Primus Inter Pares THE Hastings High School October 2013 Vol. 64 No. 2 The Voice of Hastings High School

HURRICANE SANDY’S ONE BUZZERBOND IS A NO-GO YEAR ANNIVERSARY by Rosie Moss & Amelia Pollard When Hurricane Sandy hit in October 2012, Hastings was one of many Northeast towns that was taken aback by the severity of the super storm. Many families lost power, the waterfront was bludgeoned and several parks were damaged. The catastrophic event devastated many people in Hastings and caused them to realize that events like this could happen to anyone. However, the village came out of the super storm with improved communication and new programs to help storm victims. Bryan Healy, recreation assistant of Hastings-on-Hudson, said, “Hurricane Irene caused people to be less concerned and prepared for Hurricane Sandy, since Irene was made out to be a much bigger deal than it actually was.” The staff of Hastings-on- Hudson Recreation Department, including Lisa O’Reilly, Rafael Zaratzian, Bryan Healy, and Kendra Garrison stated that while Hurricane Sandy definitely brought negative effects, it also forced Photo Courtesy of Sophia May residents to come together as a by Richard Berman community. They explained that Senior Editor vote in exactly three months time. The other necessary as a result of the hurricane they Unfortunately, I think there was a lot improvements the bond addressed created the “Are You OK Senior” After the voting booth closed of misinformation surrounding the will likely be in the new bond that the ...continued on page eight at 9 PM on October 22, the line of bond, which influenced the vote a Board of Education is going to draft voters streaming in and out of the lot.” in the coming months. What’s the Buzz on the Cochran Gym finally dissipated. The The Hastings Police The Board has promised to Buzzer? controversial bond referendum was Department has dealt with several “use information from that survey to defeated by a decisive vote of 1595 to cases of vandalism on both sides modify the plan.” by Max Elias 1060. of the debate and even personal Litvin said the students can Countless letters from altercations between community still have an impact: “The best thing athletes, parents, runners, and Ever since the Sandy Hook members. the students can do is stay involved; shooting, Hastings High School students published weekly in This schism has transcended even though many of us can’t vote, we The Enterprise had informed the has become more conscious of an the utility poles and street signs can still have a voice.” increased need for security. community of the various credible into the Internet as well—strongly points of contention in this much Recently, the administration worded (and even profane) has instilled a number of changes in heated debate. Facebook comments have shown This vote culminated months the school’s security. The Cochran disappointment for the bond’s defeat. Have an opinion? Gym entrance is now closed at all of proliferated campaigning - flyers “There has been immaturity pasted to every telephone pole, and times, and a buzzer system has also on both sides - and from adults too - been installed at the main entrance. signs placed in countless front yards. mean comments, bragging and even The Buzzer accepts Letters Now that the bond has been This is meant to prevent anybody cyber bullying. Much of this behavior to the Editor or op-eds, who shouldn’t be in the school from defeated, what does this mean for came after voting was finished,” and always welcomes your Hastings High School students? How entering. Litvin said. A greeter has also been hired will a vastly pro-bond student body One of the most significant feedback. (confirmed by a recent school-wide to sit at the entrance and speak to parts of the vote was the exit poll. anyone who comes into the school, poll, the results of which were 181 for This poll was conducted by the Send your thoughts to the bond to 30 against it) respond to making sure they have a right to be Board of Education to determine buzzersubmissions@gmail. there. this result? what pieces of the bond influenced Senior Jesse Litvin, who com. These security measures residents to vote against it. “may slow [intruders] down, but not wrote a letter to The Enterprise The environmental harm and spearheaded much of the pro- necessarily hinder them from causing of building a turf field – removing Want to be anonymous? Just harm,” Mr. Adipietro said. bond campaign said, “Of course I’m natural grass and replacing it with disappointed about the bond. But Request it! He believes such measures GeoTurf – was the most powerful will be beneficial to students and to luckily there can be another bond deterrent. ...continued on page four WHAT’S INSIDE... Revealing Costumes The Spookiest Article In No More Mystery Meat! Tom’s Spooky Corner Revealed The Paper: The Parent Portal What’s wrong with being What’s in store now that the Wow! A whole page devoted Curious as to what’s up with scantily clad? And what’s Hastings Middle and High to all things spooky? It’s a the new technology? The wrong with being as covered School cafeteria is under new Halloween miracle! parent portal recieves both up as NSA files? management? page five> page seven> praise and scorn. page four > page three > Page 2 Page 3 Buzzer

WhatPerspectives has been your favorite Halloween costume from childhood? Revealing Costumes Revealed EDITOR’S PAGE by Clara Weinstein OPINION allowed to dress sexy on Halloween. or the Hulk usually feature a puffy BUZZER “In the regular world, It’s a classic example of slut-shaming— princess-style skirt, while male ver- Halloween is when children dress making someone feeling ashamed or sions of the same costumes actually up in costumes and beg for candy. inferior because of the way she dresses resembles the Cookie Monster or the In Girl World, Halloween is the or behaves. A lot of people actually like Hulk. A lot of little kids love princess STAFF one night a year when a girl can dressing up as Sexy Prison Guards. A skirts and are perfectly happy with dress like a total slut and no other sexy costume might make someone feel their costumes, but any girl who girls can say anything about it.” empowered and confident, and Hallow- doesn’t like dressing girly and doesn’t EMILY BROUDE -Mean Girls een is one of the only occasions where have the time to make a homemade Editor-in-Chief A couple weekends ago girls can get away with showing more costume is out of luck. I went to Party City to buy some skin. Women should be able to wear Why do our Halloween elf ears for my friend’s Halloween what they want, on Halloween and costumes reflect the gender roles costume. Before we found them, every other day of the year, and they of the 1950s? Granted, if a woman ARIADNE BAZIGOS though, we were confronted with should never be stigmatized for dress- showed up to a 1950s Halloween RACHEL CHANG a massive wall of women’s cos- ing in a way that makes them feel good. party dressed as a Sexy Banana, tumes. There were your standard The thing is, if a girl wants to somebody would probably faint. Still, LENA RUBIN cats and witches, your legitimately buy a costume off the shelf, she really if the ideal man’s Halloween costume “I dressed up as a devil.” terrifying clowns, your devils and is funny or clever or realistic and the Managing Editors Miranda Edwards doesn’t have an option as to whether your angels. she wants to dress sexy or not. I could ideal woman’s costume is sexy (or Of course, all of these be a Sexy Cop for Halloween, a Sexy pretty and cute for younger girls), costumes consisted of miniskirts Nun, or a Sexy World War II Refugee… it doesn’t cast a particularly flatter- ALEX BAZIGOS and low-cut tank tops. but not, of course, a regular cop. If I ing picture of our society’s feelings Layout Editor This isn’t a novel ob- want to dress up like I’m ready to chase towards women. servation. Every Halloween the criminals, I’d better be able to do so in We shouldn’t be under complaints roll around about the a tiny skirt and high heels. A boy who pressure to show any more or less heavy sexualization of a holiday wanted to dress up as a cop could go skin than we want to. We should be RICHARD BERMAN that’s supposed to be for kids, buy an outfit close to what cops actually able to aim for sexy or scary or any TOMMY GELFARS and look at all these slutty girls wear. He wouldn’t have to worry about variation of the two without fear of running around, and how inap- whether he wants to dress provoca- judgment or reproach. After all, why JULIA MORRISS propriate this is, and blah blah tively, if he’ll be judged for doing so, or should the way we choose to dress Senior Editors blah. Complaints about women’s if he can find a costume appropriate for bother anyone else? So whether your At the start of every new year, The Buzzer’s editorial staff introduces itself to the student body. Halloween costumes often center idea of a costume is rocking cat ears For the next nine months, The Buzzer will be working hard to report on the most relevant and impor- the setting he’ll be in, not to mention around shaming girls for daring to the weather. with lingerie or dressing up as a tant changes and events occurring in Hastings High School. And since we will be striving to be the dress sexy. The differences between cos- deranged serial killer, have a happy voice of the student body, we think that it’s necessary to allow the readers of this journal to get to MOIRA PETERSON There’s a lot wrong with tumes starts young, too. For little girls, Halloween. know the editors a little better. Photo Editor the idea that women shouldn’t be even costumes like Cookie Monster In the spirit of Halloween, we thought we’d give the public a glimpse at who we really are. Senior staff writer Lyra Fuchs has actually been living for hundreds of years—you may know “I dressed up as Mr. Incredible.” New Clubs Invite You to Dance, Sing, and Donate her by the name of Rumplestiltskin. Although her baby stealing days are now behind her, she has not LAUREN WEINER Ethan Saperstein by Sofia Griff and Maddy Murphy given up her ability to turn straw, or, rather, the bare bones of an article, into gold. Revealing herself Art Editor in this issue as Wonder Woman is senior staff writer Lara Feder. She has hung up her cape, but not On the day of the club friends about it because I don’t think Not all may go on to pursue her lasso, which she still uses on unsuspecting interviewees to find out the truth, the whole truth, fair, the lobby was packed. Tables many know about it right now,” said dancing careers, but Mr. Levy views and nothing but the truth. Senior staff writer Sophia May, with her uncanny ability to write many ar- and booths of all shapes and May. The club has multiple benefits, not dance as a universal skill with a life- sizes filled the room. Students only to the community, but also to the long benefit: “When you get good at ticles at once, is actually a black widow. With her eight legs, she is able to use two per laptop, as she LARA FEDER wandered about, stopping here students involved. it, you can go anywhere in the world writes at break neck speed. LYRA FUCHS and there to sign up for a club, or “I feel like it’s appealing and dance with anybody.” First of the general editors is Richard Berman, the ghost that haunts the Cochran gym, search- say hello to a friend. because it’s very good for college,” said ing for a lede to a new sports related story. Next is Tommy Gelfars is the jester of the high school, SOPHIA MAY Many clubs make an Dishian. A Cappella Club: who has the great talent of turning anything and everything into a joke. Julia Morriss is a flying mon- Senior Staff Writers annual appearance at this event. This new club will help remind The A Capella Club was the But in addition to these more students to give and to appreciate what idea of two seniors, Emma Dietz key who obediently follows out the commands of the Great Master, Mr. Abrams. well-known clubs, this year the they have. One of the goals of the club and Emily Dyke. Lauren Weiner, art editor, is the fairy godmother who grants every editor’s wish of fantastically club fair showcased a host of is to hopefully expand outside of the “We had always talked made comics that perfectly express an article’s meaning in visual form. Moira Peterson, photo edi- ROSS ABRAMS newer clubs, including Operation school and, as May said, “get the rest of about having a group other than tor, is Medusa: with her powerful gaze, she can stop any event in motion in order to take the perfect Faculty Advisor Donation, the Dance Club, and the community involved.” Madrigals that did music completely picture. Alexandra Bazigos, our all-powerful layout editor, magics together the layout of the newspaper the A Capella Club. a cappella,” said Emma, “[A group] with the amazing powers she has obtained from devil worship being a witch. Dance Club: focused on doing songs that are a Operation Donation: Mr. Levy, the advisor to the little more current.” Lena Rubin, the first of this year’s managing editors, is the sphinx. She can solve any riddle The founders of Dance Club, came up with the idea She added that this group by piecing together the information she’s collected, and is able to write out the answer in article Operation Donation, juniors after hearing numerous complaints would be one in which “the format with an immaculate inverse pyramid structure. Rachel Chang gathers her information by being SATURNALIA “I dressed up as fat Elvis in the Sophia May and Ava Dishian, about the school dances. As he members of the group are going to the ninja that she is and listening in on the secrets each department keeps. And if there’s anyone in Wednesday, December 11, were inspired by the Operation explained it, many students thought the be making more of the decisions 2013 third grade.” like what [they] sing and where her way-- well, let’s just say there won’t be. Ariadne Bazigos prefers to work at night, and being the Alex Constantine Backpack drive to start a club that dances were just “a lot of jumping up vampire that she is, does so by draining the blood (and secrets) of anyone who has any information helps people in need. and down.” [they] perform.” 6:00pm-8:00pm “We’re going to donate to By starting this club, he doesn’t The club is mainly aimed related to the topic on which she is reporting. people who can’t afford things like intend to change school dances, but at those who otherwise wouldn’t And last but not least, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde were recently released from their witness protec- Come to the school for school supplies or food,” Dishian introduce new dance options to those be a part of a musical group such tion program, and have collectively identified themselves as Editor-in-Chief Emily Broude. After en- a celebration that will explained. tired of the current ones. Many of the as chorus or Madrigals. They don’t intend to exclude anyone, even couraging each new writer to try his or her best, she will rapidly change into Mr. Hyde if any article is include cake contests, They plan to work with styles he intends to teach are partner handed in later than midnight of the due date. multiple organizations, including dances. those with limited vocal training or poetry, and more! the Westchester Food Pantry, New “There’ll always be a section on skills, though they may choose to With these well-kept secrets revealed, the staff of The Buzzer would like to wish everyone a Happy York Cares, Project SHARE, and ballroom dancing, the stuff they do on feature those with more experience. Halloween! In Ancient Rome, Saturnalia of course, Operation Backpack. Dancing With the Stars,” he said, “so “With all the hype in the media, -The Editors “I think everyone wants to give, there will be swing, there will be cha- such as Glee and Pitch Perfect, we was a holiday spent to but doesn’t have the time to be cha, there will be salsa.” thought that it would be something celebrate the harvest in a club,” said Dishian. Raising Mr. Levy’s experience dates a lot of students would be into,” through games and feasts. interest, however, has not been back to when he was a college Dyke explained. their greatest struggle in starting freshman. The club has gotten quite a a club. Rather, according to May, “I went to a dance class and bit of positive attention. But the two Admission: “finding the time” has posed the there were twenty-five women and have faced various struggles. biggest challenge. three men,” he said. Later in life, he “Since we’re both seniors, The staff of The Buzzer would like to make it clear that this publication is a newspaper In addition to this, taught dance at several schools in New we have so much else on our plates written for and made open to everyone in the Hastings High School community. We Dishian mentioned feeling York City; however, he doesn’t expect this year that beginning a new club would like to encourage every student to feel able to contribute to the paper, whether $5.00 unprepared at the club fair: “We all club members to have as much is a challenge,” said Dietz. just had the one sheet of paper experience as he does. “Hopefully, we will be able that be by writing, taking photographs, or discussing the issues presented in the con- to make it a known club and then tent. The Buzzer is an interdisciplinary resource, and everyone is encouraged to take Come dressed as an Ancient and were just going around to our “I’m expecting many people to Roman for free entry! friends. We were traveling. We be here who cannot dance whatsoever next year’s seniors will continue it!” advantage of it. didn’t even have a stand.” or haven’t even thought about There has also been “I was a duck. I called myself Despite this, Operation dancing,” he said. He intends to work difficulty finding an advisor for the EmmaDuck.” Donation has received a with beginners on more basic steps A Cappella club, but despite this, Emma Solomon reasonable amount of attention. and challenge those who are more the club has gotten a rather popular “People can tell their advanced. continued on page four> Page 4 Page 5

POLICIES SCHOOLWIRES WHAT’S NEWPARLEZ-VOUS New Study Hall Policies UPDATE Hastings Cafeteria to Expand its Horizon FRANÇAIS? by Kavi Subramanian by Lyra Fuchs by Francesco Scioscia At the beginning of this year, leaving campus, they were in the of the change. Senior Staff Writer a new study hall policy was put in hallways, they were in the lobby, “What are they hiding?” asked Hastings-on-Hudson said place that prevents students from they were where they were not sup- junior Maxine Lim. Schoolwires, the debate- goodbye to one of its beloved eateries leaving their classrooms except under posed to be. Or, if they made it to This year has shown a very inciting school website that replaced this past summer. Buffet de la Gare special circumstances. This is intend- the library, they weren’t using the slight decrease in the number of stu- the eChalk of recent years, has now closed after 33 years as the premier ed to both increase scholastic produc- computers, they were hanging out dents taking study halls. been in place for nearly three months. French restaurant in Westchester tivity and curtail abuse of passes. and fooling around, and that’s not “I might have added a study The service states that its mission is County. Opening up in its place is With these new rules, under- what study hall is,” she said. hall to my schedule in the future to create technology that will “help Saint George, a bistro style French classmen can go to guidance or any The staff, many of whom years, but I’ve heard bad things this [students and faculty) do all the place that promises to continue other place for which they have a pass proctor study halls, received these year, so I’m not so sure,” said Terrence things they do every day, more easily the tradition of quality French from an administrator. The Principal policies warmly, Ms. Hardesty said. Nugent, a freshman. and efficiently.” cooking while creating a more casual and Vice Principal will also write Marc Rosner, a study hall proc- Although seniors are still wel- But over the summer, the environment that will be welcoming passes to the library if there is a dire tor, said he has seen an increase in come, the library’s atmosphere seems change from eChalk was often to all the residents of the community. need to use a computer. productivity, as well as an ample use calmer. confusing rather than easy and I was a little nervous to visit, According to Vice Princi- of smart phones. “It’s much quieter now,” said efficient. The website changed along seeing that their new menu, posted pal Ms. Hardesty, the new policy is There was no formal an- librarian Arianna Grassia. She has with teacher email addresses and online, served Roasted Bone Marrow intended to increase productivity and nouncement at the brief assembly also seen more students reading pages. For many, it proved to be a with a side of parsley pesto and prevent rule breaking. about school policies at the begin- recreationally in the library, although hard adjustment. anchovy toast for a meager twelve “More often than not, [stu- ning of year or anywhere other she attributes that to the relocation of Senior Simone Brandford- dollars. Speaking with the co-owners, dents] were not coming back, and than the study halls themselves, and their couches. Altsher said, “It’s stupid how we don’t though, put me at ease. more often than not they were not many proctors claimed to know nei- have accounts where everything is Christopher Vergara and making it to the library; they were ther the reason for nor the duration there, and it’s too hard to find teachers Jason Steinberg are the co-owners . . . it’s so convoluted.” of Saint George. Vergara is also the This was an overriding owner of Harper’s in Dobbs Ferry, opinion, expressed by students and Meritage in Scarsdale. Steinberg and faculty alike. “It’s helpful, but was an employee at Harper’s when it is definitely not a user friendly it first opened for business. They are program,” Ms. Geller said. She posts embarking on this business venture in frequently on the site, but too finds it Hastings because they both love the difficult to navigate. community. In fact, Steinberg recently The administration says that relocated to Hastings from Ardsley. individual accounts are on the way. While speaking with And as to the portal, Mr. Adipietro, in Steinberg, I got the impression that a past interview, allowed that there are he has a real respect for the space that of course kinks to be worked out. “For Photo courtesy of Moira Peterson he is taking over. He understands example . . . what are the reasonable by Arianne Siegel the legacy that Buffet de la Gare left expectations for parents about when Junior Michelle Mullen said, “Last behind and is working with Vergara to assignments will be posted onto the While grilled cheese month, and some new self-serve keep it alive. In addition, the owners grade book.” sandwiches, greasy bagels with stations. year the food was better. All I ate are committed to serving organic, Brandford-Altsher, echoing cream cheese, and a bag of chips may There may also be a was the grilled cheese sandwiches, and farm-to-table options as much as the sentiments of many students, said, be what comes to mind first when permanent taco station and even the muffins, and the cookies.” An possible. “I preferred eChalk.” Hastings High school students hear an omelet section on occasions. In anonymous junior noted, “the new The menu has options for all. the word “cafeteria,” that might not be addition, there will be an increase in muffins taste like plastic.” For your parents, there is an extensive 3Junior Andrew Knispel the case this year. the types of ethnic foods available— Ms. Caraballo admitted that wine and cocktail list that will impress browses the new Hastings After the annual bidding took around once a month sous-chefs will the transition hasn’t been perfect any connoisseur. There is also a wide School District site. place to figure out which company come in to make fresh sushi rolls but also looked forward to the new selection of appetizers and other small options that will be available during plates. The dinner entrées are slightly would cater to the school cafeteria, instead of having the pre-packaged, pricey, but the food is all high-quality. Log Into the Student Portal Whitsons culinary group emerged slightly suspicious ones which are lunchtime. She said: “Some kids may have been sticking to the grilled You can find the menu on as the winner. Maureen Caraballo, unpopular among students. their website (http://saintgeorgebistro. Username: [Your Student ID #] District Treasurer, clarified that Students remain cheese and bagels simply because com/). Make sure you have your Password: Changeme the decision to go with the new underwhelmed with the current there wasn’t an alternative they liked.” Google Translate handy or make Ms. Photo courtesy of Moira Peterson company was strictly business-related; state of the cafeteria even with these While there most likely Bertacchi your dinner date because Whitsons had offered the best price. new changes. In fact, many students won’t be a re-introduction of those much of the menu is written in ...What’s the Buzz on the So what will this mean for argue that there are slimmer pickings much sought-after large chocolate French. This restaurant is only open UNLIMITED ACCESS: PARENT PORTAL INTRODUCED TO HASTINGS Buzzer Cont’d Hastings High School students? so far this year. chip cookies from the middle school for dinner, although there may be a One thing we can expect to see is When asked about their years or even classic grilled cheese Saturday and Sunday brunch in its by Emily Broude future. Editor-in-Chief the parents of those students, as well. the integration of new foods and favorite foods from the cafeteria a sandwiches, perhaps the new cafeteria amount of time just to put it together.” just signed up today,” she said with a He also said that he thinks management will surprise us with For those of you on the Other teachers, however, have laugh. an expanded variety of the types large group of juniors responded hunt for a job this school year, you that a violent occurrence would be of foods sold. This includes waffles, with valid complaints about the lack new and healthier staples. “You’re kidding.” not noticed such a drastic difference Students at the high school “highly unlikely…Newtown was may want to stop by Saint George. That was the reaction of with the introduction of the Parent have been voicing many opinions which are scheduled to appear in the of what many considered a staple The owners are looking forward to almost an anomaly.” cafeteria sometime during the next last year: grilled cheese sandwiches. Ms. DeRubeis, a Spanish teacher Portal. about the new software as it pertains Some students expressed employing local students, and in fact at Hastings High School, when she “Nothing has really changed,” to their grades and even their privacy. concern over not being able to enter have already hired Sydney Gabay, found out that none of the grades said Mr. König, another science “I like it,” said freshman Leah the school as easily anymore. an HHS sophomore, as a hostess. from her AP Spanish classes had teacher. “I haven’t gotten any feedback Alligood. “I can check on my grades, “I have been shut out of Gabay informed me that she had no made it onto the district’s newly from parents. So far, I’m absolutely and if they’re going down I have time evening activities multiple times, real experience in restaurants before adopted Parent Portal. neutral—but I think it’s a good idea.” to fix it.” because the doors are all locked and taking this position, but she has “But they’re all there!” she For most people in the Hastings “I think that it’s just another no one’s in the office,” said junior found the experience enlightening. protested as she clicked around her community, it seems that the way for parents to have more control Andrew Knispel. “It really gives me a new perspective computer in an attempt to get the technical aspects of the Parent Portal over their kids’ lives,” said Tessa On the other hand, Andie about restaurants and how much latest test scores to be published are far less important than the new Schneider, a senior. She added that Abrams, a sophomore, says that the work actually goes into them,” Gabay online. abilities it will give them. in a community like Hastings, where new measures make her feel safer. explained. Nearly two weeks after Robin Joseph, a Hastings parents and their children typically “I think [these measures] Seniors looking for an Hastings High School and Farragut mother of an 8th grader and an 11th have “a very good relationship,” are important because of the things interesting place to intern this May Middle School launched a website grader, said, “I think it will allow me the Parent Portal only implies that that have been happening all over the should look into opportunities through which students and parents to be more proactive about any help “parents don’t trust their children.” country, so I think [they’re] a good at Saint George. The owners are can monitor grades, not all of the or assistance that my children need. Joseph rather accurately improvement,” she said. willing to host a senior interested in kinks in the software had been The likelihood is that I’ll know that summed up many students’ to get up-close restaurant business worked out. my child needs help before my child impression of the Portal: “Even if experience. Steinberg’s advice to climb Although the program that says something, so I can be part of the things are going well, it seems as the ranks within a restaurant is to publishes students’ grades is built process to help.” though a lot of times students would ...New Clubs at Hastings “start at the bottom”. into eSchoolData, the gradebook Terri Deutsch, whose just rather their parents not have High School Cont’d Thanks to St. George, software that Hastings has been using children are in 10th and 11th grade, any idea what’s going on with their Hastings can rely on another French for several years, not all teachers had expressed a similar sentiment. grades.” restaurant that will keep quality and adopted the system before the Parent “I would say I think it’s a Perhaps some of the worry vote and it has opened up a door authentic flavor at the core of their Portal necessitated it. good premise,” she said. “Parents about the new software is misplaced— for those not in the chorus. Dietz business. The era of Buffet de la Gare “It’s been a steep learning are able to access this information of 20 students interviewed, only six believes that “it would give people has ended but this new little French curve,” said Mr. Brownstein, who without having to be in direct contact had been able to access the Parent who don’t have time to be in chorus bistro is hoping to begin a new teaches in the science department. with the teachers.” Portal or had even tried to do so. or madrigals another opportunity to tradition on Southside Avenue. “We were given a minimal amount of However, Deutsch had not “I totally forgot that it exists,” sing in a group!” training, so it’s taken me an enormous yet been able to access the Portal—“I said Loren Heubert-Aubry. Photo courtesy of Sophia May Page 6 Page 7

JonPEOPLE Riss: Sing Us a Song, Greet The Greeter: Ronald King by Rachel Chang Mr. Piano Man Managing Editor Nearly all the students of the high school pass by Ronald King every morning, sitting at his desk with his newspaper opened and his New York Yankees necklace dangling. “My job is to check every- one coming in the school, have them sign in, and direct them to the right place to go,” said King in regards to his job, describing him- self as a “gatekeeper” of sorts. King begins his shift at 7:30 AM every weekday morning, and stays until 1 PM. He admitted that the work can sometimes become a bit boring, but he brings the news- paper with him every day to keep himself occupied. King attended Commerce like it is actually a bit safer.” High School in Yonkers as a kid. When asked about the “It was a mostly all girls school,” he strangest thing he has witnessed on said. “It was a business school.” the job, King’s response was im- Years later, King can now mediate: “Well, the way kids dress boast of 43 years of marriage, 3 nowadays,” he said with a laugh. children, and 6 grandchildren, who The best part of the job? “The kids, Photo courtesy of Emily Broude range from the ages of 17 years to the students,” said King. “I have a lot DIY HALLOWEEN 14 weeks. of fun with them.” SPOOKYTIME: A HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN “The kids come down As for what he’d like the by Thomas Gelfars by David Dorsky they moved to Long Island. COSTUMES every Sunday,” King said of his students to know, King’s answer was Senior Editor “This is the price of having grandchildren. “They mooch off clear: Greet the greeter. surprises) I realized that I knew was for people to dress up and by Thomas Gelfars a preacher as a father,” laughs Riss. Whenever October rolls little to nothing of the origins of When you walk into the me, and then they leave! It’s the “Say hello to me more in the imitate the spirits and fairies. At Senior Editor “It was quite a culture shock – I best thing about grandkids.” mornings, you know? Greet me once around, I feel an overwhelming Halloween. Upset with this void this point, I began to notice the Ghost: office of Mr. Riss, the first thing you had been going to a school around may notice is a sign on his busy bul- Prior to his job as HHS’s in a while!” sensation of elation and glee in my knowledge, I ceased my eerie similarities between this - Find a colored bed sheet in your the same size as Hastings and all greeter, King worked as a supervi- wash over my body, as if some costuming and delved into the ancient ceremony and Halloween. home or local motel. letin board that reads, “The Being a of a sudden, I was in the second Geek Award goes to: Jonathan Riss.” sor for Liberty Lines, a bus service Simone Brandford- transcendental psychic force nebulous tangle of information Bonfires became jack-o-lanterns, - Bleach it heavily so that it turns largest middle school in the coun- in Westchester. After having been were blasting my corporeal known as the internet, where I This sign was awarded to Riss at the t r y.” Altsher: One in druids disguised as spirits became white. end of a production of 13: the Musi- retired from Liberty Lines for three being with electric beams of made many illuminating findings. After finishing grad school years, King came to Hastings to children in scary costumes. The - Using a sterilized blade, cut two cal, when each director, including at Temple, Riss moved back to Sixteen Hundred ecstasy. Why does this month What I discovered is that it truth was dawning upon me. large holes in the sheet so you can Riss, the music director, was given interview for the greeter position Long Island to figure out his and was given the job. by Janey Litvin bring me such joy, you may ask? all goes back to an ancient Gaelic Anyway, the tradition of see out of it. (If you do not have an award based off of a song in future. That’s when he found out It’s because October is a month festival known as Samhain. It Samhain continued for centuries the means to chemically sterilize the show. The sign now hangs in a King’s desk sits beside a In the fourth book of the about the Hastings job through monitor that gives him a perfect of many wonderful holidays was a celebration of the end of in the Gaelic community, and, your blade, hold it over the stove prominent center position on the Facebook. Harry Potter series, a character and festivities: Lief Erickson the harvest and the beginning bulletin board behind his piano. view of the door outside. Though says, “You fail to recognize not what coupled with the Christian holiday for a while until it is red hot. This “Mr. Kerness posted in [a the door is unlocked while he is on Day, Oktoberfest, National Fire of the dark months of winter All Hallow’s Eve, which begins should suffice.) In the case of Riss, Hastings High group called] the New York Chap- someone is born, but what they grow Prevention Week, Gandhi Jayanti School’s new choral director, this his shift, if he has a concern about up to be.” that lay ahead, and it fell right three days of remembrance of - Remove all of your clothes and ter of American Choral Directors someone approaching the door, he (the commemoration of the birth around October 31. The Gaels the dead, the modern Halloween drape the sheet over your bod. award symbolizes a major aspect of and asked anyone interested to To senior Simone Brandford- his life – music. can lock it from his desk. He can Altsher, a fan of the Potter series, this of Mahatma Gandhi), Canadian would gather and feast, and it was developed. It would not be until message him, and so it went from then greet the person at the door Thanksgiving...the list goes on believed that they were in contact “Everyone in my family there,” Riss explains. quote has particular resonance. large numbers of Irish, Scottish, Mummy: makes music,” says Riss. His pa- and determine whether he or she Simone has been recognized as and on. But my favorite of all the with spirits of the dead. The Gaels, Riss came in for an in- should be admitted. and Welsh people immigrated - Go to your friend’s house and ternal grandmother was a church terview with Ms. Hardesty and a semi-finalist in the National holidays comes, in fact, on the practitioners of polytheistic pagan to America in the 19th century steal several rolls of toilet paper or organist educated at the Julliard The situation does not arise Achievement Scholarship Program agreed to take the job for the re- very often. “Most of the people very final day of October. Yes, I’m religion, engaged in divinatory that Halloween would make its saran wrap. School of Music and her husband, a mainder of the 2012-2013 school for black high school students. She talking about HALLOWEEN. rituals aplenty during Samhain. appearance stateside. It didn’t - Have another friend wrap you in minister at the South Presbyterian that come here, I know, including is one of only 1,600 people, out of year. Before officially taking the parents,” King explained. Recently, however, I have I was onto something, that much take long for the craze to catch the paper/saran. Church right in Dobbs Ferry, sang reins, he shadowed Kerness for a pool of 160,000, in the nation to been thinking a lot more about I could tell. Magical deeds were as a part of services. While few students object reach this level of the competition. on and for millions of unknowing - Fasten the paper/saran with El- six weeks. “It was really hum- to having a greeter at the door to this special day, my favorite day of afoot...magical darkness. Americans to partake in a holiday mer’s non-toxic glue and staples. Riss’s father is a Methodist bling,” says Riss, “to see how he Simone’s PSAT score earned her the tenth month of the Gregorian minister and his brother is studying the school, many have expressed a spot with the other highest During Samhain, I learned, that serves as the contemporary - Make sure there are holes for connected with the students on uncertainty regarding the protec- calendar. As I was preparing bonfires were lit in order to ward successor to an ancient mystical breathing and vision. to become a professional trombone a personal level and how he used performing black students in the player at Temple University. Not to tion that the position actually country, but in order to advance, my costume (which I will not off the more malevolent of the rite. - Adorn yourself with ancient that to bring out their very best as brings. But very few of these stu- divulge so as not to spoil any spirits. Another common practice be outmatched by his family, Riss musicians.” other factors, including work talismans. received a Bachelor of Music degree dents know exactly how the system experience and an essay, are taken When asked about what works. - Construct a sarcophagus out at Ithaca College and went on to it’s like to take over such a beloved into account. of cardboard boxes, old flannel earn his Masters Degree in choral “I think it probably creates Simone certainly seems to teacher’s position and under such a sense of safety and protection for Halloween Pick-Up Lines My Top 10 Halloween Halloween Playlist shirts, and moist two by fours. conducting at Temple. fragile circumstances, Riss says, agree with Dumbledore’s wise words. - Set up the sarcophagus on your Growing up, Riss lived with other people in the school,” said “I’ve realized that I’ve been Movies, in Reverse Non- by Clara Weinstein “he was and is irreplaceable and sophomore Joseph Rogers of the What’s your costume, the most porch and lay inside of it. Pop out his family in upstate New York. now in this position I think of making my Jamaican heritage out beautiful male/female in the world? Linear Order But at the age of twelve, he and his greeter’s position. But upon learn- to be something exotic,” she said, and spook children when they myself as not a replacement for ing of the monitor system, Rog- Perhaps Vampires is a come to your door. (If you do not family were abruptly thrust into an him but someone here to continue “when really it’s no better than being 6. Beetlejuice - 1988 entirely new environment, when ers quickly added, “That actually from any other place.” I’d throw eggs and toilet paper all Bit Strong But - Arctic have a porch, place the sarcopha- his work and continue his legacy.” makes a ton of sense. Now I feel over you, baby. 9. The Crow - 1994 Monkeys gus on your fire escape and inter- mittently scream at passersby). by Julia Morris You want to know something really 3. The Rocky Horror Picture Costume Conference Senior Editor Red Right Hand - Arctic going to use a lot of face paint. terrifying? How attracted I am to Show - 1975 Politician: Note. you. Monkeys Olivia Selemon skirts, and we’re going to wear 7. The Human Centipede - - Acquire an expensive, tailor- white button-down shirts and grey Ellie Plotkin-Kaye made suit at a retailer such as What are you going to be for What is your costume going to look What are you going to be for 2010 Halloween? cardigans. like? Ever carve a pumpkin before? Became - Atmosphere Brooks Brothers, Burlington Coat Halloween? 2. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Factory, or the Armani Exchange. I am going to be Britney Spears with I am going to wear all black. I’m I’m going to be the Tin Man and my friend Annelise Gentile. How are you going to make your going to have very, very scary face Want to trade your Tootsie Rolls for Charlie Brown - 1966 Lovecraft in Brooklyn - The - Place a brown paper bag over costume? my friends are going to be other my unending love and devotion? paint. I’m also going to have feathers characters from The Wizard of Oz. 5. Ernest Scared Stupid - 1991 Mountain Goats your face. What is your costume going to look We are going to use things we have and I’m going to carry a notebook - Sit on the curb in shame. in our houses, and maybe go to like? with “Death Note” written on it. I’m What is your costume going to look What do you say we dig ourselves 8. Nosferatu - 1922 We are going to put our hair in high some little store for anything we going to were a belt with skulls on it a grave and spent the night six feet Damn These Vampires - The don’t have. like? Got a good Halloween Costume? ponytails with pink scrunchies. We too. I’m going to wear silver clothes and under? 1. Young Frankenstein - 1974 Mountain Goats are dressing in her schoolgirl outfit Leah Alligood this tinfoil hat I made. and we’re going to carry microphones. How are you going to make your Trick or treat! As in, I trick you into 10. The Human Centipede II - Submit a pic to We are wearing Converse instead of What are you going to be for costume? 2011 Ain’t No Grave - Johnny [email protected] and Halloween? How are you going to make your treating me to dinner, eh? Mary Jane’s. We are going to have I‘m going to wear black leggings and costume? Cash you could be in the next issue! field hockey-type skirts, like plaid I am going to be Ryuk from Death other black clothes I have. I’m also ...continued on page eight> 4. Spooky Buddies - 2011 Page 8

BUZZER...Hurricane Sandy’s MelissaIN Hardesty: Fashion Icon by Sophia May BACK Senior Staff Writer Anniversary Cont’d program, in which senior citizens The next time you get called It has a Greek owl on it. It’s really are checked on, in the event of a to the office, be happy rather than c o o l .” hurricane or other disastrous event, despaired - at least you’ll get to see Back in her high school via email, phone and door-to-door what fabulously classy outfit Ms. days in Greenwich, Connecticut, visits. Hardesty is wearing. Her style is Hardesty was crazy for The hurricane also brought self-described as “classic”, and Ms. fashion. “I bought every fashion out the caring nature of Hastings Hardesty is definitely that, dressed magazine, and I used to beg my residents. Many families with in tailored pants, a white blouse, mother to take me shopping at power in their homes showed and a red, white, and blue knit Bloomingdales.” She joked that her hospitality to those without. Marla cardigan. mother “worked a second job to Hamberger, resident of Hastings, Accompanying the satisfy my bad habit.” who lost power in her home for ten outfit are a range of accessories: Ms. Hardesty kept a days, stayed with friends for five of necklaces, earrings, bracelets and scrapbook with clippings from them. rings, each and every one adorned fashion magazines. She “loved After the stress of the with pearls, adding cohesiveness fabrics,” and although she didn’t storm, Mrs. Hamberger began to the ensemble. When it comes make clothing, Hardesty did craft Photo courtesy of Lena Rubin worrying about future hurricanes. to accessorizing, Hardesty “loves her own jewelry. She also followed ...One in Sixteen “We were very lucky in that we did jewelry.” Her “absolute favorite the popular styles, rocking big hair, not sustain damage to the house. piece” is an antique Greek coin makeup and “guacamole earrings,” Hundred Cont’d However, we feel concerned about pendant that she bought in enormous green metal buttons with Bermuda. “It’s different and unique. a dangling swirl. “Now I would She discusses being biracial, future weather. We have considered and how people like her “can, for purchasing a generator but have never wear them, but back then, it was cool.” one of the first times in history, not done so. In general, I think self-identify.” She wants others to we feel more appreciative about When asked her opinion about the understand that she can’t be placed having a [warm] home, something in one category, as she’s ¾ white and we probably took for granted current styles in Hastings High School, ¼ black. previously,” she said. In fact, this influenced While there are a few Hardesty was quick to answer. “I see the trends her decision to even apply for the long-lasting effects from Hurricane scholarship. She was concerned Sandy, not all of them are negative. repeating themselves,” she said. She’s noticed because the award didn’t specify Hastings residents will always what percentage of black heritage remember the kindness and styles from the 70s, such as booties and was necessary. She “went back and generosity displayed during this forth about checking the box but time of need, and will most likely bohemian-style pieces, and a stud trend that ultimately decided just to see what be much more prepared for the h app e n e d .” possibility of a future storm. evokes memories of the 80s, which Hardesty This impressive recognition might just be following as a semi-finalist will be sent to ...Costumes Conference herself. “I just bought a colleges, where Simone, whose Cont’d studded belt, as a matter favorite classes have been SUPA of fact.” courses, is interested in studying “I wish I had saved culture and anthropology at an I am going to go to [cheap] stores off some of [my old] urban school. Central Ave to find silver clothes. clothes,” Hardesty In addition to her academic mused. “But it’s not like pursuits, music plays a large role Tessa Schneider they would fit me now.” in Simone’s life. A talented singer, What are you going to be for Simone is part of numerous singing Halloween? 3Hardesty sports groups, including the HHS chorus, I’ going to be the Scarecrow from a dramatically the Madrigals, and a community The Wizard of Oz with my friends. service singing group called the draped shawl River Singers, which has made What is your costume going to look with a contrasting appearances at Andrus on Hudson. like? beige shift. She is also a pianist, and plans to I don’t know yet, but probably a Photo courtesy of Sophia May play a piano concerto with the HHS flannel shirt and maybe high-waisted orchestra at the spring concert. shorts. Drake’s “Nothing Was The Same” Review Miley Cyrus’ “Bangerz” How are you going to make your Review costume? I am going to use stuff in my house by David Dorsky by Andrew Knispel or my friends’ stuff. I am not going to buy anything. Hiphop’s golden child Drake uses a sample from the Miley Cyrus’ album is back: on September 24th, rap Wu Tang Clan’s “It’s Yourz” and “Bangerz” has been long awaited superstar Drake released his third name-drops the legendary rap ever since her outrageous LP, entitled “Nothing Was The group throughout the song-- but performance at MTV’s Video Same.” But as suggested by Rolling the song is about an ex-girlfriend Music Awards this year and the Stone Magazine, this album should and simply doesn’t sound like Wu release of her risqué music video probably be called “Everything Tang whatsoever. In fact, many for “Wrecking Ball,” a single from Was Pretty Much The Same.” Like rap aficionados were angered by the album, which also features the usual, Drake sings in his silky the song’s title. Nonetheless, if you summer hit “We Can’t Stop.” tenor about past girlfriends, croons can get past the title, the song is “Bangerz” starts out with a slow, to current love interests, and, of beautifully haunting and the Clan delay-drenched track titled “Adore course, celebrates his success and sample has a great effect on its You”. Things get a bit strange at fame. The album is a battle between mood. track three with “SMS” feat. Britney two Drakes, one insecure and Maybe the most impressive Spears. This song features lines vulnerable, and the other proud track on the album is “From Time,” such as “you know I’m on that and boastful. The LP has both hits featuring Jhene Aiko. The song is meow” and the very Freudian “all and misses. reminiscent of Drake’s mega hit, the way in the back, with a tree in “Hold on We’re Going “What’s My Name,” a “Grammy” my l ap.” Home” is Drake’s most passionate nominated collaboration with After track six, the album love song yet, catchy yet not Rihanna. In “From Time,” Drake really starts to peter out; once it corny. In “Furthest Thing,” Drake raps about his relationship with his reaches track twelve it starts to utilizes his signature combination father, and breakups that have hurt become quite difficult to finish. of singing and rapping to convey him. “Do My Thang” gets an honorable the fact that he, like everyone in In all three of his albums, mention, despite being later in the the world, isn’t perfect. Drake Drake has never dug this deep album, because of its catchy beat completely misses, however, with and became so vulnerable. With and fun changes in dynamics. the album’s opening track, “Tuscan “Nothing Was The Same,” Drake Overall, the album has Leather. “ The song features a makes quality music while being some good, poppy dance tracks rough and choppy beat that doesn’t loose and arrogant, but his real but contains more misses than hits. match up well with the rhythm of triumph is broadcasting his Miley just tries too hard with overly the lyrics. Within its 6-minute time newfound maturity and showing provocative lyrics and mostly span, the song jumps all over the the world that he is ready to take forgettable instrumentals. place and never settles down. the next step. Photos Courtesy of Wikipedia On “Wu Tang Forever,” Rating: 8/10 Rating: 4/10