he hieftain TMontville High School Oakdale ,C CT 06370 Issue #3 2013 Testing For Success Scholar Athletes By: Colleen Wells The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Test, often referred to as the ‘nation’s report card’, is administered to selected students in grades 4, 8, and 12. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) webpage states that “these grades and ages were chosen because they represent critical junctures in academic achievement.” This year, several Montville High School seniors were selected to take the test which serves as a tool for the government to be able to gauge what the nation’s students know and are capable of accomplishing in mathematics, reading, science, geography, and US history. Students are also tested in other minor areas such as economics. The NCES takes secrecy and Student Athletes Rachael Orbe and Paul Hanrahan security very seriously. According to the NCES webpage, selected students are not By: Mallory Tassone able to see their individual results and Balancing rigorous academics classroom, the court and the field. the chosen schools are not able to see the and a demanding varsity athletic schedule Paul Hanrahan exhibits an exemplary collective scores of their students for the is not an easy task, but MHS seniors record in both his academic and athletic sake of confidentiality. The names of the Rachael Orbe and Paul Hanrahan make careers. Hanrahan is a “coach’s dream,” students chosen to take the test are not the job look easy. Orbe and Hanrahan according to Patrick Kelly, his golf coach publically disclosed. There are measures are this year’s recipients of the CAS- and math teacher. He is well respected by in place to punish individuals who reveal CIAC Scholar Athlete Award. This award teammates and opponents alike. Hanrahan the names of students who took the test. honors one boy and one girl from each is the epitome of a role model for younger Montville High School’s participating high school in Connecticut. students. Despite his many successes, participation in this test is important, Those students recognized must possess he is humble and shows a high level of though it might seem small. In the long exemplary academic and athletic careers maturity. run it is the collective data of many and have high personal standards. Orbe and Hanrahan both were also schools across the country that allows for Recipients of the award possess a great recipients of the ECC Sportsmanship the government to create a better picture level of integrity and self-discipline and Award for basketball and soccer. Both are of today’s high school student, as well as must be a model athlete and student. honors students in the top 2% of the senior the opportunity to improve our country’s Rachael Orbe displays a high level class, and active in the MHS communtity. educational system. of maturity and intelligence, both on the They will attend a banquet where they will An improved system is the goal of court and in the classroom. Orbe is a hard- be recognized for their achievements on NCES and the NAEP. Whether or not the working, committed student athlete who May 5th at the Aqua Turf in Southington, data proves useful toward this end remains demonstrates tremendous effort evident CT. The MHS Chieftain is proud to call to be seen. Better educated students will, both in her schoolwork and her athletic Rachael and Paul our first student editors. in the long run, improve the country as a ability. Derek Wainwright, a teacher and a whole. Students will be better prepared coach of Orbe, stated that he wishes more for competing in the Global Market and students had the same student-scholar for leading the way in politics, science, qualities that Orbe brings with her to the invention and communication.

Page 1 The Chieftain MHS SPORTS 1st Lacrosse Wins for MHS A Good Season By: Meagan McAdams The girls’ basketball team lost in the quarterfinals against Nortre Dame Fairfield in the state tournament. After a devastating loss to NFA on February 16th, the team was determined to win. Each practice ended with junior Cassidy Bundy saying “Run to the sun,” and “Teamwork makes the dream work.” These quotes became the words that the team lived by. “Run to the sun” inspired the girls to play the state championship game at the Mohegan Sun. Although senior Rachael Orbe was out for the second half of the season with an injury, it did not set the team back. Sophomore Taylor LaVallie stepped up to the role of varsity starter, along with freshman Alex Clemons, who earned The boys Lacrosse team at MHS herself a spot on the varsity team. The team has made it into the State Tournament By: Meagan McAdams multiple times in past years. Montville wins first lacrosse The idea was shot down with the reason This past season had been game! The boys and girls Lacrosse teams of not wanting anything to interfere with tough with many players being injured have won their first games. The girls’ team the baseball team. Izak played lacrosse for at different times; however, they were defeated Woodstock with a score of 16-1. a different team also, in middle school. able to pull through and wins games The boys’ team won 7-5. These were the At the high school level lacrosse with several different lineups. “We are first games for both teams. The students is a popular interest. Parents, Mr. Doherty, definitely good enough to win states,” were ecstatic about the win. Teammates and Ms. Ventresca recognized this and said sophomore and varsity starter Kiah feel that the games were very fair, seeing spoke with the Board of Education, Mr. Strickland. The state tournament carried as Woodstock was also a new team. Sherwin, and all the necessary people to on far into March, causing events like the About 50 students, for the girls get the OK to begin the teams. Izak has dodge ball tournament to be pushed back and boys teams, have signed up to play this hopes for the teams to succeed in not only because the team was still playing. The spring at the high school level. “Everyone winning games, but also giving students team’s first tournament game was against can be coached,” said senior Izak Tibbets, the chance to try a new sport that they Plainville. Having never played this team telling interested students that there is no may not have ever tried otherwise. Izak before, they prepared for what could have experience necessary. The teams looked does not plan on ending his lacrosse been a close game. so promising that companies such as career at MHS. He plans on playing for a The team greatly improved since the USLacrosse First Stick Program had club Lacrosse team at UCONN. the first day. Early in the season they lost donated 24 new sticks, 24 goggles, and Lacrosse field lines are going to to Ledyard in overtime by one basket. goalie gear to the girl’s high school team, be painted on the fields at Camp Oakdale Later, they played Ledyard again and won and one youth team, also Acme Wire for the youth teams. After two or possibly with a big lead. There was no doubt in the and Cascade, donated 24 helmets to the more years, Izak Tibbets hopes for lacrosse girl’s minds that “run to the sun” would be boys high school team. Two years ago, a to become a sport for the high school, and accomplished. Their last game was close senior, Troy Nunes, who played lacrosse the talent is certainly there. and tied almost the entire time. Montville on another town’s team, brought up the fans, The cage, as they call themselves, idea of bringing the sport to Montville. came to the game, cheering until the end.

Page 2 The Chieftain MHS SPORTS MHS Baseball Begins Another Great Season By: Natalie Bowens Spring has come and baseball is here. with each other just like all guys do.” One The boys have returned from previous of the main reasons they are successful is successful years, and appear to have a because they are so close with one another. solid season ahead of them. They are one Walmsley commented on the newcomers, of the most dominant programs in the area, “The freshmen this year I think are and hold 3 state championships in the past pretty talented; Tommy McDonald, T.T. seven years. The boys will return with a Bowens, and Isaiah Mack are very solid handful of upperclassmen in addition to players.” Montville’s baseball program is talented freshmen. They hope to keep this only going to begin to grow stronger, with year going as well as all the others. the massive amount of young talent. Dominic Walmsley, as he begins There are not very many his fourth year on the team said, “My programs at MHS quite like the baseball expectations on the upcoming season are team. It takes a very special group of kids always high and we always have state and to accomplish what they have done. With ECC championship hope because we’ve high expectations and ambitious goals, always been a good, solid program.” the team holds a record of 5-3, with a But there is more to this team three game stretch into the weekend. The than a bunch of boys who are good team will need three more wins in order to at baseball, “We’re all like brothers” qualify for the state tournament. Walmsley explained, “we joke around MHS Tennis in “Sweet Spot” for Upcoming Season By: Kevin Fitzgerald As spring approaches, Montville Keyen is an exchange student from with tough competition, but strong senior Tennis prepares for an exciting season Germany, who Lefemina claims “is leadership from Corey Lorraine. Lorraine, with many competitive teams on the looking forward to the season” and “could a four year varsity player, is looking schedule, but also with many experienced be a challenge to the top players in the forward to “a fun, rebuilding season players returning. The girls’ team kicked league,” to lead the talented team of over with several winnable matches.” Playing off March 18th, and prepared promptly thirty members. Poor weather has proved in the Eastern Connecticut Conference for a home match on April 3rd against to be a challenge to the team in the past. tournament is an ambition to many Waterford, followed soon after by East They hope Mother Nature will be more local tennis players. Inclusion into this Lyme and St. Bernard. The boys’ team cooperative this year.” However, great tournament is based on individual wins faced Waterford, East Lyme, and St. things can be expected from the girls’ and team match wins, and Montville has Bernard within a week. In the meantime, team as a new competitive assembly not sent a player to the tournament since girls’ coach Ted Lefemina, has prepped the of players consisting of the previously 2011, which increases the drive of both team with a pre-season “fitness class” on mentioned players, along with Junior the boys’ and the girls’ teams. The boys Tuesdays and Fridays after school which Martha Mena and Sophomore Jennifer will also look to veteran Tristan Pool and include “a warm-up, weight training and Hester. This group of advanced players newcomers John Awad and Zack Foley in lots of cardio.” could be exactly what the team needs the upcoming season. He looks forward to a successful in order to be a competitive force in the Both teams expect an exciting and season and counts on the key returnees of Eastern Connecticut Conference. fun season, and have high hopes for what Senior Hannah Houser and Sophomore Montville’s Boys Tennis team is they will accomplish in the upcoming Mia Ferguson as well as Hannah Keyen. also looking forward to an exciting year, months.

Page 3 The Chieftain ARTS AND CULTURE Ladies and Gents, Choir & Band Far From Bland He’s Back! By: Jacob Santos Justin Timberlake is back with exciting new music. He had a smash hit with his song Suit and Tie, and he’s looking to repeat that success with his new song, Mirrors. Justin teased the reveal to his twitter followers with a tweet before his Grammy Awards performance, “Big news coming out after Justin’s #Grammys performance. Stay tuned or you’ll miss it! #moreJT –teamJT.” After he thrilled the Grammy audience he released the song online. Timberlake expresses his softer side on this track. “Aren’t you somethin’ to admire cause your shine is somethin’ like a mirror and I can’t help but notice you reflect in this heart of mine. If you ever feel alone and the glare makes me The MHS Chorus before a performance. hard to find just know that I’m always parallel on the other side.” The song is a By: Meagan McAdams mid tempo track with Justin beat boxing Over 130 students filled the On Me, and Stolen (arranged by Shaun in the background, and it is similar to his stage with an amazing performance of Radgowski). The jazz band performed older hit song “Cry Me a River.” Ave Maria. The concert featured treble, My Funny Valentine by Richard Rodgers Mirrors is no doubt the beginning concert, chamber, and a cappella choir, (featuring the voice of Chris Lamperelli) of a long line of promotion for his new along with the steel drum band, concert and Some Skunk Funk by Randy Brecker. musical era. The last time Timberlake was band, and jazz band. The choirs and The concert ended in a standing ovation. in the studio making music was in 2006 bands spent two and a half hours the Mr. Sindorf and Mr. Cushing had a crowd for his sophomore album. In that gap he night before the concert, solely rehearsing of stunned parents waiting to compliment took a break from music to pursue a larger their combined piece. Choir director, Mr. them in the lobby. “[While on stage] career in movies. A couple of high profile Cushing, brought in two experienced I was trying not to smile because I was movies he has starred in are The Social singers to help the choir and band so excited. I don’t think I’ll forget that Network, Friends with Benefits, and the director. Mr. Sindorf also brought in two feeling anytime soon,” said senior Tim futuristic science fiction thrillerIn Time. experienced French horn players to aid Lamperelli. This summer he is teaming up the band. They have been preparing for All members of the bands and with rapper Jay Z to go on the “Legends this concert since the day after the winter choirs felt that it came together nicely. of Summer Tour.” They will perform concert. Sophomore, Carly Stewart, noticed that in twelve stadiums across the country After the song was performed, at the end of the concert the front rows beginning July 19th in the New York students were cheering with glee in the were the last to stand up because they Yankees stadium and ending August 16th halls, proud of the performance. “I cried… were blown away by the power of the at the FL Sun Life Stadium in Miami. it was really beautiful” said junior Nicole last song, Ave Maria. In choir classes Timberlake will be performing songs Anderson. The Ave Maria piece, however, after the concert, students listened to the from his new album, including Mirrors. was not the only one applauded. The A recordings and criticized the performance. Mirrors is currently at number twenty Cappella choir sang Landslide by Stevie The students were very proud of their four on the US Singles Top 100 chart. His Nicks (arranged by Brittney and Nicole performance, and are already excited for new album, The 20/20 Experience, is out Anderson), along with a mash-up of Take their next concert. now.

Page 4 The Chieftain ARTS AND CULTURE Parish Photos Make Profound Points By: Lacia Japp Susan Parish, an art teacher an emotional connection to the subject at MHS, spiced up the walls of the matter. Varying from black and white to Norwich Arts Center with her collection color, every photograph conveys meaning of photographs concentrating on the dual in two ways: the actual text shown, and the meaning of words. The gallery showcases context surrounding the words. This dual an eye for intriguing, ironic, or beautiful element has been captured in every image scenes collected anywhere from Groton, by an observant camerawoman always on CT, to as far away as Mexico. The featured the lookout for the next amazing picture. images range from the whimsical word The prices of such pieces floated “smile” traced in the sand, to newspapers around $150, although printed cards and covering a decrepit door, to the lonely inspirational quotes were also available for shadow of a late night 24/7 sign. Some around $5. Parish claims all her artwork is pictures invoke a shiver, like the one of photographed “as is”, preserving a unique a “No Loitering” sign in a creepy dark view of city life and signs designed to corner with whitewash dripping like blood make the viewer pause for a second look. in the background. Others are potently The Norwich Arts Center supports sad, such as the immortalized graffiti, the efforts of Susan Parish, along with “I love you even though you won’t let other local artists, by selling their photos, me!” Each image hints to an interesting paintings, jewelry, and clay sculpture to story behind the shot, and many induce any admirer who wonders through. That’s What She Sang By: Tanner Schlepp Aside from teaching choir and his main punch lines. So we were messing I teach but just of the quality that I want various band classes, Mr. Cushing and around and of course we’re jamming and it to be. But when we’re doing the cover Mr. Sindorf enjoy playing in their band someone said something that warranted bands, we want to sound good but nobody That’s What She Sang, with their lead that joke and then, it might have been Mr. is keeping tabs on how we perform. I’m vocalist Erin McDonald. Cushing, who Sindorf who said ‘that’s what she sang.’ obsessed with Macklemore so a lot of the plays the guitar, explained how the one The whole room started cracking up. stuff I’m playing is more percussive and year-old band was formed. “Mr. Sindorf And the fact that it is a name that doesn’t more hip hop influences even though it’s and I both hang outside of school and play take itself too seriously. You see all of acoustic guitar.” Aside from bands like guitar and he plays percussion really well. these cover bands that have names like Mumford and Sons, he credits his wife as We casually jam just for fun and a friend Midnight Storms. Have a serious name if a main influence in his life, “My wife is of mine from high school sings very well. you want to be respected but if you’re a the main influence. Not even a question.” She doesn’t have any musical training. cover band there’s no point in having this That’s What She Sang has played She’s actually a receptionist at a car epic persona.” about 25 to 30 shows all over south- dealership. She has a really good voice When asked about his influences, eastern Connecticut, and have no plans of and we started casually jamming and Cushing said “Whoever I’m listening to at stopping. Cushing describes the reaction decided it would be fun to put together a the time kind of influences how I play. It’s from the big crowds (usually around 40- more serious project.” fun because we’re a cover band, and the 50 people) as “awesome” and always As for the name of the band, reason I like that is because when I’m at enjoys when the audience gets involved Cushing said “We had been on a The school teaching music, I take everything with the music. “We aim to be facilitators Office kick, ‘that’s what she said’ is one of very seriously. Not in the sense of how of a good time.”

Page 5 The Chieftain OPINION

The Deficiency of the American WANTED: Japanese Games Mental Health System By: Joey weekly With the lack of mental health care in today’s society, we have seen a steady increase in crime and many other issues. Ever since the 1950s, when the mental health institutions in America began to release their patients into the real world, these problems have persisted and become a serious risk of health and even safety to the public. The mental health care system does not address the needs of their patients the way they used to. People with mental health and drug addiction problems were once kept in rehabilitation facilities and other places where they were cured or lived in a safe environment. Someone or some people determined years ago that people who do have mental health Zombie Panic in Wonderland problems should be allowed to live in society among the rest of the people. I By: Jacob Santos am not completely opposed to this idea, There is an unquenchable thirst to gather gamers for support. Over the however I am opposed to letting people among gamers for Japanese video games. course of a year, every game was released who have the potential to harm innocent Japanese video games have been a big overseas. Other successes have happened citizens roam about society and present a staple in gaming for years, yet there are recently, too. The Nintendo 3DS game threat to the innocent citizens of America a vast number of games from Japan that Project X Zone is going to be released in This of course begs the question, never see the light of day in other regions America this summer. It is a crossover how do we know who is mentally ill and of the world. Japanese culture is very between several Japanese company who is not mentally ill? An evaluation by different than other countries, and many characters and was released in Japan a a doctor is one method, but a completely companies are afraid to bring some of year ago with no plans of localization. accurate evaluation of a person is difficult their games to other regions because they Similar to Operation Rainfall, a group of to achieve one-hundred percent of the fear that there won’t be an audience to sell gamers formed a Facebook group to get time. One thing we cannot do is allow them to. the game to America. people access to dangerous weapons They couldn’t be more wrong. Japan is slowly realizing that there and explosives when they do not know There is a dedicated and growing audience is an audience for the majority of their how to use them or can’t comprehend for these games in countries like America games outside of their country. Recently, the ramifications of their actions. The and the United Kingdom. In 2011, a Square Enix announced Kingdom Hearts solution to that however, is not to ban all group of gamers in the US and UK came 1.5 HD Remix for North America and guns and assault weapons to the public, as together to localize three Japanese role the UK. Normally, the Remix games of Adolf Hitler did in Germany and Joseph playing games The Last Story, Xenoblade, Kingdom Hearts are never been released Stalin did in Russia. The issue we have and Pandora’s Tower, for the Nintendo outside of Japan. This shows that some in America today is a defective mental Wii. They called their group Operation Japanese gaming companies are moving health system that puts the people at risk. Rainfall. They were so determined to get forward to exporting more games If we do not face reality as a nation, we these games localized in their countries because there is a market for these games risk a self-implosion. Without everyone that they went so far as to make their everywhere, not just in Japan. on board, our nation will continue to own website, Facebook page, and petition tumble in the wrong direction.

Page 6 The Chieftain OPINION STUDENT IDs: To Wear or Not to Wear? By: Natasha Burch Ever since the Sandy Hook On the other hand, Margaret staff to be informed of who the students tragedy, schools have been buckling Hood says that she has been wearing are. down on security to increase the safety her student ID before the rule was even of their students. Montville High school established. Margaret says, “I actually has made a new rule that all students and told Mr. Theodoss that he should have the staff must wear their photo IDs. This is an students wear them…Because then, I don’t unnecessary rule that will most likely not know, we actually look like professional be followed. I’ve heard the announcements students. Also, it’d be good to identify in the morning and afternoon reminding people.” Margaret has not noticed any students about the new rule, but hardly other students wearing their IDs besides anyone has paid attention to them. herself. Only a handful of teachers wear Tanner Schlepp, a senior at MHS, their IDs, mostly to encourage the says that he does not pay attention to the students to wear them. However, there morning or afternoon announcements. are other benefits of carrying student To the contrary, Jacob Santos says he has IDs, like checking out books quickly and heard of the new rule by listening to the purchasing lunch efficiently. Also, many afternoon announcements. He said “I only of the teachers do not recognize most of bring it when I remember. I don’t see how the students that attend MHS because they they’re going to enforce it because there are either freshmen or do not have them as are no penalties.” their students, so it would be good for the Are Online Classes the Right Choice? By: Natalie Smith Imagine a typical high school class. Advanced Placement or AP courses class online, the difficulty of it may drive hallway: students stressed out of their will also be offered online next year. some to cheat on exams. The internet will minds with difficult classes and time- Taking a college level class in only one be readily available and cheating is much consuming after school activities on top semester will be difficult for many. It does less likely to be caught when a student is of homework. Do they really need more give students a taste of college academia, alone. Anything can be found with just a work on top of what they already have by but in college taking eight classes per click of a button nowadays making online adding a virtual class? I don’t think so. semester is not very common and there classes a dangerous gamble. Many students already don’t have enough is more time to complete assignments Many students in traditional high time for their current workload let alone with less time spent in class. An AP class school classes have a hard time keeping adding another class. This is especially is not a good idea as an online option for up with the workload with a teacher true for an online class where students will students in high school. telling them what to do and when to do it. have to figure out most of the material on Online classes lack the personal Many students will not be able to handle their own since there is not a teacher to connection between not only the student the independence conveniently consult. and the teacher, but also student to student. a virtual classroom The classes offered next year at Many students in the traditional classroom demands because, MHS are not cake classes, and this needs to opt to ask their neighbor for help if the simply, in the be taken into consideration when deciding teacher is busy and oftentimes students long run they are whether or not to take them. Realistically, understand the concept better when taught teenagers, and may I don’t think many people will be able to by a peer. With online classes, neither of not be ready to be learn Chinese or Latin in a half year online these options are possible. When taking a fully autonomous.

Page 7 The Chieftain WORLD NEWS

Facebook’s Role in Raising the Costs Investigation By: Zach Meisner and Editors Facebook is spreading like a wildfire across the world. It has brought some unforeseen situations that no one has had to deal with before, including cyber- bullying, absurd bandwagons, memes, and trending videos that have almost an instant effect on our culture and society. The Anna Lamb-Creasy case epitomizes the changes that social networks implement. At the beginning of this year, Lamb-Creasy reported her son as missing to the local police. She called hospitals and jails, desperately trying to find him. She even posted on her own Facebook profile, inquiring the location of her son Finally on January 24th, according to Yahoo News, Lamb-Creasy received a Maria Hernandez works at McDonalds. Facebook message from Misty Hancock, a fictitious profile that was being used By: Ashlee Shefer by the department in an undercover case. The highest minimum wage including both small and large businesses The message told Lamb-Creasy to contact salary in the past three decades could be in still oppose raising minimum wage. They Lt. Schindler at the Clayton County Police sight. According to The New York Times believe that by setting it higher, employees Department to learn about her son’s and Huffington Post, President Obama will have a better excuse to not work as whereabouts and the details of his tragic is currently in talks with Congress about hard, and it could possibly bankrupt some accident. He had died on January 24th raising the federal minimum wage from businesses. after being hit by a vehicle not far from $7.25 to $9 per hour. This change is set to Minimum wage laws are his mother’s house. take place by the end of 2015. sometimes referred to as “job killers” Clarence Cox, a spokesperson for When Obama expressed his because they can increase unemployment the Clayton County Police Department, proposal in his State of the Union address, and poverty. If employers are forced to told WSB-TV News that the department several people argued that this raise pay their employees more, layoffs could had no intention of Misty Hancock’s name will hurt workers more than help them. become a bigger problem in the future. On getting out to the media. Although workers will have an increased the other hand, many people, who have According to GlobalGrind, an income, there could be a chance that families to support, work minimum wage internet news site, Clayton County Police employers will hire less for having to pay jobs and will be able to afford more with claimed that they had made every effort more. the increase. In this economy, when wages to contact the family by phone at several With this thought in mind, the increase the price of living does also. This addresses, but were never able to contact proposal included a possible “indexed new proposal could either improve living someone. They aren’t sure why Misty to inflation” plan, meaning minimum conditions for many American families, Hancock’s Facebook account was used, wage will automatically rise when prices or it could cause more poverty and put the but they are looking into it. Hopefully, and cost of living rise. Thirty-one states unemployment rate even lower than it is this new form of contact will not spread to already mandate a higher minimum wage, currently. No permanent decisions have other police stations. but even with that, the White House argued been made yet. that 15 million Americans would benefit from the raise to $9. Many companies,

Page 8 The Chieftain WORLD NEWS Our Own Hero By: Mikayla Poulin When people hear hero, they When the smoke cleared, Moorehead and about the real heroes? might think of fictional characters such Meninno knew they had to help these as Superman or Captain America. But we people who were in danger of dying. have a real hero right under our noses: Moorehead immediately helped a man Officer Karen Moorehead. She and State named Jared, who was badly burned and Trooper Jeffrey Meninno were leaving had his pants nearly blown off in the blast. Fenway Park when the first bomb went She had to reposition him repeatedly off. According to Moorehead, “It smelled because he stopped breathing, leading her like firecrackers, like sulfur… I thought to believe he may have been burned in it could have been a bomb, but when the his airways as well. The team also helped first one went off, I was kind of confused. countless others, including a woman with I don’t really think I thought it was an a wound on her hip that looked like a bullet accident, but I thought it could have been hole, and two children, one of whom had something that wasn’t a bomb.” She and to have a leg amputated. Meninno were running to the first blast Children in today’s society are site when the second bomb went off. “As taught, intentionally or not, to worship we were running, the second one goes off men and women who can fly, have super and that one went off pretty much across strength, or have a tool belt full of neat the street from where we were. When that gadgets. They look up to heroes who one went off, I realized it was a bomb.” aren’t real and might never be. But what Possible HIV Cure Brings Hope For the Future By: Tanner Schlepp Doctors may have found a possible drugs which are normally given over a According to NIAID, over 2.5 cure for the world’s scariest and deadliest six-week basis. Exposing the child to million children under the age of 15 were virus. There has never been an effective these drugs before a proper diagnosis living with HIV/AIDS. According to aids. vaccine for HIV/AIDS, but earlier this could be fatal. However, Dr. Gay’s choice gov, every 9.5 minutes someone in the month, Dr. Hannah Gay, a pediatrician proved to be correct. She continued to U.S. is infected with HIV. The disease, from Mississippi, successfully “cured” treat the child until January of last year, which was discovered in 1981, has taken a child of the virus. In July of 2010, a until the mother stopped showing up for the lives of millions. According to aids. Mississippi hospital delivered a premature appointments. Dr. Gay re-did tests on the gov, over 2 million people died from it baby girl. The child’s mother had just been child assuming that the disease had come in 2008. Many people with HIV/AIDS tested positive for HIV during labor. The back. With her surprise, however, the tests live in middle income countries or third mother had not received prenatal care or came back negative for HIV. world countries, such as Africa (97% of treatment for her HIV infection, therefore Although it worked for this the country infected) and some parts of putting the baby at high risk of becoming particular case, Dr. Gay says, “I guess the Asia (4.7 million people infected). “The infected. message that I want to get across to the breakthrough has been exciting and I’m According to the National public very strongly is, we don’t know very hopeful that that’s going to lead to Institute Allergy and Infectious Diseases yet if we can create the same outcome in future research that will give us some (NIAID), 90% of pregnant women with other babies. It’s far too early to draw too answers,” said Dr. Gay. HIV pass it on to their children. Dr. Gay many conclusions.” If this “cure” proves made the decision to start the baby on a to be effective, millions of children can be full treatment regimen of three potent saved.

Page 9 The Chieftain MHS NEWS International Club and the Guess the Teacher! Friends of Kenya By: Meagan McAdams (Last issue’s “Guess the teacher” answers are: Mrs. Baril and Mrs. Mathieu.) The teacher highlighted this issue teaches Science. She had very interesting high school and college careers. This teacher was a consistent honor student, who thoroughly enjoyed science. She hung out mainly with “nerds,” though she definitely had a wide variety of friends. She was interested in sports, and was a fan of her high school’s boys’ break dancing club, and a “benchwarmer” for four years of basketball. She enjoyed swimming and gave swimming lessons to babies, kids, physically challenged adults, and, interestingly enough, nuns. She never had a very crazy wardrobe usually dressing in conservative Students prepare packages to send to Kenya. things like sweaters and jeans. In her junior year of high school she shaved half of her By: Mikayla Poulin head in an attempt to achieve a Cyndi The MHS International Club Club’s first time helping the AFK, but Lauper look (a hint to her approximate helped to better the lives of young minds they have more books and school supplies age). in Kenya by donating books and loading ready to be donated when it’s time for the In her free time she would go to shipment trucks for the American Friends next shipment. the YMCA, roller skating, school dances, of Kenya (AFK). The AFK was originally The purpose of the International work, and the movies. Her favorite movies a small group of Connecticut residents Club, according to the club’s advisor Mrs. included The Breakfast Club, Little Shop whose intent was to help the people of Perry, is “to learn about other cultures, of Horrors, and ET (more hints). the Thika District, but has now, according make connections, and be members of a This teacher never owned her own to the AFK website, expanded to helping community.” The club has been assisting car in high school; she would take public “schools, hospitals, community libraries, the community for more than five years. buses to where she wanted to go. She was women’s shelters, orphanages, and other Members volunteer to sell raffle tickets also very good at “scamming” her friends institutions in Kenya.” and work the “concession stand” at drama into giving her rides whenever she could. The International Club helped productions. They also helped out with This teacher enjoyed going out the AFK by collecting and donating March Madness by carrying the notes camping with friends and family, art of books and bringing school supplies to for the judges. The International Club any sort, and sewing. She also liked going Otis Library in Norwich on Saturday, is dedicated to helping out people in to aquariums. April 6. Many books were donated by need in Montville’s community and in This teacher teaches multiple students and staff, while others were communities around the world, whether science classes and is well liked by duplicates from MHS’s library. Some of it’s impoverished kids in Kenya or needy students and spoken highly of by faculty. the school supplies were recycled from the adults in Peru. The International Club is She has taught at Montville High School National Honor Society’s fundraiser for one of many groups that helps improve for a quite a few years now and thoroughly Madagascar. Students also helped to load the world. enjoys what she does. the shipment. This was the International

Page 10 The Chieftain MHS NEWS Montville Drama’s The Music Man By: Kevin Fitzgerald Meredith Wilson’s Harold Hill while Joan Miller took on the role of River spring, Montville’s talented Drama Club rode into Montville High School in March City’s stern, but eventually accepting, is back to work. Judging from their great for Montville Drama’s productions of The librarian Marian Paroo. The musical was recent work, it should be another exciting Music Man. However, the show may as deemed a success by Drama Director Ms. and entertaining show. well have been in authentic River City, Susan Walsh who credited this production Iowa thanks to well-designed sets and as “a true collaboration of not only myself, well –practiced acting that transformed the choreographer and music director, but Montville’s auditorium into a multitude also student actors and technicians” and of settings including a small town and went on to commend the students for library. The musical performance gave the their hard work and efforts. This is noted audience a feel-good mood and excited the especially as the performances neared crowd with the numerous musical pieces when student participants and adult which included Montville students in the volunteers at times worked almost eight orchestra pit, a lively quartet consisting hours a day, in addition to school work, to of Seniors Chris Lamperelli and Tanner perfect their lines and routines. The show Schlepp, Junior Dillon Johnson and was very popular and well-attended for all Freshman Shawn Radgowski, and four of its performances, each of which Montville’s musical duo Jeffery Cregeur concluded with a standing ovation from and Joan Miller. Cregeur starred in the a packed auditorium. With an exciting performance as Professor Harold Hill student-run performance this upcoming Aquy! By: Carissa Leslie Mohegan Tribe’s Community and the council of elders, also made a guest community centers, parades, fairs, and Cultural Program, led by Susan Meehan, appearance, as well as the Mohegan’s tribal makes appearances at events held for Hot visited Montville High School to perform medicine woman, Melissa Tantaquidgeon Summer Fun at Mohegan Sun. “I found for and inform Mr. Wainwright’s senior Zobel. Justin Scott, another member of the this very interesting,” Brandon Lee said. and junior history classes of Tribal tribe, told a welcoming story through song “It gave me a greater understanding of traditions and history. They shared stories, and drumming. Jay Ihloff, the fire keeper the Mohegan Tribe and everyone in dances, and cultural music. Kevin Ryan, for the tribe, told a great story by playing it.” Dominic Walmsle, said, “I learned Connecticut’s State Representative, was the flute. Meehan grabbed two student a lot about the tribe’s history from this present along with Meehan, who was the volunteers from the audience, junior presentation. I learned where they began, main speaker. She showed the students Cassidy Bundy and senior Joe Rainville how they got there and more about the many artifacts such as baskets made out to tell a story of two jealous lovers named Pequot War.” He further stated, “I found of Sweet Grass (to drive out bad spirits Denema and Skesics. Lastly, Pow Wow the dances and the songs very entertaining. and feelings), pottery, and Wampum dancer Amanda Russell presented a jingle I was fascinated with how talented they jewelry. She also shared some interesting dance and grabbed the student’s attention all were and how dedicated they are to facts about the Mohegan Tribe’s past. by getting them up to participate in a the tribe.” The performance was overall a Meehan told students that, “It was illegal friendship dance. Russell presents her great learning experience for the seniors for this tribe to speak Mohegan or wear dances at the Annual Wigwam Festival and juniors; even Mr. Wainwright asked our religion in the state of Connecticut. held every year in August at Fort Shantok. many questions about the Mohegan The last fluent speaker died in 1908.” The Mohegan Tribe’s Community Tribe and thoroughly enjoyed the entire Marie Pineault, one of seven members of and Cultural Program also performs at presentation.

Page 11 The Chieftain THE BACK PAGE Student Government By: Mikayla Poulin The student government is for the student body. According to Helena intended to be “the voice of the students,” Sun, student government secretary, “We just as state representatives speak for try to act in the best interest of our school their people. They hold meetings after and wish to effectively communicate with school to discuss social events such as administrators to improve [it].” Sun also homecoming and spirit week, community says, “… we will have meetings with service projects, and ways to improve Mr. Theodoss regarding three topics: the school’s culture. When asked how cell phones/music, lunches, and school she feels about the student government, culture.” When asked about the student junior Heather Huston said, “I don’t government, advisor Mrs. Woodman said, really care about it because I don’t really “In the past we’ve had forums where the know anything about it.” Although some administration meets with a wide variety don’t know it, the student government is of students to talk to them about different working hard to keep things running well. issues in the school. We’re getting back The purpose of student government is to to that and Mr. Theodoss has come and make sure students have a say in what’s spoken to the student government and is going on at Montville High School and very interested in their opinions.” Student that they are being heard. What many government gives students a place to people don’t realize is that the student calmly and respectfully voice their government makes a lot of big decisions opinions on how the school should be run. Welcome Back Bible Club By: Natasha Burch The Bible club is back and ready members about “Christ and what he can generous of him to let us have the room for a fresh start. Their first meeting of the do for them.” The leaders take what’s in for the afternoon,” says Pierce. year was held on February 15th with food, the Bible and educate the people to help The Bible club has big plans for refreshments and plenty of smiles. They them with their lives. It’s not always about the future. Pierce says, “We’re mostly played some ice breaking games for the religion though. They talk about everyday hoping for an outburst of faith and we newcomers and reintroduced themselves problems and try to create solutions. The get an abundance of people in Bible club. and their purpose for the club. leaders are also available for one-on-one But I mean, isn’t that every religions goal The Bible club started January sessions for those who prefer to talk in though? To just spread their faith?” of last year and was created by students private. Jessica Wells has a similar idea for dedicated to Jesus and wanting to improve As of right now, there are Bible club’s future. She says, “Like maybe the attitudes of students. David Pierce, approximately twenty people who are go out and do some community stuff with one of the students who helped create currently coming to Bible club and eight a Montville church or something like that the Bible club, is a leader there. He said leaders. Jessica Wells says, “There are to expand outside of the school.” the club started “Basically not to spread a lot of people who don’t come but still religion, but to make people aware of support the club.” The Bible club meets it.” Jessica Wells, who is also one of the every Thursday in room 113 until 3:00 leaders, says she wants to help create a and has food every now and then. Their positive community in the school and advisor is Mr. Wheeler who lets the club to include an aspect of her life that she use his room and provides late bus passes really loves. She teaches lessons to the to whomever needs them. “It’s very

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