Algonquin Harbinger Volume 29 Issue 2

Check out the results of the school-wide election!

Clowns cause concern in community page 3

Election recipes that taste better together

page 15

pages 12-13

Harbinger The Algonquin

november 2016 vOL. 29 NO. 2

The Student Newspaper of Algonquin Regional High School 79 Bartlett street, Northborough MA 01532 | arhsharbinger.COM

Exchanging cultures, ideas

Dressed in smiles, community runs to raise funds

German students exchange engage in American culture Shannon Youngberg & Alex Martin

News Editor & Staff Writer Six German exchange students and two teachers arrived at Algonquin from Dortmund, Germany ready to experience an unfamiliar culture and establish lasting relationships on October 7.

Twenty students traveled from Dortmund to Massachusetts, but only a portion of them are staying with Algonquin students.

The remaining students from Germany are staying with students from Mendon, Nipmuc, Blackstone Valley Tech, and Grafton schools.

According to hosts junior Chloe Sainsbury and senior Sierra Dyer, they try

to provide their exchange students with an authentic glance into American life by engaging them in their daily activities.

“We do everything together, like I drive her to school, and when I hang out with friends she hangs out with me,” Sainsbury said. “If I have volleyball practice she’ll come sometimes, and she goes to my games. Basically whatever I do, she does.”

“We just do little things around here, and I show [exchange student Julia Stanoek] what my life is like,” Dyer said. “We just do some fun stuff, nothing too crazy, but just hanging out with friends.”

German Exchange, page 5

Photo rafaela Coelho

Decorated in costume, students, faculty, and family members begin the third annual 5k for the Kids held at Algonquin on October 30. With almost 100 people registered, the race raised $3000 for the Boys and Girls Club of Metrowest to help them afford tutors and school supplies.

Algonquin’s guide to the four ballot questions

1

Second Slots Only Gambling Parlor

Meaning: Question one pro-

poses a law that will initiate a license for a second slots only gambling parlor. Massachusetts currently only allows three casinos and one slots only gambling parlor. This proposed law would allow for another slots only gambling parlor.

Yes:

Would allow a second slots only gambling parlor in Massachusetts. It would be four acres in size and be within 1,500 feet away from a race track and include all of the race track amenities. The parlor would have no table games and a maximum 1,250 slot machines.

No: Would mean that the current law for only 3 casinos and 1 slot parlor would remain the same.

Compiled Caroline Beek Permisson Fuzzypeg, Clker-Free-VectorImages, Open Clipart-Veltors

Meaning: Question 2 proposes

a law that would allow the state to approve up to 12 charter schools per year or expand current ones by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Yes:

Will allow the state to implement 12 charter schools or create enrollment expansions to the ones currently in place. If more than 12 applications are received for new charter schools, the district would use the statewide assessments of the bottom 25% of all districts in the previous two years, and would use parent demand for the decision of where to place the schools.

2

No: Would keep the current charter

schools as is with no enrollment expansions.

Charter School Expansion

3

Animal Cruelty Prevention

Meaning: Question 3 proposes

a law that would ban out extreme methods of animal confinement for pigs, calves, and hens. Any method that would prevent animals from lying down, standing up, rolling over, or fully extending their limbs, would be banned.

Yes: Would ban the sale of meat and eggs from confined animals and ban methods Some cases where confinement would pass includes transportations, veterinary exams, and medical research. There would be a penalty of $1000 for each violation. It would also prohibit any business owner from selling any whole eggs or meat to consumers with the knowledge that those animals had been used under extreme methods.

No: The way farm animals are treated would remain the same with no fine.

Meaning: Question 4 proposes a law that will legalize and tax the use of recreational marijuana. Residents 21 years or older will be able to use marijuana, grow it, possess it, and licensed shops will be able to sell it. People will be allowed to own up to an ounce outside of their homes, up to 10 ounces inside of their home, and grow up to six plants on property.

Yes:

Would allow residents 21 and older to use recreational marijuana.

Individual cities and towns would be able to have their own limitations on production and retail locations. An additional state sales tax of 3.75% would be added to the sale of marijuana and an individual city or town has the ability to add up to a 2% sales tax. If a yes vote, this law would take effect on December 15, 2016.

4 No:

Would deny the use of recreational marijuana and keep the previous medical marijuana laws the same.

Legalize Marijuana

tHE haRBINGER

News

2

NOVember 2016

Samaritans inform students about suicide

5k for Kids

Community runs together for good of kids

Cassidy Wang

News Editor The Samaritans captured the attention of health classes during their annual presentation of suicide-prevention on Monday, October 17.

The Samaritans started giving interactive talks to health classes nine years ago and have been informing students on how to be helpful when friends exhibit suicidal warning signs.

“What I love about their presentation is that it’s not about suicide,” health teacher Melissa Arvanigian said. “It’s more about communicating and how to be a good friend and listener. That’s what they talk about: what you can do to help a friend, what are the different people you can go to in the building, what are the different avenues you can take. ” For sophomore Vanessa Roy, the conversation was eye-opening. She realized that many of her peers may be struggling silently.

“There was a lot more people than I expected to have anxiety problems and have suffered from depression in the past,” Roy said. “It was sad to see all the people I considered friends to suffer from that and I had no idea.”

But after the Samaritans’ presentation, Roy will try to “be aware of what people are suffering from quietly inside.” “ A “The more lot of knowledge we p e o p l e a k e give them, the m jokes like more powerful ‘this test was so they can behard, I want to come.” kill myMELISSA ARVANIGIAN s e l f , ’ ” HEALTH TEACHER Roy said. “ Pe o p l e around them could actually want to kill themselves and they’re suffering from it so I wouldn’t necessarily consider [their comments] a joke anymore.”

Moreover, students learned how to approach difficult conversations with friends who may be considering suicide.

For example, they learned to not minimize their peers’ struggles by centering conversations around themselves.

Arvanigian cited that the Samaritans’ presentation was not only fused with knowledge, but it had “more of an upbeat manner rather than a depressing one.”

“It wasn’t a depressing presentation; it was a very knowledgeable presentation,” Arvanigian said. “Knowledge equals power. The more knowledge we give them, the more powerful they can become with that knowledge.”

The importance of having conversations about suicide prevention and related topics is the key reason why Arvanigian continues asking the Samaritans to come back every year. She attributes the ability to have these conversations to the openness of the school community.

“With the nature of my job being a health educator, it’s so important to continue giving the kids the power of the knowledge of the different types of topics we discuss,” Arvanigian said.

“We’re very fortunate that we’re in a school community that allows us to talk about all the various health issues that are out there, and they think it’s just as important as I do too to support us in this.”

Photo rafaela coelho

Health and fitness teacher Patrick Russell and senior Nick Casapulla race together towards the finish line.

Writing Center to complete branding DECA, graphic design students collab with Writing Center Kira Porter, and adviser Cameron Martin are spearheading the marketing stratAssistant A&E Editor egy which includes advertising and creDECA, graphic design students, ating a website. and the Writing Center tutors came to“I was super excited when I heard gether to find the right branding strategy about the project because in DECA, for Algonquin’s innovative Writing Cen- we’re always working with theoretical ter, scheduled to open in late November. cases, but with this, we’re bringing it to The Center, developed by English life,” DeMarco said. teachers Seth Czarnecki and Sara Stein, Art teacher Michelle Shepperd notwill be a place for students to improve ed that some of her students, like junior their writing with trained student tutors. Mary Tambascio and sophomore MarTutor and junior Merry Qian is cus Severo, are especially involved. closely involved with the Center.

“My students are working on de“Our vision for the Writing Center signing a logo right now,” Shepperd said. is a warm, friendly enThe Writing Cenvironment that is very ter will occupy a temproductive at the same “I think the Writporary space in D112 time,” Qian said. with its own set of The tutors, DECA ing Center emChromebooks and members, and the bodies everything color-coordinated furgraphic design students niture. are currently collaborat- that education The hope is that ing to convey this mes- should be.” the Center will eventusage to the community, ally become an addiSETH CZARNECKI tion to the library with including working on a ENGLISH TEACHER glass walls where stulogo and other advertising projects. dents can receive guidWhile the process ance on their writing has been challenging at times, Czarnecki assignments from their peers, no matter is encouraged by the dedication the stu- the subject. dents involved have to the Center.

Stein and Czarnecki are incredibly “The process has been messy in that supportive of the students running and we have lots of voices, lots of opinions developing the Writing Center. about where to go with this,” Czarnecki “The Center legitimizes what the said. “From all of that, though, we are kids are doing,” Stein said. “Students are seeing some really good work and a di- running the show which is also Algonrection for it emerge.” quin’s philosophy.”

“We tapped into DECA and Ms. “I think the Writing Center embodRiley and Mr. Martin, and it was just a ies everything that education should be,” natural fit where they would take over Czarnecki said. “It uses what the stuthe branding [of the Writing Center],” dents already know and allows them to Czarnecki said. act as professionals. It’s a really exciting DECA President and junior Jake development.”

DeMarco, DECA member and senior Anna Silver

submitted Seth Czarnecki

Graphic design student, sophomore Taylor Bragg designed the top poster to publicize the new writing center.

Senior Kacey Kelley made the bottom design.

tHE haRBINGER

News

3

NOVember 2016

Too much clowning around

Claims of clown sightings cause commotion in community

with these hoaxes.

“These fake tips are taking away from the serious problems in town,” Algonquin Resource Officer Mike StaffWriter Bisset said. “Believe it or not, Northborough has a lot Everyone’s favorite creepy character is back again of important things that go on that need our attention. this year for Halloween but not in a fun-lovT h e more fake tips we get about clowns, ing way. Recent clowns have been sighted the more time that’s taken with weapons and intentions to hurt away from more crucial civilians in towns across the United issues.”

States and Worcester County.

Marlborough poThe clown frenzy started in lice officers have late August in Greenville, South dealt with actual Carolina, where adults and chilclowns that have dren from an apartment complex terrorized resireported clown sightings in the dents. woods nearby. According to the “I have talked citizens of Greenville, the clowns to other departallegedly lived in the woods and tried ments all over, into lure local residents into their homes. cluding Marlborough, A few weeks later, clowns began makwho have actually seen ing appearances in Alabama through sopeople dressed up as cial media because they were terrorizing clowns at night,” Bisset children. Soon, reported clown sightings said. started appearing all over the United States, Colleges including eventually making their way to NorthborThe University of Connectiough and Southborough. cut, The University of Rhode Earlier in October, Superintendent Island, The University of New Christine Johnson emailed parents and faculty inHampshire, and Merrimack College forming that a clown was allegedly seen on a school have recently been on lockdown due Graphic campus in Northborough, but it was confirmed a hoax. rachael to clowns apparently chasing students shek Police officers are getting extremely frustrated on campus, some with weapons.

Alex Martin

While many are worried and scared, others are amused and want the hoax to continue.

“I think it’s aggressive and amusing at the same time,” sophomore Nick Hatton said. “I have been wanting to see one for a while; it would be an adrenaline rush.”

Social media has started to play a larger role due to users sending in tips to a Twitter account, @LiveClownWatch. The account would alert followers of reported clown locations after tips were received.

The majority of the “These fake tips tweets are fake and have caused issues are taking away at Massachusetts from the serious schools.

“We are current- problems in our ly tracking down the town.” leader of the Twitter MICHAEL BISSETT account and talking RESOURCE OFFICER to them,” Bisset said.

“This is not a joke.”

According to senior Caroline McAndrews, Algonquin coaches were also directed by administration to instruct their teams not to dress as clowns for any spirit days.

Senior Kayla Barletta acknowledged that although this new frenzy may be exciting, it is more serious that some may think.

“It’s all fun and games untill someone gets hurt,” Barletta said.

Beekeeping Club buzzes to spread Student council decides not to host Winter Ball knowledge, raise awareness nATALIE SADEK

Social Media Editor At the Club Extravaganza earlier this year, several clubs were showcased to students, but the Beekeeping Club run by sophomore Elsa Ray caught the eyes of many.

Serving as one of the newest clubs, many students and faculty were intrigued and wondered what this club entailed, as many have never heard of a Beekeeping Club.

“The purpose is to firstly educate people about bees, get them interested in actual beekeeping, and working with bees,” Ray said.

“We are trying to educate a larger community

“We are trying to educate a larger community about bees and how important they are, in order to save them.”

ELSA RAY SOPHOMORE

said.

Although Winter Ball was Copy Editor once considered a hallmark of a After much reconsidera- student’s Algonquin experience, tion, the Student Council decid- dance attendance and ticket ed not to hold a Winter Ball for money revenue have gradually the second year in a row. decreased ever since.

Winter Ball was an annual “The problem is that havevent for the past ten years until ing a small event is expensive,” 2015, when the Ball was can- student council adviser John celled due to the lack of profit Barry said. “You still need a earned during the previous year. dance floor, you still need a This year, however, Student fairly large room, and if you Council had want to have considered the dance at bringing back “Instead of Winter a nice place the school like MechanBall, we’re hoping tradition. ics Hall, they “ W h e n to do something charge a we first startcompetitive ed planning that involves the price for it.

[Winter Ball], wider communiSo it became we were lookmore of a loing at venues ty...” gistical issue and there JOHN BARRY than anything weren’t a lot STUDENT COUNCIL ADVISER else.” of options Stuopen,” Student Council dent Council president senior is considering an alternative to Gretchen Forbush said “We Winter Ball that will be more also didn’t want to go into any- community-based. thing half-heartedly, and half “Instead of Winter Ball, the Student Council said that we’re hoping to do something people didn’t want to do it, and that involves the wider comhalf said that people did want munity, so for example a Winit.” ter Carnival in which elemenStudent Council had tary and middle school kids and planned to make changes in their parents could attend,” Fororder to accommodate to stu- bush said. dents’ wants as well as to maxi“The purpose of Student mize the number of students Council is to bring the commuattending the ball. nity together, not just the Al“This year, we were look- gonquin student body...I think ing towards a new location or that we need to create more cheaper ticket prices to make of a community sense at our it more accessible to people,” school,” Shi said. junior class president Laura Shi clarissa wong

COURTESy Elsa Ray

The Beekeeping Club meets on Tuesdays at the end of every month and is currently seeking a grant to build a hive at the school.

about bees and how important they are, in order to save them.”

Ray first became interested in bees last May when she attended an eight-week course at the Worcester County Beekeeping Association, and hoped she could inspire others to do the same.

“It was the coolest thing ever because it was such a rewarding experience, and I couldn’t help but think how cool this would be to have at school to get other students engaged with them [the bees] and even do some studies with them,” Ray said.

Currently, the club has been applying to receive grants, such as the Quarter 9 grant from the Rotary Club to buy

the equipment needed build a hive here at school.

“We are hoping to raise money to make the materials and to make a successful colony here at Algonquin by May,” Ray said. “Hopefully after we procure the beehive, some of the AP Biology and AP Environmental classes will be working with the bees because some of their studies involve pollinators. We also might take part in some studies taking place across the state or even the country about beehives to try and educate people about bees.”

Science department head Lorraine Zanini advises the club and was excited to be a part of an educational and fun project.

“I thought [Ray] was doing a great thing in the sense that there’s a lot of science behind it, and it can connect with a lot of our different curriculums within the science department,” Zanini said. “But also, it is just so good for the environment, and when she came she had so much passion for it, that it was a no-brainer to advise the club.”

Ray hopes that others will learn to love bees just as she does, so then they can continue and teach others.

“With bees you get honey, they are easy to take care of, and they have such a positive impact on the environment,” Ray said “So why not get some bees, help the environment, and have fun?”

tHE haRBINGER

News

4

NOVember 2016

Solar initiative seeks savings, sustainability Consultant selected to begin implementing plans is a wonderful idea, fabulous, for multiple reasons,” AP Environmental Science Teacher Christina Connolly said.

“Obviously, sustainable energy is way cleaner; it’s going to decrease our carbon emissions. I also think it’s great because these buildings aren’t going anywhere, it makes perfect sense… [schools] are a perfect place to put panels.”

“Solar gives the great education of ‘how does this work?’, not only for high school, but think of the elementary [students] and the way they could learn about it,” Assistant Principal Michele Tontodonato said.

To effectively achieve an educational gain, the district must move forward with the extensive process of finalizing proposals and sites for the panels.

“I’m hoping that we can get a finalist in place by the end of 2016, and I would hope they would be able to come to our town meeting in April of 2017 to update our towns on the project,” Northborough and Regional School Committee Member Patty Kress said.

“It’s not just about what about what this will yield in terms of financial gain, it’s also a strong statement from our communities that we believe it’s important to investigate every opportunity, to find funds that support the budget, but also to be as energy conscious and environmentally conscious as we can be,” Johnson said.

PHASES OF THE SOLAR INITIATIVE

1

Request for Qualification (RFQ)

A consultant will help evaluate sites.

2

Request for Proposal (RFP)

A request for proposal will allow for the planning and construction of solar panels.

GRAPHIC CASSIDY WANG

borough, Southborough or the schools have entertained a project of this scope Managing Editor before.”

The prospect of placing solar panels “We are looking for a consultant who on buildings within the district has pro- can provide us with not only assistance in gressed since the spring; a final consultant moving to the next step, which would be is in the process of being chosen to evalu- an RFP that would really customize to our ate the viability of sites for panels. specifications, but also a consultant who The solar project is set up in a two can review the number of sites by doing phase operation; phase one is receiving a pre-structural analysis and site analysis,” request for qualification Johnson said.

(RFQ) in which a consul- “Neither NorthThe hope of plactant will help evaluate sites. ing panels on the schools After the RFQ is accepted borough, Southserves more than just the and sites are chosen, phase borough or the benefit of energy and fitwo includes getting a renancial returns, but also quest for proposal (RFP) schools have enprovides an opportunity to physically begin the tertained a projfor an educational endeavconstruction and planning or. of solar panels. Currently, ect of this scope “We want any sucthe district is ready to initi- before.” cessful bidder to make ate phase one, as the final sure they appreciate and consultant is nearly ready MICHAEL BISSETT support through their to begin assessing buildRESOURCE OFFICER work the importance of ings. providing educational opOnce chosen, the portunities for our stuconsultant will evaluate which buildings in dents,” Johnson said. the district are fit for solar panels and work Educational experiences with the panto receive a request for proposal (RFP). An els may include allowing students to moniRFP will allow a bidder to begin construct- tor units, the efficiency of the sun, the ing panels after final sites have been chosen. amount of energy generated, and to calcu“In reality, the RFQ was to secure ser- late investment returns. Panels on schools vices of a consultant who will help guide will bolster the STEM learning compous through this process,” Superintendent nents of education.

Christine Johnson said. “Neither North“I think [the Solar Initiative Project] Max donahue

Reading into the future of libraries Digitalized technology is increasingly replacing borrowed books help them.

“When I was younger, I Assistant Online Editor only went to the school library Borrowing books from the when our class went and not on library seems to be a thing of my own, but now I just go after the past for some students. With school to do my homework,” growing factors such as the digi- freshman Jackie Nicoletti said. talization of books, as well as the The library has a variety of indifference that some students different resources to help stuseem to display towards them, dents with their work, which many wonder what the future of continue to get updated as techlibraries, spenology changes cifically school over the years. libraries, will “...the library will When Rehill first be. started working become less a School at the Algonquin librarian Mi- place of where library, there was chelle Rehill somebody sits no internet, which thinks that meant no access both avid and down and reads a to databases onhesitant read- book, and more line. ers have a “The library place at the li- of where people provides access brary, and that will engage with to a lot of datalibraries aren’t bases and a lot of leaving any- their books and resources online, time soon. and I see teachers stories.”

“Some wanting their stustudents are MICHELLE REHILL dents to use these very heavy SCHOOL LIBRARIAN resources,” Rehill readers, and said. then there are It’s a change students who will tell you when that is difficult for the general they’re graduating as seniors that public to recognize, but the rethey’ve never borrowed a book ported number of uses has infrom the [school] library in their creased. entire high school career,” Rehill As students’ reliance on said. “We try to have something technology increases, the library [in the library] for everyone.” must adapt as well. In addition Many students visit the li- to five classrooms’ worth of brary for studying, printing, or Chromebooks, and many deskother academic purposes, and the top computers, the library also resources available in the library may be able to bring e-readers to Asma Ali

photo Ryan Strobel

Sophomores Eesha Verma, Annemarie Wood, and Nellie Zhang converse and collaborate in the library after school.

the table.

Other than this plan for new devices, the library does not plan to become extremely dependent on technology. This is partly because Rehill does not see much demand for devices such as ereaders among the students and teachers. Many students don’t see libraries evolving to be centered on reading.

“In the future, the library will most likely be about homework and studying, not about books,”

freshman Nolan Shaw said.

Libraries, for Rehill, have changed immensely since her humble beginning as the libary helper in high school.

“I see public libraries today, and school libraries as being where lots of programs are done,” Rehill said. “I think the library will become less a place of where somebody sits down and reads a book, and more of where people will engage with their books and stories. I think that’s

changing, the use of the library.”

As the library continues to change in ways other than technology, it is still hard to tell where school libraries are headed.

“I think that school libraries will still be there, but they will resemble more of a computer lab than a library,” sophomore Yasmin Massoudi said. “But, I still think the books will be available, just used less. Who knows, maybe they will become completely different.”

tHE haRBINGER

News

5

NOVEMBER 2016

OPINION:

Adderall intake proves detrimental to student health, not a grade-booster Surveys show accessibility of adderall pills for teenagers

Survey of Children’s Health 2014, one in every 11 children is diagnosed with ADHD by the time they are 17.

StaffWriter This means there have been more students with Adderall Adults, parents, and officers all told teenagers to say hanging around in their backpack than ever before. no to drugs. We were taught to turn down offers of mariAnd if, according to the National Institute on Drug juana and alcohol, but never were we told that an easy-to- Abuse, one in five college students admits to using Adobtain prescription drug called Adderall could be just as derall without an ADHD diagnosis, it may be even harder dangerous. to turn it down in the future if everyone around you is Adderall has been around for about 80 years, but now using it. somehow if you use it when it is not prescribed to you as When taking the drug for studying, partying, or a doctor, you get labeled as “trendy.” weight loss, few people realize the health hazards associHowever, it is the opposite of “cool.” This drug is ated with Adderall. causing serious health problems in young adults, and we Recently, the amount of emergency rooms visits by are becoming reliant on it as a gennon-medical use of this drug has eration. doubled due to overdoses and AdAccording to the 2015 Moniderall-related binge drinking issues. toring the Future survey, about Abuse of this drug results in sleep 7.5 percent of high school seniors deprivation that leads to mood report using the drug, which may swings, and eventually can spiral seem like a low percentage, but that into depression. For us teenagers, would be more than 27 students in it’s hard enough getting a healthy Needing larger doses the senior class at Algonquin alone amount of sleep every night, and of the pill to feel the abusing the drug for nonmedical this drug certainly isn’t helping in reasons. the battle versus teenage insomnia. effects Adderall is an amphetamine A common misconception is that has a similar chemical makeup that Adderall helps you concentrate Not being able to finish to ecstasy. The drug, meant for pato retain more information, but work without it tients with Attention Deficit Hyafter taking the drug, the stimulatperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and ing effects wear off and leave your Spending a lot of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), brain burnt out. You are left unable money to obtain it taps into specific parts of the brain to process information in a normal that control impulses and hyperway. Not enough people are aware Sleeping for long activity. As midterms or finals apof this, and users are overlooking proach, you most likely can find the true effects of this schedule two periods of time Adderall from somebody. drug that is in the classification as Being unable to feel The use of the highly addictive methamphetamine and oxycodone.

ADHD prescription drug that costs Instead of taking the time to sit alert without it $2-$5 a pill has recently been on the down and study normally, teenagers rise throughout high schools and are relying heavily on Adderall to Social withdrawal, restcolleges around the country. Adhelp them retain more information; lessness, loss of appetite, derall has been labeled the “compeif only they knew that one of the weight loss tition drug” by professionals who many effects of abusing Adderall is have seen the rise in demand first a lower cumulative GPA. hand from increased pressures to If you’re thinking of taking perform well in school.

Adderall to study for your next big test, and you are not Readily available, the drug has been passed in ample specifically prescribed Adderall, think twice. amounts around Algonquin during stressful exam times If you or someone you know may be suffering or and study crunching hours. According to the National showing signs of Adderall addiction, talk to a trusted Brooke suitum

USE and ABUSE of Adderall

Tell-Tale Signs of Addiction

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

adult or family member, and seek help at a local rehab hospital to avoid long term detrimental effects.

Neither taking the drug recreationally, or for a few extra grade points, is worth risking a life-long battle of addiction and overdoses of prescription drugs that can come from just taking Adderall once.

GRAPHICS BROOKE SUITUM

German students from page 1

German exchange students immerse in Algonquin culture “Because my brother went off to college, I thought it would be cool to have a sister, and know people from other cultures,” Dyer said.

The exchange students emphasized how different American life is from what they experi-

“...I thought it would be cool to have a sister, and know people from other cultures.”

SIERRA DYER SENIOR

ence at home. “[The relationship] between students and teachers, there is no distance,” exchange student Julia Stanosek said. “It’s not like back in Germany.”

According to exchange student Sarah Kohlstedde, the school days in Germany are nothing like a typical one in America.

“On Wednesday I have school until 6:30 [at night], but then another day I have only 3 lessons from 9:35 [in the morning] to 12:00 [in the afternoon],” Kohlstedde said.

Although the students from Dortmund will be leaving on October 28, some students plan to continue their contact long after the goodbyes

are said.

According to Dyer, she intends to visit Stanosek in Germany during the gap year she will be taking after graduation.

Dyer’s desire to visit Stanosek can be credited to wanting to maintain the relationship she and Dyer formed after spending so much time together.

“We became really close over the past two weeks and she’s one of my best friends now,” Dyer said. “We’re like sisters. It’s been really great, and I feel like it will last for a long time.”

Though students initially decided to host for various reasons, they all are linked by the common goal to try something new.

photo Ryan Strobel

Junior Chloe Sainsbury takes a break during class and laughs with her exchange student Sarah Kohlstedde.

tHE haRBINGER

Harry’s

6

November 2016

Satire

RESTAURANT AND DAIRY BAR

Political campaigns getting too extreme?

Come to Harry’s for some ice cream!

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tHE haRBINGER

Opinion

7

November 2016

SATIRE

Trumpsgiving: Republican candidate

gives thanks, makes holiday great again Diana Roy

Opinion Editor The day has finally arrived; months full of anticipation, nail-biting, and draft after draft of the same speech have culminated into a momentous event. That day for all Americans is November 24: Thanksgiving.

When Donald J. Trump celebrates this holiday within his mansion, made from steel imported from China, it’s likely that he will undergo a brief moment of selfreflection, contemplating how truly remarkable he has been over the past year in American politics. With his hair combed back, his teeth whitened, and his spray tan drying from a recent trip to the salon, it’s presumable that his inner monologue will go a little something like this:

1. I am really thankful for the Deplorables, huh? upcoming defeat She’s deplorable. of Hillary Clinton. She’s a nasty She probably woman, she really is. With her doesn’t even know in the picture, what deplorable America can truly see who means. Now that’s real winner what I call a shame- the of this election is. And it’s not ful woman. ShameHillary Clinton. ful, I say.

She’s the worst politician in history. Her and Obama have destroyed America, but don’t worry; I will make it great again.

2. I am so immensely proud of my supporters, who have stood by me no matter what. Hillary likes to call them deplorables, but I prefer to call them racist white males fighting to take back their country. Deplorables, huh? She’s deplorable. She probably doesn’t even know what deplorable means. Now that’s what I call a shameful woman. Shameful, I say.

3. I am so thankful that immigrants do exist. America is white, the whitest country you’ll ever see, besides Sweden. Swedes are really pale, probably the palest people

on Earth. Americans are a close second. Without these really am. The right to free speech is remarkable. I can immigrants, my dry-cleaning wouldn’t get done. My wife walk down Fifth Avenue shouting obscenities at folks on probably wouldn’t be here either. Thank God for immi- t h e sidewalks and nobody would shut me down. I gration. can also engage in locker room talk.

4. I am truly thankful for bricks and stone, as those It’s great, really. Locker room talk are the main components of my famous wall. Some that is. Boys will be boys, and I say it will rise one hundred feet in the air. It really will. appreciate a good locker room Nobody can build a wall taller than I can. No, I’m the session. The freedom to speak best at building walls, especially to keep people out. my mind lets the public know I’m the best wall-builder history will ever know. And who I really am. you know who will pay for it? Mexico. We take in their 9. I am greatly disappointpeople and we spend the time to build a wall for them, ed by the fact that my face, the so why not let them pay for it? Wow folks, is this wall face of America, has not yet going to be amazing. been carved into the rocks of 5. I truly appreciate the women I’ve come to meet.

Mount Rushmore. Imagine the Small, big, flat, you name it, I’ve seen it. I love women. I history books they will write really do. Nobody loves beautiful women more than I do. about that: “Trump rocks Mount Take a look at Melania. She’s beautiful. She’s tan, young, Rushmore.” I’d hang alongside and she’s Slovenian. There’s nothing better than begood ol’ Washington and ing Slovenian. You know, they have beautiful Lincoln. Lincoln freed women in Slovenia. Truly beautiful women, the slaves you know. like my wife. But nobody loves women Great man. Truly more than I do. great, man. But 6. I’m thankful for my intelligence. that mountain Trump’s Thankful List Nobody has the ideas that I do. Trump would look betUniversity wouldn’t exist without my ter with AmerImmigration brain. We had the brightest students, ica’s finest on we really did. Brighter than light bulbs. it. Truly great The infamous wall It’s amazing how it only went bankthat mountain rupt four times. That shows that I have would be.

Tax returns a high IQ. A very high IQ, almost as 10. I am high as Stephen Hawking’s. Research has thankful for my Free speech proven that. ability to be a great 7. I am grateful for my tax returns. man. Without my America has yet to see them, but I know peocharisma and charmple would be proud of me. I’ve donated quite a ing comments, I wouldn’t bit of money to local organizations, mainly white, be the man I am today. I am male-dominated corporations. I’m not a politician, so happy that I turned out so I don’t get controlled by other companies. I spend successful. I have truly sacrimy money wisely, such as only using up $315 million ficed a lot. Nobody else has of the $392.1 million that I have collected throughout sacrificed what I have. I am my campaign. That shows America how good I am successful, I really am. with money. Nobody can save the way I do, it’s mindblowing. graphic rafaela coelho and diana roy 8. I’m proud of my ability to speak my mind, I

Should religious holidays be added or taken away?

Remove all religious holidays if we can’t recognize everyone’s

Mariam Ibrahimi

StaffWriter Over the past few months, the debate of whether religious holidays should be removed entirely or added in has resurfaced. Some school districts nationwide have been questioning if they should be inclusive to other religions and add more days off to the school calendar, while other school districts wonder whether they should just cut out religious days entirely from their school calendars.

As a person whose religious holidays are not included in the list of holidays that are days off for everyone, I personally feel very annoyed. In the religion that I follow, Islam, we have two major holidays. This year one of them, Eid-al-Adha, was on September 12th, which also happened to be a school day. The day before I took the day off to celebrate, I had to inform all my teachers that I wasn’t going to be there the next day so they could give me work to do that I was going to miss.

Let me tell you, it is not fun to be doing a whole day’s full of work and homework when you are trying to have a day off to celebrate a religious holiday.

This specific holiday was supposed to be a day filled with fun, parties, and spending time with family and friends.

But instead, my other Muslim friends and I from Algonquin and other school districts, spent a large part of the day con-

OBSERVED BY ARHS

SOME UNOBSERVED BY ARHS

Rosh Hashanah: October 3 Jewish

Eid-al-Adha: Sep. 12 Islamic

Yom Kippur: October 12 Jewish

Asian Lunar New Year: Jan. 28 Confucian/Taoist/Buddhist

Good Friday: April 14 Christian

Holi: March 13 Hindu

*Hanukkah: Dec. 24 - Jan. 1 Jewish

Vaisakhi: April 13 Sikh

Christmas: Dec. 25 Christian

Vesak (Buddha Day): May 10 Buddhist

*Does not always fall over winter break.

cerned about all the work we were going to have to make up and all the class time and discussions we had missed.

Yes, of course, most of our teachers were thoughtful enough to give us extra time to hand in the assignments that were due, but we still could have missed important information. I’m not saying any of us were crying because we love school so much and we missed it, but when you get to higher grade levels, it becomes harder

to compensate for the missed class time.

It might be easy to make up assignments but you can’t go back in time and revisit the class discussions you missed.

And fairly, some of my friends thought it would be too hard to make-up that work they were going to miss or maybe had a test so they did not skip school that day. However, that was their own personal decision to not take the day off.

As we all come to realize, that as you

get older it becomes harder to compensate for missed class time, and therefore we try not to miss school even though you don’t really want to go. But I understand that Massachusetts school districts cannot give days off to all the religious holidays because otherwise we’d probably be out of school year-round.

No matter how badly I want my own religious holidays recognized and taken as a day off, I cannot be selfish and pretend that there aren’t so many more religions that also would like to have their holidays as a day off on the calendar.

So, I think that our school district should remove all religious holidays. Such holidays include Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Good Friday. Although I do not celebrate Christmas because it is a Christian holiday, major holidays such as Christmas should not be removed because there is a large percentage of people who celebrate it. Christmas vacation also stands as a winter break for everyone so it wouldn’t make sense to remove it.

These three holidays are just three days of school we’d be adding back to the calendar and by doing just this small task, I think it makes it fair for all the religions that are represented by people in our district.

The idea of removing these religious holidays from the calendar makes me feel better because then my religion is not excluded nor is anyone else’s included.

tHE haRBINGER

Opinion

8

november 2016

To teen drivers: practice makes perfect

New drivers should be excited, careful when learning to handle the road

Riley Garand

StaffWriter Remember that slow, student driver that you and your parents sat behind who always seemed to ruin your day? Don’t yell, don’t beep, because either that was you, or that’ll be you soon.

Unlike learning how to ride a bicycle, learning to drive a car does not come with training wheels; it takes practice. It’s something everyone looks forward to, and I was no exception. The first time I went out driving, I thought I would be a natural.

I was wrong.

As soon as I drove out of that parking lot, I had dropped into an environment that was very different from anything I’d ever experienced: the road.

Although we see and ride on roads all the time before we drive, once behind the wheel, the road becomes a whole new place. The road is the real deal, with pedestrians, road ragers, and cops. They could

care less about how experienced you are. They will beep at you, pull you over, and in some cases give you the finger, but through this all, you have to stay calm.

When I first got on the road, it felt like I was embarking to a point of no return, putting me and other drivers in danger.

Even before driving on an actual road, when practicing in parking lots with my dad and mom, I was driving slower than a ninety-year-old and breaking

furiously despite my sluggish speed. I can’t even count how many people beeped at me.

You can’t practice staying calm on the road. I felt like a small kid trying to handle something meant solely for adults, but I’ve realized that this feeling is incredibly important.

I should be scared.

Confident first time drivers out there should know something very important that I wish I knew before. You are going to

Information from Dmv.org, “Safe Driving Tips for Teenage Drivers,” Teendriving.com, “General Driving Tips,” Driveractive.com, “Some Free Driving Tips for You.”

make a ton of mistakes; it’s just ing able to drive isn’t all anxiety a given. and stress.

I made tons of mistakes Sure, the week-long class while driving for the first time. can feel annoying at times, but My parents can attest to it; you’ll learn what you need to I slammed know. It the brakes just takes at every p r a c You can’t practice stop sign, I tice, and struggled to getting staying calm on keep steady through in the midthe conthe road. I felt like dle of the stant misa small kid trying road, and takes to I couldn’t get better. to handle somestay at Just thing meant solely a good like a speed. One sport, infor adults... dark night I strument, almost ran or even over a fama subject ily of turyou take keys. It was at Algona rough first week. quin, it takes practice.

But that rough week, along However, while driving can with the excitement and antici- be fun, and it does give you freepation of driving, helped make dom, it is important to rememme a better driver. I used my ber that unlike sports, music, or excitement to get through the school, people’s lives are in our major mistakes I made, and still hands when we drive. make, while driving.

Just remember to follow the In the end, the goal, like any- rules, be cautious, and get a lot one who is a new driver, is to get of practice, and you’ll be fine. my license. After I got my permit But if you see a car with the I wanted to drive everywhere: student driver logo on it, don’t school, practice, New York. You beep or go around. It may be name it, I wanted to drive there. one of your classmates learning The more I drove, the more something new and difficult and confident I became. So yes, your exciting: driving. nerves will improve and get better. Having your permit and be-

Dress codes should not sexualize female students The way an individual dresses is a young girls to cover up nonsexual parts form of self expression and a way to show of their body and to censor a very imporStaffWriter who that person is, so why would high tant form of self expression in order to We’ve all been exposed to similar schools around the counnot distract fellow male dress codes since early middle school: try try and censor that? students. shorts and skirts must reach fingertip While yes, some clothing To me, this is It is the male length, no parts of a chest or stomach is is deemed as to inapprocompletely backwards. to be exposed, and God forbid girls wear priate for school, such as It is the male students students that a tank top and reveal their bare shoulders. overly short skirts, shorts, that should be taught should be However, while Algonquin students and completely exposed not oversexualize parts are lucky enough to be in a high school chest and stomach, some of the female body. taught not with an extremely lenient dress code, this dress code requirements I have shoulders and oversexualize is far from the norm of high schools are unnecessary and exknees and collarbones throughout the country, which leaves me tremely demeaning. and a belly button. parts of the with one question: Why? Another problem is Everyone does. These Strict high schools such as Apopka that school dress codes body parts are in no female body.

High School in Florida actively take part in primarily concern female way sexual and should heavily enforcing dress codes mentioned. students. Common dress not be seen as such.

The school’s student handbook reads, “If codes prohibit a girl’s Girls should be a student is in violation of the dress code, shoulders to be seen; taught to love their they may not in some schools, the bodies and to show the world that they attend classes students’ knees, collar are proud to live in the skin that they do. that day.” bones and any part of Never should they be told to cover up Students are getThe strict their stomach or chest their bodies or change their appearance in dress code at are also expected to be order for a male to not look at them in a ting sent home that school covered. Most of these sexual way. and missing classes seems to be dorestrictions do not apply Enforcing such strict dress codes uling more harm to male fashion. timately does the opposite from keeping all because somethan good. StuThe reasons high students focused. Female students are so one can see their dents are getschools give for enforc- concerned about what they are wearing ting sent home ing this dress code is so that they may not be able to focus in class. shoulder... and missing the female students are Instead of heavily enforced unrealistic classes all benot seen as “distract- dress codes, everyone involved in school cause someone ing” to others students. systems across the country should be accan see their In this case, the “other cepting of all forms of self expression, shoulder, and students” are commonly and should allow girls, as well as boys, to that is seen as distracting to fellow class- only the male students in the schools. wear what they want, how they want, anymates. To me, this seems extremely ridicuAs a result of these gender-biased day, everyday. lous. codes, school administrators are teaching Julia Guay

ARHS Dress Code “Designs on clothing, which display poor taste, advocate drugs, alcohol or sex, and express vulgarities and/ or ethnic/discriminatory slurs will not be tolerated.”

“Any style of dress that is considered disruptive to school activities is prohibited.”

“Clothing that is too revealing (e.g., clothing that exposes underpants, the midriff, etc.) is inappropriate in a school setting.”

Source: The Student Handbook

tHE haRBINGER

editorial

9

Listen up: a vote is a voice

Harbinger

november 2016

Casting a ballot in the 2016 election is essential

T

he 2016 election is here; it is unavoidable and it is crucial that teachers and students alike follow the campaign. Speaking directly to our subscribers over eighteen years old, we strongly encourage you to use your constitutional rights and vote. To not vote is to be silent about the outcome of your future; casting a vote is an integral part of our nation’s democracy, and we cannot stress enough that your voice does matter.

Some may reason that neither candidate is fit for office and they do not want to vote because they cannot face seeing either of them in the White House. However, an outcome is inevitable, so your vote would be a more effective contribution than protesting against the candidates by refraining from voting. After all, the president elected will play a significant role in the actions of the government over the course of their four or more years in the White House. So play a role in deter mining your future, because a vote is a voice, no matter how small it may seem.

The importance of voting lies within the creed of our nation. In 1788 when the U.S. Constitution was first enacted, a modern democracy was adopted. To honor the values of our country, voting and participating in elections is truly essential. Upholding the freedoms of the United States is in the hands of the people; citizens must participate in our nation’s politics to ensure a government that is representative of the people.

Some people know exactly what their beliefs are, but others may not be as confident in their beliefs.

To figure out where your political allegiances lie, determine where your moral interests lie.

There are many online quizzes that can help you determine your political alliance by asking questions about a person’s moral compass. For example, the Pew Research Center offers a political typology test that will show your Though you may position on the ponot ally comlitical spectrum.

Even if the results pletely with any don’t provide an adcandidates in this equate analysis of your political views, year’s race, find the questions will the candidate prompt introspecwhose views are tive thinking long after the quiz. the closest to Though you your own. may not ally completely with any candidates in this year’s race, find the candidate whose views are the closest to your own.

The reality is that politics are never black and white. You may never fully agree with a candidate, but there is likely a candidate you agree with more than the others, or at least a candidate you dislike the least.

To those who have prematurely cast their vote: thank you. And when the voting booths open on November 8, we at the Algonquin Harbinger hope all of our subscribers who can vote will vote.

Whether your political views are satisfied with this year’s election or not, take solace in knowing you exercised your right and voted in the 2016 election.

The unsigned editorial reflects the views of The Editorial Board.

PERMISSION WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The Algonquin

The student newspaper of Algonquin Regional High School 79 Bartlett St, Northborough, MA 01532 508-351-7010 arhsharbinger@gmail.com www.arhsharbinger.com

Volume 29 Issue 2

Editorial Board Editors-in-chief Jen Fox & Riya Pujari

managing editors Kayla Morkert & Max Donahue

Photo Editor Rafaela Coelho

News Editors

Shannon Youngberg & Cassidy Wang

Sports Editor Emily Smith

A&E Editors Paige Morse & Maggie Del Re

Opinion editors Diana Roy & Tess Herdman

online editor Carey Davis

copy Editor Clarissa Wong

Social Media Editor Natalie Sadek

Assistant News Editor Elissa Gorman

Assistant Sports Editor Darby Kim

Assistant A&E Editor Anna Silver

Assistant PHOTO Henna Dhingra & Ryan Strobel

Assistant Online Asma Ali

uin q n o

Alg e h T

r e g rbin

Ha

The Harbinger Editorial Policies The Harbinger is the official student-publication of Algonquin Regional High School. The Harbinger has been established as a designated public forum for student editors to inform and educate their readers as well as for the discussion of issues of concern to their audience. The Harbinger is not reviewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution.

Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of The Harbinger is determined by and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the

If you are interested in writing articles, taking photos, or designing pages, come to H217 on Tuesdays after school.

Join the staff!

school itself, its student editorial board assumes complete legal liability for the content of the publication.

The expression of opinions by all readers is encouraged through letters to the editor. Letters may be submitted to arhsharbinger@gmail.com.

Letters to editor should not exceed 300 words, must be signed, and must include writer’s email address and phone number for verification.

Concerns about errors published in The Harbinger may be submitted though the Editors in Chief. Staff members will strive to correct errors prior to publication; however, if the editorial board determines a significant error is printed, the board will determine the manner and timeliness of a correction.

Businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in advertising in The Harbinger should contact the editors at arhsharbinger@gmail.com for rates, policies, and deadlines. Advertising that appears in The Harbinger is not necessarily endorsed by The Harbinger or its staff members, editorial board or adviser.

Typography and layout is done entirely by The Harbinger staff. The Harbinger is printed by Student Paper Express. The Harbinger publishes and distributes approximately 1500 copies six to ten times a year to the school community and paid subscribers.

The Harbinger is affiliated with The New England Scholastic Press Association and The Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

Adviser

Lindsay Coppens

Contributing Staff Riley Garand, Caroline Beek, Dana Fishman, Julia Guay, Brooke Suitum, Anita Nyberg, Rachael Shek, Kelly Slovin, Lauren Speranzella, Julia Labich, Anna He, Alex Martin, Jaiden Dallis, Drew Despres, Farah Djunaedi, Sherilyn Hinchey, Apple Lin, Katrina Liu, Owen Lyons, Rebecca Poretsky, Monique Radloff, Julie Rodgers, Lindsey Stevenson, Elise Gallagher, Lucas Begnami, Elise Ribaudo, Isabella Bogdanski, Mia Mcauliffe, Mariam Ibrahimi

tHE haRBINGER

ASTROLOGY

10

november 2016

NASA scientist dispels rumors of new star sign Thirteenth zodiac not proven by science caroline beek & brooke suitum

SATIRE

HOROSCOPES Aquarius

January 20 - February 18 Lock up your letfover Halloween candy. Don’t ask questions, just do it.

Pisces

February 19 - March 20 Pack your things! You and your family are moving to Canada on November 8!

Aries

March 21 - April 19 You’re going to meet someone that will make your adrenaline rush on November 10.

Taurus

April 20 - May 20 You’re going to go to Mr. Alera to ask to do test corrections, but he won’t be there.

Gemini

May 21 - June 20 On November 8 your dreams will come true.

Cancer

June 21 - July 22 You will start the second term off on the left foot.

StaffWriters The recent controversial announcement of a thirteenth zodiac sign created a frenzy over social media and caused some astrological believers to feel “lost” and “confused” about their personality and future outlooks. However, NASA astrophysicist Dr. Grant Tremblay debunked the rumor of a new zodiac sign.

The additional sign, Ophiuchus, would cover November 29 to December 17, and potentially shift all of the the other signs. An article which linked NASA with the “new” sign quickly spread over social media outlets this summer and fall.

“We have many missions in NASA; defining astrological signs is not one of them,” Tremblay, currently a NASA Einstein Fellow at Yale University said.

“NASA has no role in updating the zodiac.”

Over Facetime, Tr e m b l ay shared it was a NASA NASA astrophys- c h i l d r e n ’s icsit Dr. Grant website, Tremblay Space Place, that made a minor update on an old zodiac article about the constellations.

“This article on Space Place just simply noted that the positions of those constellations have changed because they are about 1,000 years old,” Tremblay said.

The website claimed that the old astrological signs are outdated, and that there are new “dates” for the zodiac sign. When the website stated that the Babylonians left a sign out, many people misinterpreted that it meant that a horoscope had formed, which would alter almost all of the dates of the existing signs.

According to Tremblay, there are actually 21 constellations rath-

permission wikipedia.com

Ophiuchus means “serpent-bearer” in Greek . According to ibtimes.com, people with this sign would have large personalities. Ophiuchuses are said to be compassionate due to their affinity for healing; this compassion is balanced by a boisterous and ambitious temperament.

er than 12, but the 12 constellaTremblay’s confirmation that tions were the only ones totally there is not truly an additional visible in ancient times so the an- sign and that a “new constellacient star-gazers and astrologers tion” has not appeared is reassurwho followed the visible constel- ance to students who can continlations disregarded the other nine ue to follow the sign they’ve had signs. their whole lives.

“I had never really cared “I was super confused at first about horoscopes prior to hear- because it was all over social meing that they changed, but when dia, but I’m glad that it’s not true,” I heard my horoscope might be junior Ava Shaw said. altered, I thought it was really inTremblay wishes that NASA teresting,” senior Max Donahue would get more coverage on their said. extensive work Donahue, a rather than Virgo, would be a “This is an examfalse rumors.

Leo according to ple of something “We at the updated zodiac.

NASA, we are Some students getting so ridicu- very lucky in of Algonquin pan- lously blown out that we great icked over the news press someof a new sign, feel- of proportion...” times, but ing as though their sometimes we NASA ASTROPHYSICIST get very frusnew horoscope DR. GRANT TREMBLAY trated because would not fit their personality. the dumbest “I’ve been a stories get the Capricorn my whole life, and I most coverage,” Tremblay said. couldn’t imagine following a new “This is an example of something horoscope,” senior Maggie Shatz getting so ridiculously blown out said. of proportion, and yet is one of According to the newly the most covered stories of this aligned horoscopes, Shatz would year.” be a Sagittarius.

“New” horoscopes including Ophiuchus Capricorn: Jan. 20 - Feb. 16

Virgo: Sept. 16 - Oct. 30

Pisces: Mar. 11 - Apr. 18

Taurus: May 13 - June 21 Gemini: June 21 - July 20 Cancer: July 20 - Aug. 10

Virgo

August 23 - September 22 On November 11 you’ll realize you forgot to submit your early action college applications.

Libra

September 23 - October 22 At 12:01 am on Cyber Monday you will sadly find the Kylie Jenner lip kit to be sold out.

Scorpio

October 23 - November 21 You will have your license test on November 22. Three feet of snow will fall on November 22.

Sagittarius

November 22 - December 21 Your Thanksgiving will be one for the books - no one will bring up your grades, social life, or college!

Capricorn

December 22 - January 19 On November 15 Laughton will track you down for avoiding your parking permit fee.

Leo: Aug.10 - Sept. 16

Aquarius: Feb. 16 - Mar. 11

Aries: Apr. 18 - May 13

Leo

July 23 - August 22 You’re going to fall for someone new... get it? Fall. Like autumn.

Libra: Oct. 30 - Nov. 23 The symbol for the Ophiuchus sign would be a U shape with a curved line through it.

Scorpio: Nov. 23 - Nov. 29 Ophiuchus: Nov. 29 - Dec. 17 Sagittarius: Dec. 17 - Jan. 20

permission refinery29.com

tHE haRBINGER

POLITICS

11

november 2016

Students argue for candidates I’m with her...

I’m with him...

A candidate to heal the economy

Realistic option for presidency Katie miller

Contributing Writer Although often overlooked, Hillary Clinton has draws as a presidential candidate that are unattributed to her opposition’s lack of qualification to hold any office of such esteem. Serving as First Lady, Senator of New York, and Secretary of State prepared her to work with the public, legislation, and foreign policy. Clinton’s campaign gracefully walks the fine line between professionalism and personability.

On the other hand, Trump’s “business experience” is not evidence that he is economically competent or politically knowledgeable, and his campaign rhetoric is dangerously divisive. He makes voters believe that they’ve been wronged, that the government is deliberately working against them, that it is “us against them.”

Legislatively, a Republican presidency added to the Republican majority in Congress would essentially unravel the progress

that the O b a m a administration has worked towards for these past eight years.

In the third presidential debate, Chris Wallace said, “One of the prides of this country, is the peaceful transition of power...” At this point in the election, I can’t envision any candidate other than Clinton succeeding in taking office peacefully. It is too late to graphic rachael shek amend the ballot. We have two realistic choices, but only one with any experience or dignity whatsoever.

Experience, knowledge qualify Clinton for presidential office Alex gowdy

ContributingWriter Hillary Clinton is not a very appealing candidate. She doesn’t have the charisma of Bill Clinton, the charm of Ronald Reagan, or the energy of Barack Obama.

Many believe she is a criminal, although to do so flies in the face of the eight congressional investigations (five led

by Republicans) and one FBI probe that have found she did nothing illegal.

She does have what few presidential candidates in our history have had, however, and that is nearly 30 years of experi-

ence as an active gubernatorial and presidential first lady, Senator, and Secretary of State.

Her advocacy and work on a wide range of issues over the course of her career has given her a deep understanding of policy and the problems facing Americans today. Her work as senator after 9/11 and as Secretary of State has given Clinton in depth knowledge of foreign policy and world affairs.

In contrast, Donald Trump has proven that he lacks the knowledge and understanding of the issues to be an effective president. Of all the candidates in this race, only Hillary Clinton has shown that she has the knowledge and experience required to be an effective and responsible president.

I’m with neither...

Cory Champeon

ContributingWriter It’s no secret that this election is a pick your poison type of election. Of the he top two frontrunners, one appears to be a brazen jerk, who changes his views daily, and seems to have no respect for anyone.

His catch phrase is literally, “You’re fired”, and we want to give him nukes

STephan Dahlstrom

ContributingWriter He plans on making the biggest tax cuts since the Reagan years if he gets elected.

Thats a great idea because they will allow people to keep more of their own

money. This will help the middle class grow, lift Americans up and out of poverty and lessen class divide.

When the middle class has more wealth, they will be less financially dependent. In the end, the people and the government both win. Lowering taxes will provide people with more money to spend on goods and services thereby creating demand, which leads to progress and new ideas in society.

Trump will also help lower our debt. He will do this by cutting government spending. In addition, he will generate more revenue in the US by lowering corporate taxes which will encourage companies to move back home.

Furthermore, by reducing sales taxes the products produced in the US will be cheaper than their foreign competitors like China and Mexico. On top of that, he plans to impose tariffs on China and Mexico similar to tariffs that the US pays to them.

These tariffs will jack up the prices of the foreign products making them less competitive. This will weaken their trade leverage against us allowing us to be the dominant economic power in the global market. This will decrease the chance of our economy collapsing under debt because the strong trade leverage can help the US generate billions more dollars every year.

Clinton proves to be only rational choice Noah brazer

ContributingWriter When considering which presidential candidate to support in the upcoming 2016 election, there is only one considerable option in my mind. Hillary Clinton is the only choice when it comes to the morality, temperaments, and policy standpoints of the candidates. It is disgusting to even consider that a predatory man with the emotional maturity of a middle schooler could potentially become the next president. If you support Trump, I urge you to step back and look at

the whole picture and think about what is at stake in this election.

Clinton has laid out coherent plans for tackling the pressing IS problem abroad, supporting marginalized minorities at home, and for resolving police violence.

While she remains mum on her methods of carrying out other important topics, Trump is even worse; he disguises his lack of planning by claiming he has secret plans and by writing off words as, “just words, people.” His tax cut policy and relaxation of business regulations would have an effect opposite to what he has suggested. Reducing taxes for the rich will only increase the disparity between the rich and poor and

increase the disappearance of the middle class. Loosening business regulations will only allow monster corporations to fully take advantage of using underpaid foreign workers to fuel their corporate greed. The enumeration of logical fallacies put forth

by Donald Trump goes on and on.

Hillary is by no means anything close to a perfect candidate, but the fact that she has been in politics for over thirty years shows that she values and seeks to improve the lives of the public above all else. If you are eligible to vote in the upcoming November election, I implore you to consider all the facts and choose the only candidate that makes sense: Hillary Clinton.

One’s a jerk, one’s corrupt: vote third party instead The other option isn’t much better. nors? And don’t forget about bengHillary is political corruption incarnate. ...There is one hazi and her emails.

She claims to want to “take dark money For those of you who are like out of politics,” while she is literally the glimmer of me. Those of you who are asked, black hole in which dark money gravi- hope: Gary “Which candidate do you suptates to. She wants the top 10% to pay port?”, and your answer is, “Neimore in taxes. Check her public donation Johnson. ther”, there is one glimmer of funds. A majority of donations that she hope: Gary Johnson. has received are from people who are He’s better than Trump or the top 10 percent. Do you really think that Hillary’s Clinton, and if literally everyone votes for him, we plan when she gets into office is to betray her do- may have a chance of seeing the next election. photos kayla morkert and carly sotir

tHE haR

presidentia

12

novemb

Hillary Clinton

THE RACE IS TIGHT THE STAKES ARE HIG

Secretary of State Age 69 Democratic Party Family: husband Bill Clinton, child Chelsea

ECONOMY

Tax relief for middle class, higher taxes for the wealthy, close corporate loop-holes

HEALTH CARE

Continue health plan under Obama; expand Medicare

ABORTION

Pro-Choice: firmly believes in a woman’s right to choose

TERRORISM

Clinton’s plan is to “take out ISIS, dismantle global terrorism network, harden our defenses at home and prevent attacks.”

IMMIGRATION

Supports amnesty; wants to create a path to full and equal citizenship for undocumented immigrants

ENVIRONMENT

artwork bella bogdanski

Lower carbon emissions, install solar panels, work on creating clean energy

[THE SCANDAL SUM-UP]

GUN REGULATION Wants to create “common sense” reforms to prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands; more thorough background checks

LGBT RIGHTS

Supports gay rights and a future towards complete equality, but proprosed a federal amendment in 2004 to ban same-sex marriage

REFUGEES

Wants to bring about 65,000 refugees into the country with the continuation of the vetting currently in place

MINIMUM WAGE

Wants to raise minimum wage to $12 per hour and supports efforts to raise the wage to $15 per hour

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Wants to maintain a peaceful but firm relationship with rivals and alliances; believes in maintaining a strong military and enforcing the Iran nuclear deal

[EMAILS] [SEXUAL ASSAUL

Clinton used a private email server while she was Secretary of State. Though FBI Director James Comey previously stated that Clinton’s actions did not violate the law, he recently announced the reopening of the investigation into whether Clinton was careless with classified materials.

[“DEPLORABLES”] At a September fundraiser, Clinton mentioned in a speech that “you can put half of Trump supporters into what I call the basket of deplorables.” She then continued to characterize them as “racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamaphobic” and even “irredeemable.”

After the September 11 attacks on the US Embassy in Benghazi, Libya, Clinton had to produce hours of testimony in congressional hearings clarifying what happened at the attack and how much the administration knew about it that they were not revealing.

Flaws and all, we’re stronger with Her ContributingWriter

I am so sick of false equivalencies. Stop comparing Hillary Clinton’s emails to Donald Trump’s blatant misogyny, unabashed xenophobia, and vile racism. Stop pretending that Trump’s comments about women have anything to do with Hillary Clinton. Quit telling yourself that a successful businessman is just as qualified to be president as a former First Lady,

[RACIST COMMEN

Trump has generalized that M They’re bring crime. They’re are good people.” He receive Muslim mother of a deceased lowed to have anything to sa

[BENGHAZI] [WOMEN]

Student opinions Brendan foley

The Washington Post release featuring “lewd” (as describe news source) conversation b who then worked at Access H to groping, kissing, and tryin women without their consen

Senator, and Secretary of State. Donald Trump struggled to The Democratic nominee support his answers with specifundeniably has her ics and facts. flaws, but don’t her Stop comparing Hill- Trump conthirty years of pubsistently ary Clinton’s emails lic service count for shedded to Donald Trump’s something? his “presiAnd if experi- blatant misogyny, ua- dential” deence doesn’t mat- bashed xenophobia, meanor to ter to you, compare attack his their performances and vile racism. opponent, in the debates. Secre peatedly retary Clinton calmly answered insulting and interrupting her. the questions and delivered a As The Washington Post aptly positive message. Meanwhile, put, the debates feature an “un-

prepared man repeatedly shouting over a highly prepared and highly qualified woman.”

And if you are one of the many Americans who sway in the winds of personality politics, please, reevaluate why you are voting for a candidate. Don’t you want the next president of the United States to address climate change, uphold marriage quality, and ultimately be a leader who you can respect?

And that’s why #Imwithher.

Trump has been criticized for degrading the appearance of calling a woman publicly pum He has used terms like “fat pi a**,” and has commented ina al cycles and body parts of p

Better poli connor truex

ContributingWriter

Donald J. Trump is politi cally an idiot. However, I do be lieve that most of his policie can lead to a stronger American economy.

Trump’s policies on taxe are ideal; basic economic classe teach that lower taxes improv the economy. Also, his ability to jump through loop holes prove that the tax process is over com

RBINGER

al election

13

ber 2016

Donald Trump

T GH

Entrepreneur Age 70 Republican Party Family: wife Melania Trump, child Barron; children Ivanka, Eric, Tiffany, Donald Jr. from former marriages

ECONOMY

Tax relief for corporations to expand American business; close loopholes for the wealthy elite

HEALTH CARE

“I would end Obamacare and replace it with something terrific, for far less money for the country and for the people.”

ABORTION Pro-Life; believes Planned-Parenthood must be defunded.

“I’m pro-life, but with the caveats. It’s life of the mother, very important, incest and rape.”

TERRORISM

Defeat ISIS by cracking down with elevated war tactics: increased air attacks, waterboarding, attacking families of potential terrorists

IMMIGRATION

Calling for a “total and complete shutdown” of Muslims entering the US; crack down on deportation of illegal aliens, with an emphasis on immigrants from Mexico

ENVIRONMENT

artwork elise ribaudo

Increase oil drilling in US as an economic and foreign policy move; supported Keystone Pipeline for job creation

LT]

ed audio and video from 2005 ed by almost every American etween Trump and Billy Bush, Hollywood. Trump admitted ng to have intercourse with nt.

NTARY]

Mexicans are “bringing drugs. rapists… And some, I assume, d backlash after saying the d army captain “wasn’t alay ” at the DNC.

r sexist commentary, from f a former Miss Universe to mping breastmilk “disgusting.” igs” and “beautiful piece of ppropriately on the menstrurofessional women.

GUN REGULATION

Believes strongly in the Second Amendment and that arming good people will keep America safer

LGBT RIGHTS Opposed to gay marriage: “I just don’t feel right about it.”

REFUGEES

Criticizes Obama administration for allowing refugees into the country without properly identifying them; “there’s no documentation.”

MINIMUM WAGE

Trump has claimed that wages are “too high,” but also stated in July that the current minimum wage “has to go up.”

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Secure good relationship with Russia; gain economic dominance over Mexico and China, to save American jobs

icies trump vulgarities

iees n

es es ve o es m-

plicated and is in need of being thing that Donald knows is that fixed. war is bad. It can leave us in debt Donald also wants to keep for years to come and for obviproduction in America by lifting ous moral reasons, should be regulations and renegotiating avoided. With the current fortrade deals; he wants America to eign policies we have in place, be able to comRussia has had pete with Chi- Despite all the enough. na’s cheap labor.

The U.S. has Trump is not a vulgar comments supplied weapons politician, but he of Donald, Hillary to groups they is an economic Clinton’s actions still classify as terrorgenius. ists. Obama has A n o t h e r speak louder. even refrained

e student Read mor ns on submissio page 11! from giving these groups antiaircraft missiles for fear jihadist would acquire them.

America is known for supplying weapons to rebels, but do we know where all these weapons go? Donald’s desire to fix relations with Russia could divert an upcoming war.

Despite all the vulgar comments of Donald, Hillary Clinton’s actions still speak louder.

STUDENT COUNCIL

MOCK ELECTION RESULTS

The polls, as indicated by 353 student voters via Google Forms the week of October 24

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

CLINTON 50% TRUMP 27% JOHNSON 5% STEIN 3% NOBODY 15%

BALLOT QUESTIONS

1 gambling 63% NAY 2 charter schools 74% NAY 3 animals 83% YEA

4 marijuana 54% YEA **See page 1 for ballot question details

Looking for another option?

QUICK FACTS - Pro-choice - Gun ownership must be further regulated, more background checks - Strongly opposed to immigration tactic of mass deportation - Refugees must be welcomed into US immediately - Increase taxes on the rich to 55%-60% - Close tax loopholes, end corporate welfare - Supports minimal US involvement in foreign countries

Gary Johnson Governor of New Mexico Age 63 Libertarian Party

Jill Stein

Physician, Activist, Politician Age 66 Green Party

QUICK FACTS - Supports abortions before late-term - Believes immigrants are good for society, but that the system must be reformed - Supports gay marriage - Supports protection of second amendment; people should only be denied guns on account of mental illness, connections with terrorism - Eliminate special interest tax loopholes, tax on what you spend, not what you earn

information compiled from cnnpolitics, the washington post, new york times, abcnews, and candidates’ campaign websites

tHE haRBINGER

MORE POLITICS

14

November 2016

Trump reveals societal issues, lack of morals

graphic rachael shek

Darby Kim

Assistant Sports Editor This upcoming election has jeopardized our country’s beliefs and morals.

The way Trump attacks, insults, and bashes other candidates represents what our modern society has become.

In the past, if so much as a small insult from a candidate was made to another, the whole media would be buzzing. For instance, in the 1988 United States Vice Presidential debate, candidate Senator Lloyd Bentsen said to Senator Dan Quayle, “Senator, you’re no Jack Kennedy.”

This was sparked by Quayle’s comments in his stump speech, a short standardized speech repeated to each audience before opening to questions, comparing himself to John F. Kennedy, the 35th president.

However, in this election, we expect scene jokes have started to become more the candidates to throw vulgar comments accepted in our society. and insults at one another at every debate It seems as if the younger generaand public appearance. tion has become more involved with the What does this say about our society? upcoming election through social media.

That Trump is one of Part of why Trump the head runners to feels as though it is be our next president I find it horrifying okay to blurt out rude reveals a deep truth comments is because of our society that no- that “locker room he receives so much atbody wants to accept. tention for saying them talk” is prevalent in The character on social media. of the leader of our our society.

Also, many of the country should repreracist comments he sent what our people makes, such as stating and society stand for, and quite frankly, that we should build a wall on America’s Trump’s behavior has come to represent southern border to keep out immigrants, all of our country’s issues. and make Mexico pay for it, illustrate the I am not saying that everyone is vul- ever-prevalent issue of racism in our socigar and rude, but I have noticed how ob- ety. While our country has become more

accepting towards immigrants and people of different races, it is still a major issue.

Now, these issues are becoming more popular through jokes. Some people do not think of them as serious, but to others it is still extremely offensive. Although people do not like to admit it, racism still exists in our society.

Not only is racism demonstrated by our leaders, but sexism is as well. Degrading women in our society has become acceptable. For example, Trump’s “locker room talk” with Billy Bush was out of line and insulting to women. Trump is trying to say that this type of “talking” is common among the average man, making it more acceptable.

I find it horrifying that “locker room talk” is prevalent in our society. Although it is terrible a possible future president said this, we cannot only blame him. The fact that he was able to say all of this supported by another male, shows that in our society, we cannot deny that some males do this. Obviously not all do, but just knowing there is anybody talking about women like this is horrifying to think about.

It is concerning how Billy Bush got fired from his job, but Trump is still considered as a candidate. Our society is allowing this to happen, and nothing is being put to action to knock Trump down.

This election has transformed into a vote of which candidate would be a better “role model” rather than focusing on their ability to lead our country. In the past, our leader’s character representation was never an issue, but now we focus heavily on this when debating on who to support.

How did our society get to this point?

We think we are improving and advancing, but then why does it feel like we are only moving backwards?

Trump reflects towards our society showing how unstable and immoral our country and society has become. We say we are about freedom, acceptance, morality, and human rights, but then how come our leaders do not represent these ideals?

We need to take in consideration what kind of person we want representing our country, and what kind of people in society we want to be.

Throwing away your vote

Why third party candidates are not a better alternative

Kayla Morkert

Managing Editor Though Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson and Green Party candidate Jill Stein may better align with a voter’s views, it is not a wise decision to vote for either of these third party candidates. Especially in an election as crucial as this, a major party must remain undivided by third parties in order to win the presidency.

By voting for a third party candidate like Johnson or Stein, votes that could have gone toward Trump or Clinton may instead go toward a less viable candidate. This in turn may negatively affect the major party candidate that holds similar views to the voter. For example, if a person votes for Jill Stein rather than the slightly less liberal democratic nominee, Hillary Clinton, the voter is essentially giving votes to Trump because the Green Party is not likely to gain as much support as a major

party. candidate, that voter’s influence Voting isn’t as cut-and-dry on the election is more signifias supporting the candidate cant than a person who voted for whose beliefs best reflect those a third party because third party of the voter. Though the two candidates are unlikely to win. major party candidates may not Vote for one of the two possible be your cup of tea, one is likely winners, not a candidate who more favorpulls votes able to you from a posthan the By voting for a third sible victor. other. And it A vote, is in the vot- party candidate like no matter ers’ and can- Johnson or Stein, how insignifididates’ best cant it may interests if votes that could seem, is a citipeople vote have gone toward zen’s chance for presidento affect their tial nominees Trump or Clinton future. In a who are the may instead go tod e m o c r a c y, most likely to suffrage is ward a less viable be elected. the ultimate By voting candidate. freedom of for a major speech; it is party candiguaranteed to date, voters have a stronger voice. citizens in order to mold policy Major parties have more money, to the majority’s beliefs. Though more support, and therefore the system is not ideal in the have a better shot at winning an sense that all views are not adelection than third parties. When vocated equally, voting citizens a vote is cast for a major party must work with what they have.

And the way the system works is not to vote for a candidate that best aligns with a voter’s views, but rather a choice between major party candidates. So in this election avoid silencing your voice, avoid voting for Stein or Johnson.

Compromising on the presidential candidate may seem like giving up one’s freedom of speech, but there are other important elections occurring on November 8. On election day, ballot questions will also be voted on. Outside of Election Day, candidates running for local offices and policies affecting state and town governments are voted on. If it is change you want, the president is not the end all and be all of your voice. Research local officials running for offices and the ballot questions. Elections for local officials or voting on ballot questions will allow you to truly vote your conscience. But don’t be afraid to sacrifice your vote in the presidential election for the greater good.

Courtesy Commons Wikipedia

Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson advocates for a smaller federal government.

Courtesy Flickr

Green party candidate Jill Stein wants more government regulation.

tHE haRBINGER

A&E

15

November 2016

2016 Election Eats Annelise Eppen & Kara hadden

StaffWriters If you’re anything like us, this election season has left you exhausted, overwhelmed, shocked, in tears, and contemplating whether or not your job as a Wegmans cashier has earned you enough money to immigrate to Canada.

Unfortunately, it is too late to end America’s political apocalypse at this point. But don’t renew your passport just yet, because there’s still one thing we can do to make light of this situation: Eat our feelings.

So sit back, turn on your news propaganda channel of choice, try not to get into too many social media debates, and enjoy these tremendously tasty party snacks.

Crooked Clinton’s two-faced pizza

This recipe has two sides in one server. Did we say server? We meant serving.

Ingredients: 16 oz store-bought pizza dough Public Side: Hopefullly Uncontroversial 1 cup mozzarella cheese (grated) ½ cup tomato sauce Private Side: An Acquired Taste 1 cup mozzarella (grated) ½ cup tomato sauce ½ cup crumbled blue cheese ½ sour granny smith apple (sliced) ½ acidic red onion (sliced into thin strips) ½ tablespoon brown sugar ½ tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 425ºF. 2. Knead dough, and then press it into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.

3. Spread tomato sauce over entire pizza, and top with all of the mozzarella cheese.

4. On one half of pizza, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese. Top with sour apple in a crooked pattern.

5. Place a large skillet on high heat. Pour in oil.

6. When oil simmers, add onion and brown sugar.

7. Let onions caramelize, stirring occasionally, for about ten minutes.

Ingredients: 1 cup skittles 1 cup salted nuts Directions: 1. Add ingredients to a bowl.

2. Ask guests whether or not they’d take a handful of the mix if just three of the skittles in the bowl would kill them. It’s a metaphor.

8. When onions are caramelized, take off heat and place on pizza.

9. Bake pizza until brown around the crust, about 20 minutes. Let cool and enjoy.

Red, white, blue, and sugar-coated Ingredients: 16 oz white chocolate 2 packages Oreos, finely crushed red and blue food coloring 8 oz cream cheese, softened sugar, for topping Directions: 1. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and cookie crumbs until well blended.

2. Wrap mixture in cellophane and place in freezer for 15 minutes.

3. Divide white chocolate into thirds. Put into three separate bowls. Melt.

4. Add as many drops red food coloring as necessary to produce a bright color to one bowl of chocolate. Do the same with blue food coloring to another.

5. Remove mixture from freezer and press into 1-inch balls.

6. Dip balls in chocolate and place on a wax-papered pan. Top with a sprinkle of sugar.

7. Refrigerate until firm (at least 1 hour.)

8. Place in a basket, and don’t let the name fool you. This might be grossly generalistic, but these will definitely be amazing because Eppen enjoys a deplor-eo.

Oreo balls are always amazing.

Because we love the Hispanics.

Hadden eats a talk-o bowl.

Musicians impact our opinions A&E Editor

Trump’s locker room talk-o bowl Ingredients: 12 6-inch corn tortillas 12 oz pre-cooked chicken (diced) 1½ cup black beans ¾ cup New York cheddar cheese 1 bell pepper (diced) ½ onion (diced) 1 tablespoons olive oil 2 jalapeños (sliced) 2 tablespoons Russian dressing

Music can change the world Maggie Del Re

Campaign Basket of deplor-eo balls trail mix

Salty, nutty, and inexplicably irresistible

OPINION

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Oil a muffin pan.

2. Place each tortilla into the pan. The tortilla should serve as a wall. Remember, nobody builds walls better than you.

3. Inside of each tortilla wall, place about 1 oz chicken. White meat only.

4. Okay, “what the hell do you have to lose?”

Add some black beans.

6. Time for the cheese. Make it grated again.

Sprinkle half of your total cheese over the taco bowls.

7. Place taco bowls in oven and bake until shell has hardened (10-15 minutes).

Place a large skillet on high heat. Pour in oil.

8. When oil simmers, add pepper and onion.

Sauté until tender, about five minutes.

9. Remove taco bowls from oven. Place

onion and pepper mix into bowls.

10. Add a few thin slices of jalapeño to each bowl. Now, on a scale of 1-10, how hot do you think they are?

11. Drizzle on just a bit of Russian dressing.

No explanation needed.

12. Serve the mini taco bowls as appetizers.

People will love them so much they’ll grab them by the...

Photos Jen Fox

We sat in the basement, my phone softly playing punk hero Jeff Rosenstock’s “Festival Song.” My friend tapped his foot to the beat, grinning.

“This song is a jam!” he said.

I couldn’t help but giggle. The song that we were casually bopping along to is actually very political, and pretty depressing too. Rosenstock screams against “the establishment,” condemns consumerism, and calls for the wealthy, politicians, and regular folks alike to break the materialistic and greedy society we’ve built and to accept people for who they are rather than what they have.

Of course, music has long been a way for people to voice their opinion on important topics.

In the ‘60s Bob Dylan used the power of music to define several social issues such as the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement. John Lennon’s 1969 “Give Peace a Chance” also encouraged fans to oppose the war, and actually changed people’s perspectives on the important topic. In the 80’s, Bruce Springsteen chimes with “Born in the U.S.A”, criticizing the treatment of American soldiers.

Here in 2016, music continues to be used as a tool to persuade. With the upcoming election, several musicians are voicing their opinions on the candidates with tracks like “I Might Vote For Donald Trump” by JPEGMAFIA or YG’s “FDT”.

And as a self-proclaimed music lover, I can definitely say that there are more recent tracks or albums that have changed my views on issues concerning America today.

For example, a healthy mix of Kendrick Lamar’s “To Pimp A Butterfly”, Ab-Soul’s “Terrorist Threats”, and Noname’s “Casket Pretty”, among others, completely shifted my views on the Black Lives Matter movement.

As a white American raised in the suburbs, I previously found it difficult to relate race issues to my own life, and therefore they were difficult for me to understand. I thought all lives mattered and couldn’t understand why any one race needed to be singled out.

However, hearing these heartfelt cries from people who actually have experienced racism changed my opinion.

I realized that being black in the wrong place can legitimately be dangerous, and there is nothing okay or fair about that.

These artists showed me the need for a movement specifically for people of color.

This change of perspective is a pretty big deal. Music has the power over what I think; how I act.

People in positions of fame are in positions of power. It’s imperative that musicians do continue to use this power to evoke thought and change. And, it’s imperative to us as listeners to occasionally listen to the music, look into the meaning, and see if we can learn something new from the art that we already love so much.

tHE haRBINGER

A&E

16

November 2016

Sahlberg to play NYC tuba in hand at Macy’s Parade

Students study style in NYC

Lucas Begnami

StaffWriter While many will be watching football games or sitting down to an enormous feast, junior Caitlyn Sahlberg will be living one of her dreams of marching down the streets of New York City, playing her tuba in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“I feel accomplished and very excited to be a part of something this big,” Sahlberg said. “Ever since I started playing instruments I always wanted to be part of something as big as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. That's why a lot of the time when people say that their dreams won't come true, I say don't give up.”

Sahlberg is looking forward to playing the tuba in front of millions.

“I've always had a passion for playing [the tuba], and I think it will be fun to show people what I can do with an instrument of that size during the the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” Sahlberg said.

Although the auditioning process itself was quick, Sahlberg had a long wait to find out if she made the cut.

“At first I had to go online and submit a video of myself playing the tuba,” Sahlberg said. “Then I remember submitting it to a link on the Macy’s site and waiting a while to see if I would be lucky enough to be enrolled. After about a year of waiting I got an email telling me that I had been chosen to be part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and that immediately started my junior year off at a happy start.

“I was very excited and proud of myself for making it into such a well known event in American History,” Sahlberg said. “Between me and my parents I honestly couldn't tell you who was happier.”

Despite her talent in the music field, Sahlberg said her ultimate guide through this journey has been her music teacher and mentor, Amy Collins.

“I'm pretty proud of her,” Collins said. “I think it's really cool; she completely took the initiative on her own to audition for this select group. [I’m] very impressed with her and I think she will have a lot of fun.”

Both Sahlberg and her family feel accomplished by what she has, and is going to do.

“Music after school for me isn't work, it's passion,” Sahlberg said.

a left to Times Square and all of a sudden, it switched from ritzy and Assistant News Editor glamorous to everyday life.”

Fashion retail and textiles stu“On Fifth Avenue, you have dents channeled their inner Proj- a bunch of people in more classy ect Runway on their trip to New attire, suits and heels, then you go York City on October 11. to Times Square and it is much “The purpose was to see the more edgy and casual,” sophoFashion District and to see all the more Julia Casapulla said. different styles people wear and The true fascination lay in the how they express themselves,” way New York residents did not sophomore Hana Deshy from makbroczy said. ing a statement During the busy “In New York through their trip, the class was able to style. observe street style, tour nobody gives “In New the Fashion Institute of a damn about York, nobody Technology (FIT) musegives a damn um, and visit the famous what you about what fabric store, Mood. you think,” think. They Students found Casapulla said. inspiration in many ar- are going to “They are goeas, especially from the wear what ing to wear unique clothing in high what they want they want to end stores. to wear, wheth“Definitely some of wear.” er or not it's the Gucci stuff that they acceptable to have there, some of the JULIA CASAPULLA another's stanjackets were really cool,” dards.”

SOPHOMORE senior Vic Lapidas said.

Inspiration “It inspires me a lot becan be found cause I want to design everywhere and coats when I’m older.” from everyone.

Others kept an eye out for “We have such a diverse cultrends showcased on the streets ture here in the United States,” rather than in window displays.

Ruffo said. “As designers, we “We were on Fifth Avenue need to be open to that diverand you saw these super expensive sity and really create things that suits and these super expensive everybody wants and everybody clothes,” Economics teacher Ni- needs.” cole Ruffo said. “Then we hooked Elissa Gorman

SubMitted Jacob crain

Fashion students juniors Jacob Crain (left) and John Matraia (right) pose for a picture in the Big Apple.

REVIEW:

Hamilton harbors humor, heartbreak, hope The genius of Hamilton resides in its unconventionalism.

This is not a musical among Online Editor the classical protocols of Wicked or Les MisOur lungs burned with bated breath, erables or the Lion King. Miranda invented a our hands trembled with expectation, and novelty that invites automatic criticism: a rap our hearts danced into a frenzy as the lights production about Hamilton? And yet its exdimmed like a cloak of silence coating the ecution is what Lafayette would call “parfait” theater. The stage erupted as figures mas- as it heralds a new era of musical production, queraded in eighteenth-century garb spewed where the audacious and avant-garde steal the out verses under blazing lights, fueling the en- spotlight, where American ingenuity and iniergy of young ambitions whilst introducing tiative is once again rewarded on stage. A revtheir immigrant demigod to the colonies he olution is wreaking exultation on Broadway. would soon develop into a nation of tremenHamilton cultivates diversity within live dous economic authority and bureaucratic theatre as much of the cast includes people of command. color. George Washington (Christopher JackThis, ladies and gentleman, is the story son), Aaron Burr (Brandon Victor Dixon), of the first Secretary of TreaLafayette and Thomas Jefsury to the United States, This production ferson (Seth Stewart), and George Washington’s rightJohn Laurens (Anthony Rahand man, engineer of The succeeds in flymos), are all people of colFederalist Papers, and Framing ing colors with or. Casting non-caucasians Father: Alexander Hamilton. as leaders of the Revolution In Lin-Manuel Miranda’s bril- its exquisite actand as the Framing Fathers liant musical, Hamilton, Amer- ing and musical is not only challenging the ican history is transcended bewhite marble foundation of yond the high school textbook numbers, incorthis country, but redefines archetype as our Framers are the constructs of art that poratin R&B, breathed into life. They rap restrict performances. In a in the style of Biggie, they ut- hip-hop, jazz, country where racial diviter profanities and womanize sions are so painfully conand drink, they make fools of and classical spicuous and inequality so themselves with sex scandals showtune styles. overt, the casting of Hamand admit to a blind hunger ilton serves to remind us we for power. And yet, their brilstem from the same ideal: liance and indefatigable enthat of freedom and liberty. deavors remain steadfast and undeniable.

In a period where xenophobia strikes fear This production succeeds in flying colors in droves of American hearts and immigrawith its exquisite acting and musical numbers, tion policy is in dire need of reform, Hamincorporating R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and clas- ilton reminds us that this nation was born as sical showtune styles. Yet it also manages to one of immigrants. Hamilton himself was a manifest parallels between the America of scrappy, young migrant from the West Indies today and that infant country barely standing who worked and wrote himself into a posiwith wobbly knees under the intent scrutiny tion of greatness. He fulfilled the illustrious of the entire watching world.

American Dream, that promise of a better Carey Davis

courtesy Hamiltonbroadway.com

life, of greater opportunity, and of the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

This fast-paced, quick-witted production is largely set in America’s darling city of New York where the quintessential Uncle Sam was written, drafted, and executed. This is a story of men who knew history was watching their every move, that the world was anticipating the failure of the American democratic experiment.

We are reminded history is the tale of “who lives, who dies, and who tells [their stories].” Hamilton’s story is a uniquely American one and should be branded and told as the anecdote of a fledgling nation commanded by incredible pioneers of thought and principle. His story, so exceptionally told

by Miranda and his cast, courses through the American narrative.

tHE haRBINGER

A&E

17

November 2016

Students perform at Sachem’s Spooky Spirits Coffeehouse rino said. “[She was] so good.”

Having performed in four CofA&E Editor feehouses before, Guarino was Bands and solo acts came to- pleased with how willing students gether for Sachem’s “Spooky Spir- were to participate this year. its” Halloween Coffeehouse in the “I feel like there’s more people Black Box on October 28. from different grades willing to perThe audience and performers form, and I love seeing how acceptwere encouraged to wear costumes ing people are being,” Guarino said. to the show, and tickets were dis- “A lot of new people are doing it.” counted for those who dressed up.

Guarino’s advice to newcomers For some, it was their first Sachem is to forget fear, and just go for it.

Coffeehouse appearance, but for se“If you are afraid to do a Cofnior Julia Gittlen, it was familiar ter- feehouse, just do it anyways because ritory.

I think you’ll re“I’ve done gret not doing it [Sachem Cof- “I feel like there’s in the long run,” feehouse] every Guarino said. year,” Gittlen said. more people from Andy Rob“It’s a good way different grades bins’s acoustic to get out there. I rendition of “Put have stage fright willing to perform, Your Records so it’s a good way and I love seeing On” by Corinne to get comfortable Bailey Rae was with [perform- how accepting peo- a crowd pleaser, ing].” and meant a lot to ple are being.”

G i t t l e n’s Robbins on a perperformance of CRISTINA GUARINO sonal level.

“Crazy” by Gnarls mom JUNIOR has “My Barkley was acbeen in bed companied by sesick for a while so nior Chuck Murray on guitar. she’s been on her computer listening “Performing with Chuck was to a lot of music and she told me I really fun,” Gittlen said. “He’s an should pick up the song,” Robbins amazing guitar player and we work said. really well together.”

Robbins looks forward to each Junior Cristina Guarino, who of his performances, but specifically performed “Lydia” by Highly the last three seconds.

Suspect alongside juniors Leah “[The best part about being Kosovsky and Andy Robbins, and a performer] is probably the last sophomore Jake Libby, was amazed three seconds of your performance

by Gittlen’s performance. when everyone starts clapping and “A big crowd always comes to screaming,” Robbins said. “That’s support, and it’s really cool to see all the best part.” the people, like Julia Gittlin,” GuaPaige Morse

Photo henna Dhingra

(Top) Junior Andy Robbins sang his heart out at the Sachem Coffeehouse. He performed Corinne Bailey Rae’s “Put Your Records On”.

(Bottom) Focused on their juggling act, seniors Jared Entwistle, Zachary Youssef, and Kira Porter showcased their talent.

REVIEW:

Netflix originals and chill?

What to know before watching Netflix’s original content Title and Average Rating

Basic Overview

Stranger Things

A supernatural series that begins with a child’s disappearance and leads to shocking discoveries about the curious small town

Love

Last Chance U

Orange is the New Black

Drawbacks

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S1, e7, “The Battle”: This episode is surely the most suspenseful of the season; it will undoubtedly keep you on the edge of your seat.

- Only one season - If you jump at the sound of your own name, Stranger Things is not for you

-The supernatural -Mysteries -The number “11”

An honest rom-com series that delves into the ins and out of modern-day relationships

S1, e5, “The Date”: Depicts a date which ends with a surprising twist, making you hit the “Next Episode” button as violently as possible

-Some may find the characters to be stereotypical -Contains mature language

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An in-depth look at the 2015 season of East Mississippi Community College’s football players

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-Ambiguous ending -Violence -Explicit language

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Stars character Piper Chapman who is sent to a women’s prison for a crime she committed in her youth

S4, e13, “Toast Can’t Never Be Bread Again”: This honest episode discusses more deeply the brutality of prison life

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-Contains violence, nudity, and other mature topics which may not appeal to some viewers

-Drama -Strong female leads -The United States law system graphic Anna Silver

Fall in love with the fall musical Maggie Del Re

A&E Editor The fall musical “Anything Goes” will take the stage this December 8th, 9th, and 10th.

“Anything Goes” tells a tale of unrequited love, sneaky stowaways, and elaborate matchmaking all aboard one crazy cruise ship.

According to director Tom Alera, many students auditioned for the play.

“I had to extend or give extra days,” Alera said. “It made more sense to be open and flexible about it and give everyone a fair chance. So, it went really really well, but I had to make some cuts, which is always very challenging for me, and very upsetting because I want to include all of them.”

“It’s funny,” sophomore Chris Martin said. “I was trying to convince myself that I should not be, and would not be nervous during auditions… But I always end up pretty nervous before auditions.”

“Anything Goes” will feature acting, music by Cole Porter, and lots of dancing.

“It’s a little different,” junior Connor Macchi said. “Mr. Alera usually likes to choose a show that maybe is not as popular, but since we’re doing a show that is pretty well known, it’s going to be exciting for students and parents to see.”

In order to prepare, the leads are beginning to get to know their characters and decide how to best portray them.

“I am going to play Reno, who is a nightclub singer on the cruise ship,” junior Christina DiMare said. “She has feelings for Connor’s character, Billy, but he does not reciprocate those feelings… She seems to be a very bold, independent, strong woman character… It’s nice to have a musical that has a very strong, independent female lead.”

“I am Moonface Martin!”

Martin said. “He is kind of the comedic relief.”

Freshman Preston Green is excited to have a lead role.

“I’m just afraid that I might get tossed around by the upperclassmen, but I’ll be alright,” Green said.

People involved in the production are hoping that most of the student body will come to see the final performance.

“A lot of people think because they know [the actors] so well, it will ruin the effect of seeing them on stage, but it’s completely the opposite,” Macchi said. “Because when you see them onstage as this character that is completely not like their normal personality, it’s completely entertaining and incredible.”

“Theater is a powerful force,” Alera said. “Once people do it they find out how much it changes their lives...It’s great.”

tHE haRBINGER

PROFILE

18

NOVEMBER 2016

Permatteo skates across the world

Courtesy gabbie permatteo

Sophomore Gabbie Permatteo competes in roller skating at the global level, recently placing sixth in the world circle skating competition in Italy. Permatteo’s event is called “Circles.”

Katrina Liu

StaffWriter Most people just see circles painted onto the smooth gym floor. Sophomore Gabbie Permatteo sees a challenge, an opportunity, to show the world what she can do on roller skates.

Permatteo is one of the best roller skaters in the nation, and has competed on the national and world stage numerous times.

Last month, Permatteo placed sixth in the Junior World Championships in Novara, Italy. Previously, she won national titles in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016 and competed at the world championships in 2015.

Permatteo is a compulsory skater, which means she carefully follows drawn figures on the floor. She was ecstatic about her result.

“There’s circles painted on the floor, and they’re really big, and you have to keep the circle between your wheels,” Permatteo said. “You skate forwards, backwards

and there’s turns and stuff. It’s super duper boring to watch, but it’s really difficult to do. It’s like the base of all of skating.”

“It feels awesome, honestly, like last year I ended up in 11th, so I jumped a lot, I would say,” Permatteo said.

Permatteo discovered her passion at a young age, continuing the family tradition of roller skating.

“I’ve been skating since I was four, but my grandmother skated, and then my mom skated,” Permatteo said. “It’s like a family thing. [My mom] brought me to the rink one day and [I] put skates on, and I don’t know, I just never stopped.”

Throughout the years, Permatteo has also gained important life skills. “[Roller skating has] definitely helped my focus, for sure,” Permatteo said. “And when you do it for four to five hours after school every day, it definitely makes you learn time management and organization.”

Although she has learned many skills, some are still challenging for her.

“Mentally, it’s so hard to concentrate on one thing when you’re doing it,” Permatteo said. “If I catch my mind drifting, it’s difficult to bring it back.”

Permatteo skates at the Roller Kingdom Skating Club in Hudson up to 25 hours a week. Along with the physical exercise, Permatteo finds roller skating calming.

“It’s super relaxing, like after school when I get to go to skating, I love it, because I don’t have to think about school for at least five hours,” Permatteo said.

Permatteo’s mother, Heidi Permatteo, is fond of teaching Gabbie and is proud of how focused she is on the sport.

“What I enjoy coaching about Gabbie is that she is an extremely intelligent skater who understands reasoning behind the techniques for the skills she is working on,” Heidi Permatteo said.

As Permatteo keeps climbing up the ladder, some things have kept her in love with the sport.

“Skating is really good for me,” Permatteo said.“ I’ve met so many awesome people from it and I’ve had so many great experiences. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

I love it so much.”

Contributing Writers Mia McAuliffe & Maggie Del Re

DECA means business for state officer Miller Elise Gallagher

StaffWriter Senior Katie Miller has made Algonquin’s biggest club into the opportunity of a lifetime. Miller has been involved in DECA, a club promoting business education, since her freshman year and is now a Massachusetts State Officer.

“DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in the categories of marketing, finance, hospitality, and management,” Miller said. “There are competitions where people compete in categories against each other.”

Competdeca STATE officer kATIE mILLER ing in DECA is a unique opportunity for future businesspeople.

There are three levels of competitions: districts, states, and internationals.

Students can choose to be in a performance-based event, compete in online virtual games, or complete projects. Miller, alongside her partner senior Olivia Permatteo, competes in a performance-based event in the category of business law.

“In a performance based event, you do a roleplay [where] you get a case study situation and you have 10 or 30 minutes

to prepare and present your ideas in front of a judge,” Miller said. “The other part is a 100 question multiple question test in your cluster category.”

Miller has dedicated time to improving her business skills.

“I was voted a state officer of Massachusetts DECA and I got the underclassmen award for the business department for two years,” Miller said.

Being a state officer of DECA is a big responsibility but Miller was more than willing to take on the challenge.

“We work in a team to make all the events through the year,” Miller said. “We help to orchestrate a lot of the conferences, fundraisers, recruit new chapters, and help them with any problems they’re having.”

Business teacher Patricia Riley advises the Algonquin DECA chapter and she believes that Miller’s success in DECA has come from her early start and continued dedication.

“She got involved freshman year. Her and her partner work really well together and every year she would get more involved in DECA,” Riley said.

“She has developed her leadership skills to the point where she felt running for state officer was the next step.”

Miller will further her business education through college by majoring in marketing. DECA’s district competition will begin on January 13.

courtesy mark howells

Senior Mark Howells enjoys spending his free time learning with professionals in local police forces through ride alongs, station visits, and other forms of exposure to the profession.

Howells proves passion for policing Sherilyn Hinchey

StaffWriter Senior Mark Howells is known around Northborough for his zealous, lifelong interest in being a police officer. Howells has spent so much time with local officers and listening to the police radio that he is an expert in the field.

“I’ve wanted to be a cop since the day I was able to understand what a cop was,” Howells said.

He remembers being drawn to police uniforms, police cars, and the television show COPS from a young age. Howells patrols the hallways, using the vernacular of police officers.

Howells owns a police radio scanner that he has programmed to the police radios in surrounding towns. He has been listening in for so long that he has been able to learn the codes for each town and is able to understand what the officers are saying. When officers give their location, Howells likes to go scope out the scene.

“I have the eyes and ears of the ‘Boroughs,’” Howells said. “[I can] hear everything they’re say-

ing.”

Howells is part of the Ride-Along Program, a public education program that allows residents to get a better understanding of police operations by accompanying an officer in their police vehicle.

“The Ride-Along Program is more than just going out and experiencing it,” Howells said. “It’s tradition in some ways… The Ride-Along program can mean a lot to those who want to be police officers, especially if you ride with the same officer over and over again.”

He hopes to one day be able to return to the officers he works with today as an officer himself and thank them.

School Resource Officer Michael Bisset has had many positive experiences with Howells through the Ride Along program and sees him having a future as an officer.

“He brings a great attitude to it,” Bisset said.

“He has a certain amount of perspective that I think is necessary and he certainly cares. For me, I think that caring is probably one of the most important parts of it.”

tHE haRBINGER

profile

19

NOVEMBER 2016

Fustino lives double life as Fenway security guard Gym teacher pursues passion for sports behind the scenes through fan services

Courtesy Melissa Fustino

Gym teacher Melissa Fustino experiences many events at Fenway, including the 2013 World Series Parade. Her work as a security guard paid off as she held the trophy on the Boston Duck Tour truck among Red Sox team members.

Julia Labich

StaffWriter Gym teacher Melissa Fustino is finishing up her thirteenth year as a security guard at Fenway Park in Boston, carrying out her

love of sports in both of her jobs.

Fustino majored in sports management at the University of Connecticut which led her to her dream job of watching every Red Sox game, and getting paid for it.

Fustino started working security at Fenway in 2005.

“I needed to do an internship for school to complete my program and my major,” Fustino said. “My advisor at University of Connecticut knew the [Red Sox] general manager in Sarasota, so he asked if I wanted to go down to Florida and work with them for about five or six months. I then landed at Fenway where I am now.”

Working in the fan services department for the Red Sox, Fustino is one of the EMC Club guards.

“It is one of their premium private areas up there,” Fustino said. “My duties involve me standing at the door making sure only ticketed people, and those who should be in the club come in the club. And if there are any issues inside the club, we handle those, just making sure people are happy and they are in the right place.”

After working at Fenway for years, Fustino has many fun experiences and stories which she passes on to her students.

“Myself and two guys I work with went down to the showcase stage with the World Series trophies, but there were no tables,” Fustino said. “They’re [the trophies] about 25 pounds. So the three of us are standing on stage holding them, and this is about an hour long televised event. And your arms are killing, but obviously it is worth it.”

Fustino loves living the double life both as a teacher, and as a guard, and hopes to continue both for years to come.

FenciNg is the life for sophomore Ng ing is to just stay calm during a competition, to stay calm and make sure that you think and that you StaffWriter don’t turn on autopilot mode,” Ng said.

Sophomore Natalie Ng was on the fence. She For Ng, the Worcester Fencing Club, where tried swimming, field hockey, and tennis, and fi- she practices, is like a family where everyone helps nally, after following her sister’s roommate’s advice, each other out. she has found the right sport for her: fencing. “[If] you have a problem with fencing, you Ng started fencing in the beginning of seventh talk to your fencing friends because they will ungrade and plans to continue derstand,” Ng said. “They through college. know what it’s like.”

Ng chose the foil, “I think the most imporSophomore Joyce Fang, a blade out of the three tant part about fencing is a friend of Ng, sees Ng’s weapon options: the foil, connection with the fencing to just stay calm during a community. sabre, and épée.

“In foil, there’s so competition.”

“I guess [Ng is] kind many rules,” Ng said. “You of an assistant,” Fang said.

NATALIE NG “She helps out little kids. I need to be able to get your SOPHOMORE guess there’s like one teachopponent to do what you want them to do in order er and lots of kids, so she’ll to hit because one mistake, like assist with the ones who and it’s not your point anymore.” may not get enough attention.”

Ng has been fencing competitively for about Ng’s fencing relieves her of her daily troubles. two years and has medaled in a local competition.

“It’s a great way to take out your anger after a In competition and practice, fencing an opponent long day,” Ng said. requires employing various strategies.

Ng practices two to three days a week, and of“You’re going to have figure out how to beat ten gets home around 8:30 p.m., after which she them first,” Ng said. “You can try different things still has to eat dinner and finish homework, resultto see what works for you, see what works to beat ing in a 12:30 a.m. bedtime. Nevertheless, Ng will them, but everybody’s going to be different.” still continue fencing day after day.

When Ng fights against her opponent, she “It’s like a dance without [your opponent] comust stay focused. operating with you,” Ng said.

“I think the most important thing about fencMonique radloff

submission arthur andreev

Freshman Arthur Andreev has competed nationally in tournaments. Andreev, who fences with an epee, trains with Olympic fencer Michael Marx.

Andreev lunges toward fencing experiences anna he

StaffWriter For five years freshman Arthur Andreev has enjoyed the mental and athletic challenges of fencing, and he is determined to continue competing in the years to come.

Andreev fences with the heaviest fencing sword, an épée, and trains in Concord with five-time Olympic fencer Michael Marx and one of the highest-ranked men’s épéeists in America, Adam Maczik.

“When I was in third grade, I really liked knights… and then I decided to try out fencing, and I didn’t really like it, but then after a few years I went back to it, and then I continued to fence to this day,” Andreev said.

Fencing involves a lot of quick thinking, which Andreev enjoys.

“You have to really think about everything your opponent is doing and how to counteract that,” Andreev said.

Andreev believes that fencing has helped him in everyday life.

“The mind games behind it help me think more analytically about different things that come up in normal life or other subjects,” Andreev said.

Andreev has been adjusting to the dedication required by his new club, which he practices at on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and some Mondays. “[Balancing fencing and being a student] wasn’t hard before, but now at this club, it is, because it’s in Concord,” Andreev said. “Typically, I leave my house around 5:30 p.m., and I’ll get home at 9:30 p.m., so any homework has to be done before or after, in addition to all other extracurricular stuff.”

Andreev doesn’t often talk about fencing. Even his friend and fellow freshman, Matt Bogdanski doesn’t know much about his fencing experiences.

“He was third-ranked in the country last time he went to a competition; that’s all I know,” Bogdanski said.

Nevertheless, all the time and work that Andreev has put in paid off during a national competition.

“In 2013, I won third place at the North American Cup [which] was a real achievement for me,” Andreev said. “I wasn’t expecting anything. There were a ton of kids who showed up to fence, and I somehow got third place. It was a really good showing of all the effort I put in.”

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tHE haRBINGER

Sports

20

November 2016

Making football history: First student co-managers O’Leary, Hatton create positive impact on field Drew Despres

Staff Writer For the first time in Algonquin history, the football team has two student managers. Seniors Kevin O’Leary and Kevin Hatton have strengthened the bond in their friendship through their shared experiences as an essential part of the team.

Unlike the managers of most teams, Hatton and O’Leary were recruited for the position due to their success with the 2015-2016 boys’ hockey team, who made it to the State Championships.

“Kevin [Hatton] and I had the privilege of being the managers of the [boys’] hockey team,” O’Leary said. “Coach Allen saw our hard work and dedication and asked us if we would be a part of the football team.”

During practices and games, O’Leary works on the defensive side of the ball with Allen, which can be challenging at times.

“The hardest part is recording all of Coach Allen’s plays because he does them by hand signals and I’m not always one hundred percent sure of what he is trying to call,” O’Leary said.

O'Leary appreciates the offensive tasks that Hatton is responsible for, and how it allows him to focus on the defense. “[Hatton] is a hard worker when he shows up to practice,” O’Leary said with a joking laugh. “I don’t have to know the offensive and defensive play calls because he covers the offense and I know the defense.”

“He makes [my job] a lot easier,” O’Leary said.

While O’Leary and Hatton have been helpful with the tactical side of the team, their impact is also felt on an emotional level.

“Not only do we write down the

photo Rafaela coelho

Seniors Kevin Hatton and Kevin O’Leary take a break from their managing duties to pose for a picture on the sideline during the home game against St. John’s on October 28.

plays, but I think we’re there for support,” Hatton said, “We’re there to hype up the players and the coaches, and to just make things easier.”

The team improved to 5-2 with the help of both Kevins, as it can be seen in their 21-6 victory against the undefeated Wachusett Mountaineers on October 23.

Football tackles playoffs

photo kelly slovin

Senior Max Cerasoli runs with the ball in the home opener against Nashoba on September 9. The Tomahawks are currently heading into the playoffs strong with a record of 5-2.

“I believe we can win a lot of games,” Hatton said. “I think [the players] are very capable of doing it. You know they’re a very big family and they put in a lot of hard work.”

Through the hours spent on the sidelines of many Algonquin sports, Hatton and O’Leary have contributed to the

success of multiple teams, showing how much a little positive energy can change the dynamic of a team.

“We definitely have developed as friends over time.” O’Leary said. “We spend a lot of time together, sometimes too much, but we grind and it makes us brothers.”

Fall Sports Recap Sport

Record

Boys’ Varsity Soccer**

9-5-4

Boys’ JV 1 Soccer

12-0-6

Boys’ JV 2 Soccer

3-5-3

Girls’ Varsity Soccer*

12-3-2

Girls’ JV 1 Soccer

10-0-4

Girls’ JV 2 Soccer

6-3-3

Varsity Football*

5-2

JV 1 Football

4-2

JV 2 Football

2-4

Varsity Volleyball**

16-2

JV 1 Volleyball

13-5

JV 2 Volleyball

13-2

Varsity Golf**

15-1

Varsity Field Hockey**

10-2-5

JV 1 Field Hockey

15-1-1

JV 2 Field Hockey

4-2-1

Boys’ Cross Country

1-4

Girls’ Cross Country

2-3

*Competing in playoffs **League Champions

tHE haRBINGER

Sports Is he for Reale?

21

November, 2011

Golf standout Reale is anything but sub par am responsible for helping the underclassmen handle their mental game,” ReStaff Writer ale said. “I help them focus on the goal It's unusual for an athlete to start at hand.” playing a sport his sophomore year, The team lost last year’s senior make the varsity team, and within two standouts Connor Henderson and Anyears become one of the best players. drew Warfield who now golf at Bryant This tale of rising from the bottom to University, but Reale still has confidence the top is the story of golf team captain in this year’s team. and senior Kevin Reale.

“I think we have the team that Without taking a single golf lesson could possibly go really deep in the state in his life, Reale worked hard and per- tournament,” Reale said. “Last year we severed to become the top golfer on came in third, and we are the best public the Algonquin team. Reale currently is school. The only really improvement is shooting in the top five for Algonquin to win states.” every match, helping the team secure Senior Kevin O’Leary has watched its record of 15-1, Mid Wach A League his close friend progress as a golfer champions, second at Disover the past tricts, and fifth at States. three years.

“I started playing golf “ W e “I started playing the summer going into played when sophomore year,” Reale golf the summer we were said. “I liked it a lot, so I younger, and going into sophoplayed it a lot.” he was really Reale played almost more year. I liked it not good,” every day working to perO’Leary fect his game at his favor- a lot, so I played it a said. “And ite country club.

I’m not “I play at the Ha- lot.” good either, ven Country Club in but this kid KEVIN REALE has worked Boylston,” Reale said.

SENIOR his butt off “It’s my favorite place to play because it is where I and now he’s learned the game, and it’s a star. He where all my family and friends play.” has a .8 handicap at all courses around During his junior year, Reale was and this kid is unbelievable.” one of Algonquin’s top golfers alongside As for the future, Reale does not senior Kevin Hatton. know if he wants to continue his golfing When Reale was awarded captain- in college. ship of the team along with Hatton, he “It depends on the opportunities was very excited. However, being a cap- that come to me, but as of right now I tain comes with many responsibilities have no future plans,” Reale said. “If I behind the scenes. got a D1 offer I would possibly play.”

“Golf is an individual game, but I Owen Lyons

photo rafaela coelho

Reale keeps his eye on the ball during a putt at the CMass District match on October 24.

Individual golfers drive for success as team

courtesy kevin hatton

Seniors Kevin Hatton, Kevin Reale, Max Ratner, Adam Genga, Jake Kea, and John Paterson smile for a photo after a match.

Riley Garand

Staff Writer The golf team has had a tremendous season, winning the Mid-Wach A league and advancing to states, thanks to their recent success at Districts.

“We finished second in Districts to St. John’s 316 to 319,” coach Bob Cullen said.

“Matt Umphrey and Kevin Hatton lead us with 79’s, Kevin Reale had 80, Jack To-

bin had 81, Max Ratner had 83 and Casey Leonard had 95.”

“The top three teams qualify for states which is Monday [October 31],” senior cocaptain Kevin Hatton said.

Doing well at States is a mutual goal among the team.

“We as a team had a few goals over the season: one of them was to never lose at home, win districts, and have a chance

to win states,” senior Max Ratner said. kind of just a rough round,” sophomore “We fell just short of our goal of win- Jack Tobin said. “That was our only game ning the Central Mass tournament but are like that all year.” looking forward to States where we think The team was able to get their win in we have a chance,” Cullen said. against them later in the season.

“We hope to improve on our record “We were able to take Wachusett last year from the state tournament,” se- down later on,” Umphery said. “They gave nior and captain Kevin Reale said. us our first loss this year which was difA huge contribution to the high suc- ficult, but we were able to overcome that.” cess on the green comes from not only the The talent on the team has helped seniors, but also the juniors and sopho- them pull through with an impressive remores. cord this year.

“We’ve had some of the best [team] “They are very talented, probably betscores in Algonquin history,” ter than any team Cullen said. “The season really around,” Cullen couldn’t have gone any bet- “That made us said.

“They’re ter...Matt Umphrey has a tiny pulling to their lead for scoring average for think like alright, potential. It just the whole season on Kevin we really have to really has been a Reale and Jack Tobin, who are dream season.” tied for second. A close fourth commit, that was Although this is Kevin Hatton with Max is known as an Ratner and Casey Leonard just a bad day.” individual sport, right behind him.” as a team they JACK TOBIN help support each After an early loss in SOPHOMORE other and work the beginning of the season against Wachusett, 198 - 200, together to reach the players’ dedication to adsuccess. vance to Districts and States “We really has only developed more. clicked as a group and we really have a “We lost the first one [during the sea- group of outstanding players and we really son] which was tough because we had just just came together this year,” Hatton said. such high expectations,” Reale said. “ I “I do think that we work well togeththink it has just served as motivation for er,” Ratner said. “We always have; part of the rest of the season and it has just in- it’s the coaching and a lot of it is that we spired us to be better.” just get along well, and we are all just great “That made us think like alright, we friends.” have to really commit, that was just a bad day, none of us played our A game, it was

tHE haRBINGER

Sports

22

November 2016

Girls’ soccer heads into playoffs strong Brooke Suitum

Staff Writer The girls’ soccer team has clinched a playoff spot and the future looks bright for the seniorheavy squad.

Recently winning a game against Nipmuc, the team has rightfully earned a place in the postseason where they have high hopes for a similar outcome, if not better, than last year.

“We are focusing on going out of regular season strong, because once playoffs start anything can happen, and we have to be playing at our highest level,” senior captain Meagan Stassi said. “Going into playoffs with a good mentality to win and to be successful is something that our team definitely has.”

After going to state finals last year, the team, led by 15 seniors, stands proudly behind their current record of 11-3-3.

“Since our team has a lot of upperclassmen, one of our stronger assets is that we have good leadership,” Stassi said.

“We all do our best to support one another and help each other on and off the field.”

Some of the seniors have been playing with each other for ten years, and they want to make their last season the best one yet

with each other.

“We, [the seniors] all are so passionate for soccer, and this is our last season, so we have to do everything we can to make it count,” senior captain Kayla Barletta said. “I also have been playing with these girls since I was little, so it is awesome to have come so far with them.”

Coach Scott Taggart has high expectations and hopes for what his team will do this year in the postseason due to strong leadership.

“Some [seniors] have been with the varsity for four seasons and for some it’s their first,” Taggart said. “They are leading our team and program with dedication and heart. I’m proud of each [of] them.”

However, injuries are almost inevitable in all sports, and the team has had its fair share.

Kate Hostage, one of four senior captains, has recently been benched by a sprained ankle.

Hostage has solidified a spot on the Syracuse University women’s soccer team, and starts training in June.

“My main priority is my health. If it happens to be that I can’t return this season, so be it,” Hostage said. “I’m confident my team will be able to get it done without me. However I’m hoping

courtesy jeff slovin

Seniors Kelley Morin, Bridget Kiley, Alex Madamba, and Mackenzie Smith hug after Madamba’s goal against Westborough on October 25, the team’s senior night.

to be able to return for playoffs.”

But, according to Coach Taggart, the team has a deep bench, and the injuries aren’t holding the team back from their winning record.

“Injuries are a part of every season unfortunately,” Taggart

said. “Team members recognize this and step up filling necessary roles. We don’t focus on anything that is beyond our control.”

With only a couple games left, the team is focusing on finishing off strong.

“We are taking it game by

game and working hard everyday to get to where we want to be,” senior captain Zoe Chang said.

“We are so excited for post season and can’t wait for what is to come.”

Weak at the Knees:

Student athletes share their injuries, recovery challenges Kneed a closer look?

Sebastian Royo, senior, soccer

Erin O’Reilly, junior, soccer

Injury: “My injury is a torn ACL and a slight tear in my meniscus in my left knee.”

Pain (1-10): “Luckily I had very little pain before and after my operation, I don’t really know why. I would give myself a three.”

Out: “I am out for six to nine months, but hoping to do it in five!”

Injury: “I tore my left ACL this year, and last year I tore my right ACL.” Pain (1-10): “Four, it didn’t even hurt that much at the time.”

Out: “Six months this time, but I was out for nine last time.”

Ava Domolky, freshman, soccer

Harry Boyden, sophomore, football

Injury: “I tore my ACL playing soccer.”

Pain (1-10): “When I tore it, it was like a ten. But only for like a split second and then it didn’t hurt anymore until after surgery, and that hurt really bad when the medication wore off.”

Out: “Six months, which means that I'm out for all of this soccer season.”

Injury: “I tore my hamstring during football practice doing running drills. I damaged bone fragments and the nerve.”

Pain (1-10): “Ten when it happened, after surgery probably a seven, during recovery about a six.”

Out: “Five months and I can’t play this football season.”

Leanne Hart, sophomore, gymnastics

Katherine Lee, sophomore, soccer

Chuck Murray, senior, football

Injury: “I dislocated my knee three times. I tore some of the muscles, which resulted in my knee cap moving over about an inch.”

Pain (1-10): “When it first happened, it was like a 6 because it was a really uncomfortable feeling and I couldn’t put pressure on it. After surgery it was a nine, it was a constant pain.”

Out: “I’m out five to seven months.”

Injury: “I tore my ACL, meniscus, and a couple tendons that they unfortunately couldn’t fix.”

Pain (1-10): “The first day was a ten. I was in absolute hell. I wouldn’t wish that pain upon anyone. As the days went by the pain lessened, but I had to keep up with my meds.”

Out: “I can probably play in a year, but not confidently.”

Injury: “I tore my ACL and lateral meniscus.”

Pain (1-10): “The pain from the actual injury was only about a seven, but after the surgery is when the real pain came in. That was about a ten.”

Out: “I'm out for the rest of the football season. I won't be able to come back to any sports until about April so it's a long term injury.”

A guide to common knee injuries

graphic caroline beek information from www.orthoinfo.org

compiled by emily smith and julia guay

tHE haRBINGER

Sports

23

November 2016

Boys’ soccer overcomes injury

In key player’s absence, leaders step up as team heads to tourney Lauren Speranzella

Staff Writer Boys’ soccer ran full force into their season more motivated than ever, proving their strength with a 10-5-2 record and looking to become CMASS Champions.

They began a rigorous practice schedule early in the summer, preparing for what they hoped would be their best season yet. However, they were unaware of the challenges that lay ahead.

Early in the season, the team lost senior captain Sebastian Royo to an ACL injury, shaking the spirit of the whole team.

“I speak for the whole team when I say Sebastian was really our rock,” senior captain Shawn Sullivan said. “We knew we could always rely on him to step up in big games.”

Royo played a huge role on and off the field. He was named captain because many looked up to him due to the strength and positive energy he brought to the team.

Although the team was missing one of their key players, they managed to keep pushing through.

“Our team has become much more united since my injury,” Royo said. “Although we have had some troubles, we really came together through the difficulties.

As a captain, the most I can ask my team to do is play with passion.”

When the team first lost Royo, they were unsure of who would be able to fill his position. The momentum they had at the beginning of the season had taken a turn.

photo rafaela coelho

Junior Nick Canzoneri wins the ball in a tackle with a Westborough player on October 25.

As seen in recent games, the team is back on track and once again connecting on the field. Many players have stepped up in the hopes of filling Royo’s role on the field.

With playoffs rounding the corner, the boys prepare for what they hope to be

a long run in the postseason.

“I think we are hitting our stride right at the perfect time, just before playoffs,” senior and captain Nick Casapulla said.

The “blonde boys” are ready for a fight to the finish. They are all motivated to win, despite the tough situations that

they have faced this season.

“Our team has formed great chemistry, although it was tough at first, and now we are playing the best we have all season,” junior Zach Osetek said.

Come support the blonde boys in the playoffs, starting in early November.

Field hockey shoots past expectations, scores league title

photo Kelly Slovin

Senior captain Grace Antino winds up for a powerful shot in a game against Groton Dunstable on October 19, which resulted in a 5-0 win.

EMILY SMITH

Sports Editor Field hockey has exceeded expectations this season, winning the Mid Wach A League and finishing their season with a record of 10-2-5.

Due to the graduation of last season’s key offensive and defensive players, Taylor Long and Steph Francalancia, the team was preparing for a rebuilding season.

However, with the team’s record, they have surprised even themselves with their accomplishments. Between their new practice and game location at the 9/11 Field

in Southborough and strategic team bonding, the team is hoping for a long playoff run.

“I knew we were going to have a good season, but I didn’t know we would do this well,” senior captain Lauren Speranzella said. “As the season goes on we are all growing closer, and it is really helping us play better on the field.”

“We have such a good group of girls this year, and we have improved so much throughout the season,” senior captain Grace Antino said.

Going into his tenth season coaching varsity and fifteenth season overall, coach Dan Welty is extremely

proud of the cohesive efforts of the team and their drive to keep improving.

“One big thing this year is they really play as a team,” Welty said. “A real characteristic of our team is everyone pitches in. In our game the other day we scored five goals, each by five different players.”

This year the team relocated their games and practices to play on the turf at the 9/11 Memorial Field in Southborough, which according to players has influenced the team in an unexpectedly positive way.

“The biggest downfall is not being around all the other fall sports practicing, but it is so much better to play on turf for the actual game,” Antino said. “It has brought us all closer because it’s like our own little place to go after school to play our sport.”

The players have found that bonding as a team has helped improve their overall play.

“There is such a positive energy throughout the whole team that really allows us to play really well together,” junior Caroline Riley said.

“I love how we do unique activities for team bonding and it makes us all very close and makes our perfor- “One big thing mance in games better,” sophomore this year is they Sophie Scearbo really play as a said.

As the team team... In our progresses through game the other the season, their accomplishments day we scored five continue to grow. goals, each by five A season highlight was their 1-0 victory different players.” against Shrewsbury DAN WELTY on September 28.

VARSITY COACH “Our biggest win was against Shrewsbury, because we haven’t won on their home field in seven years,” Speranzella said.

The team believes the support of T-hawk nation can really help them on their way to success.

“Come watch our games!” Speranzella said. “It’s a really fun sport to watch if you know what’s going on.”

tHE haRBINGER

SPORTS

24

November 2016

Tomahawk Nation digs Dig Pink

Three volleyball teams dive into fundraising Elissa gorman & darby kim

Assistant News Editor & Assistant Sports Editor Girls’ volleyball had a successful turnout for Dig Pink, an event to raise money and awareness for breast cancer awareness and research on October 7.

“We exceeded our expectations and raised over $1,200 for the Sideout foundation for breast cancer,” senior captain Kristen Cooley said.

Not only did the funds raised accumulate into a generous donation, but the team bonded through the event.

“I think the outcome was great!” senior captain Nicole Winkler said. “The gym after a couple hours of decorating was beautiful. It was great to see how all of the teams came together and created such a great experience for everyone.” “[Dig Pink] brought all three of the teams together as one program,” freshman coach and English teacher Lindsay Coppens said. “They had fun and also felt good about doing something meaningful as a part of breast cancer awareness month.”

Much of the success can be credited to the fans who attended the event.

“The atmosphere was amazing,” Winkler said. “The fans were very supportive and really helped get everyone really into the game.”

According to Coppens, the booster parents were also important contributors to making the event possible.

“I also really appreciate all the work that the booster parents did to organize the event,” Coppens said. “They’re the real unsung heros of this.”

According to Coppens, the volleyball teams are looking ahead for other community service activities.

“Volleyball is always willing to give back; in fact, a couple of the volleyball girls just volunteered at the YMCA 5k,” Winkler said. “It was a great experience to cheer all the runners on and help the little kids through the obstacle course.”

Photos elissa gorman

Senior Kristen Cooley passes the ball while sophomore Rachel McMenemy (2) and senior Jordan Yung (18) look on in their win against Shrewsbury on October 7.

“Encouraging [volunteer work] and making it something [the players] realize can be fun with a group of friends can bring a team closer together,” Coppens said.

“It’s a win-win in all of the situations.”

Captain and senior Jordan Yung hopes people took

something away from the event.

“I think people had a good time at the game and hopefully learned something new about breast cancer,” Yung said.

The Shrewsbury team (left) lines up in pink. The Algonquin varsity team (center) stands together. Senior Nicole Winkler (right) prepares to serve.

Sports teams spread breast cancer awareness Cheer

Girls’ Soccer Molly O’Driscoll: “I think high school students can get involved and help the cause by continuing to spread awareness, like how we all wear pink in October.”

Kimmie Skinner: “I feel the most important thing people should know about breast cancer is how to know if you have it... so you can catch it in time.”

Kiley Eckler: “I feel as if people don't really think about the severity of this disease until it affects their lives. If we raise more awareness, we can detect it earlier and hopefully save more lives!”

Field Hockey Lauren Speranzella: “The fact that cancer is so popular today, it’s important that we recognize it, and I think it’s a big deal for the sports teams to take a stand on it.”

Grace Antino: “With more education we can help keep each other and ourselves healthy.”

Olivia Giles: “I love seeing all [of] the communities come together, whether it’s the team you’re playing against or the team you’re playing with, wearing pink means something to each and every person.”

Kayla Barletta: “I want people to know that it is treatable and survivable.”

Meagan Stassi: “Breast cancer has affected me because I have seen how it can attack any innocent person.”

Zoe Chang: “We have so much respect for the strength of the fighters and dedicated our ‘pink out game’ as a special recognition for their bravery!”

Kate Hostage: “I want people to know that they are not alone in the fight, and that our team, as well as many others, are in full support.”

Football Jack Gerulskis: “We represent the breast cancer to pay tribute to the lives it has taken and to spread awareness, so we can eventually stop breast cancer all together.”

Ryan Barry: “We want to show support for all the families and individuals struggling with something as scary as breast cancer.”

Nate Cooley: “The number one thing I want people to know about breast cancer is that it's not the end of the world.”

Compiled by Elissa Gorman & Darby Kim photos rafaela coelho