Half Hollow Hills High School East Issue 2 Winter 2016 Explore New Mysteries at Our New Planetarium Anish Pisipati Staff Writer below, which strains to raise it up into by another computer to seamlessly dis- astronomy club, which usually meets the center play whatever is desired. The applica- in the planetarium, had to be relocated of the Plan- tions of being able to display video can to a music room for a few months while etarium’s lead to many other possible uses, in- it was being updated. In the meantime, spherical cluding the ability to virtually transport the old star projector was removed, the dome. This oneself anywhere one desires, such new projectors were put exactly into is the star as a different country or even a cell; place, the computers were set up with projector.” the dome can be a multipurpose tool. the new program to run the simulations, What a Some of the downsides of this new sys- and the dome was modifed to become difference tem include not being able to show full more ideal for the new projector. Also, a year can darkness. With any projector, there is since this projector is much more com- make as this always a small amount of ambient light plicated when compared to the old one, school year, that seeps through, making the screen it took some time to adjust to its new the HSE look a very slight gray instead of pitch system. Mr. A said that he learned how planetarium black. The holes in the old optical-me- to use the system with the manufactur- received a chanical projector only used to have the er in Salt Lake City, Utah, and it took a major ren- light shine through them, allowing for couple of weeks. While it is diffcult, he o v a t i o n . darkness in between; however, this is said that everything complicated is dif- The old star not the case with a digital system. For- fcult if one is not used to the software. p r o j e c t o r tunately, the amount of grey is so small In the new planetarium, the familiar has been re- that most people would not notice it. large star projector in the middle of the placed by a Differences also exist in how the two room is now gone, leaving empty space Newly renovated planetarium now has the ability to project in full new, more projectors show the brightness and size (and room to walk); however, the plan- color! The dome as well as the software also changed to ft the new etarium experience is better than ever projector. a d v a n c e d of stars. In the old, optical-mechanical projector. projector, the size of the hole deter- as it is enhanced with color, videos, vi- An essay written by one of last year’s It is a fully mines how much light comes through. sualizations, and, of course, stars. graduating seniors and former Astron- digital, 2.5 megapixel projection sys- In order to increase the amount of light, omy Club President, Su Norris, stated tem. This new projector does not just the hole in the sphere is enlarged. In that “the planetarium is ancient, and show stars, but it also show sstunning order for the star to not appear larger it shows. At the center of the room, visualizations including pictures of with the larger hole, there is a lens that there is a dusty old metal contraption space probes, constellations, and even focuses the light into a smaller dot, standing on two pairs of long metal the surroundings of wherever one is making it appear brighter, according struts like a Seussian bird. The pro- stargazing. For the frst time, the sky can to Mr. A. With the new projector, it is jector is from an age when the Moon be seen in color! Now, the planetarium necessary to increase the brightness of landing was still a far off dream. Its has the ability to show videos as well. a star in order to increase the number spherical head has thousands of tiny The old star projector used small holes of bright white pixels for the image of eyes, pinpricks of light streaming out in a sphere to let some light through that star. While this might not make of them. Its slender neck is covered and create images of stars. The new the star look as realistic as the dots of with plastic and steel buboes, devices digital system, according to Mr. Affati- light that are seen in the sky, the plan- that spin and twist and light up. The gato (Mr. Tom), uses two projectors, etarium sky will still look amazing! strange creature is perched atop a plat- each with a computer on opposite sides The whole renovation took place at One of the views our new projector form with a wheezing hydraulic piston of the planetarium that are connected the beginning of this school year. The can project HSE Newspaper Club Members Attend “Student Press Day” Maddy Propis & Rachel 11. Those in attendance were fortunate its communication programs. Next, stu- The trip to Hofstra gave students a Rosenstein enough to experience a highly infor- dents in the Newspaper club got a tour sneak peek into a day in the life of School News Editors mational day that Hofstra calls “Stu- of the facilities for several of Hofstra’s a communications major. Hofstra dent Press Day.” Student Press Day various communications’ programs, is ranked the second best school in is when Newspaper/Journalism clubs such as broadcasting and journalism. the country for media professionals, from all over Long Island come togeth- Following their tour, students were then so learning about their communica- er to participate in engaging workshops allowed to choose to attend a lecture tions department was very benefcial. about specifc communication-related from one of four different guest speak- occupations and various college ma- ers, including Investigative reporter jors. Communications is a broad term Ann Givens, Digital Reporter Delia that includes news (in all forms), tele- Paunescu, and Sports Journalist Adam vision, and magazines. Hofstra admin- Rubin. Students went to not only one, istration and alumni who majored in but two lectures that afternoon based on this feld in college and pursued careers their specifc personal interests. Some in these felds following their Hofstra of these workshops included informa- education spoke to the visitors about tion on photojournalism and graphic positive experiences they had, as well design, social media/digital reporting, as a typical day in their occupation. TV and investigative reporting, and When the newspaper club arrived at sports journalism. There were extensive Hofstra, Hofstra administration kind- options from which participants could ly offered students breakfast, snacks, choose. All of the students who attend- Members of the newspaper staff attend and drinks. They gave students draw ed these lectures thought they were Student Press Day at Hofstra University string bags to keep flled with note- extremely interesting and informative. pads, pens, and information sheets on Lastly, students ate lunch at Hofstra and Staff members of High School East’s guest speakers who would be present then boarded the buses back to HSE. very own Thunderbird newspaper took Daniel Van Benthuysen from that day. The students were frst direct- Overall, this trip was very interest- Hofstra’s School of Journalism a didactic, yet exciting feld trip to Hof- ed to Hofstra’s auditorium where they ing to anyone who may want to ma- addresses the students. stra University on Friday, December listened to speeches about Hofstra and jor in the feld of communications. InsIde senior Banquet ART TAKEOVER winter pep rally 2016 Page 2 Page 8-9 Page 16 THIs IssUe 2 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016 Senior Experience: A Sweet Senior Banquet An Opportunity to Make Your Senior Year Special

Shelby Gosset Juliana Jacobsen & Kate Smith News & Features Editor Contributors

On January 29, the senior class until we were full, the Senior Class A fairly new program has surfaced in Art, a screening of the flm “The Big spent a sweet evening at the Can- superlatives were fnally announced. High School East’s already wide selec- Short,” and the fan favorite, Skyzone. dyland-themed Senior Banquet. The This senior class tradition is one of tion of classes: Senior Experience. There is such an immense variety; gym was transformed into a candy the students’ favorite parts of senior This class is an innovative there’s really something for wonderland flled with bright colors year. To culminate the evening, the se- new form of learn- everyone! Many seniors and yummy treats. The evening was nior class gathered around to watch a ing that is centered currently taking this successfully coordinated by both Stu- montage of their high school memories around “hands-on” course had never been dent Government and the National Art prepared by the Senior Class Student experience. The class on high school feld Honor Society. Student government Government Offcers. A special thank satisfes both the En- trips before, so it has planned the much anticipated banquet, you to Jared Brown and Daniel Curray glish and Social Stud- really granted many while NAHS turned the gym into a as this video would not have been pos- ies requirement for senior students an opportunity candy lover’s heaven. The night was a sible without their help. As the evening year and offers an out-of-school for that unique and gratifying ex- lot of fun as students danced to music came to a close, the senior class was internship in a variety of career felds. perience. provided by an high energy DJ. Every- grateful for one of the last milestones Two days a week, instead of spending The internships are something that one enjoyed a delicious dinner catered in their high school journey and left the entire day in school, students at- Senior Experience students take great by a local favorite, Cirella’s. After reminiscing about the last four years. tend an internship of their choice. On pride in as well. There are so many dancing until our feet hurt and eating the other three days, students attend an things that one can never learn in sim- interdisciplinary class of English and ply a classroom or a lecture. It’s that Social Studies that focuses on current raw experience that really teaches one political issues through class discus- how it feels to be in a certain feld of sions and reading contemporary nov- work. Student’s gain both interperson- Senior Superlatives els, plays, and nonfction. The class al skills and a detailed understanding takes place during periods seventh of the technical side of the career. The through nine. sky’s the limit when it comes to choos- Best Personality: Brian Rhee/Richard Hogan & Brooke Duncanson ing one’s internship, with an endless Typical Dix Hillian: Tyler Spellman and Morgan Singer Senior Experience does not have a set curriculum, and it develops as history world of opportunity for one to reach Most All-Around Senior: Jared Brown and Deeya Naval forms around us in the modern world. out and grasp. Mr. Cappiello, the in- Best Dressed: Blake Duncanson and Christie Lorenzo Our discussions and debates are intel- ternship manager of Senior Experi- Most Likely to Succeed: Joseph Davolio and Cassandra Grello ligent and involved, where the teachers ence, is simply wonderful and is very Best Body: Grifn Arcuri and Cameron Calderon treat us as equals and our opinions are willing to help students fnd and man- Most Artistic: Christopher Waller and Amanda Greenfeld taken seriously. The course’s format age their internship. Class Cutie: Akash Patel and Jordan Linde is heavily based on that which we can Overall, the benefts of taking Senior Most Athletic: D’Nathan Knox and Adaugo Chimezi soon expect in a college environment. Experience are great in number. It is Class Flirt: Tyler Spellman and Samantha Francucci Also, students learn skills that are vi- weighted as an honors class, adding the Nicest Eyes: Nick DiPietro and Allison Schuler tal to life in the real world such as do- beneft of receiving honors credit for Most Humorous/Class Clown: Michael Sivin and Sari Sosnick ing taxes, paying bills, budgeting, and having a great time in an interesting, preparing for college. Students will relaxing, and unique atmosphere. The Most Changed Since 9th Grade: Armaan Bhasin and Maggie Levine class is very inclusive, even of those Most Musical: David Lerner and Jenna Swerdlow no longer wonder if they are learning something that they will use later in who are quite shy, and the members of Best to Bring Home To Mom: Richie Hogan and Nicole Vivona life. the class end up bonding much like a Attached at the Hip: Ashley Mayne and Tamaya Braddy One of Senior Experience’s other family. Senior Experience is not an op- Teacher’s Pet: Bradley Weltman and Joley Schneider central components is frequent feld portunity to be missed. Most Likely to be President: Mitchell Siegel and Julianna Hong trips to enhance that “hands on” motif. If you interested in taking Senior Our previous trips include a New York Experience get your application into City food tour, the Statue of Liberty, guidance as soon as possible. See Mr. Ellis Island, the 9/11 Memorial Mu- Breig, Mr. Cappiello, Mrs. Scully, or seum, The Metropolitan Museum of your guidance counselor for more in- formation.

Congratulations to the top scorers at the 23rd Annual Sufolk Math Tournament held on Friday, January 8, 2016

12th grade level individual winner: David Morales, 5th place

11th grade level individual winner: Anton Wu, 1st place (perfect score)

11th grade level individual winner (9th grader): Rinni Bhansali, 2nd place

10th grade level individual winner: Ryan Li, 4th place

Class Cutie: Jordan Linde & Akash Patel Class Clown: Michael Sivin & Sari Sosnick 9th grade level individual winner: Jared Bank, 5th place

Lower Division (9th/10th grade level) winning team: 3rd place Jared Bank, Ray Chang, Kaitlyn Hoxha, Ryan Li, and Aaryav Nagpal

Upper Division (11th/12th grade level) winning team: 1st place Rinni Bhansali (9th grader), David Morales, Brian Rhee, Raymond Weisbrot, and Anton Wu.

Best Personality: Richard Hogan & Most Musical: David Lerner & Brooke Duncanson Jenna Swerdlow HHH High School East THUNDERBIRD 3 S.A.D.D. Update 2015-2016 HSE First Annual Health Fair Nicole Shanker & Jolie Freedman Alexa Grill Entertainment Editor Staff Writers roni, Emily Silvino, and myself, and This year, Ms. Aull and the students fnally, frst place went to “Cancer Pre- Students Against Destructive Deci- rental permission) and above, as well as in her health classes set up an outstand- vention With A Plant-Based Diet,” by sions, better known as S.A.D.D., is a adults in the community. More recent- ing health fair with the intention of Brittney Adler, Hallie Braunstein, Ali 35-year old international organiza- ly, S.A.D.D. took part in a sweatshirt raising awareness and offering healthy Price, and Lauren Rosenberg. Each tion that was created in order to em- drive. Students donated new or gently snack options to students and staff at winner received a different amount of power kids used sweat- HSE. This was the frst of this event, money to donate to a charity of their to become shirts to shel- and many people hope it will become choice: $100 for frst place, $75 for more edu- ters in Suf- an annual occurrence. The purpose of second place, and $50 for third. Over- cated about folk County the health fair was to advocate for sub- all, the health fair was a huge success making dif- during the jects in the areas of health that apply and made Ms. Aull very proud! The fcult deci- holidays. to teenagers. With this being said, the three organizations that received do- sions. A few At our health fair did not consist of a bunch nations are the Long Island Crisis years ago, meetings, we of research papers, but rather of vibrant Center, the American Cancer Society, S . A . D . D . also watch and colorful posters and informative and the Long Island Children’s Choir. stood for interactive brochures on the various topics. The Students videos that students got to choose any topic relat- Against allow us to ing to health for which they would like Drunk Driv- get insight to advocate, so the result was multiple ing, but on why cer- projects in a wide variety of interesting the club’s tain deci- topics. Everyone who attended the fair name was sions can be was able to vote for their favorite proj- changed so harmful. Af- ects; at the end of the fair, frst, second, students could Offcers and members of the S.A.D.D. Club ter we watch and third place prizes were awarded. expand their the videos, The project that got third place was knowledge. In the club, we often we discuss and share our opinions. “Music is Life (That’s Why Hearts learn about drug abuse, drunk driv- One video we watched talked about a Have Beats),” by Haley Califano. Sec- ing, texting while driving, depres- mother who had been an alcoholic for ond place was awarded to “Importance sion, and other defective decisions six years. This video really helped us of Sleep,” by Julia Nicolosi, Gali Sha- 1st place winner: using a plant based that can lead to dangerous outcomes. to gain some perspective because the diet for cancer prevention. S.A.D.D. has enhanced our knowledge mother talked about how a small prob- in many situations and helped us to lem can develop into a major issue. This become more aware of our decisions. video also showed how her addiction to In our school, students in S.A.D.D. alcohol deeply affected her husband and get involved by making a contribu- two children. We also watched a vid- tion to those who need help, learning eo about a girl who was texting while about the history of S.A.D.D., and driving. In addition to the texting, she discovering the mission to stop stu- was also not wearing her seat belt. Her dents from making bad decisions. The death was not only caused by not wear- advisor for the S.A.D.D. club is Mrs. ing a seatbelt and being thrown from Wolff. Throughout the course of the the car, but also because she was dis- Students from Ms. Aull’s health class school year, S.A.D.D. takes part in tracted while texting behind the wheel. view their classmates’ work 2nd place winner: the many charities and drives. One drive We encourage others to join this importance of sleep for teens. that S.A.D.D. took part in earlier in club and to become more educated on the year was a blood drive. The blood the impact of destructive decisions! drive took place at Hills East and was offered to students aged 16 (with pa-

Model UN Club Competes at Columbia University Thunderbird Staff Editor-In-Chief: Lauren Peller Layout / Photography Editor: Lauren Peller Jamie Miller Section Editors: Shelby Gosset (News & Features) Contributor Gibran Boyce (Op/Ed) Rachel Rosenstein and Maddy Propis (School News) Students in the Hills East Model Unit- Congratulations to the following del- Alexa Grill and Emily Disman (Lifestyle & Entertainment) ed Nations Club traveled to Columbia egates who each received awards: Justin Tisch and Jared Leff (School Sports) University to compete in an aggressive Jacob Broxmeyer and Zach Leff (Professional Sports) battle of nations. Mrs. Merejo, the club Most Improved: Vaidehi Patel advisor, was excited for her students Most Improved: Marc Klinger Staff Writers: David Bieber, Lyndsey DeLouya, Morgan to compete in their frst competition Most Improved: Rachel Anszelowicz Fishbein, Jolie Freedman, Lauren Hochheiser, Dylan Irwin, Nicoletta Gasparis, of the year. The day consisted of ses- Most Improved & CESIMS Winner: Gabi Gonzalez, Dylan Kaufman, Austin Krach, Emily Metaxas, Sami Moody, sions flled with heated debates about Antonio Cruz Aditi Patil, Rachel Penzer, Anish Pisipati, Lexie Reiffman, Bennett Reiss, the future of various world nations, Outstanding: Natasha Bajaj James Rouse, Kevin Rouse, Jeremy Schier, Rachel Schier, Alyssa Schmidt, namely the Central African Republic, Honorable: Mashell Rahmizadeh Bradley Shanker, Nicole Shanker, Michael Valdes Puerto Rico, and Argentina. There were also many more Contributors: Alex Luongo, Samantha creative debates focusing on Longo, Jamie Miller, Juliana Jacobsen, Emma Schleimer & Kate Smith topics such as Avatar and the Iroquois Convention. During Photographers: Lifetouch, Lauren Peller, Maryanne Mahoney, the tournament, delegates Anish Pisipati “declared war”, invented the Macarena, seceded from the Union, actually achieved Advisors: Mrs. Davis world peace, and so much Mrs. Dalton more. For many in the club, this was their frst time par- EMAIL: [email protected] ticipating in a Model United Nations tournament. Despite Disclaimer: this, the newcomers, along The Thunderbird hereby states that the opinions within this publication are those with the experienced mem- of the writers and do not necessarily refect those of the staff, administration, or bers, did a phenomenal job. school community. Members of the Model UN club participate in a tournament at Columbia University 4 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016 Te International Feast at the It’s Tango Time! International Banquet Shelby Gosset Alexa Grill News & Features Editor the music, it’s as easy as saying ¡Hola! Entertainment Editor ¡Vamos Tengo! All of the Senior Span- After learning to tango, we indulged in The 2015 International Banquet was a the line was out the door from the minute ish classes took an amazing trip to the some traditional Argentinian food. We huge success! For those who don’t know, the school bell rang at 2:00. Turnout was restaurant Tango! in Queens, New York. tasted everything from empanadas to the International Banquet at High School outstanding, leaving very little in the way It was an enriching experience in which fan. Empanadas are a stuffed fried pas- East is an after school feast prepared by the of leftovers! In addition to the fact that we learned about Latin American cul- try flled with meat, cheese, and vegeta- Spanish, Italian, and French culture clubs the International Banquet is a great way ture, dance, and food. bles. Flan is a custard and honor societies that is held in the caf- to learn about different ethnic foods from The frst part of our dessert with a layer of eteria. The members from each club con- various cultures around the world while day included two soft caramel on top. tributed by bringing in ethnic foods from having fun with your friends, there is also professional dancers All of the food was their club’s particular culture. The food that a charitable aspect to it. In order to enter teaching us the basics delicious and very students brought in could either be store the banquet, students and teachers alike of the tango, the tradi- different from the bought or homemade. Some examples of needed to purchase a fve dollar ticket. tional dance of Argen- food to which we are the delicious dishes that students and teach- All of the money that was collected was tina. We frst learned typically accustomed. ers got to enjoy include: pizza, catered by donated to the Cody L. Byrnes Founda- the proper foot steps Even though this the Italian Club; burritos, actively made tion, a charity near and dear to our school. with our partners. trip was only for a by Spanish Club members; and crepes, Overall, this year’s International Banquet Then, we started to few hours, it pro- excellently prepared by the French Club ran very smoothly and was defnitely a move around the vided us with a members. These are just some of the nu- fun experience for all who attended. If you dance foor. After we wonderful opportu- merous scrumptious cultural foods that were not able to make it to this year’s In- took our beginner’s nity to learn about each club prepared. Although the banquet ternational Banquet, I strongly recommend lesson in tango, the a foreign culture. If offcially started at 2:30 in the afternoon, coming next year… everyone is invited! professionals gave us an outstanding you can’t travel across the world, you performance. When watching these can simply travel across Long Island amazing dancers, learning to tango and learn about these unique cultures Spreading Holiday Cheer at James E. Allen looks extremely challenging. Howev- that make up our diverse community! er, once you learn the basics and follow Maddy Propis School News Editor This year’s holiday show was a huge suc- bringing exciting music to the school al- cess! Each year, students from Hills East lowing the kids to dance and sing along. Tis...is HILLS IDOL attend and perform At the end of the show, Santa Claus in a show at both surprised the chil- dren, and they all Rachel Penzer of the James E. Al- Staff Writer len schools. These broke out in a de- schools are for lightful sing-along. Saturday, January 30 marked the ninth the students for their big performances. children with dis- Hills East students year of the annual district-wide event Aside from out of school practice, there abilities, including walked around, known as Hills Idol. This is a PTA was one formal rehearsal at both High Down’s Syndrome smiled, and danced sponsored event that allows middle and School East and West. I asked Maia and and Autism. The as they brought a high school students who have a passion Liv about the rehearsal process. “Well, student govern- big dose of holiday for singing we did practice cheer to the students to perform a lot at home ment, with the help Dixettes getting into the holiday spirit! from our wonderful at James E. Allen. in front of to prepare, but advisor, Mrs. Grant, organizes the event The Holiday Show is their entire the rehears- and makes sure everything runs smoothly. a great way to raise the spirits of young district. Stu- al at the high This year, the Dixettes, cheerleaders, step boys and girls during the holiday season. dents from school was team, concert choir, It also is a great way each middle really helpful. and jazz band per- to give back to the and high We got to sing formed at the Holi- community and school in the with micro- day Show. The Dix- help these children Half Hollow phones one at ettes executed an smile. The teachers Hills district a time to get exhilarating dance and administration audition to Hills Idol contestants gather onstage to fnd out an idea of what to Mariah Carey’s at James E. Allen participate in the talented winners our perfor- version of “All I often tell Hills East this event ev- mance would Want For Christmas students that their ery year. Hills Idol is not just a show, but be like,” said Maia. “The staff told us Is You.” The cheer- students beg for a competition as well. After auditioning, what to work on to make our perfor- leaders dazzled the Holiday Show students who get accepted move into mance better, like focusing more on the with their cool all year round! The the competition phase. This stage took timing,” Liv explained. The Concert Choir enjoy some down Holiday Show has stunts and cheers. time before they perform. place this year in the Half Hollow Hills Students this year sang hits from ev- The step team’s made a great im- High School East auditorium where ery genre, both modern and older songs. performance was extremely entertain- pact on not only the over ffty acts were featured. All of the acts that performed this year ing to watch as the kids from the James James E. Allen students, but also High I inter- showed how E Allen schools had fun trying to “step” School East students who take part in this viewed two hard they along with them. The choir and jazz band event. It is an extremely gratifying and contestants worked and demonstrated their excellent techniques, rewarding experience for all involved. and West displayed in- Hollow Mid- credible tal- dle School ent. However, Te New PSAT s t u d e n t s , three acts that Maia Pen- stood out to What is diferent from the previous PSAT? zer and Liv the judges Rachel Schier Polani, to were select- Staff Writer fnd out how Hills Idol performance stage ed to be the Tenth and eleventh grade students tions. The “Math” section is 70 min- they feel about compet- winners of the com- across the nation took the PSAT on utes long and includes 47 questions. ing against their peers. “We hope we petition. The winning act representing October 14, 2015. The new PSAT Also, while the former PSAT was 2 win, but if our friends win, we will be Half Hollow Hills’ middle schools was is different from PSATs in the past hours and 10 minutes long, the new excited for them.”, they said. The two Shaun Phillips, who sang “When I Was in many ways, and it is modeled af- exam is now 35 minutes longer at contestants performed the song “Count Your Man,” by Bruno Mars. The sixth ter the impending new SAT, which 2 hours and 45 minutes. Many stu- on Me,” by Bruno Mars as a duet. “We grader won over the crowd by throwing will be debuted this March. The dents felt that this exam was too saw the song on the list and thought it rose petals across the stage and showing new PSAT offers only four multiple long and believed it should have was perfect for us because we have to extreme personality throughout his per- choice answers instead of five. This been less questions. The length of count on each other to perform togeth- formance. Two acts tied as winners for is seen as a benefit to many students the PSAT is a fraction of the length er,” said Maia. I asked them why they the district’s high schools. Sari Pelletier, because when guessing, their chance of the SAT that many students will felt that this experience would be good who sang “Hallelujah,” by Jeff Buckley, of getting the answer correct is be taking in the near future, so the for them. “We both love to sing and and Hannah Ritter, who sang “River,” greater than on the previous PSAT. longer the test, the better the prac- wanted to have a new performing expe- by Joni Mitchell, both gave outstand- There are also many changes in tim- tice for the real SAT. Overall, it rience in front of more people,” the girls ing performances that showcased their ing and questions per section on the is a good opportunity for sopho- explained. All contestants had to audi- powerful voices. Overall, all acts exhib- new PSAT. The “Reading” section mores and juniors to get a realis- tion at their local high school in order ited great preparation and talent. Con- of the new PSAT is 60 minutes and tic assessment on where they stand to enter the competition. About fourteen gratulations to all of the participants! has 47 questions. The “Writing and with regard to the upcoming stan- students from each school in our district We hope to see you at next year’s event! Language” section of the exam is 35 dardized tests of their near futures. made it through. After entering to com- minutes long and contains 44 ques- pete, rehearsals took place to prepare HHH High School East THUNDERBIRD 5 LOOKING AT POLITICS IN THE PAST AND PRESENT Te Ten Dollar Founding Father Don’t Count Bernie Out Without a Father #FeelTeBern Lauren Peller Lauren Peller wrote a satire based on Bernie Sanders Editor-In-Chief himself from being orphaned and pov- called “Burlington Snow.” Sanders is a erty-stricken to becoming the youngest Editor-In-Chief champion for some of the more liberal Envision a musical production about a Founding Father of America. Hamil- How is it that we have another presi- artists in the United States, and Gins- polarizing American Founding Father. ton was a powerful leader and vision- dential candidate who is known for his berg had visited him in Vermont to dis- Most people would become immediately ary who helped direct a young Ameri- hair? In this case, hair that is often di- cuss his socialist politics. disinterested because American History ca. His insecurity about his immigrant sheveled, like a grandpa who has just 1987 - The year Sanders collaborated is considered particularly boring, and we background provided the impetus and awoken from his afternoon nap. Al- on a Folk music album. While mayor have studied our country’s history since energy for his vigorous work ethic and elementary school. It seems implausible ambition. He was just thirty-four when though he would be the oldest person of Burlington, Vermont, he joined with to imagine that a mu- he became the frst to hold the presidential offce, at 74 local musicians to create the album sical based on the life Secretary of the years old, Bernie Sanders is heading “We Shall Overcome.” It was dedicated of Alexander Hamil- Treasury. Hamil- for the democratic primary. Whether to the struggle for peace and injustice ton would appeal to a ton lived his life he is called crotchety or cranky, Sand- around the world. wide audience base. with great passion ers presents himself as someone who 1992 - The year Bernie Sanders be- The Broadway show and determination, only wants to talk about the issues. came so outraged that he spoke out of Hamilton is quite and he encountered Talk is an understatement. He is known turn on the foor of the House of Repre- the opposite of what many conficts and for his long and passionate speech- sentatives and still considers it his big- one would expect incited enemies as es, flled with facts and fgures. He is gest regret. ABC News quoted him say- in a factually based a result. Ultimately, not terribly comfortable talking about ing that the “White House was a mental performance. It tran- Hamilton was killed scends a biograph- when he was shot as himself or his colorful past. Some have hospital where people are completely ical history with its a result of the infa- considered his dry sense of humor to divorced from reality.” unique approach mous duel with Aar- be obscure, yet everyone agrees that he 2006 - The year Sanders created a and excites the audi- on Burr. is relatively authentic. Ironically, this is video game as he was working on his ence with captivating Ron Chernow’s 700 the opposite problem of his main rival, senatorial election campaign. It was an- dancing, singing, and rapping. The fast page Hamilton biography was Miran- Hillary Clinton, who is trying to con- imated and called “Bernie Arcade.” His paced narrative intertwines a love story da’s inspiration to write this play after vince voters of her sincerity. cartoon character piloted a vintage plane, with political agendas to create a color- he read it on vacation a number of years Sanders has a varied background, but and the goal was to navigate around the ful spectacle ago. Miranda his most recent foating and encompass- said, “By the past involves pol- dangerous ob- ing tragedy, end of the itics. Currently, a stacles, includ- scandal, and second chap- conspiracy. ter, I was Senator from Ver- ing the “ene- Given the on google mont, a position my” special record ad- saying that he’s held since interest groups vanced ticket someone had 2006, he gained and big mon- sales and the already made experience in the ey supporters. diffculty in this into a House of Rep- He wanted to purchasing a m u s i c a l . resentatives. He reiterate that ticket, Ham- How could considers himself he was never ilton has gen- anyone have a democratic so- going to be be- erated a note- not made cialist and wants holden to oth- worthy buzz. this into a to ensure that ev- ers and their Its trend set- musical?” ting production has received widespread He imagined the perfect marriage of an ery person has ac- money as part acclaim, even at the White House. If you urban sound and the controversial life cess to food, shel- of his cam- can unearth a ticket, I would recommend story of Alexander Hamilton. When ter, healthcare, paign. seeing Hamilton frst hand at the Roger Miranda proposed his idea of a hip hop and a well-paying 2010 - The Williams Theater in NYC to appreciate inspired musical to Ron Chernow, they job. Furthermore, year Bernie this remarkable interpretation of Alexan- agreed that it was an undeniable match. he supports gen- spoke on the der Hamilton’s Chernow said, der equality and a Senate foor life story. “The story fair share of taxes for eight and a P r e v i o u s l y of Alexander to be paid by the Source: businessinsider.com half hours. It is known for his Hamilton lends wealthiest people one of the lon- music, lyrics, itself to hip-hop and large corporations. He is repeat- gest speeches ever given. In his speech, and acting in treatment. Ham- the Tony Award ilton’s personal- edly heard saying, “I need to fght for he opposed tax cuts that would beneft winning In the ity is driven and working families all over the country.” only the wealthiest individuals. Heights from unrelenting, and As the son of immigrants who settled Looking at these unique facets of 2008, Lin-Man- the music has in Brooklyn, Sanders did not grow Bernie’s life, it will be intriguing to see uel Miranda has that same qual- up wealthy. His how the pub- reemerged in ity. The music family strug- lic responds Hamilton, and and the man gled to make to his perso- he delivers once mirror each oth- ends meet, and na. I wonder again with an ingenious production. It er.” Additionally, Miranda felt personal- this experience what percent- is an unconventional musical with a ly connected to the immigrant story of had a lifelong age of Bernie multicultural and multiracial cast, which Hamilton as he grew up in a household impression on Sanders’ sup- includes Mr. Miranda in the leading hearing about his father’s experience as role of Alexander Hamilton. The char- a Puerto Rican immigrant coming to the him. Working porters would acters do not sound or look like Amer- United States. his way through love to in- ica’s Founding Fathers. In an interview Although there are no heavy hitting the University dulge in a Ben with CBS News, Lin-Manuel Miranda stars in the cast, the individual singing of Chicago, he and Jerry’s ice explained, “ We take it as a given that and acting performances are so spectac- majored in polit- cream made hip hop music is the music of the revo- ular that they seem to jump off of the ical science and Source: odysseyonline.com in his home lution.” In this particular case, Miranda stage. Aside from Miranda’s singular became an activist. state of Vermont. has adapted the hip hop music to tell the performance as Hamilton, many of the He became very involved in the civil In a recent interview with Ben Cohen story of the American Revolution. Creat- other characters perform double duty rights movement and even participated (co-founder of Ben and Jerry’s), he de- ing songs with a distinct hip hop favor, and create two distinct characteriza- in the March on Washington. Eventu- scribed a new favor that he would like Miranda aligns the supporting cast to en- tions. I found the larger than life perfor- ally, he landed in Burlington, Vermont to create called “Bernie’s Yearning.” ergetically rap about the precarious cir- mance of Marquis de Lafayette/ Thomas cumstances during Revolutionary times Jefferson to be particularly compelling and started climbing the political lad- He envisioned a disc of chocolate on through which the characters are trying and etched in my memory. The closing der. the top layer with mint ice cream be- to navigate. It is fascinating to see the song with its haunting melody, “Who Larry David has perfected his paro- low. The disc represents the 90% of the comparisons that can be drawn between lives, who dies, who tells your story,” dy of Sanders, down to the heavily ac- wealth that has gone into the pockets of the struggles that people experience to- epitomizes Hamilton’s life in retrospect cented voice and pattern of speech on the wealthiest individuals who are only day and the struggles of those who lived and his legacy that has remained. From Saturday Night Live. He even spews 10% of the total population. Ben Cohen during Revolutionary times. history buffs to Broadway veterans, the numbers as Sanders does. It does not described how to eat it by saying, “You Most people know Hamilton as merely audience, including myself, erupted in a matter the topic, Bernie Sanders has take your spoon and you whack that big the face on the ten dollar bill. However, standing ovation. Miranda’s Hamilton is statistics to justify his positions. As a chocolate disc into little pieces and mix he was an integral part of the American not only a culturally impactful master- way to uncover fve things that are not it around,” indicating the spreading of Revolution and George Washington’s piece, but a representation of how much, well known about Sanders, let’s con- the wealth, and “There you have it, Ber- right hand man. As an immigrant who yet how little things have changed in was born in the Bahamas, he propelled 300 years. sider Bernie by the numbers: nie’s Yearning.” 1986 - The year Allen Ginsberg 6 THUNDERBIRD OP/ED: WORLD NEWS EDITION Issue 2 Winter 2016 LEGACY OF TITLE IX Can You Legislate A “Safe Campus”? Gibran C. Boyce educational, physical, and athletic ex- cational rights. are at greatest risk of having their lives Op/Ed Editor periences of women on campus over Welcome to the Clery Act or Safe destroyed should they participate in or 40 years ago. On June 23, 1972, the Campus Act in 2016. This more in- be charged with an assault. It is time The issue of sexual assault on cam- 92nd United States Congress enacted tense accounting for criminal behavior for high school students to gain this in- pus is anything but new. The problem Title IX (Nine) of the Civil Rights Act on campus originated with a perception formation before heading to college in has continued to persist for decades of 1964, a law that amended the High- that certain sexual and other violent the hope that a few lives might avoid and only recently have colleges and er Education Act of 1965 and a num- crimes were occurring on campuses being negatively altered due to lack political leaders ber of other Educa- and were either being under-reported of knowledge. As universities seek begun to take ac- tion Acts of earlier by female students that were afraid to stay within the fne lines of Title IX tion in the form of years. Today, most and embarrassed, or when they were rules and regulations and not run afoul what is common- students associate reported, they were being handled by of OCR, colleges and universities are ly referred to as the law – which was universities that were ill-prepared to far more careful (read rigid) in how the “Safe Campus crafted by Senator Birch manage such violent crimes through they deal with such complaints of ha- Act” or the “Clery Bayh of Indiana to address normal university channels. For ex- rassment and will ultimately become Act”. However, bias against females – with ample, there were reported instances far more ready to punish those caught many voices on granting female athletes of male students not even being sus- harassing others out of fear that their campuses across equal treatment on pended following such reports and fe- reputation become harmed by victims the country now college campuses as male students dropping out of colleges readily going public or by OCR harsh- criticize those ac- their male counter- when the embarrassment that comes ly judging them and demanding even tions and question parts. Commonly with running into their harasser or the more rigid policies and procedures of if it is the appro- referred to as Title fear of being further harassed became them when it is felt that they are in- priate answer to the problem facing IX of the Education Amendment of too much. capable of managing these events on our nation’s campuses. The bill was 1972, Title IX is approaching its 44th According to the Chronicle of High- their campuses. introduced to the House of Represen- anniversary this year. er Education, The U.S. Department The question that remains is can one tatives by Republican Representatives The law was born out of a time when of Education’s Offce for Civil Rights ever really legislate a “Safe Campus”? Matt Salmon, Pete Sessions, and Kay male athletes habitually received col- (“OCR”) have become more strict in The Clery Act is seeking to do so, and Granger on July 29, 2015. The bill lege scholarships and other preferen- how they enforce Title IX violations, at a minimum, its more rigid report- aims to prevent colleges from pursu- tial treatment, while female athletes particularly as it relates to gender-equi- ing rules will make universities more ing internal investigations in cases of were given no such equal privilege ty and sexual harassment or violence. careful with managing such unaccept- campus sexual assaults. This restric- or fnancial beneft for their contribu- The magazine focused on the results of able behavior and empower students tion would legally require survivors of tions to athletics on campuses. Title 46 cases that were elevated to the most and parents to take that data into con- sexual assault to report the crime to the IX sought to grant male and female serious complaint level by OCR of sideration when choosing a college. police in order to see justice done and athletes equivalent treatment, bene- what allegedly occurred to female stu- Campuses are subject to the same would remove any discretion campus- fts, and opportunities, in addition to dents on campus. However, no matter composition of people as the general es previously had to make judgment considerations and accommodations. what you think calls on whether the charges had merit However, Title IX soon became far on this issue, it and what the appropriate punishment greater than athletics, as its granting always begs the should be for the accused if it did. of equal rights to men and women in question: Should College punishment for inappropri- every aspect of education and federal a university be ate behavior has ranged from minor funding resulted in its use to fght for a in the business suspensions to expulsion, but was wide range of issues on campuses. of investigating long harshly criticized because there Not everyone is fond of Title IX. sexual harass- were charges that many times, despite Critics believe that granting equality to ment, or is that tremendous evidence to the contrary, girls has come at the expense of male a matter strictly colleges dismissed and allowed ac- athletes. The pressure has come from for the public cusers to cope with harassment from the need to have equal representation court system? OCR has also been far population, which means as well that it the accused, making the learning en- of girls and boys in athletics, and some more public in their fndings against is subject to the same range of criminal vironment unbearable and making believe that if there are less female several colleges and universities behavior as we see in the general pop- many victims shy away from pursuing athletes interested in playing, then it where several incidents are still under ulation. However, we have long gone complaints. The new legislation is in- may force the decision to have less investigation. off to college expecting “perfect” lives tended to treat all complaints as fully male athletes play to maintain the kind In 2015, a highly lauded documen- for four years, and every effort has criminal accusations. However, ac- of equality of which Title IX speaks. tary-flm on sexual abuse on college to be made to protect the very young cording to Elura Nanos from the Huff- However, never at its inception would campuses was released, as the col- and, at times, very naïve students on ington Post, “this legislation would Senator Bayh - or any other architect lege culture of drinking, unfortunate campus. The Safe Campus Act has actually prohibit colleges and univer- of the amendment - have imagined that assault, investigations, and remorse become a very powerful enhancement sities from investigating sexual assault Title IX would have become a critical were examined – profling a number to earlier acts. Not only does it have cases or punishing sexual predators litmus test in determining another kind of students whose lives were forever the potential to protect many students until the victim reports the crime to of inequality on campus – one that changed by these alleged assaults. It is from unfair treatment on campuses, police. It makes no requirement that comes with sexual assault and harass- a flm that each student, independent but it also has the power to destroy any other crime is reported to police. ment of women. However, according of gender, should see before going to the lives of many students that end up Schools can still investigate and dis- to a 2011 opinion by the Department college. Knowledge is understanding being unfairly charged. Understanding cipline drug dealers, robbers, thieves, of Education’s Offce for Civil Rights, that female students in their freshman its role in our lives as we move from and harassers. The only criminals who “The Sexual harassment of students year of college are at greatest risk high school to college is very import- will be shielded are sexual offenders.” … interferes with students’ right to re- for assault during the so-called “Red ant. There is no time more important If true, this may cause the accuser to ceive an education free from discrimi- Zone” period – the frst six weeks of to do so than before high school grad- be exposed to the accused for an even nation and … is a crime.” Title IX ap- college where a female student is at uation. longer period of time. plies to all programs that are located greatest risk of being raped or deal- The Safe Campus Act is not new, at educational institutions, and sexual ing with unwanted sexual harassment. but came out of much earlier legisla- assault or harassment are considered a Unfortunately, the corresponding peri- tive actions that sought to protect the main hindrance to equal access to edu- od is also the one that male students Security Ofcer Trows High School Girl Out of her Seat

Aditi Patil Staff Writer her to get out of her seat. When the dents in Spring Valley High School, video continues to draw attention In mid-October of 2015, a shocking teen refused, he stated “Either you’re and this video provides necessary to the impact social media has had video was released online of a security coming with me or I’ll make you.” evidence to fnally discipline him for on incidents between white police offcer at Spring Valley High School Ben Fields has a reputation for vi- multiple incidences of wrongdoing. offcers and African Americans. in South Carolina throwing a girl out olence against African Americans. The school district took the prop- of her seat and to the ground as the He once tackled and beat an African er steps to remove Fields from his rest of her class watched and record- American veteran in Penn Station. The job. He was removed from duty and ed the horrifc events. Due to the vid- army veteran, Curtis Wilson, spoke kept under administrative watch. eo’s shocking and violent nature, it out against this horrifc injustice by The school’s superintendent also went viral all over social media. The stating: “The video is going to be noted how disturbing the video offcer, Ben Fields, was called into helpful because it shows us what hap- was and that the offcer had no rea- the classroom when a girl was misbe- pened.” Ben Fields has consistently son to use force in order to address having. When he arrived, he ordered acted with aggression toward the stu- the situation in the classroom. This HHH High School East OP/ED: WORLD NEWS EDITION THUNDERBIRD 7 Girls in STEM When You Criticize Tem, Tey Do Not Cry! Gibran C. Boyce are the gender roles they are expected Op/Ed Editor saying that “… in order to achieve ev- ing strides in every sector and feld, at erything that it can, science needs to the front-end of law, diplomacy, and to fulfll – girls as beautiful, faithful Did you know that 66% of fourth make the best use of the research capa- even medicine. However, it still takes maidens rather than girls as leaders, ex- grade girls say that they like science bilities of the entire population … Too effort, particularly in the sciences, for ecutives, and scientists (of course, all of and math, but only 18% of all college many talented individuals do not fulfll this to be accomplished. NASA’s an- the above can also coexist). It was only engineering majors are female? We their scientifc potential because of is- nouncement a few weeks ago that, for recently that Disney started changing live in a society where STEM (Sci- sues such as gender and the Society is the frst time in their history, half of the the role models they set for girls – one ence, Technology, Engineering, and committed to helping to put this right.” newest astronaut class is female was example being the movie “Brave”, Math) careers remain male-dominat- The scientifc community is fraught a spectacular one. Four women were in which Princess Merida chooses to ed because the silencing of females is with examples of insensitive male selected along with four men to join fnd strength in herself before she fnds perpetuated. Oftentimes it is because bias, and women in STEM are greatly the newest pool of NASA astronaut strength in a man. notions as old as time, such as females outnumbered. training, cho- Linda B. Buck, recipient of the Nobel not belonging in a laboratory, persist According to sen from a pool Prize in Physiology of Medicine, said today. The trends and statistics say it The Guardian of over 6,000 once that, “As a woman in science, I all; by middle school, girls are choos- newspaper of applicants. The sincerely hope that my receiving a No- ing to move away from STEM felds England, only women will join bel Prize will send a message to young because they feel as though it is a world 13% of profes- an elite group of women everywhere that the doors are reserved only for their male cohort. As sionals working only 58 females open to them and that they should fol- girls, we will often be encouraged to in STEM in the to have ever low their dreams.” Maybe some day, dumb-ourselves-down or to select an U.K. are wom- traveled beyond but women in science still have a long “easier” career path - one that will not en, and 84% the Earth’s at- way to go to fnd equity, and it starts intimidate others or one that will allow of full-time mosphere. Yes with the encouragement of girls in the us to have more time to spend with our professors in spa lower grades to explore science with the family one day. As Lily Myers puts it academia working in STEM are men. ce, like laboratories, has historical- confdence that they do belong there if in her spoken-word poem “Shrinking How can women succeed in STEM, or ly been a male-dominated career; it they choose to be and that they do have Women”: “I wonder if my lineage is even feel comfortable enough to stay in is why Sally Ride, our frst American the aptitude to excel in it and make a one of women shrinking. I have been STEM, when mentorship at the highest woman in Space, still warms our heart. difference. Too often, we give up on, or taught accommodation. My brother level of the feld is so limited? Wom- To bring about change, we would are discouraged from pursuing, science never thinks before he speaks. I have en in Research, a U.S. based group need to encourage young girls to main- before we even learn of its true poten- been taught to flter. [He has] been that tracks the progress of women in tain their interest in the feld at a time tial and our scientifc aptitude. taught to grow out; I have been taught the scientifc community, states that when the voices of many teenage girls Former Texas Governor, Ann Rich- to grow in.” one fourth of STEM jobs are held by are being silenced in classrooms – par- ards, once said, “Ginger Rogers did ev- For centuries, women have contin- women. Further, at a time when women ticularly in science ones. One just has erything that Fred Astaire did. She just ued to “grow in” with only a handful are going to college in greater numbers to look at AP participation rates of girls did it backwards and in high heels.” of women fnding the courage to “grow than men, when women hold 60% of versus boys in the sciences to see the The same is true of women in science. out.” However, when women do grow bachelor’s degrees, women still hold problem at its root. For the Class of There is absolutely no basis to believe outward in their interests and pursue less than 20% of degrees in computer 2013, the percentages of female stu- that female scientists are not capable STEM careers, it often comes at a price science. dents taking STEM-related AP courses of making as much of a difference to with little peer respect and tremendous Over the centuries, as men spent their were as follows: 59% Biology, 47% their feld as their male colleagues, in self-sacrifce. Women in science have lives fnding the beauty in theorems in Chemistry, 23% in Physics C, 41% fact, bringing new perspectives and a long complained about the feld’s neg- and mathematical equations, our soci- in Calculus BC, and a shocking 19% different set of lens to age-old scientif- ative work environments that discour- ety taught girls how to fnd beauty in in Computer Science A. So it is little ic problems. There is little doubt that age them and discredit their work. The makeup and mirrors. Girls have traded surprise that the numbers of women in women will continue to accomplish deep biases in the feld were seen last in their calculators for lipstick tubes STEM get smaller and smaller into the amazing things, in the world of sci- year when Tim Hunt – the 2001 Nobel and their science fair projects for “You- STEM careers. ence and beyond. As actress Amy Poe- prize in physiology or medicine win- Tube Beauty Guru” tips. Why is it that From the things we watch to the in- hler said recently, “It takes years as a ner – said of female scientists: “Let me we allow our 13-year old girls to spend teractions and experiences we have, we woman to unlearn what you have been tell you about my trouble with girls … more time perfecting their winged eye- are all infuenced by society in some taught to be sorry for. It takes years to three things happen when they are in liner than perfecting their theories on way. Whether it’s the silencing of fe- fnd your voice and seize your real es- the lab … You fall in love with them, how to fnd a cure for cancer? Maybe if males in classrooms or the condition- tate.” As young women, we each need they fall in love with you, and when we started letting our girls see the beau- ing of young girls to believe the fallacy to fnd our voice to truly realize our you criticize them, they cry.” His huge ty in both themselves and equations, of Disney princesses whose priorities potential, no matter which career we idea? Single sex labs. The royal Society their ability to change the world might were to look beautiful and be saved by choose to pursue. For women pursuing in England, where Dr. Hunt is a fellow, be incredible. Despite setbacks, women a handsome prince through marriage. It careers in science, that voice must nev- came out with its own public response, continue to press ahead to make amaz- serves as a constant reminder that these er waiver. Should Schools Have a “Two-Hour Delay” Everyday? Early School Start Times are Unhealthy for Students Dylan Irwin is due to teenagers releasing melatonin, a and during sleep, important body func- United States that pushed back their start Staff Writer hormone in the brain that induces drows- tions and brain activity occur. Insuffcient times, researchers saw clear improve- In America, most public schools start at iness, later than adults. A teenager should amounts of sleep fosters a greater risk of ment in students’ grades and attendance, ridiculously early times in the morning. be getting approximately 8.5 to 9.5 hours individuals developing depression. and a decrease in teen car accidents. Early school start times have been proven of sleep each night. Most teens wake As previously indicated, most students According to LiveScience.com, “Driv- by doctors and other health profession- up between 5:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. for do not necessarily want to stay up later. ers ages 17 to 24 who reported sleeping als to be highly unhealthy for teens. As school, which Typically, they six or fewer hours per night were about stated by Anne Wheaton, a Center for means they have to stay 20% more likely to be involved in a car Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would have up to get their crash over a two-year period, compared epidemiologist, “Adolescents who do not to go to sleep work done on with those who slept more than six hours get enough sleep are more likely to be by about 8:30 top of packed a night.” The frst bell should really ring overweight; not engage in daily physical p.m. to 10:00 daytime at 8:30 a.m, or later, for most students to activity; suffer from depressive symp- p.m. The nat- s c h e d u l e s . be in their best condition during school, toms; engage in unhealthy risk behaviors urally later This often re- which the Wall Street Journal also not- such as drinking, smoking tobacco, and release of sults in 28% ed is the case at only 15% of U.S. high using illicit drugs; and perform poorly melatonin in of students schools right now. in school.” Many people think the reso- teens makes falling asleep Sleeping is very vital in a teenager’s life. lution to this problem is for teens to just an earlier bed- during the frst Middle and high schools that start later in get to bed earlier. However, that is much time much Source: educationnews.org class of the day the day tend to have less exhausted stu- more easily said than done, and the solu- more diffcult. according to dents, less tardiness, more kids paying at- tion is much more complex. According to Tania Kohut, when a teen’s a National Sleep Foundation poll. Still, tention, and better academic performance During adolescence, the human body’s alarm goes off at 7:00 a.m., it is the same 42.5% of the United States’ public high than schools that start earlier in the morn- sleeping pattern naturally shifts, and result of a 4:30 a.m. alarm for a person schools start classes before 8 a.m. accord- ing. Although there are many reasons it is more diffcult for teenagers to fall in their ffties. Teenagers cannot just sim- ing to the Wall Street Journal. That is just behind why many schools in America do asleep earlier than 11 p.m. As Wheaton’s ply fall asleep whenever their parents tell the frst bell, not including the commute start at early times, it would be better for team describes it: “In puberty, biological them to or at times they would wish. In which can take over 30 minutes for some the students’ health and performance if rhythms commonly shift so that adoles- addition to this, the somatic changes and students depending on the distance of school started at a more reasonable time. cents become sleepy later at night and development teens undergo throughout their home from the school they attend. In need to sleep later in the morning.” This adolescence are exceedingly imperative, a recent study of eight high schools in the 8 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016 COVER TO COVER: 2016 AP ART HISTORY INSTALLATION Lauren Peller Editor-In-Chief

Each year, the AP Art History classes create an annual art installation that stems from an artist who has been par- ticularly inspiring. With this year being the 10th anniversary year of the HSE art installation, the AP Art History Class chose Xu Bing’s Book from the Sky as the impetus to examine written word art. This work is considered a turning point in contemporary Chinese art because he excelled in the art form of calligraphy and was trained to utilize that skill for propaganda purposes during the cultural revolution in China. Book from the Sky reveals the use of calligraphy texts to create an abstract landscape including the land, sea, and sky. Curiously, the calligraphic words that Bing chose to draw in his installation do not actually mean anything. The landscape is comprised by the billowing sky represented by hanging sheets of hand scrolls on the ceiling, the sea of waves represented by open books on the foor, and the land represented by the walls flled with vertical panels of written sheets. The AP Art History Class designed their interpretation of written word art into an art installation with three students representing each of the previous nine years of installations. Words, designs, paintings, photographs, and different materials were used to represent each year’s installation. Additionally, the purpose of this installa- tion was to highlight the impact the previous installations have made on our school. To make this experience even more meaningful, many Art History students of the past years returned to HSE to participate. These former students acted as mentors and provided a depth of insight into the inspiration behind their year’s installation. Since “Cover to Cover” is connected to books and the written language, it can be found outside of the school’s library so everyone at HSE can walk past and ap- preciate the installation. On January 8, 2016, the AP Art History students, including myself, spent the entire school day setting up this installation. Everyone gained satisfaction in being part of something so visually impactful. A current AP Art History student, Matthew Gillman, said, “the installation impacted me because it made me feel like a bigger part of the High School East community and like I had made some kind of permanent impact on the school. My favorite part of the installation was the time we spent working on it the day we actually installed it. I loved getting to work together with everyone in the art history class and getting help from other art students who had off periods.“ With a tribute to the past AP Art History students and their installations, this installation has held a special meaning for everyone involved. The pieces to this installation will be stored in a ‘time capsule’ for the 20th year anniversary.

AP Art History teacher, Mrs. Uttendorfer, was so excited with the way the installation was realized. Mrs. Uttendorfer said, “I am proud to have introduced so many students over the past 10 years to installation art and to see how each was reinterpreted by a new group of art history students was like taking a trip into the past. I think this installation was my favorite to date because I felt a sense of accomplishment refecting on my instruction And time at HSE.” She is proud of the AP Art History class for working so diligently and being devoted to such a creative and provoking installation. Without the help of Mrs. Uttendorfer and her amazing guidance, organization, creativity, and support, the installation would not have been as successful.

Art History Student excited about the Installation.

Lindsay Korman said, “My favorite part of the installation was studying and learning about the past installations that I was never able to see before. This was my favorite part because it showed the progress of how the installations have evolved over the years.”

Rachael Newman said, “What Maryanne Mahoney said, I loved about the instllation is “The installation allowed me that it brought our class closer to feel part of something big- together. We worked as a team ger than myself, and being able to create our installation and to directly contribute with my we pulled it off. It was a great peers to create something that feeling of accomplishment and our whole school will see was pride. It defnitely unifed us as really exciting. My favorite a class and inspired us to show part of the installation was the our creativity. “ Luke Siegel said, “The installation will always be something I fact that it encompassed the remember from high school. I got to work closely with my class- previous nine years of installa- mates and previous Art History students. I loved how each year tions at our school, and I got to was so distinct from the others. It is very appealing to the eye, be part of that experience!” and I hope the student body appreciates all the hard work my class and teacher put into this installation. Art History is such an amazing class, and I hope people decide to take it because the class has inspired me to love art even more than I already do.” HHH High School East THUNDERBIRD 9 Showcasing Tunderbird Talent: Art Day 2016 Lauren Peller a passionate Photo III student, Ra- Photo III student and Public Rela- before the AP Art History class in- Editor-In-Chief chel Rosenstein. tions Manager of National Art Honor stalled “Cover to Cover,” we went to Thunderbird: What was your role Society (NAHS). the middle school to create a book Hills East’s Annual Art Day was in Art Day? Thunderbird: How has Art Day im- that was actually presented in the in- once again a great success! In addi- Rachel: My role was to represent the pacted you? Can you describe what stallation. There, we introduced our- tion to students and staff from High photography program. your role in Art Day was? selves so they learned a few familiar School East in attendance, many faces and could ask any questions TB: What project were you Rachael: During Art Day, I was in they may have. When they came to working on during Art charge of the photography tours. I Art Day, the NAHS board met up Day? worked with Gabby Spiegel, who is with them again and spoke more in Rachel: I was working on currently in AP photo. We showed depth about the art classes. We got an elongation collage that the 8th graders our previous fin- to specifically talk about what se- involved cutting my pho- ished work and an overview of the quences and classes they may want tograph into strips and glu- classroom. Our ing it back together in an main focus interesting way. was showing them our dark TB: Why do you feel it is room. We did a so important to have the demonstration annual Art Day at HSE? with them and Rachel: Art Day is import- showed them Ceramic students working on a pottery wheel ant because it is a way for the process HSE students to be exposed of developing to the various types of arts a print. They eighth-graders from West Hollow our school has to offer and also to were beyond Middle School came to view the see the talent of our art students. excited and various art displays showcasing the so interest- various art courses available at High TB: Do you believe Art Day encour- ed in joining School East. Upperclassmen current- ages the eighth graders to take art the class next ly enrolled in the art classes demon- classes at HSE? year! It was so strated a sampling of their projects. Rachel: Yes, I strongly believe Art enlightening The intention was to provide inspi- Day encourages the middle school to think I was ration to budding artists and to give students to become interested in the once in their Art teachers pose for a picture in the photo booth. them a taste of classes that would many art classes offered at HSE. Art shoes. Thinking further develop their skills. One of Day allows the upcoming freshman back to Art Day in eighth grade, I the highlights was the annual art who are in the studio in art program remember the upperclassmen who to take. They all seem to be ready to installation organized by AP Art at West Hollow to see our vast art inspired me pursue a high school art start their new art journey with HSE! History students called “Cover to programs and hopefully find an in- career encompassing three sequenc- Cover.” Since it was the 10th year terest in one of them for next year. es of Photography and hopefully HSE has always been known as celebration of these art installations, It gives them a vision of what the art AP Photography as a senior. It felt a place where the arts are not only the displays showed how the instal- classes entail. amazing to share my love for art and enjoyed, but embraced. Over the lations progressed over the past ten photography with eighth graders, years, the talented students of HSE years at HSE. The architecture stu- TB: Has a specific teacher impacted just like the upperclassmen did when have explored vast avenues of artis- dents provided models of their proj- your art career at HSE? I came for Art Day many years ago. tic expression. In an effort to further ects so the students could visualize a Rachel: Mrs. Uttendorfer in partic- Photogra- concrete sample of their work. Pho- ular has had an enormous impact on phy has al- tography students posted their prints my art career at High School East. ways been on a bulletin board, and students who She has taught me from the basics a passion are interested in photography could how to work a film, as well as digi- of mine, explore the dark room. The students tal camera, and everything I need to and I was who take ceramics were tedious- know to take a well composed pho- so excited ly working on the pottery wheel so tograph. I have had her for all three to share my everyone could see them transform- of my years at HSE, and she has love for art ing the clay first hand. Drawing and truly inspired my love for photogra- with them phy. Her passion has made and hope- me even more passionate, fully in- and the amount that I have spire them. learned from her in three years is tremendous. TB: What was your TB: What was your favor- favorite ite and most memorable and most part of Art Day? memorable A display of students’ work Rachel: My favorite part part of Art of Art Day was when the Day? showcase and promote the talent, middle school students Rachael: My favorite part of Art HSE began Art Day and the AP Art came to the high school Day was after all the tours were fin- Installation a decade ago. In a time because my sister was one ished and the middle schoolers gath- where the ability to express oneself of them. I had the ability to ered to check out all of our work in artistically is so important, we are show her all of the artwork progress. Selected art students spend lucky to be someplace every day that the drawing and paint- the day working and creating new where our love for art is fostered and ing students, the architec- pieces. Together, we all help each given the opportunity to grow. East ture students, the fashion other and have fun. It is so amazing has had tremendous success over the students, the media arts seeing the 8th graders’ interest and past ten years with it’s annual Art students, and the photog- explaining to them our amazing art Day, and I can’t wait to see what raphy students have done program. It is always exciting to see year eleven brings! thus far this year. She was them getting so involved and ready amazed by the talent and for their high school art experiences. skill of the HSE students. She got to look at my pho- TB: What role does NAHS play in Rachel Rosenstein creatively working on tography artwork as well Art Day? her photo project. and like myself, she too has Rachael: NAHS works hard at mak- a strong passion for pho- ing sure the 8th graders see all of Painting students demonstrated their tography. Being able to look at the their opportunities for the upcoming talent and passion as they worked on photography students’ projects has year. It is our job to promote the art their canvases. Many current art stu- made her decision definite that she program and make sure these young dents were on hand to display their will be starting the photo sequence and talented artists choose to contin- interest and excitement so that more next year. ue through the many sequences. The students will catch the fever and NAHS board has gone to the middle want to enroll in art classes. I also had the opportunity to speak school and worked with the Studio I had the opportunity to speak with with Rachael Newman, an amazing in Art students. About a month ago, 10 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016 Z100 Jingle Ball Takes Madison Square Garden New Artist Spotlight: Rachel Platten Emily Disman Wildfre EP Review Entertainment Editor This past December, people all over Sewell, although having shorter sets Austin Krach the country experienced the concert of than other artists, still put on a show Staff Writer the year! Jingle Ball, hosted by New with interactive and fun performances. At this time last year, Rachel Plat- people in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania York’s own Z100, is an amazing concert Singing songs such as “Jealous,” ten was getting ready to perform at a on Swift’s 1989 World Tour. While it that occurs annually and is always flled “Chains,” and “Levels,” Nick Jonas got house show for 20-30 people. Now, might’ve seemed like it was too late with some of the most popular singers the crowd pumped for the rest of the her songs are being played regularly for a 34 year old aspiring superstar to of the year. On December 11, 2015, show. Every person sitting in the audi- in households and on televisions and achieve global fame, Rachel Platten is Madison Square Garden in New York ence sang along to Nick’s hit songs. radios throughout the United States. If fnally accomplishing her dreams. City was flled Fifth Har- you listened to the radio this past sum- Ironically, Platten’s current success with anxious mony started mer, chances are and happiness came fans waiting to their set with a that you’ve heard from a place of de- experience the slow Christmas Rachel Platten’s spair and frustra- concert of a life- song and then hit single “Fight tion. After Rachel’s time. broke out into Song”. This song frst two albums did Australian su- their upbeat reached a peak of not give her the big perstars 5 Sec- hits that every- #6 on the Billboard break she thought onds of Summer one adores. The Hot 100 chart and they would, she started the show whole crowd topped the charts in began to question with a bang! sang along to the U.K. Currently, if the music in- P e r f o r m i n g their number “Fight Song” is dustry was for her. their hit singles one singles, in- certifed triple plat- Ultimately, Rachel “She’s Kinda cluding “Worth inum by the RIAA, decided to keep on Hot,” “What I Z-100’s Lineup for the Jingle Ball It,” “Bo$$,” and and it even claimed fghting for her mu- Like About You,” “Sledgehammer.” the #1 spot on sic to be heard. She and “Don’t Stop,” Zedd and Calvin iTunes. While it may seem that Rachel didn’t care about how many people the band did a great job kicking of the Harris both got the crowd going with is a overnight success, she has spent heard her sing; she wanted her music to show with energy and excitement. Next their amazing DJ skills. Calvin played over a decade trying to fnd her place touch people. This internal tug-of-war up was the singer of Billboard’s Hot some of his amazing songs including in music. about whether or not to believe in her- 100 top single, “See You Again,” Char- “How Deep is Your Love,” Blame,” Rachel never got the break she need- self bred her hit “Fight Song.” While lie Puth, who also put on a great perfor- “Summer,” and “I Need Your Love.” ed to become a powerhouse in the “Fight Song” is about Rachel’s strug- mance at the concert. After performing Overall, he put on an awesome set. On music industry until recently. Rachel gle with her music career, the song also his new singles, “Marvin Gaye” and the other hand, Zedd played songs such released two albums titled Trust In Me was given a new life by people suffer- “One Call Away,” Puth sang the holiday as “Clarity” and “Beautiful Now.” He in 2003 and Be Here in 2011; howev- ing from illnesses. The anthemic song classic, “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” brought Selena Gomez on stage with er, these albums were not commercial about not giving up and believing in DNCE got everyone in the holiday spirit him to sing their hit song “I Want You successes. Even after these albums, yourself has inspired so many different when they brought out a bunch of men To Know.” Rachel was still hungry to become a people to tell their own life stories. wearing Santa Claus outfts during their Speaking of Selena Gomez, she also household name. After years of hard Rachel Platten started 2016 by releas- performance of “Cake By the Ocean.” put on a show while performing songs work, she was signed to Columbia Re- ing her third album and debut record Joe Jonas, lead singer of the group, end- from her new album Revival. The whole cords in early 2015. Everything was a label album Wildfre on January 1. The ed his performance by crowd surfng audience was dancing along with her to whirlwind from there for Rachel. She album title came about due to Rachel’s through the audience! “Same Old Love,” “Good For You,” started off by going on tour with Andy manager telling her not to try to warm Both Tove Lo and Hailee Steinfeld and “Hands to Myself.” Selena then Grammer and Alex & Sierra; it was at up to other people’s fre; Rachel has also offered the crowd noteworthy per- surprised the crowd by singing one of one of these shows when I saw her live to make her own fre, and people will formances. Hot songs “Talking Body” her oldest, yet one of her most popular, and frst heard of Rachel. I was instant- go to it. Once “Fight Song” was cre- and “Love Myself” had the whole songs, “Love You Like a Love Song.” ly hooked! She continued her success- ated, Rachel knew that she had a fre. crowd excited and dancing. Demi Lovato presented the crowd with ful streak, and that summer, she went Thus, her album was appropriately Shawn Mendes put on an amazing per- some of her new songs including “Cool on tour with Christina Perri and Colbie named Wildfre. Wildfre debuted at #5 formance, singing his hit songs “Some- For the Summer” and “Confdent.” She Caillat. on the Billboard 200 and peaked at #2 thing Big,” “Stitches,” and “Life of the did an outstanding job during her per- One of Rachel’s biggest fans is none on iTunes. Rachel is embarking on her Party.” After wowing the crowd with formance., other than international superstar, Tay- frst headlining tour, The Wildfre Tour, his set, Shawn invited Camila Cabello, Finally, The Weekend ended the show lor Swift. Taylor loves Rachel’s “Fight this spring. Rachel Platten is living member of Fifth Harmony and his al- perfectly with his astonishing set includ- Song” so much that she invited her to proof that you can achieve anything if leged girlfriend, on stage to sing their ing, “In The Night,” “Earned It,” “Love perform it with her in front of 50,000 you believe in yourself. single, “I Know What You Did Last Me Harder,” and everyone’s favorite, Summer.” The crowd went crazy when “Can’t Feel My Face.” Once again, the duo began to sing. Z100’s Jingle Ball was an absolute hit, Justin Bieber’s New Album Gives Rap star, Fetty Wap, made it rain af- and it couldn’t have gone any better! Him Purpose ter his performance of “Trap Queen.” Fans are already anticipating what will Lexie Reiffman, Emily Fetty got the whole crowd singing and be in store for this year’s concert, sched- Metaxas, Lyndsey Delouya cently gained a lot of positive attention dancing as he went on to perform his uled for December 2016. Staff Writers from the press that he hasn’t received in other big hit “679.” R City and Conrad years. His Purpose Tour is expected to be- Justin Bieber’s come back is in full force gin on March 9, 2016, and if you haven’t Review: Adele 25 as he released his frst new album since purchased tickets yet, you are out of luck, Nicoletta Gasparis 2012. As you all may know, due to much because rumor has it that they are already Staff Writer buzz on social media and in the news, the sold out! Not only will Bieber album is called Purpose and After a few years of a musical disap- album. However while working on some be performing in the United came out on November 13, pearance, Adele had a recent revival with new songs, Adele encountered a “writ- States, but also in Canada and 2015. The album transformed her new hit-album, 25, this past Novem- er’s block,” something she unfortunately Europe. After almost a year’s the singer’s reputation as a ber. After deciding to taking a hiatus and feared she could never recover from. Fi- worth of concerts, the tour tabloid joke to a serious artist almost quitting the nally, Adele had a will end on November 29, and has brought him much music industry breakthrough. Af- 2016 in London, England. Al- success. Not only did Pur- altogether, Adele ter this long, stren- though it will be tiring, Bieber pose beat One Direction’s made an astonish- uous journey, she must be excited to go on tour competing album on the ing reappearance. reached her desti- as he hasn’t been since 2013 Billboard charts, but it also Adele has made nation. Her album with his Believe Tour. managed to contain the most songs in the millions off of her debuted number With the release of a killer album, Justin Hot 100 in one week. In addition, Purpose new album, and one in more than is back on track and better than ever. Pur- reached number one on Billboard’s Hot her songs remain 25 markets, broke pose has helped him reveal to the world 200 and also had three songs in the Hot 100 at the top of the frst-week sales that he is only human, and he is more than top fve. Some of the most popular songs charts, even today. record in multi- the mistakes that he has made in life. While on this album are “Love Yourself,” “Sorry,” After the re- ple countries, and being a celebrity can come with fancy par- and “What Do You Mean.” They remained lease of Adele’s over 15 million ties and luxurious items, it also entails hav- in the top ten on the charts for weeks. Bie- album, 21, in copies have been ing your whole life being documented by ber collaborated with some of the hottest 2011, she consid- sold worldwide. the paparazzi, including all of the ups and artists for a few other songs on this album, ered stopping her music career. Howev- Featuring songs like “Hello”, “When downs. Bieber is defnitely one to know that including Big Sean in “No Pressure,” Tra- er, after some reconsideration, she simply We Were Young”, and “Million Years this type of pressure can be hard, but he puts vis Scott in “No Sense,” Halsey in “The decided just to take a break in order to Ago” as well as many others, Adele’s new his past aside with this new album. He truly Feeling,” Skrillex and Diplo in “Where Are take care of herself and her son. After her album is a sensational hit that has topped has found his own purpose in life by writing U Now,” and Nas in “We Are.” break, she returned to the studio in 2013 to the charts and has rejuvenated Adele’s this album and has graciously accepted the With a new album out, Bieber has re- write some more songs and record her new singing career. overwhelming support of his fans. HHH High School East THUNDERBIRD 11 Fan Favorites at the PCAs Run to Roast; It’s A Emily Disman Entertainment Editor Rare Find The 2016 People’s Choice Awards were for Favorite Actor in a New TV Series. The show fnally moved on to the cat- a huge success! Hosted by Jane Lynch, the Actors such as Chace Crawford, Josh egory of movies. Beating out amazing show was fun and entertaining for all who Peck, Rob Lowe, and Zachary Levi were flms such as Pitch Perfect 2 and Jurassic watched and encompassed everyone’s also nominated for this award. Scream World, Furious 7 took the win for both Fa- three favorite types of entertainment: TV, Queens won the PCA for Favorite New vorite Movie and Favorite Action Movie. Movies, and Music. This award show is TV Comedy, while Supergirl won Favor- After accepting the frst award, Vin Die- typically more enjoyable for viewers be- ite New TV Drama. sel talked about his experiences with Rachel Rosenstein cause the fans get to vote for the winners. The awards continued as musicians Paul Walker on set. He then ended his School News Editor Jane Lynch opened the show with a very began to be honored. Singer of “Stitches” sentimental speech by singing “See You You have probably passed Roast entertaining performance of “Shut Up and “Something Big,” Shawn Mendes Again,” by Wiz Khalifa, as an homage to Sandwich Shop a hundred times while and Dance,” where she left the audience won the PCA for Favorite Breakout Artist his best friend. driving on Route 110 and may have in hysterics with her singing and danc- against Fetty Wap, The Weekend, Halsey, Favorite Movie Actor was one of the never even noticed it. This might help; ing. This was just the beginning toughest categories of the night. WIth it is a small store diagonally across the of keeping the whole audience en- nominees including Will Smith, Rob- street from Dick’s Sporting Goods. It’s tertained as she continued to make ert Downey, Jr., Johnny Depp, and easy to miss, but now that you know jokes for the duration of the show. Chris Pratt, Magic Mike star Channing where it is, go fnd it! It is one killer The frst award presented was Tatum took the win. Sandra Bullock sandwich shop! Believe me, no lunch- for Favorite Comedic Actress. then gladly accepted the award for Fa- box was ever flled with a better sand- This award went to Melissa Mcca- vorite Movie Actress. She had tough wich. rthy for the second year in a row. competition considering the other What makes Roast so unique is that However, Mccarthy was not the nominees, Anne Hathaway, Scarlett they serve all-natural, whole roasted only one who won an award for a Johansson, Meryl Streep, and Melissa meats, fresh produce, and homemade second time. Grey’s Anatomy won Mccarthy, are also amazing actresses. breads. You will never fnd any cold the award for Favorite Network For her role of Mavis in the sequel cuts or processed deli meats there be- TV Drama, Pretty Little Liars won of Hotel Transylvania, Selena Gomez cause they offer many different selec- Favorite Cable TV Drama, Jimmy People’s Choice winners: Chris Hemsworth, Ellen won the award for Favorite Animated tions from those of the usual sandwich Fallon won Favorite Late Night Degeneres, and Priyanka Chopra Movie Voice. For this award, she was up shop. They take your everyday sand- Talk Show Host, The Simpsons won against her co-star, Adam Sandler. Pitch wich and convert it into something big- Favorite Animated TV Show, and Perfect 2 beat out some amazing movies ger and better with a touch of gourmet Carrie Underwood won Favorite Female and Tori Kelly. Later in the show, Shawn such as Ted 2, Trainwreck, Spy, and The love. Country Artist- all for the second time in performed a medley of all of his hit songs. Duff for Favorite Comedic Movie. Roast offers a really nice variety of a row! It only got better as The Voice won In a surprise to fans, he had Camila Ca- The awards then moved on to different specialty sandwiches, wraps, paninis, the award for Favorite Competition Show, bello come sing “I Know What You Did categories that do not necessarily pertain soups, and salads to choose from. One and Ellen DeGeneres won the PCA for Last Summer” with him. Other perform- directly to TV, movies, or music. Britney of the house favorites is the braised Favorite Daytime TV Host, both for the ers included Jason Derulo and winner of Spears won the PCA for Favorite Social brisket grilled cheese on a thick cut third year in a row! season 9 of The Voice, Jordan Smith with Media Celebrity. Candy Crush Saga then sourdough bread packed with three The award for Favorite TV Show was David Foster. won the award for Favorite Mobile Game. different cheeses. It’s insanely deli- one of the biggest awards of the night. Later, Meghan Trainor beat tons of Dance Moms star, Maddie Ziegler, won cious! I highly recommend the Sand- With a multitude of genres and actors, amazing artists and ultimately won the the PCA for the DailyMail.com Seriously wich House Meatball which is tossed this award was one of the most diffcult to award for Favorite Album for her album Popular Award. Connor Franta won the with oven dried tomatoes, caramelized win. The Big Bang Theory ended up tak- “Title.” Ed Sheeran won Favorite Male award for Favorite YouTube Star. onions, and mozzarella cheese; if that ing home the award for the second year Artist, and Taylor Swift won Favorite Fe- Perhaps the biggest honor of the show wasn’t enough, they pour a parmesan in a row. This show also won the award male Artist, both for the second year in was sponsored by Walgreens as they cream sauce over it. The favors are for Favorite Network TV Comedy for the a row. Both of these artists beat amazing helped to present the award for Favor- intense, but delectable. This one was fourth year in a row. singers such as Justin Bieber, The Week- ite Humanitarian. This award went to a a winner! Another great option is the Kevin Hart won the award for Favorite end, Demi Lovato, and Madonna. Taylor woman who dedicates her life to helping BBQ Roast Pork. It consists of barbe- Cable TV Actor, as well as the award for Swift also won the PCA for Favorite Pop people. Melissa Mccarthy had the honor cue basted roasted pork with grilled Favorite Comedic Movie Actor. The PCA Artist, also for the second year in a row. of presenting this award to the one and pineapple, charred red onions, ched- for Favorite Cable Sci-Fi/ Fantasy TV “Super Bass” and “Anaconda” singer, only Ellen Degeneres. Ellen gladly ac- dar, and roasted poblano aioli on a soft Show went to Outlander. American Hor- Nicki Minaj, won the award for Favorite cepted the award and expressed how im- ciabatta roll. This sandwich tastes like ror Story, Game of Thrones, Teen Wolf, Hip-Hop Artist, The Weekend won Fa- portant it is to her to give back to people Hawaii. If meat is not your thing, or and The Walking Dead were also nomi- vorite R&B Artist, and Fifth Harmony ac- who need it. you are looking for a healthier option, nated for this award. Last year, Orange is cepted the PCA for Favorite Group. Next, This year’s People’s Choice Awards they have an amazing grilled vegetable the New Black won the PCA for Favorite world-famous Madonna won the award defnitely honored the most deserving ce- panini. This mouth watering panini is Dramedy, but this year, it won the award for Favorite Music Icon. Finally, Justin lebrities with awards and provided fans flled with fresh mozzarella, zucchini, for Favorite Streaming Series. Then, Full Bieber’s “Where Are You Now?” won the with a recap of the year’s most beloved roasted peppers, eggplant, red onion, House actor, John Stamos, won the award PCA for Favorite Song. TV shows, movies, and music. and a basil mayo on multigrain bread. You will never miss the meat! There is a nice selection of salads as well. I rec- ommend the Roast Turkey Cobb salad. Te Force Awakens to a New Generation of Fans The balsamic vinaigrette is so deli- Gabi Gonzalez & Sami Moody mission is further supported by BB-8, Luke’s disappearance. cious, you might want to drink it with Staff Writers a newly introduced droid. This droid Many Star Wars fans will be re- a straw! No matter what you order, you contained information on the location lieved to know that the most beloved must get the sweet potato tater tots. If “The Force Awakens strikes all the of Luke Skywalker, and The First Or- actors and actresses have come back you don’t like sweet potatoes, you will right chords, emotional and nar- for round seven of the fran- now. One thing to note is that the din- rative, to feel both familiar and chise to continue their legacy. ing room is tiny. Getting a table is not exhilaratingly new,” is what the Harrison Ford returns as Han always easy. For this reason, I suggest Washington Post is saying about Solo, a smuggler who stays taking out from Roast unless you don’t the latest episode in the epic Star alongside his sidekick Chew- mind eating standing up! Wars series. On December 18, bacca, played by Peter May- Roast is arguably the best sandwich both old and new fans of the se- hew. Carrie Fisher also makes shop on Long Island. People travel from ries focked to theaters to catch an appearance again as Prin- all over the island to try their food, so the frst glimpse of one of 2015’s cess Leia, now the Resistance we are fortunate that it is so local. The most anticipated movies. general leading the search for food is on point, made quickly by a Episode 7 takes place thirty her brother, Luke. Together, friendly staff, and the serving sizes are years after the defeat of the Ga- these classic characters join very generous. This is no Subway! It’s lactic Empire. The movie focuses with those newly introduced a perfect food whether you’re watching on an defector, named Finn, who to carry out a daring mission a basketball game or the Bachelor on crashes onto a desert planet after in hopes of saving their gal- your couch at home. Order a few dif- escaping the realm of The First der was after it. Together, Rey, Finn, axy. Last, but certainly not least, Mark ferent sandwiches, slice them up, and Order, in an attempt to alert the Re- Han Solo, and of course Chewbacca, Hamill returns as the iconic Jedi, Luke share them with your family or friends. sistance to the whereabouts of Luke go on an incredible journey in hopes Skywalker, in an epic scene. Will the Head over immediately and check out Skywalker, who has been in hiding to get the droid to the Resistance, led droid make it to the Resistance? Will the extensive variety of sandwiches after suffering a monumental loss. by Luke’s sister, Leia, where the infor- Han Solo, Rey, and Finn overcome Roast has to offer. Roast is open Mon- After crashing his ship, Finn meets a mation it carries will be safe. They en- the forces of Evil? Looks like you will day through Saturday 10:30-8:00pm. I young girl named Rey, and together, counter many evil forces that eventu- have to see this amazing movie to fnd promise you will not be disappointed! they unite with Han Solo to accom- ally lead to them to discover the truth out! plish their mission. In addition, their about their mission and the truth about 12 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016 Movie: Movie Reviews: Te Good Te Hunger Games Overview Daddy’s Home Dinosaur Alyssa Schmidt & Morgan more than a ploy to entertain the Rachel Schier & Lauren Michael Valdes rich and oblivious citizens of the Fishbein Staff Writer Hochheiser Staff Writers Capitol. Cinna appreciates Katniss Staff Writers Since its inception, The Hunger and admires her bravery and hones- Are you looking for a hilarious, yet On November 25, 2015, the creators Games series has been an interna- ty. He seems to get her like no one heart-warming flm to watch with your of Finding Nemo and Inside Out re- tional sensation that captured the else does and takes this opportunity family? If you are, then Daddy’s Home is leased a heart-warming movie entitled hearts of millions of people with to make her great in the eyes of all the movie that you should see! With a tal- The Good Dinosaur. The production its three fabulously written books spectators. ented cast, including Will Ferrell, Mark staff at Pixar wanted to come up with a and four beautifully directed and Katniss quickly realizes that the Wahlberg, and Linda Cardellini, this new and original idea yet to be seen by acted films. The novels, written by only way to survive the Games is movie will be young view- Suzanne Collins, follow the jour- to make alliances. Her first alliance sure to make e r s . While ney of Katniss Everdeen, a District was Rue, a fragile District 11 tribute you both dino- saurs are 12 citizen who volunteers for her who has a skill for climbing trees laugh and not a novel sister, Primrose, in the 74th annu- and hiding. She and Katniss form a cry. Daddy’s i d e a , this sto- al Hunger Games, a yearly event strong bond and work together right Home be- ry of the infa- in the dystopian country of Panem up until Rue meets her demise at gins with the mous asteroid where two teenagers, one boy and the hands of Marvel, another trib- main char- added a twist. one girl, are picked from each of the ute. Katniss gives Rue an honorable acter, Brad In- stead of 12 Districts to fight to the death in burial and is instantly respected by Taggart (Will hitting E a r t h , an arena where only one will remain districts all across Panem. Not sur- Ferrell), as the as- t e r o i d to be claimed victor. After they win, prisingly, President Snow isn’t too he continues m i s s e d they live in the lap of luxury for the happy about this; he is beginning to try to get result- ing in rest of their lives. Katniss, skilled in to realize that Katniss will not go his stepkids the survival of the dinosaur species, archery and survival, volunteers for down without a fight. His concerns to like him. and dinosaurs and humans roaming the her younger sister in an act of love regarding the unintentional prowess Once Brad’s planet together. The movie takes you to protect her of Katniss plans fnally begin to work, his step- on an unimaginable journey as the main from being lead to a children’s biological father, Dusty (Mark character, Arlo, searches for his family killed in the change in Wahlberg), shows up at his house. With from whom he was separated during a Games. the Games; a motorcycle, a bunch of cool stories to big storm. During his adventure, Arlo Her coun- this is tell, and his bad-boy attitude, the kids meets Spot, an energetic, bold, and terpart from something are immediately attracted to Dusty over fearless caveman with whom he quick- District 12 is that had Brad. The movie consists of a constant ly forms a friendship. Throughout the quickly cho- never been competition between Brad and Dusty to movie, the audience feels as though sen; he is Pee- done be- see who the better “dad” really is, when they are running through the moun- ta Mellark, a fore. He fnally, in the end, the two come together tains and plains with Spot and Arlo baker’s son. He shocks the to help defend their son. while experiencing all of the laughter has an undy- c o u n t r y From motorcycle accidents to skate- and fear right alongside their cartoon ing, secretive when he boarding stunts to half court shots, it is counterparts. While this movie looks love for Katniss throughout the en- declares that two tributes from the guaranteed that your whole family is sure as if it should be for the younger gener- tire trilogy even though she initially same district can share the title of to be laughing out loud. Daddy’s Home ation, we would recommend it to any- finds it difficult to accept and recip- victor. This prompts Katniss to find is a heart-warming, relatable flm that all one who is caring, sympathetic, and rocate his affections. She eventually Peeta and nurse him back to health. families will surely enjoy. This movie needs a getaway from being older. This realizes that she does truly love him Readers are left with Katniss and is defnitely a must-see, and we recom- movie is adorable and deserves only and can’t live without him, resulting Peeta as the only two left, when the mend it to everyone. the best reviews. If you haven’t yet, go in somewhat of a love triangle for head Gamemaker changes the rules see The Good Dinosaur! our protagonist. As she realizes her again: only one person can win. In affections for Peeta, she cannot help an act of defiance, Katniss takes out take a liking to Katniss at first, but est moment. After a long period of but think of Gale, her best friend poisonous Nightlock berries and begins to see her transform into the depression and suffering, Katniss is and confidante from District 12. tells the world that if she and Pee- Mockingjay and become the most able to come out on the other side After the death of Katniss’ father, ta both can’t win, then they won’t powerful weapon in the rebellion. stronger than before. She and Peeta Gale was right by her side to help have a victor. Ultimately, they are Katniss goes through many emo- have found their way back to each her support and provide for her fam- both crowned victors. tional ups and downs in this final other and will now find a way back ily. This connection with Gale was In Catching Fire, the second novel and yearns for Peeta’s safety home to live in peace. The epilogue unlike any other, thus making her book in the series, Katniss and Pee- (he was captured and subsequently takes place fifteen years later where newly discovered romantic feelings ta have found their relationship out- brainwashed by the Capitol). He is Katniss and Peeta are relaxing back for Peeta that much more difficult side of the arena very awkward and rescued, but he is not the same; he home in the former District 12 en- to accept. are just acting for the cameras. This has been trained to view Katniss as joying their life together and their As the story progresses, read- year’s Hunger Games is the Quarter an enemy. He attempts to kill her; two kids. The series ends with Kat- ers learn each district of Panem is Quell, the 75th anniversary, so there this is about midway through the niss saying that when she thinks known for a different trait. For ex- will be some surprises in store. In last book and the culminating scene back on her past and feels upset, she ample, District 12 is the coal min- an attempt to rid Panem of the de- of the third film. reminds herself of every good thing ing district, District 7 is the lumber fiant Katniss Everdeen, President In the second half of Mocking- that she has ever seen someone do. district, and District 4 is the fishing Snow decides that this year’s com- jay, Katniss learns what happened She acknowledges that this rou- district. Other than the yearly Hun- petitors will be chosen from a pool to Peeta in the Capitol. In addition, tine is a bit of a repetitive game for ger Games, the districts have very of all of the past victors. Katniss District 13 is planning to invade the her, but that “there are much worse little interaction with one another, and Peeta find themselves back in Capitol to capture President Snow Games to play.” and each assumes that the others are the arena and forced to make new and end his reign once and for all. As Hollywood often does, they treated better by the diabolical, un- alliances, which, unbeknownst to The Capitol is riddled with hid- chose to strike while the iron was realistic Capitol and the evil Pres- Katniss, were pre-arranged in an at- den “pods” (deadly obstacles) all hot and create a film franchise based ident Snow. As a young girl from tempt to overthrow the Capitol once throughout the city to try to elim- on this beloved book series. Every- District 12, the least lucrative of the and for all. Katniss later learns that inate Squad 451, Katniss and her thing that they chose to do was done districts, Katniss enters the games the plan was a secret to get her to counterparts from District 13. As right as all four of the films were even though she knows that she will the formerly mythical District 13 to her world is falling apart, Katniss wildly popular, breaking records all most likely not return home. None- become the leader of the Rebellion, must stay strong to remain the face over the world. While the incredibly theless, she promises herself that referred to as the Mockingjay. of the rebellion; her sister’s death is enviable box office numbers may be she would try her best to win for In Mockingjay, the final book of the final straw. As a nurse, Prim was telling to some, they do not truly do Prim. Each District is a assigned a the series, Katniss is brought into sent to aid wounded soldiers in the justice to what has become a modern mentor for their competitors; typi- the long forgotten District 13, for- battlefield. In this moment, Katniss classic that skillfully entertains with cally the mentors are chosen from merly responsible for the produc- realizes that the problems in Panem a gut-wrenching love story, while a pool of prior victors from the dis- tion of weapons and military forces stretch far wider than those created providing a very telling commen- trict. District 12 has not been very for Panem. District 13 was one of by President Snow. If there is go- tary on the state of society. Jenni- fortunate in this area, resulting in the districts of Panem that could not ing to be change, it must be done fer Lawrence’s portrayal of Katniss one mentor for both Katniss and be contained and had to be “elim- from the ground up and on an even Everdeen sparked her career as one Peeta, the drunk and lonesome Hay- inated” by the Capitol. What the larger scale. In realizing that Coin of the most well-known and talented mitch. He is very argumentative and Capitol didn’t know was that peo- and Snow are truly one in the same, actresses in Hollywood today. The quarrelsome. Katniss also meets ple survived the deadly bombings she chooses to assassinate Coin in- Hunger Games will stand as one of Cinna, her stylist. Cinna is not your in 13, and rebuilt their society un- stead of Snow, who is already not the most successful book series and typical Capitol citizen, however. derground. Alma Coin is the pres- well and has plenty of other ene- movie franchises of all time. He dismisses the Games as nothing ident of District 13. She doesn’t mies who can attack in his weak- HHH High School East THUNDERBIRD 13 NFL Awards Predictions Tom Coughlin Steps Down Zachary Leff David Bieber Professional Sports Editor Staff Writer This year has been an exciting year the Rams drafted him in the frst round On January 4, 2016, New York Gi- in Super Bowl XLVI (2012); however, in the NFL. From the many spectacular and boy are they happy they did! Af- ants head coach Tom Coughlin an- since then, the team has only fnished plays and moments to the emergence ter missing the frst three games, he nounced that he will resign from the 28-36 (.438%) over the last four sea- of new stars and old ones that continue exploded onto the scene and had four team after a 12-year tenure. Coughlin sons. their success, this season is defnitely straight games with 125 yards or more. wrote in a statement released to the Coughlin fnishes his tenure with one to be remembered. NFL awards He ended the season with over 1000 public: “I met the Giants with are big honors and accomplishments rushing yards and 10 tds. He is a prom- with John Mara a 102-90 overall in a player’s life that could potentially ising young player and will be exciting and Steve Tisch record (.531%) change a player’s to watch for a long this afternoon, and a playoff whole career. Here time. and I informed record of 8-3 are my predictions them that it is in (.727%). He for some of the Defensive Rookie the best interest also fnished 2015-2016 NFL of the Year: Mar- of the organiza- with two Super Awards: cus Peters, Corner- tion that I step Bowl trophies back of the Kansas down as head as a head coach MVP and Offen- City Chiefs coach. I strongly and one as an sive Player of the believe the time assistant coach Year: Cam New- After off the feld is right for me and my family, and as from 1991. Even though he is gone ton, Quarterback problems, Peters I said, the Giants organization.” Many from the Giants, Coughlin still wants of the Carolina Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers slipped down players, fans, and industry profession- to continue coaching in the NFL, and Panthers to the late frst als appreciate the contributions that at the time of this article, he is in the round. This put a Coughlin has made to the team. process of being interviewed by other Cam Newton had a breakout season chip on his shoulder to prove the NFL The combination of team success and teams for head coaching positions. this year and put himself in an elite scouts wrong. Peters had a fantastic contract E v e n class of quarterbacks. He had 35 pass- year with 8 ints, a tie for most in the l e n g t h t h o u g h ing tds and 10 rushing tds. Those num- league. He made many fantastic plays were the Gi- bers have never been achieved before. and helped a Chiefs team make the reasons ants He also led his team to 15-1 record and playoffs and go on an 11 game winning w h y have a the number one seed in the playoffs streak. Peters might not have those Cough- huge without their top target Kelvin Benja- interception numbers in the future if lin de- hole to min all season. they stop throwing the ball to his side, cided to fll at so hopefully, for his sake, this doesn’t leave the h e a d Defensive Player of the Year: JJ Watt, change. organi- c o a c h , Defensive End of the Houston Texans z a t i o n . this is The Gi- a good JJ Watt did it again. He had another Coach of the Year: Ron Rivera, Car- ants just thing for fantastic season with 17.5 sacks and 3 olina Panthers finished the fran- forced fumbles. He was the most dom- this past chise. The inating force on defensive and led his After an under .500 season last year, season at 6-10 (.375%), with many Giants have plenty of young talent, team to a playoff berth. He got so much it looked like the Panthers might go injuries, questionable penalties, and and it is honestly time for the team attention that it allowed his other team- a different way with their coach. Also inconsistency. Coughlin didn’t do to go into a different direction. Tom mates to have a great season. JJ Watt with Kelvin Benjamin getting injured, his best job either and struggled with Coughlin is one of the most loved and continues to dominate and is arguably it looked like a lost season for Caroli- certain play calling, especially at the well respected coaches in NFL histo- the best player in the league. na. Well, Rivera and his team had other beginning of the season with running ry, and he will be truly missed by the plans. They won 14 straight games and down the clock. In the 2011 season, fans of the New York Giants. Offensive Rookie of the Year: Todd fnished the year with the best record in Coughlin led the Giants to a victory Gurley, Running Back of the St. Louis the NFL at 15-1. He inspired this play- Rams ers and let them relax. His hard work has helped them go deep into the play- After tearing his ACL in college, ev- ers and become serious contenders for eryone thought that he would never be the Super Bowl. He is also now one of able to be a great player. Despite this, the most respected coaches in the NFL. What Are the Mets and Yankees Doing During the Of Season

Jacob Broxmeyer Professional Sports Editor

The 2015 MLB season ended with a lengthy suspension. This was a Mets postseason run, he did start to the World Series. He also gives a bang as the Kansas City Roy- very risky deal for the Yankees, to cool down in the World Series them a lot more batting power for als beat the New York Mets in six but they didn’t give up any major and made a few costly bone-head their lineup. games in the World Series. This prospects, and it was too good of plays. Any die hard Mets fan will Other notable transactions that excitement has carried over from a deal for the Yankees to pass up. tell you this is the same old sto- have happened this offseason in- the World Series to the 2015 off- The Yankees also traded for mid- ry with Murphy. During his tenure clude former Toronto Blue Jay season. dle infielder Starlin Castro. Cas- with the Mets, he has been known David Price signing with the Bos- Both New York teams have made tro struggled last season while at for his inconsistent play and low ton Red Sox; the Red Sox trading great improve- shortstop; however, a second half IQ of the game. This offsea- for All-Star reliever Craig ments to build change to second base proved vital son, the Mets replaced Kimbrel; the Chicago on the success for Castro as he hit over .450 in Murphy, who signed a White Sox signing they had last the month of September. Cas- three year deal with former St. Louis season. The tro brings both an offensive the Nationals in De- Cardinal outfield- New York and defensive improvement cember, with former er Jason Heyward; Yankees over former Yankees second Pittsburgh Pirates and the Arizona a c q u i r e d baseman Stephen Drew, as second baseman Diamondbacks reliever Ar- well as further supplementing Neil Walker. Walk- signing former oldis Chap- the Yankees goal to get young- er brings better de- Los Angeles Dodg- man. Chap- er. fense to the table and ers starting pitcher man is known The Mets are coming fresh is a more consistent hit- Zack Greinke. for his 100 plus off of their first World Series ap- ter than Murphy. The Mets The 2016 season is mile per hour fastball. In acquir- pearance in fifteen seasons. So also added veteran middle right around the corner, and ing Chapman, the Yankees now far in the offseason the Mets have infielder Asdrubal Cabrera. from the look of these offseason have the top three relief pitchers not made any alluring moves, but Cabrera also brings a great glove moves, it sure will be an exciting in terms of strikeouts in Chapman, they have gotten more consistent and has a little pop on his bat. On one! Andrew Miller, and Dellin Betanc- and more fundamentally sound at top of those free agents, the Mets es. Although Chapman is a great a few positions. Although Daniel were able to resign Yoenis Ces- player, he has a domestic violence Murphy was a bonafide superhero pedes, an outfielder who gave the charge looming that could lead to for the city of New York during the mets a spark last year on their way 14 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016 March Madness Preview NBA Rookie of the Year Candidates Teams Tat Are Likely to Make Deep Runs this March Bennett Reiss tention to himself due to his ability to score Staff Writer and spread the foor. The rookie PG got off Bradley Shanker & James As we approach the midway of the to a slower start Rouse 2015-2016 NBA Season, it’s offcially than expected, Staff Writers time to begin to consider potential Rookie but recently As March Madness slowly nears, we of the team, and the introduction of Ra- of the Year candidates. This year’s draft has has dominat- decided to give our opinions on teams sheed Sulaimon to the team from Duke experienced an incredible class of raw po- ed, putting up that we believe could make deep runs this season, the Terps will easily be able tential across the board, with many rookies career highs in in this year’s tournament. Sadly, due to to make a deep run in this year’s tour- making profound impacts on their teams every category space and page constraints we were not nament. already. Although many rookies are look- and helping the able to include all of our The University ing solid this year, only one gets awarded Lakers win some games. So far, Russell is sleeper teams. of North Caro- the “Rookie of the Year.” My top three averaging 11.7 ppg, 3.9 rpg, and 3.4 apg. The University of lina Tar Heels- Rookie of the Year candidates include: Kri- While these numbers may not seem mon- Texas Longhorns- This The Tar Heels staps Porzingis, Karl Anthony-Towns, and umental for a ROY candidate, Russell’s year, the Longhorns are are predicted D’Angelo Russell. knack for making big time plays puts the looking to make some to make a deep Kristaps Porzingis, drafted fourth over- rookie PG in the conversation. noise in the tourna- run in this year’s all by the New York Knicks from Latvia, Last, but certainly not least, is Karl An- ment after being tournament was an extremely raw prospect and poten- thony-Towns. Towns, drafted frst overall eliminated early for many tially a huge by the Minnesota Tim- by the Butler r e a s o n s . gamble. Prior berwolves from Ken- Bulldogs last The frst to being draft- tucky, is the front-run- year. First being that ed, Porzingis ner to win this award. year head they want to fashed ma- Towns has dominated coach Sha- redeem them- jor skill in the all year long, no matter ka Smart selves after not EuroLeague who is guarding him. came from even participating before declaring himself for the draft. After Said to have been one dimensional before VCU where he in last year’s tourna- being booed on draft night, this “gamble” the draft, Towns worked all summer long gained nation- ment. They have shown has paid off for the Knicks. Averaging 13.6 and has developed a killer jumpshot, add- al attention signs of great improve- ppg, 8.0 rpg, 1.1 apg, and 2.0 bpg, Porzingis ing to his already gargantuan arsenal of for his trade- ment, going 15-2 so far is helping to push the Knicks into playoff ways to score. Towns can score from any- mark style this season. They also contention after an abominable 2014-2015 where on the court. Whether it’s a jump- of defense have a very deep roster season. Porzingis plays great defense and shot, a layup, a dunk, or in the post, the guy known as havoc. Havoc is a pressure with six players averaging 10 or more often gets the crowd into a frenzy with his can fat out score. Towns is a menace on the defense that leads to transition points points per game. The Tar Heels have re- three pointers and putback dunks. Por- defense as well, as he often blocks anyone on offense. Even though the Long- lied a lot on their two star seniors: Brice zingis has proven, up to this point, why he who drives into the paint. Averaging 15.9 horns lost their two best players from Johnson and Marcus Paige. Brice John- should be awarded the Rookie of the Year. ppg, 9.2 rpg, 1.85 bpg, and 1.2 apg, Karl last season in Myles Turner and Jona- son is a very tall and strong forward D’Angelo Russell, drafted second over- Anthony-Towns is a force to be reckoned than Holmes, they returned everyone who not only averages around seven- all by the Los Angeles Lakers from Ohio with, and due to his crazy stats, he is, in my else from their rotation and added three teen points per game, but he also gets State, was a huge playmaker all year long opinion, the NBA Rookie of the Year. quality freshmen. A foot injury has side- over 10 rebounds per game. On the oth- for the Ohio State Buckeyes and drew at- Photos: Getty Images lined starting big-man Cameron Ridley er hand, Paige is a very diverse guard indefnitely, but coach Smart says he who can give you points, rebounds, hopes to have Ridley back towards the and assists. They have also relied on NBA MVP Prediction end of the regular season. Prince Ibeh underclassmen, such as Justin Jackson. and Connor Lammert have provided Jackson is a sophomore; he is a decent Jeremy Schier & Kevin stability in the scorer and plays a Rouse frontcourt during very similar game Staff Writers Ridley’s absence. to Marcus Paige. Who will win the NBA MVP award? Stephen Curry is probably the most Guards Kendal With the great ex- That’s a tough one to call just yet. With likely person to win the MVP award. As Yancy and Javan perience of Roy a lot of talent and an increased work eth- if winning the Warriors a championship Felix are provid- Williams, three ic throughout the NBA, there are several last year wasn’t enough, he has led his ing most of the solid starters, potential contenders at this point in the team to a tremendous start, winning their offense from the and a very deep season. frst 24 games of the season, and is be- backcourt. De- bench, UNC will Ever since ing referred to marcus Holland also make a deep the absence as one of the is one of the best run in this year’s of Kev- best in NBA defensive players in college hoops, and tournament. in Durant, history. As it he continues to shut down the opposi- dating back stands, if Steph tion’s best players. So far, Texas has THIS YEAR’S MARCH MAD- to last year, Curry contin- a 10-6 record and is currently in 5th NESS CHAMPION WILL BE... Russell ues to get in place in the BIG 12 Conference. Tex- Westbrook the amount as has big wins over then #3 ranked The University of Kentucky Wild- has stepped of three point UNC and #17 ranked Iowa State. The cats- The Wildcats are looking for re- up tremen- shots he is cur- schedule doesn’t get any easier for the demption after losing to Wisconsin last dously. Al- rently making, Longhorns as 9 of their last 15 games year in the playoffs. Although they have though All- he is on pace to are played against ranked opponents, lost guys like Devin Booker, Karl-An- Star Kevin make the most including #1 Kansas, #2 Oklahoma, thony Towns, and Willie Cauley-Stein, Durant is threes ever in a #11 West Virginia, #17 Iowa State, and they have played very good basketball, back on the court, Westbrook’s great play single season in NBA history. Steph Cur- #22 Baylor. The Longhorns must fnd which has resulted in a 13-3 record. has continued into this season. He has ry has not only been playing tremendous- a way to keep winning if they want to They have shown that they are the best been playing extremely well on both the ly this past few games, but he has been make a statement and wreak havoc in team in college basketball in victories offensive and defensive end, almost av- playing great throughout the whole year this year’s tournament come March. over Duke and Louisville. Many Ken- eraging a triple-double. A big part of his and is making his play more and more The University of Maryland Terra- tucky players have stepped up to re- newfound success is his work ethic. Al- consistent, which is another contributing pins- The Terps are looking to bounce place the grads, such as Jamal Murray. though they just missed out on making factor towards what is making him a can- back after getting knocked out in the Jamal Murray has been a very big sur- the playoffs last year, Russell Westbrook didate for MVP. second round of the tournament last prise this season because he is a fresh- is on the rise as one of the league’s elite James Harden, another very strong year. They have been solid this year man; he leads the team in points and has players. player on both ends of the court, is also with a 15-2 record and their only losses been a key to their success this season. LeBron James has also been playing being considered a candidate for the coming from UNC and Michigan. They Ulis, a sophomore, has also stepped up well this year. Although Lebron has a very MVP award. Although the Rockets hav- have a very solid team under Mark Tur- his game. He leads the team in minutes good team surrounding him, with Kyrie en’t been playing well, Harden has been geon and a lot of depth on their roster. and assists. Seniors, such as Alex Poy- Irving and Kevin Love, he has proven great. He was in the talk for MVP last They rely on guys like Melo Trimble, thress, have really helped the team out to people that he alone can carry a team year, and he’s only been better this year. Jake Layman, Diamond Stone, and as well. Poythress is leading the team in far into the playoffs and bring success to Harden has worked tremendously to im- Robert Carter to get the job done. With rebounds and is a key source of points. their season. Last year, with the absences prove his long range shot. Although the Trimble and Layman starting the game Although they have lost many of their of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love, Lebron Rockets haven’t won as many games as to produce points in bulk and a solid stars to the NBA, John Calipari has managed to bring his team to the NBA f- they have in previous seasons, Harden is 6th man in Diamond Stone coming of done a great job of getting his young nals. The Cavs struggled before LeBron a big reason as to why they are winning the bench, the Terps defnitely have guys involved. For these reasons, we came to Cleveland, and he has brought their games now. It is very safe to say that the skill to make a deep run. With the are confdent that Kentucky will reach them recent success which proves why Harden’s name will come to the table in coaching of Mark Turgeon, the depth their ninth national championship. he is a contender for the MVP award. MVP talks again this year. HHH High School East THUNDERBIRD 15 H ILLS EAST WINTE R SPORTS R E CAP 2015-2016 Fencing Season Recap 2015-2016 Varsity Wrestling Season Recap Alex Luongo Dylan Kaufman Contributor Chen (40-1), Alex Luongo (32-8), Tiffany Staff Writer Kim (31-8), Grace Park (24-7), and Con- Fencing is unconventional by nature - nie He (27-9). HSE Varsity wrestling is having yet an- Jacob Kaufman. The last match of those stabbing your opponent with a sword is The boys also have an impressive win not exactly the most common pastime. other great season. Led by Coaches Dav- two days turned into a big win for East to loss ratio of 13-2. Although they lost to ey and Tuorto, the team is doing very well with a score of 36-24 over Locust Valley. However, for the athletes on the Hills Ward Melville, they did beat Commack, combined East and West fencing team, and working toward ending the season on Pins in that fnal came from Nyrel Sevilla, with the fate of the match decided during a high note. The frst match of the sea- Tyler Parkinson, and Jon Spadafora. On there’s nothing they enjoy more than the last epee round. Senior Justin Cho was stepping up on the metal strip and wield- son took place December 28 able to secure the win and the meet cul- on December and December ing their weapons. In the short nine years minated with a score of 14-13 and a grat- since their conception, both the boys’ and 5 against none 29, High School ifying victory for the Thundercolts. The other than High East hosted the girls’ fencing teams have grown tremen- boys’ individual records include: Kenneth dously. The Hills girls recently earned the School West. Sal DiFazio Messerole (34-5), Paul Pimentel (41-6), After nothing Holiday Tour- title of league champions, an unprecedent- Justin Cho (27-6), Gary Armyn (27-12), ed feat that ended Ward Melville’s streak but great play, nament. The and Edward Bae (23-12). East took the team played of 14 consecutive titles. The season is quickly coming to an end With one last match of the season against match by a score of 65-16, with four pins great, and East came in second place. as the county championships took place coming from Saajid Pinate, Blaise Quin- Freshman Jon Spadafora even won the Commack, the girls have an undefeated on February 6. The girls’ success was record of 15-0. On December 14, the girls lan, Anthony Diasparra, and Tyler Par- Champion of Champions award at the driven by their coach, Dennis Daly, who kinson. With a great start to their season, tournament. beat Ward Melville, a team that won 205 says, “Both teams have seen their ups and of their previous 207 matches. This was the team already seemed hopeful for what In the frst match of the new year, East downs over the course of the season, but was to surely follow. The next match was beat Copiague with a score of 43-23 with only Ward Melville’s second loss since every hour of effort put in not only during the 2000-2001 season. The Hills girls on December 16 against Newfeld. East pins from Jon Spadafora, Saajid Pinate, after school practice but also during the dominated that match beating Newfeld Griffn Arcuri, and Nyrel Sevilla. On Jan- managed to beat Ward Melville the sec- previous hot summers has allowed ex- ond time around, solidifying their title as 69-6. Stellar play was seen by the entire uary 8, the team went up against Smith- cellence to come forth on the strip. I am team, with pins coming from Jon and town West, beating them with a score of league champions. The girls’ individual very proud of all the athletes; they have an records during the season include: Crystal Philip Spadafora, Tyler Parkinson, An- 46-19 and even more pins from Jon and amazing focus.” thony Diasparra, Tate Kershner, Michael Philip Spadafora, Griffn Arcuri, and Ty- Editor’s Note: The Hills Girls Fencing Abidin, and Nyrel Sevilla. Two days after ler Parkinson. On January 9, East won the team beat Garden City 14-8 and they are beating Newfeld, East went up against entire Rocky Gilmore Tournament at East the 2016 Long Island Fencing Cham- Cold Spring Harbor. They easily beat Islip with an overall score of 295.5. This pions! HSE fencers Alex Luongo, Nicole them with a score of 60-15. Another match tournament saw fnal appearances from Hecker, Sophia Lettieri, Casey Chung, full of great performances with pins from Jon and Philip Spadafora, Tate Kershner, and Sanam Muhayya helped secure the Tate Kershner, James Spadafora, Griffn Steve Macchia, Griffn Arcuri, Anthony win. Hills Boys fencing team defeated Arcuri, and Matthew Touhamy. The next Diasparra, and Michael Abidin. In their Ward Melville 5-4 in the county tourna- three matches took place on December last match of the regular season on Jan- ment and also beat Commack to secure 19 and 20 during the Deer Park Duals. uary 13, the team took a hard loss, falling the county championship title. Congratu- In the frst match, the T-Birds saw their 36-33 to North Babylon. With this loss, HHH Fencing Team lations to the entire Hills team! frst loss of the season against Linden- the team record is now 7-2, not counting hurst with a score of 34-25. In the second tournament wins. Things look hopeful for match, East came back to beat Walt Whit- the entire team as they hope to see some Hills East Boys Basketball Recap man with a total score of 44-26. Pins in members move up to the county and state Zachary Leff that tournament came from Dylan Camp- championships. Good luck the rest of the Professional Sports Editor II, there are several playoff caliber teams, bell, Griffn Arcuri, Michael Abidin, and season, and go Thunderbirds! After a heart breaking playoff loss last including Northport, Bay Shore, Central year to Copiague in the frst round, this Islip, and Copiague, all of whom moved HHH Swim Team Captures Its 10th year’s boys’ Varsity basketball team was up into our division this year. Against on a mission. The team wanted to make these talented teams, Hills East only Consecutive County Title it back to the playoffs and go farther than won one game, which was a huge win at Lauren Peller 2. Kabir Randhawa (HSE) Central Islip. Even though it was close, just the frst round, hopefully taking it Editor-In-Chief 3. Daniel Lee (HSW) the T-Birds pulled it out, and this win all the way. The team may have lost a The Half Hollow Hills Swim team was 4. Tyori Wyche (HSE) lot of talent s p a r k e d Time: 3:16.26 a sense successful again at the County Champi- with last onship Swim/Dive Meet held over the year’s grad- of belief The following swimmers will go on to amongst weekend of February 13. Congratulations uating class, to all of the competitors on once again compete in the New York State Champi- but they the team onship Meet in Buffalo on March 4th and members earning multiple accolades! Collectively, did bring the team captured their 10th Consecu- 5th. Best of luck to all participants! back some and coach- 1. Alex Park (HSE) es that they tive County Title scoring a meet record key players of 516 points, which secured a frst place 2. Tyori Wyche (HSE) from last could ac- 3. Kabir Randhawa (HSE) complish win out of 22 teams, and defeating the 2nd year’s team place team by over 250 points. Out of 12 to lead the their goal and not events, the HHH team took frst place in HSE Boys Track Team T-Birds into six of them. the playoffs. only make, Competes at County Meet Two main contributors are sophomore but also succeed in the playoffs. Justin Tisch The team ended its season with an County Champion Individuals: guard Savion Lewis and senior forward Alex Park (HSE): 200 Yard Individual School Sports Editor D’Nathan Knox. These two returning overall record of 10-8 with a 7-7 record Medley After a very exciting and successful players are this year’s captains and are in league play and advanced to the play- winter track season here at HSE, the joined by senior guard Matt Smith. offs. All you can say about this basket- County Champion Relays: county track meet took place at Suf- The season started off well with a cou- ball team now is “Survive and Advance.” 200 Yard Medley Relay - new school folk Community College on January ple of non league wins against Garden The T-Birds worked hard in the playoffs record set, breaking the previous record 25, 2016. Twelve HSE athletes com- City and Commack. These two key wins again this year, but were unfortunately held for nineteen years peted in this annual event including gave the team some momentum. When eliminated by Brentwood in round two. 1. Dylan Chan (HSW) Reid Barkoff, Blair Braxton, Emman- league play started, the competition be- Despite this elimination, the team put up 2. Alex Park (HSE) uel Fuentes, Phil Portalatine, Daniel came a lot more ferce. In Suffolk League a good fght throughout the entire season and made HSE proud once again. Con- 3. Ethan Tack (HSW) Siegel, Christian Sam, Matt and Richie gratulations on another great season! 4. Justin Chang (HSW) Hogan, Seth Garcia, and Chapele Wray Girls Basketball Recap Time: 1:36.55 (breaking record of to name just a few. As has become the Emma Schleimer Sophia Tawil and their senior captain Mesha 1:36.89 set in 1997) norm for HSE track, many of our ath- Contributor Rivers. The whole team is continuing to im- letes were met with success ending The Girls Varsity basketball team finished prove with the help of great coaching skills 200 Yard Freestyle Relay the season on a high note. In addition, in League II with a solid record clinching and hard work. The team played Riverhead 1. Harrison Tack (HSW) there was one team member to quali- them a spot in the playoffs. The team has in the first round of the playoffs, which they 2. Justin Chang (HSW) fy for states this year: Blair Braxton. undergone many changes due to most of the lost by only two points, making the score 64- 3. Dylan Chan (HSW) Blair came in frst place in the 55 meter starting line up graduating last year. These 62. This loss knocked the Hills East Girls Var- 4. Alex Park (HSE) dash. He beat his previous fastest time changes caused a younger team to develop sity basketball team out of the playoffs. They Time: 1:26.89 of 6.67 seconds with an astonishing with three sophomore starters: Jess Womble, look forward to next season and will continue 6.60 second fnish. Congratulations to Jessie Maurer, and Alexa Wallace. These working hard during the off season to make 400 Yard Freestyle Relay the entire team on a great season, and sophomore worked hard alongside freshman, the playoffs once again. 1. Ethan Tack (HSW) best of luck to Blair Braxton at states! 16 THUNDERBIRD Issue 2 Winter 2016

HSE Gets Pepped Up For Winter Sports Alexa Grill Entertainment Editor

High School East’s 2015 Winter Pep Ral- ly certainly did not disappoint. Each grade came with high spirits, and students were ready to watch their classmates perform for the school. Many members of the stu- dent body were also recognized for partic- ipating in a winter sport. First, the cheer- leaders took the foor. Their routine was The Hills East Step team performs at Pep Rally. especially electric because of all the stunts they pulled off, including lifts and multiple fips in the air. Although very different, the kickline and step team both had amazing performances as well. The step team never fails to impress with their routines as they simultaneously step in rhythm. The Dix- ettes always bring their “A-Game” while dancing and kicking to the latest pop hits. Members of the band play at the pep rally This time, they shared their amazing com- petition routines with the school. After these three performances were over and all of the sports teams were called out to take a picture with the school’s mas- cot, the Thunderbird, the most anticipated question of the day was answered… which teacher was going to be pied in the face? Or should I say which teachers would be pied in the face because there was a frst and second place “winner”! The second place winner was pied frst, and it was Mrs. Horan. Finally, the teacher who won frst place was revealed through what appeared to be a never-ending plate of whipped cream to the face. The lucky winner was Mrs. Pinola. Congrats to these two teach- The Cheerleaders show off their amazing stunts ers for being pied and for raising the most money for charity. This winter pep rally was a fun way to usher in the winter break. See you in the Spring at the next Pep Rally! Mrs. Horan, HSE’s 2nd Place Winner, gets “pied”.

Dixettes sparkle and shine at Pep Rally. HSE Girls Track Has a Record Breaking Season Samantha Longo Contributor

Over the course of this winter season, Sam Longo, Ariana Malik, and Maira HSE Girls Winter Track has once again Gomis, took 2nd at the State Qualify- proven why they are a force to be reck- ing Meet. The 4x8 relay team broke oned with. From record breaking times the HSE record for time twice over to individual and group accomplish- the course of the season. The 4x8 team ments, these girls really know how to is made up of Jenna Bottone, Maddie put their best foot forward when they Ciuffetelli, Katrina Barry, and Oliv- step on that track. Mary Chimezie ia Tang. Congratulations to the entire broke the Suffolk County State Qual- team on another fantastic season, and ifying Meet record in the 300. This best of luck to Mary Chimezie as she was not an easy feat, but Mary was continues on to States. able to do it with ease. The 4x2 relay team, comprised of Mary Chimezie,