Our Lady of the Elms High School • 1375 West Exchange St. Akron, OH 44313 • (330) 867-0880 • http://www.theelms.org/ • May 2013
Grande dame bids adieu
by Michelle Chang ’16 Martha Ann Eileen Ganyard was born in Akron, Ohio on October 23. As a child, she enjoyed playing softball and riding her bicycle. Kermizis describes her father as being really strict when she was younger, but her mother, on the other hand, taught her how to love and was the kindest person she ever knew. Kermizis believes that both her parents complimented each other. Her father still lived with her after her mother died but became less strict, and developed a witty sense of humor. Kermizis graduated from Our Lady of the Elms high school in 1955, and then proceeded to attend Ohio Dominican University. Shortly after graduating, in her first year of teaching, she met her husband while on a blind date. He liked photography, sports cars and he was a teacher, so they had a lot to talk about. Someone Kermizis strongly admires to this day is her biology teacher, Mrs. Baldacci. When Kermizis had gotten her drivers’ license, she visited Mrs. Baldacci’s house on Saturday mornings, sat in her living room while she ironed, and they would just talk. When Mrs. Baldacci was getting ready to retire, she has called Kermizis and asked if she was interested in taking over as the biology teacher at Our Lady of the Elms High School. At the time, Kermizis has three little children and wasn’t able to take the offer. Eventually, Kermizis became the Elms High School biology teacher in 1971.Six years ago, the whole Kermizis family visited Mrs. Baldacci in California. Mrs. Baldacci was 92, and she still remembered Mrs. Kermizis and her classmates.
A historical moment she had the chance to experience was when she witnessed a little girl in Lourdes, France being cured of blindness. Kermizis also states that her four babies becoming adults and being able to relate to them as adults was a historical moment that she will never forget. During her free time. Kermizis likes to read, hike, kayak, design jewelry and to ride her bike. She’s really interested in a fine machine, so the bicycle has to be the right weight, and have the right components, preferably made in Italy. She also enjoys photography, and you’ll always find her with her camera on her. She wishes that she could have visited more mountains and taken up sailing more. It was always her dream to own a sailboat that was safe enough on the ocean to be manned by one person. She has always told herself she would never eat raw fish; however, sushi is now her favorite food. A goal she wishes to continue working toward is to have a close relationship with God through wordless silent prayer. When asked about a change in our society she has seen in her lifetime, she says, “People are rude. Everybody’s in a hurry, nobody was to give eye contact. They are connected, addicted to their cellphones and iPads.” Kermizis will be retiring at the end of this school year. Kermizis believed that the Elms was her home away from home, and that her students were her second family. She would like to be remembered at the Elms as a compassionate person.
Our Lady of the Elms has been in my family for as long as I can remember. It is especially bittersweet for me to have my mother say “Good bye” to her second home. A place that not only offered her another “family” but that gave many students another mentor and leader outside of her parents. My sister Christina and I have many memories of sharing our mother with our classmates. No two students are the same, but at the Elms we were united in our love for learning and basked in the passion of teaching provided by my mother. I am delighted that so many women had a chance to learn from her and she from each of them. I am thrilled that her unique style of teaching lives on in the hearts of all the OLE alumna. Lisa Kermizis Abraham ‘83
Mrs. Martha Kermizis, biology teaher, with her skeleton, Simone.
Alumnae praise Kermizis
by Madeleine Eicher ’14 During Mrs. Kermizis’s 42 years of teaching at Our Lady of the Elms, many students have fondly reminisced on their time in biology. “It all boils down to the fact that Mrs. Kermizis has always been a wonderful teacher,” Jessica Parobechek, ’04, said. This theme has been echoed by many, celebrating both Kermizis’s, ’55, skill in teaching biology. “… Her class was fun! Okay, the shark exam wasn’t a walk in the park…, but I learned things in new ways that I never would have imagined… She took what could be mundane science and made it fascinating. I learned to be more open-minded to the unknown and yet unthought of possibilities that the universe holds,” Parobechek said. Alumnae continue to recall their enjoyment of biology: “To this day when Jane Hull and I are together she refers to me as her lab partner. We have fond memories of our time in biology and honors biology classes. Conversations often center on fruit flies, star fish, fetal pigs and shark dissections,” Anne Najeway Vainer, ’76, said. “Mrs. Kermizis made us all believe that we could have gone further in biology because she generated enthusiastic interest among the class. Isn’t that the mark of an outstanding teacher?” Anne
Perng Branigan, ’86, stated. Kermizis wasn’t just a teacher of biology, she taught her students about self-respect. “I never felt like a child in her classroom: she always treated us with respect and expected us to try to be the best that we could be. We were individuals to her, each capable of amazing potential, and she wasn’t shy of letting us know that,” Parobechek said. “There are many young and not so young women whose lives have been impacted thanks to Mrs. Kermizis. Thank you for making a difference. Thank you for also opening your home and sharing your family,” Vainer said. While Mrs. Kermizis has shared her family with OLE students, many OLE students have had the opportunity to share their families with Mrs. Kermizis. “Mrs. K also taught my daughter, and one of my favorite pictures is the three of us standing with my daughter’s shark. My daughter has chosen Biology as a major. Mrs. Kermizis is a legend,” Carli Kistler-Miller, ‘87, said. While Mrs. Kermizis will be missed, Branigan sums it up best, “Congratulations on your retirement – while you may have stopped teaching, what you have taught all of us, inside and outside the classroom, still remains in all your former students.”
Godspeed Mr. Sappenfield by Padraigin O’Flynn ’15
Mr. Terry Sappenfield, chemistry teacher, and his wife.
Sapp-tastic sayings •Well, when I was in college, I studied vertebrates, specifically mammals, specifically birds. I know a LOT about birds. •I’M SORRY, that was COMBUSTION! •When I was young, my best friend was Eugene. •And then little Terry came out of the birth canal. •If you’re going to spend the next 48 hours naked in the snow, what’s going to happen is you’re
going to die. •Did you see Glee last night? •Well, I was out on a bike path one day…And a group of girls ran past me and I was just assaulted by all of the smells. It was the greatest olfactory experience of my life. •It’s plug ‘n chug time. •Metal bonds get no respect!
“One time, he hit his elbow really hard on a cabinet in his room and it made a really, really loud noise. Then he turned around and asked us, “What was that noise?” He had no idea it was him! It was so funny!” Kathryn Shoenbaechler ‘14 “My favorite memory of Mr. Sappenfield would probably have to be talking to him every day about what Vanna White wore on Wheel of Fortune the night before.” Monica Slack ‘10 “Not only did TSAPP allow us to eat in class, he had many ooh and ahh demonstrations that really brought chemistry to the next level in a good way. Mr. Sappenfield was one of my favorite teachers and he was a great addition to the science department at the Elms. I will miss seeing him riding to school on his trusty bike.” Daniela Milan ’12 “One time, he showed us his police socks. Oh, and all his bird-watching stories!” Natalie Anderson ‘14 “In Chem I freshman year, we had this lab where we had to crush these salt crystal things and he said, “You’ve got to grind it hard!” We all just burst out laughing, and then he started blushing, which was adorable.” -Mallory Masturzo ‘14 “I love Mr. Sappenfield. He was our chemistry teacher at FHS as well as the Student Council advisory and he was an amazing tennis coach! The Elms is very lucky to have him!” Nawzat Kakish-Fisher “When I was a student Firestone High School Mr. Sappenfield took me to my first college visit at the University of Dayton. One of the greatest teachers I have ever had. He always went above and beyond to help me and other students learn.” RaJohn Butler
BOOM! Outside of the windows of the Commons, a group of girls are huddled near a picnic table, when all of the sudden bits of orange fly everywhere and the girls scream. Most students have observed this scene as Mr. Sappenfield does his annual pumpkin explosion. This is one of the many memories we all have of a one-of-a-kind teacher, Mr. Sappenfield. Terry Sappenfield was born in 1942 in Akron, and has lived here all his life. He graduated from East High School. His wife was his next door neighbor in an apartment complex, which is how they met. “She roped me in,” Sappenfield says. He retired from teaching in the Akron Public Schools in 2004. “I never planned on retiring completely,” Sappenfield said. He then got a job under Dr. Friedman at Beachwood High School, working as a Chemistry teacher for two years. In Fall 2006, he was no longer working at Beachwood, and it was his first time out of school. Then Ms. Massello called him in search of a Chemistry teacher, and he accepted the job at Our Lady of the Elms. Reminiscing on his past, Sappenfield remembers some historical moments in his life: “Marrying my wife and the birth of my son are probably the two big ones,” he recalls. He enjoys “birding, biking and beaching.” After retirement, he plans to travel the country with his wife to find birds that they have not documented yet. As many already know, Sappenfield greatly enjoys biking. “Once April hits, I’m riding, usually through the third week of November,” Sappenfield said. He also enjoys reading and gardening.
He plans to take up tennis in his spare time after retirement. He coached for twenty years, was a teaching pro at Fairlawn Swim and Tennis, and played on an adult tennis league that won the Northeast Ohio Championship the last year he was captain. In his lifetime, he has noticed the incredible technology changes, particularly computers and the Internet. “It connects people, mostly in positive ways…In some ways, it’s kind of evil,” Sappenfield says. Students will remember him fondly. “He’s an excellent role model. I love how he makes a point to keep himself spiritually, mentally, and physically sound. He takes care of us like we’re his own daughters. I’ll never forget TSAPP!” Molly Ryan ’15 said. Elizabeth Dirska ’15 also commented. “Chemistry was so fun, and Mr. Sappenfield was such a great teacher! I’m really going to miss him next year,” Dirska said. Sappenfield has his own wishes. “I guess I want to be remembered as somebody who really enjoyed my job and working with kids. I get such a kick out of seeing them succeed, and really enjoying the subject that I teach. I try to make it fun; I know it’s not fun for everybody, but it’s a hard subject, it really is. If I’ve made an impact on students, if I’ve touched them some way, career wise or interest wise, that’s how I hope to be remembered,” Sappenfield said. Sappenfield will miss The Elms, and The Elms will miss him. “Though education has been a big part of my life, it’s not the only part of my life,” he said. Mr. Sappenfield is a well-loved teacher, and he will definitely be missed!
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The Elm Leaf of Our Lady of the Elms High School is a forum for student expression that acts as a mode of education, information and entertainment. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect opinions of any particular interest but those of the writer. The Vantage editorial exclusively reflects the views of the staff. Letters to the Editor will be accepted in person, through the folder on the Elm Leaf room door or at 1375 W. Exchange St., Akron, Ohio 44313. The staff welcomes letters, suggestions, complaints and corrections from all readers. The Elm Leaf reserves the right to edit articles and letters to the Editor in the interest of regulating space, and reserves the right to refuse publication of materials that violate staff standards. If requested a writer’s name may be withheld when the letter is published. The Elm Leaf strives for objective, accurate news and commentary. Editors avoid violations involving libel, copyright, privacy, and obscenity.
Staff List
Editor-in-Chief.......Mary-Frances McGowan ’13 Managing Editor...............Padraigin O’Flynn ’15 News Editor.............................Maggie Drude ’14 Editorial Editor........................Gabrielle Seed ’14 Features Editor......................Hadiyah Ahmed ’15 Sports Editor..........................Marisa Sorboro ’14 Digital Editor............................Jessica Coury ’15 Adviser...................................Nancy Brennan ’80
Web News
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‘Born this way’ censored
Editorial
May 2013
Britain’s Iron Lady remembered by Micah Spoerndle ’15
Quickly following the death of Margaret Thatcher, differing opinions arose over the effects of the many changes which she dealt out during her political years. Thatcher achieved one giant feat for her time when she became the first British Prime minister to hold her position for eleven years (1979-1990), and she maintained her grit to enact several more high-impact reforms. Whether a citizen of Britain that lived during her time in office, or someone who simply loved her portrayal by Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady, Margaret is remembered as a strong, influential, and controversial figure. Those who have stated their dislike for Margaret Thatcher have substantial reasoning to back their conclusion. During the 1980-1981 political prisoner hunger strikes in Northern Ireland, Margaret Thatcher refused to meet their demands. As a result, ten prisoners died from starvation. In October 1984, the Irish Republican Army attempted assassination of the Prime minister through the bombing of her hotel room in Brighton because of Margaret’s innate rejection of the Northern Ireland’s protesters. Thatcher also introduced the Community Charge during her third term, increasing the tax rates, named the ‘poll tax’ by opponents. Margaret Thatcher said “If you just set out to be liked, you will be prepared to compromise on anything at any time, and would achieve nothing.” Despite Thatcher’s punitive demeanor (dubbed the “Iron Lady” by the Soviets after she had given a speech against
them for their socialism,) her perseverance and reforms have earned the trust of many. From 1983-1987 the economy of Britain rose, and Thatcher lowered the unemployment rates. Margaret Thatcher endorsed changes in the National Health Service and the educational system which continued further after the end of her last term.The retrieval of the Falklands Islands in the Falklands War with the United States was a great victory for Britain. “Regardless of your political views, Thatcher should be respected. She was an influential and powerful female in a predominately male era of politics.” Christina Graziano ‘13 said. Margaret Thatcher took the step no other woman had: accepting the position of Prime Minister. “It is indisputable that she revolutionized the role of women in British government and made way for future women leaders of the United Kingdom.” Sarah Vechik ‘13 said. Without Margaret serving Great Britain for eleven years, would it be in the same financial state that it currently is in? From all viewpoints, it is inappropriate to determine that any decision made by Thatcher is anything but greatly though out on her part. Although the several acts and issues that have arisen during the Iron Lady’s term are highly disputed, it is undeniable that her representation of herself as a strong, independent, and persistent woman should be recognized and cherished.
After all, love is love by Elizabeth Tipton ’16 Proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act, or DOMA, are two highly controversial topics that have recently been debated in the United States. Many gay rights activists have openly protested both of the laws, and are a popular topic among politicians. Originally, Prop 8 was the “California Marriage Protection Act”, put in place in 2008 to officially state that only marriages between a man and a woman would be recognized in the state of California. This countered the California Supreme Court’s ruling earlier that year which stated that samesex couples have a constitutional right to marry. DOMA, however, is broader than
or of different genders. Proposition 8 was overturneon August 4, 2010, largely thanks to openly gay District Court Judge John Walker, claiming that it violates the constitution’s promise of equality. Each citizen of our country is equal, no matter what race, gender, or sexual orientation. Though this is clearly a convincing argument, many still oppose gay marriage legalization. The main opposition to gay marriage is the Church. According to the Bible, a man lying with another man is a sin. However, the Bible also states that divorce is a sin. Over the years, our country has come to realize that the consequences of divorce are not as horrifying as originally thought; therefore, married couples are not forbidden
Proposition 8. Passed in 1996, DOMA defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman for all federal purposes. It gave all states the right to refuse to recognize same-sex marriages. Because of this, DOMA does not allow any marital benefits whatsoever to come to same-sex couples. Though many conservatives seem set in their ways about the legalization of gay marriage, a significant number of others beg to differ, especially the upcoming generation of young adults. After speaking to girls at the Elms, a conclusion can easily be made that almost all of us support samesex marriage. Michelle Chang ’16 simply says, “If two people are in love, then they deserve the right to be legally married.” After speaking with Michelle, a conversation sparked among her friends, all agreeing with her statement. Love is always love, whether it is between people of the same gender
to divorce each other. It is plainly unfair that homosexuals are currently being treated as second-class citizens when they have every right to a happy life. Taking away marital privileges for two people who love each other does not make sense. Marriage is one of the basic rights of heterosexuals; same-sex couples should receive this right as well. Many LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) advocates, both gay and straight, are fighting to legalize same-sex marriage. Even in Cleveland, we can look forward to the Gay Games. However, with countless protests and rallies, it will be a battle to legalize gay marriage because of the 5-4 conservative advantage in the Supreme Court. Hopefully, all opposition to the equality and rights of same-sex couples will realize that everyone deserves the best life possible. After all, love is love.
by The Elm Leaf Editorial Staff
It was recently brought to the attention of the Elm Leaf staff that during the performance of “Born This Way,” by Lady Gaga at this year’s Gala, the lyric which states, “no matter gay, straight, or bi, lesbian, transgendered life,” was changed to “no matter what your strife, if you’ve been hurt by life”. This change has been a topic of controversy and discussion among Elms students. “My reaction to the song- I was shocked,” Nickya Williams ‘15 said. While we are in a Catholic school, and the Catholic Church is not in support of gay marriage, we also realize that Dominicans strive for inclusiveness and love. As Elms girls, it is our duty to embrace all people, no matter their sexual orientation. “I personally did not like the lyrics change, but I understood why they did it. I feel they changed it out of respect for the attendees, but it doesn’t [necessarily] reflect how anyone in the music department feels about gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender people,” Jazmine Colvin ‘15 said. This decision was made after much careful thought and consideration, and such controversy was not anticipated in the least. However, some Elm Leaf staff members feel that the lyric change could have infringed upon copyright laws. It appears that there was also a symbolical contrast of the song’s meaning of acceptance by altering the lyrics into a more “acceptable” form. The change could be seen as a threat to the integrity of the artist, Lady Gaga. She does not conform to the status quo, and her works stands as an example of her view on society. Gaga uses her influence and sometimes questionable antics and fashion sense to stand up for her “Little Monsters”. Her fans are known as Little Monsters, and she accepts them in any way, shape, or form. A petition was written, signed, and submitted to faculty to express the discontent of some Elms girls. Students hope to prevent an incident like this from re-occurring in the future.
What the Elms has taught me by Mary Frances McGowan ’13 The hour is 7:45, and I really should be as ill-tempered as my comatose counterparts. The secret to my morning happiness is not excessive amounts of caffeine, 5 A.M. calisthenics or an unbridled love for getting up before the sun. This year, I have made a habit of going to my locker early to watch the pond wake up from its gentle nighttime slumber. The rather spiritual sight feeds my happiness. The hues of the painting change with the turning of the seasons, and as the crisp grays shift to breezy greens, my mornings become more precious. It is the hour of the day where I think the most about my time at the Elms, and what my cherished home has taught me. The Elms taught me to learn to love myself and to then work outwards. The Elms didn’t abandon me in my fatal attraction to over-sized bows and heavy eyeliner, but held my hand and helped me to grow. My classmates created an environment in which I could love myself, which made it easy for me, in turn, to love them. The Elms strengthened my capacity to love, and my Elms sisters gave me the strength I needed to love myself. The Elms taught me that there is no greater blessing than having a support system. There wasn’t a day that went by that I did not feel surrounded by love. Whether it was Mrs. Fippin’s infectious enthusiasm, Mr. Jacoby’s humor or a nod from Sister Maura, I learned that if my morning was dreary, my day would somehow become brighter. Lastly, the Elms taught me to embrace my womanhood. At my time at the Elms, I have been molded into a woman that I am proud of being. As I leave the Elms in less than a month, I will take what I have learned with me, along with a year’s supply of choco chippers and a deepened appreciation for plaid. To the Elms that has taught me so much, thank you.
Features
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May 2013
RIP Richard Griffiths: Uncle Vernon meets his maker by Emily Petrochuk ’16
Harry Potter fans are mourning the loss of a beloved movie character. Richard Griffiths, the actor who played Uncle Vernon, died on March 28, from heart surgery complications. According to IMDB, Mr. Griffiths had larger than life portrayals of Henry VIII, Falstaff in the “Merry Wives of Windsor” and Bottom in “A Midsummer Nights’s Dream” with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Born to deaf parents, Mr Griffiths learned sign language from an early age. In films from 1975 both here and abroad, his better roles have been in both contemporary and period pieces, such as Gorky Park (1983), Withnail & I (1987), King Ralph (1991), Guarding Tess (1994), Sleepy Hollow (A1999) and recently the ‘Harry Potter’ series as Uncle Vernon Dursley. Typically cast as comic relief in serious fare, he is well known in England for a number of comedy series including “Pie in the Sky” (1994). Harry Potter fans were surely saddened by the death of a character that they both loved and hated. Uncle Vernon is the Muggle Uncle of Harry Potter the boy Wizard. Harry’s parents were murdered by Lord Voldemort. Being Harry’s only relatives, Mr. Vernon and Mrs. Petunia Dursley, along with their son Dudley, took Harry in as one of their own, or
one of their own in their eyes. They treated Harry as a servant and had him live in the cupboard under the stairs before moving him into the smallest bedroom. Being non-magic folk, or Muggles, the Dursleys refused to let Harry go to Hogwarts, or Witch and Wizard School. Celebrities were shocked and saddened at the death of Mr. Griffiths. Fiona Shaw, who played Mrs. Petunia Dursley alongside Griffiths in seven out of the eight Harry Potter films, said by phone in New York City: “He was a philosopheAr clown; He was incredibly knowledgeable about history, science, almost everything. He had a huge ambition and was a total delight in what he did. And that’s what was clearly communicated to audiences. He dedicated himself to the theater.” Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter films tweeted “@thisisbwright - Such sad news, rest in peace Richard Griffiths - what a talented man x”. Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the Harry Potter Films and Alan Strang in Equus, said “Richard was by my side during two of the most important moments of my career. In August 2000, before official production had even begun on Potter, we filmed a shot outside the Dursleys’ which
was my first ever shot as Harry. I was nervous and he made me feel at ease. Seven years later, we embarked on Equus together. It was my first time doing a play but, terrified as I was, his encouragement, Tutelage, and Humor made it a Joy. Any room he walked into was made twice as funny and twice as clever just by his presence. I am proud to day I knew him.” Mr. Richard Griffiths, a well-known actor around the world, will be missed by Wizards and Muggles alike. Even Elms Students and Faculty are upset with the passing of Mr. Griffiths. Here are their reactions: “I cried. Then I went on Tumblr and started looking at Daniel Radcliffe and others and I looked at their posts and saw how much he was missed. It was nice to see the love for him” Brooke Stiles ‘16 said. “I was on Facebook on a Harry Potter fan page and saw a picture of Richard Griffiths and I sat their crying for probably 10 minutes and watched Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” Molly Speyer ‘16 said. “I’m sad because he was really funny. Yelling and spitting at the same time is a terrible feat. I don’t know if many actors can do it,” Math teacher, Mrs. Gravenstein said.
Cleveland+Akron hosting Gay Games by Elm Leaf staff writers
Dr. Tom Waddle, driven by the principles of Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best™, as stated by www.gg9cle.com, founded the Gay Games. The first Games were hosted in San Francisco in 1982, where 1,350 athletes were brought together from a dozen countries to celebrate unity regardless of sexual orientation, race, or physical ability. Every four years since then, the number of attendants have increased dramatically. The 2006 Gay Games were held in Chicago. Over 11,000 people participated in those Games. Thirty thousand people from all over the world are expected to come to Akron and Cleveland for the 2014 Gay Games! Akron and Cleveland will host the ninth official Gay Games, also known as Gay Games 9 or GG9, from August 9-14, 2014. The Games features 35 sports and three cultural events. All athletes, regardless of ethnicity, sexual preference or physical ability, above the age of eighteen are welcomed to participate. The Opening Ceremonies for the Games will be held at the Quicken Loans Arena in downtown Cleveland. The Summit County Fairgrounds will be the site of the Rodeo, which is one of the cultural rather events of the Games. Lock 3 Park in downtown Akron will be the site of the Akron Festival Village. Other Summit County locals include Firestone Country Club which will host golf, Firestone Stadium hosting softball, the Akron Marathon course for the marathon and half marathon, and the University of Akron for track and field events. The closest vicinity to the Elms, which will host the soccer games, will be held just down the road at the City of Akron Copley Road Soccer complex. The Gay Games’ is more than just an opportunity for athletes to showcase their abilities. It transcends the realm of athletics to real life. The Games is a symbol for what people hope the world to be, unified, accepting and unbiased. As long as the Games are around, there is hope yet for the elimination of bullying and homophobia so society can be a place of safety for all. In the spirit of a better future: Ready, Set, GAMES!!
Google Fair Use.S
Sporting college sweatshirts from their future alma maters.
Seniors impart collegiate wisdom by Maura Farr ’13 As the end of the school year approaches, the seniors are anticipating for their upcoming graduation. Amidst the feelings of eagerness emanating from the senior hallway, the underclassmen are anxious to discover where their paths of interest will take them. Gray hair is already growing on the heads of underclassmen due to the inevitable filling of a daunting college application. Driven by stress, they are prepared to seek solace in a pint of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream. Although the college admissions process may seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Here’s advice to ease the burdens of the business: The much-trusted veteran Elms college counselor, Mrs. Griffin, emphasizes the importance of getting an early start to the college admissions process. “It is never too early to start preparing for college. Freshmen and sophomores can start by seriously focusing on academics and by listening to people who have been through the college admission process,” she said. While it is important to get ahead as early as one can, it is just as essential to the college process as staying ahead. “Juniors need to keep up their grades, prepare for the ACT or SAT, and schedule college visits,” she proceeded to say. In order to stay ahead of the curve, “You should apply to colleges as early as possible, and apply to schools within your reach,” Chloe Hillard ’13 suggested. While searching for the ideal college, it is important to keep an open mind. Before starting the college search, it’s necessary to name the areas in which you excel, as well as the
fields that you may struggle in, so you can begin to decide on a college that is most suitable for you. Aubrey Kozer ’13 advised applying to both private and public colleges to compare and contrast financial aid options. When asked to share the pearls of wisdom about the college admissions process, senior class president Mary Grace Myers ’13 stressed the importance of finding a school that accommodates a likely career path. “Go to a college that has a good program for your major. If you’re unsure of your major, peruse liberal arts colleges and choose the one that seems to be the best fit,” she said. Liberal arts schools are good colleges to attend if a person is unsure what major to look into. Liberal arts colleges ensure that students are academically well rounded by allowing students to take core classes for two years before jumping into a career path. Other benefits seniors can use are offered by College Board, like collegeboard.com, to find the best universities that offer a program of interest. The college admissions process may seem intimidating, but if everything is managed in a timely order, it doesn’t have to be so daunting. All Elms girls are capable of putting their Dominican education to the test and becoming a scholar on the collegiate level.
The Goose Gang: the Elms “eggstermination” by Amanda Fallon ’14 It was a May afternoon when Egguardo and Eggbert swooped down upon the Elms grounds again. They had been travelling to a lake several miles away to find a few ladies and make goosie magic, but it was time to return to their beloved pond. As their webbed feet pushed through high grass and sprouting plants, they heard a strange noise. A honking of sorts. Eggbert moved deeper into the brush as Egguardo took notice of some tantalizing grass several meters away. Suddenly, Gloria appeared in all her goose-y glory. However, she was a different
bird this time around. Eggbert backed away as Gloria continued honking her protest towards the brick building in the distance. “YOU DIRTY LITTLE –honk- WITH YOUR –honkAND –honk- HOW DARE YOU!” She repeated her phrase again and again until Eggbert flapped near her head to calm her cries. It was then that he learned what had occurred while he and Egguardo were gone. Gloria had experienced a most horrific event – her eggs were assaulted. After questioning of how those eggs came to be,
“Well, he was charming,” she said, the tale of smashing came to light. A most horrid person had assured Gloria’s darling goslings would never see fresh muck or taste dew-covered grass, and this would not be taken easily. She was a goose on a mission and no one would stop her. Eggbert backed away as Gloria dug her face into mud and streaked her delicate gray feathers. “This,” she honked, “is war.” to be continued…
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Sports & Leisure
May 2013
All I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Anna Simko ‘16 The lights shine on a stage occupied by around thirty cast members, all holding mirrors, as the performance comes to a close. In a mere two hours these dedicated Elms girls educated a rambunctious audience about the meaning of life, the significance of daily naps, and the importance of growing up. Through comedy and tragedy, the stories of five characters unfolded into a complex arrangement of passion, knowledge, and truth. The five main roles were split between ten principal actors: Noelle Colant ‘13, Meghan Hamm ‘13, Kay Caprez ‘13, Gabby Seed ‘14, Jess Coury ‘15, Molly Ryan ‘15, Courtney Farber ‘15, Brooke Stiles ‘16, Jillian Anderson ‘16, and Hannah Elias ‘16. In the months they spent working on this play, the actresses grew to love the lessons they learned and the people they learned those lessons with. “I enjoyed bonding with the Elms’ theater community and getting the chance to do a show that’s a completely different genre from what I’ve done in the past,” Gabby Seed ‘14 said.
“I really enjoyed being part of the cast because it’s really great to be onstage and the show turned out way better than I thought it would be,” commented Courtney Farber ‘15. The guidance and helpful coaching of the directors, Mr. and Mrs. Darkow, coupled with the work of the never-tiring, ever-present student directors helped the play go off without a hitch. After the show, many families and students expressed their satisfaction and pride in the cast and crew “My favorite scene was definitely the ‘Merry Christmas’ one,” Abbey Meyer ‘16 said, about a scene in the second act that featured many of the main characters in a doctor’s office. Even though each character shares deep, personal stories from their pasteach story with its own profound meaning-their names are never mentioned. The characters are in each of us, and they all have something to teach us, if we’d only listen. So, remember to look both ways, hold hands when you cross the street, and above all, flush.
by Skylar Beck ‘14 High school students around the country imagine and daydream about their prom from a young age. Prom is a time when high school seniors come together for one of the last major events before graduation. When portrayed in movies and discussed in magazines, prom seems like the best time a teenage girl can experience in high school: the preparation, the dress, the heels, and of course, the date! But what is prom really like? More importantly, what do we expect the Elm’s 2013 prom to be like? The theme of this year’s prom is “Gatsby’s party.” This theme has caught the attention of many enthusiastic juniors and seniors. Maggie Drude 14’, Annie Brennan 14’, and Maria Figliola ‘14 all feel that the theme is perfect. “I’m so excited about this year’s prom, the theme of “The Great Gatsby” makes me even more excited!” said Maggie Drude ’14. “I love the idea of “The Great Gatsby” theme. I think that the seniors will
do a good job tying the theme into the whole night,” said Annie Brennan ’14. “I think that this year’s prom will be one big party like Gatsby’s kind of party. I definitely believe the theme caught the attention of the juniors because it’s a classic but fun theme that will make prom more memorable,” said Maria Figliola ’14. Maria believes that the theme increases prom’s appeal and discusses its importance as the last time juniors and seniors celebrate a high school event together. “This is our last big event that we can have with the seniors before they graduate, so it’s a great way to bond and make memories with them one last time,” said Figliola. Prom this year will definitely one that the juniors and seniors remember forever.
The Elms provides a wide array of sports, from track to bowling. This year’s spring sports teams have been working towards division domination. Both teams have been keeping balanced records throughout the season. The Track and Field team has been competing to the best of their ability to earn high titles for the school. The students are led by Coach Jeff Incorvia. The team consists of students from each high school grade, including many new faces from the freshman class. When asked who packs the heat on their team, Jeff Incorvia stated, “Keep an eye on the whole team. There’s a lot of talent here.” The team is sprinting towards districts as the season comes to a close. This year the team has their eye on a trophy. “The girls are working hard, with their eyes on districts,” Coach Incorvia commented. He also said, “With districts coming up there are going to be amazing things happening.” Individual competitors raise their best personal scores and improve with each practice and meet they participate in. Amazing things may come indeed if the girls keep up their hard work. The softball team is working towards a championship as well. The team’s goal this season was to advance as far, if not further, than they did last season. Although this goal was not achieved, the team felt that they performed
well until the very end. “We really pulled through this season, and our teamwork showed until the end,” softball player Caily Stoyanov ’16 said. “I thought the team did well and we learned to work together and we had some challenges but we learned to overcome them and really came together as a team and had a good time” Kathryn Schoenbaechler ’14 said. Captain Alexa Collins ’14 spoke for all three of the team’s captains, Rachel Tustin ’13 and Taylor Schmidt ’13, when she said, “We had a great season even if we didn’t go far. We all grew as players and all of the new players made amazing improvements. We all worked together and played like a family.” Pitcher, Emily Scupholm ’13, will be attending Bluffton University, in Bluffton, Ohio, this fall to pursue a degree in special education, while simultaneously playing on their Division III softball team. Although no other seniors will continue to play softball into college, they are proud of their team and how hard they worked this season. “We improved as a team with every game. There were girls who never played in their life, and ended up making some of our best plays. We learned to come together, just a little too late in the season. I’ll miss my team, but I hope they continue that team-building and go further in sectionals next year,” Rachel Tustin ’13 said.
The roaring twenties make a presence at prom
You Go, Elms Girl!
by Ashley Vober ‘16 How do you even begin to describe Kelsey Frew ’15? Known by nearly everyone, Kelsey is notorious for her sense of humor and for her participation throughout the school. She embodies the true Elms girl: dedicated, intelligent, and always hungry! As a sophomore, Kelsey plays Varsity soccer, Varsity and JV basketball, and Varsity softball. She is a member of the Ambassador’s Club and is treasurer of the tenth grade class. Frew is also a part of the yearbook team. In past years, she has participated in Power of the Pen, a writing competition for middle schoolers. Kelsey went to states both years and came home with second place in district competitions and sixth place in regional competitions. Not long ago, Kelsey placed first place in Division II of the Holocaust Arts and Writing Contest. This year’s contest theme was “Holocaust Survivors and Their Stories”. Kelsey wrote a piece called “Stories” about a survivor who escaped a concentration camp with a Nazi soldier’s help. The story includes a series of flashbacks from the officer who helped the man escape. “Kelsey’s writing is a very moving and serious piece. It is excellent. She worked incredibly hard to revise tiny sections of her story, making it even better. I am very proud of her,” said English teacher Mrs. Fippin. Kathryn Schoenbaechler ‘14 agrees with Mrs. Fippin about Frew’s writing and adds, “Kelsey is determined and can do whatever she sets her mind to.” A little known fact about Kelsey is that her favorite subject is math. As of right now, she is enjoying Geometry because she fancies the “logic and flow of the problems”. This is denied by Frew’s friend Natasha Gilbert ’15 who adamantly said, “Kelsey’s favorite subject is myself!” Even though Kelsey is only sixteen years old, she has made an impression in this community. With both lighthearted and earnest sides, who knows what she will do next? The Elms’ student body is incredibly blessed to have Kelsey Frew as a sophomore, and we wish her the best of luck in the next two years. Love, The Elm Leaf
Players reflect on spring season performance
Biology class in the Fall of 2013
Chapel walls beautified by FAST
by Renee Dollard ‘14 After weeks of planning, the previously prosaic Elms chapel walls were painted with murals of trees and flowers by FAST (Faith and Spirituality Team). Megan Klamert ’13 suggested the idea, and it was greeted by approval from all FAST members. Noelle Colant ’13 reminisced on the reason for painting the previously dark walls of the chapel entrance. “It brings brightness, light and the Holy Spirit into the dark space in our chapel,” she said. After the idea was proposed, much planning and hard work went into making the plan a reality. “Megan Klamert ’13 had a skeleton idea of what she wanted to do, and it was left up to the rest of us to interpret it. At some point the Holy Spirit came in and everything went well from there,” Noelle Colant ’13 said. The project turned out to be more difficult than originally anticipated. Although the undertaking was taxing, with the help of Mrs. Winters and Mrs. Dietrich, the Elms art teachers, artistic expertise, the long process of painting the chapel entrance was enjoyed by all FAST members. The FAST members hope that the new paintings will inspire visits to the
chapel from the student body who don’t often visit it. When asked about previous student attendance in the chapel, Danielle Rogers ’14 said, “I think, generally, people don’t go in the chapel.” Some people are unaware of the chapel paintings. “The only reason I know about it is because you guys keep on talking about it with Mrs. Hilkert,” Gabby Vasquez ’14 said. Elms girls were able to work together and grow closer over the process of painting the murals. “Painting the chapel was a way for us to enjoy ourselves and to decorate the chapel in a way that allowed us to express our individuality,” Molly Ryan ’15 said. Transforming the walls of the chapel entrance from blank to walls featuring pictures of trees and flowers took much hard work and planning. It was finally finished, and FAST is anxious for people to pass it on their way to the chapel to pray. FAST members encourage students to visit the chapel, and to pray alongside the newly painted walls.