Con- conservative views the first time ever. gress. Both Jones and Torres are very and plans to take Five politicians, progressive leaders, set to represent New her policy ideas to Sarah McBride, Mon- York’s 17th and 15th districts. Jones’ and Congress to protect daire Jones, Ritchie Torres’ policies focus largely on universal the working class Torres, Stephanie Bice, healthcare, education, and protection for and defend the ideals and Yvette Herrell all the working class. of the Constitution. set new standards for Sarah McBride Stephanie Bice is Ready to work across commonly marginal- the Representative- party lines, Herrell is ized groups. elect for one of Okla- also prepared to work Yvette Herrell Sarah McBride made history this elec- homa’s five Congres- to reduce the cost of tion by being the first openly transgender sional seats, enabling healthcare, and state senator and highest-ranking trans- her to become the first continually put people over politics. gender public servant. Iranian-American to 2020 has been a year like no other: McBride is a Democrat be elected to the Unit- raging wildfires, social and racial in- representing the First justices, a pandemic, and millions of State Senate District in ed States Congress. Stephanie Bice Bice is the daughter Americans in need of unity. America Delaware, which in- was a nation created for opportunity cludes the state’s largest of an Iranian immigrant, and graduated and freedom, and these politicians have city, Wilmington. from Oklahoma State University. Bice proven that it is possible to accomplish Previously, McBride previously served as a member of Okla- homa’s State Senate, spending time as the something never done before. Regard- worked as an advocate Ritchie Torres for LGBTQ rights at the Assistant Majority Floor Leader as well as less of political ideologies or beliefs, it Human Rights Campaign, and is expected the Chair of the Senate Finance Com- seems more possible than ever for there to bring progressive ideas to Delaware’s mittee. Through her work, Bice earned to be new opportunities for America to Senate. Her main policy focuses are the reputation as one of Oklahoma’s become united again. BHS Welcomes National Honor Society Inductees By Nick Spinali house leader “Many students [also tend to] find that Redcoat Review Writer for Upbeat the leadership requirement is the hard- or an officer est to fulfill, but this position can be any On November 19, Berlin High School for clubs form of leadership where the student officially inducted its newest members of and coun- has responsibilities. The National Honor the BHS chapter of the National Honor cils seemed Society’s purpose is to encourage students Society via virtual ceremony. In 2020, like a lot of to be invested in their education and in a total of 58 BHS students were named responsibility. improving their community — resulting Now, many members of the prestigious organization in well-rounded individuals with a passion members after applying in the spring and the fall. for helping others.” of our class According to its official website, “The All admitants had to be chosen for National Honor Society (NHS) elevates hold several consideration based on their academic a school’s commitment to the values leadership and extracurricular achievements and of scholarship, service, leadership, and positions, both within school and in the then submit an application which includes character.” Members of NHS are known to community,” said NHS President Gabby an official transcript of service hours have an extensive background in academic Foster. success and community engagement, and “Our class’ avid involvement in clubs garnered during high school, as well as an are encouraged to build upon those areas and organizations since freshman year essay that portrayed why they should be as a part of the induction process. is an overt indicator that we have always inducted into NHS. Candidates also had “NHS members are well-rounded had a drive to help others in our commu- to obtain two letters of reference which students who are involved with the com- nity. It’s amazing to see my peers begin explain why they are a worthy admitant. munity and serve as good role-models for to take on leadership roles and create “We encourage students to get their peers,” Mrs. Ramy explained, who, meaningful service projects for our com- involved with something that interests alongside Mrs. Evans, is an advisor for munity.” them, in or outside of school,” Mrs. Ramy Berlin High’s NHS chapter. “We hope that Nationwide, students must also continued when asked how students can after [these] students graduate, they con- maintain a cumulative GPA of 85 or prepare for their NHS application. tinue to have a passion for learning and higher throughout their high school ca- “Starting in ninth grade, students apply their leadership skills while giving reer. Members from Berlin High School, should keep a record of community ser- back to others.” however, are required to obtain a GPA of vice activities and leadership experiences Of the criteria necessary to be con- 93 or higher. that they are involved with throughout sidered for the NHS, students nationwide “Students looking to be a member their high school career. This will be help- must display a superior commitment to should start by being dedicated to their ful for them when they put their resume service, leadership, and character. work, as the GPA minimum is the first together to apply to colleges and if they “When we were freshmen, being a criteria to be assessed,” Foster continued. enter the selection process for NHS.” Redcoat Review • Page 3 A Revolutionary Film: 1917 By Tim Lewis Much of the anticipation of the Redcoat Review Writer movie came from the way it was filmed: being in one continuous shot. With the The 2019 blockbuster film 1917 is exception of one cut while lead actor not only a revolutionary film but also a George MacKay - who played Lance symbol of innovation in the field of cin- Corporal Schofield, and was shot uncon- ematography. scious - the entire movie did not have The movie encapsulates the physi- any cuts. Of course, it is impossible to cal and emotional struggles of a soldier actually shoot an entire movie without at war, specifically as a British soldier cuts. This is what makes the movie’s during World War I. smooth transitions so impressive. In 1917, Lance Corpo- With a score of 89% on Rotten To- ral Schofield (George matoes and an 8.1/10 on IMDb, it is safe MacKay) and Lance to say that this movie enjoyed a posi- Corporal Blake (Dean- tive reception from both movie critics Charles Chapman) and audiences alike. Part of the success were tasked with a of this unique film was due to Roger Photo Courtesy of Berlin High School nearly impossible mis- Deakins, who is a well known cinema- sion: to cross enemy tographer. His successes have earned territory and deliver him spots in the British Society of Cin- an important message to the command- ematographers and American Society of BHS Student ing officer of another battalion. For many Cinematographers. of their fellow soldiers, and Lieutenant The deeper meaning of the plot in Joseph Blake - Corporal Blake’s brother, 1917 is that it represents the duty that Artwork on who is unknowingly walking into a sur- all soldiers carry out in order to achieve prise attack from the enemy forces - this their mission, regardless of the cost. message could be a saving grace. Certain moments in the plot force the National Stage Based on the numerous trailers, the audience to consider what they would do audience expects the setting to be set in the soldier’s position. Not only does Four Berlin High School students behind enemy lines, but director Sam this help engulf the audience on a deeper were honored with having their artwork Mendes does a good job of varying the emotional level, but also compels them displayed this year on the 2020 National setting to include a wide array of iconic to understand the hardships of life as a Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C. Or- locations in World War I. This allows the soldier during World War I. naments designed by juniors Eryn Riggott, audience to understand the difference All things considered, due to the Karla Oyola, Emily Kobus and freshman between trench warfare and modern unique nature of the film’s cinematog- Jack Salerno represented Berlin Public day warfare, while also conveying why raphy and its captivating plot, I give it a Schools, one of 56 school districts in the soldiers wanted to be out of the trenches score of 9/10. country chosen to design one-of-a-kind for as long as they could. ornaments for the 2020 tree. Kobus had an opportunity to visit the White House in December and was treated to a personal tour of the White House with Writing Center Goes Virtual the First Lady. The students’ ornaments By Sam Turgeon In the months since the Writing were displayed on the Ellipse in President’s Redcoat Review Writer Center went online, attendance has Park. The trees represent each U.S. state, risen quite a bit. As of December 2020, territory and the District of Columbia as In an attempt to adapt to COVID-19 the Writing Center has fielded 39 help part of the America Celebrates ornament protocols and social distancing, the requests. This number is quite a bit display. This year, several ornaments from BHS Writing Center has moved almost higher than the number of requests that each school will also be displayed inside entirely online. Students can visit the the Writing Center has received in years the White House. Berlin High School website and sign up past. The influx in requests may be due The America Celebrates ornament for a Writing Center session under the to students feeling more comfortable program is a collaboration of the National “Student Services’’ tab. Once directed to exposing their writing to a tutor online Park Service (NPS), the U.S. Depart- the Writing Center Website, students can as opposed to in person. It could also ment of Education and the National Park make their request under “Sign Up”. be due to some students struggling with Foundation (NPF). The U.S. Department Students can submit writing-related distance learning, and being more will- of Education worked through state art and assignments from any class, whether it be ing to take advantage of the resources education offices, which identified elemen- English, History, Chemistry, or any other available to them than in previous years. tary, middle and high schools to partici- subject. Writers can submit their assign- When asked about the Writing pate in the America Celebrates program. ment at any point during the writing Center and the sudden influx in feed- The project is funded by the NPF. process, even if they only have an outline. back requests, Writing Center Student From state flowers to notable land- The Writing Center has proven to be Director Makayla Gorski stated, “I think marks, students created ornaments that particularly useful to students who are in the Writing Center is one of Berlin High celebrate their state, district or territory. the process of writing college essays, as School’s most valuable and under-uti- The public was invited to view the Nation- applying an extra set of eyes to them can lized resources. al Christmas Tree and the 56 state, district, help make them even more effective. “Receiving feedback on just one and territory trees and their ornaments After submitting the request, students piece can assist students with develop- daily from Dec. 1 through Jan. 1, 2021. will be matched with a trained writing ing long-lasting writing skills,” Gorski The National Christmas Tree Light- tutor who will read over the student’s explained. “Your tutor might explain ing has strong ties to education. In 1923, essay and provide personalized feedback how to properly format a quote or even the District of Columbia Public Schools through a recorded Screencastify video. give suggestions on how to elevate your proposed that a decorated Christmas tree Students can expect the video re- introductory paragraph - knowledge that be placed on the South Lawn of the White sponse within 48 hours of their submis- can assist you with your future pieces of House. On Christmas Eve that year, Presi- sion and are welcome to further email writing as well. Our tutors are approach- dent Calvin Coolidge lit the first National their tutor if they have extra questions or able and want to help students become Christmas Tree. would like more elaboration. better writers!” - National Park Service Press Release Redcoat Review • Page 4 Students, Staff Enjoy Virtual Pep Rally By Abigail Ferland and Gina Scalaro Redcoat Review Writers

During the weeks of November 8th and 15th, we had our Fall Spirit Week where all grades participated in themed days. The Spirit Week was broken up between 2 weeks, so both cohorts had the opportunity to participate. This year’s Spirit Week theme lineup included American, Purple, Pink, Tie-Dye, and Color Wars Day. Students then submit- ted pictures of their spirit attire, which were featured on the Student Council and Berlin High School social media pages. Teachers and students used this as an opportunity to bring a sense of normalcy into these ever-changing days. This was the first event that the whole student body has participated in since the start of allowing the Pep Rally to be great. the soccer kick. The freshmen were also the pandemic. These spirited days helped Student Council created a Fathead very impressive for their first Pep Rally, to remind both students and staff that fundraiser to add something new to winning the infamous basketball throw. there is some light in the darkness. Al- the Pep Rally. Fatheads were sold for However, every grade did outstanding and though the current situation has changed $10 each made by ImageInk, a reliable contributed to making the Pep Rally tradi- some of our school’s beloved traditions, company who never lets BHS down. tion prevail! we have proven that we can be flexible ImageInk was also kind enough to give Student Council is hoping to plan an and adapt during this challenging time. an amount of money from each order in-person Pep Rally for the spring, but if As for the Pep Rally, this year’s Stu- to Boxes to Boots, a group in town who they can’t, we know they can plan a suc- dent Council officers and advisors faced makes Hero Boxes for men and women cessful virtual one! A big thanks to Mr. a challenge with how they were going enlisted overseas. The Fatheads were a Smith, Student Council, class officers, and to uphold this beloved Fall tradition. hit. Student Council, with the help of the BHS community who helped make this Through careful planning and working their peers, hung up the Fatheads in the Pep Rally the best it could be! closely with Mr. Smith and administra- gym for the Pep Rally video and around tion, BHS was able to produce its first the school for Pep Rally day! ever virtual Pep Rally video. To film the Mr. Smith then took all of the foot- Pep Rally games, which included the age he compiled from filming the games scooter race, the soccer kick, and the and Fathead set-up, submitted fall and basketball throw, class officers needed to winter captain videos, and Spirit Week sign up five students of the class for each photos and made a stunning video that game. One of the trickiest parts of the was aired on BHS’s YouTube account in filming process was finding a time that advisory the day before Thanksgiving would work for all of the students in a Break. grade to film a game they signed up for. For the Pep Rally games, the seniors Of course, the students were flexible and came out on top, winning two out of found a time that worked for everyone, the three games: the scooter race and Esteemed Spoken-Word Poet Visits Students By Sam Turgeon asked if he ever felt scared sharing his per- Redcoat Review Writer sonal stories, he replied, “It is a very scary On Monday, October 26th, esteemed thing at times, but the people you inspire spoken word poet, Michael Peterson make it all worth it.” visited BHS creative writing classes to Chief’s presentation was very well give a presentation on spoken word po- put together, and he was a very person- etry. Peterson, or “Chief The Poet’’ as he’s able speaker. His lessons were worthwhile more commonly called, Zoomed in from and are sure to have inspired numerous his home to speak to the students. He was creative writing students to begin writing a lively and interactive speaker, greeting their own poetry. BHS senior Matt Tierney was in the each student individually as they logged Photo Credit: Mrs. Rice into the Zoom call and engaging in brief audience for Chief’s presentation. Tierney conversations with them. Michael “Chief the Poet” Peterson worked said, “He inspired me to further my own Chief touched upon a variety of with students in Creative Writing via Zoom. writing because I thought that he was a topics including his journey to becoming very interesting and enthusiastic person. a spoken word poet and how he used po- Chief was able to call all of the students He made writing poetry sound less like a etry to help get him through quarantine. by name and have in-depth conversa- chore or an assignment and more like a Chief read aloud a few of the poems that tions with them regarding their ques- way to express your thoughts.” he had written during quarantine as well tions. Chief was a fantastic speaker for as a few others that he had previously One of the most in-depth topics that the BHS students and is definitely worth published. Chief then spent the majority Chief spoke about was how he gets his bringing back in the future. Any students of the session taking questions from stu- ideas onto paper and the emotion that he or teachers who are interested in Chief dents. In a way, Zoom allowed students puts into each piece. Chief told the audi- but weren’t able to make the presentation to have more interaction with Chief than ence that the major thing that he looks should make sure to check out the large they would have if he had been on stage for in a poem is its ability to make the selection of poetry that he has published in the auditorium. audience feel something. When he was on his YouTube channel, chiefthepoet. Redcoat Review • Page 5 Innovation in the Theatre Department; Excitement in the School Community By Paul Kendrick Redcoat Review Writer As a consequence of COVID-19 restrictions, Berlin High School’s annual fall play could not be performed in the typical manner this year. Consider the practical limitations COVID-19 imposes on theatrical performances. Any play that requires performers to cluster in groups or make physical contact with each other - off the list. Any script that requires a detailed set to be built and operated on by a team of close-working crew members - off the list. Any tear-jerker that requires the audience to read the performers’ facial expressions - off the list. Further obstructing the play’s actual- ization were the logistics behind perform- ing to an audience. Even Broadway had Photo Credit: Paul Kendrick to shut its doors due to COVID-19, so world of theatre. down, and streamed. In truth, some stu- clearly, changes would have to be made Fortunately, the fact that The Re- dents within the theatre community were to the medium by which the fall play was hearsal is set in a high school allowed the initially skeptical about the fate of this viewed. Instead of postponing the play or performance to simply be recorded in the play. However, as performer Laura Sarra- cancelling it entirely, Director of Choral halls of BHS rather than in a set built to zin pointed out, “We’re hoping for a bigger Music and Theatre Mr. Boyle took an look like a high school. turn out this year - with the new format innovative approach and elected to pre- When performers needed to record it could be much more accessible to those record the performance scene-by-scene in the hallway, they would do so in the who might not go out to the auditorium in a COVID-safe manner so that the final hallway. When performers needed to on a Friday night or Saturday morning to cut of the performance could be streamed record on a stage, they would record go see the show.” to families from the comfort of their own on the actual stage. As for the camera As it turned out, many people homes. crew filming the play, BHS Tech Special- showed their support for BHS theater by This year’s play was The Rehearsal by ist Mr. Smith and a small team of BHS purchasing tickets for and viewing the Don Zolidis. The plot centers around an students were hard at work behind the streamed play. Ultimately, it can be said eccentric batch of theatre kids who are scenes setting up lighting and filming the with certainty that The Rehearsalfulfilled trying to pull off a performance of the performance one scene at a time. After its fundamental purpose: giving all those musical Guys and Dolls. In essence, The roughly four tedious weeks of filming, involved an enjoyable and memorable Rehearsal is a comedic glimpse into the the play was ready to be finalized, edited experience.

Mamma Mia! Springs to Stage JOIN OUR STAFF By Paul Kendrick phasis on the deliberate uplifting nature of this musical, promising that “It’s gonna Redcoat Review Writer TheRedcoat Review is looking for be a really happy, exciting show, and it new members. Our welcoming staff Excitement is in the air! Director will be sure to put you in a good mood includes a variety of writers and editors in of Choral Music and Theatre Mr. Boyle and make you forget about the pandemic all grade levels. Students in this club have announced in November that this year’s for a little.” the flexibility to contribute regularly or school musical will be Mamma Mia!, That’s the ultimate purpose of simply submit a special one-time article. a jukebox musical based on the music Mamma Mia! and other musicals: to TheRedcoat Review meets weekly on of ABBA, a popular Swedish pop band. allow the audience to escape the hard- Zoom and in person in the Library. Stu- Written by playwright Catherine Johnson ships of their daily lives for just a small dents are welcome to come into school for in coordination with former band mem- sliver of time, a purpose far more mean- our meetings. We have a Schoology group bers Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ul- ingful now that we have been in a global to communicate information. vaeus, this musical features hit songs such pandemic for ten months. Overall, people In this issue, the following students as “Dancing Queen”, “Money, Money, are just excited to have something to look contributed: Seniors Nick Spinali, Mason Money” and “Mamma Mia.” forward to again. A song to rehearse at DiMauro, Sam Turgeon, Matt Tierney, As with The Rehearsal, the usual home. An activity to fill up afternoons. A Ryan Brockel, Tim Lewis, Julia Oakes, challenges associated with rehearsing and way to show off musical talent. A Gina Scalaro, Abby Ferland, Emma performing a musical have only been am- performance to attend. LaFrance and juniors Paul Kendrick and plified by the pandemic. From maintain- Moreover, according to Sarrazin, this Lindsey Leary. ing social distance on and off the stage to musical is likely going to be performed If you are interested in joining or sanitizing props and technological equip- at the Berlin Fairgrounds “or some other would like more information, please ment, it is sure to be no easy feat to put venue with an open air stage” as to com- contact Mrs. Rice or Mrs. Glass. We will on this musical. Despite these setbacks, ply with COVID-19 restrictions, though guide you along in how to write an article the theatre community is overwhelmingly the final logistics are up in the air and or come up with a story idea and will sup- optimistic about Mamma Mia! because of subject to change at any moment. There port you throughout the process. the musical’s popular appeal, catchy show will be masks. There will be social dis- Being a member of the school news- tunes, and compelling plot. tancing. But most importantly, there will paper looks great on a resume or brag Performer Laura Sarrazin discussed be entertaining music and choreography. sheet, and teaches and reinforces valuable what this performance is going to look Though it will be a couple months from lifelong skills that apply to any profession. like and how the theatre department feels now, I can’t wait to see how Mamma Mia! We hope to see you at our next meeting! about the musical. She put particular em- turns out. Redcoat Review • Page 6 Pixar Honors Black Culture With Soul By Nick Spinali As always, Pixar pushes the limits of Redcoat Review Writer computer animation by creating a lifelike Soul is the latest animated feature to world in Soul. In particular, the scenes be released by Pixar Animation Studios that take place in New York City feel real and distributed by the and character movement continues to Walt Disney Company. improve. Colors are constantly vibrant, yet the film never allows itself to focus The film is directed by Photo Credit: Lucy Micacci-Bantle too closely on its visuals in order to Pete Docter, known for Seniors on the boys cross country team from directing fellow Pixar avoid potential fabrication. Instead, the filmmakers did an outstanding job of left, Nick Spinali, Tyler Rice, Matt Tierney, filmsMonsters, Inc., Ryan Brockel, Tim Lewis and Chris Bantle. Up, and Inside Out, and creating the perfect blend of visuals that stars the voice talents enhance the main plot so that it feels like of Jamie Foxx and Tina the story has created the world, and not Season a Success Fey. that the world has created the story. The film follows Joe Gardner, a Soul is notable for featuring the first Despite Challenges middle school music teacher who for his black protagonist in a Pixar film. The entire life has aspired to be a musician. film does an outstanding job of paying By Matt Tierney After finally getting his big break, Joe is homage to black culture, specifically in Redcoat Review Writer music. There is one scene in particu- involved in an accident that leaves his Coming off of a season in which they lar involving a barber shop and black soul separated from his body. Now an endured their first division title in more customers that admirably portrays black existential human being, Joe’s soul en- than a decade, the Boys Cross Country counters 22, a soul who is being prepared citizens and how they have embraced said culture in real life, which has been team came in with high expectations. for life as a human. Together, the two However, the loss of All State runner Mike attempt to assemble Joe’s soul with his almost nonexistent in animated films up until now. Joe’s interaction with these Parzych and seniors Nick Parzych and body so that he can perform in a gig later Ryan Munch would prove to leave sub- that day. people feels natural, and they offer seri- ous head-scratching advice that makes stantial vacancies for the varsity squad this Although a seemingly simple story season. at first, whereSoul exceeds expectations Joe reconsider what he believes to be the critical components of his existence. Moreover, due to COVID-19 implica- is its portrayal of human characteristics tions, Berlin was forced to shift to a new and how those characteristics ultimately Soul is a beautiful film that hits all of the right notes of a successful animated division that included the likes of Middle- mesh into a human life. After Joe’s soul town, Newington, Wethersfield, and Rocky is separated from his physical body, feature. Characters mesh wonderfully and the charming story is able to strike Hill, all of which were amongst the top he is brought to a supernatural setting teams in the state. They were up for the where he is allowed to evaluate his life a sensitive topic without feeling forced challenge, however, and fought to a win- and how it has since shaped up from a or unnatural, but completely necessary. ning record of 4-3, including an upset win third-person perspective. This allows Joe There are only a few nitpicks to be found over Wethersfield. to question what his true purpose is and in this film, most notably what felt like a Berlin kicked off the year with a clean whether he has truly lived his life to its quick ending for the main protagonist af- fullest potential. ter a final realization is discovered about sweep of Buckley, and then took a loss at Joe himself feels like a real person life and the opportunities that are given rival Middletown while putting up a good in this film. He has a real job with true to every person. Yet, even the conclusion fight. In the middle half of the season, aspirations that both he and the audience felt well-deserved and imperative for the Berlin picked up two more wins against care for. Along with Joe, other charac- characters and can only be criticized due Platt and Maloney and then dropped an ters throughout the film are given real to the sheer innovation that is present in extremely close race against Wethersfield. motives and blend beautifully to create every other aspect of the film. Overall, That could have been a big setback for the what is a deep and compelling story. Each the minor issues that occur in this film rest of the year, but it proved only to serve character compliments each other impec- are widely offset by whatPixar did right as motivation for Berlin. cably and offers input that helps Joe on in what has proven to be the latest suc- The turning point of the season for his quest to discover the meaning of his cess in the Pixar collection. Berlin was a meet at Newington, a top 25 life. team in the state last year. Berlin came into the meet as an underdog and was not ex- pected to come close whatsoever. Despite Math Tutoring Center Goes Virtual that, Berlin lost 25-30, which to put that in By Tim Lewis confused with trying to solve. Math tu- perspective is the equivalent of a one score Redcoat Review Writer tors will solve the problem using a new game in soccer. Led by big performances three-step method. First, tutors set out from Ben Fisher, Tim Lewis, and Chris With so many changes occurring to what steps are necessary to complete the Bantle, Berlin was able to keep the race the safety procedures at school, many problem. Second, they will complete the close and use it as a confidence booster support resources for students have problem, following the guide created in going into the final race of the year. subsequently made changes in order to the first step. And finally, the math tutor After that race, Berlin sat at a 3-3 re- accommodate student needs. Among will check the answer to the problem cord and refused to finish on a losing note. those resources is the Berlin High School and go back through the steps so that the Going up against Wethersfield, a team Math Tutoring Center, which has con- math process can be conceptualized. Berlin had narrowly lost to at the start of tinued to accommodate the needs of The math tutor will submit the prob- the season, the Berlin squad was more students while simultaneously following lem for review by Ms. Gagnon in order motivated than ever to flip the script and proper safety procedures. to ensure it is correct and complete and end on a win. Fueled by 3rd and 4th place Math tutors are experienced to help it will then be sent back to the student or finishes from Fisher and Bantle, Berlin in all math courses offered at BHS and the teacher who requested the problem. easily rolled to an upset win and finished are trained in how to answer questions so All tutoring feedback will be sent back the season on a strong team performance. that the student understands the entire to the student via a video that includes a Reflecting on the season, Lewis of- concept rather than just the answer to the step-by-step analysis of the problem as fered praise for the season as a whole, say- question. A student seeking assistance well as verbal input from the tutor. ing, “We took a season that was supposed can access a form via the BHS Math The new process is a safe way for Tutoring Academy Group on Schoology, students to get their math questions to be nonexistent and did extremely well. which can be reached using the code solved while still being provided with an I am proud of all the boys and I know the 7PR7J-D5FC2 to join. in-depth analysis that would be present team will be in good hands next year.” On the form, they can submit a if a student was receiving in-person help. Lewis also added that for the next picture of the math problem they are year, Berlin should be in good shape. Redcoat Review • Page 7 Athletes Stay Motivated in Hopes for a Winter Season Continued from Page 1

Photo Courtesy of Berlin Athletics “Coach Soucy] has been great during this period,” Perrotta said. “And has been Unified Sports Nationally Recognized sending the team ideal workouts to keep us on track and motivated.” By Matt Tierney to the town of Berlin.” Redcoat Review Writer Staying motivated will prove to be a Siegal went on to note the signifi- struggle for winter sports athletes since cance of this achievement to the program. In early December, the Berlin High the shortened season will almost certainly School Unified Sports Team was recog- “This award is not about winning or guarantee that most sports will have a nized as a National Unified Champion losing, it’s about Unified’s inclusion into School by the Special Olympics for the entire Berlin High community. This restricted postseason schedule this year. achieving the national standards. award is about being included at Awards This happened in the fall, where the Coach Marie Siegal praised how BHS was night, about being included at Pep Rallies boys and girls soccer teams only played a pioneer of Unified Sports in the area. and it’s about recognizing this program in a handful of postseason games as op- as part of the Athletic Department. The “Twenty-four years ago, our then posed to the normal state tournament that Athletic Director, George Hall, along key component here is inclusion, giving the teams normally partake in. Similarly, with Special Education teacher Jim Day, all athletes the opportunity to belong to George Synnott, our principal and (my- a team, wear their uniform proudly and the boys and girls cross country teams self) formed the Unified Sports team. make Berlin proud.” concluded their fall season with a single “We were one of the first schools to Congratulations to the Unified conference meet, although only two total play a game at the half-time of a varsity Sports Team on their accomplishments teams ultimately participated amongst and best of luck to them in the future. game, thereby introducing Unified Sports COVID struggles. “It has been very difficult for many, including myself,” Perrotta continued. “It’s BHS Welcomes New Educator hard to find the motivation to go outside individuals who lead happy lives that By Paul Kendrick for a run.” Redcoat Review Writer positively contribute to society.” Style of Teaching: “I like to laugh Despite the obvious drop in motiva- This year, Berlin High School and have a good time with students while tion among athletes and the serious nature welcomes math department head and working hard and learning a lot. I also of staying safe, teams and athletes have teacher, Mr. Hanson, put an emphasis on critical thinking and still found ways to keep themselves en- to its sizable list of new problem-solving.” gaged in BHS athletics. Perrotta explained educators. It can be Personal Hobbies: “In my free time, that during the cross country season, challenging to famil- I like to play with my son and train for iarize oneself with a triathlons. My son Trevor is just over one the girls team tried to keep its runners teacher in the age of and watching him discover the world is engaged by having them participate in digital learning and truly special. When Trevor is being bab- running related challenges. social-distancing, so ysat, I am often running, biking, swim- “The concept was to complete the in order for students ming, or doing yoga with my wife.” challenges [that Coach Soucy] and I cre- to get to know him on Education / College Experience: “I ated to earn raffle tickets. Challenges were a personal level, get to know Mr. Hanson attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute worth 1-3 tickets, depending on their dif- and his impressions of the school, his and Central Connecticut State University teaching style, his personal life, and his for my Bachelors in mathematics and ficulty. At the end of the season, we used advice for students. From his educational Western Governors University for my the tickets to raffle off running related knowledge to his optimism, Mr. Hanson Masters in education. I attended Central gifts. I feel this helped us stay focused and has a lot to offer Berlin High School. for my second Masters in educational motivated, which was crucial because we First Impressions: “My first impres- leadership. I have fond memories of did not have big races to work towards sion of Berlin High School is that it is an swimming and running cross country this year.” amazing place to work. The teachers are and outdoor track at WPI.” Although Berlin High School athletes extremely welcoming. The students are Advice / Tips for Students: “I would very polite. Hybrid learning has made tell students to use the resources available continue to hold hope that their season building relationships with students more to them and to not give up. Khan Acad- can be salvaged, Berlin Public Schools difficult but not impossible. One pro of emy is a great online free resource that and CIAC officials alike will continue to hybrid learning is that it has forced me has video lessons that align to all regular monitor the COVID pandemic to keep all as a professional to use technology even high school math classes. If you take the students and athletes safe. more. In some ways, this has definitely time to watch the videos, Khan Academy “Since Cross Country ended,” Perrotta changed my teaching for the better.” will help you learn math. Next, do not be concluded, “I have been communicat- Goals as a Teacher: “My favorite afraid to reach out to your teacher or fel- thing about teaching is getting to work low students with questions! If you are ing with the team to remind them about with students. Seeing and working a remote student, ask your math teacher workouts and encouraging them to con- with students motivates me everyday. when they are available for a Zoom extra tinue being safe so our indoor season can As a teacher, it is my hope and goal to help session. Finally, and most impor- happen.” positively influence students to be better tantly, don’t give up.”