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A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School
Editorial on Syrian Refugee Crisis: Safe or Sorry?
Promising Start to Hockey Season
well. Jordan, Lebanon, and When we do admit Turkey have done so already, these people, we must do so taking in a combined 4.8 safely. Though the vast maThe attacks on Paris result- million refugees. But Saudi jority of the 10,000 refugees ed in 130 deaths and 368 injuries. Arabia and Iran, two of the the US has pledged to take in And despite the left’s denial, the more developed nations in are peaceful, only a few terrefugee crisis is inherently con- the Middle East, have, as of rorists are needed to wreak nected to the incident. Two of the now, taken in a none as of havoc. It’s certainly better to be perpetrators had entered Europe recent. Qatar, the country safe than sorry. Syrian refugees through Greece, posing as refu- with the second highest level are not potential dangers because gees. ISIS is not above exploiting of living in the Middle East, they’re Muslim, but because they the public’s c o m e sympathy from a for people w ar- t or n in genuine c o u n t r y. crisis. MovAnd since ing forward, they’re the safety of from such Americans an unstashould be the ble enviUnited States’ ronment, priority. Yet, the very we can acpeople complish refugees such while are fleeing maintainfrom can ing our hueasily hide man duty to among provide shelt h e i r ter for Syrranks, as ian refugees. s h o w n S l a m m i n g Residents of refugee camp of Yarmouk gathering to receive food supplies. by two of the door shut the Paris on a distressed people is un- has accepted just 42 refu- attackers. Therefore, the sysequivocally un-American. gees. It’s not enough for the tem needs to be absolutely One of the main ques- United States and its allies airtight. Now, it’s important tions revolving around the to diplomatically ask these to note that the American refugee crisis is whose re- countries to share the bur- screening process for refusponsibility it is to take these den. President Obama needs gees is much more rigorous people in. Wealthier, western to take a stand and back up than European models, but countries like the US cer- refuge expectations with eco- that does not discount the fact tainly have a responsibil- nomic sanctions and inter- that we oftentimes have absoity to give shelter to refugees national condemnation. Per- lutely no information on refuflowing from Syria’s borders. haps showing some strength gees coming from the region. However, Muslim countries in this regard would aid his continued on page 4 need to bear the burden as weak foreign policy record.
these mistakes and converted them into goals. After Berwick scored two goals in the first minute of the The varsity hockey team has first game, Belmont Hill shut them started what will hopefully become down for the rest of the game and a successful season. After winning again used its conditioning to its a scrimmage against St. Sebastian’s, fullest extent, scoring all of its goals their first game against Berwick in the second and third periods. Academy (5-2) and their second Nobles led early on in the game on
By Robbie Warming Staff Writer
Look Inside Intel Science Awards pg 2 College Football Playoff Prediction pg 3 Ten Dollar Bill Opinion pg 4 Review of Adele’s Latest, “25” pg 6 Best Country Albums of the Year pg 7
By John Gosselin Panel Staff
Ricky Cronin (21) skating up the ice with the puck game against Nobles (4-3), many are confident that the team will be able to continue to be successful into the rest of the season. Captains Brian Matthews and David Giunta have been able to lead the team effectively during these critical first weeks. At the scrimmage against St. Sebastian’s, Belmont Hill progressively wore down the opposing team’s stamina to the point where they began to make mistakes. The team then capitalized successfully on
December 5th, but for a third time the opposing team could not keep up with the ferocious pace and high level of play; they lost in overtime. The pattern established in these three games shows that Belmont Hill knows how to manage their players such that they will be able to perform at their highest level. These early games have helped to define the team in a positive way. Confident and optimistic are two words I would use to describe how team members feel at this moment. ☐
Teachers Dominate Senior-Faculty Soccer Match DiResta or the Irish sniper Mr. netting the first goal for his Hegarty. After a nasty colli- squad. Not even three minutes sion at midfield between Mat- later, Brian Melly responded with On a cool, fall Tuesday ty Glynn and Mr. Harder, it an incredible redirection goal of in mid-November, a large turf seemed as though none of the his own– into the wrong net. soccer field tucked in the corner Faculty’s quick passing or the Soon after that, Mr. Hegarty paid of a small Boston suburb witnessed a clash of epic proportions. Granted, the hype leading up to the annual Senior vs. Faculty soccer game was a bit more eventful than the actual match, but the intensity and skill on display still made for a memorable day. The seniors fielded a team of a few resident JV B players, some 3B retirees, and most notably one former varsity player in James Collins, while the Faculty ran out established superstars such as Señor Steffey, Mr. Holland, and Doc “Shakespeare” Fast. Some vicious possession Students and faculty members who participated following the game battles dominated the game’s early minutes, with Mr. Feldman Seniors’ physicality would man- off the apparently unbiased playand Ethan McIlhenny fighting ifest itself on the scoreboard. er-referee Doc Fast with some for control of the sideline, while However, a whiffed clear at the gold from the end of the rainbow Griffin Gustafsson stopped quite back end of the Senior defense and scored a quick-strike goal a few through balls intended for resulted in a 3-on-zero chance into the top right corner during either the lighting-quick Mr. for the Faculty, with Mr. George a Senior substitution. Due to this By Matt Reppucci Staff Writer
string of shaky play and questionable officiating, the Seniors found themselves down 3-0 at the half. The Faculty made very few adjustments heading into the final 25 minutes, although with Doc Fast and Mr. Brownell calling it a day they knew they would need bigger contributions from the likes of Mr. Doar, Mr. Moronta, and resident Mets fan Mr. Smith. To counter these moves, the Seniors brought on a shirtless Max Rudzinsky and started letting the speed of James Collins dictate the pace of the game. Holding the Faculty scoreless in the second half, the Seniors had numerous opportunities to find the back of the net and make a comeback but ultimately fell short when the final buzzer sounded. Nonetheless, it was a great afternoon of competition and camaraderie that ended the soccer career of most Seniors while providing a reality check that we all still have a long way to go. Congratulations to the Faculty on a great win. ☐
Belmont HIll NEWS
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Thanksgiving Chapel Reminds Students to be Grateful By Henry Wyett Staff Writer
Th e Pan el
Woodbury Finalists Talk About Movember Raises Gratitutde to Family, Emotions, Awareness For Men’s Health and Public Speak ing By Jason fischman Panel Staff
about bottling up their emotions.
Through Mustaches
On a bright November 24th morning, On the first morning back after By Bennett rush the Belmont Hill students and faculty excit- a relaxing five day Thanksgiving break, Panel Staff edly gathered in the chapel on the final day the entire community gathered in the before Thanksgiving break to hear the wise chapel to hear three speeches from As the winter began to encroach words of Mr. McAlpin. Full of joy, Mr. McAl- the fall Woodbury finalists, DJ Demeon our warm weather, Belmont Hill stupin preached to the chapel the benefits ev- tri, William Ryan, and Jacob Whitney. dents desperately searched for ideas to eryone in the world can receive if they just DJ led off with a speech diskeep their upper lips warm in a school expressed more gratitude. He told us about cussing how family should always unfairly biased against facial hair. It was teenagers who do better in school because come first, and related it to the recent then that the hero this school needed, they are more appreciative, a point that hit Thanksgiving holiday and his famCallen Morris, appeared to grant the home for a lot of Belmont Hill students. Why ily’s traditions and experiences. He students the salvation they deserved. would teenagers do better if they are more described how one year, the stuffing, Ja c o b W h i t n e y c l o s e d o u t t h e Movember - a global charity that began grateful, Mr. McAlpin prompted the cha- his family’s most valued portion of the d a y b y e x p l o r i n g t h e t o p i c o f in Australia in 2003 - has become a Belpel. The answer may come down to the fact meal, didn’t come out like usual, which a n x i e t y. He t a l k e d a b o u t h o w, i n mont HIll annual community service that they are less nervous when taking a test led to a series of other unfortunate h i s p r e l i m i n a r y r o u n d s p e e c h , h e rite of passage. During November, stuor writing a paper if they are already grate- events that day. However, DJ explained w a s s o s t r e s s e d t h a t a f t e r w a r d s dents raise awareness and money for the ful for everything they have instead of tak- that, even though everything was not h e c o u l d o n l y r e c a l l t h e s m a l l e s t Movember Foundation which uses the ing things for granted. Similarly, Mr. McAl- perfect that year, more memories of m i s t a k e s h e m a d e i n s t e a d o f funds to address issues that affect men’s pin said that gratitude makes us happier. If spending time with family were formed, l o o k i n g a t t h e b i g g e r p i c t u r e . health such as prostate cancer, testicular you’re sad, you may as well start appreciat- because simply spending time with F u r t h e r m o r e , Ja c o b e x p l a i n e d , i f cancer, poor mental health, and physical ing other aspects of your life, because, as Mr. one’s family is more important than h e d i d n o t h a v e h i s s p e e c h p r i n t - inactivity. The school was able to raise McAlpin said, it can only make you feel bet- any other portion of Thanksgiving. e d o u t i n f r o n t o f h i m a t t h a t $490 for the Movember Foundation. ter about yourself. Another very interesting Next up was Will Ryan, who de- m o m e n t , h e w o u l d b e s o c r i p p l e d Callen Morris has recounted the point was that people who are more grateful scribed how all Belmont Hill students, b y f e a r h e w o u l d n o t b e a b l e t o story of the month in the following tale: get more sleep, and are thus healthier. If you and young men everywhere, need to be s a y a n y t h i n g . Ho w e v e r, h e w e n t count your blessings before bed, rather than more willing to cry and show emotion. o n t o s a y t h a t w i t h o u t t h e i n e v i “On October 31st, the night sheep, studies will indeed show that you are Will told his own story of bottling up t a b l e a n x i e t y t h a t c o m e s w i t h before November (32nd does getting more sleep than the person counting his sadness for many years because so- m a n y a c t i v i t i e s , i n c l u d i n g p u b l i c the sheep before bed. The last talking point ciety taught boys that they should not s p e a k i n g , s p o r t s , o r a t e s t , a r e not exist), I was visited by I found most interesting is that being grate- cry. He eventually moved past this ir- s i m p l y p a r t o f l i f e . Ja c o b f i n a ghost. Being Halloween, ful makes us less envious of other people. rational fear after crying tears of joy on i s h e d h i s s p e e c h b y a d v o c a t i n g I double-checked to make If you are grateful for everything you have, a beach over the summer, and realizing f o r e v e r y o n e t o f a c e t h e i r f e a r s sure it was not a man in there is no reason for you to be envious of that tears were not the end of the world. i n s t e a d o f a v o i d i n g t h e m , a n d a costume. It was not. It other people, plain and simple. Overall, Mr. Will then described how he cried after d e s c r i b e d h o w o n l y t h e n c a n o n e McAlpin’s Thanksgiving chapel speech was his brother went to college because he o v e r c o m e t h e m . was the ghost of Movemvery heartwarming and was a great start would miss his brother, and that was In the end, there could ber. He said no words and to a Tuesday morning, and made students perfectly acceptable, and prompted ev- o n l y b e o n e w i n n e r, a n d Ja c o b even if he tried, his imprestruly appreciate where they go to school. ☐ eryone at Belmont Hill to worry less W h i t n e y r e c e i v e d t h e h o n o r. ☐
Intel Science Competition Honors Eight Dedicated Belmont Hill Seniors at Esteemed Competition
sive mustache blocked his mouth so any words spoken would go unseen and would be murmured. The ghost simply looked at me, held my Gillette (“The Best a Man Can Get”™) razor in the air, snapped it in half, and gave me a nod. It was destiny. I woke up the next day with a purpose– to lead the best Movember Belmont Hill has ever seen. I had faith in the upper school. I knew we could raise money for the great cause and have a great time doing so. And we did just that. We raised $490 (school record!) and gave Belmont Hill the gift of mustaches on campus (sorry admissions!). In closing, I would like to thank everyone who participated and donated and I mustache everyone to continue the tradition next year! It truly was a month to remember.”
amount of compensation awarded to the realms of gene therapy, personalized school. In a matter of weeks, the contest medicine, cancer research and neurosciwill be narrowed down to semifinalists, ence among others. Examples of projects On November 11th, 8 students as the entrants eagerly await their fate include designing a strip to test urine for pressed submit on their Intel applica- in the contest. Between the applicants cancer on a smartphone using nanopartions. These students, Alex Afeyan, Bren- there is a high possibility of a winner. ticles (Spencer Kim), and developing a nan Adler, Matt Armstrong, Connor All eight students went to a research system derived from bacterial immune Ghazaleh, Spencer Kim, Ethan McILhen- lab every Thursday junior year and worked system to edit the human genome and ny, Harrison Rohrer and David Yellen, 6 weeks over the summer conducting re- restore normal function to patients represent the epitowith Dystonia, a me of scientific talneurological musent the school has to cular disorder offer and with David (David Yellen.) Yellen, Matt ArmResearch by the strong and Harrison 8 other students Rohrer as their leadproved equalers and Mr. Courtly impressive. ney as their teacher; While comthey decided to take pletion of the on the world’s greatIntel project reest High School quired applicants Science competito test the limits tion, The Intel Sciof their own intelence Talent Search. lects, the reward Acclaimed by of research outGeorge H. W. Bush weighed the stress as the “Super Bowl of the project. Acof Science,” the Incording to David tel Science Talent Yellen, “Though Search is the oldest the project was and most prestigiousThe Eight Senior Intel Science Applicants. From left to right: Brennan Adler, Ethan McILhenny, Alex Afeyan, daunting and an science competitionConnor Ghazaleh, David Yellen, Spencer Kim, Harrison Roher, and Matt Armstrong arduous process, Now moving into December, any in the nation pitting in retrospect it leftover mustaches can be accompathe smartest budding researchers from search which was compiled into a science was incredibly rewarding in terms of nied by a full beard in the Beard Off for across the country against one another. paper over the fall. This hard work was learning about the process of scientific $10. All funds will go to Globe Santa The three winners of the contest will re- spent contributing to meaningful research research and seeing how much was ac- to give books and presents to children ceive $150,000 each with an equivalent with potential real life applications in the complished over a year and a half.” ☐ in need in the greater Boston area. ☐ By Matt Armstrong Staff Writer
D e c emb er 17 th, 2 0 1 5
Belmont Hill Sp orts
College Football Playoff Predictions
Pa g e 3
Wrestling Team Hits the Mat
to avoid turnovers and make the octheir season hard and fast bouncing from By DJ Demetri casional big play. On defense, defenthree tournaments and wrestling five schools Panel Staff sive end Shilique Calhoun is an absoin just two weeks. The Caruso Tournament It’s that time of the year again. lute wrecking ball, routinely getting Another winter season brings the down in New Jersey on December 5 kicks The birds are flying south, snow will into the backfield and stuffing runs. Varsity Wrestling Team back to the mat hop- off the year and the first league match is the be on the ground soon, and the bowl If the Spartans can control the pace ing to add another year to the banners in the following Wednesday on December 9th, at season is starting. With the inaugu- of the game, they will most likely win. wrestling room. Captains Sean Rayment, home, at 4:00PM, against Governor’s Acadral year of the College Football PlayOklahoma (11-1): Pete Tedesco, and DJ Demetri all remember emy. That Saturday, the 12th, Belmont Hill off (CFP) going quite well with three Baker Mayfield and Samaje Perine lead the upsetting loss just two years ago in the will meet four other teams at Tabor Acadeexciting games in 2014, the standards what is the best offense left in conten- 2013-2014 season to the Brooks School for my including: Choate Rosemary Hall, Deerfor this year’s tournament are quite tion. Mayfield, while not as much of ISL dual-meet champion. With another se- field Academy, and Worcester Academy for high. Let’s look at the teams that are a scrambler as Deshaun Watson, can ries of losses to the Brooks School in the ISL’s a long day of nonstop, non league action. vying for a national championship: run with the best of them if the Soon- Graves-Kelsey Tournament and the ISL dual- Then the Wrestling team will look forward to ers need him to; however, star wide re- meet last year, the entire team should be hun- the Beast of the East and Battle on the Bay Clemson (13-0): The Tigers simply dominated most of ceiver Sterling Shepard makes sure that gry for revenge. Our varsity team looks to fill tournaments exactly a week later. With the their opponents this season, with wins his quarterback runs as little as pos- each of the 14 weight classes with returning season just beginning, hours of sweat and of 58-0, 49-10, and 41-10. With dual- sible, making spectacular catches all seniors and a handful of new freshman. Some hard work have already been put towards threat quarterback Deshaun Watson season long. The Sooners are not play- also expect great seasons from those younger the thought of success down the Jordan leading the charge, Clemson had almost ing for just their team but also for the standouts who were on the team last year Athletic Center. The school looks forward 3,000 rushing yards this season, not to entire Big 12, as the conference was ex- such as Seth Israel and Phil Conigliaro (now to the rest of the season and the mid-season cluded from the Sophomores) and Will Ryan (now Junior). report and wish this year’s Varsity Wrestling mention almost CFP last year. 4,000 passing The Wrestling Team jumps into Team the best of luck on their endeavor. ☐ Clemson v. yards; however, Oklahoma the team is not Prediction: all offense, as Oklahoma has demonstrated by played much their goal-line higher qualstand to preserve By Thomas Wolpow By Ranjit Thomas ity opponents a win against Staff Writer Staff Writer this season than Notre Dame. its ACC counThis senior-led The Varsity Squash team is off to a Coming off of a second-place finish in terpart, in part painful start. Two preseason injuries (Timmy the ISL, Belmont Hill’s basketball team awaits squad certainly has oodles of talent and future NFL because of the natural strength of Brownell, torn ligaments in the right foot; Thomas the daunting task of matching the success of draft picks, but its lack of quality oppo- each conference, and that will show Wolpow, fractured left shoulder), have held up the last year’s season. With many integral starters nents could come back to haunt them. in this game. Clemson’s defense has tryout process. The matches played thus far have graduating last spring, the coaching staff was not played a team on the level of Bak- produced some unusual results. Fifth Formers right away tested as they searched for a group of Alabama (12-1): Alabama’s offense can be summed er Mayfield so far this season, and, if Alex Kurtin and James Bell have come out in top- talented student-athletes who could fill the new up in two words: Derrick Henry. Al- Mayfield can at least match Deshaun form, with strong wins in the early rounds over holes of the team. Returning senior Austin Mathough Jake Coker is a fine quarter- Watson, the Sooners will win. Look historically higher ranked players. What could sel (captain) and sophomores David Mitchell back, without Henry, the Crimson Tide for Samaje Perine to have an outstand- appear to be a concerning switch in team dynam- (captain) and Jovan Jones lead the new starting would not be even close to where they ing game in an Oklahoma win, carry- ics will ultimately prove beneficial to the squad. squad. Joining them are the young but talented are today. Opponents can game plan ing over the momentum from three Each member has worked hard in the off-season, sophomores Jake Bobo and Jake Haase. Other as much as they want for Henry, but, straight weeks of wins over ranked and the skill levels among the squad appear to be returners include Tejas Agnihotri, Patrick Shea, behind a massive offensive line, it re- opponents. Oklahoma 27, Clemson 17 evening out, especially with Brownell, the consis- and John Sommers. First-time varsity players Alabama v. Michigan State mains a herculean task to slow him tent number one, out for a majority of the regu- include seniors Johnny Hincks, Robert Celado, down. Alabama’s kicker, Adam Griffith, Prediction: These two teams are almost lar season. In the end, the order of the ladder is Aj DiFillipo, Quentin Harris, Kevin O’Boy, gives the team a secret weapon of sorts, mirror images of each other style-wise; not of the highest concern for Coach Brownell; Justin O’Neil-Riley, and Spencer Smith. The with a range extending past 50 yards. however, the difference is that Alabama rather, he wants to see each member of the team team faced a tough Loomis Chaffee team on has better players. The Crimson Tide improve throughout the year, with the long-term Saturday, December 5th. The challenge in and Michigan State (12-1): The Spartans are one of the grittiest will dare Connor Cook to make the goal of a national championship in February. of itself was not a surprise as the game was ultiteams out there; although they don’t big plays, and, especially considering First, however, the team must defend mately a contest between a very young BH team have any offensive stars, they continue his shoulder injury, he will not make its ISL title, with the first, and likely the hardest, with 4 sophomore starters and an aged Loomis to churn out yardage and find a way to them. Look for Derrick Henry to ice match of year, against St. George’s in early January. Chaffee squad of post-graduate 19 year-olds. win. Connor Cook is playing injured the game with power runs in the fourth Last year, the team powered through the Dragons However despite the unideal start to the searight now, but he still has the ability quarter. Alabama 23, Michigan St. 10 ☐ in a 7-0 win. Save a medical miracle, it appears as if son, Coaches Murphy and Martellini and CapBrownell will be out for that match, which will put tains Masel and Mitchell are confident it will be inevitable stress on the rest of the ladder as each a winter packed with basketball success. Before player moves up a spot to fill his place. Nonethe- the new year, the team will have many opporless, the team is confident that it can pull-out an- tunities to redeem itself as it faces off against a other strong win. The rest of the ISL season should number of league rivals including the likes of go without a hitch. No other team poses a serious Rivers (away, December 9th), Nobles (home, threat to Belmont Hill, with or without its #1 player. December 12th), Exeter (tournament-away, Come February, however, and the Team December 18th), and Roxbury Latin (tourChampionships at Trinity College, a less experi- nament-away, December 30th). Upon being enced player at the top spot would surely stand asked about the prospects of the team, firstas a major obstacle in the later rounds. Luckily, time varsity small forward Johnny Hincks said Brownell should be ready to go by then. The Var- “We get a great set of guys, we’re very athletic, sity Squash team is ready to bring home Belmont as the season we should really hit our stride. I Hill’s first National Championship; preseason trib- don’t see any reason why we should settle for ulations are no indication of future success. ☐ striving for anything less than ISL Champs.” ☐ By John Markis Panel Staff
Auspicious Start to Squash Season
Nordic Skiing Preview
Basketball Hopes to Carve New Path
Alpine Skiing Ready to Hit the Slopes
title this year. We have a lot of younger middle school skiers joining the team this year, and new roller skis. The team is hopefully they can meaningfully contribute.” a l s o p r e p a r i n g f o r i t s a n n u a l Even without snow, Belmont Hill’ s alSo far though, the team has engaged in rigBy Jack Richards s h o w d o w n w i t h t h e A l p i n e s k i pine skiing team looks forward to another great orous dry land training since the start of the winPanel Staff t e a m i n Z i p p y F u n B a l l . F i n a l - season of racing on the slopes of Nashoba Val- ter season. As Coach Trautz has repeatedly noted T h e N o r d i c S k i i n g t e a m l y , t h e t e a m i s l o o k i n g f o r w a r d ley. While the losses of Dan Remondi (Class of over the years, “There may be teams better than i s o f f t o a g o o d s t a r t t h i s s e a - t o i t s y e a r l y t r i p u p t o t h e s k i - 2015) and Bobby Jahrling (Class of 2017) do us, but there won’t be any teams more fit than us.” s o n , d e s p i t e t h e o b v i o u s l a c k o f i n g a r e a s i n J a c k s o n , N H , r i g h t represent holes that need to be filled, the team, Nevertheless, the team is eagerly ans n o w . T h e r e a r e s e v e r a l n e w r e - n e a r t h e b a s e o f M t . Wa s h i n g - led by captains Harrison Rohrer (Class of 2016) ticipating the onset of the coming season, espec r u i t s t o t h e t e a m f r o m a l m o s t t o n . T h e t e a m m a y e v e n b e u s - and Will Cannistraro (Class of 2016), again cially its upcoming Zippy Funball scrimmage a l l g r a d e s , a n d a l l a r e s h o w - i n g p a i n t b a l l g u n s t o p r a c t i c e looks to be in the hunt for the ISL and NEPSAC against the Nordic team. As the team’s manager i n g p r o m i s i n g s i g n s f o r t h e b i a t h l o n s k i l l s w h i l e u p i n N H . Class A titles. As Captain Rohrer noted about noted, “While dry land training is great and all, n e a r f u t u r e . T h e s k i e r s h a v e E v e r y b o d y i s n o w l o o k i n g f o r - the team’s ISL chances and competition, “Mid- I think that everyone really just wants to start b e e n t r a i n i n g b y r u n n i n g H a r - w a r d t o g e t t i n g t h e i r s k i s o n dlesex looks very strong this year, Nobles may- racing and see what this team is truly made of.” v a r d s t a d i u m s , a s w e l l a s t a k - t h e s n o w , a n d a r e p r e p a r i n g f o r be too, but hopefully we can give them a good Hopefully, the team’s effort in December will i n g a d v a n t a g e o f t h e s c h o o l ’s a f u n a n d s u c c e s s f u l s e a s o n . ☐ run, perhaps even chase them down for the ISL lift them to another ISL title come February. ☐ By John Markis Panel Staff
BELMONT HILL OPINION
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The Founding Father Without a Father By Will McCormack Staff Writer This past June, the United States Treasury announced that our country’s iconic ten-dollar bill will be remodelled. In a public statement, Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew explained, “The new ten-dollar bill will be the first bill in more than a century to feature the portrait of a woman.” Accordingly, the bill will no longer spotlight founding father
Th e Pan el
Syrian Refugee Crisis Opinion
Continued from page 1 Because of these conditions, about 1,000 French of the Federalist Papers, Hamilton wrote fifty-one of the eighty-five esFBI Director James Comey, when tes- nationals have joined ISIS. These people either resays. A defender of the Constitution, tifying before Congress in October, stated, “If locate to create chaos in the Middle East or remain Hamilton stressed the importance of someone has not made a ripple in the pond to form dangerous homegrown terrorist cells. In a document to safeguard American in Syria in a way that would get their identity fact, four of the Paris attackers were French nationvalues: “And? If we win our indepen- or their interests reflected in our databases, we als. We should thus work to fully integrate refugees dence?/ ‘Zat a guarantee of freedom can query our databases until the cows come into American society through both governmental for our descendants?/ Or will the home but nothing will show up because we and communal measures. We should not put them blood we shed begin an endless cycle have no record of that person.” In light of this, into cramped camps, like many Eastern European of vengeance and death with no defen- Congress, showing a surprising flash of reason, countries have done, as these horrifically inhumane dants?/...we studied and we fought and passed a bipartisan bill to pause the inflow of grounds breed radicalization. America should truly we killed for the notion of a nation we refugees. This temporary pause is needed for be a melting pot. Refugees should be encouraged to gathering some information on individuals take on American values while maintaining parts coming in and fixing any cracks in our current of their cultural identity that make them unique. system. There should be a database contain- In such, they become tethered to the United States ing all incoming refugees. Since the refugees and relinquish any chance of becoming radicalized. would not immediately be American citizens, Instead of being Muslims, they become Muslim this would be perfectly legal and reasonable, Americans. Instead of being a collection of fractured unlike Trump’s plan of blocking all Muslim and self-segregated groups, America needs to be one. immigration and investigating mosques. America and its allies need to find the But how exactly do we treat these proper balance between compassion and safety. people once they’re within our borders? The crisis needs to be treated by the entire world France provides an example of how not to accordingly, and every nation has to make a con-
Alexander Hamilton’s recognizable face. Lew’s decision is an atrocious mistake, though his intentions are valid. Secretary of State John Kerry described the Treasury Department’s June statement as “a terrific, historic announcement.” Indeed, women’s contributions have gone unnoticed and underappreciated for far too long. A woman’s appearance on an American monetary note should not be groundbreaking. As much as men, they have impacted the course of American history and thus deserve spots on paper currency.
now get to build./ For once in your life, take a stand with pride.” And finally, as Secretary of the Treasury who founded the monetary system, Hamilton solidified America’s economic foundation under a strengthened central government: “We need to handle our financial situation./Are we a nation of states? What’s the state of our nation?” Removing Hamilton is an injustice to his untiring work ethic and powerful vision. Hamilton himself was a poor orphan-immigrant from
The problem with the Treasury Department’s decision to redesign the tendollar bill lies in the act of withdrawing Alexander Hamilton from his flagship pedestal on the bill. Hamilton’s impact on the course of our country and the state of today’s America is momentous and extensive. A military general, primary author of The Federalist Papers, avid defender of the Constitution (and a catalyst for its ratification), and most fitting with his prominent position on the ten-dollar bill, America’s first Treasury Secretary, Alexander Hamilton served his country’s interests valiantly and embodies today’s American dream. The immensely popular Broadway production Hamilton provides the best defense for Hamilton’s importance. Through hip-hop scores, a diverse cast, and its churning plot line, Hamilton, crafted by mastermind Lin-Manuel Miranda, celebrates the lasting significance of Alexander Hamilton, portraying him as one of the most important fathers of our nation. Hamilton, which enjoyed its Broadway debut in early August, has revolutionized the debate and provided ample support for Hamilton’s continued reign on the ten-dollar note. Through I have never seen the play, Miranda’s lyrics (quoted below) have inspired me to write this article. A military general, Hamilton was George Washington’s “right-hand man,” leading the charge against the British at the Battle of Yorktown. A prolific author
smoothly settle Muslim immigrants or refu- tribution if possible. It is also paramount that we gees into society. France’s Islamophobia has avoid both extremes for the crisis at home. Shutting ostracized their Muslim neighbors. When down the refugee program because of American French Muslims are cooped up in separate Islamophobia is simply inhumane. And yet, letting neighborhoods, given little access to economic in all refugees without at least taking a short pause mobility, and are not properly welcomed into to make sure our system is as airtight as it can be, is French society, radicalized individuals spring unsafe. And finally, once these innocent people are up. John Horgan, a psychologist at UMass- within our protection, we must embrace them as Lowell, said that the “People who join these our fellow men and make sure that their humanity [terrorist] groups are trying to find a path.” is valued. Never forget, however, to take a step back These people are often castaways from so- and remember what’s important. The humanity ciety with nowhere to turn. Therefore, radi- of Syrian refugees cannot be lost in political banter. the Caribbean who forged his own cals are not so much drawn to their ends by These are people. Whatever action we take will path to America and to the Consti- Islam, but rather by the failure of inclusion. greatly affect both refugee and American alike. ☐ tutional Convention through endless ambition and hard work, not by class, status, or name: “The ten-dollar founding father without a father got a lot farther by working a lot harder…” Current Treasury Secretary Lew has summoned the American public to Editors-in-Chief brainstorm female candidates to appear Jake DeCaprio Executive Editor Faculty Advisors on #TheNew10, emphasizing the comJay O’Brien Brendan Pulsifer David Hegarty munal, representative nature of curJuliette Zener rency: “America’s currency is a way for Copy Editors our nation to make a statement about Ishaan Prasad who we are and what we stand for. Our Arts Editor News Editor John Markis paper bills...have long been a way for us Alex Afeyan Jason Fischman to honor our past and express our values.” Do we not stand for our ConstituSports Editor Assistant Editors Opinion Editor tion? Our protected rights? Are we not Matt Reppucci Gus Lamb Mack Perry supporters of our federal government? Evan Ricci Of zeal and hunger? Of hard work? Jack Richards Harriet Tubman, Eleanor RooOnline Editor Photo Editor Bennett sevelt, and Rosa Parks have all been Arnav Prasad John Gosselin proposed as possible candidates by Back Page Editor Americans on Twitter and Facebook. Gabe Schmittlein All are worthy of consideration, but we owe Hamilton too much. Regardless of gender, any nominee to replace Hamilton pales in comparison to his achievements and character. He deserves no less than a spot on The Panel, founded in 1953, is the official school newspaper of the Belmont Hill and Winsor schools. The Panel is the voice of the student the ten-dollar bill. Put a woman on body. We publish articles that are of consequence to the students, as well as the school communities. The views expressed in the Panel belong to the authors and editors and do not necessarily represent the student body, faculty or administration of either school. Any comment a bill (why not replace slave-owning solely about the content should be addressed directly to the editors. The Panel encourages responsible opinion in the form of Letters to the Editor. We Andrew Jackson on the twenty?), but reserve the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Copyright 2015 the Panel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be don’t discredit Hamilton. Remem- reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief. Printed by Belmont Printing Company, Belmont, MA 02478. ber, “History has its eyes on you.” ☐
BELMONT HILL OPINION
D e c emb er 17 th, 2 0 1 5
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Comedy or Action? In this issue of The Panel, we are continuing our feature debate between Form VI students Jay O’Brien and Gabe Schmittlein. After The Panel is released, a poll will be sent out to assess the student body’s views on the topic at hand. These results will be published in the subsequent issue along with a brand new talking point. So without further ado, we present the ninth debate—Comedy vs. Action Movies
Team Comedy
Team Action
Moving outside of the 21st century, and 2, all of the Mission Impossibles By Gabe Schmittlein each decade seemingly produces numerous and Star Treks, Gladiator, and JurasPanel Staff Hall of Fame flicks. For example, the ‘70’s sic Park. I’m genuinely not sure that As you search the expansive brought us movies like Monty Python and Comedy movies are almost al- more than 2 or 3 comedy movies movie collection on Netflix at night, the Holy Grail, Animal House, and Blazing ways entertaining and predictably would even manage to make the practhere is one dilemma that always seems Saddles, while the ‘80’s introduced us to funny, but what they aren’t is great, tice squad of this incredible team. to present itself: “Do I want an ac- Airplane!, Caddyshack, Ferris Bueller’s Day because the great movies are action What’s more, when you begin tion movie or a comedy movie?” Sure, Off, and The Princess Bride. Lastly the ‘90’s movies. I’m talking the true clas- to expand the definition of the “acat times your decision can be based on gave old school Adam Sandler films, Aus- sics, the sort of movies that people tion movie” to include some movies your current mood, but for the sake of tin Powers, and Dumb and Dumber. The put in their “best movies of all time” that ride the tight line between action argument, let’s say for the rest of your number of classic comedy movies is rather lists. Those films aren’t comedy mov- and drama, you pick up some more life you can only watch one of those ies; those movies are action movies. of the greatest flicks of all time, intwo types of movies. You absolutely cluding The Shawshank Redemption, have to choose comedy movies, right? By Jay O’Brien Panel Staff
Throughout the years, there have been so many incredible comedy movies that I’m almost doing an injustice to the cinema industry by not listing all of them. For starters, some of the greatest comedy movies of the 21st century all depends on the type of humor you prefer. For example, if you are a big fan of Will Ferrell’s juvenility, then movies like Anchorman, Step Brothers, Elf, Old School or Other Guys are probably in your top 10 favorite comedies, as all five films have an abundance of quotes to use in everyday life. Ben Stiller certainly has his fair share of classic’s with Dodgeball, Tropic Thunder, and Zoolander, as does Seth Rogen with Superbad, Pineapple Express, and This Is the End. Some other great comedies of the 21st century include The Hangover, Mean Girls, Wedding Crashers, and 21 Jump Street. While I may be just rattling off some of my favorite movies from the past 15 years, to all of you reading at home, I’m sure at least a handful of these movies are favorable within your minds and have brought you happiness and laughter.
overwhelming, and while I’m sure that I left When I think of a starting five a couple of your personal favorites off the of the best action movies ever made, The Godfather, Forrest Gump, Rocky, list, I can also guarantee that at least one I’m literally just looking at a list of the and Goodfellas. On the other hand, or two of these movies made you laugh. five best movies ever made. Down in when you try to expand the definiLife is already hard enough, so at the post at power forward and center tion of the “comedy movie” you gentimes, us human beings need to escape I’ve got my Twin Towers of the Lord erally just end up with action comthe harshness of reality and enjoy a cou- of The Rings and Star Wars series, edies, which, of course, shouldn’t ple of chuckles from a solid comedy. Now although, to be exact, LOTR is Ola- count towards either side in this I don’t want to go too far into the science juwon and the Star Wars movies are debate (sorry The Princess Bride). of it all, but laughing has been proven Ralph Sampson. At small forward I’m The word “count” now looms to trigger the release of endorphins, the thinking of putting probably my best ominously in on me as I finish this body’s “feel-good” chemicals, which ulti- all around player, Die Hard. I mean, article and if you could see me right mately leads to a healthier immune system. that movie’s got it all -- explosions, now, you’d see a man who’s visibly As for action movies, I’ll be the first famous quotes (yippie-ki-yay….), riv- shaken because there are so many to admit that there are at least one, MAYBE eting plot. Die Hard’s the sort of mov- great action movies that I wasn’t able two, solid action movies that I’ve watched ie that I might just have run point in to mention throughout the course of multiple times. Yet let me tell you, loud a crunch time situation, but can also this article. I only included a single explosions and cheesy dialogues were en- bang with the bigs down low and get Brad Pitt film, while all of Denzel tertaining the first 100 times I saw them, me some crucial rebounds. True ver- Washington’s had to be left off. Some but now that I’m older and wiser, action satility. To fill out my five is an excru- of the action greats like Sylvester movies are simply blending together into ciatingly tough task considering the Stallone, Bruce Willis, and Arnold one big cliche. Comedy varies offer a wide depth of incredible options, but I’d Schwarzenegger only managed one variety of movies that are appealing to at probably end up going with the Dark mentioned movie apiece! No Chuck least one individual on this Earth. This is Knight trilogy and The Matrix. That Norris, no Jackie Chan, no Liam Neewhy if you ask someone what their favorite leaves a downright filthy bench made son, no Nicolas Cage! Jay you don’t comedy movie is, they can easily rattle off up of some of my personal favorite stand a chance against this pedigree half a dozen movies or so, while the same movies of all time like the Bourne tril- of movies! Action movies must take can not always be said for action mov- ogy (forget about the newest one), The the cake and thus I entrust the voties. In conclusion, I put it in the hands Italian Job (both the original and the ing to you Belmont Hill students of Belmont Hill students and faculty to Marky-Mark version), all the Aveng- and faculty… Make the right choice. make the right decision. Vote comedy. ☐ ers movies, Inception, Ocean’s Eleven, Chuck Norris will be watching you. ☐ and the Bond flicks, along with some legendary films such as the Indiana Jones movies, Top Gun, Terminator 1
Results from Last Debate Chocolate - 129
62%
Sweet
38%
- 79
Advantage: Chocolate
Belmont hill arts
Pa g e 6
Album Review: Adele’s 25 By Brendan Pulsifer Panel Staff
Th e Pan el
Released in 1942, this song Top Ten Christmas onstillChristmas. holds the record for highest-selling single ever recorded in any genre, with 50 Songs million copies sold. If you live in a cave By Alex Afeyan Panel Staff
and haven’t heard this song, give it a try, it will be worth the time!
4. “The 12 Days of Christmas” – Straight “Hello, it’s me.” This list is my personal take on a top No Chaser As if Adele Adkins, the awardten ranking for Christmas songs. ApoloThis song is so fun. A medley of all winning international superstar and degies to those of you who don’t celebrate your favorite Christmas classics, some of voted mother, needs an introduction on Christmas, but there are a couple of ge- which are kind of boring on their own, this her third studio album, 25. It has been neric holiday songs on here too. I made an song is so well executed. Straight No Chasnearly five years since the British singer attempt to put songs that are classics and er give their full energy the entire song, satisfied her growing fan base with new musts for the Christmas season, and some and perform perfectly and with much himusic, and understandably so, after she erful emotion and introduces her newly- songs you may never have heard, but I in- larity the entire time. Who doesn’t love to underwent throat microsurgery in 2011, discovered vibrato. Like many songs on vite you to give them a chance, because I sing that high notes during Toto’s “Africa”, gave birth to son Angelo in 2012, and ex- the album, “Hello” shows a retrospective think they are all great. or join in on the many songs Straight No perienced writer’s block throughout 2013. Adele; here, she is ready to make amends Chaser managed to combine in this medThe wait, however, has finally ended. with a former paramour after years apart, 10. “Christmas” – Michael Buble’s ley. At the end of August, Adele an- singing, “I was wondering if after all Christmas Album nounced the impending release of new these years you’d like to meet to go over I tried to pick a song from this al- 3. “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” – music and, as promised, put the record’s everything.” She evokes the same yearn- bum to start out the list, but there are too NSYNC debut single, “Hello,” on iTunes on Oc- ing for the past in “Million Years Ago,” many good ones to pick from. This song, You may have heard this song, but tober 23. In its first week, the track sold as she laments, “I know I’m not the only a Christmas album, was the second high- if you haven’t, listen to it. Young JT and 1.1 million downloads, an unprecedented one who regrets the things they’ve done.” est selling album of 2011. That means that, co. give us a pop classic that is an integral feat. When 25 was finally released four Adele’s music is often categorized in the two months of the year Christmas part of my yearly Christmas experience. weeks later, it too smashed records. The by and even dismissed for its quiet, de- songs are listened to and bought (the al- Much like “The Christmas Song”, this song album sold over one million copies in its pressing melodies; though these criti- bum was released at the end of October), paints a picture of an ideal Christmas, with first day alone, an extremely impressive cisms are not unfounded, Adele can also it sold more than any other album except children going to sleep on Christmas Eve, accomplishment in an industry now ruled understand that nostalgia has a beautiful, for the unbeatable 21, by Adele. People ready to wake up to family and presents on by free streaming services and where pur- albeit melancholy, side too. This wist- bought this album for a reason: it is fan- Christmas morning. Plus, the harmonies chasing music is taboo. If you still want fulness shines through on “When We tastic. Michael Buble’s voice has become a are on point, and everyone, even the ranmore stats, 25’s first week sales (a whop- Were Young,” the most understated yet Christmas staple, and his soothing timbre dos who aren’t JT, give great performances. ping 3.38 million) surpasses the previ- most awe-inspiring track from the set. and interesting takes on classic Christmas ous record holder - NSYNC’s No Strings Similar to how Roberta Flack had her songs make this a must for the Christmas 2. “Go Tell It On the Mountain” – PenAttached - by over a million copies. breath taken away in “Killing Me Softly season. tatonix Those who purchased the al- With His Song,” Adele becomes paraI know that you haven’t heard this bum were not disappointed. In eleven lyzed as she sees a boy from her child- 9. “Christmas Eve/ Sarajevo”, “A Mad song, unless I showed it to you. Please go gripping tracks, Adele expresses conven- hood, and happy memories flood her Russian’s Christmas” – Trans-Siberian listen to it - you won’t be disappointed. It tional themes of nostalgia and growing mind: “You look like a movie, you sound Orchestra has one of the most epic bass (singer) parts up in an unique, poignant way. Though like a song / My God this reminds me Number nine belongs to Trans-Sibe- of all time. The Pentatonix are fantastic at sonically, 25 presents itself almost iden- of when we were young.” Though not as rian Orchestra as a group, but I wanted to what they do, and they show off all their tically to her blockbuster sophomore al- emotional as “Young,” “Water Under the highlight these two songs, medleys of clas- singers in this underappreciated song. bum 21 - with more than enough piano Bridge” also shows off a more sanguine sic Christmas songs – the first of “God Rest ballads to go around - its lyrics demon- side to Adele as she convinces her lover Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “Carol of the 1. “All I Want for Christmas is You” – strate Adele’s four-year evolution from that their romance has not yet ended. Bells”, and the second of the soundtrack of Mariah Carey a desperate, heartbroken girl to a wiser, To put it simply, Adele has saved “The Nutcracker”. The Trans-Siberian OrIs this even a question? Answer: more appreciative young woman. There music in 2015. She has revived, even if chestra brings so much energy and such a Nope. If you need convincing, get into are no upbeat songs as there were on only for a brief moment, a dying industry great rock vibe to classic Christmas songs, your car and play this song full blast, and 21 - think “Rolling in the Deep” or “Ru- plagued by poor sales. She has brought and their songs always serve as pump-up then you’ll understand. You can’t resist mour Has It” - but perhaps they aren’t lyrical substance, musical talent, and el- music to important events, be they exams trying for the epic high note. Mariah Carey necessary, as Adele’s crooning lulls the egance back to a culture dominated by or athletic competitions. is such a talented singer, and this song has listener into a sentimental trance. As the likes of Fetty Wap and Pitbull. She been described as “one of the few worthy Adele said herself, “My last record was has taken her relatable experiences and 8. “This Christmas” – Chris Brown modern additions to the holiday canon” by a break-up record, and if I had to label expertly put them to heartbreaking meloThis song, recorded for the movie of The New Yorker. this one, I would call it a make-up re- dies. There’s a reason why the board of the same name, is a modern song that has, cord. Making up for lost time. Making up directors at Kleenex rejoices whenever at least for me, earned its standing with for everything I ever did and never did.” Adele sings. Though 25 might not wholly the rest of this list comprised of songs by In the opening track, “Hello,” Adele measure up to 21 - and what else will? - it Christmas all-stars like Bing Crosby and immediately transfixes listeners. While certainly stands out as a laudable addition Nat King Cole. The lyrics are great, the the beginning chords prepares us for a qui- to Adele’s oeuvre and leaves us in anticipa- singing is superb and impressive, and the et ballad, the chorus thunders with pow- tion of her next endeavor (29 perhaps?).☐ song really makes me think of my family and friends around Christmas and Break. and “Russian Sailors’ Dance” (from The Red Poppy). The ensemble was followed 7. “The Christmas Song” – Nat King Cole You may know this song by its by the Jazz Combo and five dexterous soloists, Abe Tolkoff (Piano), Juan opening line: “Chestnuts roasting on an Carlos Fernandez del Castillo (Piano), open fire”. I know it for the warm feeling By Ishaan Prasad Nicholas Gallo (Violin), Coleman Walsh it brings me on the cold mornings of DePanel Staff (Viola), and Austin Kwoun (Violin). cember and January, when walking across Joined by a few Upper Schoolers, the campus. On days like those, Jack Frost reOn a chilly Sunday in November, Middle School Jazz Band performed ally is nipping at my nose, and Nat King boys from Forms I through VI gathered an buoyant rendition of “Take the ‘A’ Cole’s voice makes me wish Christmas with their families in the Chapel for the Train”, with Armin Thomas and George could come earlier. start of the first instrumental concert of Hu performing solo pieces afterwards. the year. From duets to trios, ensembles After the success of last year’s Pi- 6. “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” to soloists, the Fall Concert offered only ano Trio (Austin Kwoun, Spencer Kim, – Frank Sinatra For all of us who miss the snow, a glimpse of the shining musical talent and George Hu), this year the audience at Belmont Hill this year. To start things was treated to the returning trio, the thought last winter was amazing, and want off, the Orchestra performed arrange- Brandenburg Trio (Andrew Kaneb, Di- a comparable winter this year, this is a rements of “Dance” (from Snow Maiden) dier Luceus, and Armin Thomas), and assuring tune. In spite of the lack of snow a piano duet by Armin Thomas and thus far this year, I listen to this song to George Hu. Finally, the Upper School cheer me up for the rest of this winter, Jazz Band performed “Shiny Stock- when snow will blanket New England (and ings” before ending the concert with a give us snow days!). This song is fantastic, thrilling rendition of “Tiger San Pedro. not just because of Sinatra’s iconic voice. With such great talent showcased in only the first concert of the year, clear- 5. “White Christmas” – Bing Crosby This song IS Christmas to many of ly the Fall Concert is only the beginning of what will be an impressive year for us, with the dulcet voice of Bing Crosby The Jazz Combo performing (Mr. Zamore) the music program at Belmont Hill. ☐ ringing out our collective desire for snow
Fall Instrumental Concert
D e c emb er 17 th, 2 0 1 5
belmont hill arts
Country Album Rankings 2015
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2) “Turnpike Troubadours” - Turnpike Honorable/Dishonorable Mention: Troubadours Chris Janson, “Buy Me a Boat” but the album is not complete without moSo, quick reader poll: How many of This is a solid first album. The energy By Matt Armstrong ments of flash. “I’m Coming Over” is not you have heard of the Turnpike Troubaand attitude is great. But he definitely Staff Writer great and it does not meet Chris Young’s dours?... That’s what I thought. Well, let needs to tidy up his sound before he So I recently got some feedback potential, but it is a solid album. (Favorite me tell you, they are absolutely worthy of can compete with the big boys. A+ lyrthat the concept of a Top Ten Country Songs: “I’m Coming Over”, “Sober Saturday the number two spot on this list, and are ics (see “Power of Positive Drinkin’”). Album list from 2000-2010 was kind of Night”, “Callin’ My Name”, “Think of You”) currently the best band in country music a strange idea. First off I didn’t mean, (Yes, Zac Brown that was directed at you Carrie Underwood, “Storytell“that’s the greatest decade of music any 6) “Wild Ones” - Kip Moore and your “Beautiful Drugs”). Their mu- er” - Carrie was oh so close to makgenre has ever seen.” But second off, I am If I were to describe “Wild Ones” by sic is simultaneously powerful and fun. ing the list, and she has proven to be a man of the people, so here are your Top Kip Moore in one word, that word would be They straight rock while managing to stay a formidable force on the charts. But Ten country albums of 2015. This was a steamy. To say that there are sexual themes true to who they are, and are unwilling to why does she always have to be so ancontentious year for the country music in this album would be an understatement. bend their sound to the constraining ear gry? Her sound is far superior when she scene in which each album release re- And while this can be potentially prob- of the populous. (“Bird Hunters”, “Down doesn’t take up the whole “Before He sembles an epic battle between the tradi- lematic, Kip Moore presents his music dif- Here”, “Bossier City”, “The Mercury”) Cheats/Something Bad” persona. Also, tional and the pop/metro/bro/whatever ferently than bro and pop artists. Moore “The Girl You Think I Am” is a jam. other stupid new trend is going on. While has his own unique lingo and instrumen- 1) “Traveller” - Chris Stapleton Please. just listen to it. Words do the politics of country music are beyond tal choices contrasting with the “checklist Luke Bryan, “Kill the Lights” - Oh, heated, the musical elements often are for- lyrics” and “mindless background noise” not describe the power of this man’s voice. Luke, what to do with you: such a great gotten amidst the chaos. And with that, much of country music is guilty of today. The awards and hype are finally correct voice but such awful songs. Free from I present to you the top albums of 2015. Kip Moore pulls off this hard-rocking af- on this one. In fact the only thing exceed- substance, musical creativity, even instru*Annotation on the list: I would fair because the album is honest and true ing Stapleton’s voice is his songwriting. ments. And then he hits you with songs argue that there is a substantial jump to Kip, even if that truth can be at times The simultaneous diversity and quality of like “Love It Gone”, displaying the full pobetween the quality of the top 5 albums misguided. There are also many moments Stapleton’s songs are astounding. There tential he showed before 2011’s “Tailgates of the list and that of the bottom 5. throughout the album when it is impos- is not a single throwaway song on the al- and Tanlines”. Luke Bryan is temptation. sible to not feel the power of Kip’s music, bum. I can confidently say Stapleton is the There is simply no other way to describe 10) “Something More Than Free” and be truly in the moment and at one with best, and I am proud to rank him number it. I won’t put Luke on this list because I Jason Isbell the sound. (Favorite Songs: “I’m to Blame”, one. Next time you’re thinking of “bump- know I would regret it in the morning. For most people Jason Isbell would “Come and Get It”, “That Was Us”, “Magic”) ing some Cole Swindell” or “tossing some either not be present on this list at all or Florida Georgia Line on the boombox, Thomas Rhett, “Tangled Up” be the Number One selection. This is a 5) “Jekyll and Hyde” - Zac Brown Band baby,” please, please, please, noooooo! You - This album is downright offenresult of the polarizing nature of his muJekyll and Hyde is the perfect name for will enjoy Stapleton with all your heart sive to the ear, mind, body, soul, pupsic and his lack of exposure. Isbell’s music this album. On one hand, Zac Brown Band’s and he will make you a better person. pies, morality, and the concept of good. is unlike anything else on this list too, in potential is evident in both their carefully that it is an incredibly different style, often crafted songs and unreal instrumental abilacoustic and more focused on story over ity. However, “Beautiful Drug” and “Tomelody. “Something More Than Free” morrow Never Comes” both made the alis not Isbell’s best album - that accolade bum, and so Zac Brown is at a serious risk would belong to “Southeastern” - but it of becoming Avicii. The attempt at trying to is nonetheless solid. I do, however, im- knock down the fences of genre failed mismensely respect Jason and what he stands erably because, at the end of the day, there is for and, while I pledged not to be politi- bad music in every genre. In fact, EDM artcal and his rank reflects his music, in my ists should be insulted by Zac Brown’s failed opinion, this man deserves more popu- attempts at EDM and Zac Brown should have larity and I definitely suggest listening more respect for country music. Those two to him and gauging your own reaction. songs were absolutely embarrassing, but, as onto the stage. To those of us well versed in Will Ferrell’s angelic vocal rendition in far as the rest of the album goes, it was good 9) “Angels and Alcohol” - Alan Jackson but not up to the standards of Zac Brown that movie, this question foreshadowed Holly Gettings Ah, Alan Jackson, perhaps the Band. (Favorite Songs: “Homegrown”, “Lovwhat would soon be one of the most outmost consistent country artist over the ing You Easy”, “Wildfire”, “Dress Blues”) standing acts of the show. Armin then last two and a half decades, (although proceeded to give a beautiful rendition George Strait could give him a run for his 4) “Mr. Misunderstood” - Eric Church of “Con Te Partiro” which shocked the money) because with Jackson you know audience and earned a standing ovation. Is Eric Church “the man”, or is Eric By Will Ryan what to expect. On “Angels and Alco- Church “the man”? I mean his was one of MC’s Jake DeCaprio and Gabe Panel Staff hol” he once again stays true to himself. the coolest moves in the world, dropping Schmittlein led the night with an intoxiIt is not flashy or catchy by any means, an album unannounced and sending free cating but there is no reason to complain, and copies to fans. What is more, I more or less e n e r g y. there are a lot of above-average songs fell in love at his CMA performance of “Mr. Their huacross the board. While Jackson may have Misunderstood,” the greatest country song mor and only slid onto the list due to the lack of to be released in a while, possibly ever. enthusipop country productivity, that detract While the rest of the album was on a level asm kept from the quality of his music. (Favorite below the lead single, it definitely delivered, the night Musicians Harrison Rohrer, Matt Armstrong, Greg Songs: “Jim and Jack and Hank”, “You and saw Eric Church heading in a much Katz, Juan Carlos Fernandez del Castillo, Gabe moving Can Always Come Home”, “Gone Before better direction than his song, “The Outsid- Schmittlein and Tommy Ruggles perform smoothly You Met Me”, “Mexico, Tequila and Me”) ers,” ditching the hard rock attitude of that from one The bi-annual celebration of music perforsong for maturity and greater musical atten8) “Southernality” - A Thousand Horses tion. (Favorite Songs: “Mr. Misunderstood”, known as Coffee House was an incredmance to Let me start this off by acknowledg- “Knives of New Orleans”, “Round Here ible success this fall. The event celebrated the next. ing the fact that there are some down- Buzz”, “Mixed Drinks About Feelings”) musicians who perform in larger groups The two right miserable songs on here (“Trailer on campus, as well as those who dust off c o u l d Trashed” and “Southernality” are the 3) “Start Here” - Maddie and Tae their instruments and take their talent to be seen worst, as you can probably tell from the performWow. Did anyone see that coming? A the stage for one or two nights a year. CofCowboy/Co-MC Jake DeCaprio titles). But there are also some amazing couple of 19-year-olds picking up a bronze fee House provides students to display the ing themStapleton-esque songs that improved the medal on the most prestigious Country Al- wide range of their talents. Andrew Kaneb selves, even creating a little jingle to album, and the good most definitely out- bum Countdown? I’m not gonna lie, I was performed a beautiful classical piece, Fritz promote the ORBIS bake sale. The weighs the bad. A Thousand Horses is a skeptical of Maddie and Tae: after “Girl Kreisler’s “Prelude and Allegro,” only to bake sale made another appearance southern rock band, not a country band, in a Country Song,” could they rise above be heard later that night playing fiddle when, during the final performance, but that is not necessarily a bad thing, and their role as a symbol of discontent with in “Devil Went Down To Georgia,” with Harrison Rohrer left the stage durtheir uniqueness without a doubt adds to bro country and demonstrate true musi- a passion which captured the audience ing his song, with money in hand, only the appeal of their sound. (Favorite Songs: cal talent? Well, the short answer is “yes”. and drew their attention to the bow which to return with a cookie from outside. “Tennessee Whiskey”, “Sunday Morning”, These girls are so much more than “Girl in skillfully flew across his fiddle. The event The night was filled with in“Hell on the Heart”, “Heaven is Close”) a Country Song” (which is in fact one of provides our musicians an opportunity to credible music and skilled musicians, the worst songs on the album, as ironic bro be heard in ways they might not be heard unfortunately too many to list. There 7) “I’m Coming Over” - Chris Young country effects were added, interestingly in our orchestra, ensembles, or the B-Flats. are many ways to spend a Friday night, Perhaps the one true pop country decreasing music quality, but increasing A truly remarkable part of the eve- but sitting there listening to Marshall singer featured on this list, Chris Young popular appeal). Maddie and Tae are a per- ning was the emergence of a voice that few, Knight play “You Belong To Me,” I could definitely pulls off this album. While at fect blend of The Dixie Chicks and Taylor if any, expected to hear. Armin Thomas, a not think of anywhere I would rather times the songs can be bland, boring, and Swift, and I am incredibly excited to see how veteran of our orchestra and talented mu- be. A huge thank you to everyone who similar, there is a sense of consistency pro- the duo matures. (Favorite Songs: “Sierra”, sician, revealed his great talents far beyond helped put together such a fantastic event. vided by Chris’ amazing voice. His voice “Shut Up and Fish”, “After the Storm Blows the piano. “How many of you have seen Lastly, congratulations to all the musihas been described as too perfect by some, Through”, “Downside of Growing Up”) Step Brothers?”, he asked as he walked out cians who performed at Coffee House. ☐
Musicians Shine in the Fall Coffee House
L ast L o ok
Pa g e 8
Best of Movember
Th e Pan el
(*Imagine listening to Closing Time while these photos scroll through in a dramatic slideshow*)
The General and Sergeant
The Hot Brian
The No-School-Zone Seibel
The Rush-Stache
Dogs of Belmont Hill: Basketball Team Name: Weezy
Name: Gus
Position: Point Guard
Position: Shooting Guard
Height: 1’5”
Drool Per Minute: Actual Gallons
Pro Comparisons: Allen Iverson, Spud Webb, Muggsy Bogues.
Pro Comparisons: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady.
Strengths: Cute. Ability to crawl through opponents legs. Super large ears.
Strengths: Name recognition -everybody knows the Gus Bus. Big body.
Weaknesses: Basketball weighs more than body. Struggles to get shots off against taller defenders.
Weaknesses: Affinity for lying on back in front of SmartBoard which tends to be unhelpful. Couldn’t be any more in the way. History of ACL injuries.
Name: Sandy Position: Power Forward Named After: That dog in Annie (Pulsifer told me this, I’ve never seen Annie, but of course he has) Pro Comparisons: Kevin Garnett, Dirk Nowitzki, Carlos Boozer Strengths: Veteran Savvy. Wisdom. Experience.Other words/phrases for “old” that don’t sound demeaning.
Name: Wally Position: Small Forward Teething: Yes. Pro Comparisons: Vince Carter, Andrew Wiggins, Scottie Pippen. Strengths: Young and energetic. Really good at chasing tennis balls. Weaknesses: Generally prefers to chew on backpacks rather than play basketball. Fouls a lot (I don’t know why, I feel like Wally just would foul a lot). Might not be able to see due to hair acumulation on face.
Weaknesses: Eats a lot of paper.
Name: Tucker
Name: Venkman
Position: Center
Position: 6th Man
Ear Length: 3’5”
Named After: Main character of Ghostbusters
Pro Comparisons: Shaquille O’Neal, Glen “Big Baby” Davis, Boris Diaw. Strengths: Has a fondness for stealing sponges which probably translates well on to the court. Ears can hang with the best of them Weaknesses: Doesn’t move too fast.
Pro Comparisons: Nick “Swaggy P” Young, Jamal Crawford, Lou Williams. Strengths: Energy like you read about. Seems like a really confident player. Weaknesses: I mean Venkman is an interesting name.