Red and Black Northwood High School - 919 University Blvd. W. - Silver Spring MD 20901
By Marie Meroney
Prom 2010
Volume 1 - Issue 4
The Senior Edition
May 2010
The perfectly dressed ladies and gentlemen of Northwood High School rolled up to the University of Maryland campus on May 15th for the highly anticipated prom. The prom lasted well into the evening, with juniors and seniors dancing the night away. Students were blown away by the decorations, and were overcome by a feeling of jubilation that pervaded the event. Mr. Jonathan D’Souza, the senior class sponsor, organized the prom. He says the cost of décor totaled a “couple thousand dollars.” Yet, the money seemed well spent. When confronted with the beautiful Paris-themed decorations and large ballroom, Senior Melanie Saah’s immediate reaction was one of awe. “I walked in, and was just like ‘Wow’!” Prom was a new experience for Saah, who waited to until her senior year to attend. Saah, like many other ladies, spent hours preparing for the occasion. “Oh my gosh, my hair took two hours!” she exclaims. Saah went with a classy up-do that she said was reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe. “In total, it [getting ready] took three hours.” Continued on page 7
Photos by Blanton
Congresswoman to Speak at Graduation Donna Edwards will address the Class of 2010 By Marie Meroney
Graduation is a momentous occasion in any students life, and Northwood High School’s graduation will be just that. Continuing a prior tradition, the graduation ceremony will be hosted at the regal Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Constitution Hall. However, for the first time ever, graduation will take place in the evening from 7-9 pm, and Congresswoman Donna Edwards will speak. Graduation coordinator Ms. Ann Haughton speaks lovingly of the approximately 275 students who are bound to cross the stage for graduation on June 3. “It’s a wonderful place… just to be in the city brings excitement to the event,” says Ms. Haughton. She has few problems with the location, except for parking. However, it is easily accessed by Metro, and the DAR Constitution Hall website recommends the
Senior Award
Winners pg. 5
Colonial Parking Garage, which is only a few blocks away from the hall. The venue seats in the thousands, and each graduating senior is receiving ten tickets. “The staff [of Constitution Hall] has worked well with Montgomery County schools … we’ve had no issues or problems with them or the ceremony,” states Ms. Haughton happily. Haughton says that hosting graduation in the evening won’t pose much of a challenge, all organizers are worried about is “the unknown”. “That’s really the challenge… it’s the same as a morning graduation” but she worries about traffic for parents. “Students will leave on time of course; they’re being bused to the hall.” Christine Saah, a graduating senior, states that “getting down there [DAR] is crazy.” Brian Smalls, another senior, raves about the “surround system” and comfortable chairs that DAR offers. As for Donna Edwards, Haughton thinks she is a lovely pick as speaker, “She can give students insight into planning their lives.”
Continued on page 3
Showcasing Senior Superlative Winners
By Celena Jenkins Northwood high school has an artist in the making. Max Amato is a senior at Northwood and has been voted as The Next Picasso. If you don’t believe it and you want to see for yourself check out his art at www.maxamato.wordpress.com. The website is full of his photography and drawings. He has designed album covers and t-shirt designs in the past. He says “I think I won [the award] because I’m really into graphic design. I like to paint, draw and take pictures.” While some students develop their craft at a young age Max’s talent was discovered quite recently. “I think what really got me started might have been the A.P. Studio Art class in 10th grade. I really liked that class.” Once he graduates Max Amato will attend the Tyler School of Art at Temple University. He hopes to pursue a career in graphic design. Max shared his talent with the class of 2010 by designing the senior T-shirt. Continued on page 3 Top Right: Handpainting Middle: Self Portrait Bottom Right: T-Shirt Design
Billboard Magic Review
pg. 6
Athletic
Scholarships pg. 5
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School News
May 2010
Yearbook Staff Excited about Release of Newest Publication By Chelsea Vanderweele “Actions Speak” is the theme for the 2010 yearbook. Through photos and words the staff tried to capture the everyday actions of students and staff members that make Northwood a unique school. Leah Solomon, Editor - in -Chief, was quite pleased with the final result. “My favorite part of the yearbook is the cover; people always say you can’t judge a book by a cover but when it comes to the yearbook that’s what people do.” This understanding is exactly what inspired Leah to create her now all-time favorite yearbook. Leah, along with her fellow senior editors Valya Smithka - copy editor and Ashleigh Price - photo editor, have all been a part of the yearbook staff for the past two years. They all acknowledge that the book has come a long way and improved in quality over the years. “The book has gotten more creative with more and more ideas implemented each year,”
said Valya. Ashleigh added that there are more pages and is now in full color unlike her freshman year. The seniors also talked about the challenges of being in charge of the book. “It was hard work. Sometimes if someone didn’t turn their pictures I would have to go and do it for them,” said Ashleigh. Leah mentioned that “Even though I had to look over everyone’s work, creating something that will last forever was awesome!” As for next year, the ladies will all attend college. Valya will be going to Janiata where she will be majoring in biology and philosophy. Leah will be going to Northeastern where she hopes to major in architecture. She said that taking yearbook has really helped her with designing plans. Ashleigh will attend Salisbury this fall to major in education. However even as they leave, their impact upon Northwood will always be remembered through the yearbook they created.
They remind the upcoming staff to meet all deadlines/ requirements and get all your ideas together to make the process easier for everyone. Despite the hard work, Ashleigh clearly enjoyed the experience. “It’s a fun class and it’s been a good year.” Students that pre- ordered a yearbook can pick it up on Thursday May 27, 2010 in the main office lobby. Students are
reminded to bring ID cards. Seniors will pick up their yearbooks on Wednesday May 26, during the Senior Signing Night in the cafeteria. Pizza and refreshments will be served. Bring your ID. Students still wishing to purchase a yearbook can do so. Books cost $75.00. Checks should be made out to ‘Northwood High School.’
Senior editors Ashleigh Price, Leah Solomon and Valya Smithka spent the summer in Gettysburg creating the theme and designing the 2010 yearbook. Photo by Alston
School News
3 May 2010
Teachers Reflect upon the Graduates By Gabriel Cuevas Mr. Monteleone - History Resource Teacher Q: What was most enjoyable about teaching the seniors? A: Noah Hirsh’s hats, Philip Shattan’s political commentary, Ian Leach’s gregarious personality, and the stimulating intellectual discussions. Q: How difficult is it saying goodbye to the seniors? A: Very difficult. I taught most of these kids as freshman. Also my first year here at Northwood was their first year so I have seen them grow. I remember when I said I hope in four years we would all be back in a class together. Q: Any last words or shout outs to the class of 2010? A: Smile at every day.
Mr. Lindsey - Math Resource Teacher Q: What was most enjoyable about teaching the seniors? A: Well, I guess in the moments when they realized [it’s their] education and when they figure out that they will be on their own in college. Q: What seniors in your eyes shined the most? A: I would say Burkley Patterson and Diana Berardi - those are seniors I’ve known for years and watched grow into the capable students that they are. Their determined to be the best [and] you know they’re going to succeed in life. Q: Any last words or shout outs to the class of 2010? A: I wish them all the best. Check in and let us know how you are doing.
Ms. McGee - English AP Teacher How difficult is it to say goodbye to the seniors? A: It is very hard. Teaching seniors is very emotional job - especially when I see the seniors walk across the stage. It is difficult but it is also rewarding. Q: What was most enjoyable about teaching the seniors? A: Well it really is the same every year for me - it’s the final push. I enjoy preparing them [for college] and challenging my students. I enjoy teaching seniors because at their age they are willing to take those challenges. Q: Any last words or shout outs to the class of 2010? A: Embrace everything in college - take it seriously - be open to challenges and be open to the world.
Mr. D’Souza - Senior Class Sponsor Q: What was most enjoyable about being the class sponsor? A: Seeing the seniors in their last event like prom and graduation and seeing the excitement in their eyes. Q: How difficult is it saying goodbye to the seniors? A: Not difficult, it is a joyous because I have seen them grow and mature. Q: What seniors in your eyes shined the most? A: All of them except... Q: Any last words or shout outs to the class of 2010? A: Carry the torch of domination nation for it burns in all of you.
Senior Superlatives
Continued from page 1 Sports may not be something that everyone is interested in but for some students it is a big part of their lives. This is true for Rachelle Martinez. She won the Most Athletic for her senior superlative. Rachelle plays lacrosse and soccer here at Northwood. Sports for Rachelle started a long time ago. Rachelle states “I’ve played soccer since I was 5, in 8th grade I was recruited for lacrosse for middle school in Georgia.” College-wise she will be attending Washington College where she will play lacrosse and crew. She was offered to play soccer there but she politely declined. Sports for Rachelle are a big part of her life. Sports provide her with balance between fun and academics. Some may think that it may bring her down but in truth it provides her with a good source of time management. A disease is spreading through the senior class and some seniors are suffering with a serious case of it. this disease is always subject to happen for seniors. Two students were voted to have The Worst Case of Senioritis: Robert Barclay and Catherine Moore. Robert Barclay states “I’m not really sure why I won, I guess it’s because I’m laid back. It’s weird because my senior year is some of the best grades I’ve ever gotten.” Robert isn’t too worried about his procrastination spreading into college. He feels that senioritis won’t have any affect on him because the cost of college will make him take school more seriously. Robert will attend Montgomery College in the fall after that he hopes to go to an out of state college. Catherine Moore was also voted a procrastinator here at Northwood. She thinks she won because she never really comes to school. Yet, she states, “My choices won’t affect me because in college I will have a new start.” Catherine will be attending St. Mary’s college where she plans to major in psychology.
Top: Rachelle Martinez enjoys senior night with the Lacrosse team. Middle: Robert Barclay is still puzzled why he won his award, but Catherine Moore (bottom) isn’t at all surprised. The full list of Senior Superlative Winners can be found in the 2010 Yearbook
Graduation Continued from pg. 1
Edwards has served as a congresswoman since June 2008. She has one son who has already graduated high school, and is currently in college. Senior Administrator Ms. Darlene Harris states that students interact well with Edwards, who can tell “some great stories”. Students initially requested different speakers, such as Michelle Obama, but finally agreed upon on Edwards. Senior Christine Saah is excited that graduation is being hosted at Constitution Hall, mainly due to the abundant seating. “We have a really small class.. [so] we get 10 tickets per person.” However, she sites getting to Constitution Hall as troublesome for parents. Seniors are bused to the hall, but parents have to find their own way there. “..getting down there is crazy,” states Saah. Despite any troubles with traffic, graduation is sure to be a success. The most important part of the event to Haughton is when students receive their diploma. “The best part is seeing t he children with their cap and gown... watch them shake Dr. Johnson’s hand... and realize ‘I made it.’”
Remember to Recycle
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Academics
May 2010
Learning for Themselves
By Alexander Kurtz Mendelson On May 28th, most seniors will leave Northwood with confidence in their knowledge. Those seniors seeking a more rigorous academic curriculum have replaced Montgomery County core courses with College Board Advanced Placement courses throughout their high school career. Advanced Placement exams allow students to get college credit at many colleges, but not so much at Stanford. In his junior year, Diego Aguilar took AP Human Geography, AP Language and Composition, and AP Psychology. He has received a five on every exam he has taken. Aguilar answers Guidance Counselor Ann Haughton’s suggestive question: “How do you balance your life?” Ms. Haughton helps students manage their many activities but believes that students taking many AP courses should already be organized people. Mia Bullock’s high school career has been about organization: “I always make myself a study schedule.” In her junior year she took AP Calculus, Language, and Psychology. She has played soccer in and out of school and has been in the National Honor Society throughout high school. During the weeks leading up to the AP tests, Bullock often studied in groups. Despite Stanford not granting Aguilar any credit for his AP courses, he still says that his scores “absolutely helped [him] get into a
good college.” In most schools that do grant credit for AP courses, credit is graduated. The University of Maryland, to which close to 70 seniors have applied to this year, gives more credit to students who get higher scores on AP exams. Regardless of a students scores on AP tests or grades in the classes,Advanced Placement courses allow students a taste of life, or at least college, after high school. “Whether they go high or low [with scores] they have prepared themselves for the college level work,” says Ms. Haughton. By the time seniors finish high school, they are able to balance their extracurricular activities and their course work. This is shown by the increasing number of activities that students participate in as they reach their senior year. This year, Mia Bullock is volunteering at a hospital, Jude Hanlein is taking four AP courses and is an office aid, and Diego Aguilar played in the pit band of both the musical and Billboard Magic. As well as taking more later in high school, students are taking more AP courses earlier in high school. “Half of it is I really want to learn the subject,” said Carter Stinson, who is taking three Advanced Placement courses this year as a sophomore. Half of it is because he wants the credit. To all, “know your limits [and] know what you care about,” says Aguilar.
Psyched for Psych: A Senior Fav by Sherry Muolo
AP Psychology was not only voted one of the favorite classes enjoyed by the seniors, it’s a class that has a very good success rate. Mr. Montalvan, Northwood’s only teacher of the subject, was appraised by his senior students for his teaching ethics. Montalvan’s passion for the subject started to grow in his younger days as a student at Watkins Mill. In high school, Montalvan took an AP Psychology class with what he describes as “a phenomenal teacher.” In that class he realized that he wanted to major in psychology in college. He went on to double major in phsychology and history from Tufts University. AP Psychology covers the whole spectrum of psychology. Montalvan says that people typically relate psychology with therapists. However, AP Psychology delves into human behavior, human perception, social psychology, and so on. The class also overlaps in parts of other subjects when discussing psychological concepts discussed in history and biology. There are some favorite activities and units of the students: learning about social norms, learning about learning, and the famous Baby Egg Project where students most carry around and care for a egg as if it were their own child. Montalvan says his favorite unit is the human brain. “It’s very interesting, but some students are intimidated by all the long words.” As for the AP exams, Montalvan had students make fourteen sets of flash cards—one for each unit. He also went over review questions and discussed particular units that the College Board likes to focus on. When it came to taking the AP exams, students felt that the studying ethics had paid off. Senior Jasmine Agudo said, “I think the mock was harder than the actual test.” Montalovan said that he aims for all his students to receive at least a three on the AP exam, which is a passing grade. He says that for the past two years that goal has been reached.
Check out the online full color version of “Red and Black” Visit the Newspaper Club section on the NHS website
Seniors Pick Top “Subjects” at NHS As the year comes to a close, many of the seniors took a look back at some of their favorite classes - two of which stood out above the rest: AP Psychology and Photography. First off was AP Psychology, which many students tended to rave about. “Its engaging and very interesting subject matter” stated senior Jude Hanlein. Gary Giois agreed and noted that Mr. Montalvan “teaches interesting theories and concepts on behavior.” At the top of the seniors’ favorite list was Photography, taught by one of the most enthusiastic teachers Northwood has to offer, Mr. Donald. The structure of the class offered students a unique hands-on learning experience. “It teaches you how to shoot photos and how to take a great shot” said senior James Gardner. Another reason many said they liked the class was because it isn’t really taught in a traditional classroom setting. “My favorite part is going outside and shooting photos of nature,” said James Gardner.
Percentages
By Elhassan Soarkati
100 Seniors Surveyed
Senior Award Winners Adam D. Holland - Certificate of Meritorious Service Aharon A. Turpie - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / Good Citizenship / Mathematics / National Honor Society Member Alejandro D. Izales - Art Amanda C. Caruso - Northwood Early College Scholar Ana F. Bartolo - Art Anatoly O. Moschkin - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Early College Scholar Andrew S. Wilson - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Early College Scholar Ariane D. Keundjou - Superintendent’s Performing Arts Award / The Academy of Musical Theatre with a concentration in Dance Ariel P. Molina - Certificate of Meritorious Service Ashleigh N. Price - AVID With Distinction / Certificate of Meritorious Service Avilene I. Rubio Palencia - AVID With Distinction / Certificate of Meritorious Service / National Honor Society Member Bichngoc Nguyen - National Honor Society Member Brittany J. Wood - AVID With Distinction Brogan N. Murphy - Certificate of Meritorious Service / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Bryan R. Smalls - Certificate of Meritorious Service Burkley Patterson - Mathematics / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Catherine H. Kim - Counseling Services / Good Citizenship / National Honor Society Member Catherine L. Moore - AP Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Charlotte K. Taney - National Honor Society Member / Physical Education Chase Kea - Northwood Early College Scholar Chaviva B. Ruffer - Northwood Early College Scholar Chawin Kumpoopong - ESOL Christina C. Plummer - Certificate of Meritorious Service Christine E. Saah - Certificate of Meritorious Service Chris Van Hollen Award - Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Colin M. Tierney - Superintendent’s Performing Arts Award Courtney A. Queen - Certificate of Meritorious Service/ Superintendent’s Performing Arts Award Danielle J. Bustos - Counseling Services /Northwood Early College Scholar Dawoud Jones - The Academy of Musical Theatre with a concentration in Vocals Deanna A. Berardi - Certificate of Meritorious Service / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Deicy Y. Campos-Carlos - Certificate of Meritorious Service / J. Franklyn Bourne Bar Association High School Oratorical Contest Award Diego Aguilar-Canabal - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar with Honors / English / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / Early College Scholar Doriane D. Brobby - AVID Edna M. Lewicki - Certificate of Meritorious Service Edwin W. Vasquez Cruz - AVID Eleni M. Brenner - AP Scholar with Honors / Certificate of Meritorious Service /Northwood Early College Scholar Elshima Soarkati - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / Mock Trial National Honor Society Member Emma L. Hebert - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / English / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member Enrique Sosaya - Adele Seeff Early College Scholars Scholarship Feven H. Weldeghebriel - Northwood Early College Scholar Gabriel D. Vargas - Technical Education Gary N. Gionis - AVID Giancarlos Montoro - ESOL Ingrid E. Maravilla - AP Scholar / National Honor Society Member / The Posse Foundation Jaime D. Reyes Rivera - Certificate of Meritorious Service / National Honor Society Member James Gardner - AVID With Distinction James L. Hessler, JR - National Honor Society Member Janelle V. Thomas - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Social Studies Janet E. Guzman - AVID Jasmine F. Stone - Foreign Language Jennifer A. Cruz - Certificate of Meritorious Service Johanna L. Goggin - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Early College Scholar John H. Crye - AVID
May 2010
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Joshua S. Rosen - The Academy of Musical Theatre with a concentration in Instrumental Music Jude E. Hanlein - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award Kady Kilmer - Certificate of Meritorious Service / The Academy of Musical Theatre with a concentration in Theatre Arts Kanan Kash - Technical Education Karina I. Cruz - AP Scholar with Honors / Certificate of Meritorious Service Karla C. Lopez - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar with Distinction / Certificate of Meritorious Service / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Khamsin L. Meadows - AP Scholar / National Honor Society Member Kimberly Agudo - Certificate of Meritorious Service Kristin E. Slagle - AVID With Distinction Lassana E. Perry - AVID Lauren N. Norris - Certificate of Meritorious Service Lauren R. Stamm - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Early College Scholar Leah B. Solomon - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar with Honors / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Lesley B. Romero-Osorio - Northwood Early College Scholar Lesli Y. Flores - Certificate of Meritorious Service/ Foreign Language / J. Franklyn Bourne Bar Association High School Oratorical Contest Award / Northwood Early College Scholar Liana R. Ventimiglia - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar with Honors / Certificate of Meritorious Service / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / Principal’s Award for Excellence Lilybeth Medina - AVID / Certificate of Meritorious Service Malik A. Sapp - Certificate of Meritorious Service Mariana A. Perry - Certificate of Meritorious Service Marisha D. Williams - AVID Maxwell Amato - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Early College Scholar Melissa N. Elliot - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Melonie L. Saah / AVID With Distinction / Certificate of Meritorious Service / Chris Van Hollen Award Mered W. Girma - Certificate of Meritorious Service Mia S. Bullock - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member/ Early College Scholar Michael J. Lande - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Northwood Early College Scholar Michelle Duran - J. Franklyn Bourne Bar Association High School Oratorical Contest Michelle L. Morris - National Honor Society Member Mina S. Ulasevich - AP Scholar / Certificate of Meritorious Service / Northwood Early College Scholar Minette A. Achankeng - AVID / Mock Trial Mulonza C. Mubanga - Physical Education Naami E. Wagner - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member Nadji Lambert - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity / National Honor Society Member / Science Navarone F. Simpson - Mock Trial Navarre T. Marshall - Certificate of Meritorious Service Nicholas M. Logan - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Good Citizenship Nicole R. Richardson - AVID With Distinction / Certificate of Meritorious Service / Early College Scholar Noah P. Hirsch - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar Phillip Shattan - AP Scholar with Distinction / J. Franklyn Bourne Bar Association High School Oratorical Contest Award / Social Studies Rhianna O’Reilly - Superintendent’s Performing Arts Award Ruth C. Merlos - Certificate of Meritorious Service Sara J. Mahmood - Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Sara R. Mozersky - 2010 Governor’s Merit Scholastic Award / AP Scholar / Certificate of Meritorious Service / Maryland Distinguished Scholar / National Honor Society Member / Northwood Early College Scholar / Superintendent’s Performing Arts Award Sarahy A. Figueroa - Certificate of Meritorious Service Saul E. De Jesus - Science Stacey L. Jason - Certificate of Meritorious Service / Good Citizenship Tonimaria Hawkins - National Honor Society Member Tsion Seifu - Good Citizenship Valeriya M. Smithka - National Honor Society Member Yohana A. Michael - AVID With Distinction Yusef A. Mohammed - AVID With Distinction / Certificate of Meritorious Service
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Billboard 2010
May 2010
A Tribute to The Jacksons By Kenya Y. Alvarado
Thriller, Billie Jean, Rhythm Nation, and ABC were just few of the songs students performed at Billboard between the dates of April 29-May 1. Billboard filled of excitement, surprise, and full team effort from the cast and crew. In this performance Northwood students sang, danced, and played songs by the famous and talented Jacksons. From funny wacky makeup in Thriller to the famous gloves Michael Jackson wore; students were treated to a performance that replicated everything about Michael Jackson. There were a lot of crowd favorites but based upon on applause students enjoyed listening to, “We Are the World.” This song was performed by teachers Michael Barker, Ann Haughton, Jeffrey Johns, Lether Johnson-Brock, Steven Karig, Aaron Lamere, “Doc”
Semos, Porsche Vanderhorst, Chris Goodrich, and Danika Wiggins. The teachers were united at the top of the stage holding their lyrics in one hand while singing it into the microphone. The cast of students gathered beneath them to sing the background vocals. Many students in the crowd cheered for Honors Biology and Avid teacher Mr.Karig who was shown to be students’ favorite and according to sophomore Heydi Melendez, “The only reason why I would see Billboard.” He was cheered on as he danced uniquely and acted like he was trying to fulfill a hidden rock star dream. Not only were the teachers complimented but also the singers and guitar players. Earth Song was performed by the senior Martin Brighthaupt who sang as a soloist,
“My favorite song was Earth Song because of the guitar solos.” Alejandro Uribe (‘12)
accompanied by fellow seniors Isaiah Glover, Dawoud Jones, Arianne Keundjou, Rhianna O` Reilly, and Naami Wagner. Along with the bright yellow lighting and the bright yellow stars around them created a soothing feeling. Not only were the talented singers recognized but the musicians
as well. According to sophomore Alejandro Uribe, “My favorite song was Earth Song because of the guitar solos.” Students Diego Aguilar (guitar), Robert Barclay (bass), and Henry Zhang (guitar) went up on stage during the end of the song and traded off solos till the end of the song. One song that touched the souls of many people was Man in the Mirror performed by sophomore Kyle Louviere. Wearing a Michael Jackson glove surrounded by the bright sparkling stars of a blue night background, Kyle sang soulfully into the microphone. Senior Isaiah Glover and sophomore Parker Tiller performed as background singers. During the performance many students waved their phones in the air in rhythm with of the music. “Thriller” allowed students to showcase their dancing abilities was. During this song half of the members were dressed as zombies and began to sing and dance in the most frightening performance which was mixed from Michael Jacksons original, “Thriller”, and their own original moves. According to sophomore Kelly Brown, “I thought it was
pretty good. I thought the dancing was best overall and it got a lot better from what I saw it in their rehearsal.” There was some criticism from students who stated that they felt that there were more Janet Jackson than Michael Jackson songs. Neil Epstein stated, “It was good but too much Janet Jackson songs, not enough Michael.” Freshmen Kathy Alvarado added, “The show felt like it went longer with too many Janet Jackson songs. I came here expecting Michael and I barely heard any of his songs. I didn’t get to hear my favorite Michael Jackson song, “You Rock My World.” I was upset about that!” Despite the student criticism only nine Janet Jackson songs were performed compared to ten Michael Jackson songs. Billboard was a night where some students went to support their friends while others went just because it was an obligation for their class. In the end everyone enjoyed the show. Sophomore Fernando Fernandez stated, “Even though I didn`t know any of the songs I still clapped along and enjoyed the show.” Photos courtesy of Susan Shaffer
BillBoard Features
7 May 2010
Martin Brighthaupt
Up Close with Martin by Kenya Alvarado
Rihanna O’ Reilly
An Interview with Rihanna By Shonelle Turner
Q: How would you describe your last performance at Northwood? A: My last performance was difficult. Tough time tables, lots of Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do! Martin Brighthaupt has been singing people, technical difficulties galore. But all in all, it was a performance this scale since sophomore year. Martin Brighthaupt is a senior at Northwood can be proud of to say the least. I had the time of my life! Northwood high school and has been chosen by Doc Semos as one of the most promising student of all his choir classes. Q: Are you going to come back next year to see any Northwood Martin didn’t come in with all the knowledge and skills he has shows? now. According to Semos he has grown a lot from freshmen year A-I’ll try to come back; it depends on how far away I am. I love all the Semos stated that since freshmen year he has seen a lot of progress performers with my whole heart, and I’ll support their endeavors any in Martin by stating, “Oh yeah I’ve seen a lot of progress, he always way I can. had a good impression at freshmen year but I mean he is just more mature now: he’s on time, he brings his music, he learns his music, he doesn’t interrupt rehearsals, he pays attention and he’s reliable. The Q:What are you going to miss the most about being a senior? only problem is that I wish he could have come to all the choir trips A: I will miss performing!!! And all the kids I’ve performed with! The especially the one to Disney World. He’s a great guy, I wish him all the camaraderie I’ve had with our wonderful directors and talented students is something I’ll cherish forever. Northwood gave me the best and I know he`ll do well.” Martin states, “I`ve definitely grown a lot, I remember in 9th foundation for cultivating my skill and passion. grade I was this little kid. I didn’t even join chorus until sophomore year “I definitely started to grow in 10th grade when I first joined Q: What made you first want to become a singer? Choir and even then 10th and 11th grade I only learned to sing in a A: I come from a family of singers. My mother was in choir and group. Everyone welcomed me like I was part of the family and after toured around with various singing groups around my age. It’s pretty 1st semester I got promoted to men’s choir.” Now in his senior year natural... like walking or breathing for me” Martin has begun singing by himself. “I definitely feel stronger about my singing.” Q: Are you seeking to further your career as a singer? Martin views his senior year as a privilege. He states, ”senior year A: Oh yes, I’m going to sing until my lungs give out! I’m going to either has been my best year of all years, [because] of the friends I have made, major or minor in Performing Arts - I’m not sure yet - at either Bowie all the things I`ve learned, and so many different experiences.” Martin or Alabama State. I’m pretty sure now that this is what I was born to has mixed feelings about leaving Northwood “It kind of makes me do. Anyone who performs or is involved in a fine art can completely sad. I want to come back here. I would definitely come back [for the relate! alumni singing].”He also states that he has learned many things, “Since my whole year of high school [senior] I’ve learned about life and how Prom 2010 Continued from page 1 difficult it can be. Just a week ago I`ve earned 35 ssl hours in a week so Another senior, Deanna Berardi, states that it took her three hours as I know how tough it can be if you procrastinate and do things wrong.” well. The prep was well worth it however, as she found it hard to decide Martin views Billboard and singing at Bowie State University as being on her favorite moment. “There was a lot… I don’t know how to narrow it two of his huge accomplishments this senior year. down... the atmosphere was great. All the drama and problems were just In the future, Martin plans on taking a year off and later hopefully gone.” attend Coppin State University to study graphic design. As far as Amidst all the chaos of preparing for the prom, D’Souza was calmly singing, he still plans to continue his music career. “I’ll probably organizing the event. D’Souza states however that the prom committee continue singing in a choir in college but not as a career.” Despite his did not turn a profit – he cites the lack of juniors as the reason. “We need music talent Martin has fears about singing in a college chorus, “I`ve juniors and seniors,” he states. Juniors often opt out of attending prom for been to Bowie State and their singers are amazing.” many reasons. Martin owes his success to many people, “I would like to thank Saah, however, advises juniors to wait, stating that it’s just more exciting Doc, he has supported me in everything I`ve done and he has been in senior year. Berardi’s opinion is quite the opposite; she encourages pretty much been my mentor. I would also like to thank my dad. students to “take advantage and go junior year”. My dad has supported me in everything I’ve done, he actually has No prom night would be complete without a court of course; Avish given me privileges and chances I never saw coming until he actually Rodriguez was awarded the title of prom king, and Courtney Queen won showed it to me.” the title of prom queen. Rodriquez cites his personality as the reason for his win. “I’m friendly and I’m not rude… [I don’t] cause trouble. Rodriguez found the dancing to be most memorable, “I will never forget the kids dancing on the floor.” Such a magnificent event doesn’t come without cost though. Senior Malik Sapp found the prom expenses to be less than desirable. “It was pretty expensive; over $100 for the whole night. We kind of loafed.” Tickets were just $50, but students still had to pay for other extraneous prom items like corsages and transportation. Despite the cost of prom, it was an evening to remember; even Sapp admits that it was a fun night.
Remember to Recycle
Lifestyles
8 May 2010
Is Skipping Ahead to Graduate Early a Good Idea? By Ivette Roman
For years, public schools have been trying to entice high school students to stay. Soon, there may be a financial incentive to leave. The state Senate will vote on House-passed legislation this week that would award scholarships to high school students who enroll in college early. Eight other states are participating in a program that would permit high school sophomores to pass a series of tests and graduate early. It’s an idea that’s getting the attention of Northwood students for several reasons. The first is that high-achieving high school students are often bored in their junior and senior years because they have taken the required classes and aren’t challenged by the remaining high school offerings. Secondly, in states that have a hard time persuading high school students to go on to college, this legislation would provide real and immediate financial incentive to do so. Finally, advanced courses are expensive for local school districts because they have to hire qualified faculty to teach a relatively small number of students. Under the early graduation plan, colleges would be teaching more of those advanced students. A couple of juniors graduating early were interviewed and asked what made them take the decision to graduate early and if they thought more students should take advantage of the possibility of graduating early? Northwood junior Sneha Sabu said, “I decided to graduate early because I think your senior year
is a waste of time. You don’t need to take that many classes and instead I took advantage of graduating early. I think students should think their choices very carefully because it will affect them in the future. In my opinion, I think it depends whether or not a student should graduate early. For example, if they are not planning to take the advantage of AP classes during their senior year then they definitely should graduate early.” Shubhangi Maheshwari, another Northwood junior graduating early said, “One of the reason why I’m graduating early is that my dad is a transfer and I can only stay here for three years and go back to India, but also I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to save a year and not fool around like many other students decide to. Even though it takes a lot of hard work, in the end it’s worth it because you will see the positive results later on. I think that more students should graduate early because it saves them a year where they can use it to work and save money for college, they could also do an internship, or just take a year off to see all the choices they have and think it very carefully.” Both of these students are very satisfied with their grades and the improvements they made in the last three years of high school. Ms. Freeman, one of the guidance counselors at Northwood offered some cautious advice to students considering this route to graduation. She stated, “Early graduation is a good idea for a student who has a very specific plan after graduation that he/ she is pursuing. For instance, I have a student who would like to become a nurse and she knows she has a lot of schooling ahead of her and would like to graduate early to make head way on this.” Ms. Freeman also noted that, “Early graduation is not a great idea for students who just want to “get out early.” Senior year is an opportunity to have an abbreviated schedule and work or have an internship. Plus, if you graduate early, you will miss staying with your friends for another year and graduating with them.”
Correction In the April edition of Red and Black, the article “Dealing with Depression” incorrectly stated that at least 75% of the students at Northwood suffer from depression. The article should have stated that 75% of the students at Northwood that Ms. Amy Palumbo works with suffer from depression.
Choosing to Serve By Erik Britch
Joining the US Army is a serious choice. It could mean life or death. Despite the consequences at stake, senior Navarre Washington made the choice to join the US Coast Guard when he was a sophomore at Northwood High School. Joining the coast guard offered him an opportunity that the typical college route could not. “The military will give me structure in an honorary organization and better my career down the road.” Navarre simply wasn’t looking for a typical school environment. He wanted more of hands on experience as well as the opportunity to meet people from many
different countries. Navarre feels strongly about serving the country and encourages others to consider it. “People should join the army because a lot of people need discipline. If you’re passionate about going into the service, go for it.” Navarre’s family also served for the US. His dad was a US Navy Seal and he has other family members that served in the Navy, Army and the US Coast Guard. He has a sense of pride knowing that he is following in their footsteps. Still, Navarre acknowledges some of the difficulties he will face. Navarre must fulfill a six year contract once he enters the service. “Traveling away from home for months or years at a time is going to be very challenging,” he states. Some possible places were Navarre could be stationed include the Pacific, Asia, the US and Europe. His job will be to enforce laws and protect the border from terrorism. After he finishes his tour of duty he will go to college or make the coast guard his career.
What’s after June 3rd? By Ashley Davis
The school year is soon coming to a close, and the seniors are eager to graduate and see what the world has in store for them. Several seniors have different life plans and goals ahead for them; some may go to college, some may get a job and move out on their own. Lassana Perry said he’s attending Indiana State University once senior is over. Dean Michelson on the other hand is starting off at Montgomery College and then transferring to a University. Courtney Ulmer says “once I graduate I’m going to college but before I go, I’ll be sending all my things to Indiana and working at a summer camp.” The seniors all have different things planned for them. Some may play college sports some might even go pro; Edward Dyson will be attending Southern Carolina; “while attending Southern Carolina, I’ll be playing college basketball.” Being that it’s still early in the spring not all seniors know where they are going to school or what exactly the future has in store for them. Christine Saah has gotten accepted into every school she has applied to but is unsure where to go. “For me I got into all my school, but the thing that’s keeping me from choosing the school I want to attend is the financial issue.” After spring break she said that she will be attending Mount Saint Mary’s University. Other seniors that have an idea of what they will be doing after graduation is Adriana Ruiz “I had to choose between Arizona State University and Frostburg State University; I chose Frostburg being that they offered me a full ride academic scholarship. I will also be cheering while I’m up there.” 2010 seniors are ready to tear up the college campuses all over the country this fall. Malik Sapp is attending Morehouse University while his best friend Anatoly Moschkin is not sure where he will be attending. “I’m hopefully going to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida or Temple University in Pennsylvania.” As the school year comes to a close 2010 seniors will be graduating and most likely not looking back.
Entertainment When Pandas Attack
By Nancy Vo
“They all call me crazy / it’s all talking white kids /they all try to make me stop rocking nice kicks”
around them. I believe it was on face- book chat, Malik Sapp showed me the sample for one of their songs called “Rubix Cubes” on their mix tape titled “Chilling in a Chimney.” It was released third quarter. Anatoly Moshkin creates the videos. Max Amato, Noah Hirsch, and Malik Sapp all write and rap. Max does the editing on the songs to perfect their craft. The reason why I’m writing about this is because some of you may not have heard they’re work yet but once you do, you will quickly realize how ridicously dope they are.
Panda Attack comes with a more personal perspective. They’re everyday people, rapping about everyday things, with only one guest appearance from fellow senior Patrick Shelley. On the thirteen tracks it seemed as of Panda Attack wanted just to let us know about the great stories behind their lives and the things that runs through they’re mind. Max, Noah and Malik each tells a different story starting with “ADHD”, where the listeners get introduced to Panda Attack through a visual depiction of their present day life. Tracks like “Stolen Bases,” which
You could speak a sentence about someone who makes others feel miserable, you could write a book about someone who makes you smile, and you could speak volumes for a group like “Panda Attack Squad,” talented, creative, and cool people. Panda Attack is a group of seniors who don’t seem to know how to frown - they seem to have an excitement and appreciation for nearly everyone and everything
9 May 2010 is my personal favorite, talk about all type of things while they rap to the beat of Charles Hamilton’s – Brooklyn Girls. Malik Sapp raps “como si dice lets get naked yo girlfriend loves it when I speak her language, once a week she tutors me so I just buy her jewelry, every kiss begins with care that’s just what the t.v. says.” Noah Hirsch continues with “we rhyme in greatness, our bass hit the hardest and they hate regardless” “Sandcastles and Skyscrapers” features Max Amato and Patrick Shelley rapping to the beat of “93 Until.” My favorite line from Max Amato “they all call me crazy it’s all talking white kids they all try to make me stop rocking nice kicks” Patrick Shelley adds “I’m chillin with the panda attackers our words go together like cheese on crackers that’s all I gotta say my verse is over I wish you good luck like an Irish clover”. Overall the mix tape is clean and dope. Keep a look out for an upcoming summer project. Panda Attack features the next type of young creators music needs.
To the Graduates,
Mr. D’Souza, 12th Grade Advisor
Purchase Yours Today at the Financial Office. Only a Limited Number Remain. Make Checks payable to ‘Northwood High School.’
RD ?
Mrs. Harris, 12th Grade Administrator
$75
AK - WERE Y O U H S SPE E A
Congratulations, Class of 2010!
Yearbooks on Sale Now!
ION
We are diverse. We are dynamic. We are Northwood.
T AC
We would like to congratulate you on all of your achievements. Your senior year has come to an end, but the experiences you’ve had will stay with you forever. Your parents, teachers and administrators are very proud of you, but most of all each and every one of you should be very proud of yourselves. We have taught you everything we know, now you must walk the path alone and continue the tradition of excellence.
10 May 2010
Red and Black Staff Members Raquel Avila Erik Britch Cassandra Cuebas Gabriel Cuevas-Iraheta Ashley Davis Celena Jenkins Isha Koroma Markia Lewis Alexander Kurtz Mendelson Marie Meroney Dean Michelsen Sherry Muolo Ronald Palmer Kelly Reyes Ivette Roman Nora Smolonsky Shonelle Turner David Wilson Nancy Vo
Entertainment
Contributing Writers Nathan Taitano Phillip Shattan Chelsea Vanderweele
Adviser
Daryl Alston
Red and Black Patrons The Britch Family The Smolonski Family The Muolo Family The Turner Family The Wilson Family
Printing by: Silver-Com
Special Thanks to:
Northwood Administration, Ms. Bisset, Ms Dixon, Ms. Shaffer and the Atheltic Boosters
Yes, we will miss you graduates! Congratulations Class of 2010 - NHS Newspaper and Yearbook Staffs
Sports Hard Play Pays Off
May 2010
“[My Dad has] been my coach from the time I was little up until ninth grade. He’s pushed and motivated me, taught me everything I know.” -Taney
Kevin Taney’s Focus Earned Him Scholarships By Nora Smolonsky
Lacrosse, basketball, football, volleyball, softball, baseball, soccer, swimming, track, cross-country; summer, winter, fall, or spring. No matter what sport it is or what season it is being played in, playing sports have been the best way to make friends, pass the time, and stay in shape since you were a little kid. When you entered high school, sports became a huge part of your extracurricular activities and took up most of your time. Other than the fact that you played on a school team and occasionally got out of class, it seemed that for the most part, sports had nothing to do with school or your education. But athletic scholarships have connected athleticism to academics by allowing students to go to college for their sport. Whether the scholarship will be used simply as a tool to further ones education, or as a way to get noticed and
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recruited by professional teams is dependent upon the student who is receiving it. But the fact of the matter is; students use their athletic abilities to get them a fullride to college. Senior, Kevin Taney, is in a select group of Northwood students who have received athletic scholarships. So far, he has been offered scholarships for baseball from Mt. St. Mary’s, which is a Division I school, Millersville University, a Division II school, and University of Hartford, another Division I school. He is one of many players aspiring to make it to the pros, but Taney is realistic, and is interested in a career in Engineering if baseball does not work out.
Taney was not necessarily expecting a scholarship, as much as he was hoping for one. “It would be a help for me and my family.” The offers he received did not come as a total surprise, but as a reward for the hard work and effort he has put into his playing. He started playing baseball at the age of four, and owes his extreme success to his father. “He’s been my coach from the time I was little up until ninth grade. He’s pushed and motivated me, taught me everything I know.” For any athlete considering a scholarship, the recruiting process can seem daunting. Some coaches may contact you, but in order to assure success, you have to contact coaches and micro-
2010 Spring Season Award Winners JV Baseball: MVP – Ian Winnick V Baseball: Coach’s Award – Anatoly Mocshkin MVP – Kevin Taney / Jimmy Hessler JV Boys Lax: Coach’s Award – Ethan Klock V Boys Lax: Unsung Hero – Andre Davis
Coach’s Award – Tristan Pomeroy
JV Girls Lax: Coach’s Award - Emma Afflerbach V Girls Lax: Unsung Hero – Martha Lee
MVP – Rachelle Martinez
JV Softball: MVP – Emily Ebner V Softball: Unsung Hero – Briana Carter
Tougher than Nails – Christine Saah
Boy Tennis MVP: Jeffrey Cabrera
Rising Star - Kristopher King.
Track & Field: MVP - Le’quisha Parker MVP – Andrew Russo
Work Horse Award – Zoey Rowley Work Horse Award – Calvin Kane
Boys Volleyball Captains Award – Yohana Michael Coed Volleyball Most Improved – John Bell
MVP – Felipe Fuentes Lizama
Unsung Hero – Janelle Thomas
Scholar Athlete Awards (4.0 during sport season) Christopher Moses – JV Boys Lax Andrew Soncrant – V Baseball Abraham Shalom – Track & Field Chad Williams – V Baseball Megan Cissel – JV Girls Lax Madeline Pifer – JV Girls Lax Christine Saah – V Softball Crystal Thompson – V Girls Lax
manage. On his recruiting process, Taney said, “It’s a long tough process between your schedule and their schedule. It can be discouraging.” But it is no reason to give up. Underclassmen who aspire to receive offers like Taney are advised to remember to, “do your thing; work as hard as you can. There’s always someone working harder, and leave it up to God.” Athleticism is something to be honored and to take pride in. When an individual has found their niche, be it sports or academics, scholarships are the best way to use that talent to their advantage.
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Gladiator Sports
May 2010
Cheers for Powder Puff By David Wilson
On a windy Saturday afternoon at David Kaplan Stadium the senior and junior powder-puff teams faced off. The Juniors defeated the Seniors, winning 12-0. Touchdowns by both LeQuisha Parker who returned a kick return for a touchdown and Brianna Carter who ran the ball into the end zone. Ecstatic with their victory over the Seniors one of the Juniors coaches Calvin Kane said “The girls came out hard and played well our team had some real talent, 2012 next year just try and stop us.” One of the senior’s head coach Malik Sapp said “We came out there, played hard, executed our plays. In the end the juniors just physically out matched us. If Quisha doesn’t return that kick off or get a 40 yard run off a broken play, and Sina catches that dropped touchdown pass, then we would have had an upset in our hands. Either way, we had fun and thats whats up.” Football wasn’t the only thing students were participating in on Saturday, the guy cheerleaders were entertaining the crowd throughout the whole game. Yohanna Michael, one of the Senior cheerleaders that was a cheerleader last year, said “the game was pretty intense but, the juniors tried to show up but the more experienced senior cheerleaders had to bring them down a little.” Also one of the seven junior cheerleaders Dani Suaib said “we’re better than the Seniors because one we had a dance routine and two because we had two great coaches” Junior Cameron Coram who watched the game said “I thought it was a very intense game but in the end the Seniors couldn’t stop the Juniors”
“...we had fun and that’s what’s up!” Malik Sapp
Photos Courtesy of Susan Shaffer