the
PHARCYDE
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THE BENJAMIN UPPER SCHOOL NEWSPAPER
4875 Grandiflora Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, 33418
May 22, 2015
Volume 36
Issue 6
Seniors become new members of Cum Laude Society BY JAKE KLEINFELD Incoming Sports Editor
The highly-respected Cum Laude Society inducted 16 seniors on Saturday May 9, in Benjamin Hall. The 16 senior inductees included Gabrielle Aguirre, Alec Batts, Julia Batts, Nicholas Castriz, Izzy Grabel, Benjamin Greenspan, Carolina Haddad, Reagan Jahn, Camille Larmoyeux, Lillian Lesser, Mark Libowitz, Savannah Logan, Mason Manos, Alexandra Murray, Brody Nissen, and Stephanie Roche. The ceremony opened with a short welcome by Head of School, Mr. Goldberg. Follow-
ing his greeting, English teacher Mrs. Feyk gave the opening remarks before the induction of the 16 seniors. Head of Upper School, Mr. Baucom, and Mr. Goldberg introduced each of the inductees. The ceremony concluded with Mr. Goldberg’s closing remarks and was followed by a brunch. The ceremony was open to students, faculty, friends, and family. Senior inductee Mark Libowitz, said, “It was well put together and fun. It was a nice family event.” As one of the newer members of the Cum Laude Society, Benjamin has joined 380 other highly selective independent schools that all demonstrate
exceptional academic quality. Benjamin is one of 19 other schools in Florida which are a part of the highly selective society. Speaking to The Pharcyde, several of the new members shared what this honor meant. Savannah Logan said, “To be inducted into the Cum Laude society, a student must have at least a 4.0 GPA, which is pretty difficult over eight semesters of high school. All of the inductees also did this while taking multiple AP and Honors courses, I took eight total AP classes and nine total Honors classes. For me, it also meant staying up past midnight on several occasions for either finishing home-
SNAPSHOT: Senior Lake Jump
work or studying for tests.” Izzy Grabel said, “Being inducted into Cum Laude was a huge honor. It felt really rewarding to be recognized for all the hard work I've put into school these last four years. When my dad was a senior in high school, he was also inducted into Cum Laude, so it was a really special experience for him to watch me become a member as well.” Alexandra Murray said, “Being inducted into the Cum Laude Society is a great honor … but what always humbles me is the portion of the requirement that is subjective. Being inducted tells me that my teachers value my charac-
ter, respect me, and see me as someone worthy of this honor, all of which means a great deal to me since I look up to them so much.” Offering advice to students, Camille Larmoyeux said, “I am deeply honored to have been recognized by the Benjamin School for my character and academic record. I owe this honor to the teachers that inspired me, my fellow students that challenged me, and my parents who encouraged me to strive for the top. I encourage all students to set their goals high because it is very rewarding to sit on that stage and to be singled out for all the hard work and perseverance.” v
BY ASHLEY SNIFFEN
summer and keep the groove of math. They were really just to keep kids fresh over the course of the summer so they wouldn’t lose so much [information]. I think the students who want to keep fresh on their skills will do it on their own.” Mr. Harse agrees with Ms. McGrath and could not correlate the work performed on the summer packets with academic success in the classroom. As he put it, “We’ve found that the summer math packets were being underutilized by the students and didn’t provide a true reflection of what the students were capable of. From a teaching perspective, it wasn’t a very useful tool leading into the start of the school year. You didn’t really know who was doing well on it or who didn’t really take a lot of time to
Summer math packets cancelled Incoming Co-Online Editor
JACQUELINE HENDERSON
The seniors relish their traditional jump into the lake on May 1, bringing along pool toys and paddleboards to make their way across.
Students will be pleased to hear they will not be required to solve math problems while vacationing at the beach this summer. Despite having mixed feelings about the usefulness of mandatory summer math homework, the Math Department recently reached a consensus ensuring the packets are a thing of the past. Ms. McGrath believes the time required to review the math packets detracted from time that could be spent teaching new material. She said, “They definitely took a couple of days away from what I usually do at the beginning of the year. I didn’t like that part of it. It’s so hard to come back over the
See Math Packets page A5
New teachers hired in math, English and science BY JAKE KLEINFELD and ANDY WEIR
Incoming Sports Editor and Outgoing Co-Editor-in-Chief Next year, students will see five new faces on campus with the School hiring a math teacher, two English teachers, and chairs for both the Math and Science Departments. New Math Chair Mr. Michael Ruggie will join the faculty as the new Math Department Chair for the upcoming school year. He will take over teaching duties for AP Statistics, AP Calculus BC, and
Honors Pre-Calculus. He will also provide oversight for the math program as a whole. Growing up in Ohio, Mr. Ruggie attended a private school very similar to Benjamin. Reflecting on his childhood, he said, “I loved going to school there and always wanted to teach at a similar school. The Benjamin School affords me such an opportunity.” Although Mr. Ruggie has always had aspirations to teach at a high school similar to the one he attended, he did not immediately become a high school teacher after college. He graduated from St. Louis University
with a degree in meteorology and worked for a television station’s weather department. At the same time, he was an adjunct professor of meteorology at a local college. “I would like to bring the Math honor society, Mu Alpha Theta, to TBS,” Mr. Ruggie said. “For some students math is a four letter word Establishing Mu Alpha Theta would offer students the chance to participate in peer tutoring.” Conveying his true passion for teaching, he said, “I enjoy pushing and challenging my students harder and farther than they think they can go. I
enjoy seeing their success and watching them realize they are capable of doing more than what they think they can do.” Two New English Teachers Among the new employees is Mrs. Sharon Wendler to take over for Mrs. Feyk, who is transitioning into a full-time college counselor. As a child, Mrs. Wendler constantly moved, growing up in numerous places. She spent much time in the state of New York, living in Brooklyn and Utica, yet also in Detroit, Michigan. Before coming to Benjamin, Mrs. Wendler lived in Avon, Connecticut, with her
See Benjamin welcomes new teachers page A5
Mapping Out the Future A look into the seniors’ new college homes page A10
News: A1-A5 School Life: A12 - A15 Opinion: A6 - A8 The Scene: A16 - A17 Spotlight: A10 - A11 Sports: A18 - A 20 Spyglass: B1 - B8
Photo Courtesy of Jim Haley
Dr. Jim Haley will join the staff as the chair of the science department. Sorority Life Exploring sorority culture: the pros and cons page A16
The Pharcyde
News
For the latest news and archives of past issues check out pharblog.com.
Meet Your Future Presidents The Pharcyde recently sat down with the Upper School’s three new student presidents: Derek Packer of Student Council, Annelise Hillmann of National Honor Society, and Charlotte Barkdull of Honor Council. These three presidents, who are excited to ignite change, shared their credentials and goals.
Derek Packer Student Council President
Q: Why did you run for Student Council President? A: Since I’ve been a sophomore, I’ve wanted to run.
I’m an idealist and I really want to try to unify the student body and make it a very comfortable place for everybody, and to also introduce a variety of fun activities for everyone. I feel like the past couple of years have been lacking, and I really believe the way to unify the student body is through various assemblies and spirit activities. My goal as Student Council President is to try to make us more of a community.
Q: What are your goals for next year? A: My goal is really to first unify my class because
I believe if we have a unified senior class, we’ll then have a more unified student body. When I was a freshman, I was privileged to have a class of students whose brothers and sisters were in the senior class. Seeing how we all bonded, it felt great and we felt like we were a family. That’s what I want my senior year to be like.
Q: What will be your biggest challenge? A: I just really have to balance my academic
activities with my extracurricular activities. It’s just a personal thing. I don’t think there’s going to be anything challenging. I also have to get over my fear of public speaking. Although it doesn’t look like it, public speaking isn’t my strength, and I have my insecurities like everybody else.
Q:
What attributes do you bring to the office of the presidency? A: In middle school, I did the student council gig and served as a Buc Ambassador. In high school, I was the class president during my sophomore and junior year, which gave me the opportunity to also participate in the weekly Student Council meetings. I believe my active participation in these meetings has thoroughly prepared me to take over as Student Council President. But in addition to just experience, I bring diligence and devotion. I have some big ideas for next year, and I’m very excited to get started.
News Briefs Benjineers compete at national championship After their first national competition in Houston, Texas, the Benjineers have returned to the Sunshine State bearing good news. The Benjineers, established just this year, competed in a series of engineering contests as a part of the Ten80 National STEM League Competition. They ended up winning second place in drag racing, where they constructed and raced a remote controlled car. Overall, they came in 16th place out of 25 teams. Sophomore Geoff Moody said of the experience, “I think we did really well for our first year. We’re definitely looking to do much better in the years to come.” Computer teacher Mr. Cullinane lauded the kids for their hard work, saying, “The kids did a really good job in preparation for the competition, and next year we’ll look to bring home a gold.”
Annelise Hillmann National Honor Society President
Q: Why did you run for National Honor Society
President? A: I decided to run for NHS President because NHS is an important part of the school community, and I wanted to be part of making a difference. I feel that I could make a few changes to improve the system and create a better organization overall. I ran in order to help facilitate that and make it a great year for NHS.
Q: What are your goals for next year? A: My goals for next year are to have a really great
induction season, to bring more community service projects to the students, and to do more in general with setting an example in the school as well.
Q: What will be your biggest challenge? A: The biggest challenge will probably be adjusting to Benjamin Hall since we’re having our induction ceremonies there next year. It’s going to be a different program, and it might be difficult to organize, but it should be a great experience with our new facility.
Q: What attributes do you bring to the office of the
presidency? A: I think I can bring a lot of enthusiasm to NHS because it seems that in recent years students have been lacking spirit in doing community service. I think that I can definitely amp up our projects and make this year more exciting and fun for the NHS members.
Q: What do you like best about the Upper School? A: My favorite part of the Upper School is the un-
wavering dedication of its teachers. Students can form relationships that go beyond simple classroom acquaintance and can always count upon teachers to be there when they need them, whether it be for extra help outside of class or just a friendly chat. This is what makes The Benjamin School special, the extremely qualified, caring, and devoted faculty.
Charlotte Barkdull Honor Council President
Q: Why did you decide to run for president of Honor Council? A: I’ve been on the Council since my freshman year and I’m really passionate about it. Since then, I’ve wanted to hold a greater position and have greater involvement in the Council.
Q: What are your goals for next year? A: I think there are a lot of misconceptions about the
Council and what it does. I think it’s important that we educate the School on what we do and how the Council works. I think it’s also important that we reinforce the Honor Code. I feel that as a school we often forget its importance and necessity.
Q: What will be your biggest challenge? A: Like I said, I think the assumptions and misconcep-
tions people make a lot of times are difficult to respond to, but we all as a council have to remain level-headed and stand strong.
Q: What attributes can you bring as president? A: I believe I am a strong leader. I’m very approach-
able and supportive of my fellow Council members as well as the other members of the school. Also, my past leadership experiences, both in and out of the Council, have prepared me for this position.
Q: What is your favorite Upper School memory? A: That’s a tough question. I don’t really know. Cer-
tain classes from freshman year and throughout have just been interesting. I don’t want to play favorites. Homecoming is always great and really fun.
Q: What do you like best about the Upper School? A: There’s a lot more freedom. You get to define who
you are as a person, choose your own path, and begin to individualize yourself.
Senior makes All American Team for shooting
Student places fifth at state regatta
Senior Becca Lichtblau recently made the Krieghoff All-American Team, an elite organization recognizing the county’s top high school sporting clay shooters. “I’ve been working on making the team since the start of my shooting career. I was happy to find out, because it was a validation of my accomplishments for the year and my hard work,” she said. Lichtblau first started shooting clays only two years ago and has quickly met success. In October of 2014, she earned four national shooting honors, including best lady shooter in Florida and best young adult lady shooter in the country, at the National Sporting Clays Championships in Texas. She was also on the Florida All State Team in 2014 for sporting clays. Ranked first in the state, Lichtblau plans to continue her success in college where she will be shooting for Clemson University. She also aspires to join the American Olympic team. “I will start training for the Olympics this summer, and I will see where that goes as it is a future goal of mine. But I will not be pursuing it as a professional career,” she said.
Junior Aubrey O’Brien made waves this month when she placed at the Florida Scholastic Rowing Association (FSRA) Sculling and Sweep State Championships. Rowing a two man boat with four oars down a 1,500-meter course, O’Brien and her partner placed eighth overall at the sculling championship. Two weeks later, they returned to Sarasota for Sweep States and qualified for the grand finals where they placed fifth in the state. O’Brien said, “It’s pretty incredible considering I only started rowing last September. This means technically I am a novice, but my partner was varsity, so we had to compete in the varsity division with girls who have been rowing for years.” To prepare for the regattas, O’Brien rows for the North Palm Beach Rowing Club, which holds practices almost year round, two hours a day, five days a week. But all of her hard work paid off when they reached grand finals. “Competing at states was nerve wracking but my teammates and I had a blast rowing against some of the finest athletes in the state,” she said.
The Pharcyde
News
May 22, 2015
Page A3
Upcoming freshman class increases to new record BY JAKE KLEINFELD Incoming Sports Editor
The administration anticipates an increase in the number of students for the 2015-2016 school year, escalating from 431 students to roughly 462 students. Commenting on the increase, Head of the Upper School Mr. Latta Baucom said, “Across the board we expect to see increases in numbers at every grade level, not to the degree seen in the 9th grade, but we should see very manageable increases of good students in each grade level.” Next year’s freshman class is projected to enroll 123 students; the sophomore class will increase to 130 students; the junior class will have 105 students; and the senior class anticipates having 104 students.
Admissions Director Mary Lou Primm believes the reason for the increase in students is that the Florida economy is taking a turn for the better. A large number of families have been moving to the area, and admissions numbers are increasing on a yearly basis. Mr. Baucom commented on the effect that the increase may have on the school by saying, “We have looked at our staffing requirements for next year and have made some adjustments in terms of adding some additional staff. This is to accommodate not only the increased number of freshmen but just across the board, our expanded size...we always try to make sure that we keep an eye on the classroom size so that we don’t make them where they are too large.” In order to cope with the increasing number of students,
the School has begun interviewing new candidates and hiring new faculty for next school year. The administration has hired a full-time English teacher, to replace Mrs. Feyk’s halftime teaching load because she is becoming a full-time college counselor. In addition, a new Social Studies teacher and an additional English teacher will be added to next year’s faculty. Attesting to some of the benefits of increasing the size of the student body, Mrs. Primm said, “When you have more kids on the campus than the year before, you have more collected interests, some different clubs, and maybe even sports teams will be a little bigger if we have a larger student population.” The school has a maximum capacity of 490 people with the current footprint. Mr. Baucom said, “Right now we have the capacity to increase the size of
the student body, but if you get much beyond the projected number of students, it could get complicated in the future... There is no doubt that as we add students we are having to look more carefully to make
arise because the high school campus has significantly fewer parking spots than seats in the new auditorium, yet several faculty and administrators have ideas for addressing the issue. Director of the Upper School Latta Baucom shared his opinion on the potential parking
issue, saying, “Parking is going to be a challenge as the school population increases in size, and with Benjamin Hall affording us the opportunity to have larger events on campus, it’s both a wonderful thing and also adds to the challenge of parking.” Visual Art Department Head, Sara Salivar, suggested reaching out to other schools and organizations in the community for help with overflow parking. She said, “I would recommend requesting the assistance from neighboring organizations like the Jewish Community Center or Dwyer High School, and reciprocate when they need our assistance.” This strategy was used for the grand opening of Benjamin Hall on March 28. Mrs. Salivar explained how the school managed parking issues for the opening ceremony. She said, “Basically, Benjamin guests were given permission to park at the Mandel Jewish Community Center on Hood Road, and then buses were used to transport guests to our campus and back to the Jewish Community Center after the
Grand Opening.” Although not all of the school’s musicals, concerts and other events are planned to be held in Benjamin Hall will approach the limit of 849 attendees, larger, more
there are 293,000 cases annually reported in the United States. Explaining her purpose in speaking, Dirkse said, “With a lack of education, many people still buy into harmful myths about sexual violence and don't know how to support survivors. I wanted to share my expertise and knowledge with TBS so that students can better understand the intricacies of the issue, do their part to challenge violent behaviors and thinking, as well as support the safety of their peers in their community.” This violence prevention educator hopes that students learned of the reality behind sexual assault. “I hope that my presentation of all the difficulties that survivors face - the traumas from the initial victimization and revictimization by institutions and the media - makes students really confront the way they think
about sexual violence,” Dirkse said. She also hopes that the students took away the idea that every individual possesses the
sure that we are using all of our space wisely. There will always be times for us to look and see if there are classrooms that are being underutilized or spaces on campus that we can reconfigure for classes.” v
JACQUELINE HENDERSON/ Incoming Photo Editor
Parking proves to be a challenge due to Benjamin Hall BY ABBY BAUCOM
Incoming Co-Online Editor Outfitted for 849 guests, Benjamin’s newest addition to the campus, Benjamin Hall, was built to host numerous large school events. However, concerns may
JACQUELINE HENDERSON/ Incoming Photo Editor Students have wondered about the parking situation concerning Benjamin Hall and its implications on student driving.
“Parking is going to be a challenge as the school population increases in size, and with Benjamin Hall affording us the opportunity to have larger events on campus, “
MR. LATTA BAUCOM
Head of the Upper School extravagant events, like graduation, might become more of a concern. “It is not just Benjamin Hall that might need additional parking,” Mrs. Salivar said. “There are times when there are multiple events and again, the assistance of neighboring organizations will be helpful. The Benjamin School has been a good neighbor to many other
organizations over the years, providing parking spaces for religious services, events and such. Part of building a community relationship is the ability to help and receive assistance from others.” Mr. Baucom elaborated on the administration’s plans for future events like graduation. He said, “For the events that we have this year, we have been able to develop plans to take care of that potential parking problem. For instance, for graduation, which is our largest event of the year, we anticipate taking care of the parking problem by having the seniors park off campus and be shuttled to and from the campus, which has always been the practice in the past. Then, as we go forward, we are going to continue to look at a longer term plan on how we can rectify the situation.” Reflecting on the need for a long-term plan, Mrs. Salivar said, “I think right now we are in good shape. However, consideration should be given to adding more parking spaces on our campus when the time and funds permit it.” v
Violence prevention educator addresses student body BY VERONICA WEISS
Incoming Co-Graphics Editor TBS alum Leah Dirkse, a violence prevention educator, visited campus on April 13 and 14 to speak to the students on the topic of sexual assault. Dirkse visited freshman biology classes, held a meeting with the senior class, and visited the peer-counseling group, in order to spread awareness of the reality behind sexual assault. She presented students with the basic definitions of sexual assault. She then explained how to avoid and prevent sexual assault from happening to the students in the future. Her discussion also touched upon the low rates of reports for sexual assault and increased pressure that survivors are now placing on universities
to address the prevalence of sexual assault in those settings. She advised students on signs of unhealthy relationships and the different types of abuse that
“Rape culture is exemplified by idioms like ‘Boys will be boys’ and society’s emphasis on teaching people to not get raped, rather than teaching people to not rape.”
LEAH DIRKSE
violence prevention educator can occur in those relationships. Her talk concluded with the optimal way to support and advocate for sexual assault survivors. According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network,
“I think it’s important for high school seniors to learn about sexual assault because they are starting their college journey and unfortunately sexual assault is on every college campus.”
KIYO VIGLIOTTI senior
ability to stop rape culture and the idea that sexual violence is normalized in our society. “Rape culture is exemplified by idioms like ‘Boys will be boys’ and society's emphasis on teaching peo-
ple to not get raped, rather than teaching people to not rape,” she said. Data from the U.S Department of Justice support Dirkse’s concern, as the government reports that 36% of sexual assaults occur with individuals between the ages of 12-17 years old, around the age of Benjamin middle and high school students. Confirming the importance of Dirkse’s visit, senior Kiyo Vigliotti said, “I think it's important for high school seniors to learn about sexual assault because they are starting their college journey, and unfortunately sexual assault is on every college campus.” Dirkse is optimistic about the potential for change. She said, “I am proud of the TBS community for starting these conversations and efforts and look forward to being a part of them in the future.” v
Page A4 Statistics about the Class of 2015
36.3%
of students are attending colleges in state
12.3%
of students are attending schools west of the Mississipi River.
Alabama, Texas and North Carolina
are the most popular states among the Class of 2015, besides Florida.
The Pharcyde
News
May 22, 2015
Seniors leave nest, travel farther from home BY MICHAEL MULLERY Outgoing Sports Editor
Graduation brings many things to seniors: the independence that comes from leaving home for college; and as this year’s class shows, a higher number of students having to adjust to living in a completely new environment, whether it be a new climate or coast. Senior Brandon Mackles, who will be attending Indiana University in the fall, shared why he chose to become a Hoosier. He said, “I chose Indiana University because it offered me the best opportunity. I was so impressed by the Kelley School of Business and the beauty of the campus.” In terms of the change, Mackles said, “It will definitely be a big adjustment to live so far away from home. I have always depended on my parents for everything, and now I'm going to have to do everything on my own.” However, it is a change that
he is ready for. He said, “For as long as I can remember I have wanted to leave Florida for college because I’ve lived here my whole life and want a change.” He added, “An advantage to being in Indiana will be all of the new experiences. I’m now going to meet and live
“It will definitely be a big adjustment to live so far away from home. I have always depended on my parents for everything, and now I’m going to have to do everything on my own.” BRANDON MACKLES senior
with completely new people.” However, he realizes that leaving sunny South Florida does have its pitfalls. He said, “A disadvantage to living in Indiana will definitely be the winters. I have always liked cold weather, but I'm not sure
if I'm ready for a long freezing winter.” Like Mackles, senior Mark Libowitz will also be venturing far from home for college, to California, where he will be going to UCLA. Libowitz explained his decision by saying, “It came down to the best opportunity presented to me based on where I was accepted. I chose UCLA because of the neuroscience program. UCLA has a great hospital on campus, and it leads to great opportunities for research and internships. I also really liked the LA area.” Libowitz was not deterred much by the distance when making his decision, saying, ”The flight to California is direct from Fort Lauderdale and only 6 hours. It is still a day trip and not that different from traveling to a college in New York…. It will definitely be an adjustment; my family and I are really close, but with it being so easy to communicate with the technology available today I don’t believe it is as big an adjustment as say, 20 years ago.”
Senior Angelica Bafitis, a fellow 14-year club member like Mackles, will be staying close to home and attending FAU. She said, “I chose FAU because of their commercial music program. I decided to stay in state because I have Florida pre-paid, so it’s going to be an almost free education.” Although she will not be far from home, Bafitis still thinks going to college will be a significant change. She said, “I think it would be a big adjustment regardless of where I went because, coming from Benjamin, I’m used to a small school community. But I don’t think it’s going to be shocking or anything, because I’m going to be fairly close to home.” Come fall, the class of 2015 will be faced with many changes; some exciting, some scary. However, many of the soon-to-be graduates see change as necessary to growth. As John F. Kennedy once said, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” v
Water damage fully repaired after Benjamin Hall leak BY MADELEINE DALTON Incoming Managing Editor
Despite the extensive water damage, Benjamin Hall
has been fully repaired and the School has been able to host all of the planned events in the brand new building. During the FatherDaughter Dance on April 26, a sprinkler head broke in the
video equipment room in the Hall. The water flooded the room, made its way out the door, flooded the mezzanine, and cascaded down into the lobby. Fortunately, the water did not enter the theater itself.
Some of the restorations that were made in anticipation of the For the Love of Dance concert on May 1 were done quickly, then follow-up
“The construction company was a great help in getting the repairs done in an accelerated time frame and Benjamin Hall is now back to its grand status.” CHRIS BELL
Technical Director of Benjamin Hall
ANNELISE HILLMANN/ Graphics Editor
Benjamin Hall was fully repaired after the water leak in April.
repairs were made for both the musical and the Cum Laude Society inductions. According to administrators, more thorough touch-ups
will commence after the school year is over. Benjamin Hall Technical Director, Mr. Christopher Bell, confirmed that the source of the flooding was a faulty sprinkler. This sprinkler caused thousands of dollars of damage to the electrical equipment, drywall and paint in the lobby and mezzanine of Benjamin Hall. Maintenance Supervisor, Mr. James Adle, assured that everything was in fact insured at the time of the flood. He said, “There was some drywall damage, mostly just drywall and paint, but it all got fixed.” Mr. Bell commenting on the speed of the repairs, said, “The construction company was a great help in getting the repairs done in an accelerated time frame and Benjamin Hall is now back to its grand v status.”
New guidance counselor joins Upper School faculty BY ISAAC WENDLER Incoming Copy Editor
In response to the anticipated increased student enrollment and after an extensive national search, the School has hired an additional guidance counselor. Mr. Ronald King, currently a guidance counselor at a charter high school in Hyannis, Massachusetts, has accepted this position. He has a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in school counseling. Mr. King taught history at the middle school level for six years, the last two of which were at an international school in Seoul, South Korea. He then
served for an additional two years as a guidance counselor at the same school. Mr. King will work alongside Director of Student Ser-
“I think that, working together, we can look to streamline the scheduling process so that everyone benefits.” MR. RONALD KING guidance counselor
vices, Dr. Taylor, in reaching out to students and making their experience at the School
run as efficiently as possible. Dr. Taylor looks forward to the help, saying, “I think that working together, we can look to streamline the scheduling process so that everyone benefits.” When asked about his hopes for next year, King said, “I am excited to say that I will be joining the Benjamin School, and I plan to really become familiar with the school climate and figure out where my place is as well as how I can be the most effective. I also plan to really get to know the students.” In order to accommodate Mr. King and other staff, the faculty room in the administration building will be renovated into new offices.
Ending his Pharcyde interview on a humorous note, Mr. King had these words of advice to all students, taken from
“I am excited to say that I will be joining The Benjamin School, and I plan to really become familiar with the school climate...” MR. RONALD KING guidance counselor
Avengers: Age of Ultron, one of his favorite movies: “If you get killed, walk it off!” v
Photo courtesy of Ronald King
Ronald King has been hired as the new guidance counselor and will assist students with any personal problems they have.
The Pharcyde
News
May 22, 2015
Page A5
Math packets no more Two students win Pathfinders From Math Packets page 1
complete it.” Mr. Ream thinks it is essential for a student to have some form of review over the summer. He explained, “I think the math packets are good but they’re only [helpful if] students will use them and apply them. I might be more apt if we gave out weekly problems over the summer. Students look at a whole packet and think ‘Oh my gosh, this is going to take my whole summer.’ Most of the time it’s not, but that’s what they think, so on the shelf it goes.”
“Most people wait until the end of the summer to work on it. By that point, everyone’s forgotten it anyway.“ JORDIE SPRECHMAN junior
Although he believes summer packets are useful, Mr. Ream would prefer to prepare students for the school year in a different manner. He added, “I would rather do some reviewing with the students in the beginning of the year or throughout the year to sharpen their skills rather than trying to force a round peg in a square hole during the summer.” Ms. McKinney is conflicted about whether the packets are worth giving to students over the summer. At her previous school, she pushed for having summer math packets, but this year at Benjamin has proved
difficult because it delayed the teaching of new material. She said, “I’m pro and con. The pros are that the student is actually practicing math skills over the summer, which, as a teacher, is a benefit in that I don’t have to start the school year with review material. The con is that I don’t know if the student actually did the packet by themselves.” Junior Jordie Sprechman is one student who believes math packets are a waste of time. “They’re not beneficial because there’s too much material covered throughout the year that we don’t remember. Most people wait until the end of the summer to work on it. By that point, everyone’s forgotten it anyway. We’re being graded on something that we did not do well on unless we got a tutor,” Sprechman said. Freshman Mark Reece has other ideas about how his summer should be spent. He said, “I think that math packets are not beneficial because summer is supposed to be a time for relaxation. If you add [the requirement of math packets to the mandated] summer reading, the students have way too much to worry about during the summer.” The Math Department recommends that students try to reinforce their math skills over the summer so they do not fall into a trap in the beginning of the school year. Mr. Harse said, “I think stronger students, especially students who are jumping to a higher level math course, would be well served by completing some independent review on their own.” v
BY ROBERT CHARLES Incoming Co-Online Editor
Seniors Ben Greenspan and Andy Weir were recognized on May 13 at the annual Palm Beach Post Pathfinder Scholarship Award Program for placing in their respective categories. Among 72 finalists, Greenspan took third place in the history and political science category, and Weir placed fourth in the communication category. The Pathfinder awards are presented each year to high school students in the Palm Beach and Martin County areas who have displayed outstanding achievement in 18 different categories. The awards are designed to encourage students to one day use their considerable talents to reach a rewarding career. Pathfinder coordinator, Mrs. Renee Szeliga gave her thoughts by saying, “I am very proud of both Ben and Andy for placing in their categories. I am also very proud of all this year’s nominees. I look forward to working with the upcoming year’s Pathfinder contenders.” Commenting on the competitive nature of the program, Greenspan said, “The competition was extremely tough. I went in there expecting to win, but halfway through the ceremony, had you asked me if I would place, I would have said there was no chance. The accomplishments of the various students in our area really took my breath away, and for me to place was, in hindsight, a great honor.”
Photo Courtesy of Maria Dattolo
Senior Andy Weir (far left) won fourth place for the Communications Pathfinder and Benjamin Greenspan (not shown) won third place for the History Pathfinder.
Explaining his reactions further, he said, “Initially, to be frank, they were ‘What the heck did the second and first place kids do?’ But after hearing the accomplishments of the first place winner, I was perfectly content with the bronze medal. Weir shared his own shock and surprise when he said, “When I heard my name, I was as surprised as that boy who got Taylor Swift to go to prom with him. Not even in my wildest dreams did I expect to win, because going in, I knew the caliber of the competition. I knew that the kids I was up against had spent much of their lives honing their communications skills, whereas I was more of a late bloomer, only realizing my interest in communication at the start of high school. I knew how intense they were and about all of their amazing accomplishments, so it really was a genuine surprise that I
placed.” Describing the process a candidate experiences, he said, “If I had to describe the process in a word, I'd use ‘reflective,’ because that was what it was for me. I not only had to reflect on my accomplishments and activities in the field of communications through the application and interview, but I also found myself reflecting on my life. I mean I really have so much to be thankful for and so many people for whom I should be grateful. I've been blessed with some absolutely amazing friends who gave me the confidence to step into that interview room, as nervous as I was, and just be myself. I couldn't have done any of this without Ms. Szeliga who was just absolutely terrific. She gave all the nominees such incredible encouragement and inspiration throughout the whole process, and trust me, that was invaluable.” v
Benjamin welcomes new teachers for next school year From New Teachers page 1
four sons, one of whom is a junior at Benjamin. Mrs. Wendler taught for almost 15 years before moving to Florida. She said, “We just moved here from Connecticut where I taught in a top performing school in the state. I have high expectations for the educational experiences of a school community; The Benjamin School meets those expectations.” Also joining the English Department next year is Mrs. Shannon Anderson. She will be replacing Mr. Behan. A native of Columbus, Ohio, she has been teaching for nine years. She hopes to bring her passion for reading, writing, and literature to Benjamin. “When I came for my interview, I was impressed with the teachers that I met,” Mrs. Anderson said. “Everyone seemed very passionate about what they are doing, and I think that is an exciting environment to be in. I am looking forward to working alongside these teachers as well as getting to know the students at the school.” Outside of school Mrs. Anderson enjoys listening to music, playing the piano, watching Netflix, going to the beach, watching football, and hang-
ing around the house with her husband and dog. New Science Chair Finally, Dr. James Haley has been named the new Sci-
“I am looking forward to working alongside these teachers as well as getting to know the students at the school.” MRS. SHANNON ANDERSON English teacher
ence Department Chair, replacing Dr. Daryl Martino who
plans to step down next year to focus more on Benjamin’s engineering program. Dr. Haley plans to take over teaching duties for the AP and Honors Chemistry classes. Fittingly, he holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, a masters in Teaching Secondary Science Education from the University of Virginia, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College. Having taught at a number of schools and colleges around the world, including The American School in Switzerland, Mr. Haley brings a diverse background to the classroom. He said, “I want my students to understand that hard work and enjoyment are not two different things; the truth
is that there are few things more satisfying or enjoyable than setting high standards for yourself, working hard to achieve them, experiencing occasional setbacks, and then ul-
“I am incredibly excited that Dr. Haley will be joining us. I think he will make an excellent addition to our already strong faculty in science.” DR. DARRYL MARTINO science teacher
timately succeeding. I would like to bring that kind of joy to students at the Benjamin
School.” Meanwhile, Dr. Martino is pleased about his replacement. “I am incredibly excited that Dr. Haley will be joining us. I think he will make an excellent addition to our already strong faculty in science,” he said. Commenting on why he chose to step down, Dr. Matino said, “I feel that it is important for these types of service positions to rotate to allow for fresh ideas and perspectives.” Dr. Martino will continue to develop the engineering programs at TBS. He said, “I have fun watching students grow to enjoy a discipline I enjoy.” The School is also in the process of searching for a new social studies teacher who will teach world and modern Asian history courses. v Photos courtesy of Shannon Anderson, Sharon Wendler, and Michael Ruggie.
(From left to right) Shannon Anderson, Sharon Wendler, and Michael Ruggie will join the faculty next school year. Each teacher will bring his or her own skill set to the Upper School in the math, English and science departments. The new hires include the science department chair and the math department chair.
Opinions
CHEERS
JEERS
Bathroom Signout
Benjamin Hall
Benjamin Hall has fully recovered after the water damage on April 26.
The requirement of signing out to use the bathroom is ineffective and irritating.
Editorials
The opinion of The Pharcyde
Running Unopposed: A Travesty to Democracy v The lack of candidates for Student Council positions hightlights student indifference. As a school institution, Student Council offers a unique opportunity for students to voice their opinions and create change in the community. The School prides itself on its democratic process of having fair elections each year to select the new officers. It is a shame, however, when that process is not utilized. This year, several Student Council candidates ran unopposed, rendering elections simply unnecessary. Students walked away without having voted at all. Even though students were pleased with the candidates who ran unopposed for office and would have voted for them, it reflects badly upon the student body when no one steps up to challenge them. By no fault of the candidates in the race, this circumstance reveals several disturbing points about the state of student leadership in the School. Some may wonder, why does it matter if students do not choose their representatives? Why does it matter if students received the outcome that was already predictable? It is a point of principle. To put it simply, democracy is not democracy when the people do not vote. This is not communist Russia; we do not hold elections for the sake of appearing legitimate. As history teacher Mr. Steve Anderson said about his campaign for town council, “I just thought the voters of Juno Beach deserved a real choice.” The
students of Benjamin deserve a real choice, not just one candidate’s policies, practices or views. It is crucial that more students run for positions to ensure that elections are competitive and real. Competitive elections allow new ideas to be exchanged, bringing greater diversity of thought to council policies. Even the most competent and successful incumbent should have to stand his
“Even the most competent and successful incumbent should have to stand his ground against an opponent, if only to defend his views to the people.” ground against an opponent, if only to defend his views to the people. Ultimately, it is the fault of the student body that the system has been so fundamentally ignored. Have we become so indifferent that no one cares enough about student feedback to run for office? Where is the dedication? Where is the enthusiasm? It seems that Student Council is even hard pressed
to find participants for Homecoming games or sign making. The apathy has hit an all time high. Additionally, students’ lack of caring bodes ill for their leadership outside of Benjamin’s walls. The reason behind providing leadership opportunities within the School is to prepare students to make change in the real world. But without any experience as leaders, students will not be accustomed to taking risks or representing a large group of people. The one positive, however, is that the indifference bug has not yet hit the freshmen class, as multiple students ran for each position in their grade. Student council advisors even commented on the timeliness in which the freshmen submitted their election forms to run. It may never have been said before in the history of the School, but perhaps the upperclassmen should take a page out of the freshmen book. Rising juniors and seniors would benefit from a little more drive, enthusiasm and courage - which apparently are all qualities displayed by the current freshmen. Frankly, it is embarrassing that the freshmen are setting more of an example for the upperclassmen than vice versa. Upperclassmen must reinvigorate themselves if they want next year to be a successful and fun school year. With a little more spirit, students could make a real positive change in the School community to improve the quality of student life.
Benjamin Hall: The Formal Living Room We’ll Never Use v The strict and meticulous rules surrounding Benjamin Hall must be lifted. Gretchen Sousa Outgoing Photo Editor
The 11 million dollar building has arrived, and Benjamin Hall is nothing less than spectacular, but with all its glory comes a set of rules stricter than the TSA’s. It is understandable that the administration does not want us leaving or spilling our tall mocha frappuccinos with a shot of basic white girl Starbucks in the hall, but really, no water bottles? A water bottle is not going to leave a stain and 14-year olds should know how to pick up after themselves. Plus, if students are drinking, they cannot have a side conversation making it a win-win situation. The administration does not have to shush them, and the students stay hydrated. Let’s face the facts; cells phones are to teenagers as an IV is to someone who is on life support. It is
impossible to have all 400 students give up their phones for a 30-minute assembly. It is not that they want to be able to use them during assembly. It is simply just a security blanket. I mean one never knows what could happen in assembly, and if it is not on one’s snap story, did it actually happen? The process of going to one’s locker to drop off a backpack takes at least 5 minutes in itself. It already takes an hour to herd students into the
“It is an absolute crime to only be able to use Benjamin Hall for an hour each week. It is a gorgeous building that needs to be showcased on a daily basis.” door and to their seats, so eliminate the hustle and let us bring our backpacks in. It would also get students back to class faster because they would not be searching for where they left their backpacks. It was never a problem during middle school assemblies in the BPAC.
Editorial Board
Online Online at at www.PharBlog.com www.pharblog.org
Founded in 1980 as The Spectator March May 22, 8, 2015 2013 The Benjamin School 4875 Grandiflora Road Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33418 Contact Info Phone: 561-472-3485 Fax: 561-691-8823 Advisor: Mr. Ken Didsbury kendall.didsbury@thebenjaminschool.org Co-Editor-in-Chief: Editor-in-Chief: Annelise LaurenHillmann Bernick annelise.hillmann16@thebenjaminschool.org lauren.bernick13@thebenjaminschool.org Co-Editor-in-Chief: Executive Editor: Kathleen Ben Germano Walsh kathleen.walsh16@thebenjaminschool.org ben.germano13@thebenjaminschool.org
Mission Statement
The Statement Pharcyde is Ben Greenspan Outgoing Co-Editor-in-Chief Mission Board a student newspaper Andy WeirEditorial Outgoing CoEditor-in-Chief The Pharcyde is a student newspaproduced to foster an open Annelise Hillmann Editor-in-Chiefper produced Lauren BernickIncoming Co-Editor-in-Chief to foster an open diadialogue about topics that Kathleen Walsh Incoming Executive Editor logue about Ben Germano Co-Editor-in-Chief topics that relate to relate The Benjamin Maddy Dalton Incoming Managing Editor The Benjamin to School. The issues Emily Dunkel Graphics Editor School. The issues that Jacqueline Henderson Incoming Photo Editor that appear throughout our pages Casey Pearce Managing Editor appear throughout our Gretchen Sousa Outgoing Photo Editor may be light-hearted or serious, pages may be lightBen Greenspan Copy Editor but regardless we aim to reflect Michael Muller Outgoing Sports Editor hearted or serious, but Greenspan Online the diversity of opinion within our Jake Sam Kleinfeld Incoming SportsEditor Editor regardless we aim to school that we value so deeply. Sandquist SportsEditor Editor FionaDean Schor Incoming Geodes reflect the diversity of Robert Charles Incoming Co-Graphics Editor opinion within our school Staff Writers Veronica Weiss Incoming Co-Graphics Editor that we value so deeply. Will Ziff Co-Online Editor LexiIncoming Cass, Averill Healey, Rachel Smith, Riley Burke, Jerrie James, Ashley Sniffen Co-Online Editor JulietteIncoming Mercadante, Ashlyn Sendler, Paige Sode, Michael Abby Baucom Incoming Co-Online Mullery, Andy Weir, Editor Caterina Breuer, Niki Hendi, Seamus Coffey-Gallagher IncomingBella Co-Online Annelise Hillmann, Ross,Editor Kathleen Walsh
Staff WritersStaff Artists
William ConWill Bafitis, DJ Robinson ran Photogra-
Staff Artists
Here’s an idea to preserve the theater; everyone should be required to wear a sanitation suit and advisors should spray their advisees with Lysol as they enter to kill the 99.9% of germs that lurk on our slobbish bodies (to be honest, this would probably take the same amount of time as it does now to get situated in Benjamin Hall for assembly). Even though the stage should be left to thespians and the numerous announcements at assembly, break off the locks and at least air out (or dry out) the lobby. The lobby has become the living room of the school, pretty, but no one ever sits in there because of fear of messing it up. Also, how is anyone ever going to see the artwork on display if no one is ever allowed in there? Let’s face it, while the underclassmen boys at this school have no respect for anything (example 1: the boys’ locker room), as mature seniors we should have the privilege of using the lobby as a lunch area and lounge. The school must have trust in the seniors to keep it neat and clean. It is an absolute crime to only be able to use Benjamin Hall for an hour each week. It is a gorgeous building that needs to be showcased on a daily basis.
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Opinions
The Pharcyde
May 22, 2015
Page A7
Respect the Code
v The apathy that students display towards the Honor Code is unacceptable. Students must consider the consequences of their actions. that the worst feeling one person can have towards another is apathy. I think that sentiment extends
Benjamin Greenspan Outgoing Editor-in-Chief
“I truly believe that the Code should receive the same amount of respect that any
As President of Honor Council, and as a member of the Council for the last four years, I’m in a good position to speak to the integrity of this school. I see students who have made small mistakes, stemming from misunderstandings or just a rush to finish work, and I have also seen serial cheaters who really do not care if they are caught. What I have gleaned from this is the potential danger of apathy, because the vast majority of students who do come before the Council are there because they simply are apathetic. Mr. McVicar has stated on multiple occasions
teacher does, as students can learn as much from it as they can any biology textbook or Shakespearean sonnet.” towards all things, whether living, physical, or transient. Our Honor Code is not a physical substance, but it as much a part of our school as any
faculty member, student, or administrator. I truly believe that the Code should receive the same amount of respect that any teacher does, as students can learn as much from it as they can any biology textbook or Shakespearean sonnet. It provides a strong foundation for future success within its first six words: “I will maintain my selfrespect.” Any quick glance at the news can prove that self-respecting human beings are unfortunately a dying breed, as politicians and businessmen will gladly sell their souls to the devil for a few extra dollars in their pockets. Permanent success only finds those who have a strong sense of self-worth and respect. Where does a lack of self-respect stem from? Perhaps apathy towards oneself. Only selfrespecting individuals have a firm interest in their lives. So, I ask students to consider their integrity when deciding whether or not to care about an upcoming essay or project, and to consider the far-reaching consequences of apathy towards one’s future, hopefully realized, goals.
To Recycle or Not to Recycle
v Two science teachers give their views on Benjamin’s recycling policy and whether or not the School should continue its attempts at a “green” school environment.
A Case For Recycling Mrs. Pierman Science teacher Should we abandon our recycling program? Of course not! Do we need to make some changes? Yes. Our recycling efforts on this campus are a good start, but there are a few glaring areas where we can improve. First and foremost, students and faculty need to commit. The Lower and Middle School campus does a much better job than our campus, because their faculty enforces and polices recycling. One would hope that high school students could police themselves. Even if you don’t want to actively participate in recycling – you should try it… it’s not difficult! – you should know that your actions can negate the commitment of those who do. If regular trash (nonrecyclable) is placed in a recycle bin, then that entire bin cannot be recycled! The other area in which we need to improve is in educating our cleanup crew. They do an outstanding job keeping our campus looking great. However, when it comes to recycling, we’ve seen too many instances where recyclable material is thrown away
with non-recyclables. We need to ensure that the campus’ commitment is honored every step of the way. What else can you do? Use a reusable water bottle to save hundreds of plastic bottles from ending up in landfills every year. Say NO to plastic bags and instead bring a reusable cloth one or don’t use a bag for items you can easily carry. Carpool to reduce our carbon emissions. Turn off lights and electronic devices when not in use to save on energy consumption. Write on BOTH sides of the paper, and if you make a mistake use that page as scrap for something else. In the end, recycle all paper waste so that it can be turned back into paper we can then use again! I encourage you to check out a great video called, “The life cycle of a plastic bottle, what really happens to the plastic you throw away” on YouTube. (https://youtu. be/_6xlNyWPpB8) It gives you some perspective on recycling. Once we commit to going “green”, we will push each other to make “greener” choices, recycle more and hold our school community accountable for our actions – green or otherwise.
A Case Against Recycling
Dr. Martino Head of the Science Department I propose we stop recycling at Benjamin. The recycling program at Benjamin is creating more waste than benefit. First let me say I am pro-recycling and would love to see a strong, student led recycling initiative here at Benjamin. I, like most individuals, separate my paper and bottles and send it off to the curb every week. I also try to reuse and, better yet, limit my consumption as much as possible. I cringe though as I walk through our campus at lunch and watch students throw bottles and cans into our many, many recycling bins we have placed around campus for our convenience. Some of the bins are within five feet of each other. All of those recycling bins really gives the appearance that we are a green school. I cringe because I know that each of those collection cans is lined with a plastic bag that weighs ten times as much as a normal plastic bottle.
Using a conservative estimate of 40 recycling containers, and yes that is conservative, that means we consume 1900 pounds of plastic each year to recycle our bottles and cans. If every student and faculty on our campus recycled one plastic bottle a day that would only be 1700 pounds of plastic recycled each year. And if you say “well that 1900 pounds is getting recycled what’s the big deal?” then you are really naive. I encourage all of our students and faculty to investigate our bulk recycling containers and our trash dumpster and you will see something confusing. What you will see is that most of the time that 3600 pounds of recycling and plastic baggage ends up in the dumpster and not the recycling bin. I say we save 1900 pounds of solid waste a year by stopping recycling. Or better yet I say we put together the collective minds of an incredibly bright student body and faculty and figure out a way to recycle better. I’m willing to help, what about you?
Have your voice heard.
{P} Write a letter to the editor. Send your thoughts, in 150 words or fewer, to annelise.hillmann16@thebenjaminschool.org
Page A8
May 22, 2015
Checking Up: Ten Things We Can Do to Improve the School In the April 2013 issue of The Pharcyde, the Staff listed ten things the School could do for little or no cost to improve itself. As this year’s seniors say goodbye, the Staff thought it appropriate to revisit the School’s progress on these ten things.
BY BENJAMIN GREENSPAN Outgoing Co-Editor-In-Chief
I remember my first day of high school relatively vaguely. I know my first class was Honors Biology with Ms. Spino, and I know that my first real impression of Benjamin was that there were a plethora of blonde people. I also remember crying when I came home after the first day, not because I wasn’t blonde (I learned to accept that), but because I was overwhelmed. Like most people, I loathe change. Whenever I am thrust into a new environment, I feel as though I can only tread water for so long before one little cramp causes
Approve GSA: No
Revise Athletic Handbook: No
The details of the Athletic Handbook remain relatively unknown by most of the student body.
Implement a new cell phone policy: Yes
Create a culture of creativity: Yes
With the opening of Benjamin Hall and more opportunities for students to showcase art, the School has worked to promote creativity and self-expression.
Revamp student groups: No
Many student groups and clubs remain simply vehicles for resume-padding rather than actual extracurricular development.
No tolerance cheating policy: No Benjamin’s cheating policy remains incredibly relaxed.
Integrate research papers: No
Although classes like Modern Middle East have started to assign research papers, most students will still go all four years of high school without writing one.
Forget the frivolous: No
Benjamin continues to focus more on small-scale disciplinary offenses rather than the largest infractions.
End the sports requirement: Yes
The sports requirement has transitioned into an extracurricular requirement, allowing students with talents outside of athletics to not be burdened by the requirement.
Make senior year more special: No
With the temporary removal of senior parking earlier this year, many seniors felt that senior year was made less special this year.
The Pharcyde
A parting word from an editor-in-chief
With the recent formation of Safe Space, the School has recognized the need for an LGBT awareness group on campus but has yet to officially recognize it as a club.
Last year, the School started allowing limited cell phone usage by students outside of academic areas.
Opinions
Photo courtesy of Benjamin Greenspan
In his four years, Greenspan has been Copy Editor, Executive Editor and CoEditor-in-Chief.
me to drown, while everyone around me lounges casually on the shore. At Benjamin, the feeling was more acute. I was in a pinball machine, careening between classes, extracurriculars, and schoolwork. This ragdoll sensation was not a result of the structure of my new school, but rather a lack of maturity, and, more specifically, perspective. At a low point during my freshman year, the friendly-neighborhood Yahoo! Answers suggested starting a journal to maintain a sort of balance. It was not really a diary because I would not write about who I had a crush on or- oh wait, I did. Well, I guess it actually was a diary. Anyway, I opened a tab on OneNote called “Freshman Year Notes” and made the subhead 3/6/12, the day’s date. In the entry, I used words like “nervous,” “scared,” and “worried.” My primary anxiety stemmed from the misguided thought that a B in Spanish would prove to be the starting point of a catastrophic snowball effect, in which my grades would continue to “plunge” and my dreams of attending a great school would be unrealized. The thing is, an entry dated a month later showed that I had managed to raise my grades to the level that I desired, but I was not ecstatic. I wrote, “Big whoop, it’s whatevs” (thankfully, I have permanently removed both of those phrases from my daily rhetoric.) I felt no sense of accomplishment, no jubilation for having reached my goals. It meant nothing to me because I lacked perspective. I stopped writing in that journal about two months after I began due to a combi-
nation of laziness and I don’t know, I don’t want to think of another word. Only in January of this year did I recall that I had ever even kept a journal, for however brief a time. When I saw the first entry, I experienced a rush of pride, pleased with the knowledge that I had eventually reached my goal. But when I saw the entry a month later, I couldn’t understand my frustration. I should have been happy, but I wouldn’t allow myself to be. So what’s the point? I’m not exactly sure. I suppose what it all boils down to is to take a step back, take a deep breath, and look back. You can only soak up the beautiful view from a mountain top once you take off your sunglasses. And finally, I do recall one more thing from the first few weeks of freshman year. I promised that if I ever became editor of The Pharcyde, I would put a photo of Kevin Okun somewhere in the paper. I am a man of my word. v
Photo courtesy of Mason Manos
Senior editor bids farewell to Pharcyde BY ANDY WEIR
Outgoing Co-Editor-in-Chief Over the last few weeks, it seems as if everyone in the senior class is buzzing with excitement, eager to start anew and leave the past behind, but while I too am incredibly thrilled about the future, I cannot help but also feel saddened about what I am leaving behind. Much has changed in the 14 years I have spent at Benjamin. When I started at Benjamin, gas was about $1.50 per gallon, tweeting was only something a bird could do, and two twin towers still stood in downtown Manhattan. In a world of frequent change, Benjamin was a constant for me, yet now I find myself having to say goodbye. Of course, it is never easy to say goodbye to your home and to your family, and Benjamin has been just that for me: an extension of my home and family. Simply put, I love Benjamin and am so grateful for all the good fortune and opportunity that it has afforded me. It is that love, though, that has driven me to so passionately criticize the School’s actions at times. Interestingly enough, I can look anyone in the eye and firmly say that Benjamin is the most extraordinary place on Earth (even more so than Disneyland, which is a big deal for me to admit), but I also know that it is not without room for improvement. Some in the community would like to see Safe Space become an LGBT club, while others see censorship as an emerging problem with the school’s media outlets, namely The Pharcyde and BTV N3WS. Additionally, the School and Faculty have yet to act on The Pharcyde’s proposed “Bill of Rights” or “Ten Things to Make the School Better.” These small improvements can make a sizable difference in our
community in the future. But above all, what the School must always remember is it is not multimillion-dollar expansions or sleek new technology that truly makes Benjamin special; it is its incredible people. It is the students, teachers, parents, alumni, and even administrators that make this school a supportive, loving, and sophisticated environment. Because of Benjamin, I have met so many incredible people, learned so many wonderful things, and made so many unforgettable memories, and when reflecting on all of it, I am so full of gratitude. You have made this weird, oneeyed geek feel like he belongs; you have given him the confidence to fearlessly be himself; you have put up with him for all these years (and, trust me, I know that is not an easy thing to do); and most importantly, you have encouraged and cared for him when he has needed it most. I have not always thought that I had much to offer as a person, but this community has shown me otherwise. It has made a profound impact on me. The support I have found within this community continues to surprise me each and every day. Whether it be my friends offering encouragement when I am down or my teachers offering personal advice when I need some, I cannot even begin to express my gratitude for all that support and encouragement. It has meant the world to me. Oddly enough, I have yet to find an environment more conducive to being one’s true self than Benjamin. You have made me feel comfortable enough to laugh at myself, get down with my bad self at school dances, embrace my “Disney Side,” and make enthusiastic announcements at school assemblies. With all that said, it should be clear that the aspect of Benjamin I
will miss most is the people. I will miss the lifelong friends I have made, the caring teachers for whom I have bounds of respect, and the community, which has always been there for me. But I will also miss the heated debates with fellow students and teachers, the many class field trips, seeing the whole school congregate outside for lunch each day, and above all else, the sunny days that were made even brighter by
Photo courtesy of Andy Weir
Weir dedicated four years to The Pharcyde and its 28 issues.
all of you. So, as one could imagine, I cannot fathom completely saying goodbye to all of that, and in a sense, I am lucky that I do not have to. Although I will be separated from my friends and Benjamin by distance, I will always keep these last 14 years in an incredibly special place in my heart, I will hold every memory as gold, and I know you all will always be there for me, just as you always have been. So as I prepare to enter this next chapter of my life, to quote one Mickey Mouse, “It’s never v goodbye. It’s just see ya’ real soon.”
Opinion
The Pharcyde
May 22, 2015
Page A9
Senior Wills Herein lies the last will and testament of the Class of 2015. The seniors leave behind their most prized possessions to underclassmen friends and teachers. I, Alexandra Murray, leave the Benjamin Buddy Program in Izzy Derosa’s capable hands. May this legacy flourish under your supervision. I also leave her the AP Chem table and my test score as I will most likely not be able to use it for college.
I, JT Le, leave the management of Belvedere to Collin O’Hare and West Rudolph. I, Samantha Guilford, would like to leave my jetski to my best friend Cole Ronquillo. I, Cole Ronquillo, leave Caterina Breuer to carry out my instagram artsy-ness.
I, Maria Dattolo, leave the girls lacrosse team to next year’s amazing captains, Riley Johnston and Autumn Ryan.
I, Julia Batts, leave my half of the YMUN presidency to Niki Hendi and Cat Breuer. I also give Kate Sory sole possession of our love/fascination of Putin. I, Gretchen Sousa, would like to leave my obnoxious dugout yelling to Kaylan Arnold, my strength to deal with Jason Judge and Lukas Lasher in math to Sofia Remez and my SCHOOL SPIRIT to Jacky Potts!
I, Lillian Lesser, leave to Annelise Hillmann all the forks in the Spanish department (don't forget them!), to Hanna Jacobs The Soprano 2 section (nuts and fruits...), and to Sloane Rosin and Margot Hirsch JSU. I, Hannah Cogsil, pass down my Jupiter Lanes Legacy to Christian Cropp. May you be blessed with strikes and earn as many "split pizzas" as I did. (Which was zero) Hope all the tips I've given you have paid off and maybe one day you can beat me. I, Ben Greenspan, leave fond memories of my childhood to my dad and Dr. Martino. I also leave my heart to Jake Kleinfeld.
I, Hannah Denenberg, leave the swim team captainship to Rico (Jared Shapiro).
I, DJ Robisnon, leave my lack of pizza selling to Robert Charles.
I, Kyle Malone, leave Dawson Pettit my collection of Death Cab for Cutie records in case he needs me so much closer, I leave Hannah Krul Blake Henderson, I leave Veronica Weiss my pop-punk lifestyle, and I leave Kate Sory to play the E minor chord in PFP.
I, Caroline Hopkins, want to give Julie Bicknell my seniority, even though she will always be a freshman to me.
I, Virginia Johnson, leave the silver bullet mini van to my brother Lambert because there is no way he is driving my car.
I, Emily Katz, leave to Alexa McAvoy frozen yogurt and d minor scales. To Senior Caroline Conlin Kristine Hewitt I leave solfege, sight singing, and Wolfie’s laugh. To Scotty Burstein and Wells Fournie I leave mall trips, chipotle, mascara and a dress from Nordstroms. To Alexandra Katz I leave my college sweatshirts that she takes anyway. To Kole Rosin I leave the name Martha and Martha's dance moves.
Letters to the Editor Mr. Feyk Head of the English Department
To the members of The Pharcyde, thank you again, as always, for a compelling, thought provoking paper. I was struck by your feature on a lack of basic civic and current events knowledge. While the identification of the problem was well presented, and I must say not at all surprising, as a literature teacher, artist, and writer, I could not help but notice that in the presentation, selection of details, and printed questions, there seemed to be a clear subtext that the “School” should be doing something about it. I have no doubt that pretty much the entire faculty and staff have in fact been trying to address this, but just as when somebody makes a grammatical or usage mistake the superficial knee jerk response is “what are they doing in the English Department”, the same tarring seems to occur here for the Social Studies Department, in specific, and the school in general.
I, Michael Mullery, leave my jumpshot to Connor Saslow; he needs one. I, Thomas Camp, leave my role as captain of the football team to someone who is willing to work hard for it each and every day. I, Agne Numavicuite, leave the burden of reminding people that Lithuanians still exist to Ms. Misselhorn and Mr. Harper. I, Brandon Mackles, leave my Turkey (Emu) Leg to Ms. Misselhorn and her AP Euro class.
We, Carly Kennerly and Reagan Jahn, leave the girl's golf team and its shenanigans to diva (Sarah Campanella). I, Baylen Sparks, leave #26 baseball jerseys, that DJ Paone left to me, to Logan Taplett.
I, Andy Weir, will the leadership of The Pharcyde to the very talented Annie Hillmann and my wicked dance moves to my loving sister Grace Weir.
I, Amelia Gardner, give my strength to Jacqueline Henderson to get through school without all of her favorite seniors and the "love" I have for this place.
I, Mason Manos, leave $100 worth of food for Chris Chapin, my passenger seat for Veronica Weiss, my movie ticket for Luke Silvers, hypothetical statements for Dawson Pettit, and an annoying gif album for Ethan Waxman (oh wait they already have those).
I, Hailey MacGregor, leave the pants to Emily Gay. I, Mayra Pelayo, send a will to Kylie Borislow, for you to put your team on your back next year and win a state title championship. I, Emma McCarthy, leave the girls varsity track team to Sophie and Ana Weed.
We, Gretchen Sousa and Sam Stilley, leave exclusive rights of the name K-Money to the softball team.
I, Max Chesnes, leave the keys to Reback track and field to Sir Isaac Wendler. I, Alec Batts, leave Caterina Breuer my collection of college t-shirts from all the schools I didn't get into.
I, Madeline Moss, leave the future of Conferencia to Brittany Silvester.
I, Sydney Shultz, leave to Kathleen Walsh 1/2 a toenail and the knowledge that we are #deeper. To Kole Rosin, I leave ABBA and unlimited cakepops; to Cali Becker, I leave a million organized outings and some American Apparel underwear. To the cast and crew of High School Musical, I leave asparagus and hollandaise sauce. To Mr. Bazar, I leave cookies and our future bakery; to room 525, I leave a million pictures of my true love... Ambrose Burnside <3
Mark Twain said, ‘When a man dies from drinking too much whiskey, they always blame the whiskey.’ So here as well. Why is it that whenever there is a societal, behavioral, academic, or scholastic deficiency, the faculty and staff are supposed to fix it? The Pharcyde proposes four things that the school
I applaud the public awareness of the problem that the paper provides, but I bristle that this becomes one more thing that the School should do for the students, rather than something students should address in their own lives. should do to fix this. None of the four suggestions indicate any responsibility on the part of the students to address this. I applaud the public awareness of the problem that the paper provides, but I bristle that
this becomes one more thing that the School should do for the students, rather than something students should address in their own lives. We claim to produce motivated, self directed independent learners, but if we must legislate for every foible, then the product is neither independent nor self directed. In my policy sheet for my classes I articulate the situation this way: “The Benjamin School requires each and every student to take personal responsibility for their education. It is the mission, obligation, and duty of the Benjamin School faculty and staff to provide outstanding opportunities for students to learn, and experience academic success. Likewise, it is the mission, obligation, and duty of the Benjamin Student to respond appropriately and take advantage of these opportunities. The position of the school is not to make students learn, but rather to provide an environment in which students, if they choose, can and will learn. As always, the primary agent in education is the learner.” The tone of pages four and five seems in conflict with these principles. Here, “The patient must minister to [him]herself”. Thank you for listening.
Sp o
Page 10 May 22, 2015
The Pharcyde
College Matriculation
After blood, sweat, and tears in college counseling, the senior class have
167 schools sent out acceptance
University of Washington Qingdou “Edison” Jiang Ding “Zachary” Zhang
letters to the Class of 2015
University of Colorado at Boulder Natalie Newman
Northwes Andy Weir
Washington University in St. Louis Nick Castriz
$3,079,580
was rewarded to the senior class in scholarships
12
students have committed to play collegiate sports University of California, Santa Barbara Kevin Okun
6
students plan to major in the arts
University of California, Los Angeles Mark Libowitz University of Southern California Kiyo Vigliotti*
10
Texas Christian University Amelia Gardner Bobby O’Leary Baylor University Emily Katz*
students have been enrolled in honors schools
The University of Texas, Austin Stephanie Roche*
$675,960
Southern Methodist Hannah Cogsil Adrian Perez Vargas Carolina Zindel
was obtained by 61 seniors who qualified for Bright Futures
Layout by Veronica Weiss
“
I am so grateful for Benjamin and all the life-long friends and great memories I’ve made throughout the years. I’m excited for the next four years and glad I won’t lose some of my close friends.
“
Senior Sound-Off
Bard College, Berlin, Germany Sebastian Schiller
Virginia Johnson
Max Chesnes
tlight o
Page 11 The Pharcyde
May 22, 2015
n of the Class of 2015
e found their colleges. The Pharcyde wishes the Class of 2015 good luck! University of Michigan Hannah Denenberg Isabel Grabel
stern University r
School of the Art Institute of Chicago Jillian Sander
n
Sarah Lawrence College Savanna Saiz
Colgate University Sydney Schultz Lehigh University Reagan Jahn
Indiana University at Bloomington Brandon Mackles Michael Mullery
Quinnipiac University Hadley Lane
Columbia University Benjamin Greenspan Fordham University Brooke Kaufman Pratt Institute Kyle Malone New York University Agne Numaviciute
University of New Hampshire Hannah Malasky Harvard University Alexandra Murray
Kenyon College Christopher Erdmann
Boston University Danshi Chen Northeastern University Lillian Lesser* Berklee College of Music Maria Maciejko
Miami University, Oxford Wiliam Bafitis West Virginia University Emma McCarthy
Tufts University Maria Dattolo Providence College Samantha Guildford Seton Hall University Cole Ronquillo
Rider University Savannah Logan* University of Kentucky Jalen Ledger
Georgetown University Carolina Haddad George Washington University Ethan Klein Annie Syed
Wake Forest University Kristy Sadocha Monica Anderson
University of Tennessee, Knoxville Andres Dominicis
University of Virginia Alec Batts Julia Batts Camille Larmoyeux
Elon University Robert Friedly Tyler Kasten Spencer Schar
Clemson University Rebecca Lichtblau The University of Georgia Gabrielle Aguirre
Hofstra University Parker Quinn
High Point University Kelly Reed Gretchen Sousa
Belmont University Edward Rieck IV
Georgia Institute of Technology Mason Manos
Mercer University Dylan Malamala Flagler College Vincent Pileggi Florida State University Madisyn Deleo Morgan Ditaranto Stephen Fasul Inga Iverson Kaitlin Keller Casey Nicklaus John True
Mississippi State University Thomas Camp
University of Central Florida Brody Nissen*
Warner University Dave Robinson, Jr. Palm Beach State College - Palm Beach Gardens Tyler Coliskey Michael Lay William McCloskey Baylen Sparks
t University Eckerd College Kyle Vincent
Louisiana State University Patrick Clancy Kameron Cline Brittney Searson
University of Alabama Tanner Krul Katherine O’Hare Kimberly Price Samuel Seabridge
The stress of schoolwork and colleges was worth the joy seeing the final outcome, and it couldn’t have gone any better. I’m excited to go to a different school for the first time in my life next year. It will be a change, but a change I’m excited for.
“
“
The University of Tampa Thomas VonLehmden University of South Florida, Tampa Max Wulff
Florida Gulf Coast University Brigid Murray Florida SouthWestern State College Alexis Howell
Lynn University Robert Ferruggia Florida Atlantic University Angelica Bafitis Elizabeth Potts* University of Miami Piper Austin Charles Mountain
A * denotes if a student will be attending an honors college
“
I’m most excited about meeting new people, taking classes within my psychology major and trying out for Northeastern University’s Choir society!
“
Auburn University Caroline Hopkins Carly Kennerly Steven Reece
Rollins College Kit Spina
University of Florida Nicole Archer* Max Chesnes Caroline Downey Giovana Giraldo* Rachael Hagy Virginia Johnson JT Le Madeline Moss Mayra Pelayo-Bernal Ashley Reback Antonio Rodriguez Trevor Ross Samantha Stilley* Santa Fe College Hailey MacGregor Kelsie MacGregor Kieffer Rueckert
Lillian Lesser
School Life Student Stories + Teacher Features
The Pharcyde SHOUTOUT:
No more school days left in the year!
Junior lights up the community with her service BY ISAAC WENDLER Incoming Copy Editor For some Benjamin students, the desire to make a difference in the community simply cannot be satisfied by the occasional volunteer service project, and Alexis Kauchick is one such student. Two years ago, this Benjamin junior founded Eternal
Essence Candle, a nonprofit organization that sells handmade candles and donates all profits for the benefit of others. As Kauchick put it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mission is to provide the community with the opportunity to indulge in simple, organic, and soy wax candles for the purpose of home decor and gift-giving, all while supporting different causes annually.â&#x20AC;?
Kauchick started the company during her sophomore year and was inspired by her brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passing away. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My older brother had candle-making as a hobby,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When he passed away, I received all of his supplies. I planned on starting a business and decided to take my tragic situation and make the best of it.â&#x20AC;?
Photo courtesy of Alexis Kauchick
Kauchickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s candles are not only organic, but are also made of sustainable soy wax.
Fortunately, she has not had to do this alone. With the help of her friends and fellow students, she managed to make the company a success. Explaining her progress, she said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I started off sophomore year with a few candlemaking supplies and an ambitious idea, but with the help of those around me, I managed to make the transition from idea to reality.â&#x20AC;? In total, Eternal Essence has donated over $8,000 in the past two years. The first yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales went to buying supplies and providing entertainment for Ahepa 18, a governmentfunded nursing home in West Palm. When asked about the experience, Kauchick said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard for many of the men and women at Ahepa 18 to get outside and buy things like bread, fresh fruit, and milk, so we supplied them with these staples. On top of that, we covered items like fresh produce and dairy that their food stamps donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t provide. These people needed help, so we helped them.â&#x20AC;? Most recently, the organization donated its profits to the Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation, a family relief group and disease research organization based out of Chi-
cago. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donated to these organizations in order to help the people around me and support the causes that I care about,â&#x20AC;? Kauchick said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It just makes sense that people should help those in need.â&#x20AC;? Besides changing the lives of others, Eternal Essence has also changed her life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had a really hard time with the loss of my brother, and this company has acted as a piece of him I can hold on to,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I really encourage those going through a hard time to try and make the best of their situation for the benefit of themselves and others. You never know what other people are going through, and every seemingly small action truly makes a difference.â&#x20AC;? Kauchick has big plans for the future of Eternal Essence. The company currently has an etsy.com page, but she is working on a real website from which it may operate. She hopes to continue her work her senior year and beyond, helping as many causes as possible. If interested in buying one of Eternal Essenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homemade candles and contributing to Kauchickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work in the community, visit www.etsy.com/ shop/EternalEssenceCandle.
Summer programs are not golden ticket into college BY ABBY BAUCOM Incoming Co-Online Editor While some students are hesitant about the idea of attending a summer college program, those who have attended them have found them to be beneficial; however, the College Counseling office warns against depending on college programs as application boosters. As studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; inboxes begin to overflow with emails from a multitude of colleges offering a variety of summer programs, the instinctive reaction is to click the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;select allâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and then â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;deleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; button before exploring the benefits these programs have to offer. Members of the College Counseling Office agree that these programs help students to prepare for their transitions from high school to college and learn how to balance classes with fun. Students gain independence from summer college programs by experiencing life on a college campus for weeks at a time, and having the opportunity to strengthen and hone their skills at a more advanced level. College counselor Mrs. Lynne Feyk recently explained the benefits that a summer college program can bring to students. She said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A summer program can enhance a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s application if it illustrates something that may also be supported in other parts
of the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s application. For example: If you do a summer program in Marine Biology and also take classes at school in Marine Biology and Oceanography,â&#x20AC;? Feyk said. Having recently attended a summer college program, senior Julia Batts shared her informed perspective on the subject. This past summer, Batts attended the Women in Engineering program at Michigan Technological University. The program was taught by current graduate students and covered about nine areas of engineering and computer science. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was interested in entering an engineering program in college, but I had never taken an actual class or knew anything about it and wanted to learn more,â&#x20AC;? Batts said. During the weeklong summer camp, students participated in two rigorous group projects. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I worked on constructing an autonomous underwater vehicle with the mechanical engineers in the morning and spent my afternoons, in a foundry, working with molten zinc and bronze and personally pouring them into the molds we made,â&#x20AC;? Batts revealed. Engineering is only one type of college program that is offered to students. College counselor Mr. Jeffrey Wong described the variety of programs available. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a ton of summer programs on
a wide range of subjects, ranging from investigative journalism to computer science, and everything in between,â&#x20AC;? Wong said. As valuable as these experiences might be, Mr. Wong cautioned that the benefits of experience and credibility that a summer college program offers are not considered as important to colleges as other components, such as a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grade point average, academic rigor and extracurricular activities. Mr. Wong said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that there is a misperception about the value of summer programs in the college admissions process. Admissions officers pay much more attention to a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extracurricular activities during the year than those that take place in the summer. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to say that they will ignore anything done over the summer; theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll certainly be happy if someone does something interesting in the summer, but theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really looking at a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extracurricular activities as a whole throughout their high school career.â&#x20AC;? As a whole, the College Counseling Office is advising that students should not only be attending a summer college program with the hopes that it will aid in the college admissions process. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colleges do like to see students active in the summer, as opposed to doing nothing. If that means doing a particular program at a college, that is great, but
not necessarily better than having a job, or working with a local charity or doing an interesting travel programâ&#x20AC;Ś. The real trick is to do something that interests you,â&#x20AC;? Mrs. Feyk said. As advice to students interested in the idea of a summer college program, Batts said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would tell them to definitely at-
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The Pharcyde
School Life
May 22, 2015
Page A13
Students, teachers embrace tattoos despite policy BY FIONA SCHOR Incoming Geodes Editor
According to statisticbrain. com, approximately 37 percent of the population has at least one tattoo, and while the percentage of students and teachers who have them is not this high, it seems to be growing. Many people who have gotten tattoos are passionate about them. Junior Summer Scherb shared her situation by saying, “I’ve always really enjoyed tattoos, ever since I was a little kid. I always knew that I would get one because the idea of having art living permanently on yourself is a beautiful concept to me.” Teacher Mrs. Kimberley Jurawan got a tattoo of a fairy while traveling through Central America. She said, “I grew up as an avid reader of classical British literature. Amongst the many fictional characters that captured my imagination, the fairy was probably the earliest that appealed to me because she is mystical yet innocent. Hence my choice of a fairy.” Some people get tattoos while they are going through life changes. Spanish teacher Maria Gonzalez-Lopez said “Now that I reflect back on it, I think it was an assertion of my newly found independence after ending a 9 year relationship with my daughter’s father.” Similarly, senior Brooke
Kaufman went through an event which prompted her to get a tattoo. Her boyfriend died earlier this year, and she thought a tattoo would be a great way to honor him. Although she was only seventeen at the time, her parents were supportive of her deci-
“I think tattoos are beautiful and I think that people are quick to judge those who choose to have tattoos, but they don’t realize that in no way do tattoos reflect the person’s intelligence or integrity.” KIMBERELY JURAWAN French teacher sion and willingly signed off. She got the tattoo of his birthday in roman numerals on what would have been their first anniversary as a permanent reminder that he was her first love. The current Benjamin School policy on student tattoos is that they are allowed as long as they are not visible. Although Kaufman’s par-
ents were supportive, junior Summer Scherb’s parents reacted differently to her tattoo. “My mom was very supportive of me getting a tattoo. She was the one who originally signed all the forms I needed. Actually, a couple months before I got mine she got her first tattoo as well. However, my dad was not very supportive,” Scherb said. Scherb went on to say, “He sees tattoos as ruining someone’s image. Multiple times when he has seen a pretty girl, he has said, ‘It’s a shame she put that on her body.’ However, he had very little say in the matter of my tattoo.” An anonymous student even admitted that her parents do not know that she has a tattoo. Kaufman later said, “I think tattoos are beautiful and I think that people are quick to judge those who choose to have tattoos, but they don’t realize that in no way do tattoos reflect the person’s intelligence or integrity.” Senior Angelica Bafitis stated that she thinks tattoos are awesome if they have some sort of meaning behind them. She also thinks that usually the people who regret their tattoos probably got them spontaneously or carelessly. Jurawan, breaking with traditional views of tattoos and their stereotypical owners, said, “I do not at all associate tattoos with stereotypes of delinquency. Many are in the spirit of art and expression.”
KATHLEEN WALSH/ Incoming Executive Editor
Here is a picture of Summer Scherb’s tattoo. Though unoticeable at school, Summer is proud of her feather.
New JV Basketball coach to lead team next fall BY WILLIAM ZIFF Incoming Co-Online Editor Next year, the JV basketball team will have a fourth coach in four years, and it is a cause for concern with some of the players. Three years ago, the coach was Chris Nordland. Two years ago, it was Joe Bonikowski. This past year, it was Danny Gross, and next year it will be Drew
est player on the team this year, said he had a confusing time as a 3-year JV player because of the different styles of coaching. He said, “I did not become the player I could have been because of the different coaches telling me some different things each year.” Benjamin ‘09 graduate Coach Gross, however, believes that the coaching staff has been consistent. He said, “The departure of Coach Nordland
Photo by Gretchen Sousa
Tyler Kasten shoots hoops in a varsity basketball game
Taggart, who was the assistant coach this year. With a 2-12 record last year, a few players from this year’s team say that the inconsistency of the team is due in part because of the high turnover of coaches. Junior Trent Taylor, the old-
certainly changed the dynamic, but Coach Cavallo, along with Coach Harse and Coach Bonikowski have worked hard to maintain the culture that defines the Benjamin basketball program.” Coach Gross thinks that the abnormally high number of re-
cent head coaches does not affect player development. He said, “I do not think that the inconsistencies of the JV team led
“Every coach is going to have their own style. What the focus will be next year, I can’t say, except that the overriding goal will be fostering a culture that develops players for the varsity level.” COACH DANNY GROSS basketball coach to problems at the varsity level because of player development. If you look at the varsity team these past two years, there were numerous players that started at the JV level, like junior Logan Manos, senior Brandon Mackles, or sophomore Connor Saslow.” One of the main issues of this year’s JV team was that the team was very young, with only two sophomores and one junior, and all of the rest of the players being freshmen. Coach Gross said,
“This year, with such a young team, we decided early on that we wanted to focus on player development, and as a further result, raising our conditioning level to a level fit for varsity.” Sophomore Jack Boyland thinks that having Coach Taggart step up will provide the team with some continuity. He said, “It is an honor to have Drew Taggart as the next JV basketball coach, and hopefully we can win a few more games this year. We have the team chemistry already, and once the chemistry flows, everything should just click.” Coach Gross also talked about how Taggart will continue what Coach Gross started this year. He explained, “Every coach is going to have their own style. What the focus will be next year, I can’t say, except that the overriding goal will be fostering a culture that develops players for the varsity level.” Coach Taggart will try to make the transition as easy as possible for the players. He said, “As for the plays, I would think that we would use similar plays as last year. Again, things can change and we like to run similar plays as varsity to help the JV players get ready for varsity.” He added by saying that it might not always be the coaches’ faults, and that the players have to be responsible to take their game to the next level. He con-
tinued, “As coaches we can only give you the proper instruction and motivation to succeed, but it is ultimately up to the players to take that instruction and motivation and use it to their advantage. It’s the work in the offseason that really sets apart a decent high school player and a great high school player.” Even though the JV team ended with a disappointing record this season, Coach Gross said that his players worked very hard this year. He said, “I
“It is an honor to have Drew Taggart as the next JV basketball coach, and hopefully we can win a few more games this year. We have the team chemistry already, and once the chemistry flows, everything should just click.”
COACH DANNY GROSS basketball coach don’t think it’s fair to say that the intensity would need to pick up next year. That would be a disservice to the 13 players who worked their tails off all season.”
Page A14
May 22, 2015
School Life
The Pharcyde
Read it and Weep: students are no longer reading BY ISAAC WENDLER Incoming Copy-Editor
Travelling through the halls of the Benjamin Upper School, one hears a wide variety of sounds like the buzzing of phones and the clicking of laptops, yet one might strain to find more traditional sounds
“Books teach you how to think on your own. It’s that simple. If kids don’t read the books that we give them in class, then they don’t learn to form their own opinions and they don’t learn to think creatively. ”
MS. MARY DITARANTO English Teacher
like the turning of pages in a book. In the past few years, the increased popularity of computers and other technology like smartphones has influenced the lives of TBS students. No longer do students need to drive to the library to spend hours researching information in actual books; this can now be done with the push of a button.
Unfortunately, students seem to have learned to abuse this newfound power of the Internet. They make use of websites like Schmoop and SparkNotes, which provide condensed summaries of classics such as Macbeth, The Grapes of Wrath, and 1984 as opposed to sticking with the actual physical copy of the book. These sites offer in-depth analysis of literary elements of each text ranging from motifs and symbols to characters and themes. Because these sites are widely available for easy consumption, some kids seem to have stopped actually reading the texts they are handed in class. As senior Chris Erdmann put it, “Yeah, it’s really hard to be motivated to actually read the books that I get in class because I know that those websites are out there. Why would I spend time reading the books when I could look them up and learn as much as I would have in the first place?” Although this new trend makes life easier for the students, it comes with some very obvious drawbacks from the perspectives of the teachers. When questioned on the matter, English teacher Mary Ditaranto said, “First of all, it’s very obvious to us teachers when students don’t read. Websites like SparkNotes and Cliffs-
KATHLEEN WALSH/ Incoming Executive Editor
Fewer and fewer students are bothering to read , leaving many worried for their futures.
Notes aren’t perfect, so it’s easy to separate students who read from students who simply do a quick Google search on the topic.” Ditaranto also maintained that kids put themselves at a disadvantage when they choose not to read their books. She argued, “Books teach you how to think on your own. It’s that simple. If kids don’t read the books that we give them in class, then they don’t learn to form their own opinions and they don’t learn to think cre-
atively.” Sharing Ditaranto’s opinion, junior Ian Witmer said, “I don’t think I would be where I am today if I didn’t read. Books have helped shape parts of my character and personality that would definitely be different had I merely searched summaries of all of my favorite texts.” The drawbacks of substituting online summaries for books even seems to extend beyond the classroom. “A lack of reading can affect other parts of your life,” Ditaranto explained.
“Kids who don’t read waste money by paying thousands of dollars to tutors who teach them how to analyze literature and read critically for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, whereas the kids who do read already have those skills.” Devoting proper time and attention to actually reading books appears to pay off in and out of the classroom. As a last piece of advice to students, Ditaranto said, “Just pick up the book and read it. We know it can’t hurt you.”
a positive attitude with her peers, they often wonder what helps her keep her in a good place when she is sick. To answer that question she said, “I am used to being sick, so when I am, I try not to think about it so much. My pain level can get high, so it is a big deal when I am sick. It isn’t like most people’s sicknesses where they can do their everyday activities without a problem. With my condition, getting sick it is not easy for me to regain my health in a timely matter. Knowing that I can get back to my normal routine helps me push through getting sick and not having a bad attitude towards it.” To sustain the health of her immune system, Dylan takes six to eight pills every morning depending on if she is sick or not, and she also uses a nebulizer treatment for her lungs twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. She also adds another nebulizer treatment before she has anything to do with exercise. This routine helps maintain her normal lung capacity. With the school year coming to an end, Dylan is excited to begin playing lacrosse at Mercer University. When asked about how she feels about being away from her family if she were to get sick, she said, “I’m not that nervous because I know I’ll have a good support system
there and am going to be very active, so hopefully that helps keep me healthy along with having a strict regimen with my pills and treatments. There are doctors on campus
know my body well enough to know when I start to not feel well and what to do, so just staying in contact with my mom and being able to paying close attention to my body is
Senior battles with Cystic Fibrosis, leads athletic life BY JACQUELINE HENDERSON
Incoming Photo Editor Senior Dylan Malamala was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was two years old, yet for the past four years she has been the goalie for Benjamin’s girls’ lacrosse team and is now on her way to play goalie for Mercer University in Georgia. Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a disease that affects the digestive and respiratory systems. The respiratory system of those with CF produces too much mucus in the lungs which causes them to have a harder time expanding with a layer of fluid covering them. Dylan has had more of an issue with her respiratory system than her digestive system. However, as she has gotten older, she does experience some issues with her stomach but mainly has a harder time with her breathing throughout her daily activities. Although Dylan is very healthy now and is known for her go-getter mentality, she did not start playing sports until two years after transferring from New York to The Benjamin School in fourth grade. Describing how she pushed through her childhood to start playing her now favorite sport, she said, “I was sick for
a lot of my childhood before sixth grade, and coming into a new school I did not feel confident with my condition in fourth and fifth grade.
“My pain level can get high, so it is a big deal when I am sick. It isn’t like most people’s sicknesses where they can do their everyday activities without a problem.” DYLAN MALAMALA senior But as I got healthier when I got older I became more comfortable with it as if it were not there, which is rare because usually kids with CF get sicker with age. But then when I had friends and a support system within the school and had not been in the hospital since fourth grade, [I became] more confident with my condition. So, it was not so much of a burden anymore which also helped me find the sport I play now. I started playing lacrosse in sixth grade.” Because she conveys such
Photo courtesy of Dylan Malamala
Dylan Malamala signs to play lacrosse for Mercer University.
so if anything were to happen I trust them to help me through anything. I’m also not that worried because I
going to help me stay healthy. Overall, I am not worried and am overly excited to play for Mercer’s lacrosse team.”
The Pharcyde
School Life
May 22, 2015
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Rebalancing the equation: women’s place in science BY KATHLEEN WALSH Incoming Executive Editor
Remember Dexter’s Laboratory? Cartoon Network would play it almost every morning at around seven, and thousands of kids would tune in to watch as “Dexter,” the smart, self-sufficient, brain would try, in vain, to keep his big, blond, dumbo sister from entering his “laboratory.” But, Dexter’s Lab would not be the first, nor would it be the last, laboratory where women were not welcome. Though women represent over half of the world’s population, only about 24% of those entering science-based jobs will be women. Even when they do manage to break through the pervasive “glass ceiling,” many can expect to make significantly less than their male counterparts, averaging about 0.86 cents for every dollar made by a man, according to the ESA (Economic and Statistics Administration). Dr. Shirley M. Tilghman, the first female president of the prestigious Princeton University, microbiologist, and winner of the L’Oréal-UNESCO Award
for Women in Science, responding to an inquiry by The Pharcyde, offered some insight into the competitive, and seemingly chauvinistic world of scientific research.
“There are many
studies that show that the earlier girls get involved in doing science (rather than reading about it) the more likely they are to persist.”
DR. SHERYL TILGHMAN Microbiologist
“There are a number of reasons - cultural practices that unconsciously (and sometimes consciously) suggest that science is ‘man’s work:’ greater lack of selfconfidence in early college, and so a B for a student who always got As in high school is more discouraging to women; the field
24%
$1.00
that a worker who is a male in stem makes.
the scientific workforce, teachers need to} make science fascinating as well as fun. By that I don’t mean trivialize it, but design science projects that are meaningful (not cookbook), and where the students can take some ownership in designing the project, and conducting the experiments. There are many studies that show that the earlier girls get involved in doing science (rather than reading about it) the more likely they are to persist. There was also a recent study that showed that girls persist in engineering more often when the curriculum teaches engineering from the perspective of solving societal problems, rather than abstract ideas or creating apps for video games,” Dr. Tilghman said. Time will only tell whether or not the efforts made by the school to encourage female participation in science fields will yield success. Enrollment numbers in these new summer camps and STEM programs will give educators an inkling as to how much work the school has ahead of itself in terms of closing the scientific gender gap.
28%
of female stem university professors with phds hold tenure compared to the
of U.S. undergraduateS in engeering programs are women compared to the
is earned by a STEM woman WORKER for every
of stem workers who are male.
cording to Dr. Martino, who said, “Historically we as educators have done a poor job of empowering young girls to take stuff apart and get dirty learning how things work.” Dr. Martino, admitting that the number of female students in his engineering program are disproportionately smaller than the number of males, looks to rectify this issue by exposing young women to scientific studies earlier and earlier. “We need to change this [trend]. That is why TBS is offering an all-girls maker camp this summer in late elementary and middle school. Research shows that it is in 6th grade when girls start to reject the idea of them being science oriented and capable, when in reality, they are way more capable than boys of equal age and experience,” Dr. Martino said. Dr. Tilghman, calling on her years of experience both as an educator and as a female scientist,offered these final suggestions to science teachers as they move forward and address this gender gap issue. “[To encourage women to enter into
18.4%
$0.86
of stem workers are female. contrasting with the
76%
itself is very competitive and women are often turned off by that; the perception that women scientists are forced to choose between work and family is not true but is a common misperception,” Dr. Tilghman said. With the school’s continued promotion of the new STEM program, many may wonder if Benjamin, as a school, encourages this stereotype as well. Science Department Chair, Dr. Darryl Martino, hopes the contrary is true. “I feel that Benjamin students are willing to try something new and different. I also feel that our Middle School helps to encourage girls in science,” Dr. Martino said. However, unlike our school, which according to Dr. Martino does encourage female participation in science, the national average shows that aversion to STEM jobs begins not in the workplace, but in early education. Upon graduating, only 13% of female students claim to want to pursue a major in a scientific field, according to www.stemconnector. org. The blame seems to rest at least partly with teachers ac-
72%
81.6%
of male stem university professors who do.
of male majority in u.s. undergraduation engineering programs.
To rush or not to rush: students explore sororities Sources: Forbes, gettingsmart.com, the national science foundation, Infographic by veronica weiss
BY MADELEINE DALTON
Incoming Managing Editor According to several alumni, pledging and joining sororities is a really great experience that they would suggest to graduating seniors.
first semester. I felt really comfortable and confident during rush week and therefore I did not stress about the whole procedure,” she said. Sadocha explained that since the majority of the students at Wake Forest are involved in sororities or fraternities, it was a given that she would also become involved in
she said, “This has helped me create more friends who I know I can count on. Being part of a sorority has given me such a different and fun experience this semester and I’m so happy I became a part of it.”
“Rushing was a really fun experience, and you get to meet people that you wouldn’t have met otherwise .” JAQUELINE PHILLIPS Sorority Sister
Class of 2014 graduate Ashley Sadocha explained her eyeopening experience when joining sororities. “It was very easy for me because I had made a lot of friends in the sorority during
Greek life. She said, “I fit right in, all of my previous friends went Beta so it was a perfect match and super easy to feel comfortable.” Explaining how it has helped her in and out of school,
Similar to Sadocha, another class of 2014 graduate, Jacqueline Phillips also had a great experience joining a sorority. Phillips explained that at Rollins College, sororities are a way to see the ins and outs of many of the different organizations on campus. Phillips said, “Rushing was a really fun experience, and you get to meet people that you wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Explaining how it has helped her with school, she said, “My sorority has helped
me because my organization holds its women to a very high
that neither of them had to do anything embarrassing to ulti-
academic standard. The last thing I want is to be a grade risk to my organization, and I don’t want bad grades making my organization look bad.” Phillips explained how her pledge situation was different from that of Sadocha. “It was strange at first, only because I didn’t have anyone I was friends with before I joined my pledge class. As soon as I got to know everyone though, I realized that my sorority was perfect for me.” Phillips said, “I think the only difference is that those who are not in a sorority don’t have the understanding of what a sorority actually stands for and what it really is.” Both graduates explain
mately join their sororities, and that graduating seniors should not be worried about it. “Greek life is a great experience, and it is one that cannot be obtained anywhere else but college, so if it’s offered, then go for it!” Sadocha said, Phillips said, “I would definitely suggest joining even if you don’t think it’s for you. It brings you so many new friendships and new opportunities to expand who you are as a person. You should also trust in the recruitment process if you are going to rush. Some people end up unhappy where they are placed at first, but the process works and you just have to have faith that you’ll find where you fit in.”
The Scene Tech
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Trends
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The Arts
The Pharcyde SHOUTOUT:
Alexandra Murray and Benjamin Greenspan for winning valedictorian and saluditorian
Bazar begins three-part book series, looks for publisher BY SEAMUS COFFEY-GALLAGHER Staff Writer
In the past few years, Mr. Bazar has been involved in creating a story that, after many
“The opening image of the novel was drawn from real life...I was looking out an upstairs window during winter, very cold, middle of night and that image worked its way into my book.” THOMAS BAZAR English Teacher revisions, he knows he wants to share with the world. Mr. Bazar started writing
this story shortly after he graduated from college. He said, “I was working full-time as a bartender and applying for teaching jobs and I went to my favorite cafes and wrote, wrote and wrote.” His inspiration for writing came during a transitional period of his life. He explained, “The opening image of the novel was drawn from real life...I was looking out an upstairs window during winter, very cold, middle of night and that image worked its way into my book.” Mr. Bazar described his writing process as he was composing his story, saying, “Since this was the first novel that I worked on, it took a few years. The writing process worked best when I went at it everyday and sometimes that can be hard when you have a full time job and a family.” He continued, “I would go for two to three hours but I needed a place for me. Sometimes it depends on the writer; sometimes they have a desk or a room in the house where they work. I needed to get out and
go to a cafe. The one I went to was usually quiet. If there is too much bustle I can’t work, but
are working on new ways to incorporate this feature for other websites.” Mr. Bickerman explained what his job entailed when he said, “I spend a lot of my time working on the search page. This means that I collaborate with
running process, and it is humbling to know that you might not know as much as you think you know.” He also touched on how teaching at Benjamin has helped him at his new job by saying, “There is a good deal of interaction and explaining ideas to coworkers. In that respect there is a good deal of teaching that is involved. The ability to explain yourself clearly to someone is a very important skill to have here and teaching definitely helped
“The story is about a young man dealing with the loss of the girlfriend he loved, as well as their unborn child, and trying to move on.” THOMAS BAZAR English Teacher I had my spot; it was kind of a routine.” Mr. Bazar explained how, when writing a story, the first draft is never the final draft. He said, “The novel went through various drafts, and that’s why it was kind of an apprenticeship. It’s not unusual for writers or novelists to go through various drafts. For me in terms of finding a voice for the book and telling it in the first or third person. I went back and forth. I asked myself, ‘Are you telling it in the past; are you telling it in
Bickerman’s work for Google BY ROBERT CHARLES
Incoming Co-Graphics Editor
After a successful two years of teaching at Benjamin, Mr. Greg Bickerman is beginning to make
Photo courtesy of Greg Bickerman
Greg Bickerman enjoys a career as a computer programmer
his mark working for Google. As a software engineer, Mr. Bickerman has already accomplished several things since joining the company. “During my first six months at Google I worked to put out a new feature,” he said. “This feature put in scrolling carousels for specific searches on mobile devices. If somebody were to google CNN while on their mobile device, my feature would appear with all of today’s stories on the scrolling carousel.” He described the process by saying, “The carousel I created is an ongoing project. The feature itself took about six months to put out the first version of it. We still continue to make updates to it every-so often, and we
the people around me to both produce new features, as well as test new features. I also analyze whether or not people like the features we put out. Developing and putting out new features is the major part of my job, but I also work on other projects from time to time.” He added, “This whole experience has been eye-opening for me. It is strange to come into an environment where you are not the smartest person in the room by a long shot. To be surrounded by people who know so much more than you is astonishing. Everyday I learn something new, and even after a few months, I still don’t know half as much as most of the other workers. Working here is a long
“This whole experience has been eyeopening for me. It is strange to come into an environment where you are not the smartest person in the room by a long shot.” MR. GREG BICKERMAN software engineer
develop this skill for me.” Commenting on the impact that Mr. Bickerman had on him, Sophomore Geoffrey Moody said, “After studying computer science at my last school, I was unsure how I would continue my computer science studies. It was Mr. Bickerman’s unique, patient and creative teaching style that inspired me to continue my studies, and what eventually led me to enroll in AP Computer Science. I wish the best of luck to Mr. Bickerman at Google.”
the present; are you telling it in both? You have to figure these kind of issues out. You have to be consistent with tense, verb tense. Getting to a place where I felt this is the book, when I finally realized this is the book, came after various drafts.” When asked about the plot of the story, Mr. Bazar had this to share: “The story is about a
young man dealing with the loss of the girlfriend he loved, as well as their unborn child, and trying to move on.” He hopes the story appeals to many readers but knows he is not in control of that. Mr. Bazar also shared that this book is apart of a trilogy. He will be working on it during the summer.
KATHLEEEN WALSH/ Incoming Executive Editor
Thomas Bazar, an English teacher, and Drama Director of the Upper School is also an accomplished writer.
Summer Blockbusters Graphic by Robert Charles
Tomorrowland May 22, 2015 - A teenager filled with scientific curiosity and a former boy-genius inventer set out on a journey to unearth the secrets behind a nebulous place caught inbetween time and space known as “Tomorrowland.”
Jurassic World
June 12, 2015 - 22 years following the events of the last Jurassic Park movie (1983), Isla Nubar now features a fully functional dinosaur theme park. When visitor rates begin to decline, the park officials create a new hybrid dinosaur to attract new visitors. Eventually the new dinosaur escapes and begins to wreck havok on the park.
Ant-Man
July 17, 2015 - Con-artisit Scott Lang is tasked with helping his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, pull of a hiest that will save the world. Armed with a super suit that gives Lang the ability to shrink in size, as well as increase his strength turning Lang into Marvel’s latest hero, Ant-Man.
The Pharcyde
The Scene
Honkity,Honk,Honk: Why you should get your license ASAP I regret many things in my life. I regret the “scene” phase I went through in fifth grade. I regret every time I traded running a marathon for
“I’m that upperclassman who darts speedily out of my mummy’s minivan with my textbook in front of my face.” You may also notice her chasing after me with the juicebox and Uncrustable.” watching a marathon of the 90’s sitcom “Wings.” I regret getting a salad when I really wanted that burrito. But what I regret most in my entire school life is
that I waited to get my driving permit...until my junior year. In essence, my “mommy” is my permanent chauffeur now. Yeah, that’s me. I’m that upperclassman who darts speedily out of my mummy’s minivan with my textbook in front of my face. You may also notice her chasing after me with the juicebox and Uncrustable I left purposefully in her car. I’ll probably also trip on my untied, light-up, Sketchers limited edition pink sneakers, as I crawl into school, avoiding the eyecontact of people I respect. I mean I might as well just come to school in pigtails and a Barbie backpack. It’s times like this when I wished I had a boyfriend who could drive. But that whole option is sort of impossible, considering no one wants to go on a date with a girl who shows up to the mall in a minivan. Built-in tv or not, no
one looks sexy in a minivan. My mommy isn’t the only one relegated to driving me around Palm Beach County like I’m “Richie Rich” or something. My friends who can drive are also often subjugated to my puppy-dog eyed pleads for rides to Chipotle and the Gardens Mall. I’m sort of like a hitchhiker (minus the Gandalf beard, gold teeth, and a questionable history as a serial killer.) Listen. It’s not like I haven’t tried to drive. But every time I’ve gotten into a car, I start reliving my many, many Mario Kart 8 crashes. And then I realize that I’m too young to go to jail for vehicular manslaughter.
May 22, 2015 make mid-morning traffic on 95 similar to trying to get out of Benjamin Hall after assembly.
“It’s just impossible to learn HOW to drive when your parents are under the assumption that because you play Mario Kart that you’re a good driver naturally.”
It’s just impossible to learn HOW to drive when your parents are under the assumption that because you play Mario
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That being said, I am an absolutely HORRIFIC driver. I hate to fill the whole stereotype of the poor, helpless woman who doesn’t know what a carburetor is or how to parallel park, but my driving skills fit the bill on this one. Regardless, practice makes perfect, but darnit I’m terrified of practicing too. Maybe the idea of the living purgatory known as the DMV just scared me. Have you seen the people in there? They’re either drunk, diseased, or in so much unimaginable misery that they depress everyone else within a 50 foot radius by sheer influence. All I know is that if I knew where the long, endless road of
JACQUELINE HENDERSON/ incoming photo editor
Katie Walsh is fearful of driving, as pictured above where she careens through traffic
Also, I haven’t been able to really master the whole “speed control thing.” I oscillate between thinking I’m Ricky Bobby (if ya ain’t first, ya last kids) and becoming one of the many, many elderly Palm Beach drivers who
Kart that you’re a good driver naturally. I can hear my dad now; “So you can maneuver the Rainbow Road, but you can’t get five yards down your driveway before having a spazz attack.” Exactly, Dad. EXACTLY.
being licenseless would lead, I would have invested in Uber. *That being said, if I rearend your Range Rover next year (which I will), you can find my insurance information below. Sorry in advance*
Students transition from traditional to online shopping BY FIONA SCHOR Incoming Geodes Editor The increasingly popular trend and convenience of online shopping seems to be prevalent throughout the Benjamin community. Both students and teachers
“I prefer online because it’s a lot easier than having to go to a store, and there are a lot more options to pick from.” TORI DONTEN junior have a variety of reasons for why they choose to shop online. “I prefer online because it’s a lot easier than having to go to a store, and there’re a lot more options to pick from,” junior Victoria Donten said. Enthusiastic about online shopping, computer teacher Patrick Cullinane said, “[It] is awesome. I do all my shopping
online. The only time I shop in person is if I need something sooner than 48 hours. I definitely prefer online shopping to in person shopping. It’s less crowded; you can have it shipped directly to you. The convenience is unmatched.” He went on to say, “I actually am looking to order all my groceries online. It allows me to use my time for other activities.”’ Some people use online shopping as a pastime long before they even make a purchase. Junior Natalie Smith explained her feelings on online shopping, saying, “I think it’s fun to do when you are bored even if you are just looking and not buying anything.” Some of the many websites that students spoke about browsing on were triangl.com, showpo.com, billabong.com, peppermayo.com, and freepeople.com. Still, not everyone is as enthusiastic about shopping online as Mr. Cullinane. Smith spoke about some of the inconveniences that can be involved in online shopping. She said, “I have not received items, not been able to return [them], [had something] delivered way past its arrival date, and received the wrong things.”
Photo by Kathleen Walsh
Online shopping may quickly outpace traditional shopping methods, as shown above
Sophomore Callie Becker said, “I normally prefer to shop in-store, because it is much more convenient being able to try things on since certain stores’ sizing is inconsistent. However, there are certain things that are easier to buy online than in-store for availability reasons.” She said she goes on certain websites because she knows
that she can find discounts on certain brands, get specific products only available online, buy her bedding, and find personalizable merchandise. Some people still think that the benefits of online shopping outweigh the risks. “I just think it’s a fun and easy way to shop and being able to have it come to your house instead of the having the hassle of going
to the mall is an upside too,” freshman Lily Jezerinac said. As an interesting aside, Becker gave a tip to make the experience even more interesting. She said, “If a website has free giftwrapping, get it. Chances are, when you receive the order you will have forgotten about the gift wrapping, so it’s like receiving a surprise present.”
{P}Sports
The Pharcyde
SHOUT OUT:
To sophomore Anna Roberson who is training with the Rockettes this summer
Senior becomes state champion, shatters school records BY ANDY WEIR
Outgoing Co-Editor-In-Chief As senior Hannah Cogsil hurled over the high jump bar for the last time, she looked up and suddenly realized that she did not only just clear the bar but also was now a state champion. At the start of high school, Cogsil would not have ever even imagined such a scenario though. In fact, she only started running when she began high school, but despite what some might call a late start at running, athletics has been in her blood for years. She competed as a gymnast at just five years of age. “I definitely liked it…I liked the competition and the energy of it all. I actually did it for I think eight years until I was 13. Even then, I still really enjoyed it, but wanted to try something new,” she said. This enjoyment of gymnastics seemed, to her, to naturally translate into a love for running, mostly inspired by her sister, who ran on the track and field team at the time. “She just looked like she was having so much fun, and I thought to myself ‘I could do that too,’ so I decided I’d give it a try when I started high school,” Cogsil said. She started her track and field career at Jensen Beach High School where she spent her freshman year. At the time, she only participated in the running events. “I was definitely interested in the field events, but my coach
wanted me to focus more on the running events, so because I was a freshman, that’s what I did,” Cogsil said. A major challenge was just ahead for her though, as she and her family moved to Palm Beach Gardens the next year. After overcoming what most consider to be the most nervewrecking year of high school, she had to start all over again with a new school, new friends, and a new team. To keep in shape for track and field and to meet some new friends, she decided to join the cross country team that fall. “I had met with Coach Ho, and he convinced me to come out for cross country,” Cogsil said. With cross country, I made some friends before school had even started, so that made things much easier, but of course, I still dealt with all the stress of going to a new school,” she added. After a successful cross country season, Cogsil was ready to return to the track, this time eyeing the field events in particular. She definitely wanted to give them a try, so her coaches gave her the opportunity to try the long jump, triple jump, and high jump. For Cogsil, while running was a more developed interest, she seemed to take a liking to field events almost instantly. “I mean, at first¸ it seemed like I was just never going to be any good, but my coaches kept encouraging me to practice, and I quickly saw my jumps grow. I could see myself getting better, so that definitely was fun,” Cogsil said.
While sophomore year was certainly a year of much growth for Cogsil, her talent really began to shine junior year when, after strong cross country and track seasons, she went to States for the first time. She credits her coaches, Coach Ho, Coach Franci Jefferson, and Coach Barrett Saunders for much that growth. Reflecting on that first year at States, Cogsil said, “I didn’t really know what to expect. Lots of people there looked like they had been training their whole life for this, and then there was me, who had only been jumping for little over a year…I was nervous but proud of myself by the end of it all.” Though she came close to finishing first, she vowed to return her senior year, hoping to
win at least one event. But first, she wanted to take a bit of break from running, opting to join the bowling team and then playing on the girls’ soccer team in the winter. By the time track and field season came around, she was ready to compete, determined to make some serious strides in improving her jumping. “You’ve just got to keep practicing. That’s what I’ve learned this year. Even when you’re not really feeling up to it, you need to keep going. Plus, I’ve had amazing coaches encouraging me along the way, which makes a huge difference,” Cogsil said. Recently, she was named a CBS12 Athlete of the Week, a title she said she was both surprised and honored to receive.
“It was definitely unexpected; I guess you just don’t really think of yourself like that, but nonetheless, it was a huge honor obviously,” she said. Finishing off her high school career, she shattered two school records, advanced from Regionals to States in four different events, and above all, finished first in the high jump at states. Despite these successes, Cogsil remains uncertain about the future of her running and jumping careers. “There’s a lot of stuff changing with college and all next year, so I’m not quite sure where I go from here. I’m definitely going to miss all my friends and coaches...I certainly haven’t committed to anything, so I’m just going to wait and see,” she concluded.
seniors, but also for their families and friends who are invited to watch. This includes; Maria Dattolo -Tufts University (Women’s Lacrosse), Chris Erdmann- Kenyon University (Men’s Lacrosse), Giovana Giraldo- University of Florida (Women’s Soccer), Reagan Jahn- Lehigh University (Women’s Golf), Jalen LedgerUniversity of Kentucky (Men’s Golf), Savannah Logan- Rider University (Volleyball), Dylan
Malamala- Mercer University (Women’s Lacrosse), Hannah Malasky- University of New Hampshire (Women’s Lacrosse), Mayra Pelayo- University of Florida (Women’s Soccer), Baylen Sparks- Palm Beach State College (Baseball), Parker Quinn- Hofstra University (Baseball). When asked why she picked Tufts University, Dattolo said, “I chose Tufts because its academics are amazing, its location is right
outside my favorite city, and the girls’ lacrosse coach and I clicked the second we started talking. I knew immediately after we talked that I wanted to play for her.” While all these students have college athletics in common, they differ in the locations of their schools. When The Pharcyde asked Erdmann what excites him most about college, he said, “To be in a new place, and meet new people; it’s kind of like a new ad-
venture for me because it’s a different place than Florida.” Logan agreed with Erdmann, saying, “I am most excited to move to a new place and meet new people. I am also excited to be playing volleyball at the next level.” Senior Baylen Sparks closed out this interview, saying, “I believe my coaches at Benjamin over the past three years have done a pretty good job in preparing me for collegiate sports.”
Photos courtesy of Hannah Cogsil
Hannah Cogsil shows off her athletic skill as she wins the State Championship and breaks two school track records simultaneously
Student athletes commit to play sports in college BY DJ ROBINSON Staff Writer
On Thursday April 30, 2015, the Upper School hosted a signing day in the Healey Athletic Complex for twelve seniors who are going on to play collegiate athletics. This event is significant because it highlights the seniors who have made a commitment to play sports at a collegiate level. This day is a celebration for not only those
National Letter of Intent Spring Signings Giovana Giraldo University of Florida Women’s Soccer
Parker Quinn Hofstra University Baseball
Dylan Malamala Christopher Erdman Mercer Kenyon Women’s LaMen’s Lacrosse crosse
Maria Datollo Tufts University Women’s Lacrosse
Savannah Logan Rider University Volleyball
Reagan Jahn Lehigh University Women’s Lacrosse
Balen Sparks Palm Beach State Baseball
Mayra Pelayo University of Florida Women’s Soccer
Jalen Ledger Hannah Malasky University of Kentucky University of Men’s Golf New Hampshire Women’s Lacrosse
{P}Sports
The Pharcyde
May 22, 2015
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The Comeback Kid: injured tennis player goes to states BY WILLIAM BAFITIS Staff Writer
After missing the majority of his sophomore season with a back injury, junior Ian Witmer emphatically bounced back this year and made it all the way to the state finals. Witmer won both the district and regional titles on his way to a 20-2 singles record and 16-2 doubles record. After a strong freshman season, where he won his first district and regional crowns,
Witmer began experiencing constant back pain. This pain turned out to be spondylolysis, a stress fracture in his spinal column; Witmer knew he had to overcome the injury first before he could get back to shining on the court. Playing in the state championship match showed how dedicated he was to regaining his star form. Witmer credited his coaches, teammates, and family for instilling in him the drive
to make it back to the state tournament. He said, “Playing in the state championship match was a great experience for me despite losing because it was a reward for all of the work that I put into conditioning and tennis. I received a lot of support from my teammates, friends, coaches and family, which was very
“I think that I’ve worked very hard this year off the court on my fitness. That has given me a lot of confidence, mentally and physically, knowing that I can outlast my opponent.”
IAN WITMER
after he suffered the injury. He said, “I think that I’ve worked very hard this year off the court on my fitness. That has given me a lot of confidence, mentally and physically, knowing that I can outlast my opponent.” Witmer played both his state quarter, and semifinal matches in over 90 degrees heat. Both of his opponents experienced cramping whereas Witmer was completely fine, a testament to how well he was prepared to play his matches. According to tennisrecruiting.net, Witmer is currently one of the top 200 players in the class of 2016 and a 4-star recruit. As of now, Witmer doesn’t know what school he wants to play for, but he is looking to play at a strong academic school with a good tennis program.As for next season, Witmer will havethe
same goals as he has had his whole high school career. He
“Playing in the state championship match was a great experience for me despite losing because it was a reward for all of the work that I put into conditioning and tennis.”
IAN WITMER junior
said, “Like every year, my goal will be to win a state title individually, in singles and doubles, and to help the team to a top four finish overall at states.”
junior
JACQUELINE HENDERSON/Incoming Photo Editor Ian Witmer comes back strong from his debilitating stress fracture
much appreciated. I know that not many people get to have this experience [of playing in a state championship match]. It was even more special because of all the time I missed last season with a stress fracture in my back.” Aside from competing in his school matches, Witmer plays tennis six times a week for one and a half hours and works on his fitness four times a week year round. This grueling workout schedule allowed Witmer to regain both his physical and mental ability
JACQUELINE HENDERSON/Incoming Photo Editor
Witmer, above, lunges for the ball. Witmer’s performance this season has proven that , despite injury, he’s still a star player.
Senior sports editor leaves advice for student athletes Michael Mullery Outgoing Sports Editor
I have played sports ever since I can remember. It started with hockey; I lived in Connecticut until the age of six, where I spent much of my time either playing in the backyard with my brothers or skating and learning to play at the rink. When I was not playing, I was watching games on TV or playing NHL 2002 on PlayStation, even if I was too young and incompetent to beat my brothers or the computer. But tragically, my budding hockey career was cut short when I moved to Australia in 2003. It was pretty tough giving up the sport that I loved, especially after moving to a new country and leaving my friends behind, but as one could imagine, Australia has a shortage of hockey rinks, and my dad wanted me to play a more readily-available sport like rugby, cricket, basketball, or pretty much any other sport that did not require a sheet of ice in a sub-tropical climate. At the time, and for many years after, I was furious that he made me stop playing hockey, but as I got older I started to understand why he did it. Playing rugby gave me an avenue to make friends at a new school and in a new culture. In my first game I scored three tries, and won man of the match, which also meant that I won a free happy meal. Maybe it was the McNuggets, or maybe it was the speed and fluidity of the game, but I was instantly hooked. Rugby definitely had a big role in my upbringing, and I played from the age of six to fifteen; however, I sometimes grew bored of
the repetitive drills in practice, and even stopped playing for a year in middle school. Although I enjoyed rugby, it was basketball that I never grew tired of. The thing that always drew me to the game was the array of skills needed in order to be successful. It is a game that I could always work on by myself without getting bored, because there are so many different facets to it; shooting, ball-handling, passing, rebounding, defense. I knew I could always play anywhere in the world, unlike hockey or rugby, and it served as a steady staple in my life; until it was gone. I had been playing basketball since I was seven, and before my junior year I had never missed a game due to injury. After popping my shoulder out of place
“Playing rugby gave me an avenue to make friends at a new school and in a new culture... We need to cherish what we have, because we never know when it could be taken from us.” three times in the first month of the season, I missed the next three weeks and was forced to sit on the sidelines. In my third game since my return, while on a fast-break, I rolled my ankle on a defender’s foot, snapping it, ending my season after only seven games on the year. The doctor said I had a floating bone off of my fibula and a partially torn ligament, but that it was too insignificant to operate on, and that it would not be a long-term problem. After being in a walking boot for a little over two months, I was finally able to walk normally and started rehab. After a couple weeks of rehab I got back to being able to shoot-around in off-season
workouts, looking forward to my senior year. At the end of one of my last rehab sessions for my ankle, I went to go look for trainer Dave Bailey, who was outside. I held open the door so I didn’t get locked out while I was surveying the field for him, when my shoulder popped out again. The door was never even locked. At this point, I knew I needed surgery, if I could not open a door without injuring myself, my life would be pretty pointless. After the five month recovery from my shoulder surgery, with basketball season six weeks away, I started to run so that I could get in shape for the season, but my ankle kept bothering me. I went to a different doctor than the ankle specialist I had previously gone to, expecting it to be something like a sprain or shin splints. It was not. It turned out that I needed surgery, despite what the first doctor told me. It would be a minimum of three months to be able to walk normally, but to get back to basketball, about six months. Right there, I was told that I had already played my last basketball game of any sort of significance. In that moment, I remembered watching Aaron Craft play his last ever collegiate game for Ohio State earlier that year, the image of him laying on the court after his potential game-winner barely rimmed out, his head clasped in his hands looking up at the ceiling in disbelief, thinking how we perfectly mimicked each other in that moment, but instead of hardwood I was laying on a doctor’s table. I always knew I was going to stop playing serious basketball at the end of my senior year, but it was the sort of thing that I always figured I could process before the curtains closed. I do not want to tell this story for pity or attention or anything. I just want to show that no one should ever take sports, or anything, for granted. Going into my senior year, my mindset was, “I have got a minimum of 25 regular season games left, then how ever many games we play in the playoffs.” We need to cherish what we have, because we never know when it could be taken from us.
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May 22, 2015
{P}Sports
The Pharcyde
Spring football team kicks off with a rush, a tackle BY DJ ROBINSON Staff Writer
This spring, as it does every year, the football team has a spring football game, an event that takes place in few places other than Florida. These games give Florida football players an advantage over other states because more college coaches come to Florida to watch these spring games to get an extra look at rising stars and possible recruits.
“We need to make sure we do not make the little mistakes and condition hard. If we can eliminate the little mistakes like blocking the wrong guy or hitting the wrong gap, it will make our team a whole better.”
CONOR BRANNUM junior This year the Benjamin football team will be playing Glades Day May 21st. The Pharcyde interviewed
JACQUELINE HENDERSON/ Incoming Photo Editor Football players begin early as they commence training for football. Both the coaches and players practice hard under the sun.
a few students to get their opinions on what to look for this upcoming season. When asked what areas the team would be strong in, junior Nicolas Sylvia said, “We are very strong in talent. We have a lot of starters returning and some really good junior varsity players that will most likely play varsity. We have a lot of talent on our roster.” Junior Ryan Frankel agreed, stating, “We have a good amount of talent in the skilled positions.” Although the team may be
strong in the skilled positions, several players were quick to point out where growth was needed. Frankel said, “We need to work on our offensive line.”
career hit during a 2-for-3, one run, one RBI performance against Wagner University. Talking about that game, Paone said, “The leadoff double I had against Wagner my freshman year to begin a rally in the bottom of the 9th was my proudest moment. It was my second week playing
an injury sustained in the fall and recorded her first career ground ball at Marquette. Ciklin also scored two goals against Rutgers University, her proudest moment thus far. Alum of the class of 2014, Jerry O’Connor, is a defender for Yale University’s lacrosse team. O’Connor said, “My proudest moment is just being part of this program. We’ve had a phenomenal year thus far and we are ranked at one of our historically highest rankings so I’m just proud to say that I can help make the team better every day.” With all their success comes a major commitment. With intense practice and game schedules the sport becomes a lifestyle. Ciklin discussed her daily routine by saying, “When I am in season, I wake up, go to my classes, eat lunch, go to treatment, watch film, practice, treatment again (after practice maintenance, icing, etc), dinner, library, asleep by 11:30.” Pettit described the challenge of learning how to balance academics and athletics, saying, “Honestly, it’s impossible. You don’t physically have enough time to do every reading that is assigned or make it to every office hours. You have to prioritize and really manage your time well. Being efficient and diligent with your work is the only way to survive.” Speaking further about the difference between high school and college sports, Paone said, “On the field, the
Junior Conor Brannum added, “We need to make sure we do not make the little mistakes and condition hard. If we can eliminate the little mistakes like blocking the wrong guy or hitting the wrong gap, it will make our team a whole better.”
Sylvia added a final comment, saying, “I believe we need to work on our chemistry. A good amount of our team consist of new and younger players.” Asked about the benefits of spring football, Frankel said, “We benefit from the new guys learning the offensive and defensive systems, and we get to play against good competition out of our conference.” At the close of the interview, Brannum said, “I’m looking forward to having good senior leadership and
forming a strong bond with all the players so that everyone is excited to be there when we step on the field.” Sylvia and Frankel agreed that they are both “looking forward to what these new players can do for us.” Freshmen Andrew Kasten reassured the seniors, saying, “The qualities that I bring to the table at wide receiver is that I am a smart player and I have good hands, but I can work on my route running so that Frankel and I are on the same page.”
game changes drastically. Baseball at the college level is very fast. You are playing against all of the best players from around the country, which is definitely a transition. Every ball is hit harder or
classes whether it’s film with coaches or a workout along with a practice at the end of the day, so you have to be much more committed.” Paone had the following advice for future collegiate
Former student athletes, where are they now?
BY GRETCHEN SOUSA Outgoing Photo Editor
Graduates of the the classes of 2013 and 2014 who played collegiate athletics this year at a high level have much to share about the intensity of college athletics with the twelve seniors and the underclass
Photo courtesy of Arden Pettit Arden Petit throws a fastball as she pitches for her college team
commits who plan to continue their athletic careers. Alum of the class of 2013, DJ Paone, is an outfielder for the Elon University’s baseball team. Last year, he saw action in 19 games and started in six of them. He recorded his first
college competition and I got pretty fired up about it.” Alum of the class of 2014, Hayley Ciklin, is an attacker and midfielder for Northwestern University’s Lacrosse team. She has appeared in four games after returning to the field from
Photo courtesy of Arden Pettit Arden Petit and the Standford girl’s softball team enjoy a victory.
located better. The raw talent doesn’t change too much, but it’s refined and it makes for a whole different level.” O’Connor also said, “The biggest difference I would say is the mindset. In high school, sports were obviously important and took up a lot of time but they were tacked on as a practice at the end of the day. In college, the time commitment is mixed in throughout the day with your
athletes: “I would probably advise them to expect more than they are expecting. Time management is key. You have to be flexible enough to work on someone else’s time and be prepared to drop anything at any time and report to the locker room. This means that work cannot be put off. You have to be proactive about doing schoolwork in order to maintain your desired grades.”